Newcastle Life Issue 40

ISSUE 40

by Wes Webster Photography

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Mother Nature smiling upon us

Belinda

Spring is a fabulous time of year when Mother Nature really does smile upon us as we start to witness lots of signs of new life as we walk out in the great outdoors.

And what a lovely scenic area of England we live in to be able to see such wonders.

As I think about the joy of Spring and feel blessed to be living in our lovely area, my heart goes out to all involved in the multitude of tragedies across the world. The ongoing war in Ukraine, and the fatal earthquakes of Turkey and Syria, are just two such devastating situations which are currently occurring in our world.

On a lighter note, in this edition of the Newcastle Life Magazine, we feature one of our young fundraising stalwarts who has been going above and beyond to help others; we also take a look at what’s coming up for this years 850 Market Charter Anniversary celebrations for the town; and we delve into what’s been happening at a number of community and sport groups.

If you have a story to tell about life in Newcastle –please email me at hargreavespr@outlook.com.

Until next time – take care!

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“It’s nice to be nice”

Ayoungster from Newcastle has been pulling out all the stops to help those in need.

Seth Leigh, aged ten, has been donating and fundraising for causes throughout Staffordshire since the beginning of the pandemic lockdown, when he started off by baking and selling cakes with the proceeds being donated to the Covid ward at Royal Stoke Hospital.

Along with raising money for the Royal Stoke Children’s Ward, Seth has also helped his mum, Jodie Leigh, cook more than 800 meals for the homeless and people in need, as well as collecting food parcels.

Recently, Seth, who lives in Newcastle, has been working alongside Morrison’s in Cheadle, where he collected the ‘Christmas Community Donations’ from the store and has since delivered and distributed to people in and around the community.

A spokesman for Morrisons Cheadle said: “This young lad, Seth, is a true inspirational hero, he does so much for raising funds and giving to charities, and works closely with the intervention team, a very worthy cause.

“He was amazed to receive the Xmas community donations from Cheadle store which were delivered and distributed in and around our

communities.

“Well done Seth.”

Seth wished to give thanks to those that have helped him donate and said: “Thank you to all of the Morrisons Family.

“Thank you to all of my family and friends, and my followers on Facebook who always support and donate.”

Seth’s parents, Sheryl and Jodie, are unbelievably proud of their sons kindness and Jodie said: “We burst with pride every time.

“Covid certainly sparked a thought for Seth, seeing people in need. Everyone is so proud and the support they show him is incredible.”

Telling us more abut Seth’s plans for the future, Jodie told us: “Seth has already spoken about children’s clothing donations and cooking more meals. He is also excited about the Easter Egg Collection again.”

Seth wants to encourage more people to fundraise for charities and those in need and, reflecting on his fundraising journey so far, he said: “It’s nice to be nice.”

If you would like to know more about Seth and his fundraising, please go online to his Facebook Page ‘Seth Mission.’

Milestone year for town’s museum

A museum in Newcastle is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year.

Brampton Museum, which is situated in Brampton Park, opened its doors in 1943 in the Lancaster buildings, before moving to the Brampton in 1956.

A spokesman for the museum said: “This is the only photo we have that shows the old museum. Do you have any? We’d love to see them.”

The team at the museum are currently hosting an ‘80 years of History at Newcastle Museum’ exhibition in the Spotlight Gallery until March 26.

Opening times are Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 5pm;

and Sundays from 1.30pm until 5pm. For further information, go online to: www.facebook.com/bramptonmuseum.

Multitude of artists in the spotlight

Apopular music focused festival is making a welcome return to Newcastle this Spring.

Artists from across the county are back in the spotlight for Lymelight 2023 which is set to take place over the April bank holiday weekend.

The three-day festival takes place on April 28, 29 and 30, celebrating a variety of local talent whilst providing free entertainment for all ages to enjoy.

Founded in 2013, Lymelight Festival has seen hundreds of local bands perform in the town centre and Newcastle-under-Lyme BID, supported by PH Productions, are pleased to be bringing the very best local talent from across the county back into the Lymelight for the tenth year running.

Lucas Yeomans, Radio Presenter said: “Lymelight Festival has become a staple part of the local music scene, it’s helped artists build relationships with each other but also allowed them the platform to be discovered by presenters like myself, which gives them a pathway to getting radio airplay and a continuous chance to grow their audience.

“It’s become a festival synonymous with the bank holiday weekend and brings a great amount of footfall to the town centre. Festivals like this are essential for the community and helping to build Staffordshire’s presence beyond its own patch.”

More than 40 bands are set to perform across the weekend across two outdoor stages in the town centre and throughout the town’s bars during the evening. A variety of food and drink vendors will also be on offer as well as an Artisan Market held on the Sunday.

Peter Herbert, Director of PH Productions said: “Lymelight has an incredible heritage with almost ten years of showcasing and supporting our local music scene.

“We are keen to build on that existing reputation this year, working with Lee Barber from the Underground Stoke, and supported by local music show, Honey Box Live, Lymelight 2023 is set to be the finest festival yet staging the best creative talent in Staffordshire.

“Organised by Newcastle-under-Lyme BID, the event is set to bring additional footfall into the town centre as well as supporting the local town centre businesses and placing local music on the map.”

To keep up to date with the latest Lymelight news and line up announcement follow @lymelightfestival on social media.

More warm spaces thanks to funding

Residents in Newcastle who are struggling to heat their homes this winter due to soaring energy bills are being invited to visit a number of warm spaces across the town.

A network of community venues providing heated, safe and welcoming places to gather for free during the colder months – where visitors can often enjoy hot food and drink as well as some company – has been enhanced following funding from Staffordshire County Council and the Newcastleunder-Lyme Borough Council.

A spokesman for the borough council said: “The borough council is distributing grants of up to £500 to voluntary, community and charity organisations who have successfully applied to open up new warm spaces, or extend the opening hours of existing venues, in each of the county council divisions in the borough.

“New locations include Chesterton Community Centre, Halmer End Methodist Church and Kidsgrove Rotary Food Hub.

A full directory of warm spaces in the borough is available at www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk/warmspaces.

