TOTALLY STOCKPORT MAGAZINE ISSUE 13

Issue 13 FREE

NEW OPENINGS: THE FOOD AND DRINK OFFER EXPANDS NEWS: STOCKPORT TOWN CENTRE BUILDING BACK BETTER FOR 2021 THE FROGS ARE COMING BACK!

STOCKPORT IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS! SHOPPING

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DINING

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BUSINESS

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WHAT’S ON

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NEWS

Welcome Welcome back to the Spring issue of Totally Stockport Today is 12th April, the day shopping is back on the agenda, lockdown locks can be lopped, pub gardens can serve your favourite tipple and our lazy lockdown habits can be lost in the gym. Many businesses have been closed for months so let’s make sure we support our local shops to get back on the road to recovery. And as a whole new world of ‘going out’ beckons, to help you step smartly into Stockport take a look at the great selection of the seasons latest fashion in footwear on pages 10 and 11.

Spring into Stockport for this Spring’s new Augmented Reality trail – outdoor fun for all the family.

Despite lockdown, Stockport is buzzing. The town centre is brimming with new openings including German Doner Kebab at The Peel centre, Pepé’s Piri-Piri on Princes Street and the One Stockport Hub in Merseyway. There are exciting residential developments planned too: the old St Thomas’ Hospital site will be home to 54 apartments, 13 townhouses and the Academy of Living Well – a 70 bed facility to help those transitioning between hospital and the home and another 550 homes are proposed on the site of the former Sanisbury’s store in the town centre – all great news for the many new shops, bars, restaurants and cafés.

Working from home for some of us has shown that maybe in the future our working lives may become more flexible. This could be good news for the owners of By Colony – a brand new concept in workspace developed in the old Kershaw’s Tannery mill. There is a choice of managed offices, dedicated desks, a virtual office option and meeting rooms along with a variety of membership options.

And more great news … the Stockport frogs will be hopping back into the town centre for the summer.

From July to September 21 new frogs will create a new trail across the town centre with another 17 frogs popping up across the borough – more on page 19.

We hope you enjoy reading your latest issue of Totally Stockport and discovering more exciting news and events happening in Stockport.

The Totally Stockport team.

8-9

News

4-7

More new development in Stockoprt

Interview

8-9

Limahl - the man under the haircut

Fashion

10-11

New shoes for the new going-out

New Openings

21-14

10-12

One Stockport Community Hub opens its doors

Hospitailty Focus

15

Another award for Where The Light Gets In

Trail Map

16-17

Find your way around the Spring Trail

Freedmans

18-19

Inside the town’s oldest retailer

20-26

13

News The frogs are coming back!

27

Merseyway What’s happening in the middle of Stockport

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BID News Totally Stockport events for 2021

30-31

25

What’s On Now we can go out and DO things

Get In Touch If you have a story, news or an event in Stockport Town Centre why not drop us a line? www.totallystockport.co.uk paul.taylor@totallystockport.co.uk Tel: 0161 537 9382

@totallysk

Totally-Stockport

News

Green Light for St Thomas’ Gardens Development

S New charity partners for Stockport Business Awards T his year’s SBA’s charity partners are Smart Works Greater Manchester and Stockport NHS Charity.

Supporting two charities is a first for the award organisers, Clarke Nicklin, all part of making this year’s 10th year anniversary awards the best yet.

Smart Works, based in the heart of Stockport town centre on St Petersgate, were originally chosen to be the 2020 charity partner but, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the awards were cancelled.

Smart Works provide high quality interview training and outfits to unemployed women in need, offering invaluable training and styling advice, they also give women the confidence and self-belief to succeed at their interview and, ultimately, transform their life.

Jan Iceton, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Smart Works commented “Smart Works Greater Manchester is delighted to be Stockport Business Awards 2021 Charity Partner. We have been based in Stockport for almost 6 years, in that time delivering over 3,000 client appointments to unemployed women from local communities and being supported by over 12,000 volunteer hours. It will be simply joyful to celebrate the achievements and resilience of people and organisations across the Borough once again.”

tockport Council has given the green light to a proposed residential scheme, St Thomas Gardens, that will repurpose the former St Thomas Hospital in the town centre .

Councillors expressed enthusiastic support for the scheme, which comprises 67 new homes and a 70bed care facility, for its model of multi-generational living, as well as bringing the grade II listed hospital buildings back into use after over 15 years of derelictions. Councillors on the Planning & Highways Regulation Committee were unanimous in approving the scheme being proposed by Stockport Council and Stockport Homes, echoing the thoughts of the Central Area Committee earlier this month.

St Thomas’ Gardens will form part of the larger Royal George Quarter, one of Stockport MDC’s flagship neighbourhoods proposed for the town centre, alongside the redevelopment of former Stockport College buildings by Investar.

The Academy of Living Well, a 70-bed intermediate care and dementia facility is also planned for the North-eastern end of the site. The facility will support those transitioning between hospital and the home; in approving the scheme, councillors praised the inclusion of care on the residential site, and the work the home would do towards further integration of health and social care in the borough.

The new homes on-site will contribute to Stockport MDC’s vision of delivering 3,500 new homes and transforming Stockport Town Centre West into the region’s ‘newest, coolest, greenest’ urban neighbourhood. The MDC was established in 2019 to lead regeneration of the area using the Greater Manchester Mayor’s devolved powers.

Stockport Homes have proposed 67 new homes, including 54 apartments within new and existing buildings, as well as 13-new-build townhouses on the site.

80% of homes will be made available through shared ownership, with the remaining 20% for social rental. Following approval, work on the development is expected to get underway this Spring.

Stockport NHS Charity’s aim is to help patients get better quicker and stay well for longer. Fundraising helps them to achieve this through enhanced medical equipment, improved staff performance, development and wellbeing and advanced research programmes.

Charity Manager, Jenny Clarke, commented “Stockport NHS Charity is over the moon to be chosen as a charity partner for the Stockport Business Awards. Over the past year we’ve seen how amazing the Stockport business community is, with so many organisations going above and beyond to support our vital work, so now we’re delighted to be able to support theirs.”

Stockport Business Awards 2021 – open for business!

Entries are now open for the 2021 Stockport Business Awards, celebrating the best of business and open to all Stockport based businesses. Whatever the size of your business, there’s an award category waiting for you! There are a total of thirteen categories this year, it’s free to enter and multiple categories can be entered.

Businesses are invited to visit the Stockport Business Awards website: www.stockportbusinessawards.co.uk where they can enter via an online form. Entries will close at 5pm on Friday 28th May. Judging will take place in June.

Plans for Residential Units on St Petersgate

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anchester based residential property developer, One Heritage, has acquired Plus House, a four storey office building on St Petersgate in Stockport town centre with a view to converting to residential units.

One Heritage acquired the property for £725,000 and anticipates spending a further £1 million on the St Petersgate building to convert it for residential use.

Planning permission has already been granted for the upper three floors to be converted into 12 apartments. An extension to the building is being considered, that would add a further three apartments to the plans. 2,500 sq ft of commercial space

would be retained for the ground floor. Developers anticipate that the properties will be attractive to young professionals.

News

05

500 new homes planned for former Sainsbury’s site

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he site of the recently closed Sainsbury’s store in the town centre has been acquired by developers who plan to deliver a scheme of over new 500 homes.

Image: © Copyright Gerald England and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.

The supermarket closed to shoppers at the end of January 2021. The 3.28 acre site has now been sold to Hale-based build-to-rent specialists Amstone Ventures for an undisclosed sum. The developers are currently drawing up plans with architects Leach Rhodes Walker for the site.

was also recently given the green light from councillors.

Expanding town centre living forms a key tenet of Stockport Council’s ambitions to revitalise the town centre, providing a local population to make the most of retail and leisure opportunities in the area.

Amstone Ventures are expected to submit their application for planning permission for the £100 million development later this year, with construction targeted to begin early 2022. Proposals are expected to comprise a development of around 550 homes on the former Sainsbury’s site, comprising a mix of build-to-rent apartments and townhouses, as well as a large communal garden and outdoor spaces for residents.

Martin Halsey, operations director at Amstone Ventures, said: “Amstone has a range of build to rent developments across Greater Manchester. What these sites have in common is that they are in great locations with excellent transport links and incorporate high quality design offering town or city centre living to a wider demographic. Our developments cater for a range of occupiers, including families, couples, sharers and individuals.

The scheme will join a number of other large residential developments in the offing for Stockport town centre, including the regeneration of Weir Mill and the redevelopment of parts of Stockport College’s campus that are being facilitated by the town’s Mayoral Development Corporation. An 18-storey apartment building off Piccadilly

“We can see that Stockport has untapped demand for quality homes within its town centre, offering a vibrant lifestyle and everything Stockport town centre has to offer, all on the doorstep.”

Greggs opens in Tesco Extra V

TfGM travel shop relocates to Mersey Square S

isitors to the Tesco Extra in Portwood are probably familiar with many of the in-store facilities such as the MaxPrint Shop and the Rug Doctor but they will probably be taken by surprise at the lattest addition - a fully fledged Greggs offering exactly the same range of goods as one of their traditional high street bakeries.

tockport’s TfGM travel shop has recently moved to 32 Mersey Square to provide passengers with public transport information and advice. This replaces the old unit at the entrance to the bus station during the construction of the new Interchange which is expected to be completed in three years.

