Newcastle Life Issue 39

By Wes Webster www.weswebsterphotog raphy.co.uk

Tell us about your life in Newcastle

We, here at the Newcastle Life Magazine, always strive to help promote and celebrate all things about life in this area – but we often need your help to do this.

Whether you have a story to tell about an achievement you, or one of your family members, has recently gained; or you have perhaps set yourself a challenge all in aid of charity; maybe you have a community event coming up which you would like to tell our readers all about; or perhaps you just wish to simply write a letter about what makes you happy about living in Newcastleunder-Lyme - we would love to hear from you.

We are also on the look out for potential regular contributors to our community magazine – maybe you are a local historian who could tell our readers about snippets of history from yesteryear in the area; or maybe you are a health and/or fitness expert who would like to pass on their knowledge to help others; maybe you are a local councillor who would like to let residents know what you and your colleagues have been up to lately; or maybe you are a garden nature enthusiast who would like to submit regular reports about your latest findings – we would love to hear from you too.

Please email our Editor Belinda at hargreavespr@outlook.com

FRONT COVER PHOTO

Sprucing up the community

Students have been helping to keep their community tidy.

A team from Newcastle College set about tidying an area of the town’s High Street recently.

A spokesman for the Newcastle Borough Council’s Green Team said: “Volunteers from Newcastle College have done a great job pruning and tidying the Italian herb bed in Newcastle High Street.

“Their hard work has made such a difference. Well done everyone.”

What has your school, college, or youth organisation been up to lately?

Email our Editor Belinda at hargreavespr@outlook.com

Happy new year to you all

Well, another new year which, for many, means new starts – and what an exciting time ahead it is for Newcastle-under-Lyme.

Not only are there lots of regeneration projects underway after funding has been pledged to the town –see pages 22 and 23 to read all about it – but the borough is also celebrating 850 years of its Royal Charter this year. Read all about what’s being planned to celebrate the milestone year on pages 6 and 7.

Continuing on the theme of Royalty, a member of the

Royal family has recently visited the town (see page 24) plus one of our residents has been named in HM The King’s first ever Honours list – see page 27.

So there are plenty of reasons to celebrate the wonderful town of Newcastle. If you have a story to tell about life in Newcastle, please email me at

hargreavespr@outlook.com.

Until next time – take care!

£895

Victoria Snape

Tracey Redfern

Jam-packed programme of celebratory events

2023 is set to be a yearlong celebration of the borough of Newcastle-underLyme; its history, its culture, its people, past and present –all part of the borough’s 850 years of its Royal Charter.

In 1173

Newcastle-under-Lyme was given Royal Charter of Incorporation status by King Henry II, making it a borough. This gave the area a new prominence and allowed it to hold markets in the town centre. This year is the 850th anniversary of the charter status.

A spokesman for Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council said: “The ‘850’ celebrations will provide a free-to-attend programme of enjoyable, inclusive and long-lasting shared experiences for the residents of the Borough of Newcastle-under-Lyme as well as those who work in and visit the borough.

“The year is also an important and vital opportunity to create a lasting legacy for the Borough with new events, sponsorships and projects that will live long after the 850 celebrations have concluded.

“To celebrate the 850th anniversary of the borough receiving its Royal Charter, the borough, through a series of events and activities aimed at creating a civic, community and legacy programme for the residents, businesses and visitors through the year, we aim to showcase all that is great about the Borough and celebrate with pride and passion.

“The Royal Charter gave special rights and freedoms to borough residents that went on to help shape the borough as we know it. Perhaps most notably this included the right to hold an outdoor market, a long-held tradition that is still an important aspect of the town’s vitality and success.”

The council spokesman continued: “The borough is, of course, steeped in history. Did you know that Newcastle-under-Lyme is named after a new castle, which was built around 1145 by the Normans, close to the Lyme Forest.

“Newcastle’s location, in the heart of the

country, meant that it was an important coaching town and the centre of major ironworking, felt hat-making and clay pipe production industries.

“It was also the birthplace of many notable individuals, including Philip Astley, widely acknowledged as the ‘father of the modern circus’; author, nurse and feminist Vera Brittain, who wrote the celebrated ‘A Testament of Youth’ in response to her experiences during the First World War, and Sir Joseph Cook who worked in local coal mines before emigrating to Australia where, in 1913, he became Prime Minister.

“We are very proud of our borough’s long heritage and we are keen to celebrate it as part of the 850th anniversary next year.

“To do this we are aiming to deliver a yearlong programme of events and we would like to invite you to be part of the programme of activity.”

The spokesman added: “Any support, by way of donation, sponsorship, in kind support or simply helping raise awareness, would be very welcome to help us celebrate our 850th anniversary.

“It’s a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity to bring our communities together in celebration of our history and it’s also a chance to give the local economy a real boost and create a lasting legacy for the borough.”

To see the further information about this year’s 850 celebrations, go online to: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk/downloads/file/1589/850th-annive rsary-celebrations-brochure.

