Newcastle Life Issue 15

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ISSUE 15

Life

Newcastle Lions go above and beyond Celebrating 31 years of friendship and fundraising

WIN

tickets for Diamonds are for Eric - the hilarious new 60’s musical at The New Vic

A fresh approach to a new kitchen this summer

CONTENTS

ISSUE 15 Editor’s letter ..............................................6

What’s on ..................................................20

Lions special feature...................................8

Charity runner ..........................................22

Lymestone Brewery...................................12

Flower arranging ......................................23

Recipe ........................................................14

Award for Apedale ....................................24

Creative exhibition ....................................15

Homes and gardens ..................................26

Circus art ...................................................16

Legal matters ............................................33

Edenhurst drawing competition ...............17

Newcastle Community Transport ............34

Stage directions.........................................18

Motoring ...................................................36

West End star ............................................19

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

Sun and merriment recipe for summer

elcome to a very hot and sunny Issue 15! We seem to have slipped into an alternative reality of our usual British summer, in which the sun shines for weeks on end and England are winning the world cup. (Of course, by the time you read this, this could all have changed!) Are we dreaming?

I hope you’re making the most of the merriment - it’s great to see so many people in good spirits, whether it be from the wonderful weather or the success (so far) of our national football team.

Creativity, dedication and altruism are the common themes of this issue, which is once again full to the brim with community stories from in and around Newcastle.

Artistic talents are in abundance lately, from local youngsters who have been out and about winning all sorts of painting and drawing competitions, to professional photographers showcasing their memorable and inspiring work in our town.

On their 31st birthday we celebrate the charitable works of the local Lions Club, in a special feature looking at some of their recent events. This includes their much loved and ever popular special needs day, held at Foxfield Railway and the glitz and glam of their celebratory charter dinner. If you’re looking for a new hobby and want to ‘give something back’ to the community, we also have information on how you can join up.

Meanwhile, Apedale Heritage Centre celebrates winning a national award and we learn about the charitable endeavours of Newcastle Community Transport, who aim to keep the people of our community moving even through their worst of times.

Not forgetting our What’s On section, Quiz, tasty recipes and tips for your gardening in the warm weather, all in all, there’s plenty to get your teeth into, and as you sit back and relax with your latest copy of Newcastle Life magazine, I hope you are enjoying it in glorious Great British sunshine, preferably with a nice cold glass of something tasty!

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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

Thank you to all of you who have been in touch with your stories and events. 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

www.timesechoandlife.co.uk life@timesandecho.co.uk

ISSUE 12

Laura

ISSUE 14

ISSUE 13

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Life

Footba given lling hero Fr of New eedom castle Gordon

VICTORY FOR ‘THE BEAST’

Boroug Banks OB E award h Cou ncil’s highes ed t hon

Champio n Eddie is Wo Stronge rld’s st Man

WIN

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SS PA FIT FLIP

6 Newcastle Life Issue 15

Life

Life

our

Kickin seasong off the in style

New sta rts, new festiva initiati ls, creativ fundraisin ves, ity acr g oss the and area

WIN

tickets to see Hard Times at The New Vic

WIN

‘MONUM DAY FOR ENTAL’ CIRCUS HETOWN’S RITAGE

A family Advent ticket to see Ast ures at The New ley’s Astoun ding Vic The atre

Did you know that you can read Newcastle Life online?

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk Find us on Facebook search for Newcastle Life Magazine

Newcastle Life Issue 15 7

LIONS SPECIAL FEATURE

Newcastle Lions go a All Aboard!

ver 600 people with special needs and their families enjoyed a Lions Club Fun Day recently, held by Clubs across North Staffordshire at Foxfield Railway, Blythe Bridge.

Around 25 groups, from local SEN schools and organisations, attended, taking the opportunity to enjoy free train rides on both the full size and miniature railways, free games on the stalls, and free rides on some fairground rides.

A display of owls and other feathered friends was provided by Feathery Folk, Dandelion the Magical Clown entertained the youngsters and a choir from My Theatre provided choral support.

Lions spokesman David Slack told Newcastle

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Life magazine: “This is the 13th year that we have hosted this event, and each year we try to offer something different for those attending.

“The biggest buzz about the event for those organising it is seeing the faces of the young people, hearing their enjoyment and receiving the words of thanks as they leave.

“Unlike the recent problems on the national network, we actually scheduled an extra train to deal with the large number of people attending.

The staff at Foxfield Railway were most helpful, and the fine weather gave everyone an excellent day out.”

Lions Clubs from Biddulph, Cheadle, Gnosall/Newport, Leek, Newcastle, Stoke, Stone and Uttoxeter were all involved in organising and running the event.

LIONS SPECIAL FEATURE

o above and beyond

Newcastle Life Issue 15 9

LIONS SPECIAL FEATURE

Get involved ave you thought about volunteering, but you’re unsure of what to do?

Would you like to meet a new and different bunch of people?

Would you like to do things for your community and town and ‘give something back?’

Lions Clubs are groups of men and women who identify needs within the community and work together to fulfil them and Newcastle Lions Club is actively recruiting new members.

Lions Club members can take part as little or as much as they want to. A strong social element is combined with enjoyable and rewarding volunteering tasks such as manning the stalls on Fun Days and Charity Markets, or helping to put on events for special needs children.

John Leigh, President of Newcastle Lions Club, commented: “We pay modest subscriptions to run the organisation and believe that we get personal value for it.

“We are sure that there are a lot of people in our community who do not know of us, but who would feel very comfortable in our ranks. Your input, ideas and friendship would be very welcome.”

