Leek Life May June 2017 by Times Echo and Life

MAY/JUNE 2017

Embrace the

GREAT OUTDOORS

Inspirational ideas to bring out your wild side

Life Spring events calendar EXCITING PROGRAMME BEGINS TO BLOOM

WIN

th swor ls t a h C a e T ri s r o H ts ticke

STAFFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW Plan ahead to make the most of your day out

MAY/JUNE

2017

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter......................................6

Leek Arts Festival ................................8

Staffordshire County Show................10

Chatsworth Horse Trials....................13 The Great Get Together .....................14 Recipe For Life ...................................18

Staffordshire Moorlands CAMRA.....20

Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research...21 Wedding.............................................24

Stage Directions.................................26 Brett Trafford Photography...............27

Caudwell Children .............................28

Buxton & Leek College ......................29

Property .............................................30 Countryside Volunteer Scheme.........34 Staffordshire Wildlife Trust...............35

Gardening ..........................................36 Home Improvements ........................38

Kingfisher Country Music Club.........40

The Phoenix Singers ..........................41

Scooterfest .........................................42 Hearing Dogs for Deaf People ...........43 Reflections Coaching .........................45

Jo Johnson Family Law.....................46 Motoring ............................................47

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

CONTENTS

LEEK’S EXCITING SPRING PROGRAMME BEGINS TO BLOOM

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

elcome to the May/June edition of Leek Life Magazine, the springtime is truly upon us now and with new life burgeoning all around us it’s hard not to become enthused by the season. Each year as spring beckons Leek’s thriving social calendar begins to bud and readers have much to look forward to in the months ahead as the hard work of the town’s dedicated array of events organisers comes to fruition. Already underway is the hugely popular Leek Arts Festival and what a coup for our wonderful town to have one of the UK’s most legendary folk stars, Ralph McTell, headline the 2017 event alongside the wealth of diverse and talented acts set to perform this year. We also hear from the Phoenix Singers about their latest show which will see them share a stage with a handful of professional artists. Also featured is the Kingfisher Country Music Club which is preparing to host its annual Country and Western weekend in memory of Harold Critchlow. If sidling up to nature is more up your cup of tea then Leek has plenty to offer this Spring for you too. Staffordshire Wildlife Trust have been in touch to launch a new ‘30 Days Wild’ challenge which is packed full of inspirational ideas for connecting with the wildlife around us. Also, a new drive for volunteers has been launched to help improve the condition of Leek’s country parks – a great way to enjoy the great outdoors and help the local community into the bargain! We hope you enjoy this latest edition of Leek Life Magazine, happy reading!

Lorna

Did you know that you can read Leek Life online? Front cover photo courtesy of Brett Trafford www.bretttrafford.com 6 Leek Life May/June 2017

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

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• ALL FAMILY MATTERS Divorce, Child Maintenance, Child access, pre-nuptial agreements

• ACCIDENT CLAIMS AND ALL LITIGATION MATTERS Accidents at work, road traffic accidents, trips and slips, neighbour disputes

• MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE • WILL WRITING, ALL PROBATE MATTERS Have you got round to making a will to look after your loved ones?

T: 01538 388809 12 Market Street, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 6HZ Email: nick@uprights-solicitors.co.uk

LEEK ARTS FESTIVAL

LEGENDARY FOLK STAR TO HEADLINE FESTIVAL

8 Leek Life May/June 2017

LEEK ARTS FESTIVAL

ne of the UK’s most legendary folk stars has been confirmed as the headline act for a major North Staffordshire arts festival. After weeks of negotiations, singer-songwriter Ralph McTell – the man who wrote the famous ‘Streets of London’ - has agreed to perform at Leek Arts Festival this May. Ralph made his debut in 1968 with the album ‘Eight Frames a Second’ and in 1974 the release of ‘Streets of London’ earned him an Ivor Novello Award. In 2002 he was presented with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Leek Arts Festival spokesman Phil Edmeades told Leek Life Magazine: “We’ve been trying to get Ralph to come to Leek for several years, but he’s in such demand that until now we’ve never been able to do the deal. “However, this year he has managed to find a slot in his diary for us and we are delighted he is coming to Leek. This gig will be something special and will rank alongside last year’s Leek Arts Festival highlight when we brought Barbara Dickson to the town.” Ralph will play at Leek’s Foxlowe Arts Centre on Sunday May 28 alongside another iconic artist – guitarist Wizz Jones. Wizz learned his guitar licks from the likes of Davy Graham and Long John Baldry while playing in the coffee bars of London’s Soho. Eric Clapton and Keith Richards have both named him as an important early influence and

in May 2012 Bruce Springsteen opened his Berlin show with Wizz’s song ‘When I Leave Berlin’. Phil added: “Tickets for the Ralph McTell and Wizz Jones gig are already selling fast and we can only accommodate a maximum of 160 people at The Foxlowe.” Other key events in this year’s Leek Arts Festival include folk funny-man Richard Digance, star of stand up Shappi Khorsandi, I Am Kloot frontman John Bramwell, fathers of folk/rock Fairport Convention, the Birmingham Conservatoire Folk Ensemble and an exciting young female duo - Sound of the Sirens. Phil continued: “We saw these two girls at the Cropredy music festival last year and were blown away by their energy and enthusiasm. They write all their own material and deliver it in a unique foot- stomping folk/rock style that had 24,000 people standing up and cheering at Cropredy. After waiting more than an hour while they autographed copies of their CDs for festival fans, we signed them up for Leek there and then.”This year’s Leek Arts Festival programme includes a total of more than 30 events running from now through to early June. Full details are available on the festival website at www.leekartsfestival.co.uk and 35,000 printed programmes are currently being distributed throughout the area. Tickets for all major events can be purchased via the website and also, at the Foxlowe Arts Centre (01538 386112) or at Leek Tourist Information Centre (01538 483741). Leek Life May/June 2017 9

STAFFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW

A FAMILY OCCASION TO BE ENJOYED BY ALL PLAN AHEAD TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR DAY OUT

housands of families across Staffordshire are being urged to ‘save the date’ for the annual county show as part of their half term programme of fun. Organisers of Staffordshire County Show said the two day half term event on Wednesday 31st May and Thursday 1st June was the perfect opportunity for a day out for all members of the family. The show programme is packed with attractions for children of all ages from youngsters who will enjoy the mud kitchen in the Woodfest area to teenagers who will be ringside for the revving of the engines with the Bolddog Lings Motorcycle Display Team. Whilst the next generation of farmers will be inspired by the first class entries in livestock competitions across the showground and enjoy everything at the heart of the traditional agricultural show. The show at the county showground on Weston Road is one of the area’s major events on the calendar and is expected to attract more than 65,000 visitors. A huge part of its appeal is the large number of activities on offer across the huge showground and surrounding areas. Richard Williams, Chief Executive of the Staffordshire and Birmingham Agricultural