What’s being planned

People from the Past and Present

This year-long programme of activity with monthly museum activity themes to celebrate famous and influential past and present residents of the borough. The activities will include film showings, talks, online content and spotlight gallery displays.

January – Launch, overarching theme. February – Newcastle People in the World. March – Business and Industry. April – Literature. May – Military. Big Celebration & Performing Arts. July – Sports. August –Heroes of the Borough.

September – Rights and Protests. October – Art.

November – Science and Engineering. December –Local Heroes.

Legacy Programme Plans are in progress to achieve legacy programme: 850 Lyme Tree planting sponsorship programme; A new book of the History of the Borough and the Celebrations of the Year; An 850 Celebration Subway Mural at Queens Gardens; Aspiration Keele - aspiring local students to study at Keele University; Annual Local History Lecture; The establishment of a Local Heroes Award Ceremony each year to continue to focus on the rising stars of the borough; A statue of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Celebration Window Display Competition –organised by the town centre BID.

Virtual Display of Former Mayors – photographs and virtual imagery.

‘Newcastles of the World’possibility of video submissions from each Newcastle to be facilitated at Brampton Museum.

Town centre displaysLamp-post flags displaying the logo will be on display around the town centre ring road; Bunting in Queen’s Gardens and around the Guildhall area; Themed event Markets in the town centre.

Merchandising - Schools will be presented with special edition mugs for participating Year Groups at schools engaged across the borough; There will be a new Book of Newcastle which will be available at the museum; A Schools Information Pack will be available online with a programme of themed activities that schools can get involved in.

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Lighting up castle W

E KNOW it is now January and all the Christmas decorations have been put away for another year but we just had to feature the fabulous festive switch on event which took place in Newcastle ahead of the big day. There was lots of fun and festive cheer for the community event which took place at the end of November including a programme of live music, a giant snow-globe, the official switch on and fireworks, as well as a visit from Father Christmas himself.

A spokesman for Newcastle-under-Lyme BID, which organised the event, said: “A huge

thank you to the residents of Newcastle-underLyme and beyond for coming out in your thousands to celebrate the start of the Christmas period in our town centre.

“With the help of local businesses, partners, production team, performers, traders, suppliers and incredible community, we certainly did ‘Light Up Castle’ in the most magical way.

“The Christmas light switch on event and town centre lights are kindly funded by local businesses as part of Newcastle-under-Lyme Business Improvement District.”

Photos by Black Star Photography

Newcastle-under-Lyme School is a top ten Independent school, and the third ranked co-educational Independent Day School, in the West Midlands according to the Sunday Times Parent Power Survey 2023.

With an outstanding academic, co-curricular and sporting reputation, NULS offers an unrivalled education to children from 2 to 18.

From Nursery to Sixth Form, pupils thrive in the classroom and beyond, benefiting from outstanding facilities including a 25m Swimming pool, state-of-theart Sports Hall, Forest School, Astro-turf pitch and dance studio.

This year, we launched a new programme: We Thrive which supports pupil development and brings together work across the school on equality, diversity and inclusion. Nothing is more important to us than supporting and nurturing our wonderful school’s community.

Prep Adventures, launched in November, brings

outdoor learning and a raft of in house expertise to our Prep pupils as they learn through archery, orienteering, kayaking, kite flying and much more. Our pupils love to be outside, love to learn and love to have fun.

In Seniors, Sport, Music and Drama continue to be the backbone of our co-curricular activities alongside our Combined Cadet Force, DofE programme and a diverse range of clubs and societies. This term we look forward to a wonderful production of ‘Les Miserables’ from our drama and music departments.

Life in the Sixth Form is rich and varied as involvement in co-curricular activities continues. Pupils are challenged academically, show leadership to our school as prefects and benefit from expert support in making their choices about university, careers and beyond. Many of our Year 12 students will soon be visiting New York, broadening their horizons in every sense.

This is just a taste of life at Staffordshire’s leading independent school. Contact us today to arrange a visit at nuls.org.uk or by calling 01782 631197.

“Pupils thrive in the classroom”

Bespoke education for each child

Exciting times are continuing for St. Dominic’s Priory School in Stone, with phase three of their redevelopment programme now complete, following further investment.

Improvements have now been made to the large sports hall and multifunctional school hall/theatre. These enhanced resources will mean the school can continue to support the local community, as well as their students’ wide and varied range of extracurricular activities.

Together with their new state-of-theart senior building and specialist classrooms, guaranteed small class sizes, a diverse curriculum and supportive and encouraging teachers, the school ensures that they are able to

remain non-selective and provide a caring and nurturing environment. Topranking results year on year show that St. Dominic’s ethos of providing bespoke education to each child really works. Students are encouraged to be themselves, to value individuality and to develop self-worth, independence and respect for others.

St. Dominic’s Priory School’s next open events take place on Saturday 18th March 9:30 – 12:30pm (no booking required) and from Monday 20th –Friday 24th March (booking required). To discover more, visit their website www.stdominicspriory.co.uk or call 01785814181 and follow on Facebook and Instagram to keep up-to-date on the latest news.

