Newcastle Life Issue 3

Newcastle ISSUE 3

Life CIRCUS

comes home to Newcastle

CADETS SHINE for 75th anniversary

WIN

• A FUN FILLED FAMILY DAY OUT AT ALTON TOWERS • TICKETS TO SEE MAVERICK AT THE NEW VIC

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

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

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

Relax with friends to taste and enjoy.

The Queen of the Moorlands

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

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

Find out more: www.queenofthemoorlands.com

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

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

Tasting experiences

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

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

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

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

Free delivery on all products

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

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

CONTENTS

ISSUE 3 Editor’s letter ..............................................6 First prize for Newcastle artist ...................8 Jazz and Blues Festival .............................10 Radiothon raises cash ...............................12 Win Alton Towers tickets..........................14 The homecoming.......................................16 Queen’s birthday celebrations ..................18 Stage directions ........................................20 Butt Lane Pétanque Club ...........................21 Prize winning Post Office ..........................22 Rainbow Day Nursery................................23 What’s on in Newcastle .............................24 Broadband roll out.....................................29 Newcastle RAF Cadets...............................30 Fundraising for Asia ..................................32 Recipe for life .............................................34 Restaurant relaunch ..................................36 Gardening ..................................................38 Legal matters .............................................42 Motoring ....................................................44 Quiz corner ................................................50

COMMUNITY RESOLVE THROUGH TURBULENT TIMES AHEAD

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

here’s no escaping it, the historic and seismic Brexit result has left in its wake a whole country of people who are stunned and shellshocked, not knowing what happens next.

For many, the gravity of Britain’s choice to leave the European Union is still sinking in and whatever side of the Brexit debate you were on, it’s true to say that we are all now facing turbulent times to come.

But here in Newcastle we are a strong community; a community which looks out for each other and now, more than ever, we all need to work together to pull through any uncertain times ahead.

Collectively as a town, this is something I am confident we can do - we already know how tight knit and united the people of Newcastle are and this is evident from the abundance of community groups and charitable organisations we have here.

We look closely at these in this issue, starting with the latest incredible fundraising carried out by the Rotary Club, we learn about a very special day enjoyed by members of the local Welfare for the Blind association, and we discover how activities and awards achieved by youngsters in the Newcastle RAF Cadets actually help to shape their futures.

From there we check out how much musical fun was had at the annual Jazz and Blues Festival, how much townsfolk enjoyed performing circus talents at The Homecoming, and we also see how the kids at Seabridge Primary School got on with their 24 hour radiothon.

So why not take a breather from the national political upheaval and disruption, and get involved in something ‘local’?

Now is the perfect time to do something new - perhaps take up Pétanque, a French version of bowls, which is gaining popularity in Butt Lane. Or maybe turn your talents to baking - we have a spectacular show stopper of a cake in our recipe section which will wow your family and friends.

Rest assured, despite the changeable political climate we now seem to be living in, one thing that will never change is the fact that our Great British weather is predictably unpredictable.

Even as I write this, the weather is grey, grey, grey, but we’ve already had some good days and I am ever optimistic, so I’m sure summer is just round the corner - I hope you get the chance to read this outside, basking in the sunshine, sipping a much deserved cold drink.

Cheers!

T

Laura

Did you know that you can read Newcastle Life online?

Cover photo: Trentham Gardens

by Noel Bennett noelbennettphotography.co.uk

6 Newcastle Life Issue 3

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

Find us on Facebook search for Newcastle Life Magazine

LAUREN’S GOT TALENT FIRST PRIZE FOR NEWCASTLE ARTIST

STAFFORDSHIRE WINNER SCOOPS £1,000 PRIZE

ewcastle under Lyme artist Lauren van Helmond has plenty to celebrate after her beautiful painting ‘Horse’ finished first in a county wide competition, scooping the coveted £1,000 prize.

The prestigious exhibition, which opened to the public on Saturday 14th May, is one of Shire Hall Gallery’s most popular events and attracts around 15,000 visitors each year.

Now in its 26th year, the exhibition, which is displayed in nearby Stafford, provides a fantastic opportunity for new and emerging artists in Staffordshire to have their work displayed to the public and features paintings, drawings, prints, sculpture, photography, film and animation.

Lauren was presented with her prize by William Foster and Scott Knight from the University of Wolverhampton, the main sponsor for the exhibition.

Lauren commented: “I am delighted to have won first prize at the Shire Hall Gallery Open Art

N

8 Newcastle Life Issue 3

and would like to thank the judges for selecting my work, the University of Wolverhampton for awarding the prize and all the gallery staff for all the work they put into arranging the exhibition.”

Runners up prizes were awarded to: Lois Wallace from Alrewas - £500 prize sponsored by SCHOTT UK Ltd. Staffordshire-born Jasmine Cross from Sheffield - £500 prize sponsored by Stafford District Arts Council.

David Stubbs from Stafford - £150 prize sponsored by the Barnett Ratcliffe Partnership.

Vicky Martin from Cheddleton - £100 worth of artists’ materials sponsored by The Paper House, Stafford.

Ben Adams, Cabinet Member for Learning and Skills at Staffordshire County Council added: “I would like to commend the winners and all the artists who entered their work for the show. Their creative passion and enthusiasm ensures the continued success of this exhibition. I would also like to thank our sponsors for their generous support.”

This year the Gallery received over 300 entries from 155 artists from all over the County.

JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL

JAZZED UP FUN REVELLERS ENJOY NEWCASTLE’S BIGGEST MUSIC EVENT

“

his year’s Jazz and Blues Festival saw Acts included the world famous Courtney Pine, who performed an additional show at the over 70 live bands descend on Newcastle for a spectacular award-winning New Vic Theatre. weekend of performances.

His performance stripped A hand-picked selection From swing or funk, of local, national and even everything back for the most international artists and intimate show of his bebop to blues, bands joined forces - and celebrated career as he took to Newcastle under the stage playing bass talent - to provide revellers Lyme's Jazz and clarinet, accompanied by with the best Jazz and Blues Festival never Blues Festival yet. fellow Mercury nominee and fails to deliver In fact the festival, now MOBO award-winning in its 11th year, was bigger Pianist, Zoe Rahman.

In the 80’s Courtney was than ever, with the addition of a vinyl record fair, kid’s outdoor activities, one of the first black British jazz artists to make a serious mark on the jazz scene. Today, face painting, a charity market and fun day.

T

10 Newcastle Life Issue 3

”

JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL

he continues to break new ground with a string of highly acclaimed recordings and prestigious industry awards.

Some of the 20 venues involved in this year’s event were: The Old Brown Jug, Lymestone Vaults, Revolution, Bar Social, The Full Moon, The Blackfriar and Blakeys.

Newcastle Business Improvement District (BID) chair Eddie Leligdowicz said: “From swing or funk, bebop to blues, Newcastle under Lyme's Jazz and Blues Festival never fails to deliver and delight music lovers of all ages and genres.

“Newcastle's historic market town ambiance and Purple Flag safety status makes it the ideal backdrop for the event.”

