Leek Life July Aug 2017

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

Life

Vibrant programme takes shape as we look ahead to this year’s

Leek and District Show

JULY/AUGUST

Editor’s Letter......................................6

Leek and District Show .......................8

Art in the Park....................................12

Leek Club Day ....................................13

Competitions ......................................14

Nicholson Museum & Art Gallery......16 Open Art Exhibition 2017 ..................17

Borderland Voices..............................18

Community Minibus .........................20

Playground Project.............................21 Stage Direction ..................................22

Horoscopes ........................................23 Recipe for Life....................................24 Reflections Coaching .........................29 On Your Bike .....................................30 National Armed Forces Day...............31

Gardening ..........................................32 Staffordshire Wildlife Trust ..............34

Home Improvements.........................35

Property .............................................39

Financial Matters...............................42

Motoring ............................................44 Quiz Corner........................................49

Classified............................................50

CONTENTS

Lorna Gould Contents Editor lorna@timesandecho.co.uk Sophie Cotton Tracey Wardle 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

Welcome to your July/August edition of Leek Life Magazine he British summertime has already delivered many long and beautiful, sun-filled days for us to enjoy, giving plenty of opportunity to go outdoors and enjoy the many wonderful community events taking place in the town.

Let us hope that the kind weather extends its good grace to the annual Leek and District Show, which features as a highlight of our summer edition. Each year the event provides a fantastic showcase, not only for our agricultural producers, but also for other avenues of local enterprise as well as crafters, artists and makers of all nature.

The creative arts have been a foundation block of Leek and its people for centuries, so what a wonderful thing it is to see one of the town’s charitable organisations, which helps those facing adversity through art, achieve a Queen’s Award for voluntary service. Inside this edition we hear how Borderland Voices has helped people over the past two decades and how it now officially has the Royal seal of approval.

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Happy reading!

Lorna

Did you know that you can read Leek Life online?

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

Find us on Facebook search for Leek Life Magazine Front cover photo courtesy of Brett Trafford (www.bretttrafford.com)

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LEEK AND DISTRICT SHOW

GET READY FOR ANOTHER EVENT BURSTING WITH FAMILY FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS AND ENTERTAINMENT

ach year, thousands of people turn out for the annual Leek and District Show. With every passing year the dedicated organising committee ensure there is always plenty to see and do – including the countless farm animal displays and competitions and the many trade stands and marquees hosted by community groups and organisations from throughout the local area.

Leek United Building Society will once again remain the main sponsor of the Leek & District Show and 2017 will be the fourth year of sponsorship for the Society.

The good news is that the Society will continue as the main sponsor until 2022 – both strengthening Leek United’s links with what is rightly regarded as the area’s premier agricultural event and guaranteeing the Show’s future into the

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next decade.

President and Show Director Derek Torr told Leek Life Magazine: “We have a terrific rapport with Leek United and are delighted that the Society is continuing its sponsorship. To have the backing of the town’s principal building society means a lot and we have the certainty of knowing that the Show’s future is secure until at least 2022.”

Each year, Leek and District Show attracts thousands of visitors young and old to its Showground venue on the Birchall Playing Fields, on the outskirts of Leek town centre.

This year’s event will take place on Saturday, 29th July, and there is a fun-packed programme of entertainment planned in addition to the traditional agricultural and horticultural competitions.

Leek United Chief Executive Kevin Wilson added: “The local community is at the very heart of everything we do at Leek United, and nothing typifies that more than the Leek Show.

“We look forward to continuing working with Derek and his Committee over the years to come,

LEEK AND DISTRICT SHOW

ER ACTION PACKED SHOW bringing families and businesses together in our heartland.”

Organisers are currently in the throes of putting the finishing touches to preparations for the 2017 event but rest assured, there will be lots for readers to enjoy at the show this year.

One of the many returning features will be the craft marquee which the committee say will offer something for everyone. So, regardless of whether you are a professional crafter or just simply enjoy keeping busy then this is the marquee for you! Visitors can look forward to seeing demonstrations on the day and browsing stalls selling greetings cards, bespoke clothing, walking sticks, jewellery, skincare and much more.

If you fancy getting involved then perhaps you might like to host your own stall? Or even enter one of the flower design competitions that will be taking place at this year’s show?

Leek Show is, at heart an agricultural show, and visitors making their way to Birchall Playing Fields to spectate some of the fabulous animal classes certainly won’t be disappointed.

There will be a whole host of cattle and sheep competitions including, in the sheep section categories for: British Native Lowland Sheep; Pedigree Beltex sheep, Mixed Continental Sheep, British Native Hill Breed Sheep, Accredited Suffolk Sheep and Accredited Texel Sheep.

In the cattle section there will be categories welcoming: Pedigree Holsteins, Pedigree Ayrshires, Pedigree Jerseys, Shorthorns, Pedigree Limousins, Rare Breeds Cattle, Pedigree Herefords, Pedigree Simmentals, Pedigree Charolais, British Blue Pedigrees and Mixed Beef breeds. There will also be a senior Bull Class plus junior handler classes.

There will be classes too for goats, working horses, show horses and ponies, poultry and pets and for dog lovers there will be an array of show competitions featuring all breeds of dogs.

Farriers from across the UK will be making their way to the showground this year to take part in the 2017 horse show making competition. This is sure to be a crowd pleaser and will no doubt offer a great spectacle for visitors to the event to enjoy.

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LEEK AND DISTRICT SHOW

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The show is also set to feature a comprehensive horticulture schedule and as well as a fiercely contested photographic competition.

The local Women’s Institute will maintain their usual presence at the show with examples of baked goods, preserves, floral displays and much more.

This is in addition to the abundance of trade stands, competitions, games and other entertainment and attractions due to assemble on the playing field for the annual Leek Show.

Full schedules of all of the competition categories can be viewed online by visiting www.leekshow.org.uk.

Tickets can be purchased on the day or are available in advance from the Leek United Building Society in Leek, Cheadle, Hanley, Newcastle, Uttoxeter, Macclesfield and Congleton, the Tourist Information Centre in Hanley and Leek or the Leek Post and Times Office.

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Park transformed into creative hub ART IN THE PARK

11th ART IN THE PARK A HUGE SUCCESS

he 2017 Art in the Park, which took place for the 11th year earlier this summer, has been hailed another great success by organisers, with many visitors attending from near and far.

The beautiful setting of Leeks’s Brough Park provided an ideal place for the event which saw around 30 individual artisan makers and artists host stalls displaying a diverse array of wonderful arts and crafts.

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A variety of musicians also performed throughout the weekend despite the inclement weather, and the sun even made an appearance on Sunday just in time for Poynton Youth Brass Band to play on the bandstand.

As part of the event there was a nature trail, something which proved very popular with many children who attended. Children who completed the trail were entered in to a competition to win sketch books that were donated by Leek and Buxton College and a set of art pencils.

