Leek Life Sept Oct 2015

Leek SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Leek Blues & Americana Festival

Life

World class line-up for music fans

A design for family first

Mum puts Leek textiles back on the map

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO SCAREFEST

SEPT/OCT

CONTENTS

Editor’s letter .......................................6 Leek Blues and Americana Festival ....8

Soul and jazz ......................................12

Leek Work Club ................................22

Recipe for life ....................................23 Weddings ..........................................24

Property ............................................26

Choices Housing Association ............31 British Boxers ...................................32

Tales from the Hills ..........................35

Scarefest Competition ......................36 Halloween .........................................37 Leek and District Show.....................38

Leek Comedy Club .............................13

Summer events .................................40

Leek Twinning Association................16

New law firm.....................................43

Stage Directions .................................14 Reflections Coaching..........................17

Tour of Britain ..................................42 Motoring ...........................................46

Wildlife Foxlowe Community Arts Centre ......1828th Friday 26th April - Sunday AprilTrust....................................48

Come and join us for fantastic deals throughout the weekend Horoscopes .......................................49 Truly Scrumptious .............................19

www Feral Foodies .....................................20

Classified...........................................50 01538 756 333

Kingsley: Stoke-on-Trent ST10 2EH

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

A time to reap what we have sown

T

he breeze may well be tinged with the unmistakable hints of autumn and the once light nights slowly drawing in, but here in Leek the onset of the cooler months is absolutely no reason to feel blue.

Giving the new season a real kick start will be the hugely popular Leek Blues and Americana Festival, which is set to return to the town for the third time this October. Organisers are promising a line-up of world class performers who will take to the stage alongside returning favourites from the local and national blues scene.

Also coming up on Leek’s jam packed calendar of events this autumn is a great evening of comedy at The Foxlowe courtesy of Leek Comedy Club with four side splitting acts sure to give your funny bone a tickle!

Turning the mood slightly, and in a nod to All Hallows’ Eve, a weekend long Halloween celebration is on the cards at the end of October. Pubs, retailers and market traders will all be getting in on the action with all sorts of activities and entertainment taking place in the town.

And so, with our hunger for culture well and truly satisfied, we turn to our green fingered friends at the Feral Food Project and Leek Work Club to hear how their hard work is helping to provide fresh, nutritious produce to those who need it the most. More than 300 volunteers are now on board, helping to nurture home grown greens at plots throughout the town, with harvested produce now being shared between the growers themselves and Leek Foodbank. What wonderfully worthy projects to have taking place in our town, let’s hope both continue to have long-lasting and fruitful futures.

Also inside this edition, we catch up with Leek mum Deb Price who is single handedly helping to put Leek-made textiles back on the map and all from the spare room of her family home on the outskirts of the town centre. Deb’s inspirational story just goes to show that with determination and a dash of ingenuity it is possible to reap wonderful rewards from the seeds we ‘sew’.

Lorna

Did you know that you can read Leek Life online?

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

www.bretttrafford.com 6 Leek Life September/October 2015

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Festival showcases local a

LEEK BLUES AND AMERICANA FESTIVAL

LEEK IS PERFECT BACKDROP FOR BLUES AND AMERICANA CELEBRATION

T

his October, the award winning, historic market town of Leek plays host to an array of local, national and international talent showcasing the very best in Blues music and beyond.

The third annual Leek Blues and Americana Festival is set against the backdrop of independent shops, high street favourites and thriving specialist markets, with venues comprising a mix of real and craft ale pubs and bars, as well as popular cafes and restaurants all across town.The Festival is a testament to the creative, collective spirit and generosity of the wider community and we'd like to thank everyone involved for their time and effort in helping to ensure the Festival's third year is as successful as ever.

Since last year, Leek Blues, the organising committee behind the Festival, has built up a continued following that has enabled them to stage events throughout the year.

The Leek Blues Last Call and Leek Blues Acoustic Sessions have provided a platform for many musicians from across the country and artists such as Kent DuChaine, SwampCandy and Hat Fitz and Cara performed in the town as part of their respective European tours. These events have added to the musical tourism aspect of the town with audience members attending from all parts of the UK. This year, Leek welcomes over 40 acts to the town spread across twelve venues.

Headlining the 2015 Festival is legendary, award winning, British Blues band Paul Lamb and the King Snakes. Well known around the world as a foremost blues harmonica exponent, forging himself a place in the history books as one of the greatest players of all time.

Paul and co will be playing lick for lick with local stalwarts such as The Bluesmakers, Smokin' Aces, Bad Soul Buskers and the

8 Leek Life September/October 2015

inimitable Reefy Blunt and the Biftas - giving local music lovers an eclectic mix of returning Festival friends and an equal measure of exciting, new faces to the town, many of which have travelled from far and wide to be a part of the Leek Blues scene.

Other highlights include highly respected Acoustic Duo, Breeze and Wilson; Greg and the Seven Wonders; eleven piece Soul and Blues outfit Radio Memphis and The Mississipi Horns will be performing at Getliffe's Restaurant, a new and most welcome venue for this year.

While the Jake Leg Jug Band will be performing for their distinctive style of 1920's and 30's Americana, Jazz, Blues, Gospel and Ragtime for first time at the Festival.

The final day of the event will, as ever, accompany the Totally Local Sunday Supplement, with many town centre shops open for business and the specialist market will also play host to the Festival with live music throughout the day. Sunday is packed with so many highlights, but organisers were keen to give a special mention must go to John Emil.

John is a singer/songwriter, slide supremo from the South Florida music scene and will be performing at The Cock Inn, during the afternoon alongside the return of Elvis Fontenot, serving up a hefty portion of Cajun, Zydeco, Swamp 'n' Roll.

Leek will also be welcoming The Drugstore Cowboys who will be headlining the finale to the Rockabilly themed afternoon at The Roebuck.

They will be following performances throughout the afternoon from Tex and the Hardcore Troubadours, The OCR and The Roots Room DJ Frank Gannon who will provide the back bone to the afternoon with periodic sets from 12pm 4pm. Wrapping things up this year will be The Leek Blues Last Call session taking place at The

l and international talent

LEEK BLUES AND AMERICANA FESTIVAL

Roebuck from 7pm.

Jonathan Mountford of Leek Blues told Leek Life: “Once again, many thanks to all of the hosting venues, sponsors, performers and contributors without

whom the Festival would not be possible.”

For more information about the festival, which will take place from Wednesday 30th September - Sunday 4th October, go to: www.leekblues.co.uk Tickets to see Paul Lamb and the King Snakes on Friday 2nd October cost £14 and are available from Foxlowe Arts Centre or www.foxloweartscentre.org.uk.

