ISSUE 44
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Life
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ISSUE 44 Editor’s Letter ................................6 Wriggly Tin Soap............................7 Young Radio Star ...........................8 Local Theatre .................................8 Joke Time.......................................9 Fitness Column ............................10 Fundraising...................................11 Patient Participation Groups .......12 Leek Town Mayor.........................13 The Silk Mill .................................14 Campaign for Real Ale..................15
Breckles ........................................16 Ridgways Hearing Centre ............18 Life During Lockdown.................20 Leek Town Crier...........................23 Community Heroes .....................24 Local Artist ...................................27 Reflections Coaching ...................28 Gardening ....................................29 Financial Matters.........................30 Quiz Corner..................................33 Motoring ......................................49
Community spirit still alive
W Belinda Hargreaves Contents Editor life@timesandecho.co.uk Holly Keates Tracey Redfern Design & Production Thomas Brian General Manager tom@timesandecho.co.uk Mobile: 07855 242693 Jane Walters Advertising Sales jane@timesandecho.co.uk Times, Echo & Life Publications 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 1BD Tel: 01538 752214 www.timesechoandlife.co.uk life@timesandecho.co.uk
ell, what can I say? How do I start an editor's letter after what we have all been through since the last time we published the Leek Life Magazine? Firstly, let me send out well wishes to you all – I hope you and your families are well and keeping safe during these unprecedented times. To those of you who may have lost a loved one to this awful pandemic, or perhaps through other causes, during the past few months – my heart goes out to you. Onto a lighter note, as always Leek people stepped up to the mark to help each other during these surreal times – what with our regular community heroes helping out where they could, and also new community initiatives starting up to do the same – it's been the usual amazing community team spirit in our lovely market town in the Moorlands. In this edition of the Leek Life Magazine, we have a special feature all about just some of those who have gone above and beyond during these unprecedented times, and we also have a fabulous ‘Leek Life during Lockdown’ feature with some lovely pictures which readers have kindly sent in along with a number of readers’ thoughts on the whole situation. Another amazingly
Front cover photo by Brett Trafford Photography www.bretttrafford.com
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community-spirited initiative which took the entire nation by storm was that of the Thursday evening ‘Clap for our Carers’. Wasn’t that just something amazing?! I quite miss it to be honest – never before (in the 20 years of living in my street) have I seen all my neighbours out in the street at the same time. What a wonderful togetherness feeling it was indeed. Moving on to what else we have in this edition, I am sad to say that I have not collated the usual comprehensive What’s On Guide as, well, what is going on? With all the Covid-19 Government restrictions in place – there’s none of our annual community events taking place to shout about at the moment. Hopefully, by the time we publish our next Leek Life Magazine, things will be getting back on track and Leek’s diary of lovely community events will be jam packed once more. Moving on, we are now coming out of lockdown and coming into the 'new normal' – but what is the new normal and how long is it here to stay? These are questions we are all asking ourselves and no one can really answer them at this time. All we can do is carry on as best we can in the circumstances we are given. One thing's for sure, I'm glad that I live in a wonderful town like Leek, where community spirit never dies, not even when the nation is put in lockdown due to a global pandemic. Until next time – take care!
WRIGGLY TIN SOAP
FROM THE SOUTH AFRICAN MOUNTAINS TO THE STAFFORDSHIRE MOORLANDS
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Moorlands-based business is going from strength to strength – after the idea for its concept was brought over from South Africa. Wriggly Tin Soap offers natural soaps, body care and plastic free kitchen products, made using sustainable ingredients and mostly made in the UK. Jody Foxcroft, pictured below, who operates the business with her husband Shaun from their home in Leek, said: “I make all the goat milk soap, coconut milk soap (suitable for vegans) and natural body care products such as body balms, bath soaks and shaving soaps. “My soaps are made with a combination of plant-based oils and butters combined with goat milk, organic coconut milk and natural ingredients and oils such as clays, botanicals and essential oils.” As well as taking pride in making her own soaps, Jody is proud that her company also stocks a variety of complimentary zero waste/plastic free products which are made in the UK and Europe by other artisan producers and ethical green businesses. Jody and her husband Shaun, along with their two pooches, moved to Leek in January 2019 after uprooting their lives from South Africa. British-born Jody said: “I visited Leek a few times while I was on holiday visiting my family. “I fell in love with the town, the buildings, old mills and architecture. I also love the size of the town and the fact it is surrounded by beautiful moorlands and best of all it is full of amazing, quirky indie shops and eateries.” As for operating a business in the market town of Leek, Jody said: “I love how supportive the businesses are with each other. Everyone I have met has been so helpful and lovely.” Jody said of how her business had evolved: “In 2011 Shaun and I purchased a farm in South Africa. It was set against the side of a mountain so the best option of livestock was goats. “I had been making my own soap and then found out that goat milk could be used in soap in place of water.” Jody then began making goat milk soap and
started a business called Wriggly Tin Naturals which grew over five years and supplied shops throughout South Africa. She sold that business to a friend when she moved to the UK. Jody offers, through her company website, free delivery on orders over £10 within the ST13 postcode. As well as online sales, Wriggly Tin Soap can be spotted at a number of local artisan markets including the Totally Locally Sunday Supplement in Leek and the World of Wedgwood Artisan Market. Regarding how the business has coped during the surreal situation of the coronavirus outbreak, Jody said: “Lockdown was a very scary time. As a very young, small business we went through a massive amount of stress at the start. However people were very supportive and luckily working online and delivering products was still allowed so we found our website was very busy and we are so thankful.” To find out more about Wriggly Tin Soap, go online to www.wrigglytinsoap.co.uk, or follow www.facebook.com/wrigglytinsoap.
YOUNG RADIO STAR
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COMMUNITY radio station in Leek believes they may have discovered the youngest DJ in the whole of the UK. Alicia Robinson from Cheddleton is just seven-yearsold and already has her own slot on the Leek-base radio of Lasar. Alicia's father, Alistair, aged 42, presents the Leek-based community radio station's
online weekday Drivetime show, between 4pm and 6pm. It was through sitting in with her father-of-four dad on his show that Alicia was bitten by the bug to become a DJ herself. She made radio her debut at the Bank House studio on July 24, presenting her hourlong 'Kids Pop Show' immediately after her dad's show. Listening in proudly back home were Alicia's mum, Karen, and three siblings Aidan, aged 10, four-year-old Oliver and Emilia, aged 18 months. Alicia had her father by her side to give her confidence on
her debut - but not that she needs any support in the studio, despite being so young. Dad Alistair, who is a wellknown part-time DJ at pubs and clubs in Leek, said: “Alicia's amazing, I'm so proud of my little princess. “She puts together her show herself, choosing all her own music. “It's great music for children to start the weekend.” Alistair, school caretaker at Woodcroft Academy in Leek, where Alicia is a pupil, added: “She always works hard preparing for her next show.” Alicia said: “I'm waiting for the radio to do me my own jingle now.”