Society, said: “We know people plan ahead when it comes to days off and childcare during half term holidays so we want people to put the date in the diary now so they don’t miss out. “With it being a two day event it gives people the choice and we see many families return for the second day with other members of the family. “From babies still in pushchairs to grandparents and great-grandparents there is no doubt our fantastic show has something for everyone. It is really is a family occasion enjoyed by all - it is where memories are made and talked about for many years. “For one fantastic ticket price the whole family gets to enjoy so many shows within one show - whatever their interest they are sure to have a fantastic time. “So diaries at the ready - choose your date and be ready when the early bird tickets go on sale on April 1st on the website www.staffscountyshowground.co.uk or from the showground office.” Holly Hobson, Show Secretary said trade stand applications were coming in extremely well and urged anyone who wanted a trade stand pitch to showcase their services or product to more than 65,000 people to email holly@staffscountyshowground.co.uk or call 01785 258060. For more information about the show visit the website www.staffscountyshowground.co.uk Leek Life May/June 2017 11

COUNTRY CRAFTS AREA A MAJOR DRAW FOR VISITORS

STAFFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW

isplays and demonstrations of various country crafts and pursuits will form some of the major attractions at this year’s Staffordshire County Show. The two-day event attracted 65,000 people last year and the show’s Country Pursuits area proved one of the most popular with visitors to the massive Showground on Weston Road. This year’s show will be held during half term on Wednesday 31st May and Thursday 1st June and organisers are confident they offer something for everybody who is interested in following country life activities. Richard Williams, Chief Executive of the Staffordshire and Birmingham Agricultural Society, which runs the Showground on Weston Road, Stafford, said: “The Country Pursuits area is always a favourite for visitors to the show. “We have a wide range of things to see and do again this year and are sure the attractions will be well worth a look. “There will be donkey rides for the youngsters, falconry displays with several birds on show and broom and basket making demonstrations. Visitors can also see farriers hard at work showing off their exceptional skills. “We will be hosting a horse shoemaking competition and demonstrating how horses are shoed. “Angling is hugely popular and the country pursuits area will have a fly casting demonstration

12 Leek Life May/June 2017

and competition. “Experts will be on hand to pass on tips about clog making, den building and coracles. “We also welcome back the Quack Pack Sheepdog & Duck Display and there will be The Sheep Show and a ferret roadshow. “Youngsters enjoy the opportunity of getting close to and petting the animals and they will be able to do that again this year.” In addition to the Country Pursuits area and main ring attractions, Woodfest takes place in Berryhill, an oak wood at the Stafford end of the Showground. The two-day show is an ideal opportunity to see how this beautiful scenic feature is being restored. There is also the chance to wander through the woodland trail and take a breather in the wonderful picnic area. Visitors also get the chance to see a professional logger and his horse team in action. Another big attraction at this year’s show will be the visit of giant tortoises, in what will be their first appearance in this part of the country. Adrian Graham will be bringing his Aldabra tortoises all the way from Lincolnshire and will be at the show on both days. There will be an antiques fair, which will be hosted by Pat Dyer Antiques Fairs, bandstand concerts, a cookery theatre and Food Hall in the Prestwood Centre, a craft show and 400 trade stands.

Photos courtesy of Ruth Downing

DODSON & HORRELL CHATSWORTH HORSE TRIALS

TICKETS TO WORLD CLASS COMPETITION UP FOR GRABS Taking place Friday 12th May to Sunday 14th May 2017 he Dodson & Horrell Chatsworth International Horse Trials promise three days of exciting equestrian sport – and we’re giving you the chance to join in and enjoy this world-class event for free! Having teamed up with organisers of the event, which is held in the magnificent surroundings of Chatsworth Park, we have two sets of family passes to give away for entry to the final day of the trails – Sunday 14th May. From elegant dressage and exciting show jumping to gripping cross country action this event offers it all. There will be a range of entertainment and activities for the whole family including a shopping village with over 100 high-quality trade stands selling a wide selection of country

clothing, equestrian products, fashion accessories, delicious food and much more. Special attractions will include the Pony Club Mounted Games; British Scurry and Driving Trials; the Sheep Show, Have a go Agility and a Fun Dog Show, the Mullenscote Gun Dog Display and the UK Rescue Bears. This year also sees the introduction of pottery painting as well as a circus skills workshop. Other children’s entertainment includes face painting, a bouncy castle and more. The house, garden, farmyard and playground are open as usual during the Horse Trials. Dogs on leads are welcome. For ticket and membership information visit www.chatsworth.org/horse-trials

To win a set of family passes answer the following question correctly:

Which Peak District tourist attraction will host the International Horse Trials? 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: 7th May 2017. Leek Life May/June 2017 13

THE GREAT GET TOGETHER THE GREAT GET TOGETHER

A GREAT FREE WEEKEND IN LEEK!

he Great Get Together is a national event to pay tribute to the MP Jo Cox who was murdered in June last year and is famously remembered for having said: “We have more in common than that which divides us”. So what better way of coming together and celebrating our community with events in the town centre on Saturday 17th June and in Brough Park on Sunday 18th June. The weekend starts with live music to suit all tastes, a display of vintage vehicles, Moorlands Radio and the very popular Fine Food market. Then on Sunday, due to the success of last year, “Party in the Park” will take place. The big attraction will be the GIANT WATERSLIDE making a welcome return down the natural slopes in the park - this 100 metre long waterslide (suitable for 7 year olds and above), will take you on a thrilling ride from the top, near the bandstand, to the bottom of the park. There is a jam-packed and varied program

14 Leek Life May/June 2017

lined up and thousands of visitors are expected to descend upon Leek to join in and enjoy the weekend’s fun and celebrations. Leek Town Councillor Roy Tomkinson, Chairman of the Events Committee told us more. “The weekend will be a great family get together and the programme has something for everyone with live music in the town and in the park, free face painting, donkey rides and John Collins Funfair in Vicarage Road car park on both days. It’s also Father’s Day on the Sunday so what better way of celebrating than a waterslide ticket for Dad! ” Indeed it’s an action packed program starting at 11.00am on both Saturday and Sunday with local musicians and soloists, including Folk and Americana artists, Pinewood Shoes, Sound Party, Missing Link, Fielding Talks and Peace Through Folk Choir. Also the Buxton Billerettes , Punch & Judy, Leek Archery, Tribe Dance Academy and Synchronicity will keep the crowds entertained. Leek Town Crier will be proclaiming the programme of events; a range of market stallholders will tempt shoppers with unique crafts and gifts and local community organisations will be fundraising - not to mention a hog roast, pizza, hot dogs, ice creams and a licensed bar! Leek Town Council and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council are hosting the event and thanks to all the sponsors who have helped make it possible. If a community group or market trader is interested in having a stall at the event or if you would like to be a volunteer over the weekend, contact Leek Town Clerk, Julie Taylor, 01538 381271.

