Newcastle Life Issue 13

ISSUE 13

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Footballing hero given Freedom of Newcastle

Life

Gordon Banks OBE awarded Borough Council’s highest honour

Kicking off the season in style

New starts, new initiatives, festivals, fundraising and creativity across the area

WIN

to see s t e k tic es at m i T d Har w Vic e N e Th

CONTENTS

ISSUE 13 Editor’s letter .................................6

Creative exhibition .......................21

Football hero.................................11

Castle Capers ...............................24

Staffordshire County Show............8

Loud Mouth Women ...................22

Got a bright idea? .........................12

Music, Speech & Drama Festival.26

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

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

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

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

Recipe ...........................................14 Funding boost...............................17

Mental health raffle .....................20

Homes and gardens .....................28

Independent education................37 Quiz corner ..................................42

It’s time to put a spring in your step

can’t believe I’m saying this, given the fact that we’ve spent the last few weeks battling a ‘polar vortex,’ but spring is in the air! With the promise of warmer weather, lighter evenings, bluer skies and beer gardens just around the corner, winter is (hopefully) behind us and I am feeling positive and looking forward to brighter times to come.

In fact, this year I may even attempt a good old fashioned ‘Spring Clean!’ Many of us accumulate items over the years that we no longer need and it’s true what they say, the fresh start of spring provides the perfect opportunity to declutter your home, and perhaps your life in general. Now is the time to make the changes you’ve been putting off seize the day!

And when you’ve finished your spring transformation, why not put up your feet and relax with your spring issue of Newcastle Life magazine. You may even find something new to do locally!

To kick off the new season in style, this edition is packed full of new starts, new initiatives, festivals, fundraising and creativity across the area.

We talk to Gordon Banks, the much loved local World Cup Hero who has recently been given the honour of Freedom of the Borough.

From there we venture into the world of Staffordshire creativity, exploring the story behind a new photography exhibition called ‘Staffordshire Crafts’ and learning what this year’s Music, Speech and Drama festival has to offer.

Once again our What’s On pages are packed - if you get the chance, why not pop down into town and enjoy the town’s Easter celebrations, circus windows, Castle Capers, Newcastle in Bloom painting competition or the Lymelight Festival. Remember you can submit your event by sending me an email - we love to feature all the local goings on!

Finally I’d encourage you all to read about Bright Ideas, the new Haywood Hospital initiative to support and improve the lives of local people affected by arthritis. Probably all of us know someone who lives with an arthritic condition - you could make the world of difference to people’s lives by submitting ideas for funding.

I hope you like the spring issue of Newcastle Life magazine and remember to make the most of any warm weather that comes our way!

I

Laura Campbell Contents Editor laura@timesandecho.co.uk Sophie Cotton Tracey Redfern Design & Production Thomas Brian General 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

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6 Newcastle Life Issue 13

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Newcastle Life Issue 13 7

Save the date for this year’s Staffordshire County Show STAFFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW

housands of families across Staffordshire are encouraged to ‘save the date’ for the annual County Show as part of their half term programme of fun.

Organisers of Staffordshire County Show said the two day half term event on May 30 and 31 was the perfect opportunity for a day out for all members of the family.

The show programme is packed with attractions for children of all ages from youngsters who will enjoy the mud kitchen in the Woodfest area to teenagers who will be ringside for the revving engines of the JCB Dancing Diggers.

Whilst the next generation of farmers will be inspired by the first class entries in livestock competitions across the showground and enjoy everything at the heart of the traditional agricultural show.

The Show at the County Showground on Weston Road is one of the area’s major events on the calendar and is expected to attract more than 65,000 visitors. A huge part of its appeal is the large

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8 Newcastle Life Issue 13

number of activities on offer across the extensive showground.

Richard Williams, Chief Executive of the Staffordshire and Birmingham Agricultural Society, said: “We know people plan ahead when it comes to days off and childcare during half term holidays so we want people to put the date in the diary now so they don’t miss out.

“With it being a two day event it gives people the choice and we see many families return for the second day.

“From babies still in pushchairs to grandparents and great-grandparents there is no doubt our fantastic show has something for everyone. It really is a family occasion enjoyed by all - it is where memories are made and talked about for many years.

“For one fantastic ticket price the whole family gets to enjoy so many shows within one show whatever their interest they are sure to have a wonderful time.

“So diaries at the ready - choose your date and be ready when the early bird tickets go on sale on April 1st on the website www.staffscountyshowground.co.uk or from the showground office.”

Holly Hobson, Show Secretary, said trade stand applications were coming in extremely well and urged anyone who wanted a trade stand pitch to showcase their services or product to more than 65,000 people to email holly@staffscountyshowground.co.uk or call 01785 258060.

For more information about the show visit the website www.staffscountyshowground.co.uk

Sheep shearers return to show STAFFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW

isitors are set to flock to this year’s Staffordshire County Show to watch the return of the popular Sheep Shearing Competition - and for the first time a Wool Handling Competition too.

The Show, which attracts around 65,000 people, will become one of just four shows on the wool handling circuit of England as it introduces the competition this year.

The British Isles Shearing Competitions Association event, one of 37 held annually in the UK, will also return.

Chief Sheep Shearing Steward Angela Cope said: “Sheep shearing and wool handling are now each considered to be a sport and the popularity of the sport is growing each year.

“The show committee is indebted to all the judges and stewards as well as to the sponsorship of Lister Shearing Equipment and the British Wool Marketing Board amongst many others. It really is quite a busy scene and the excitement builds throughout the day.

“Many of these shearers and wool handlers know each other having met on the circuit or whilst shearing in New Zealand or Australia and the competition can be fierce.

“Each shearer usually has his or her supporters in attendance, but we love it when the public get excited and shout for their preferred winner.

“We find people are truly amazed at the speed with which the wool is removed from the sheep in a professional and highly skilled manner.”

At the Staffordshire County Showground in Weston Road on Wednesday, May 30th, entrants will battle it out to be crowned the winner in either the junior, intermediate or senior sheep shearing and wool handling categories.

They will also collect points towards the English Shearer or English Wool Handler of the Year prizes.

The refurbished stand by N C Construction Ltd will be full of sheep donated by Geoff Greaves from Drointon, near Uttoxeter, and prepared for the competition by shearing contractor John Froggatt.

