JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018
OYEZ OYEZ TO THE NEW YEAR
Interview with Leek Town Crier Bill Lomas
Life
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JAN/FEB
Editor’s letter .......................................6
CONTENTS
Local choirs........................................22
Leek Twinning Committee ................24 Home improvements.........................28
Gardening ..........................................30 Forest Schools....................................32 Staffordshire Wildlife Trust ..............34
CP National Championships .............35
Reflections Coaching .........................37
Leek Town Crier ..................................8
Skintime Aesthetics ...........................38
Oscar’s story .......................................13
Leek Moorlands Hospital ..................42
2nd Leek Scouts .................................10
The Women’s Institute......................40
CAMRA awards ..................................14
Leek Life from the past......................43
Recipes................................................17
Enjoy Staffordshire............................45
CAMRA Good Beer Guide..................16
What’s on ...........................................18
Stage directions .................................20
Ideas for the new year ........................21
Financial matters...............................44
Motoring ............................................46 Quiz corner ........................................49 Classified............................................50
Happy new year
eek has certainly become a vibrant town over the past few years. It is said that it is bucking the trend of many market towns and high streets and I would say that there are many contributing factors to this. There's been the very successful formation of the Totally Locally initiative with the accompanying award-winning Sunday Supplement. There's been the ever-growing in success community run Foxlowe Arts Centre. And there's our thriving (if not all traditionally placed) regular markets – both indoor and out. To name but a few contributing factors. Not really wanting to single anyone out, as we have so many community-minded folk in our town, but I do feel that one particular individual has made a spectacular addition to the promotion of our town, and that person is our very own Town Crier Bill Lomas – and it is for this reason that he features, not only on the front cover of this edition of Leek Life, but he also has an interview feature within – keep up the good work Bill! And Bill is not the only inspirational character we feature in this edition as we also have the very bubbly Oscar Povey, a young boy who, despite having ongoing medical complications, he and his family just keep on smiling. And we also have a feature surrounding the forthcoming centenary celebrations of the 2nd Leek Scout group whose members, again, are extremely inspirational in their work to keep the group going. Plus there is an update from para-athlete Leek lad Gavin Yarwood. Elsewhere in our New Year edition of the Leek Life Magazine we celebrate award-winning public houses, take a look at outdoor learning with Forest Schools, and we have another tale from the past by local historian Bill Cawley as well as words of guidance for the new year from life and career coach Carolyn Trafford. Plus we have updates from local Women's Institutes and, a new feature this time, from local choirs. I hope you enjoy this packed edition of Leek Life Magazine and I would like to take this opportunity to say Happy New Year to all our readers from everyone at Leek Life Magazine. We hope that all your hopes and dreams for 2018 come to fruition.
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Belinda Hargreaves Contents Editor life@timesandecho.co.uk Sophie Cotton Tracey Redfern Design & Production Thomas Brian Advertising 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
Did you know that you can read Leek Life online? Visit www.timesecho andlife.co.uk
Until next time – take care!
Find us on Facebook search for Leek Life Magazine 6 Leek Life January/February 2018
Belinda
Front cover photo: Leek Town Crier Bill Lomas by Brett Trafford Photography www.bretttrafford.com
Leek Life January/February 2018 7
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CALLING ALL YOUNG
No tears for Bill as he cries in the New Year F or one resident, Leek is such a passion that he cries about the town on many many occasions – but I, of course, don't mean the tears kind of crying but indeed the cries of a Town Crier! Bill Lomas has been our wonderfully vocal Town Crier since he was appointed to the volunteer role in October 2015 by Leek Town Council. Since then Bill has become a well-known figure in our market town, not only in helping to promote all the good things about Leek, but also, upon invitation, helping many groups and individuals to celebrate their respective events, achievements and anniversaries. Father-of-one Bill said: “Since being in this role I have really got to know the community of 8 Leek Life January/February 2018
Photo: Brett Trafford
Photography
LEEK TOWN CRIER
Leek and also further afield. “And they have got to know me. I get lots of lovely feedback. “For me, being the Town Crier has given me a sense of purpose and usefulness as well as integration within the community. And more importantly it's given me the opportunity to do good in the community.” Originally from Chichester, Bill lived in Bognor Regis in West Sussex and then in Wales before moving to Biddulph Moor and then Leek eight years ago. He was in the Army for six years and then a Postman for 19 years before running a guest house. Later he was an ambulance driver for the Social Services and then a care assistant followed by a Senior Support Worker before retiring.
Bill's regular engagement as Leek Town Crier is on a Saturday when he performs a cry from the Butter Cross in the town's Market Place. He said: “My weekly cry in Leek tells of the excellence of the town including its geography and lovely buildings. I also try to entice visitors to try out the independent shops and I speak further about this town being a most unique place.” Bill recalls the time he changed the opinion of a visiting couple. He said: “They were quite miserable looking and so I asked them how they were. He said: 'We ain't' and went on to explain that they were on a mystery bus trip and had been 'dumped' here. “I spoke to them for around ten minutes and had them in stitches of laughter and they said they would come to Leek again.” Bill not only carries out his Town Crier duties in Leek but also further afield – even as far as outside the Palace of Westminster in London which he did, on the invitation of Staffordshire Moorlands MP Karen Bradley, in the summer of 2016. Bill is now also an award-winning Town Crier after taking part in the Newcastle-Under-Lyme National Town Crier Competition. He said: “I had only been a Town Crier for six months when I entered so I was quite chuffed to have come third in the national competition.” The role of town crier for Bill is a volunteer one with profits distributed to local charities.
LEEK TOWN CRIER
However, it can be quite costly being Town Crier in particular in keeping his outfit up to scratch and he has fortunately gained donations himself towards this ongoing cost, including funds from Leek Town Lads. Bill, aged 72, is also well-known for helping Santa with his many visits around the Staffordshire Moorlands. Each Winter Bill grows his fluffy white beard in order to have that realistic look to be able to step in for Father Christmas at a number of private functions and community events, including the Leek Lights Switch On Event. With his Santa's beard set to be shaved off this month for another year, Bill is looking forward to another successful year as Leek's Town Crier. He said: “I am looking forward to 2018 and already have bookings as Town Crier for the summer.” He added: “I shall continue to carry out the role of Leek Town Crier until the good lord decides otherwise or the good people of Leek don't want me any more. “I have still got a lot to learn as I am still not the best but I am the best I can give.” Leek Town Mayor Brian Johnson said: “Having a town crier is a great asset to any town, having Bill Lomas as our town crier is an enormous benefit to Leek. “He goes well beyond the call of duty in performing his role and Leek would be a much poorer place without him”.
Special New Year cry for Leek Life Readers by Leek Town Crier Bill Lomas Thinking thoughts of a year gone by, sometimes wondering really just “why?” Did I do the things that I have done, fought the battles that I have won? Another year that has gone by, is soon to be history that I have made. A better year to come, in hope of another Parade. The only hope that I have is that I can be as faithful to this wonderful town of Leek. As this wonderful town of Leek has been faithful to me. So, history made in the year past, with a greater service avast. Every year is a whole new experience to unfold, but only if I am very bold.. Gone forever 2017 and I know that 2018 is going to be very much better. With an Oyez here and an Oyez there, all the people will always hear, the Leek Town Crier and Santa giving devoted service as long as God is willing and the nursing home isn't too expensive!
Leek Life January/February 2018 9
2ND LEEK SCOUTS
Scout group still going s
Scouting group in Leek is celebrating 100 years in the town this year. The 2nd Leek Scouts will be commemorating the milestone year with a number of special events in 2018 including an exhibition, a reunion, and a Group Centenary Camp. The group was formed in February 1918, meeting then at West Street School. This first meeting saw 48 boys turning up to enrol. Seventy-six year old Doug Rogers has been involved with the 2nd Leek Scout group since he enrolled as a cub in 1948. He said: “I decided to enrol as I had heard good things about Scouting. I was almost eight years old.” Doug continued with the group moving up to Scouts and then as a Senior Scout before becoming a Rover Scout at the age of 18. He had also been a Cub Instructor at the aged of 13. He later became Assistant Cub Scout Leader and then Cub Leader before taking on the mantle of Cub Scout Leader in 1968 when Ken Bowyer retired from the role. Doug later swapped to become the Assistant Group Scout Leader in 2014 with Johnathon Lloyd. The 2nd Leek Scout group has only had four Group Scout Leaders in its 100 year term. Doug said of why he has continued to give up much of his free time to the Scouting movement: “Because I enjoy it and we have lots
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10 Leek Life January/February 2018
of fun in Scouting. “I see that Scouting is very beneficial to youngsters. It teaches independence and living skills as well as giving members the opportunity to meet new friends who often stay friends for life.” After being located at West Street School for a time, the 2nd Leek Scout group moved to Stockwell Street, and then Ashbourne Road, and Hargreaves School in Alsop Street before finally the group raised enough funds to purchase the old grammar school in Clerk Bank where the group still operates from today. Doug said: “At its pinnacle, I would say there was around 100 members of the group – youngsters and adults. This would have been in the mid seventies as I remember for one Club Day parade during that decade we had over 100 taking part.” The group now has Beavers (for six to eight year olds which formed in the late 90s), Cubs (for eight to ten and a half year olds which formed in 1925) as well as Scouts (for ten and a half to 14 year olds) and now has around 48 members. The group also has an active marching band, which formed in 1936, and takes part in a number of community events within Leek including the Remembrance Parade and Club Day. The group also used to run its infamous Scout
2ND LEEK SCOUTS
g strong after 100 years Shows which were the group’s main fundraisers. These originally began in 1939 and then again in1960 and ran through up until 1987 when the Town Hall, where they were staged, was demolished.
