Leek Life Nov Dec 2016

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016

ROCK OUT 2016

Life

See in New Year with Thunder Hammer

‘Tis the season...

Abba’s Angels top the bill for lights switch on

Marching to glory 5th Leek Scouts and Guides Band

WIN S T E K C I T

at hite W ow to Sn on Opera Buxt use Ho

NOV/DEC

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

CONTENTS

Brett Trafford Photography ..............21 Recipes for life ..................................22

Stage directions ................................24

Property ............................................26 Home improvements........................30 Gardening .........................................34 Staffordshire Wildlife Trust..............36

Leek Christmas lights switch on........10

Reflections Coaching ........................39

Musical triumph.................................14

Swimming .........................................43

Leek Blues and Americana Festival...16

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

Christmas market...............................12 Douglas Macmillan Hospice ..............15

Movember ..........................................18

Leek United Building Society ............19 Foxlowe Arts Centre ..........................20

Weddings ..........................................40

Cheddleton Christmas Pudding Race..44 Quiz corner...........................................48

Leek Fire Station ..................................49

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

EMBRACE FESTIVE SPIRIT

hristmas is coming and while we may no longer be fattening up the goose, sourcing local produce for our festive feast has become increasingly important in recent years.

In the new millennium we have become more aware and concerned about the origins of our food and most will agree that the flavour, texture and overall enjoyment of what we eat is significantly increased when we know it has been made with love.

And, at Christmastime - when we traditionally gather with family and friends to celebrate with a lovingly made meal - choosing locally produced and handcrafted foodstuffs, we’re enjoying the best of what the winter months have to offer.

Of course, choosing local produce also supports local businesses something we excel at in Leek and should rightly be proud of.

Individual and unique gifts from independent shops and the special Christmas markets are a fantastic way to show your love this Christmas for your town as well as your friends and family.

And what better way to embrace the Christmas spirit, than to tog up in coats and hats and browse the stalls and shops at the Totally Locally Sunday Supplement and Christmas Supplement markets?

So much is happening in the run up to Christmas. The Christmas Lights Switch On on Friday 18th November kicks off at 7pm, with the amazing Abbas Angels topping the bill this year.

The event starts with a ‘heroes’ parade led by Santa and the 5th Leek Scout and Guide Band, which this month is also celebrating a musical triumph.

Later in November villagers in Cheddleton will be preparing to hand out Christmas Puddings to runners at the annual 10k Christmas Pudding Race in aid of Cancer Research UK - and of course there will be a host of church services, school nativities, Christmas fairs and festivities throughout the coming weeks.

As always, the chill of the winter months, the nights drawing in and the twinkle of Christmas lights herald the close of the year - another one which seems to have sped past.

And once Christmas is over, our focus will turn to celebrating the arrival of 2017 - and at the Foxlowe, New Year’s Eve will be rocked in by Thunder Hammer with their Monsters of Rock show.

2016 has been a tumultuous year on a national and local level, so let’s hope as we celebrate the turning of the year, that 2017 will bring us the opportunities to see the peace, goodwill, compassion, support and fellowship of the festive season extended into the new year and beyond.

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Deborah Boden Contents Editor debbie@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

Deborah

Did you know that you can read Leek Life online?

Front cover photo courtesy of Brett Trafford

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

www.bretttrafford.com 6 Leek Life November/December 2016

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HOLIDAYS ARE COMING

LEEK CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON

BIG SWITCH ON SIGNALS START OF CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES

ignalling the start of all things festive, Leek Christmas Lights switch on has become one of the biggest events on the town’s social calendar.

Taking place on Friday 18th November kicking off at 7pm, it will be the amazing Abbas Angels who will be topping the evening’s entertainment lineup this year.

Billed as one of the UK’s top Abba tribute bands, the four piece group have been together since 2000, and feature some incredibly talented singers and musicians.

Proceedings will fittingly start with a ‘heroes’ parade led by Santa and the 5th Leek Scout and Guide Band, which will start from Stockwell Street and make its way down through the town

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10 Leek Life November/December 2016

centre, with children (and adults) dressing up as their favourite heroes.

Traditional carols from the Salvation Army band will get the crowd in a festive mood ahead of the official switch on which will be performed

by Town Mayor, Councillor Rebecca Done at 7.30pm.

Totally Locally stallholders will be in town selling their unique wares and many of the town’s retail shops will remain open until late. There will be the opportunity to support some of Leek’s many wonderful community organisations too who will be fundraising on Derby Street.

As well as featuring all sorts of stalls, entertainment attractions will also include the John Collins’ fun fair which will be located on the High Street, as well as a selection of rides for younger children on Market Street.

Get into the festive spirit and join in all the fun this November on ‘lights night’.

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CHRISTMAS MARKET

AN ARTISAN CHRISTMAS

stunning array of local produce and gorgeous gifts will be at the special Christmas Sunday Supplement market on Sunday 18th December in Leek town centre.

The event will echo the usual artisan excellence of the Sunday Supplement markets, but with an additional festive theme, offering shoppers the chance to find unusual, thoughtful and quirky presents for family and friends this Christmas.

This extra event will see Totally Locally Leek’s independent shops offering a host of gifts with character and style, supplemented by the artisan market with more than 50 local makers,

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12 Leek Life November/December 2016

craftspeople, jewellers, photographers, foodies, and lots more.

Ideal to pick up beautiful presents as well as source some sumptuous ingredients and stand-out dishes for your Christmas festivities, the Christmas Supplement market is from 10.30am until 3pm.

And, for those who like to get prepared a little earlier, the award-winning monthly Sunday Supplement market will still be held on Sunday 4th December, offering a range of locally made products from honey to beer, cheese to chutney, photography, jewellery and lots more.

The perfect venue for y our

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We offer stylish rooms, free on site car parking, complimentary wifi and, at weekends, an award winning restaurant that uses great produce from the best local butchers’ and suppliers.

You’ll also be able to appreciate that produce at breakfast time with our Gold award winning sausages and butchers’ dry cured bacon. If a full English is not your thing then how about the finest hot smoked salmon from the Outer Hebrides?

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MARCHING TO GLORY MUSICAL TRIUMPH

5TH LEEK SCOUTS AND GUIDES BAND

usicians with the 5th Leek and District Scout and Guide Band have won the Championship Class at the Greater Manchester Marching Band Championships.

The band took part in the contest - part of the Traditional Youth Marching Bands Association - in October, following on from their first entry last year where they were class winners.

