Leek Life Mar Apr 2016

MARCH/APRIL 2016

Life

Food glorious food...

Crowds to flock to Leek Food and Drink Festival

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A DAY AT THE LAKE

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NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN IN CONGLETON GARDEN CENTRE 71 Moss Road, Congleton,Cheshire, CW12 3BP

MAR/APR

CONTENTS

Property ............................................24

Editor’s letter .......................................6 Leek Food and Drink Festival .............8

Recipes for Life ..................................12

Ken Wainman Associates Ltd...........29 Caring Life ........................................30

Awareness for Life.............................31 Leek Glass Artists .............................32 Endon Well Dressing ........................34 Staffordshire Wildlife Trust..............36

Gardening .........................................39 Kniveden Project ..............................40

Leek Swimmers .................................41 New Fire Station ...............................42

Life Lakeside ......................................16

Young Space Biologists.....................43

Reflections Coaching.........................20

Quiz Corner.......................................45

Stage Directions .................................18

Generous Donation...........................44

Motoring Nailed It .............................................22 Friday 26th April - Sunday 28th April ...........................................46

ComeFashion and join us for fantastic deals throughout the weekend Classified...........................................50 Ethical ..................................23

www 01538 756 333 Kingsley: Stoke-on-Trent ST10 2EH

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Laura Campbell Contents Editor laura@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 14,150 copies of every issue delivered to households and businesses in Leek and the surrounding areas

A busy spring calendar A

s we head into March and April, Spring is in the air and the team here at Leek Life magazine are looking forward to the longer days and the (slightly!) warmer temperatures. There’s plenty on in Leek over the coming months and Spring 2016 really does look like it will be one to remember!

If you’re looking for interesting and memorable activities this Spring, then look no further than nearby Lake Rudyard. A once in a lifetime recreation of the lake’s heyday is set to attract thousands of visitors over the first May Bank Holiday weekend. Coinciding with the very first Staffordshire Day, there will be poetry, music, artists, circus performers and even a dry land synchronised swimming team, so we think it’s well worth a trip and we have a full line up of what’s taking place during the festivities.

Inside this issue we look at the achievements of youngsters at Leek Swimming Club, we learn more about the exciting - and out of this world - space project that the children at All Saints First School have been lucky enough to be a part of, and we see what Endon Well Dressing Festival has in store for us this year.

Inspirational Leek Lady Barbara Milford has bravely spoken to us about her personal experience of Bowel Cancer in a bid to raise awareness of the symptoms.

Once again Leek’s creative streak has been taking centre stage, and we talk to the organisers of the upcoming ethical Fashion Revolution show and we also meet local glass artists Sarah Myatt and Lesley Nixon, who create beautiful, intricate pieces of colourful art that are selling out fast.

Finally, I’m very pleased to bring a brand new feature to Leek Life magazine. We’ve teamed up with Cheddleton quizzer Paul Steele to produce a quiz page, for you to mull over during your coffee break.

So pull up a chair, stick the kettle on, and I hope you enjoy the March/April edition of Leek Life.

Laura

Did you know that you can read Leek Life online?

Ian Dakin is a photographer based in the Staffordshire Moorlands. See his work at www.facebook.com/ iandakinphotography

6 Leek Life March/April 2016

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

Find us on Facebook search for Leek Life Magazine

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LEEK FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL

CROWDS SET TO FLOCK TO LEEK FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL

oorlands foodies are in for a smorgasbord of sumptuous treats as plans for the third mouthwatering Leek Food Festival get underway.

Setting the bar high for the 2016 season of regional food festivals, this year’s Leek Food Festival, on Saturday 19th March, is set to be bigger and better than ever, with more than 60 vendors and exhibitors already booked in to tantalise your taste buds.

The main event, which runs from 10am to 3pm, includes a bumper installment of the monthly Fine Food Market, together with a series of Real Food talks, a Real Ale Trail, an inter-cafe Bake Off competition and music throughout the town centre adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the town.

The festival was born of the monthly Fine Food Market, which takes place year round on the third Saturday of each month, bringing together moorlands purveyors of fine fare, from pizza, pastries, pies, cakes and bakes, through locally produced cheeses, ales and rare meats to international street food and locally hand crafted chocolates and sweets.

Organiser Marc Briand of Totally Locally said: “Leek is a forward-thinking modern town with some brilliant food producers trading here year round.

“The annual food festival is a celebration of the town’s market history, and promotes our reputation as a foodie heaven.

“As it’s one of the first events of the season for makers and producers, everyone is full of enthusiasm, which makes for a fabulous day for traders

M

8 Leek Life March/April 2016

residents and visitors alike.

“It’s about providing a bit extra for customers, whether it’s more of the best local produce, or specialities from across the country, there will be a chance to meet the maker, get some fresh ideas for the kitchen or embark with the whole family on a journey of discovery.”

Once again, the festival has come about through a collaboration of organisers and volunteers.

While Marc looks after the food markets, Laurel Gallagher of Feral Food is putting together the inspiring Real Food Talks programme, which includes cocktails, wine tasting, bakers, curry chefs and much more.

Meanwhile, Rachel Hipkiss of Spout is bringing the second Leek Bake Off together (and hopefully helping her team at The Penguin defend their 2015 title), while Dave Wilson of the Bottle Lab and Nick Bradstreet of The Roebuck are organising the Real Ale Trail (and possibly hoping to wrest the title from last year’s winner, The Earl Grey).

Marc commented: “That’s the beautiful thing about Leek everyone joins in, and pools their skills, ideas, and experience, and suddenly you have a much better event than the one you originally imagined.”

The third Leek Food Festival takes place on Saturday March 19th 2016, from 10 am to 3pm.

Programmes are available from town venues, the Tourist Information Centre or online on twitter, facebook of from www.leekfoodanddrink.co.uk.

Anyone interested in volunteering should contact the team via their website.

FOO GLORI FOO

OOD RIOUS OOD

LEEK FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL

Leek Life March/April 2016 9

Wines

Whisky

Passionate about what we sell, all our wines are tasted and personally selected so whether you need a food and wine match, a gift idea, or like us, you just love your wine, let our knowledge and expertise help you make the perfect choice.

Choose from a selection of blended whisky, single malts, rare and collectables as well as our very own independent whisky label...

Try before you buy

We hand select and sample individual casks to be bottled for our rare cask range. ese have come from several different distilleries including Caol Ila, Longmorn and Bruichladdich.

Our Enomatic Wine Dispenser, the world’s number one wine serving system, provides up to eight wines for you to try, or choose any bottle from the store.

Relax with friends to taste and enjoy.

A family run business Set in the heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands, Wine and Whisky stocks hundreds of wines from around the world, specialist whiskies, real ale, continental beers, spirits and liqueurs.

Dedicated in offering high quality products for all occasions we guarantee great value for money.

10 Leek Life March/April 2016

The Queen of the Moorlands

ese whiskies are ideal for the serious whisky enthusiast or collector, with only a limited number of bottles of any rare cask available.

Under the Queen of the Moorlands whisky label we also have a 10 and 15 year old Speyside single malt, which are both proving very popular.

Find out more: www.queenofthemoorlands.com

Something extra • Glass loan • Wedding wine • Wholesale • Loyalty card scheme • Gift packaging • Free local delivery • Nationwide delivery

Get in touch wineandwhisky.com 22 Russell St, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 5JF

Tasting experiences

01538 382408 email: info@wineandwhisky.com

Our tasting events provide a great opportunity to try new wines, whiskies or spirits.

Events can run in conjunction with local venues and restaurants or at your home where we come to you equipped with wine, glasses and tasting notes.

If whisky is more your tipple then we regularly arrange whisky tasting evenings. Contact us to find out when the next event is happening.

A case for every occasion Each month we offer a variety of case deals. ese cases are an ideal way of enjoying a selection of wines at a great price.

Free delivery on all products

facebook.com/thewineshopleek twitter.com/thewineshopleek instagram.com/thewineshopleek Leek Life March/April 2016 11

CAKE POPS!

CAKE MIX

Cute and colourful, cake pops are a tiny, tasty treat on a stick, ideal for a quick, easy family activity. Not only are they hugely adaptable with a huge range of flavours and decorations at your fingertips, but cake pops are a small delicious snack which feel like a real treat without resorting to a huge slab of cake. And, you can even make them from left-over cake - making them a quick and easy way to reduce food waste while having fun.

• To make your cake pops you need cake! You can use a packet mix, left-over cake, or start from scratch with a basic sponge recipe: • Preheat oven to 180°C/Gas Mark 4 then lightly grease and flour a 25cm round cake tin or a 20cm square cake tin. Cream 4oz butter and 5oz sugar until pale and fluffy and mix in 1tsp vanilla extract.