Leader of the borough council, councillor Simon Tagg said: “The cost of living crisis in the UK is

placing unprecedented pressures on people who are already struggling to make ends meet, despite a range of national support measures.

“Because of significant increases in living costs –for example the average energy bill has rocketed to around £2,500 a year – thousands of residents in Newcastle-under-Lyme are being forced to make tough decisions such as when and what they eat and when they can afford to heat their homes.

“We want to do as much as possible to help residents in these really difficult times.”

Cllr Tagg added: “Thanks to funding from the county council, and further financial support from ourselves, we’ve been able to work quickly with local groups and organisations to facilitate access to a much wider network of warm spaces, places where they can come together to keep warm and often enjoy a cup of tea and food such as biscuits, soup or oatcakes.

“As well as searching for warm spaces on the council’s website, residents can also access help, guidance and signposting services on wider cost of living issues such as health and well-being, community support, food and essentials, childcare support, money and housing.”

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Spreading the seeds for more wildlife

The GRCF (Green Recovery Challenge Fund) Wilder Stoke Wilder Newcastle project is creating a series of new wildflower meadows across six local authority-owned parks and nature reserves in Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme.

Last summer, volunteers helped to harvest wildflower seeds from the Trust’s Bateswood Nature Reserve, near to Silverdale. The charity then worked with volunteers to spread the seeds to create new meadows at Chatterley Whitfield Heritage Park, Central Forest Park, Coyney Woods and Holden Lane Pools in Stoke-onTrent, Bateswood and Lymedale in Newcastle-under-Lyme.

Councillor Trevor Johnson, Cabinet member for environment and recycling at Newcastleunder-Lyme Borough Council, said: “We’re delighted to support Staffordshire Wildlife Trust with this exciting project to improve nature, wildlife and biodiversity while also enhancing the appearance of our landscape.

“The sowing of more wildflower meadow areas, which will increase the number of local sites established in recent years, will help to offset a national decline in these important and diverse habitats while providing food and shelter for many species of wildlife. In particular, they provide essential supplies of pollen and nectar for important pollinators such as bees which play a vital role in supporting the eco-system.

“The more diversity we have in our natural habitats, then the more bees, birds, animals and other insects there will be.”

The ground preparation was carried out in the autumn, and involved cutting, baling and removing grass in specified areas across each site with currently limited habitat for wildlife.

After the ground was prepared, local native wildflower seeds were sown and the first flowers are set to begin to appear in late spring and summer this year.

Wilder Stoke, Wilder Newcastle (WSWN) is a Green Recovery Challenge Fund (GRCF) project delivered by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council.

Project Manager, Liz Peck said: “These new meadows will contain hundreds of nectar-rich wildflowers, which will help to support dwindling populations of pollinating insects such as bees, butterflies and moths. In turn, these insects will

provide food for wildlife such as birds and bats.

“The wildflower seed mix we collected at Bateswood includes southern marsh orchids, oxeye daisy, ragged robin, common knapweed, common bird’s-foot trefoil and yellow rattle. After the ground has been prepared it may look a little bare, but next year we hope to be rewarded with lots of different wildflowers that will support many wild creatures.”

Wilder Stoke Wilder Newcastle aims to provide more diverse and resilient habitats across those sites, as well as improved access to and awareness of urban habitats.

A spokesman further explained: “This approach will lead to those habitats supporting a wider range of species in greater abundance. For example, amenity grassland is very common in urban green spaces but is either mown regularly and kept short, or left without any management at all.

“Neither provide diverse habitats, with only a handful of species present in often over-enriched soil.

“By using meadow management methods, such as taking an annual cut of hay, reintroducing wildflowers and other herb species, we can restore healthy and suitable soil conditions to produce a diverse range of flowers. This will support pollinators - insects such as butterflies, bees and hoverflies. As small birds and mammals arrive to feed on the increasing food sources, both seeds and invertebrates, eventually predators will follow such as sparrow hawks, kestrels and owls.

Community Engagement Officer Hannah Picken is working to encourage communities in Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme to visit their local green spaces. Hannah reveals: “There will be plenty of activities and events for people to further explore these areas.

“Sessions will involve surveying, conservation and wild play as well as activities within schools.

“Family events such as nature trails, woodland art sessions and litter picks will take place throughout the project.

For further information about the project, go online to: www.wilderstokewildernewcastle.co.uk.

Getting close to wildlife

Youngsters from a Newcastle nursery have been enjoying a spot of birdwatching.

Children from Giggles & Wiggles Brampton have been joining representatives from the Newcastle Borough Council Green Team for the wildlife initiative.

A spokesman for the council said: “Newcastle’s 2023 Bloom campaign got off to a flying start as little ones from Giggles & Wiggles Brampton enjoyed the great outdoors and took part in the RSPB Big Schools’ Birdwatch at Brampton Park.

“We saw lots of birds including a blue tit, sparrow and magpies.”

“The place to try something different”

Trentham Canoe Club was established in 2006 to promote and develop canoeing in the area.

The club shares their facilities with the local rowing club (Trentham Boat Club) and together they make up the Trentham Watersports Association.

Trentham Canoe Club offers a multitude of activities including: Kayaks for solo paddling; Canoe for solo or tandem paddling; Coracle a fun challenge; Racing Boat using speed, tactics and stamina; Bell Boat for multiple paddlers; V6 Outrigger a crew boat for six people to work together Hawaii-Five-O style; Dragon Boat which is based on an ancient Chinese team boat for up to 22 paddlers; Canoe Polo which is like a combination of kayaking and basketball with a little bit of rugby thrown in; and Stand Up Paddleboarding.

A spokesman for the club said: “Having this great mix of craft means we can offer a gentle paddle using a Kayak, Canoe or Paddleboard, or something more competitive like Racing Kayaks or the Canoe Polo team perhaps join a crew boat of six on the Hawaiian V6 Outriggers or paddling our Dragon Boat crewed by up to 22, there is something for everyone to try.

“You don’t need experience, and most craft

are suitable for people from aged eight, with no upper age limit.