Brian Williamson, aged 68, joined the group in his 20s in 1969 after helping with the technical side of putting on a Scout Show. He then stopped on as a Leader and then Assistant Scout Leader.
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From the left: Brian Williamson, Doug Rogers with Terry and Debbie Potts. Leek Life January/February 2018 11
2ND LEEK SCOUTS
Brian, who lives in Leek, said: “I would say that Scouting encourages better citizenship. It is a fun way to get children to be respectful and disciplined.” Doug, who lives in Cheddleton, said of the changing times of Scouting: “Some of the activities we did 70 years ago are still taking place now such as games, crafts and camping but there are additional badges now such as for Computing.” The former sub postmaster added: “I would say my most memorable moment being in the Scouts group is when I went on parade in Windsor after gaining the Queens Scout Award. It was a proud moment as well as helping to keep the group going over the years. “I have seen a number of generations come through the group. For example there are grandchildren now of those who I originally started with.” The 2nd Leek Scout Group's Centenary Exhibition, which will include a multitude of photos and memorabilia surrounding the scouting group from the past century, will be on display at the Nicholson Gallery in Stockwell
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12 Leek Life January/February 2018
Street from January 13 through to February 23; while the Group Centenary Party for current members will take place on February 5 where members will be presented with special centenary woggles and badges. There will also be a Reunion Party on Saturday February 3 at 7.30pm at The Foxlowe Arts Centre where any former members of the group will be warmly invited. Former Beaver Leader Debbie Potts is coordinating the commemorative events. She said: “I joined the group as a Venture Scout at the age of 16 but had been involved earlier than that as my dad helped with the Scout Shows from when I was around seven years old. “I think 100 years should be documented and celebrated in the community. “I met my husband Terry through 2nd Leek Scouts and I have enjoyed working alongside other such community-minded and spirited people. I feel Scouting brings the best out in children.” Anyone wishing to find out more about the 2nd Leek Scouts Group, which is always looking out for new members, can go online to http://2ndleekscouts.co.uk/
INSPIRATIONAL OSCAR JUST KEEPS ON SMILING
OSCAR’S STORY
ere at Leek Life Magazine, we endeavour to celebrate and promote all things about life in Leek. Now for little Oscar Povey, life has been quite a battle for the five-year-old since the day he was born due to medical reasons, but the little smiler takes it all in his stride and is so inspirational that we just had to feature him in Leek Life. Oscar has a rare and complex condition called CHARGE syndrome and had six operations within the first seven weeks of his life. Treatment for little Oscar is ongoing and he has a Oesophagostomy so that he can be fed. The little chap is unable to talk and has only recently started walking by himself. However the bonnie lad is always smiling and continues to progress well. He began walking on his own a few months ago and has now also started learning to swim. Oscar lives in the west end of Leek with his mum Amber, dad Mark, eight-year-old brother Oliver and 11-year-old sister Lily. Mark, aged 48, said of his youngest son: “He is a little monkey and often has selective hearing. However, he is just so inspirational. We have had a bad year as he has had to have two emergency operations but look at him now. He always takes everything in his stride and is always smiling – unless his Ipad is taken away from him.” The family raised £1,950 in 2013 to pay for a
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corrective helmet for Oscar to correct very severe plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome). The fund-raising didn't stop there and through 'Oscar's Giving' and with the help of many friends, the family went on to raise more than £11,000 which was distributed to a number of the organisations that have helped Oscar including: Ronald McDonald House at Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Manchester Children's Hospital and Peter Pan Nursery, to name but a few. Oscar attends Horton Lodge Special School in Rudyard. Amber, aged 36, said: “He's now attending school full time. He loves it. The staff there are ace. “Oscar is now signing and is also going to have a special PODD book soon to help him to communicate further. “He's doing very well at school and is probably not far behind from a normal five-year-old. It's just communication which will hold him back.” On how they cope with having a child who needs such intense 24-hour care, Amber said: “You just have to cope but Oscar is just so happy all the time so that makes it a lot easier.” Oscar is so inspirational to so many that now even his bubbly face appears on the back of a Stantons of Stoke bus in an advertisement for Donna Louise Children's Hospice – where he stays a few times a year to give his parents respite. Amber said: “He loves going to the hospice and it gives us time to do things with our older children and also as a couple as we rarely go out. “The hospice is extremely valuable to us as a family, it is not only there for respite but it also offers activities and sibling groups for Oliver and Lily. “Another great example is when Mark went clay pigeon shooting with some of the other dads.” Mark added: “I think it's great that Oscar has his picture on a bus. It's great publicity for Donna Louise which is a fantastic place.” Leek Life January/February 2018 13
CAMRA AWARDS
Big cheers for award-wi L The Fountain Inn
andlords and ladies have been celebrating coming out tops at an annual awards ceremony. The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Staffordshire Moorlands 2017 Awards event took place during the Stoke Beer & Cider Festival at Fenton Manor Sports Complex. A total of 11 awards were presented to pubs by the Staffordshire Moorlands CAMRA which is a sub-branch of the Potteries branch of the real ale celebrating organisation. Winning the overall Pub of the Year for the Staffordshire Moorlands was The Fountain Inn which is situated in the same named street in Leek. Pub managers Mark Turner and Donna Gibbons were 'over the moon' when they collected the award from sub-branch chairman Steve Barton. Mark said: “We are so happy with winning the Pub of the Year. Winning this is all down to the fantastic customers we have in the pub who help make The Fountain what it is.” Fountain regular Chris Bourne said: “It's the 14 Leek Life January/February 2018
best pub in Leek. It has a great atmosphere and good prices. They also serve the best pint of Guinness outside of Ireland.” Donna has since moved from the Fountain to our neighbouring town of Cheadle to run The Baker's Arms. Leek pubs which received Highly Commended certificates for the Pub of the Year category were: The Wilkes Head in St Edward Street, The Roebuck in Derby Street, and previous champion The Earl Grey in Ashbourne Road. The Huntsman in Cheadle also gained a Highly Commended recognition. The Black Lion in Consall Forge, just outside of Leek, won the Cider Pub of the Year, while The Fountain Inn, Leek and The Huntsman, Cheadle were Highly Commended in this category. The Black Lion in Consall Forge also won the top accolade in the new category of Rural Pub of the Year and both The Lazy Trout in Meerbrook and Crossways Micropub in Blythe Bridge were Highly Commended.
CAMRA AWARDS
The Fountain Inn
CAMRA Pub of the Year 2017
ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE TWO LUXURY EN SUITE ROOMS
Open Mon-Thur 12pm-Midnight, Fri & Sat 12pm-1am, Sun 12pm-11.30pm
winning Moorlands pubs 14 Fountain Street, Leek, ST13 6JR Tel: 01538 387205
The Fountain Inn
The Roebuck
The Black Lion Leek Life January/February 2018 15
GOOD BEER IN LEEK AND SURROUNDING AREAS CAMRA GOOD BEER GUIDE
number of 'watering holes' in Leek have been recognised in the latest CAMRA Good Beer Guide. The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) is celebrating its 45th edition by reflecting on the massive changes to the beer industry since its first edition in 1974. This milestone edition – which is the last to be edited by world-renowned beer writer Roger Protz - provides an opportunity to take stock and marvel at the changes that have transformed the pleasure of beer drinking over this period, most significantly the explosion in the brewing industry and range of beers now available. The 2018 edition of the
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national publication has listed four public houses within Leek as being good suppliers of real ale. These include: The Earl Grey in Ashbourne Road, The Fountain in Fountain Street, The Roebuck in Derby Street and The Wilkes Head in St Edward Street. In surrounding areas the following have been included in the 2018 Good Beer Guide: The Yew Tree in Cauldon, The Black Lion in Consall Forge, and The Swan Inn in Whiston. Breweries within the area which have also been included in the publication are: Flash and Consall Forge.
You are always welcome at
The Hollybush Inn Delicious homemade food served everyday including Sunday when we serve a traditional roast, and delicious daily specials
LEEK LIFE Mer ry to al Ch l ou ristm r re as ader s MARCH/APRIL 2016
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MAY/J UNE 20 16
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• Families welcome • Outdoor play area • Dog friendly • Large beer garden • A selection of real ales
Canal Side, Denford, Leek , ST13 7JT
01538 371819
16 Leek Life January/February 2018
as iviti Fest istm ay A DAY ATChrRud yard ace ’s heyd THE LAKdEding R ber ors lim petit e fixture Com tiv r fes up fo
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Times, Echo & Life Publications, 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 1BD Tel: 01538 752214 www.timesechoandlife.co.uk facebook.com/leeklife Editorial: life@timesandecho.co.uk Advertising: tom@timesandecho.co.uk
Lovers Linguine
RECIPES
Serves: 2 • Preparation time: 5-10 minutes • Cooking time: 15 minutes Ingredients 1 small onion Bunch tarragon Dash of marsala 300g smoked salmon cut into strips 3 table spoons of creme fraiche Method 1. Finely chop and saute the onion. Add the finely chopped tarragon keeping a little back for garnish. 2. Add the creme fraiche and marsala and reduce. Season to taste. 3. Meanwhile add the fresh pasta to boiling water and cook for two to three minutes until al dente. 4. Just before serving add the smoked salmon to the sauce and serve on the pasta. 5. Garnish with remaining tarragon. Delicious with a crisp salad and a glass of prosecco.