Newcastle Life Issue 3 11

RADIOTHON RAISES CASH

ith the children at the helm and the grown-ups on hand to assist, Seabridge Primary School have raised a whopping £2445.81 by staying awake for a fun filled 24 hour radiothon. Inside the Clayton based primary school is a fully functional radio suite, which broadcasts a special show live over the internet every Friday.

Fourteen Year 6 radio enthusiasts make up the mini media team, ably led by teacher Mrs Michelle Greenwell, and at the end of May the gang put together a whole day of activities to accompany a non stop day long live broadcast.

Youngsters and their families enjoyed a BBQ, inflatables, Year 6 table-top activities, various stalls, cocktails, film screenings, a raffle, marshmallow toasting and Bee Active and Time for Sport activities, whilst the team continued the radio show.

Local celebrities, several of whom have previously been grilled by the youngsters live on air, attended the event for a special ‘Celeb Speed Date’ - which was an opportunity for parents and

W

children to meet and greet famous people.

Michelle told Newcastle Life magazine that the radiothon was incredibly exciting and rewarding.

She said: “The build up to the event was quite stressful, from managing stalls, booking our local celebrities and of course staying awake for 24 hours - but most of all watching the weather in anticipation of it raining all day!

“But I have to say we had the best day ever!

The Year 6 Media Team were so brilliant with their organisation and their involvement - they made us very proud.

“They never lost any enthusiasm and most of them stayed until late evening and arose at the crack of dawn to join us for the close of the show.

“As of yet the money we have raised so far has been £2445.81 with still some outstanding sponsors to arrive in, which is really incredible!

“So we would just like to say thank you so much for all the kind donations and support.

“I would personally like to thank staff, the PTA members, SCITT staff and students, the volunteers who helped out and everybody who

24 HOUR RADIO CH

12 Newcastle Life Issue 3

donated a prize for the Radiothon Raffle. “We were thrilled with the whole outcome, and are looking forward to forthcoming events with our Radio Station, so watch this space!�

Money raised from the radiothon will be going towards radio equipment, which will enable the children to travel outside of school and broadcast from within the community and beyond.

Streamed live on Fridays the regular Seabridge show runs from noon until the end of the school day and the rest of the school listen over lunchtime and in their classrooms.

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

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

HALLENGE

RADIOTHON RAISES CASH

THOUSANDS RAISED

BY MINI MEDIA TEAM

Newcastle Life Issue 3 13

WIN ALTON TOWERS TICKETS

HAVE A TOWERS TASTIC TIME at the Alton Towers Resort this summer and WIN A FAMILY PASS he Alton Towers Resort is offering one lucky reader a family pass to visit this summer and enjoy endless family fun and adrenalin filled adventures. Travel through space on Galactica, the world’s first rollercoaster with fully dedicated virtual reality before cooling down on the Congo River Rapids, there’s guaranteed fun for everyone.

With an amazing combination

T

of rides and attractions, the Alton Towers Resort is sure to provide guests with a sensational summer getaway.

New for 2016, CBeebies Land’s welcomes two new live shows, Hey Duggee is on a day out with his Squirrel friends and children can learn Tree Fu Tom’s magical moves. The new shows join a range of themed rides, attractions and live entertainment in CBeebies

Land which is a completely immersive experience for children and families including Postman Pat’s Parcel Post, In the Night Garden Magical Boat Ride and Mr. Bloom’s Allotment.

The winner will receive four tickets to the Theme Park, plus a fun and unique meal in the new Rollercoaster Restaurant.

Set below a vast rollercoaster track where diners can watch as their order tackles two gravity defying loop-the-loops, the food drops 8metre down the tornado spiral to their table.

The Restaurant joins two amazing resort hotels, a beautiful Spa and Caribbean themed Waterpark making the Alton Towers Resort the ultimate day out or short break guaranteed to give you a Towers Tastic summer!

To win four tickets to Alton Towers, simply answer the following question correctly:

HOW MANY GRAVITY DEFYING LOOP-THE-LOOPS ARE THERE IN ALTON TOWERS’ BRAND NEW ROLLERCOASTER RESTAURANT? Answer..........................Name.......................................................................Address....................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................. Daytime phone no...........................................................

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

Entries to be received by 5th August 2016.

Terms and Conditions: The family pass consists of four tickets and is valid for any one day of the theme park season which runs from 19th March-6th November 2016. The pass is for entry into the theme park and a meal in the Rollercoaster Restaurant (booking is required, subject to availability). Tickets are non transferable.

14 Newcastle Life Issue 3

CIRCUS ARRIVES HOME IN NEWCASTLE THE HOMECOMING

CELEBRATING THE FATHER OF THE MODERN DAY CIRCUS

he name Philip Astley may not sound familiar to you, but this is the man, born in Newcastle, who is hailed as being the father of the modern day circus.

His tale starts in 1742, when he was born the son of a carpenter, before going on to become a decorated war hero, saving numerous lives and learning skills that enabled him to become a master horseman.

When he left the army it was this skill that he used to his advantage and he started putting on equestrian shows, building a riding school in

T

16 Newcastle Life Issue 3

London at Half Penny Hatch.

He realised the best arena for a horse was circular and the best size was 42ft diameter - the now standard ring size used in circuses worldwide.

Philip went on to introduce street performers and theatre acts into his shows across the UK and in Paris. These included acrobats, jugglers, rope walkers and Mr Merryman – now known as a clown.

And so with the 42 ft diameter ring, the horses and the human performers, the start of the circus was born.

To celebrate Philip’s life and raise awareness of his work, Newcastle’s Town Centre Partnership created The Homecoming, an event in which internationallyrenowned outdoor performers entertain audiences with their jaw-dropping talents and mesmerising

performances.

The 2016 event, which was held in June, was the third such event.

Circus performer Andrew van Buren hails from a long line of magicians and illusionists and has been heavily involved in Newcastle’s recognition of Philip Astley. He explained: “As a family we have always thought it important to put something back, which is one of the reasons that over 35 years ago my father, Fred Van Buren, first brought the name of Philip Astley to the attention of the local Newcastle community, this resulted in a carnival with the theme of Astley and Circus.

“Then 25 years ago my father and I commissioned a life sized statue to be built, which could be transported around to publicise Philip Astley and to help to tell his story.

“Now finally it is wonderful that in in the last two years a group of individuals, from all walks of life have come together to form with me the Philip Astley steering committee.

“Philips legacy and creation has

THE HOMECOMING

touched us all in some way and has spread over all of the world.”

On the Philip Astley Working Committee are representatives from The Civic Society, Staffordshire University, Keele University, Newcastle BID Partnership, Newcastle Under Lyme Collage and Performing Arts Centre, Staffordshire Film Archive, The Libraries, Info Services and Brampton Museum, New Vic theatre and the Van Buren Organisation.

Andrew continued: “We have been fortunate to have been awarded £166,000 development funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund which is allowing us to develop ideas further, conduct research and plan the next stages of this ongoing project.

“There does seem to be a developing demand and interest in a permanent statue of him in Newcastle’s town centre, which would create a focal point.

“Also, people do want to know more about him, so we are planning a series of events and fitting permanent markers, partly in the form of a heritage trail.

