Leek Life Nov Dec 2015

to

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

CELEBRATING THE SEASON

M

err

all y Ch ou ris r r tm ea de as rs

Life

Leek promises host of festive delights

!

N I W

eak r b a Sp wo for t

Christmas Pudding Race

Competitors limber up for festive fixture

NOV/DEC

CONTENTS

Editor’s letter .......................................6 Leek Christmas lights switch on........10

Festive markets ..................................12 The Nicholson Museum & Art Gallery.13

Centre Stage Theatre Company........20 Stage Directions................................22

Phoenix Singers ................................23 Reflections Coaching ........................25 Moddershall Oaks competition ........26

Happily ever after .............................28

Love4Leah.........................................34

Christmas Pudding Race ..................36

Leek RUFC........................................38

Leek Town Ladies FC........................39 Remembrance...................................40

Staffordshire Moorlands Calendar ....14

Ken Wainman Associates Ltd...........45

Festive dining.....................................16

Legal matters ....................................48

Foxlowe Arts Centre...........................15

Motoring ...........................................46

Horoscopes Truly Scrumptious..............................17 Friday 26th April - Sunday 28th April .......................................49

Recipes for life ...................................18

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

Come and join us for fantastic deals throughout the weekend

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

Extensive tile and bathroom showroom

*99 ;17:0 ; 5 . 9 ; 776 ;3&%&+;3+ 8; 4 ;;;;+9 ;8 / ; ;/// ;;;; 2. '!!.2#72' %-95; 750: &)6 0: ; 288:(& 288-( ;3:"'60: ; 288:(&/288-(

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 14,150 copies of every issue delivered to households and businesses in Leek and the surrounding areas

A festive line-up worth celebrating L

eek can never be accused of lacking when it comes to the makeup of its social calendar and we are delighted to confirm that the 2015 festive line-up of events will be no exception to the rule!

Although for some, the prospect of delaying Christmas for as long as possible may well be preferable, the Christmas season is set to get underway in earnest from Friday 20th November, when the annual Christmas Lights Switch On event takes places.

Starting with a festive parade, headed up by Father Christmas himself, revellers are set to flood into the town centre to enjoy a wonderous array of stalls, live music, street entertainment, rides and much more.

And, with the seasonal wheels officially in motion, the ensuing weeks are expected to feature all sorts of Christmas attractions and activities. From Christmas bazaars and Dickensian markets to choral concerts, exhibitions and even the famed Cheddleton Christmas Pudding race - it’s all going on here in Leek and the surrounding areas!

Of course, while Christmas itself is a time of joy and celebration, we all know only too well that the stresses and strains that it brings with it can often leave us reaching for the sherry!

If this sounds familiar, why not take heed of local life coach Carolyn Trafford’s words of wisdom? In her column on page 25 of this edition Carolyn shares some fantastic tips on assessing our own Christmas challenges to make sure this festive season is memorable - for all the right reasons.

So, however you plan to spend the season, from all of us at Leek Life Magazine we wish all readers everywhere a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Lorna

A PERFECT GIFT Brett Trafford’s local scenes are available to buy on printed mugs from Toast in Market Place and from Leek Market on the first Sunday of every month.

Did you know that you can read Leek Life online?

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

www.bretttrafford.com 6 Leek Life November/December 2015

Find us on Facebook search for Leek Life Magazine

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.

8 Leek Life November/December 2015

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 November/December 2015 9

Lights night heralds host of festive delights LEEK CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON

I

THERE’S A HINT OF MAGIC IN THE AIR t cannot be denied that for almost every resident or regular visitor to Leek, the switching on of the seasonal lighting displays, which adorn the centre of the town in the run up to Christmas, is typically considered the official start of the festive season.

Organised by the Leek Town Council Events Committee, headed up

by Chairman Councillor Stephen Wales, the 2015 Lights Switch on event will follow the enchanting theme of ‘It’s a Kinda Magic’.

The switch on event itself is scheduled to take place this year on Friday 20th November and whether you are a lover of all things Christmassy or not, this celebration has something for everyone.

The action will get underway with a seasonal lantern parade leaving from Staffordshire Moorlands District Council HQ - Moorlands House in Stockwell Street - at 7pm.

The procession is to be led by Father Christmas himself, who will be joined also by the 5th Leek Scout Band, local school children, civic guests and Moorlands Youth Band.

10 Leek Life November/December 2015

The festive group will wind its way through the town before arriving at the stage at the bottom of Derby Street from where the Leek Town Mayor, Councillor Ben Emery and special guests will perform the official lights switch on to a packed audience at 7.30pm.

Leek Salvation Army Band will then lead in with musical entertainment performing a selection of traditional carols followed by the hugely popular Queen Tribute Band.

The evening will feature all sorts of stalls, entertainment and attractions, including the John Collins’ fun fair which will be located on High Street.

There will also be a selection of rides for younger children next to the Central Club on Market Street.

Totally Locally stallholders will be in town selling unique gifts, as well as Lymer’s hog roast and street food vendors.

Many of the town’s retail shops will remain open until late and there will be an opportunity to support some of Leek’s many wonderful community organisations who will be fundraising on Derby Street.

LEEK CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON

Leek Life November/December 2015 11

FESTIVE MARKETS

A taste of Christmas past...

C

hristmas traditions of yesteryear hold an enduring appeal for us all and still form the basis of many of the celebrations we hold dear to this day.

Embracing the opportunity to offer the public a traditional festive shopping experience, traders in Leek are looking forward to giving seasonal visitors a nostalgic taste of Christmas past.

From 10.30am until 3pm on Sunday 6th December the Christmas Sunday Supplement market will get underway. With up to 65 fantastic stalls, the award winning Sunday Supplement market gives festive shoppers the perfect opportunity to start ticking off their 2015 Christmas shopping list!

Marc Briand, a co-founder of the Sunday Supplement market, told Leek Life Magazine: “Leek is a really great town for Christmas gift shopping and from the 20th November selected retailers will be opening up on Sundays.”

12 Leek Life November/December 2015

Just a few weeks later, on Saturday 19th December, Leek’s annual Dickensian themed market will return to the town, offering locals and visitors the chance to experience festivities from a bygone era.

With its market and independent shops, Dickensian Leek - dubbed a Christmas extravaganza in traditional Victorian style - will bring together the best of the older, and some more recent, sights and sounds that have grown to become the essence of Christmas.

Shoppers and traders alike are being encouraged to join in the fun by donning a Victorian hat, bonnet or costume for the celebration which will take place from 9am through to 4pm - prizes will be up for grabs for the best examples!

Alongside the town’s many and varied independent shops Dickensian Leek will also feature live music and street entertainment.

Christmas favourite signals start of seasonal festivities

THE NICHOLSON MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY

I

n a festive nod to Christmases of yesteryear, volunteers from the Nicholson Museum and Art Gallery are preparing to host their third annual Christmas Gift Bazaar from the end of November.

Oozing with unusual and exclusive gifts, the Nicholson Bazaar signals, for many, the real start of the festive season in Leek.

Coming to the town from Saturday 21st November and set to continue right up until Christmas, the Bazaar will not only offer visitors a great opportunity to pick up all sorts of exciting, festive treats, but also provides the perfect excuse to soak up some of Leek’s unrivalled, cultural delights.

Organiser Maria Killoran told Leek Life Magazine: “For the bazaar we choose specific items that are not available in local shops and try to source products that are really different, many of which are produced by craftspeople local to Leek.

“We have all sorts of beautiful gift ideas from

woven cushions to silk scarves and have items ranging in price from less than £5 to things that are a little more expensive - so there is something for every budget.

“Christmas is a really beautiful time of year at the Nicholson and the whole museum will be decorated for the season.

“It’s such a lovely event and it will be ongoing throughout the festive period, with lots of other seasonal attractions organised to take place alongside.

“For instance, we will be having a Christmas Tea Dance from 2pm on 16th December with live music, cakes from our local WI served on traditional cake stands and china cups and saucers.

“Later, on 19th December, Christmas songs and carols will be performed by Leek’s The Phoenix Singers and there will even be a few visits from Father Christmas himself along the way!”

For further information contact Leek Tourist Information Centre on telephone 01538 483741.

Leek Life November/December 2015 13

STAFFORDSHIRE MOORLANDS CALENDAR

Cover boy compiles 2016 calendar B

INSPIRING SHOTS ARE A FEAST FOR THE EYES

rett Trafford’s images will be a familiar sight to readers of Leek Life. Famous for his trademark panoramic views of the town, many of Brett’s striking pictures will be recognisable having featured as covers of this very magazine. Brett is a freelance and commercial photographer, born, bred and based right in the heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands, here in Leek.

