Newcastle Life Issue 7

ISSUE 7

A LASTING FAMILY MUSICAL LEGACY

Life

Created by the community for the community

Award winning memories...

WIN

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Photographer’s work recognised by Camera Club

CONTENTS

ISSUE 7 Editor’s Letter .............................................6

Winning Hairdressers ................................8

Staffordshire County Show .......................10

Beswicks Legal ..........................................26

Young Entrepreneurs ...............................28

Recipes for Life .........................................30

New Look for Local Pub ...........................32

Quiz Corner...............................................33

What’s On .................................................34

Orme Art Group ........................................12

Ridgways Hearing Care ............................36

Trent Art Gallery .......................................16

Newcastle Camera Club............................39

Beavers City Trip.......................................14 Community Orchestra ..............................18

Stage Directions........................................20

Guess the Photo ........................................22

Newcastle Photographer ..........................24

Newcastle-under-Lyme School ................38

Gardening .................................................40

Home Improvements................................42 Motoring ...................................................48

Legal Matters ............................................50

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

A WARM WELCOME TO SPRING

warm welcome to Issue 7 of Newcastle Life magazine - the Spring edition! Can you believe we have recently celebrated our first year anniversary? The time has flown by, but as the saying goes, it does when you’re having fun - and we here at Newcastle Life have loved putting together each and every issue so far.

I’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all our readers, new friends and advertisers - here’s to the next 12 months!

Once again this issue is jam packed with Newcastle goings on and I have to say that after chatting to several local groups over the last few months, it has become particularly clear to me that the younger generation of our town are incredibly driven, enthusiastic and talented and deserve to be recognised for this.

So inside this issue we have news from the local Beavers, who have recently enjoyed a fun filled trip to Manchester, we talk to four budding young hairdressers who have been selected for the national finals of the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists, and we check out the entrepreneurial skills of students at Wolstanton High School, Newcastle under Lyme High School, and Madeley High School.

On top of this we chat to 28 year old Thomas Coxon, who has been instrumental in the creation of Newcastle under Lyme Community Orchestra and 29 year old David Jinks, who has been recognised for his new found photography skills by receiving a ‘Most Promising Newcomer’ award.

What’s more, we have a full round up of what’s going on at this year’s ever popular Staffordshire County Show, we find out more about the new look for The Thistleberry and we cover all the events coming up in March and April in Issue ‘s What’s On guide.

So as you can see, we’ve been busy!

Finally, I would like to point out the lovely image we have featured on the front cover of this issue - taken by talented local photographer Ron Fox. If you’d like to see your image featured on the front of Newcastle Life magazine, just let us know!

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Laura

Cover photo by Ron Fox This shot was taken near to The Mainwaring Arms in Whitmore 6 Newcastle Life Issue 7

Did you know that you can read Newcastle Life online?

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

Find us on Facebook search for Newcastle Life Magazine

WINNING HAIRDRESSERS

NEWCASTLE STUDENTS A CUT ABOVE

airdressing students from Newcastleunder-Lyme College (NULC) are heading to the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) national finals this March after scooping six awards at the regional competition, held at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool.

First year apprentices Emily Wheeler, Chloe Rowley and Chloe Meir blew away the competition in the first year blow-dry category, finishing in first, second and third place respectively.

Senior apprentice, Bethany Anderson finished in first place in the cut and blow-dry category and third place in the fantasy category and Emily Wright finished third in the ladies evening style category.

All five students will go now head-to-head with students from across the UK in the national finals.

The Association of Hairdressers and Therapists was founded in 1963 and members include

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teachers, trainers or assessors of hairdressing or therapy subjects, who are either working towards or currently hold teaching/assessing qualifications.

Anthony Keates, Head of Hairdressing and Beauty – Work Based Learning, at Newcastleunder-Lyme College said: “By competing in high profile regional competitions, our students gain valuable experience that they can use to help them progress in the workplace. The students did themselves and the College proud and the latest collection of awards shows just how hard they have been working.”

He added: “We have had many award successes throughout the years at the AHT finals, and we are really looking forward to cheering everyone on at the ceremony in March. We wish the whole team the very best of luck as they compete on the national stage.”

FUN FOR ALL IN HALF TERM STAFFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW

housands of families across Staffordshire are being urged to ‘save the date’ for the annual county show as part of their summer half term programme of fun.

Organisers of Staffordshire County Show said the two day event on Wednesday 31st May and Thursday 1st June is the perfect opportunity for a day out for all members of the family.