Having returned to win the championship class, the band members were also able to see the National Championships held on the same day.

Long-serving Scout leader and bandmaster, Paul Bullock, brings his military background to the band with the help of his assistant and four instructors, emulating military bugle bands such as the Rifles and Royal Marines.

The band’s roots go as far back as the late 1960s and early 70s when young Scouts and Guides played local parades and carnivals.

Paul told Leek Life: “This last 12 months has proved to be the busiest year in a long time with performances in Leek town centre at Christmas and also playing carols in Sainsbury’s Leek as well as at a display at RAF Cosford.

“We have performed at the St George's day parade in Cheddleton and at Brown Edge

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Carnival, Endon Well-dressing, Leek Club Day and the Mayor’s Parade in Leek town centre to name but a few.”

During the summer, Paul organised an awards evening for the young musicians with local dignitaries including Leek Mayor, Rebecca Done, and local councillors including Keith Harrison who is a strong supporter of the band.

Supporters such as Les Critchlow of the Leek Lions, and members of Leek Rotary Club were also invited to the evening along with scout leaders, parents and friends.

The band is always looking for sponsorship, however small, to help with transport and general running costs for instrument and uniform replacement from local businesses who may be able to assist.

Band members play various instruments including snare drum, bugle, glockenspiel, military flutes and cymbals giving them a distinct sound of their own which they have developed over time.

The band has vacancies for youngsters aged 8 and over, uniform and instruments are provided with full tuition in music and marching within the guidelines of Scouting and Guiding.

Practice nights are weekly on Thursdays from 7pm to 8.30pm at 5th Leek Scout Group HQ, Fowlchurch Road, Leek.

For more information, contact Paul via email at: paulbullock41@outlook.com.

DOUGLAS MACMILLAN HOSPICE

SCHOOL CHILDREN EXPRESS UNDERSTANDING THROUGH ART everal local schools got involved with a special arts project staged again this year after a successful launch in 2015.

Organised by the Douglas Macmillan Hospice, the Expressions of Care Art Exhibition was open to pupils from across various Key Stages who were asked to create a piece of art which described the Dougie Mac. The main aim of the project was to educate young people about the Hospice via interactive classroom sessions that were ran in schools by hospice representatives.

Students then collectively produced a piece of

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artwork in the form of a collage, incorporating what they had learnt, capturing their emotions and feelings.

The work, including pieces from Berrisford Memorial School pupils who won the top prize in the ‘flowers’ category for the second year in a row, along with Cheddleton’s St. Edwards School children who won the top prize in the collage category, was then displayed in an exhibition at the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery in Hanley.

The Expressions of Care Art Exhibition is now on display in the Foxlowe Arts Centre in Leek until December.

Leek Life November/December 2016 15

LEEK BLUES AND AMERICANA FESTIVAL

ORGANISERS FAR FROM usic fans welcomed Leek’s Blues and Americana Festival back to the town for the fourth year this autumn and were not disappointed with what organisers delivered.

Over 50 acts played at venues in Leek across five days from Wednesday 28th September to Sunday 2nd October.

Speaking to Leek Life one of the Festival organisers Dave Swarbrook said: “Yet again we have had tremendous support from local independent businesses who help out with the programme costs for a small mention. It’s great how Leek’s pubs and bars are keen to work collaboratively with us to provide a full five day festival of quality blues and Americana music, most of it free. It’s now becoming a destination event attracting musicians and audiences from across the world, on the first year we were amazed that people from Matlock came, this year we’ve had a couple from Mexico!”

One gig goer, Nick Whitfield, from Leicester

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had this to say: “I’d previously had the pleasure of performing at the Leek Blues and Americana Festival in 2014 with Mike Sanchez and then again with my own band the Drugstore Cowboys a year later and was just waiting for a chance to return as a punter to the quaint Peak District border town of Leek.

“I’ve got to congratulate the organisers and their partners for putting together an eclectic line up and putting Leek on the map for touring roots musicians. So after a few beers at the Roebuck Inn and a complimentary burger at the bar (nice touch) we headed on up to the Foxlowe Arts Centre for what was to be a mesmerising performance from ‘Slim Cessna’s Auto Club’ from Denver, Colorado. I can only try to describe what I saw as a dark atmospheric gothic country sound, a stage presence that demanded your attention from Slim Cessna and his sidekick Jay Munly’ of whom looked like he’d crawled out of his casket for one more round of gospel, I’ve personally never seen a

LEEK BLUES AND AMERICANA FESTIVAL

OM SINGING THE BLUES twosome of frontmen like it and they spent as much time in the audience getting close and chanting with their army of followers as they did onstage, their absence on stage and roaming through the audience gave us all a chance to marvel at the stunning musicianship of the other band members, especially the haunting keys and pedal steel sounds from Rebecca Vera of which was the icing on the cake for me, so all in all an amazing experience.”

Sarah Woolliscroft of Sarah Myatt Glass, and one of the Totally Locally Sunday Supplement organisers and traders added: “Our October Sunday Supplement was a great day with the addition of the Blues Festival also taking place in town. There has been an extra feel good atmosphere with all the live music.

Jonathan Mountford one of the Festival’s main organisers concluded: “This year’s festival has surpassed our expectations. The quality of the live music gets better each year and the hosting venues have made our audiences feel

very welcome. We would like to thank everyone that has contributed this year. Without sponsors, technical support, the hard working staff at each of our venues, local media and the generous support from the general public there would be no festival.

“It has been difficult, there’s no hiding from that. We are more than aware of our critics too and this year we’ve put considerably more of our volunteers time into addressing concerns from previous festivals whilst garnering new levels of support, ideas and enthusiasm from those new to the area. Quite what the future holds for the Leek Blues and Americana Festival is impossible to predict but as long as we have the support, good will and good spirit to carry on we’ll always aim to surprise, surpass expectations and above all ‘dare to fail’.

“If you would like to be a part of the festival organising committee for next year or think you can help in any way please contact us via our website or Facebook page.”

Leek Life November/December 2016 17

BARBERING NIGHT BOOSTS MOVEMBER MOVEMBER

Leek College welcomes Master Barber for charity event ward-winning barber Kieron Price will visit Leek College this

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November – for a fun fundraising night for the Movember charity.

Kieron, who is the past winner of a British Master Barber Award and teaches at the London School of Barbering, will be showcasing his skills with demonstrations at the Leek College Campus on Monday 7th November. The salon doors will be open from

18 Leek Life November/December 2016

6pm until 9pm for all those with an interest in barbering to network, purchase products, win prizes and learn from the barbershop manager himself.