Graham Green amd Maureen Wilson

“Hope is a fantastic concept”

Starting from 22 January 2023, is the Year of the Water Rabbit in Chinese culture. The sign of the Rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace and prosperity. 2023 is predicted to be a year of hope. Hope is a fantastic concept and something we all need in our lives - “hope is being able to see that there is light despite all the darkness” (Desmond Tutu)”. At Clayton Hall Academy we aim to bring hope to communities that need it. However, to bring hope to fruition, there must be a plan, and to deliver on a plan you need particular traits and skills.

At Clayton Hall Academy we expect our young people to demonstrate the values of resilience, independence and confidence in all that they do. This was shown brilliantly by our young people over the last year in our fundraising work for families affected by the war in Ukraine. By working together, our students raised over £1600collecting food items, coats, bedding, nappies, and

toiletries to be taken over to Ukraine and also to share with the local Ukrainian refugees. Our students wanted to bring hope to these families and did so with aplomb.

At Christmas, instead of the usual Christmas tree in our Hall, we had a Food Bank Christmas tree. Staff and students brought in tinned food to decorate the tree (built by our construction students). All the produce was given to the local PCSOs for them to share with families in need in our local community – again, in a small, way bringing hope and joy.

In a world where so much of the news is doom and gloom, I always find that spending time with our fantastic students leaves me feeling hopeful – for their future and ours.

Wishing you a happy and prosperous New Year.

Caty Reid Principal

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Continued success for Preparatory School

St Joseph’s Preparatory School is a successful Catholic, co-educational independent school and nursery for children from ages 3 to 11.

At St Joseph’s we place great emphasis on nurturing each child as an individual, which combined with small class sizes allows children the opportunity to discover and develop their own talents, whether they be academic, musical, sporting or artistic.

A broad and interesting curriculum is offered, which includes the introduction of French, Music, PE and Dance in the Nursery Class, Ballet in the Pre-Prep and Spanish and Latin in the Prep.

We pride ourselves in addressing each child’s individual needs, and our SEND department provides outstanding support to children requiring additional help.

We are a non-selective school and our high standards of teaching ensure that pupils are well prepared for entrance examinations to a variety of senior schools. We are extremely

proud of our entrance exam success rates, and regularly achieve 100% success in getting our pupils into their schools of choice, including, Denstone College, Newcastle under Lyme School, Stafford Grammar, Newport Girls, Adams Grammar and St Joseph’s College.

At St. Joseph’s we offer a wide range of extra-curricular activities including music, cookery, art, fencing, archery, gardening, climbing wall club, chess club, dance workshop along with football, tennis, gymnastics, rugby, and netball club.

To assist our parents, we offer extended care at St Joseph’s and run a before and aftercare club which extends the school day from 7.30am to 6pm.

We also offer the 30 hours free Government funding which is available to all eligible children aged 3 to 5.

If you would like to arrange a tour of our school, please call 01782 417533 or email enquiries@stjosephsprepschool.co.uk.

Edenhurst Prep School welcomes new Headteacher

Edenhurst Preparatory School is this month welcoming Emma Mousley as its new Headteacher.

Emma brings extensive curriculum development and senior leadership experience to her new role at Edenhurst.

Most recently she was Deputy Head of Pastoral and Wellbeing at Repton Al Barsha, Dubai, where she had taught since 2013. Emma has also taught at St John’s Beaumont Preparatory School in Windsor and Yorston Lodge School in Knutsford, Cheshire.

Her appointment makes her the first female Headteacher at the independent school, which caters for children aged three months to 11 years.

Emma said, “I’m excited and honoured to be taking over as headteacher and joining the Edenhurst family. As soon as I had visited the school, met the pupils and seen how happy, confident, and willing they were I knew that Edenhurst was a place that shares my educational philosophy.”

“Edenhurst is a school that educates the

whole child, putting their wellbeing and happiness first, which strongly resonates with my own beliefs. It’s a place where children are allowed to enjoy their childhood and leave equipped with the knowledge, skills, attributes - and friendships - that will help them flourish in a rapidly changing world.”

Since its founding in 1961 Edenhurst Prep School has flourished, steadily building an excellent reputation in Staffordshire and the surrounding areas.

Rated ‘Excellent’ in all areas in its last ISI Inspection Report, Edenhurst supports older pupils during the transition to senior school, including preparing them for entrance examinations at leading Independent and Grammar schools across the region.

In addition to the school’s strong academic focus, Edenhhurst encourages children’s social, personal and creative skills with a broad extracurricular offering and specialist teaching in subjects including music, sport, art, science, languages and drama. For more information about Edenhurst Prep School visit www.edenhurst.co.uk

Emma Mousley, new Headteacher at Edenhurst Prep School.

Denstone College turns 150 years old!

On Saturday 24th June 2023 Denstone College welcomes you to the College to celebrate our 150 year milestone.

The theme of the day will be exploring “Heritage” and rightly so. We have a rich history and one that we are proud of. Not only that, our aim is to celebrate our own personal stories and individual cultures, discovering all the things that make us unique.