The show programme is packed with attractions for children of all ages from youngsters who will enjoy the mud kitchen in the Woodfest area to teenagers who will be ringside for the revving of the engines with the Bolddog Lings Motorcycle Display Team.

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

Held at the county showground on Weston Road, Staffordshire County Show is one of the area’s major events and is expected to attract more than 65,000 visitors.

A huge part of its appeal is the large number of activities on offer across the huge showground and surrounding areas.

Richard Williams, Chief Executive of the Staffordshire and Birmingham Agricultural Society, said: “We know people plan ahead when

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it comes to days off and childcare during half term holidays so we want people to put the date in the diary now so they don’t miss out.

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

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

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

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

Holly Hobson, Show Secretary said trade stand applications were coming in extremely well and urged anyone who wanted a trade stand pitch to email holly@staffscountyshowground.co.uk or call 01785 258060.

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

A SPLASH OF CREATI ORME ART GROUP

ART GROUP SET TO HOLD NEW EXHIBITION

or over 15 years, the Newcastle Orme Art group has provided artists from the local area a place to come together for creative practice and mutual support.

It is a group that is passionate about creativity and exploring different types of art.

Formed as a ‘not for profit’ group, it is organised and run by a committee of its members, who meet twice a month in Newcastle throughout the year.

The group is extremely diverse and work both individually to develop their own techniques and together, enjoying group practices and classes.

Group sessions include life study and ‘en plein air’ painting.

Newcastle Orme Art group can often be found

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taking their creative thinking on the road and spend days at local locations such as Tittesworth reservoir and Apedale.

Deputy Mayor Councillor Simon White opened the Group’s last exhibition, which was held in November 2016.

At the time, he commented that he was amazed at the quality of work on show and said that he would like to return in 2017.

Exhibiting gives artists the opportunity to share and discuss their work within the community and one of the most successful dates in the calendar for the Orme Art group is held at the Whitfield Centre in the Westlands.

Many local residents return to the highly anticipated event and go home with some unique gifts for friends and loved ones.

Comments have included: “Truly Inspirational” “Some great talent here and enjoyable

IVITY IN NEWCASTLE

ORME ART GROUP

conversation” ”It still gets better “ “Colourful and inspiring” One feature of recent exhibitions has been the chance for members of the public to ‘have-a-go’.

This has proved very popular with both children and adults who are often surprised at what they can achieve.

In previous years the group have been able to exhibit in other well known local venues across the area.

Several years ago Orme Art had an exhibition at the New Victoria Theatre , allowing the artists to offer their work for sale. More recently they have exhibited at places such as The Nicholson

and The Brampton, as well as local festivals and fairs.

This year Orme Art will once again be exhibiting at the New Victoria Theatre, their chosen theme being ‘Close to Home.’

The theme encompasses the diversity of the group in their individual styles, mediums and interpretation.

Inspiration is taken from what matters most, be that be a local place, family, a personal passion simply expressing what feels like ‘home’.

The exhibition will run from March 28th to April 22nd.

For more information, visit www.ormeart.org.uk

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BEAVERS STEAM IN

BEAVERS CITY TRIP

YOUNGSTERS EXPLORE SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY

wenty young Newcastle Beavers had a day to remember recently when they took a trip to Manchester to explore the Museum of Science and Industry.

Despite the after effects of Storm Doris, the six to eight year olds from 1st Porthill Beaver Scouts were excited to visit Manchester on the train.

When they arrived (slightly later than planned because of the weather) the Beavers explored the

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Museum of Science and Industry, looking around the interactive displays and learning about the impact Manchester has had in the world due to its scientific research and its industry.

Following lunch, the Beavers visited the power hall where they saw various stationary engines that used to power industry and some retired railway locomotives.

But the highlight of the day was a chance to dress up in various Victorian costumes!

Meanwhile leaders from Newcastle District Scouts took part in a training session to provide awareness of mental health in February.

By completing this training, provided by North Staffordshire Mind, Leaders will have a better understanding of mental health and mental ill health and will be in a better position to provide support for young people involved in

NTO MANCHESTER

BEAVERS CITY TRIP

Scouting.

This will help to ensure the District’s young people know that they are safe and supported by their Leaders and Scout colleagues in their community.

Positive mental health, and awareness in young people is one of the areas the Scout’s youth executive committee are passionate about promoting in the District.

One young leader commented: “When I was 13 I remember panicking about the fact I was going to have to leave the comfort of my Scout Troop and go to Explorers, and I seriously considered quitting Scouting. However, for some reason, my mind decided to tell me not to and I made my most recent promise.