Tickets, which cost £10 with £5 concessions for college students, are being sold in aid of Movember – the only charity dedicated to men’s health issues. And it’s a cause close to the heart of organiser Amanda Garrington, Salon Operations Manager at the college, as her own husband, Joe, is battling prostate cancer.

During the evening, Kieron will talk about his own journey to being a successful barber and businessman as well as giving live demonstrations. Amanda said: “The event is a must for hairdressers, barbers, salon owners, trainees and all those with an interest in the industry.

There will be a chance for guests to network with suppliers such as Squire and Pompadour as well as Near Cut, the online booking system and the Hair and Barber Council.”

Refreshments will be available and all money raised on the night will be donated to Movember. Tel. 01538 322123 or call in at the Hair and Beauty reception of either Buxton or Leek Campus to book your tickets.

LEEK UNITED BUILDING SOCIETY

FIGHTING DIRTY LEEK UNITED AGAINST CANCER

olleagues from Leek United ‘fought dirty’ against cancer once again, as part of a national fun day of fundraising.

For the second year running, members of staff joined thousands of other women to jog, squelch and slide around a challenging 5k muddy course in the Race for Life ‘Pretty Muddy’ event, this year held at Hanley’s Central Forest Park.

And after tackling a series of obstacles on the park’s paths, tracks and grass, their efforts succeeded in raising a total of £300 for Cancer Research UK. The Society’s staff joined the race as ‘LUBS Team Tony’, in support of a Leek Head Office colleague who is currently battling leukaemia.

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Clare Beardmore, Leek United’s Head of Marketing and Products, said: “Every one of us knows someone whose life has been touched by cancer in some way – and this year it has come particularly close to home for all of us.

“Getting ‘Pretty Muddy’ was a great, fun way of raising much-needed funds for a vital, ongoing battle. The team just each needed a change of clothes – and a determination to climb, jog and walk all over cancer.”

Taking part in the event were Deb Bree, Jo Cordall, Angela Lawson, Gemma Lawson, Katie Lawson, Claire McCarthy, Rachel Phillips, Louise Poole, Sarah Jane Poole, Michelle Prince, Kim Tatton and Charlotte Wood.

Race For Life ‘Pretty Muddy’ at Central Forest Park was one of a series of similar events organised by Cancer Research UK throughout the country.

Leek Life November/December 2016 19

ROCK OUT 2016 FOXLOWE ARTS CENTRE

AND SEE IN NEW YEAR WITH THUNDER HAMMER

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egarded by many as one of the best covers bands in the UK, Thunder Hammer are back in Leek this New Years Eve to help bring in 2017 in style.

Head down to the Foxlowe Arts Centre, opposite the Market Place, if you fancy rocking out to classic anthems by the likes of Guns N Roses, Led Zeppelin, Queen, Bon Jovi and ACDC, to name but a few, all performed live in the band’s explosive ‘Monsters of Rock Show.’

If that isn’t enough, there will also be special guest DJ sets throughout the night. If you are into rock, then this is the only place to be on New Years Eve! Tickets are £10 in advance and are available from the band via the Thunder Hammer Facebook page or from the Foxlowe Arts Centre Box Office. A quarter of the tickets sold out in the first hour of being on sale, so make sure you book yours to avoid disappointment.

20 Leek Life November/December 2016

PICTURE PERFECT...

BRETT TRAFFORD PHOTOGRAPHY

2017 CALENDAR LOOKS AT LIFE THROUGH A LENS

website www.bretttrafford.com or from the man himself at his Sunday Supplement market stall held in Leek on the first Sunday of every month.

o doubt Brett Trafford’s images will be a familiar sight to many, famous for his trademark Leek panoramic views and his striking cover photos often used by us here at Leek Life magazine.

Now Brett’s perfect prints can be enjoyed every month of the year after producing his very own 2017 calendar.

Brett, a freelance and commercial photographer, born, bred and based right here in Leek in the heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands, means his love and appreciation for the area coupled with a passion for his trade has enabled him to build up a huge stock of local images that attract a lot of attention from both locals and visitors to the area.

This is the second year Brett has produced his own calendar after previously supplying pictures to other local and commercial calendars.

Brett’s 2017 calendar is available from his

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Leek Life November/December 2016 21

Christmas COOKERY RECIPES FOR LIFE

he winter months are a great time of year to enjoy your food with nothing more satisfying than a warm hearty meal to comfort you when the winter chill starts to bite. So why not try your hand at a bit of festive baking. It needn’t be time-consuming either as once everything is weighed out, most things take only minutes to prepare and cook and keep really well too.

The aroma of some glorious baking coming from the kitchen will really add some festive cheer to your home this Christmas, and what is more traditional than a batch of scrumptious mince pies.

And of course we cannot do a Christmas cookery section without mentioning the iconic turkey. So for good measure we have included a lovely traditional recipe for some sage and onion stuffing which will go perfectly with your bird and all the trimmings on Christmas Day.

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MINCE PIES

Makes: 12 pies Preparation time: 30 minutes to 1 hour Cooking time: 10 to 30 minutes

Ingredients • 350g/12oz high quality mincemeat, preferably homemade • 200g/7oz plain flour, sifted • 40g/11⁄2oz golden caster sugar • 75g/23⁄4oz ground almonds 125g/41⁄2oz unsalted butter, diced 1 large free-range egg, beaten milk, to glaze

Method 1. Lightly butter a 12-hole pie tin. Tip the mincemeat into a bowl and stir so that the liquid is evenly distributed.

2. Place the flour, sugar, almonds and butter in a food processor and process briefly until resembling breadcrumbs, then slowly add the egg through the feeder tube. (Or rub the butter into the dry ingredients by hand and stir in the egg.)

3. Bring the mixture together with your hands, wrap in clingfilm and chill for an hour or so. Thinly roll out the pastry on a floured surface. Cut out 12 circles with a fluted pastry cutter, large enough to fill the base of the prepared tin. Press gently into each hole, then fill with the mincemeat.

4. Cut out another 12 slightly smaller discs and use to cover the mincemeat. Press the edges together to seal. Make a small slit in the top of each, then brush lightly with milk. Chill for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6.