Please arrive from midday where you will find our food village open from 12pm serving delicious street food, and treats from vendors such as Project D Donuts. A classic car show, sporting and musical highlights across the campus PLUS the “Big Denstone Draw” - part of our first art & literary exhibition, featuring a live and interactive art installation where we imagine the future of the College 150 years from now.

We will be encouraging you to enter into the fun run and enjoy some of the funfair rides on offer.

The day will consist of the below; Music: Denstone College is home to a number of musical groups. From The Big Band, to Chapel Choir and everything inbetween. They will have a big presence on the day.

A Classic Car Show: If you have a classic car and would like to bring it on the day, please let us know. We will do our best to accommodate you.

A Fun Run: More details will be available closer to the time.

www.denstonecollege.org

Denstone College, Denstone, Staffordshire, ST14 5HN

A Food Village: Have you got a food stall that you would like to have involved during the day? We are looking for everything from drinks vendors to street food.

Father and son duo taking to the beat

Local policing teams (LPT) in Staffordshire Police have been bolstered with the arrival of a new family duo.

Matthew Stepney, aged 23, has followed in the footsteps of his father, Colin, after completing his training to become a Police Community Support Officer earlier this month.

He was presented with his certificate of training and formal police identification at the force’s headquarters in Stafford alongside his proud father, who now looks to impart nearly two-decades of experience into his eager protégé.

The family’s story with the force started back in June 2004 when Colin joined the Newcastle-under-Lyme LPT after being made redundant from his old job.

He said: “I wanted to join the force ever since I left school.

“At the time, the role of a PCSO was new in policing. I did a lot of researching and found out how much community contact and problem solving was involved and knew it was right for me personally.

“It’s given me such a strong sense of belonging in the local community and the opportunity to meet so many different people - whether that’s carrying out school talks, interacting with businesses, meeting residents or just walking through the beat and offering a helping hand.”

Colin quickly excelled in the role and was awarded PCSO Of The Year in 2008 – a moment which remains one of

his proudest. He covered Knutton, Cross Heath and now serves the communities in Kidsgrove.

It would appear the apple doesn’t fall very far from the tree either, as Colin’s son now looks to replicate his successes in his new role.

Colin said: “I’m so proud of Matt. He’s such a good person and will bring the next generation of officers into his new patch.

“He’s got everything it takes to be an excellent PCSO and I’m sure he will soon get the respect from his community – and who knows, maybe one day will be in my shoes and will welcome his own son or daughter into the force!”

PCSO Matthew Stepney will take to the beat in Stoke South LPT – closely neighbouring his dad’s local policing team in Newcastle.

New members welcome at music group

Amusic group in Newcastle is welcoming new members this new year.

The Ukulymies is a ukulele group based in Newcastle which has more than 50 members.

Group member Amanda Aarons said: “We are a ukulele group based in Newcastle, practising twice weekly at the Thistleberry Hotel and the Senior Citizens Centre.

“From a start-up of five members (who were told we wouldn’t last six weeks) we now have more than 50 members and just celebrated our sixth anniversary.

“As a not-for-profit performance group we donate 100 per cent of our performance fees to charity, with priority given to local causes.

“We entertain at open days, residential homes, weddings, parties, pubs, restaurants, supermarkets, shopping centres, railway stations, and wherever possible we tailor our set list to suit the venue/occasion.”

Amanda continued: “In December alone we raised over £1,000 for Marie Curie and Parkinsons UK.

“Other charities and causes we’ve been proud to donate to include: Lyme Trust Outreach Team; Donna Louise; Dougie Mac; Peter Pan Centre; UHNM Radiotherapy Department; Samaritans; Alice Charity; Aid to Ukraine; and many more.

“The Ukulymies actively welcome players of all abilities over the age of 18; most of our members are from the Newcastle area but some love our sessions so much they’re happy to travel (even on a winter’s night) from further afield such as from Biddulph, Talke, etc.

“We weren’t even daunted by lockdown with weekly rehearsals continuing on Zoom.”

For further information, go online to: www.ukulymies.com.

Large business development underway

Work has begun on a multi-millionpound Enterprise Zone development in Newcastle-under-Lyme.

The Chatterley Valley West development, which will sit on the brownfield site just off the A500, will see major private sector investment and an additional £3.7million of investment through the Kidsgrove Town Deal and £3.5million from Staffordshire County Council.

A spokesman for the council said: “The investment by the county council which will be paid back through business rates that are wholly retained within the area and can be used to help fund further regeneration schemes.

“Through the joint funding by both councils, essential roads and infrastructure at the site are now being delivered to pave the way for the development of industrial units. Outline planning permission for the site allows for up to 1.17 million square feet (109,000 sqm) of development.

“The development could create up to 1,700 jobs, will be one of the biggest business developments in the north of the county in decades. It lies within the Ceramic Valley Enterprise Zone, providing huge benefits to

businesses located there and the councils and local enterprise partnership partners.

