Newcastle Life Issue 1

Newcastle ISSUE 1

Life

Seabridge Radio School’s mini media team

ROTARY CLUB Making a difference in Newcastle

WIN

A FAMILY TICKET TO TRENTHAM MONKEY FOREST

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

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

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

Relax with friends to taste and enjoy.

The Queen of the Moorlands

We hand select and sample individual casks to be bottled for our rare cask range. ese have come from several different distilleries including Caol Ila, Longmorn and Bruichladdich. ese whiskies are ideal for the serious whisky enthusiast or collector, with only a limited number of bottles of any rare cask available.

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

Find out more: www.queenofthemoorlands.com

A family run business Set in the heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands, Wine and Whisky stocks hundreds of wines from around the world, specialist whiskies, real ale, continental beers, spirits and liqueurs. Dedicated in offering high quality products for all occasions we guarantee great value for money.

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

Tasting experiences

Get in touch wineandwhisky.com 22 Russell St, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 5JF 01538 382408 email: info@wineandwhisky.com

Our tasting events provide a great opportunity to try new wines, whiskies or spirits. Events can run in conjunction with local venues and restaurants or at your home where we come to you equipped with wine, glasses and tasting notes.

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

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

Free delivery on all products

facebook.com/thewineshopleek twitter.com/thewineshopleek instagram.com/thewineshopleek

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

CONTENTS

ISSUE 1 Editor’s letter .......................................6 Monkey Forest Competition................8

Newcastle Festivals............................10

A World of Newcastles .......................16

Stage Directions.................................24 Stoke Youth Musical Theatre Company ..25

Property .............................................26 Telling Tales.......................................29 Recipes for Life..................................30

Seabridge Radio.................................32 Brampton Museum............................34

Student Photo Finalist .......................37

Newcastle Scouts ...............................40

Girl Guiding .......................................41 Rotary Club........................................42

Legal Matters .....................................46

Motoring ............................................48 Quiz Corner .......................................50

Model photo-shoots £75* Hair & make-up artist available Call for packages & details

*

£50 VOUCHER WITH THIS ADVERT

Putting the ‘new’ into Newcastle

Laura Campbell Contents Editor laura@timesandecho.co.uk Sophie Cotton Tracey Wardle Design & Production Thomas Brian Advertising Manager tom@timesandecho.co.uk Mobile: 07855 242693 Jane Walters Advertising Sales jane@timesandecho.co.uk Mark Dudley Photography Times, Echo & Life Publications 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 1BD Tel: 01538 752214 www.timesechoandlife.co.uk life@timesandecho.co.uk

ello and welcome to the very first edition of Newcastle Life Magazine! You are holding in your hands an exciting, brand new, bi-monthly publication, which aims to bring the people of Newcastle a new kind of news.

Newcastle Life is a unique magazine which strives to shine a light on the life and times of the local community; featuring the schools, businesses, people, charities and local groups of our area.

As a thriving, busy market town steeped in history, Newcastle is full to the brim with talent and in this issue we meet some exceptionally capable local youngsters; 17 year old Emma Brooksbank is a student at Newcastle College with aspirations to become a world renowned photographer, whilst the kids at Seabridge Primary School are taking the airwaves by storm with their very own radio show.

We investigate the remarkable bond between the towns across the globe which share our name and we also meet the selfless members of the Newcastle-under-Lyme Rotary Club, who are dedicated to making a positive difference in our community.

In fact, this highly anticipated first issue is jam packed full of features and events - we also have news from the local guides and scouts, an insight into Stoke Youth Theatre’s brand new production of West Side Story, a quiz, a fiction corner and a special competition to win family passes to Trentham Monkey Forest - there’s certainly plenty for you to get stuck into!

So pull up a chair, pop the kettle on and I hope you enjoy reading our first issue as much as we have enjoyed putting it together.

H

Laura

P.S - We want Newcastle Life to be YOUR magazine and we want to hear from you! If you have a story to tell, if you want to promote your event or your talents, if you have exciting snippets of local history to share - simply get in touch, email laura@timesandecho.co.uk

Cover photograph courtesy of

EL NORMAN PHOTOGRAPHY www.elnorman.co.uk T. 01782 616331 6 Newcastle Life Issue 1

Did you know that you can read Newcastle Life online?

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

Find us on Facebook search for Newcastle Life Magazine

WIN a Family Ticket to Trentham Monkey Forest

M

onkey Forest, situated in Staffordshire, is unique to the UK. With 140 Barbary macaques living just as they would in the wild, with no cages or bars, Monkey Forest is a truly magical day out. The ¾ of a mile visitor pathway runs through the ancient woodland, and visitors are able to get an in-depth insight into the lives of these fascinating monkeys – they even walk straight past you!

So take a walk on the wild side and visit Monkey Forest for a day out with a difference.

See how the babies have grown, watch one of the hourly feeding talks and simply watch as the monkey antics unfolds right before your eyes.

Knowledgeable guides are situated throughout the forest and are at hand to answer any questions you may have during your trip. Multiple information boards are situated along the pathway to help you learn even more about the monkeys. There is also an on-site information centre and video room. As well as multiple play areas for your little monkeys, which are ideally located nearby various picnic areas.

Once you have visited the monkeys, why not

take a break and enjoy homemade specials in the Banana Café, or simply relax on the terrace with a coffee or ice cream. Take a trip to the Jungle shop, packed full with monkey memorabilia suitable for all.

Situated only 5 minutes from M6 Junction 15 Monkey Forest is a truly memorable and unique experience. So don’t forget your cameras to capture those special moments, as you immerse yourself in the monkey antics.

Monkey Forest, Banana café, and the Jungle shop are open from 10.00 am* with last entry 1 hour before closing. Monkey Forest is now open weekends, until opening daily from the 19th March.

For seasonal opening times please visit www.monkey-forest.com or call 01782 659 845.

2016 Prices: Adults £8, Children £6 (3-14), Under 3s free www.facebook.com/trenthammonkeyforest www.twitter.com/Monkey_Forest www.monkey-forest.com

Want to walk amongst the Barbary macaques at Monkey Forest?

To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket simply answer the question below.

How many baby monkeys were born last year at Monkey Forest? a: 5

b: 12

c: 9

(Circle your answer)

TOPwTwIwP.

Visit orest. monkey-f g lo /b com for clues

Name................................................. Address..................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................. Daytime phone no...........................................................