5. Bake the pies for 20 minutes until golden brown. Remove to a wire rack and serve warm.

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SAGE & ONION STUFFING Serves: 4-6 Preparation time: less than 30 minutes Cooking time: 10 to 30 minutes

Ingredients • 4 large onions • 10 sage-leaves • 125g/1⁄4lb of breadcrumbs 40g/11⁄2oz butter • salt and pepper to taste • 1 egg

Method 1. Peel the onions, put them into boiling water, let them simmer for five minutes or longer, and just be fore they are taken out, put in the sage-leaves for a minute or two to take off their rawness.

2. Chop both of these very finely, then add the bread, seasoning and butter, and work the whole lot together with the yolk of an egg.

3. At this stage the stuffing is now ready to be used. It should be highly seasoned with the ingredients very finely chopped.

Tip: If you require a stronger tasting stuffing do not parboil the onions and just use them raw.

RECIPES FOR LIFE

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

Merry Christmas from Steve, Linda and all the team at

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

• Delicious homemade food served everyday including Sunday when we serve a traditional roast, and delicious daily specials • Families welcome • Dog friendly • A selection of real ales

Canal Side , Denford, Leek , ST13 7JT

01538 371819

See our Christmas Menu at

www.hollybushleek.co.uk Leek Life November/December 2016 23

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

WIN A FAMILY TICKET to see

Snow White at Buxton Opera House hat better place to watch a pantomime than the sparkling, fairytale setting of Buxton Opera House.

This year James Holmes is back by popular demand to play the role of the dame and Lucy Dixon will make her debut appearance as Snow White.

TV actor James Holmes is best known for playing barman Clive in the BBC’s popular comedy series Miranda.

This year James takes the helm as Dame Brenda Bakewell, who works as a long-suffering palace cook for the wicked Queen Belladonna.

Also performing at Buxton Opera House this Christmas will be the gorgeous Lucy Dixon, who is well known for her many telly roles including Hollyoaks and Waterloo Rd. 2016 marks the 25th year that writer/director Philip Dart and his company have produced the pantomime at Buxton Opera

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House. The anniversary year with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Philip assures us, will be better than ever, “a real blockbuster of a family show, to celebrate the anniversary in style.” The critics tend to agree - last year The Stage called the show “a delightful traditional pantomime with some innovative tweaks.” Whilst Manchester Theatre Awards hailed it as “a thoroughly entertaining and colourful panto.”

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs runs from Saturday 10th December to Sunday 1st January.

Tickets cost from £17.50 to £23 and discounts and group rates are available.

Tickets are £10 for groups of ten or more, with one adult free per ten children. Groups of ten adults or more are priced at £16.

To book seats go online at www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk or telephone the Box Office on 01298 72190.

To win a family ticket for 4 on December 10th at 1.00pm, answer the following question.

WHICH OF THE DISNEY SEVEN DWARVES WORE GLASSES? a.Bashful

b. Dopey

c. Doc

(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 29th November 2016.

24 Leek Life November/December 2016

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

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Luxury Holiday Home Sleeps 16 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 Leek Life November/December 2016 25

PROPERTY

PROPERTY

DON’T BELIEVE THE MYTH, WINTER CAN BE A GOOD TIME TO SELL YOUR HOME AND HERE’S HOW TO DO IT Starting to feel the winter blues about selling your property?

While spring and summer are the busiest times to market your home, it’s not always the best time to sell.

Common wisdom suggests avoiding selling in winter, but some agents argue that with less properties to compete with and only the more serious buyers on the hunt, it can be a good time to market your home.

For house sellers thinking of moving in the New Year, November and December are great months to sell.

There are still plenty of buyers out there -

Rightmove had more than 500,000 visits last Christmas Day, rising to 1.3 million on Boxing Day (data taken from This is Money website).

Buyers are less distracted at this time of year.

There’s also less supply because there are few new launches and many properties have been taken off the market.

TOP TIPS TO SELL YOUR HOUSE BY SPRING

• Keep the price competitive

• Update photos: If there's snow when the first pictures are taken, get them retaken as soon as it’s gone. Old seasonal pictures with trees full of leaves can make the property look like it’s been on the market for a while.

And don’t be too hasty with the tinsel. Christmas decorations can make a room look cluttered or too busy.

• Be flexible with viewings: Daytime viewings are best – try Saturdays or Sundays if weekdays are tricky.

• Make it cosy and offer a warm welcome: It sounds obvious but light the fire or turn up the central heating.

• Let in the light: Open curtains and clean windows to make rooms as light and airy as possible.

• Don’t forget the exterior: Make sure gutters and window frames are well maintained and clean. Any exterior paintwork maintenance, with a small investment now, can make a real difference to your home’s selling potential.

• The garden is just as important in winter: Lawns should be cut and free of leaves. While children’s play areas may signal an attractive family home in summer, an expanse of dead grass under the trampoline can spoil the effect. And although you may be thinking about storing tables, chairs and benches away for winter, it’s worth leaving them outside so buyers can see the space in action. Always keep them scrubbed and clean though.

Leek Life November/December 2016 27

PROPERTY

To book a viewing call 01538 542454 or visit EweMove.com/Leek 28 Leek Life November/December 2016

PROPERTY

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We’re open 24/7, so we never miss out on a viewing or offer

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6 I’ll create 2D and 3D floor plans which generate 30% more enquiries Leek Life November/December 2016 29

KEEP WARM AND CARRY ON HOME IMPROVEMENTS

ith enough expense at Christmas as it is follow our top tips on keeping your energy bill costs down this Christmas and stay cosy simply by keeping your home warm and dry this winter.

Start by having your boiler serviced – servicing your boiler will prevent it from breaking down when you need it most. An annual service will ensure that your boiler is safe and running at its most efficient, as well as detect any minor faults which could lead to serious problems. A gas boiler should only be serviced by a Gas Safe

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30 Leek Life November/December 2016

boiler specialist; if you have an oil boiler then you need to hire an OFTEC registered boiler expert.

Keep on top of roof repairs - winter wind, rain, snow and freezing temperatures can take their toll on your roof. If there’s something wrong with your roof, your home can become cold, damp, expensive to heat and even structurally unsound. So make sure that you regularly inspect your roof and repair any leaks, replace broken tiles and check that fascias and soffits are in good condition. It’s also essential to make sure your guttering is well maintained and free-

‰

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

sound proofing as well as reduced condensation flowing, so have it regularly cleaned. and a possible boost to the value of your home.