“Our brilliant coaches are experienced and patient and paddling is fabulous fun which can have great physical and mental health benefits (you can only think of paddling).”

The spokesman continued: “Based on Trentham Estate Lake, it is a beautiful and safe place to learn the basics or improve your techniques.

“Why not try some of the other disciplines too, it’s never too late to learn something new and our taster sessions allow you try different crafts under the safe guidance of our experienced and friendly coaches.

“We also offer a six-week introduction course and you can gain a basic paddling award which of course makes all the difference to your confidence but booking is essential.

“Trentham canoe Club is a registered CASC (Community Amateur Sports Club) making it a not-for-profit organisation and thereby allowing fees to be kept as affordable as possible.”

For further information go online to: www.trenthamcanoeclub.co.uk, or email info@trenthamcanoeclub.co.uk.

Lots of outdoor space at Clayton Hall

As we look towards the uplifting season of Spring, I recently read an interesting piece of research about the impact of trees and open green spaces on our mental health and well-being. At Clayton Hall Academy, we are lucky enough to have these in abundance.

Our extensive grounds are well used by our students and local community - we have tennis courts, a large astroturf and several large openfield spaces, all of which are used for a wide range of sporting activities. In addition, our school buildings themselves are set amongst a wonderful woodland, a walled garden and lots of open space in which to bring learning to life and bring calm to our lives. At this time of year, when the daffodils are in full bloom, it really is an astonishingly beautiful place to work and study.

Our students are passionate about the environment, our eco schools club recently achieved the internationally recognized ‘Eco School status’. Students have implemented increased recycling across the Academy,

produced and hung biodegradable bird feeders and recently took part in the RSPB big birdwatch. They have also been potting-up plants for classrooms to bring the outside inside! At Clayton Hall Academy we believe strongly in fresh air and time spent in wide open spaces. This was praised by the AcSEED Initiative when we achieved the ‘AcSEED Award for Supporting Mental Health in Schools’.

Caty Reid Principal

“Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat.”

Laura Ingalls Wilder

The Westlands Restaurant at Newcastle Golf Club

When you ask, ‘where shall we go for diner?’ the Golf Club is not always the first place that comes to mind! Newcastle GC are offering something a little different to the usual.

Whilst most golf clubs are for members and guests only The Westlands at Newcastle GC is open to the public, everyone is welcome. Guests can call ahead or book online and will be greeted with a warm reception from the small team of friendly staff.

The Head Chef Gavin Gemza has been turning heads amongst golfers since joining the team at NGC 5 years ago, we recommend a visit to sample his menu. Food at the Westlands is all homemade prepared freshly each day.

Sunday Lunch and the Eggs Benedict for breakfast are the Chefs’ favourites.

There is a comfortable, relaxed, and traditional feel with the restaurant. During the summer months diners can request a table on the sunshine terrace overlooking the golf course. On a warm day with the sun out the terrace has a very Mediterranean feeling.

Breakfast is served from 8am 7 days a week. The restaurant is open every Thursday evening and Sunday lunch is available twice each month. Booking ahead is recommended.

More details can be found at www.newcastlegolfclub.co.uk/the-westlandsrestaurant/

“Something for visitors of all ages”

within the Show including the Sheep Shearing and Wool Handling Competitions, the Farriery Competition where blacksmiths compete to make the perfect horseshoe before using it to shoe a horse, the Egg, Cavy (guinea pigs and hamsters) and Rabbit Show together with the Bee & Honey Show with its working hive.

TheStaffordshire County Show will be held on Wednesday, May 31, and Thursday, June 1.

The show offers something for visitors of all ages. Youngsters will enjoy riding on the narrowgauge steam railway or traditional attractions such as Punch & Judy and donkey rides.

Teenagers and adults will be thrilled by the Bolddog Lings Motorcycle Display Team as they perform heart stopping stunts in the Main Ring. Whilst the next generation of farmers will be inspired by the first-class entries in the livestock competitions which are held across the Showground.

The show, which is held at the Staffordshire County Showground on Weston Road, some four miles from Stafford, is one of the area’s major events of the summer and is expected to attract more than 65,000 visitors.

During the school half-term holidays the show offers a full day out for all the family from as little as £42 for two adults and up to three children. A packed Main Ring programme includes a range of attractions, in addition to the Bolddog Lings Motorcycle Display Team, the Young Farmer’s Floats (Thursday) which this year has a theme of ‘A Day in History,’ show jumping (Wednesday), the Grand Parade of Livestock as well as the Parade of Hounds (Wednesday).

New for this year in the Country Pursuits Arena is an incredible demonstration of dog agility and obedience from the West Lancs Dog Display Team. Visitors can also watch the birds of prey display, the ferret roadshow, have a go at fly casting or sit back and learn all about sheep with the Sheep Show.

Around the Showground there will be demonstrations of traditional rural crafts such as thatching, coracle making and drystone walling as well as a display of vintage cars and agricultural machinery.

However, at the heart of this traditional county show that has been held for over 200 years is livestock with over a thousand cattle, sheep, pigs and goats and over fifteen hundred horses and ponies.

There are a number of competitions and shows

In addition the Dog Show will attract around 2,000 dogs representing every breed of dog in the UK, so if you thinking of buying a dog this is an ideal opportunity to compare the various breeds and talk to their owners.

Children of all ages are especially well catered for with a children’s farm, fairground rides and the opportunity to have their picture taken with the giant tortoises that are up to 80 years old. Shopaholics will be able to browse over four hundred trade stands selling everything from cars to hot tubs.

In addition there is a food hall with a further 50 stands selling a range of mouth-watering local produce for immediate consumption or fresh and packaged items to take home.

When it’s time to take a break what better way to relax than having a picnic next to the bandstand listening to the brass band or the jazz band. However, for something more tranquil there is a twenty-acre wood – ideal for a walk in the shade or a quiet picnic.

Once again the show organisers are delighted that Rea Valley Tractors and Dunstall Holdings will be the event’s main sponsor.

Early Bird tickets, which offer a substantial saving on the gate price, are on sale now until midnight on May 27 to print at home or download to your phone.