Please send your entry to Newcastle Life Magazine, 18 Tape St, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST10 1BD, or email your answer with your name, address and telephone number to laura@timesandecho.co.uk.

Entries to be received by Friday 22nd April 2016.

8 Newcastle Life Issue 1

Newcastle Life Issue 1 9

NEWCASTLE FESTIVALS

Festivals set to wow the crowds

ith three days of toe-tapping live music, fairground attractions to leave you weak at the knees and a mouth watering line up of fantastic food and drink, this year’s much loved Lymelight Festival is set to be bigger and better than ever.

Lymelight returns to Newcastle town centre for the fourth year this May bank holiday, from Saturday 30th April to Monday 2nd May. Family friendly and totally free, this year’s event will be in aid of the charity Breast Cancer Now. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK and thanks to research, more people are surviving breast

W

cancer than ever before.

More than 80% of women with breast cancer are still alive five years after diagnosis, but around 50,000 women are still diagnosed with breast cancer each year.

And if that wasn’t enough, during the late May bank holiday weekend (28th - 30th), over 70 live bands will take over the town for a musical spectacular.

A hand-picked selection of local, national and even international artists and bands will be joining forces - and talent - to provide what promises to be the best Jazz and Blues Festival yet.

Performances will take place in 20 venues across town, most of which offer free entry. As well as the music, there will be plenty of other activities for everyone to get involved in including a record fair on the Sunday in the market are (104pm) and a charity market and fun day on the Monday 9am-3pm.

For more info on the full programme go to www.newcastlejazzandblues.co.uk

Go wild in Staffordshire WHAT’S ON IN NEWCASTLE

Friday 18th March, 7.30pm - 9.30pm: Staffordshire Wildlife Trust's North West Group will be enjoying a talk entitled 'Of Crayfish and Craneflies,'

by Nick Mott in the Eccleshall Parish Rooms.

Friday 1st April, 7.30pm – 9.30pm: Staffordshire Wildlife Trust's North West Group will be enjoying a talk entitled 'Life Without a Backbone.

Conservation and Status,' by Craig Slawson, at Maer

10 Newcastle Life Issue 1

Village Hall, Newcastle.

Thursday 31st March and Thursday 7th April, 10am - 12pm: Free Wildplay sessions at Hem Heath - den building, bug hunting and planting seeds.

Wednesday 6th April, 1.30pm - 3.30pm: Free Wildplay sessions at The Butts, Paris Avenue, Newcastle.

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Newcastle Life Issue 1 13

LY HED EW IS N RB FU E R

WEDDINGS AT RUDYARD

R

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

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

ROOMS AT RUDYARD

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

ALL OF OUR ROOMS HAVE JUST BEEN FULLY REFURBISHED

LAKE RD, RUDYARD, STAFFORDSHIRE ST13 8RN | 01538 306208 HOTEL-RUDYARD.COM | RUDYARDHOTEL@OUTLOOK.COM 14 Newcastle Life Issue 1

Rudyard

A PICTURE PERFECT LOCATION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

tranquillity.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Newcastle Life Issue 1 15

A WORLD OF NEWCASTLES

Around the world 100 Newcastles EXPLORING OUR NAMESAKE NEIGHBOURS

rom our small leafy corner of North Staffordshire, it’s hard to imagine that there are in fact more than 100 different ‘Newcastles’ or ‘New Castles’ around the globe; all in different countries and all speaking many different languages.

The idea of bringing together places around the world that share the name ‘Newcastle’ came in 1996 from the then Newcastle upon Tyne based arts manager John Nicolaou.

He created the ‘Newcastles of the World United’ project, which resulted in a website and a book with this title, spanning across the Newcastles of the English-speaking globe.

The aim of the project was to foster links of friendship, culture, education and tourism, hopefully leading to improved economic links and added benefits.

However, there are also many Newcastles in the non-English speaking world and, following a visit to Newcastle-under-Lyme, it was the mayor of one of them, in Shinshiro, Japan, who took the initiative to bring all the Newcastles together via the Newcastles of the World summit.

The first summit took place in Japan in 1998 with delegates from Newcastle (South Africa), Neuburg-an-der-Donau (Germany), Neuchâtel (Switzerland), New Castle Indiana (USA), New Castle Pennsylvania (USA), Newcastle-underLyme (UK) and Neufchateau (France) joining their hosts in Japan.

Subsequent gatherings have been held all over the world and the next conference will be held in Newcastle, Ontario, Canada from 1923rd September 2016.

Coordinator of the Newcastles of the World

F

16 Newcastle Life Issue 1

Project, David Faulkner, told Newcastle Life magazine that one of the reasons that the project has been so remarkable is because it has crossed political and non political divides all over the world.

He explained: “Newcastle-under-Lyme was one of the founder members of Newcastles of the World.

“Former Councillor Edward (Eddie) Boden, who was Mayor in 2013/14, made international connections through the town's association with its namesake communities on every continent.

“As such, it has been an initiative that crossed the political divide and also involved non-political organisations.

“For example, at the 2008 conference in Neuburg, Bavaria, Newcastle's delegation included a representative of the Chamber of Commerce, also of Keele University, plus a youth delegate.

“Newcastles of the World is a vehicle for local communities to look and learn beyond their boundaries.

“And what better point of connection than with places that share your name - finding out about differences and similarities, sharing experiences and best practice among municipalities and groups, working together on projects and contributing your different approaches and perspectives.

“There is no membership fee as such, but those Newcastles who feel able to do so are making contributions to help.

“Newcastle-under-Lyme is not in a position to do so at present but the opportunities that the Newcastles alliance present are nonetheless available to local groups and local people.”

A WORLD OF NEWCASTLES

d in

Newcastle Life Issue 1 17

A WORLD OF NEWCASTLES

A VISIT TO NEWCASTLE IN LATVIA

Former Newcastle-under-Lyme Mayor David Becket, along with his wife Anne, were lucky enough to visit Latvia’s very own Newcastle, or as it is otherwise known over there, ‘Jaunpils.’

David served as a Newcastle Borough Councillor from 2002 to 2015 and was Cabinet Member for Environment and Recycling from 2006 to 2011, Chair of Health Scrutiny 2011 to 2012 and Mayor 2012 to 2013. He retired in 2015, and was created an Honorary Alderman.