Brett’s love for the area and passion for his work has enabled him to build a huge stock of local images that attract a lot of attention from both locals and visitors to Leek. Brett loves to ring the changes and this year yet again he brings us something new.

Brett told Leek Life Magazine: “So many of my customers have asked why I don’t produce my own calendar, so this year I’ve taken the plunge – it’s very exciting.”

You may have already seen Brett’s stunning calendar with 13 beautiful local images printed on quality paper but if you haven’t, we suggest you seek one out. Priced at just £5 they are a bargain and limited to 250 copies they are sure to be a sell out too.

Brett expects them to travel the world. Having previously supplied pictures to other local and 14 Leek Life November/December 2015

commercial calendars, his customers tell him that they buy calendars to send to relatives or friends who have moved away, in some cases as far as Canada, New Zealand and Australia.

“Having bought a calendar with your photos in it, my friend in Spain now expects one every year to remind her of home,” said one happy customer!

If you can’t get to Leek’s Sunday Supplement then Brett is happy to arrange delivery/collection – give him a call on 07801 058345 to reserve your copy NOW or pick up a copy online www.bretttrafford.com/store/ Brett also creates bespoke calendars for business customers. For more information email Brett at brett@bretttrafford.com.

Creative Christmas exhibition

FOXLOWE ARTS CENTRE

T

wenty specially chosen artists will be showcasing their work at a very exciting ‘Creative Christmas’ exhibition at the Foxlowe Arts Centre and Cafe this festive season.

This year, Foxlowe Arts Centre’s Christmas exhibition covers an expansive range of original work from over 20 exhibitors.

Paintings and ceramics will be showcased alongside works of glass, wood and found materials as well as jewellery and other small pieces suitable for gifts.

The exhibition will also feature a fascinating display by Sue Prince, who is preparing to show her fascinating works of art for the first time at Foxlowe Arts Centre.

A British folk artist, Sue Prince creates narrative paintings in Swedish style egg tempera from her organic farm in Ilam, near Ashbourne.

Her work tell stories of people and their places and in her own words she describes it as being

Jane Charles

Libby Ward

“like folk music only in paint”.

The Christmas exhibition runs from Saturday 28th November until Thursday 24th December at The Gallery, upstairs at the Foxlowe Arts Centre and Cafe.

The Foxlowe Gallery is open every week from Wednesday to Saturday, 10am-4pm each day.

For further information, please contact: Foxlowe Arts Centre, Market Place, Leek, Staffordshire ST13 6AD, telephone: 01538 386112 email: hello@foxloweartscentre.org.uk website: www.foxloweartscentre.org.uk.

The Foxlowe Arts Centre and Cafe is housed in the historic building, ‘The Foxlowe’, which is located at the top of Leek’s market place.

Foxlowe Arts Centre opened its doors in December 2011 and has already gained a strong following from the local community and is attracting attention from further afield as well.

Funded by individuals’ pledges, donations and trading proceeds and with the majority of the staff volunteering, this is truly a community arts centre for the people of Leek and the Staffordshire Moorlands.

In addition to its thriving gallery, the centre’s popular café, bar, live performance space for music, drama, comedy, talks and a cinema events have helped the Foxlowe Arts Centre to rapidly established its reputation as the go to place in Leek.

Left: The Miner and the Horse by British folk artist Sue Prince. Sue will be exhibiting at the Foxlowe for the first time this Christmas

Leek Life November/December 2015 15

FUN AND FABULOUS FESTIVE FEAST FESTIVE DINING

C

hristmas party season is upon us. If you’ve not booked your Christmas party or festive family meal - now is the time to get in

quick!

If you’ve suddenly been put in charge of organising the works’ Christmas do, or been ‘volunteered’ to organise a family meal out, follow our top tips on how to beat the Christmas party stress.

• Book now! Take a look at the different menus available at pubs and restaurants and choose one that you like.

• If you’re planning to celebrate in-house - or looking to do something a bit different this year a hot or cold buffet delivered to the office is a fantastic alternative to the traditional meal out.

• Check the venue/buffet service you choose has options for vegetarians and find out if anyone has any allergies that need to be taken into account.

• Demand a deposit - people are less likely to drop out if they have paid some cash upfront.

• If entertainment is not included in the event, search online for live music or comedy events in the area so you have something up your sleeve for after the meal.

• At the start of the evening, suggest everyone puts £20 into a kitty to pay for drinks through the night. Delegate the task of managing the kitty to a trusted friend or colleague.

• If it’s a family meal you’re planning, think carefully about who is likely to be the most awkward person to please, then ask if they have any recommendations.

• If it’s going to be a large family gathering with lots of young ones make sure the venue has a children’s menu and bring along colouring books and activities they can do at the table to keep them entertained.

• To add an extra festive feel, organise a Silly Secret Santa. Give everyone a £2 limit and exchange gifts before the meal - it will give everyone a giggle and provide a topic of conversation!

Christmas Fayre 1st Dec - 23rd Dec 2015 Monday - Friday 12 noon to 2pm & 6.30pm to 9.00pm

StarterS

During December Pie Night!

Monday 7th & 28th December Two for a Tenner!

Served with homemade chips and mushy peas

Beetroot, Feta Cheese and Walnut Salad topped with a balsamic dressing Vegetable Soup Served with sliced baguette & crispy croutons Pate - Wild boar, rum and ginger pate, served with white toast and dressed green leaf salad

MainS

Christmas Special Monday 21st December

Traditional Roast Turkey - Served with sausage wrapped in with Jason Huxley 60’s & 70’s and Ed on the organ with Christmas Carols. Three course meal bacon, Yorkshire pudding, stuffing, roast potatoes, new potatoes in skins, brussel sprouts, carrots and roast parsnips. available £17.99 (booking recommended)

Steak Night Tuesday 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th December & Wednesday 23rd & 30th December TWO STEAKS WITH A BOTTLE OF HOUSE WINE MERLOT OR PINOT GRIGIO £25.00 Come and join us It is our pleasure to invite you to join us in a Festive Sing-a-long Wednesday 9th, Monday 14th and Wednesday 16th December 2015 at 8.30pm. Mince pies and savoury snacks will be served with the compliments of Steve and all the staff

New Year’s Eve

Enjoy music with Jason Huxley! 60’s 70’s up to the present day

Poached Salmon with Orange Sauce - Served with new potatoes in skins, dressed green leaf salad and garden peas.

(V) Creamy Leek & Potato Bake a layer of saute potatoes topped with mature cheese and leek sauce. Served with new potatoes in skins, dressed green leaf salad and garden peas.

Beef Stroganoff Strips of lean beef cooked with cream mushrooms, sliced onions, paprika and wine.

Served with rice and dressed green leaf salad.

Brie & Cranberry or Turkey & Cranberry Salad Served with new potatoes in skins or homemade chips

Starter and Main Course only £12.99

TOMKIN LANE, STANLEY VILLAGE, STANLEY, ST9 9LX • TEL 01782 502580 Food: Mon-Fri 12noon-2pm & 6pm-9pm, Sat 12noon-9pm, Sun 12noon-8.30pm Bar: Mon-Sat 11.45am-11pm, Sun 11.45am-10.30pm

thetravellersreststanley.co.uk 16 Leek Life November/December 2015

Truly Scrumptious -

TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS

A haven for lovers of food

I

f you’re looking to add a dash of flavour to your usual lunchtime or breakfast munch then why not sample some of the homemade hot and cold delights now being served at Leek’s very own ‘Truly Scrumptious’?

Located just a stones throw from the centre of town in Garden Street, Truly Scrumptious is a haven for lovers of food.

Proprietor Katrina Fitzgerald took over the traditional sandwich shop back in January, and now the outlet serves a wonderful array of hot and cold lunchtime treats.

As the recipient of a five star food hygiene rating from Staffordshire Moorlands District tuck in with 1confidence LeekCouncil, Life customers Nov Dec can 2013:Layout 25/10/13 to sandwiches, freshly made salad boxes and jacket potatoes as well as a range of delicious hot foods.

Katrina explained: “We have a hot roast every

Primo Piano Ristorante & Pizzeria Dine in comfort in our relaxed and friendly candlelit restaurant We have an extensive a la carte menu including pizza, pasta, steak, chicken, fish, vegetarian and daily specials.

Prices range from £6 - £18.

Takeaways also available.

• All major credit cards accepted • Gift vouchers available • Children welcome • Parties catered for 10a Sheepmarket, Leek, Staffs, ST13 5HW Telephone: (01538) 398289 Open: Mon-Sat 12noon-2pm & 6pm-10pm

Christmas bookings now being taken

day and have a huge range of fillings for sandwiches, salads, oatcakes and jacket potatoes.