Leek Life September/October 2015 9

SoulandJazz.com SOUL AND JAZZ

STEREO, NOT STEREOTYPICAL

W

e’re always delighted to uncover one of Leek’s many hidden treasures and this month we have been lucky enough to catch up with local soul and jazz mogul, Brian Hurst.

In no small part is it thanks to Brian’s dogged focus and determination that he is now taking the music world by storm - and all from a modest but perfectly formed studio based at his home, in the heart of Leek.

The 51 year old’s musical journey began after a trip to Switzerland back in 2000, during which he met, and fell for, his now wife Božena. With nothing more than a treasured record collection to their name, the couple moved to Leek in 2004 to begin what would ultimately become an exciting new chapter for them both.

Within six years, Brian was finally able to bid farewell to the doldrums of the corporate world, leaving him free to dedicate his attention to pursuing a career centred on his life long passion for music.

The father of two, who was born and bred in London, commented: “I have been fascinated by soul and jazz music since I was 11. I had a jazz loving father and was always surrounded by good music.

“It’s been a big part of my life and I decided long ago that I would like at some point to get involved in the soul and jazz scene.”

The past seven years have seen Brian work tirelessly to make a success of his unique musical website - SoulandJazz.com.

“It was extraordinarily tough at the beginning but things are really getting started now.

“It has been a full on experience and for the first five years I funded the project entirely myself.

“I’d describe the website as a music platform for the soul and jazz genre, where people can just click, listen, discover and enjoy.

“We have dedicated radio shows, with new programmes posted every day, and showcase music for various major record labels,” he explained.

Having now forged strong links with Hannover based audio experts ‘Sennheiser’, the future looks very bright for Brian and his brainchild website.

He continued: “Over the last seven years we have grown to establish several studios in America as well as in England.

“The website is now on the way to becoming the leading platform for soul and jazz in the world and we have lots of exciting new projects in the pipeline including a TV pilot being filmed at the end of August in London: SoulandJazz LIVE! “I would love to get involved in the festival scene, maybe even hosting our own UK festival before too much longer – maybe in 2017. On a local level, it would also be great to organise a small scale ‘Jazz on the terrace’ style event.”

And although Leek may seem like an unassuming setting for the creator of a website on the precipice of global acclaim, Brian assures us it’s the only place for him: “This is one of the loveliest parts of the world, it’s totally individual and not at all like other towns - we love it here.

“Leek is truly a magical place, it’s home now and always will be.”

Pictured: Brian with three-time Grammy award-winning jazz drummer Terri Lyne Carrington – captured earlier this month at the San Jose Jazz Summer Fest.

12 Leek Life September/October 2015

LEEK COMEDY CLUB

Ten side splitting years LEEK CLUB RIVALS COMEDY HOT SPOTS

L

eek Comedy Club is entering its 10th year of bringing side splitting humour to comedy lovers in Leek and the surrounding area.

In association with Funhouse Comedy Club, one of the country’s premier comedy agencies, Leek Comedy Club runs a monthly evening of stand up comedy from the much loved Foxlowe Arts Centre in the heart of Leek.

The club takes the form of a traditional stand up comedy club where, during each show audiences get to sit back and enjoy four comedians complete with compere to guide you through the evening.

Speaking about the club Andy Norton told Leek Life Magazine: “Leek Comedy Club is a close rival to clubs in places like Manchester and Nottingham.

“Where room permits we always try to set the room out with a table for your comfort, but we always encourage show goers to get here early to get their pick of the seats.”

The new comedy season kicks off in Leek with

a fantastic show on Thursday 3rd September.

Headline acts this time will include the hilarious Adam Kay and Steve Harris.

With sellout tours and Edinburgh Fringe seasons, Adam’s cutting-edge, darkly humorous re-imaginings of pop and rock classics have gained him a cult following across the UK. “Extremely funny. Never less than utterly clever”(The Daily Telegraph) “This made me very, very happy” (Stephen Fry) Also putting in performances at the September show will be Jack Campbell, Tom King and Compere Andy Kind.

The October show will take place on Thursday 1st when topping the bill will be Steve Royle and Marc Lucero. Also appearing will be Stevie Gray, Thomas Rackham with Compere Lou Conran.

Doors to all shows open at 7.30pm, with entertainment getting underway at 8.30pm.

Tickets priced at £9 each are available from The Foxlowe or online at www.wegottickets.com.

Pictured: Adam Kay Leek Life September/October 2015 13

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO SEE ALADDIN T

his year’s pantomime at Buxton Opera House brings together two well-known TV actors who have never previously performed at the venue.

Aladdin stars James Holmes, who plays Widow Twankey. He will be familiar to viewers as camp restaurant-owner Clive Evansin the

award-winning comedy series Miranda. Also starring is Kelsey-Beth Crossley, who will take the role of Princess Jasmine. Best known for playing the character of Scarlett Nicholls in Emmerdale for five years, Kelsey also appeared on the BBC’s popular singing competition The Voicelast year.

Both actors are looking forward to meeting audiences at the Opera House this Christmas.

James Holmes has previously worked as a stand up comedian and is thrilled to be playing Dame for the first time. He says: “I’ve always wanted to do panto – it’s like a rite of passage – and I’ve been looking at iconic Coronation Street characters like Betty Turpin for inspiration.”

Buxton’s Christmas show is becoming one of the most popular seasonal events in the Midlands, with audiences travelling far and wide toenjoy a pantomime performance in the picturesque town, with its Grade II* listed Opera House.

Aladdin, a co-production between Buxton Opera House and CTP Pantomimes (formerly Channel Theatre Productions) runs from Saturday 12December to Saturday 2 January.

Tickets are currently on sale from £17.50 £22.50. To buy tickets or for more information call the Box Office on 01298 72190 or book online at www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

To win a family ticket for two adults and two children on Saturday 12th December at 5.30pm, answer the following question:

WHICH TV SOAP DID KELSEY-BETH CROSSLEY APPEAR IN? A) Emmerdale

B) Coronation Street

C) Hollyoaks

(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 5th October 2015

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Twinning group plan autumn visits M LEEK TWINNING ASSOCIATION

“

town’s annual Remembrance service, as well as to catch up with their English friends.

At the Leek Twinning AGM, held earlier in the summer, a new committee was formed and autumn. officers were elected to positions of Leek has been twinned with the responsibility. town of Este, near Padua, in Italy for Thanks were recorded for over 13 years now with the formal More than a decade Anthony Mathewson, Catherine twinning process completed in 2002. on from the initial Saum and Anita Oliver, who recently More than a decade on from the twinning of the two resigned from the association after initial twinning of the two towns many years of committed service. and the Italian connection is still towns and the The Twinning Committee is going strong.