“When you’re part of Scouting / Guiding, it means so much more than the scarf you wear

and the badges you have.

“The friends you meet become family and the adventures you get the opportunity to go on stay with you for the rest of your life. I’ve done many things, the Monopoly run, numerous camps, car washes, a trip to Norway and I’m a young leader.

“I watch people make the promise a lot, yet each time I say it, it means a lot more than the words I say. It’s a sense of belonging and a sense of pride, because Scouting has helped me in more ways than I can count and I would not be the person I am today without Scouting. I owe a great deal of gratitude to the leaders who have literally put up with so much from me, so here’s to the future the friends and memories!”

The training has been supported through the Staffordshire County Council Local Community Fund.

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EXHIBITIONS AND AT TRENT ART GAL

TRENT ART GALLERY

COME AND JOIN US THIS SPRING AT THE GALLERY IN BRUNSWICK STREET

Saturday 11th March Come and Meet the Artist at Trent Art Gallery, Newcastle under Lyme DAVID BEZ. Chat to David in the relaxing environment of the gallery, find out about his influences and see his latest works. From 13.00 onward.

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D EVENTS LLERY

TRENT ART GALLERY

Friday 17th March – Friday 31st March Pictorialism Revisited, at Trent Art Gallery, Newcastle under Lyme An exhibition of Narrative Pictures inspired by Old Masters, Photo Paintings and Portraits from JAMES HALL, the WINNER of the 2017 Three Counties Open Photography Exhibition. All works will be for sale.

Saturday 29th April, Sunday 30th April and Monday 1st May at Trent Art Gallery, Newcastle under Lyme To coincide with STAFFORDSHIRE DAY The Natural and Urban Environment of North Staffordshire by award winning artist DAVID BRAMMELD. An exhibition showcasing David’s thought provoking local urban scenes and natural landscapes. All works will be for sale.

Thursday 6th April at The Potters Club, Federation House, Stoke on Trent ST4 2SA An evening with MICHAEL HOWARD, leading art historian and author of Lowry: A Visionary Artist gives a personal and detailed talk on the Artist GHISLAINE HOWARD and his latest book The Human Touch. Ghislaine is one of England’s finest living artists, a painter of powerful and expressive means. Her works deal with the human condition, interpreting human experience. The talk will be followed by a Book Signing by the Artist. This is a ticketed event. Tickets (Free of charge) are available via trent-art.co.uk.

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COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA

A LASTING FAMILY

ne year on from its creation, Newcastle under Lyme Community Orchestra is still going from strength to strength.

Set up in February 2016 by founder and music director Thomas Coxon, the group started with just a small handful of enthusiastic players who simply wanted to play and enjoy music.

At its heart it is a close knit, friendly group; set up by the community; run by the community; for the community and has now grown to a group of 25 students, parents and teachers who all come together to socialise and make music one evening a week at Newcastle Methodist Church.

Born and raised in Stoke on Trent and now living in Penkhull, founder Thomas Coxon has always had a passion for creating and performing live music.

His first instrument was the flute but he has since gone on to learn the piano, violin, clarinet, sax, bass and drums and has been a member of the Moorlands Youth Orchestra, Staffordshire Moorlands Youth Jazz Orchestra (aka SMYJO) in which he toured Austria, France and Spain, the Staffordshire County Recorder and Renaissance Ensemble (aka SYRRE), the Full

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House Orchestra (aka FHO) and Stafford Orchestra.

The 28 year old told Newcastle Life magazine: “I have always loved music and studied Popular Music with Music Technology at the University of Derby.

“In my first year I joined the university’s orchestra, becoming president and conductor.

“When I left Derby I was asked to become the Musical Director of ‘Fame - The Musical,’ for the Genesis Theatre in Leek. It was my first biggest music break since FHO and it gave me the inspiration I needed to start up an orchestra on my own.

“They said that my grandfather would be proud of me to do the project. So I set about setting it up.”

Thomas’ grandfather Derek Slater played a huge part in his love of music and bought him his first flute when he was in high school.

A pianist and organist himself, Derek enabled Thomas to grow up surrounded by music.

Thomas continued: “He was always talking about music with me. He was sadly taken from us by myeloma in 2001, just as I was getting into the music department and groups at Blythe

COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA

MUSICAL LEGACY Bridge High School.