The internationally-renowned Huw Condron

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10 Newcastle Life Issue 13

will be commentating and local farmers and students from Reaseheath College are set to help out, with qualified judges attending from all over the UK. Each competition has heats, semi-finals and a final while each shearer is timed and judged on the quality of shearing and the quality finish of the shorn sheep. Wool handlers will be marked on collecting the wool from the stand, handling it on special tables and presenting the final fleece.

The following day (May 31st) demonstrations

by John Froggatt and Jan Coker will take place, with commentary by Angela Cope.

There are also demonstrations of felting, spinning and weaving on both days of the Show and visitors can have a go.

Richard Williams, Chief Executive of the Staffordshire and Birmingham Agricultural Society, said the sheep shearing is always a very popular attraction at the annual County Show.

He said: “We are delighted that the sheep shearing will be back again this year.

“Agriculture is at the heart of our show and this is a large part of what people are interested in.

“As this is a family event during half term we also get a lot of young children seeing shearing for the first time and they are amazed at what people can do in such a short space of time.

“It is a huge benefit to our show to have sheep shearing here.”

This year’s Staffordshire County Show will also include Main Ring performances by the JCB Dancing Diggers and The Rockwood Dog Display Team, among other attractions.

Tickets go on sale online from April 1. For more information about the Show and sponsorship packages available, visit the website www.staffscountyshowground.co.uk.

For more information on how to enter, rules and prize money for the sheep shearing and wool handling competitions visit www.staffscountyshow ground.co.uk/schedules and www.britishwool.org.uk/newsclip.

FOOTBALLING HERO GIVEN FREEDOM OF NEWCASTLE

FOOTBALL HERO

ormer Stoke City goalkeeper and England World Cup hero, Gordon Banks OBE, has been awarded the Borough Council’s highest honour.

At a private service hosted at Keele Hall on Friday, 23rd February, the Mayor of Newcastle, Cllr Simon White, presented the Freedom of the Borough to the football legend.

The Freedom of the Borough is only awarded to local people

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who have, in the opinion of the Council, given outstanding services to the Borough.

After the presentation the Mayor said: “Gordon is a living legend and a true national hero but I also know that he is a terrific ambassador for the community and does an amazing amount of work for numerous charities. He is at the heart of the community in Madeley, the ward I represent and Gordon’s home for many years.

“I’m so pleased that the Council has been able to recognise his achievements and importance in this way this afternoon and I was very proud to award the honour to him on behalf of the Council.”

Gordon said: “I’m really honoured to have been recognised in this way and it’s been really special to come here for this award. I would like to thank the Mayor for presenting the Freedom of the Borough to me, and the Council for this special honour.”

He joked: “I’ve actually brought six sheep with me today!” in reference to the traditional ‘benefit’ of the Freedom of the Borough allowing the recipient to drive their sheep herd through the town of Newcastle-underLyme.

Gordon Banks made 628 appearances during a 15-year career in the Football League, and won 73 caps for his country.

He is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time and has been credited with countless accolades.

Among his finest moments was “the save” he made for England in the 1970 World Cup from a Pele header - still regarded as one of the game's all-time greatest saves.

The former England goalkeeper was reunited with Brazil hero Pele in December last year when they were chosen to draw the 2018 Russia World Cup teams out of the hat at the Kremlin.

Gordon wore a Stoke City F.C. tie on stage at the draw, another sign of his continuing loyalty and love for the area.

Newcastle Life Issue 13 11

GOT A BRIGHT IDEA?

MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE W YOU COULD CHANGE THE LIVES OF ARTHRITIS PATIENTS IN NEWCASTLE

atients, carers and visitors to The Haywood Hospital in nearby Burslem now have the opportunity to make a positive difference to the lives of arthritis patients across Newcastle, following the launch of an exciting new ‘Bright Ideas’ campaign.

The new initiative, which launched in February, aims to enhance and support the lives of local people who suffer from arthritis and its related conditions.

It has been devised by The Haywood Foundation, a charity based at The Haywood Hospital which is dedicated to improving the lives of patients and carers living with arthritis related conditions.

Over the next few months patients, their carers and hospital staff will be encouraged to put forward any ideas that can positively help patients. Every idea will be considered by the Haywood Foundation Committee, who ensure that the very generous donations, legacies and fund raising monies given to the

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GOT A BRIGHT IDEA?

Foundation are spent in the best possible way to benefit patients.

Professor Andrew Hassell, Head of School of Medicine at Keele University and Chair of The Haywood Foundation Committee, explained: "The Haywood Foundation exists to improve the lives of people with arthritis and related conditions. It does this by buying items of equipment for the Haywood Rheumatology Department, by supporting research and by funding local nurses and therapists to develop their expertise by attending courses.

“The ‘Bright Ideas’ campaign is another exciting step forward in furthering our aims. We wish to tap into the imagination of local people with arthritis and those close to them; can you suggest new ways in which we can help improve the lives of people with these challenging conditions? Please help us make a difference."

70 year old Mike Brooks, from Alsager, is an arthritis patient and Haywood Foundation Committee member who is passionate about improving the lives of patients like him. He added: “Symptoms of

arthritis can come and go and the onset of pain and tiredness can result in changes to plans and routines. Work and leisure can be adversely affected and relationships can come under strain.

“The Bright Ideas initiative is a fantastic way to further help arthritis patients in their day-today lives, or even in the longer run.

Whether it be a specific piece of equipment to help overcome some of the simplest of tasks that others take for granted, social trips and support groups, or even bigger investments – The Foundation is eager to hear from you.”

The Bright Ideas campaign is open to anyone who has an idea, however big or small, which could help to brighten the lives of arthritis patients. Your idea could be in with the chance of receiving up to £10,000 of funding. All you have to do is apply! Simply look out for the ‘Bright Ideas’ suggestion cards at The Haywood Hospital PIER room (Patient Information and Education Resource Centre) and return to june.brammar@ssotp.nhs.uk or call 01782 673728

About arthritis There are about 200 different musculoskeletal conditions. They fall into six main groups: inflammatory arthritis (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis), degenerative or mechanical arthritis (e.g. osteoarthritis), soft tissue musculoskeletal pain (e.g. fibromyalgia), back pain, bone conditions such as osteoporosis, and connective tissue disease.