MINI CHOCOLATE SOUFFLES
Serves: 2 • Preparation time: 15-20 minutes • Cooking time: 15 minutes
Ingredients 4½ tablespoons of caster sugar 1 teaspoon of icing sugar 1 large egg white 1 tablespoon of flour 2 tablespoons of cocoa 2 tablespoons of milk ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract Method 1. Preheat oven to 180°C. 2. Coat two ramekins with butter, sprinkle each with 3/4 teaspoon of caster sugar. 3. Combine two tablespoons of caster sugar, flour, cocoa, and milk in a small saucepan over medium heat.
4. Cook for two minutes, stirring until smooth. Spoon chocolate mixture into a medium bowl and cool for a few minutes. Stir in the vanilla. 5. Place egg white in a medium bowl, beat with a mixer at high speed until soft peaks form. 6. Add remaining two tablespoons of caster sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Gently stir 1/4 of the egg white mixture into the chocolate mixture, gently folding in the remaining egg white mixture. 7. Spoon the mixture into prepared dishes. Sharply tap
dishes two or three times to level. 8. Place dishes on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. 9. Sprinkle each soufflé with 1/2 teaspoon icing sugar.
Leek Life January/February 2018 17
d n a k e e L in n What’s o ring u d s a e r a g in d surroun ary u r b e F d n a y r a Janu
JANUARY
Foxlowe F ilm at the Foxl s Every Tuesday fr om Januar owe Arts Centre. y9 www.foxl oweartscen tre.org.uk
Thursday 4 r 8.30pm at Club 7.30pm fo Leek's Comedy comedians ith W . ts Centre The Foxlowe Ar , Ashley ger Monkhouse Andrew Bird, Ro Sam re pe m co d hell an Frieze, Rob Mitc s £10. Harland. Ticket
J.R.R Tolkien Exhibition 10 am-4pm (Mon Saturday) at N day to icholson Inst itute, Stockw Leek. Includes ell Street, copies of orig inal artwork, domestic scen of es and landsc apes drawn by in 1918 in Staf Tolkien fordshire. Ru nning until Ja nuary 6.
Thursd ay Folk at T 11 he Foxlo we 7.30p The Fox m for 8p low m start a Hangove e Arts Centre, L t e r Night' with Eard ek. 'Christmas Crosbie ley, Rhe with spe a c d ia Rick Ford an l local gu ests inclu d . Admissi ding on £5. Saturday 13 y Exhibition Group Centenar 2nd Leek Scout llery, Ga t Ar n so ol Nich 10am-3.30pm at til Friday un g in , Leek. Runn Stockwell Street February 23.
Art Exhibitions 10am-4pm (Wed nesday to Saturday) plus 11 am-4pm first Su nday of every month at the Fo xlowe Arts Cent re, Leek. Gallery 12 runs until Ja at nuary 13. Baggag e by #SEVEN ru from February 8 ns until March 31
18 Leek Life January/February 2018
Thursday 18 Limehouse Lizzy 7.30pm at the Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek. This tribute band keeps the his spirit of Celtic rock icon Philip Lynott and £14. ts Ticke alive. band Thin Lizzy
FEBRUARY
Thursday 1 Leek's Comedy Club 7.30pm for 8.30pm at The Foxlowe Arts Centre. Tickets: £10.
Arts Foxlowe Friday 2 w 5.30pm at the Red y b r o ro h ir Theatre S . With Mirror, M ously ri lo g A eek nd over. a Centre, L rs White a e w y o r fourpular Sn o p e th Earth. Fo n o ous take Details: mischiev puppets. g n si u e.org.uk tr story n e sc loweart www.fox
Saturday 3 2nd Leek Scout Group Reu nion Party 7.30pm at The Foxlowe Arts Centre. All former members of the 2nd Leek Scout Group welcome. Details: www.2ndleekscouts.co.uk/c entenary
Sunday 4 Leek town ent 10.30am in Sunday Supplem ket plus ar m an Locally artis centre. Totally sinesses will bu d an s op sh t en many independ be open.
Thursday 8 at Folk at The Foxlowe 7.30pm for 8pm start and ls Detai Leek. e, Centr Arts we Foxlo The tickets: Dave Rhead on 01538 385260
Friday 10 Theatre Show At the Foxlow e Arts Centre, Leek. With Points of Echo. An exciting, unexpected and uncanny dance theatre tale with two performers for adu lts and youngsters aged 15 plus. Det ails: www.foxloweartscentre.org .uk m for ay 24 Show 7p ntre, Saturd Tribute 2 Ce U s e rt h A T e U2UK – rt at the Foxlow ing four n n ta s a p s m p s 7.45 k g song rformin atest roc Leek. Pe some of the gre . 0 1 £ of kets decades tten. Tic ever wri anthems
LOOKING AHEAD... March will see the start of a ne w line dancing club when Dan' s Dancing Devi ls will begin to host a monthly evening of line dancing at Longsdon Mem orial Hall on M arch 16. For further info rmation call Da n on 07923 203346 .
Do you have an event in March or April? Email details to life@timesande cho.co.uk. Submissions de adline: Januar y 29, 2018.
Leek Life January/February 2018 19
Win tickets
Stage directions
by Richard Lane
king pleasure & the biscuit boys at buxton opera house
ince their debut at the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival in 1987, the band has delivered performances in 21 countries, and has had countless appearances on radio shows and television. Bringing much needed joy to the sometimes excessively earnest and glum contemporary Jazz, their all action approach to American Rhythm and Blues will have your toes tapping as they deliver an unfailingly dazzling night for all. Rough, tough and always rocking, King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys have appeared at
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festivals, in concert and at clubs throughout the UK and Europe – and they still play the Birmingham Jazz Festival, where they have headlined for an unprecedented 14 years. In that time they have performed alongside B.B. King, Cab Calloway and His Orchestra, Ray Charles, and toured with the actual Blues Brothers Band. The band line up as King Pleasure [vocals and baritone saxophone], Boysey Battrum [alto and tenor saxophones], Bullmoose K Shirley [guitars], Mighty Matt Foundling [piano], Shark Van Schtoop [bass], and Gary ‘The Enforcer’ Barber [percussion]. Guaranteed to have you swinging into next week, King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys have everything that you would expect from a world class swing band. King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys are at Buxton Opera House Saturday 3 February at 7.30pm Tickets are priced at £18. Discounts are not available. To buy tickets contact Buxton Opera House Box Office, Tel: 01298 72190 or visit: www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
To win two tickets to see King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys answer the following question:
THE BAND HAS SUPPORTED B.B. KING WHO CALLED HIS GUITAR WHAT NAME? a. Lucille
b. Dolly
c. Linda
(Circle your answer)
Name........................................... Address........................................................................................................................................ .........................................................................................................................Daytime phone no................................................. Please send your entry to Leek Life Magazine, 18 Tape St, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST10 1BD. Deadline for entries: January 31st 2018. 20 Leek Life January/February 2018
Health and vitality and a tranquil state of mind with Qigong
IDEAS FOR THE NEW YEAR
re you looking for ways to improve your health this New Year? If so, then why not try a qigong class at the Foxlowe Arts Centre? Qigong (pronounced chee gung) is an ancient and powerful system of healing and energy medicine from China. It means ‘vital energy (Qi) cultivation (Gong)’. It uses breathing techniques, gentle movement, and meditation to cleanse, strengthen, and circulate the life energy (Qi). Lindsay Trevarthen, who lives in Swinscoe, has been practising Qigong since 2002 and qualified as an instructor in February 2009. She runs regular classes and workshops around Derbyshire and Staffordshire and is an approved Strictly No Falling (falls prevention) tutor. Lindsay has been the Qigong teacher at the Ashbourne Physiotherapy Centre for almost six years and has been holding monthly classes at the Foxlowe Arts Centre since November 2016. As Lindsay's classes at the Foxlowe have proved popular, she is increasing them to twice a month, every other Tuesday. January dates for Three Treasures Qigong
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classes are Tuesday 9th and Tuesday 23rd from 10am until 11am and cost £10. For more information, please contact Lindsay on 07989 986672, qigong@w3z.co.uk or www.threetreasuresqigong.co.uk.
VOLUNTEER IN YOUR COMMUNITY TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE s we all look ahead to 2018 now could be the ideal time to consider volunteering in your local community. You may think volunteering is only about helping in a charity shop but you would be wrong. Charity shops do have volunteers but there are many more volunteering opportunities across the Staffordshire Moorlands. These include befriending, working on a canal project, volunteering in the local library, supporting lunch clubs, helping in schools, mentoring young people, getting involved in festivals, as well as opportunities to use your IT and office skills. The Leek volunteer centre at Bank House in St Edward Street, which is run by Support Staffordshire, currently has more than 100 exciting volunteering opportunities available to introduce you to lots of different possibilities – there really is something for everyone.
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People volunteer for all sorts of reasons including the desire to help others, gaining work experience and the opportunity to meet new people. The volunteer advisors help to match prospective volunteers with suitable volunteering opportunities after first getting to know the person and what their skills and interests are. To find out more, or book an appointment, contact Volunteering Officer Kathryn Bentham on 01538 381356 or email kathryn.bentham@supportstaffordshire.org.uk. Leek Life January/February 2018 21
LOCAL CHOIRS
Singing is a high note for eek has a fantastically vibrant music scene of many many genres – not least provided by the many choirs within the Staffordshire Moorlands. Here we take a look at just some of those choirs.