Further details about the show and details of how to purchase early bird tickets are available on the website at www.staffscountyshowground.co.uk or follow the show at Facebook@staffscountyshow.

Top of the board for chess club

The Newcastle-under-Lyme Chess Club are currently joint 5th in The World Chess League.

Newcastle Chess Club Online Captain, Peter Hornsby, said: “Our chess club recently won their Round 6 match to break into the top 20 teams in the World Chess League.

“We are ahead of the likes of Harvard University and Stockholm Chess Club.”

Newcastle is also top of division 2 in the North Staffordshire League.

Peter said of their players: “The team has been strengthened by Fide Master, and Welsh Olympiad player, Jonathan Blackburn who recently made his online debut for the team against Aberdeen, winning both his games.

“Jonathan coaches Newcastle Juniors and teaches chess across Staffordshire such as at Seabridge and Westlands Primary School.

“The team also stars Dylan Cooper, who recently became Staffordshire's Under-18 Champion.

“His father Dylan Cooper also plays in the team. Notably, Greg Cannon is a new member having recently been in the Marines.”

The Newcastle online club was set up by Peter in January this year, and it has 12 members in the online club. People can join here: www.chess.com/club/newcastle-underlyme.

The club also meets in person at 7.30pm on

Wednesday evenings at The Bridge Club: 6 King Street, Cross Heath, Newcastle-underLyme.

Peter said: “Furthermore, Newcastle-underLyme Chess Club are setting up a ‘Best Newcastle in the World’ tournament at www.ecforum.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=50 43&start=5460.

“So far Newcastle-upon-Tyne Chess Club and Newcastle University have signed up.”

For Round 7 of the World Chess League, Newcastle have been drawn against Oxford University.

Peter said: “They have several international titled players so we will be against it, but it’s a great challenge and huge opportunity for the club.”

Meet the Easter Animals

Thursday 6 April 1pm - 2pm £10

Play with Clayfamily fun

Tuesday 4 April 10.30am - 12.30pm £3

Comic book artjust for teens with grow north staffs

Wednesday 12 April 11am - 2pm

Pay what you can

Poetry and amusing anecdotes

Growing up in Newcastle-under -Lyme: a stand up event by Nick Degg

Friday 28 April 12noon - 2pm £5

Reminiscence with Kath Reynolds

Thursday 13 April & 2nd Thursday of each month

10.30am - 12pm £3

Musical Moments with Vicky Thornton

Thursday 4 May & 1st Thursday of each month 1.30pm - 2.30pm £5

Fascinating Folk of Newcastle: Vera Brittain

Film Show £5

Thursday 20 April 2pm - 3.15pm

Illustrated Talk £5

Thursday 27 April 2pm - 3.15pm

Chair-a-cise

A fun, friendly exercise class with Allyson

Every Thursday* 11am - 12pm £4

*Later time (12.15pm) 2nd Thursday of each month

Restorative Yoga

Gentle stretches and mindfulness with Aurelija

Every Friday 2pm - 3pm £4

Awards for top tourism and hospitality

Tourism and hospitality organisations across the county have been recognised at this years Enjoy Staffordshire Tourism and Good Food Awards.

Businesses from across the county gathered at the Doubletree by Hilton Stoke-on-Trent for the awards event this Spring.

An audience of more than 280 guests saw the winners of 20 categories announced, including National Memorial Arboretum (Large Visitor Attraction of the Year), Lower Drayton Farm (Small Visitor Attraction of the Year), and Lunar (Independent Restaurant of the Year).

The Tawny in Consall was named Hotel of the Year, while The Duncombe Arms in Ellastone was Pub of the Year, and Pom’s Kitchen & Deli in Lichfield won the Tea Room/Coffee Shop of the Year award.

The Experience of the Year went to National Memorial Arboretum, for their Tailor Made Tour, while New Business of the Year was Lunar, and Denstone Hall Farm Shop, near Uttoxeter, was the Food & Drink Retailer/Farm Shop of the Year.

B&B and Guest House of the Year was Black Lion Inn in Butterton, and the Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year award went to Weston Park Holiday Cottages, on the StaffordshireShropshire border.

And there were wins for The ‘Stones’ Market in Newcastle-under-Lyme, in the Resilience & Innovation, The Trentham Estate’s Carol Adams in the Unsung Hero categories, and Alton Towers Resort, which was successful in the Accessible & Inclusive Tourism and the Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable Tourism categories for the second year

running.

There was also a special award for Outstanding Contribution to Tourism in Staffordshire presented to Colin Sweeney, CEO of Weston Park, in recognition of his work to position the estate as a premier destination.

Councillor Philip White, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member with responsibility for tourism at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Our annual tourism awards are an important event that we look forward to each year. They give us a great opportunity to celebrate all those working in the sector to give visitors a great experience of our wonderful county.

“We’re a brilliant visitor destination with so much on offer and I’d like to say a huge congratulations to all the winners and to those highly recommended.”

Cllr White continued: “It’s great to see such a range of businesses from larger more established attractions to some of our smaller independently owned businesses being recognised.

“They should all be extremely proud of their achievements and the great job they do in attracting more and more visitors, generating millions of pounds per month for our economy and sustaining tens of thousands of jobs.”

The winners of 16 categories progress to represent Staffordshire at the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, to be held in June 2023.

Full details of all winners can be found at www.enjoystaffordshire.com/visitorinformation/award-winners.

Celebrating past, present and future

Ayear-long celebration of Newcastle’s past and future has been launched to mark a historic anniversary.

Newcastle-under-Lyme was incorporated as a borough 850 years ago by Royal Charter and now the borough council is celebrating the landmark.

Residents, businesses and visitors will be able to join in events, activities and projects intended to strengthen communities and leave a legacy.

Leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, councillor Simon Tagg, said: “This town, this borough, is steeped in history and it’s important we take time to celebrate and reflect on the spirit and determination of people who made the town thrive and prosper through the centuries.

“This years events will mark that determination and commemorate the borough’s notable sons and daughters of years past, while celebrating the contributions of current residents and encouraging leaders of the future to benefit from the world-class university on our doorstep.”