LOCAL THEATRE
Extremely daft production to be launched online
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eek-based theatre and film production company Rotten Park Road is producing an exciting new live digital comedy show which is set to premiere on YouTube Live this September. The production of 'Live from Camp Aztitz: Friday the 14th: The Legend of Camp Aztitz: Part 3D' has been written and directed by award-winning Writer/Director Patrick McConnell and co-produced by Leek-based Lynne Payne and Manchester-based Sophie Toland. Performers are Lynne Payne, Sophie Toland and Declan Wilson, with a cameo
appearance by Writer/Director Patrick himself. Producer Lynne, who also performs in the show, said: “We are developing this YouTube Premiere as a direct response to the Covid-19 situation. “We've always enjoyed being purveyors of mirth and we reckon we all need a good laugh now perhaps more than ever. “The show was originally conceived in 2018 and it previewed at the Foxlowe Arts Centre in Leek, where it went down a storm. “The theatre world is going through such a difficult time right now, and we’ve been really fortunate to be
successful in receiving funding from Arts Council England. “During the Covid-19 outbreak, we’ve been working to incorporate new technology into our regular work, and we’re really looking forward to premiering our first ever live digital theatre production. “We’re so ready to release it into the wider community. It's daft, completely silly and wonderful. “We are trying to stay as true to the 1980’s as possible, even though what we’re doing is largely extremely daft.” The date of the online premier of the production will be Friday, September 18 at 9pm with ticket price being 'pay what you can'. For further information go online to www.rottenparkroad.com.
JOKE TIME
Laughter is good for the soul
roaring laughter – it is all very good for the soul. Here, our local ‘Jester’, e all know that situation. Chris Sproston, shares with us the current But we also know, as human some of the light-hearted jokes coronavirus beings, that we often need to, he has come up with, some situation which is somehow, take light of a during the actual lockdown, affecting the whole world is situation and sometimes have a and some regarding the ‘new most certainly a very serious good giggle, or even have normal.’ As an awkward introvert I Chris said: “Quarantine Self isolation diary: object strongly to the day 5million and four. Day 1: To the supermarket for provisions. government telling me to Wednesday April 45th. I have bought sufficient non-perishables do what I wanted to do “Still self isolating all to live through the next ice age. anyway. alone. The voices in my Day 1 +45 minutes: Returned to the The key to I can't wait until head have run out of supermarket in need of a Twix. surviving self the pubs reopen. conversation. My own My novel was rejected as too far isolation is a I need to cut scintillating company no fetched. Who would believe a bloke warm heart down my longer enthrals. It's that in China eating a bat would cause a and a cold drinking. bad. toilet paper shortage in Leek? beer. “Still I have taken up I've eaten so some new hobbies, eating much in 83% of Gym My friend is a barman. When the and drinking too much! isolation that members lockdown started his employers “To keep myself amused Google maps haven't realised sent a case of beer to his house. It here are some jokes shows me as a their Gym is wasn't for him, they wanted him to about the new normal:” Traffic Island. closed. work from home.
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Pastors Brett & Trish
Sunday at 10:30 at The Community Rooms Leek Fire Station Springfield Road, Leek, ST13 6LQ
Come and join us for worship, God’s message, prayer and social
We look forward to meeting you
www.victorychurchleek.co.uk
FitnESS cOLuMn
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ovid-19 brought to us an unprecedented time in which many of us have been forced into a totally different lifestyle. For some, that meant moving less and eating more, which is a sure-fire way to no longer fit into your clothes. Allow me to briefly explain what has happened as this teaches us an important lesson in how our bodies work. During the restrictions of lockdown many of us could not participate in our normal activities as we were asked to stay in doors. This lack of movement ultimately stopped our bodies from burning its average amount of calories. It just didn't need as much energy for this new daily routine. To make matters worse a lot of us started to eat and drink more, either through boredom or just trying to get rid of the food that was bought in a state of panic. This behaviour presented the body with way more calories than it actually needed and it
was forced to store them as body fat. If the above sounds like you, then I dare say that you have been living in a 'Calorie Surplus' - otherwise known as 'getting fat'. It's important not to dwell on this too much. We are going to need lots of positive energy to reverse this and get you looking and feeling great again and luckily for you I have the solution to your problems. The solution is a calorie deficit and here are three easy steps to achieve it: 1 ) Count your calories: The easiest way to do this is to get a calorie calculator app on your phone or computer. I highly recommend 'My Fat Secret', it's free and accurate. It even helps you to set the correct amount of calories for you. When you have the app start to track everything you eat and drink. It might seem hard at first and time consuming, but the app will start to build your own personal database of foods to save you time in the long run. Without
counting your calories you will forever be shooting in the dark or 'winging it.' 2) Increase your calorie burn: This doesn't have to be something you feel uncomfortable with. I highly recommend weightlifting and classes like the ones we do at Cave Fitness. But I appreciate this isn't for everyone. So anything that requires energy like long walks, cycling, dancing, swimming, even some heavier garden work would do the trick for now. 3) Be consistent and patient: This will only work if you do. You can not repair months of damage in a few days or weeks. You need to bite the bullet and accept that you need to make these changes in your lifestyle so that your body can have the chance to burn its stored fat. Need more support? You can find me on my JP @ Cave Fitness Facebook Group. “If you want something enough you will find a way. If you don't you will find an excuse.” JP, Body Transformation Coach
tALES FROM tHE PASt
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t seemed a good idea at the time to see the new comet that was on display in northern skies. My brother suggested that we go to the Roaches and I added that we should try the ridge and as an observation the trig point. I thought that the comet Neowise would appear in the north east and I was in error it could be seen, just about in north west skies roughly between the Macclesfield Forest Radio
tower and Wildboarclough, a little to the left of Polaris. In the end we didn’t get a clear view and I broke my ankle as we descended in the gloom. Never mind, it was an injury gained in pursuit of science. Neowise was a wimp compared with Hale Bopp that really did blaze a trail and was easily seen over Leek. As it passed perihelion on April 1, 1997, the comet developed into a spectacular sight. It shone brighter than any star in the sky
except Sirius, its dust tail stretched 40–45 degrees across the sky. Hale Bopp was also a better display than the well known Halley’s Comet which was a damp squib in the wet summer of 1986 when it flew fll over local skies. That will next appear in 2062 with the prospect of my daughter, who will then be in her late 50s, having a butchers. But such phenomena has interested Moorlanders for centuries.
FUNDRAISING
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para-athlete from Leek has raised more than £700 for charity after completing an energetic challenge he set himself. Tennis player and shotputter Gavin Yarwood raised the money by covering 100 miles in his wheelchair during the month of July. He choose to raise funds for the NHS as it continues to battle the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, as the service has aided him during his lifetime. Gavin said: “The NHS is one of the greatest organisations in the world, and it has helped me massively over the years.” He explained that he had been in a near fatal road traffic accident in Greece in 1999, and after coming out of a coma, he was flown back to the UK where he spent six months recovering in Haywood Hospital. He said: “The staff there gave me all the love and support I could've wished for. It was the darkest time of my life, but they made it bright again.”