He is now active in the local history field.

David describes his stay: “Imagine sleeping in a Medieval Bedroom in a 500-year-old castle with a ghost making the lights flicker all night; dining off a medieval menu in a candle lit basement restaurant; serving wenches, a jovial monk and jesters to entertain you. You could have your wedding in the courtyard, with the cannon fired at the end

18 Newcastle Life Issue 1

of the ceremony.

“All this is available in Newcastle; that is, Newcastle in Latvia (Jaunpils), not Staffordshire.

“Jaunpils is a spread out community some two hours drive from Riga, with the castle (pils) approached by an attractive tree lined drive.

“Our visit followed meeting the Latvian delegation from Jaunpils at the Newcastles of the World Conference when I was Mayor of Newcastle under Lyme.

“Jaunpils is a self-contained agricultural village with a school, shop, church and cultural centre offering various activities.

“We tried our hand at making candles and decorative paper cutting. There are interesting houses and towns in the area that are worth a visit and extensive marshland with an abundance of wildlife; walking out of the village we found ourselves in a field of skylarks.

“The Latvian people were delightful, and made us very welcome. Latvia is a country with a recent turbulent history and being part of the EU and a member of the Newcastles group is important to them. They need our friendship, it is less than thirty years since we welcomed them when the Iron Curtain came down, and they need our support now.”

A WORLD OF NEWCASTLES

A PRICELESS OPPORTUNITY FOR CHILDREN TO LEARN

One of the aims of Newcastles of the World is to link children and young people from towns and cities across the world who share the name Newcastle.

A Global Schools project was launched early last year and international school partnerships are now taking place in 14 schools. Over 200 children from Canada, Czech Republic, Georgia, Japan, Latvia, Slovakia, South Africa and Switzerland, are engaged in a range of curriculum-based activities and making friends in far-off places.

This is an innovate and dynamic programme which aims to prepare young people for the global future they face through a creative, international initiative.

The programme continues to grow and schools in Newcastle-under-Lyme are welcome to join.

Teachers are provided with a range of

specially commissioned education packs and lesson plans which encompass the whole curriculum and pupils learn about their place in the world, as well as the culture and heritage of their partner country.

Children have been thoroughly inspired by the programme to date.

For example, primary school children from Newcastle upon Tyne have been learning all about Shinshiro, Japan.

They’ve made artwork and shared performances on film of two songs: the Hello Song (which they sang in Japanese) and Teru Teru Bōzu (Japanese: てるてる坊主?, lit. "shine shine monk").

This song is about a traditional handmade doll that Japanese farmers used to hang outside their window to chase away the clouds during the rainy season.

Now children in Japan make versions of the little amulets to wish for sunny weather before a special event or festival. The Newcastle upon Tyne children made their very own teru teru bōzu dolls to ward off the rain on Sports Day. They’ll present the dolls to a Japanese intern who’s visiting their school this month to teach origami and calligraphy.

For more information about the project or to register your school’s interest, please contact Mo Lovatt molovatt@hotmail.com Newcastle Life Issue 1 19

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20 Newcastle Life Issue 1

We stock a large array of hats, fascinators, jewellery, shoes and matching bags to complement all our outfits.

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Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

WIN TICKETS TO SEE OUR GRACIE AT THE NEW VIC

W

e have teamed up with the awardwinning New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, to give away a pair of tickets to see Our Gracie.

Running from Friday 6th to Saturday 23rd April, Our Gracie is filled with music and infectious, down-to-earth humour and tells the remarkable life of Gracie Fields. Using her own words, this warm, funny and moving portrait is by the writer of A Fine Bright Day Today, one of the most popular New Vic productions of recent years.

Gracie Fields’ vibrant personality and rich, warm singing style took her from a room above a Rochdale chip shop to international fame and fortune. Her musical recordings sold in the millions and she became one of the highest paid female movie stars in the world. So great was her appeal that her war-time work boosting morale saw Hitler declare her an enemy of the Third Reich!

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear, in her own words – and some very famous songs – the real-life Cinderella story of a working-class lass who became Britain’s greatest female entertainer.

Showing: Wednesday 6th April– Saturday 23rd April 2016 Box office 01782 717 962

To win two tickets for any performance of Our Gracie from Wednesday 6th to Saturday 23rd April 2016 please answer the following question correctly:

Which Lancashire town did Gracie Fields come from?

A) Rochdale B) Oldham C) Bury (CIRCLE YOUR ANSWER) Name................................................. Address.................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................. Daytime phone no.........................................................

Please send your entry to Newcastle Life Magazine, 18 Tape St, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST10 1BD. To be received by Tuesday 29th March 2016.

24 Newcastle Life Issue 1

STOKE YOUTH MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY

Young Newcastle actors take to the stage

t’s nearly 60 years since the original stage production opened on Broadway but the music and story are still as good today as they were then.

West Side Story is the latest in a string of both new and more traditional musicals to be staged by Stoke Youth Musical Theatre Company and will take to the stage at Stoke Repertory Theatre in late April.

The world’s greatest love story takes to the streets of New York City in this landmark Broadway and West End musical that is one of the theatre’s finest accomplishments.

Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is transported to the 1950’s as two young idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the American Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks.

Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time.

The original 1957 Broadway production ran for

I

732 performances before going on tour. The show had an even longer-running London production and the 1961 film won ten Academy Awards.

The music has become legendary and includes ‘Maria’, ‘America’, ‘Somewhere’, ‘Tonight’, ‘Jet Song’, ‘I Feel Pretty’, ‘A Boy Like That’, ‘One Hand, One Heart’, ‘Gee, Officer Krupke’ and ‘Cool’.

As a ‘youth group production’ the show is governed by strict performance requirements, the main criteria being that no player is older than 21, but that didn’t stop over 80 young hopefuls auditioning for parts back in December.

The company is drawn from all areas of North Staffordshire including Max Birkin, Liam Brookes, Ben Durham, Josh Edwards, Will Henshall and Hannah Hinton from Newcastle.

The principal characters include Joe Mathews as Tony, Maya Tudor as Maria, Joe Readman as Bernardo, Emily D-Silvestro as Anita.

West Side Story is being staged at Stoke Repertory Theatre from Tuesday 19th to Saturday 23rd April, nightly at 7.30 p.m. and with a matinee on Saturday at 2.30 p.m. Tickets are available by calling 01782 616486 or online at www.stokeyouth.org.