The Tower to become Stockport’s tallest building S

tockport Council’s Planning Committee has approved a planning application for an 18 storey apartment scheme in the town centre.

The Tower, set to be Stockport’s tallest residential building, will repurpose the site of Piccadilly car park, near St Peter’s Square, creating 98 new homes and 450 sq metres of retail units, as well as public real improvements on Piccadilly and Fletcher Street.

The building will comprise 43 one-bedroom apartments, 40 two-bedroom, and eight three-bedroom dwellings, as well as eight three-bedroom duplex properties with separate entrances onto Fletcher Street. The 18-storey tower will rise out of a six-storey base, with three apartments per floor on the upper levels. The Council’s planning officers recommended the scheme for approval by councillors, following amendments to original plans which added increased affordable housing provision (5% of properties in line with local guidelines) and improved fire safety arrangements.

By Colony opens flexible workspace at former Stockport tannery A

s we adapt to a more flexible way of working, a former three-storey tannery in the centre of Stockport has been converted to offer a selection of office accommodation.

The imposing mill, previously home to Kershaw’s Tannery and constructed in 1855, has many original architectural features all of which have been refurbished and enhanced to retain its original splendour. A choice of serviced offices, dedicated desks, a virtual office, meeting rooms and even adjoining warehouse space is on offer along with a range of memberships to meet the diverse needs of potential users.

Serviced offices - whether you need a desk for one person or an office for 10,

By Colony’s serviced offices can match individual requirements, including the freedom to keep your own hours with 24-hour access. At a fully inclusive price, your office comes complete with furniture, storage and full connectivity to ultra-fast, secure broadband. Users also benefit from access to lounge areas and use of a fully equipped communal kitchen and discounted rates for meeting rooms and event spaces.

Dedicated desk space - may suit professionals seeking a luxury alternative to co-working. The space benefits from acoustic panels, its own private window, 24 hour access as well and a lockable storage space.

A meeting room - with seating for up to 10 people is located on the second floor of The Tannery. Equipped with audio conferencing facilities, HD screens, whiteboards and a state-of-the-art coffee machine, the meeting room is rentable by the hour, half day or full day.

Alternatively, memberships - are available designed to meet the requirements of businesses of all shapes and sizes. The Tannery offers ultra-fast Wi-Fi, print facilities and a team on hand to attend to your every need. Ideal for commuters wanting to avoid the traffic in to inner-city Manchester, have a base between meetings or in need a regular desk from which to work, The Tannery offers a variety of membership options to suit all.

Virtual office solutions - can be tailored for both business or personal use. In addition to just a mailbox, customers can take advantage of a membership at The Tannery with discounted meeting room rates and access to the exclusive members club for day-to-day meetings.

Warehouse Space – By Colony offers customisable warehouse space up to 4,000 sq ft attached to the office accommodation.

If you’d like to find out more about office solutions at The Tannery, Water Street, Stockport then call the team on 0161 850 9377 or pop in for a coffee and a look around.

JYSK bringing Danish design to Stockport

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anish retailer, JYSK, has announced plans to open a new shop in Stockport as part of expansion plans for the furniture store in 2021.

The retailer, which already has its UK & Ireland head office in Hazel Grove, plans to increase its number of sites in the UK from 21 to 26, including two new stores in Greater Manchester: Stockport and Bury. The expansion comes following the Danish brand seeing record growth results in its 2019/20 financial year.

The company (whose name is pronounced Yoosk) sell ‘everything for the home’ and opened their first store in Denmark in 1979.

They now have over 2,800, across more than 50 countries.

Exact locations and opening dates for the new Stockport store have yet to be announced, although the site will be within one hour of the existing Oldham store, in order to share resources between sites and open sustainably.

Country Manager for JYSK UK & Ireland, Roni Tuominen outside one of the company’s 21 stores already trading in the UK

News

07

Robinsons welcome third foal to the Shire breeding programme

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amily-owned Stockport brewery, Robinsons, have welcomed the birth of their third foal from the firm’s Shire horse breeding programme.

The family welcomed Hillgate Cordelia’s Charm on 5th March 2021. The Bay Shire Filly foal arrived in the early hours, with four white legs and a blaze – both mother and foal are happy, healthy and thriving!

Back in 2018, the brewery, which has almost 2 centuries of solid history behind it, announced their very own Shire Breeding Programme.

Helen Preece, Head Horseperson at Robinsons, said: “When we started the programme, we registered our own prefix, ‘Hillgate’, with the Shire Horse Society, which all future foals will inherit. We are all so proud to be preserving and promoting the Shire horse breed – something Robinsons have been passionate about since the begin-

Shires have served Robinsons Brewery for over 100 years. Before the arrival of the internal combustion engine, Robinsons’ Shires were in the main brewery yard working every day to deliver traditionally brewed ales to local inns and hostelries. However, their primary use was inter-brewery work: moving bottles and cases between Unicorn and Hempshaw Brook Breweries in the 1950’s. The Shires also moved cinders from the main yard, spent hops and wastepaper.

ning of their business time. Cordelia’s Charm is a special new edition to the family and has brought a glimmer of joy during the pandemic.”

Cordelia’s Charm is foal to Dolly, a 12-year-old registered Shire mare, and Sire Penrhos Braveheart, owned by P & M Bedford, who in 2011 was named National Champion Stallion, the last black Stallion to win this accolade and the only living black National Champion Stallion.

Braveheart was also the last horse to win National Champion whilst holding the title of Super Premium, joining a list of very few stallions to have held this honourable title.

Until current Covid-19 restrictions allow, the Shire horses are being kept in a local field so cannot be seen at the brewery. To stay updated with the latest news on the foal, follow Robinsons Shire Horses on Facebook. There is more information on the Shire Breeding Programme on the brewery’s website: www.robinsonsbrewery.com

Stockport College student is ‘Young Student of the Year’ A

student from Stockport College has beaten off competition from other finalists to be named as the Association of Colleges’ Young Student of the Year.

get many opportunities to prove themselves. By winning this award I want to inspire girls out there, especially the ones that come from a similar place, that you are capable of great things. I’m so pleased to be able to have been able to make my College proud.”

Esha came to Stockport College in 2017 as a new arrival to the UK, overcoming cultural and language barriers to make remarkable progression, in confidence as well as ability.

Esha Mumtaz was recognised for her outstanding commitment to the local community after applying her studies in Health & Social Care to work at a local care home and volunteer at Trafford Hospital.

During four years of studying GCSEs and her BTEC, Esha has taken on several extra-curricular roles, representing the College at events as Student Ambassador, standing as Deputy Leader of campaign body, the Equalities Council and this academic year, Esha won the vote to become Student Governor of Stockport College and Trafford College, which are part of The Trafford College Group.

CEO and College Group Principal James Scott said: “We are immensely proud of Esha and everything she has achieved since joining us from Pakistan. We are delighted to have been able to have been part of her journey and to have supported her in becoming an accomplished learner and confident public speaker.”

Esha said: “I still can’t believe it! The other finalists were such great candidates. I want to thank all of my mentors at College. I come from a background where girls do not

The awards were announced at CollegesLive 2021 which provided an enriching and formative online experience for college students to hear from game changers, innovators, survivors, and risk takers from across the globe.

Stockport to host its first Urban Enduro

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lanning is underway for an exciting, fun filled activity weekend in Stockport town centre on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th September, which will include Stockport’s first ever Urban Enduro Subject to easing of restrictions, the plans for the weekend include for multiple events to take place across the town centre, and one focus will be on hosting the Stockport Urban Enduro Taking the technical challenge of Cyclo Cross, the excitement and speed of paved town centre racing and adding a blend of Bike Parkour Urban Cross, the event will be as spectacular to watch as it will to take part! Racers are set to speed around a tight one mile Town Centre Circuit, jumping down steps and twisting through the street furniture of Stockport. The action is fast with riders passing constantly on this exciting route.

Free to spectate, riders from all over the UK could be battling on the streets of Stockport in September in this National level event.

On Race weekend the events will not only be centred on the race for adults but there will be a whole host of family events taking place across the town centre from Merseyway, to St Peter’s Square. The focus will be on active travel, community initiatives and spreading an interest in all things cycling.

We hope to bring in a huge number of spectators to take in the atmosphere, learn more about active travel and visit all areas of the town. Keep watching out for updates on the events pages at www.totallystockport.co.uk and on Totally Stockport’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

He had one of the most famous hairstyles in pop culture and with Kajagoogoo scored five top ten hits during the 80s. We catch up with Limahl who seems to be as busy as ever...

How did it all start for Nik Kershaw?

9 I started getting into music and playing music when I was about 13 or 14 and then it was just a case of being in school bands, after which I was in a functions band for about three years which was great training, playing everything from Irving Berlin to the Birdie Song but we eventually ran out of work so I spent about a year on the dole making demos. I hawked them around all the record companies and just got nowhere. I’ve still got all my rejection slips. As almost a last resort I advertised for management in Melody Maker and I got a call from a fella calling himself Mickey Modern who took me from there to getting a record deal and off I went.