Millions of people in the UK will experience some form of muscle or joint pain each year, although many won’t have persistent or severe symptoms. Symptoms of arthritis come and go.

Flare-ups, fatigue and lack of sleep can cause physical and emotional problems for the patient. Managing the flare-up is a vital element in the patient’s approach to the disease. It is estimated that more than eight million have osteoarthritis and more than 400,000 have rheumatoid arthritis – for more information visit www.arthritisresearch.org Newcastle Life Issue 13 13

Photographs by Mark Brammar Associates

WITH A BRIGHT IDEA

RECIPE

Simple leek & asparagus quiche

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Serves : 6-8 Prepara tion tim e: 30 min utes Cooking time: 30 min utes

Ingredients 500g block of ready made short-crust pastry 15g unsalted butter 2 leeks, washed, thinly sliced 100g asparagus tips 3 eggs 120g Greek style natural bio yogurt 240ml double cream 120g strong cheddar cheese Salt and pepper Pinch English mustard powder Method 1. Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/gas mark 6.

Grease a large tart case, preferably loose bottomed.

2. Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface into a round until it is 5cm larger than the tart case. Lift the pastry up and drape over the tart case there should be an overhang.

Carefully push the pastry into the edges of the tart case. Trim off the overhang and chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.

3. While the pastry is chilling, melt the butter in

RECIPE

a small pan and add the leeks, stir occasionally until they are soft.

4. Meanwhile cook the asparagus tips in boiling water for five minutes until beginning to soften.

Drain immediately and immerse in cold water (this will help keep their colour).

5. Bake the pastry case blind by placing a large piece of greaseproof paper in the centre and fill with baking beans or dried pulses. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.

6. Beat the eggs in a jug or bowl, add the yogurt and cream and whisk together, add the cheese and seasoning.

7. Leave the baked pastry case to cool slightly before adding the filling ingredients.

8. Layer the base with the cooked leeks, add half of the egg mixture and then carefully place the asparagus tips on top, finish with the remaining egg mixture.

9. Bake the quiche for 30 to 40 minutes until golden and set in the middle. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.

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 13 15

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

Win tickets to see Hard Times at The New Vic We have teamed up with the award-winning New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-underLyme, to give away a pair of tickets to see Hard Times.

The Northern Powerhouse, 1854.

Imagine a world where imagination is forbidden. Coketown is such a place. Thomas Gradgrind will not permit fanciful thoughts in his school or his home. But what effect will this policy have on his own children, Tom and Louisa? How can he protect them from corrupting influences – especially when the circus comes to town?

Dark satanic mills, interrupted by the colour and vibrancy of Sleary’s Circus, set the stage for a sweeping tale of supressed love, seduction

and social mores, peopled with the sharply observed exaggerated characters that Dickens is celebrated for.

Conrad Nelson directs Deborah McAndrew’s witty adaptation of Charles Dickens’ great Northern novel to bring you a joyful juggling and tumbling through this touching and often hilarious tale of repression and longing.

To win two tickets to see Hard Times answer the following question:

Which of the following is not a Charles Dickens’ character?

A) Nicholas Nickleby

B) Silas Marner

C) Barnaby Rudge

(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 3rd April 2018.

The prize can be used for any performance of Hard Times.

The production runs at the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, from Wednesday 4 to Saturday 14 April.

The prize is a pair of tickets. Tickets are non-transferable and are subject to availability

16 Newcastle Life Issue 13

Funding boost for home grown science

FUNDING BOOST

Newcastle under Lyme laboratory has successfully bid for a £10k grant, allowing it to buy equipment and create a new job.

Dermal Technology Laboratory Ltd, based at Keele University Science and Business Park, applied for the cash through Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub’s small business grant scheme.

The laboratory specialises in testing chemicals on skin, but the work is done in test tubes, instead of on animals or people. The vital work forms part of the safety testing of new and existing chemicals, agrochemicals, personal care, and pharmaceutical products.

Thanks to the grant, the company can now buy equipment for high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), a technique used to study each component in a mixture. The grant, which comes from the European Regional Development Fund, will help pay for the £24k equipment.

Managing director David Fox said: “The equipment allows us to test chemicals in the product, for example, a hair dye, and if the chemical penetrates the skin. We can look at how much of that chemical is in the sample we have prepared, compared to the product, and see if we

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have made a variant which is suitable for use.”

Mr Fox, 48, from Madeley Heath, said he wants to expand the business and hire four new staff this year, and the grant will allow him to create one of those jobs in the role of study director.

He said: “We work closely with Keele University and the Local Enterprise Partnership, and I was subscribed to the Growth Hub’s email newsletter, which is where I read about the grant scheme. The application was straight forward. We were really hoping to get this equipment and now that we have this money it will allow things to progress quickly.”

Nicola Kent, operational manager of the Growth Hub, said: “We are pleased to help Dermal Technology to buy new equipment, particularly in such an important field as chemical testing.

“The Stoke on Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub would like to support more companies in the science and technology sector and would encourage anyone looking to grow their business to contact the Business Helpline for more information on 0300 111 8002.”

For more information, visit www.stokestaffsgrowthhub.co.uk to use the free live chat service.

HAVE A BALL THIS APRIL ewcastle residents are invited to have a ball and raise money this April at the Mayor’s Charity Venetian Masquerade

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ball.

The glitzy event will be taking place at Keele Hall on Saturday 14th April to support the provision of performing arts opportunities in North Staffordshire and people living with dementia.

Borough Mayor Simon White will be hosting the event, which includes canapés and drinks on arrival followed by a threecourse meal, cabaret, auction and live entertainment.

Tickets cost £50 each and are available by contacting Geoff Durham, the Mayor’s secretary, on 01782 742222 or

e-mailing geoff.durham@newcastlestaffs.gov.uk by Wednesday, 28th March.

Proceeds will go to the Mayor’s chosen charities, the Alzheimer’s Society and the Jill Clewes Academy for Theatre Art.

Newcastle Life Issue 13 17

What’s on

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

to ill do our best co.uk and we w o. ch de an es e m id ti t’s on gu Email laura@ ent in our wha feature your ev

Newcastle Festival for Music, Speech and Drama Newcastle under Lym e Festival is an annual event, organised by vol unteers, which provides a valuable per formance opportunity in speech, drama, and music. We aim to provide a well organi sed and enjoyable festival; a platform for amateur performers of any age, from far or nea r, to demonstrate their talents.