The winner of the competition was Emma Barker, with second and third prizes going to Harry Sinclair and Milena Serafin.

Additionally, chainsaw carver and sculptor Anthony Hammond held a lucky prize draw to win a carved owl of which the winner was Kevin Souter.

Speaking about this year’s event Gareth Knapper, Project Officer at Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, told the Times and Echo: “The event was a great success! Over the weekend we welcomed many talented and creative individuals who showcased a diverse selection of skills and Leek’s wonderful heritage.

“People of all ages attended and really engaged with the displays, stalls and activities that were happening; it was great to see so many people getting involved with Art in the Park which just grows from strength to strength each year.

“We’d like to thank the Friends of Brough Park who provided refreshments in the bowling pavilion throughout the weekend which included some delicious home-made cakes!”

Throughout the weekend Leek Photography Society and art students from Leek and Buxton College held exhibitions of their work.

Leek Spinners, Weavers and Dyers showcased their skills to everyone who attended; and many art-based activities were enjoyed by young and old thanks to volunteers from Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and Borderland Voices who hosted workshops during the event.

For more information about Art in the Park, to keep up to date on next year’s event, or to see pictures from the weekend, please log onto: www.facebook.com/artinbroughpark.

LEEK CLUB DAY

TOWN TO UNITE FOR 200 YEAR OLD FESTIVAL

CHURCHES COME TOGETHER FOR WALKING ROUND DAY

his July will once again see a whole host of local church groups, clubs and organisations come together for a very special procession and service in the centre of the town.

Leek Club Day, also known as Walking Round Day, is an annual Leek festival that has been held in the Queen of the Moorlands for over 200 years.

It is a day when members of all of our local churches, church groups, local schools, guides, brownies, rainbows, scouts and cubs troupes come together with local leaders and a number of marching bands to celebrate the local community.

The 2017 event will take the theme of ‘Community through diversity’ and will place on Saturday 8th July.

Proceedings are set to start in the Market Place at 1.30pm, where Moorlands Praise will get festival goers in the party mood with some lively modern worship songs.

Those taking part will then join together for a short celebration service at 2.30pm. This year the service will be led by the Bishop of Stafford, the Rt Revd Geoff Annas, Fr David Nichol and All Saints Church.

The Walking Round town procession will then commence, leading off at approximately 3pm.

On returning to the Market Place, supporters will then disperse to their respective bases for refreshments and fun.

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This event is open to all, so anyone wishing to join in is invited to come along to the Market Place, tag along and walk with the groups taking part to celebrate the great community here in Leek.

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COMPETITION

Theme park tickets up for grabs Gulliver’s theme park resorts are offering the hottest ticket around for fun-loving families looking for a great day out together this summer!

And we’ve teamed up with them to give away two family tickets for a bumper day out at Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock Bath or Gulliver’s World in Warrington.

Magical memories are created every day at Gulliver’s, which is specially designed for children aged two to 13. So it doesn’t matter if you’ve got toddlers or bigger kids in tow, there really is something for everyone to explore and enjoy!

New for 2017 is Togo Tower at Warrington and the Pirate Training Camp at Matlock Bath.

Together with theme park classics like the rollercoaster, log flume and dodgems and a host of weird and wonderful rides and attractions at each park, there’s loads to discover with lots of new things to see and do all the time!

With free parking all day, every day and a host

of soft play areas, interactive shows, activities and entertainment on offer too, there’s more to Gulliver’s than meets the eye.

It’s not just theme park thrills on offer at Gulliver’s – each resort is also home to other captivating attractions, including the Gulliver’s Hotel Warrington, Explorers Retreat at Matlock Bath, the award winning Adventurers Village at Milton Keynes plus the Dinosaur & Farm Park as well as the SFEAR high ropes climbing challenge and an official Nerf Zone at every location.

Find out more at www.gulliversfun.co.uk, www.facebook.com/gullymouse and www.twitter.com/gullymouse

To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket simply visit the competition page on our new website www.timesechoandlife.co.uk.

Closing date: 1st August 2017

• Terms and conditions apply. Tickets are non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. The family ticket prize is valid for up to four people (at least one adult and one child). Winners will be contacted by Gulliver’s hotline to arrange their visit to their preferred park on a mutually agreed date up to 30 September 2017, subject to availability.

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COMPETITION

Visit our website for your chance to

WIN A FAMILY PASS and MONKEY SOFT TOY Trentham Monkey Forest is home to 140 free roaming Barbary macaques.

Walk amongst the monkeys and watch as they live in complete freedom within the 60-acre woodland.

Visitors are free to walk the ž of a mile pathway through the forest amongst the monkeys.

As well as information boards along the woodland walk, guides are situated throughout the forest to answer

questions. Plus, you can watch one of the hourly feeding talks to learn even more.

There is also an onsite information centre, video room, two play areas and Banana CafĂŠ and Jungle Shop.

To be in with a chance of winning a family pass to Trentham Monkey Forest and a monkey soft toy simply visit the competition page on our new website www.timesechoandlife.co.uk.

Closing date: 1st August 2017

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NICHOLSON MUSEUM & ART GALLERY

A journey through art

AWARD WINNING ARTIST SHOWCASED AT GALLERY

he Nicholson Museum and Art Gallery just a stone’s throw from the centre of the town is currently home to an exhibition of work from award winning Leek artist, David A Hunt.

The exhibition, entitled ‘A Journey Through Art’ features current work plus work from collectors that reflects David’s development as a professional artist from the 1980s to the present day.

Inspired by the rugged Staffordshire Moorlands landscapes, David works with oil paints and soft pastels as well as a combination of pastels and gouache which brings an extra dimension to his paintings.

His daring use of light, colour and texture convey his powerful reaction to his surroundings capturing changing mood and atmosphere of these scenic landscapes.

The exhibition, which was launched on Monday 26th June, will remain open to the public at the Nicholson Museum and Art Gallery in Stockwell Street, Leek until Saturday 22nd July.

The Nicholson Institute is open Monday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm.

For further information please telephone 01538 483741.

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OPEN ART EXHIBITION 2017

ART CRITICS PRAISE DIVERSITY OF MOORLANDERS’ WORK Artists leave Open Art event judges with some tough calls

he Staffordshire Moorlands Open Art Exhibition was staged at the Nicholson Museum and Art Gallery at the start of the summer and judges who were set the tricky task of selecting winning pieces have praised the diversity of work entered into this year’s competition.

Artists and supporters turned out in force for the prize giving of the Staffordshire Moorlands Open Art and Young Artists Open on Saturday 13th May 2017 as the exhibition, which had been ongoing at The Nicholson Gallery since the 15th April, drew to a close.

Taking place as part of the annual Leek Arts Festival, this year’s exhibition proved a record-breaker in terms of entries with 83 artists submitting work overall. Adding to this, the exhibition attracted over 3500 visitors throughout month-long run.