Staffordshire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for economy and skills Philip White added: “Chatterley Valley is providing us with a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock a major parcel of disused industrial land, close to strategic transport links. It will enable existing businesses to expand and for new ones to invest in Staffordshire, from across the UK and internationally.

“As a key site on the A50/A500 corridor, demand for industrial and logistics space here is expected to be strong.

“The county council has a proven track record of working in partnership to successfully develop commercial sites which stimulate job creation and growth across the county.

Chatterley Valley West is a huge project and we’re pleased to see work get under way.”

Regeneration of town centre progresses

Plans to regenerate a key part of Newcastle town centre are moving forward.

Proposals for York Place could see two fourstorey shop and office developments, with public open space, between Ironmarket and Merrial Street.

The project ties in with the blueprint for the £30 million regeneration of the nearby Ryecroft area, with the building of a 100-bed hotel, 90

homes for over-55s and the headquarters of Aspire Housing, as well as a 450 space multistorey car park.

Now a new council report says it’s hoped demolition work of existing buildings in York Place can begin in summer 2023.

Simon Tagg, Leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, said: “York Place is an area that has an important position between the soon-tobe developed Ryecroft site and the wider town centre.

“We’ve been working closely with the developer and the proposals have been designed to fit in with the character of the town centre.

“Once this is completed, it will make a real difference to the area.”

The authority is working with remaining tenants in the current buildings to find them alternative premises nearby.

Once complete, the new buildings’ ground floors would be earmarked for food and drink outlets, or retail use, with office units above.

More than £3 million has been allocated for the purchase of the shopping centre, demolition work and to help move the affected businesses, after the Council successfully bid to the Department of Levelling up and Housing Communities’ Future High Street Fund.

The council acquired the site in March 2021 and appointed Willmott Dixon as the contractor. An application for planning permission has now been submitted with a decision expected by spring.

Stephen Sweeney, Deputy Leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council and Cabinet member for finance, town centres and growth, said: “This is all part of our wider work to regenerate the town centre and position it at the heart of economic, social and community life

in the borough.

“Once approved, these two flexible, contemporary buildings and a new public space will add to the mix of the town centre and help create greater footfall in what is currently an underused part of town.”

New town centre multi-storey car park

Building work on a new 450-space multistorey car park in Newcastle could begin in Spring to pave the way for wider development.

The car park development – to replace the ageing Midway which will be demolished to make way for homes – would underpin a £30 million regeneration of the Ryecroft area, with the blueprint for expansion including the building of a 100-bed hotel, 90 homes for over-55s and the headquarters of Aspire Housing.

It’s expected that up to 200 jobs could be created by the whole regeneration scheme, with another 319 indirect jobs supported in the supply chain.

And, in a nod to the town’s heritage as it approaches the 850th anniversary of its first Charter, the building will be named Castle Car Park.

Simon Tagg, Leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, said: “Castle Car Park will be the cornerstone of the wider Ryecroft redevelopment, which is a key part of our Future High Streets Fund plan and will ensure we have a vibrant town centre in Newcastle.

“A bright, safe, clean car park will encourage visitors to boost our local economy and paves the way for the hotel and residential units, which will follow over the next two years.”

Designs have already been drawn up by Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council’s contractor and, should the planning application be approved, wider infrastructure works across the whole Ryecroft masterplan site would begin.

In 2020 Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council secured £11 million from the Government’s Future High Street Fund for the Ryecroft development blueprint, with £3.5 million allocated to the car park development.

The planning application is due to be submitted in January and, if approved, it is anticipated that the car park would be completed in March 2024, complete with 40 electric vehicle charging points and 11 disability spaces. Access and exit will be via Liverpool Road.

Stephen Sweeney, Deputy Leader of Newcastleunder-Lyme Borough Council and Cabinet member for finance, town centres and growth, said: “By successfully applying for this funding we have been able to kick-start development on site, which will lead to millions of pounds’ worth of additional private sector investment and the creation of up to 200 jobs.

“In turn that should lead to greater footfall in the town centre, supporting our businesses and community.

“We look forward to seeing work begin at Castle Car Park in late spring subject to its planning approval.”

Countess meets supportive teams

Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex visited Newcastle recently to meet the teams working to provide support for those in need in the town.

A spokesman for Newcastle Borough Council said: “Her Royal Highness the Countess of Wessex visited Newcastle (recently) to meet the teams working to provide safe spaces for women in the evening in Newcastle town centre and also those involved in new initiatives to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping.

“The first stop was to the Women’s Safer Space unit at Lancaster Building. Here the countess met Michelle Hopper, the council’s senior partnerships officer as well as Catherine Fox, the Newcastle Partnerships and Vulnerability Officer, and Charlotte Pearce and Lianne Shea from the Business Improvement District (BID).”

The spokesman continued: “Catherine Fox

spoke to the countess about the Women’s Safer Space project, including showing her some of the items which can be offered to women seeking support, and also introduced her to some of the volunteers providing the service.