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Wetley Rocks Male Voice Choir
The choir have maintained a steady stream of concert bookings throughout 2017 and have several dates already booked for 2018 including their concert on May 5 as part of the Leek Arts Festival. Musical Director Ian Jones said: “We have been learning several new pieces, many not normally associated with male voice choirs and introduced several at our charity concert in the Autumn at Trinity Church in Leek. “While we are not a large choir, we have a very high standard of singing and by performing different songs we tend to get noticed and have a good selection of items arranged specially for us.” The choir rehearses on Monday evenings at 7.30pm in Wetley Rocks church. Ian added: “There are no formal auditions just a quiet private one-to-one with me, to ensure you are placed in the correct section. Rehearsals are filled with fun and laughter. “New recruits are given a mentor to ease the way in and a warm welcome is guaranteed. For further information about the Wetley Rocks Male Voice Choir go online to www.wrmvc.com or call Ian on 07557 944647.
Leek Choral Society
In 2017 the choir hosted a number of events and concerts including 'Messiah in a Day' in November which saw visitors joining the choir in performing the great oratorio at St. Edward's Church in Leek. Musical Director Pete Durrant led the workshops and accompanist Ian Riddle supported him and played the organ for the evening performance. The during the festive period,members of Leek Choral Society hosted their Christmas Occasion at Trinity Church and were, once again, joined by The Wetley Rocks Male Voice Choir. 22 Leek Life January/February 2018
The evening included a mix of Christmas carols, songs and readings as well as mince pies. Leek Choral Society rehearses on Friday evenings at St. John's Church in Belle Vue, Leek from 7.30pm until 9pm. Choir member Anni Hollings said: “Anyone interested in joining the choir would be most welcome and can contact us either by emailing leekchoralsociety@btinternet.com ,calling me on 01538 371071 or our secretary Jean Broad on 01538 361202. “We specialise in singing a wide range of music, through mixed programmes linked to a theme, religious oratorio - both old and modern, musical medley, Gilbert and Sullivan and all things in between - although we haven't tried rock!”
Phoenix Singers
The choir has had a busy year with many engagements including, more recently, taking part in the recording of carols for BBC2 television Christmas show "The Sweet Makers" at Blist Hill Victorian town where they sang the full version of "A Christmas Carol" followed by singing it in a charity concert in the Victorian Theatre at Chatsworth House. They also had a number of carol singing engagements within the local community. The Phoenix Singers adopted its new name in 1985, when the choir was re-born from the ashes of the former Leek High School Choir. Since then the choir has developed a varied repertoire, performing major choral works, small-scale pieces and contemporary music. It draws its membership from all parts of the Staffordshire Moorlands and beyond. A registered charity, it is a genuine community choir in that it welcomes anyone who enjoys singing. There are no auditions. The choir is led by Ashley Thompson who has been the Musical Director for 20 years. Rehearsals, which are open to all, take place at Leek First School in East Street every Monday evening. For further information go online to www.phoenixsingersleek.co.uk.
or many Cornerstone Singers
This is a fairly new group which is made up of ladies who enjoy singing all kinds of Gospel music together. Presently there are 16 in the group but they are always looking for new members. Member Anne Posey said: “We are ladies who like to sing and have fun. No experience is needed and you do not have to be able to read music. “There is no audition to join us. The only qualification you need is enthusiasm.” Cornerstone Singers formed in May 2017. Some of the members had sung together before but regrouped with new accompanist Diccon Pearce and musical director Vicky Ainslie.
Anne said: “Vicky is a very accomplished musician who manages to get us to produce amazing sounds. She is very encouraging and supportive of our diverse abilities. “Gospel type music has its roots in the slave community. It developed to motivate and inspire and to this day it still has a powerful and uplifting effect on singers and audiences alike. It has influenced so many different genres of music and musicians. It has something for everyone.” The Singers' first concert was held in December at St Peter's Church in Forsbrook. The Cornerstone Singers meet alternate Wednesdays in Wetley Rocks Methodist Chapel at 1.30pm until 2.30pm. For further information go online to www.cornerstonesingers.co.uk or call Anne on 07535 563700.
Cornerstone Singers
Wetley Rocks Male Voice Choir Leek Life January/February 2018 23
LEEK TWINNING COMMITTEE
Wonderful 2017 for twinning
he Leek Twinning Committee had a busy year in 2017 with a whole host of activities to celebrate 15 years of partnering with the Italian town of Este. Events included having a marquee at the annual Leek Show and hosting a celebratory evening as well as visits to local tourist destinations. Committee member Barbara Wood said: “What a wonderful year we had of deepening friendships with our twin town of Este, Italy. Some of our activities have included Este in Fiore which involved a couple of intrepid adventurers who went to Este for the Flower Festival in April. “They had a thoroughly wonderful time, and as usual, they were very well looked after by our Italian friends.” The Leek & Este 15th Anniversary Celebration Weekend in July saw Italian visitors visit the Staffordshire Moorlands for various functions and trips.
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24 Leek Life January/February 2018
Barbara said: “We visited Leek Show where Leek’s Town Crier, Bill Lomas could be seen rustling up passers-by into our marquee. “That evening we held a celebratory event at Longsdon Memorial Hall which included a delicious buffet, dancing and even a little bit of Italian Karaoke. “We had a brilliant night and it was lovely to have some of our ‘old’ Twinning friends with us, and watching everyone dancing together and enjoying themselves. “This was all rounded off on Sunday with our last evening meal together.” A party of Leek folk attended Este’s Eurofest in October to take part in this annual event which had the theme of ‘United in Diversity’. The final 2017 event for Leek Twinning was when the group welcomed Este veterans and serving military members for the town's Remembrance commemorations in November. The visit included a tour of Leek, an afternoon
LEEK TWINNING COMMITTEE
ng and looking ahead to 2018 at Basford Hall courtesy of Humphrey Scott Moncrieff, the High Sheriff of Staffordshire and his wife Judy, a trip to Lymestone Brewery, a visit to Chatsworth House, and a number of other gettogether's with members of the Leek Twinning committee. The Italian visitors also joined in on the Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday commemorative events in Leek including the Sunday morning parade and service at the foot of the Nicholson War Memorial in Derby Street. Barbara said: “We feel that we have formed a bond of friendship with our guests which we hope will endure for many years to come. For some in November it was their first visit to Leek.” Looking ahead to 2018, Barbara said: “In 2018 it is Leek’s turn to visit Este for Remembrance weekend and we look forward to a full programme of events between our two towns.” Anyone interested in getting involved in Leek
Twinning can pop along to one of their meetings which take place every second Wednesday of the month in the upper room of The Red Lion in Leek's Market Place at 7.30pm.
Leek Life January/February 2018 25
Start of a new year
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
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anuary and February are a good time to any time of the year although if it is found or considered that bats use the building then activity consult a planning consultant, like me, who surveys, using bat detectors, will be needed and the can advise on what may be achievable and how best time for these is between May and August. to go about it as the process for some applications Recent successes include can be complicated and take time. permissions for new houses, Many developments require additional information in addition to including in the Green Belt, a As a small local needs house in the Peak drawings. Flood-risk, structural practice I am Park, and two agricultural surveys, historic building impact prepared I go that worker’s dwellings. Current work assessments, and bat and great includes mainly houses, a new crested newt surveys are examples of “extra mile” to farm, agricultural worker’s the surveys that often need to be provide you with dwellings, barn and building submitted with an application. I conversions, holiday cottages, organise and co-ordinate all the the best possible and the removal or variation of necessary surveys including obtaining advice conditions. quotes for the work. I am on the list of Royal Town Late winter and spring are good Planning Institute consultants and as a small times for certain ecology surveys such as great practice I am prepared I go that “extra mile” to crested newts if there is a pond on or near your site. If you are converting or demolishing a provide you with the best possible advice and wherever possible obtain planning permission. If building you will almost certainly need a bat you need help and advice please contact me. survey. Building inspections for bats can take place
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Ken Wainman Associates Ltd Chartered planning consultant Need help obtaining planning permission, appealing a refusal of planning permission or with enforcement issues? I can help. I am an experienced qualified planner specialising in obtaining planning permissions, planning appeals and enforcement issues.
Farm building to house conversion
31a St Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 5DN t 01538 386 808 | m 07968 774785 w www.kenwainmanassociates.co.uk | e ken@sgaplanners.co.uk 28 Leek Life January/February 2018
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
BRIGHTEN UP YOUR HOME FOR THE NEW YEAR
ow is the perfect time to be planning projects for the home, whether it be updating the kitchen or installing a new fireplace. But for those of us who like to leave the hard work to the professionals, we have put together a few easy DIY projects which can help you brighten up your home without the need for power tools and major renovations. Upcycle: Recycling and re-using materials is a great way of getting creative and doing your bit for the environment at the same time - while upcycling allows you to transform something destined for the bin into something marvellous. There are plenty of ways to make some unique additions to brighten up your home without breaking the bank. Wooden pallets are incredibly versatile and can be used to create lots of different items for the home or garden from an occasional table to a full scale set of garden furniture. With a little bit of research - and perhaps a chat with a local business which might allow you to have some pallets for a nominal cost (or even for free!) you can create some fantastic projects with a bit of
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flair and a lot of sandpaper. The ‘upcycling’ ethic can also be applied to dozens of items around the home. A popular choice is to re-cover cushions with materials from clothes which no longer fit or are looking a bit worn. T-shirts, jumpers and even jeans can be patched together to make stand-out cushion covers, giving your old soft furnishings a new lease of life. Old or surplus tiles can be used to make a garden mosaic, off-cuts of carpet can be re-used as door mats and ribbons, necklaces or belts can be re-purposed as curtain tie-backs. Furniture and doors can be given an instant lift with new handles, whether it’s simply replacing handles that are looking a bit tatty, or going for something completely new. A lick of paint can also work wonders on older furniture and doors, as well as being a great way to brighten up old wooden photo frames. Giving your home a lift - particularly when things are looking a bit drab after all the Christmas decorations have gone back into the loft - is a great way to feel better and brighter as the new year gets properly underway.