This year also saw the launch of the Staffordshire Moorlands Young Artists Open Competition - giving the event an exciting new dimension.

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Speaking to Leek Life Magazine judge and professional, local artist Jackie White commented: “The Staffordshire Moorlands Open Art event encapsulates everything I love about open art exhibitions and that is diversity.

“Diversity of the subject matter, materials and media, technique and size but this is what makes this type of competition so difficult to judge.”

Pictured: The Public Vote Winner Stuart Johnson with his painting of Bosley Cloud at The Roaches. Also pictured is Lindsey Davis with her first prize photograph Urban Decay and Andrew Nixon who was awarded second prize for his photograph The Langdale Pikes.

For information on how to get involved in the Staffordshire Moorlands Open Art and Young Artists Open, please contact the Tourist Information Centre on 01538 483741 or email tourism.services@staffsmoorlands.gov.uk or visit The Nicholson Museum and Art Gallery.

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BORDERLAND VOICES

Queen’s Award for mental health initiative A

Leek based charity which has been promoting health and well-being through the arts for almost two decades has been recognised in the Queen’s Honours List.

Borderland Voices was founded in 1998 in Leek and currently works across the whole of the Staffordshire Moorlands.

The aim of the organisation is to promote mental health through the arts and to raise public awareness and understanding of mental health issues by delivering accessible arts projects and

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offering creative space for self-expression within a mutually supportive community.

Co-ordinators and users of the charity are absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud of the fact that Borderland Voices is to receive the Queen’s Members of the British Empire (MBE) Award for Voluntary Service.

Elizabeth II first established this MBE specifically for volunteer groups as part of her Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2002, with the first of these MBEs handed out the following year, in 2003. The awards are announced annually on 2nd June, the anniversary of the Coronation.

Winning groups must provide a service and meet a need for people in the community and be supported, recognised and respected by that community.

Sue Gaukroger, who sadly died in 2013, founded Borderland Voices in 1998 to provide the arts activities which she knew, from personal experience, supported health and mental wellbeing.

Assisted by a small number of dedicated volunteers, the group now employs professional artists to deliver regular, weekly sessions in patchwork, creative writing and expressive arts which are free and open to all.

Pictured: Participant Jason Burgess who nominated Borderland Voices for the award with Borderland co-ordinator Andy Collins, at Buckingham Palace Garden Party during June.

The Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire or his deputy will present the Award later in the year at a ceremony in Leek.

How many times have you cried out in despair:

“There simply aren’t enough hours in the day!”? multi-talented Staffordshire mum is planning to use her skills to help other busy business parents.

Stacey Knall has just launched a personal assistant company with a difference. Trading as Pink Spaghetti, the mum-of-one will sell her time and experience by the hour to local small business owners, consultants, freelancers and home owners.

“Basically, it's pay as you go," she said. "There are a burgeoning number of microbusinesses across the north Staffordshire and south east Cheshire area, many of which operate from people’s homes and are not in a position to employ a full time or even part time assistant.

“That is where I come in. I can take over the tasks that no business owner enjoys, from managing their social media to decluttering, bookkeeping and creating newsletters. Pink Spaghetti exists to take away the legwork from a business owner and give them more time to spend on the parts of their business that they love.

“I believe I am unique in that I offer small businesses as many hours of support as they want, without making them commit to a regular contract.”

After a career in customer service, manufacturing and sourcing for both small and

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large companies, Stacey brings a wealth of experience that small businesses may lack. She is organised, reliable and efficient, and enjoys working to deadlines.

Having both a career and a young daughter, Stacey anticipates that many of her Pink Spaghetti clients will also be working mums, juggling businesses and domestic tasks throughout the day.

She says "I believe that it’s important for my business and domestic clients to focus on the things they do well, and for me to help them with the other tasks that have to be done.

“Running my own business will be hard work but will give me much greater flexibility. As well as having a better work life balance I am looking forward to helping other busy people achieve this.”

Email: stacey@pink-spaghetti.co.uk Tel: 0333 355 0945 Twitter: @stacey_PinkSpag Facebook: www.facebook.com/PSNorthStaffs/ Website: www.pink-spaghetti.co.uk

COMMUNITY MINIBUS

DOROTHY HELPS LOCAL CLUBS HIT THE ROAD NEW COMMUNITY MINIBUS

charity based here in Leek has much to celebrate after receiving a brand new wheelchair-accessible minibus funded by the Department of Transport.

Earlier this summer Support Staffordshire took possession of the 16 seater vehicle, bringing their fleet of minibuses to a total of three, all based right here in the Staffordshire Moorlands town of Leek.

The new minibus, affectionately known as Dorothy, is a fantastic local resource providing additional facilities for low cost travel for voluntary and community groups across the Leek and district area.

In the last year the existing minibuses made nearly 300 journeys equating to over 4400 single passenger journeys, bringing fun, company and adventure for hundreds of local people who used them for regular trips or special days out.

St Paul’s Luncheon Club members, who meet

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weekly every Thursday at the Novi Lane church are regular users of the minibuses.

Without this transport many of the luncheon club goers would be stuck in their homes 24/7 and the volunteer drivers always endeavour to be helpful and considerate of passengers’ needs.

All three minibuses can be hired on a self-drive basis or with a volunteer driver and are available to community groups, luncheon clubs, youth groups, sports clubs, day and residential care clubs, and school PTA groups for school trips.

Prices start at £15 plus a mileage charge per hiring, with members of Support Staffordshire receiving discounted rates.

Anyone wishing to hire one of the community minibuses or anyone interested in becoming a volunteer driver should contact Sally Bentley, Voluntary and Community Transport Officer for Support Staffordshire on 01538 381356 sally.bentley@supportstaffordshire.org.uk.

Pictured: Members of St Paul’s Luncheon Club with Dorothy the new minibus.

PLAYGROUND PROJECT

he glorious, sun-kissed days of May and June have provided the perfect opportunity for some of the town’s younger residents to put three newly improved play areas to the test.

Improvements at three playground spaces in the Haregate area of Leek town reached completion at the start of May meaning local youngsters have been able to make the very most of every drop of early the summer sunshine that we have been blessed with so far this year.

And if the start of the season is anything to go by lets hope the fair weather continues into the rest of the summer allowing residents to look forward to enjoying yet more

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time outdoors.

Investment in the sites, at Ball Haye Recreation Ground, Haregate Hall play area and The Waste open space, has been provided by the ASCENT housing project and the schemes will be managed going forward by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.

And with work at all three sites complete in time for the summer, the local community will be able to make full use of the sites during the coming months including the summer school holidays.