• Add two eggs, one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Add 3oz self-raising flour and 2tbsp milk and mix until fully combined. Repeat with a further 3oz flour and

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12 Leek Life March/April 2016

2tbsp milk.

• Pour the mixture into the already prepared tin and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a cocktail stick inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Once baked, leave the cake to cool on a wire rack.

VANILLA FROSTING

• Soften 2oz unsalted butter and 1oz cream cheese before creaming together. Gradually add 7oz of sifted icing sugar until fluffy and then mix in 1tsp of vanilla extract. Refrigerate for half an hour.

ASSEMBLY

• To assemble the cake pops, crumble the cooled cake in a large mixing bowl using your hands to reduce it to a fine crumb. Crusts can be removed beforehand with a kitchen knife to avoid lumps.

• Slowly begin to mix the frosting with the crumbs a tablespoon at a time until it forms a fudgey texture. The texture is important - if the mix is too crumbly or too soggy it won’t stay on the stick. Wrap the mix in cling film and chill for around an hour.

• Break off chunks of the mix and roll into balls around the size of a golf ball. Place on a lined tray and refrigerate for around 20 minutes until firm.

• To decorate, you can use melted chocolate, candy melts or sugar paste.

• If using candy melts, melt them in a deep bowl in the microwave for around a minute or so. Dip the lollipop stick into the mix and then push gently into the cake ball and allow to set.

• Once the pops are ready to decorate, you can have fun dipping into the melted coating and then dunking into sprinkles, chocolate flakes or edible glitter.

• And, if you’re really creative, you can even create cute characters or mould sugar paste to make something truly spectacular!

RECIPES FOR LIFE

LY HED EW IS N RB FU E R

WEDDINGS AT RUDYARD

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NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR 2016/17 If you are looking for a venue for your special day, you will not find a finer setting in North Staffordshire. We are a fully licensed wedding venue and our Victorian ballroom with its spectacular freeze moulded ceiling and large windows is the ideal place for your ceremony.

Whether you prefer a traditional wedding breakfast or offer your guests something different, we are happy to discuss your individual requirements and tailor the menu to your individual requirements.

ROOMS AT RUDYARD

Here at Hotel Rudyard we pride ourselves on a good standard of accommodation that we offer and with rooms starting at just ÂŁ55, including a hearty breakfast, we can provide you with the ideal place to stay, whether you are in the area for business or pleasure. All rooms are en-suite and have tea and coffee making facilities.

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Rudyard

A PICTURE PERFECT LOCATION

With stunning views, locally sourced food and a first class service, Hotel Rudyard has it all.

Nestled in a quiet corner of the Staffordshire Moorlands countryside overlooking its namesake – Rudyard Lake - this impressive venue boasts truly picturesque scenery and the perfect backdrop to any special occasion.

Hotel Rudyard's 300 seat restaurant not only provides quality drinks and delicious bar meals, it regularly hosts a mouthwatering carvery and specials nights.

The carvery has a selection of three roasted joints of the day and all meat is sourced within a ten mile radius of the hotel.

Outside there's a large, sociable beer garden overlooking the lake, so visitors can relax with a drink and take in the lovely view.

There's also a large car park, offering the ideal opportunity to enjoy the 5.6 mile walk around the lake before finishing with a delicious warm meal and a drink.

In fact, guests can easily extend their hotel stay as there's plenty to do around the lake - it boasts a visitor centre, activity centre, boating facilities and shop/café. Rudyard Lake Steam Railway is a great family day out ideal for kids on a train trip, and if you’re a keen fisherman the lake gives many hours of enjoyment and

tranquillity.

This year the entire hotel has been revamped and redecorated and all 14 bedrooms have received a new lease of life, so guests can relax and unwind in style.

And Hotel Rudyard can also provide the perfect setting for your memorable events – it has a light, bright, function room and can cater for any special occasion.

Whether it be for a wedding, christening or birthday, the room can sit up to 100 people, with 150 for a buffet reception.

Guests can also stay the night before and after the event with rooms starting at just £55, including a hearty breakfast.

The lake was named the third most romantic place in the UK a few years ago, so what better place to host your special day.

The parents of Rudyard Kipling liked the lake so much that they named their son after it and he later became one of Britain’s greatest writers – so this year, to mark the fact that Rudyard Kipling would have been 150 years old, the hotel will be celebrating with poetry recitals.

Whether you want a memorable venue for your special occasion, a cosy restaurant after a brisk walk, or simply a long weekend away from it all – Hotel Rudyard is your picture perfect choice.

LIFE LAKESIDE

RUDYARD LAKE: A DAY‘once in a lifetime’ recreation of Rudyard Lake’s heyday is set to attract thousands of visitors to the Moorlands beauty spot this spring.

The atmospheric setting has captured the hearts of people across the Midlands throughout the last 200 years - most famously the parents of it’s namesake Rudyard Kipling - and the spellbinding romance of the lake has worked it’s magic once more with directors at social enterprise Wild Rumpus, Sarah Bird and Rowan Hoban.

The organisation aims to bring the arts to families in fantastic outdoor settings - something epitomised by the regular Just So festivals they host, which see story-telling and performances at Rode Hall in Cheshire.

Their venture A Day At The Lake, is set to be a one-off recreation of the attractions and events which regularly bought 20,000 day-trippers to Rudyard Lake at weekends through the late 19th Century.

Sarah said: “We’ve been talking about doing something like this for years as we used to hold the Just So festival nearby.

A

“We fell in love with the romance of the place and there are just so many stories there - the tales about Kipling; the tight-rope walker, ‘The African Blondin’, who walked across the lake on a rope 100ft above the water - in the 1800s it was one of the first examples of tourism and attracted thousands of people from the Potteries and Manchester every weekend.

“Our ethos is about taking families outdoors and engaging them in spectacular arts events that change their view on the world.

“We wanted to bring some of these stories of Rudyard Lake to life, and one of the things we really wanted to do was re-create the tight-rope walk.

“As it happened as we were looking for someone, tight-rope walker Chris Bull, was researching amazing walks and researching the history of it. When we spoke to him he knew about Rudyard Lake and it was all a kind of serendipity how it all came together at the right time - he was thinking about how it might be possible just as we got in touch.”

Chris - known as ‘Bullzini’ will perform amazing tight-rope feats over the lake twice a day on each of the three days of the festival.

LIFE LAKESIDE

Y-TRIPPER’S PARADISE Artists and performers will abound, with music from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, circus performers, bands and story-tellers as well as fairground attractions including a helterskelter.

Walk-about performers, a dry-land synchronised swimming team, vintage craft market and tree scupltor are all just a part of the full line-up of events planned on Saturday 30th April, Sunday 1st and Monday 2nd May - coinciding with Staffordshire Day. Poet, Michael Symonns Roberts has been commissioned to write a new poem inspired by events at the lake to mark the occasion and a tree will be transformed into a special sculpture, leaving a lasting legacy and tribute to Rudyard Lake and it’s place in history.

Sarah added: “We’re hoping to raise a bit of money to give to The Rudyard Lake League of Friends which they can invest and improve access to the lake for years to come.

“We’re hoping that it won’t just be for the weekend, that there will be a lasting legacy, but I think it will be a one-off event - it feels like a special, one-in-alifetime thing.

A grand day out planned “People will see the lake in a new light.

All those visitors who attended the lake in the past were the first day-trippers. It was a turning point in our history.

“It’s one thing to tell people about that, but to bring it to life for them and show them that is a brilliant opportunity and we are really excited about.”

A Day At The Lake is delivered in partnership with The Rudyard Lake Trust, The Rudyard Lake League Of Friends, The Canal & River Trust, Staffordshire County Council and Enjoy Staffordshire.

The events will begin each day at 11am and run through until 9pm. Early Bird tickets are £12 adults, £6 child, under 3s free, available from: www.dayatthelake.org.uk.

Leek Life March/April 2016 17

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

Win tickets to see Edward II

F

ollowing last year's sold-out success the Big Session is back in Buxton, now over three nights and two days, 29th April to 1st May 2016!

Hosted by Oysterband, the cream of English folk gather in the handsome spa town of Buxton in the heart of the glorious Peak District to welcome in May. The festival features concerts by Oysterband with June Tabor and Sam Carter, Seth Lakeman supported by Lucy Ward, Edward II, Will Pound and Eddy Jay, and the Emily Portman Trio. There'll also be a huge beer hall hosting a festival of more than 100 real ales and providing the setting for the Big Session Ceilidh with the Oysterband and guests, and music sessions throughout the weekend led by Big Session concert artists.