Italian connection always on the look out for new hosts.

This October will see a party is still going strong This is a unique experience and over from Leek visiting our twin town of the years many firm friendships Este to take part in Eurofest, a have been forged between the cultural festival involving the other people of Leek and Este. countries twinned with Este - France, Germany, Croatia.

For more information about hosting, or Leek Twinning in general, please contact secretary Then, in November, guests from Este will Maria Borejko on 01538 361191. make a return visit to Leek to take part in the embers of Leek Twinning Committee are looking forward to upholding links forged with Italian twin town, Este, this

16 Leek Life September/October 2015

”

Follow your dreams

REFLECTIONS COACHING

OPEN UP TO THE PROSPECT OF THINKING BIG

O

ne of the first things I always do is to ask my clients what they want to achieve – and I mean really want to achieve.

Most of us will have given the question some thought: Some of my clients just want to get through the day, others have an ambitious career focus, some just want to be accepted – it is only a handful who truly dream big.

Opening up the prospect of thinking big is a challenging, if not sometimes daunting prospect.

For some people the first challenge that they meet is the negative self talk that manifests itself as a perceived lack of confidence, procrastination and general conversation with oneself about ideas being pie in the sky.

Yet it’s surprisingly simple when broken down, how realistic some of these “pie in the sky” ideas can become.

With all my clients, we start – in the words of Steven Covey “with the end in mind”. That means working out what those big dreams and ambitions are, no matter how crazy or impossible they sound.

Once we know what they are then it’s a case of working out the following: • How does this break into smaller chunks/mini goals/small steps?

• What is likely to get in the way? (e.g. self doubt, time, other people etc) • What is your motivation? (e.g. money, other reward, sense of achievement) • Who can help you? (e.g. friends, family, coach) • What’s your first step?

There are a number of tools available on the internet to help. Vision boards, wheel of life, smart goals, mind mapping are all popular techniques that are available to anyone. It is

motivation that can be more difficult to come by and where I help my clients the most.

Tapping into personal motivation is a technique that can be tricky to master and is where a coach offers best value to a client. If you’ve not worked with a coach before and have a goal that you really want to achieve, chatting with a personal development coach is great use of your time and can reap huge rewards. In fact it was my own personal experience of working with a coach that facilitated me in making some life changes.

“For a long time, I stuck to a job I no longer loved because of excuses about time and money.

By focussing on my own huge goal to make changes to my work life balance I’ve taken a number of steps in the right direction, retrained, left my job and started my business.”

Carolyn Trafford is a Leek based personal development 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 September/October 2015 17

GIG PROMISES TOP MUSICAL LINE-UP FOXLOWE COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE

A

fter August’s sellout foot stomper, Leek’s own not-for-profit music promoters The Situation are back with what promises to be their best line-up of the year so far, with a gig at the Foxlowe Community Arts Centre.

Taking place on Friday 4th September, the event will feature Stoke's finest post-punk 4-piece Moscow - who will be bringing their powerful driving sounds back into the town to headline what is set to be a show crammed full of musical talent.

Grunge/synth pop duo Jub Jub are poised as the main support act, making a welcome return to Leek after their impressive show with Nelson Can back in the spring.

Expect performances also from Manchester’s blissful guitar genius October Drift and post-punk electronica band Vulpes Vulpes.

Doors open at 8pm, first act on at 8.45pm.

Tickets cost £4 from the bands, £5 on the door, or £3 from www.wegottickets.com.

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Truly Scrumptious

TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS

FRESH AND DELICIOUS HOME MADE FOOD

I

f you’re looking to add a dash of flavour to your usual lunchtime 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 hot and cold lunchtime treats.

As the recipient of a five star food hygiene rating from Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, customers can tuck in with confidence 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

day and have a huge range of fillings for sandwiches, salads 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 7.30am 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 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.

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The Hollybush Inn

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01538 371819

We also cater for local business lunches and evening parties

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01538 399080 19 Garden Street, Leek, ST13 8DY

Open Mon-Fri 7.30am-2.00pm, Sat 8.00am-1.00pm Sunday opening coming soon

Leek Life September/October 2015 19

Project inspires an army of growers

FERAL FOODIES

FERAL FOODIES HARVEST PRODUCE TO SHARE

A

staggering 300 Leek residents have been swept up in a revolutionary new project aimed at providing opportunities for people to grow their own fruit and vegetables and live healthier lifestyles.

The ‘Feral Food’ concept is simple yet brilliant, it’s all about like minded people identifying and utilising disused areas of land in and around Leek for the purpose of growing fresh, nutritious food.

At the helm of the incentive is artist and mother Laurel Gallagher, who moved to the Moorlands with her husband and their three young children back in 2014.

The 36 year old explained: “When I found out 20 Leek Life September/October 2015

how many people in Leek are accessing the food bank, I realised what an extreme divide there is between those who can and can’t afford to buy fresh local produce.

“We wanted to grow food that could be harvested and shared with those who need it for free, so we set up gardens where the plants could be properly cared for and the fresh produce would be safe to eat.”

Established officially in June of this year, the project is helping to develop a renewed sense of community cohesion amongst residents of all ages, with produce being distributed at regular food sharing events.

Helping to propel the movement forward,

FERAL FOODIES

Laurel has now engaged the assistance of a trusty team of fellow Feral Food fanatics. She explained: “Lorna Stoddart, Cassie Weaver, Tamily Bryan and Paul S Hoddy are all heavily involved in the project now too.

“We all share a passion for the benefits of growing and eating fresh healthy produce and the positive impact that this can have.”

In its first few months, the Feral Food revolution has already accrued remarkable levels of support, with hundreds of voluntary growers now busily getting behind the scheme.

Partnerships have been forged with the owners of plots of unused ground in the town, all helping to open up new opportunities for the project to expand.

The Roebuck, Spout Coffee Shop, The Cock Inn and Getliffe’s Yard are just a few examples of enterprises to have taken the Feral Food campaign to their hearts by offering volunteers some much needed space to grow.

Laurel continued: “Our initial plants were all donated by individuals and the Foxlowe seed swap event. We have broccolis, cabbages, chard, courgette, pumpkin, beetroot and spinach.

“Next year we will be able to plan and design our gardens so that there is round the year veg including staples like potatoes and onions.”

This autumn the Feral Foodies are hoping to unveil their very first calendar of events, giving members of the public even more ways to get

involved in feral gardening with activities, talks and cookery demonstrations all in the pipeline.

“Leek feels like the perfect place for this project. Organisations such as Totally Locally have supported local businesses and developed the public’s support for local produce.