Among the many events planned this year is the

inaugural event recognising residents’ achievements, with a ‘Newcastle Heroes’ awards ceremony at the Mayor’s Ball. Categories for the awards are set to include Community Champion, Young Hero and Lifetime Achievement.

Other highlights of the 850th anniversary legacy programme include planting lime trees and an ‘Aspiration Keele’ programme to encourage studying at the university.

Celebratory events include ceremonial mugs for primary school pupils involved in the programme, film shows, tie-ins with the Lymelight Festival, fireworks display and a medieval re-enactment weekend in June.

Speaking after a launch event for sponsors, cllr Tagg added: “I hope that these celebrations reach many different parts of our community, uniting residents of all ages in a shared appreciation of this Borough’s special nature.

“I’m particularly excited by the work with primary schools. Knowing your local area’s history, where you are from and what makes it stand out is an essential part of taking pride in your roots and I hope this year leaves younger residents with a strong sense of what it is to be from here.”

Organisations partnering and sponsoring the year’s celebration include: Aspire Housing; The Community Foundation; Keele University; Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce and Options Management; Aaron Bell, MP for Newcastle-under-Lyme; Newcastle-underLyme Conservative Association; Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council’s Conservative Group; Newcastle-under-Lyme Business Improvement District; and Sharpe Pritchard.

Recognising inspirational county folk

Aspecial event has taken place to celebrate inspirational Staffordshire folk.

The event at Brampton Museum was part of the current year-long celebrations of the 850 years of Newcastle’s Royal Charter.

A spokesman for Brampton Museum said: “Great start to our 850th anniversary programme at Brampton Museum with a well-attended celebration of inspirational Staffordshire folk, ranging from circus impresario Philip Astley to film-maker Shane Meadows and author Arnold Bennett.”

Council Leader Simon Tagg delivering a presentation at an 850 launch event at Brampton Museum

CELEBRATING NEWCASTLE

Newcastle 850 Event Calendar

Here is a list of just some of the events which are still yet to take place as part of the celebrations of Loyal and Ancient Borough of Newcastle-under-Lyme’s 850th anniversary of the granting of the first charter.

March 31: Mayor’s Ball and 850th Heroes Awards.

April: Theme – Writing and Literature

5th: History of the Burgess, talk at St Giles Church, free.

20th: Film Show at Museum, Vera Brittain at 2pm, £5.

27th: Talk at Museum - Vera Brittain at 2pm, £5.

28th: Poetry and amusing anecdotes - Nick Degg at 12pm, £5.

29th-30th: Lymelight Festival in Newcastle town centre.

29th April – 9th July:

Charters/850 Exhibition at the Museum.

May: Theme - Military

4th: ‘About Time’ Dance event at Newcastle College.

18th: Military Matters Film

Show at Museum at 2pm, £5.

25th: Talk at Museum– Thomas Harrison at 2pm, £5.

27-29th: Jazz & Blues FestivalNewcastle Town Centre.

June: Theme – Big Celebration/Performing Arts

3rd: Celebrate Newcastle, 1173 Medieval day - Museum and Brampton Park, Free.

15th: Film Show at MuseumPhilip Astley at 2pm, £5.

18th: 850 Market in Newcastle Town Centre.

24th: Tri Services Armed Forces Day in Newcastle Town Centre.

29th: Talk - Philip Astley by Andrew Van Buren at 2pm, £5.

July: Theme – Sports

1st: 1920’s Jazz Day at MuseumJake Legg Jugg Band.

20th: Film Show Sporting Heroes at Museum at 2pm, £5.

23rd: Music for Brampton Museum’s 80 birthday at 2pm4pm.

27th: Potters at Play– talk by Mervyn Edwards at 2pm, £5.

August: Theme – Heroes

5th: Betley Show.

17th: Film Show at MuseumMining Heroes at 2pm, £5.

24th: Talk at Museum - Miner’s Rescue Teams at 2pm, £5.

September: Theme – Rights and Protests

8th: The Knight’s Templar of Keele, Chris Malkin Memorial Lecture at Brampton Museum at 11am, free.

21st: Film Show at MuseumFanny Deakin at 2pm, £5.

Get creative with competition

Youngsters are being invited to get creative with an annual competition.

This years Children’s Painting Competition by Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has a theme based on the heritage of the area.

Spokesman for the council said: “This year our popular Newcastle in Bloom Children’s Painting Competition theme is all about the heritage of our beautiful borough.

“In 2023 we are celebrating the 850th anniversary of Newcastle-under-Lyme gaining the Royal Charter.

“This competition is part of a planned programme of projects and events to celebrate the anniversary and we invite participants to use their

28th: Talk at Museum - Fanny Deakin at 2pm, £5.

October: Theme – Art

19th: Film Show at MuseumClarice Cliff at 2pm, £5.

21st: Mayors Ball – Keele.

22nd: Showing of ‘The Colour Room’ at Museum at 2pm, £5.

26th: Talk at Museum - Clarice Cliff at 2pm, £5.

November: Theme – Science and Engineering

5th: Mayors Charity Fireworks.

11th: Talk at Museum - Reginald Mitchell at 2pm, £5.

12th: 1940s Music at Brampton Museum at 2pm, £5.

16th: Film at Museum - Reginald Mitchell at 2pm, £5.

30th: Talk at Museum- Oliver Lodge at 2pm, £5.

December: Theme – Living Legends

7th: Talk at Museum - An Ancient and Loyal Borough at 2pm, £5.

21st: Film at MuseumNewcastle through the Ages at 2pm, £5.

The above information was correct at the time of print. All events are subject to change and more are being added throughout the year. To keep up to date, go online to: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk/850.

artwork to portray Newcastle’s heritage and its link to the Bloom Campaign.”

The spokesman continued: “Any medium permitted: paint, crayon, pencil, pen and ink, computer generated. Maximum size 51cm by 76cm.

“Age groups based on curriculum key stages: Class one – up to seven years of age; Class Two –eight to 11 years of age; Class Three – secondary schools; and Class 4 – special schools.

“The council reserves the right to reproduce the wining artwork, in any form.”