THE GREAT GET TOGETHER

Leek Life May/June 2017 15

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Simple springtime fayre RECIPE FOR LIFE

hat better way to welcome in the spring than with a traditional roast lamb lunch? Here we add a little twist to your regular

MINTED ROAST LEG OF LAMB

Ingredients: The Roast: • 2.7kg leg of lamb sourced from your local butcher • Fresh thyme and rosemary • 250ml chicken stock • 100ml water The Rub: • 15 fresh mint leaves chopped • 4 garlic cloves, crushed • 50g butter • 2 tsp whole grain mustard • ½ tsp English mustard powder • Juice and rind of 1 lemon, grated • Black pepper

You are always welcome at

The Hollybush Inn Delicious homemade food served everyday including Sunday when we serve a traditional roast, and delicious daily specials

• Families welcome • Outdoor play area • Dog friendly • Large beer garden • A selection of real ales

Canal Side, Denford, Leek , ST13 7JT

01538 371819

18 Leek Life May/June 2017

roast leg of lamb with a beautiful homemade mint rub, which is quick and easy to execute but for which you will reap the rewards tenfold when it comes to the all important taste test!

Method: While waiting for your preheated oven to reach 140°C, put the lamb into a roasting dish and make incisions on the top of the lamb leg all over the meat with a sharp knife. This will help the flavours from the rub to infuse the meat In a separate bowl mix together the mint, crushed garlic, butter, whole grain mustard, mustard powder, lemon juice and grated rind and then smother the rub all over the lamb. Place the fresh thyme and rosemary at the base of the roasting tray, tucked underneath the leg of lamb. Pour the stock and water into the roasting tin around the meat, and cover with a lid or tin foil to seal. Roast in the oven at 140°C for 3 1/2 to 4 hours or until tender. Increase the temperature to 180°C, remove the tin foil, place back and roast for 30 minutes until golden. Remove from the oven, and transfer lamb to serving board to rest whilst you make the gravy. Seasonal serving suggesting: Jersey Royal new potatoes and spring greens are at their best during April and May and would make a great accompaniment to roasted leg of lamb.

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STAFFORDSHIRE MOORLANDS CAMRA

PIZZERIA BECOMES UNLIKELY PICK OF PUB PUNDITS

popular pizzeria has become the unlikely recipient of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Pub of the Season accolade. As an organisation the Staffordshire Moorlands branch of CAMRA is comprised of an army of dedicated members who are committed to sniffing out the very finest pubs in the district. In a refreshing break from the norm, the group have announced the Napoli restaurant and bar, located in High Street, Leek, as its Pub of the Season for Spring 2017. On behalf of CAMRA, good beer connoisseur Levison Wood told Leek Life Magazine: “Amongst the many good pubs that now inhabit the town of Leek CAMRA affectionados should ensure they

20 Leek Life May/June 2017

consider popping into Napoli Pizzeria and Bar. “The Napoli offers two real ales: an exclusive premium pale ale called Superlupolo brewed at Whim in Hartington and the more sessionable but no less enjoyable Arbor Light, also from Whim. “Napoli will not fail to satisfy the discerning real ale customer. Sit back, relax and drink in the welcoming ambiance, akin to having a pint in the King’s Road in Chelsea; yet the prizes are at half the cost of a London equivalent. “Staffordshire Moorlands CAMRA Sub Branch warmly welcomes this fine addition to the expanding real ale venues in the town and highly recommends you pay the Napoli a call.”

FRIENDS MAKE BLOODWISE GIFT

LEUKAEMIA & LYMPHOMA RESEARCH

£6,000 RAISED IN MEMORY OF POPULAR COLLEAGUE

ormer colleagues of a popular local man have given a special cash boost to the UK’s biggest blood cancer charity in his memory. Tony Hubbard, the former Operations Director at Leek United Building Society, passed away last November following a courageous battle with leukaemia. During his illness, members of the St Edwards Street Head Office team decided to focus their charity fundraising throughout 2016 on Bloodwise, an organisation dedicated to improving the lives of patients such as Tony. Various events – including dress-down days, raffles, a staff tuck shop, a mobile fish and chip van in the staff car park, and the Society’s annual charity golf day – raised a grand total of £6,000. A cheque for the amount was recently presented to Emma Jane Jones, Bloodwise’s Midlands Regional Manager, at Leek United’s Head Office by Chief Executive Kevin Wilson. “We are constantly inspired by the stories of those fundraising for us and the dedication of our supporters, and we are truly grateful to every single member of Leek United’s team for their achievement,” Emma told Leek Life Magazine. “The amazing amount of money they have raised in memory of their much-loved colleague Tony will be invested in our life-saving research

here in the Midlands, to help us in our mission to stop people from dying of blood cancer and make patients’ lives better.” Leek United Chief Executive Kevin Wilson added: “Tony is greatly missed; the superb amount donated in his memory is a tribute to all staff involved, and we intend to continue fundraising for this very worthy cause throughout 2017.” Pictured: Chief Executive Kevin Wilson and staff present the Society’s cheque to Bloodwise’s Emma Jane Jones of Bloodwise at Leek United’s Head Office in St Edward Street, Leek. Bloodwise was formed in 1960, changing its name from Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research in September 2015. Its life-saving work is focused on stopping people from dying of blood cancer, improving the quality of life for patients and their families, and where possible, stopping people getting blood cancer in the first place. The charity’s research is targeted at understanding more about blood cancer, finding causes, improving diagnosis and treatments, and running groundbreaking clinical trials. Around 38,000 people of all ages are diagnosed with blood cancers and related disorders every year. Some affect thousands of people others affect only a handful but together, blood cancers are the fifth most common cancer. For more information visit www.bloodwise.org.uk.