Limahl

Interview

How long until the first single came out?

Not that long, I don’t think. I think it was the beginning of 83 I signed the deal, we were making the album in the summer of that year and I think ‘I Won’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” came out in September.

It wasn’t an immediate hit was it? It came and went until the beginning of 84 when the rollercoaster really started with ‘Wouldn’t It Be Good’ Yes. They reissued it in the Summer of 84. In those days there was a different deal really because record companies invested in artists and they built careers. So when we first released it and it only got to number 47 or whatever that wasn’t deemed to be a failure. It was a step in the right direction.

And you did your first Top of the Pops, how did you deal with that?

You grew up not far away in up Wigan. how did you tell me what happened.

It wasThursday Monday morning, has some14really high notes.

Eventually, by about about it That was pretty surreal, ending on a So programme that I had watched religiously every night since I was about or 15.

I don’t remember much get from there to Kajagoogoo? just played to about 40,000 at a music 8pmany at night we’d it done and I thoughttrying we’d to except for getting stopped by the police for jumping somewe’d traffic lights.

I was in a little hire people car because I didn’t have money andgot it was quite interesting God,to how have you Igot?

I ran in Finland got a call from thewhen manager nailed it. Sure enough a couple of days later we in the explain thelong police where wasWell, going.

Butaway whatfrom everyonefestival says about doingand TopIof the Pops is that you watch it on telly you see all these masses of people home 16 because dad a bitthe of size a bully.

Paul, and hethere said “Hi Limahl, we’re all here, about. we’re With got the call that he was going their to use it. Which studio butatwhen you get my there it’swas about of my front room and about ten people milling the cameras nearly chopping heads off. was I was beginning to realise that I was possibly gay having a meeting and I’m sorry to say we’ve decidgreat because this is a legendary producer. A three and I the feared my dad outThe - back theDown 70s itOn Me’ edgot to carry on without you.”second I just went silent. think time Academy winner. album - these must So after reissue of ‘Ifinding Won’t Let SuninGo to number two, your album was Ireleased, The Riddle - a award multi-platinum wasn’t it is today. off toman.

Bolton, got mythey felt that their direction was being taken away have been like amazing timesSo forI aran young a job and madethat some newIfriends from them.

As Artdidn’t Nouveau they quite the 90sexciting like forand yourewarding because Britpop Yesself although I wasn’t young, was 26.and Buttried yes, to my feet almost literally touch thewere ground forserious two years.What It waswere incredibly - all thehad good leadbut another led mebecause to Manchester where you know, The Beatles wereina control teeny-bopper arrived and everything very different? things it waslife. alsoThat terrifying no-one was reallybut, in control of anything.

I wasn’t of my own image I wasn’t in control was of the press it just snowballed, I lived for about aofyear and We a half and then moved in nine band, Duran which Duranwas were, Whamnuts were.thing to do. I didn’tInobject the late New with York itand signed like a it had a momentum it own. released twoI albums months a pretty to 80s that,I went I wenttoalong butwas it seemed to London I think it’s a decision they came to regret. I had a by the music industry mogul Clive Davis. We recordcrazy thing to where do. I had started lessons and joined a few bands... and I left a few bands. I started reletter from Nick [Beggs] apologising for the way it ed six songs, they spent a lot of money and then and Iitmet girl who introduced which was fair enough.

I don’t hold any they dropped me. It was a nightmare. So I didn’t Wascording there ademos sense that wasanever going to end orme did youhappened, sit down and consider that the time-line might be finite? a theatrical agent called Barry Stacey who you wasbelieve a grudges of three marriages fail but really do anything for a few years. I always thought Youtoare kind of surrounded by people who make that it’sbecause going totwo go out on forever. real character. And he said “Darling, I’m sending you out of them you can still get beautiful children. And of myself as the actor who goes on to direct or for an atand TheI’ve Grand Theatre the beautiful out of mywhat marriage with those becomes a manager. I thought I know all audition. the wordsIt’s tofor ThePanto Riddle spent the last 30 years tryingchild to figure out The Riddle is, can you the put footballer me out of who my misery? was my first professional role!second four musicians Soheels the legacy far one, moreI only I’dhad be behind the scenes still doing love Yes,Swansea” as long asAnd youthat don’t swear at me...

Because the album came is soToo hot Shy. on the of theisfirst two weeks to writebut it which I did,what otherI than I was a chorus I got to sing! The jobThe Riddle important than silly bickering that might which So I opened a recordingstarted studioand in into Wide Boyonly which was anboy old but song.

I basically wrote in about tenany minutes - I usually take ageshave writing lyrics soisI music. just wanted to get something also gotwhere me anwe Equity was very gone on.

Bush.

We Iemployed a DJvocal because they a position couldcard startwhich recording it theimporfollowing week.

So I just wrote a load of rhyming nonsense. WhenShepherd’s I got into the studio put the guide down - still tant.nonsense After that- Iand wasI had in Joseph The Amazing were of therecording new kidsto oncome the block theredo 90s.the Welyrics did all this severalAnd goes during the course backin and when I started a remix for Wilde,else a remix for Peter Andre. It butTechnicolour nobody reallyDreamcoat, liked them -which we ‘d was got so used to the nonsense thatKim anything sounded wrong. to learn more about my voice - and amongst all of never reached the heights that we wanted it to but was say still that writing and I’ve recording demos. it was a great curve.

No,this youIcan’t Niksongs Kershaw. got it here, look..

“Near a tree by alearning river” that’s theI was river writing there...and proThen I put an advert in Melody Maker ‘looking for ducing music for seven years, I enjoyed it. I was a That’s actually the sea. I’m on a beach near Weymouth I think. a band’ I got a call from the bass player of a band kid with a new toy. Then in 1998 one of the majors called Artsay Nouveau who were looking for a in singer, released first 80syou’re compilation CD and it went to Right, don’t anything else...”there’s a hole the ground” I’mthe assuming in that hole.. and “the old them.“around There was band around theon number mansoofI joined Aran” going andaaround” is the at dust the needle.one. Then another label released one and that went top five. And venues started doing 80s Ah, time I see.called Classix Nouveau so we started throwing different names around we ended up with Kajagoonights and radio stations were doing 80s shows goo!. and I got a call from an agent asking if I wanted to How many of these did you sell? do some live work. So I thought I’ll enjoy this for a I dunno, about 500,000 in this country...

How did the record deal come about? few months but as it turned out, I’ve not stopped I was are working as a waiter at the Embassy Clubtrying livefor for36 twenty And that’s round So there at least 500,000 people who’ve been toperforming work this out years.years.

I’m shattered, The trust is which was a really cool venue, lots of media and the world because Too Shy and Never Ending Story gone. people - I’m seeing the likes ofbeen Gary channelling Numan were number ones practically everywhere They Butmusic is it nonsense though?

I might have something. and Bananarama and Steve Strange - and the mankeep the phone ringing. And then the American TV ager Stephen Hayter saidand “why you aget your show last year persuaded me to dip my toe in the I been re-watching Live Aid youdon’t do look little bit scared... downas to Ido a gig?” So we did a couple of gigs creative recording waters again and it’s gone quite Notband as scared felt and started creating a bit of a buzz. Anyway, one You sort of had the last laugh in many ways bewell. served aon drink to Nick Rhodes, thelike keyboard cause 1984 all but disappeared I’venight been Iworking my impressions so I’d you to close yourby eyes andKajagoogoo listen. Thenhad I’d like to know how this makes you feel: “Here’s a young British artist who’s nevplayer from Duran Duran his manager whereasNik youKershaw?!” were launching your solo career with You’ll be back in Stockport on 17th July for the er had anything but hits.

Livewho Aid,was fromwith London, will you welcome Paul Berow.

So Ididn’t enthused Nick myAll band, OnlyisFor Love and the massive hit Never Ending Hitstrying on the Pitch at theup.

Strawberry festival Hahaha.

I probably hearto that at about the time.

I remember someone behind me pushing me onto the stage.Smash I was just not to throw It was a fabulous him about the gigsBattersea we’d done and that we’d withnearby Giorgiowhere Moroder.

How did playing you get football, to at Stockport Club.

Areeveryone you looking forward day.telling I remember flying from Heliport and landingStory in a field people were bizarrely.

ThenRugby the limos took to the confermade some demos and toover my surprise he saidto meet Charles work with coming Stockport and whatthinking can we expect? ence centre, then we walked to the stadium andhim?

Di and we sat in the Royal Box when Statusto Quo cameto on.

Then I remember ‘I’m going “Send songs, I’ll have a listen” so I sent To promote Only For - which on the first they left Wellquite you won’t be seeing that to big, blonde hair, to be on ame bit,your what’s the protocol about leaving the him Royal Box when Charles andLove Di are here, was but fortunately early so I managed get away.spiky And then a cassette and I gotthree a call from him about a week That’s What Music’ album - EMI looongThey gonewere but I’m to report I do Aid. backstage there were Portakabins that you could useever for‘Now 20 minutes beforeI Call going on stage and 20 minutesthat’s afterwards. thehappy dressing roomsthat at Live later saying “I really songs and I’m taking askedtalking me to to goSting to theabout Tokyohis Music Festival andAnd I was have hair at and atside my age I’mstage grateful for that.