Set right in the heart of Buxton at the spectacular Opera House, the Pavilion Arts Centre and beautiful Pavilion Gardens, a short walk from the railway station. We welcome you to the first festival of the summer!

Fringe activities include a Saturday morning birding trip to the Goyt Valley to look for Pied Flycatchers, whilst the 11.49 from Manchester Piccadilly to Buxton the same day will be a dedicated Folk Train with music all the way, arriving in time for the afternoon session. On Sunday morning Oysterbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s John Jones leads the festival ramble in the hills around the town. Musicians are welcome to join the open sessions: an instrument cloakroom service is

provided.

The concert schedule is: Friday 7:30pm, Pavilion Arts Centre: Edward II. A two part concert with English roots meets reggae supergroup. The first half features their Manchester Ballads project, the second is a fullon dance set of their classic tunes and songs.

Saturday 5pm, Pavilion Arts Centre: Will Pound and Eddy Jay. Harmonica and accordion wizardry.

For more information or to buy tickets call Buxton Opera House Box Office on 01298 72190 or visit www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk You can follow the festival on Twitter @BigSessionFest or like the Big Session Festival page on facebook.

To win a pair of tickets to see Edward II, who is playing as part of the Big Session Festival on Friday 29th April at 7.30pm.

Which bird could you look for in the Goyt Valley?

A) Pied Wagtail B) Pied Flycatcher C) Pied Piper (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. To be received by Tuesday 12th April 2016.

18 Leek Life March/April 2016

How to save a life

t John Ambulance is appealing for volunteers to join its growing team of youth leaders, in a bid to inspire Leek’s next generation of lifesavers.

The leading first aid charity has vacancies for volunteers to help run its Cadet and Badger units in the town.

St John Ambulance Badgers are aged between seven and ten years old, whilst Cadets are aged 10 to 17 years old.

People applying for the youth leader roles will be required to undertake an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau disclosure and complete mandatory training.

Carolyn Zivoder, Regional Youth Volunteering Coordinator said: “We have some exciting opportunities for people keen to inspire and teach lifesaving skills to young people in their community. Volunteering with us is a great way to give something back to your community, so if you are over 18, enthusiastic and willing to learn some life-saving skills, we want to hear from you.”

For more information contact 0121 236 6660 or email Carolyn.zivoder@sja.org.uk. Closing date for applications is 11 March 2016.

S

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The Bra Boutique §

Spring c s I write this, winter has been unseasonably warm. Blossom and buds are starting to show on the trees. My daffodils look as though theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re about to flower and it feels like spring has sprung.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the kind of day that makes me want to throw open all the windows and get stuck into cleaning. Clean, freshen, organise.

I like to apply this to life too. In January my head was full of the things that I wanted to do this year, goals, resolutions, dream chasingâ&#x20AC;Ś.

And having a full head is part of the problem, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give me thinking space, a space in which to be creative, to plan, to organise â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it can all become a bit of a muddle.

So rather than go and spring clean my house â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m going to take one day to spring clean my life instead. Here are some ideas to get you started:

A

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couple of friends youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve not seen in a while, arrange a day to do something fun.

Social media is an unreal place to be and 2 sometimes it can get you down. Ditch

those â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;friendsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; who drag you down or fill your timeline with rubbish and follow some positive thinking sites â&#x20AC;&#x201C; try www.facebook.com/ Reflectionscoaching/ for a daily dose of inspiration.

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20 Leek Life March/April 2016

clean your life

REFLECTIONS COACHING

8 FUN TIPS TO FEEL BETTER 3 Do what you enjoy doing – we all have

talents, long forgotten because life took over.

Why not go back to dance class, rejoin the wine club and make new friends along the way

8 Pick a nice day and go for a walk. Try to

switch off from the daily drudgery and focus on what’s around you – it’s called being mindful and is great for clearing your head.

Get back on top of your finances – there’s 4 nothing like worrying about money to bring

you down – so forget burying your head in the sand get to the bottom of it, understand exactly what state your finances are in and work out a budget – where’s the fun bit? Well make sure there’s a weekly treat in the budget to reward good spending behaviour.

Zero your inbox - whether that’s email or 5 post – again requires discipline to do, but

well worth a couple of hours. Apply a ‘deal with’ or ‘trash it’ approach and unsubscribe from the stuff you’re never going to read.

Change your diet – I’m not suggesting you

6 go on a diet – you don’t need to – however

adding some healthy brain and body foods to your routine can make a difference to how you feel. I like to start my day with a healthy fruit smoothie – it tastes great and doesn’t make me lethargic. Avocado and banana or blueberry and raspberry. Almond milk, sometimes oats too. I add some organic detoxifying greens powder or anti-oxidant berry powder and Omega 369 oil – over a few weeks it’ll make a difference to your get up and go.

Oh I know I said this was about you not

7 spring cleaning the house, but do make

some time to de-clutter. We all have stuff that hasn’t got a home, use it or lose it and get rid – clutter simply saps the brain.

Rather than go and spring clean my house – I’m going to take one day to spring clean my lif e instead

Carolyn Trafford is a Leek based personal strategy 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 • https://uk.nyrorganic.com/shop/carolyntrafford/area/

Leek Life March/April 2016 21

NAILED IT

WorldSkills success GOLD MEDAL FOR NAIL TECHNICIAN

ail technician, Vicky Bowyer, has been named as one of the top in her field after winning gold in the nail enhancements category at the UK final of the WorldSkills competition.

Vicky, 22, is a former student at Buxton & Leek College and works at the Little Eden salon in Russell Street.

She travelled to the final at the NEC in Birmingham with Nails Programme Leader at the college, Julie McCann and Media Make-Up Programme Leader, Lorraine Hale for the four-day contest.

After demonstrating her skills on current student, Lauren Ryder, Vicky came home triumphant after being crowned the UK Champion for advanced nail enhancements.

Vicky studied the Level 3 Nail Services course at the Leek campus of the college.

She said: “I love what I do and although I started out doing hairdressing after I left school, I much prefer doing nails because I think the results last for much longer and I’ve built up a good clientele in the salon.”

Although she was nervous on arrival at the NEC, once she got started on the competition tasks - including French acrylics on one hand and opaques on the other – the nerves vanished as she felt she was ‘doing what comes naturally.’

Judges watched while Vicky was working and

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22 Leek Life March/April 2016

then examined the finished results on Lauren – checking every last detail with little fingers and thumbs painted in red to show up any scratches in the polish.

Lauren is hoping to follow in Vicky’s footsteps. She said “I thought it was an amazing experience and now I have a better understanding of what is expected of me for the competition world, I hope I get an opportunity like this myself, I will work hard to try and prove myself.”

WorldSkills is the largest international skills competition in the world.

The competition sees around 1,000 young people, aged 18-25, from all over the world come together to compete for medals in more than 40 different skills including electrical installation, welding, web design, cooking and bricklaying.

Programme leader, Julie said: “The nails course was new this year and to set it apart from courses offered from other training providers, I wanted to include competitions as part of it.

“I am so pleased that Vicky received the gold award - she worked extremely hard throughout the process.

“We will continue to enter more students into competitions as it will support them greatly for their future careers within this diverse industry.”

ETHICAL FASHION

Fashion Revolution #WHOMADEMYCLOTHES ince the Dhaka Disaster of 2013, when a Bangladeshi clothing factory collapsed, killing 1133 workers and injuring a further 2,500, the brightest and best of the fashion world have stood up for ethical fashion with Fashion Revolution, a week long global event spear-headed by award-winning Ashbourne entrepreneur, Carry Somers.

And the community of Leek is stepping up in typical style with the third Fashion Revolution Show at the Foxlowe Arts Centre on 21st April.

The event, which brings together suppliers, retailers, makers and moorlands fashionistas with an interest in sustainable and original clothing, kicks off with a showcase of young designers from Leek College of Art. Celia Kent, a course leader and tutor in the art and design department, explained how and why the students get involved: “The event provides a useful context for developing the students’ understanding of the global fashion industry and who bears the cost of ‘throwaway’ clothing.

“There’s a celebratory side as they go on to produce garments reflecting different cultures from around the world, which is very inspiring in terms of design.

“Finally, there is the excitement of the event itself which is both a challenge and a confidence booster because as well as showcasing their amazing creations, they get involved with all aspects of the event from the modelling, make-up, music and photography to the posters, publicity and promotion.”

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Professionals will then take centre stage to display the variety and quality of Leek and moorlands textiles and clothes production, including The Wardrobe, Equatorial, Maggie Gosling, Huggit, Pachacuti, Aphrodite Jewellery, Tropic organic skin products, and Handmade by Holly Crow.

As well as the catwalk shows, there will be stalls of locally and ethically produced products, and a raffle.