Leek Life May/June 2017 21

WEDDING

Teenage sweethearts h

24 Leek Life May/June 2017

WEDDING

hitched after 20 years SCOTT AND AMANDA EXCHANGE VOWS AT BLACKSHAW MOOR VENUE, THE THREE HORSESHOES

fter two children, a house renovation and more than 20 years together, a Wetley Rocks couple have tied the knot. Amanda Jayne Hall, a receptionist at Times, Echo and Life - publishers of Leek Life Magazinemarried her long-term partner, Scott Joseph Belfield at The Three Horseshoes at Blackshaw Moor early in February. The couple’s two sons accompanied the bride as she walked down the aisle to marry their father. Scott, an aeronautical engineer at Rolls Royce in Derby, is the eldest son of Carol and Michael Belfield of Heath Avenue Cellarhead. His friend, Dave Claypole, was best man and acted as witness to the marriage along with his brothers, Dale and Ryan Belfield and the bride’s sister, Melissa Hall.

Amanda, youngest daughter of Maureen Milward of Cheadle and Isaac Hall of Ashbourne, chose her niece Chloe Brindley and friend’s daughter Evie Smith as her bridesmaids. The girls both wore Gino Cerruti lilac dresses and carried smaller versions of the bride’s bouquet which was an array of ivory and lilac blooms arranged by Pink Pumpkin in Leek. The bride wore a beautiful Gino Cerruti gown in ivory from Deaville Designs in Whiston. The couple’s sons, Finley, aged 13 and 10year-old Ethan, accompanied their mum down the aisle during the ceremony which was followed by a reception for 40 guests and an evening celebration for 130 at The Three Horseshoes. Photographer David Hide (www.davehidephotography.co.uk), captured the precious memories of the day on camera and guests received a slice of the lovely wedding cake made by Sharon Burnett of Cheadle. The couple enjoyed a honeymoon break in Bath before returning to the family home in Cheadle Road, Wetley Rocks.

Leek Life May/June 2017 25

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

Win tickets to see Footloose: The Musical at Buxton Opera House ollowing an acclaimed 2016 UK Tour, worldwide smash hit musical Footloose: The Musical will burst back onto the stage in 2017, playing at Buxton Opera House from Tuesday 30 May to Saturday 3 June. Based on the 1984 screen sensation starring Kevin Bacon, Footloose: The Musical tells the story of city boy Ren, who has to move to a rural backwater in America where dancing is banned. All hell breaks out as Ren breaks loose and soon has the whole town up on its feet. Featuring classic 80s hits including Holding Out for a Hero, Almost Paradise, Let's Hear it for the Boy and the unforgettable title track Footloose, this show is bursting with youthful spirit, dazzling dance and electrifying music. The cast will include Gareth Gates as Willard and Maureen Nolan as Vi Moore. Gareth Gates rose to fame

through the inaugural series of Pop Idol in 2001, going on to sell over 5 million records worldwide and have hits across the globe. His version of Unchained Melody sold over a million copies in the UK and is the 3rd best-selling single of the Noughties. Maureen Nolan has been singing with her sisters since she was nine years old, when they became one of Europe’s first girl bands, The Nolans. Best known for their smash

hit single I’m in the Mood for Dancing, The Nolans enjoyed phenomenal record sales worldwide, and worked with some of the world’s most respected artists including Frank Sinatra. Footloose: The Musical takes place at Buxton Opera House from Tuesday 30 May to Saturday 3 June. Tickets are priced from £24 to £32 and discounts are available. To buy tickets call the Box Office on 01298 72050.

To win two tickets for opening night on Tuesday 30th May answer the following question.

WHICH TALENT SHOW DID GARETH GATES APPEAR ON? a. Pop Idol

b. X Factor

c. Britain’s Got Talent

(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 24th May 2017. 26 Leek Life May/June 2017

BRETT TRAFFORD PHOTOGRAPHY

MILESTONE EDITION FOR PICTURE PERFECT COVER BOY CELEBRATING BRETT’S 21ST LEEK LIFE FRONT PAGE SHOT

s milestones go – whether it be a birthday or a work anniversary - celebrating your 21st is simply par for the course. And so, with this in mind, we just couldn’t fail to acknowledge the 21st front page image snapped by Leek Life Magazine’s dedicated cover photographer, the hugely talented Brett Trafford. Reflecting on the contribution Brett has made to the magazine, Leek Life Contents Editor Lorna Gould commented: “Selecting one of Brett’s photographs for our front cover is always one of the highlights of the magazine production process – his images are an absolute joy to work with. “Each shot is always beautifully

composed and over the years we have had some of Leek’s most dramatic scenery as well as it’s most iconic buildings grace the front page. “Somehow his images make you see familiar places that we pass every day in a new and refreshing light, you can’t help but look twice!“ Brett Trafford is an award winning, commercial and freelance photographer with over 20 years industry experience. He lives in Leek and has worked on a wide range of photographic projects from wedding and family portrait sessions to corporate events and product shoots for large companies. Brett is also committed to support both local and national charities. The March/April edition of Leek Life Magazine was the 21st edition to carry an image courtesy of Brett Trafford Photography on the front cover.

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Leek Life May/June 2017 27

CAUDWELL CHILDREN

DRUM WORKSHOP HELPS KIDS BEAT CONFIDENCE STRUGGLES

rying to build a child’s self -esteem and confidence can ordinarily be a challenging fete in itself, but for children with additional needs the challenge can become entirely more difficult to overcome. That is why the locally based national charity Caudwell Children stepped in recently to help a group of disabled children from Leek through a free Drum Workshop held at St Paul’s Church in Novi Lane. The workshop was designed to give participants, all of whom were aged between eight and 18 years old, the opportunity to enjoy a fun filled, hands on, rhythmical experience. As Steffi Brown, Community Projects Coordinator for Caudwell Children, told Leek Life Magazine: “The group had a fantastic time making lots of noise and enjoyed the thrill of making music together. “David Woolley, from Joliba West African Drum and Dance School, in Stoke on Trent, brought the best out of all those who attended and ensured that they got into the swing of things.” Steffi said that as well as having a fabulous day out the workshop was also important in

28 Leek Life May/June 2017

helping the group to develop a range of skills. She continued: “The group drummed in a circle which is a very powerful method of building children’s confidence and self-esteem and was something that they all enjoyed. “The sessions also developed listening skills, helping participants to learn how to interact and respond to others. “This is extremely important as 78% of disabled children in the UK have no access to activities outside the home and may find it difficult to mix with others.” There were many different types of drums provided for participants to enjoy as well as other rhythmic activities to enjoy. In addition to the boom and bang of the drums the children and young people got the chance to try their hand at choreographed dance and African song. “The day was a great opportunity for the children to get out, make new friends and have some fun,” added Steffi. Caudwell Children is a Staffordshire based national charity that provides practical and emotional support to disabled children and their families.