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GARDENING
SOW UNUSUAL I
t’s such fun to have something exotic in your garden to draw envious looks from your gardening friends. It’s even better when the plants are hardy perennials grown from seed at a fraction of the cost of full grown plants. The great thing about growing unusual perennials from seed is the tremendous range available and the low cost means you can experiment with hardiness or plant a large drift without breaking the bank. Some perennials can take one, two or even four or five years to flower from seed but I have picked out some that should give some flower in their first year. You might need to search the seed catalogues for these or even better join a plant society that issues a members’ seed list such as the Hardy Plant Society, Cottage Garden Society or Alpine Garden Society. All the plants mentioned below can be sown in late winter or spring in a little heat using standard seed compost. Remember to transplant the seedlings into pots as soon as they have their second pair of the leaves as seed compost has little food in it and they will stop growing. One of my favourites from seed and always 30 Leek Life January/February 2018
reliable to flower in the first year is the exotic looking Commelina. This is relative of the Tradescantias we grow as house plants, but they are fully hardy in well drained soils. The common name is Sleeping Beauty as the brilliant blue flowers close each afternoon and open again in the morning. I find these beauties will self-sow into a gravel path or you can collect seed to sow in the spring to make more plants. Foxgloves are commonly grown from seed and varieties like Pam’s Choice make a pleasant change in colour from the wild types. There are also some perennial species from southern Europe and these can only really be grown from seed. The Milk Chocolate Foxglove (Digitalis parviflora) forms neat rosettes and has masses of chocolate brown flowers in summer. This is one for a sunny, dry soil as is its cousin the Rusty Foxglove (Digitalis ferruginea). Some of the more exotic looking Sages are easy from seed. The Sliver Sage (Salvia argentea) has large, woolly-coated leaves and whorls of purple tipped, white flowers in summer. Another unusual one to try from seed is the Yellow Sage (Salvia flava megalantha).
GARDENING
The Purple Sunflower (Berkheya purpurea) is a spiky, thistle-like plant from South Africa with large pale purple flowers in summer. These are really easy from seed and its far easier growing new plants than trying to divide up these unbelievably prickly plants. You might find the seeds listed as Zulu Warrior or Silver Spike – all of them are the same! One of the most exotic looking flowers in our garden came from tiny, almost dust-like seed from a garden society and is now the largest and showiest plant in our garden. That is Devil’s Tobacco (Lobelia tupa). It’s incredible to think that an 8ft (240cm) plant will grow from such tiny beginnings. The seedlings are so small that it is impossible to separate them into individual plants, so we just pick out a
clump of seedlings to pot on. Although hardy they need a whole growing year to establish in the ground, so we keep them in pots in a greenhouse through their first winter and plant them out in the following spring. Slightly trickier to germinate than those above is the Leopard Lily (Belamcanda chinensis) because the seed compost must be kept quite moist at all times to be successful. The reward is short plants with exotic looking freckly flowers in summer – indeed another common name is “Freckle Face”. Giving your garden an exotic look using hardy plants grown from seed is simple and rewarding. What are you waiting for? Martin Blow
Janet and Martin Blow run Special Perennials. Their website www.specialperennials.com is full of colour photos and growing tips. They sell by mail order and at Plant Hunters’ Fairs only throughout the season. Please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2018 : We will be at the Plant Hunters’ Fair at Carsington Water, DE6 1ST on Saturday March 24, free entry to fair and country park, P&D parking; The wonderful Dorothy Clive Garden, TF9 4EU on Easter Sunday/Monday 1st/2nd April, fair & gardens £4 (less than half standard price); at Consall Hall Gardens, Wetley Rocks ST9 0AG on Sunday 15th April, gardens and fair entry £3; and at Sugnall Walled Garden, Eccleshall ST21 6NF on Saturday 28th April garden and fair £1. We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect. Leek Life January/February 2018 31
FOREST SCHOOLS
GET OUT IN THE GREAT OUT utdoor learning has seen a resurgence recently as people realise the value of encouraging their children into the great outdoors on mental and physical health. Here we talk to Forest School facilitator Lorna Stoddart who will be introducing her 'Greenwood Growth' sessions to Woodcroft Open Space in Leek this new year. Forest Schools, which are gaining popularity and traction within the National Curriculum, provide a neutral environment in which all people, regardless of age, ability, background, gender or experience can learn, develop and thrive according to the best of their ability. Lorna said: “The environment in which people learn (our woodland classroom) provides a rich sensory experience through colour, texture, sight, sound and taste that appeals to and awakens basic human instinct that many have forgotten, fallen out of touch with or believe they don't have time for. “Forest School activities are a great leveller between gender, age and experience. With repeated visits, the spaces used, visited and passed through during Forest School become familiar and cared for. Building a deep connection between individual and the specific natural environment the impact is greater awareness of and care for the natural world and its ecology. “Spending quality time in the woodlands feeds some of our basic human needs for connection and enriches our mental and
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physical health and well-being. For some people Forest School provide much needed healing time: to reflect, to be still, to be active, to engage (including with other people).” Led by a facilitator, individuals or groups taking part in a Forest School develop an awareness of the what, why, who and how of learning. The key is for facilitators to let participants lead them and own their learning within whatever frame of reference guides a session. That frame could be anything, as the neutral backdrop of the classroom can flex, as can the facilitator. Lorna added: “Forest School has the ability to ignite, or in some cases, reconnect people with a lustful curiosity for learning that will stay throughout life and a greater awareness of and care for their immediate natural environment, what food is and where it comes from.” ‘Greenwood’ will be running from Woodcroft Recreation Ground in Leek, Teggs Nose in Macclesfield and Beaver Hall near Ashbourne beginning in early 2018 offering sessions to young children and adults. To find out more go online to www.facebook.com/greenwoodgrowth, email greenwoodgrowth@gmail.com, or call Lorna on 07801 655272.
FOREST SCHOOLS
UTDOORS THIS NEW YEAR
Leek Life January/February 2018 33
STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST
Wildlife will get a helping hand thanks to work at Doxey’s Pool conservation charity is protecting a beauty spot near Leek from erosion to restore it to its former glory and to benefit wildlife. In recent years, the southern edge of Doxey’s Pool, which is situated at The Roaches has eroded away due to the many thousands of people who visit the attraction each year. This has caused water levels in the pool to drop, allowing large volumes of water to wash down the footpath during times of rain, causing serious erosion. Now, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust has begun work to restore the pool to protect against erosion in the future. The trust is carefully using heather brash and living turf to encourage heather, sedges and grasses to colonise the bare peat binding it together with their roots. The new vegetation will cover a bund that will hold water back in Doxey’s Pool, preventing erosion and restoring the pool to its former water level. The work is being undertaken by the Roaches warden, Jon Rowe, and the loyal and hard-working volunteers at the reserve. Surveys have shown Doxey’s Pool in its current state supports virtually no invertebrate life – but this work on the pool will help wildlife such as caddisflies, damselflies and
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PROPERTY
dragonflies thrive. Jon said: “Doxey’s Pool is one of two upland tarns in North Staffordshire and as such is really quite special. Unfortunately, due to its popularity it looks less like its cousin, the Mermaid Pool and more like a giant muddy puddle at times. “These works will help us re-establish the natural moorland vegetation strengthening Doxey against erosion in the future, benefiting wildlife and returning Doxey to the beautiful attraction that it deserves to be. "In addition to the works to the pool, we will also be restoring further sections of the footpath network on the Roaches over the next three winters where they have become badly eroded. “During the process of repairing Doxey's Pool the works area may look muddy but all will be worthwhile when the end product will be a beautiful Doxey once again for all to enjoy.” oung people with learning difficulties are being given the opportunity to get close to nature and learn new skills at a project being run in the Churnet Valley, thanks to money raised by National Lottery players. The ‘Churnet Youth’ project, which has been awarded a £26,000 Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant, will introduce the youngsters to wildlife and nature conservation through practical activities while learning a wide range of skills. The partnership project between the Trust and Leek College will initially be based at the Trust’s Rod Wood Nature Reserve near Cheddleton, which boasts a wide variety of habitats. For more information contact Shaun Rimmer at the Trust –s.rimmer@staffswildlife.org.uk
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GAVIN AIMS FOR EUROPE AFTER NATIONAL GOLD
CP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
Leek man is continuing to progress with his para-athletic career. Despite not having a brilliant season in 2017, shot putter Gavin Yarwood still ended up getting a Gold at The CP National Championships and is now looking forward to an even more successful year in 2018. The former Leek High School student previously won Gold at the Cpirsa World Games for the same sport in 2015. Gavin became wheel-chair bound after an accident in Kos in 1999. He broke his left leg and had a few other minor scrapes but also suffered three severe brain injuries to the frontal and central brain lobes. He further explained: “This left me with severe balance loss and difficulties with coordination in my left hand side. “I also developed foot drop in both sides. The left side had to be fused because it was so bad. This is why I cannot walk.” However, over the years Gavin has not let his disability get him down and is now on a career path in para-athletics. He started shot-putting in April 2013. The 41-year-old said of his 2017 sporting moments: “I was throwing really well at the beginning of the year but I injured my neck in April and it derailed everything. “I decided to not do as many competitions as planned and concentrate on my recovery. This proved to be the right decision as now I'm back to full fitness. “The Gold at The CP National Championships was a great way to end the season. Before the competition, I felt I stood a chance of getting a medal but really wasn't sure what colour it would be.
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Gavin Yarwood. Picture by Morris Fox.