“We also offer an outside catering service and can provide hot and cold buffets for any occasion, from business lunches to baby showers and everything in-between. All of our buffets can be tailored specifically to each customer’s personal requirements and budget.”

Open Monday to Saturday from 8am Truly Scrumptious also boasts a full breakfast menu and with free delivery on all orders over £5 it all sounds just too tempting to us!

So next time you’re feeling peckish be sure to pay Truly Scrumptious a visit, or give them a call, and find out exactly 09:59 Page 28 what you have been missing.

“We would also like to let customers know that we also offer a deli style service whereby fresh bread and meats can be ordered daily,” added Katrina.

Merry Christmas from LEEK’S OWN INDEPENDENT Steve, Linda and all the team at WHISKY LABEL

The Hollybush Inn Christmas menu available 1st-23rd December Book early to avoid disappointment

TM

10 Year Old Single Malt £34.99 15 Year homemade Old Single Malt • Delicious food served everyday including Sunday when £44.99 we serve a traditional roast,

Perfect forChristmas Gifts and delicious daily specials • Families welcome • Dog friendly • A selection of real ales

Canal Side , Denford, Leek , Shop, ST13 7JT Available at The Wine

22 Russell Street,371819 Leek, ST13 5JF 01538 382408 See our01538 Christmas Menu at wineandwhisky.com www.hollybushleek.co.uk

Leek Life November/December 2015 17

CHRISTMAS STARTERS WI RECIPES FOR LIFE

Mushroom and Gruyére Soufflé

The thought of turning out a perfect soufflé when already facing the pressure of hosting lunch on Christmas Day is likely to send even the most practiced of home cooks running for a festive tipple. However, this little gem of a recipe allows you to do all the hard work in advance giving you plenty of time to be the perfect host and still present your guests with a starter with the wow factor.

Ingredients • 140g small button mushrooms, sliced • 50g butter, plus extra for greasing • 25g plain flour • 325ml milk • 85g Gruyére cheese, finely grated, plus a little extra • 3 large eggs, separated • 6 tsp créme fraîche Method Fry the mushrooms in the butter for about 3 minutes, then remove from the heat and reserve a good spoonful. Add the flour to the rest, then blend in the milk and return to the heat, stirring all the time to make a thick sauce. Stir in the cheese, season to taste, then leave to cool.

18 Leek Life November/December 2015

Heat oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. Butter 8 x 150ml soufflé dishes and line the bases with baking paper. Stir the egg yolks into the soufflé mixture, then whisk the egg whites until stiff before folding in carefully. Spoon into the soufflé dishes and bake in a roasting tin, half-filled with cold water, for 15 mins until risen and golden.

Leave to cool (they will sink, but they are meant to). You can make the soufflés up to this stage up to 2 days ahead. Cover and chill.

When ready to serve, turn the soufflés out of their dishes, peel off the lining paper, then put them on a baking sheet lined with small squares of baking paper. Top each soufflé with 1 tsp crème fraîche and a little cheese, then scatter with the reserved mushrooms. Bake at 190C/fan 170C/gas 5 for 10-15 mins until slightly risen and warmed through. Garnish and serve.

WITH THE WOW FACTOR

RECIPES FOR LIFE

Creamy smoked salmon, leek and potato soup There’s nothing quite like opening the proceedings at lunchtime on Christmas Day with a mouth watering dish of home made soup. And with so much activity likely to be taking up your attention on Christmas morning, what could be better than being able to serve up something you’ve been able to make days in advance?

Ingredients • large knob of butter • 2 large leeks, halved and finely sliced • 1 bay leaf • 1kg floury potatoes, diced • 1 litre chicken or vegetable stock • 100ml double cream • 200 g smoked salmon, cut into strips • small bung chives, snipped

Method Heat the butter in a large saucepan and add the leeks and bay leaf. Cook over a low heat for 8-10 mins or until the leek is really soft, then stir through the potatoes until coated in the butter.

Pour over the stock and cream and bring to the simmer, then gently bubble for 10-15 mins until the potatoes are really tender. If freezing at this stage, slightly under-cook the potatoes, then defrost and bring back to a simmer to finish cooking them and continue the recipe.

Add two-thirds of the smoked salmon, stir through and season. Serve the soup in deep bowls with the remaining smoked salmon and snipped chives on the top.

Leek Life November/December 2015 19

Thesps present Priestley’s CENTRE STAGE THEATRE COMPANY

‘Dangerous Corner’ F

or its 2015 November production the Leek based Centrestage Theatre Company has chosen to present J. B. Priestley’s ‘Dangerous Corner’.

Priestley was fascinated with time and wrote three plays in which he played with the concept in various ways. The plays were: ‘An Inspector Calls’, ‘Time and the Conways’ and ‘Dangerous Corner’.

The play, which Priestley wrote in one week, takes place over the course of one evening, during which Robert Caplan and his wife Freda are entertaining her brother and sister-in-law together with Olwen Peel and Charles Stanton who are associated with Robert in a family publishing business.

Miss Maud Mockridge, a well- known novelist whose works are published by the Caplan’s company, is also a guest.

The bulk of the play follows the disastrous events consequent upon one action – the dangerous corner of the title.

A question is raised about the ownership of a musical cigarette box and because Robert insists upon uncovering the truth about his bachelor brother Martin’s suicide many unpalatable revelations follow.

Before these revelations Robert had pleasant and happy memories of Martin: A marriage which seemed to be successful, two partners he liked

Gordon Wainwright (Gordon Whitehouse)

Ian Wilson (Robert Caplan)

20 Leek Life November/December 2015

and respected and a girl he could idealize. Now Robert finds that Martin was in fact a drug addict whom his own wife had been in a relationship with.

One of his partners is a cheating thief, his brother-in-law was also besotted with the charismatic Martin and the girl Robert idolized was an adulterous wife.

A short scene at the end of the play shows how, if the ownership of the cigarette box is not queried the disasters are avoided and the dangerous corner is circumvented.

The company has assembled an experienced cast to perform the play. Robert Caplan is played

by Ian Wilson who has perhaps become best known over recent years as a Director, both with Centrestage and All Saints Operatic Society, but also has a long performing history in plays and musicals.

Freda, his wife, is played by Joy Spencer who has also taken part in many musicals but who last year played Rudyard Kipling’s wife in the Centrestage Theatre Company’s very successful production of ‘My Boy Jack’.

Also from that production is Brian Martin who won a North Staffs Drama Association Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Guardsman Bow. In ‘Dangerous Corner’ Brian plays Charles Stanton.

Judy Herbert, who made her debut as a

Morag Jones (Miss Mockridge)

Judy Herbert (Olwen Peel)

t

CENTRE STAGE THEATRE COMPANY

Director with ‘My Boy Jack’, has also returned to an acting role as Olwyn Peel but Judy has many acting roles to her credit – most recently Mrs Lovatt in ‘Sweeney Todd’.

Gordon Wainwright, who plays Gordon Whitehouse, has been a member of Centrestage for many years and played the title role in ‘Sweeney Todd’. He is an extremely versatile actor and he has performed numerous comedy roles in pantomime and plays over the years.

Since she became involved in amateur theatre some six years ago, Lucy Baker has taken a variety of roles in both musicals and straight plays, and she too was involved in the performance of ‘My Boy Jack’, playing the Kipling’s daughter Elsie.

Completing the cast as Miss Mockridge is

Brian Martin (Charles Stanton)

Morag Jones, another long-standing member of Centrestage who again has played a wide range of roles and who in the Company’s recent one act play evening almost stole the show in a nonspeaking role!

Dangerous Corner is directed by Alec and Jean Pointon and will be performed each evening at Westwood First School Westwood Road Leek from the 12th to 14th November with a matinee performance on the 14th.

Tickets can be obtained from Over the Rainbow, Sheepmarket, Leek; West Street Post Office, West Street, Leek; or the Ticket Secretary on 01538 382546 or any cast member.

Joy Spencer (Freda Caplan)

Lucy Baker (Betty Whitehouse) Leek Life November/December 2015 21

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

Buxton Opera House hits a high note with Royal Liverpool Philharmonic residency

B

uxton Opera House has announced that the esteemed Royal Liverpool Philharmonic will be in residency for three dates during November and December.

The residency is sponsored by The University of Derby, and the centre piece will be a concert directed by the acclaimed violinist and conductor Julian Rachlin, offering a programme of Mozart and Mendelssohn, at the Opera House on Friday 27 November at 7pm.

Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro overture brings up the curtain on the happiest comedy in all music. Audiences will also be treated to Symphony No.35 ‘Haffner’, written by Mozart for a family celebration, and Mendelssohn’s sun-drenched Symphony No.4 ‘Italian’.

As well as conducting Julian Rachlin will delight audiences and pick up his Stradivarius violin (made in 1704) as the soloist in Mendelssohn’s hugely-popular Violin Concerto.

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic residency includes two further concerts held at Pavilion Arts Centre. The first (Tuesday 3 November) features Ensemble 10:10, the brilliant contemporary ensemble of RLP, conducted by Clark Rundell.The final concert will be on Wednesday 9 December at 1pm, in the format of the regular lunchtime Coffee Concerts held at Pavilion Arts Centre, featuring James Clark, violin and Joint-Leader of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, with Jonathan Aasgaard,

Principal Cellist.

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra with Julian Rachlin will take place on Friday 27 November at 7pm at Buxton Opera House.

There will be a free pre-concert talk in the auditorium from 5.45pm to 6.15pm with Julian Rachlin. Tickets are priced at £12.50 to £32.50 Ensemble 10:10 will take place at Pavilion Arts Centre on Tuesday 3 November at 7.30pm, tickets are priced at £16 in advance. The Coffee Concert with James Clark and Jonathan Aasgaard will take place at Pavilion Arts Centre onWednesday 9 December at 1pm. Tickets are priced at £7 in advance.

To buy tickets call the Box Office call 01298 72190 or book online at www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

To win a pair of tickets for the main house concert - Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra with Julian Rachlin on Friday 27th November 7pm. Answer the following question.

IN WHICH YEAR WAS JULIAN RACHLIN’S STRADIVARIUS MADE? A) 1702

B) 1703

C) 1704

(CIRCLE 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: Monday 16th November 2015

22 Leek Life November/December 2015

Leek choir prepare spine tingling festive set

PHOENIX SINGERS

E

ach year the Phoenix Singers approach the Christmas period knowing full well they will be in great demand throughout the area, and the 2015 festive season is set to be no different.

This year has already been a busy one for the choral society, including junior choir The Young Phoenix, having performed in front of varied audiences who have come to expect high standards from this Leek based community choir.

The major concert of the year was “The Creation” by Joseph Haydn which the choir performed to a large audience in All Saints’ Church during Leek Arts Festival.

This major classical work was accompanied by a top professional orchestra and soloists who ensured a special night for all who heard it.

Describing the performance, one concert goer said: “The glorious collective vocals and harmonies of The Phoenix Singers sent tingles down my spine - a new fan of choral music.”

Christmas will soon be with us and the choir will join with the Young Phoenix for a Dickensian themed day on Saturday 12th December in All Saints, Leek. This , no holds barred, Christmas celebration will be full of Christmas music, readings and seasonal food and drinks in the

beautiful surroundings of All Saints Church.

Not only can you imagine you are listening to a carol concert as Charles Dickens himself might have heard, but you’ll also get to enjoy parts of his “A Christmas Carol” in Ashley Thompson and Deb McAndrew’s cantata version. A CD featuring this production will be available to buy on the day.

As Christmas approaches the choir will get even busier - firstly singing at Tittesworth on Thursday 17th December, followed by joining in another Dickensian event at The Nicholson Institute on Saturday 19th December and later, on Monday 21st and Wednesday 23rd December, singing at Sainsbury’s supermarket. Details of these events can be found on the choir’s website, Facebook page and Twitter.

The Phoenix Singers are a community choir for mixed soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices who welcome anyone who enjoys singing.

Running alongside the main choir is the Young Phoenix for children aged 7 to 13. Both choirs rehearse at East Street First School on Monday nights. Young Phoenix meet 6 until 7pm and senior choir 7.30 until 9.15pm.

Leek Life November/December 2015 23

‘A girl should be two things... classy and fabulous’ Coco Chanel

Why not visit our studio?

3 FLOORS OF GLORIOUS FASHION

Gifts for you and those dear to you

The §Bra Boutique

6-8 Getliffe’s Yard, Leek, ST13 6HU 01538 373330 www.annemorrisltd.co.uk

Ladies Fashion Boutique and many more

Christmas gifts: Jewellery, handbags & scarves in stock • Bras for all occasions • Bra fitting specialists • Gift vouchers available • Excellent range of shapewear

15 Russell Street, Leek, ST13 5JF Tel: 01538 383106

24 Leek Life November/December 2015

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE Handpicked, exclusive designers and unique shopping experience Call in to our beautiful store today

Follow us for special offers and events

3 Ball Haye Street, Leek, Staffordshire. 01538 529608 www.thewardrobeofleek.co.uk

The Christmas countdown

REFLECTIONS COACHING

STEP BACK AND ASSESS THE CHALLENGES AHEAD

B

y the time you’re reading this, Christmas will be just weeks if not days away. It’s a time of year that can fill heads with panic and dread. In January we set goals and resolutions and if they have not been achieved yet there is much work left to do.

Yet this is a time of year with additional pressures. There’s still Christmas shopping to do, your social calendar is getting busier, lovely new outfits to shop for, the town is busy and the internet slow. We haven’t even considered the food shopping yet!

Although it sounds crazy at first when you have no time to spare – now is the very time to take a step back and look at the challenges ahead from a different perspective.

Grab yourself a tea, coffee or tipple if it’s the right time of day and take an hour out to think through your challenges and prioritise what needs to be done. Mundane as the task sounds you need to make a list or three.

• Everything that HAS to be done, planning for Christmas day, wrapping presents and writing cards, etc • Everything that I would like to do – make sure this has some time out for you, e.g. coffee with friends, gym • The nice to have done items e.g. make your own mince pies • The really doesn’t matter if these don’t get done.

I know I said three. But you can really throw list four away and be realistic about what you can achieve. When the desire to do them is higher than the time you have – then that’s when stress takes hold. The empowerment of throwing this list away is high.

Now take list 1 and put a star or highlight any of those that are just 10 minute jobs. These are the first items to do – you’ll achieve a lot in a

short space of time and can really feel good about what you’ve accomplished.

Your next task is to grab your diary and schedule some time to tackle the rest. Block out some sizable chunks and allocate time to both the ‘what has to be done’ items and the ‘what I want to do’ items.

Also include some time to allow yourself to relax, whether you enjoy yoga or mindfulness, perhaps some time to work on a hobby that keeps getting pushed to one side.

If you struggle to relax then the careful use of a relaxation aromatherapy blend can really help.

With some hard work you should be able to achieve a balance of relaxing time and getting all that stuff done and have some time spare for the ‘nice to have’ list too.

Whatever is on your list – make sure you have a great festive season.

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/carolyn trafford/area/

Leek Life November/December 2015 25

Moddershall Oaks offers the

A warming haven of relaxation and tranquility

AS the crisp mornings draw in and the cold nights strike, the memories of a pleasant and warm British summer feel like a million miles away.

However, with the colder weather brings the opportunities for cosy nights in, decadent hot drinks and the comforting feeling of wrapping up warm.

Retire from the dark and gloomy British winter to a wonderfully warming haven of relaxation and tranquillity at Moddershall Oaks 5* Country Spa Retreat.

Located just a stones throw away, the celebrated Spa has seen lots of improvements in

recent years with the unveiling of the new state of the art spa extension in 2014.

With a new, slick yet cosy look and exciting new and improved services and facilities, this is one spa that should be on your ‘must visit’ list, time and time again.

The array of stunning new features mean guests can combine all the benefits of a spa with the pleasure of being immersed in the local countryside and so close to nature.

The outdoor spa garden and courtyard terrace has a raised vitality spa pool which complements the new kelo sauna cabin, feature shower and outdoor log fire installed to keep

COMPETITION:

For the chance for you and a friend to enjoy a Spa Day for two at the award winning Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Resort simply answer the following question correctly: In which Staffordshire village is the Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat located?

Email your entry to admin@timesandecho.co.uk. Closing date: 30th November 2015 Prize includes entry to the spa from 9am – 6pm, lunch and a 25 minute treatment each.

26 Leek Life November/December 2015

e perfect winter escape

guests warm and snug regardless of the season!

Back indoors and the Spa Deli and Bar area offers spa goers the chance to indulge in a tempting range of locally sourced light bites, snacks and drinks while enjoying spectacular views out acrosss the tranquil surroundings.

The new cosy fireside spa lounge provides a social hub for relaxation in between treatments and gives the spa an added luxury feel.

Moddershall Oaks also welcomes the addition of a glamorous express beauty suite, The Snug.