17th March 23rd and 24th Ma rch ion Circus window dressing competit ess Busin me er-Ly -und astle Newc 12 Improvement District are giving away tickets for the Lexicon | NoFit State Circus- a contemporary take on the traditional circus commissioned by New cil Vic Theatre and funded by Arts Coun s.

England and the Arts Council of Wale To be in with a chance of winning and businesses are invited to get in touch to let the BID know you will be taking part 12 een betw d judge is ow wind your re ensu and 2pm on 23rd March. Visit ircushttps://visitcastle.co.uk/event-pro/c for / ition mpet ng-co ressi window-d 23rd March

munity er-Lyme Com Newcastle-und morning e ffe co g in rais Orchestra fund be taking ll wi ffee morning A fundraising co rday 24th tu Sa on y da id m place 9:30am-12 Church and astle Methodist March, at Newc hot and cold s. There will be Assembly Room memade crafts. ho d an ll cake sta refreshments, a e running of th s d goes toward All money raise group. the community ch 24th Mar

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Churches together Come to New castle-under -Lyme for th Churches T ogether serv e annual ice at 11am be held by th , which will e Market C ross in the on March 30 town centre th. This will be meet people , enjoy the se a great chance to rvice and si the hymns. ng along to 30th Marc h

Easter celebration s Newcastle town centre will come alive with Easter celebrations at the end of March and everyone is invited to join in. There will be an Easter Egg Hunt, Fac e painting and other fantastic things to do throughout the day. Th ere will be children’s cha racters out and about to say hello to, including My Little Pony and Lego Batman - enjoy some spring themed dress up and story telling! Th ere will also be refres hments on offer -popcorn and candy floss - and som e interactive craft activit ies and spring anima ls.

10am - 5pm.

31st March

Newcastle Scouts Show ular Scouts The much loved and ever pop e again take onc will ers Cap tle Cas show Arts Centre ll che Mit the at place this April at 7:15pm with Hanley. Shows start nightly pm. a Matinee on Saturday at 2:15 3rd April – 7th April

Circus Friends The Philip Astley Project will be we lcoming the Circus Friends As sociation to Newc astle-underLyme for a special talk about Philip Astley and his link to the tow n at the start of Ap ril. Hosted

by Andrew Van Bu ren and the New Vic Theatre, local audiences an d invited guests wi ll have the chance to hear fro m a speaker who is passionate about Astley’s life and leg acy. The free event takes pla ce between 10am and 2pm.

For more informa tion please visit – www.philipastley.o rg.uk/events/circ us-friendsassociation-visitnewcastle-lyme/ 6th April

Spring Plant Hunters Fair in the garden A great opportunity to get out for the year ting plan and and get planning den’s Spring ahead - the Dorothy Clive Gar this April.

Plant Hunters Fair takes place d garden This event is one of the best love ing line up of winn a with area the in ts even t charming the best nurseries around, a mos relaxing and and beautiful garden and a truly ere. osph inviting atm den The 12-acre Dorothy Clive Gar en, alpine gard d dlan woo rb supe a ures feat tacular flower scree, a damp garden and spec spring borders. Famed for its dazzling eas with azal and s dron oden rhod display of massed drifts of bulbs. top-class The Plant Hunters’ Fair boasts ners and Win al Med RHS ding nurseries, inclu ring a National Collection Holders offe tremendous variety of plants. t and This is a special fund-raising even low event ial spec t grea a rs offe en gard the entry to the price on these days of just £4 for ly standard garden and plant fair (normal runs from garden entry is £8.50). The fair ils can be 10am-5pm both days. Full deta .co.uk found at www.planthuntersfairs nday 2nd Mo and 1st il Sunday, 1st Apr April.

Mayor’s Masquerad e Ball Borough Mayor Simon White will be holding a Venetian Ma squerade Ball at Keele Hall in April to raise funds for local arts organisations.

There will be canapés and drinks on arrival followed by a thr ee-course meal, cabaret, auction and live entertainment.

Tickets cost £50 each and are available by contacting Geoff Du rham, the Mayor’s secretary, on 01782 742 222 or e-mailing geoff.durham@newcas tle-staffs.gov.uk by Wednesday, 28 March .

Proceeds will go to the Mayor’s chosen charities, the Alzheime r’s Society and the Jill Clewes Academy for Theatre Art. 14th April

rformance A ‘bloomin’ pe wcastle’s d initiative to Ne ke lin As part of a mpetition, co itain in Bloom entry into the Br ecial schools sp d an y ar y, second over 50 primar e ever th in rt ed to take pa have been invit tition. There pe m co g tin in n’s pa popular childre 1000 entries be in excess of e are expected to a selection of th e borough and th er ov an all in m ed fro splay intings will be di ad, most vibrant pa io, Barracks Ro ud St t Ar e Th flect re ll wi exhibition at ns children’s creatio d his an Newcastle. The y tle As p ili tion of Ph their interpreta ll up and y. So roll up, ro ac leg l fu er nd wo ptional ce ex e th by azed prepare to be am ted young len ta e ork from th standard of artw ‘W e. hat a astle-under-Lym people of Newc tley themed As p ili Ph rmance’ Bloomin’ Perfo be viewed by n ca ting exhibition children’s pain free). For ic (admission is the general publ ion visit at rm fo and more in opening times ts/exhibitionen ev k/ g.u .or ey www.philipastl painting-circus/ d May ril to Thurs 3r Wed 25th Ap

Lymelight Fe stival The Popular Ly melight Festiva l is returning to Newcastle Town Centre for the Bank holiday weekend. Lots of music and ac tivities are bein planned for th g e weekend.

5th - 6th May

Jazz and Blues Festival returning to The Popular Jazz and Blues Festival is ay holid Bank the for Newcastle Town Centre ities are activ and c musi of Lots May. in end week Bank being planned for the four days over the holiday weekend.

May 25th - 28th

nt oming Eve 2018 Homec g Event which in om ec om H ern day Circus The popular me of the mod ho e th es at celebr y. r, Philip Astle and its creato June 23rd Newcastle Life Issue 13 19

APPEAL FOR PRIZES N MENTAL HEALTH RAFFLE

ewcastle businesses are being asked to donate prizes for a fundraising event in aid of a mental health charity.