Entries should be sent to: Castle House, Barracks Road, Newcastle-under-Lyme. ST5 1BL, with a completed entry form at the back of each painting.

The deadline for entries is Friday, March 31.

For further information go online to: www.newcastle-staffs.gov.uk/newcastle-lyme850th-anniversary.

Recreating lost charter for town

Anew charter is set to be created as part of the celebrations marking the 850th Anniversary of Newcastle-under-Lyme.

The project has recently been launched to recreate the town’s famous lost charter of 1173, engage school children, and display the historic royal charters from the Brampton Museum archive.

A spokesman for the project said: “We are very pleased to announce that we have been successful with our application to The National Heritage Lottery Fund and can begin working on this exciting new project to mark the 850th anniversary of Newcastle-under-Lyme.

“Working together will be The Brampton Museum, GROW North Staffs, and author and illustrator Glenn Martin James, (recently shortlisted for the Ruth Rendell Award for championing literacy).

“The National Lottery Heritage Fund has provided funding for the project, made possible thanks to National Lottery players, and the team will be working with schools in Newcastle, notably St Marys Catholic Primary School, on Silverdale Road.

“Part of the programme of anniversary celebrations for Newcastle, the project has been planned since 2019, and has seen great support from councillor Simon White, the current Deputy Mayor of Newcastle-under-Lyme, and Cabinet Heritage Champion with responsibility for the 850th arrangements.

Cllr White said: “These celebrations only come about every 50 years.

“They are a real opportunity to allow all our 130,000 residents across our borough to either take part themselves, or simply to enjoy our celebrations, and we are tremendously grateful to The National Lottery Heritage Fund for making the project possible.”

“We received our original charter in 1173 from Henry II, and we are one of a few boroughs in England to have this for so long - we are very proud indeed.

“I am fully behind and supportive of a bid such as this, for our community to enjoy and take part and enjoy these unique celebrations”.

May Bank resident Mr James said: “This is really special. The original charter was the birth certificate of the town.

“When it was granted by King Henry in 1173, giving us borough status, everything just started from there. It meant that Newcastle was free from the control of the church or local lords, we could hold a market, and our merchants could became burgesses, and form guilds. After this, Newcastle just marched forward confidently, and really shot up

from there.”

“The original document from the King would have been quite small, and sadly it was lost centuries ago. What better way to celebrate this fabulous birthday, than to create a representation of the original? And by honouring its place, and safely conserving the later historic charters, granted by Henry’s royal descendants? So we say a very big thank you to the Heritage Fund.”

The spokesman for the project continued: “The charter created for the anniversary will be produced by Mr James using authentic period inks and paints, and written with a goose quill, just as documents of the period would have been written.

“The project will commence working in the community and with schools at the end of April, and the team would like to hear from schools who would like to participate in the project. Please see below for contact details.

“Working with the children of the borough, the project will see the children producing and illustrating their own charters, which will accompany a grand display at the museum when the completed document is officially presented to the town later this year.

“Following the exhibition, it is planned that the original historic charters, some granted by Queen Elizabeth I and King James, will be professionally conserved and restored. These beautiful documents are handwritten in ink, beautifully illuminated, and will be on show as part of an exhibition when the project comes to its conclusion later this year.”

Jayne Fair from GROW North Staffs said: “We are so pleased to have been awarded this grant from the Heritage Fund and we are very grateful to National Lottery players who make this possible. I remember being at the 800th celebrations back in 73 as a child and I am very proud to have been able to support this project.

“It will be very interesting to see what the children produce with the support of Glenn and the rest of the team. This is a very special way to mark the 850th anniversary of the borough, something that I hope these children will remember, just as I remember in 73.”

For more information on the project contact Glenn on 0757 2539245 or Elise Turner at Brampton Museum on 01782 742212.

If you would like to be involved, or would like the children of your school to take part, contact Glenn James via author@gmjames.co.uk.

Through the Future High Streets Fund and the Town Deal, almost £50 million has been secured to regenerate our borough.

We have seen the demolition of the old civic offices in Merrial Street and the Zanzibar building, and residents will soon see building work start on the Ryecroft and York Place shopping centre.

I remain committed to ensuring that the future of our town is bright and prosperous, and I will continue to work with Newcastle-underLyme Borough Council in any way I am able to bring more investment into Newcastle in the years ahead to enable the improvements we all want to see.

With that in mind, I recently held my inaugural ‘Newcastle’s Best Local Shop & Market Stall’ competition. We have so many wonderful and unique independent retailers and market stalls here in Newcastle. They are the lifeblood of our community and make the town centre what it is. It’s important that we celebrate and support our local shops and market traders so that they remain here for generations to come.

I encouraged local residents to vote for their favourite independent shop or market stall and join me in supporting the local high street. Thank you to the hundreds of people who voted in the competition for over 50 shops or stalls.

In the local shop section of the competition, first place went to Anasma Greek Bakery, second place went to Mejoolies, and third place went to Tony Price Quality Butchers.

In the market stall element of the competition, the winner was Cheeky Cheesecakes.

Certificates, House of Commons wines and chocolates were given to the winners and runners-up.

I would like to say a huge well done to the winners, runners-up and all those that were nominated. All of these businesses inspire great loyalty amongst their customers and keep people returning again and again.

I hope to run the competition again next year and am looking at running other competitions to showcase Newcastle’s other great businesses in the coming months.

I know you will join me in looking forward with optimism to an even brighter future for Newcastle.

Aaron Bell MP for Newcastle-under-Lyme

“Future of our town is bright and prosperous”

Finals for university choir

Warwick, Canterbury, and Durham, at the finals which are set to take place on Saturday, March 25 at Oasis House in Croydon.

A spokesman for the competition said: “The event day will see university choirs from all across the UK competing with each other, including strong contenders such as BIMM - currently featuring in the current Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year competition.

Keele University Gospel Choir has been shortlisted as finalists in the 11th Annual UGCY - University Gospel Choir of the Year competition which is taking place in March.

With a chance to secure the coveted title, preparations for the competition are well underway and homegrown support on the day will be much appreciated.