Pauline Hart, Foxlowe volunteer and show organiser, has high hopes for another successful event: “It’s part of the Leek calendar now and already we’ve had people enquiring as word gets about. It was a sell out last year and the year before so my tip is to get your tickets early.

“Even if you can’t get to the event itself, everyone can take part in Fashion Revolution.

One way is to turn your clothes inside out to show the label, and share with manufacturers on social media with the hashtags #whomademyclothes.

“I want people to be curious - find out who made your clothes - from who spun the threads, to who sewed them together, to who grew the cotton in the first place.

“Your clothes already tell a story about who you are. Now they can tell a better one.”

The Fashion Revolution Show will take place at the Foxlowe Arts Centre on Thursday 21st April 2016. Doors open at 6.15pm for a 7pm start and tickets, which cost £7.50 each and include a glass of wine, are available from the venue and online.

Leek Life March/April 2016 23

PROPERTY

The importance of photographs when selling your home

he saying goes that; “a picture paints a thousand words” and it’s never been truer than when it comes to selling your home.

Let's consider why.

Your prospective buyer’s journey is likely to start out with a search on a property portal, such as Rightmove or Zoopla. They’ll enter their search criteria and typically, up will pop ten listings. Each will show a very short description and a thumbnail sized photograph. Rightmove’s own studies show that house buyers will spend an average of 28 seconds perusing the summary details, before they click to select a property to explore its details further. That's an average of 2.8 seconds per property!

That’s only a very small window of opportunity for your property to stand out and shine and the biggest single factor in this decision is the photographs. You could have the best marketing description in the world, but unless your elusive buyer has clicked through to see the details, you’ll fall down at the first hurdle…

A study undertaken in the US revealed that online listings with professional photography generated an average of 61% more page views.

Just to explain further, ‘professional photography’, is not your run-of-the-mill estate agency photography. This study was specifically carried out and measured in respect of DSLR cameras. That’s the technical term for cameras with detachable lenses.

The key differentiator with DSLR cameras is the ability to have wide-angle lenses that enable the photographer to capture a wider field of view when taking internal photographs. This means that more of your room is displayed, giving the impression of a bigger room size. This makes sure that the buyer is not left with the mistaken belief that your rooms are smaller than they actually are.

When choosing an estate agent, it's crucial that you find one who can provide incredible photographs, which best portray your property.

Here are a few examples of photographs taken of properties in your local area, by EweMove Leek…

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24 Leek Life March/April 2016

PROPERTY

Hi, I’m Christopher Walthall Branch Director of EweMove Leek

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

Find Out What Your Home is Really Worth

Get a FREE Instant Valuation Report Visit EweMove.com/Leek

Leek Life March/April 2016 25

PROPERTY

If we’re not routinely doing the best we can for you, we’re not doing our job.

That’s the Hunters difference, and 96% of our customers agree.

One year on and still going strong

PROPERTY

unters Residential Sales & Lettings have been in the Village of Endon for just over one year and we are just going from strength to strength.

We pride ourselves on our Customer Satisfaction record (On average 96% of Hunters customers who responded to our Customer Service Team between Jan-Dec 2015 said they were happy with our services. We also boast that we offer a friendly, efficient service where nothing is too much trouble. If we’re not doing the best we can for you then we’re not doing our job, that’s what we feel sets us aside from other estate agents.

Moving is a busy and exciting time and we’re here to make sure the experience goes as smoothly as possible by giving you all the help you need under one roof. This is why so much of our business comes from referrals.

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Why choose Hunters Endon?

We offer a very competitive premium service aimed at individuals that won’t accept anything but the best. If you’re thinking of moving, selling your property or becoming a Landlord, we have all the experience and knowledge to help you make the right choice. With over 160 branches countrywide we certainly open doors for you, be it investment or otherwise we give you access to thousands of properties across the UK. Due to the extensive research carried out as both a group nationally and locally, Hunters Estate Agents in Endon are best placed to advise you on residential property sales or property lettings in your area. When you choose Hunters to sell, buy or let your property you will notice why so many have used Hunters before. With increasing word of mouth referrals we work harder and harder to sell or let your property.

Our core principle is based on how we do things differently by placing the community at the heart of our business.

The service we give to our customers is

fundamentally about honesty, transparency and clarity therefore, we are dedicated to giving the best service, advice, help and support to the community we live and work in.

Although we are known locally to offer a value for money service for both sellers and Landlord’s we are one of the few agents that still offer that personal touch.

We provide FREE Valuations (give us a call to arrange either of these) and we list our properties on Zoopla and Rightmove.

Our Coverage We bring you the finest selection of properties on some of the most desirable locations.

We cover: Endon, Stanley, Brown Edge and Leek. Baddeley Green, Milton, Longsdon and Sneyd Green to name but a few.

Pop in for a coffee and a chat meet the team today in Branch or speak to a member of the team on 01782 626522.

Leek Life March/April 2016 27

• Offer- accounts, tax returns, book keeping, payroll and VAT. • Extensive experience in farming, construction industry, haulage, public houses, retail and hairdressers.

• Tax return only at competitive rates.

• Tax credits.

• Flexible meeting hours.

• Friendly and approachable - come and have a chat

A friendly service to suit your needs Over 30 years’ experience Come in and have a chat

Lee Whittaker 50 Broad Street, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 5NS 07710 213929 • 01538 384488 Email – plwhittaker@plwhittaker-taxation.co.uk Facebook – P L Whittaker Taxation & Accountancy

28 Leek Life March/April 2016

• 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

Worried about visiting a Solicitor? Don’t be!

Call me for a 20 minute no obligation telephone consultation to identify the options available to you.

T: 01538 361697 M: 07974 645147 E: hello@jojohnsonfamilylaw.co.uk W: www.jojohnsonfamilylaw.co.uk

PROVIDING THE BEST POSSIBLE SERVICE

KEN WAINMAN ASSOCIATES LTD

en Wainman Associates is a local planning consultancy based in Leek. Much of our client base has been gained via our reputation and commitment in providing a bespoke, all-round service for planning applications and appeals.

We keep up to date with Planning law, regulations and policies which are currently changing on a regular basis. Lateral and pragmatic thinking is therefore crucial and necessary in-order to achieve a positive outcome for the client, in such a way that the necessary permissions can be obtained.

Adopting this approach has resulted in recent successes including permissions for a new house, extensions, a tea room and stables and a mĂŠnage.

However, should planning permission be deemed unlikely then we will say so.

Currently, our ongoing projects include a planning appeal, building developments including a listed building, stables, extensions,

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farm building conversions and a tea room.

The firm also has links with a local ecological consultant enabling us to provide an integral 'one-stop' service to support planning applications should your project require a wildlife or biodiversity survey. The optimum time for protected species and biodiversity surveys is generally from March to September, so now is a good time to be thinking of any development projects that may require such surveys.

For example, where there are ponds on or near your site newt surveys may be required.

These can be carried out from March to early or mid June. Alternatively, should you be intending to demolish or convert buildings, then bat surveys may be required.

I am also pleased to announce that the firm has a new Associate who has a background in architecture and historic buildings.

Ken Wainman

Ken Wainman Associates Ltd Chartered planning consultant and licensed bat surveyor Excellent track record obtaining planning permissions, winning appeals and resolving enforcement issues.

We organize everything from concept through to the decision including plans, specialist reports and wildlife surveys.

Recent planning permissions obtained and applications submitted include barn conversions; an extension in a conservation area; a tea-room; an all-weather outdoor riding area; stables; and eight new houses.

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 March/April 2016 29

Guide to dementia CARING LIFE

DONATION TO HELP FAMILY AND CARERS

handbook offering insight and advice about caring for someone with dementia has been donated to Leek Library as part of a drive to support families living with dementia.

Care company, Home Instead Senior Care Leek and Moorlands, which provides care for older people living in their own homes, presented a copy of their recently published handbook Confidence to Care.

The book is for those caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

It offers readers a combination of personal stories and practical advice to help them provide the best and most effective dementia care possible.

Its primary focus is on the effective prevention and management of certain memory and behaviour symptoms, including refusal, aggression, delusions and wandering, which family carers often need help with.

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30 Leek Life March/April 2016

Each chapter begins with a real life example and goes on to explain why the behaviour happens, suggestions for care approaches and prevention tips.

The book even gives ‘conversation starters’ – giving help with what to say in different situations.

As well as sharing the dementia care book with the local community in this way, Home Instead runs free Dementia Awareness Workshops for families of those with dementia, and for anyone working in the community to support those with dementia.

On presenting the book to librarian, June Walker, Home Instead’s Carol Lovatt said: “The more we can do to support and educate families who are living with dementia, the better.