GET TO KNOW BUXTON & LEEK COLLEGE AT THEIR COMMUNITY OPEN DAY

BUXTON & LEEK COLLEGE

uxton & Leek College will be opening their doors to the local community on Saturday 20th May 2017 at their campuses in both Buxton and Leek. The Open Day will be taking place from 10am2pm and will feature a range of activities for Leek locals to enjoy including sports activities, Virtual Reality equipment trials, hair and beauty demonstrations, family friendly fun, items for sale, refreshments and the opportunity to win fantastic prizes, including pamper packages for up to 8 people, Love2Shop vouchers and more. To be in with a chance of winning, entering the competition is easy. All you need to do is head over to either the Buxton or Leek campus on 20th May and fill in an entry form with your details; winners will be drawn and notified on the day. Head of Recruitment & Marketing at Buxton & Leek College, Suzi Cordon, said: “Our community Open Day will offer something for everyone with family friendly events, demonstrations and the opportunity to find out more about the College.

There’s lots going on at the College and we have recently opened some brand new facilities with state-of-the-art equipment that will all be on show. Everyone is welcome to come along and experience what BLC has to offer the local community – look out for us in the town centre at the Leek Fine Foods Festival on the same day!” If you’re thinking about the next step in your studies or career, our tutors will be on hand at the campus to talk to you on how Buxton & Leek College can support you in achieving your goals and taking those next steps. We’ll also have information about our flexible adult full and part– time courses, including Learning for Leisure recreational courses. The community Open Day is from 10am-2pm at the College’s campus on Stockwell Street, Leek. For more information about the activities on offer, please visit www.blc.ac.uk/OpenDay or call 0800 074 0099. Free transport is provided from midday for anyone who wants to visit all three sites in Buxton, Leek and Harpur Hill.

Leek Life May/June 2017 29

WHAT DOES A PLANNING CONSULTANT DO? PROPERTY

his is a question that I am sometimes asked. In simple terms a planning consultant’s main work involves submitting planning applications and getting permission for development. When applications are refused the consultant often submits appeals to get the decision overturned. However, I also: • Act for clients who have received enforcement notices for work done without planning permission or where enforcement is possible. • Prepare assessments of the impact of development on listed buildings and conservation. • Assess whether development is possible on sites. • Advise on legal agreements which are sometimes needed. • Advise on the preparation of neighbourhood plans. • Carry out viability studies. Over the years I have worked on a wide variety of projects from small to large including

residential, commercial and tourism projects including the Imperial War Museum North. Most of the projects are what might be described as challenging and involve problem solving in order to be successful. I have been a consultant in Leek since 2003 and work on all types of project – farm workers dwellings, helping people establish new farms, farm diversification, new houses and flats, barn conversions, retail, residential annexes, small and medium sized housing developments, farm buildings, equestrian projects including stables, outdoor riding areas, studs and commercial stables, restaurants and cafes, developments in the Green Belt, Grand Design houses and care facilities. Recent successes include obtaining: • Outline planning permission for two houses in the Green Belt in Longsdon. • Permission for a wedding event venue. • A new house on a farm in the Peak District. • Two open market houses in the Peak District.

Ken Wainman Associates Ltd Chartered planning consultant Need help obtaining planning permission, planning appeals or with enforcement issues? I can help. I am an experienced qualified planner specialising in obtaining planning permissions, planning appeals and enforcement issues.

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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 30 Leek Life May/June 2017

PROPERTY

Brook Lane Endon Have you been dreaming of the perfect detached property in Endon Village with country views? Set back in an idyllic location in the highly sought after area of Endon Village, this stunning 4/5 bedroom detached property boasts open views of the Staffordshire Moorland. Offering a good sized plot and high level of finish this property is not one to be missed.

EPC Grade D Asking Price ÂŁ435.000

Alison Proudfoot Endon Branch Manager With 17 years Estate Agency experience, entirely in the local area provides Alison with a unique insight into your marketing and enables her to get the best price for your property. Alison understands that both selling and letting your property is a stressful time and the Hunters team in Endon are on hand to guide you through the process to ensure a smooth progression. Alison also brings advice, a proactive approach, bespoke marketing and a personal touch.

West Drive Cheddleton A stunning four bedroom detached property on the sought after St Edwards Park Boasting a larger than average plot, around one third of an acre, this property is in arguably one of the best locations on the development with enchanting woodland and landscaped gardens to the rear. This property is sure to attract a lot of interest.

EPC Grade D Asking Price ÂŁ430.000

144 Leek Road Endon Staffordshire Moorlands ST9 9EW endon@hunters.com

01782 626522 Leek Life May/June 2017 31

PROPERTY

32 Leek Life May/June 2017

PROPERTY

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Leek Life May/June 2017 33

COUNTRYSIDE VOLUNTEER SCHEME

COULD YOU HELP CARE FOR THE LANDSCAPES YOU LOVE? f you care about the countryside and think local wildlife is wonderful then you can become a volunteer and get involved in improving your local environment. Staffordshire Moorlands District Council is offering local people the chance to learn new skills, meet like-minded new friends and gain valuable experience in improving countryside sites across the district. Mark Preece from the Council told Leek Life Magazine: “We’re setting up a new countryside management volunteer group to carry out practical work at our country parks and local nature reserves including Wetley Moor and Brough Park fields and at our country park at

34 Leek Life May/June 2017

Ladderedge. “The work we’ll be doing will make a real and visible difference – we’ll be carrying out dry stone walling, path work and fencing as well as managing habitats for wildlife – so this is a real chance to get involved in caring for the landscapes and environment you love.” Volunteer sessions will run from 10.30am to 2.30pm on the second and last Wednesdays of every month and those taking part will need to make their own way to the events. If you’re interested in taking part please contact Mark or Emma Mortimer on 01538 395577 or countryside@staffsmoorlands.gov.uk for more details.