“Leek is a traditional rural market town where it feels like everyone should have access to fresh local produce, but there is a large section of the community that cannot afford it and that is why I think we need to provide it as a community for free,” Laurel added.

The Feral Foodies will be holding a market stall on Saturday 5th September at the Community Fun Day at Westwood Recreation Ground and also at the Sunday Supplement in Leek town centre on Sunday 6th September - so be sure to stop by and say hello if you’re passing!

Would you like to be a part of the Feral Food project? Maybe you have land that could be used to produce Feral Food, or perhaps you have surplus produce from your own garden that you would like to donate to the project?

If you would like to get involved in any way, please get in touch with Laurel and the team by visiting the Feral Food website at: www.feralstatefood.com or contact them via Facebook at www.facebook.com/feralfoodleek.

Leek Life September/October 2015 21

Work Club helps members grow LEEK WORK CLUB

A

club aimed at helping unemployed Leek residents in finding their way back to the world of work has launched a new project for its members - the benefits of which have proved to be two fold.

Earlier this summer support workers who help to co-ordinate the Leek Work Club decided to set up a new allotment project, giving anyone who attends the club the chance to grow their own food.

Speaking to Leek Life Magazine recently, Rob Arnold, Employment Officer at Support Staffordshire explained: “The project provides a valued green space in Leek for unemployed people who attend Leek Work Club.

“They can come together to grow healthy, wholesome food and in doing so, it raises awareness of healthy eating while providing the opportunity for improving physical and mental well-being through gentle exercise in the open air.”

A number of unemployed people who attend the Leek Work Club have on occasions been helped by the local Food Bank and this is what inspired the initial discussion which helped get

22 Leek Life September/October 2015

the allotment project off the ground.

The Work Club utilise the existing allotment site in the West End of Leek and organisers are aiming to attract any interested, unemployed people to come along and find out more regardless of their background or needs.

Rob continued: “The project now has some members attending on a regular basis and they have planted potatoes, strawberries, beans and courgettes.

“The project’s aim is to provide gardening skills using a variety of gardening equipment and to encourage healthy living.”

Leek Work Club has been provided in the town since 2011 by Support Staffordshire in partnership with Your Housing.

It supports local unemployed people back into work and is open to everyone living in and around the Leek area.

It is open every Wednesday 10am -12 noon at Support Staffordshire, 9 High Street, Leek, ST13 5DZ. Drop in or for further information contact Rob Arnold at Support Staffordshire on 01538 398240 or 07792 241008.

A splash of seasonal colour

I

RECIPE FOR LIFE

nspired by our friends from the Feral Food project and the Leek Work Club, our September/October recipe makes use of something many of our green fingered readers will likely have an abundance of at the minute - beautifully fresh, home-grown beetroot.

This earthy, deep red vegetable is full of minerals and antioxidants and makes a great addition to all sorts of dishes, including this mouth watering beetroot and goats cheese tart.

BEETROOT AND GOATS CHEESE TART

Ingredients 1 bunch beetroot (about 400g), trimmed 30g unsalted butter 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 red onions, thinly sliced 60ml balsamic vinegar 2 teaspoons thyme leaves, plus extra sprigs 1 tablespoon caster sugar 150g soft goat's cheese 2 eggs, lightly beaten 150ml thick cream 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg Pastry 200g plain flour 100g chilled unsalted butter, chopped 1 teaspoon thyme leaves Method • Place beetroot in a pan of cold water and bring to the boil. Reduce heat and simmer for an hour, topping with water if necessary, until tender.

Drain. Refresh under cold water and leave to cool.

Peel and coarsely grate. Set aside.

• Meanwhile, for the pastry, place flour, butter, thyme and a pinch salt in a food processor and

whiz until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

Add 60ml chilled water, then process until the mixture comes together in a ball. Chill for 30 minutes.

• Lightly grease a 30cm loose-bottomed tart tin.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out pastry to 5mm thick, then use to line the tin. Chill for 15 minutes.

• Preheat oven to 180°C. Line pastry with baking paper and fill with pastry weights or uncooked rice. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove the paper and weights, then bake for 5 minutes or until dry and pale golden.

• Heat the butter and oil over a medium heat, add the onions and 1 teaspoon salt, then fry, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until softened. Add the beetroot, vinegar, thyme and sugar, then cook, for 5 minutes or until thickened and syrupy.

Spread beetroot mixture over the tart base, then crumble over cheese.

• Whisk egg, cream and nutmeg together, then pour into tart case. Scatter with extra thyme. Bake for 35 minutes or until set. Cut tart into slices and serve warm.

Leek Life September/October 2015 23

To have and to hold WEDDINGS

COUNTRY WEDDING FOR JAKE AND SAM

H

ere in the Moorlands we are lucky to be surrounded by stunning scenery at every turn. So, when the time came for local couple Jake Williamson and Sam Cope to plan their nuptials, a countryside wedding made perfect sense.

The newly married Mr and Mrs Williamson are pictured here on their wedding day which took place earlier in the summer.

The image to the right shows the bride and her bridesmaids arriving at St Edward’s Church in Cheddleton for the couple’s big day, on Saturday 11th July.

Sam wore a beautiful A-line, capped sleeve gown while her bridesmaids were all dressed in soft grey, floor length dresses.

Pictured bottom is newly weds Jake and Sam with their bridesmaids and groomsmen at the wedding reception which was held following the marriage service, at Rock End Farm, Wetley Rocks.

Images courtesy of Ian Dakin Photography.

24 Leek Life September/October 2015

WEDDINGS

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

Leek Life September/October 2015 25

PROPERTY

26 Leek Life September/October 2015

Hunters Endon answer your questions about

PROPERTY

letting your properties Q

I have used many Lettings agents in the past but they struggle with finding me a tenant, how can you secure me a tenant quickly?

A

Our aim is to always secure you a tenant within the first few weeks of marketing. We have an impact marketing strategy where by the property goes live on Rightmove and Zoopla as soon as we agree the listing and the board goes up at the same time. We know how important it is for your property to get the best possible coverage and in the shortest amount of time.

We also have a database of applicants waiting for their dream rental property which we match out via emails, text and of course we will call to inform them about your property.

Q

anything that can help to prevent this from happening?

A

At Hunters we make sure that we find you tenants who love your home as much as you do. We know how important it is that your property is looked after whilst it is let out, to help with this we safeguard you and your property with photographic inventories and schedule of condition which is always done before they move in.

Our management service also offers interim inspections after six weeks of your tenant moving in, and then every quarter thereafter, making sure we can spot any problem before they occur. The findings from these inspections are always sent across to you to help give you peace of mind that your property is being looked after properly.