For more information, visit www.newcastlelions.co.uk or www.lions105bs.org.uk, or call 01782 633986 or 01782 627215.

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10 Newcastle Life Issue 15

Charter dinner

ewcastle Lions have recently celebrated an important milestone - their 31st anniversary. To mark the occasion, a special charter night took place with 75 guests from Lions Clubs, Probus and other organisations across the area.

The evening saw people from all over, joined together in an evening of food, fun and friendship.

Donations were made to the Lions District Governor Teresa Nickson, for the District Appeal to support the Lions International Measles Initiative, and also to Marie Curie, as part of their work with Lions Clubs International.

Charter Night is one of the various social events held by Newcastle Lions Club, enabling members to share their efforts in helping others with enjoying the friendship of likeminded people.

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President John Leigh with a representative from Marie Curie, who received a cheque from the Lions

President John with Lions Club members Pam Jarvis (left) and Angela Mayer (right) as they had arranged a majority of the evening

Presi Alan Dand clow

LIONS SPECIAL FEATURE

President John leigh, Alan Mason aka Dandelion the Magical clown, Mrs Joan Leigh

President John Leigh with Lions District Governor Teresa Nickson Newcastle Life Issue 15 11

LYMESTONE BREWERY

Brewer’s daughter takes the helm or 24-year-old Newcastle girl Sarah Bradford, there's nothing like coming up with a great new beer at her family's brewery.

And it's a good job she likes the role, as a year ago her Dad suffered an injury which meant he could not carry out the heavy lifting which brewing entails, and Sarah took to the helm and became head brewer.

Lymestone Brewery opened in Stone in 2008 and now has three pubs including The Lymestone Vaults in Newcastle.

The brewery is run by Ian Bradford, his wife Viv and their family.

For their daughter Sarah, growing up going to work with her Dad at weekends, during school holidays and even on Christmas Day – it is no wonder that she has learned the tips-of-thetrade in brewing along the way.

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Ian Bradford 12 Newcastle Life Issue 15

Sarah said: “Whether I was helping my Dad to check on the beer, cleaning casks or doing stock checks; it is all I have ever known really.

“Yes, I wanted to do my own thing as a child so I left school and went on to Reaseheath College to do animal management and I started working part-time at Wetherspoon’s.

“College ended and I continued to work at Wetherspoon’s. I stayed there for nearly four years. It helped that I had grown up in the industry and that on occasion I would serve my Dads beer.

“Still adamant that I wouldn’t join the family business, I volunteered in the Philippines for three months but on my return I began working at the brewery. Just helping out at first and then when a brewers assistant post became available I jumped at the chance and haven’t looked back since.

Sarah has been brewing alongside her Dad at Lymestone Brewery since May 2016 but following her Dad suffering a shoulder injury in November 2016, she has now taken to the brewing helm.

She said: “My Dad tore ligaments in his shoulder which meant he had no strength and was in a lot of pain.

“He was not able to lift or hold heavy weights - both of which are required for the brewing process.

“So I had to step up my game and take on the brewing to allow Dad to recover from surgeries etc.

“I have not only been

brewing his recipes but this has given me the chance to experiment with my own ideas too.”

Sarah explained that the role of a brewer is not only about coming up with new beers but also dealing with the physical side of brewing beer.

She said: “Coming up with ideas and recipes to create a range of beers requires detailed knowledge about the ingredients, flavours, drinking styles and marketing.

“Once the recipe is agreed the role of the brewer becomes more physical.

“Ingredients need to be lifted into the brewing equipment and removed when used. This includes long hours, achy bones and a need to put your feet up at the end of the day.

“After the practical side I’m always managing my paperwork, making sure everything is documented. This could be about what we have brewed on what day or past brews. Even days when we are not brewing, beers need to be checked to make sure they are fermenting properly and this includes at weekends.

“The brewer also gets involved with all of the other jobs in the brewery, transferring beers from vessel to vessel. Putting beer into cask, stock checks to accepting deliveries using a fork lift truck.”

Sarah now works full time in the family business, not only brewing, but also helping out at the brewery's pubs from time to time and also helping her Mum with 'pop-up' bar events.

However, brewing is where her heart is. She said: “I love that brewing pushes me each day. It's not an easy job with all the lifting, digging out the malt and being on your feet all day but it is incredibly rewarding to see the finished product.

“There is no better feeling than entering one of our brewery taps and realising everyone is drinking something you have made.”

As for being in, what is predominately currently a 'man's working world' in

LYMESTONE BREWERY

brewing, Sarah said: “I do find that in parts of the industry, men tend to not want to speak to me when discussing brewery issues, as they assume I have no idea how to brew.

“They usually ask to speak to my Dad or any other man in the building. But it so much more fun when they realise you are a brewer and you do know what your talking about.”

And Sarah has certainly proved that she knows her brewing stuff as she recently won an award for her beer and she now has her very own range of beers called 'Stray Cat Brewing'.

She said: “My beer range is going really well as I have been in the process of making recipes and experimenting for over a year now. My milk stout ‘Milk’ was the first beer I made.

“I wanted something dark and sweet but something not too high ABV so you could enjoy more of it.

“My lager is doing incredibly well and, after a few different versions were trailed, we have now settled on a recipe. I have also just kegged my first batch of Pilsner.”

To find out more about Lymestone Brewery, which now offers tours where visitors can learn all about brewing the perfect beer, visit: www.lymestonebrewery.co.uk

Sarah Bradford pictured at the brewe ry

Newcastle Life Issue 15 13

RECIPE

Summer prawns with garlic butter This simple recipe for prawns in a garlicky sauce makes a delicious addition to a tapas spread - just add lots of crusty bread.