North Staffs Mind, which helps people across Stoke-on-

Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme and Staffordshire Moorlands, is planning an event on May 18th to mark Mental Health Awareness Week.

The charity is appealing for prizes for a charity auction or

raffle and all businesses which donate items will be listed as event supporters.

Dorota Bowden, community fundraiser for North Staffs Mind, said: “Stoke ceramic artist Joanna Dawidowska is going to donate some of her creations and 50 limited edition plates.

We’ve also had a giant teddy bear, some spa vouchers and 17 authors have offered to donate signed copies of their books.

“The event will celebrate Mental Health Awareness Week and we are planning to bring the community together to have some fun, enjoy good food and provide an opportunity for people to find out more about improving their mental health and wellbeing. It will be held at the Cobridge Community Multicultural Association building on Cobridge Road, from 5pm.”

In 2016/17, North Staffs Mind helped over 10,000 people through counselling services, social support groups and a supported housing project, in addition to delivering training programmes about mental health.

To donate a prize, email dorotabowden@nsmind.org.uk or call 017822 62100. Visit nsmind.org.uk.

The cat’s whiskers

e’ve heard of the cat getting the cream, but what about a nice piece of juicy steak? One local cat, who shall remain anonymous, recently left his owner completely baffled when he trotted through his cat flap, pleased as punch, dragging behind a defrosting sirloin steak.

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Mortified, his owner concluded he must’ve pinched it from a neighbours house! Putting the embarrassing incident to the back of her mind, until a week later she found him once again in their kitchen.....with another piece of steak at his feet.

It seems we have a cat burglar in Newcastle!

CREATIVE EXHIBITION

Crafty Staffs

n 2016, local photographer Derek Tamea set out on a mission to discover just why his beautiful Staffordshire home had become known as ‘The Creative County.”

Over the course of the last 18 months, Derek has travelled the length and breadth of Staffordshire capturing images of the outstanding artisan craftspeople who call Staffordshire their home.

Derek, who has been a professional portrait photographer for the past 40 years, had his interest sparked during childhood in the Second World War when he helped his father develop pictures using a red light and blackout curtains.

His list of subjects embraces the "rich, famous and downright interesting" and his two main exhibitions, Brief Encounters (mixed gender) and Women in Focus (women who smashed the glass ceiling to become the first woman in their chosen field) have toured the UK from Hastings to Aberdeen and most places inbetween.

When not working (which is a very rare event), Derek enjoys the films of David Lean, the music of Rachmaninoff and anything to do with Russian history. He lives quietly in a corner of Staffordshire with his wife and cat.

Derek’s ambition to showcase the beautiful and unique creations produced by Staffordshire people has resulted in a very special exhibition entitled ‘Staffordshire Crafts.’

Members of the public can take the opportunity to see the exhibition at various locations across our fabulous county - including libraries, art galleries and other venues.

It will be arriving in Newcastle under Lyme in August, but you can catch it throughout March just down the road in Stafford.

You can find out more information on Derek’s Facebook page www.facebook. com/derektamea photography You never know, you may even discover that one of these artists turns out to be your next door neighbour!

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You can catch the exhibition at the following locations: March - American High House, Stafford August - Brampton Museum and Art Gallery, Newcastle under Lyme Newcastle Life Issue 13 21

LOUD MOUTH WOMEN

LOUD MOUTH WO 20 YEAR MILESTO

capella singers will celebrate 20 years of performing in the Newcastle-under-Lyme area with a special concert this autumn.

Loud Mouth Women is lead by Kate Barfield, a member of the Natural Voice Practitioners Network and sing a variety of songs from around the world from English folk songs and hits by Bob Marley to Zulu lullabies and Maori blessings.

The choir usually hold three concerts a year and will mark their 20 year milestone on November 4.

Plans for the concert are still in the pipeline, but more details will be released closer to the date.

Chairman of the choir, Pauline Frankenburg,

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22 Newcastle Life Issue 13

said: “In Newcastle, we have performed when the Christmas lights are switched on, in carnivals, at St Giles Church for raising breast cancer awareness, in the Queen’s Gardens and the Roebuck Centre, and in local schools and venues.

“We also perform in nearby towns and villages, for example the Audlem Music Festival.

“This year to celebrate our special anniversary, you should soon see us singing, usually dressed in black and white, at weekends in Newcastle town centre.

“We will also be providing choral support for Greenhouse Theatre Project UK’s forthcoming production in late April.

“In earlier years we met at Barracks Road, but now we meet every Tuesday evening from

LOUD MOUTH WOMEN

OMEN CELEBRATE TONE WITH SONG 7.30pm to 9.30pm at the Baptist Church Hall in Stafford Avenue.

“We welcome all women, whatever their abilities. We have a songbook and add new songs as we learn them.

“All newcomers have a free ‘taster’ session to see if they will enjoy singing with us. We pay £5 for a session and once a year we pay £5 membership.

“If you have ever thought you would like to try singing, now is the time to give it a go. We are a very friendly group, and break for coffee/tea and a chat halfway through our singing session.

“Kate Barfield teaches and conducts the group in an informal and inclusive way. We sing in three groups – high, middle and low – and we

sing a wide variety of songs so there is something to suit everyone’s taste.

“Some of us are musical, but most of us are not particularly accomplished, and we learn by ear rather than using music. But whatever our level of skill, we all sing together with enormous pleasure.

“Even if you are feeling tired, or it is a cold wet night, if you come and sing with us, you will go home with a spring in your step.

“It is such a warm group, and the singing so uplifting, each Tuesday evening turns into a real moral booster, and in no time at all newcomers relax and feel at home.”

For more information about the choir, email Pauline at: paulinefrankenburg@yahoo.co.uk.

Newcastle Life Issue 13 23

CASTLE CAPERS

This year’s cast during rehearsals

YOUNG TALENT TAKES TO THE STAGE T alented youngsters from Newcastle District Scouts are taking to the stage

24 Newcastle Life Issue 13

once again this April, for their much loved and highly popular biannual Gang Show, Castle

Capers.

Beavers, Cubs and Scouts will be singing, dancing and acting in the fun filled show, which includes performers from 6 to 70 years old.

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.”

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”.

The show is being staged from 3rd April – 7th April 2018 at the Mitchell Arts Centre, Hanley. Tickets are available from the website at the end of January, visit www.castlecapers gs.co.uk to get yours now!