“Already the Ryecroft subway – (under the A52 road / opposite the Law Courts) has been decorated in a professional graffiti tribute to Philip Astley and from June until September this year the Brampton Museum will be staging a circus exhibition that will particularly appeal to the young and young at heart, with a display of circus toys, props and film shows. There will also be entertainment on select days and circus skills workshops.”

Further information about the Philip Astley Project can be found at: www.facebook.com/PhilipAstleyProjects/

Newcastle Life Issue 3 17

QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURED IN NEWCASTLE

WELFARE FOR THE BLIND MEMBERS CELEBRATE

t the start of June, Newcastle and District Welfare for the Blind Association held a very special party for a very special lady.

Members enjoyed an afternoon of celebration in honour of Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th Birthday on Thursday 2nd June.

The party, which was held at Beaumaris Court, Newcastle, included a buffet lunch along with music and a sing along, which of course included a rousing rendition of Land of Hope and Glory.

Britain’s longest serving monarch kicked off her birthday celebrations earlier in the year with her actual birthday on April 21st. Her official birthday, on June 11th, was marked with the Trooping of the Colour in London, as well as street parties and celebrations up and down the UK. Members of the Newcastle and District Welfare for the Blind Association truly entered

A

18 Newcastle Life Issue 3

into the spirit of the occasion, with each member sporting a Union Jack Bowler hat and waving a flag.

The group were also honoured with the presence of Mrs. Mandy Howlem, representing H. M. Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire.

Newcastle under Lyme’s Welfare for the Blind has been in action for over 50 years and meets at Beaumaris Court on Keele Road on the first Thursday of the month.

This social group for blind and partially sighted adults includes lunch, and transport can be provided for a small fee of £3.50 per meeting.

Members enjoy guest speakers, raffles, lunch and other social activities.

For more information contact Secretary, Sylvia on 01782 626912 Pictured is Miss Marion Mollart (Chairperson) along with Mrs Dorothy Hill (sitting).

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

WIN TICKETS TO SEE MAVERICK AT THE NEW VIC W e have teamed up with the award-winning New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, to give away a pair of tickets to see Maverick.

The New Vic legend that is Eric returns with his multi-talented, multi-instrumental company of actors, singers and musicians in a dead or alive tale of the Wild West. Filled with comedy and the greatest hits of the 1960s, it’s the best night out you’ll have this summer – darn tootin’!

It’s the Summer of ’69 – 1869 that is! Eric Smith and Gordon Bennett are working on a transatlantic liner and have time to see the New York sights before their return voyage. But they get caught up in a bank robbery and are mistakenly identified as the bad guys. It’s time to skedaddle! And pronto!

Heading to the Wild West and arriving in Dead End Gulch, they think they’re safe – until the secrets of the town’s inhabitants start to unravel!

What can save them? Who is the mysterious old timer? Will he always hit the spittoon, or is it dangerous to sit in the front row? And how will they manage to shoehorn a load of great 1960s hits into this show?

Yee-haw!

Tickets - Box office 01782 717 962

To win two tickets to see Maverick at The New Vic, answer the following question:

Who played Maverick in the hit TV series?

A) James Cagney B) James Stewart C) James Garner (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 Friday 12th August 2016. Tickets are for any performance of Maverick. The production runs from Tuesday 30th August to Saturday 10th September 2016. Tickets are non-transferable and are subject to availability.

20 Newcastle Life Issue 3

BUTT LANE PÉTANQUE CLUB

FRENCH PASTIME GAINS POPULARITY PÉTANQUE ENTHUSIASTS BOWLED OVER BY SPORT

ou may never have heard of it, but Pétanque - the French version of boules - is growing in popularity here in the UK. Formed back in April 2008, Butt Lane Pétanque Club is one of only a handful of clubs across the UK and now has more than 30 members who play socially twice a week.

The club, which plays at Congleton Road Community Centre on Tuesdays and Fridays from 1.30pm - 4.30pm, is predominately made up of retired members but is actively trying to encourage newer younger members to join up.

Pétanque enthusiast Cliff Poole wants to spread the word across Newcastle about this genteel but competitive and enjoyable game.

He told Newcastle Life magazine: “We believe we are the only Pétanque club in Staffordshire, so with no other clubs near enough to compete against on a league basis, we play mainly socially.

“We do run ladies’ and men’s singles and doubles competitions between April and October,

Y

and these are keenly competitive.

“Potential new members to our club should expect to join a very friendly and sociable group of people and gain time spent in the fresh air enjoying a little competition and gentle exercise.”

The popular French holiday pastime is played by an estimated 17 million people on the continent, and involves throwing steel balls as close possible to a small wooden ball called a cochonnet (which is literally translated as ‘piglet’) or jack, while standing inside a circle with both feet on the ground.

In France the game is normally played on hard dirt or gravel, in public areas in parks, or in dedicated facilities called boulodromes.

For more information about the North Staffordshire club, call Cliff Poole on (01782) 782814.

Annual membership costs £6 for an adult and £3 for juniors, with session fees costing £2 for an adult, £2.20 for visitors and £1 for juniors.

Newcastle Life Issue 3 21

PRIZE WINNING POST OFFICE

POST OFFICE GETS STAMP OF APPROVAL

NEWCASTLE STORE WINS NATIONAL AWARD

ewcastle-under-Lyme’s Post Office has been announced as the Best Mains Branch in the UK in the 2016 Post Office Network Sales Awards.

Staff at the High Street store had plenty to celebrate as they were also recognised as a Top Performer in the Financial Services category.

The awards ceremony celebrated the performance of teams and individuals working in over 11,500 branches of the Post Office across the

N

22 Newcastle Life Issue 3

country.

It was held in London in June and was hosted

by TV Presenter Anita Rhani.

Commenting on the award Diane Dwyer from Newcastle Post Office said: “We’re really proud of our achievements we’re really delighted to receive this award. We all work really hard to offer our customers a great service and we’re pleased the Post Office has recognised our efforts through this award.”

ALL INVITED TO SPECIAL PARTY

RAINBOW DAY NURSERY

NURSERY SCHOOL CELEBRATES THREE DECADES Newcastle nursery school is holding a very special 30th birthday party at the end of July, and pupils past and present are all

A

invited.

On Saturday 23rd July, Rainbow Day Nursery on Castle Hill Road will be hosting a 30th birthday party between 12 noon and 4pm.

Anyone who has ever been a part of the nursery’s wonderful history is very welcome to join in the celebrations and share happy memories, whether they are children, parents, ex-pupils or staff.

There will be a bouncy castle, face painting, craft activities, games, a magician and much more.

Rainbow Day Nursery provides quality childcare for the ages 0 to five years old. For more information, phone 01782 661619 or email info@rainbowkids.plus.com

Newcastle Life Issue 3 23

What’s on in

NEWCASTLE

There’s so much to do in Newcastle!

Got an event planned?

Let us know!

Email laura@ timesandecho.co.uk

Story and Rhyme Tim e Singing Do your little ones enjoy story time and singing?