“Music has been strong on that side of the family for generations. It's important to me and my family that we keep the reputation and setting up the group allows me to do just that in his name.”

Thomas held a meeting of interest in January 2016 and quickly discovered that there was a local need for a community orchestra.

After several weeks of practice, the group’s first performance took place on Wednesday 7th June 2016, during which the group played a number of movie classics, with solos and duets as well as whole group performances.

It was supported by BBC Radio Stoke and the group publicised themselves through blogs, local businesses and spreading the word through social media.

With their first successful concert under their belts and an ambition to carry on the great work, Wednesday 7th December 2016 saw NULCO's first Christmas extravaganza.

With an audience of over 70 people, this was the group’s biggest and best performance yet and included a full showcase of solos, duets and ensembles, which they hope to repeat in 2017.

A bit of audience participation with songs and carols helped to boost the group’s local reputation and coupled with a performance in front of 1,000 people at the Kings Hall Stoke for BBC Radio Stoke’s ‘Carols for Christmas’ event, it provided a fantastic end to NULCOs first year.

Thomas commented: “Our achievements so far have been undescribable! I didn't think it was going to happen. Even when I got six people at the first rehearsal I still didn't know whether any of them would return again. But they did!”

The group is open to all ages 10 and over, with all music abilities, as long as they can read and play music, but you don’t have to play an instrument to get involved. There’s also plenty to get stuck into behind the scenes, organising socials or helping with running the group or fundraising.

Upcoming events include ‘The Last Night of the Proms’ performance on July 5th 2017. For details and to book tickets visit www.nulco.weebly.com.

Newcastle under Lyme Community Orchestra meet on Wednesdays during Term time at Newcastle Methodist Curch, between 7:30pm9:30pm.

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Stage Directions

Win tickets to see Invincible at The New Vic F

by Richard Lane

rom one of the most exciting playwrights to emerge since Alan Ayckbourn, Torben Betts, and produced by the awardwinning Original Theatre Company (Birdsong, Three Men In A Boat), comes the riotously funny Invincible.

With the recession biting hard, Emily and Oliver have decided to downsize and shift their middle- class London lifestyle to a small town in the north of England. When they open their doors and invite next-door neighbours, Dawn and Alan, round for an evening of olives, anchovies, Karl Marx and abstract art; class and culture collide, and the consequences of their disastrous evening are as tragic as they are hilarious.

TO WIN TWO TICKETS TO SEE THIS HILARIOUS PRODUCTION ON THE NIGHT OF YOUR CHOICE, ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:

Original Theatre Company previously produced Three Men in a Boat. Who wrote the original book: A) Jerome K. Jerome

B) G.K. Chesterton

C) Philip K. Dick

(CIRCLE YOUR ANSWER)

Name................................................. Address.................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................. Daytime phone no.........................................................

Please send your entry to Newcastle Life Magazine, 18 Tape St, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST10 1BD. To be received by Tuesday 28th March 2017.

Tickets are for any performance of Invincible. Tickets are non-transferable and are subject to availability.

The production runs at the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, from Tuesday 4 to Saturday 15 April.

Box Office 01782 717962

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Window to the Womb Stoke-on-Trent

Gender & 4D Baby Bonding Scans from 16 weeks

Prices from ÂŁ50 99.9% Gender Accuracy

220 Knutton Lane Newcastle under Lyme ST5 6HF 01782 497730

www.windowtothewomb.co.uk

Newcastle Life Issue 7 21

GUESS THE PHOTO

1 2

Just for

CAN YOU IDENTIFY BUILDINGS AND WH BETWEEN ALL

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Newcastle Life Issue 7 23 1. Northcote House 2. Congregational church 3. Vetinary Infirmary 4. The little Vic pub 5. Historic Building 6. St Georges Church.

6

The link is royalty they are all situated on King or Queen street.

5

Y THESE TOWN HAT THE LINK IS L OF THEM?

r fun...

3 GUESS THE PHOTO

AWARD WINNING MEMORIES NEWCASTLE PHOTOGRAPHER

budding local photographer has been recognised for his photography skills and expertise after capturing his travel memories in a range of stunning images from around the UK. 29 year old David Jinks and his girlfriend Hannah have travelled round the country taking photographs of the sights they have come across.

David only started his photography hobby three years ago but has already received a Most Promising Newcomer award for his work from Newcastle Camera Club.

He told Newcastle Life magazine: “I enjoy exploring the outdoors with my better half Hannah and thought it would be a great opportunity to record memories of places we have been together and capture the sights.