Stop your pipes from freezing – when the weather turns sub-zero, water pipes can Get insulated – in cold weather your home freeze and burst, causing substantial damage to loses more heat than ever, especially if it’s poorly your home. You can stop this from happening by: insulated. Check that your walls are externally Insulating your home and your pipes, fixing leaky insulated or fitted with cavity wall insulation and taps, disconnecting that you have at least your hose and keeping 270mm of insulation in your heating on low your loft. You may even during cold weather. A be eligible for a With enough expense at plumber can insulate government grant Christmas as it is follow our your pipes and deal towards the cost of with cracked or burst insulating your home; top tips on keeping your pipes. check with your local energy bill costs down this Double glaze your council for details. windows - if you have Damp proof your Christmas and stay cosy single glazed windows, home – during the simply by keeping your home much of the money winter months damp you spend on heating can really creep into warm and dry this winter your home is quite your home. To prevent literally going straight this from happening, out of the window. ensure you have a damp Double glazing your windows will keep your proofing course installed; check that gutters and home warm and could save you up to £135 a year downward pipes are clear and that your roof is in on your heating bills and cut your carbon good repair. Protect against condensation by emissions by 720kg annually. Added benefits of ensuring humidity levels stay at 65-70%. A damp double glazing include increased security and proofing expert can carry out a survey on your

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Mark: 07557 346614 or 07434 992316 32 Leek Life November/December 2016

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

home to diagnose and treat damp.

Heat your home with a wood stove – installing a wood stove or boiler could be an eco-friendly option for your home, especially if you don’t have access to a gas mains. A wood burner could save you as much as £390 a year on heating costs if you are replacing coal or electric heating and it can reduce your carbon emissions by up to 9.5 tonnes a year. If you source wood locally and replant the trees you burn, a wood boiler can be a

completely carbon neutral heating solution.

Plug up your draughts – draught proofing is probably the simplest winter home improvement you can make. Plugging up draughts around your doors, windows and letterbox will save money and energy as well as keeping your home cosy. A draught proofing specialist will use either draught excluders like sealants or strips made of rubber or plastic to keep your home draught free.

Leek Life November/December 2016 33

GARDENING

$ $ $

by Martin Blow

ave you noticed how after a cold winter self-sown seedlings pop up in greater numbers than usual? We are used to sowing pots of seeds on our window sill or in a warm greenhouse in spring, but some seeds really do need a whole winter’s cold before they will germinate in spring.

So now is a great time to sow these and it couldn’t be easier.

Not all perennials work this way – some do need heat so do check first. We’ve selected out some of the easiest and most reliable types we grow this way.

You don’t need any indoor space or expensive equipment just a suitable container, some seed compost and something to keep excess rain off and mother nature will do the rest.

Janet is sower-in-chief in our garden and right now she is filling containers – we use plastic module trays – with a good quality seed compost. It’s important to gently tamp it down and water thoroughly. Leave it to drain and settle before sowing.

Large seeds should be lightly covered with dry compost – Janet uses an old plastic sieve to ensure an even, thin layer. Small seed can be gently pressed onto the surface of the compost.

The trays or pans must be put outside in the cold. Some people cover the surface with a fine alpine grit to stop moss growth and protect from rain. Janet covers hers with clear plastic tops remembering to secure them from blowing off in the wind.

Now all that is needed is patience and some winter cold. In spring seed will start to germinate as the weather warms up. With some seeds, like those of Miss Wilmott’s Ghost (Eryngium giganteum) or Bugbane (Actaea racemosa) two winter’s might be needed before germination starts – don’t throw the pan or modules even if nothing happens in the first spring.

Once the seedlings have some proper leaves it’s time to pot them on. If you have used modules, then simply push the plug of soil out

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34 Leek Life November/December 2016

from below and pot up – we use 9cm pots. If you’ve sown in traditional pots or pans or a seed tray, then you will need to carefully prick out the seedlings. Fill a small pot with potting compost and make a hole in the compost deep enough to take the roots. Holding the seedling by the leaves (not the stem), use a thin stick or blunt knife to gently lift the seedling with its roots intact and then pop into a small hole.

Gently firm the compost around the roots.

Water the pots gently and put in a slightly shady place out of the wind or in greenhouse or coldframe until they are growing away. Don’t let them get baked in the sun!

So which perennials can you grow this way?

One of the easiest is Mallow (Malva). These germinate very easily in the winter and quickly make good flowering plants by early summer.

Our favourites are “Zebrina� and “Mauritiana�.

Some cranesbills (hardy geraniums) can be difficult to divide so seed sowing is a great method of propagation. The bloody cranebill (Geranium sanguineum) are easily raised from seed and “Striatum�, “Album� and “Vision Violet� will come completely true from seed. We also find that the meadow cranesbill (Geranium pratense) germinate well after winter cold but you will need to ensure that your seed is true if you want good plants of named types like “Mrs. Kendall Clark�.

Angelica is a well-known herb and wildflower and there are some lovely, showier cousins you can grow from winter-sown seed. Seed must be fresh for success! Spanish Angelica (A. gigas) has large beetroot red flowers and “Vicar’s Mead� has bronze leaves and pink flowers.

The Argentine verbena (V. bonariensis) is also easily grown this way and if the winter is an extra hard one you will need the seedlings to replace the mother plants in your garden as they will succumb to a prolonged, cold winter. Other species like hastata and stricta are also worth sowing now.

Jerusalem sages, like Phlomis Russeliana have large seeds and the winter cold will break down the seed coat allowing them to push through in spring. These will take another year of growth before flowering.

Peruvian Lilies (alstroemeria) are great cut

GARDENING

$ $ $ flowers and you can grow a long-stemmed variety like “Ligtu� from seed. Again you may have to wait an extra year for your first cut flowers but its well worth it when you remember how much they cost from the florist.

Penstemons aren’t usually grown from seed but the herbaceous variety “Husker Red� is an exception. We grow this for its beetroot red fresh leaves more than for the small white flowers. The plants can vary a bit: select those with the best colour for growing on.

I’ve only just scratched the surface of winter seed sowing and I can see I’ve not mentioned

hellebores and spurge (Euphorbia) and many, many more but I hope I’ve given you some ideas.

So why not get sowing and dream of all that summer colour!

Martin and Janet Blow run Special Perennials, their website, www.specialperennials.com is full of colour photos and growing tips. They sell by mail order and at Plant Hunters’ Fairs throughout the season. See www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk, the couple are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for customers to collect.