Gavin, who completed most of the miles around Sainsbury’s car park in Leek, said: “It took me 18 sessions spread over 30 days. “Session one was very tough, and I was worried that I'd made a bad decision in attempting this. “But it got steadily easier over the next few sessions. “Around the 65 mile mark I actually thought I'd be able to go a bit further than 100 miles, but it got really tough when I reached 80 miles, so decided to stick to the plan.” Gavin, who also completed an additional 50 miles during training in the weeks leading up to the start of his challenge, had set a fundraising target of £1,000 for the NHS. He has so far raised £783. The money is set to be used to create a new waiting area at Haywood Hospital. He said: “I wanted the money raised to go to the fight against Covid-19, but was also keen on it going to the rehab ward that saved me.
In the parish records at Alstonefield is an astrological phenomenon that the villagers witnessed: “Very strange and fiery meteors in form like a sword, appeared North West by west in December 1680, and continued about six weeks after which ensued a long and tedious drought.” Between 1663 and 1680 there were five comets seen over England which to the contemporary mind linked celestial activities and the unsettled times that the country was living through with plague, pestilence, like today, and revolution all occurring at this time. There is a sense that
whoever wrote the comments in the parish journal was simply echoing the feelings of the time that comets seen in the sky were a fearful celestial sign of events that were being played out on earth. People believed all over the world that the 'Day of Judgement' was approaching. But the 17th century saw a growing interest in the heavens through the work of Galileo, Newt wton t and Halley aided by technological advance such as telescopes and an intellectual framework on which to develop concepts. On November 14, 1680, Gottfried Kirch the German astronomer detected a new
“They didn't save my life physically, but mentally I was broken - I was gone. “They brought me back. They helped me become me again. “I asked one of the nurses who cared for me for suggestions on how to combine the two causes. “When she told me about her idea - a waiting area fully equipped to battle Covid 19, which will then become a garden called Gavin Yarwood's sensory garden. “I was over the moon. Despite it being linked to the hardest time of my life, I love that ward and all the staff (my angels) who cared for me. “So to have an area named after me is truly wonderful.” To donate to Gavin’s tremendous ‘Push For Heroes’ fundraiser, go online to www.justgiving.com/crowdfundi ng/gavin-yarwood.
comet, becoming on that day the first person to discover a comet using a telescope. Astronomers throughout Europe tracked its position for several months. It was visible in the Northern hemisphere and by the end of that year the comet became bright enough to be seen at noon as it completed its hairpin turn around the Sun. The long, golden tail of the comet of 1680 was estimated to be 30,000,000 miles in length. By the way, Neowise will be back in 6,000 years time enough time for the bones to mend.
By historian Bill Cawley
PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUPS
SUPPORT AVAILABLE THROUGH SOCIAL PRESCRIBING Here we have an update from Katie Giddings regarding what's been happening within the Patient Participation Groups at the area's GP surgeries recently.
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ast time I wrote about the Patient Participation Groups (PPGs), volunteer groups who are the patient voice at GP Practices, and the formation of the new Primary Care Network (PCN). The PCN means that GP surgeries in Leek and Biddulph stay as independent practices but are also able to collaborate so we patients have better access to a wider range of services. Thankfully the Patient Information Event in Leek on March 10 went ahead just before lockdown began. It was lovely to see so many people come on a very rainy afternoon to speak directly with practice staff and members of the PPGs, and find out more of what their GP surgeries can offer. As well as working so hard to care for us all in this unprecedented pandemic, the PCN is also recruiting more staff to expand the range of services we patients can access right here in Leek. One of those services is Social Prescribing.
The pandemic has caused many of us great concern – for our health, our jobs, our families, our housing, our town – and this has meant many of us have found life truly difficult. Not all problems making us unwell can be fixed with medicine – and that's where social prescribing comes in. The Social Prescriber is there to listen to you and put you in touch with other local services which can help you feel better. This might mean connecting you with a local group or activity, helping you find support with money or housing problems, or arranging a befriender. Research shows that people get better faster when they are helped by a social prescriber. People feel more in control and can manage life better. So, if your GP suggests you see the Social Prescriber it's because they know just how much Social Prescribing can help. Even if it has to be offered by telephone for the time being.
LEEK TOWN MAYOR
“Leek has something special”
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he month of May saw the election through a virtual meeting - of a new town mayor. Former Deuputy Mayor of Leek, Stephen Wales, was elected by fellow members of Leek Town Council to serve in the civic role for the 2020/21 year. Here we invited Cllr Wales to write a column for the Leek Life Magazine. “Being elected Mayor of Leek is of course a great honour and in the time of a pandemic has brought its own challenges and frustrations. So many traditional events and celebrations we all would have enjoyed this summer here in Leek have been cancelled. However, these will return in time - and we will value and enjoy them even more. It is amazing how this Covid virus has disrupted our lives and in a strange way it has reminded us all of what is important. Leek and its surrounding villages have shown great resolve and resilience during these difficult times and has demonstrated that we can all pull together in a time of need. People have come together to ensure nobody was left behind and this has ensured the delivery of essentials like foods and medications. These new neighbourly connections and support groups deserve to be maintained in the months ahead. The heroes are in our hospitals and in our care homes as they fight the worst effects of the virus and we all are grateful for their efforts. The handful of shops that have been allowed to trade have kept us going and the staff who have operated them deserve our special thanks too. As we move into August the town is looking its best, the colourful bunting flutters above Derby Street and an array of Union flags hang proudly in our streets. The Cockerel benches are repainted with a new one installed in the Marketplace. Our shops are now reopening, and the markets are back in action, and this is bringing a semblance of normality. Parking charges have been relaxed to encourage us all back into the town, and into the shop’s, pubs and restaurants. This is great news for those local businesses who have been shut down for these past months. We should now show our support to these businesses as they are what makes our town centre so special. There are new ventures starting up at The Silk Mill (the old Central Club) now an impressive multi-functional food and drink venue and also the Silk House Hotel and Coffee shop in St Edward Street, these along with new shops
opening too as Leeks entrepreneurs’ step forward. Leek has something special in its DNA and it is evidenced in the town’s resilience, friendliness, and undying optimism - even in these testing times. My wife Julie and I fell in love with the area and moved here 14 years ago. It was the best thing we could have done. We have met many good people and living here in such a beautiful part of the country is a real pleasure. As an ‘incomer’ I never would have dreamt of being Mayor of Leek, but I am honoured to have that position and will continue to serve the town. Stay safe – enjoy the Summer.” Councillor Stephen Wales Mayor of Leek
THE SILK MILL
New venue of the Silk Mill for town
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N ICONIC building in the Moorlands has had a £70,000 refurbishment and has been re-opened to house a traditional pub as well as a cocktail bar and a function room. Leek businessman Ashley Dickenson has taken on the lease of the former Rewind club building in Market Street, Leek. Thirty-nine year old Ashley, who is also aiming, in time, to purchase the Market Street building, said: “We have aimed to take the venue back 150 years – not like your average pub but a traditional pub and we also have a contemporary cocktail bar. “We have a brand new kitchen, all new cellar equipment such as beer lines and coolers. “It has been re-plastered and redecorated throughout and there is brand new flooring right the way through including on the staircase. “We also have three new fire places which will have roaring fires during the winter months. “It’s now top notch throughout and has a new grand entrance with an oak door and a chandelier.” Ashley, who also runs Ashley’s Stoves & Fireplaces, has carried out a lot of the
- OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK -
Market Street, Leek Tel: 01538 269453 Email: thesilkmillleek@gmail.com www.facebook.com/thesilkmillleek
refurbishment works himself with the help of his partner Amy as well as bar staff he has employed. Regarding taking on such a venue during surreal times with the current coronavirus situation, father-of-three Ashley, said: “It’s an amazing building in the middle of the town centre – it’s also one of the few places in town which has a large function room.” Presently, The Silk Mill is only open for refreshments of both the soft drinks and alcoholic beverages kind. Ashley has taken great pride in selecting the beers he has chosen to offer. Currently employing nine people to help him run his new venture, Ashley is also aiming to take on another eight members of staff when the food side of the business gets up and running. He said: “We aim to have a five star kitchen. All meat and produce will be sourced locally and all food will be cooked fresh for every meal.” Ashley added: “The function room is not yet open for business but when it is, when the Government allow for such events to take place again, it will be available for all kinds of events including birthday parties, wedding receptions. wakes, and christenings and I also aim to put on some live music events.” Current open hours of the Silk Mill are: 3pmmidnight on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays; midday until midnight on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The carvery, when up and running, will be served from midday until 2pm, and again from 5pm until 7pm, from Wednesdays through to Sundays. Ashley said of the first few weeks of being open: “It’s going really well. We have been well accepted by the town and the locals. “The building used to be a silk mill back in 1880. I am so pleased that I have been able to help keep such an iconic building of the town open.”
CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE
“Let's get the beer flowing, and the pub tills ringing once again”
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n this time, following the enforced closure of pubs, bars and restaurants by the Government, it is difficult to write something positive about our great local pub scene. Of course, the UK wide closures were done in the best interests of us all, to help at least in slowing down the spread of the dreadful coronavirus that is continuing to cause havoc all over the world. But if you think we do not have much to be positive about, spare a thought for our hard-working publicans and their families, bar staff, managers, chefs, cellar-men, cleaners, waitresses, small local brewers etc. I could go on but you get the picture. Many have faced severe financial hardship during the lockdown as their income has plummeted to zero almost
overnight. And unbelievably, some larger breweries and pub owning companies have continued to charge landlords rent during the closure, even if been deferred as a ‘goodwill gesture’. It is also easy to forget that for many their place of work is also their home with the added worry and pressure that will cause so all will be hoping and praying that business picks up enough to be of a sustainable level as soon as possible. But the good news is that many (but not all) of our local pubs have reopened as restrictions have slowly been lifted, all be it with extra sanitizing precautions, social distancing measures in place and recording customer details for a track and trace system, just in case the worst happens again. Some are on reduced opening hours; many have a
‘Covid-19’ by Brenda Pascall Covid-19 is a terrible thing, But we have got to let hope eternal spring. Our NHS and those who work in care too, Are giving their all for me and you. Night and day, on they plod, We all know they are doing a magnificent job. So through this strange and unreal year, We must give them a heart cheer! The wartime spirit must come back again, As one big family we must fan the flame. Keeping together and pulling through, Even in lockdown or strolling about. Our children need us, to find a way out.
limited range of cask ale compared to pre-lockdown times; but at least they are trading once again. Some brave souls have even bucked the national trend by opening brand new business ventures in our very own town of Leek and in the wider Moorlands area. So please pay them a visit if you can. They will all surely be glad of your custom in these very strange times in which we live. Let us collectively help the local pub and brewery industry get back on its feet, get the beer flowing and hear the sound of pub tills ringing once again. Let's all raise a glass to the Great British institution of the Pub. Cheers! Steve Barton Chairman of the Staffordshire Moorlands branch of CAMRA
So look to the future, just shed a tear, and hope that we welcome, a brand new year. So sad to lose so many, but many good things have come about too. Acts of kindness from people we never knew. Most families have come together, side by side, spending their hours with joy and pride. Time they never had before. So God bless us all, and in the years to come, may we remember.
Brenda Pascall
14, STANLEY STREET, LEEK K 01538 387660 www.facebook.com/brecklesleek Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 8am - 5pm m
10% DISCOUNT ON PURCHASES MADE ON PRESENTATION OF THIS ADVERT. *T’s and C’s apply.*
BRECKLES
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HE OWNERS of an independent business in the Moorlands is saying thank you to their customers for their continued support. Breckles Wholefoods, which is situated in Stanley Street, Leek, managed to keep going during the coronavirus lockdown period – even picking up new customers as the lockdown saw more and more people turn to local independent shops to purchase their products from. Breckles has been run by husband and wife team Carron and Phil Holroyd for the almost nine years. They employ five people to help them run the Leek store, and also have similar stores in both Longton and Bradford. Carron said of the challenging time for businesses during the lockdown period: “It was strange when the lockdown first happened as we felt vulnerable and also wanted to make sure we were doing everything right for our customers. “However, we stayed open all the way through the lockdown, although we did reduce our opening hours but we also increased our deliveries which we had only done for the odd customer before. “It’s just been about adjusting our customer service to keep in line with Government guidelines. “We are still learning as too are our customers. “We would like to thank all our customers for their continued support.” Carron and Phil, who managed to keep all their Leek staff on during the lockdown period, offer a wide range of products including: health supplements, fresh ingredients, preserves, fresh bread, vegetarian food, eco-friendly goods, refills, toiletries, gluten free products. They also take pride in offering a lot of locally sourced products such as hand made soaps, incense sticks, and more. The team at Breckles will be continuing with deliveries as long as customers require the service, and they are also currently working on a website for the business, which already has an online presence on Facebook, to then offer online sales too. Carron explained that shopping habits have certainly changed following the coronavirus outbreak. She said: “We have seen quite a few new faces as people have started to shop local more.
“There has been some quiet moments but also some crazy ones such as the shopping frenzy for flour, yeast and pasta just before the lockdown. The food sales went crazy. “People have been coming in more for health supplements too as, like ourselves, people are taking more anti viral supplements such as Vitamin C and D and Zinc colloidal silver. “There is a lot of research which has taken place regarding such supplements being all good for the body. “We also saw an increase in sales of our hair dye selection while hairdressers were shut.” The Breckles team is also continuing their aim of encouraging customers to help the environment. The business has been offering a refill service for the past year – a service which allows customers to refill their own containers with certain products, to save on plastic waste. The refill service products include: washing-up liquid, fabric conditioner, laundry liquid, a range of cleaning products, along with toiletries such as hair shampoo and conditioner. Furthermore to their refill service, Breckles also sells a wide range of other products which help the environment including: bamboo based tissues, bamboo toothbrushes and straws, degradable bin bags, and beeswax food-wrap, to name but a few. As a thank you to their customers, for their continued support, Breckles is offering a ten per cent discount on purchases made on presentation of this advertising feature. Discount offer available until the end of September, 2020 and one offer use per customer. Breckles is situated at 14 Stanley Street in Leek. For further information find the business on Facebook or call 01538 387660.