Newcastle library (30, Iro nmarket) hosts a free Story Rhyme Time and Singing session every Friday at 11am - 11.30am for children aged 0 and 5 years. 15th, 22nd , 29th July, 5th, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th Augu st castle hyme e and R ays at 11am, New ssion c n u o B Baby dnesd hyme se s and We y Bounce and R , Tuesday 6th July b a lds a B , 20th, 2 o h t h 9 y 1 r , ra h Lib s. 12t year old for 0 - 5 th 10th August ,9 2nd, 3rd

30th Birthday Celebrations will be Rainbow Day Nursery on Castle Hill Road bers mem n, ratio hosting a 30th birthday celeb more for p23 (see ed past and present all invit details) 23rd July

Mum2Mum Market Your chance to buy excelle nt quality pre-loved baby and childrens clothe s, toys and equipment at a fraction of the high street price, between 24pm at Bradwell Lodge. £2 entry on the door and kids go in for free. 24 th July 24 Newcastle Life Issue 3

Farmers M arket A selectio n of fabulo us food in homegrow cluding fr n vegetab esh les, organ meat and ic and free eggs, han range d made p homemad ies, che ec the Guildh akes. 9am to 2.30pm ese and all and ne xt to the m at the side of July, 19th ain marke August, 1 t. 15th 6th Septe mber

a hosting ow e will be h tr l S a n n c e C io lo f h g Fas ge o ppin uck Sho asing a wide ran b e o d R n a e Th pm owc ws at 12 show, sh ust two sho fashion e 6th Aug b l t. il n w e m re e in h ta T shops. d enter music an 2pm, live

h to e!

t

!

uk

e

h

l up!

Astley’s Legacy - Roll up! Rol an interactive ting hos is m seu The Brampton Mu ere children of all family friendly exhibition wh Astley and the ages can find out about Philip September, Monday modern day circus, until 4th day 2pm Sun - Saturday 10am - 5:30pm, l special events: era sev be 5:30pm. There will also - Circus skills with 3rd, 17th, 31st August 1-3pm 24th August 1Andrew van Buren, 27th July, h August 12-5pm 3pm - Clancy the Clown, 10t loon modelling with Clown face painting and bal h, 24th, 31st Kat Durber, 27th July, 3rd 17t in Brampton Park s August 1-5pm - Donkey ride £3) Lyme Reading Group Love a good bo ok? Share your thoughts abou the books you re t ad, explore new authors, new horizons and m eet new people at Newcastle Library on the fir st Tuesday of ea ch month, 2pm - 3pm. 2nd Augu st, 6th Septembe r

ay Classic Cars D edale Valley Light Railway, Ap y lle Apedale Va August esterton, 28th Country Park, Ch

Food Festival Newcastle’s first ever thr ee day Food Festival will celebrate local food cultur e whilst highlighting the amount of food pover ty and the need for food security and sustaina bility within the area of North Staffordshire.

There will be a scarecrow competition, apple pressing, cooking demo nstrations, family crafts, and plenty of stall holde rs offering a wide range of locally produced food and products. 16th, 17th, 18th September

a l

st

College Open Event NULC will be open for prospective students between 5.30pm - 8pm 17th October Newcastle Life Issue 3 25

Tel: 01782 319350 www.oerfireplaces.com

Award yourself the very best

OER Fireplaces, located in the heart of Staffordshire have transformed houses into homes nationwide for over thirty years. Renowned for high quality craftsmanship and a diverse variety of heating appliances, OER has one of the largest showrooms in the midlands dedicated to showcasing latest models and designs.

A large selection of high efficiency appliances creates ample opportunities to achieve a designer fireplace with low running costs. Improvements and upgraded models on gas appliances throughout past years have changed expensive home renovations into worthwhile investments. Ranging from high efficiency gas fires to suit existing fireplaces to complete designer gas

suites, the focal point of your room no longer has to empty your wallet.

Our large stove room boasts over 50 displays of gas, wood and multifuel stoves so that the right appliance for your home is not too hard to find! Our sales term offer expert advice on each product, the majority of which are all registered as DEFRA approved high efficiency products suitable in almost any fireplace! As the name suggests (Olde Englande Reproductions) pride themselves on British manufacturing offering a bespoke service for every customer in order for them to achieve their desired image in mind.

Visit our showroom today to see how you can start saving on your bills for 2016!

Àià LÞ

> ` i } Ì       

                         

Fireplace Works, Normacot Road, Stoke-on-Trent ST3 1PN

Large FREE Car Park Newcastle Life Issue 3 Open: Mon-Fri 9.00am-5.00pm, Sat 9.30am-4.30pm, Sun 12.00-4.00pm            

27

  

        

   

   

 

    

Courses/ Day Schools

Workers’ Educational Association

NEWCASTLE & WOLSTANTON BRANCH - 2016/17 Music Appreciation Field Study of Birds A musical journey through Scandinavia Sibelius, Grieg, Nielsen and others Seabridge Community Centre.

Led by Peter Challinor, you will identify species of birds and their habitats; study birds from the UK and abroad.

11 sessions from 28 September 2016 14:00 to 16:00

Meet at Silverdale Library - 11 sessions from 28 September 2016 14:00 to 16:00

Contact: Margaret on 01782 618804

Contact: Janice on 01782 415755

A History of the British Empire

International Politics

Seven illustrated talks on the remarkable story of the British Empire - how Britain came to dominate, then dismantle.

Explore war-related issues - causes, types, consequences, rights of non-combatants.

Also look at irregular warfare, terrorism, insurgency, revolution and civil war.

Quaker Meeting House.

7 sessions from 20 September 2016 14:00 to 16:00 Contact: Celia on 01782 750345 / renaudon@hotmail.co.uk

Quaker Meeting House.

11 sessions from 26 September 2016 14:00 to 16:00 Contact: Mary on 01782 630537

Symbols of Authority Day School - with Richard Stone.

How was administrative power constructed and expressed in medieval and early-modern England?

We will explore architecture, art and artefacts of royal, episcopal, municipal and judicial authority from the Coronation of Edward the Confessor to the official portraits of Elizabeth I. Venue: Quaker Meeting House - Saturday 29 October 2016 10:00 to 16:00 Contact: Janet on 01782 630069 Worker’s Educational Association is a registered charity in England & Wales (No. 1112775) & Scotland (No SC0399239) limited by 28guarantee Newcastle Life Issue 3 registered in England & Wales (No 2806910) WEA National registered office 41 Luke Street, London EC2A 4XW

BROADBAND ROLL OUT

BUSINESS IS BOOMING THANKS TO SUPERFAST BROADBAND

mall businesses in Newcastle are enjoying the sweet taste of success after upgrading to some of the fastest broadband speeds in the country.

Several small and medium-sized firms based at Lymedale Business Centre in NewcastleUnder-Lyme are now looking to expand their workforce – and international reach – after upgrading to superfast broadband.

Lymedale Business Centre, in Hooters Hall Road, is the first area of the county where ‘fibre to the premises’ technology has been deployed as part of Superfast Staffordshire, the broadband partnership being spearheaded by Staffordshire County Council and BT, as part of the Government’s Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK) programme.