This chic pampering zone includes a luxury treatment bar dedicated to manicures, pedicures, make up classes and product sampling.

What’s more, this spring saw the introduction

Chan to wi ce Spa D n! a for 2 y

of a new outside setting to add an exciting new dimension to the venue’s already comprehensive ability to cater for special events.

With making the most of the breath-taking countryside in mind, in April 2015 Moddershall Oaks unveiled an exclusive outdoor space on the edge of private woodland with views out across the lake.

Boasting the highest quality features, this out of doors area includes an outdoor sound system, soft outdoor lighting and landscaped gardens.

The setting also features pathways which lead to a handmade oak gazebo right on the water’s edge which is licensed for outdoor wedding ceremonies, so you can tie the knot in the most unique location… at no extra charge.

READER OFFER:

10% off the Little Luxury Spa Day package

A full day spa experience including lunch and a 25 minute treatment.

This voucher is valid for 12 months.

Can be redeemed Monday to Friday for £99 per person. To book your place for your Little Luxury spa day, simply contact us on 01782 399000 or email us on enquiries@moddershalloaks.com Leek Life November/December 2015 27

Lakeside nuptials for HAPPILY EVER AFTER

A

young couple from Leek chose the panoramic, lakeside venue of Hotel Rudyard, located just a few miles out of the town of Leek, as the setting for their recent nuptials.

With the stunning Lake Rudyard and surrounding countryside as the backdrop for their wedding, Daniel and Kerry were able to spend a wonderful, sunblessed day with friends, family and loved ones close by, as they exchanged vows to become husband and wife.

The bride, Kerry Richards, wore a beautiful, rouched, strapless gown which featured floral embroidery and was encrusted with jewels. She carried a bouquet of ivory, royal blue and sky blue roses.

Kerry, who works as a self-employed cleaner, chose Nichola Shatwell as maid of honour for her big day. The bride was also accompanied by her friends Charlotte Armstrong and Louise Bakerall as bridesmaids with the groom’s nieces Tegan and Leah Richards as flower girls.

The adult bridesmaids wore stunning 1950s inspired knee length bridesmaid gowns, each dress fashioned from a sky blue satin and created by Cathryn Chadwick Designs of Waterhouses. They carried bouquets by fabulous flora.

28 Leek Life November/December 2015

The groom, Daniel Tatton, who works as a precision engineer, chose John Grayson as best man with his friends Chris Morgan and Stephen Shatwell as ushers. All of the mens’ suits were hired from Greenwoods of Hanley.

Also forming a part of the bridal party were Kerry and Daniel’s sons Nicholas Blackwell and James Tatton, who the couple asked to be pageboys on the day.

The wedding celebration took place at the end of the summer, on Saturday 8th August, at the popular Hotel Rudyard not far from the town of Leek.

The ceremony and wedding breakfast were attended by a party of 45 guests, followed by an evening celebration (at the same venue) for 80.

Following their wedding day, Daniel and Kerry jetted off to the Greek island of Rhodes for a romantic honeymoon in the mediterranean sunshine.

or Daniel and Kerry

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

Images supplied courtesy of Scott Sharman Photography www.scottsharman.com www.facebook.com/ssharmanphotography.

Leek Life November/December 2015 29

30 Leek Life November/December 2015

Guests dance night away at Leek venue HAPPILY EVER AFTER

N

ewly weds Gaynor and Michael Abbott travelled in style to their summertime wedding reception, rolling up in a vintage 1958 Citroen DS Pallas.

The marriage ceremony itself took place at the Registry Office in Stockwell Street, Leek on Saturday 22nd August 2015.

The bride, Gaynor Fullbrook, daughter of Edna and the late Geoffrey Rogers of Leek, wore a gown of silver taffeta with rouched bodice and white gem encrusted halter-neck.

Gaynor, who works as a retail manager, carried a hand tied bouquet of pink and white freesias created by local florist, Rachelle, of Leek.

The bride chose her daughter-in-law, Jane Maxwell, as chief bridesmaid but was also attended by her grandaughters Nuala and Eva Maxwell.

All three bridesmaids wore dresses fashioned from a beautiful, dusky pink. The gown worn by Jane was purchased from ladies boutique, Coast, while the dresses for the two young bridesmaids were by Debenhams.

The bride and her bridesmaids had their hair styled on the morning of the wedding by Laura Tomkinson of The Works in Getliffe's Yard, Leek.

The groom, Michael Abbott, is the son of Frank and the late Sylvia of Sweden. Sadly, his father was unable to make the journey from Scandanavia to Leek for the nuptials.

Retired police officer Michael, formerly of Formby in Mersyside, wore a stylish morning suit by Chaplins of Sheep Market, Leek and chose Tim Goodwin as best man.

Also acting as groomsman on the day was Gaynor’s son, Adam Maxwell, who walked his mum down the aisle and gave her away to her new husband.

The couple travelled across the town from the ceremony in Stockwell Street to the reception venue at Getliffes Restuarant in Getliffes Yard in a vintage 1958 Citroen DS Pallas.

At Getliffes Gaynor and Michael were joined by 30 guests for a wedding breakfast.

They were later joined by a further 60 guests for an evening reception at the same venue, where Warwickshire band The Kicks performed live, entertaining the wedding party into the night.

The couple enjoyed a British honeymoon in Great Bircham, Norfolk and plan to establish a home together as husband and wife in Nuneaton, Warwickshire.

Photographs courtesy of Ian Dakin Photography.

Leek Life November/December 2015 31

Overton Bank House

Luxury Holiday Home Sleeps 12+4

5 double rooms, 1 twin room, 1 family suite

Self Catering Overton Bank House, Overton Bank, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 5ES Enquiries: Steve - 07785 375 545, Barbara - 07890 750 367 www.overtonbankhouse.com E-mail: overtonbankhouse@aol.com

Chaplins

*Spend £50 in a single transaction and we will give you a £5 gift voucher!

Offer valid from 1st-30th November 2015

32 Leek Life November/December 2015

Make your dream day become a reality with DREAMS VENUE DRESSING. If you are planning a very special occasion we will do our utmost to transform your venue and make it as special and memorable as possible.

Whether it be a special birthday party or the wedding of your dreams we are here to help put your ideas together or to make recommendations on how to transform your venue into the room you’ve always dreamed of.

We have recently opened a shop so why not come and see us at 23 High Street, Biddulph, ST8 6AW. Call me to make an appointment on 07825 872536.

For more information please visit our website www.dreamsvenuedressing.co.uk email: zelda@dreamsvenuedressing.co.uk alternitively call me on 07825 872536

Chaplins

Formal Hire Since 1998

Hire five outfits and the groom goes FREE!

Send us your wedding photos Your big day could feature in Leek Life magazine.

Simply send in the form together with a selection of photographs.

THE BRIDE

NAME ....................................................................................................................................

ADDRESS ...........................................................................................................................

OCCUPATION .....................................................................................................................

DRESS ...................................................................................................................................

FLOWERS .............................................................................................................................

PARENTS NAMES ...............................................................................................................

THEIR ADDRESS (if different)............................................................................................

BRIDESMAIDS (Names & Relationships to bride)...............................................................

DRESSES...............................................................................................................................

FLOWERS .............................................................................................................................

THE BRIDE GROOM

NAME ....................................................................................................................................

ADDRESS .............................................................................................................................

OCCUPATION .....................................................................................................................

PARENTS NAMES ...............................................................................................................

THEIR ADDRESS (if different)............................................................................................

BEST MAN (Name & Relationship to groom) ......................................................................

GROOMSMEN.....................................................................................................................

SUITS ....................................................................................................................................

OTHER DETAILS

DATE, TIME AND PLACE..................................................................................................

CLERGY AND ORGANIST ................................................................................................

RECEPTION FOR.....................................GUESTS AT ....................................................

EVENING CELEBRATION FOR............GUESTS AT.....................................................

HONEYMOON ....................................................................................................................

ANY OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION ................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................

FUTURE HOME..................................................................................................................

PHOTOGRAPHER..............................................................................................................

TELEPHONE........................................................................................................................

Please return this form with a selection of photographs to Leek Life Magazine,

18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 1BD or email: life@timesandecho.co.uk. Pictures and reports are printed FREE OF CHARGE

LOVE4LEAH The shores of Rudyard Lake will be the setting for Butterfly Lodge, a holiday home funded by the Love4Leah campaign for children undergoing cancer treatment to take a break with their families.