I remember standing in like thisthe quadrangle outside my Portakabin first solo album. stood the of the I hadn’t seenAnd myIcrew, them to EMI records” Ha!on Sostage I picked Giorgio Moroder was there.ofMy the time the might sing couple literally of songs you know.

I thinkbecause I’m I didn’t know if my gear was or ifmyself any ofup it was going to work . You’re aware themanager fact thatatunderneath stage area people pushing it around the floor... it did feel Duran wastogether Billy Gaff,with a fiery Irish guyAnd whothen had Imanaged just excited as theonaudiences are to get back the off motors had broken andimportant the whole because event was kind of stuck gaffer tape. took a deep breath and walked stage. It was literally like out walking reallyitbig atover the time.

Stewart hisBox heyday.

Billy Queen went toand din-everybody there.who If I’m allowed I’ll kiss the front off Duran a cliff. were And once was and done with I could relax.Rod I was sat inthrough the Royal watching was there to, knew that everyone that was ainspecial moner with Giorgio in Tokyo and was no doubt singing row. ment.

You were on a roll then, Too Shy went to number my praises because when we were back in England had the White Feathers album so and the folI got a new call from office asking me to try my Finally, your mullet was one of the most famous It’s one, beenyou eight years since your last album what’s inspired the one, Giorgio’s Oxymoron? single “Ooh Be Aah” andfact at athat timeI better when get myself voice on So some I flew work to Munich where Gior- faffing hairstyles in pop and there a Marvel charNo low-up one thing, I was justTo aware of the in the gearsong. and do because I’d been about gigging.

I’d go intowas the even studio every day and you’d normally bereally looking yourbut nextthen album, gioof had a studio, done all those acterI’ve styled around it. I believe, some places mess about and not gettowards much done, the germ two or threewhere trackshe’d came together andbrilliant I thought okay, started an album.

But itinwas a long old it’s prosomething has and become a thing of Summer The day I wasare meetcoming back intothat fashion, so course. is there a chance you cess.

Plenty ofhappened songs gotthat written dumped or broken upDonna for salvage andrecords. the 16 tracks onbefore the album the ones that survived assault legend, you get a phone call out of the blue and ing them I stayed up very late, smoking cigarettes would ever grow it back? asked toplaying leave. Why was that? alcohol andto getting sleep and when Oh I think it would to bebecause pulling on a wig We’ve been the single ‘From Cloudy Bay to Malibu’and a lotdrinking and while it seems have anostorytelling vibe, I daren’t ask you whathave it’s about the trustfor has I have no idea, I still don’t know. I was actually I arrived I basically had no voice. Because I was 23, charity or something. But it’s nice that other people gone... thinking fewI’ve weeks ago that my I should get together invincible.

That’s how you atisthat age.Most So of can enjoy it.

I should sayathat never drunk way around the WorldI was in one night, which is what thisare fella doing. the songs on the album have something to do with me with Jez [thethe drummer] because wouldabout. probably I could barely speak let along sing, and that song because that’s easiest thing to writer

“

The beautiful child out of my marriage with those four musicians is Too Shy. So the legacy is far more important than any silly bickering that might have gone on.

“

Stepping Out (at last!)

As a whole new world of “Going Out” opens up for us, we should probably look at what we’re going to be wearting. And there are plenty of shops around Stockport who will be VERY pleased to see you trying things on.

Remember what that was like?

Jake Lunar Ladies St Ives Leather Shoes £39.99

New Look Leopard Print Espadrille Flatform Trainers £14.99

Diechmann Espadrille wedge sandals £24.99 Office Converse All Star Blue Gaze £56.99

H&M Block-heeled sandals £12.99

Clarks Hero Air Lace Mint £89.00

River Island Brown leather woven tassel loafers £45.00

Fashion Primark White and Black Chelsea Boots £16.00

Matalan Grey Plimsolls £12.50

Tessuti Veja V-10 Suede £115.00

Shuropody Josef Seibel Rosalie13 £75.00

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Next Lipsy Elastic Espadrille Footbed Sandals £35

Old Town General Store Yogi x Hikerdelic Eric Suede Chukka £160

Esprits Prada Leather Sneakers with Rubber Trim £590.00

Trespass Leka Women’s waterproof walking shoes £45.99

USC Ben Sherman Hunt Desert Boots £35.00

A new cultural centre, the One Stockport Hub, has opened its doors in Merseyway.

One Stockport Community Hub opens in Merseyway

T

he new One Stockport Hub has opened in the former Argos unit of the shopping centre, opening onto Mersey Square. The site will provide a temporary Covid-safe location for library services that would normally be available from the Central Library. Visitors will have access to:

• •

• • •

A dedicated family library with adult and children’s literature A digital zone with computers and tables for use free of charge, as well as free Wi-Fi and space where visitors can use their own devices Council’s heritage material and Stockport archives A Stockport shop selling items currently offered in the museums’ shops Local history displays from our museum collection

The highly accessible new location for the hub in the heart of the town centre aims to appeal to both shoppers and visitors, initially offering a service in line with the current Covid-19 restrictions and phase out of lockdown. Numbers may be limited and you may have to queue before entering the premises. Visitors will be asked to sanitise their hands on entry and observe the one-way system that is in operation.

The Hub is the first stage in the council’s ambition for a much larger town centre cultural and community centre, which has already seen the council awarded £14 million from the Government’s Future High Street Fund to help realise this game changing vision for the town.

More information can be found at the - www.stockport.gov.uk/topic/libraries

New Openings

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German Doner Kebab

opens at Peel Centre C

asual dining chain, German Doner Kebab, has opened a new takeaway outlet and restaurant in Stockport town centre as part of expansion plans that will create 1800 jobs nationwide by the end of 2021.

Currently operating under Covid-19 restrictions and Government guidance, the Glasgow-based chain intends to almost double its 52 outlets across the UK with 47 restaurant openings by the end of 2021, including its new site opposite the Peel Centre in Stockport town centre. The chain has seen a 51% boost in its takeaway and delivery sales during lockdown that have supported the expansion.

Imran Sayeed, chief executive officer of German Doner Kebab, said: “We have been extremely agile during the pandemic and there continues to be a huge demand for our game-changing kebabs. It is therefore very exciting to be announcing these latest

growth plans for the next 12 months as we build on the great momentum we delivered during 2020.

“Our plans will almost double our portfolio and create in the region of 1,800 jobs as we continue to disrupt the market space and maintain our mission of building the fast-casual brand of the future.”

The menu is, unsurprisingly, doner-obsessed.

Apart from the obvious kebabs, you can have doner wraps, doner quesadillas, doner burgers, doner boxes, doner nachos and even doner spring rolls.

As well as its new Stockport site, German Doner Kebab will also be opening restaurants in Manchester and Blackburn in the North West. The new restaurant openings are being led by former Nando’s executive, Rich Collie, and will also see the brand grow internationally.

Pepe’s Piri Piri L

ocated on Prince’s Street, Pepe’s Piri Piri is a spicy chicken lovers idea of heaven!

The ‘home of fresh grilled chicken’.

Catering for the whole family, Pepe’s Kids Meals are always a hot favourite: a choice of chicken wings, burger, strips and nuggets include a fruit drink. Bigger kids and grownups can be tempted by a variety of both chicken and lamb burgers while vegetarian specials of wraps, rice and burgers ensure no one is left hungry.

But centre stage is Pepe’s grilled collection where just about everything is on the menu in 6 tasty flavours. Whether you prefer a softer, milder flavour or have a taste for the extreme, hot sensation, with all meals freshly cooked to order, the choice is yours. With a choice of drinks and sides, you can be sure of great service and satisfied appetites.

And in case you’ve still got a hole to fill, there’s also a great selection of desserts including Ben & Jerry’s ices and delicious Carrot Cake, Chocolate Fudge Cake and Cheesecake!

Something else we love about Pepe’s is that you can check out the calories and nutritional value of all meals on the website here - www.pepes.co.uk/nutrition

97-99, Prince’s Street Stockport SK1 1RW 0161 480 6000

14

New Openings

The Porsche Centre Stockport

W

e were not far into Lockdown when Porsche opened their spectacular new centre in Stockport.

Located on Marsland Street, Porsche Centre Stockport is a brand new, purpose built, state-of-the-art Centre. Home to a two-floor, 30-car showroom showcasing an extensive range of new and Porsche Approved Pre-Owned vehicles, it is the perfect environment to explore the very latest in Porsche design and technology.

Their amazing aftersales department features a 13-bay workshop and two Direct Dialogue Bays where customers can inspect their vehicle in the company of a Porsche expert. The experienced team of Porsche Trained-Technicians use specialist tools and Porsche Genuine Parts to ensure your Porsche is maintained to the highest standards.

The Aftersales department is also home to a Porsche Driver’s Selection and Porsche Tequipment displays where the team can talk through different options for both yourself and your Porsche.

Marsland Street, Stockport SK1 2BT 0161 476 9090 www.porschestockport.co.uk

Hospitality

Michelin Green Star for Where The Light Gets In S

tockport’s premier restaurant has been acknowledged by the world’s elite of the gastronomic world and awarded a coveted Michelin Green Star in recognition of its Gastronomy and Sustainability.