Leek Life November/December 2016 35

STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

!! # $ $ "$ # #"

MANY SPECIES RECORDED AS DECL

ildlife in Staffordshire is under threat and changes need to be made to ensure its survival, an inaugural report by conservation groups and nature experts has found. ‘The State of Staffordshire’s Nature’ report, led

by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and Staffordshire Ecological Record, is the first “stocktake� of species and habitats found across the county.

It brings together data and expertise from dozens of individuals and organisations, providing an update on how wildlife is faring across the county in the hope that action will be taken to improve conditions.

The publication, which also celebrates thriving species and habitats, documents that farmland, moorland, woodland, lowland heathland, grassland, fresh water, wetland and urban species are all under threat in Staffordshire.

Worrying statistics from the report state that many species are declining, including water vole, hazel dormouse and a number of invertebrate species. All seven of Staffordshire’s priority butterfly species are decreasing in either abundance or distribution in the West Midlands.

Meanwhile, just 32 per cent of Staffordshire’s geological and nature conservation SSSIs (Sites of Special Scientific Interest) are in a favourable condition. Only five per cent of Staffordshire’s waterbodies are classified as being in good overall status with 46 per cent classed as either in poor or bad overall status.

However, there are a number of conservation success stories and the report identifies areas of hope. They include increasing populations of otter, polecat and logjammer hoverfly.

Many important species have also been recorded in the county, including dingy skipper and great crested newt. The county also holds important populations of fish including Atlantic salmon, brown trout and European eel and birds such as nightjar, woodlark and willow tit. Some of

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36 Leek Life November/December 2016

Staffordshire’s rare plant species include floating water-plantain, yellow bird’s nest and frog orchid.

Julian Woolford, Chief Executive at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, said: “Across the UK, there has been increasing demands on the natural environment which has led to a significant decline in biodiversity. Staffordshire has proved no exception and has suffered losses of habitats and species through increasing pressures including changes in land use and pollution. “We are blessed with a county that is rich in species with a diverse range of landscapes.

Without collective action, though, we will continue to see the loss of our wildlife rich habitats and the decline of species. “This report serves as a reminder to us all that nature needs our help and we can all do our bit to save it. Its authors are calling on people to support conservation charities and take action for wildlife.�

Chance to learn new skills on hedge laying course Nature lovers are being given the chance to learn the traditional technique of hedge laying during a two-day course organised by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust taking place on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th November at Tittesworth Reservoir.

Nicki Dyas, Training Officer, told Leek Life: “This is an excellent chance not only to learn a new skill, but also help local wildlife and meet new people while you’re at it. “Hedge laying also prolongs the life of the hedgerow by stimulating new growth. The stems at the base of the hedge are cut three quarters of the way through, laid horizontally and held in place with stakes. New growth then springs from these cut stems, so the hedge becomes dense and provides excellent habitat for wildlife.�

Hedgerows are vital as they act as corridors for wildlife to travel from one habitat to another, as well as providing food and shelter for a whole range of birds and small mammals.

STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

#" $# $ "" ! #! $

CLINING IN NATURE REPORT The course costs ÂŁ80 for both days per person with all training and equipment provided. People should wear sensible outdoor clothes, bring a packed lunch and will meet at Tittesworth Reservoir visitor centre car park at 9.30am each day.

To book a place, or for more information, contact Nicki Dyas on Tel. 07960 874813 or email n.dyas@staffs-wildlife.org.uk.

Roaches footpath appeal receives boost from Leek supermarket A supermarket token scheme designed to raise money for charity has paid dividends for Staffordshire Wildlife Trust’s Roaches Footpath Appeal.

The Trust’s Leek Local Group has been handed a cheque for £476 after successfully participating in Leek’s Waitrose Community Matters green token scheme. The scheme allows shoppers to use a green token handed to them after paying for their shopping to vote for one of three community projects they think the money should go towards.

The group, who run local talks and volunteer groups throughout the year in the Leek area, were delighted when customers voted for The Roaches project – and the money will now go towards repairing and maintaining footpaths at the 395 hectare nature reserve.

Jon Rowe, Roaches Warden for Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, said: “Our Leek Local Group play a vital part in so much of our work in the area. As well as running their own talks and work parties, they also represent the charity at events, fund-raise, carry out surveys and deliver members’ magazines on the

Trust’s behalf. “We have thousands of visitors to The Roaches each month and intense visitor pressure all year round obviously has an effect on the fragile environment. “So it’s important these paths receive the care and attention they need – and all money raised through the appeal goes towards restoring the footpaths.�

The Leek Local Group also carry out practical conservation work on nature reserves in the Leek area and help promote the Trust’s Leek Charity Shop, which opened in 2015 and is based in Derby Street.

Anyone interested in volunteering or assisting the Leek Local Group in their vital work across the area should contact Val Riley, Group Secretary, on Tel. 01538 300264.

Pictured from left to right is Heather Owen Leek Group Committee member; Jon Rowe Roaches Warden; Val Riley Leek Group Secretary ; John Stanney – Leek Group Treasurer ; Sue Booth – Partner Co-ordinator Manager, Waitrose.

Leek Life November/December 2016 37

The §Bra Boutique • Bras for all occasions • Bra fitting specialists • Gift vouchers available • Excellent range of shapewear

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38 Leek Life November/December 2016

DON’T JUST DREAM IT, DO IT!

REFLECTIONS COACHING

DRAG THOSE PLANS OUT AND SEE WHERE YOU’RE AT

with Carolyn Trafford

ovember may feel a strange time to be talking about goals, most of us plan them in January and have forgotten about them three months later. I find now is a really good time to focus on them. The distractions of summer are over and aside from Christmas there’s less to occupy us particularly in the evenings.

So it’s never too late to drag out those plans and see where you’re at. It’s surprising what you may have achieved while not purposefully thinking about it.

I dragged my plans out last week. My main goal for this year was to write my book – “Don’t Just Dream It – Achieve It” and to get it published.

I’m almost there. It’s been written, proofed and designed. Friends have been so supportive with proof reading and suggestions. So never underestimate the value of their support. And I have one copy in print that I am reviewing.

When I started writing, back in March, a friend suggested Crowd-funding as a way of taking it forward. As this is my first book, the printing cost per book on a small number is quite high and a little prohibitive. I don’t want to have to pass the high costs onto the people purchasing.

If you’re still wondering what crowd-funding is, then it’s a forum by which you can reach potential investors. The investors aren’t people from Dragons Den, they’re as likely to be your next door neighbour, your friend, or someone ordinary from the outer Hebrides. They’re just nice people who want small businesses or someone they know to succeed.