FTTP allows fibre optic cables to be installed from the telephone exchange directly to a building, which enables small and medium businesses to access download speeds of up to 330 megabits per second (Mbps).

Tony Altham, managing director of AdGiftsOnline at Lymedale, said: “Fibre broadband is allowing us to upload and update

S

all our websites with ease and enabling us to share large artwork files instantly. This will help us expand the business in ways not possible before.

“Since upgrading to superfast fibre broadband we’ve been able to move all our online work onto a cloud-based system. This gives us much more flexibility and enables us to carry on working remotely away from the office with access to all the files we need wherever we are making us much more efficient.”

Flat Vision Products Ltd, Luminite, PinkFizz, Andy Kerr Associates LLP, MyPremier and Smarterways are among the other firms based at Lymedale Business Centre also reaping the benefits of upgrading to FTTP recently.

More than 86,000 businesses and households across the county are now able to access faster fibre broadband as a result of Superfast Staffordshire. The figure rises to more than 464,000 when combined with commercial rollouts by private sector companies, such as BT. Pictured are Tony and Stephanie Altham from Ad Gifts Online

Newcastle Life Issue 3 29

NEWCASTLE RAF CADETS

CADETS SHIN NEWCASTLE SQUADRON CELEBRATES MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY

016 heralds a momentous occasion for the Royal Air Force Cadets they are celebrating their 75th Birthday. And youngsters from the Newcastle squadron have marked the event in style with a special Wing Torch visit.

The Wing Torch, which was created especially for the anniversary, was received from the neighbouring Nantwich Squadron last month.

It has been diligently carried throughout the area and passed from squadron to squadron in a nod to the RAF Cadets 75 year history.

Whilst the torch was in Newcastle, the squadron held a series of events including open evenings, a barbecue, a raffle and even an epic rowing relay, during which the cadets covered the equivalent distance of the Channel Tunnel on rowing machines in the town centre.

The Wing Torch was eventually passed along to the neighbouring City of Stoke on Trent squadron, during a special march which saw the youngsters walking from Newcastle to Cobridge to pass on the celebrations.

The RAF Cadets is especially for 12 - 17 year olds and provides youngsters with new skills and experiences, sports, adventure and friendships. Many cadets go on to great success in the RAF. The Newcastle squadron meet at the TA Centre on Liverpool Road, Cross Heath on Tuesdays and Fridays 7pm until 9.30pm.

For more information email oc.435@aircadets.org or call 01782 628572.

The cadets will also be doing a bag pack to raise money for a new mini bus at Morrisons at Milehouse from 5pm until 8pm on Friday, 12th April, if you want to show your support or find out more.

2

30 Newcastle Life Issue 3

NEWCASTLE RAF CADETS

NE FOR 75TH

Newcastle Life Issue 3 31

FUNDRAISING FOR ASIA

32 Newcastle Life Issue 3

ROTARIANS RAISE THOUSANDS FOR AMPUTEES

njured men, women and children in Asia whose lives have been blighted by limb amputations will soon benefit from the kind hearted people of Clayton.

Newcastle-under-Lyme’s Rotary Club has held a successful fundraising evening to raise thousands of pounds for The Jaipur Limb Foundation.

In many developing countries there are tens of thousands of people who suffer as a result of amputated or deformed limbs.

The Jaipur Limb is an artificial leg, developed at the Mahaveer hospital in Jaipur, India, which is hard-wearing and will last for three or four years, longer if worn with a shoe.

One of the major differences between the Jaipur technology and western technology is the cost – whereas a western limb will cost between £1,000 and £2,000, a Jaipur limb can be made and fitted for as little as £30.

The Rotary Jaipur Limb project is a proactive fund-raising and project-initiating body of Rotarians, drawn from all over Britain and Ireland.

Newcastle Rotary held the event at The Great National Hotel, Clayton.

They enjoyed a KAVI Indian Buffet and entertainment by local Indian Dancers, who ranged in age from eight to 14 years old.

The event was well supported and attended

by DG. Richard Green, the District Governor of 1210 District, of which Newcastle RC is a member, other local Rotary Clubs and clubs as far away as Wellington, Newport and Macclesfield.

All monies raised to be donated to Rotary Jaipur Limb Project, in particular to the Gerry Powell Rotary Jaipur Limb Centre, Dhanbad, India.

I

NEWCASTLE LIFE stle Newca ifeNewc ast L ISSUE 2

le

1 ISSUE

dge Seabri dio Ra i

’s min School team media

Lymeli g FestRivOaTAhRtY l B

Life

Four da CLU ys fuing a ak n filled m of usicM rence in ffe di

WIN

stle

Newca

TO EST ICKETNKEY FOR Oye ILY TWIN O Talented z! Oyez!

A FAMTHTICKE AM M TS town cr iers TREN TO FLIP battl

OUT!

e for tit

le

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

Newcastle Life Issue 3 33

RECIPE FOR LIFE

ULTIMATE CHOCOLATE INDULGENCE

Tastes of vanilla, chocolate and caramel make this cake a truly scrumptious and decadent treat. Its beautiful ombre appearance provides a show stopping centre piece for any dinner party; so why not give it a try?

Preparation time: 60 minutes Cooking time: 55 minutes Serves: 12 Ingredients For vanilla and chocolate sponges: • 225g very soft butter, plus extra for greasing • 225g golden caster sugar • 175g self-raising flour • 85g ground almonds • 1 tsp baking powder • 3 eggs • 150ml pot natural yogurt • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 5 tbsp cocoa powder

For caramel and caramelchocolate sponges: • 225g very soft butter, plus extra for greasing • 175g light muscovado sugar • 50g dark muscovado sugar • 175g self-raising flour • 85g ground almonds • 1 tsp baking powder • 3 eggs • 150ml pot natural yogurt • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 tbsp cocoa To assemble: • 397g can caramel (stocked near the condensed milk in stores) • 140g dark chocolate • 140g milk chocolate • 300ml double cream

34 Newcastle Life Issue 3

Chocolate and caramel ombre cake Method

1. Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Grease and line bases of 2 x 20cm sandwich tins with baking parchment. For the vanilla and chocolate sponges, mix all the ingredients, apart from the cocoa, together with an electric whisk. Scrape half the mix into a second bowl and whizz in the cocoa. Scrape into the tins and bake for 20-25 mins until a skewer poked in comes out clean.

2. Repeat step 1 for the caramel and caramel-chocolate sponges, again leaving cocoa out of the first mixing, then splitting the mix in half and whizzing the cocoa into one batch. Cook as above.

3. While sponges are cooling, melt the dark and milk chocolate together in a bowl over a pan of barely simmering water.

Remove from the heat, stir in the cream and cool or chill until spreadable.

4. When the sponges are cool, spread a third of the caramel over the vanilla sponge and top with the caramel sponge. Spread over another third of the caramel and top with the caramelchocolate sponge, then the final third of caramel and top with the chocolate sponge (don’t panic if you mix up the layers, the cake will still look great when you cut in). Spread the chocolate icing over the whole cake to serve. It will keep in a cool place in an airtight container for up to three days.