Keith Parker, Head of Operational Services at the Council, told Leek Life Magazine: “Investment in these schemes has delivered three diverse, fun and accessible new play areas for the local community in Haregate. “It’s as important as ever for young people to get involved in sport and physical activity and the provision of amenities such as this offers them the opportunity to do so. I hope young people and their families will make good use of them and enjoy the equipment.�

The project has seen revitalised play areas at Ball Haye and Haregate Hall and the installation of new low-level equipment at the Waste which respects the natural surroundings in this location.

Work at all three sites has been carried out by HAGS-SMP play company.

Ball Haye Recreation Ground is owned and managed by Leek Town Council who provided funding for the scheme.

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Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

Win tickets to the first Buxton comedy festival he first Buxton Comedy Festival is on its way to the Spa town this summer, as part of a 4-day event (31st Aug to 3rd Sep), sponsored by Thornbridge Brewery. The barrels of beer and laughter ‘combo’ is the brainchild of Buxton Opera House, where many of the events will take place – alongside its sister venue, the Pavilion Arts Centre.

Top comedy names on the bill include the sometimes controversial stand-up comedian Jimmy Carr (headlining Sun 3rd Sep), with his Best Of show. Whilst I'm a Celebrity favourite Joel Domett plays the main-stage (on Sat 2nd Sep), proving why he’s a rising star on the circuit.

On Friday night there’s a fusion of both comedy and music, from the northern kneesup legends, Lancashire Hotpots. Skip to the following afternoon in the Pavilion Arts Centre and there’s a double-bill of Tanyalee Davis and Damian Kingsley. Damian is both funny and kind, recently performing 120 gigs, as part of his “penniless comedy tour” from Land’s End to Edinburgh – raising an astonishing £21K for Shelter! Tanyalee Davis, known as the Ferrari of comedy due to her 3’6” stature and racy material will deliver her hilarious show Actual Size.

For children aged 6+ the joke is on them

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during Saturday afternoon’s Comedy Club 4 Kids (Arts Centre) with clean stand-up and sketches, all aimed at children and their childish adults. For a ‘Sunday funday’ The Kagools are in town, a multi award-winning physical comedy duo ––treating us to their spontaneous buffoonery Of course the line-up wouldn’t be complete without the monthly Buxton Buzz Comedy club, in situ during the festival on Friday night in the Arts Centre.

To find out more visit Buxton Opera House website www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk and search for Comedy Festival, or pick up your copy of Buxton Opera House’s New Season Brochure.

To win two tickets to see The Lancashire Hotpots on Friday 1st September at 7.30pm answer the following question:

WHO HOSTS 8 OUT OF 10 CATS DO COUNTDOWN? a. Jimmy Carr

b. Joel Dommett

c. Damian Kingsley

(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: Tuesday 25th July 2017.

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HOROSCOPES

JULY AND AUGUST

Cancer - This month things are much more to your taste. The warm caring side of you has felt a bit stifled recently so from the tail end of June onwards, you can now open your heart and show how loving you can be. In August, try to stay centred on what matters to you most as that fiery blast at the new moon (23 July) sends crazier folk that you off on an ego trip of some kind!

Leo - July will offer you the opportunity to get into a much quieter and more reflective mood after all the fun you’ve been having up to now. If you can find the time to just sit quietly now, you will find lots to think about so use the time wisely. You will need to keep tabs on your faculties to cope with the end of the month and into early August as monstrous egotism is never very attractive…

Virgo - July is a time to celebrate with friends who know what you have been through and care, so don’t be too analytic about relationships this month. It won’t be appreciated because the prevailing energy of the month is about warmth, caring, and giving some love to those who need it. August begins with a hot blast of energy so best to stand away from the heat for a while.

Libra - It’s time to put the recent agonising and decision-making behind you now, recognise that things have moved on and start doing the things that need to be done. Oh yes, and don’t forget to show a little loving kindness to humanity along the way because that will always make things run easier and run more smoothly.

Be magnanimous with your generosity in August.

Scorpio - July’s new moon energy will show you there’s always something new to learn and that we learn most from our biggest mistakes because it wakes us up to who we are and how we are behaving. Your passionate loving energy has never been in any doubt but how well do you express it? You do actually have to tell people you love them now and again, you know! A fiery new moon on 23rd July might just knock this locked up energy into the open!

Sagittarius - You’ve felt hemmed in and restless but can’t seem to get up and get going, somehow. That doesn’t have to stop you showing love and kindness to people, though. You can be much too abrasive for some of the more sensitive souls around you so it is important to show some care and warmth to your nearest and dearest. You’ll find they respond.

Capricorn - In July, your emotions are likely to be strongly challenged so be careful how they impinge on your close relationships. It’s not that complicated: everyone responds well to expressions of love and warm heartedness. It is programmed into our human circuitry!

Temper fire with water to stop things getting out of control.

Aquarius - July brings you back strongly to the need to pay attention to boring everyday matters like your health, self organisation, chores etc. which I guess you may have been ignoring recently. I know this focus on routines and structures does not appeal to you at all but how about turning cleaning the oven into a meditation practice?

Maybe it’s all Karma Yoga anyway? (Google it…) . In August you’ll find the answer: it’s the little things than bind us together.

Pisces - You regain a sense of security now so that other areas of your life can move forward. It’s definitely the time to have a lot more fun this month and your natural loving nature will come to the fore, starting probably around the last week of June! People will love you for it so open up, embrace all of it and enjoy. Trouble is, your ego might be battling with your higher self in August.

Aries - Did you take my advice last month and try to be more aware of the effect you have on people around you?

If so, this month is the test because July needs you to try to show people you care about them, (even if you are the leader). This is even truer at home so use all that positivity you ooze to love to the max. That should kick start you straight into August when anything could happen!

Taurus - As June moves into July you will appreciate the warmth of being in your familiar locality. You will find time to enjoy more than ever all the things you love most about your home. It’s a time to stay grounded and do what feels best from inside you. Later in the month you will become more outgoing and perhaps be in dogged pursuit of something you need to learn more about. Then in August, its back home again and work issues surface again.

Gemini - I hope you had fun last month because July feels very different and may come as a bit of a shock to the system. You will find that your emotions surface in ways you find a bit difficult to handle. However, Venus does lighten things for you so you may find that all those small expressions of love work better than you expected, especially as the month changes. If it works, keep doing it!

For a more detailed and personal look at how cosmic forces are influencing your life right now contact Howard on 07866 727743 or email howpark@aol.com.

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RECIPE FOR LIFE

SPINACH AND FETA QUICHE

f you’re planning on going along to one or all of the array of summer shows, festivals or events taking place in and around Leek this year why not rustle up this easy but delicious recipe?

It will make the perfect addition to your picnic hamper and can easily be enjoyed while you’re out and about.