“But during the competition (after my second throw to be exact), I really thought I had a chance of winning. “It was a great day all round as I also got the chance to meet up with my friend Kadeena Cox (Paralympic gold medallist and WR holder) who I rarely get to see. “And another bonus was that the competition was in the same stadium where I won my World Games Gold medal.” Gavin has recently also taken up wheelchair tennis. He said: “My ultimate hopes and dreams are to compete at the next Paralympics as a two sport athlete.” Looking ahead to 2018 Gavin said: “My main aim is to get selected for The European Championships next August in Berlin. “I'm also targeting Wimbledon in 2019 but there's a lot of work to do before that. I need to train more.” However to be able to train as hard as he wishes to, Gavin is in need of sponsorship and is keen to hear from any businesses and/or individuals who would be happy to help him on his path to further para-athletic stardom. Anyone interested can contact Gavin on 07773 812833.
Leek Life January/February 2018 35
RURAL FOOTCARE
Butterton Moor House Warm, beautiful, private swimming pool SPACE NOW AVAILABLE IN OUR MUMS, BABIES & TODDLER SWIMS
For the treatments of Corns, Callus/Hard Skin, Nail Trimming, Fungal Infections In the comfort of your own home.
Changing/shower rooms, baby change mats, pool toys, hair dryer Wednesdays & Fridays - £6 per adults, children free
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36 Leek Life January/February 2018
Our private pool is ideal for families, mums, babies/toddlers and other groups 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-mail: dianemlatham1@gmail.com www.buttertonmoorhouse.co.uk
REFLECTIONS COACHING
CAN YOU CONTROL WHAT 2018 WILL BRING?
here is much debate over this. Some people may believe in fate. Que Sera Sera. Whilst some take it to the other extreme and believe that the universe will provide - you just need to ask. You may hear this referred to as the Law of Attraction or ‘The Secret’ - it makes interesting reading, and whether you buy into being able to manifest anything you want if you believe hard enough or not, the law of attraction has some interesting possibilities. Just imagine for a moment that you’re going out to buy a new car. You’ve set your heart on a red one, you may even have decided on a model. The more you think about it the more you want it and they start popping up for sale everywhere. This could be described as the law of attraction. You’ve imagined yourself driving it and boom that one on the garage fore-court is perfect for you and in budget. The alternative scenario is that in psychology
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terms, your Reticular Activating System (RAS) has kicked in. It’s a diffuse network of nerve pathways in the brainstem connecting the spinal cord, cerebrum, and cerebellum, and mediating the overall level of consciousness. It’s the thing that makes you notice things. If you close your eyes just for a moment, and I ask you what green items are in the room with you, open your eyes and you’ll suddenly see several. I’ve just counted 14; I’d not noticed them before had you? And whether you fall into the more spiritual law of attraction camp or are a more confirmed scientifically led person the result seems to be the same. So when you’re considering not bothering setting goals or resolutions this new year, consider this: How likely is it that you will achieve your goal if you don’t set one? How much does that statistic increase if you have a goal? So here are three tips to achieving your goal: Set a meaningful goal, something that’s important to you. Put it somewhere you will see it and be reminded of what you’re trying to achieve (give your RAS a chance to kick in) Make sure there’s a nice reward for you when you achieve it. And if you’re still thinking green then I have a great workbook to help you set and achieve your goals. It’s available from my website https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/565670949/ or is free when you book a January Kick Starter Session or Vision Board workshop directly with me. How often do you focus on the negative?
Carolyn Trafford is a Creative Freedom Coach supporting others in achieving the life they want. If there’s something you want to achieve get in touch today.
Carolyn Trafford - Reflections Coaching • Tel. 07714 216388 • Email: Caro@reflectionscoaching.co.uk • www.reflectionscoaching.co.uk Leek Life January/February 2018 37
Warm and welcoming setting for treatments by Rita SKINTIME AESTHETICS
eeping her skin treated well has always been important to Rita Saum, especially when she was a model, and now she is helping others to be comfortable in their own skin too. The 46-year-old, who has worked in clinical practice as a pharmacist for nearly 20 years, has set up Skintime Aesthetics within a warm and welcoming treatment room at her family's home in Burton Street, Leek and she is taking great pride in offering a personal service with no rush or obligation. Rita, an accredited Save Face practitioner, said: “My clinic offers a diverse range of nonsurgical, anti-ageing facial enhancements and skincare treatments to treat ageing skin, acne, stretch marks, rosacea, uneven skin tone and scarring.” Rita is no stranger to looking good herself having been a fashion model when she was younger. Originally from Yorkshire, Rita lived in London before studying pharmacy at Manchester University and moved to Leek 14 years ago. She went on to work in pharmacy for primary health care and is a qualified independent prescriber. Rita is continuing to work in pharmacy practice as well as running her new business of Skintime Aesthetics which she started up in October. Rita offers a free consultation to new clients and formulates bespoke treatment plans for each client wishing to use her services. She added: “I am aware that treatments are expensive and a consultation gives the opportunity to discuss money and budget with a mutual understanding between the client and myself, to get the best result. “One of the things I feel is important is to
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offer a nice bespoke confidential and noobligation service. My clients avoid waiting rooms and are not rushed in anyway and I try to help them create a treatment plan for themselves which is affordable and realistic.” For more information about Skintime Aesthetics go online to www.skintimeaesthetics.co.uk.
Editor's Review of an Agera Chemical Skin Peel by Rita Saum at Skintime Aesthetics Admittedly not one for in depth beauty treatments myself, I was perhaps a little apprehensive about laying down on a bed and letting someone apply an unknown-to-me treatment to my face but I found myself to be very relaxed throughout, even to the point of falling asleep. Rita has set up her skincare treatment business within her family's home in Burton Street, Leek which offers a customer parking space. The homely setting certainly makes for a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere for the range of treatments she offers. And Rita has a lovely warm bedside manner which I am certain will make even the most nervous of clients feel at ease and subsequently be able to relax and enjoy their treatment. Following mine, my skin was left feeling soft and rejuvenated resulting in me thinking that perhaps I should head back to Rita's for further treatment to my skin – especially as I am now well on the wrong side of forty!
Rita Saum at Skintime Aesthetics of Leek is offering one Leek Life Magazine reader a series of skincare treatment worth up to £300. The treatment package will be subject to consultation with Rita. To be in with a chance of winning the £300 worth of treatment at Skintime Aesthetics, just answer this question...
In which street in Leek has Rita Saum set up her business Skintime Aesthetics? Email your answer, along with your name, telephone number and address, to life@timesandecho.co.uk by January 31, 2018. Alternatively post your entry to 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Staffordshire. ST10 1BD 38 Leek Life January/February 2018
SKINTIME AESTHETICS
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Leek Life January/February 2018 39
THE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE The Women's Institute (WI), which was formed in 1915 and is now the largest voluntary women's organisation in the UK, plays a unique role in providing women with educational opportunities and the chance to build new skills, to take part in a wide variety of activities and to campaign on issues that matter to them and their communities. Here we take a look at what's been going on at local WI's and see that they are “not just jam and Jerusalem”.
Woodcroft Women's Institute ur October meeting was our 43rd Birthday Party and it was appropriate that our speaker had come to give us a laughing yoga party. Kathy Herring had us laughing our way through the evening using various laughing exercises. If anyone had been listening in they would have laughed themselves at the sight of 30 ladies rolling around the room, laughing until their sides ached. Kathy convinced us that laughing eases any stresses we may have as well as exercising our muscles. It turned out to be better than the gym. We had to overcome any shyness or embarrassment in order to throw ourselves into the various exercises but we managed to laugh our way through the evening and recommend everyone tries it. We certainly do have a range of subjects at our meetings. It was our turn to host the Autumn Group Meeting. Each Spring and Autumn a number of
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Queen of the Moorlands Women's Institute t a recent meeting of the Queens of the Moorlands WI, Liz Green, Chair of the Trustees of the Leek Food Bank gave a fascinating insight into the valuable work of this organisation, answering members questions about who uses the food bank, how it runs, and the challenges they face. At the end of this talk, Liz received donations from the group, including £40 of feminine hygiene products purchased by the group. Liz stated that these items were very gratefully received as hygiene products in general are often in great need. Altogether the members donated 20 bags of items and packed the speakers car. After a short break, the business of the meeting commenced, confirming plans for an upcoming trip to the Wedgwood factory in February, a curry night in January and our
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40 Leek Life January/February 2018
local WI's get together to enjoy a bigger meeting with a more expensive speaker and we take it in turns to host these meetings and provide a good spread. Our Group Meeting in November was well attended and about 75 of us were entertained as Janet Stain gave a very amusing history of Knickers, showing examples as she went along. Our members did us proud with the wonderful supper they provided after the talk. At our own meeting we had a glass workshop. Caron Colbert, from Cabbage Rose, provided us with everything we needed to make glass Christmas Decorations and let us loose to be creative. When all the bits of glass were glued in place she took them with her to fire. In the run up to Christmas we had a shopping trip to Leeds and also our Christmas Meal at Leek Bar and Grill as well as our Christmas party at St. Luke's Church Centre. We meet at St Luke's Church Centre at 7.30pm every second Monday of each month. Christmas party in December. Members were informed about bursaries available for study at Denman College, and the meeting closed. The Queen of the Moorlands WI meets at the Community Fire Station on Springfield Road in Leek. New members are welcome to come along and meet us to see if you would like to join our friendly and informal group. If you have any questions, you can contact us through our Facebook page; Queens Of The Moorlands WI – Leek.