“Since then we have visited on holiday or day trips many places in the UK to take pictures of

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various subjects.

“I take photos when I have spare time and enjoy shooting a variety of subjects including landscapes, seascapes and cities, using various techniques.

“For example I use long exposure, HDR and ICM (intentional camera movement).

“I also enjoy the post processing and editing stage of photography and use Lightroom and Photoshop to add a variety of effects to my photos.

“In 2015 I joined Newcastle Camera Club and in my first season won Most Promising Newcomer and the Arthur Bradshaw Cup for Highest Total Score Beginners Class.

“If you are interested in photography and want to meet like minded people, I would recommend coming down to the club and finding out what it has to offer.”

Tenby - This was taken in Tenby, Wales October 2016 using a wide angle lens to capture the majority of the building against the blue sky.

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NEWCASTLE PHOTOGRAPHER

After a hard days work - This was taken at the Black Country Museum January 2016. It was the simple composition of the shovel next to the old brick wall that drew me to take this photo.

Lost in the Woods - This shot was taken using a ICM technique where you move the camera during the exposure to make an abstract image.

Left the Nest - This was taken at Lake Buttermere in the Lake District and involved getting down low to achieve the composition that I was after. I converted it to monochrome to remove unwanted distractions.

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BESWICKS LEGAL

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NEW WEBSITE LAUNCHING SOON • Newcastle Life • Stone & Eccleshall Life • Leek Life •Times & Echo Newspapers

Barbers & Male Grooming Providing a HIGH quality Barbering service

Traditional Barbering with a Modern Twist Ex estate agent turned barber, Kieron Bassan had an idea in mind to bring back traditional barbering with a modern twist.

The 28 year-old gave up his previous career after becoming stressed with the phone constantly ringing and the increasingly long hours.

He decided it was time for a complete change of lifestyle and subsequently retrained as a barber.

Nearly 2 years on and Absolute Barbers is moving from strength to strength.

Based on A34, Newcastle, Absolute Barbers offers all types of haircuts from all over clipper cuts, flat tops, skin fades and quiffs.

Hot towel shaves with a traditional cut

throat razor, and more recently he added a fantastic range of 100% natural products such as beard oils, beard balms, teeth whitening polish, and moisturisers. Some of which are hand made on site.

They also boast FREE parking for all customers and an appointment service all day every day to cut out the long queues of an average barber shop.

To Book your appointment with Absolute Barbers • Tel: 07940 356 140 Via our website info@absolutebarbers.co.uk or FB Absolute Barbers 78 London Rd, Newcastle-Under-Lyme, ST5 1LZ Newcastle Life Issue 7 27

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

STUDENTS TAKE THEIR WARES TO MARKET N Newcastle under Lyme High School

ewcastle youngsters are amongst thousands of Staffordshire’s young entrepreneurs who have created their own Young Enterprise companies and will soon be selling their products at local markets.

The Young Enterprise programme, being coordinated by Staffordshire County Council, helps young people to develop their business and personal skills by creating their own company.

Now young people will be hoping to bag a profit as they try and shift their wares at public markets at the Ankerside Centre in Tamworth on 4th March and at Stone market on 25th March.

Over twenty High Schools from across the county and city of Stoke-on-Trent have signed up to the programmes, working with over 3,500 students.

This includes three schools from the Newcastle under Lyme area. Madeley High School will be selling shabby chic products, Wolstanston High 28 Newcastle Life Issue 7

School will be promoting children’s toothbrushes and Newcastle under Lyme School will be displaying safety stickers, bottle lamps and clocks.

Pupils work alongside teachers, business mentors and employers in school and take part in practical, engaging activities that introduce them to the world of work and enterprise.

Ben Adams, Cabinet Member for Learning and Skills at Staffordshire County Council said: “Young Enterprise is a great programme that is really helping inspire our young people with the skills confidence and ambition to succeed in today’s business world.

“We’ve been following these young entrepreneurs progress carefully, from creating their companies, developing their business ideas and then pitching them to local business leaders.

It’s now wonderful to see them with some really clever products and heading off to sell them at local markets. Throughout the Young Enterprise

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

Wolstanton High School

Madeley High School programme they have been learning vital business and personal skills all of which will benefit them both in life and whatever career they choose.”

Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership chairman David Frost CBE said: “Young Enterprise is a great scheme that is inspiring our future entrepreneurs and giving them a good grasp of business skills.

“Many of the jobs of the future will come from innovative ideas and start-up businesses so it is important to encourage our enterprising young people. This is vital not only for their future, but also to ensure that we build a thriving local and national economy.