Ingredients: • 1 tbsp olive oil • 50g/2oz butter • 12 large raw prawns • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • salt • freshly ground black pepper • small handful parsley, chopped Method: In a wok or a large pan heat the oil and butter. Add the prawns and garlic and stir well.

Stir fry until the prawns are pink (about 4-5 minutes).

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and scatter the chopped parsley over. Serve at once.

Preparation time: less than 30 mins Cooking time: less than 10 mins Serves: 2-3

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 14 Newcastle Life Issue 15

CREATIVE EXHIBITION

CRAFTY STAFFS

New photography exhibition set to showcase Staffordshire creativity 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

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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.

During August 2018 it will be featured as a major exhibition at the Brampton Museum and Art Gallery in Newcastle Under Lyme. The collection will include not only panels of their work, portraits of the artisan crafts people but also examples of their tools and produce.

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!

The exhibition runs at the Brampton Museum and Art Gallery between 21st July - 5th September.

Newcastle Life Issue 15 15

CIRCUS ART

Young artists in the spotlight

total of 54 winners in the Britain in Bloom children’s painting competition picked up certificates and prizes at Keele Hall in June, in recognition of their creative talents.

Deputy Mayor Elizabeth Shenton and Andrew Van Buren, a well known magician and illusionist from Silverdale, presented the youngsters with the prizes.

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The theme of this year’s competition, sponsored by The Art Studio Gallery in Newcastle, was “What a Bloomin’ Performance” which links in with other “bloom” activities marking the 250th anniversary of the creation of the modern circus by Newcastle-born Philip Astley.

Artist Grega Greaves, who has designed circus subway art in Newcastle, had the difficult task of choosing two overall winners from 1,040 entries from 24 primary, secondary and special schools in Newcastle.

Grega selected a floral clown collage made by four-year-old Mason Hooper, from Merryfields School, as the overall under 10s winner.

Clayton Hall Academy student Thora Withington, aged 11, was victorious in the over 10s category with her excellent painting.

Both pieces were the centre of attention at an exhibition held at The Art Studio Gallery. Some of the winning artwork is also included in a 12-week Philip Astley exhibition currently taking place at the Brampton Museum.

Newcastle in Bloom represents the Heart of England region in the illustrious “Champion of Champions” section of the national UK Bloom finals this year. It is also competing in the small city category of Heart of England in Bloom.

EDENHURST DRAWING COMPETITION

THOMAS SHOWS OFF HIS ARTISTIC FLAIR

pupil from Edenhurst Preparatory School has been awarded first prize in a drawing competition for local school children.

Thomas Wynne, aged 11, was selected as the overall winner from dozens of entrants in a competition organised by the Holdcroft Motor Group.

The competition asked Year 3 to Year 6 pupils to pick up a pencil and portray a design for a Volvo V40 through using art, colour and imagination.

Thomas’s winning design, featuring a colourful desert landscape scene, has now been printed onto a demonstrator Volvo V40.

Thomas also won a remote-controlled toy car which was presented to him by Qashem Miah, General Manager of Holdcroft Volvo Hanley and Lisa Price, Sales Executive.

Chris Barnes, Deputy Head and Prep 6 teacher

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at Edenhurst Preparatory School, said: “At Edenhurst we place a strong emphasis on teaching the Arts and are proud holders of the ARTSMARK. Competitions such as this enhance the curriculum and inspire the children’s imaginations. We were delighted to hear that Thomas’s design had been selected as the winner and are very proud of him.

Leanna Harper, Marketing Assistant for the Holdcroft Group, added: “A huge congratulations to Thomas! We were really impressed by the standard of drawing and creativity demonstrated by all the entries. There were so many amazing and unique designs, but Thomas’s design really stood out.”

The eye-catching Volvo V40 will now be displayed on the forecourt of Holdcroft Volvo Hanley for the next six months, as well as being used as a courtesy car.

Newcastle Life Issue 15 17

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

Win tickets for Diamonds are for Eric – the hilarious 60’s musical 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 Diamonds are for Eric, from Monday 20 August to Saturday 1 September.

Eric is taking his new lady on holiday. She insists on going abroad so Eric finds the cheapest deal – a week in Russia!

Meanwhile, at Moscow airport British agents are awaiting the arrival of James Bond whilst the agents of Evil are awaiting their new leader, neither of whom have been seen in Russia before.

Work out the misunderstandings for yourself as The Man With The Golden Pun returns with a ’60s musical to leave you shaken not stirred.

And don’t forget, “The name’s Eric…Uncle Eric!”

If you are a sixties music fan and love a rollicking comedy – Uncle Eric is your man!

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To win a pair of tickets answer the following question:

Which of the following never played James Bond?

A) Sean Connery

B) Roger Moore

C) Piers Morgan

(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 7th August 2018.

The prize can be used for any performance of Diamnonds are for Eric.

The production runs at The New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, from Monday 20 August to Saturday 1 September.

Tickets are non-transferable and are subject to availability.

18 Newcastle Life Issue 15

WEST END STAR

Mamma Mia! Our Charlotte is a West End star!

A former Newcastle woman is currently enjoying treading the boards in the West End. Charlotte O’Rourke who was born and bred in Newcastle-under-Lyme is currently starring as Ali in Mamma Mia! in the West End. Charlotte previously understudied Ali in the Mamma Mia! international tour and now she is taking on the role in the at London’s Novello Theatre.

Charlotte said: “I’m really excited to be working in the West End each night, especially in a show as heart-warming and fun as Mamma Mia! “Looking back to performing at the Regent Theatre and Stoke Rep as a little girl, I feel very lucky to be playing a named character and understudying a lead role in Mamma Mia!’s 20th Anniversary cast.”

