Newcastle life issue 12

ISSUE 12

Life

VICTORY FOR ‘THE BEAST’

WI NA

FL IP FIT PA SS

Champion Eddie is World’s Strongest Man

CONTENTS

Children’s support group gets funding ....20

ISSUE 12

Support for Ben ........................................22

Editor’s letter ..............................................6

Dorothy Clive Gardens .............................23

World’s Strongest Man...............................8

Father-daughter runners..........................24

Flipping fabulous competition ..................11

Local author ..............................................25

Zanzibar revamp .......................................12

Wolstanton Bowling and Snooker Club ...26

A Handful of Songs ...................................13

Home improvements ................................27

Jill Clewes Danceathon .............................14

Gardening .................................................32

Children’s birdwatch .................................15

Edenhurst Preparatory School .................34

Stage directions .........................................16

Legal matters ............................................35

Recipe ........................................................17

Motoring ...................................................38

What’s on...................................................18

Quiz corner ...............................................42

You are warmly invited to visit at any time. Please call 01782 664620.

2018 - a new year of possibility

ell here we are in 2018, a new year and a new start - it’s that time of year again when we all get to turn the page and start afresh. With a new year full to the brim with possibilities, now is the perfect time to plan your exciting adventures, seize those incredible opportunities and take a chance with no regrets.

Feeling motivated is half the battle, and perhaps for many of us, the action of turning over that calendar to a brand new year is symbolic but it can give us the push we need to alter an element of our lives and change the paths we walk on.

If you’re still stuck for inspiration, you don’t have to look far. In fact, there’s a whole host of possibilities right here on your doorstep.

Out and about in our wonderful community over the festive period, it has been clear to see that there really is a phenomenal amount of generosity, kindness and determination here. Many of you have taken on epic personal challenges to fundraise for some great local causes, and you can read more about these achievements inside this issue.

We chat to Clayton resident Abi Neeld, who raised over £2,000 for North Staffs Mind with her Dad Mark by running a staggering 26.2 miles around Walt Disney World. And over 90 of you took to the dancefloor for five long hours back in November, raising thousands of pounds for Cancer Research UK. Keeping with the fitness theme we have a fantastic competition to win tickets to Flip Out in nearby Stone. So if you want to try something new this year, why not make it trampolining - and bounce your way to a new you - or perhaps you can take some inspiration from the fabulous fundraisers in this issue and set yourself a charity challenge in 2018 why not!? 2018 is a year of new possibilities for all of us.

So all that’s left for me to say is I hope you enjoy this latest issue of Newcastle Life, and Happy New Year!

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Laura Campbell Contents Editor laura@timesandecho.co.uk Sophie Cotton Tracey Redfern 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

Thank you to all of you who have been in touch so far. Remember, Newcastle Life is YOUR magazine and we want to hear from you!

Perhaps you have a story to tell or a photo to share; maybe you’d like to promote your event or your talent; or you may have exciting snippets of local history to interest our readers!

Simply get in touch by emailing laura@timesandecho.co.uk

Laura

Did you know that you can read Newcastle Life online?

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk Eddie Hall - The World’s Strongest Man 6 Newcastle Life Issue 12

Find us on Facebook search for Newcastle Life Magazine

Newcastle Life Issue 12 7

WORLD’S STRONGEST MAN

EDDIE ‘THE BEAST’ HALL CONQUERS ALL OPPOSITION TO CLAIM WORLD’S STRONGEST MAN TITLE

n a landmark year for one of television's most spectacular festive traditions, Newcastleunder-Lyme's Eddie 'The Beast' Hall, reached the pinnacle of his career so far, lifting the World's Strongest Man (WSM) trophy following a gruelling competition in Botswana.

After finishing third last year, Eddie, made no secret of his plan to claim the WSM trophy in 2017 and after battling through five heats to reach the final 10 in the Grand Final, Eddie reached his goal to become champion.

The contest saw Eddie, 29, lock horns with the likes of American Brian Shaw – a four-time

I

8 Newcastle Life Issue 12

holder of the title and Hafþór 'Thor' Júlíus Björnsson, the 6ft 9in, 190-kilo giant from Iceland who is also famous for playing 'The Mountain' in hit TV series Game of Thrones.

Broadcast on Channel 5 over Christmas, millions tuned in to see Eddie flip enormous tyres, haul the iconic Atlas Stones and pull a 25 tonne plane on his way to the top of the podium.

Presented by James Richardson, Sarah-Jane Crawford and Magnus Ver Magnusson with commentary from Colin Bryce and Danny Wallace, the show has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years,

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with this year marking the 40th annual contest.

Eddie took first place in the competition ahead of Björnsson in second and Shaw in third.

Born in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Eddie initially showed promise as a swimmer, but later became interested in body-building which led to his entry on the strongman circuit.

››

10 Newcastle Life Issue 12

Staffordshire strongman, Dave Meer, asked Eddie to take his place in the 2010 Elite Strongman England Championships after he suffered an injury.

It was Eddie's first competitive attempt. He won by half a point earning himself a spot at the 2011 UK Strongest Man competition in Belfast where he again took the title and set a new national record in the 'Viking Hold,' hanging on to 20kg axles in each hand at full stretch for one minute and 18 seconds.

Winning the UK title meant Eddie was first in line to replace New Zealand's injured Jono MacFarlane at Giants Live Melbourne in 2012, where he placed fourth.

Over the past five years, Eddie – a married father of two - has competed around the world and has become the only man on earth ever to lift half a ton.

He holds the current world record for deadlift after lifting an incredible 463kg (1,020lb or more than 73 stone) at Europe’s Strongest Man in July 2015 making him the record holder for the heaviest deadlift ever.

His half-ton lift broke his previous record of 72.7 stones which he achieved at the Arnold Classic in Australia in March 2015, where he was cheered on by none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger himself.

FLIPPING FABULOUS COMPETITION!

WIN A FOUR WEEK FLIP FIT PASS AND GET TRAMPO-LEAN FOR 2018!

ou could be in with the chance of winning a fliptastic prize from Staffordshire’s original and best indoor trampoline park.

Flip Out Stoke opened its doors to the public in 2016 and has since had more than 1 million visitors to the Opal Way Business Park site.

The 2500m2 features 114 trampolines and hosts a number of exciting events and activities throughout the year.

And if you’re wanting a fitness boost or ready to get that 2018 body you promised yourself their Flip Fit classes are perfect for you!

The Flip Out team have kindly donated a pair of four-week passes for Flip Fit as a competition prize for Newcastle Life readers, to help the winner and a friend bounce into action with their new year fitness goals.

Flip Fit participants, of all abilities, can burn up to 1,000 calories in just one session.

It’s a really fun way to get into shape and improve fitness.

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The session is a circuit style trampoline class which combines cardio, resistance training and core stability.