“Enthusing our young people and developing the highly skilled and motivated employers and employees of the future are key to our aims of attracting inward investment, helping businesses to grow and creating more and better jobs for local people.”

The Young Enterprise programme is being coordinated by Staffordshire County Council in partnership with the Education Trust. It is being funded by the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership with support from volunteer business advisers from organisations such as Michelin, Wedgwood, Federation of Small businesses, Asda and many more.

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Vegetable tagliatelle with lemon and chive sauce RECIPES FOR LIFE

his recipe for spring vegetable tagliatelle with lemon and chive sauce serves four, is simple to make and is low-fat, making it ideal for working towards your summer body yet eating what you love with no guilt.

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Preparation time: 10 to 15 minutes Cooking time: 12 minutes

Ingredients: 450g mixed spring vegetables such as green beans, asparagus, broad beans and peas 400g tagliatelle 1 lemon 1 table spoon of Dijon mustard 1 table spoon of olive oil 3 table spoons of snipped chives Grated Parmesan (or vegetarian alternative) to serve

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Method: 1) Cut the asparagus into three pieces on the diagonal and halve the green beans. Cook the tagliatelle, adding the vegetables for the final five minutes of the cooking time.

2) Meanwhile, grate the zest from half the lemon and squeeze the juice from the whole lemon. Put juice in a small pan with the mustard, olive oil and a little black pepper. Warm through until smooth.

3) Drain the pasta and veg, adding four table spoons of the water to the lemon sauce. Return the pasta to the pan, reheat the sauce, adding most of the chives, then add to the pasta, tossing everything together well. Divide between four shallow bowls and top each with black pepper, Parmesan and the remaining chives.

RECIPES FOR LIFE

Make your own Easter eggs

Preparation time: 30 minutes Ready in: 30 minutes Makes: 10 eggs, depending on mould size Ingredients: • 250g good quality dark or milk chocolate • Easter egg moulds, small, medium or large • 1 egg white, lightly beaten • 150g icing sugar, sifted food colouring • Any fillings you fancy!

Method: 1) Melt chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water.

2) Paint a thin layer of chocolate inside the egg moulds, making sure it meets the edges of the mould. Chill for 5 minutes or until the chocolate is firm. Spread another even layer of chocolate over the first layer. Chill for another 5 minutes or until firm.

3) Gently ease the mould away from the chocolate. Join the chocolate halves together with a little melted chocolate.

4) Mix together the icing sugar and egg whites.

Add food colouring as desired. Decorate the eggs.

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NEW LOOK FOR MUCH LOVED PUB C NEW LOOK FOR LOCAL PUB

ustomers and staff are celebrating the reopening of The Thistleberry Hotel following a £445,000 makeover which has created 15 new jobs for the local community.

The Thistleberry Avenue pub has been transformed both inside and out with full redecoration, new lighting, flooring, furniture, fixtures and fittings.

The ladies and gent’s facilities have been replaced and a disabled toilet installed and a function room has also been fully refurbished with a new bar and furniture.

Externally, there is new signage and lighting, disabled access to the pub and function room and an alfresco drinking area with seating and attractive planting scheme.

The Thistleberry is now run by new publicans and business partners, Roger Veltom and John Henry, who have vast experience in the industry.

Roger said: “John and I can see great potential in The Thistleberry and our main priority is to create a welcoming venue with excellent customer service at its heart. The pub has always been a strong sports pub and we will continue to offer live

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sports but longer opening hours during the day will enable us to broaden our appeal.

“The lounge area will be ideal for customers looking for a relaxed place to visit during the day for a coffee and a chat with friends or a quiet pint.

“This is an exciting time for The Thistleberry and initial feedback has been positive. I’m confident that we can build up a loyal customer base who will be proud to call it their local again.”

Customers can now enjoy a regular entertainments programme including Sky, BT sports and racing channels, pool and darts teams, a cask ale club, poker and quiz nights, Friday fizz night and live music on Saturdays.

A bar snacks menu has been introduced and hot and cold buffets are also available for the function room.

Commenting on behalf of Punch, who provided the investment, openings manager Aimee Moss, said: “Our investment in The Thistleberry marks a new era for the pub which is set to get a new lease of life. I’m looking forward to continually supporting Roger, John and their new team in this exciting venture which I’m sure will be a great success.”

QUIZ CORNER

Let’s get quizzical COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE 1. Which 2016 Oscar nominated film is based on the short story ‘Story of Your Life’?