Charlotte comes from an acting family with her dad being Tony O'Rourke who was in An Idiot Abroad and her brother Sam O'Rourke who recently starred in Half A Sixpence in the West End.

Charlotte, who attended St Mary’s Catholic Primary and St John Fisher Catholic College in Newcastle-under-Lyme before starting her training at Jill Clewes Academy for Theatre Arts.

Charlotte went on to train professionally at Guildford School of Acting.

She said: “I definitely wouldn’t be here without the training and support I received from Miss Jill and everyone at the Academy for Theatre Arts.

“I started dance lessons at two-years-old, and having such a strong training from Jill and her daughter Janine was invaluable when moving to London at 18 to continue my training.

“Stoke-on-Trent has such a fantastic theatre community. Growing up I was in productions with the North Staffs, Stoke Youth and Stage Productions, and was so lucky to have so many performing opportunities. I learned a lot and made friends for life, and have so much to thank local theatre for.”

Mamma Mia is running at London’s Novello Theatre and bookings are currently being taken up to March 2019. For further information visit www.mamma-mia.com.

L-R: Leah St Luce as Lisa, Georgia Louise as Sophie and Charlotte O’Rourke as Ali in MAMMA MIA! Photo: Brinkhoff & Mogenburg

Newcastle Life Issue 15 19

What’s on

July & August

nt to share? e v e n a e v a h u Do yo Let us know!

do our best to .uk and we will co o. ch de an es tim guide Email laura@ our what’s on in t en ev ur yo feature

Three Counties Open Art Exhibition This popular annual art exhibition will be taking place on 14th and 15th July, 10am - 4pm at Burslem School of Art, Queen Street, Stoke-onTrent. Following its hug e success in 2017, the Three Counties Open Art Exhibition will return this summer to showcase a range of artwork by artists from Staffordshire, Cheshire and Shropshire.

Pieces will be on displa y and there will be the opportunity to purcha se the work exhibited.

A number of prizes will be presented at the preview evening, which takes place on Friday 27th July, 6pm.

Entry Fees: £15 Adult, £12 Concession, £8 Student.

14th and 15th July

Creative Staffordshire across Photographer Derek Tamea has travelled ty’, to Coun ive Creat ‘The Staffordshire, known as photograph craftsmen and women in their workplace. See thatchers and farriers, t blacksmiths and cake makers. To complimen will cts produ their of les samp ition, this exhib y also be exhibited. The work will be on displa y of in the Hall Gallery and the window displa the Brampton Museum. ’s You can find out more information on Derek page Facebook y www.facebook.com/derektameaphotograph 21st July - 5th September

20 Newcastle Life Issue 15

Astleyfest 2018 tivities and tonishing acts, ac Inspired by the as l circus so na igi or de Astley’s s acrobats that ma t brings the circu es yF tle As , be glo e th ss ro e ac s th e ou rat fam celeb tle-under-Lyme to o. home to Newcas over 250 years ag en pp ha it de ma her fat e th of man who first es tim rates the life and s born in wa Astley Fest celeb o wh y, tle As cus, Philip of modern day cir Lyme in 1742. ernd -u tle as wc Ne of daring talent led with a range zz da be to Expect performances, s cu including cir ‘entering the ring’ s-on activities, ry displays, hand horse shows, milita range of food ty tas a be There will and much more. t more about ou d of fun ways to fin s ck sta d an lls sta th of Philip Astley. the man and my wning around, s alike will love clo ult ad Children and se d eing aweat circus skills an trying their hand oud to be pr is t es ts. AstleyF inspiring circus ac eatre’s Th iere of New Vic showing the prem d-new show an br a , Up ll Ro , ll Up performance of Ro al writers, loc th wi y developed about Philip Astle oir members. performers and ch Lyme Valley will take place in y da fun This family Park.

4th August Flower Arran ging Trentham Fl ower Arrangi ng Club whi 7.15pm on th ch meets at e second Th ursd Teresa's Scho ol hall at Tren ay of each month at St. t Vale, has its demonstratio ne n at the star t of August an xt welcome. d everyone is The demonst rator will be Mrs Wendy theme will be D av is whose ''The Wonde r of Wood''.

Bring along a copy of New castle Life m will be able agazine and to attend th you e session for 9th August £3 (usually £5 )

rs Plant treats for garden love ’ Fair at the Dorothy There will be a Plant Hunters top nurseries offering Clive Garden in August, with . It’s the right time to sale for ts a huge range of plan ts to give your pick up some late flowering plan st. garden a boo t and the garden This is a special fund-raising even e on these pric t even low ial spec t grea offers a l garden utifu bea the to y days of just £4 for entr garden entry is dard stan ly mal (nor fair t plan and m-5pm both days. £8.50). The fair runs from 10a r Woore, 4 miles nea The garden is on the A51 for satnav.) Details 4EU (TF9 re, gme Brid south of from s erie of the venue and nurs www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk h August Sunday 26th & Monday 27t

Back in time Brampton Museum will be running a special ns of exhibition in September looking at the fashio Lyme. under astle Newc years gone by in of Take a glimpse at some of the fabulous items many y, histor of years 200 over ing spann clothing which have never been on display before.

Highlights include a local photographer’s r and backdrop, a homemade mining strike banne fashion from the early 1800s to the 1980s.

15th September - 13th November

Get singing A singing club for prima ry school aged childre n is held at Keele Village Ha ll on Thursday evenings.

The group are on the lookou t for new members.