Q

My friend is looking for somewhere to rent and my tenants are soon to be moving out of my property, is it better to rent to your friends rather than a stranger?

My previous tenants left my property still owing me months and months of rent, how can you stop this from happening to me again?

My advice is always no, if you really want to rent to your friends use your agent and rent it through them as it then keeps your personal lives separate from business. We offer a fully managed lettings service, meaning we let you relax whilst we do the hard work for you. Also you and your property are still legally covered so we will do all the credit checks and referencing to ensure they are a suitable tenant.

I am terribly sorry to hear that this has happened to you, we can cover you with a service called Rent Recovery Plus which means that if your tenant(s) stop paying rent it will still be paid for the remainder of the agreement, for up to 6 months or, until your tenant is removed. We would always recommend to our Landlords to take this rent protection to ensure you have peace of mind even in the more challenging situations.

A

Q

I have been a Landlord for many years but for the first time my latest tenants have left the property in a filthy state! Do you provide

A

Call us today, as we have tenants waiting to find their ideal properties and you can find out why 96% of our customers recommend us*.

Leek Life September/October 2015 27

PROPERTY Christopher Walthall Branch Director EweMove Leek

The Only Estate Agent in Leek that’s open

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PROPERTY

Leek Life September/October 2015 29

Autumn:

PROPERTY

a good time to sell

P

roperty experts are generally agreed that, after spring, Autumn is the best time of year to put your property on the market.

Once the dearth of potential buyers in August is out of the way, the new school year brings with it new buyers who are ready to move with the aim of making the transition before Christmas.

Generally, the demand for properties in the UK sees a sharp rise in September, so if you are planning a move, now is the time to act.

With winter approaching it is essential to get any exterior repairs done immediately - check for any defects with the roof and ensure the gutters are cleared of leaves.

Marketing your property is vital, so photographs which showcase your home are a

30 Leek Life September/October 2015

must - particularly if you have vibrant autumn colours coming through in your garden.

Prestigious award for Choices Housing Association

CHOICES HOUSING ASSOCIATION

S

“

across the whole client journey.” taff at Choices Housing Association are Managing Director Nigel Downs said, delighted to have won the National Great “Choices has worked incredibly hard to ensure we British Care Award for ‘Care Employer’. provide exceptional care to our service users, and Choices operates two residential care homes in Leek, with a new supported housing scheme this award celebrates the dedication and currently under development. commitment our staff show Choices were thrilled to be every day. Winning this national announced as the national award demonstrates we are an Choices were winners for the category ‘Care outstanding care provider, who Employer’ – an immensely offer great benefits to our thrilled to be prestigious award that looks to dedicated and committed staff.” announced as the celebrate a real commitment to Choices is a not-for-profit national winners providing an excellent service, care organisation, operating staff training and development. across Stoke-on-Trent, for the category The Judges said, “We felt that Staffordshire and Shropshire.

‘Care Employer’ Choices Housing Association Choices provides residential demonstrated an outstanding care, supported housing, person-centred approach, domiciliary care, respite care and demonstrated by their long- standing clients and extra care, and currently employs over 400 staff. well trained and motivated staff. They For more information, and to look for vacancies, demonstrated the ability to provide excellence visit www.choiceshousing.co.uk.

”

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20

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ek

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Leek Life September/October 2015 31

BRITISH BOXERS

Deb with daughter Martha

Putting Leek made tex DAUGHTER’S DIAGNOSIS INSPIRES NEW CHAPTER FOR DEB

I

n a feat of sheer ingenuity, a determined mum from Leek, rocked by her daughter’s Williams Syndrome diagnosis, gave up a career with a top textiles firm to concentrate on the needs of her family but managed in the process to establish, and make thrive, her own brand of undies.

We went to catch up with the lovely Deb Price to find out about her life as an entrepreneur, a mum and her genuine love of living in Leek.

After growing up in neighbouring Cheshire, a wide eyed Deb moved with her husband Darren to London where they both set about pursuing exciting careers.

With the ink on her fashion and textiles degree certificate barely dry, the Manchester Metropolitan University graduate secured a position as an assistant fashion director at a 32 Leek Life September/October 2015

company in the heart of the iconic London fashion industry.

“It was really tough but very exciting and we spent ten years living in the city,” explained Deb, now 41.

However, after their first child, a daughter, arrived four weeks prematurely the couple found their lives taking an unexpected turn.

“When Martha was born she weighed a tiny 3lb and 13oz and she was very poorly. I was working for Bonsoir by this point and returning to work full time would have meant I’d be out of the house for twelve hours a day, which just wasn’t going to work.”

The time had come for the Price family to bid farewell to the big smoke, head into the hills and find a more gentle pace of life.

“I can still remember our first night here - the smell of real smoke in their air from open fires and the sound of dogs barking. It was like an echo from childhood and it really felt like coming home.”

Although still working for London based Bonsoir, Deb was able to work from home for

BRITISH BOXERS

xtiles back on the map most of the week, although Martha’s health was still a cause for concern.

“Martha was about two years old when we saw a paediatrician and after some tests, and research on our part, she was eventually diagnosed with Williams Syndrome.

“We were told that the implications for Martha would be lifelong and the moment we found out was horrific, you almost go through a sort of grieving process.”

The condition itself is caused by missing sections of DNA. It affects the joints and arteries and causes high anxiety and learning difficulties.

With a poorly little girl and new baby boy, Stanley to care for, Deb decided it was time to make a complete break from her London based job.

“When you’re faced with your child being ill nothing seems scary anymore. Darren and I sat down with a bottle of wine, I said that I wanted to leave my job and eight months later that’s exactly what happened.

“I had seen Mary Portas on the telly reviving a brand of British made ladies’ underwear and I

thought, I could do that.

“I had all the contacts from my work in the fashion industry and was already used to designing, buying, selling and meeting with textiles reps.”

And so, two and half years ago, from her home in a town once dominated by the textiles industry, Deb set to work on designing and creating her own range of boxer shorts.

“The original idea was inspired by my great, great, great grandfather, Jem Mace, he was the first ever world heavy weight boxing champion so the name ‘British Boxers’ is a bit of a fun, play on words.”

Although her products can now be spotted on the shelves of high end stores including Browns of York, Aria of Islington and of autumn next year possibly Harrods too, she remains a regular trader at the Sunday Supplement market in Leek.

“We now have a line of ladies nightwear as well and the market is a lovely way to trial new products and ideas at very little cost and risk. It’s also a lovely environment as everyone is so friendly and the customers are lovely. It

‰

Leek Life September/October 2015 33

BRITISH BOXERS

really is a joyful place to trade in.”