Acclaimed Stockport restaurant Where the Light Gets In has been awarded a green Michelin Star, a new category that has been created to recognise restaurants who are leading the way in sustainability.

WTLGI is the only restaurant in Greater Manchester to receive this prestigious accolade.

Housed in a former Coffee Warehouse in Stockport town centre, at the helm of Where The Light Gets In is award winning Chef de Patron Sam Buckley. Sam leads a fantastically enthusiastic team who, pre-Covid restrictions, created culinary masterpieces from local suppliers, the day’s forage and gathered fresh from the local roof top urban kitchen garden situated a brief four minute walk away – a distinct bonus in WTLGI’s quest to create a successful, sustainable business.

Due to coronavirus, for now the restaurant has had to close its doors to the 30-head-per-

evening diners who book months in advance to ensure their table in the light airy loft-style setting surrounding the open kitchen. Under the current roadmap out of lockdown, WTLGI will reopen to diners week commencing 17th May. Sam is delighted with the award and said it couldn’t have come at a better time: “This comes at a really valuable time during lockdown when many people are struggling, feeling isolated and away from the limelight.

“I’m really proud to see the work that the team have done and great recognition for us all.”

Determined not to let an opportunity pass them by, throughout lockdown Sam and his team have directed their fantastic talents to create a Takeaway shop serving the ultimate home-produced food: seasonal organic veg, bread & pastries, flour, grains, pulses and preserves from the kitchen. There’s even a takeaway wine, beer and cocktail menu perfectly matched to ‘meals to go’. Open Fridays and Saturdays from 11 to 4, WTLGI will continue with the ‘shop’ until they are able to reopen and welcome back diners to the restaurant, hopefully next month.

Swing into Prince’s Street for a taste of the jungle!

J

ungle Grill located on Prince’s Street has to be one of the most interesting eateries in Stockport town centre. It’s where you can get the taste of a real steakhouse serving steak, grilled chicken, gourmet burgers, burritos, shakes and salads all with a Jungle twist.

As the name suggests the Jungle Grill theme is played out in real time across the whole venue. Artificial jungle planting surrounds the space and cave like rendering has been selected to create a jungle cave atmosphere.

The low lighting and darkness of the space create a really interesting concept - it really does feel as if you are eating in the midst of a jungle. The use of bamboo, rope and other touches finish the space off perfectly.

The menu ranges from gourmet burgers to tortilla wraps and a sprinkling of other interesting options carefully curated along the way. Inside is seating for up to 50 people.

Jungle Grill also offer a fantastic takeaway delivery option which only adds to the number of ways to try their fantastic food.

20, Prince’s Street Stockport www.junglegrill.net

15

David Freedman

Freedmans: Stockport’s H T

here is a good chance that, at some point in their lives, most local men will cross the threshold into Freedmans. Whether to be fitted out as groom, best man, usher or other formally-dressed male addition to a wedding, Freedmans has been a popular destination for well over a century.

The shop has moved around over the years but most people will only know it in its current position on Little Underbank.

The company still trades under the name S Freedman and Sons (Stockport) Ltd although Simon Freedman is a distant memory these days. When Totally Stockport popped in to the shop we were greeted by David and Andrew Freedman. David is Simon’s grandson and Andrew his great-grandson.

“My grandfather started the business in 1893 on Church Road, just off the A6 which was then the main street in Stockport. That was where they lived and where all the businesses were. Later he moved down to Princes Street, although it wasn’t called that then [it was Heaton Lane]. He was worried that he might lose some business moving there but soon Princes Street was the busiest street outside Manchester.

When I was a lad, that was the place to be.”

When Marks & Spencer came to town they purchased a large swath of shops on Princes Street in order to have a presence on Merseyway. Freedmans was one of those shops and although they initially took a unit in the precinct, they soon moved to Great Underbank.

If you’ve ever wondered why there have historically been so many banks and building societies around Great Underbank, it is because they were not allowed to open in the precinct - that space was ‘retail only’ -

and this was as close as they could get. So it was that 35 years ago David Freedman rented his shop to the Alliance & Leicester and moved around the corner to where they are now.

At 127 years old, there seems little doubt that Freedmans is the longest serving retail business in town, although they only took on that title recently, “Tittertons the butchers were about a year older than us” explains David, “but they closed their shop a couple of years ago.”

To David, the demise of Tittertons highlights the advantages that his business enjoys: ”People can get meat cheaper at the supermarkets than on the high street and that’s where we’re lucky, the big multiples either don’t want to do what we do, or they can’t do it.”

“It’s too labour intensive for them” explains Andrew, “people can be in here for an hour and a half. When people are hiring wedding outfits, they like traditional service. And we can wheel my dad out from the back and people find it reassuring” he adds, laughing.

David: “People are often surprised when we start talking to them - just chatting - because they don’t experience that elsewhere. They’re used to just paying for their things and that’s it.”

You can walk into Freedmans and get a regular suit made to measure “but it’s usually people who can’t get them off the peg for one reason or another.” says David.

There is one area of specialisation however in which people are prepared to invest some money and might think about buying rather than hiring and that is with

Freedman’s range of Highland wear. This range is a source of great pride for the family and if they have a specific unique selling point, this is probably it.

“We are the biggest in the North West of England on Highland wear.” says David, “If you’ve got an hour or so I could tell you all about Scottish tartan... I’ve got, for made-to-measure, about 3000 different tartans.

There’s an amazing amount.”

The majority of people still hire their highland outfits but there are some keen to have their own and the price to do so is around the £1,000 mark but if someone is going to those lengths, David will help keep the cost down as much as possible, “If someone is having their outfit made because they want to get married in their family tartan we will lend them the accessories for free and people can build their collection up in the future, if they want to.”

Such accessories include the brooches that go into the kilt pin, the belts and buckles, the sporran and the sgian-dubh - the knives that are carried in the sock. ”We sell the real ones but we only hire out plastic ones,” Andrew points out. David continues, “Highland is so much more difficult than the normal hiring of a suit. There are so many more bits to it that you’ve really got to know what you’re doing. So a lot of other shops are frightened of doing it. We have stocks here so you’ll definitely find a pair of ghillie shoes that fit you.”

Andrew adds, “I’d say we’ve been doing it properly for about 20 years. We’re the only ones who really know what they’re talking about. We have the biggest range of highland wear and we have the biggest range of suits too.”

Menswear

s Hire Authority On the suit side, the shop carry a huge range of both their own unique stock and outfits supplied by a wholesaler, to ensure all shapes and sizes can be accommodated although not everyone arrives knowing what they want, ”Some do” says Andrew, “it depends.

The lads from around Stockport maybe not so much but if they’re coming in from Bramhall or somewhere like that, then yes. A lot of people come in with a picture on their phones and say ‘can you do something like that?’ We had a group in recently and the groom said ‘I think I’ll have the trousers showing a bit of ankle’ at which point I came out and said ‘look.. you’re going to a wedding...’ and he said ‘yes, I suppose you’re right.’”

Often the groom can be kept in check by the bride, because if you hadn’t noticed, half the shop frontage announces the presence of ‘Dress The Bride’ which is situated upstairs. This operation is a separate business to Freedmans but obviously the two work very well together - for one thing the Freedmans get their windows properly dressed for free.

David and Andrew are both inseparable from the business, spending more hours there than they really need to. David sees it as a way of keeping active and Andrew says “I don’t take my day off. I’d rather be down here than not.”

As things stand, there might not be a fifth generation of Freedman to carry on the shop which will be a shame but let’s hope that the shop has a long future regardless. As they point out, they offer a very specific service and it is one that not many other people seem keen on providing to the standard necessary. @freedmansmenswear

The shop on Princes Street

19

20

S

News tockport Exchange, already one of the region’s most well-connected and accessible business hubs, is boosting its active travel credentials by introducing a Brompton Bike Hire dock.

The new solar powered cycle dock, which launches in the summer will see eight docks and 12 cycles located outside the Holiday Inn Express, in close proximity to Stockport train station.

Brompton Bikes are specially designed for cycling in cities. Small wheels mean fast acceleration and increased manoeuvrability. Their foldability means they can easily be carried onto all forms of public transport, in the boot of a car, or stowed away under a desk. Brompton Bike Hire was created to provide a cycle hire scheme that is safe, accessible to all, easy to install and run, and economical to use.

Brompton launch foldable bike hire scheme into Stockport

To get started, users simply register online, credit their account and can then reserve a bike either on the website, or by text message before collecting it. Prices start from £3.50 a day and users can keep the bike for as long as they need, by simply reserving a bay and returning it to any public dock once they have finished.

Tom Webber, senior development surveyor at Muse, said: “Stockport Exchange is already one of the best-connected business hubs in the area and the new Brompton Bike Hire dock here will make it even easier and greener for people to get around Stockport and Greater Manchester. The Brompton brand and ethos is widely recognised and aligns seamlessly with the Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC)’s aspiration to become Greater Manchester’s newest, greenest and coolest affordable urban neighbourhood.”