Every Thursday

ober rthritis s Day on Oct All About A orld Arthriti W hosting a ith be w ill de w ci l To coin ood Hospita w ay H cted by by fe af ar 12th, the ne y for people d formation da an in pm ity 30 un 3. m n com area, betwee e th ss ro ac arthritis ude talks by d day will incl searchers an 7.30pm. The therapists, re io ys ph , ity to ts un is rt og po ol at op m rheu enty of ere will be pl taster nurses and th ered. Exercise sw an ns tio es , ns qu tio ur ta yo ap ve ha d ad ls with aids an ort and pp su sessions, stal nt tie leaflets, pa information ailable. will all be av ts en hm refres October Friday, 12th

Newcastle Life Issue 15 21

CHARITY RUNNER

EMILY RACES AHEAD IN CHARITY FUND-RAISING A teaching assistant from Newcastle is putting her best foot forward – all in aid of charity.

Emily Batkin, who lives in May Bank, has set herself a year-long energetic challenge.

She said: “I have given myself a goal of running a minimum of 12 races in 12 months.

“I am doing this to raise money for Leukaemia Care in memory of my Nan, who lost her life to blood cancer, as well as in honour of my friend Louisa who has kicked its butt and my friend

22 Newcastle Life Issue 15

Kerry who has currently relapsed and is undergoing treatment.”

Emily’s plan includes running two 10k races, ten half marathons as well as the Edinburgh Marathon – some of which she has already completed.

She said: “I used to run as a schoolgirl but gave it up as I lost interest. However, after watching the 2017 London Marathon I became inspired to start running again and I haven’t stopped since, constantly hitting new personal bests and enjoying every race.”

So far, Emily has completed the Kidsgrove 10k, the Great North West Half, Stafford Half, Birmingham Half, Edinburgh Marathon, as well as the Potters' Alf. The 31-year-old said: “It's going amazing. I truly have found my passion with running.

Training for the Edinburgh marathon was really full on but it was 100 per cent worth all the early morning runs and sore limbs, especially when I ran down the finishing straight in three hours and 49 minutes.

“My friends, family and my boyfriend have been incredibly supportive which really helped throughout my winter training.

“I'm hoping to secure a ballot entry for London Marathon next year. If unsuccessful I’m hoping to run the Manchester 2019 marathon instead.

“Being a part of Vegan Runners UK also means that I get a lot of support from the vegan running community and it’s great to meet up with fellow group members at events.

“My personal best was achieved whilst running the Stafford Half in one hour and 44 minutes. I’m hoping to beat that before the end of the year. The most challenging race so far has been the ‘Potters ‘alf’ as the hills in that run are brutal, especially ‘Heartbreak Hill’” Emily has, so far, raised more than £750 for Leukaemia Care. She said: “I am so thankful to everyone who has donated so far. Every pound is truly appreciated and I can't thank everyone enough who has donated.

“Together we’ve already raised over £750 and I would love to reach £1,000 before the end of the year.”

Anyone wishing to donate can do so by visiting www.justgiving.com/fundraising/emily-batkin1

FLOWER ARRANGING

Looking to try something new? lthough a long standing and much loved hobby for many, Flower Arranging has seen a decline in recent years.

But if you’ve been wondering what new skill to take up, or if you’ve been looking to meet new people and learn new things Trentham Flower Arranging Club is on the lookout for new members.

The Club, which meets at 7.15pm on the second Thursday of each month at St. Teresa's School hall at Trent Vale, has its next demonstration at the start of August and everyone is welcome.

The demonstrator will be Mrs Wendy Davis whose theme will be ''The Wonder of Wood''.

Bring along a copy of Newcastle Life magazine and you will be able to attend the session for £3 (usually £5)

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LIFE THROUGH THE LENS Do you have a keen eye for superb snaps?

Can you look at the world around you and capture inspired and eye catching landscapes and portraits?

ISSUE 13

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We are looking for photographers in the Newcastle area who can express the beauty and diversity of our lovely corner of Staffordshire through the lens. Amateur or professional, we would love to hear from you if you would like to see your creative work published on the front cover of our magazines. If this sounds like something you'd be interested in, please email life@timesandecho.co.uk

Life

E ‘TIS TH N... t’s SEASO e to wha id Your gu ristmas Ch on this

WIN

KET TOND ILY TIC A A FAM EASURE ISL R T E E S

Footballi ng hero given Fr ee of Newca dom stle

Gordon Banks OB Boroug h Counci E awarded l’s highes t honour

£2 WHERE

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Life

Kicking season off the in style

New sta rts, new initiati festiva ves ls, creativ fundraising and, ity across the are a

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tickets to see Hard Times at The New Vic

Newcastle Life Issue 15 23

AWARD FOR APEDALE

LiTTLE GEm BEcomE

estled just outside of Newcastle-under-Lyme, we all know that the Apedale Heritage Centre is a hidden gem.

But now it has been nationally acknowledged as such, by winning an award in ‘The Little Treasures of Britain.’

Apedale has been awarded a special Editors Award at the prestigious 22nd Group travel Awards in London. The “Little Treasures of Britain” award showcases smaller attractions around the country that offer something special for group visits and is awarded by the Editorial Team at Group Travel Organiser Magazine.

The awards evening was a glittering event at the Park Plaza Hotel in London that was attended

by Les Mason, a Trustee at the Heritage Centre.

Les said: “This award is in

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recognition of the hard work put in over the past 18 years by a small group of dedicated volunteers, past and present, who give their time freely to honour and remember our industrial past here in North Staffordshire”.

The award was presented by Val Baynton, editor of Group Travel Organiser Magazine who had visited the Apedale Heritage Centre earlier in 2018.