2. In which country is the 2012 Disney film Brave set?

3. In the Winnie-the-Pooh second volume of stories, who lives at The House at Pooh Corner?

4. What large island was formerly known as Van Dieman’s Land?

5. What is the name of the donkey in the 2001 film ‘Shrek’?

6. On a standard UK Monopoly board, what is the second-most expensive property square?

7. Where on the body would you find axillary hair?

8. What is the capital of Peru?

9. In which football ground can you find the Bill Shankly Kop? 10. In which city was Andy Murray born?

A ‘Fools’ Quiz for April Fool’s Day

1. According to the saying, where do fools rush in?

2. Which song was a top five hit for both Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers and Diana Ross?

3. Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson starred in which 2008 film when they seek to find lost treasure?

4. What is paper cut to the size of 8.5 by 13.5 inches called?

5. Who had a UK number one single with 'A Fool Such As I'?

6. What is the name of the fool in Shakespeare’s ‘Twelfth Night’?

7. Which boy band had a number one in 2000 with 'Fool Again'?

8. According to the proverb, a fool and his what are soon parted?

9. Fool's mate is a series of moves in which board game?

10. Which mineral is nicknamed Fool’s Gold?

General Knowledge Answers: 1. Arrival (Starring Amy Adams); 2. Scotland; 3. Eeyore; 4. Tasmania; 5. Donkey (voiced by Eddie Murphy); 6. Park Lane (costing £350 is just behind Mayfair at £400); 7. The Armpit; 8. Lima; 9.

Deepdale (Home of Preston North End - Shankly played for them 297 times); 10. Glasgow (He was brought up in Dunblane and was at the school at the time of the 1996 massace).

‘Fools’ quiz Answers: 1. Where angels fear to tread; 2. Why Do Fools Fall In Love; 3. Fool's Gold; 4. Foolscap; 5.

Elvis Presley; 6. Feste; 7. Westlife; 8. Money; 9. Chess; 10. Pyrite or Iron pyrite.General Knowledge Answers: 1.

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

General Knowledge Quiz

Newcastle Life Issue 7 33

What’s on in

NEWCASTLE

Meet the artist Artist David Bez will be at Trent Art Galler y, Brunswick Street, in March. This is a great opportunity to meet Da vid, view his works and gain first hand insight into his many styles and influences. 1 - 4pm Saturday, 11th Ma rch

Farmers Markets t A selection of fabulous food from farmers marke organic bles, vegeta grown home fresh ing includ producers e and chees pies, made hand and free range meat and eggs, of the side the at m 2.30p to 9am . cakes made home Guildhall and next to the main market.

July Fridays, 17th March, 21st April, 21st hestra is rning munity Orc Coffee mo er Lyme Com castle Methodist nd U le st ca The New ning at New a Coffee Mor putting on n. a, oo N 2 am-1 Plenty of te Church, 9:30 kes for sale and to eat, home of es ca or st be There will along with t chocolate, c. coffee and ho ra B acand Bri and rely on made crafts organisation it of pr noney to keep no is to raise m NULCO is a th e lik es ti activi fundraising funded. unity work local comm th 18 h rc a ,M Saturday

Email laura@ k and timesandecho.co.u st to be r ou do ll wi we t in our feature your even what’s on guide

en Event y cademy Op Football A e College And t is an le under Lym st en ca ev ew en N e op Th cademy free A ll ayers pl ba e ot al Fo Griffin ale and fem e for young m tim ll fu ar ye opportunity two ore about a the NULC to find out m Register on e. m m ra og football pr website. h , 30th Marc Thursday

Orme Art G roup exhibi tion Orme Art Gro up will be hold ing their next exhibition at the New Vict oria Theatre starting at the end of March . The theme fo the event will r be ‘Close to H ome’, which will aim to re present all th e ar tists’ works and show vario us mediums such as watercolour, oil, acrylics an d inks. The theme lends its elf to interpre tation in various ways by the imagin ation of the group’s creativ e members.

Further inform ation can be fo und online at -www.ormeart .org.uk 27th March to 22nd Apr il

Communit y Orchestr a Open Reh The Newcast earsal le Commun ity orchestr open rehear a will be ho sal in March lding an at Newcastle All are welco Methodist C me to go alon hurch. g and join in and make so the fun, soci me music. alise Newcastle U nder Lyme Community anyone who O rchestra is can play an op instrument level. at any age an en to d any All you need is yourself, your instrum stand. The op ent and your en music and refreshm rehearsals take place 7: 30pm - 9:30 ents are avai pm lable.