SUNSHINE FOR THE SOUL P

STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

eople across Staffordshire are being encouraged to sign up for a free special pack full of encouragement to get them engaging with nature throughout the whole of June. Staffordshire Wildlife Trust is inviting people across the county to take part in The Wildlife Trust’s 30 Days Wild, an initiative challenging individuals, friends and families to sign up for a pack full of encouragement and ideas to do something wild every day this June. By registering, individuals, families and schools will receive packs full of nature themed ideas for the month, a wallchart to track progress and record adventures, a wild badge plus other goodies. The challenge involves people doing something nature related each day during June by carrying out ‘Random Acts of Wildness’ practical, fun and quirky ideas for connecting with the wild around us. Challenges can be as simple as feeling the

grass between your toes, planting wildflowers in your garden, reading your favourite nature book or downloading a phone app to tell the difference between different bird calls. People can spend a few minutes, or a few hours each day enjoying nature - how they do it is up to them. Jon Owen, Press and Social Media Officer for the Trust, said: “Hundreds of people across Staffordshire took part in 30 Days Wild last year and it was so pleasing to see what people were getting up to as part of the initiative. “The aim is to reconnect people with nature. Life can be hectic, and it is difficult sometimes to take a step back and look at the beauty that surrounds us and is close to us. “One of the best things about 30 Days Wild is it’s up to you how to tackle the challenge. Even if you miss a day, you can just pick it up the next day and go from there. “Not only is 30 days wild great fun, but researchers have proved that it's great for your health, too.” Lucy McRobert at The Wildlife Trusts, said: “Last year thousands of people carried out 1.8 million Random Acts of Wildness during 30 Days Wild. That’s 1.8 million precious moments that brought people closer to nature and enhanced their lives. "The Wildlife Trusts aim to double that number this year – and we hope that the connections people make with the wild around them will ensure that it is better protected for the future too.” 30 Days Wild packs include a packet of wildflower seeds, activity sheets, a calendar to record adventures, stickers, and a poster. Schools will get a large deck of ‘Random Acts of Wildness’ cards for inspiring ideas. Head to http://www.wildlifetrusts.org/ 30DaysWild to sign up.

Leek Life May/June 2017 35

GARDENING

HELENIUMS - MY F By Martin Blow

he great garden writer Christopher Lloyd, when asked what his favourite flower was, replied: “the one I’m looking at now”. It’s that way with me with Heleniums; all are beautiful in their own right, all are equally easy to grow and all do a great job in the border, be it a 15-inch (38cm) edger to a 6-footer (180cm) at the back. Heleniums come in all shades and variations of Yellow, Orange and Red. The only thing to remember is that Heleniums need good sunlight to obtain the best colours. Yellow varieties will perform in some shade, but the reds need 3 or 4 hours of good sunlight to colour up properly. Left in the shade they will be pale orange and yellow. The common name, “Sneezeweed”, comes from the use of dried and powdered leaves as medicinal snuff to cure colds and bronchitis. Don’t try this at home! Heleniums are toxic and harmful if ingested. In Germany, they are called “Sonnenbraut” – “Sun Brides”; far more romantic! All heleniums are a great source of nectar for

36 Leek Life May/June 2017

bees and butterflies which will flock to the flowers with glee. Gardeners often think of Heleniums as lateflowering, adding colour to the August and September garden, but with careful selection of varieties and regular dead heading and watering, you can have Heleniums in bloom from mid-June until the beginning of November without having to resort to forcing plants in a greenhouse. The short varieties are usually earlier to flower and with dead heading will go on longest. Probably the best is the 2ft (60cm) tall Mardi Gras with its jolly masses of flower and a strong constitution. Also, highly recommended is the bright red Red Army and Fata Morgana a lovely variety with upswept petals in apricot with orange undersides making a beautiful two-toned effect in the garden. Mid height Heleniums (3ft / 60cm tall) are great for the middle or back of borders (depending on the size of border). The most popular is Sahin’s Early Flowerer but a better choice is the magnificent El Dorado with very large golden yellow flowers. Hot Lava is a brand new one that is later to flower but very bushy.

GARDENING

FAVOURITE PLANT Tall varieties (4-6ft / 120-180cm) might need a stake in an exposed site but I rarely need to resort to this as the stems are very thick and strong. Amber is the best of newer varieties with masses of flower on upright plants. You can’t go wrong with the 4-5ft old variety Kanaria with its canary yellow flowers. For something showier the picotee-edged flowers of Fiesta stand out well at the back of the border. Heleniums mix well with lots of garden plants. I particularly like them with grasses in late summer – short moor grasses (Molinia) or taller

Silver Grass (Miscanthus) and Feather Grass (Pennisetum). Monarda (Bergamot) and Phlox make great companions as all require similar growing conditions. There are a few simple rules to follow to get the best out of heleniums: water whenever dry even in spring or autumn; deadhead short varieties regularly; cut down the stems to just above the ground in winter and only divide or move them in spring not autumn. Follow these and heleniums should come back each year to brighten up your summer and autumn garden.

Janet & I run Special Perennials, website www.specialperennials.com We will be at Plant Hunters’ Fairs at Adlington Hall, Macclesfield SK10 4LF on Sunday 7th May entry to the plant fair and wonderful gardens is half standard price at only £3.00. Carsington Water, Ashbourne (DE6 1ST) on Bank Holiday Monday 29th May free entry to fair P&D parking. At Hodnet Hall Gardens, Market Drayton (TF9 3NN) on Sat 3rd& Sun 4th June, fabulous gardens & plant fair special price only £3.50. Sugnall Walled Garden, Eccleshall (ST21 6NF) on Sun 25th June, fair & gardens £1.00 entry. Henbury Hall Garden, Macclesfield (SK11 9PJ) on Sat 1st & Sun 2nd July, entry to this lovely rarely open 12-acre garden and plant fair only £2.50. For full details of these and other Plant Hunters’ Fairs please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect. Leek Life May/June 2017 37

SHARE YOUR SKILLS FOR SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENTS

pring has arrived and as we all prepare for the seasons ahead, it’s time to think about our homes and gardens. And as we start to feel a little more positive thanks to the promise of brighter weather to come, it’s also a good time to have a look around, not just at our own little castles, but at the homes of others. Spring is the traditional time for a top-to-bottom clean of the house and a busy spell for gardeners too. But while we are hoovering our skirting boards or digging over borders, it’s also a good time to think about others. Houseproud elderly relatives might not want to admit that they’re no longer up to moving furniture around so they can clean behind it. Likewise, older neighbours might be struggling with

38 Leek Life May/June 2017

keeping hedges in trim or pruning back branches. Our homes and gardens are the places we feel safest our own little space in which we laugh with friends, spend time with family and relax with each other. As the evenings become lighter and the days a little drier, the opportunities arise for a day tidying the garden, preparing it for a full blooming summer. And as this new energy prompts us to prepare for the months of enjoying our homes and gardens ahead, there is nothing to stop us helping others do the same. If you are a whizz with windows, offer to clean your neighbour’s as well as your own in exchange for their talents with a hedge-trimmer. If your neighbour’s borders are looking a bit tatty, offer to help them out - they might offer a return favour. Likewise, don’t just assume that elderly relatives and neighbours are fine. It’s ok to offer a helping hand - and it’s ok to accept one too. If you need help shifting furniture, don’t be afraid to ask for it - and maybe offer something in return. And don’t feel you have nothing to offer - if you enjoy sewing you might be able to mend something, while a promise of a delicious jar of chutney or jam later in the year is often a lovely way to repay a spring favour. Everyone has different skills and talents and we can all utilise them in our own homes. But there are also things we can’t do that others can so by offering to help others, we often find we receive a little unexpected help ourselves.