Val commented: “I was delighted to present the award to the Apedale Heritage Centre, it’s a brilliant attraction that’s less well known in Staffordshire and is run by an enthusiastic band of volunteers” This award comes shortly after winning a 2018 Certificate of Excellence by the website, TripAdvisor, making this the third year in a row. Previous awards include the Queens Award for Voluntary service.

AWARD FOR APEDALE

ES LiTTLE TREaSuRE The Heritage Centre is located just outside the village of Chesterton, near Newcastleunder-Lyme Staffordshire and was founded in 2001 on the site of Apedale Colliery, which had closed a few years earlier in 1998. It is entirely run by volunteers and is a completely independent organisation.

The cafĂŠ is open every day at the weekends and Bank Holiday Mondays. Visitors can take a guided tour of an authentic drift mine and look around the museum. The Apedale Valley Light Railway is located right next to the museum and operates from Spring to Autumn, and the Apedale Community Country Park is on the doorstep.

Visit www.apedale.co.uk for more information.

Newcastle Life Issue 15 25

HOMES AND GARDENS

DREAMING SPIRES

here’s something wildly romantic about spires of flowers thrusting up through the other plants. Their shapes add drama to a border by contrasting with lower growing plants without looking out of scale. Stems clothed in flower fill the gaps between bushier plants, take the eye away from fences and walls behind and create movement as they wave in the breeze. They are well worth the extra effort when staking is required. These are some of my favourites.

The classic spire-shaped flower is the delphinium with large flowers clothing the tall stems up to 3ft / 90cm tall. They traditionally came in every shade of blue, although now you can get white, pink and cream varieties. Delphiniums love a sunny spot and a free-draining soil enriched with lots of well-rotted muck or compost. They will need staking as the flower stems are heavy and they also need protecting from slugs and snails when they start growing in spring.

On a smaller scale are veronicas which range in height from 3ft / 90cm down to less than 9in / 22cm. One of my favourites is the glossy-leaved Veronica gentianoides which is palest blue. This lovely 1ft / 30cm tall plant will grow in good soil in sun or shade. Even lovelier is variety Tissington White. Slightly taller is Veronica Pink Damask with lovely rose-pink flowers in mid-summer.

The taller cousins of veronica are veronicastrums that reach up to 5ft tall and have airy, often branching spires. These rarely need staking in my garden and I love their silhouettes against the sky.

There come in shades of white, pink and blue and are easy to grow in most soil types in a spot that gets

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26 Newcastle Life Issue 15

some sun. My favourite is the delicately shaped Lavender Tower.

Verbascums (Mullein) come in a big range of pastel colours. There are many good seed mixes you can buy like Southern Charm which is a mix of pastel shades. Chaxii Album (white) is also easy from seed. Watch out for the caterpillars of the Mullein Moth in late May that can quickly devour the leaves and flowers if left to their own devices.

There are many other wonderful spire-shaped flowers to discover – I haven’t even had time to mention lupins! - but I hope this “in-spires” you to add some dream spires to your borders.

Martin Blow

Janet & I run Special Perennials, website www.specialperennials.com we will be at the Plant Hunters’ Fair at the National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas, DE13 7AR on Saturday 28th July, free entry to fair & arboretum (P&D parking); Carsington Water, Ashbourne DE6 1ST on Saturday 11th August, free entry to fair & country park (P&D parking); The Dorothy Clive Garden, TF9 4EU on Sunday 26th & Monday 27th August, gardens & fair £4.00; Weston Park, TF11 8LE on Sunday 9th September, fair & gardens £2.50 and at Henbury Hall Gardens, Macclesfield, SK11 9PJ on Sunday 16th September, fair & gardens £2.50. For full details of these and other Plant Hunters’ Fairs please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect.

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HOMES AND GARDENS

Bring the outdoors inside S

ummer has arrived and the warmer weather is inspiring a series of tropical looks to bring the outdoors inside for lazy summer days.

A perfect style for the warmer seasons, the tropical look is enjoying its moment in the sun with lush colours, beautiful greenery, and natural elements.

This breezy, bold approach is built around classic neutrals and airy spaces, punched up with strong prints and the classic tropical texture of rattan.

Rebecca Snowden, Interior Style Advisor at Furniture Choice gives three tips on how to capture this summery vibe at home.

1 - Build a classic space with fresh elements “For a pared back, minimalist approach, start with white or neutral-toned furniture for a clean slate and to reflect natural light.

“This gives you a solid foundation to build on, and keeps the look fresh throughout the changing seasons,” says Rebecca.

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Newcastle Life Issue 15 29

HOMES AND GARDENS

“We went with our very own Aspen table in white - to soften the hard edges, layer with a fluffy throw or a rug, and you’ve got an easy, yet sophisticated look.”

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2 - Experiment with rattan Or with any other natural textures - straw, sea grass and bamboo are all other popular materials to get this look, bringing in warm hints of the outdoors and natural tones.

Rebecca adds, “Now that you’ve set up a classic space, then bring in tropical plants and rattan furniture for colour and texture. For instance, a set of rattan chairs or light fixture add style and set the mood. ”

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“Choose large prints for the most impact here, especially instantly recognisable prints such as banana leaves or palm leaves.

“Pair a classic oak table or cream sofa with this look for a relaxed and sophisticated air, with natural tones against the bold patterns. You can also get creative with accessories in gold and brass finishes for an additional style boost.”

3 - Play with colour and print Colour is also a huge part of getting this look just right: embrace bright pops of peach, pink and teal for a space that will have the cheer of summer all year round.

“These are strong colours, but they can be very effective when used well - either in smaller items and decor punctuating the space, or if opting for a feature wall, you can then anchor the room with darker furniture.”