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You will need: 20–25cm ceramic flan dish or metal tin Ingredients: • 1 pack shortcrust pastry • 4 eggs • 150ml double cream • 75g feta, crumbled • 100g spinach, wilted

Method: 1.Preheat oven to 190'C/Gas mark 5 2. Line an oven proof dish with your homemade or shop bought pastry - ideally a 20-25cm round ceramic flan dish, but the shape isn't too important - leave some pastry hanging over the edge, it helps prevent shrinkage and you can cut it 24 Leek Life July/August 2017

off once cooked 3. Wilt the spinach in a pan and set aside to cool once cooled squeeze out the liquid 4. In a measuring jug break 4 eggs and whisk 5. Add enough cream to make up 400ml (if using a 20cm tin) or 500ml (if using a 25cm tin) 6. Season and add spinach and pour into the pastry lined dish 7. Crumble in the feta 8. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes - until the egg mixture has set and risen 9. Leave to cool in tin - can be served hot or cold

Why not try...

Adding things to the quiche that you like: bits of cooked bacon, ham, sweet peppers, sweetcorn, broccoli, fresh herbs or tomatoes... but it's just as nice plain. For a crisper pastry base, prick the pastry all over with a fork and pre-cook for 10-15 minutes (blind - with no filling) before removing from the oven and adding the fillings, then return to the oven to finish cooking.

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Birthdays/celebration pool parties ask for details

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28 Leek Life July/August 2017

REFLECTIONS COACHING

What do life’s milestones mean to you? with Carolyn Trafford e all talk about them. Whether we’re about to turn 30, 40, 50 or more, these are significant numbers and a time when we think about how quickly life marches on.

Expressions like “life begins at 40”, or “50 is the new 40” have come about because we like to believe that there is more out there to do and to experience. And the truth is – there is and it’s ours for the taking. The secret is not to be defined by our age – just be informed by it, learn from the experiences each brings and become wise. So what do these milestones actually mean?

Twenties – A time when many settle down.

We’re working, finishing university, starting our career, thinking about moving out of home.

We’re taking on commitments, be it a relationship or a mortgage or house or starting a new job. Life is full of change and these experiences become building blocks for the future.

W

Thirties – Are about careers or families or both. Life is busy being a parent or becoming a career person. Sometimes it’s a tough balance of both. Life can be rushed and we often put ourselves second or even third. Yet we learn to be tenacious, to prioritise and deal with life’s challenges and become resourceful.

Forties – Children are growing up and becoming independent. There’s more time for “me”. It’s a time for many when we reconsider earlier decisions, “do I really want to be in this job forever?, “Am I too old to retrain?”, “ I want to do something for me”. At the same time life is often more secure financially, yet confidence to do something new can be low. Re-invention can be a tricky process but thoroughly rewarding and selffulfilling.

I changed my direction at 40. It came with risks, particularly financially, and took a few hours with a life coach, but life has been interesting and rewarding for the past few years and I wouldn’t go back to my so called secure job.

I planned to become a coach; I didn’t plan to be a Neal’s Yard Consultant nor to return to education, so now I have a portfolio career. Self employment has its challenges but it pays huge dividends.

I’m not sure what the Fifties will bring. I hope I will be a fully qualified artist/designer having completed my degree and integrating this into my coaching business. With continued support from various mentors in my life, I’m looking forward to some financial security, some spare time to be enjoyed and much more change and excitement.

If you’re considering a change in direction and fancy a chat about what help is out there then do get in touch. Or go to my website www.reflectionscoaching.co.uk and sign up for my newsletters.

Carolyn Trafford is a published author and creative strategy coach supporting others in achieving the life they want.

Carolyn Trafford - Reflections Coaching • Tel. 07714 216388 • Email: Caro@reflectionscoaching.co.uk • www.reflectionscoaching.co.uk

Leek Life July/August 2017 29

ON YOUR BIKE

GET IN GEAR FOR A GREAT DAY OUT ON YOUR DOORSTEP

SEE YOUR AREA FROM A WHOLE NEW PERSPECTIVE

bike is the perfect way to get into the outdoors and soak up some of the best bits of Leek and the surrounds. It is easy to forget, through the hustle and bustle of everyday life, how lucky we are to live in a place where there are more great spots to visit than you can shake a pump at.

As part of a huge, nationwide cycling campaign which aims to encourage cycling and promote a more active community, people from Leek and the wider Staffordshire Moorlands are being urged to hit the road on two wheels this summer and see just how wonderful a jaunt on a bike can be.

Touring the local sights by pedal power will help you see your area from a whole new perspective and there are plenty of different routes to try. Criss-crossing Staffordshire are 240km of rural cycle lanes, 772km of Public Rights of Way,

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30 Leek Life July/August 2017

more than 2000km of country lanes and over 80km of the National Cycle Network.

Popular local cycling spots include the Pedal PEAK project which links Staffordshire with the Peak District National Park. It takes riders from the Caldon Canal in Stoke on Trent through to Cheddleton with a split to Waterhouses and Derbyshire or Tittesworth Reservoir in beautiful countryside on newly improved tow paths and signed road routes.

Then there is the Roaches – a challenging hike that is sure to help work off any extra calories but will reward cyclists with some unrivalled views of the area.

Individual cycling maps for all Staffordshire districts, which show both traffic free and quieter routes suitable for cycling on the road are available from Leek library in Stockwell Street or you can find out more by visiting www.staffordshire.gov.uk/transport and clicking ‘cycling and walking’.

FLYING A FLAG FOR OUR ARMED FORCES

s part of a countrywide celebration of the thousands of dedicated members of the British armed forces – past, present and future - residents from across the United Kingdom gathered together to mark National Armed Forces Day on Saturday 24th June.

As part of this celebration a ceremony took place at Moorlands House in Leek a few days ahead of the main event, on Monday 19th June.

This year the Fly a Flag for our Armed Forces festivities were led by the newly appointed Staffordshire Moorlands District Council Chairman, Councillor Ben Emery.

The ceremony featured a short flag raising ceremony outside the District Council

A

NATIONAL ARMED FORCES DAY

headquarters in Stockwell Street followed by a few fitting words from the Chairman in thanks to our serving men and women.

The flag raising ceremony at Moorlands House gave residents from across the Leek area the opportunity to show their support for the men and women of the Armed Forces past and present, including currently serving troops, service families, reservists, veterans and cadets providing a much-valued morale boost for Armed Forces personnel and their families.

Armed Forces Day is an annual event, providing the nation with a dedicated day where people can come together to show their appreciation and support for HM Armed Forces.

Leek Life July/August 2017 31

GARDENING

PRETTY IN PINK A cal M

By Martin Blow

y garden is so often full of the blazing hot colours of my helenium collection that at times it’s lovely to sit and relax surrounded by softer, calmer coloured flowers and what is more calming than pink.

There are so many shades of pink flower to choose, from the palest blush through to luxurious lipstick pink. Pink is an easy colour to combine – just avoid orange unless you like jarring clashes. Here are some of my summertime favourite pink flowers.