Butterfly Lodge almost ready to fly

I

Remembering the initial cancer diagnosis, n a true reflection of the sense of community which came in June 2012, Jane told Leek Life which exists here in Leek, when news of a magazine: “Leah had taken part in a fundraising campaign in P.E. lesson where she threw a javelin memory of much loved teenager Leah Powell hit the headlines, and shortly after, complained about having a sore wrist. residents, businesses and all sorts of “After a couple of visits to A&E she other local organisations responded was admitted to Manchester Children’s to the cause with full gusto.

Hospital for further tests and not long Just over two years have now after that we were told that Leah was passed since the 13 year old St suffering from rhabdomyosarcoma. We Edwards Academy pupil lost her were totally devastated and unsure of brave battle with rare childhood what the future held.” cancer ‘rhabdomyosarcoma’, and in Leah began chemotherapy that relatively short time more than Inspirational treatment almost immediately and £75,000 has been raised in her Leah Powell shortly afterwards travelled to Oklahoma honour.

Inspired by their own experiences of the in the US to begin pioneering proton therapy. illness, Leah’s mum Jane of Nab Hill, Leek Tragically, however, during routine scans prior to decided that a fitting tribute to her daughter the treatment, it was discovered that the aggressive tumours had already spread making it would be to establish a holiday home to help too late for this type of treatment to be effective. relieve the stress and suffering, albeit for a short time, of other children going through cancer The poorly youngster returned to the UK where further chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment and their families.

34 Leek Life November/December 2015

Image of Rudyard Lake courtesy of Andrew Pickford.

FAMILY SECURE HOLIDAY HOME IN MEMORY OF BRAVE LEAH

LOVE4LEAH

The Phoenix Singers and their young counterparts The Young Phoenix, performed in concert at Trinity Church, Leek in July. This performance helped raise £696 for the Love4Leah campaign.

regimes got underway. Initially Leah’s body responded well to the treatment but the nature of the tumours meant that it wasn’t long before her condition progressed.

In total, young Leah fought bravely through five rounds of chemotherapy, but with her condition deteriorating the heartbreaking disease finally took over and Leah lost her fight on 22nd July 2013.

Shortly before Leah passed away her family, including her sister Danielle and brothers Josh and Marek, took one final holiday together.

Jane explained: “We wanted this to be a special time as we knew this would be Leah’s last holiday.

“We were totally unprepared for this short break and did not think about everything we needed for a comfortable stay. This became an expensive holiday as we had forgotten to take essential items.

“Leah was so brave throughout her treatment and always had a smile on her face and when she passed away we wanted to remember her in a special way and thought a holiday home where everything is provided for free would be just perfect.”

In February of this year, thanks to the Love4Leah foundation (now a registered charity),

a plot of land was secured at Rudyard Vale Caravan Park.

Since then a luxury caravan has been purchased and Jane and the family are looking forward to welcoming the very first guests to the holiday home when the caravan park re-opens for the 2016 season next spring.

“It is our aim to provide as many holidays for children and their families throughout the year but in order to continue providing all the essential items we need to carry on fundraising.

“If anyone would like to help us in any kind of way, big or small, please contact us.

“We would like to thank everyone who has taken part in an event or held their own on behalf of Love4Leah so far.”

In addition to funding the Butterfly Lodge holiday home at Lake Rudyard, the Love4Leah campaign has also helped Ward 84 at Manchester Childrens Hospital, Ronald McDonald House, Rays of Sunshine and Treetops (The Donna Louise Hospice).

If you would like to help get involved in the Love4Leah campaign please contact Jane via telephone: 07964 893123 or email her at: enquiries@love4leah.co.uk.

Leek Life November/December 2015 35

Competitors limber up for pudding race C CHRISTMAS PUDDING RACE

ompetitors are limbering up for the 2015 Cheddleton Christmas Pudding Race, with those taking part already looking forward to hurrying around the village to claim their festive prize - a Christmas pudding!

This year will be the 32nd annual return of the event and its continued popularity with local runners is what has helped the seasonal tradition retain its position as one of the highlights of the local festive calendar.

What sets this race apart from all the rest is not only that it helps raise a huge amount of cash for the charity Cancer Research UK but also that, as a special festive bonus, all competitors who take on and successfully complete the race will be presented with a tasty Christmas pudding.

Organised by the Cheddleton Carnival Committee as part of its year long charity campaign, the 2015 race is set to take place on Saturday 28th November starting from St Edwards School in Hollow Lane, Cheddleton.

The main event will take the form of a 10K (6.2 mile) race for adults over the age of 15, starting at

36 Leek Life November/December 2015

2pm. This long distance race will be preceded by a shorter 2 mile fun run for entrants of all ages, which will start at the slightly earlier time of 1.4opm.

The shorter fun run will be played out along a traffic free course on country lanes within the village.

Prizes are up for grabs to at least the first twenty men, ladies and veterans with special awards up for the taking by anyone able to set a new course record. The current records stand at 30.42 (gents) and 35.57 (ladies).

A Christmas pudding will be presented to all finishers, including fun runners.

If you would like to be a part of this decades old tradition, which has long been associated with the area, then please fill in the entry form on the facing page and send it to Stan Winterton at the address provided.

Race entry is ÂŁ10 for AAA Club Members and ÂŁ12 for non-members. Fun run entry is ÂŁ5. All proceeds will be donated to Cancer Research UK. Photographs supplied courtesy of Bryan Dale, email: bryan@racephotos.org.uk.

CHRISTMAS PUDDING RACE

Leek Life November/December 2015 37

New book captures Leek’s LEEK RUFC

love of rugby T

he rich history and indomitable spirit of Leek Rugby Club has been captured in a new book about the team and its founders.

Researched and written by Beverly Needham, The Spirit of Rugby in Leek has had a limited print run of 500 copies, which is on sale now with proceeds going to the club.

The book was launched on Saturday 19th September, at Leek Rugby Club.

Beverly was approached by a club member and asked to write the book in 2014.

She said: “Three years ago I opted for early retirement.

“During my first year of retirement, I wrote and selfpublished on Amazon a novel called 'Beneath the Mere', which is based on folklore within the Staffordshire Moorlands.

“That was quickly followed by another novel, after which, I decided to take a short break from writing.

“My local rugby club, Leek RUFC (of which I have been a member for many years) were reaching new heights.

“In 2014, they brought home the impressive Midlands Intermediate Cup, followed by a victory over northern club Aspatria in the National Intermediate semi-final.

“The club also finished top of their league and were promoted Midlands West 1.

“In May 2014, a squad of players from Leek RUFC, supported by hundreds of supporters from Leek, travelled to Twickenham Stadium for the National Intermediate Cup Final, in which Leek RUFC suffered an achingly, narrow loss against Trowbridge RUFC. “But that wonderful day will be held in my memory for many years to come.

“It was shortly after that great event when a member of Leek Rugby Club suggested that maybe, I would be interested in writing the club's history.

“He handed over the club's minute books - and I was hooked!

“The minute books were fascinating to read. I talked to senior ex-players and heard many

38 Leek Life November/December 2015

amusing tales from ‘the good old days.’

“I spent many hours at the library searching microfilm reels for information, and at the office of the local newspapers flicking through archive editions.

“I felt it was important to document the history for the benefit of everyone at the club, and the people of Leek.”

The book gives a fascinating insight into the history of the club, as well as providing a valuable record of the determination and dedication of many players, volunteers and supporters who have seen it grow and grow.

Beverly added: “On 4th May, 1923, fourteen men from Leek and district met at the Maude Institute, Leek, for the purpose of forming a rugby club.

“These were men of high standing in the local community, mill owners and their sons, indeed, the Leek’s first Club President was Major ‘Falkner’ Nicholson, eldest son of Sir Arthur and Lady Marianne Nicholson.

“The struggle for success was a long and slow process, but amazingly, the decisions of these founding members have been well preserved within the minute books of Leek Rugby Club, providing a fascinating insight to those early years.

“The Spirit of Rugby in Leek chronicles the story of the club’s achievements and the endeavours of teams throughout the decades, culminating in the 2014 RFU National Intermediate Cup Final, when Leek RUFC played at the home of English rugby, Twickenham Stadium.”

The foreword has been written by Air Chief Marshal Sir Michael Knight KCB AFC FRAeS, an ex-player and a good friend to Leek Rugby Club, which now has a growing membership of over 250 boys and girls in its mini-junior sections.

The book has been beautifully illustrated in full colour, and has many photographs of people and teams throughout the decades.

Books are available to buy at £19.99 from Leek Rugby Club, and Picture Book, Stanley Street, Leek.

LEEK TOWN LADIES FC

Firm partner Ian Naylor with Leek Town Ladies chairman Ian Smith and players Kirsty Ryder and Emma Smith

Sponsor steps up as ladies’ football booms

F

ootball is thriving among Leek’s young ladies, with the town’s football club running seven Under 16 teams in 2016.