The £145 million Stockport Exchange transformation, delivered collaboratively by Stockport Council and national urban regenerators, Muse Developments, is part of the council’s visionary Mayoral Development Corporation and is central to its £1 billion town centre regeneration programme. Once complete, the wider Stockport Exchange development will deliver up to 375,000 sq ft of office space and 28,000 sq ft of commercial floor space.

“

The new Brompton Bike Hire dock will make it even easier and greener for people to get around Stockport and Greater Manchester.

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IT’S BACK!

R

News

Stockport’s Gigantic Leap Frog Art Trail Returns!

emember the Stockport frogs? How could anyone forget Strawberry Frog proudly guarding the NatWest Banking Hall on Great Underbank? Or Midas providing a golden glow at the Peel Centre.

Or Prince Regent, resplendent in his crown, guarding his ‘palace’ at Regent House.

In 2019, Stockport’s Giant Leap Frog Art Trail attracted thousands and thousands of new visitors, residents and families of all ages to the town centre. It was fantastic to see so many excited children (and big children) seeking out all 19 giant frogs on the trail, later to be joined by three visiting frogs!

In 2019, Stockport’s Business Improvement District’s frog trail was also a great opportunity for visitors to discover a newly invigorated town centre, buoyed by Stockport’s £1bn programme of investment and regeneration. As Stockport continues to take gigantic steps to create a town centre for everyone to enjoy, the frogs are coming back - only bigger, better and even more of them!

This summer’s Gigantic Leap Frog Art Trail 2021 will see 21 brand new, gigantic frogs hopping into the town centre! And not only that, their frog buddies will be hopping to locations across the whole borough.

Stockport BID manager Paul Taylor is delighted the frogs will once again

Want to sponsor a frog?

Any businesses interested in sponsoring a frog, please contact: info@totallystockport.co.uk

be hopping back into Stockport town centre: “To say it’s been a difficult 12 months for everyone is the understatement of the decade! Having worked so hard over the past four years to promote all the great changes taking place here and encourage more people to visit the town centre more often, it’s been heart breaking to see so many businesses forced to close during lockdown and the town centre all but deserted.

“But it’s time to plan for the reopening of the town centre and what better way than with another brilliant trail that’s even bigger and better than before! Stockport’s 2021 Gigantic Leap Frog trail will once again bring visitors, families of all ages, friends and organisations following the trail while discovering the many new businesses who have set up here, despite the best efforts of Covid!

“And, just like last time, businesses can get involved and sponsor a frog.

This year all proceeds of the auction will be donated to St Ann’s Hospice.”

Lasting from July until the end of September, Totally Stockport are not revealing all the details just yet. But you can keep up to date with their journey at www.stockportfrogs.co.uk – we may even give you a sneaky peek into the famous frog factory! And any businesses interested in sponsoring a frog, please contact info@totallystockport.co.uk

21

Help design One Stockport’s frogs!

Running from July to September, the 21 gigantic frogs making Stockport’s Gigantic Leap Frog Art Trail in the town centre will be joined by 17 of their frog friends across the borough The 17 ‘One Stockport’ Giant Frog sculptures will celebrate each area’s uniqueness and we want you to help us to design a frog for your area. Your ideas or designs will be brought to life by local artists from Arc, Arts for Recovery in the Community, a leading arts and mental health charitable organisation.

It could be places you like to visit and explore locally, significant landmarks or characteristics that make your area special, all of these could help us to create your local frog’s unique design.

You can send us your written answers or, if you would like to illustrate your answers or you have children who would like to share their ideas, you can download the frog template from the One Stockport website – www.onestockport.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/02-final-One-Stockport-Frogs-Community-Design-Brief.pdf Or, if you’d prefer a shorter link: https://bit.ly/2RjXetI Or perhaps you would like to share with us an image which you feel represents your local area? It will all help to create a unique frog design that reflects where you live.

We appreciate you taking the time to share your ideas and whilst we cannot guarantee all contributions will feature in the final design, all information including frog drawings and photos will be used to help with the design of the frogs. The frogs will be leaping onto their ‘lily pads’ from July until September, so keep an eye out for your local One Stockport Frog.

To keep updated on One Stockport frogs please follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and check out the website – www.stockportfrogs.co.uk Read all about Stockport’s Gigantic Leap Frog Art Trail on page 19

Here are some questions to get those creative juices flowing: What has been your favourite place locally that you’ve enjoyed exploring during the last 12 months?

What three positive words would you use to describe your local area to someone who has not visited before?

If you had to pick your favourite local landmark or attraction (e.g. building, sculpture, venue or greenspace) what would it be?

What did you miss most about your local area during the last 12 months ? This could be a favourite shop, place to have a bite to eat or drink, leisure venue or perhaps a club or society that haven’t been able to host get togethers or activities

HOW TO SEND US YOUR IDEAS! Your ideas, pictures and designs can be emailed to onestockportfrogs@stockport.gov.uk Please include your name and postcode and send in your entry by Sunday 25th April 2021.

News

Myle Nails - Top Ten Talent L

ynda Bui is the owner of Myle Nails overlooking Suffragette Square in Stockport town centre, having taken over the salon just over three years ago from her cousin Myle. Since then Lynda has enjoyed building up a loyal customer bass as well as making new friends and winning awards. As she explains: “I have been in the beauty industry for nine years and ever since I started, I have enjoyed every second of it. There is always a new trend and I am always passionate about learning new things. You can say we are always up to date with the latest nail trend.

“Nails can really make a person feel better and happy about themselves and that is why I love doing what I do, making sure every single client is appreciated and feels welcome when they come into my salon.

“For the last three years, we have won some amazing awards. Back in 2019, we won first place in ‘Nail Team Of The Year’ @NorthWestBeautyIndustry. This year is a big achievement, we managed to get into The Top 10 of the UK under the category ‘Best Nail Salon’ @hairandbeautyawardsuk.

“I really cannot believe we got into the top 10 of the UK, right here in Stockport. How amazing is that? This recognition means so much to us and will help us build up and eventually expand. The team and I just wanted to say a massive thank you to all our clients and to Stockport for supporting us throughout, we would not have got to where we are now without you.”

Coming Soon to Stockport, a taste of Canada!

C

anadian coffee and doughnut retailer chain, Tim Hortons, have submitted plans to open a drive-through branch in Stockport’s Peel Centre.

The chain, which launched in the UK in Manchester in 2017, already has three branches in the city-region and is hoping to add a drive-through in the former Frankie & Benny’s unit. The addition of Tim Hortons would add to the food and drink offering at the Peel Centre, which is also home to a Nandos and Pizza Hut. Founded in 1964 in Hamilton, Ontario, Tim Hortons has grown to be one of Canada’s most popular hospitality brands. The first UK branch opened to much fanfare in Manchester in 2017, with customers queuing from 2am to claim free food.

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Bon Appetit! Work begins to transform historic Winters on Underbank

W

inters’ clock will soon chime again as work gets underway to transform this much-loved building into an exciting French restaurant.

The Grade II listed building on Little Underbanks is being restored to its former glory and work will include sensitive repairs and restoration of the building, including the unique, automated clock and figures.

The building has a rich and fascinating history and started life as a watch and clock maker, when the buildings namesake, Jacob Winter moved his company there in 1890. Over the years, the building has operated in many guises, including an optician, jewellers, a restaurant, and most recently as a pub, managed by Manchester brewery Joseph Holt.

The new restaurant will be joining a successful and growing number of independent shops, bars and restaurants in the town centre, with Ate Days a Week and Cherry Jam opening last summer and more recently, The General Store.

The main contractor for the project is family run Manchester based HH Smith and Sons and will see construction students from Stockport College work alongside its team to gain much needed experience in heritage techniques.

All the renovation works will be carried out in compliance with the Government’s Covid-19 guidelines during the current lockdown and beyond.

The restoration is part of the Council’s wider programme of work to restore and improve buildings in the Underbanks, with significant funding and support from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The build programme aims to complete by Summer 2021.

Award winning Stockport Gin to open town centre distillery

S

tockport Gin, run by husband and wife Paul and Cheryl Sharrocks, have announced they are to move production from their home distillery to a new, larger location in the town centre. Launched in March 2019, the move to new facilities on St Petersgate marks the next step in the couple’s business.

Cheryl Sharrocks said: “Since we launched, we have always worked from our modest garage at home but it is safe to say we have very much outgrown this now! We’ve been looking for larger premises for some time now and with the plans we have, our new location in the town centre suits us perfectly.”

It is planned that alongside the distilling operations, there will also be a retail outlet where people can visit to try the popular range of gins and buy them as well as a whole range of other products from local producers. They will then be opening the doors for people to find out exactly what goes on in the distillery by offering tours and hosting events such as taster nights and meet the makers.

Paul Sharrocks added, “We have known for some time that we need to move to larger premises if we are to continue to grow the business, but we also want to create a place for people to come to and see exactly what we do and how we do it. Stockport Town Centre is the perfect location for us to be able to do this and we hope to create a distillery that we can not only work from but that will draw people to the town from further afield.”

Work will begin soon on the new distillery and the couple hope to be fully operational from early this summer.

Above: Winters currently under refurbishment.