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ALL ABOUT EN MUSIC, SPEECH & DRAMA FESTIVAL

celebration of all things music, speech and drama will once again bring the town alive with talent this March. The annual Music, Speech and Drama Festival takes place over two weekends, at two venues in Newcastle.

Newcastle College will play host to the Speech and Drama celebrations on March 17th, followed by Musical fun at the Clayton Academy on March 23rd and 24th.

The event is entirely organised by volunteers and provides a wonderful opportunity for local

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26 Newcastle Life Issue 13

residents to enjoy performances in speech, drama and music.

If you have a hidden talent there’s also opportunity to take part in a variety of competitive classes in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Open to any age, this is your chance to perform in front of an audience and receive ‘words of wisdom’ from professional adjudicators.

Chairperson for the festival Carol Reddish told Newcastle Life magazine that the seeds of the festival were sown back in the 1920s. She explained: “ In the beginning it was organised by the Chamber of Trade to promote the local economy and encourage business.

“Over the following years it developed to include competitive

NTERTAINMENT

MUSIC, SPEECH & DRAMA FESTIVAL

vocal classes and in 1936/1937 it expanded to include all areas of music, folk dancing, drama and elocution classes, as well as classes for choirs.

“In more recent years the adult choir classes were suspended as interest in them was low.

However, in March 2017 we were very pleased to reinstate an open class for adult choirs. It proved to be very successful and all seven choirs who entered prompted the adjudicator to say that ‘it was the best class that he had adjudicated in recent years’.

“In 2017 a total of 1420 performers took part and we are very pleased that this year we have had additional choirs and ensembles who have entered our vocal classes.

“We would welcome anyone who is interested in coming along to the Festival this year.”

You can find out more about the festival by visiting www.newcastlefestival.org.uk or by emailing Carol Reddish (chair) at carolreddish@btinternet.com Speech and Drama Festival 9.30am-4.30pm March 17th Newcastle College ST5 2GB.

Music Festival March 23rd (6pm – 9pm) and March 24th (9am – 5pm) Clayton Academy ST5 3DN

Pictured are Stafford Grammar Big Band and winning choir, University Hospital Choir, taken

by Glenn James Newcastle Life Issue 13 27

HOMES AND GARDENS

A FLAVOUR OF G

he name Geum comes from ancient Greek meaning to add flavour; and long after we’ve ceased to add them to food or drinks they are still invaluable for adding flavour to our spring and early summer borders.

Geums are members of the rose family and a look at the centres of flowers with all those stamens confirms this – just like a dog rose.

Not that Geum grow like roses!

There are low growing ones that spread to form a mat of leaves and there are taller ones creating an arching leafed clump about 1ft / 30cm tall. And of course, as Geums are promiscuous there are crosses between the two resulting in plants somewhat between the two!

All prefer a moisture retentive soil and the low growing ones can stand quite wet soils.

They will tolerate dry conditions, but they will flag in the hot, dry conditions.

Geums will set seed and some wild types can become a nuisance in damp gardens. On the whole the cultivated varieties are less plentiful of seed and seedlings. Their ability to cross and set seed means there is always the chance of spotting a good new form in your garden if you grow plenty of different types, but this also means that some won’t come true from seed.

It seems there is a never-ending supply of new types coming onto the market every year.

Not every new variety in the catalogues is actual that different or that good so I have selected some of my favourite new and old varieties for you.

I’ll start with the bushier types and these are also some of the oldest varieties around. They also have the bonus of coming true from seed.

The best known and loved is the single or semidouble scarlet flowered “Mrs. J. Bradshaw” who grows to about 1ft tall with longer arching flower stems. The apricot yellow “Lady Stratheden” is almost as famous, as is the orange “Dolly North”. Also, worth trying is the semi- or fully double “Blazing Sunset” although

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28 Newcastle Life Issue 13

the flowers are a little variable in fullness. This type flowers in late spring through to midsummer and sometime beyond and the flowers are large and showy for a Geum.

I find this type can tend to die out after 2 or 3 years unless divided after flowering and replanted as single rosettes. Seed is best sown in late winter in a little heat.

The low growing varieties are mainly descendants of the native water avens, Geum rivale and ideally these want a moist soil but they seem to do fine in my dry sandy soil provided I water from time to time in summer.

These plants tend to have flowers that are small nodding bells on short stems in spring and sometimes again in autumn.

“Barbra Lawton” is an improved form of the wild plant with far more of the peachy-pink nodding flowers. “Lemon Drops” is a very pale yellow which popped up as a chance seedling in Beth Chatto’s famous garden. “Album” is wild variation with greenish-white bells, but better still is “Snowflake” with larger, pure white flowers. “Farmer John Cross” has larger, and sometimes semi-double, primrose yellow flowers.

Geum coccineum has larger, upward-facing orange flowers and will stand drier soils. For the best show choose “Eos” which has bright yellow leaves in spring to set off the flowers.

The best hybrids share this tendency for larger, upward or outward facing flowers creating a more dramatic show, not to disparage the delicate beauty of the nodding types. “Abendsonne” has orange-yellow flowers, “Hannays” is a bit taller and has soft orange flowers. The well-known “Bell Bank” is silky pink.

Of the new varieties coming along the Cocktail Series has some intoxicating colours.

“Mai Tai” is pale peach and large-flowered, “Cosmopolitan” is a slightly deeper shade, “Tequila Sunrise” is red and yellow and “Banana Daquiri” is a lovely pale yellow.

HOMES AND GARDENS

F GEUMS

If promptly dead headed these Geums will bloom again later in the season, provided they have not been left too dry through the summer.

Geums are pretty tough customers with very few problems, and none likely to be fatal.

Mildew (white powder on the leaves) is possible if your soil is really dry. I just cut off all the old leaves and give them a feed and good watering.

Occasionally tiny caterpillars of a saw fly may infest the new growth skeletonising the leaves.

If I spot this, it is easy enough to rub off the pests between finger and thumb. In wet winter soils vine weevil may eat the roots. The outward sign of attack is a general lack of growth. I find that the plants are tough enough to survive and can be replanted once the grubs are removed from the soil.

I hope this has given you a flavour of the variety of geums available and a taste for these lovely flowering is your garden.