However, the booming interest in the sport comes at a cost - something which local business Bowcock & Pursaill Solicitors are helping to mitigate.

The law firm are set to sponsor the club as it continues to grow, contributing towards the £20,000 running costs of the football club.

Team chairman Ian Smith, said: “It’s wonderful that the girls and ladies teams are doing so well, and it does mean we need to secure enough sponsorship to make sure all the teams can run.

“That’s where Leek businesses like Bowcock & Pursaill come in, and I’m delighted that they will be supporting us this year.

“I hope their sponsorship will encourage other companies to come forward to support the ladies so the team can go from strength to strength.”

Bowcock & Pursaill Solicitors, whose Leek office is in St Edward Street, offers legal advice in a variety of areas including commercial and residential property, tax planning, family and matrimonial matters and agricultural issues.

Firm partner Catherine Whittles, said: “As a longstanding Leek business we’re really pleased to be able to support our local ladies team, as the club plays a vital part in the life of the town and sponsorship is essential for them to continue.

“I hope they have a successful season with some great wins, especially now the team have been accepted into the FA Women’s' Cup for the first time in the clubs' history which is wonderful news.”

Leek Life November/December 2015 39

Lest we forget REMEMBRANCE

H

A TIME FOR SILENCE, A TIME FOR REFLECTION undreds are expected to turn out for annual Remembrance services due to take place here in Leek this November.

Remembrance Sunday, which falls on 8th November 2015, is a day for the local community, and the nation as a whole, to remember and honour those who have sacrificed themselves to secure and protect our freedom.

In the Staffordshire Moorlands in particular, residents still believe strongly in remembering those who fought not only in World Wars, but also the many British servicemen and women killed or injured since 1945.

The Royal British Legion supports silences observed during both Remembrance Sunday services and on Armistice Day itself, 11th November.

The act of Remembrance rightly has a place in - and impact on - our lives, no matter which day of the week it might fall upon.

The two minute silence, held each year at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, marks the end of the First World War. It is a day to remember and honour those who have paid the price for our freedom, then and now.

For the 2015 commemorations, Royal British Legion members from Leek are inviting civic

guests and members of the public to join them as they remember the fallen this Remembrance Day. Marching parties are asked to assemble at Market Street at 9am for a short parade to St Edward's Church where a special Remembrance Day Service will commence at 9.30am.

After the service, the congregation will then parade to the Nicholson War Memorial at the bottom of Derby Street.

There will then be an outdoor service and two minutes silence Act of Remembrance, taking place at 11am.

Wreathes will then be laid at the memorial by this year’s Town Mayor Councillor Ben Emery, members of Leek Royal British Legion and other local organisations.

Later in the afternoon, residents are also invited to attend an afternoon service at the Ball Haye Green War Memorial.

Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the Ball Haye Green Sports and Social Club at around 2pm from where a parade will leave at 2.15pm arriving at the Ball Haye Green War Memorial in time for a service of Remembrance at 2.30pm.

Photograph of the Nicholson War Memorial courtesy of Brett Trafford Photography.

The story of the poppy

During the First World War (1914–1918) much of the fighting took place in Western Europe. Previously beautiful countryside was blasted, bombed and fought over, again and again. The landscape swiftly turned to fields of mud, bleak and barren scenes where little or nothing could grow.

Bright red poppies however, were delicate but resilient flowers and grew in their thousands, flourishing even in the middle of chaos and destruction.

In early May 1915, shortly after losing a friend in Ypres, a Canadian doctor, Lt Col John McCrae was inspired by the sight of poppies to write a now famous poem called 'In Flanders Fields'.

40 Leek Life November/December 2015

REMEMBRANCE

RS FIELDS

IN FLANDE

ppies blow fields the po In Flanders' on row, w crosses, ro Between the the sky in d an e: ac r pl g, fly That mark ou in ng si y ill bravel The larks, st ns below. gu e th id am Scarce heard ys ago ad. Short da We are the de et glow, ns su w sa n, daw w we lie We lived, felt no d an ere loved, Loved and w s. field In Flanders'

the foe; quarrel with Take up our e throw w s nd ha ng faili To you from it high, ld ho to yours die The torch; be ho w ith with us If ye break fa ies grow pp po gh ou sleep, th We shall not Fields.

In Flanders'

Leek Life November/December 2015 41

TURNING YOUR FINANCIAL DREAMS INTO REALITY

Twenty years not out!

The Brian Mellor team has spent two decades at the crease – looking after our clients’ interests with a comprehensive range of financial planning services and independent advice.

If you would like to boost your own financial score, contact us for an impartial chat.

We couldn’t have achieved this without you!

BRIAN MELLOR

FINANCIAL SERVICES LTD Independent Financial Adviser

Russell House • 20 Stockwell Street • Leek • ST13 6DS Tel: 01538 371288 www.brianmellorfs.co.uk Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

44 Leek Life November/December 2015

North Staffs Heart Committee - )$1$2 2 2 1#,2 +0/".%2 !!!,)-/.+*.0''*+10/.,-/#, +0/".%

THE LEADING LOCAL HEART CHARITY -/.+2&.0''*2 2 +12 --/ 0)$*

Holders of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service

HELP US TO FIGHT HEART DISEASE +0"/ 0) 2 , , ,2 -)% 2 1//%(2&)1%$2 -..0#1(2 2 1/ 2 -*1(2&10 /"$#1(2 1! 0*. 1(2&.0''*(2& 2

Tel/Fax: 01782 622463

Planning changes

KEN WAINMAN ASSOCIATES LTD

L

ast week saw the first reading of the Housing and Planning Bill which is likely to become law this year or early next year.

The purpose of this Bill is to deliver more homes and tackle the national and local shortage of housing. The key parts of the Bill are: • Every Council must have a Local Plan in place by 2017. Staffordshire Moorlands Council aim to have the new Local Plan in place by April 2017.

• Brown-field sites for ten or fewer houses will be granted in principle planning permission if they are included in the Local Plan, a neighbourhood plan or in a register.

• Starter Homes, which are houses for sale to first time buyers at a 20% discount, will have to be built on all ‘‘reasonably-sized new development sites’’.

• The conversion of offices to residential use without the need for planning permission will be made permanent.

These changes, combined with the other recent changes in Planning in the last few years, have major implications for the entire country.

Government policy aims to create a dynamic rural economy and advocates new housing in villages where it will enhance and maintain their vitality.

There has been a lot of criticism that planning hinders development but in truth it’s the opposite. Without an adopted Local Plan the District is vulnerable to development approved on appeal rather than properly planned development which takes into account both people’s needs and the environment. The proposed Local Plan provides a great opportunity to do this.

The views in this article are solely mine. If you want advice with regard to the recent changes and Planning generally please contact me.

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 include a new farmhouse and farm, the conversion of two barns to houses granted on appeal; the conversion of a barn to two houses; an all-weather outdoor riding area, stables, and a new house.

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 November/December 2015 45

Toyota: Guaranteed top notch safety features MOTORING

W

here Toyotas are concerned, being small is no barrier to benefiting from the latest safety technology. The Aygo city car and Yaris supermini are now available with Toyota Safety Sense, providing a suite of features that can help prevent an accident happening, or reduce the severity of an impact.

Toyota Safety Sense is being rolled out across the range following its introduction earlier this year in the new Avensis and Auris. Aygo and Yaris customers can now specify the package as an option on their new car, adding to the models’ already impressive active and passive safety features.

On Aygo, Toyota Safety Sense provides a laser-controlled Pre-Collision System that warns the driver of an imminent collision with a vehicle ahead (Forward Collision Warning) and readies Pre-Crash Brake Assist to deliver emergency braking as soon as the brake pedal is pressed.

Should the driver fail to take action after the warning, the system will initiate Autonomous Emergency Braking to reduce speed by about 19mph, potentially bringing the car to a stop, to prevent a collision or reduce the force of impact.

The Forward Collision Warning works at

46 Leek Life November/December 2015

speeds between 10 and 86mph, when the relative speed between the Toyota and the car ahead is greater than 10mph. The Pre-Crash Brake Assist functions at speeds between 19 and 49mph, with relative vehicle speeds greater than 19mph. For Autonomous Emergency Braking, the speed range is from seven to 49mph.

A Lane Departure Alert function is also included. This monitors lane markings on the road and helps prevent accidents and head-on collisions caused by a vehicle moving out of its lane. If the car starts to deviate from its lane without the turn indicators being used, the system alerts the driver with visual and audible warnings.