Newcastle Life Issue 1 25

PROPERTY

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

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

STOKE@HUNTERSNET.CO.UK / 01782 626522 SALES / LETTINGS / MANAGEMENT / HUNTERS.COM

PROPERTY

Staging your property for spring and summer A

s the brighter months of the year are arguably the best time to market your property, we share some tips on how to stage your home to appeal to prospective purchasers.

Spring clean It may be a little obvious, but a thorough spring clean is by far the easiest and most cost effective way to begin preparing your home for sale and can almost instantly make it appear more attractive.

Cleaning your entire property in one fell swoop can seem a laborious task, but it certainly doesn’t have to be. Involve your entire family in the effort, assign them rooms to clean when they have free time over a week or so and the work will be completed in no time.

De-personalise Although it can be fulfilling to have an abundance of family photos and mementoes adorning the walls and surfaces in your home and feature walls and patterned wallpapers can be just to your taste, the most astute sellers will depersonalise their space when ready to sell.

As prospective purchasers view, they will attempt to picture themselves and their belongings in your property; this can be hard in a home which is very individual. Storing away some of the keepsakes and making the decoration more neutral will undoubtedly lend your house a broader appeal.

Create space When looking to buy a new home, a significant majority of people will look for a property with more space than they currently have, therefore anywhere that appears small and cluttered is likely to disappoint.

Now is the optimum time to go through all of your belongings, including clothes and shoes, and discard or donate anything you no longer need or use. Any items which are still required but not necessarily needed imminently can be boxed up and put in storage ready for your own house move.

The ever important curb appeal Over the colder months it can be easy to forget the exterior of your property, but with over 66% of purchasers having made up their mind about a house before entering the hallway, it is one of the most important elements of preparing your home for sale.

Assign some time on an evening or weekend to refresh the paint on your front door, trim lawns and hedges and clear any leaves and debris. A relatively small effort can make a surprising difference to the exterior of your property.

Bring nature in Whilst the weather is warmer take the opportunity to open windows, allowing fresh and neutral air into your property.

If your garden is flourishing, choose some of the brightest blooms to display in vases around your house, they will add a splash of charm and colour to any room.

Selling your property doesn’t have to mean an overhaul of your entire house. A few small changes here and there can make your home far more appealing.

Do you have any tips and ideas for creating beautiful homes?

We would love to hear from you; send your stories and pictures to Dan at Hunters Hartshill (stoke@huntersnet.co.uk or 01782 626522).

Watch this space for more handy tips, ideas and insights in upcoming issues of Newcastle Life.

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Newcastle Life Issue 1 27

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Telling Tales

time arrives. I stood to my feet and eyes stared deeper into the forest – my ches bran nt dista – s trick ing play sea of I was looking out across a field, a swaying in the breeze. Were they e grass and meadow flowers which branches? I stared harder – was ther new was stretched to the horizon. This nd the point beyo just – e ther g ethin som re. k to me, something I’d not seen befo where everything merged into a blac air The sun was high and hot and the turned, but I m? gloo s reles featu from – very still. Faint noises carried lazily everywhere now looked the same to some far-away place. I tilted my head even ’t wasn I es. bush , ches trees bran one side listening before gazing back sure from which direction I’d come. ping across the expanse. It seemed to roll I flinched, startled by a noise – snap now I away into the distance forever and s step foot k quic y, twigs and heav run; ran was free – free to run, and run, and heading straight for me. I turned and ts sigh rent diffe the in take to last at es free bush and s Tree . over took r terro as ore and and sounds and smells and to expl merged into a grey blur as I crashed those distant noises and shapes. ed glimpses of Flash . ards onw bled stum – I WAS running now. I needed to see eyes – pairs of eyes in the shadows re I d race I more – needed to take it all in befo as fall to me ng willi watching and turned back. Maybe I could go a little head spinning and ding poun t hear by, – further. There was a hill in front now with panic, desperate to get into the just a peek over the top and perhaps open.

– did I t wha ’s tilt then turn back. And so that Suddenly I was out and dashing full , next the and , next the and hill s gras over that red cove dew ery, slipp – hill a down me, get to and the next. Tall trees one side of got – g slidin g, – staggering, fallin e ce to bushes over in the distance, one mor away – just one over shoulder glan . back turn I’d then ran – hill and and ran I me. ing chas was t see wha far I’d I was breathless, I had no idea how , no direction – just plan or ght thou no I so come. The sun was baking and fear, cold blind fear. a just a slowed to a walking pace, stopping I jolted to stop as I saw the figure – But . back couple of times to look res. A light was featu no – ne outli k blac have t – nothing seemed familiar – I mus shining in my face. I blinked, dazzled ped come that way, although I didn’t step e figur the as spot frozen to the the remember any of it. I walked over to forward. e as trees and sat in the shade. Dappled ‘There you are,’ said the familiar voic the ugh thro ering flick d sunlight was othe smo and head my a hand patted the leaves and dancing a pattern onto . ‘Good boy… neck my on fur the n dow grass – my eyes became heavy. we thought we’d lost you… been out on It was dark when I awoke; I blinked, nearly all night looking.’ He clipped nes outli my trying to focus on the gloo off. d dere wan we and lead my had it that surrounded me. A little shiver, ‘Bet you’re hungry mate,’ he said. become chilly. I could smell the trees I was! t nigh as in and that dampness that sets

LOST

by John Pye

Are you a budding fiction writer?

Send your short stories to laura@timesandecho.co.uk Newcastle Life Issue 1 29

RECIPES FOR LIFE

Put a spring WITH A DELICIOUS SPRING COCKTAIL AND FRESH VEGGIES

s the temperature starts to warm up, as the nights start to get shorter and as the daffodils start to make their 2016 debut, why not take advantage of the brighter conditions to catch up with friends and family.

An elegant spring dinner party dish that looks and tastes very special, this chicken and asparagus dish is perfect for a light lunch or, coupled with new potatoes and salad, a fresh and enjoyable dinner.

Team it with a spring cocktail or two and you’ll be ready for the new season with a spring in your step!