For early summer the pink drumsticks of the bistort (Persicaria bistorta Superba) are easy to grow in most soil types and look great paired with violet cranesbills. Later in the summer another Persicaria, Rosea, puts on a stunning show of tall stems covered with pale pink flowers over many months. Veronica Pink Damask creates a similar effect but on a far smaller scale.

32 Leek Life July/August 2017

Another plant with upright stems and pink flowers is Lobelia Compton Pink. These perennial lobelias are nothing like the half-hardy bedding plants and they come back year after year to grace a sunny spot in the garden.

There are many lovely pink hardy geraniums to choose from. The low growing, sun loving “Elke” and “Striatum” are particularly tough and make a lovely edging against a patio or path.

“Sherwood” is taller and has intriguing, rolled up petals.

Scent in the garden is very important and the border pink “Devon Wizard” has a spellbinding fragrance and bold, bright flowers that are also great for cutting. If you keep him deadheaded he will weave his magic right to the end of autumn For a moist or even wet soil, perhaps by a pond or stream then candelabra primulas are a good choice. One of the best pink flowered one is Beesiana because it isn’t too tall and floppy and it will grow in drier (but not too dry!) soils as well.

One of the most impressive pink flowers in my

GARDENING

alming colour to sit and relax beside garden are the large, thistle-like, fuchsia-pink heads of the Stemmacantha that erupt from ping-pong ball sized silver buds in June and July. Once the flowers have finished the seed heads give prolonged interest and feed finches in winter.

Another striking looking flower is that of the Japanese Burnet (Sanguisorba Lilac Squirrel), affectionately known as the Barbara Cartland flower in our garden as the long, feathery, candy pink flowers look just like the one of the feather boas that might have graced the great lady’s

outfits.

Echinacea (Coneflower) have become very popular over the last few years, but some of the new, exotically coloured varieties aren’t very hardy. I stick to the old, pink-flowered favourites like Ruby Star with its large pink daisy flowers and prickly, honey-scented cones.

A must for bees and butterflies!

With so many lovely flowers and shades to choose from there’s no reason why your garden shouldn’t be pretty in pink the whole summer long!

Janet & I run Special Perennials, website www.specialperennials.com we will be at the stunning Abbeywood Gardens, Delamere CW8 2HS on Sunday 9th July only £3.00 for the gardens and fair; the National Memorial Arboretum DE13 7AR on Saturday 29th July, free entry to the plant fair and arboretum P&D parking ; Carsington Water, Ashbourne DE6 1ST on Saturday 12th August free entry to fair, P&D parking and at the wonderful Dorothy Clive Garden TF9 4EU, Nr Market Drayton on Sunday 27th and Monday 28th August, a great day out with entry to the stunning 12 acre gardens at a special low entry price of £3.50 and this includes the Plant Hunters' Fair as well! Full details from www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect Leek Life July/August 2017 33

STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

TRUST PRESERVES FLOWERRICH HAY MEADOW

PROPERTY

CHARITY MAKES CALL OUT TO NEW VOLUNTEERS

esidents across the Staffordshire Moorlands are being invited to join a relaunched work party to help look after a one of the county's best flower-rich hay meadows.

The work party, which will take place on the second Saturday of each month, with the next one taking part on Saturday 10th June, and will see volunteers look after the diverse site of Rod Wood nature reserve in Cheddleton.

Despite the name, woodland comprises only a small part of Rod Wood. The site is an interesting mosaic of scrub, grassland and woodland. This diversity of habitats is one of the reasons why Rod Wood is so important for wildlife.

The work party will carry out a range of practical conservation activities aimed at

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34 Leek Life July/August 2017

protecting and enhancing the site.

David Rowe, who will lead the work parties, said: “Rod Wood is an extremely important site in Staffordshire and with the site being both woodland and grassland, needs a lot of attention.

“We hope people in the local area feel passionate about the site and want to come and lend a hand for a few hours once a month.

“Volunteering also gives you the opportunity to meet new people, develop new skills and gain valuable experience.”

All training and tools will be provided for each work party, which will take place between 10am and 1pm.

Anyone interested should email David Rowe - david-rowe@sky.com or call 07833645773.

Top projects for summer

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

IMPROVEMENTS TO MAKE DURING THE WARMER MONTHS

ummer is an excellent time to start looking at areas of your home that might need some remodeling. With cold winters and wet springs, a house can endure a lot of seasonal stressors.

Wind, snow, ice and rain all take their toll, which makes summer a great time to assess what damage has been done. Though hot and humid, there tends to be less adverse weather in the summer months.

This removes certain complications that could come with winter construction projects, such as dealing with ice and materials that expand due to shifts in

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HOME IMPROVEMENTS

temperature and sunlight exposure.

While there could be any number of structural issues that require attention around the house, here are a few renovation ideas to consider this summer:

‰

Clean, repair or replace the gutters A simple yet important task to consider this summer is examining the condition of gutters.

After a year of seasonal changes, summer is an optimal time to schedule an inspection.

Strange leaks, water splashing out during rainstorms and standing water are all signs the

36 Leek Life July/August 2017

gutters are going to need repair or even replacement.

Repair and seal decks and porches Summer is a great time to enjoy sitting on the porch or deck, but before you get too comfortable, make sure these outdoor areas survived the winter. During colder months, water can seep into the cracks of concrete and freeze, pushing the material out and causing cracks. Icey temperatures are also tough on wood decks and it’s sometimes hard to keep the wood healthy and in optimal condition.

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HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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Leek Life July/August 2017 37

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Repairing these areas and sealing cracks can help ensure they last through another winter. If you hire the right contractor to handle the job, your deck could possibly be just about as strong and visually attractive as when it was new.

‰

Install energy-efficient windows During the past few years, there has been a growing interest in ways to keep temperatures constant without the need for expensive heating or air conditioning - it helps the environment and saves money at the same time.

Vinyl offers great energy-efficiency compared to wood, and doesn’t require as much upkeep.

Looking into how different types of glass may be able to improve the functionality of existing windows is also a great idea.

Summer is not only a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also an opportunity to improve the condition of a building and even make it more energy efficient.

By taking the time to inspect the different areas of your home, and taking action to make repairs or replacements as necessary, you can help maintain your property’s value, as well as its structural integrity, no matter what Mother Nature throws at it.

Similar properties required We are always seeking more to sell

For a FREE no obligation appraisal contact us

01538 383339 66 Derby Street, Leek, Staffs, ST13 5AJ www.danielhulme.co.uk 38 Leek Life July/August 2017

PROPERTY

ALL TYPES OF APPLICATION

Design houses in Staffordshire and Derbyshire; oday, someone asked me do I only deal with Local Plan consultation responses; and attending agricultural applications. The answer is and helping a Parish Council prepare a “No”. I handle much more than that.

Neighbourhood Plan.