Impartial, expert &

Award Winning Financial Planning Queens Gardens Business Centre, 31 Ironmarket, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 1RP Office: 01782 461 563 Mobile: 07881 557 755 E-mail: wes@lotusfinancialsolutions.co.uk

15% DISCOUNT ON CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES Valid until 31st August 2016

Custom fit specialists of Titleist, Mizuno, Vega, Nike, Rohnisch, Galvin Green using the latest flightscope fitting system.

We also have a huge collection of clothing and shoes including Ecco, Footjoy and Nike.

Come in for friendly professional advice from knowledge PGA staff who care about your game.

at Newcastle-under-Lyme Golf Club • Custom Fitting Specialist • Teaching Academy • Golf Superstore Tel: 01782 618526 Email: info@discountukgolf.co.uk Web: www.discountukgolf.co.uk

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE Newcastle Life Issue 3 35

DINERS HELP RAISE CHARITY CASH RESTAURANT RELAUNCH

iners enjoying the relaunch of much loved restaurant Pasta Di Piazza Italiana have helped raised a massive £1,000 for Newcastle based Alice Charity, which supports local vulnerable families.

The cash was donated during a launch event for more than 140 invited guests at popular Italian eatery Pasta Di Piazza Italiana, based in Newcastle High Street.

The evening was to celebrate the £3/4m investment in the business by owner Jigar Gheewala, who was keen to support a grass roots family charity.

Sam Warrilow, fundraising manager for the Alice charity, said the generous donation would be immediately put to good use across their

D

projects, which assist families in need in Newcastle and Stoke-on-Trent.

She said: “We’re delighted to receive support from a family-run business as we are in the business of families, and this generous donation will make a real difference to their everyday lives - from buying a bed for a growing baby to helping a parent pay for a school uniform.

“All of our projects rely on donations like this one from Pasta Di Piazza Italiana, and being a locally based charity we’re able to quickly allocate that cash to where it’s needed most.

“Lots of local businesses have already pledged regular support to us through F500,

White’s PLASTERING SERVICES Inspirational designs for your home Stunning, affordable, quality We pride ourselves on our product quality and choice.

So, come and view our extensive range of top quality bathrooms, fires and stoves, all beautifully laid out in our spacious showroom and we guarantee you’ll leave inspired!

• Dry Lining • Artex Covering • Skimming & Coving

• Free Estimates • Fully Insured • No Job Too Small

Call Lawrence 07817 464 043 or 01782 613 721 lozwhite@ btinternet.com

29 Liverpool Road, Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent, ST7 1EA t. 01782 785965 w.www.ge-firesstovesbathrooms.co.uk 36 Newcastle Life Issue 3

Dom estic an Com d merc Work ial

46 Eleanor Crescent, Westlands, ST5 3SA

RESTAURANT RELAUNCH

our exclusive business membership, and I hope this event is the first of many Pasta Di Piazza

From one slate... ...to a complete new roof!

• Maintenance • Repairs • New roofs • Flat roofs • UPVC • Roof coating • Gutter/UPVC cleaning D. R. Roofing & Building are a one-stop-shop for all your roofing requirements. From residential to commercial, and large to small installations, our experienced team can provide quality new roofs, repairs and maintenance to meet your needs.

Unit 91, Tollgate Court, Tollgate Drive, Stafford, ST16 3HS

T: 01785 598 336 M: 07551 765 978 www.drroofingandbuilding.co.uk info@drroofingandbuilding.co.uk

Italiana are able to host to support us.”

Councillor Sandra Hambleton officially opened the restaurant and invited guests enjoyed music by Channel 4 Operatunity soprano Denise Leigh.

General manager, Nass Hamza, commented: “The Newcastle launch event was a wonderful evening which everyone really enjoyed, and it was great for our staff to hear so many positive comments from those who came about our service, our food – and of course our lovely new surroundings.”

Pictured is Pasta Di Piazza Italiana owner Jigar Gheewala with Emily Petts, family support director at Alice charity

Merv Bennett & Son Domestic appliance service engineers

Repair & service of: • Washing Machines • Tumble Dryers • Ovens • Refrigeration • Dishwashers

Paul Bennett Telephone: 01782 394887 Mobile: 07920 516156 Newcastle Life Issue 3 37

GARDENING

Desirable daisies F

by Martin Blow

or the lawn-proud garden owner daisies are weeds to be fought with and removed at all costs. For the flower gardener the daisy family are one of the glories of summer and the most desirable flowering plants. From low growing carpeters to 8ft giants for the back of the border there is a daisy for every garden. This month I’ll share some of my favourites from my own garden with you.

Technically daisies are members of the Aster (or Michaelmas daisy) family and all have rayed petals and a disc or cone at the centre and all share the same attractiveness to bees and butterflies.

Let’s start with Asters, those late bloomers that come in a range of colours from white, through pink, lavender to the dark purple. The best of these is the variety ‘Mônch’, which blooms from August and never gets mildew. I also love the tall growing ‘Calliope’ who has black stems, glossy leaves and flowers in October and November. Aster need a reasonably sunny spot and soil that holds some moisture - so mulch them well in spring.

38 Newcastle Life Issue 3

For brighter colours you can’t do better than Heleniums – one of my passions. We have a large collection in our garden and have a good range in our catalogue. These are certainly sun lovers and come in shades of red, orange and yellow. Perhaps best known as tall plants for the back of the border blooming in August and September there are also some new, shorter ones that start flowering in late June: ‘Red Army’ is bright red and 2ft (60cm) tall and ‘Mardi Gras’ is a similar height with flowers that blend red, orange and yellow. ‘Sahin’s Early Flowerer’ has similar flowers but is nearly 3ft tall. ‘El Dorado’ is one of the best new varieties with large golden yellow flowers. He is about 2ft 6in tall (75cm) but doesn’t need staking.

‘Flaming Katy’ is taller and a fiery orange-red.

Two closely related plants are commonly known as Cone Flowers: the pink or white Echinaceas and the yellow Rudbeckias. In our garden we find the old varieties are more reliable than the many new ones. For Echinacea I recommend ‘Ruby Star’ (bright pink) and ‘White Swan’ and for Rudbeckias the soundly perennial ‘Deamii’ and ‘Goldsturm’. For a really tall one try ‘Herbstsonne’ (‘Autumn Sun’), which will grow 6ft (180cm) tall. The yellow

GARDENING

rudbeckias will also grow well in dappled shade.

We all loved growing annual sunflowers as kids and there are some less tall perennial types to choose for the garden. Their flowers are smaller but very numerous. ‘Happy Days’ is only 3ft (90cm) tall with large flowers whereas ‘Lemon Queen’ will get to 6ft (180cm) tall and has masses of pale yellow flowers in autumn.

Some are scented – the variety ‘Bitter Chocolate’ smells exactly like that!

Coreopsis (common name Tickseed) are popular low-growing plants but some are not hardy here. We grow the reliable Zagreb and the beautiful pale yellow Moonbeam as these are hardy for us. These will spread to form a good sized clump and are easy to divide in spring.