Left: how it was, photo by Clem Rutter Below: the current state of the interior

News

All change at Stockport County

Developments so far Edgeley Park is one of the most historic sports stadiums in the country and has been the place of many memorable moments for generations of County fans and the local community. If all goes to plan this summer, Covid-19 restrictions will be lifted, and we can once again create unforgettable memories here, at Edgeley Park.

As part of a £1million investment, Edgeley Park has undergone some impressive refur-

bishments including new stadium cladding, a new and modern concourse, new player changing rooms, a new Club shop and a variety of stylish new function rooms with modern finishes and high tech equipment.

Last year the Club also showcased the new Training Centre in Carrington, which boasts multiple pitches, a gym, recovery rooms, a media studio and a kitchen that provides breakfast and lunch for the players.

New Manager Simon Rusk was appointed as Stockport County’s First-Team manager in January after leaving his role at Premier League Brighton & Hove Albion, where he was most recently manager of their U23s side.

Simon has had a huge positive impact since his appointment at Edgeley Park, with players such as Sam Minihan and Liam Hogan praising the positive atmosphere and strong team spirit he has culminated in his short time here already.

On the pitch, he has instilled an exciting new possession-based style of football that, at the time of writing, have resulted in a run of just three defeats in his 16 games in charge so far, and resulted in us having the best defensive record in the National League. Having maintained the Club’s position in the play-off places, Simon is now fully focused on driving the Club back towards the Football League, and has spoken of his determination to build a team and club that the people of Stockport can be proud of.

Stockport County Community projects Stockport County have been involved in various community projects over the years, including raising over £200,000 for the Food for Christmas campaign in 2020, which provided free meals to families in need over the Christmas period.

More recently the Club have launched their virtual P.E sessions, with an aim to help keep junior fans active over the Easter break. The Club’s strength and conditioning coach, Dan Thomas, along with two County players take

fans through a fun but challenging football-fitness session.

County Heroes is another campaign The Club have recently introduced, The Club often hears of fans’ inspiring stories, generosity and acts of kindness within the community and wanted to help give them the recognition they deserve. As part of this campaign, the County Hero receives a personalised video from a player, as well as a memento, such as a signed shirt.

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News

Meet Underbank Studios

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nderbank Studios are four women who have opened a not-forprofit cultural hub in Little Underbank, Stockport.

The Studios is the creation of Lily Windsor Walker, Heather Chambers, Becky McGillivray, and Luca Shaw who came together and created a space that houses artist studios, a workshop space, a shop front, a dark room and screen printing facilities.

They will also be housing a local risograph printing business founded by Heather Chambers (@rootsriso ). The facilities will be available for use by artists and residents of Stockport.

“We want to make the space accessible to the community and non artists alike,” Heather explained “We are so excited to be a part of the growing Underbank community.

With us all being born and bred in Stockport, this space is so close to our hearts, and something we have envisioned for years.

The team are currently reaching out for help in making their vision a reality, raising funds to pay for essential building repairs, equipment and furniture.

“We have launched a fundraiser and we would be so grateful for anything people can donate, big or small. You can find a link to our fundraiser via our Instagram page @underbank_studios. We will be running a raffle with tiers of prizes available when you donate £5, £10, £20 or more. The prizes will be prints and artwork by our founding studio residents. Anyone donating £50 or over is guaranteed to receive artwork as a thank you. Looking forward to seeing you all in the new space very soon!”

11 Little Underbank, Stockport Instagram: @underbank_studios

New home for Still Life Story

S

till Life Story is a homewares store that lost its small premises on Underbank during lockdown and have now reappeared in Merseyway, thanks to the council setting them up with a temporary lease until they find somewhere more permanent.

The shop focusses on slow living, sustainability and all products are handpicked and curated by owner Ruby Friel. Ruby has led a career as a florist and product designer. When designing she would travel the world for inspiration - it was always her adventures around the unique, independent boutiques that she enjoyed the most during these trips.

Still Life Story is a carefully curated collection of the most gorgeous products, brands and makers that Ruby discovered on her travels. The product range has been selected to transcend fast moving trends and help you choose items that you will want to treasure forever. The emphasis is on well made products using natural materials and local resources wherever possible. The beautiful range of homewares make a perfect gift for a loved one or yourself.

16 Merseyway, Stockport www.still-life-story.com

Merseyway

Share your hopes and dreams for 2021 at The Merseyway Wishing Tree W

ith brighter days ahead Merseyway shopping centre has launched its very own Wishing Tree.

Taking inspiration from traditional wishing trees across the world, the Merseyway Wishing Tree is a place for the local community to share their hopes and dreams for 2021, no matter how big or small.

Located in the undercover mall, wishes are being hung on colourful tags on the Wishing Tree and Merseyway is encouraging shoppers, local community groups, charities and schools to take part.

Wishing Tree tags are available at the new One Stockport Hub at the centre and wishes can also be submitted virtually via the centre’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/MerseywayShoppingCentre.

Victoria Nichol, Merseyway Centre Manager, said: “It’s been an incredibly difficult 12 months and now we’re fully open again we wanted to create something really visual at the centre which demonstrates happiness and hope for the future. We’re really keen for The Wishing Tree to be a community-led and inclusive art project which shares the hopes and dreams of as many members of the Stockport community as possible.”

The Landing takes up residence at Merseyway

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section of the Merseyway rooftop car park is now home to The Landing - a community garden and growing space! Designed and built by the teams at Manchester Urban Diggers and Stockport restaurant, Where The Light Gets In, the garden provides produce for the restaurant and the local community and encourages people to grow and share food wherever they can.

To find out more about the project and upcoming workshops, The Landing Residencies, visit www.wtlgi.co.

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Save the dates - Totally Stockport’s events are back!

Many of the events planned in 2020 by Totally Stockport, Stockport’s Business Improvement District, had to be postponed as the impact of the coronavirus forced lockdowns and many businesses to close. But the good news is events are back and bigger and better than ever!

The Spring Surprises Trail

Spring into Stockport for the Spring Surprises Trail 19th April – 12th June

The sun is shining and summer is on the way! Spring into Stockport and discover the Spring Surprises Augmented Reality Trail. Follow the trail around the town centre as many times as you like from 19th April until 12th June. New to Augmented Reality? No worries, it’s as easy as picking daffodils. Everyone with a mobile device can join in. Using the GPS enabled map in the app, you’ll be able to find and capture all of the characters and scenes you’ll meet along the trail. You can also pick up a trail map in Merseyway shopping centre, from some of the shops in the town centre or it can be downloaded from www.totallystockport.co.uk Download the ‘Virtually Stockport’ app* from either the Google or Android App store, follow the trail around Stockport town centre and you can virtually meet and interact with all the spring characters. Catch the eggs left behind by the Easter bunny; check out the giant Cheeping Chicks; dive in with the ducklings and you’ll love watching the leaping lambs. Tap on the carrots in the vegetable patch, and who doesn’t love daffodils in the Springtime and the Easter bunny had so many chocolate eggs, he’s left some for you to collect!

Please remember the rules around social distancing while you have a wonderful time and a great adventure - happy hunting! Don’t forget to take selfies along the way and share your experiences on social media using the hashtag #stockportspringtrail

The Gigantic Leap Frog Art Trail Stockport’s Gigantic Leap Frog Art Trail July - September Remember the Stockport frogs in 2019? They’re coming back! This summer 21 gigantic, colourful frogs (along with their froglets!) will be hopping into the town centre! And to promote the trail, 17 frog buddies, supported by One Stockport, will be hopping to locations across the whole borough. Lasting from July until the end of September, you can keep up to date with their journey at www. stockportfrogs.co.uk – we may even give you a sneaky peek into the famous frog factory! Read more on page 19.

Any businesses interested in sponsoring a frog, please contact info@totallystockport.co.uk

Urban Activity & Enduro

Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th September

Planning is underway for an exciting, fun filled activity weekend, something for everyone, in Stockport town centre including Stockport’s first ever Urban Enduro. More details will be released soon!

Food & Drink Festival Stockport’s 3-day Food & Drink Festival 3rd – 5th September Over 70 stalls, outdoor kitchens featuring live demonstrations from famous chefs, pop-up entertainment, Robinsons famous Shire horses and Mr Bloom – a weekend packed full of entertainment and fun for all the family - not to be missed!

Brought to Stockport in partnership with Merseyway, Stockport Council and Market Place, watch out for more details coming soon on www.totallystockport.co.uk To find out more about how Totally Stockport is working for you and to find out how you can get involved, please email info@totallystockport.co.uk or call the office on 0161 537 9382 Follow us on: Facebook - facebook.com/totallystockport/ Instagram - totallystockport Twitter - @totallysk

What’s On Makers Market 2021 10am - 4pm Market Place

Saturday 8th May Saturday 12th June Saturday 10th July Saturday 14th August Saturday 11th September Saturday 9th October Saturday 13th November Saturday 11th December

Halen, REO Speedwagon, Cher, Prince, Def Leppard, Billy Idol, Toto, Aerosmith, Bryan Adams, Queen, and many more

takes to the stage for an intimate evening of chat and music.

Thu 8th July 7.30pm

Pop up Bowie

All Singing! All Swinging!

Stockport Plaza This concert spectacular starring Ray Quinn celebrates the fabulous music and tells the incredible story of the world-famous Rat Pack.