“Afterwards, Her Royal Highness met Gillian Taylor, the council’s lead officer for the Homes for Ukraine Scheme and some of the Ukrainian families currently living in the borough and their hosts.

“The Countess of Wessex then visited the Salvation Army offices in Bridge Street where Her Royal Highness met Krestal Al Daami, who leads the council’s homeless and Rough Sleepers Initiative (RSI). Krestal introduced her to the team and gave an overview of the service and what they are trying to achieve.

“The countess also spoke to several service users about the issues that they face and what is being done to help them and she thanked them for sharing their experiences.”

New season of shows for theatre in the round

The Spring and Summer 2023 programme of shows for the New Vic Theatre has been announced.

It has also recently been announced that the Newcastle theatre-in-the-round is to retain its status as a ‘National Portfolio Organisation’ for the next three years, 2023-2026, as part of the Arts Council’s programme of investment.

The new programme for the New Vic is set to offer a multitude of shows from classic drama to sparkling comedy.

A spokesman for the theatre said “Our spring season 2023 will feature fresh interpretations of some classic plays, alongside an innovative theatre experiment that shines a light on environmental awareness.

“From Stoke-born playwright Arnold Bennett’s uplifting and heartwarming portrayal of Stoke-onTrent in The Card to the environmentally aware A Play for The Living in a Time of Extinction, via a revival of hit comedy Ladies’ Day, a rare production of J.M. Barrie’s lesser known play Quality Street and a ’60s cult classic, the season’s collection of productions and innovative collaborations offers something of interest for everyone.

What’s on

Regular Events

Castle Artisan Market Every third Sunday of the month. Monthly Artisan Market held in the historic market town of Newcastle-under-Lyme. Celebrating the best local makers, bakers and creators with an exciting mix of live music and street food too.

Details: www.facebook.com/castleartisa n.

The General Market Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday between 9am and 4pm selling a wide range of goods.

“Opening on Friday, February 3 and running until Saturday, February 25, Ladies’ Day is the light-hearted tale of four women who swap their typical working day at the fish factory for the glamour of a trip to Royal Ascot. Written by Amanda Whittington (Kiss Me Quickstep, The Thrill of Love) and directed by Marieke Audsley, this aspirational story explores the values of friendship and optimism. A co-production with Octagon Theatre Bolton, the show brims with wryly observed humour and is odds on to become an audience favourite.

“The New Vic will then produce Quality Street, alongside Northern Broadsides. Written by J.M. Barrie (author of the much-loved Peter Pan), the story follows Phoebe Throssel, a character who seeks to rekindle romance through her youthful alter-ego Miss Livvy as her old flame reappears in town. In a rare revival of this famed play, Northern Broadsides’ Artistic Director Laurie Sansom brings to life the regency comedy with a playful Yorkshire twist from Friday, March 3 to Saturday, March 25.”

For further information go online to: www.newvictheatre.org.uk.

The Antiques Market Operated by the Antique Forum Group every Tuesday and Saturday between 8am and 3pm, selling a range of antiques, collectables and vintage items.

The Car Boot, Bric-a-Brac and Collectibles Market Operated by the Antique Forum Group every Thursday between 8am and 3pm, selling a range of bric-a-brac and collectable items.

The Farmers' Market Every fourth Friday of each month around the Guildhall and alongside the general market, between 9am and 2.30pm, bringing together food from local and regional producers and also periodic craft and creative makers.

For further details about

Newcastle’s markets, go online to: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk.

Rock Choir

9.30am-11am at The Community Hub, Newcastle Baptists Church. Cost: £25 a month. Details: www.rockchoir.com.

Please note that the information in this feature was correct at the time of print but all events are subject to change. Please check with the venues for updates. Do you have a public/community event coming up which you would like to appear in our What’s On feature? Email what, when, where, etc, to our Editor Belinda at hargreavespr@outlook.c om.

Here, the Member of Parliament for Newcastle-under-Lyme Aaron Bell continues his regular column for the Newcastle Life Magazine:

I hope everyone has had a Merry Christmas and is looking forward to an exciting year.

December 2022 marked three years since I was elected by the good people of Newcastle to be their Member of Parliament. It is the honour of my life to be the MP for the constituency of Newcastle-under-Lyme. I hope to continue this honour at the next General Election.

In 2023, we will be having a year-long celebration of the borough of Newcastle-underLyme; its history, its culture, and its people –past and present.

In 1173 Newcastle-under-Lyme was given a Royal Charter of Incorporation by King Henry II, making it a borough. Next year will be the 850th anniversary of the charter status.

The Royal Charter gave special rights and freedoms to Borough residents that went on to help shape the Borough as we know it. Perhaps most notably this included the right to hold an outdoor market, a long-held tradition that is still an important aspect of the town’s vitality and success.

Preparations are well under way to deliver an action-packed calendar of cultural and heritage activities throughout the year. This includes a celebration of famous and influential residents – past and present –involving civic events, exhibitions, film showings, talks, educational content and a range of familyfriendly activities.