A spokesman for the musical group said: “Keele University Gospel Choir (KUGC) is a lively and inspiring Gospel choir that enables young people to deepen their Christian faith through singing and worship, and enables like minded students to make lifelong friends. KUGC have successfully competed at UGCY as finalists in previous years.

“To add an element of variety, the rules of this years UGCY will for the first time allow choirs to feature a special guest artist to perform as part of their final set. Which local artist would you like to see performing alongside Keele University Gospel Choir?

“A total of eight university gospel choirs have secured a place in the hotly contested UGCY finals, presenting some serious competition to KUGC.”

University Gospel Choir of the Year was founded in 2011 by Lorraine Wright MBE, and continues to provide a platform where choirs can develop and showcase their musical ability in a supportive community environment, bridging the gap of geographic location and variety of alumni, bringing wider audience engagement.

The theme of this years UGCY is “Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be.” inspired by Job 8:7 NIV.

The Keele University Gospel Choir will be joining other choirs from Birmingham, Kent,

“A judging panel will carefully consider the overall performance of each choir on the basis of theme, choreography, musicality, arrangement and harmony to mention a few key criteria.

“As always the UGCY will be full of dancing, laughter and roaring cheers (and a few tears!) with the soon to be announced Gospel Music experts judging the competition and ultimately deciding which choir will be crowned the 2023 University Gospel Choir of the Year.

For further information go online to www.ugcy.co.uk.

Regular Events

Castle Artisan Market

Every third Sunday of the month. Monthly Artisan Market held in the historic market town of Newcastleunder-Lyme. Celebrating the best local makers, bakers and creators with an exciting mix of live music and street food too. Details: www.facebook.com/castleart isan.

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

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

10am-11.30am at The Community Hub, Newcastle Baptists Church. Every Thursday. Cost: £25 a month. Details: www.rockchoir.com.

Chair-a-cise

11am-12pm at Brampton Museum. Every Thursday (at 12.15pm every second Thursday) Cost £4. Details: 01782 619705.

Restorative Yoga

2pm-3pm at Brampton Museum. Every Friday. Gentle stretches and mindfulness with Aurelija. Cost £4. Details: 01782 619705.

Tuesday, April 4

Play with Clay family fun at Brampton Museum. 10.30am-12.30pm. Cost £3. Details: 01782 619705.

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-aBrac and Collectibles Market Operated by the Antique Forum Group every Thursday between 8am and 3pm, selling a range of brica-brac and collectable items.

The Farmers' Market

Every fourth Friday of each month around the Guildhall

Coming up

Thursday, March 30 Wilder Newcastle Walk. 2.30pm-4.30pm at Hem Heath Woods. There are well maintained paths, but some off path walking through ground foliage will be involved, sturdy closed toe footwear required. Not suitable for dogs. Details: www.wilderstokewildernewc astle.co.uk

Wednesday, April 5

History of the Burgess, talk at St Giles Church at 3pm. Part of 850 celebrations. Details: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk.

Thursday, April 6 Meet the Easter Animals. 1pm-2pm at Brampton Museum. Cost £10. Details: 01782 619705.

Wednesday, April 12

Comic Book Art Just for Teens with Grow North Staffs at Brampton Museum. 11am-2pm. Details: 01782

Newcastle town centre

619705.

Thursday, April 13

Reminiscence with Kate Reynolds at Brampton Museum. 10.30am-12pm. Cost £3. And second Thursday of each month. Details: 01782 619705.

Thursday, April 20

Film Show at Museum, Vera Brittain at 2pm, £5. Part of 850 celebrations. Details: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk.

Thursday, April 27

Talk at Museum - Vera Brittain at 2pm, £5. Part of 850 celebrations. Details: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk.

Friday, April 28

Poetry and Amusing Anecdotes at Brampton Museum - Nick Degg at 12pm, £5. Part of 850 celebrations. Details: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk.

Sunday. Details: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk. Charters/850 Exhibition at the Museum. Running until July 9. Part of 850 celebrations. Details: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk. Funtopia at Lyme Valley Country Park. Also on Saturday, August 26. 11.30am-5.30pm. Details: www.facebook.com/funtopia uk.

Friday May 6

King’s Coronation Market at The Stones. 9am-5pm. Details: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk.

Thursday, May 18

Military Matters Film Show at Museum at 2pm, £5. Details: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk.

Thursday, May 25

Talk at Museum– Thomas Harrison at 2pm, £5. Details: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk.

Saturday, May 27

Jazz & Blues FestivalNewcastle town centre. Plus on Sunday. Details: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk.

Saturday, April 29

Lymelight Festival in Newcastle town centre. Part of 850 celebrations. Also on

Thursday, May 4 ‘About Time’ Dance event at Newcastle College. 5.15pm and 7.15pm. Tickets £10 and £8. Details: www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk.

Musical Moments with Vicky Thornton at Brampton Museum. 1.30am-2.30pm. Cost £5. And first Thursday of each month. Details: 01782 619705.

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.

Nick Degg

Funtopia

Carers’ achievements celebrated at awards

Aformer pub manager from Newcastleunder-Lyme who swapped the bar for the reception desk of a care village is amongst those who have been recognised at an annual awards ceremony.

Care workers from Belong’s Newcastle-underLyme dementia care village and its corresponding home care service, Belong at Home, came together with colleagues from across the region at the recent annual Belong Champion Awards ceremony hosted at Cheshire’s Peckforton Castle.

Receptionist Siobhan Coleman shared the Newcomer of the Year title for making a big impression on colleagues and residents after just nine months in her role, including developing trusting relationships with many residents, whom she supports with daily tasks, such as making appointments and shopping.

Commenting on what set Siobhan apart from strong competition, Robert Armstrong, chair of the Belong Board and member of the judging panel who conducted a series of interviews as part of the rigorous assessment process, said: “Siobhan has a really bubbly personality and has brought many of her skills developed working in the pub industry to go outside of her job description and help our customers.”

Meanwhile, Andrew Shield, business manager of the not-for-profit operator’s home care service, Belong at Home, received the Leader of Year title for his “visionary management style” which resulted in the provider being ranked amongst the country’s top 20 for the fifth year running by leading online reviews site Homecare.co.uk.