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RIDGWAYS HEARING CENTRE
Second premises for expanding business
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BUSINESS woman in the Moorlands has opened up a second branch of her hearing service.
Audiologist Alison Ridgway has gone back to her business roots of her home village Endon to expand her Ridgways Hearing Care company. Alison, who has more than three decades of experience in the hearing industry, has a centre in Newcastle-under-Lyme which she has run for more than ten years. Prior to this, she had run the then called Endon Hearing Centre in Station Road from 1999, when she left working for the NHS, until 2008 when she sold that business to a national chain. Now, due to wishing to protect her staff’s jobs and to be able to implement social distancing during the coronavirus situation, Alison has taken on the Station Buildings in Endon, once
again, to open a second branch of Ridgways Hearing Care. The business, which employs eight members of staff, and are currently recruiting additional members of staff, offers a range of services for hearing health needs from wax removal, hearing examinations and free hearing assessments. Alison takes pride in that her business provides clients with “value through personal service from highly professional, qualified staff and an exceptional aftercare service.” Alison said: “From the world's leading hearing aid manufacturers such as Starkey, Phonak, Unitron and many others we can offer the latest hearing aid systems using the most up to date technology available. “We are dedicated to providing and maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards of hearing care.”
life during lockdown
LEEK LIFE DURING
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HAT a surreal time we have been having this year with the coronavirus outbreak.
The entire world has experienced such unprecedented times and here we have some lovely pictures which have been kindly shared by
some of our readers of their 'Leek Life during Lockdown' – please note, some of them were taken as the lockdown restrictions were being eased. We also have some words of thought about the whole situation – also kindly shared by some of our readers.
Social distanced visit from the grandchildren. Picture by Pam Wood
Denise Harris said of the six main things she has learned during lockdown: “Firstly, look after your toilet rolls and they will look after you! “I learned that there are so many people around you that can make your day better with something simple as a kind word or a helping hand. “The jobs that have been building up and thinking “if only I had time” has been crossed off the list (at last). “For me losing a loved one just before lockdown gives you time to truly reflect and remember. We all need time out and this was a good opportunity. “Realising that we are social beings and remembering how important friends and family are. “And lastly, we will come out of this stronger and wiser but hopefully we will have learned that material things are unimportant and that we must look after each other.”
Gardening fun during lockdown. Picture by Shelly Walters
Jean Daniel said: “In the words of the Star Trek (I think) “It’s life Jim, but not as we know it!”
Grace enjoying pool time during lockdown. Picture by Sue Lancaster
Batman and his sidekick during Joanne Naden's dogs
one of the Clap for our Carers.
supporting the NHS
Picture by Gail Dillon
life during lockdown
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Deb Egerton spoke of how the whole shopping experience has changed: “I’m confused and sad about how much life has changed. Never in a million years would I think anything like Covid-19 would take our lives and turn it upside down. “Having to think before we go out, queues to go food shopping, the anxiety which builds that we’re taking too long to look at anything in a shop, everyone’s on edge, kids are not running around is weird, and then we join another queue to pay. Cash seems to be not wanted just incase Covid-19 is present, card payment definitely is preferred. Then you're out of the supermarket and can breath. Covid is really having an impact - no time to chat with the two metre distancing. Home is the safe place for us.”
Messy but fun playtime. Picture by Alice Leather
Ellie with her dad Charlie - 21 weeks in and still no closer to having a hug.
Jane Walker during
Picture by Teresa Bourne-James
lambing time
Dawn Tomkinson said: “Surreal is definitely the right word for it. It all feels like we are trapped in time. The usual signals of time passing have been paused. My body has little concept of the date or time of year even though I'm still working. I miss hearing the church bells ringing. I went to the GP only to wait in my car for the practice nurse to come into the carpark with an auriscope to examine my ear. “Work is very strange for me, no face to face contact with patients. My son is trying to get a mortgage and buy a house, so many obstacles. I've lost confidence in going out, my comfort zone is at home. I'm missing the gym. I'm unsure of the rules of life at the moment and unsure of what's ahead.”
Social distanced meeting of Leek Twinning Committee
Alice Leather said: “During lockdown I missed my family and friends like crazy. Our little children were not really bothered by it all, we have a gorgeous big garden so are really lucky. “Personally, I am just taking everything as it comes. My new “phone, keys, purse” then thinking “ooops forgot my mask” routine is taking some getting used to though.”
Lockdown haircuts. Picture by Helen Wilcox
Penny Smith at work
Local historian Cathryn Walton said: “My husband is one of the shielded and quite poorly so I have been indoors a great deal of the time. As we haven't been allowed visitors I have kept busy looking after him and doing all the housework. I also read a lot, do crosswords, answer loads of local history queries which come to me via the internet, sort out family trees and have done several phone slots with a local radio. Been writing for a local newspaper too. The days seem to fly by! As to going out to restaurants etc and resuming a normal social life, I am nervous of doing so as I am still anxious about the virus, especially as my husband is very vulnerable.”
Lockdown indoor picnic. Picture by Michelle Harris
Lockdown Zoom Party. Picture by Nena Selmes
Sue Brownsword said: “I feel rather guilty. If it wasn't for the concern for family or friends catching this virus, I would have really enjoyed lockdown. I have had time to craft, to read and to spend time with my husband. We are usually so busy we don't seem to get time together. Really my life hasn't changed too much, due to mobility issues and an acquired disability I am reliant on the internet to shop and to go out and about needs planning - so no change there. The only thing I am missing is my Guide unit.”
John Bradshaw said: “There is so many different perspectives and experiences. Risk means different things to different people. I see the virus as an ally if it gives me a chance to reflect the way we are living. I like the quieter pace and a chance to do the things that I saved for a rainy day.”
A spot of Chromakey Green Screening with the kids. Celebrating VE Day. Picture by Heather Dunn-Fox
Tanis Pickford said: “I lost my brother at the beginning of lockdown, not from Covid-19 but unexpected. He was in critical care and everyone on the television was showing people with ventilators. I felt physically sick as my brother was on one. I actually thought I was going to crack but I persevered. The one thing I need now is hugs, lot's of hugs and be able to hug other people.”
Picture by Tim Vickerstaff
Having their own pop Keeping in touch during lockdown.
concert on the Bandstand.