We are very proud of our history in this Loyal and Ancient Borough, so I know the whole of Newcastle will be delighted by the year-long celebration planned by our borough council.

This year I will be continuing the fight to Stop the Stink and get justice and accountability over Walley’s Quarry, helping people through the cost-of-living crisis, delivering investment into our town centre, tackling antisocial behaviour and above all, always putting Newcastle first.

I will continue to do my bit to help make our special part of the country an even better place to live and work.

“We are very proud of our history in the borough”

MP Aaron Bell

Recognised for services to youth

ANewcastle man is among the first list of honours by HM King Charles III.

A medical researcher, entrepreneur and community stalwarts are among the Staffordshire residents recognised in His Majesty the King’s first Honours List.

Residents have been honoured with CBEs, MBEs and BEM for their services to older people, communities and for work during and since the pandemic.

Among those recognised in the New Year’s honours was Keele University graduate Elliott Lancaster, who was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to youth empowerment and sustainability for his work across a range of projects.

As well as being Director of Utter Rubbish Ltd, Elliott, who lives in Newcastle-under-Lyme, is a trustee of Spirit of Peace, the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, and the Wolfpack Project.

Alan White, Leader of Staffordshire County Council, said: “While publication of His Majesty’s first Honours List may bring a sense of the ‘new,’ I feel a great sense of continuity when I read about the work, commitment and achievements of those recognised.

“Staffordshire’s communities are built upon the efforts and spirit of their residents and I am always humbled by the contribution that people make, whether it is displaying the highest levels of professional expertise, or by volunteering to help make life better for those around them.”

Ian Dudson CBE, HM Lord-Lieutenant of

Staffordshire, said: “This first honours list in the name of His Majesty King Charles III is notable for the fact that it reflects the legacy of Her late Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee themes of young people, environmentalism and sustained public service.

“These themes are evident in the contributions of those Staffordshire residents honoured today.

“I send my warmest congratulations to them and couple thanks to everyone in the county for their contributions to local communities and in support of our monarchy.”

Also recognised in His Majesty’s Honours were:

CBE, for Prof Janet Mary Lord, of Barton under Needwood, Professor of Immune Cell Biology and Director of the MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research at the University of Birmingham, for services to older people.

CBE, for Jatinder Kumar Sharma OBE, of Perton, Principal of Walsall College, for services to Further Education.

MBE, for Michael John Allen, of Haughton, Chairman of Haughton Parish Council, for services to the community in Staffordshire.

MBE, for Angela Mary Ham, of Lichfield, lately the head of business support services at the National Memorial Arboretum, for services to national commemoration.

MBE, for Dr Atiya Kamal, of Burton upon Trent, Health Psychologist and Senior Lecturer at the School of Social Sciences at Birmingham City University, for services to health psychology during Covid-19.

BEM, for Sarah Jane Coffey, of Lichfield, executive assistant to the CEO of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, for services to sport.

BEM, for Albert Gordon John Dale, of Edingale, for his services to the community in Edingale.

BEM, for Arthur Leonard Renshaw, of Marchington, 40 years a member of the local parish council, for services to the community in Draycott in the Clay.

Also honoured, with an MBE, was Catherine May Nash, of Ashbourne, recently the manager of the vaccination centre at Burton’s Pirelli Stadium, for services to the community of East Staffordshire.

King Charles III

Snowdrops symbolise hope

Snowdrops are one of the first flowers of the year, traditionally putting on a show for Candlemas, (February 2) and they symbolise Hope. Climate change is now seeing Snowdrops flower earlier and earlier.

Snowdrops flower well in moist shade, although they too don’t like waterlogging. The bulbs notoriously dry out rapidly out of the soil so it’s best to plant them when growing and flowering. Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time. Many nurseries sell them “in the green”; as bunches of leafy bulbs freshly dug from the soil just after flowering has finished. Dry bulbs rarely succeed. Add compost or leaf mould to the soil and plant about 4in / 10cm deep. Once you have an established clump you can sit back and enjoy the show year after year. There’s no need to cut back the leaves after flowering as they feed the bulbs and soon die back naturally. If you are growing your snowdrops in grass, avoid mowing until the leaves die back.

If your snowdrops eventually become shy of flowering, it’s time to dig them up before they die back and divide the clumps before replanting in refreshed soil.

The only problem you are likely to encounter is that squirrels and less commonly mice will dig up the bulbs when you first plant them. Physical barriers such as rabbit wire can deter squirrels; lay as a sheet across the area, weighted down and hidden by a mulch of leaves or make a dome or frame to cover smaller areas.

Snowdrops can be confused with snowflakes (Leucojum) some of which also flower in spring, others in summer. These can be planted from dry bulbs more successfully. The spring flowering ones are varieties of L.vernum; the summer ones tend to be a lot taller.

There are now many hundreds of varieties of snowdrop and collectors, known as Galanthophiles, pay big money for rare and new varieties. For the less smitten gardener there are plenty of common varieties at reasonable prices; the choice is for single or double flowers and green or yellow markings.