Shasta daisies (Leucanthemum) were once common cottage garden plants and they are making a comeback as gardeners remember

just how easy and reliable they are. Most are white although there are a few pale yellow varieties to be had. My favourite is ‘Beauté Nivelloise’ which one cheeky customer renamed “bad hair day” after the wayward look of the petals. ‘Fiona Coghill’ has large, ballshaped flowers that remind me of a florist’s Chrysanthemum. Shasta Daisies love a welldrained sunny spot and will survive drought well.

We are used to buying African Daisies (Osteospermum) as half-harder summer bedding but there are a few winter hardy ones to find. The white ‘Lady Leitrim’ has been in my family’s gardens for at least four generations and always survives even the hardest winter provided the soil is well-drained. She will flower from May to early winter.

There’s sure to be a member of the daisy family to suit your garden; keep an eye open for those lovely flowers.

Janet and Martin Blow run Special Perennials, a small garden nursery in Hankelow, Cheshire. Their website www.specialperennials.com is full of colour photos and growing tips.

They will be at Carsington Water on Sunday 31st July, The National Memorial Arboretum on Saturday 6th August, The Dorothy Clive Garden on Sunday 28th and Monday 29th August and Weston Park on Sunday 11th September.

For more information see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk.

Newcastle Life Issue 3 39

PRINCESSDESIGN CRE ATIVE KITCHEN & BATHROOM SOLUTIONS

BAGNODESIGN creative bathroom s olutions

BAGNODESIGN creative bathroom s olutions

In addition to our 15% SUMMER SALE, a further 10% off all kitchens and bathrooms fitted before September!

KITCHEN AND BATHROOM DESIGN REDEFINED WWW.PRINCESSDESIGN.CO.UK KITCHEN AND BATHROOM DESIGN REDEFINED WWW.PRINCESSDESIGN.CO.UK Newcastle-u-Lyme Tel: 01782 610000 Brunswick street, ST5 1HF

Stoke-on-Trent Tel: 01782Tel: 710720 1, Etruria Way, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 6JQ Newcastle-u-Lyme 01782Unit 610000 Brunswick street, ST5 1HF

Stoke-on-Trent Tel: 01782 710720 Unit 1, Etruria Way, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 6JQ

2015 April advert 265 x 165.indd 1

2015 April advert 265 x 165.indd 1

40 Newcastle Life Issue 3

28/04/2015 11:20:23

28/04/2015 11:20:23

Clayton UPVC Doors & Windows ESTABLISHED FOR 30 YEARS FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES • UPVC sample colour range available to view in your home We als supply o and compo fit site doors

• Trusted, reliable, clean and tidy tradesmen

Call John on 01782 717 871

john.morrall@ntlworld.com

su rv

ey

&

FR

E

qu E ot e

s

Get 30% OFF when you quote Newcastle Life Valid until 16.9.16

93 Liverpool Road, Stoke, ST4 1AE Tel: 01782 847728

staffordshirestoves.co.uk

Open Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm

IN-HOUSE INSTALLATION TEAM HETAS REGISTERED Stockists of

Newcastle Life Issue 3 41

LEGAL MATTERS

GRINDEYS SOLICITORS LAUNCH NEW WEBSITE DEDICATED TO FAMILY LAW

Divorce rates are in decline At a time when both marriage and divorce are in decline, Grindeys have launched a website dedicated to family law and divorce. The need for legal advice and support in this area remains crucial given the changing nature of society and family relations.

According to the Office of National statistics the number of divorces year on year is in decline, and has been since 2004. Certainly this trend is reflected in the figures for the last three full years. In 2013 the number of Decree Absolutes (the document which finalises a divorce) fell from 115,000 in 2013 to 102,000 in 2015.

This could be perceived as a positive trend, however the statistics need to be compared to two others: a decline in the number of marriages per year, a trend which started in 1973; and the increase in the number of people living together – cohabitees.

In 2013, the latest statistics available, there were 242,000 marriages in the UK compared to 426,000 in 1972. In 2012, there were 5.9 million people cohabiting in the UK, double the 1996 figure.

makes no provision for the rights of cohabitees with regards to property and possessions. As a general rule if you own it at the beginning of the relationship then you will own it at the end! That said, there are an increasing number of legal cases that have been successful in questioning the law’s stance on the legal rights of cohabitees. It’s only a matter of time before the law adapts to meet the needs of a changing society.

It should also be noted that the lack of marriage does not equate to a lack of children. 38% of these 5.9 million cohabitees have children together. The law does make provision for the rights of children regardless of the parents’ marital status and so demand for legal advice with regards to child arrangement orders, is increasingly high.

There is also a growing trend for grandparents to seek legal advice with regard to contact with grandchildren. Fortunately the English legal system does recognise the valuable contribution a grandparent can make to a child’s life, especially if they have provided childcare.

Increased demand from cohabitees, unmarried parents and grandparents Despite these figures the need for family law advice is not in decline. Approximately 42% of marriages will end in divorce – a sad statistic indeed.

Then there are the cohabitees. English law currently

Relationship agreements provide protection Today, compared to twenty years ago, people tend to be older when they ‘commit’ to a relationship and have often acquired a reasonable amount of wealth and naturally they want to protect it. This is reflected in the increased demand for documents such as the cohabitation agreement and the prenuptial agreement.

The changing scope of society and the families within it is why Grindeys have launched a website dedicated to these matters. The aim of the website is to provide families with access to family law information and the website includes content, news and features which anyone in a family crisis should find useful.

Daniel Rushton, Head of Family Law at Grindeys comments, “Access to information is crucial for families going through crisis. The website is full of general information but every family law case is different and the outcome is very much based on a person’s specific circumstances. This is why we have introduced a discounted fixed fee consultation for clients, which can be conducted either face to face at our offices or over the telephone. The consultation provides people with advice relevant to their situation. The consultation is not necessarily the start of legal proceedings. It is designed to give people a clear outline of their options.”

They also offer a fixed fee consultation created to meet the needs of business owners or people with complicated financial or family arrangements.

Daniel continues, “The website will be an ongoing project with a view to adding content and features based on client feedback and so we welcome, in fact actively encourage, any views and opinions about the website from clients and the public.”

The new website can be found at www.family-lawand-divorce.co.uk

www.family-law-and-divorce.co.uk 42 Newcastle Life Issue 3

WOLSTANTON 38-42 High Street, ST5 0HE

01782 204060 WHITE GOODS

HOME VISITS, FREE ESTIMATES FOR VENETIAN, ROLLER & VERTICAL BLINDS

BEDS

LAMINATE/VINYL, CARPETS & RUGS IN STOCK Also at 15 High Street, Stone, Staffs, ST15 8AJ • 01785 813339 • E: info@pattensdirect.co.uk

10% OFF EVERYTHING

ON PRODUCTION OF THIS ADVERT

Valid until 15th Sept 2016

NEWCASTLE UNDER LYME JUNIOR SCHOOL

Discover the

Difference

You are warmly invited to visit at any time

• “Exceeding all our expectations.” - New Parent • Transport from Stone, Stafford, Uttoxeter, Leek, Congleton, Nantwich, Market Drayton, Alsager A School for Boys and Girls 3 - 11 ST5 1DB 01782 631197 nuls.org.uk Newcastle Life Issue 3 43

DACIA DUSTER DEBUT MOTORING

acia debuted the new 2017 model year version of its ever-popular, no-nonsense Duster SUV at the Moving Motor Show, held during the Goodwood Festival of Speed on Thursday 23rd June.