The Newcastle-under-Lyme service was also placed in the Top 20 Home Care Providers in the West Midlands. Andrew was promoted to his current role last year after starting his career with the service over a decade ago as a

community support worker.

Belong Non-Executive Director and Champion Awards judge, Tony Bristlin, said: “Andrew does a fantastic job leading the team; he understands the importance of the ‘journey for life' and makes sure his team understands this as well.”

A year of successes also saw Belong ranked in the UK’s top 20 mid-size care home groups at the Carehome.co.uk awards.

Summarising the event, Belong’s chief executive, Martin Rix, added: “We've had a fantastic evening celebrating our colleagues' hard work and success. Congratulations to all of our finalists and winners.”

Belong Limited is a charitable organisation, operating villages with a range of care, housing and support options for older people, as well as extensive amenities in the village centre. These include bistro, hair salon, specialist exercise studio and function rooms. People can choose to live independently in a Belong apartment or within a supported 24-hour care environment.

Belong specialises in supporting people with dementia, and 24-hour care is provided in extended family-sized households, with modern open plan layouts specially designed around the needs of people with dementia. All employees working in Belong villages are trained in dementia awareness, from domestic assistants through to bistro staff. The organisation is also a registered domiciliary provider and can support people in their own home, through its Belong at Home service.

There are eight Belong villages in Atherton, Chester, Crewe, Didsbury, Macclesfield, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Wigan and Warrington, with two more under construction in Birkdale and Wirral. For more information, see www.belong.org.uk.

Siobhan Coleman Belong Newcastle-under-Lyme

Andrew Shield and Liz Jones

Wonderful wildlife snaps

Newcastle-under-Lyme is in such a beautiful area of middle England where we are so lucky to have so many scenic sites, as well as witness all the lovely wildlife we have within that.

Here are some fabulous wildlife photographs which have been kindly sent in to us by some of our readers from across the area and beyond.

Have you captured a good photograph of our area recently which you would like to see appear in the Newcastle Life Magazine? Email your photos to our editor Belinda at belinda@timesandecho.co.uk.

Photo by Alan Keay

Photo by Peter Wetton

Photo by Steve Hathaway

Photo by Paul Mycock

Photo by Cliff Salt

Photo by Derek Brownlee

Photo by Mark Chesters

Photo by Sandra Cartwright

Photo by Steve Hathaway

A Triumph of Tulips

Tulips have always been spring flowering favourites with gardeners, from massed plantings floating above a sea of Forget-MeNot through to dwarf varieties in containers and window boxes.

They are undergoing a bit of a renaissance at the moment as an essential part of jewel gardens – planted singly in a rich tapestry of vibrant colour. There are so many colours and shapes to choose from and they thrive in any well drained and sunny garden and even if your garden gets wet, they flourish in containers and pots. The bulbs are best planted quite deep, especially in colder soils.

For traditional types this means around 68in / 15-20cm but more like 4-5in / 10-12cm for the shorter alpine tulips. In the garden plant the bulbs at least 5” / 12cm apart. In containers bulbs can be planted very close but not touching.

Planting dry bulbs is usually delayed until October to November, which is later than for Daffs. Don’t worry if you forgot to plant bulbs in autumn as pot grown plants can be planted at any time in the spring or early summer and there is usually a very good choice of varieties and species at Plant Hunters’ Fairs in spring.

Conventional wisdom is that all types other than the alpine types, rarely make as good flowers in their second year if left in the ground and they should be lifted after the foliage has yellowed, dried and stored in a cool place until autumn brings the time for planting again. Some gardeners go as far as treating them as annuals and lift and discard the bulbs, starting afresh each autumn. The opposite is true of alpine species and varieties tulips like Tulipa tarda or ‘Little Princess,’ which for me continue to thrive and multiply from year to year.

By far the biggest pest are grey squirrels who love to eat the bulbs and relentlessly hunt them out and dig them up. Deep planting in

grass might help but the only real deterrent is rabbit wire placed over the planting area and pegged down and covered with a mulch or made into ‘bulb cages’ for each planting hole or pot. Chilli flakes or sharp gravel is also said to help.

Whether you are looking for a patio pot, gravel garden bulbs or massed and jewel planting there is choice enough of colours or heights for any gardener’s needs in April, May and June when your garden can become a triumph of tulips.

Janet and 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:

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

The Dorothy Clive Garden on Sunday, April 9 and Monday, April 10, Garden and Fair £5. Cholmondeley Castle Garden on Sunday, April 23, Garden and Fair price £5. Weston Park on Sunday, April 30 and Monday, May 1, Garden and Fair £4. Capesthorne Hall, Macclesfield on Sunday, May 14, Gardens and Fair £4.

Carsington Water, Ashbourne on Saturday, May 27, free admission to fair and country park.

Please check www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk for up to date information, including if pre-booking of tickets is required.

Martin Blow

Let’s get quizzical

COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

1. Which European country started using the Euro as their currency on 1st January 2023?

2. Who managed to get his fifth in-a-row Christmas number one last December?

3. The A303 passes by which ancient monument?

4. Which land mammal has the longest tongue?

5. On which coin did King Charles III’s head first appear?

6. What is the name of the Duke of Sussex’s memoir?

7. Which dog lives with Chilli, Bandit and Bingo?

8. How to Cheat at Cooking was whose first book?

9. Who is the only player with 100 Premier League goals for two clubs?

10. How is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, who died in December better known?

11. In which English country was the failed space launch in January?

12. The main asteroid belt lies between which planets’ orbits?

13. What virtue is the collective noun for vicars?

14. What was recorded at Sarm West Studios on 25 November 1984?

15. Which tennis venue is named after a first world war fighter pilot?

16. What was “made in Scotland from girders”?

17. What is the colour of cooked squid?

18. In which US state is the Statue of Liberty?

19. Which capital city stands on the River Spree?

20. The colours seen in the badge of BMW are black, white and what other?

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

Band Aid’s Do They Know It’s Christmas