Picture by Sue Hodgkinson
Picture by Jonty Roberts
leek town crier
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hen the news hit all of us that there was a virus coming out of China, we all thought that it would fizzle out and never reach our lovely town but we were all wrong, as was proved. The terrible consequences are and have been very pronounced. I went into self isolation around April time. At 74, I didn’t want to catch this virus, maybe with a fatal outcome for me. At first, it was ok sitting at home albeit on my own with a host of people keeping me in supplies from food to indoor plants. As the days turned into weeks, I began to suffer the anguish of loneliness. In the
complete silence, it gave me deep thoughts and memories that I could not share with others. We all react to things in a different way - whatever that is. A sense of hopelessness crept into my daily thinking and became worse as the days and weeks went by. Thoughts of my Mum and siblings who are no longer here. It’s sometimes easy to talk to yourself for comfort but its not enough. The need for friendship is so strong for most people and when it’s not there, it becomes depressive. I have been through the mill, so to speak, and some people may say that I’m lucky to have the comforts of home etc but
it’s the mind and isolation that bears down on some of us and we all react to it our own way. We are now just beginning to come back from that darkness and able to get out and enjoy some social intercourse. The sense of relief and being back with others that we know and love is the best medicine in the world but we must remember that the virus is still out there and we must remain alert to it. I thank God for the people who have helped me even a voice of the phone. I’m a different man now with this experience to add to many other life experiences. I haven’t been entirely idle in that, as you may now, I have given cries for the NHS and it’s very many heroes giving, in some instances, their lives and we must never forget all of the staff and volunteers of our great NHS plus special people like Hon colonel, Sir Tom Moores and others. I can only hope that from this terrible surreal time, something good has come from it. Like the Survive Together Leek and the Haregate Community Centre and knowing that they have gone that extra mile, in some cases, a few extra miles. We must be proud of all of them as the dawn brings us out of the darkness. The key word here is together and we, as a town in Staffordshire, can always show who and what we are… ...together. Bill Lomas Leek Town Crier
COMMUNITY HEROES
Going above and beyon
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hroughout the coronavirus pandemic our community of Leek has really pulled out all the stops to help each other through the surreal situation. There’s been fantastic support from many of
our long-standing community stalwarts, as well as new initiatives surfacing to help those in need. Here are just some of the wonderful folk who have gone above and beyond for their communities during these unprecedented times:
Fundraising stalwart Catherine has been making hundreds of face coverings with all proceeds going to Breast Cancer Now. Prior to the coronavirus situation, Catherine had raised £40,000 for the charity, for which she is now an ambassador, by making and upcycling jewellery, cards and many other items. She has made and sold way over 1,000 face coverings for individuals and also for groups and businesses so far and will continue to do so as long as there is a need for them.
Meanwhile, community fundraising stalwart Heather DunnFox said: “We have been knitting straps for masks for the NHS, straps which stop the masks rubbing their ears. “They have gone to a number of places including Macclesfield and Royal Stoke hospitals, as well as hospitals in Buxton and Manchester.
“We have made more than 2,000. Carol Beeston, who sadly died recently, crocheted hundreds as well as Hero Bears and Rainbows for our front doors. “I have also been putting together, and still do, hampers for elderly neighbours – and some we also provide meals and flowers for.”
COMMUNITY HEROES
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Manager at the centre, Laura Cottingham, told the Leek Life Magazine: “Pre lockdown we had a busy centre with lots of people attending different groups and projects each day. We also ran the successful community cupboard project twice a week, providing fresh and affordable fruit and veg through the community. “Even before the start of lockdown we had begun to limit numbers and sessions due to the risks that were being shown. When lockdown was announced we had to make the decision whether to close and furlough all staff for the foreseeable future or make a cup of tea, buckle up carry on with what gets thrown at us. “What we have been doing for the last few months is nothing that we wouldn’t have done pre Covid-19. We have always been here to help when people have needed it. All that has changed is the focus and numbers of certain requests. “We have been providing support in getting essentials such as food and medication, for those that are shielding, isolating or just anxious about the trip. The community cupboard has continued throughout the lockdown and alongside this with the support of local residents and businesses we have been able to provide food parcels to those who have been struck hard through furlough and redundancy along with those who have been struggling with the additional costs of being at home all day rather than school/college/work. “When lockdown hit hospitality a number of local bars and restaurants sent us the food that they would be unable to keep. Thanks to that food we were able to cook up loads of tasty meals that were frozen and have been used throughout the lockdown to support some of our most vulnerable residents. “We ensured that we were contactable any time of day or night so that people had some peace of mind that there were people who would listen. This has been vital for some who have just taken the opportunity to call when things get too much, or when guidelines change and they need to talk about what the changes mean for them.
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“The list of things we have been doing has been massive, the list of things that we haven’t done is probably shorter. From delivering hundreds of Easter Eggs across the town to helping individuals in crisis to find their way through this bizarre situation we have done it all. “We have worked closely with both the SMDC and the SCC in their response by supporting and helping those that have contacted their helplines. “Everything the centre has been able to do has been a continued team effort, the people here at the centre, both staff and volunteers have stepped up above and beyond over the last few months. “Whether existing staff and volunteers or those new to the family their efforts have made the level of our response possible helping people not only in Leek but across the Moorlands. “For almost 11 years I have worked at the community centre on the Haregate estate. This community pulls together in times of crisis, big or small. I’m just really proud to be a part of a great community that is stronger together.”
COMMUNITY HEROES
Co-founder of the new initiative Grace Buckley said: “Survive Together started out as a volunteer community group to help those in need during the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown of the country. Based in Leek, Survive Together rallied volunteers from across Leek and Cheddleton to support their neighbours when so many could not leave their homes with regular support such as food shopping, prescription collection and a friendly phone call where needed. “Since then so much has been achieved by Survive Together and a community that refused to give up on their vulnerable. “During lockdown we ran various online competitions with prizes delivered to doorways, a weekly live quiz, entertainment packs for children as well as supporting local businesses by encouraging people to shop local and win prizes. “As lockdown measures eased, Survive Together began to branch out and found new ways to support the local community. Full
teams of volunteers were kitted out and still regularly work hard to collect litter in many public areas of Leek, making the town a cleaner and safer place to live. “A Victorian themed activity day was planned and many families took part, engaging children in the history of Leek and enjoying activities such as rock painting, weaving a rainbow and writing down their lockdown memories. “Survive Together continues to find new ways of supporting the community however it’s needed. The group now runs a weekly community meal that is available to anyone at low cost or free, supplying fresh, homemade meals to anyone who needs it. There are many projects ahead and the group shows no signs of stopping as we continue to plan the opening of a community
centre with a cafe at its heart, helping the community to stay together and thrive. “We have also raised money for various local causes such as Haregate Community Centre, Rethink Mental Illness, Staffordshire Hospital and Leek Food Bank. We also ran a really successful week long event for Mental Health Awareness Week. “We’ve really come so far, it’s all exciting as we’re moving forward into the future.” Almost 300 volunteers have been involved in Survive Together Leek, racking up over 3,500 volunteer hours. Just some of the key people who helped to set it up and/or are continuing the initiative, include: Chris Walsh, Sharron Quale, Paul Deane, Liz Salmon, Dave Swarbrook, Lynn Haigh, Mike Gledhill, Keith Hoptroff, Stephen Wales, Malcolm Hawksworth and Lynn Swindlehurst.