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KINGFISHER COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

COUNTRY AND WESTERNERS SADDLE UP FOR WEEKEND FESTIVAL TWO DAY EVENT IN MEMORY OF DEDICATED COUNTRY FAN

ountry and western fans are to dust off their boots and saddle up for a weekend long festival in memory of a popular Longsdon man. It came as a tragic shock to friends and family when 74-year-old Harold Critchlow passed away suddenly at the end of last year. Together with his partner Julie Pointon he had been a longstanding and dedicated member of the Kingfisher Country Music Club – the group responsible for organising Leek’s annual Country and Western weekend. When talks turned to this year’s event it

40 Leek Life May/June 2017

therefore seemed a fitting tribute to Harold to stage the 2017 event in his honour. This year the Kingfisher Club intend to take the event out of Leek itself and instead will host it from the Memorial Hall in the nearby village of Ipstones. Dubbed ‘Ipstones Goes West’, the festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday 24th and 25th June and organisers are promising visitors a real insight into how the Westerners lived. There will be food stands, line dancing workshops, live music and even a living village for visitors to discover complete with tipis, camp fires and stagecoaches! For full details of the two day event, including camping availability, please visit the festival website: countryandwesternmusicfestival.co.uk.

THE PHOENIX SINGERS

PHOENIX SINGERS SPREAD THEIR WINGS CHORISTERS TO SING ALONGSIDE PROFESSIONAL PERFORMERS

he Phoenix Singers, a community choir based in Leek, are used to surprises when plans are announced for future concerts. This year, however, an unmissable opportunity has arisen which brings with it the excitement of performing at the Potteries New Vic Theatre. 2017 will mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of one of the Potteries most famous sons, Arnold Bennett. To mark the occasion The New Vic has commissioned UK award winning playwright Debbie McAndrew to adapt Bennett’s novel “Anna of the Five Towns” as a stage play. Sixteen members of the choir have been asked to join the professionals to perform in the three week run of this play but, on June 14th, the whole choir will be in a gala concert of words and music celebrating the life and times of Arnold Bennett at the New Vic. This concert will take the form of a joint production between the Phoenix Singers and Claybody Theatre, a Stoke-on-Trent based theatre company headed by Debbie McAndrew and her husband director Conrad Nelson. Although a huge commitment in time and effort for choir members, and especially by the choir’s Musical Director Ashley Thompson, such opportunities to mix with top professional actors

are rare. Some years ago The Phoenix Singers performed in New Vic productions of Sweeney Todd and Amadeus, so are delighted to be returning to this superb local theatre where they look forward to the challenge of being part of a professional theatre set.

Leek Life May/June 2017 41

LUCKY LEEK HOSTS 13TH SCOOTERFEST SCOOTERFEST

ar from being unlucky, 2017 marks the 13th anniversary of the North Staffordshire Jesters Scooter Club’s annual Scooterfest event. For the increasingly popular celebration of all things scooter, lucky Leek will once again be at the centre of the action. The festival is set to take place on Sunday 21st May from approximately 11am onwards and organisers are hoping it will be just as successful as in previous years. It all started for the Jesters back in 2004 when the club was invited to join in with the local town’s carnival festivities, this proved hugely successful and after an approach from a well-respected councillor it was agreed that 2005 would present a full weekend of fun to include an entire day dedicated to all things scootering. This was too good an opportunity to miss and so members worked hard to pull the event together and put the Jesters well and truly on the map. It was decided the event should be called Scooterfest and would take place in the centre of the town. The very first Scooterfest was an overriding success with an estimated 400 plus scooterists arriving from all over the country to get involved. Along with many accolades, congratulations, and requests for a second event, it was decided that along with the Carnival Committee, Leek Town Council, and many willing local businesses Scooterfest would indeed become an annual occasion. Since that time Scooterfest has become one of Leek’s key dates on the social calendar and a stand alone event in its own right. It is based in Silk Street, a large walled car park in the centre of town, which includes an indoor trestle market and two pubs! The celebration tends to also spill out to the surrounding streets making it an ideal venue for the thirty plus indoor and outdoor stalls which travel from all over the country to trade in Leek. With items including scooter parts and accessories, vintage and modern clothing, records, cd’s and a whole host of scootering memorabilia up for sale. Add to this a ridden custom show with one off specially made trophies, a stage with live music from returning band 45 sound and local Moorlands Radio DJ Mike Coburn, a hog roast, various

42 Leek Life May/June 2017

refreshment stands and up to 2000 scooters and you’ve got yourself a great event! Last years event was a huge success due to a winning combination of glorious weather, great local support and flocks of visiting scooterist enthusiasts - it was the best ever attendance with colourful scooters lining the town centre and surrounding area. To top it all there is virtually no charge. No entrance fee, no charge to the parts fair, no charge to enter your scooter into the custom show, and no charge to watch the band. All the Jesters ask is that everyone attending buy a £1 raffle ticket and/or make a donation as this is what enables them to put on the event the following year. Surplus funds from 2016/2017 were distributed between several local charities. For more information contact Steph on 07817 429616 or take a look at the Facebook page. Better still come along to the event and take a look, you won’t be disappointed.

LOCAL DOG LOVERS URGENTLY NEEDED

HEARING DOGS FOR DEAF PEOPLE

earing Dogs for Deaf People, a national Charity that trains clever dogs to alert deaf people to important sounds, is scouring the Leek area for dog-lovers willing to take care of their adorable puppies. Speaking to Leek Life Magazine about how becoming involved with the charity has enriched their lives local volunteer puppy socialisers Caroline and Terry Roeves explained: “We have had our first puppy, Daphne, a Show Cocker Spaniel, for just over a year and have made dozens of new friends from regular dog walks. “We are also much fitter and enjoy opportunities to socialise with Daphne in local libraries, schools, stores, cafes and restaurants.