The aim is to increase the body’s flexibility and balance by combining trampolining with functional training.

There are 50 different exercise stations at Flip Fit, which runs every Monday and Wednesday at 7pm, to not only improve cardiovascular fitness but to also strengthen the legs, arms and abdomen.

Each Flip Fit session begin with a 10 minute warm up, followed by 40 minutes of circuits and a 10 minute cool-down period.

Take part in this competition to win Flip Fit passes and bounce away those January blues!

You certainly won’t regret it.

For more information or to book a place at a Flip Fit session visit www.flipout.co.uk/ locations/stoke or call 01785 303 201.

To keep up to date with the latest at Flip Out Stoke follow @FlipOutStoke on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat.

To win a four week Flip Fit pass simply answer the following question correctly:

HOW MANY TRAMPOLINES ARE THERE AT FLIP OUT STOKE? a: 52

b: 114

c: 126

(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, or email your answer with your name, address and telephone number to laura@timesandecho.co.uk.

Entries to be received by 16th February 2018.

Newcastle Life Issue 12 11

ZANZIBAR REVAMP

HISTORIC BUILDING SET FOR REVAMP

he new owners of The Zanzibar have launched an exciting ‘Tell Your Story” campaign, ahead of its grand reopening later this year.

'Tell Your Story” aims to give anyone who has fond memories of the venue the chance to share their stories and memories, going back to when the building was The Crystal Ballroom in the 1950s.

The Brunswick Street venue is set to become an urban emporium consisting of antiques, Artisan works and vintage goods and the “Tell Your Story” wall will be a feature within the venue for all to see.

T

Marie Gurney - Ritzys Circa - 1980 I spent many a Friday and Saturday night in Ritzy circa 1984 to 1989 a brilliant night out. We once saw Dirty Den there from Eastenders and loved it when the dry ice went on and danced non-stop from 9pm to closing time, happy memories!

If you would like to submit your story, visit www.thezanzibar.co.uk

Stories and photographs have already been submitted by local people. Here are some written so far: Janet Hilditch - The Crystal/Tiffs 1971 -1979 Many 'firsts' at the Crystal /Tiffany's. First dance (at the Saturday morning under 16s club) First date, first boyfriend, first drink! Many happy memories, Bali Hai bar, soul nights, discos in the ballroom. Magical times.

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NEWCASTLE LIFE ISSUE 10

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rest key Fo rk Mon ri Pa tham c Safa w Vi • Tren Midland t The Ne ic at • Wes tly Er ric • St

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12 Newcastle Life Issue 12

Foo returnsdFest with a bang

TOWN THE BA MARKS BRITAINTTLE OF 77th

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

A HANDFUL OF SONGS

All the ingredients for a showstopping evening W

hat does a spoonful of talent, a cupful of music and a good sprinkling of sparkle get you? A recipe for a toe-tapping evening of fun as A Handful of Songs returns in 2018!

Girlguiding Stone Outward Division will take to the stage in Stoke this March, wowing audiences once again with their singing, dancing and comedy talents. West End musicals meet Disney and pop in this showstopping event, with over 35 songs, hundreds of costumes and plenty of razzle dazzle.

Rehearsals are well under way with a cast that exceeds 55 and includes Brownies, Guides and Senior Section members, ranging from 7 years up to 18 years. With no auditions, it is a show open to all, with the aim of giving the girls who take part an opportunity to learn new performance skills in a unique, fun filled, professional show to remember.

From its creation in 1975 by Maureen Recine, the current County Commissioner, 43 years later A Handful of Songs has gone from strength to strength, finding its feet on a professional theatre stage and being the only national biannual girl guiding show. The show has even been on the West End stage in London!

Eight year old Esme-Kate Evans takes on her first show this year. She said: “I’m so excited to be part of the show, its great fun to be learning new songs and dances with my brownie friends. I can’t believe I will be performing on a big stage!”

The show takes to the stage at the Repertory Theatre in Stoke-on-Trent from the 27th – 31st March 2018 with evening performances at 7pm and a Saturday matinee at 2pm. Grab your tickets by ringing the Handful of Songs box office on 01785 760682 or via email on tickets@handfulofsongs.org.uk Newcastle Life Issue 12 13

JILL CLEWES DANCEATHON

Fundraisers high-kick their way to success

ollowing on from the success of previous Dance Aerobathons, the Jill Clewes Dance Academy has held its latest bid to raise money for Cancer Research UK. Over 90 people took part in five hours of continuous Dance Aerobics on Saturday, 11th November at Bradwell Community Centre.

Attendees and spectators were also asked to bring donation bags for the local Cancer Research Donation Shop and from this raised over £5300.

The academy has so far raised a grand total of £165,000 for ‘The Alison Hughes Fund’ in aid of Cancer Research UK, from various events held over the years.

With sponsorship for 2017’s event still to be collected, that total looks set to rise even higher.

F

14 Newcastle Life Issue 12

CHILDREN’S BIRDWATCH

EAGLE-EYED CHILDREN LOOK FOR BIRDS

he RSPB Big Schools Birdwatch – the world’s biggest schools’ wildlife survey – has returned this year with more than 70,000 children expected to take part across the country, including Newcastle.

The Birdwatch, which takes place during the first half of the spring term (2 Jan – 23 Feb), is a chance for children to put down their books and get outside to experience and learn about the nature that lives in their local community.

The Birdwatch involves children spending an hour watching and counting the birds that visit their outdoor space, before sending the results to the RSPB. A recent survey of 200 teachers and 1200 school children from around the UK revealed that 96% teachers believed it was important for children to experience nature at school, while 77% of pupils agreed.

Last year, 73,000 children and teachers took part counting more than 100,000 birds. For the ninth successive year the blackbird was the most common playground visitor with 88% of schools spotting one during their watch. Robins, house sparrows and woodpigeons all featured prominently in the results, and with over 70 difference species recorded, there is sure to be a few surprises in schools around the country.

For the first time the RSPB has partnered with Cbeebies favourites Twirlywoos to provide exciting new activities and resources specifically tailored to Early Years, to help get their mini Birdwatches off to a flying start.

To take part in the Birdwatch and help the next generation of children start their own wildlife adventure, visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

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Newcastle Life Issue 12 15

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

Win two tickets to see Playhouse Creatures at The New Vic e have teamed up with the awardwinning New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, to give away a pair of tickets to see Playhouse Creatures.

1663. Charles II reopens the Playhouses and for the first time, allows women to take to the stage.

For four women, this signals the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. On stage, the women become household names; behind-thescenes, they develop strong friendships and fierce rivalries. As the camaraderie and chaos of the dressing room ignites their ambitions to play a bigger part in the theatre, can the women stick together to negotiate greater roles? And will their new-found fame bring with it better fortunes?