A

Flambéed chicken with asparagus

Preparation time: 15 minutes Ready in: 35 minutes Makes: 4

Ingredients • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts • 1 tbsp seasoned plain flour • 2 tbsp olive oil • knob of butter • 4 shallots, finely chopped • 4 tbsp brandy or cognac • 300ml chicken stock • 16 asparagus spears, halved • 4 rounded tbsp crème fraîche • 1 tbsp chopped tarragon

Method • Dust the chicken with the flour. Heat the oil and butter in a large, wide pan with a lid, add the chicken, then fry on all sides until nicely browned. Add the shallots, then fry for about 2 mins until they start to soften, but not colour.

• Pour in the brandy, carefully ignite, then stand well back until the flames have died down. Stir in the stock and bring to the boil.

Reduce heat, cover, then cook for 15 mins until the chicken is just tender.

• Add the asparagus to the sauce. Cover, then cook for 5 mins more until tender. Stir in the crème fraîche and tarragon and warm through. Season to taste.

30 Newcastle Life Issue 1

RECIPES FOR LIFE

g in your step

Strawberry Basil Margaritas You can make these the night before, pop them in the fridge, and the next day your guests can drink to their hearts' content while you sit back and relax.

Preparation time: 10 minutes Makes: 1 pitcher, or about 8 servings

Ingredients • 350ml tequila • 8 tablespoons triple sec • 500g strawberries • 230ml frozen limeade concentrate • 12 cups of ice

Method • Place ice in a liquidiser and crush for 15 to 20 seconds. Add strawberries, tequila, triple sec and limeade concentrate. Blend until smooth.

• Garnish glasses with slices of strawberry and lime and a basil leaf.

• Hull the strawberries, slice lengthwise, and add to the pitcher. Crumple the basil a little in your hands (this will help the basil flavour release into the drink) and add it to the pitcher, too.

Cheers!

Newcastle Life Issue 1 31

SEABRIDGE RADIO

NEWS, WEATHER & CELEBRITY INTERVIEWS : RIS

MINI MEDIA TEA

estled in a small, leafy borough of Newcastle, there’s more to Seabridge Primary School than perhaps first meets the eye.

In fact, you may be surprised to learn that here, amongst the gym classes and music lessons, maths tests and poetry corners, there is a fully functional radio suite which broadcasts live over the internet every Friday.

And it’s not the grown ups at the helm - it’s the children.

Newcastle Life Magazine were recently lucky enough to see three of the Clayton based school’s top radio presenters in action.

Enjoying the glitz and glamour of live broadcast were Danuka (10), Noah (11) and apprentice Toby (11), who are all part of a team of 14 young radio enthusiasts, ably led by Mrs Michelle Greenwell.

On the morning we visited this mini media team, the youngsters were about to interview Ally Simcock, Chairman of the Port Vale Supporters Club.

Before the interview Ally was feeling a bit apprehensive as she told us: “I don’t know what to expect, I feel quite nervous actually to be interviewed by kids - you never know what they’re going to come out with do you!”

But she had nothing to worry about and after a

N

32 Newcastle Life Issue 1

quick sound check, the interview got underway with a very professional sounding introduction from the boys.

With help from Michelle, the Radio Club spend all week editing and practicing their script, researching their guests and preparing questions.

For Ally, the first question wasn’t exactly an easy one: “Is it tough being a woman at the top of such a male dominated club?”

The youngsters also wanted to know the answers to questions like; “What’s the best part of the job?” and “If you could have a cuppa with anyone in the world who would it be?”

During the interview, which is overseen by Michelle, the youngsters are intelligent, enthusiastic and capable, asking interesting questions and even going off script a couple of times, making their guest laugh.

Seabridge Primary School is the only radio station in the whole of Staffordshire that is produced and broadcast from a primary school.

Streamed live on Fridays, the youngsters broadcast their show from noon until the end of the school day and the rest of the school listen over lunchtime and in their classrooms.

Weather, sport, news, the top 10 songs and school diary dates are interspersed with celebrity interviews pre-recorded and played during the show and special announcements by the headteacher.

Upcoming guests include the fourth strongest man in the world Eddie Hall and Port Vale player Chris Birchall, whilst Jonny Wilkinson and Nick Hancock have graced the school’s airwaves in the past.

The show also tries to incorporate what the children are learning in classes into interviews and segments - for example Professor Alan Hewles from Staffordshire University recently visited Seabridge Radio to speak about space and physics, tying in with the Year 5 curriculum.

The media suite was installed at the school three years ago and the show is put together by Year 6 pupils.

Danuka explained: “We started on the radio in September. When we were in Year 5 our teachers asked us if we wanted to try out the Radio Club and we had a go! If you were good enough you

SEABRIDGE RADIO

RISING RADIO STARS PUT ON A GREAT SHOW

EAM A HUGE HIT were picked to be on the team in Year 6.”

Noah added: “It takes a lot of practice and a lot of work. The Radio Club meets on Monday evenings and we talk through the week’s programme and we are given a format to follow.

“It’s great fun!”

In fact, Noah has ambitions to have his own YouTube channel, whilst Danuka hasn’t yet made up his mind whether he wants to be a doctor or a DJ. According to Michelle, the difference in the children since they started to present the show in September has been remarkable.

She said: “When they started last year they were very nervous and wooden but now they’re all just fab.

“I have one little girl who really believes that being on the radio has boosted her confidence.

“They all love it, they’re all very keen and very enthusiastic - they even have jobs to do over the holidays but they just get stuck in.

“I let each of our mini media team have their own segment to do as they each have their own interests.

“I’m so proud of them, it’s incredibly rewarding watching them grow and develop and endearing to see their personalities shine through.”

You can listen to Seabridge Radio online at www.seabridge.schooljotter2.com/ Previous episodes can be found at www.soundcloud.com/seabridge-radio

Mini Media team: Millie, Emily, Amy, Noah, Leah, Ellie, Thomas, Danuka, and Toby with their teacher Michelle Greenwell.

Get creative at Brampton BRAMPTON MUSEUM

estled in the Green Flag accredited Brampton Park, Brampton Museum is a welcoming and lively museum where there is always something interesting to see and do.

A number of galleries feature collections telling the story of Newcastle-under-Lyme and its people from the Roman invasion onwards and there is also a vibrant programme of temporary exhibitions to suit all tastes.

Wednesday, 23rd March, 2.30pm: A talk

by Steve Booth about The Dukes and Duchesses of Sutherland after 1833 and their local impact. It looks at the development of Dresden, Longton and parts of Newcastle including Longton Park, The Sutherland Institute and the Hanchurch Home.