“We would definitely recommend puppy socialising for Hearing Dogs: your life will change for the better from day one!” Speaking about the charity’s latest campaign Ruth Turner, Hearing Dogs’ Puppy Training Instructor for Cheshire East & Staffordshire said: “If you live in the area and are looking for a new challenge, then why not give something back and meet some loveable lifechanging puppies along the way? “As long as you have a car, a secure, private garden, and enough time on a daily basis to train a puppy, then we would absolutely love to hear from you. You really can make such an enormous difference.” To find out more about puppy socialising, contact the volunteering team on volunteer@hearingdogs.org.uk , 01844 348122 or visit our website www.hearingdogs.org.uk/volunteer.

Leek Life May/June 2017 43

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44 Leek Life May/June 2017

REFLECTIONS COACHING

WHEN IS A GOOD TIME TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE? with Carolyn Trafford Seize the mantle and tackle the change you desire t can be a struggle this one. There are so many things in life to do, new things, new careers, new adventures, new jobs, weight loss…… and it’s never the right time. I found it hard changing from my nice sensible financial services job. It felt secure, not in the ‘job for life’ kind of why – those days had long gone. It was more of a personal safety mechanism holding me there. I’d begun to hate the daily grind, but I knew what I would face every day. I knew what time I had to get up to be on time to start work. I pretty much knew what time lunch would be and who I would speak to. In a way it sounds ridiculous and rather boring now, yet back then it was safe. The force of that safety net can be like a strong magnet pulling you back. It can be overwhelming, pushing any positive thoughts, right to the back of your mind. I never saw it as a fear of change, yet when I think about it now – that’s what it was. Sadly I let the situation fester to the point that I became miserable. Work became the kind of grind it shouldn’t be especially when I used to love my job so much. Hindsight is fabulous and if I knew now what I knew back then I would have encouraged myself to make the change. It’s still not an easy thing to

do but it’s worth it. Since then I’ve started my own business and now I’m studying for an Art Degree too, seizing every opportunity I see. There are lots of things that can hold us back from what we really want. Things like: • How will my family/spouse cope when I’m not there? • What if I don’t succeed? • What if it’s the wrong choice? • I don’t have time! • I can’t afford to do it! The truth in the answers to these questions is what makes life interesting. Life is never boring when you seize the mantle and tackle the change you desire. Often what is stopping us sits in our thoughts and not our reality. So ask yourself this: • How will my family/spouse support me in this? • What if I succeed? • What if this is the right thing for me? • Where can I find the time? • How can I finance this? These subtle changes to the questions can give you a powerful lift. Why not see where they take you. Change can be difficult to embrace. My book “Don’t Just Dream It Achieve It” can help focus on what it is you want – if you want a copy contact me or go to my shop www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CarolynTraffordArt. It’s packed full of ideas and activities to help you achieve your goals. Or go to my website www.reflectionscoaching.co.uk and sign up for my newsletters.

Carolyn Trafford is a published author and personal strategy coach supporting others in achieving the life they want. If there’s a change you desire 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 May/June 2017 45

LAW FAILS BRITAINS GROWING ARMY OF UNMARRIED COUPLES JO JOHNSON FAMILY LAW

he number of couples choosing not to marry has more than doubled in 20 years but many are unaware of the myth of “common law marriage,” according to local family law expert, Jo Johnson. There are now more than 3.3 million cohabiting couples in the UK, an increase of 1.7 million from 2016. “Should these couples separate, they have little legal protection, yet research shows that 47 per cent believe in the idea of common law marriage” said Jo Johnson of Leek. An experienced lawyer, Jo founded her own firm in 2015. Jo also campaigns for reform of Britain’s antiquated divorce and family laws as a member of Resolution. Their campaign centres on nonconfrontational approach to family law with a strong focus on no-fault divorces. But Jo told Leek Life Magazine: “With more people than ever opting to live together, it is important that we raise awareness of the fact that current cohabitation law is failing to provide them

with the rights some of them mistakenly think they have. “Resolution is calling on the Government to introduce laws which will protect all members of these families if they separate.” Jo, who founded Jo Johnson Family Law, in 2015, added: “Even after decades of living together, it is possible for one party to walk away without taking any responsibility for their partner’s welfare, even when children are involved. “In reality, these couples are living in the same way as married couples, or those couples in a civil partnership. It may be that one has given up substantial earning power over several years to raise the couple’s children – yet they have no rights.” Resolution’s Manifesto for Family Law calls for the introduction of rights for cohabiting couples if they separate. For further information on Jo Johnson Family Law please go online to www.jojohnsonfamilylaw.co.uk.

LEEK LIFE Mer ry to al Ch l ou ristm r re as ader s

• 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 46 Leek Life May/June 2017

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Times, Echo & Life Publications, 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 1BD Tel: 01538 752214 www.timesechoandlife.co.uk facebook.com/leeklife Editorial: lorna@timesandecho.co.uk Advertising: tom@timesandecho.co.uk

Car sickness research to put brakes on family road trip curse

MOTORING

uaranteed to strike fear into any parent, the phrase “I feel sick!” will be dreaded and chorused in cars this summer. Stop-start traffic and winding roads will worsen a condition that afflicts two-thirds of us at some point, is most prevalent in passengers, especially children and teenagers, and is made worse by sitting in the back, head down playing video games or watching movies. In new research carried out by Ford, with the help of motion sickness experts, passengers who stared at screens for the duration of a short journey fell ill after an average of just 10 minutes. And those were all grown-ups. Yawning and perspiring are warning signs for a condition that is caused by mismatches between signals the brain receives from the eyes and from the organs of balance, in the ear. Babies don’t get car sick. This only comes when we start walking. Pets are affected though, and incredibly, even goldfish suffer from motion sickness, a

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phenomenon observed by sailors. In the initial testing it was found that when screens were mounted higher, and the road ahead could be seen on either side, volunteers were less likely to feel sick. Further experiments will explore alternative ways that journeys could be displayed in the cabin so that unseeing passengers can be warned of events such as twisty roads or hump backed bridges. Here are some ways that car sickness can be eased: • Move to the middle in the back seats, or preferably the front, to see the road ahead • Drive smoothly and where possible avoid sudden braking, harsh acceleration, potholes • Distract sufferers – even a family sing along could help • Drink cola, eat ginger biscuits, but avoid coffee • Use a pillow or head support to keep your head as still as possible • Operate air-con to keep fresh air circulating

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