This vivacious comedy takes us backstage in a Restoration playhouse to celebrate a bold moment in the history of modern theatre.

Telling the story with bawdy comedy, theatrical flair and emotional poignancy, April De Angelis’ Playhouse Creatures will make you laugh and cry in equal measure.

W

To win two tickets to see Playhouse Creatures answer the following question:

Who was the father of Charles II? A) Charles I

B) Richard I

C) Henry I

(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 13th February 2018.

The prize can be used for any performance of Playhouse Creatures. The production runs at the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, from Friday 2 to Saturday 24 February 2018. The prize is a pair of tickets. Tickets are nontransferable and are subject to availability.

16 Newcastle Life Issue 12

MINI CHOCOLATE SOUFFLES

RECIPE

Serves: 2 • Preparation time: 15-20 minutes • Cooking time: 15 minutes

Ingredients 4½ tablespoons of caster sugar 1 teaspoon of icing sugar 1 large egg white 1 tablespoon of flour 2 tablespoons of cocoa 2 tablespoons of milk ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract Method 1. Preheat oven to 180°C. 2. Coat two ramekins with butter, sprinkle each with 3/4 teaspoon of caster sugar.

3. Combine two tablespoons of caster sugar, flour, cocoa, and milk in a small saucepan over medium heat.

4. Cook for two minutes, stirring until smooth. Spoon chocolate mixture into a medium bowl and cool for a few minutes. Stir in the vanilla.

5. Place egg white in a medium bowl, beat with a mixer at high speed until soft peaks form.

6. Add remaining two tablespoons of caster sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.

Gently stir 1/4 of the egg white mixture into the chocolate mixture, gently folding in the remaining egg white mixture.

7. Spoon the mixture into prepared dishes. Sharply tap

dishes two or three times to level.

8. Place dishes on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.

9. Sprinkle each soufflé with 1/2 teaspoon icing sugar.

A taste of texas THE NEW EATERY AT SLATER’S CRAFT VILLAGE

Come and try our exciting menu that includes: • British Fayre • Texas Classics and • New Brit-Tex Fusion Dishes FOR BOOKINGS AND ENQUIRIES PLEASE CALL 01782 680536 @jrstexas www.jrstexas.co.uk

Stone Road, Baldwins Gate, Newcastle under Lyme, ST5 5ED Newcastle Life Issue 12 17

What’s on

FEB/MAR

Exhibition A free touring photogra phy exhibition from the Southbank Centre , London, entitles Claude Cahun: Beneat h this Mask, will be in residence at Keele Un iversity Art Gallery (Chancellor’s Building ) from January.

This Hayward Touring exhibition features the work of French fem ale photographer Claude Cahun (1894– 1954), whose practice investigates gender and identity.

Cahun achieved posthu mous fame for her elusive self-portraits in which she assumed multiple personae. Th e exhibition contains 42 contemporary giclee prints made from sca ns of Cahun’s original ph otographic selfportraits, as the major ity of the negatives have been lost.

15th January - 17t h March Orchestra concerts released North Staffs Symphony Orchestra have in 2018. details of three concerts taking place These are: st Robert • Conductor Juan Ortuño, Piano Soloi Schumann Thompson, Flotow Overture ‘Martha’, No.5. hony Symp ky ikovs Tcha Piano Concerto, Clayton Hall Academy Saturday, 27th January, 7.30pm

st Paul • Conductor Juan Ortuño, Horn Soloi c to ‘A Musi ental Incid hn elsso Sellers, Mend Concerto Midsummer Night’s Dream’, Punto Horn rmation’ ‘Refo No.5 hony Symp hn elsso Mend No.11, rent, -on-T Stoke of emy Co-operative Acad Westport Road, Tunstall Saturday, 21st April 2018, 7.30pm st Sophie • Conductor Juan Ortuño, Violin Soloi Bride’, red Barte ‘The ture Rosa, Smetena Over hony No.3 Symp ald Berw erto, Conc n Violi ák Dvoř ‘Singulière’ rent, Co-operative Academy of Stoke-on-T tall Tuns Westport Road, Saturday, 30th June, 7.30pm

18 Newcastle Life Issue 12

n Do you have a ? event to share Let us know!

co.uk timesandecho.

Email laura@ to feature st be r ou do and we will guide our what’s on your event in

ing English read is Is Me, Full s new book, Th Reading from hi ll reflect on the wi ll we Co p Phili Stop (Penguin), uiggles called sq d an ts, strokes e role the little do lives, inviting th arks play in our m n io at n io tu at nc pu nctu ider their own pu audience to cons ing marks”. iss “m w ne nt ve practice and in uthbank shops at the So He has run work stival of the Fe al? rm ness, and No ature and Centre, Wilder er lit associate of the Brain, and is an . ds or W g , Livin Hall dementia charity s place at Keele The reading take 0pm, for more 7.3 at om Ro mon University Com ll 01782 734340 information ca January Monday, 29th

Photography talk Raw Nature: Im ages Uncovere d is a public ta

by Oliver Smar lk t, which will be taking place 7.30pm - 10pm at Newcastle un der Lyme Camera Club in February.

Have you ever wondered how an image was taken? If so th en this may be the talk for your group. Aimed more at photog raphic clubs wh eager photogra ere phers want to learn in more de how images ar tail e taken, the eq uipment and techniques used , tricks of the tra de processing tips. and any postThis talk is a co ndensed versio of Oliver's Wild n life Photograph y Workshop.

Monday, 12th February

Rocks Newcastle released for tickets will be , ry ua br In Fe nre music ge tiul ocks - a m ace for charity Newcastle R pl will be taking ch hi w al iv st fe h August. mmunity on 4th and 5t live music co be This will a venues, with le veral Newcast se ss ro ac t even ed. usic perform all all types of m both days to on ss ce ac venue ch Wristband ea or at £2 on the do diac ar (C Y venues £10 or CR to ill be given ung and money w rslem and Yo ung), Our Bu Yo e th in k Ris affordshire.

Epilepsy in St February

Newcastle Fest ival for Music, Speech and Drama Newcastle under Lyme Festival is an annual event, organised by volunteers, wh ich provides a valuable perform ance opportunity in speech, drama, and music . We aim to prov ide a well organised and en joyable festival; a platform for amateur perform ers of any age, fro m far or near, to demonstra te their talents.

17th March 23rd and 24th March

Newcastle Scouts Show The much loved and ever popular Scouts show Castle Capers - will once again take place this April at the Mitchell Arts Centre Hanley. Shows start nightly at 7:15pm with a Matinee on Saturday at 2:15pm.