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 We will be at the Plant Hunters’ Fair at 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; Sugnall Walled Garden, Eccleshall ST21 6NF on Saturday 28th April garden and fair £1; Weston Park, Shifnal TF11 8LE on Sunday 6th and Monday 7th May, garden and fair entry £3 and at Adlington Hall, Macclesfield SK10 4LF on Sunday 13th May garden and fair entry £3. We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect.

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Newcastle Life Issue 13 29

HOMES AND GARDENS

PATTENS

WOLSTANTON AND STONE Est. over 28 years

Spring clean your bed fo he clocks go forward this month (25 March 2018) and as that extra hour of daylight starts to reveal dusty corners around the house, The Sleep Council offers some timely tips on spring cleaning your bed.

We each shed an average of a pound of skin a year (much of it in to our mattress) and the average adult loses around half a pint of moisture while sleeping each night. So an annual assault on the bed is a must for health and hygiene.

Remember too, the bed is a hazardous place for asthma sufferers as it is one of the most favoured haunts of the dust mite and its highly irritant faecal pellets - another powerful reason for making that clean sweep.

Here are The Sleep Council's top tips for putting the bounce back in to your bed this spring: • Strip everything off your bed and, if possible, get your mattress outside for a good airing in the spring sunshine. A light breeze will help to dry right through the mattress as well as make it smell considerably fresher. Alternatively, if it's too large to move, stand it on its side near an open window for a few hours.

• Regularly turning the mattress over when changing the bed will help it to wear more evenly. If your mattress is designed to be used on one side only, you should still rotate it from head to toe.

• The mattress and upholstered base should be carefully cleaned with a soft brush to remove fluff and dust. Avoid pulling on tufts and buttons - they're needed to hold the filling in position just as the machine stitching does in the case of quilted covers.

Ideally you should do this every few months.

• Be careful about using a vacuum cleaner - it could dislodge fillings and damage the bed, unless special adjustments for fine fabrics are used. Ensure the window is open while undertaking tasks that are likely to generate dust.

• If you feel the mattress needs more than just a vacuum, for example to remove unsightly stain marks, then consider spray extraction cleaning (it

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30 Newcastle Life Issue 13

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for a better night’s sleep removes 90 per cent of the moisture used which is vital if you are to avoid encouraging more house dust mites). First check your mattress isn't already stainguarded or finished with a flame retardant coating as this method of cleaning can remove any such protective coatings. Then, ideally get a professional in to do the job for you.

• While the bed is moved out from any walls, be sure to vacuum thoroughly under and around the bed. Cleaning corners that might normally be neglected because they are obstructed by a heavy bed can yield huge amounts of dust and fluff.

• Regular cleaning of bedding is essential. While sheets and duvet/pillow cases might be regularly washed and changed, many pillows and blankets are never washed from year to year. Duvets too need regular washing or cleaning. If a chunky double or king size duvet won't fit in your own washing machine, invest in a trip to the local laundrette or dry cleaner.

• Now you've cleaned down and spruced up, it's worth buying a washable mattress protector. It helps keep the mattress clean and is easily removed for washing. Top tip - buy two mattress protectors so that you can use one whilst the other is being washed.

• Invest in a hypo-allergenic cover for asthma or eczema sufferers. Beds are great news for house dust mites (all that moisture and food from our nightly perspiration and lost skin cells) but seriously bad news for the asthma sufferer. Ask your local bed shop or chemist for more details about the special covers which are now available for allergy sufferers.

• Finally, be honest with yourself! Is this bed really past its sell-by date? Is it more than seven years old, sagging and frankly not very comfortable?

It could well be that no amount of spring cleaning will spruce it up and that the real answer lies in treating yourself to a new bed. You do spend around one third of your life in it, and a comfortable, stylish new bed could be the answer to your dreams.

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Newcastle Life Issue 13 31

HOMES AND GARDENS

32 Newcastle Life Issue 13

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LEGAL MATTERS

ARE YOU BEING UNFAIRLY TREATED AT WORK? ssues at work can cause people a great deal of anxiety and stress. Many people find themselves in situations where they feel unfairly treated in the workplace, but are unsure what their rights are and what action they should take.

Laura Franklin, employment solicitor with Beswicks Legal, has compiled her top three issues facing employees, along with tips on what you should do if you’re affected: Unfair dismissal – your employer can dismiss you on notice without a hearing, warning, or giving any particular reason if you have worked for them for less than two years.

The only exceptions are if you are dismissed because of an automatically unfair reason such as you are having time off due to a disability, if you are dismissed for asserting a statutory right, such as requesting rest breaks during your shifts, or for requesting maternity leave.

Settlement agreements – (formerly known as compromise agreements), these are used to bring employment to an end on mutually agreed terms, often involving a payment of compensation by the employer, on the understanding that the employee won’t bring any claims against them.

The key thing to remember is that without independent advice the agreement will not be

I

binding. Employers often pay for, or contribute to, the costs of your legal advice, so there may be no cost to you.

Also, if you believe you have a claim against your employer, think before you sign a settlement agreement, as there is no going back.

Holiday pay – almost all workers are legally entitled to 5.6 weeks’ (full time) paid holiday each year, although an employer can include bank holidays as part of this statutory annual leave. Your employer cannot pay you for unused holiday until you leave the company. This protects against rogue employers who might not be allowing you to take your leave and thinks paying you for it is sufficient.

For casual workers or people who work irregular hours holiday entitlement is based on the actual number of hours worked. There’s a useful calculator available at www.gov.uk/calculate-yourholiday-entitlement Whether you’re an employer or employee, Beswicks Legal can advise on any employment matter.

Contact laura.franklin@beswicks.com or phone 01782 205000.

Newcastle Life Issue 13 35

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.

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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.

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.

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

www.family-law-and-divorce.co.uk 36 Newcastle Life Issue 13

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

INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

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+ results

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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 fun-filled 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.

Prospective families are warmly invited to visit one of our Open Mornings on either Thursday 15th March or Tuesday 15th May, 9.30 – 12noon. To arrange a visit at any other time, please call 01782 619348, email office@edenhurst.co.uk or visit www.edenhurst.co.uk

Newcastle Life Issue 13 37

FOUR IN 10 MOTORISTS USING “DANGEROUS” OR “VERY DANGEROUS” TYRES MOTORING

lmost 40 per cent of cars in the UK are running on at least one tyre that is “dangerously” or “very dangerously” underinflated.