“Donating our dementia care book to the local library made perfect sense and was a logical next step to link with the free dementia family workshops we are running in the area.”

For further information on Confidence to Care or the services provided by Home Instead in Leek please call 01538 372179 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/leekmoorlands.

AWARENESS FOR LIFE

SPEAKING OUT TO RAISE AWARENESS

t’s a very British attitude to feel shy about discussing bowels - but one Leek lady is determined to raise awareness of the impact a change in digestion and bowel habits can have on health.

Barbara Milford, 56, was diagnosed with bowel cancer early in 2015 and is now speaking out about the impact it has had on her life as part of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month this April.

Barbara said: “A few years ago I gradually started to have what I called gripes; I felt bloated and full, and suffered irregular bowel movements and constipation.

“I thought it was gluten intolerance and tried the gluten free diet and later lactose free.

The symptoms continued but were not there constantly so I continued to find possible reasons for them - I shouldn't have eaten that, I ate too late, I ate too much and so on.

“In early 2015 after also developing lower tummy ache and discomfort, I chose to have a private bowel health scan to find out what was causing the problems.

“The scan was followed by further tests and I was eventually diagnosed with advanced bowel cancer which required surgery and chemotherapy.

“Surgery was booked for several weeks ahead but seven days before the planned date, my bowel perforated and I was rushed to casualty and had emergency surgery to remove the tumour, which

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proved to be even more advanced than the doctors expected.

“Due to the emergency surgery I had to have a colostomy put in place.

“I’m currently undergoing six months of chemotherapy at the Macmillan Centre in Macclesfield Hospital - and learning to live with the colostomy.

“Everyone at Macclesfield Hospital has been wonderful from day one and I can’t thank them enough.

“For a while I was angry and confused about the state I was in after having major surgery, a colostomy and chemotherapy.

“I felt it was my fault for missing the signs and not seeing a GP sooner.

“However I’m now waiting to complete my chemotherapy treatment, await the all-important post chemo scan and live in hope that I am cancer free.

“Bowel cancer is the second biggest cancer killer in the UK but it doesn’t have to be that way.

“If diagnosed early, more than 90 per cent of bowel cancer cases can be treated successfully.

“So it’s vital that people know what symptoms to look out for so they can get checked out at the earliest opportunity.

“I would urge anyone who has any changes in digestion and bowel habits to visit their GP and report the symptoms as soon as possible.

“It could save your life.”

BE AWARE OF THE SYMPTOMS Bowel cancer is the UK’s second biggest cancer killer - every year around 41,000 people are diagnosed with the disease.

Anyone who experiences one or more of these symptoms for three weeks or more should go to see their GP: • Bleeding from the bottom or blood in your poo • A persistent change in bowel habit, especially going more often or looser stools • Abdominal pain, especially if severe •A lump in your tummy Leek Life March/April 2016 31

LEEK GLASS ARTISTS

Leek is world renowned as a textile town, and has more than its fair share of talented photographers, painters and ceramicists, and now there are signs that glass work may be the next art form to put Leek on the map.

Here we showcase made-in-Leek glass work, and talk to three artists about their work.

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lass artist Sarah Myatt studied 3D glass at Wolverhampton and graduated in 2000 before working in a variety of jobs to save up for equipment.

She started trading in Leek in 2008 and became fully self-employed in 2014, which was a big decision: “At some point it’s all or nothing - you just have to do it.”

Sarah makes jewellery and decorative objects from fused glass. She explained: “Each piece is hand cut and decorated, before spending more than 24 hours in the kiln.

“I love the stylised ‘quirky birds’ which I have been making for several years, but my work is becoming more realistic, which is a real challenge in terms of precision and refinement, but I’m really pleased with the results.

32 Leek Life March/April 2016

“I spend many hours out dog walking, and observing a particular garden bird table at the back of the Roaches.

“The more I observe birds, the more fascinating I find them.

“I’m also exploring retro designs, especially 1950s scandinavian shapes and colours.”

Sarah’s favourite place to trade is Leek, especially the monthly Sunday Supplement market which she helps organise: “I love being a stallholder - you meet and make lots of friends so it’s great fun.

“Beautiful people surrounded by beautiful things - it’s definitely positive!

“There are loads of creative businesses in Leek and the markets and fairs are a showcase for artists who then get invited to supply independent shops.”

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esley Nixon has been making a living as a self-taught lampworker since 2008, and is now branching into other media as part of her studies at Leek College of Art. “I started out making what I call ‘Hippy Kitsch’ style beads - toadstools, wizards and vikings in a particular style, and they sold well online through my social networks and sites like Etsy.

“My regular customers these days are mostly jewellery makers and collectors, and I find that it’s not just about marketing the beads, but sharing the backstory - the inspiration behind the design and and my own story as a working, and developing, artist.

“Since moving to the Peak District the environment is having a massive impact on my work and I’m increasingly inspired by the seasons and landscape.

“Living up in Flash, we’re very exposed - it’s an up close and personal relationship with the weather - you feel like you’re actually inside it, fog, rain, or glorious sunshine - it’s a marvellous experience.”

Lesley started lampworking as a means of stress-relief while working for a charity in Stokeon-Trent: “Lampwork was not that popular here at the time, but was very big in the US. I learnt from online tutorials, and a once-in-a-lifetime trip over there for some hands-on tuition.

“It’s very absorbing and requires total

LEEK GLASS ARTISTS

concentration as the glass reaches very high temperatures.

“You melt glass rods to around 600 degrees celsius in the flame of a blowtorch, and wind and pull it into shape around a metal rod called a mandrel.

“You have to keep it spinning continually to maintain the shape - it’s like dealing with hot thick sugar syrup or toffee.

“Detail is added through rolling the semimolten bead in frit, which is ground glass, or by adding stringer glass, which enables you to ‘draw’ designs on the bead.

“Obviously you need a very steady hand, but also a good understanding of colours and tone it’s easy to lose the design altogether if the colours don’t balance.

“When you’re happy with the design, the bead is kept spinning while it cools, and when it’s the texture of a chewy toffee, you can shape the bead with a press, or sculpt it by hand.

“It then goes into a specialist kiln, which holds it at around 500 degrees Celsius for about six hours and then cools it slowly. This process strengthens the bead, so they’re pretty tough when they come out.

“Finally, the bead is taken off the mandrel, cleaned of any debris from the process, and then it can be polished or etched, depending on what kind of finish you want for that particular design.”

Leek Life March/April 2016 33

Endon springs to life ENDON WELL DRESSING

he village of Endon will spring to life once again this year at it celebrates its 172nd Well Dressing festival.

Taking place over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, Endon Well Dressing is a vibrant, colourful, traditional celebration which gives thanks for the continual supply of water to the village well.

Once again there will be plenty to see and do during the festivities with both modern and traditional events on offer for all the family.

The merriment starts with a service of Thanksgiving in St Luke’s Church, Church Lane, which is shortly followed by a fabulous parade to lead the new Queen to the well.

Fresh from their recent achievements in the Manchester Youth Marching Band Competition, in which they won all seven categories they were entered into, the 5th Leek Scout and Guide Band have the honour this year of leading the parade.

After a short service to bless the well, the Queens and Retinues will process to the field where the Queen is crowned.

Crowds will be treated to Maypole dancing by local children and Moorlands Radio will be providing the music, interviews and announcements.

Leek’s newly appointed Town Cryer will be adding joviality and colour as he walks through the village giving information.

There will be plenty of opportunity to get creative and for inspiration, in the Art and Craft Marquee you will find a potter working with a wheel, a clay artist, willow weaver and spinner.

Provided by Burslem School of Art, a graffiti workshop will be offering a chance to ‘have a go,' there will be the opportunity to design a small well board under the guidance of Mrs Barbara Hall, Chief well dresser, and you can also try your hand at canal art.

Plenty of entertainment will be thrilling the crowds; from live swing music from Sweet Velvet, a community band from Cheadle; The Endon Community Choir will be singing by the well on Saturday; Audley Brass band will do a recital by the well on the

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ENDON WELL DRESSING

Sunday night before playing for Songs of Praise; and on the Saturday evening there will be a band night on the top field (ticket only).

Neil Collingwood will be in attendance with his books of local interest and there will be demonstrations from Indian Classical dancers, Cheerleaders, Morris and Maypole.

Children can enjoy Punch and Judy, magic shows, face painting, children’s jousting and even a circus workshop.

The Bank Holiday Monday will see the classical car and vintage tractor procession through the village, which will have a flavour of 1926 in honour of the Queen’s 90th birthday.

Animal lovers are not forgotten and can enter the pet show or watch the Majestic Owls.