3rd April – 7th April

Fair rden nt Hunters Spring Pla out in the ga t ge to rtunity e year th r fo ng A great oppo ti an ning and pl den’s Spring and get plan hy Clive Gar ot or D e April. th ahead s place this rs Fair take d garden ve lo st be Plant Hunte one of the is t en e up of the ev lin s hi ng T ith a winni w ea ar e th ming and events in a most char ies around, and er ng rs xi nu la st re be and a truly en rd ga l fu beauti atures osphere. e Garden fe inviting atm Dorothy Cliv a e, re sc ne The 12-acre , alpi dland garden rders. a superb woo d spectacular flower bo an damp garden zzling spring display of drifts da s it r fo ith massed Famed d azaleas w an s on dr rhododen s asts top-clas of bulbs. ters’ Fair bo d un an H rs t ne an in Pl The S Medal W cluding RH a ng ri fe of nurseries, in rs lection Holde .

National Col of plants y et ri d the va us sing event an tremendo ial fund-rai price on t en ev w This is a spec lo ecial rs a great sp the garden garden offe for entry to 4 y £ st ju of garden entr rd da these days an (normally st both ir fa pm t -5 an am pl and from 10 he fair runs is £8.50). T be found at n ca ils ta days. Full de ersfairs.co.uk nt www.planthu pril 1st and tA Sunday, 1s April. nd Monday 2

Jazz and Blues Festi val The Popular Jazz and Blues Festival is returning to Newcast le Town Centre for the bank holiday weekend in May. Lots of music and activities are being planned for the four days over the bank hol iday weekend.

May 25th - 28th

ing Event ich 2018 Homecom oming Event wh ec om H lar pu y Circus da The po n er od m me of the celebrates the ho Philip Astley. and its creator, rd June 23

Newcastle Life Issue 12 19

CHILDREN’S SUPPORT GROUP GETS FUNDING

FUNDING BOOST FOR CHILDREN’S

children’s spinal support group have received a welcome boost to their funding thanks to the generosity of local Freemasons.

Scoliosis, otherwise known as a curvature of the spine, is a condition which needs specialist supervision and primarily affects teenagers and children.

If a curve continues to increase, major invasive surgery is needed to straighten and untwist the spine with titanium screws and rods.

The condition can cause pain, disfigurement and is often emotionally difficult for young sufferers and their families.

In a bid to overcome the lack of local support for scoliosis patients, Back2Back was set up in 2016 for patients at the Royal Stoke University Hospital.

It is a voluntary group which receives no funding, so the donation from the Freemasons will help to provide vital resources to enable the ongoing support of around 30 local patients and their families.

Royal Stoke Scoliosis Nurse Practitioner Stephanie Brown, who created the group with support from patient and Scoliosis Association UK Midlands Regional Representative, Laura

A

20 Newcastle Life Issue 12

Campbell, were delighted to learn that the Freemasons had nominated Back2Back to receive a donation.

Back in November, Stephanie and Laura, along with Staff Nurse Sarah Allen, were invited to a special presentation ceremony at the Masonic hall, Shelton, where they were presented with £300 from The Nora Mitchell (Minerva lodge) trust fund by Freemason Tony Berry.

Every November, Minerva Lodge annually hosts a cheque presentation morning where six locally selected charities receive a donation.

Speaking about the donation, Stephanie told Newcastle Life magazine: “We were delighted to hear that Back2Back had been recognised for the support that we provide to local people affected by a curvature of the spine.

“It was very humbling to be sat amongst the other nominees who do such fantastic work for the people of our city, some of whom we look forward to working with in the future!

“Back2Back was presented to the British Scoliosis Society at their annual conference this year, lots of interest was generated and we hope that we can influence other hospitals to follow our lead in providing psychological and emotional

CHILDREN’S SUPPORT GROUP GETS FUNDING

Younger Mind North Staffs

N’S SPINAL GROUP

support at the same time as promoting health and wellbeing.”

Laura added: “Previous donations to Back2Back have enabled children coping with the condition to meet others going through similar experiences and feel less alone.

“It is wonderful to see children who attend meetings make new friends - Back2Back is a safe space for them to no longer feel ‘different’ and to talk about their worries.

“We have also designed and printed a scoliosis journal to support patients coming into hospital for an operation, which aims to answer questions about a hospital stay and gives them space to write down their feelings and worries. This helps to calm fears and worries for families.

“So far the group have enjoyed learning about the surgical screws and bolts used in operations and we have also enjoyed trips to Trentham Gardens, walks around Westport Lake and Christmas games.”

Back2Back were one of six local charities and charitable groups who received money from the Freemasons annual grant givings scheme.

Following the presentations, guests were invited to visit the Temples and learned more about the work of Masons in the Community.

Tri Services and Veterans Support Centre

ther local charities who received money on the day included the Tri Services and Veterans Support Centre, which offers support for past and present members of Armed Services.

The Newcastle based charity provides much needed support for serving personnel, pointing them in the right direction for practical life issues, such as registering with a doctor, accessing benefits, writing job applications and sourcing mobility scooters.

Bob Haysom presented a cheque to Geoff Harrison - trustee and chairman.

Howard Alcock presented a cheque to Lisa Dowthwaite, Counselling Team Manager at Younger Mind North Staffs. The Newcastle based group offers counselling to children and young people with a range of mental health issues in the area.

For more information about the Freemasons, visit: www.pglstaffordshire.co.uk and minervalodge1942.co.uk Back2Back meets four times a year in the Community Room at Knutton Lane Fire Station. For more information, contact Laura or Steph by emailing: back2back@uhnm.nhs.uk For more information about scoliosis, visit www.sauk.org.uk

O

Newcastle Life Issue 12 21

SUPPORT FOR BEN

Pictured left to right are Gary, Josh and Ben Baddeley along with Santa

Lions club support Ben’s bid for treatment B

efore Christmas, Newcastle Lions Club called on Santa Claus’ help with an early present for local youngster Ben Baddeley.

Ben, who lives in Silverdale, suffers from Cerebral Palsy and is in need of vital treatment following major spinal surgery.

His parents have recently launched a ‘Bag for Life’ for the public to purchase to provide support for Ben’s treatment. Newcastle Lions Club have sponsored the bags, which have a 'Help Ben walk without pain' logo on one side and details of Newcastle Lions Club on the other.

Newcastle Lions spokesperson David Slack said: “The treatment that Ben needs is no longer funded on the NHS due to government funding cuts.

“Without the treatment Ben's muscles are unable to develop correctly as he grows leaving him suffering pain on a daily basis.

“This situation left the family with medical bills 22 Newcastle Life Issue 12

to provide their little boy with the treatment he needs to his muscles and nerves to gain strength, be able to walk, allow his while body to function correctly, live a pain free and independent life.”

Lions President John Leigh added: “We are proud to support this appeal, and to give Ben the chance to walk without pain. We asked a very good friend of the Lions if he would take time out from his Festive timetable to handover the bags to Ben and his family, which he gladly did. We wish the family great success with the bags.”