The same Toyota Safety Sense features are available for Yaris, together with Automatic High Beam. This detects both the headlights of oncoming vehicles, and the tail lights of vehicles ahead, automatically switching between high and low beams to avoid dazzling other drivers and improving the driver’s night-time vision.

Toyota Safety Sense is available now as an option on all Aygo models apart from x grade, price £375. The package for Yaris (all grades apart from Active) costs £400.

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

CRUSO AUTO REPAIRS

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

COLLECTION AND DELIVERY AVAILABLE

Petrol costs getting too high? Then consider LPG! With LPG fuel being roughly half that of petrol, the cost of an LPG CONVERSION can usually be recouped within 12 months (based on ÂŁ45.00 per week avg. fuel spend). Prices start from ÂŁ1,750 (inc. VAT @ 20%).

01538 399377

C.A.R. Burton Street,

Leek, Staffs, ST13 8BU

RUDYARD LAKE

$ , 1 , $ 4

)4 ; ;%) ,3+ $ ) 4* 75":#";'.;!76;:;

; 4; 3 ,1 )%1 ,3

-96!76(:5#9; '- 6:09

01538 306254

Station Road, Rudyard, Leek, ST13 8PG www.rudyardlakegarage.co.uk ; 44*;/ ;,* $ 4 +

*:50;17 96;:50;1:5 9;17 96;3-9# : .".

Leek Life November/December 2015 47

Family Law “Truth” or “Myth”?

LEGAL MATTERS

M

arie Proud and Karen Wilson from Tinsdills Solicitors have set out to settle some long standing rumours around the areas of Family Law. We all hear people say how important it is to know what the truth is and what is a myth so here are some common myths for you: • “After living with somebody for 2 years they become your common law husband/wife?”

• “If married with young children you will be guaranteed to be able to continue to live in the house, paid by your spouse, until the children are aged 18” • “Now being divorced there are no further financial claims between you and your ex-spouse” • “On separation the children will always live with their mother and the father will spend time with them at weekends only” • “We have been separated for 2 years so divorce documentation will automatically arrive from the Court”

These are all Myths and here are some Truths for you and advice - It is important to ensure that when separating from your partner you receive thorough professional advice as it is far better to have foresight as opposed to regrets in hindsight.

We care about people. Therefore we: • “Offer comprehensive advice tailored to meet your individual needs” • “Deal with all matters in a confidential manner with empathy” • “Understand that each person wishes to deal with matters in their own manner whether this be face-to-face, telephone, email” • “Deal with matters in the traditional manner, based on collaborative law and round-table meetings” For advice in relation to all family-related matters such as separation, divorce, children matters and finances, please contact us on 01538 399332 or visit us at www.tinsdills.co.uk

About Tinsdills

Our firm has been practising in the local area in one guise or another for nearly 350 years! We have grown over the years through a combination of organic growth, merger and acquisition including names such as Tinsdill, Hollinshead & Moody in Tunstall, Sproston Slaney & Swann in Newcastle, Challinor & Shaw in Leek and N A Whieldon & Co in Sandbach. In 1991 it all came together under the name of THM Tinsdills and in 1999 we became Tinsdills Solicitors.

Today we are one of the areas most experienced and knowledgeable law firms with offices in Hanley, Leek, Newcastle-under-Lyme and Sandbach. We offer a broad range of legal services for individuals and for business including: Family Law, Wills, Trust and Probate, Personal Injury and Compensation, Residential Property, Agriculture, Company and Commercial and Employment Law. Our aim is simple. It is to exceed our clients’ expectations in everything that we do, in both the outcome we achieve and the service we provide. For us, it is all about the people. Our expert lawyers and dedicated staff are committed to understanding your needs, providing clear advice and building working relationships that add value for our clients.

We are very proud of our track record of delivering outstanding service to our clients in Staffordshire, Cheshire and beyond, and we are constantly seeking to innovate and further improve our services. You don’t have to just take our word for it. Please have a look at what our clients think of us in our Client Feedback section. Our professional accreditations confirm our commitment to improvement through the development of our people.

Marie Proud and Karen Wilson 48 Leek Life November/December 2015

HOROSCOPES

NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER

Scorpio Deep communication may be the flavour of the month in November but you may find you have bitten off more than you can chew. An open mind and being prepared to learn is a good thing to cultivate in December.

Sagittarius Something might be going on behind the scenes.

It could be a work issue but could equally be something health related so keep an eye on your lifestyle. Things become clearer in December but only if you are prepared for bigger changes than you might have expected.

Capricorn Finding out a bit more about the people you work with may bring unexpected benefits in November.

Try to become a bit more flexible in your approach to certain people. They’ll appreciate it.

Aquarius November may have its sexy enticements but you may really have no idea where it’s all going. You may need to give someone a lot of space to be themselves but that’s cool and might be good in the long term.

Pisces You may be torn between far horizons and home now so why not take a quick travel break in early December because you won’t be wanting to be far away from family at Xmas and the new year.

Aries Get a grip and sort your finances out in November because you may be feeling the urge to make a bid for freedom in early December. Don’t forget how expensive Xmas can be, though, and put your family first!

Taurus Any possessiveness or selfishness in relationships is likely to result in a backlash if you keep on like this. What exactly are you trying to achieve here?

Don’t neglect the people around you.

Gemini Just make sure you are clear what you want to say before you rush into explaining yourself. It’s time to get more focused than you usually are. Is this really all about money or something else entirely?

Cancer November is a good time for ‘me time’ with calming activities that will restore some balance to your life. You should know by now that you can’t help others properly if you don’t help yourself!

Leo Try not to throw tantrums when others steal your limelight in November! Creativity matters to you in December – or is it a sudden attraction? - but it may not be at all clear where things are all going by Xmas.

Virgo I know there are lots of things that need doing but try not to bury yourself in your work life too much in November. People around you need to feel you are there for them and there is a social life out there, you know!

Libra Getting rid of clutter and anything that may no longer serve you will free up your mind for new ideas to come in and inspiration may be closer to home than you thought! Success might be just round the corner.

To get a glimpse of how cosmic forces are influencing your own, personal life right now, why not book a taster session with Howard at www.astroguidance.co.uk. You can also call or text him on 07866 727743 or email howpark@aol.com.

Leek Life November/December 2015 49

CLASSIFIED

Graham Bagshaw PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER

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

T: 01538 304518 M: 07841 708861

Domestic & Commercial Cleaning Cleaning from £10 per hour Spring Clean from £35 (min 4 hrs) Deep Clean from £45 Start & End of Tenancy Cleaning Carpet Cleaning

T: 07974 247959

E: greenfrogltd@gmail.com Free no obligation quotes

WHISTON JOINERY & BUILDING Quality purpose made joinery Building/Renovation/ Alteration work No job too small Competitive prices

Tel: 01538 266653 or 07702 110235 E: tomkinson@btconnect.com

ELECTRICAL SERVICES Domestic & commercial Friendly & reliable Covering Leek, Cheadle, Uttoxeter & surrounding areas

WE WILL BEAT ANY LIKE FOR LIKE QUOTE

Block paving and groundwork specialists • Decorative paving • Natural stone • Flagging • Fencing • Kerbing • Wrought iron • Gates • Garden walls

info@livearth.co.uk www.livearth.co.uk

CALL DARREN ON: 01538 420371 or 07538 490259 info@holland.co.uk • www.dwholland.co.uk

01538 307005

Leek Electrical • Professional, local, reliable, tidy • Part P approved • All work guaranteed & fully insured • No job too small • New 17th edition fuse box £300 inspected & tested • Domestic & commercial

NO CALL OUT CHARGE FREE QUOTES

Certified

Tel: 01538 387169 or 07875 464866 07971 849805

qualified & experienced • Fully tree surgeon All aspects of tree & hedge work • undertaken • Fully insured • Free advice & no obligation quotes • Chainsaw training & assessments

Tel: 01538 382198 Mob: 07812 598909

Email: totaltreesolutions@hotmail.co.uk

salon

Waxing . . . . . . . . . . . . .from £7.00 Facials . . . . . . . . . . . . .from £15.00 Massages . . . . . . . . . .from £20.00 Many hand and feet treatments Spray Tanning Glitzy lips coming soon

Spray Tan, Nail Paint, Glitter Lips £35.00 Tel: 07982 683451 ow N Open! The Avenue, Cheddleton (next to the Chip Shop)

the

50 Leek Life November/December 2015

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

www.malelectrician.co.uk

Please call 07811 176311

Merv Bennett & Son Domestic appliance service engineers

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

Paul Bennett Telephone: 01782 394887 Mobile: 07920 516156