The church will be holding a flower festival over the weekend and should you choose to climb the bank, refreshments will be available in the chapter house.

The fun filled duck race will take place in the brook with the chance to win a cash prize.

Finally on Monday night the festival will draw to a close with the eagerly anticipated Tossing the Sheaf challenge, to see who can achieve the greatest height, and music by a local band.

Endon Well Dressing really does have something for everyone, so why not go along and join in the celebrations.

Leek Life March/April 2016 35

Look out for the Barn Owl

STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

taffordshire Wildlife Trust is appealing for sightings of one of the UK’s best loved birds following a dramatic fall in the number of records being submitted.

Figures suggest there are fewer barn owls in Britain than ever before and the trust is appealing for sightings of the majestic owl.

More intensive farming has led to a reduction in habitat and traditional nesting sites, such as hollow trees and derelict farm buildings. Around 80 per cent of the UK’s barn owls now live in man-made boxes.

Monitoring carried out by Staffordshire's Barn Owl Action Group found 40 breeding pairs across the county in 2015, suggesting barn owls are making a recovery after a drop in the population in 2013 following a cold, late spring. Despite this, only 19 records of barn owl sightings were sent into Staffordshire Wildlife Trust from members of the public across the county last year.

Helen Cottam, of BOAG, said: “Last year some pairs attempted to breed but abandoned nests and some chicks died in the nest, possibly due to a crash

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WHAT’S ON IN LEEK

Sunday, 6th March, 10am - 1pm: Workparty at Swineholes Wood, Ipstones Edge - Woodland Management Tuesday, 8th March - 7:30pm - 10pm: Talk on 'Biosecurity and the Future of our Forests' by Dr. Sarah Taylor at St Paul’s Church Centre, Novi Lane, Leek Sunday, 13th March - 10am - 1pm: Workparty at Rod Wood, Basford Green, repairing the steps and stiles.

Friday 1st April - 10am - 4pm: Learn how to identify characteristic differences between plant families and use

36 Leek Life March/April 2016

in the vole population, the barn owls favoured prey.

“We had fewer sightings reported to us in 2015 and it's also good to remind people to contact us when barn owls are seen around in Staffordshire.

“When sending in a record of a barn owl sighting we would ask the public to make a note of the date it was seen, where it was seen and what the barn owl was doing such as hunting, flying or roosting. We would also ask the public to contact the group if they find a dead barn owl and especially if they can identify a ring number.

“Barn owls suffer under harsh conditions and we may still experience a spell of cold winter weather. Sightings from the public help us build up a picture of the barn owl population across the county and to target certain areas for conservation.”

The most familiar British owl, barn owls will often hunt during the daytime over fields and grasslands looking for small mammals to feed on. Breeding in hollow trees, barn owls do not hoot in any way, instead making shrieking noises.

For details of sending in sightings visit www.staffs wildlife.org.uk/wildlife/send-us-wildlife-sighting

botanical keys for accurate identification, by Mark Duffell of Arvensis Ecology. Coombes Valley RSPB Nature Reserve, Bradnop.

Saurday 16th April - 10am - 4pm: Learn how to identify plants without the need for flowers using John Poland's Vegetative Key. Lead by Mark Duffell of Arvensis Ecology, Coombes Valley RSPB Nature Reserve, Bradnop.

Friday 22nd April - 10am - 4pm: An introduction to sample collection and identification of freshwater macro-invertebrates, Coombes Valley RSPB Nature Reserve, Bradnop.

STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

Athletics club supports footpath appeal T

he fragile environment of The Roaches have been given a much needed boost thanks to funds donated by the Staffordshire Moorlands Athletics Club in Leek.

Runners have given £500 to Staffordshire Wildlife Trust's Roaches footpath appeal, which was launched in 2014 to help restore the footpaths on the Roaches, which have suffered detrimental effects due to huge visitor numbers.

Work has already taken place to restore sections of the footpaths at the site.

The club holds several races throughout the year which run through the Roaches and they first started raising money in August 2014, when they donated £100 from the proceeds of their Summer Series races.

Then in December 2014, £200 was raised from the club’s Christmas Cracker race, with a further £200 being donated from the December 2015 race.

Jill Norman, from the club, said: “The reason we make the donation is that our club members and those taking part in our races regularly run over the Roaches and appreciate what a very special place it is.

“We are keen to help Staffordshire Wildlife Trust in conserving and improving the footpaths so

that all of us can continue to enjoy easy access to this fantastic wild place. We hope we cause little damage to the paths as we trot over them in our fell shoes but, if we do, then this is a way of making up for it.

“As a club, we are run by enthusiastic volunteers and we know how much effort, some of it from the Trust’s own volunteers, goes into the maintenance of places like the Roaches.”

James Dennison, Fundraising and Membership manager for Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, said: “We are extremely grateful to the club for raising money for us from proceeds of their races.

“An estimated 100,000 visits take place on the Roaches every year. Every single one of these visits uses the footpaths. Every pound raised through this appeal goes directly to restoring footpaths on the Roaches.”

To donate to the appeal visit www.justgiving.com/roaches The club has very active adult men’s, ladies’ and junior sections. Staffs Moorlands trains at both Leek and at Northwood Stadium at Stoke on Trent. For more information on the club visit www.staffsmoorlands-ac.co.uk Leek Life March/April 2016 37

GARDENING

Don’t Worry Bee Happy Martin Blow

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ost gardeners want to attract more bees to their garden: these essential pollinators are under threat from disease and habitat loss and more than ever need gardener’s help to find food and places to nest. The good news is it’s easy to make your garden a paradise for bees and other helpful insects and it doesn’t matter to bees if you plant native flowers or choose from the best the world has to offer.

Our garden is full of the buzz of bees from February until the onset of winter and these are some of my and the bee’s favourites.

The daisy family have to be number one favourites with the typical disc-like centres of the flowers offering hundreds of tiny helpings of nectar and pollen to every visiting insect. Planting summer and autumn blooming types like heleniums, coneflowers (Rudbeckia and Echinacea), sunflowers (Helianthus) and Michaelmas daisies (Asters) will fill your garden with colour from July right through autumn and feed bees, butterflies and hoverflies just when they need it most. Mostly they like a sunny spot, fertile soil and some moisture in hot weather as well as regular dead heading to keep them blooming.

Good companions for daisies are salvias (ornamental sage) with their spires of colourful flowers in various colours and sizes. Most are hardy and perennial but there are also annual and tender types so ask the nurseryman for advice if you’re not sure. Some salvias have long, narrow tubular flowers which bees can’t climb into – never fear they’ve come up with a solution to that by making a hole in the back of the flower and getting their long tongues into the well of nectar.

Bees and early flying butterflies need food when they start to stir in February or March. Many of our favourite garden perennials make idea feeding stations.

Pulmonaria (lungwort) have small bell-shaped flowers from late winter onwards and are always a-buzz with bees. Euphorbia (Spurge) often flower in early spring and attract the solitary bees that start to fly at this time. Solitary bees often nest in holes in lawns and some in holes in masonry. Geums fill the gap between spring and summer with nectar-filled bell-shaped flowers.

Once you start to feed bees and butterflies you will discover a host of wildlife in your garden. Moths like the Elephant Hawk can be found in the daytime resting on plants. Hoverflies are useful for controlling aphids and some beetles do a great job eating baby slugs.

Planting many different types of flower will attract a wider range of insects.

Attracting more insects will bring in the birds as well. There’s no secret: just get planting!

Janet & Martin run SpecialPerennials, a small garden nursery in Hankelow Cheshire. www.specialperennials.com They sell by mail order and at Plant Hunters’ Fairs throughout the season and will be at Carsington Water (DE6 1ST) on Saturday 9th April and Consall Hall Gardens (ST9 0AG) on Sunday 17th April. www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk Leek Life March/April 2016 39

A safe haven in green space KNIVEDEN PROJECT

green fingered service which helps people affected with mental health issues is set to hold another open day this year.

Big crowds and glorious weather ensured the Kniveden Project’s annual open day was a huge success when it was held in 2015.

Provided by North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust, the Mount Road service in Leek enables users to discover their inner horticulturist.

The therapeutic effect of creating a green and landscaped area is combined with practical skills that can be used for job seeking, helping people to regain self-esteem and confidence.

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40 Leek Life March/April 2016

Activities are not just limited to landscaping work and nursery skills, there’s also the opportunity to learn more about pottery and craft skills, develop woodworking in a fully fitted workshop, practice music and make jewellery.

Visitors to the open day, which will be held on Friday, 20th May between 10-3pm, will be able to see for themselves the fabulous work carried out by the project and take a look around the abundance of flora and fauna on display.

There will be a BBQ to enjoy and sales of the plants, woodwork and pottery made by service users.