More details about Ben’s bags can be found on his Facebook page facebook.com/ben9baddeley Lions clubs are groups of men and women who identify needs within the community and work together to fulfil those needs. More information about the work done by the Newcastle Club can be found on www.newcastlelions.co.uk Newcastle Lions Club can also be contacted by e-mailing: newcastlelions@lions.105bs.org.uk

NEWCASTLE GARDENS HIGHLY COMMENDED DOROTHY CLIVE GARDENS

ore than 40 tourism businesses from across the county competed to be crowned as the best in Staffordshire at the 2017 Enjoy Staffordshire Tourism Awards recently.

Amongst the highly commended winners was nearby Dorothy Clive Gardens. They received the accolade in the Small Visitor Attraction of the Year category, which was sponsored by RH Partners.

Awards in 16 categories, including Large Visitor Attraction of the Year, Hotel of the Year and Best Tourism Experience of the Year, were handed out at the event, held in the 1907 Suite at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Wednesday 15th November.

Sarah Montgomery, chair of Enjoy Staffordshire and Managing Director at the National Memorial Arboretum, said: “We should all be proud of the work we do to promote tourism

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in Staffordshire.

“The sector continues to be a major part of the county’s economic landscape. Overall annual direct spend by visitors now stands at £1.3bn, and the total impact of the sector, including indirect spent, amounts to £1.8bn.

“In all, 39,000 people are employed by the sector, both directly and indirectly, so we must not underestimate how important tourism is to the overall Staffordshire economy.

“Well done to all our winners, and good luck to those going forward to represent Staffordshire at the VisitEngland Awards.”

The awards were independently judged and verified by Service Science.

14 of the gold-winning businesses will now go forward to the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, to be held on April 23rd 2018.

For more information go to www.enjoystaffordshire.com/awards

Newcastle Life Issue 12 23

DISNEY CHALLENGE FOR MARATHON FAMILY FATHER-DAUGHTER RUNNERS

father and daughter have raised over £2,000 for a mental health charity after completing running challenges during a trip to Walt Disney World.

Abi Neeld, 24, ran a half marathon, and her dad Mark Neeld, 50, ran 26.2 miles at the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend on Sunday,7th January for North Staffs Mind.

Abi, from Westbury Park, Clayton, went to school with Hartshill teen, Thomas McCauley, who took his own life aged 19. She is a keen supporter of North Staffs Mind’s Maccas Project, which was established in Tom’s memory to teach young men about mental health and address the stigma attached to it.

Abi, who began training while on maternity leave from her job as a marketing manager for Bet365, said: “Tom was a good friend. I've witnessed the devastation mental illness can have on a family. I don't think it is spoken about enough.

“I thoroughly enjoyed running the Disney Half Marathon. The atmosphere was fantastic and the fact that I was able to raise money for such an amazing charity made it even better!”

Mark, a dentist from Stone, has been running for 10 years and is a member of Stone Master Marathoners. He runs 365 days of the year.

He said: “The Disney Marathon was a lovely event, surrounded by lovely people, for a brilliant charity. A big thank you to all who generously donated.

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24 Newcastle Life Issue 12

“Mental health is an issue close to my heart. Professionally I see it every day. All sorts of people. It doesn't differentiate.

All ages, any gender, any job, any lifestyle. The more we can do to help these individuals and their families cope, the better.”

Robert Dawson, project worker at the Maccas Project, commended their incredible effort. He said: “We are always extremely grateful for the support offered to our project by the local community.

“Fundraising is a vital part of the work we do to support the mental health of young men in North Staffordshire and it is wonderful to see Tom’s friends are still so determined to honour his legacy. Tom’s memory is at the heart of everything we do and the money raised by Abi and Mark will continue to help our project move forward.”

To donate visit www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Abigail-Neeld.

Honouring the duty of the fallen A

LOCAL AUTHOR

n author has created a wonderful tribute to Staffordshire police officers who died in the two World Wars.

'Their Duty Done', which has been written by David Baldwin, also includes tributes to officers in the force who have lost their lives as a result of criminal action.

David, who lives in Stafford, is a former policeman himself. He started off his career in the force at Stafford before being promoted to motorway and then moving on to work in Newcastle before becoming an inspector in Stafford. He retired in January 1997.

The father-of-two and grandfather-of-five explained how the idea for his book came to fruition: “While serving in Stafford, the then chief constable asked someone to write a list of those who died in the two wars which led to a Service of Dedication and Remembrance in November 1995.

“Eight police officers from the Great War were commemorated, and nine from the Second World War. “Four months later a further dedication was held for eight Staffordshire Police officers who lost their lives through criminal action between 1862 and 1986.”

However after conducting further research, David discovered that even more police officers had lost their lives during the two wars. He said: “After several years of research I managed to find other men who served in the Staffordshire Constabulary who had lost their lives in the Great War and also discovered the names of the police officers from Stoke-on-Trent who died in both world wars.”

A total of 33 police officers died during the Great War, 14 during the Second World War and

eight were killed on duty.

Four commemorative plaques were made listing those officers who had died and a Service of ReDedication was held in November 2011, again at Police headquarters.

David said: “Having acquired a large amount of information in order to have the new plaques made, I was 'encouraged' to take it one step further by writing a book about these former police officers who laid their lives for their country and for the community in which they policed.”

This involved further research by David, including delving into original material such as newspapers, and also personal recollections and knowledge.

David, aged 71, said: “It has taken me years to complete the book but these officers needed to be remembered. When I joined the police force, I was following in the footsteps of these people.

“The book is not a history of the two world wars nor is it a history of the three police forces that were serving in Staffordshire but it is about the individual, personal stories of those officers who gave the most valuable gift a person can ever give their country or their society.

“Each one of these men were part of our police family and they should never be forgotten.

“As a society we tend to take for granted the freedom we have today but the freedom we enjoy has come at a great price.”

The 94-page 'Their Duty Done' is priced at £12 and available from Ancient High House in Stafford as well as from Stafford Tiles and Flooring Solutions in Newport Road, Stafford.

David has pledged that all profits from the book will be donated to 'Canine Partners'.

David Baldwin, Reverend John Davis MBE (Rural Dean of Stafford), Mike Cunningham (the then Chief Constable of Staffordshire Police) and Bishop of Stafford Rt Reverend Geoffrey Annas.

Newcastle Life Issue 12 25

WOLSTANTON BOWLING AND SNOOKER CLUB

A fresh look for sports club

ou may have noticed a fresh new look for Wolstanton Bowling and Snooker Club.

Following a £3,000 grant from Red Industries Landfill Communities Fund, the Club have improved the wall outside of the club.

The wall was in a bad state of repair, with exposed brick work and crumbling render, but the money has been used to improve and update it, giving the club a fresh new look.