Nine year old Martha now attends mainstream school in the town and is doing well.

“We are lucky to live here in Leek as people are so accepting. Martha has lots of friends at school who have all taken her under their wing and they are very protective,” added Deb.

‰

We’ve teamed up with Deb to offer Leek Life readers a very special

ONLINE DISCOUNT

Simply select your purchase from british-boxers.com and enter the appropriate code at the check-out: LEEKLIFENIGHTWEAR and LEEKLIFEUNDERWEAR

Inspiration: Deb’s great, great, great grandfather Jem Mace

Deb with her designs 34 Leek Life September/October 2015

Uncovering the secrets of the Moorlands

TALES FROM THE HILLS

Moorlands scene courtesy of Brett Trafford

T

AUTHOR TAKES READERS ON A JOURNEY TO THE PAST

he mysteriousness of the people and places of Leek and the surrounding Moorlands never fails to surprise and delight.

One resident in particular with an encyclopedic knowledge of the many local secrets hidden by the past is published Leek author Bill Cawley.

In his latest book ‘Tales from the Hills: Secrets of the Staffordshire Moorlands’ Bill takes us on a jaw dropping journey into the local history archives, encountering murder and mutilation, mythical creatures and even cannibalism along the way.

The 60 year old from Nunn Street told Leek Life Magazine: “Writing has been a lifelong interest for me and I’ve been compiling information since about 2007 with the objective that at some point, I would publish a book.

“It features fifty short stories and I pride myself on the fact that a lot of them haven’t seen the light of day for many,

many years.”

Much of Bill’s research has been conducted at the William Salt Library in Stafford or by scouring the local newspaper archives.

Covering a vast historical period, the earliest story dates back to 600AD and Bill likes to think that in some way, this publication helps give a voice to some of the local people who time has forgotten.

“Perhaps it is the isolation of Leek that makes weird and wonderful characters so prevalent. The town certainly has a very special atmosphere and for some reason these mysterious stories of the past seem to thrive in the imaginations of its people,” added Bill.

Tales from the Hills: Secrets of the Staffordshire Moorlands is available now from Picture Book, Chapter One, on-line via Amazon or from Bill himself.

Email the author at to order your copy: williamcawley55@btinternet.com.

Leek Life September/October 2015 35

ily en! af m Alton llowe na e a Wi to th this H s t pas esor R rs e w To

We’ve teamed up with Alton Towers Resort to give away a spooktacular day of fun and fear at their annual Scarefest, taking place from 17th October – 1st November. With frightening family fun and many thrilling attractions open until 9pm, there are lots of Halloween horrors to be enjoyed by everyone.

For brave young visitors there’s a chance to learn how to spook with Phil’s Ghoul School, help Skelvin decide on his costume for Halloween at Skelvin’s Spooky Story Time or join Patch and friends at Patch’s Trick or Treat Party. Plus meet up with Patch, Franklyn, Phil and Skelvin as they get ready for their best Halloween ever! With frightening family fun and many spine-chilling attractions open until 9pm, there are lots of Halloween horrors to be enjoyed by everyone.

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question and send it to admin@timesandecho.co.uk by 30th Sept 2015

What time will the attractions stay open until this Halloween?

A) 7PM

B) 9PM

C) 8PM

For more information visit www.altontowers.com

T&C’s The prize consists of 4 tickets which are valid from the 17th October – 1st November 2015.

The pass is for entry into the theme park only and does not include food or drink, fastrack or any additional; paid for activities. Tickets are non transferable.

HALLOWEEN

a walk on the dark side LEEK’S HALLOWEEN SHENANIGANS

T

here are all sorts of fearsome, Halloween shenanigans planned in Leek this October so whether you’re a hardcore Halloween fan looking for some bloodcurdling action or a family looking for something a little more light hearted - there’s sure to be something to suit.

Bill Cawley’s Shriek in Leek

Kicking off the proceedings will be Bill Cawley’s spinechilling ‘Shriek in Leek’ ghost walks. These walks will take in some of the most mysterious and intriguing sights and stories of mystical Leek and are sure to leave you thoroughly spooked.

Bill will be leading two special guided walks on Friday

30th October, one at 10am and another at 7.30pm, so if you dare to take a walk on the dark side call 01538 382563 for more details.

Elsewhere in the town, many of the wonderful independent shops and cafes will also be joining in with the spirit of Halloween in spooktacular style throughout the entire weekend.

On Friday and Saturday 30th and 31st October the Craft and Collectables market traders will also be embracing the theme when they descend on the Market Place as will stallholders at the Sunday Supplement market, to be held in the town centre on Sunday 1st November.

Visitors can also look forward to a great array of themed attractions including street entertainment, a pumpkin parade, 'SteamPunk' groups, a Michael Jackson type flashmob, street actors, face painting and much more.

And don’t forget, almost all of Leek’s pubs will be hosting weekend long Halloween festivities to mark the season, with some even staging traditional fancy dress parties.

To find out more log onto www.visitleek.co.uk

Leek Life September/October 2015 37

Visitors bask in gl LEEK AND DISTRICT SHOW

O

n a rare and treasured day of glorious summer sunshine, thousands of people made the yearly pilgrimage to Birchall Playing Fields at the end of July for the 2015 Leek and District Show.

As a key date in the Staffordshire Moorlands social calendar, the success of this year’s event, which took place on Saturday 25th July, has

38 Leek Life September/October 2015

helped it to retain its position as one of the county’s largest agricultural shows.

And for visitors who went along on the day, the programme of events and attractions which formed the backbone of the 52nd annual show certainly didn’t disappoint.

The crowds of show goers were kept happily entertained by headline Main Arena acts

glorious sunshine

LEEK AND DISTRICT SHOW

including the daring Stunt Mania Motorcycles, the Horses in Harmony dressage display team as well as the Shetland Pony Grand National which proved to be great spectacle - enjoyed by old and young alike.

Other big hits with visitors this year included Harry Thomas and his chainsaw carvings as well as Peter Hallam with his dog and ducks, the

classic car display and the Grand Parade.

And of course, as always, the show also boasted an impressive array of hotly contested livestock classes, competitions, trade stands, side shows and stalls.

Photographs courtesy of Brett Trafford.

Leek Life September/October 2015 39

SUMMER EVENTS

CHEDDLETON CARNIVAL

Crowds of people turned out in support of the annual Cheddleton Carnival on Saturday 8th August. During the day, new Carnival Queen Paige Whittingham was crowned and retiring Queen Katie Mellor presented a cheque for ÂŁ75,887.98 to Cancer Research UK.