In addition, the event will provide more information about Grow Moorlands, a partnership

between Kniveden, Meadows School and Leek and Buxton College, which maintains properties for Your Housing (formerly Staffordshire Moorlands Housing) and last year looked after 21 homes in Leek.

It aims to engage young people with learning disabilities and mental health issues.

Guy Massey, Support, Time and Recovery Worker, for the Trust, told Leek Life magazine: “The project is not just about landscaping and gardening, we have a lot to offer.

“For example our gym sessions have been very well received and a group of us now regularly go to Brough Park.

Physical exertion helps lower anxiety and keeps blood pressure, cholesterol levels and weight healthy.

“The Open Day is a great opportunity to see what the Kniveden Project is all about.

There will be lots of produce and crafts on sale and organisations such as Changes, Healthy Minds and Brighter Futures will also be on hand to give advice.”

Geoff Yardley, Kniveden Project Coordinator, added: “Each and every year we hold our Open Day, I’m always bowled over by just how well supported it is.

“The Open Day is a great opportunity for our users to show off the fruits of their labours and raise money for the service in the process.”

At the moment the project in Leek helps over 40 people during different sessions during the week. People can only be referred into Kniveden by a Health Professional. For more information call 0300 123 0907 or speak to your GP.

LEEK SWIMMERS

Youngsters swim to success

long with their coaches and parents, youngsters from Leek ASC enjoyed their Annual Awards Evening on Saturday, 6th February at the Foxlowe Arts Centre.

The evening was particularly special as it was the last for Liz Stretton, who stepped down from her position as Head Coach at the end of 2015 and the first for Rob Bryan, who has taken on the role moving forward.

Central to the evening was the presentation of cups and medals for swimmers who won in their age groups at the club championships held in December.

Prizes for winners and runners up were awarded as follows: Girls 8 Years & Under – Scarlett Tinwell, Grace Lancaster; Boys 8 Years & Under – Ewan Underwood, Oliver Bailey; Girls 9/10 – Rosie Grain, Lawrie Whitehead; Boys 9/10 Years – Harry Lancaster, Alfred Lancaster; Girls 11/12 Years – Lauren Barrett, Hannah Underwood; Boys 11/12 Years – Sam Reynolds, James Yates; Girls 13/14 Years – Eleanor Cartlidge, Emma Ashley; Boys 13/14 Years – Leo Taylor, Raff McMahon; Boys 15 & Over – Oliver Barlow.

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Commenting on the club championships, Chair Christine McFadden said: “It was pleasing to see such young talent coming through, and with such high achieving swimmers, 2016 promises to be a cracking season.”

Following on from the age group awards, swimmers received recognition for their achievements during the entire 2015 season as follows: 2015 Junior Girls Champion – Rosie Grain; 2015 Junior Boys Champion – Harry Lancaster; 2015 Overall Girls Champion – Eleanor Cartlidge; 2015 Overall Boys Champion – Callum Rushan. Finally the president’s cup was awarded to Eden Schiller.

The club would like to thank Adrian Croome for taking the photos, Anthony Grain for providing the disco, Sue Lancaster for organising the venue and Sarah Reynolds for organising the medals.

Leek swim club is a highly successful, nonprofit swim club providing opportunities for children interested in competitive swimming. For more information on joining Leek ASC, please visit www.leekasc.co.uk or email contact@leekasc.co.uk.

Leek Life March/April 2016 41

Community focus for new look fire station A NEW FIRE STATION

t the start of the year Leek's brand new £3.4 million community fire station opened its doors for the first time.

The state-of-the-art facility on Springfield Road has replaced the outdated building on the same site, which became operational in 1971.

It has been designed to enable firefighters to respond more efficiently and effectively to 21st Century emergencies.

Facilities within the building have also been created specifically with the community in mind and for the use of residents.

Local groups and organisations will now be able to hold their meetings in specially designated community rooms, creating a hub which will allow greater contact between local people and firefighters who serve the area.

Leek Station Manager Carl Mason said: “The facility is now fully operational and serving local residents.

“This is a very exciting time, both for the firefighters who are based at the station and for members of the community, as the ethos behind the new-look facility is to provide a multipurpose venue with a variety of functions.

“It will continue to be a response facility where firefighters will turn out from during emergencies as well as providing a base where

42 Leek Life March/April 2016

vital prevention and protection work can be carried out with and for the people of Leek.

“There will be the opportunity for community groups to use dedicated rooms, free of charge, to hold their meetings and interact more closely with their local firefighters. We are also delighted that Moorlands Radio will be based at the station, delivering local news to local people as well as promoting potentially life-saving safety messages from the fire and rescue service.”

Leek is the ninth facility to be operational in phase two of a major upgrade of buildings across the county. Penkridge, Bilbrook and Codsall (one station), Stone, Rugeley, Longton, Kinver, Chase Terrace, and Loggerheads have already gone live.

In total, 10 community fire stations will be rebuilt on their current sites plus a brand new station at Loggerheads which replaces the 45year-old station at Ashley.

The first phase saw three additional stations developed and seven stations replaced between October 2009 and September 2011.

The Service will have invested a total of £90 million, funded through a Private Finance Initiative, on improving the stations when the project has been completed.

Bookings for the community rooms can be made by telephoning 01785 898090.

YOUNG SPACE BIOLOGISTS

A voyage of discovery YOUNGSTERS PREPARE TO GROW ‘SPACE SEEDS’

hildren in Year 4 at All Saints CE First School are preparing to become space biologists; embarking on a voyage of discovery by growing seeds that have been into space.

In September, 2kg of rocket seeds were flown to the International Space Station and will return to Earth in March 2016 as part of the Rocket Science Project, which celebrates British European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Tim Peake’s mission to the ISS and aims to inspire young people to look into careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects.

All Saints’ has been chosen as one of the schools to receive a packet of 100 seeds from space.

The children will then grow them alongside seeds that haven’t been to space and measure the differences over seven weeks.

The Year 4 children will look after the seeds and record data to reinforce and extend their knowledge about plants, which Key Stage 2 are studying.

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Teachers hope that the project will give pupils a real sense of purpose to ‘working scientifically’.

The Royal Horticultural Society Campaign for School Gardening partnered with the UK Space Agency to embark on this ‘out of this world’ project.

Around half a million UK children will have the chance to learn how science in space contributes to our knowledge of life on earth, using the invaluable expertise of the ESA and RHS Science team.

The seeds are set to land in the Pacific Ocean, where they will be packaged up with identical seeds that have stayed on earth.

Pupils of all ages across the UK will see what growing plants in space can teach us about life on Earth and whether or not human life can be sustained in space through the production of our own food.

Schools will input their results into a national online database so that results can be compared across the UK. You can follow the project on Twitter: @RHSSchools #RocketScience

Leek Life March/April 2016 43

GENEROUS DONATION

A lasting legacy

n extremely generous Leek lady has left over £1million to local charities in her will.

An incredible £1,175,000 has been left by Mary Althea Bonallo, who asked for her estate to be split between three charities including the Donna Louise Trust and the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.

Administering the legacy, which included the sale of the family home, has been carried out by Ian Naylor, a wills and probate specialist at Bowcock & Pursaill who has looked after the family’s legal affairs over many years.

He said: “I’m delighted that I’m now able to hand over the final accounts to these two local charities, which will directly benefit families and children in our community offering them essential support when they need it most.

“Over the years I have helped to administer the wishes of many families, though this is a particularly generous legacy. I think it is a wonderful way to support and recognise worthwhile charity work and to ensure it continues for many years to come.”

Liz Gratton, director of income at the Donna Louise Trust children’s charity based in Trentham, said it was their largest legacy to date.

She said: “Our biggest need is always for cash to run our services it costs around £3m a year to look after over 200 families.

“This very generous legacy will make a huge

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44 Leek Life March/April 2016

difference, enabling us to support 35 families for a year, providing five respite stays, access to monthly counselling, physio sessions, play sessions – you name it.

“I hope other people will consider us when they make their will.”

Jill Bowler, Trusts and Legacy Manager at Douglas Macmillan Hospice, said: “When we look back on our lives we’d all like to feel we’ve made a difference and that the things we’ve achieved along the way won’t be forgotten when we are no longer around.

“The gift from Mrs Bonallo to the Dougie Mac will make a huge difference to around 3,000 local people who are facing a life limiting illness and their families in both their homes and in the Hospice. Making patients and families feel cared for is at the heart of everything we do.”