John Hadley, Wolstanton Bowling and Snooker Club Committee Member, said: “The wall runs along the outside of the club and is the first thing people see when they’re passing. We have a well maintained green and club house, but the exterior was giving the wrong impression.

“Thanks to the Red Industries Landfill Communities Fund, we’ve now been able to get the wall re-rendered and improve the look of the building. We’d also like to thank NDL Plastering & Rendering who carried out the work.”

Wolstanton Bowling and Snooker Club, which shares a drive with Porthill Park Cricket Club, has been going for more than 130 years.

The bowling club has teams that play in local

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26 Newcastle Life Issue 12

leagues, as well as friendly matches. In addition to the crown green bowling facilities, they have a well equipped snooker room with two full sized tables. Their recently insulated club house, with bar, kitchen, and lounge area, also hosts social evenings, parties, and visits from local groups.

John added: “We’re a friendly club and are always open to new members joining us.

“We’re hoping that the new look will encourage people to come and join us for a game of bowls or snooker!”

The green is open for bowling from mid-March to the end of September, and the snooker room and club house are open all year round.

The club will be holding an open event at the start of the bowling season next year.

Samantha Boden, Marketing Manager at Red Industries, said: “We’re delighted to have been able to help Wolstanton Bowling and Snooker Club with funding for the repairs to the exterior wall. Supporting the community around our sites is very important to us and the Red Industries Landfill Communities Fund is a great opportunity for us to do this.”

BRIGHTEN UP YOUR HOME FOR 2018

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

ow is the perfect time to be planning projects for the home, whether it be updating the kitchen or installing a new fireplace.

But for those of us who like to leave the hard work to the professionals, we have put together a few easy DIY projects which can help you brighten up your home without the need for power tools and major renovations.

Upcycle: Recycling and reusing materials is a great way of getting creative and doing your bit for the environment at the same

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››

Newcastle Life Issue 12 27

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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time - while upcycling allows you to transform something destined for the bin into something marvellous.

There are plenty of ways to make some unique additions to brighten up your home without breaking the bank.

Wooden pallets are incredibly versatile and can be used to create lots of different items for the home or garden from an occasional table to a full scale set of garden furniture.

With a little bit of research - and perhaps a chat with a local business which might allow you to have some pallets for a nominal cost (or even for free!) - you can create some fantastic projects with a bit of flair and a lot of sandpaper.

The ‘upcycling’ ethic can also be applied to dozens of items around the home.

A popular choice is to re-cover cushions with materials from clothes which no longer fit or are looking a bit worn.

T-shirts, jumpers and even jeans can be patched together to make stand-out cushion covers, giving your old soft furnishings a new lease of life.

Old or surplus tiles can be used to make a garden mosaic, off-cuts of carpet can be re-used as door mats and ribbons, necklaces or belts can

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

be re-purposed as curtain tie-backs.

Furniture and doors can be given an instant lift with new handles, whether it’s simply replacing handles that are looking a bit tatty, or going for something completely new.

A lick of paint can also work wonders on older furniture and doors, as well as being a great way to brighten up old wooden photo frames.

Giving your home a lift - particularly when things are looking a bit drab after all the Christmas decorations have gone back into the loft - is a great way to feel better and brighter as the new year gets properly underway.

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Newcastle Life Issue 12 29

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Newcastle Life Issue 12 31

GARDENING

SOW UNUSUAL I

t’s such fun to have something exotic in your garden to draw envious looks from your gardening friends. It’s even better when the plants are hardy perennials grown from seed at a fraction of the cost of full grown plants.

The great thing about growing unusual perennials from seed is the tremendous range available and the low cost means you can experiment with hardiness or plant a large drift without breaking the bank. Some perennials can take one, two or even four or five years to flower from seed but I have picked out some that should give some flower in their first year.

You might need to search the seed catalogues for these or even better join a plant society that issues a members’ seed list such as the Hardy Plant Society, Cottage Garden Society or Alpine Garden Society.

All the plants mentioned below can be sown in late winter or spring in a little heat using standard seed compost. Remember to transplant the seedlings into pots as soon as they have their second pair of the leaves as seed compost has little food in it and they will stop growing.

One of my favourites from seed and always 32 Newcastle Life Issue 12

reliable to flower in the first year is the exotic looking Commelina. This is relative of the Tradescantias we grow as house plants, but they are fully hardy in well drained soils. The common name is Sleeping Beauty as the brilliant blue flowers close each afternoon and open again in the morning. I find these beauties will self-sow into a gravel path or you can collect seed to sow in the spring to make more plants.

Foxgloves are commonly grown from seed and varieties like Pam’s Choice make a pleasant change in colour from the wild types.

There are also some perennial species from southern Europe and these can only really be grown from seed. The Milk Chocolate Foxglove (Digitalis parviflora) forms neat rosettes and has masses of chocolate brown flowers in summer. This is one for a sunny, dry soil as is its cousin the Rusty Foxglove (Digitalis ferruginea).

Some of the more exotic looking Sages are easy from seed. The Sliver Sage (Salvia argentea) has large, woolly-coated leaves and whorls of purple tipped, white flowers in summer. Another unusual one to try from seed is the Yellow Sage (Salvia flava megalantha).

GARDENING

The Purple Sunflower (Berkheya purpurea) is a spiky, thistle-like plant from South Africa with large pale purple flowers in summer.

These are really easy from seed and its far easier growing new plants than trying to divide up these unbelievably prickly plants.

You might find the seeds listed as Zulu Warrior or Silver Spike – all of them are the same!

One of the most exotic looking flowers in our garden came from tiny, almost dust-like seed from a garden society and is now the largest and showiest plant in our garden. That is Devil’s Tobacco (Lobelia tupa). It’s incredible to think that an 8ft (240cm) plant will grow from such tiny beginnings. The seedlings are so small that it is impossible to separate them into individual plants, so we just pick out a

clump of seedlings to pot on. Although hardy they need a whole growing year to establish in the ground, so we keep them in pots in a greenhouse through their first winter and plant them out in the following spring.

Slightly trickier to germinate than those above is the Leopard Lily (Belamcanda chinensis) because the seed compost must be kept quite moist at all times to be successful.

The reward is short plants with exotic looking freckly flowers in summer – indeed another common name is “Freckle Face”.

Giving your garden an exotic look using hardy plants grown from seed is simple and rewarding. What are you waiting for?

Martin Blow

Janet & I run Special Perennials, our website www.specialperennials.com is full of colour photos and growing tips. We sell by mail order and at Plant Hunters’ Fairs only throughout the season. Please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2018: we will be at the Plant Hunters’ Fair at Alderford Lake, Whitchurch SY13 3JQ on Sunday 18th March, free entry to plant fair; The wonderful Dorothy Clive Garden, TF9 4EU on Easter Sunday/Monday 1st/2nd April fair & gardens £4 (less than half standard price); at Consall Hall Gardens, Wetley Rocks ST9 0AG on Sunday 15th April, gardens and fair entry £3, and at Sugnall Walled Garden, Eccleshall ST21 6NF on Saturday 28th April garden and fair £1. We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect.