Steve will also look at the development of Trentham Gardens and the remarkable work of Millicent, the fourth Duchess, and how daughter Rosemary almost became the Queen. Admission: members £1 or non-members £3.

Saturday 16th - 23rd April 10am - 4pm: Learn a variety of drawing and painting techniques from art tutor Mark Lippett at a two-day still life course.

Mark, from Staffordshire, is mostly known for

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his atmospheric drawings and paintings depicting abandoned buildings which have been exhibited in a number of solo and group shows.

He won first prize in the Shire Hall Gallery’s open art exhibition for “Brunswick Terrace”.

The workshops are suitable for adults of all abilities, including beginners.

Places cost £25 (£20 concessions) and are limited, so early booking is advised.

Saturday 19th March - Sunday 5th June: Open Art and Craft Exhibition The museum’s showcase of art and craft from across the county, selected by an independent panel. Artists, both professional and non professional, who live, work or study in Staffordshire, can submit artwork, by completing an application form, and bringing their work along on one of the listed submission dates.

1st Prize is The Barracks Trust Prize of £250.

Between 1st April and 11th June, last year’s winner of the People’s Prize Eric Hood will be featuring a number of his artworks.

For more information, or to book a place call 01782 619705 or e-mail bramptonmuseum@newcastle-staffs.gov.uk .

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Newcastle Life Issue 1 35

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36 Newcastle Life Issue 1

STUDENT PHOTO FINALIST

Emma’s got talent

17 YEAR OLD NAMED AS PHOTO FINALIST

talented young Newcastle-under-Lyme College student has beaten 700 other students from across the UK to become one of 10 finalists in a national photography competition.

17 year old Emma Brooksbank, from Trent Vale, has had her work shortlisted in the FE Week and Me photography competition.

Organised by FE Week in partnership with NCFE, the competition was open to all further education students nationwide.

The brief required them to submit a photograph depicting learning environments in colleges and other further education providers.

Emma, a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Photography student, said: “I am very pleased that

A

my photograph has been shortlisted from more than 700 other entries.

“This means a lot to me because it is a further step towards my photography career, which is one of my life goals.”

The shortlisted photograph, titled ‘Drowning in Paperwork’ captures the busy time of the year when college students are completing their coursework to meet deadlines and revising for exams.

The winning photographer, who will be announced at the end of March, will receive the title of ‘FE Week and Me Photography Competition Winner 2016’, a Nikon D5200 Camera Kit and a work shadowing placement with a professional photographer.

Good luck Emma!

Newcastle Life Issue 1 37

“Exceptional skill and outstanding care” T THE RILEY DENTAL STUDIO

he close knit team of outstanding professionals at The Riley Dental Studio constantly strive to give every patient the first class treatment they deserve.

Housed in a state of the art, newly refurbished clinic, The Riley Dental Studio is a fully private practice offering a huge range of treatments for all ages, and whether it be tooth whitening, smile straightening, braces or dental implants, every aspect of your care is guaranteed to be exceptional.

These high standards are largely thanks to Principal Dentist Dr Gareth Riley, who, along with Associate Dentist Dr Emma Noble, Dental Hygienists Stacey Warren and Heather Moghadam, and the rest of the team, offers the full spectrum of cosmetic and dental treatment in a friendly and relaxing environment.

Gareth has years of experience under his belt, having qualified as a dentist in 2000 from Sheffield University. He also holds a first class honours degree in Physiology from Liverpool University.

12 years ago he returned to Staffordshire to work in on site dental surgeries based at JCB and Josiah Wedgwood and has been involved in practices in both Werrington and Endon.

He’s since decided to return to his roots in Barlaston and has completely renovated Number 7 Old Road; revamping, redesigning and modernising the building to provide three practice rooms and three treatment rooms, all kitted out with the latest dental technologies.

38 Newcastle Life Issue 1

Gareth has enhanced his reputation to the point where his Practice is regarded by many patients as the recommended choice for dental treatment.

Patients travel from as far north as Preston and as far south as Hertfordshire to see him and he has a huge client base, some of whom have stayed loyal despite moving outside the area; a testament to the friendly service and expertise on offer here.

With ample on site parking, The Riley Dental Studio is easily accessible and easy to find, plus it’s open five days a week with Saturday appointments by prior arrangement.

There are also special open days held throughout the year, so patients can find out more about specific treatments.

Gareth, who formed The Riley Dental Studio Ltd in February 2013, said: “We have a highly trained team of professionals here who all treat others as they would like to be treated.

“We believe it’s important to make sure patients are well looked after and we aim to treat people in a friendly and pleasant environment.

“Our state of the art technology provides a detailed picture of a patient’s health and therefore enables them to fully understand and be in control of their own care.

“Furthermore we think preventative dentistry is vital and that the majority of patients, by following bespoke advice from us, can completely avoid health issues in the future.

“Our services are centred around prevention, providing patients with the knowledge, tools and skills to achieve and maintain a healthy smile and improve overall health and well being at the same time.

“Coming back to Barlaston feels like coming home and it’s fantastic to see so many patients old and new.

“It’s lovely to be here and I’m very much looking forward to the future.”

NEWCASTLE SCOUTS

CASTLE CAPERS SCOUTS TAKE TO THE STAGE

abulous singing, toe tapping dancing and rib tickling comedy can only mean one thing it’s time once again for the Newcastle Scout’s biennial Gang Show - Castle Capers.

The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts of the Newcastle District will take to the stage between 29th March and 2nd April at the Mitchell Arts Centre, Hanley.

Castle Capers has been produced every other year by Newcastle District Scouts since 1974.

The Gang Show format was devised by Ralph Reader in 1932 for the London Gang Show, and the late British actor, songwriter and producer went on to write hundreds of songs and sketches, including the iconic song 'Crest of a Wave'. He awarded “Castle Capers” its cherished Red neckerchief in 1980.

This year’s Castle Capers, which is supported

by Staffordshire County Council’s Local Community Fund, certainly has a line up which offers something for everyone and the performers range from six to 70 years old.

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40 Newcastle Life Issue 1

One of the cast members, Jack, a Scout with the 79th Clayton Group, said: “It's hard work, but it's worth it because performing is fun. When the curtain opens you get a buzz, and you make new friends and meet up with old friends.”