True, I do a lot of agricultural and equine I have had recent success obtaining planning related work such as submitting applications for permissions for houses in the Green Belt, in farm worker’s dwellings, new farms , the removal villages and in the Peak District, and of agricultural occupancy conditions, a tourist/leisure project. farm buildings, barn conversions, I am prepared I My background is not just Town change of use of farm buildings to shops, stables, outdoor riding areas, go that “extra mile” to and Country Planning but also livery yards and breeding studs. provide you with the Conservation, Design, Landscape Architecture, urban and rural However, I handle a much wider best possible advice and regeneration, and tourism. range of work and projects ranging where ever possible As a small practice I am prepared from individual houses to medium I go that “extra mile” to provide you and larger developments; obtain planning with the best possible advice and commercial , retail, industrial and permission where ever possible obtain planning tourism projects; Listed Buildings; permission. projects in Conservation Areas; Many of the projects I handle could be Local Plan consultation submissions: representing described as challenging. I have the skill and clients at Local Plan examinations: and Grandexperience to obtain planning permission in such Design-type houses and houses. situations. So whatever you are looking for in My current work includes a potential hotel site, terms of development I can probably help from a small electricity generating plant; houses and small to large projects. other developments in the Peak District; Grand-

T

“

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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 Leek Life July/August 2017 39

Your local property expert in Leek that’s open 24/7 Get your FREE home valuation appointment EweMove.com/Leek or call Chris on 01538 54 24 54 40 Leek Life July/August 2017

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Passing on wealth without further tax charges FINANCIAL MATTERS

Over-55s risk falling prey to the inheritance ‘sibling tax trap’ n 6 April 2017, a new additional main residence nil-rate band (RNRB) was introduced, which allows for less Inheritance Tax to be paid in situations when a family home is left to children, grandchildren or certain other ‘qualifying beneficiaries’ – including stepchildren and foster children.

But more than 1.7 million over-55s[1] could miss out because they’ve assigned their sibling to inherit their family home and not a direct descendant.

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PASSING A FAMILY HOME TO SIBLINGS RATHER THAN TO CHILDREN OR OTHER DESCENDANTS Research from the LV= independent legal service shows that one in ten over-55s (10%) have written their Will to pass their family home to their siblings rather than to their children or other descendants, which would lead them to be ineligible to utilise the additional RNRB. Previously, if an estate of a married couple was left to any descendant, anything above the £650,000 combined threshold (£325,000 allowance per individual) would have been taxed at 40% Inheritance Tax. INHERITANCE TAX–FREE ALLOWANCE FOR THE FAMILY HOME However, from 6 April 2017, the RNRB has been introduced with an RNRB of £100,000 per person, taking the total maximum individual personal allowance for Inheritance Tax from the current level of £325,000 to up to £425,000, or a total of up to £850,000 for married couples and registered civil partnerships.

LEAVING THE FAMILY ESTATE WITH AN INHERITANCE TAX LIABILITY The allowance for the family home is set to increase by £25,000 per tax year, so by 6 April 2020 onwards a couple with a family home may potentially be able to leave their children or other direct descendants a combined estate of up to £1 42 Leek Life July/August 2017

million without any Inheritance Tax to pay.

However, if the same couple were to leave their family estate to a sibling, the Inheritance Tax of 40% would apply on the difference between £650,000 and £1 million, leaving an Inheritance Tax bill of up to £140,000.

YOU MAY NEED TO AMEND YOUR WILL The majority of the people surveyed (72%) don’t know of or understand the changes that have come into force in this new tax year. If appropriate, you may need to amend your Will to ensure your estate can benefit from the increased allowance. Even among those who do know about the changes, half (53%) didn’t realise that the increased tax-free amount can apply to cash proceeds from the sale of the home if you downsize or have to go into care.

WELL-THOUGHT-OUT ESTATE PLAN Worse still, many people living ‘as married’ with partners – who would want their wealth passed to each other – don’t have Wills (44%).

Therefore, unless assets are jointly owned as ‘joint tenants’, their estate will pass to their children who would have no obligation to provide anything to their father or mother’s partner. It has never been more important to have a wellthought-out estate plan, complete with an appropriate Will and supporting documentation, to ensure your assets can pass to your loved ones in a tax-efficient manner.

LEVELS, BASES OF AND RELIEFS FROM TAXATION MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE, AND THEIR VALUE DEPENDS ON THE INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE INVESTOR. Source data: [1] There are 17.6 million over-55s in the UK (ONS population maps). Of the over-55s surveyed, 10% said they’d left their home to siblings rather than their children or grandchildren – equivalent to 1.7 million over-55s. LV= commissioned Opinium Research to conduct bespoke research among a sample of 1,000 UK residents who are over 55 years of age. Surveys were conducted online between 8 and 14 December 2016 and are nationally representative.

TURNING YOUR FINANCIAL DREAMS INTO REALITY

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Leek Life July/August 2017 43

FIAT 500 WINS AUTO EXPRESS DRIVER POWER 2017 AWARD MOTORING

he Fiat 500 - best known for its timeless design and head-turning style – has been honoured in the hugely influential Auto Express Driver Power Survey 2017.

The iconic model, which this year celebrates its 60th anniversary, took silver in the Best Premium Supermini category after receiving positive feedback from thousands of real owners.

The Fiat 500 not only took the silver award in the overall category, it was ranked highest in four of the judging categories for ‘Interior and Comfort’, ‘Practicality and Boot Space’, ‘Infotainment, Connectivity, and Electrics’ and ‘MPG and Running Costs’.

Driver Power – the largest new car customer satisfaction survey in the UK – uses data from more than 50,000 car owners to rank models on everything from reliability to performance.

Alejandro Noriega, Head of Brand at Fiat UK, said: “We are delighted that the Fiat 500 has been honoured in this way, especially in this

T

Barnfields Garage Leek Ltd Keeping you cool this summer Re-gas your air-con system at Barnfields Garage

• Commercial vehicle specialists • MOTs from £40 (Class 4 & 7) • Servicing and repairs • Diagnostics • Tyres • Vehicle Re-Mapping • Valeting • Vehicle Recovery Sunny Hills Road, Barnfields Ind. Est., Leek, ST13 5RJ (Next to Lymer Doors)

01538 382 815 44 Leek Life July/August 2017

landmark year for the model. This award means so much as it’s based on real feedback from our customers and shows we continue to produce a model which really appeals to them.”

The Fiat 500 is available with a starting price of £11,490 OTR, for a 1.2-litre 69hp Pop. For more information on the new Fiat 500 please visit www.fiat.co.uk or to locate your nearest Fiat dealer visit www.fiat.co.uk/dealer.

CRUSO AUTO REPAIRS

We service most cars & 4x4s from NEW, including CHRYSLER and JEEP using OE and Equivalent Quality Parts.