Newcastle Life Issue 12 33

EDENHURST PREPARATORY SCHOOL

An excellent start at Edenhurst Prep School

ocated in the Westlands, Newcastle-underLyme, Edenhurst Preparatory School is a co-educational independent day school for pupils from age 3 months to 11 years.

The School was established in 1961 by the Copestick family, and over the decades has continued to evolve into a nurturing, familyorientated and academically excellent school. In our latest ISI inspection (March 2017) the School was graded “EXCELLENT” in all areas. This is the highest grade a school can be awarded under the ISI Inspection scheme. Meanwhile our Early Years provision was awarded the grade of “OUTSTANDING” across the board, with the report noting that “children receive an excellent start to their education.”

At Edenhurst we benefit from small class sizes, which enables us to offer a more personalised approach to learning, and allows each child's individual strengths to be nurtured. Furthermore, we are committed to educating the ‘whole child’; our strong pastoral care system incorporates a structured Personal, Social and Health Education programme, including the School’s Core Values of Courtesy, Honesty, Respect, and Endeavour.

Children continue to achieve excellent 11+

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34 Newcastle Life Issue 12

results at Edenhurst. In 2017 we once again achieved 100% success in getting Year 6 pupils into the senior schools of their choosing and 37% were awarded scholarships to notable Independent Schools.

We are very proud of our reputation as a leading school for sport, with modern facilities and specialist coaching. Recent successes including becoming ISA Midlands Netball and Tag Rugby Champions, Football County Champions and District Indoor Athletics Champions.

At Edenhurst, we are committed to supporting working families. Our fees include before and after school care every day from 8:00am until 6:00pm, and our Holiday Club, ‘Edventures’, offers funfilled days for children aged 4 - 11 during the school holidays. A free bus service is provided from Market Drayton and Nantwich with various pick up points along these routes including Woore, Loggerheads, Ashley, Wychwood Park, Willaston, Madeley, Betley and Keele.

To book a place at our Open Morning on Thursday 15th March 2018, or arrange a visit at any other time, please call 01782 619348, email office@edenhurst.co.uk or visit www.edenhurst.co.uk.

IS A PRE-NUP GOOD ADVICE FOR HARRY AND MEGHAN?

LEGAL MATTERS

he end of Ant McPartlin’s marriage, which is splattered all over the front page of the tabloids with a rumoured financial settlement figure of £33 million, highlights the potential cost of divorce for the rich.

With this is mind, should one of the UK’s most eligible and rich bachelors who is just about to tie the knot, put aside the romance for one moment and consider a prenuptial agreement?

They may not be considered the most romantic of document, but many couples enter into a prenuptial agreement (commonly known as a ‘prenup’) so their marriage is based on a more certain financial foundation right from the start.

In a nutshell pre-nups state how a couple’s assets should be divided if the marriage doesn’t work out.

T

A pre-nup can protect both husband and wife It’s easy to see how such an agreement would help Prince Harry and Meghan and it isn’t just about protecting Harry’s wealth. Both have large personal fortunes to protect.

From Harry’s point of view, there would be both personal and public concern if royal assets were lost to a divorce settlement in the future.

Meghan too will be affected as she has announced that she’s giving up her career as an actress to concentrate on the marriage and charity work with Prince Harry.

One other possible reason for the increased interest in marital agreements is that people are becoming more pragmatic in their attitude to marriage.

There is a growing acceptance that relationships can break down and if that happens, a pre-nup can help reduce much of the stress and heartache of reaching a financial settlement that is fair to both sides.

If you would like some advice on creating a prenup please do get in touch. If you want to investigate what’s involved and whether a pre-nup is right for you then we offer a £50 fixed fee appointment where we can explain the facts and answer any questions you may have.

Lauren Jodrell, Family Law Solicitor, Grindeys Solicitors

T: 01782 840 542 E: family@grindeys.co.uk

Pre-nups are no longer just for the rich and famous Pre-nups are now being drawn up by couples from all income groups. The days of them being just for the rich and famous are in the past.

They are particularly beneficial to people entering second marriages who want to safeguard their assets for their children from a previous relationship. Anyone who has a large sum of money, for example people who have inherited money or perhaps been awarded compensation for an injury or employment claim, are also using pre-nups to protect their interests.

A pre-nup has to be fair These marital agreements are still not legally binding in the UK, but they are usually upheld by the courts if they are fair, and each partner agreed to them voluntarily.

In order to do the best job of ensuring that the court will not consider the agreement to be unfair if it is necessary to rely on it, both of you will also need to set out your financial circumstances in full and take independent legal advice on the agreement and its effects.

www.family-law-and-divorce.co.uk

Newcastle Life Issue 12 35

Do DIY divorces really work?

LEGAL MATTERS

IY divorce is a much-talked about topic.

A quick internet search will throw up any number of websites, blogs and articles giving tips on how to get a ‘quickie divorce’.

Driving down the cost of divorce and avoiding acrimonious and expensive court proceedings is, quite rightly, a priority for many couples. While it is relatively cheap to file your own divorce papers, making sure you get the outcome you want is likely to take a little more work.

If you are choosing a DIY divorce, there are a couple of things to be aware of; firstly some websites offer ‘quickie divorces’ for less than £100. What the adverts may not tell you is that you will still need to pay court fees of £550.

Secondly, even if you have agreed to make no financial claims against each other, if matters are not formalised correctly within a financial consent order and approved by the court then the financial ties between you are not severed upon divorce.

D

This means that there is nothing to stop either of you from applying to the court for financial provision from the other later on and there is no limitation period (save for in certain circumstances) for financial claims.

Using a family solicitor can give you peace of mind during a stressful and emotional divorce.

There is no doubt that you are more likely to secure a positive outcome if you have someone acting for you who is an expert in the complexities of divorce, especially in terms of finances and children.

Beswicks Legal is able to guide you through the divorce process from start to finish ensuring your position is safeguarded in respect of potential future claims. We offer a transparent pricing structure with fixed fees for initial consultations and uncontested divorces.

If you’d like a confidential chat or further information on divorce or separation, please contact Sarah Jones on 01782 205000 or email sarah.jones@beswicks.com

Newcastle Life Issue 12 37

THE DAFTEST THINGS THAT DRIVERS DO ON THE ROAD MOTORING

new study has uncovered the daftest things drivers do on the road. Research by industry giant LeaseCar.uk has found the silliest mistakes that consistently make driving more difficult than it needs to be.

Some of them, such as losing keys and storing breakables on the seat instead of the boot or footwell, affect only the car owner themselves.