The figures come after Michelin and Kwik Fit inspected more than 500 vehicles in Tesco car parks around the UK. Michelin classifies tyres that are between 7psi and 14psi below the manufacturer’s recommendation as “dangerously underinflated”, while 14 psi or more underinflation is deemed to be “very dangerous.”

Michelin and Kwik Fit technicians found 27.56 per cent of cars had at least one dangerous tyre, with 12.01 per cent having at least one very dangerous tyre.

Jamie McWhir, technical manager for Michelin in the UK, said: “Driving around on underinflated tyres costs money and it can cost lives.

“We wanted to team up with Kwik Fit to encourage motorists to check their tyre pressures regularly. It makes sense from a cost and environmental point of view, but more importantly it’s critical for the safety of the

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38 Newcastle Life Issue 13

vehicle, its passengers, other road users and pedestrians.”

Running a car with tyres underinflated by 7psi decreases fuel efficiency by about one mile per gallon. Michelin estimates that underinflated tyres could be costing motorists in a city the size of Manchester more than £2 million a year in unnecessary fuel consumption – as well as pumping thousands of tonnes of additional CO2 into the atmosphere.

Roger Griggs, communications director at Kwik Fit, said: “Checking tyre pressure is as important as checking tread depth, as tyres at the wrong pressure will compromise handling, grip and braking. As well as the significant safety issues, incorrectly inflated tyres will hit drivers in the pocket through excessive fuel consumption and increased tyre wear.

“It’s worth reflecting on the fact that a car’s tyres are the only thing to connect it with the road and we urge motorists to check their air pressure, tyre condition and tread depth every fortnight.”

For more tyre, safety and economy advice, visit www.michelin.co.uk and www.kwik-fit.com.

W www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

MOTORING 25

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Drive Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£13,795 Discount Deposit Support . . . . . . . . . .£500 Plus Marsons Extra Discount . . . . . . . .£500 Total Deposit from Marsons . . . . . . .£1,000 Balance with Interest . . . . . . . . . . . .£14,886

New Spacious NU18 REG

Per Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£49 Per Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£219 Months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .x48 Guaranteed Minimum Future Value . .£4,559 Representative APR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.1%

New 500L 1.4 Pop 5dr

MER CUSTO SIT DEPO £2,000

£18ON1TH

PER M Drive Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£15,430 Discount Deposit Support . . . . . . . . .£1,200 Plus Marsons Extra Discount . . . . . . . .£500 Customer Deposit . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£2,000 Total Deposit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£2,000

The New

NU18 REG

Per Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£45 Per Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£199 Months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .x48 Guaranteed Minimum Future Value . .£3,990 Representative APR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.6%

NO IT DEPOS

Spider 1.4 Turbo 140BHP Classica

£19ON9TH

PER M Drive Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£16,195 Discount Deposit Support . . . . . . . . .£2,250 Plus Marsons Extra Discount . . . . . . . .£500 Total Deposit from Marsons . . . . . . .£2,000 Balance with Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . .£4,750

The New

Per Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£41 Per Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£181 Months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .x48 Guaranteed Minimum Future Value . . .£4,841 Representative APR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.9%

Fullback SX

ACT CONTR23 HIRE S MONTH

Twin Cob Pick Up 2.4 T Diesel 150 BHP

NU18 REG

£194ONTH

PER M Drive Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£21,050 Marsons Discount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£2550 Balance with Interest . . . . . . . . . . . .£19,540 Per Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£45

Per Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£199 Months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .x48 Guaranteed Minimum Future Value . . .£7,513 Representative APR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.1%

PER M

+ VAT

On the Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£27,103 Contract Hire for . . . . . . . . .23 months Deposit and 9 rentals

WE WILL PURCHASE YOUR PART EXCHANGE CAR OR PLACE THE FULL ALLOWANCE AS EXTRA DEPOSIT. WE DESPERATELY NEED YOUR PART EXCHANGE CAR.

Administration doc fee of £295 must be paid

Visit www.bsmarson.co.uk to view over 200 more cars!!!

Newcastle Life Issue 13 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 13

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.

Newcastle Life Issue 13 41

QUIZ CORNER

Let’s get quizzical COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

General Knowledge Quiz At which castle will the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle take place on May 19th?

2. Pink fir apple is a variety of which type of food?

3. Bechstein's, Brandt's, Daubenton's, and Natterer's are amongst the species of which mammal?

4. In which decade were Cadbury Roses chocolates launched?

5. Dan Brown's 2017 novel 'Origin' begins at which Spanish museum?

6. Former Chelsea, Manchester City and AC Milan striker George Weah became president of which country in 2017?

7. Irish actress Saoirse Ronan featured heavily in the video for which 2017 Ed Sheeran hit?

8. In the 2016 film 'Bridget Jones's Baby' did she have a girl or a boy?

9. What kind of creature is Ben and Holly's friend Gaston in the children's series 'Ben and Holly'?

10. What is the name of David Tennant's character in 'Broadchurch'?

A ‘Mothers’ Quiz for Mother’s Day 1.

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5.

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8.

9.

10.

In the famous proverb necessity is the mother of what?

In pantomimes what is the name of Aladdin's mother?

Actress Kate Hudson is the daughter of which other actress?

Which TV star is the mother of former 'Blue Peter' star Caron Keating?

Which of the Spice Girls first became a mother?

In 'Absolutely Fabulous', who played Edina's mother?

Who was Elizabeth I's mother?

Singer Sophie Ellis Bextor is the daughter of which former 'Blue Peter' presenter?

Who stars as the mother in the 2017 film 'Mother!'?

Life is like a what according to Forrest Gump's mother?

Mother's Day Quiz Answers: 1. Invention; 2. Widow Twanky; 3. Goldie Hawn; 4. Gloria Hunniford; 5. Mel B; 6.

June Whitfield; 7. Anne Boleyn; 8. Janet Ellis; 9. Jennifer Lawrence; 10. A Box of Chocolates.

General Knowledge Answers: 1. Windsor Castle; 2. Potato; 3. Deer; 4. 1930s; 5. Guggenheim Museum; 6.

Liberia; 7. Galway Girl; 8. Boy; 9. Ladybird; 10. Alec Hardy.

42 Newcastle Life Issue 13

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

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