LEEKFEST

Back by popular demand, the second annual LeekFest took place on Sunday 2nd August. Visitors poured into the bustling town centre to witness street entertainers strutting their stuff, browse the many specialist market stalls and to enjoy all sorts of family fun and attractions taking place throughout the afternoon.

40 Leek Life September/October 2015

SUMMER EVENTS

PARTY FOR PEACE

A Party for Peace was staged in Leek on Saturday 15th August to commemorate the end of the Second World War. Organised by members of the Leek Town Council Events Team, the day saw the town and its people gripped by 1940s style party fever as old and young gathered together to mark 70 years of peace.

BAGNALL CHESTNUT QUEEN FETE Over 1000 visitors flocked to see Miss Georgia Dawson crowned Fete Queen on Saturday 27th June at the annual Bagnall Chestnut Queen Fete. The event was blessed with glorious sunshine and raised vital funds to help with the upkeep of the Moorlands Village Hall in Bagnall.

Courtesy of Brett Trafford

Leek Life September/October 2015 41

TOUR OF BRITAIN

Tour of Britain returns to Leek

C

ycle enthusiasts from Leek and the surrounding area will be delighted to learn that world class cycle race - the 2015 Tour of Britain - will return to the town this September.

Taking place from the 6th to the 13th September, Leek and the Staffordshire Moorlands will feature in day six of the eight stage event, when residents can look forward to witnessing hundreds of competitive cyclists and their entourage of supporters and engineers travel speedily through the town as they race to the finish line.

The Aviva Tour of Britain will race through the Peak District National Park on Friday 11th September, heading east from the start in Stokeon-Trent city centre to the finish on Nottingham’s Forest Recreation Ground.

This is set to be a tough day for cyclists with several famous climbs for competitors to tackle as they leave Leek and head out into the National Park.

42 Leek Life September/October 2015

Spectators can expect the race to arrive in the town at around 10.40am, when cyclists will make their way from Longsdon into Leek along the A53 to Broad Street.

Reaching the crossroads at around 10.45am, competitors will turn left onto St Edwards Street before taking another left onto the A523, Church Street, which they will then follow out onto Macclesfield Road before turning right onto Leek Old Road at around 10.52am, heading from there across to Meerbrook and then onto Buxton.

Previously the Tour of Britain multi-stage cycle race saw competitors travel into Stoke-on-Trent every year from 2008 to 2013, making this year’s event the first to feature local routes for two years.

For those of you unable to line the streets of Leek to watch this awe inspiring race as it whizzes through the town, live coverage will be streamed on ITV4 from 1pm onwards. Later, at 8pm, highlights of the days racing will be aired, also on ITV4.

Niche practice launched

NEW LAW FIRM

A

JO JOHNSON FAMILY LAW

new, niche legal practice is giving local families the means to benefit from a fresh and approachable style of service.

43 year old Jo Johnson (nee Clowes) grew up in the Staffordshire Moorlands. She attended Westwood High School in Leek and now lives just outside of the town, in nearby Cheddleton, with her husband and two children.

After more than 24 years in the legal profession, having worked in a variety of settings from small rural practices through to large commercial ventures, Jo has now decided to use her expertise to establish her own virtual practice, specialising in family law.

Speaking to Leek Life Magazine, she commented: “My aim is to provide a high quality personal service offering straight forward and understandable legal advice on family issues.”

“It can be very difficult to pluck up the courage to take legal advice and I want to provide an opportunity for people to take specialist family legal advice in less formal

surroundings.”

“I offer face to face meetings to suit each individual client and can arrange appointments during the evenings or at the weekends either at the client’s home, in their workplace or at a location to suit.”

Being from a farming background herself, Jo also has an appreciation for rural life and farming communities and has experience of handling cases which involve divorce and separation in farming families.

To help streamline each case Jo will communicate where possible by telephone, email, Skype and FaceTime to fit in with her clients’ busy life styles and to provide a quick and efficient service. If you are not comfortable communicating by email, Jo is happy to assist you on the telephone and in person.

For more information about the high quality, personal service now being offered by Jo Johnson Family Law visit the website: www.jojohnsonfamilylaw.co.uk.

• Divorce (including Same Sex Marriage and Farming Divorces) • Dissolution of Civil Partnerships

Worried about visiting a Solicitor!

Don’t be.

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

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

• Court process (Children and Finances) • Pre and post nuptial agreements • Arrangements for children – advice for parents and grandparents Leek Life September/October 2015 43

Innovation and style, the new FIAT 500 MOTORING

T

he New FIAT 500 has been unveiled, showcasing a new exterior and interior style.

Highlights include a revised front, designed with new headlamps, grills, chrome brightwork and LED daytime running lights, while rear enhancements include innovative new ‘empty’ light clusters.

Interior revisions include new Uconnect™ information and entainment systems, enhanced comfort and numerous detail improvements.

The engine range has been enhanced for more efficiency and eco-friendliness while a high standard of safety specification includes seven airbags and a full suite of active safety systems.

Bold and seductive, the New FIAT 500 benefits from no fewer than 1,800 innovative detail changes, all designed to enhance the ownership experience and refine its inimitable style.

July 4th has always been a red-letter date for the FIAT 500. A symbol of mass motorisation in Italy, of which almost 3.8 million were sold, the original FIAT 500 was introduced on this day in 1957.

44 Leek Life September/October 2015

Exactly 50 years later, on July 4 2007, FIAT chose to celebrate that heritage by introducing the New FIAT 500, a car which embodied the same spirit and personality as the original and which has also enjoyed phenomenal success all over the world.

Eight years on, with over 1.5 million produced, the torch is now being passed to the New FIAT 500 with which FIAT is preparing to take on new market challenges without forgetting its illustrious roots.

Centro Stile FIAT has refreshed the exterior and interior, retaining the unmistakable 500 look that has made it such a global success but at the same time making even more attractive and contemporary.

It has not grown in size but it has grown in maturity with advanced technologies, improved efficiency and even more customisation ideas.

In this way, FIAT has carefully evolved and refined the features which made it an Italian masterpiece in the first place.

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Leek Life September/October 2015 45

Toyota Aygo: pure x-citement

MOTORING

F

NEW X-CITE AND X-PURE MODELS ADDED TO CITY CAR RANGE

ashion never stands still and it’s in that spirit that Toyota is bringing two new boxfresh versions of its Aygo city car to the road this summer, each making an individual style statement.

Aygo x-cite The updated x-cite follows the theme set by the original x-cite model, replacing the vibrant Orange Twist paintwork with bright Cyan Splash.

The blue metallic bodywork strikes a strong contrast with gloss black custom features, including 15-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels, door mirror casings, front X, front pillar extensions and rear bumper inserts.