But others, such as parking too close, cause a headache for anyone else.

Putting the wrong fuel in the car is an expensive error that holds up traffic when the car breaks down in the worst possible place.

Some motorists have also learned to their cost that parking payment slips should always be placed in the front windscreen, no matter which way the car is facing.

Expert Tim Alcock said: “None of us are perfect and the best drivers never stop learning.

“At the same time, our study found the same few dunderheaded driving habits kept cropping up, so it’s a good idea to make a note of them.

“Driving is stressful enough as it is, so take a little extra care to try to keep your car and your blood pressure running as smoothly as possible.”

A

The ten daftest things that motorists do...

1 Put petrol in a diesel car, or vice versa Everyone knows a horror story about this. If you’re lucky, you’ll break down at home and it won’t cost too much to fix the engine.

2 Losing your vehicle in a car park Or anywhere else. Nothing beats that feeling when it’s finally time to head home and realising you now have to play hunt-the-car across eight floors, or in all the surrounding streets.

3 Parking too close to the next car Have you ever had to shimmy into your car because the idiot next to you parked four inches away from it? Of course you have. You’ve also probably come back to scratches on your chassis because you did it to someone else.

4 Parking under trees The perfect way to become a public toilet for all the local birds and ruin your paintwork.

38 Newcastle Life Issue 12

5 Putting breakables on the seat For goodness sake, put them in the boot or in the footwell. How many times do they need to crash to the floor after a semi-hard brake before we learn?

6 Not flipping the wing mirrors in when parking Yes, other drivers should pass your car with room to spare. But you know they won’t, and the mirrors flip inwards for this very reason.

7 Lose the keys We all have a designated spot for the car keys, and yet we all lose them with alarming frequency.

8 Starting with the car in gear It’s one thing to park with the car in gear, and another when you lurch forward suddenly when you start up. Let’s hope there was nothing in front of you.

9 Parking illegally On double yellows, outside of a marked bay, on a dropped kerb, whatever. This is one of the most infuriating dim-witted things a driver can do.

10 Putting the parking payment slip in the rear windscreen One daft Midlands driver who fell foul of this recalled: “I had driven forward into the bay, between two other cars, so I thought I was actually helping the warden by putting the slip in the rear window. Instead I got a ticket and they wouldn’t rescind it.”

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Newcastle Life Issue 12 39

MOTORING

SPORTY FUN WITH HONDA’S NEW JAZZ RANGE FOR 2018

oldcroft Honda is gearing up for a wave of interest in the newly released Honda Jazz, which has been re-engineered from top to bottom with a curvy new body shape and a taller, lighter design.

Imbued with style and sophistication, the reworked body shell has allowed designers to add even more space into the class-leading interior, offering unrivalled practicality in the supermini category.

A lower centre of gravity and quick sporty handling ensures every journey in the small car is big fun.

The truly deceptive dimensions inside are complemented by the bold and assertive exterior, while the range of options available has extended to include the new Sport grade.

With a responsive 130PS 1.5 litre i-VTEC engine, 52.3mpg, with a 128bhp output and priced from £17,155, the Jazz Sport is marked out by a revised front bumper, black alloy wheels and a rear diffuser, as well as red accents on the exterior and orange stitching on the interior upholstery.

Phil Webb, head of car at Honda UK, said: “The Jazz is our best-selling car in the UK and has been rejuvenated with the new Sport model,

H

40 Newcastle Life Issue 12

as well as the new interior and exterior styling.

“The Jazz is a very important model for us, with an extremely loyal following, so we look forward to seeing this success continue with the new line up and the addition of the Sport model.”

Agile, eager to go and applauded for economy, the Jazz range features cruise control and automatic lights as standard, while mid-range SE cars get parking sensors, electric mirrors, 15in alloys and start from £15,615.

EX trim gets keyless entry and start, climate control and a reversing camera, as well as 16in alloys, fog lights and LED lights.

The new 128bhp unit is added to the existing 1.3-litre petrol option. Both engines are available alongside a six-speed manual gearbox or CVT transmission.

Following its successful unveil at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year, the new line-up will also include Skyride Blue Metallic as a new colour option and the 102PS 1.3 i-VTEC engine range will start off at £14,115 on-the-road for the entry-level S model.

The new 1.5-litre Jazz Sport is available to pre-order now, with first customer deliveries scheduled to land at Holdcroft Honda in February 2018.

MOTORING

Newcastle Life Issue 12 41

QUIZ CORNER

Let’s get quizzical COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

General Knowledge Quiz 1. In which film does the Jack Nicholson character Colonel Jessup say 'You can't handle the truth'? for which tv show?

3. What is singer Rihanna's surname?

4. What is the epicarp of an orange?

5. The Brian Clough trophy is competed for between which two East Midlands football clubs?

6. Which sportsman wrote the autobiography 'But Seriously' in 2017?

7. What type of musical instrument was found in Tutankhamen's tomb?

8. The largest cathedral in the UK can be found in which city?

9. Who co-presents the Film Review show on BBC Radio Five Live alongside Simon Mayo?

10. In the computing acronym USB what does the 'U' stand for?

A ‘New’ Quiz for the New Year 1. Which character did Joanna Lumley play in 'The New Avengers'?

2. What is the name of Birmingham's central railway station?

3. Who composed the symphony No. 9 from the New World?

4. What is the Capital of India?

5. Which Australian state is made up of three words?

6. Which army was formed in 1645 by the Parliamentarians and disbanded in 1660 after the Restoration?

7. Which country has the capital city of Port Moresby?

8. What is the last word in the New Testament?

9. In 1982 what word ceased to appear on British Coins?

10.Which high street store opened its first shop in Taunton in 1969?

General Knowledge Answers: 1. A Few Good Men - The 1992 film also starred Tom Cruise and Demi Moore; 2. The Sky At Night; 3.

Fenty - She was born Robyn Rihanna Fenty; 4. Peel; 5. Derby County and Nottingham Forest; 6. John McEnroe; 7. Trumpet; 8. Liverpool - The street that links the Anglican Cathedral and the Roman Catholic Cathedral in Liverpool is called Hope Street; 9. Mark Kermode He started on the show in 2001; 10. Universal - It stands for Universal Serial Bus. New Years Day Quiz Answers: 1.Purdy; 2. New Street; 3. Anton Dvorak; 4.New Delhi; 5. New South Wales; 6.New Model Army; 7.Papua New Guinea; 8. Amen; 9. New; 10. New Look.

42 Newcastle Life Issue 12

Quizzes compiled by Paul Steele - email: pnsteele@aol.com - Paul's 'Which One?' quiz game is available at Gafuzzle in Leek.

2. At the Castle Gate, a piece from Sibelius' 1905 suite of incidental music is the theme tune