Thu 15th July 2pm

Bringing Back The Good Times

Stockport Plaza This delightful trip down Memory Lane is especially produced to help you forget all your worries and celebrate happier days with over 60 of your all-time favourite songs from the 40’s 50’s & 60’s Sat 17th July 7.30pm Thu 17th June 7.30pm

The Carpenters Story - Goodbye to Love

Stockport Plaza Three hours of brilliant entertainment from start to finish featuring hits from the golden age of pop music mixed with a whole lot of fun and laughs along the way.

Stockport Plaza This brand new show features the outstanding vocal talents of Claire Furley, with Musical Director Phil Aldridge leading The Carpenters Story Orchestra as they re-create Richard Carpenter’s original orchestral arrangements.

Sun 4th July 7.30pm

Sun 18th July 7.30pm

Stockport Plaza A live 2-hour extravaganza that takes you on a musical journey featuring songs

by Bon Jovi, Starship, Tina Turner, Van

Stockport Plaza Legendary Status Quo lead singer Francis Rossi will share the extraordinary secrets of his 50-plus years in rock’n’roll when he

That’ll Be The Day

The Retro Rock Show

Francis Rossi - I Talk Too Much

Thu 22nd July 7.45pm Stockport Plaza With a full band Paul Anthony will perform 2 hours of Bowie’s biggest hits taking the audience on a musical journey, experiencing the masterpieces that made the late, great David Bowie the immortal legend he is today. ‘Pop-Up Bowie’ aims to inspire, uplift and celebrate the life of a true artistic genius.

Wed 11th August 8.00pm

Jimmy Carr - Terribly Funny

Stockport Plaza Jimmy’s brand new show contains jokes about all kinds of terrible things. Terrible things that might have affected you or people you know and love. But they’re just jokes - they are not the terrible things.

Fri 30th July 7.45pm

Thu 19th August 7.00pm

Stockport Plaza 80’s Soul legend Alexander O’Neal returns with a live band playing classic hits including Criticize, Fake, Saturday Love, Hearsay, Never Knew Love Like This and If You Were Here Tonight. Plus Jaki Graham: Could it be I’m Falling In Love, Mated and Round and Round

Stockport Plaza A highly energetic show that follows in the footsteps of the award-winning girl band, Little Mix. There are lots of added extras including Dance Competitions, Free Giveaways and a Meet & Greet with the girls after the show!

Alexander O’Neal in Concert plus Jaki Graham

Sun 1st August 7.30pm

Claude Bourbon

Stockport Plaza - The Green Room Claude Bourbon is known for amazing guitar performances that take blues, Spanish, and Middle Eastern stylings into uncharted territories.

Woman Like Me - The Little Mix Show

Sat 28th August 7.30pm

Siobhan Phillips

Stockport Plaza Siobhan Phillips, described as “the love child of Peter Kay and Victoria Wood”, wowed audiences in Britain’s Got Talent Final 2019.

Tue 21st September 7.30pm

The Cavern Beatles

Fri 6th August 7.45pm

Northern Soul Live

Stockport Plaza Back for a 5th Year the amazing Edwin

All being well, Indoor cinemas will reopen on May 17, in ‘step three’ of the government’s lockdown easing plan. We expect similar protiocols to be in place as at the last re-opening, meaning amended seating layout, the circulation of fresh air, one-way entrance and exit points and staggered film start and end times.

Cruella

Starr Band with Angelo Starr and Northern Soul Legend Lorraine Silver, this energetic and captivating show takes you through all the Northern Soul, Motown and Soul classics

Stockport Plaza A Magical History Tour through the works of the greatest pop music phenomenon.

Punters will find themselves spoilt for choice as newly-made films find themselves in competition with long-delayed releases. Here we feature just a few of the films likely to make a big splash over the remainder of the year:

Top Gun: Maverick

Candyman

Ghostbusters: Afterlife

Black Widow

Dune

Spider-Man: No Way Home

Release date: 28 May Starring: Emily Blunt, Millicent Simmonds,

Release date: 9 July Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Rachel Weisz, Florence Pugh, David Harbour

F9

The Suicide Squad

No Time to Die

The Matrix 4

Release date: 28 May Starring: Emma Stone, Emma Thompson, Dev Patel

A Quiet Place Part 2

Release date: 25 June Starring: Vin Diesel, John Cena, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson

Release date: 2 July Starring: Tom Cruise, Miles Teller

Release date: 6 August Starring: Margot Robbie, Idris Elba, John Cena

Release date: 27 August Starring: Yahya Abdul-Mateen II Release date: 1 October Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Issac, Release date: 8 October Starring: Daniel Craig, Christoph Waltz, Léa Seydoux, Ralph Fiennes,

Release date: 12 November Starring: Paul Rudd, Finn Wolfhard Release date: 17 December Starring: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Jamie Foxx Release date: 22 December Starring: Keanu Reeves, Jonathan Groff, Carrie-Anne Moss

What’s On

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As things get back to normal, here are some things you might want to do, that you haven’t done for a while. Keep up-to-date with what’s going on at www.totallystockport.co.uk

Stockport County

Replicating, in both sight and sound, the excitement and energy of Beatlemania, the psychedelic era of Sgt. Pepper, and the creative masterpieces of The White Album and Abbey Road.

Edgeley Park

Whilst fans are currently unable to attend games due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the club are offering supporters the opportunity to stream every home game live, for the price of just £7.50 per game. Visit the club’s website for the link.

Fri 24th September 7.30pm

Banff Mountain Film Festival

Stockport Plaza Embark on a night of adventure and escapism with a brand-new collection of short films from the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival!

Sat, 17th April 3pm Stockport Co. v Maidenhead United

Sat 7th August Grimmfest Presents: John Carpenter: Film legend

Mond 27th September 7.45pm

Roy Orbison and the Traveling Wilburys Experience

Stockport Plaza Featuring tributes to Jeff Lynne, George Harrison, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison and Bob Dylan. All the Traveling Wilbury hits and classics are in the show, ‘Handle With Care’, ‘End of the Line’ and many more.

Tue 28th September 7.30pm

Jonathan Pie - Fake News

Stockport Plaza Jonathan Pie’s critically acclaimed sell out show FAKE NEWS finally returns, updated and remixed for a post-Corona world.

Tuesday 12th & Wednesday 13th October

John Bishop - Warm Up

Stockport Plaza Comedy superstar John Bishop is coming to the Stockport Plaza to warm up his brand-new show!

Frid 15th October 8.00pm

Jon Richardson - The Knitwit

Stockport Plaza Will the recycling be put out on the right day? Who is going to smooth over the top of the margarine? How many lights are on upstairs when everybody is downstairs?

Watch Jon pretend that these aren’t his foremost concerns as he leaves home on his first tour since the last one.

Stockport Plaza Grimmfest pays tribute to John Carpenter, one of the most revered horror directors of the 20th Century.

Sunday 22nd August Grimmfest Presents: Wes Craven: Film legend

Stockport Plaza Grimmfest pays tribute to Wes Craven, one of the most revered horror directors of the 20th Century.

1pm

1pm

John Carpenter’s homage to NigelKneale’s Quatermass series. With added satanism.

And Alice Cooper.

Family values in conflict; a stark and brutal confrontation between civilisation and savagery in which the lines between the two become increasingly blurred

Prince of Darkness

3.10pm

Big Trouble in Little China

Every 70s martial arts movie you ever loved put into a blender, and then thrown at Kurt Russell. Who comes out fighting.

The Hills Have Eyes

3pm

Scream

What happens when the killers don’t play

by The Rules any more?

5.20pm

5.15pm

RowdyRoddy Piper is all out of chewing gum. Those alien invaders had better watchout. The perfect combination of poltical satire and all-in wrestling

Part fairy tale, part social satire, Craven tackles the subjects of homelessness and urban gentrification in typically full-on fashion

They Live

The People Under the Stairs

7.20pm

7.10pm

God’s not supposed to be a hack horror writer. But let’s face it, that would actually explain a lot…

One, two, Freddy’s coming for you...

In the Mouth of Madness

Tickets for the individual films can also be purchased separately:

Mon 3rd May 3pm Stockport Co. v Wealdstone Tue 7th May 7pm Stockport Co. v Dagenham & Red. Sat 15th May 3pm Stockport Co. v Torquay United Sat, 22nd May 3pm Stockport Co. v Woking The final game of the season is at Yeovil Town on Saturday, 29th May. The play-offs will take place over the first three weekends of June.

“If pilots are successful, “up to 10,000 people or 25% of total seated capacity, whichever is lower” will be allowed in stadiums for sporting events, but not before 17th May.”

A Nightmare on Elm Street

Tickets for the individual films can also be purchased separately:

Key contact details The Hat Works

Wellington Mill Wellington Road South Stockport SK3 0EU 0161 474 2399

The Plaza

Mersey Square Stockport SK1 1SP 0161 477 7779

Stockport Central Library

Wellington Road South Stockport SK1 3RS

Air Raid Shelters 61 Chestergate Stockport SK1 1NE 0161 474 1940

Stockport Museum Staircase House 30 Market Place Stockport SK1 1ES 0161 474 4444

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