COLLECTION AND DELIVERY AVAILABLE Petrol costs getting too high? Then consider LPG! With LPG fuel being roughly half that of petrol, the cost of an LPG CONVERSION can usually be recouped within 12 months (based on £45.00 per week avg. fuel spend). Prices start from £1,750 (inc. VAT @ 20%).

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MOTORING

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MOTORING " ! " "! "! " " ! " "! "! " " ! " ! "! "! ! " ! " " " "!

RUDYARD LAKE

If you’re looking for a new car or 4x4 then Rudyard Lake Garage should be your first stop. We can buy or part exchange your current vehicle and help you get into your new car quickly without hassle.

We provide excellent after care and we can service and MOT your vehicle when required.

We also offer an extensive diagnostic and repair service should your vehicle need that expert touch to get it running smoothly again. We also offer a Free Collection and Courtesy Car service. If you require any further info then please feel free to give us a call.

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46 Leek Life July/August 2017

NEW DACIA SA COST OF OW he New Dacia Sandero 1.0 SCe Access has topped cap hpi’s list of new cars with the lowest motoring costs in the UK. The latest analysis from the automotive data experts looked at the total cost of ownership (TCO) to reveal the cars with the lowest cost over the first three years of ownership, including purchase, servicing, fuel and other motoring costs.

The New Dacia Sandero 1.0 SCe Access came out first on the list, as well as topping the small car category at ÂŁ7,419.64 for the first three years, or ÂŁ206.10 per month. This was closely followed by the mid-range New Dacia Sandero 1.5 dCi Ambiance at ÂŁ8,059 or ÂŁ223.87 per month.

Other cars in the increasingly popular Dacia range also feature on the list. Coming second in the SUV category is the New Dacia Duster 1.6 Access SCe 115 4x2 with a total cost of ownership

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SANDERO TOPS LOWEST WNERSHIP LIST

MOTORING

over the first three years of £10,405.31 or £289.04 per month.

Commenting on the results, Louise O’Sullivan, Head of Dacia UK, said: “It’s great to see that our range of no-nonsense cars are proving to be fantastic value for drivers in the UK, not just in the initial purchase but offering low-cost motoring every day for our customers. By keeping things simple and offering customers only what they need, we’re able to provide the most affordable hatchback and one of the most affordable SUVs available to buy in the UK, combined with proven reliability and an awardwinning track record.”

Since launching in 2013, Dacia has won numerous motoring accolades and recently sold 100,000 vehicles in the UK, establishing a reputation for incredible value for money and robust reliability.

Leek Life July/August 2017 47

MOTORING

DRIVERS SUPPORT DIESEL SCRAPPAGE SCHEME

round two thirds of UK road users would support a scrappage scheme for older diesel cars, vans and lorries in an effort to get the worst polluting vehicles off our roads, according to a survey by IAM RoadSmart.

The survey, by the UK’s biggest independent road safety charity, asked respondents to rate the various options put forward in the government’s recent nitrogen dioxide consultation but found that only 3% of respondents are confident that the proposed measures solve the problem quickly.

More than 1,400 people across the UK including members and non-members took part in the survey, which was conducted earlier this month.

Some 64% of those surveyed said they supported a diesel scrappage scheme, compared to 27% who did not. Most wanted any scheme to apply to cars over eight years old.

Some 83% of those surveyed by IAM RoadSmart agreed with the government’s view retro-fitting buses, coaches, HGVs, vans and black cabs with new equipment should be the priority.

However those surveyed felt the driver as an individual also has a responsibility to drive in a more eco-friendly manner. Some 75% agreed that

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encouraging drivers to change their driving behaviour should play a part in the government’s approach to tackling air quality.

UK drivers appear to have been influenced by the ‘dieselgate’ scandal as 67% of them either mistrust or strongly mistrust car makers to sell cars that will match consumer expectations for environmental performance.

Sarah Sillars, IAM RoadSmart Chief Executive Officer, said: “It is clear to me that the public at large feel the government needs to be decisive and proactive when it comes to making our air quality better. They see strong government direction as key to making sure it happens.

“We must not forget that drivers themselves have a part to play in the way they drive – it is within the power of each of us to become a better and more eco-friendly driver and our responsibility to do so.”

She added: “It is however clear that the car manufacturers have some way to go to rebuild trust with the public - it would seem that only when their environmental claims more closely match real world performance that the trust will be on the increase. Reputations take years to build and moments to fall.”

QUIZ CORNER

Let’s get quizzical COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

General Knowledge Quiz

1. Who had a number one hit this year with '7 Years'?

2. How many countries begin with the letter ‘J’ when written in English?

3. In which U.S. state was 'The Big Bang Theory' set?

4. Who is the host of the new interactive TV gameshow 'Don't Ask Me Ask Britain?'

5. Which James Bond film theme was performed by Garbage?

7. Which row of three distinctive stacks of chalk rise about 30metres out of the sea off the western extremity of the Isle of Wight?

8. Who is next in the series Miliband, Hague, Hammond?

9. Which river forms the boundary between Manchester and Salford?

10. Which singer has been married twice – to Renate and to David?

A 'Rain' quiz for St. Swithin's Day

1. Which group had a top ten hit in 1963 with 'Rhythm of the Rain'?

2. Which Ridley Scott directed film starred Michael Douglas in a film about two New York police officers who escort a criminal back to Japan?

3. Who played the part of Raymond Babbitt in the 1988 film 'Rain Man'?

4. Who had a number one hit in 1950s with 'Just Walking In The Rain'?

5. Who plays the character Rain in the 2002 film 'Resident Evil'?

6. The songs ' Good Morning' and 'Moses Supposes' comes from which 1952 film?

7. In which 1984 film did Prince play 'The Kid' with a talent for music?

8. What is the name of the group made up of the Pearson family who released the single 'Rain or Shine' in 1986?

9. From which film soundtrack did the song 'Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head' come?

10. Who had the top twenty hit 'Rain On Your Parade' in 2008?

General Knowledge Answers: 1. Lukas Graham; 2. Three (Jamaica, Jordan and Japan); 3. California; 4.

Alexander Armstrong; 5. 'The World Is Not Enough'; 6. Sid; 7. The Needles; 8. Johnson (Boris) - Foreign Secretaries in order; 9. Irwell; 10. Elton John. St. Swithin's Day Answers: 1. The Cascades; 2. 'Black Rain'; 3. Dustin Hoffman; 4. Johnnie Ray; 5. Michelle Rodriguez; 6. 'Singin' in the Rain'; 7. 'Purple Rain'; 8. Five Star; 9. 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid'; 10. Duffy.

Quizzes compiled by Paul Steele (Question writer and Quizmaster) from Cheddleton email: pnsteele@aol.com

6. In 'Toy Story', what was the name of Andy’s neighbour who tortured the toys?

Leek Life July/August 2017 49

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