The theme is carried through to the cabin where the Cyan Blue shade is featured on the air vent surrounds and carpet mat edging. The seats are finished in dark grey with contrasting blue and light grey bolsters and the centre console and gear shift surround are gleaming gloss black.

For even more street-impact, customers can opt for the bi-tone version of x-cite, which adds metallic black painted roof and front and rear pillars, plus rear privacy glass for an additional £395.

Looks are not the only attraction: x-cite is equipped with the x-touch multimedia system, including Bluetooth and DAB, and a reversing camera. Standard equipment also runs to air conditioning, power-adjustable heated door mirrors, driver’s seat height adjustment, split-folding rear seats, leather steering wheel and gear knob trim, front fog lights and LED daytime running lights, Safety provisions include six airbags ABS with emergency brake distribution, vehicle stability control and a tyre pressure warning system.

Three and five door versions are

available, powered by Toyota’s three-cylinder 1.0litre engine with manual or automatic x-shift transmission. Proving that something stylish can be affordable and practical too, both x-cite and xpure deliver combined cycle fuel economy from 68.9mpg and CO2 emissions from 95g/km – below the 100g/km threshold for annual VED (road tax).

Aygo x-pure White and silver are the colour co-ordinates for the new Aygo x-pure. On the outside the White Flash paintwork is teamed with rear privacy glass, white-painted alloys and silverfinished bodywork elements. Inside, the standard grey seat fabric is accompanied by white and light grey bolsters. The centre console and gear shift surround follow the trend with a silver-white finish.

In terms of equipment specifications, body styles and powertrains, the x-pure provides the same features and choices as the x-cite, apart from the bi-tone package.

MODEL

BODY STYLE

POWERTRAIN

OTR PRICE

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46 Leek Life September/October 2015

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

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www.adrian-wilson.co.uk

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

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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%).

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Leek Life September/October 2015 47

WILDLIFE TRUST

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust assistant manager Judith Preece with Jake and Jessica Duggan

A walk on the wild side UK FIRST FOR WILDLIFE TRUST

S

ince our last edition, Leek has seen the exciting arrival of a brand new charity shop aimed at raising much needed funds to help the many wonderful and varied creatures who call the Staffordshire Moorlands their home.

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust moved into and opened the doors of its new shop over the summer - making then the very first Wildlife Trust to open a charity shop in the UK to date.

The shop, situated on Derby Street, opened for the first time on Wednesday 15th July and is now playing an integral role in helping support the Trust’s work across Staffordshire, including helping to run its 26 nature reserves, conservation work and environmental education.

An array of traditional charity shop, pre-loved items are on sale at the shop, including clothes, books, DVDs and games, as well as a range of new items sold by the Wildlife Trust.

An official opening to celebrate the new shop will be held in September, although the date of

48 Leek Life September/October 2015

this had not yet been confirmed.

Speaking about the new venture, Alison Rhodes, Commercial Manager at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, told Leek Life Magazine: “We are extremely excited about the new shop.

“It is an exciting new venture for the Trust and we are really looking forward to continuing to welcome people from Leek and across the Staffordshire Moorlands to the shop – we hope they all become regular customers.”

The shop is managed by Rachel Bowden and will be open from Monday to Saturday between 9am and 4.30pm. The shop will also be open on the first Sunday of each month to coincide with the regular Sunday Supplement market.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer at the shop can find out more by calling the shop on 01538 398989, by emailing leekshop@staffswildlife.org.uk or by popping into the shop during the week and speaking to shop manager Rachel.

HOROSCOPES

SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER

Virgo September should find most Virgos happy, busy and feeling optimistic about the month ahead, assisted by the new moon on 13th which gives opportunities to heal some old wounds. Deeper unresolved feelings may come back to haunt you towards the end of the month while October may bring some money concerns.

Pisces It may be a time for a change of attitude in one of your core relationships or it may be about making a new start.

Be a bit careful of being sucked in too deep, too soon, however much this may lure you. Early September may be a time for spiritual enquiry and practice – the deeper you go, the bigger the rewards.

Libra A slightly uncomfortable month perhaps until the sun moves into your own sign on 23rd . Sept. There may be a feeling of being not quite shown the full picture, although the full moon on 27th may eventually show you what it’s all about! New opportunities on 12 Oct may not be quite what you expect but may turn out to be exactly what you need!

Aries You love new beginnings at work so just get going this month and throw your renowned energy into everything that needs doing! Pay attention to your health and look out for signs of burn out. October will bring out relationship issues you were not expecting.

Scorpio Relationships may feel hard work as the month opens but you get some help from Venus around 6th and then the new moon on 13th offers new ways of building bridges. A work relationship issue may surface towards the end of the month while the October new moon on 12th may show you it is a time for selflessness and service.

Sagittarius What is the point of balance between your own needs and those of others? Maybe your own creative self is feeling stifled on some level? It may be time to get serious about something you may have been avoiding. New and unexpected friendships may appear around 12th October.

Taurus Affairs of the heart may be attracting you this month or maybe it’s a time to unleash your creativity in new ways.

You will probably take pleasure in establishing a new routine around 13th September and there is a chance to see how it is going on 27th. Health regimes are highlighted after 12th October Gemini Now is the time to get your home life sorted for the autumn so that it runs smoothly leaving your social self to have more fun. Love may be closer to home than you thought and may be someone you just thought was a friend! October will have you wondering how serious this is!

Capricorn September starts a new cycle of learning for you so it is time to get clear about your life goals and you will soon see results. Don’t be afraid to reach beyond your comfort zone! Work may find you going in a completely new direction in October.

Cancer Paying attention to people around you in your neighbourhood may turn out to pay dividends in your work life as the month proceeds. This probably suits your great capacity for looking after people but make sure your own needs are met, especially close to home in your own space.

Aquarius Aquarians find the freedom of the summer gives way to way too many unwelcome responsibilities but all you can do is get focused and buckle down! You do like the unconventional and unpredictable when it comes to love but be careful what you wish for! There is some new learning to be done in October!

Leo Get your money affairs in order this month so you can forget all about them and get on with less boring things.

Love may have been exciting if tempestuous for a while now but things start to settle down as Venus goes forward again on 6th Sept. Travel may beckon but is happiness closer to home than you thought?

For a more detailed and personal look at how cosmic forces are influencing your life right now, contact Howard on 07866 727743 or howpark@aol.com. You can also book a consultation with him direct at: www.astroguidance.co.uk.

Leek Life September/October 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

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the

50 Leek Life September/October 2015

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

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Please call 07811 176311

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Call Thomas Brian on 01538 752214 or 07855 242693, or email tom@ timesandecho.co.uk