There are over 1000 young people in the 17 Groups in Newcastle District Scouts, which are scattered all over the area, from Porthill in the North, to Ashley in the South.

Newcastle’s District Commissioner, Vera Bloor added: “It is great to see so many young people involved with the show.

“The cast are looking and sounding great with a lot of them really looking forward to performing in front of a packed theatre for the first time.

“Scouting is valid in today’s society because it teaches young people the value of getting involved, gives them great adventure and gives them self-confidence to deal with life in the future.”

Tickets are available from £7 each and can be bought by contacting the ticket secretary, Sue Sharratt on 01782 625802, 07815 075444 or tickets@castlecapersgangshow.co.uk Booking forms can be downloaded from www.newcastledistrictscouts.org.uk/about/capers

GIRL GUIDING

Guides celebrate 100 years onning their finest dresses and arriving in style, the Newcastle Girlguiding Senior Section have celebrated their 100 year anniversary with a glamourous masquerade ball at Staffordshire County Showground.

The group offers young women aged 14-25 the opportunity to develop their skills and abilities through a flexible and inspiring programme of activities and learning, incorporating a huge variety of challenges, activities and opportunities for personal development.

Senior Section girls from Newcastle joined over 400 other young women from across Staffordshire at the event.

Each of the county’s sections had been challenged to transport their girls to the ball in an unusual way and their arrivals didn’t disappoint - the girls turned up in everything from a vintage bus to a stretch limo, and even a beaten up camper van.

A special surprise for the girls saw their very own leaders taking on the role of their waitresses

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for the evening.

After a three course dinner, the girls danced the night away to an Olly Murs tribute act.

A spokesperson for Girlguiding told Newcastle Life magazine: “These girls are truly inspirational and are Staffordshire’s future business leaders, teachers, politicians and parents.

“Whether they’re working towards their Queen’s Guide Award, travelling the world, running units for younger members or campaigning on issues that affect girls and young women, Girlguiding Staffordshire are so proud of what members of their Senior Section achieve and the Masquerade Ball was testimony to this.”

There are dozens of Rainbow, Brownie and Guide units in Newcastle and the surrounding area, but the group is struggling for adult volunteers to help run units, with hundreds of girls on waiting lists.

For more information on volunteering, just go to www.girlguidingstaffordshire.org.uk/volunteerg Newcastle Life Issue 1 41

Transforming the community for th ROTARY CLUB

NEWCASTLE ROTARIANS PUT SERVICE ABOVE SELF

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he Rotary Club of Newcastle-under-Lyme put down its roots in the town 87 years ago, and since then it has transformed the lives of countless people both here and abroad.

You may not be aware of it, but 52 kind hearted and dedicated Rotarians are currently doing their upmost to make our town a better place; tirelessly fundraising; creating new community projects and organising social occasions.

A worldwide humanitarian aid organisation, Rotary was first created in February 1905 in Chicago, USA and it came here to Newcastle in 1929.

Their Motto; Service above Self, is clearly evident in the fantastic work they do and the changes they have made for the better across North Staffordshire and beyond, helping

disadvantaged and struggling sections of society.

Up until 12 years ago Newcastle Rotary was a men only organisation; a tradition that was upheld so dearly that some male members turned their backs on the club when the ladies joined up.

Newcastle Life magazine caught up with Rene Carlisle (pictured); a caring and community orientated 75 year old, who has helped out at Newcastle Rotary Club for years, becoming an official member two years ago.

Retired now from her work in catering, Rene still has an extremely busy life - not only is her work with the Rotary non stop, she also has 10 grandchildren and one great grandchild to keep her occupied.

Now living in Trentham, Rene was born and bred in Newcastle and she says her heart is devoted to the work of the Rotary there. She said: “I don’t think we ever stop here

Pictured are Club members enjoying their recent Christmas party. The Club have expressed their thanks to Mr Rishie Sharma, owner of the Great National Hotel, Clayton, where they hold their weekly meetings and events free of charge.

42 Newcastle Life Issue 1

e he better

at Rotary!

“We continually fund-raise, holding bucket collections in local stores, charity events, fundraising evenings, we work with the elderly, we hold our Tree of Light event at Christmas, we help with the Iron Man contest, we act as marshalls at the fireworks event at Trentham Gardens,we host events in local schools, special schools and colleges, we help with RIBI competitions for Young Musician of the year, Youth Speaks, Young Writer, Young Photographer, Young Chef competition and the Young Citizens awards.”

And this is just the tip of the iceberg. Other recent projects have included donations to the Mayor’s Charity Fund and local boy Ben Baddeley, a cookery book to aid rehabilitation at the Lyme Trust and a trip away for children at Homestart.

Further afield they are fundraising for the Jaipur Limb Foundation and helping third world countries by lending small amounts of money so that families can buy seeds to grow crops.

Rene continued: “It’s all voluntary and every penny raised goes to good causes.

“Our main purpose is to help people who are less fortunate than ourselves and Rotary really does take fundraising in its stride.

“It’s very important to me, I always think ‘there but for the grace of God go I.’ We all need to help where we can.

“This is a club of very nice, warm hearted people who firmly believe that we should help others.”

But it’s not all about fundraising. Modern Rotarians enjoy a varied social life, with events, dinners, conferences and trips littering the calendar.

“It’s a fantastic social life,” Rene told us.

“Rotary is the place to be - it’s great fun! We have speakers at most of the weekly luncheon meetings and we enjoy all sorts of social evenings.

“It’s fantastic and a great way to make new

ROTARY CLUB

Pictured is Newcastle-under-Lyme Rotary Club President David Riley.

Tragically a lot of the Club’s old letters, photographs and memorabilia were destroyed in a fire at Deeko Paper Mills, Newcastle but a few bits and bobs were salvaged and saved.

Just a few months ago, one of the Rotarians found a mysterious little box hidden away in the pile of what was rescued, which is believed to date back to the fifties.

Inside were a pair of cufflinks and on the lid there was an inscription; “For the use of the President,” and so they were given to David, who is shown here with them. friends and meet people.

“When I first started I knew very few people but now I feel I have made loads of friends.

“It really is amazing and I recommend joining up; the age ranges from late forties to early nineties, so there’s all kinds of people here from all walks of life.”

To join up, find out more or look into fundraising, go to www.rotary-newcastlestaffs.co.uk.