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My goal is to reach a print run of approx 100 books by the start of December. That’s six weeks when I wrote this.

I hope to report good news in the next issue.

My book is about helping people succeed with their goals is a simple and creative way – please get in touch if you’d like more information.

If you’d like more information about crowdfunding or wish to invest then take a look at the campaign at: www.indiegogo.com/projects/don-tjust-dream-it#/

Carolyn Trafford is a Leek based personal development coach supporting others in reaching their true potential. If you need to maximise your motivation then please 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 November/December 2016 39

WEDDINGS

40 Leek Life November/December 2016

Rustic charm and revelry as countryside couple tie the knot

WEDDINGS

drizzly start wasn't going to put the dampeners on the special day ahead for Sophie Barks and Andrew Carr who were set to the tie the knot, seven years to the day, from when they met at a local Young Farmers event.

The couple, Sophie a staff nurse from Ipstones and Andrew, an agricultural contractor from Cheddleton, kept the theme of their big day very much rooted in the countryside traditions and heritage of their surroundings and backgrounds with a traditional church service, conducted by the Reverend Michael Evans at St Leonard's Church in Ipstones, the bride's home village, followed by a day time and evening reception held in a fabulous marquee at Heath House Farm in Cheddleton, the family home of groom Andrew.

Special personal touches such as a vintage tractor, positioned at the top of the driveway to point guests the correct way up to the venue, were evident throughout the day, as was the amount of work the couple and their own family and friends had evidently put into the fine details of the wedding to make it so special and personalised.

On the morning of the wedding the bridal party travelled into Leek to have their hair, make up, and nails done at Aphrodite in Russell Street before returning to Sophie's childhood home in Ipstones to finish getting ready. In the meantime the beautiful floral bouquets, button holes and table centre decorations, arranged by Marj Potts, were delivered while the last finishing touches were applied at the marquee.

Despite a mid summer date of 16th July for their wedding day, the intermittent showers managed to be dodged for all the important outdoor moments such as arriving and coming out of church, which was done in real style by both the bridal party and the groom and his usher with sports cars and a decorated JCB tractor.

The blushing bride, daughter of Andrew and Helen Barks, was escorted down the aisle in a white Pronovias gown with amazing lace detail by her father, and followed by her four stunning

A

bridesmaids, sister Beccy Hodkinson, groom Andrew's sister Stephanie Woodcock, and close friends Diane Burton and Louise Sherratt.

Waiting to greet his future wife Andrew, son of Kenneth and Christina Carr of Cheddleton, was supported on the day by best man Jack Sherratt and ushers Mark Woodcock, Andrew's brother in law, and friends Jake Williamson and Tom Findlow.

Following the ceremony friends, family, neighbours and colleagues joined the newlyweds with a celebration at Heath House Farm.

With the champagne flowing and some fabulous food and funny speeches the couple cut their amazing chocolate wedding cake, made by groom Andrew's mum Christina and their additional pork pie cake from Meakins Butchers in Leek, before the evening reception got underway with dancing and celebrating into the small hours.

Leek Life November/December 2016 41

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

HAVE A SPLASHING TIME

SWIMMING

PRIVATE POOL SWIMMING SESSIONS

wimming is a great activity for you and your baby or toddler to take part in together. It is great fun, good exercise, and can help them get used to the water at a young age and gain confidence from a safety point of view as well as become confident swimmers.

The privately owned heated swimming pool at Butterton Moor House is the perfect place to introduce your child to the water. Based just five miles out of Leek, the pool has mums, babies and toddlers sessions available on a Wednesday and Friday from 9.30am, as well as a relaxing ladies only swim on a Wednesday from 12.30pm to 1.30pm which tea and coffee is provided.

The pool is clean and warm providing a relaxing atmosphere as well as showers, a toilet, hair dryer, changing mats and a safe play pen for children to go in for ease during and after showering/changing.

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Swimming costs are kept as reasonable as possible with adults charged just £6 per session and babies and toddlers under the age of four free of charge.

Private hire for individual and family swims is also available. Give Diane a call to discuss your requirements.

Butterton Moor House Warm, beautiful, private swimming pool

Our private pool is ideal for families, mothers and babies or toddlers and groups swimming together.

Heated changing/shower rooms, baby change mats, hair drying facilities.

Birthdays/celebration pool parties ask for details

Mums, babies & toddler swims Wed & Fri 9.30am onwards - £6 per adult, babies & toddlers free

Prices per hour: Adults £7, Children (ages 4-12) £3, Babies/Toddlers Free. Pool minimum cost £15 per hour Parsons Lane, Butterton, Staffordshire, ST13 7PD Phone: 07870 380375 www.buttertonmoorhouse.co.uk e-mail: dianemlatham1@gmail.com

Leek Life November/December 2016 43

ANNUAL CHEDDLETON 10K CHRISTMAS PUDDING RACE

PUDDING RACE RETURNS

aturday 26th November marks a special date for Cheddleton’s hardworking Carnival Committee who will be limbering up in preparation for the 33rd anniversary of the now famous Christmas Pudding Race.

A tradition which has long been associated with the area will once again seen runners of all ages and abilities, from all over the district limbering up for the gruelling 10K race.

What puts this race apart from all the rest however, is that it is not only a huge fundraising event in aid of Cancer Research UK, but as a special festive bonus all finishers of the main 10K course and those who take on and successfully complete the two mile fun run, are presented with a Christmas pudding.

Organised by Cheddleton Carnival Committee as part of their ongoing fundraising campaign for Cancer Research UK, it is hoped there will be another bumper turnout this November.

Taking place on Saturday 26th November at 2pm, runners start the three lap traffic free course around the village lanes at St Edward’s Primary School in Hollow Lane. Runners by UK law must be 15 years or over to take part in the main race.

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44 Leek Life November/December 2016

A two mile fun run for those less serious or younger runners (under 12s must be accompanied by an adult) will also have the chance to bag themselves a Christmas pudding with the two mile fun run kicking off at the same venue at the earlier time of 1.40pm.

Prizes will be awarded to at least the first 20 competitors home as well as ladies and veterans with special awards for anyone able to smash the previous course records of 30.42 for Gents and 35.57 for Ladies.

Race entry is £10 for AAA Club Members and £12 for non members. Entry into the fun run is £5. Please supply a self addressed envelope for race details, number map of course etc. Late entires will cost £2 extra.