THE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE
Wetley Rocks Women's Institute ur October Wetley Rocks meeting followed an inspirational theme through our speaker Gill Sly, a Criminal Lawyer with vast knowledge and presence. Before that however, usual business took place with President Pat Axon firstly reporting on the Council Meeting and then turning to local matters. All agreed that the ‘Pie and Pea’ supper during September was a big success and we discussed forthcoming events. Finally we came to what perhaps was the most enjoyable business of the evening and wished Kath Adams a Happy 90th Birthday. June Sherratt presented Kath with flowers from her friends at Wetley Rocks WI At the end of business, Gill Sly introduced herself and for the next couple of hours Gill triggered thoughts and debate as she recalled her experience and views of the Criminal Justice System and working within it. Before leaving us, Gill judged our competition which was won by Jackie Talbot; 2nd Gladys Burgess; 3rd June
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Rushton Women's Institute nother hiccup this month when our speaker was unavailable so Pam very quickly stepped in and arranged a Christmas flower demonstration by our good friend from Rudyard Carol Alcock. Again we were nearly a full house and there was much activity paying for Christmas meals and diaries. Glenys welcomed everyone and we quickly dispensed with the little business there was. There was much discussion again concerning the new financial arrangements that are mandatory from January 1st, and the position of treasurer from May 2018. No doubt this will be continued and must be resolved by February. Glenys then welcomed Carol again and we watched as several buckets of flowers and foliage were transformed into a beautiful table centrepiece. As Carol arranged she gave us all tips on how to get the best from your flowers, use of floristry materials and alternative seasonal flowers you could use. Her choice of foliage was stunning and gave a depth to the finished
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Sherratt. Our November meeting was well attended and again proved busy and engaging. Various craft items were on sale which provided some ideas for Christmas presents or even giving an opportunity to treat ourselves. Before business commenced we expressed thanks to Gladys Burgess for laying a poppy wreath on behalf of our WI during the local remembrance service. Subsequently minutes and agenda were read which gave indication that 2018 is looking to be another eventful and busy year. Eventually our speaker, Peter Durnall introduced himself and began a presentation about “Wildlife in North Staffordshire”. It was only natural for Peter to finally judge our competition of the best wildlife photograph which was won by Jackie Talbot; 2nd June Sherratt; 3rd Cynthia Hawkins. During December we had our Christmas Meal outing, Carol Concerts at Cheddleton and our own SFWI Carol Service at Lichfield Cathedral. Our next meeting will be held on 9th January 2018 when we commence a New Year of friendship, inspiration and interest as we share our local WI with each other. For further information or if anyone is interested in joining our WI please contact Secretary Barbara Hughes on 01782 302497 or visit our website at www.wiwetleyrocks.btck.co.uk. arrangement. With the flowers remaining after the centrepiece Carol made a Christmas bouquet which was equally attractive. Both arrangements were raffled and won by Wendy and Sylvia. Wendy thanked Carol for stepping in for us at late notice and making her demonstration so informative. Our kitchen fairies had been busy and a delicious supper was waiting for us. Thank you Bronwen and Wendy. Yummy cakes too from Pauline and Pam. No official meeting in January but a drink and natter in the Royal Oak will take place on Tuesday 16th January at 7pm for those who need an evening out, weather permitting of course. Rushton WI takes this opportunity to wish all readers a very healthy and happy New Year.
Leek Life January/February 2018 41
HOSPITAL STAFF GET-TOGETHER LEEK MOORLANDS HOSPITAL
ospital staff have had a get-together to reminisce about their times at Leek Moorlands Hospital. Past and present staff from Leek Moorlands Hospital got together in November for an evening at The Red Lion in Leek to mark the closure of the inpatient wards at the hospital. A total of 60 people, representing many decades of service to the hospital, shared memories of the times they have spent caring for the people of the Staffordshire Moorlands. The
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LOCAL MUSIC ACTS TO HELP START THE FESTIVE SEASON
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• Buxton Opera House tickets to see John Mayall • Tickets to see The Dylan Project at the Foxlowe Arts Centre • A board game by local quiz-master Paul Steele
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evening included a buffet and a disco. Pamela Wood, who organised the event, said: “Many of us, even the ones like me who are retired, have found the last few months difficult and I thought it would be good to get everyone together. “The evening was a chance to catch up and share stories of the good times. “We are grateful to The Red Lion in Leek for making us so welcome and to Anthony and Shaun Beetham for providing a disco free of charge.”
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42 Leek Life January/February 2018
MARITIME HISTORY DISCOVERED... H
LEEK LIFE FROM THE PAST
ere local historian Bill Cawley shares his findings about a Leek mariner who lived in the Golden Age of Piracy 1696. Leek is about as far away from the sea that you could possibly get so it was a surprise to discover a reference to a 17th century Leek born sailor in the Public Record Office at Kew. Jonathan Cope described as a Mariner made his will in 1698 having been a sailor on HMS Advice then under repair at Deptford. Cope was born in Leek in the summer of 1658. His name appears in the baptismal record of the Parish Church so the time he was preparing his will he would have been around 40 years of age. What is curious is why Cope, a native of a county without a coast line, should have joined the Navy. It was the usual practice that the Navy acquired its ordinary seaman from places like Essex, Dorset and Sussex and not from Staffordshire so what led Cope to go to sea is an intriguing question. If he joined the Navy at a young age Cope would have lived through the time when the Royal Navy was going through a period of conflict principally with the Dutch with whom we fought three inconclusive wars in the 17th century. By 1688 our former enemies were now our friends and the Dutch and the English united to challenge the threat of France at the peak of its powers under the reign of Louis XIV – the Sun King. HMS Advice saw action in the English Channel in 1692 as well as later in the decade in the Caribbean during the Golden Age of Piracy. A few years ago I read the ship’s log of HMS Advice which is kept at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich for the years 1695-6 when Cope was onboard. What a fascinating picture of life it painted. Cope under the circumstances was lucky to survive to 40 such was the high death rate among 17th century sailors. The log has drawings of skulls and cross bones in the margin to signify not pirates, but the death of sailors. Disease killed as many as accident. In one incident eight sailors row to an island off Jamaica to collect water supplies only to die when their boat is capsized on the return voyage. However it is the names of the people that HMS
Advice encounters that is most fascinating and did the lad from Leek meet Captain Kidd, Blackbeard or Black Bart?
In the last issue of Leek Life, Bill Cawley shared the tale of when The Flying Circus came to town. We have received a letter from Leek resident Gerald Mee who remembers that special event well....
In Leek Life I read about Life from the Past and it brought back memories. I was taken to Birchall by my Godfather, Struan McKenzie to see the Flying Circus of Sir Alan Cobham in 1934. I was nine-years-old at that time. Struan had been an RFC pilot in World War One and he was allowed to take me up in an open cockpit Tiger Moth plane for a short flight over Leek. I didn't fly again until during my RAF National Service in Egypt in 1948 and I have flown in every year since then.
Gerald Mee Leek
Leek Life January/February 2018 43
YOUR WEALTH, YOUR LEGACY FINANCIAL MATTERS
Families shying away from difficult conversations
f you have significant assets, you may be wondering whether Inheritance Tax (IHT) affects you. Worryingly, some families appear to be shying away from difficult conversations, as almost half (47%) of UK adults say they have never discussed inheritance matters, according to new research. IHT receipts increased by 22.9% in the first quarter of this tax year, according to data from the Office for National Statistics. The figures show that more than £2 billion has been taken from people’s estates in IHT since March.
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EXTREMELY EMOTIONALSUBJECT Talking about estate planning is an extremely emotional subject, as people generally don’t like talking about money or death. However, the research shows that around one in ten people would like to talk about it but haven’t found the right time, and some people just don’t know where to start (7%). When someone dies, the value of their estate becomes liable for IHT. Everyone is entitled to pass on assets of up to £325,000 IHT-free. This is called the ‘nil-rate band’. It hasn’t changed since 2009 and will remain frozen until 2021. Any excess above £325,000 is taxed at 40%.
RESIDENCE NIL-RATE BAND The new £100,000 residence nil-rate band was introduced in April 2017. It will increase in steps to £175,000 in April 2020, so married couples or registered civil partners with children will be able to pass on up to £1 million IHT-free. The residence nilrate band is only available when passing on the family home to a direct descendent, so it is important to consider structuring your estate to make the most of these allowances. The research of 4,000 UK adults shows that a quarter (26%) of people say they haven’t discussed the subject with loved ones because they’re not old, so it’s not a priority. However, age isn’t the only factor preventing people from talking about inheritance, as one in seven (14%) say they don’t like talking about death, and one in ten (11%) say they avoid it because it’s a morbid subject.
TALKING TO LOVED ONES While more than a third (36%) of people say they don’t feel comfortable talking about their legacy, there are some life events that may prompt people to talk to loved ones about this important subject, such as a health scare (52%), a near-death experience (46%) and getting older (46%). There are also some people who hold the key to unlocking inheritance
44 Leek Life January/February 2018
conversations. After their partner or spouse (32%), people feel most comfortable talking to their mum (8%) or a financial adviser (8%) in the first instance.