Gwen’s good friend Tanis Pickford said: “My bestest friend Gwen Alcock spent time potting flower arrangements and delivering them to the cemetery for friends, families and others who needed. “She had never done anything like this before. She also made sausage rolls and chocolate brownies for Haregate community and friends for the people in need of a treat. “I'm so proud that she's my friend.”
LOCAL ARTIST
Lockdown brings out new talents for Phil
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MOORLANDS based artist has used the lockdown period to concentrate on a different medium to what he normally uses for his creations. Phil Calvert has been drawing and painting for as long as he remembers. He said: “I would often get told off at school for doodling instead of working, and the teachers tried to make me write right-handed.” Phil, who lives in Cheddleton, currently has work on display in Leek, such as the Fox and Crow Gallery, which is situated within the Foxlowe Arts Centre in Leek, as well as at venues in Ashbourne and the Lake District. He is currently painting the birds and mammals of the British Isles. Phil said: “The lockdown situation has given me the time to concentrate on watercolours, a medium I don't normally use. “I love the great outdoors and the wildlife within it, and any chance I have I will be out there, hiking, mountain walking and wildcamping. “Obviously, this year has been very different
in regards to the world we now live in but it has given me the time to reflect and indulge in one of my passions, painting.” Phil works as an outdoor nurture/forest school teacher in Stoke-on-Trent where he also teaches art. He added: “My previous exhibitions have been centred on a more abstract feel, but reaching an audience to sell work to is a challenge. “My latest art seems to be well received and the paintings are selling well.”
RUDYARD LAKE
New boat launch postponed
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TOURIST spot in the Moorlands is continuing to fundraise for the final instalments to pay for a new boat. The Rudyard Lake Trust and the Rudyard Lake League of Friends are currently fundraising to help pay for a new
boat for the venue, after the former trip boat Honey was retired from the lake's waters due to both dry and wet rot. The new boat had set to be launched at Rudyard Lake earlier this year, however, due to the coronavirus situation, the delivery has been postponed to keep the boat in storage until it can be used at its full capacity on the scenic waters of Rudyard Lake. Ray Perry, at Rudyard Lake, said: “The new boat is currently in storage which is going to cost us another £1,000 but it’s better than a brand new boat sitting on our car park all
Winter. “Meanwhile we are still attempting to raise the final funding required of around £5,000 but it’s thanks to the kind generosity of many visitors and the wonderful support from the local community that we have got this far and we are looking forward to arranging a grand launch of the new boat around Easter next year. “Meanwhile we are working towards saving our old trip boat Honey with her wartime history with the objective of making her into an educational facility/visitor attraction.” For further information and to donate towards the new boat go online to www.rudyardlake.com/helpfund-a-new-trip-boat-for-rudya rd-lake.
reflections coaching
What is resilience and how do I achieve it?
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O HERE we are, potentially coming out the other side of the lockdown, a situation that has meant different things to different people. Some will have experienced financial hardship, others loneliness and some under threat. Our stories will all be different, but the one thing we have in common is a strong need for resilience - in simple terms it means to bounce back. We will continue to need this to support us emotionally through the next uncertain months. Resilience is not something we are born with. We learn it as we learn to adapt to different circumstances. It is not confidence, but confidence can help to bolster it. We can gain it or we can lose it at any time – so sometimes it requires a little effort to maintain it. Resilience is what gives you psychological strength and it is a brilliant tool in your arsenal. Resilience is like a muscle – the more you exercise it against adversity the stronger it becomes. It can take time to build resilience, but where do you start? Here are my top tips to becoming a more resilient you: Be optimistic in your approach: Yes I know the
every cloud has a silver-lining thing grows tired after a while and when you’re feeling low it is very hard to kick start your optimism, but dig a little deeper – somewhere there’s a glimmer of strength in everyone. Look deep, find that spark and find something good. I have personally experienced some low moments through lockdown, missing friends and I have also been affected financially, but I still have my health. Know your purpose: It is your purpose that gets you out of bed. It does not have to involve saving the world, just follow your heart to do something, plant a rose bed and tend it, help your neighbour with their dog walking, start working towards a life goal. Emotional awareness: This is a big one for me. It is about what makes you tick (or not). Journaling is a fantastic way of understanding who you are. If you know and understand your emotions and their triggers, it goes a long way towards creating an intentional response to them, putting you back in control. Friendship: This one is extremely important to me. Friendships need nurturing. They are two-way streets. Friendship can provide endless support or simply a
listening ear. Remember to give as much as you get, if not more and if someone is not there for you when you need them, they may just need help themselves. Physical exercise and being outdoors: Physical exercise is not just about taking advantage of an hour’s mandated exercise. It is amazing how much an hour’s exercise can increase your ability to cope mentally too. Exercise provides endorphins resulting in an increase in resilience. It is great if you can get your exercise outdoors and I do endorse all exercise is good for your mind, but if you’re stuck indoors do try and grab some outdoor time too, even if you stand under an umbrella for five minutes to breathe the air. I understand things are tough for everyone now. I am still offering coaching, via Zoom or telephone and we can focus on confidence building or resilience. My book, “Don’t Just Dream It – Achieve It!” is available at https://carolyntraffordart.ecw id.com. It is a fantastic resource and will support a coaching programme or can be used on its own to help work through goal setting, confidence and in turn to build resilience.
CAROLYN TRAFFORD Contact details: 07714 216388. Email: Caro@reflectionscoaching.co.uk. www.reflectionscoaching.co.uk
GARDENING
Got the summertime blues
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LUE is such a valuable colour in the garden: it mixes well with other colours, it’s a relaxing, cooling colour in the hot sun and it shows up well at dusk, just when we want to sit out and enjoy the warm evenings. There are many shades of blue to choose from the palest sky blue through to deep, intense, inky blues reflecting the blues found in the sky. Blue also has the effect of making small spaces seem bigger so blue planting schemes are ideal for smaller gardens. There are plenty of easy to grow blue perennial plants to enjoy. Here are some of my favourites: The royal blue spire of flower on the tall speedwell, Veronica longifolia, make a great combination with gold and orange flowers in mid-summer and blue is an ideal contrast with orange dahlias or day lilies. Veronicas are great bee plants and blue is one of the easiest colours for bees to find. Another excellent bee plant is the blue globe thistle, or Echinops. These are covered with balls of electric blue flowers in late summer and the flowers are usually covered in bees and butterflies. Sea Hollies (Eryngium) also have thistlelike flowers and some become almost metallic blue in colour. The best includes Jewel, Picos Blue, Jos Eijking and Planum. Often the flower stems as well as the flowers take on a blue sheen enhancing the show. Grow these in free-
draining soil in sun. One of my absolute favourite flowers are Scabious and there are plenty of blue flowered varieties to choose from if you can find them, from the pale blue Clive Greaves to the deep blue of Fama. These are best in sun and they don’t like really acidic soils – mildly acid (like mine) or limy soils are fine. There are so many more to mention if I had space: cornflowers, agapanthus, salvias, geraniums, asters, delphiniums, irises to name but a few. So, if blue is your colour, there’s nothing stopping you getting the summertime blues for your garden. Martin Blow Janet and I run Plant Hunters’ Fairs, specialist plant fairs at wonderful locations. The following plant fairs are due to go ahead: at Capesthorne Hall in Macclesfield on Sunday, August 16; at Abbeywood Gardens in Delamere on Wednesday, August 26 and; at the Dorothy Clive Garden on Sunday, August 30 and Monday, August 3. Please check with our website for ticketing information. Some venues require tickets to be purchased in advance. Please check www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk for event status before travelling. All fairs include entry to the garden and fair at half standard garden entry price or better.