Snowdrops can be planted alongside other early flowering bulbs and corms such as crocus, cyclamen and dog’s tooth violet. They also associate well with hellebores, winter aconite and

winter flowering shrubs like lonicera or viburnum. In all cases it’s best to keep the snowdrops in clumps for greater impact.

Pottertons Alpine Nursery offer a great range of bulbs and potted plants. They attend some of our Plant Hunters’ Fairs or visit www.pottertons.co.uk for more details.

Martin Blow

Janet & I run Plant Hunters’ Fairs, specialist plant fairs at wonderful locations offering special reduced entry rates to the gardens on the plant fair dates.

Plant Fair dates for 2023:

Sugnall Walled Garden, Eccleshall on Saturday 25th March, Garden and Fair £1.

The Dorothy Clive Garden on Sunday 9th and Monday 10th April, Garden and Fair £5. Cholmondeley Castle Garden on Sunday 23rd April, Garden and Fair price tbc.

Weston Park on Sunday 30th April & Monday 1st May, Garden and Fair £4.

Capesthorne Hall, Macclesfield on Sunday 14th May, Gardens and Fair £4.

Please check www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk for event status before travelling. Some venues may require tickets to be purchased in advance.

COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

Let’s get quizzical get quizzical

1 The world-famous American highway Route 66 originally ran from Santa Monica in California in the west to which city in the east?

2 In the James Bond films, Bond typically receives his gadgets from a member of the British Secret Service named ‘Q’; for what single word does this letter ‘Q’ stand?

3 In 1994, which Japanese manufacturer of automotive parts created the QR (“quick response”) code as a way to track components during the manufacturing process?

4 Which England Lioness went into the jungle camp on I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!?

5 Rishi Sunak finally decided to attend COP27 in November which was held in which country?

6 32 year-old Syabira won which television programme in November?

7 Where did Changeover Day take place on 14 February, 1966?

8 Which two South American countries have Atlantic and Pacific coastlines?

9 Noah replaced Oliver as what last year?

10 Who did England play first at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar?

11 Who replaced Kwasi Kwarteng as Chancellor of the Exchequer?

12 Over one thousand Paddington Bear toys and similar teddies left in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II went to which charity?

13 Three contestants in the 2022 Strictly Come Dancing shared which surname?

14 What does the K in the mountain K2 stand for?

15 Whose estate trademarked the title “queen of crime”?

16 Which award is known as the animals’ Victoria Cross?

17 What weapon is named after a French Basque city?

18 Who won the 2022 Formula One Drivers Championship?

19 Elizabeth Debicki took over from Emma Corrin as Princess Diana in which Netflix series?

20 Who plays the title character in the new Disney+ series Wednesday?

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

Creativity awarded at care village

Acollaborative project aiming to tackle loneliness amongst older people living at Belong Newcastle-under-Lyme care village has been recognised with a national award win commending the positive impact on participants’ wellbeing, as well as the strategic creative approach to caring for those living with dementia.

A spokesman for the organisation said: “We Belong Together (WBT) was devised through Belong’s partnership with Liverpool’s contemporary arts centre, the Bluecoat to support customers residing at Belong care villages when government intervention placed them in lockdown, limiting social interaction. Critically acclaimed artists ran weekly virtual sessions with tenants, using a range of art forms, including ceramics, sound and storytelling.

“The initiative has been crowned winner at the National Activity Providers Association (NAPA) awards, taking home the Year of Creativity Award. Judges were impressed by the increased wellbeing experienced by those involved, and more widely, Belong’s use of creativity and arts as part of its approach to dementia care. They praised the village team as ‘truly dedicated to thinking creatively, trying new things and involving everyone, every day.”

Emma Palin, experience coordinator at Belong Newcastleunder-Lyme, continued: “We’re thrilled to accept this arts award, both for us and for the Bluecoat. Their workshops gave our customers something to look forward to during a very challenging time.

“Our belief is that activities are more than just a way to keep customers entertained; it’s about providing opportunities for purpose or to keep people connected, supporting them in meaningful occupation

where they can contribute their ideas. The arts in particular are a vehicle for enhancing wellbeing and fostering relationships, both of which have tremendous health benefits, as seen during the lockdown.”

Betty Ritchie, Participation Manager at the Bluecoat, added: “We are thrilled that We Belong Together has received the Year of Creativity Award from NAPA. WBT gave us the opportunity to connect and engage in meaningful creative activity with Belong tenants at a time when in person activity wasn't possible. Thanks to our artists, Brigitte Jurack, Alan Dunn and Gav Cross, for their imaginative and innovative approaches to running remote sessions, Belong for their amazing enthusiasm and commitment, and to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and Arts Council England for the funding that enabled us to deliver this project.”

Since 2019, Belong’s customers have worked closely with artists commissioned by the Bluecoat to promote wellbeing through creative pursuits and evaluate the use of arts for people living with dementia. The partnership commenced with ‘artist residencies’ which initially saw artists working in Belong villages, leading an array of art forms, ranging from storytelling and sculpture to sound art and dance.