Newcastle Life Issue 1 43

A brief history of the N ROTARY CLUB

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he Newcastle-underLyme Rotary Club received its Charter on 13th September 1929 with 17 gentleman, all business or professional men, joining.

- The Inaugural meeting was convened by Rotarian H E Folkes, Vice Chairman of the District, in the Castle Hotel, Newcastle on Friday 1st March 1929, where the Rotary Clubs of

Birmingham, Wolverhampton, West Bromwich and Stoke on Trent sent representatives to the meeting to express greetings.

-Regular weekly meetings were held each Friday, 1-5pm at the Castle Hotel, Newcastle. The club quickly grew to 43 members by 30th June 1930.

-The entrance fee to join Rotary was fixed at two guineas

Past President J.J Fielding, 1961 - 1962

and the Annual Subscription also two guineas.

-The club hosted their first Christmas Party for lonely and needy Senior Citizens at the home of President Frank Morris, Holly Bank House, Ashley Heath and still give a Christmas Party for Senior Citizens to this day, which is now held at the Catholic Social Club, London Road, Newcastle.

-In 1949 Newcastle Rotarians and Wives visited a rotary club in Leewurden in Holland and in 1950 Rotarians from Holland came to visit Rotarians in Newcastle.

-In 1971 a seven bedroom house in Aberdovey was bequeathed as a gift by a Wolverhampton Rotarian to be held in trust by 27 Rotary Clubs.

The house was subsequently re-

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ROTARY CLUB

Rotary members visit Hem Heath Colliery

furbished and used as a holiday guest house to provide holidays for those in need or who would not otherwise have a holiday.

People from Newcastle and surrounding areas, benefited greatly from this acquisition.

-In 1988 and again in 1989, the club helped the worldwide Rotary movement’s push to raise 120 million US dollars to buy enough vaccine to wipe out

Peter Fox. -Newcastle Rotary celebrated the Centenary of Rotary in 2005 by getting together with other Rotary Clubs in the area to buy a new Minibus for each of the Special Schools in the Newcastle area.

With significant help from the Lords Taverners, funds were raised and the Minibuses were presented.

Polio. More than 400 Newcastle youngsters raised £4,500 each year to help wipe out a ‘Killer Disease’, they walked six miles through the streets of their town on the ‘Polio Plus Plod’ along with the walkers, mainly pupils from the town’s secondary schools, were local football stars John Rudge and Ray Walker of Port Vale and Stoke City’s Tony Ford and

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Get 30% OFF when you quote Newcastle Life Valid until 20.5.16 Newcastle Life Issue 1 45

LAW NEEDS ‘TO CATCH UP WITH THE NEEDS OF COHABITING COUPLES’ LEGAL MATTERS

T

he family law group Resolution has urged the government to increase legal protection for cohabiting couples.

New figures released by the Office for National Statistics reveal that unmarried couples living together are now the fastest growing family grouping in the UK. There are 3.1 million opposite sex cohabiting couple families. It means they now make up 17% of all families compared with 14% in 2005.

Many cohabitants think they have the same rights as married couples, but in fact they have very little legal protection when they separate.

Graeme Fraser, Resolution spokesman on cohabitation law, said: “Under current cohabitation law, it’s possible to live with someone for decades and even to have children together and then simply walk away without taking any responsibility for a former partner

when the relationship breaks down.

“This can have a huge impact on women and children, particularly in cases where a mother has given up or reduced her work to raise a family.”

A total of 41% of all opposite sex cohabiting couple families have dependent children in the household. Same sex cohabiting couple families have also increased to 90,000 in 2015.

Mr Fraser said: "These statistics should be regarded by policymakers as a wake-up call that cohabitation is a trend of modern society that is not going to go away.

“As family lawyers who see the damage caused by the lack of protection for cohabiting couples when they separate, Resolution calls for the urgent introduction of safety net legislation providing legal protection and fair outcomes at the time of a couple's separation, particularly for children and mothers left vulnerable under the existing law.”

The government has so far been unwilling to change the law for fear of undermining the role of marriage. Many couples therefore protect themselves by drawing up living together or cohabitation agreements, which state in advance how their assets should be divided if the relationship comes to an end.

These agreements can make both parties feel more secure and reduce stress and tension if the couple do eventually separate.

Please contact our family law team if you would like more information about cohabitation agreements or any other aspect of family law.

Please contact Grindeys Daniel Ruston, Head of Family and Divorce services at Grindeys if you would like more information about the issues raised in this article or any aspect of family law.

46 Newcastle Life Issue 1

Newcastle Life Issue 1 47

History of the family business of MOTORING

B.S. MARSON & SONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

B

48 Newcastle Life Issue 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

QUIZ CORNER

LET’S GET QUIZZICAL

ith 20 years of quizzing expertise under his belt, North Staffordshire based Paul Steele is not just a big name on the local pub quiz circuit – his talent for writing enjoyable, engaging and perplexing questions has seen his abilities recognised on an international scale.

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

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

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

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

W

has been done.

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

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

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

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

Now, Newcastle Life Magazine is his next port of call and Paul has kindly compiled a list of questions for you to get your teeth stuck into!

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

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

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

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

5. What is the capital city of Sweden?

An 'Egg' quiz for Easter 1. What does the saying 'How do you eat yours?' relate to?

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

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

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

5. Which fruit is also known as the eggplant?

Quizzes compiled by Paul Steele (Question writer and Quizmaster) email: pnsteele@aol.com General Knowledge Answers: 1 Daisy Ridley; 2 One (All opposites on a dice add up to seven); 3 1980s (1981); 4 Lonely Street; 5 Stockholm.

Easter Quiz Answers: 1 Crème Eggs (Cadbury's introduced the egg in its current form in 1963 as Fry's Crème Eggs and changed the name to Cadbury's Crème Eggs in 1971); 2 I Am The Walrus (Released in 1967 as the B-side of the number one hit single 'Hello, Goodbye'); 3 Lion (The British Egg Industry Council was formed in 1986 replacing the Egg Marketing Board; 4 Edwina Currie (She resigned over the controversy even though she was later proved right with her statement); 5 Aubergine (Eggplant is the common name in America and Australia).

50 Newcastle Life Issue 1

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Family Law Christopher Hopkin, Gale Horton and Rebecca Sykes Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence Andrew Martin and Jonathan Beresford

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