financial matters
When doing nothing is best
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rom time to time, stock markets go through periods of uncertainty. This could be down to some poor economic news or perhaps due to a political crisis. The sharp falls that can be experienced at such times are understandably unsettling for investors. They can even tempt some to change their long-term plan by selling their investments. However, stock market volatility does tend to be short lived. Therefore, most experts agree that investors are probably better off sitting tight through these unnerving periods.
• When stock markets become volatile, it is usually best to resist making changes to your long-term investment strategy • It is too easy to miss the best gains when you try to time the stock market • Time, not timing, is the key to investing
Source: Datastream, from 31.12.04 to 31.12.19, annualised return. Returns based on the performance of the FTSE All-Share, with initial lump sum investment of £1,000 on a bid to bid basis with net income reinvested.
Source: Datastream from 31.12.14 to 31.12.19, on bid-bid basis with net income reinvested. Those who sell or delay making new investments when stock markets become uncertain are actually employing a strategy known as ‘market timing’. The intention is often to invest once stock markets have calmed down or to buy when stock markets have gone even lower. This can be a very dangerous strategy. Sharp falls in stock markets tend to be concentrated in short periods of time. Similarly, the biggest gains are often clustered together. It is also quite common for a large gain to follow a big fall (or vice versa). Accordingly, an investor who tries to anticipate when the best time is to invest runs a very high risk of missing the best gains. This can have a big impact on their longterm return. To help illustrate this, we have analysed the average annual return from the UK stock market over the last 15 years. As the chart shows, missing just the ten best days over this period would have cut your annual return substantially. Timing the stock market is extremely difficult, the best policy is usually to stay fully invested over the long term. Please note that past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. The value of investments can go down as well as up, so you may get back less than you invest. This information is not a personal recommendation for any particular investment. If you are unsure about the suitability of an investment you should speak to
Brian Mellor Financial Services on 01538 371288
Butterton Moor House W Warm, b beautiful, if l private i swimming i i pooll Our private pool is ideal for families, mums, babies/toddlers and other groups
Space now available in our Mums, Babies & Toddler Swims Changing/shower rooms, baby change mats, pool toys, hair dryer Wed & Fri - £6 per adults, children free Birthdays/celebration pool parties ask for details General swim prices per hour: Adults £7, Children (ages 4-12) £3, Babies/Toddlers Free. Pool minimum cost £15 per hour Parsons Lane, Butterton, Staffordshire, ST13 7PD Phone: 07870 380375 e: dianemlatham1@gmail.com www.buttertonmoorhouse.co.uk
Leek No. 1 Boot Sale
SUPPORTING ANIMAL CHARITIES Every Sunday*, Salisbury ST13 8YG From 7am - 11:30am
£6 per car
07837 815542 *Excludes Easter Sunday
• Fully qualified & experienced tree surgeon • All aspects of tree & hedge work undertaken • Fully insured • Free advice & no obligation quotes • Chainsaw training & assessments Tel: 01538 421607 Mob: 07812 598909
Email: totaltreesolutions@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.totaltreesolutions.co.uk
ELECTRICAL SERVICES Domestic & commercial Friendly & reliable Covering Leek, Cheadle, Uttoxeter & surrounding areas
WE WILL BEAT ANY LIKE FOR LIKE QUOTE
01538 307005
info@liveart rth.co.uk t www.liveart rth.co.uk t
Leek Electrical • Professional, local, reliable, tidy • Part P approved • All work guaranteed & fully insured • No job too small • New 17th edition fuse box £350 inspected & tested • Domestic & commercial
NO CALL OUT CHARGE FREE QUOTES
Certified
Tel: 01538 387169 or 07875 464866
PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER • City & Guilds apprroved • Installation & serv vice The Nook, Butterton, Leek, Staffs, ST13 7SP
T: 01538 304518 M: 07841 708861
Hillbrook Landscaping Michael Couzens - 07772 242249 HillbrookLandscaping@hotmail.com • Hard & Soft Landscaping • Dry Stone Walling • Fence & pond Building • Ground Works & Drainage • Bee Friendly Garden Design • Garden Maintenance
Quizzes compiled by Paul Steele - email: pnsteele@aol.com - Paul's 'Which One?' quiz game is available on Amazon.
Look Back at Lockdown Answers: 1. Joe Wicks; 2. Chris Whitty or Patrick Vallance; 3. Matt Hancock; 4. Nightingale Hospital; 5. Thursday; 6. 80%; 7. World Health Organisation; 8. Save Lives; 9. Monday; 10. Windsor Castle; 11. ÂŁ45 (Came into effect on April 1); 12. Captain Tom Moore; 13. Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies; 14. Prince Charles; 15. You'll Never Walk Alone; 16. Marcus Rashford; 17. Iceland; 18. Barnard Castle; 19. Matt Hancock, Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab; 20. Priti Patel
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We specialise in all aspects of Land Rovers and 4x4’s and our knowledgable team are always on hand to offer expert advice.
adrian wilson
RUDYARD LAKE g a r a g e
THE ORIGINAL INDEPENDENT RENAULT SPECIALIST TRUST THE BEST
Adrian Wilson Garage p r No og w ra do R Pe en mm ing Ci uge aul ing key tr ot t, fo oe & r n
Salisbu ury Street, Leek, Stafford dshire ST13 5E EE Telepho one: 01538 39 99255
www.adrian-wilson.co.uk
If you’re looking for a new car or 4x4 then Rudyard Lake Garage should be your first stop. We can buy or part exchange your current vehicle and help you get into your new car quickly without hassle. We provide excellent after care and we can service and MOT your vehicle when required. We also offer an extensive diagnostic and repair service should your vehicle need that expert touch to get it running smoothly again. We also offer a Free Collection and Courtesy Car service. If you require any further info then please feel free to give us a call.
Telephone: 01538 306254 Rudyard Lake Garage, Station Road, Rudyard, Near Leek, Staffordshire
www.rudyardlakegarage.co.uk
The trusted, friendly auctioneers, serving Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire
AUCTION DATES 2020
Closed Wednesday. Entries accepted by telephone appointment only.
WE PAY OUT WITHIN 6 DAYS!
LOW COMMISSION FEES
Les Oakes Reclamation, Oakamoor Road, Cheadle, Staffordshire, ST10 4QR • T: 07960 069360 or 07793 405043