Other charities and organisations which have benefited from Mrs Bonallo's estate, which totalled £1,175,000, include: St Edward's Church in Leek (£5,000), Multiple Sclerosis Society (£1,000), Arthritis Research UK (£1,000), The National Trust (£6,000 with £5,000 for Countryside and Coastline projects and £1,000 to Biddulph Grange Gardens), Macmillan Cancer Support (£5,000), All Saints Church in Grindon (£5,000), Leek Home for Stray Cats and Dogs (£500), RSPCA (£500), and Birmingham Children's Hospital charities (£1,000).

QUIZ CORNER

Let’s get quizzical ith 20 years of quizzing expertise under his belt, Cheddleton resident Paul Steele is not just a big name on the Leek pub quiz circuit – his talent for writing enjoyable, engaging and perplexing questions has seen his abilities recognised on an international scale.

In fact, he has written quizzes on a huge variety of topics for Sky, the BBC, Krolsh lager, American Airlines, Mensa, Sony and The Sun newspaper, as well as charities like the British Heart Foundation, the Samaritans, Douglas Macmillan and Cancer Research.

He's also worked on many computer games, board games and apps, including Trivial Pursuit, The Weakest Link and Quiz Up and he's supplied questions for the 'Are You Smarter Than A Ten Year Old?' quiz book.

He said: “The time each quiz takes really depends on the quiz and content, if I know the subject well it can be very quick but if it is a subject I am less familiar with it can take a little time.

“Sometimes I buy books on the subject to add to the information found on the internet. A pub quiz of around 80 questions would take approximately three hours after all the research

NOW, LEEK LIFE MAGAZINE IS HIS NEXT PORT OF CALL AND PAUL HAS KINDLY COMPILED A LIST OF QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO GET YOUR TEETH STUCK INTO!

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE 1. Which British actress plays the part of Rey in the new 'Star Wars' film?

2. On a regular six-sided dice, what number is on the opposite side to the number six?

3. In which decade was the first Space Shuttle mission?

4. On which street did Elvis' 'Heartbreak Hotel' stand?

5. What is the capital city of Sweden?

AN 'EGG' QUIZ FOR EASTER 1. What does the saying 'How do you eat yours?' relate to?

2. 'I am the eggman' is a line from which Beatles song?

3. The British Egg Industry Council uses a symbol of which animal stamped on eggs as a mark of quality?

4. Which health minister provoked outrage by saying most of Britain's egg production was infected with salmonella in 1988?

5. Which fruit is also known as the eggplant?

General Knowledge Answers: 1. Daisy Ridley; 2. One (All opposites on a dice add up to seven); 3. 1980s (1981); 4. Lonely Street; 5.

Stockholm. Easter Quiz Answers: 1. Crème Eggs (Cadbury's introduced the egg in its current form in 1963 as Fry's Crème Eggs and changed the name to Cadbury's Crème Eggs in 1971); 2. I Am The Walrus (Released in 1967 as the B-side of the number one hit single 'Hello, Goodbye'); 3.

Lion (The British Egg Industry Council was formed in 1986 replacing the Egg Marketing Board; 4. Edwina Currie (She resigned over the controversy even though she was later proved right with her statement); 5. Aubergine (Eggplant is the common name in America and Australia).

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

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has been done.

“Inspiration for questions can come from anywhere whilst watching a film or TV show, something may stand out, the news is also a great source and if I visit somewhere I try to pick up a few facts.

“The trick is to put the right questions in the right quizzes and getting the level of difficulty right - of course a difficult question for one set of people is a very easy one for others.

“For example, 'In which town does Fireman Sam live?' is very easy for kids and some parents of young children although the majority of people at a pub quiz night would not have a clue!”

Locally, Paul has compiled and presented three annual space themed quizzes for the North Staffordshire Astronomical Society and a music based one for the Stoke-on-Trent Music Service and he regularly puts together bespoke quizzes for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and other events, where all the questions are tailored to the day and the person.

Leek Life March/April 2016 45

History of the family business of MOTORING

B.S. MARSON & SONS

ernard and Stanley Marson, founder of B.S. Marson & Sons, started the business from humble beginnings in 1949.

During the period after the Second World War, Mr BS Marson and his brother Mr EG Marson were buying ex war ministry vehicles from the government.

Through the 50’s and 60’s they were selling high quality low mileage small cars, most were fitted with hand controls for the war injured disabled drivers. After their very short usage, these had very low mileage and were in excellent condition.

It was in 1959 that the family came to Newcastle in Keele Road, buying Attwood Garage which held the Renault and Singer Dealership.

Renault continued for some 30 years, with Singer disappearing very soon. The Renault franchise was held very successfully until 1989 when unfortunately, the agency out grew the site. It was at that time we took on the Kia agency, which at first was not recognised as a main stream top seller, but through our dedication to customer service and sales, Kia became very successful.

Ten years later in 1969, we bought Eastwoods Garage adjoining the Renault dealership. The

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46 Leek Life March/April 2016

Eastwoods garage was holding many agencies for cars, motorbikes & 3 wheelers. We soon relinquished agents for Simca, Wartburg, Reliant and Skoda, retaining Fiat which we have held successfully ever since.

Through continued dedicated aftersales service and always giving the very best deals, we have become one of the largest Fiat dealers in the country.

We still have premises at Ashley where we prepare the new and used cars, also motorhomes.

John Marson, Chairman and Managing Director, with his sister Ann and wife Yvonne and also third generation son Andrew, control the business. From those very humble beginnings when we started with 2 cars and 2 men. We now have over 50 staff and over 300 quality pre-owned cars and motorhomes.

We like to think we live up to our moto of the ‘family firm to trust’.

We have many generations of families always dealing with us. You too could be assured of a very warm welcome, which could lead to a long lasting relationship. You will have a 100% confidence when you deal with us.

Jaguar XE named ‘Safest Larg MOTORING

he Jaguar XE has scored another victory over its rivals to be rated the safest Large Family Car on sale by crash safety testing body, Euro NCAP. It’s the latest in a long line of successes for the XE, launched just nine months ago, which is also included on the shortlist for the prestigious European Car of the Year (ECOTY)

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title for 2016.

During Euro NCAP’s stringent crash safety procedures, the XE was consistently strong, scoring maximum points in the side barrier impact test for adult occupant protection, giving the XE an impressive 92 per cent overall in the category. It’s a testament to the inherent strength and stiffness of the XE’s innovative lightweight aluminium-intensive architecture.

With an impressive array of active safety technology fitted as standard, including Autonomous Emergency Braking, the XE also performed extremely well in the safety assist, pedestrian protection and child occupant protection categories.

Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General of Euro NCAP said: “Euro NCAP gives top honours to the Jaguar XE which offers the highest levels of occupant protection and avoidance technology, and rewards the XE as Best in Class of 2015 in the large family segment. Euro NCAP particularly congratulates Jaguar for making all important Safety Assist features standard equipment.”

adrian wilson

THE ORIGINAL INDEPENDENT RENAULT SPECIALIST TRUST THE BEST

pr No og w ra do Pe Ren mm ing C uge au ing key itr o lt, fo oe t & r n

Adrian Wilson Garage Salisbury Street, Leek, Staffordshire ST13 5EE Telephone: 01538 399255

www.adrian-wilson.co.uk

48 Leek Life March/April 2016

rge Family Carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

The XEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s status as the safest car in its class comes shortly after a panel of 58 motoring experts from throughout Europe shortlisted the XE to be one of only seven cars in contention for the European Car of the Year 2016 title. Its benchmark driving dynamics, dramatic Jaguar design and efficient Ingenium engines have already helped the XE win 23 global awards to date.

Jaguar Land Rover UK Managing Director Jeremy Hicks said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Jaguar XE has already been widely praised by the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s media and by our customers as being a benchmark model for its design, handling and low cost of ownership figures, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thrilled to now add Euro NCAP rated best-in-class safety to that list. The Euro NCAP tests are extremely thorough, and the competition in this class is formidable, which makes this latest accolade an outstanding achievement.â&#x20AC;?

The impressive safety and other specification features of the Jaguar XE may be explored at: www.jaguar.co.uk/build-yours

CRUSO AUTO REPAIRS

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

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Leek, Staffs, ST13 8BU

MOTORING

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T. 07846 928036 Director: Shaun Stonier Workshop: Basford Lane, Leekbrook, Industrial Estate, ST13 7DT E-mail: shaun@peak-tec.co.uk

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CLASSIFIED

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• City & Guilds approved • Installation & service The Nook, Butterton, Leek, Staffs, ST13 7SP

T: 01538 304518 M: 07841 708861

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50 Leek Life March/April 2016

Alan Lewis Electrical Contractors All types of domestic work undertaken No job too small Free friendly advice and quotes

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Please call 07811 176311

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Repair & service of: • Washing Machines • Tumble Dryers • Ovens • Refrigeration • Dishwashers

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