On display in the new Prestige dCi110 4x2 guise, the new Duster made its first UK appearance at the legendary Festival, joining the rest of the ‘shockingly affordable’ Dacia range.

At the Moving Motor Show, guests also had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of petrol and diesel versions of the Sandero – the UK’s most affordable car – together with diesel examples of the Sandero Stepway and the awardwinning Logan MCV, which is the UK’s best value estate car.

The 2017 Duster receives a number of external and interior upgrades, while the popular range is strengthened with the addition of the new range-topping Prestige version.

The new Duster is also enhanced with the availability of the new 1.2 TCe 125 engine, providing customers with the option of a more

D

44 Newcastle Life Issue 3

powerful engine and complementing the existing 1.6 SCe 115 engine.

Standard equipment on the Duster has been upgraded, with DAB radio as standard from Ambiance trim and new interior upholstery on all trim levels.

Additional changes to the interior include the dashboard now in a dark carbon finish, whilst there is a new satin chrome centre console surround and steering wheel inserts to match.

All versions of the new Duster can be specified with two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.

Dacia has won numerous awards since launching in the UK in 2013.

One of the UK’s largest automotive owner satisfaction studies, Auto Express Driver Power, has placed Dacia in its top five best manufacturers for three consecutive years, with customers praising the brand’s reliability.

The new Duster range starts from £9,495 on the road and is available to order now with customer deliveries from July.

MOTORING

46 Newcastle Life Issue 3

MOTORING

With Marsons £2,000 minimum allowance for your old car, with or without an MOT Any age up to 10yrs

NEW FOR OLD WILL SAVE YOU MONEY

48 Newcastle Life Issue 3

UK PRICING AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR FIAT PROFESSIONAL’S NEW FULLBACK ANNOUNCED

MOTORING

F

iat Professional has announced pricing and specification details of the new Fullback pickup truck ahead of its UK launch on July

4th.

Engineered to meet the broad needs of business users – both professional and recreational - the new FIAT Professional Fullback enters the medium-duty pick up segment.

In the UK more than 40,000 pickups were registered in 2015 – a jump of 20 per cent compared to 2014 – so it is clear that there is growing audience who see the rugged and practical pickup truck as an ideal solution to their broad spectrum of vehicle needs.

The FIAT Professional Fullback SX is powered an aluminium-block, 2.4-litre diesel engine with a variable-geometry turbo charger which produces 150hp and 380Nm of torque yet its official combined-cycle fuel economy figure is just 44.2MPG (6.4L/100km) and its CO2 emissions are 169g/km.

In terms of styling, the front of the FIAT Professional Fullback adopts the upmarket appearance of a sports SUV with its swept-back

fascia, chunky front bumper and roomy cabforward layout.

The interior combines the functionality of a work vehicle with the comfort and elegance of luxury vehicle with an attractive and ergonomically designed, two-tone black-andsilver dashboard, supportive and comfortable seats and impressive rear passenger room.

Available as a double cab only and with allwheel drive standard on all versions, the FIAT Professional Fullback starts at £20,995 (excluding VAT, VED, delivery and plates) for the SX version.

The high-specification LX manual is priced from £22,995 (excluding VAT and OTR charges) while the LX automatic is priced from £24,395 (excluding VAT and OTR charges). The new FIAT Fullback will be available to order from FIAT Professional dealers from 4th July.

Further information on the new FIAT Fullback, as well as the rest of the FIAT Professional range, is available from www.FIATprofessionalpress.co.uk and business users can find out more on the public website www.FIATprofessional.co.uk.

Newcastle Life Issue 3 49

QUIZ CORNER

Let’s get quizzical COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

A ‘Banks’ quiz for the August Bank Holidays 1. What is known as the Old Lady Of Threadneedle Street?

2.Who was in goal for England in the 1966 World Cup Final?

3. Which British high street bank uses the eagle as its logo?

4. Which flying nanny looked after the Banks family?

5. The West Bank of which river has been occupied by Israel since 1967?

6. Rogue trader Nick Leeson's unauthorized speculative trading caused which bank to collapse?

7. What is the name of the infamous British graffiti artist, thought to come from Yate near Bristol, who has been creating street art for over 30 years?

8. Who played the bride, Annie Banks, in the 1991 film 'Father of the Bride'?

9. Founded in 1440 by Henry VI, which school stands on the bank of the Thames?

10. Who, with Mike Rutherford, are the only two members to belong to the group Genesis for its entire history?

General Knowledge Answers: 1. Paul Daniels (He was born Newton Edward Daniels and took his stage name of Paul from his son); 2. Beef Wellington; 3. Black; 4. Great (Fire, Exhibition and Train Robbery); 5. Max Verstappen (Aged just 18 years and 228 days he beat Sebastian Vettel's record by 2 years and 210 days); 6. King King (The giant gorilla fell to his death from the Empire State Building protecting Ann); 7. The Dame; 8. Discus (Men's record is 74.08m while the Women's is 76.80m due mostly to the discus being half the weight for women); 10. Community Chest.

Bank Holiday Answers: 1. Bank of England (Established in 1694 it is the second oldest bank in the world); 2. Gordon Banks (A year after the 1966 World Cup Gordon signed for Stoke City); 3. Barclays (Barclays deployed the world's first cash dispenser in 1967); 4. Mary Poppins (Written by PL Travers and originally published in 1934); 5. Jordan; 6. Barings Bank (The film 'Rogue Trader' telling the story of Nick was released in 1999 starring Ewan McGregor); 7. Banksy; 8. Kimberly Williams (She also appeared in the sequel 'Father of the Bride 2'); 9. Eton College (Founded in 1440 by King Henry VI Eton now educates over 1,300 boys aged 13 to 18); 10. Tony Banks (the rock band formed in Surrey in 1967 with estimated worldwide sales of between 100 and 130 million).

50 Newcastle Life Issue 3

Quizzes compiled by Paul Steele (Question writer and Quizmaster) from Cheddleton email: pnsteele@aol.com

General Knowledge Quiz 1. Which magician who was born in Middlesbrough with the first names Newton Edward died in March aged 77?

2. A fillet of beef, covered in pate and mushrooms, wrapped in puff pasty and baked in an oven. Whats the name of this dish?

3. According to a 16th century law what colour must all Venetian gondolas be painted?

4. What word links these years: 1666, 1851, 1963?

5. Who became the youngest ever F1 race winner when he won the Spanish Grand Prix in May? 6. Who fell for Ann Darrow in 1933?

7. In the nursery rhyme who was the black sheep's second bag of wool for?

8. In which athletics event is the women's world record better than the men's?

9. Which country took the song '1944' to Eurovision success in May? 10. What monopoly square is found between Marlborough Street and Bow Street?