PASSING ON WEALTH Of those who have broached the subject, most (36%) have talked about passing on wealth when they die, a quarter (26%) have discussed Will writing, and one in five (18%) have discussed passing on personal items such as jewellery and photos. One in ten (10%) say they have talked about which belongings they want to give to loved ones while alive. The research suggests that as people live longer and have healthier lives, many may be torn between the desire to help loved ones while also maintaining their own financial independence. Those who have a plan estimate that 65% of their wealth will be needed to cover their ‘cost of living’, leaving them able to pass on a quarter (25%) to loved ones in a Will and to share 10% with their family as a ‘living legacy’ while they are alive. RETIREMENT OR LATER-LIFE CARE Gifting wealth – whether it is money, property or family heirlooms – is important to Britons, with half (45%) hoping to pass on a legacy to loved ones. The research shows that the most common reason over50s choose to pass on wealth after they have died is because they are worried their loved ones won’t have enough money to fund retirement or later-life care (52%). Other reasons include wanting to help family members even if they’re not here to see them receive it (47%), and leaving younger family members something to remember them by (26%). Those over 50 opting for a living legacy are motivated by the thought of being around to watch loved ones benefit from their wealth (49%) and thinking that younger family members need the money more than they do (23%). One in eight (12%) also see the financial benefits of gifting money while they’re alive and plan to do so for tax reasons.
PROVIDING FINANCIAL SUPPORT In fact, more people are stepping in and providing financial support to family members this year, compared to last year. For instance, 59% intend to fund family weddings and deposits for first homes in 2017, compared to 52% of people in 2016.
Oliver Mellor Dip PFS, B.A (Hons)
Brian Mellor Financial Services Ltd Tel: 01538 371288 www.brianmellorfs.co.uk
ENJOY STAFFORDSHIRE
BUSINESSES WITHIN THE MOORLANDS HAVE COME OUT TOPS AT A COUNTY-WIDE AWARDS CEREMONY
ore than 40 tourism businesses from across Staffordshire competed to be crowned as the best in Staffordshire at the 2017 Enjoy Staffordshire Tourism Awards. Awards in 16 categories, including Large Visitor Attraction of the Year, Hotel of the Year and Best Tourism Experience of the Year, were handed out at the event which was held at Uttoxeter Racecourse. The new CBeebies Land Hotel at Alton Towers Resort was named Hotel of the Year and Alton Towers Resort won Silver for the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year, while The Three Horseshoes Country Inn, near Leek won Gold in the Taste of Staffordshire Tourism Award category. Beechenhill Farm in Ilam won Silver in the Sustainable Tourism Award and was also Highly Commended in the Inclusive Tourism and the SelfCatering Holiday provider of the Year categories, while Lower Micklin Touring Park in Alton won Silver in the Holiday Park/Glamping Village of the Year. The Silver award for Bed & Breakfast of the Year went to The Warren B&B in Alton, and the Silver award for the Boutique Guest
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Accommodation of the Year went to The Laurels B&B in Oakamoor. Sarah Montgomery, chair of Enjoy Staffordshire and Managing Director at the National Memorial Arboretum, said: “We should all be proud of the work we do to promote tourism in Staffordshire. “The sector continues to be a major part of the county’s economic landscape. Overall annual direct spend by visitors now stands at £1.3bn, and the total impact of the sector, including indirect spent, amounts to £1.8bn. “In all, 39,000 people are employed by the sector, both directly and indirectly, so we must not underestimate how important tourism is to the overall Staffordshire economy. “Well done to all our winners.” The awards were independently judged and verified by Service Science. For more information go to www.enjoystaffordshire.com/awards
• Divorce (including Same Sex Marriage and Farming Divorces) • Dissolution of Civil Partnerships • Court process (Children and Finances) • Pre and post nuptial agreements • Arrangements for children – advice for parents and grandparents
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T: 01538 361697 M: 07974 645147 E: hello@jojohnsonfamilylaw.co.uk W: www.jojohnsonfamilylaw.co.uk Leek Life January/February 2018 45
THE DAFTEST THINGS THAT DRIVERS D MOTORING
new study has uncovered the daftest things drivers do on the road. Research by industry giant LeaseCar.uk has found the silliest mistakes that consistently make driving more difficult than it needs to be. Some of them, such as losing keys and storing breakables on the seat instead of the boot or footwell, affect only the car owner themselves. But others, such as parking too close, cause a headache for anyone else. Putting the wrong fuel in the car is an expensive error that holds up traffic when the car breaks down in the worst possible place. Some motorists have also learned to their cost that parking payment slips should always be placed in the front windscreen, no matter which way the car is facing. Expert Tim Alcock said: “None of us are perfect and the best drivers never stop learning. “At the same time, our study found the same few dunderheaded driving habits kept cropping up, so it’s a good idea to make a note of them. “Driving is stressful enough as it is, so take a little extra care to try to keep your car and your blood pressure running as smoothly as possible.”
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The ten daftest things that motorists do... 1 Put petrol in a diesel car, or vice versa Everyone knows a horror story about this. If you’re lucky, you’ll break down at home and it won’t cost too much to fix the engine. 2 Losing your vehicle in a car park Or anywhere else. Nothing beats that feeling when it’s finally time to head home and realising you now have to play hunt-the-car across eight floors, or in all the surrounding streets. 3 Parking too close to the next car Have you ever had to shimmy into your car because the idiot next to you parked four inches away from it? Of course you have. You’ve also probably come back to scratches on your chassis because you did it to someone else. 4 Parking under trees The perfect way to become a public toilet for all the local birds and ruin your paintwork. 5 Putting breakables on the seat For goodness sake, put them in the boot or in the footwell. How many times do they need to crash to the floor after a semi-hard brake before we learn? 6 Not flipping the wing mirrors in when
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46 Leek Life January/February 2018
S DO ON THE ROAD parking Yes, other drivers should pass your car with room to spare. But you know they won’t, and the mirrors flip inwards for this very reason. 7 Lose the keys We all have a designated spot for the car keys, and yet we all lose them with alarming frequency. 8 Starting with the car in gear It’s one thing to park with the car in gear, and another when you lurch forward suddenly when you start up. Let’s hope there was nothing in front of you. 9 Parking illegally On double yellows, outside of a marked bay, on a dropped kerb, whatever. This is one of the most infuriating dim-witted things a driver can do. 10 Putting the parking payment slip in the rear windscreen One daft Midlands driver who fell foul of this recalled: “I had driven forward into the bay, between two other cars, so I thought I was actually helping the warden by putting the slip in the rear window. Instead I got a ticket and they wouldn’t rescind it.� " ! " "! "! " " ! " "! "! " " ! " ! "! "! ! " ! " " " "!
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Leek Life January/February 2018 47
DON’T GET CAUGHT SHORT THIS WINTER I MOTORING
t's important that drivers become clued up on staying safe this winter. Experts say that regular vehicle checks should remain a top priority. Check your tyre tread depth and consider having winter tyres installed on your vehicle which will give better grip to the road in the cold and wet conditions forecast over the winter months. It's also a smart idea to keep your fuel tank topped up in case of any unexpected delays – to save you getting caught short. At this time of year, it's always a safe option to carry a breakdown kit in your vehicle, which may include a shovel, some torches, an icescraper and de-icer, warm clothing and blankets else well as snacks and water. Before setting off on any journey, no matter
48 Leek Life January/February 2018
how short, de-ice all windows and remove all the snow off your vehicle, including the roof. Allow extra time for your journey to avoid having to rush, snow and ice can make for dangerous road conditions, so allow yourself more time to get around as traffic may be slower than usual. Keep your distance on the road, especially on wet ground as well as busy areas such as a dualcarriageway or a motorway, your stopping distance can increase 10 times longer in the ice and snow. Consider signing up for break-down cover if you don't already have it, it's always good to know that you wont be left alone stranded in an emergency. And most importantly, only make journeys if it is essential.
QUIZ CORNER
Let’s get quizzical COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE
General Knowledge Quiz 1. In which film does the Jack Nicholson character Colonel Jessup say 'You can't handle the truth'? for which tv show? 3. What is singer Rihanna's surname? 4. What is the epicarp of an orange? 5. The Brian Clough trophy is competed for between which two East Midlands football clubs? 6. Which sportsman wrote the autobiography 'But Seriously' in 2017? 7. What type of musical instrument was found in Tutankhamen's tomb? 8. The largest cathedral in the UK can be found in which city? 9. Who co-presents the Film Review show on BBC Radio Five Live alongside Simon Mayo? 10. In the computing acronym USB what does the 'U' stand for?
A ‘New’ Quiz for New Year’s Day 1. Which character did Joanna Lumley play in 'The New Avengers'? 2. What is the name of Birmingham's central railway station? 3. Who composed the symphony No. 9 from the New World? 4. What is the Capital of India? 5. Which Australian state is made up of three words? 6. Which army was formed in 1645 by the Parliamentarians and disbanded in 1660 after the Restoration? 7. Which country has the capital city of Port Moresby? 8. What is the last word in the New Testament? 9. In 1982 what word ceased to appear on British Coins? 10.Which high street store opened its first shop in Taunton in 1969? General Knowledge Answers: 1. A Few Good Men - The 1992 film also starred Tom Cruise and Demi Moore; 2. The Sky At Night; 3. Fenty - She was born Robyn Rihanna Fenty; 4. Peel; 5. Derby County and Nottingham Forest; 6. John McEnroe; 7. Trumpet; 8. Liverpool - The street that links the Anglican Cathedral and the Roman Catholic Cathedral in Liverpool is called Hope Street; 9. Mark Kermode He started on the show in 2001; 10. Universal - It stands for Universal Serial Bus. New Years Day Quiz Answers: 1.Purdy; 2. New Street; 3. Anton Dvorak; 4.New Delhi; 5. New South Wales; 6.New Model Army; 7.Papua New Guinea; 8. Amen; 9. New; 10. New Look.
Quizzes compiled by Paul Steele - email: pnsteele@aol.com - Paul's 'Which One?' quiz game is available at Gafuzzle in Leek.
2. At the Castle Gate, a piece from Sibelius' 1905 suite of incidental music is the theme tune
Leek Life January/February 2018 49
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