Bold, leafy prints are also a standout of this trend, and art prints and wallpaper are an easy

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LEGAL MATTERS

How to manage school holidays when you’re separated

By Sarah Johnson, Beswicks Legal Family solicitor

s the summer holidays approach tensions can rise for separated parents. How will childcare arrangements be shared? Who will pay for holiday clubs? Can the children be taken abroad?

The best way to nip these potentially difficult conversations in the bud over the coming weeks and prevent tempers flaring is to put an agreement in place in advance which sets out clearly how school holidays will be managed, including how much notice each parent must give the other if they wish to arrange a holiday away.

The priority must always be to put the wishes and needs of the children first and to open the debate with your ex-partner as early as possible.

Here are some tips

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to help you through the holiday period: • Make a list of all the school holiday dates so that you, your ex-partner and wider families are clear about childcare needs. You can then discuss which days you would like to spend with the children to ensure you both have a chance to spend quality time with them.

• Plan ahead for the costs of childcare, so that you can come to an agreement and avoid misunderstandings or resentment.

• Holidays, particularly abroad, can cause anxiety for parents. Again, clear communication, sharing itineraries and contact details can help put your ex-partner at ease.

• Children quickly pick up on emotions, so if you do feel any anger or hurt about contact arrangements, try to shield the children from this to avoid them feeling guilty or confused.

At Beswicks Legal we have a team of family law specialists who understand that establishing child arrangements can be emotive and difficult.

If you need help or advice about child arrangements and child maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We offer a fixed fee one-hour consultation with a specialist family and divorce solicitor for just £100+ VAT. Call Sarah on 01782 205000 or email sarah.johnson@beswicks.com Newcastle Life Issue 15 33

NEWCASTLE COMMUNITY TRANSPORT

25 years of selfless service A

dedicated Newcastle volunteer is celebrating 25 years of doing his bit to overcome social isolation in the town.

Newcastle Community Transport was founded in 1974 with the object of providing safe, wheelchair-accessible, door to door transport for people in the Newcastle and surrounding areas who have mobility problems.

The current vice chairman of the charity, Phil Adams, has taken on many roles over the last 25 years including chairman, secretary, treasurer, driver training officer, volunteer driver and fundraiser.

“I’ve remained loyal to Newcastle Community Transport for so long because it is such a worthy cause,” says Phil.

All of the drivers are volunteers and use its three minibuses to take groups of passengers and individuals to activities such as lunch clubs and church services; trips to visitor centres, country pubs and holiday resorts; and also to go shopping and keep medical appointments.

Phil commented: “Newcastle Community Transport plays an important part in helping

elderly and disabled local folk to have some fun and avoid social isolation. “ Currently we need a few more volunteer drivers and I would urge anyone who is interested to please phone Dave, our Coordinator, on 01782 627770 for more information. You don’t have to stay with us for 25 years!”

Newcastle Community Transport is one of more than 29 different non-profit making, local voluntary car and community transport schemes covering the county of Staffordshire, many of which are supported by Staffordshire County Council.

They provide an amazing local service which particularly benefits older people and those with disabilities, who struggle to access public transport and do not have their own vehicles.

To find out more about voluntary car and community transport where you live go to Staffordshire County Council’s website (www.staffordshire.gov.uk ) and search for community transport schemes. For more information about Support Staffordshire visit www.supportstaffordshire.org.uk

Phil, Vice-Chair of Newcastle Community Transport (NCT), is being congratulated by Mary, Chair of Newcastle Community Transport, and presented with a book written by his favourite landscape artist to mark Phil’s 25 years’ service.

(Left to right) Phil Adams, Margaret Dobell, Sonia Johnson, Mary Scarratt, Rene Carlisle and Dave Banks.

34 Newcastle Life Issue 15

Newcastle Life Issue 15 35

MOTORING

Fiat Professional Ducato honoured in Honest John awards urther proof of the popularity and success of the Fiat Professional Ducato was shown when it won the ‘Large Van’ category in this year’s Honest John Awards.

The accolade, presented at a special awards event in London, recognised the popularity of the Ducato among van fleet operators while praising its range of body styles, driver comfort and diesel engines.

The awards give an insight into the models users of HonestJohn.co.uk are interested in, and highlights those which have generated the most website traffic over the last 12 months. This year the awards have been expanded with the introduction of four new van categories including the ‘Large Van’ trophy won by Ducato.

“The Fiat Ducato is our Large Van of the Year.

Over the past 12 months no other van in its class has come close to matching its popularity and it’s easy to see why operators hold it in such high regard,” says Dan Powell, managing editor, Honest John.

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“The Ducato has an extensive range of body styles and payload capacities, while its comfortable cabin and strong diesel engines make it easy to use."

“I am delighted that the Ducato has won this important new accolade in these hugely popular awards,” says Richard Chamberlain, country manager, Fiat Professional UK. “Ducato is an excellent van choice for large and small fleets, it’s highly sought after and is well thought of within the industry, as this latest industry trophy proves.”

The Fiat Professional Ducato range starts at £23,470 for the 115 HP MultiJet II. A rangetopping Sportivo version equipped with 17-inch black alloy wheels, rear view camera, front fog lights and black metallic paint with red “Sportivo” stripes costs from £32,400. The Ducato 130 HP MultiJet II Tecnico is currently available for £289 per month plus initial rental.

For more details on the Fiat Professional Ducato, go to: www.fiatprofessional.co.uk

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MOTORING 29

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Newcastle Life Issue 15 37

MOTORING

CIVIC TYPE R CLAIMS BEST HOT HATCH AT AUTO EXPRESS AWARDS

he British-built Honda Civic Type R has taken home another trophy, this time at the 2018 Auto Express Awards, taking the title of Best Hot Hatch for the second year running.