Cheques can be made payable to: Cancer Research UK and entries sent to Stan Winterton, Brook House Farm, Cheddleton, Leek , Staffs, ST13 7DF. Tel 01538 360296 or email mkwinter@sky.com. Visit www.cheddletoncarnival.co.uk for more information.

Photographs courtesy of Bryan Dale at www.racephotos.org.ik, email: bryan@racephotos.org.uk.

MOTORING

DACIA AMONGST MOST RELIABLE BRANDS IN 2016 WHICH? CAR SURVEY

acia has been voted the fourth most reliable car brand out of the 34 manufacturers in the 2016 Which? Car Survey – the largest of its type in the UK – outperforming many wellestablished and premium brands.

Dacia received a 90% satisfaction score from customers completing the 2016 car brand reliability survey – placing the no-nonsense car company above many premium and luxury brands.

The Dacia Duster – the best value SUV on the UK market – was voted third Best Compact SUV

by Which? readers for ownership satisfaction. The Dacia Sandero, the UK’s most affordable new car, received a Which? four-star reliability rating from owners with the Dacia Logan MCV – offering the more space for owners’ money than any other car in the UK – also received a Which? four-star reliability rating.

Dacia has won numerous awards in the UK since launching just over three years ago including What Car?’s ‘Best Small Car under £12,000’ for four consecutive years for the Sandero. One of the UK’s largest automotive owner satisfaction

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46 Leek Life November/December 2016

studies, Auto Express Driver Power, has placed Dacia in its top five best manufacturers for three consecutive years – out of 32 brands featured in the 2016 survey, with customers in particular praising the brand’s reliability.

Over four million Dacias have been sold since Groupe Renault reintroduced the brand in Europe in 2004. Dacia was launched in the UK in 2013 and over 78,000 of its ‘shockingly affordable’ vehicles have found UK homes to date.

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 £45.00 per week avg. fuel spend). Prices start from £1,750 (inc. VAT @ 20%).

01538 399377

C.A.R. Burton Street,

Leek, Staffs, ST13 8BU

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RUDYARD LAKE

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

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

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

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www.rudyardlakegarage.co.uk Leek Life November/December 2016 47

QUIZ CORNER

Let’s get quizzical COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

General Knowledge Quiz 1. Who played the title character in the recent television series ‘Victoria’?

2. The British National Ice Skating Association is based in Torvill and Dean’s home town. Where?

3. What is the first name of the Sylvester Stallone character Rambo?

5. Which computerised character spends most of his time trying to avoid four ghosts called Inky, Pinky, Blinky and Clyde?

6. Which two European countries have both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines?

7. In the nursery rhyme what is Tuesday's child full of?

8. Who wrote ‘Hitchhikers Guide To The Galaxy’?

9. Alphabetically which animal always comes first?

10. Who founded the computer company Amstrad?

A ‘Christmas Link’ quiz for the festive season 1. According to the nursery rhyme who sat in a corner eating a Christmas pie?

2. In the television series ‘Red Dwarf’ what is the name of the computer?

3. Who announced she would be leaving the numbers behind on the Channel 4 show ‘Countdown’ in 2008?

4. If you got involved in the Christmas Census in North America what would you be counting?

5. Which nickname for Hollywood sounds Christmassy?

6. Who is the patron saint of thieves?

7. In which James Bond film does the character Dr Christmas Jones appear?

8. In which film did Jim Carrey first play Lloyd Christmas?

9. Who was the song ‘American Pie’ mostly written about?

10. Holly Golightly was the main character in which film?

General Knowledge Answers: 1. Jenna Coleman (The 30 year-old will return with another series of Victoria in 2017); 2. Nottingham; 3. John; 4. Balamory (It was mostly filmed in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull); 5. Pac-Man (First released in 1980 and the Pac-Man character was based on a pizza with a slice missing); 6. Spain and France; 7. Grace; 8. Douglas Adams (Originally it was a radio comedy in BBC Radio 4 in 1978); 9. Aardvark (The Aardwolf is the second animal in the dictionary); 10. Alan Sugar (Founded in 1968 the name Amstrad stood for Alan Michael Sugar Trading).

Christmas Link Answers: 1. Little Jack Horner; 2. Holly (Played in different series by Norman Lovett and Hattie Hayridge); 3. Carol Vorderman (She probably got her first name due to her being born on Christmas Eve in 1955); 4. Birds; 5. Tinseltown; 6. St Nicholas (He is also the patron saint of children, sailors, brewers and pharmacists to name but a few); 7. The World is Not Enough (Played by Denise Richards); 8. Dumb and Dumber (Jeff Daniels played the other main character Harry Dunne); 9. Buddy Holly (Writer Don Mclean was 13 at the time of the crash that killed Buddy, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper); 10. Breakfast At Tiffany's.

48 Leek Life November/December 2016

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

4. Edie McCreadie, Miss Hoolie, PC Plum and Archie who lives in a castle are characters in which Cbeebies TV series?

LEEK FIRE STATION

FIRE STATION FUN DAY TIME CAPSULE BURIED BY CHIEF

record of life in Leek in 2016 has been buried at Leek’s new community fire station for future generations to discover.

Hundreds of visitors flocked to a fun day and time capsule burial at Leek’s new £3.4 million community fire station, which became operational in January.

Leek Station Manager, Carl Mason, said: “The fun day was a huge success and we were absolutely delighted with the turn out, the local community really came out in force to support their crews.

“It was also a great opportunity for firefighters to talk to residents about how to prevent fires in the home and how to stay safe on the county’s roads.”

The event saw Chief Fire Officer Becci Bryant bury a time capsule which featured memorabilia from the old fire station, photographs of the current Watch and artwork created by local schoolchildren among other items.

She was joined by other local dignitaries during the celebration.

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There was also plenty to keep fun-lovers entertained including an appearance from the fire and rescue service’s mascot Welephant, face painting and tasty treats.

Moorlands Radio, which has a studio at the community fire station, added to the atmosphere by broadcasting live throughout the event.

Carl added: “We have really enjoyed moving into our state-of-the-art facility and having much more interaction with local groups, from children to older people and all of these in between.

“While we continue to provide a response facility where our crews can turn out from during an emergency, we are also dedicated to working with our community to try to avoid incidents occurring in the first place.”

The community fire station on Springfield Road replaced the outdated facility on the same site, which became operational in 1971.

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

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

Leek was the ninth station to become operational in phase two of a major upgrade of buildings across the county.

Leek Life November/December 2016 49

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