Widely acknowledged as one of the most prestigious awards of the car industry, the annual Auto Express New Car Awards are given to the cars that set the highest standards in their class each year. These awards are highly important for both carmakers and customers because of the authority and integrity of the Auto Express brand.

Built in Swindon, the Civic Type R shares the same fundamentals as the new Civic hatchback

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and has been engineered from the ground up to deliver the most rewarding drive in the hot-hatch segment – both on road and on the racetrack.

Phil Webb, Head of Car at Honda UK, commented: “Demonstrating its huge popularity and that front wheel drive still rewards drivers in an increasingly competitive sector, the British-built Civic Type R shows no sign of ending its winning streak; collecting award after award. This is the second year running the car has won Best Hot Hatch at the Auto Express awards. I’ve just had to order another trophy cabinet!”

Steve Fowler, Editor-in-chief at Auto Express added: “For a second straight year the Honda Civic Type R has fought off an incredibly tough group of rivals to take the title of Auto Express’s Best Hot Hatch. That’s thanks in part to the pure front-wheel-drive layout and manual gearbox, which put you at the heart of the action. The Civic Type R’s first-class engineering makes it as exciting and entertaining as a hot hatch can be."

Available for under £300 a month, the Civic Type R has a top speed of 169mph and can do the 0-62mph sprint in just 5.7 seconds. The power comes from the 2.0-litre VTEC TURBO engine that has been optimised and refined to produce 320 PS with peak torque of 400 Nm.

MOTORING

Volvo XC40 named ‘Game Changer’ at The Autocar Awards 2018

he Volvo XC40 premium compact SUV has been declared a ‘Game Changer’ at the Autocar Awards 2018.

As Volvo’s first ever compact SUV, the XC40 is a radical departure for the company. Not only does it take Volvo into a completely new market segment, it is also the first Volvo to be based on the company’s all-new CMA (Compact Modular Architecture) platform.

Its striking looks also herald a new era of design confidence for Volvo, while its ingenious interior practicality, cutting-edge connectivity and autonomous drive technology set new standards for the class.

Mark Tisshaw, Editor of Autocar, said: “The XC40 is undoubtedly the best example yet of one of the industry’s fastest-growing segments: the compact SUV. While others have struggled to blend the lengthy list of requirements demanded by buyers of this most versatile of car types, Volvo has delivered at its very first attempt.”

The XC40 is a car of firsts for Volvo. Its Harman Kardon sound system includes the

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world-first application of an air-ventilated subwoofer mounted in the dashboard. This does away with the need for bulky bass speakers in the front doors, meaning the door pockets offer classleading storage space. It is the first Volvo to be offered with wireless mobile phone charging, along with Cross Traffic Alert that automatically applies the brakes if you do not react to an object crossing the path of the car from behind. The XC40 is also the first car to be available via Volvo’s innovative Care by Volvo subscription service.

Commenting on the award, Jon Wakefield, Volvo Car UK’s Managing Director, said: “Volvo has a history of innovation and disruption, and the new XC40 combines both to stunning effect.

Winning an Autocar Game Changer award is a fantastic result and proves just how successful the XC40 has been in transforming the compact SUV class.”

For more information on the Volvo XC40, and to use the new online configurator, please go to www.volvocars.com/uk/cars/new-models/xc40

QUIZ CORNER

Let’s get quizzical COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

General Knowledge Quiz 1. Who took over as the manager of Stoke City in May 2018?

2. Meghan Markle is now known as the Duchess of where?

3. Which country won the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest?

6. What invention famously cost a penny at the 1851 Great Exhibition?

7. In which country was a version of TV show 'Big Brother' first broadcast

8. Launched in 1979, which was the first computer to sell for under ÂŁ100?

9. Jor-El is the biological father of which superhero?

10. Which measure of weight is also the alternative name for the snow leopard?

A Quiz for the Summer 1. Which song promised no worries for a week or two?

2. Which soap is set in Summer Bay?

3. Which character was played by Lindsay Wagner in the 'Bionic Woman'?

4. Which star of 'Cruel intentions' also appeared in 'I Know What You Did Last Summer'?

5. From which opera does the song 'Summertime' come?

6. Who played Nora Batty in 'Last of the Summer Wine'?

7. Warm weather in autumn is know as what type of summer?

8. What was Donna Summers only UK Number 1 hit?

9. Traditionally, one of which bird does not make a summer?

10. In the 2009 film '(500) Days of Summer' who plays the character Summer?

General Knowledge Answers: 1. Gary Rowett; 2. Sussex; 3. Israel; 4. General Data Protection Regulation; 5. Barbara Dickson; 6. Public flush toilets; 7. Netherlands; 8. Sinclair ZX80; 9.

Superman; 10. Ounce. Summer Answers: 1. 'Summer Holiday'; 2. 'Home and Away'; 3. Jamie Summers; 4. Sarah Michelle Gellar; 5. 'Porgy and Bess'; 6. Kathy Staff; 7. Indian Summer; 8. 'I Feel Love'; 9. Swallow; 10. Zooey Deschanel.

42 Newcastle Life Issue 15

Quizzes compiled by Paul Steele - email: pnsteele@aol.com - Paul's 'Which One?' quiz game is available on Amazon.

4. GDPR was in the news in May 2018 but what does GDPR stand for?

5. Which 70 years old Scottish singer appeared with Nick Holland at Foxlowe Arts Centre during Leek Arts Festival in May 2018?