Wednesda y 8th Marc h, 5th Apri l, 10th Ma y

34 Newcastle Life Issue 7

DO YOU HAVE AN ?

EVENT TO SHARE Let us know!

phony rdshire Sym North Staffo t ncer t.

Orchestra co l, Stoke on Tren the Jubilee Hal To be held at t April Saturday, 1s

Free PR traini ng for local bu sinesses Newcastle Unde r Lyme BID (Bus iness Improvem District) in conj ent unction with King Street Studios ar producing a rang e e of training and support session for businesses wi s thin the BID. Th e second in the series will be focu sed around unde rstanding PR fo your business an r d how to increase it's impact.

The interactive seminar will cove r writing techniques and examples of pres s releases and he you to start your lp own PR strategy .

The session takes place 9:30am un til 1:30pm at King Street Stud ios on King Stre et. Refreshments are included thro ughout the semin ar. You can book your free place on the Newcastle Un der Lyme BID website.

Thursday, 6th April

l Lymelight Festiva g this al is back with a ban The Lymelight Festiv ekend we the oss acr sic mu year. There will be live t. rke ma n isa ll as an art from local talent as we y Ma 1st , ay nd Mo Friday, 28th April

n - free sessio payments ess in us (B Taking card ID B nder Lyme ith njunction w Newcastle U istrict) in co D t aining en tr ee em fr ov a Impr are offering s io don’t ud St tly et en King Stre es who curr cal business lo am r 30 fo 9. n . io ts ss se onic paymen tr ec e el th or on e rd take ca free plac n book your 1.3pm, you ca ID website.

B e m Ly er nd Newcastle U , 11th May Thursday

anza Easter Craft Extravag ily encourage Wider Fam to s aim nt eve l This specia . Your family can ing tell ry sto and y pla Learning through es and and enjoy playing gam learn how to face paint le Town ast wc Ne in Spring Parade creating items for the Centre. are invited t in the weeks session Families who take par ril at 1pm. Spaces Ap h 15t the on ade to be part of the par book booked in advance. To are limited and must be your space please email 82 381368. atre.org.uk or call 017 borderlines@newvicthe Children all m, 0p 2.3 till 10.30am Workshops take place ng thi clo ar by an adult and we must be accompanied suitable for crafting. ril - Thursday, 13th Ap Monday 10th April

Newcastle Ja zz and Blues Festival Newcastle's Jazz and Blues Festi val is back for its 12th year Friday 26th M ay - Monday 29th May

Open air Easter church service There will be an Open Air Church Service at the Market Cross on Goo d Friday from 11am 1pm. All are welcome to come and take part.

Friday, 14th April

Easter Satu rday Parade and Activitie A full day of fa s mily activities await you this Starting off at Easter Saturd 10am in the Ly ay. melight Boulev along and crea ard, you can po te a 'Spring Th p emed' mask, You can then pi ct show-case yo ure, animal or ur Easter mas egg. which will leav terpiece in th e from outsid e parade e the Lymelig and make its ht Boulevard way around th at 1pm e town.

Everyone is in vited to take pa rt in the para you have mad de, even pets e something, , so if an easter craf children have t or bonnet (o ) at school or r your at home please parade and ta bring it along ke part - the m to the ore the merrie The rest of th r. e day will see ba by town, with a ch spring lambs heading into ance to feed th the em between 10 There will also am and 2pm. be a fun fair on Goose Street the Easter ho Car Park thro lidays. ughout Saturday, 15 th April

Newcastle Life Issue 7 35

RIDGWAYS HEARING CARE

T: 0 36 Newcastle Life Issue 7

01782 622 545

RIDGWAYS HEARING CARE

Ridgways Hearing Care @RidgwaysHC Newcastle Life Issue 7 37

DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE AT LOCAL JUNIOR SCHOOL NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME SCHOOL

ne of the top independent schools in the UK, Newcastle-under-Lyme Junior School develops confident young children who leave school with the skills and passion that enable them to embrace the next stage of their academic life.

Few schools have a heritage like this School, and while reflecting on an accomplished past, the School is always adapting and moving forward.

Newcastle-under-Lyme Junior School takes boys and girls into The Orme Nursery from the term they reach age 3. A transport network meets the needs of pupils from its large catchment area across Staffordshire, Cheshire and Shropshire.

The happy, family atmosphere of the School complements the varied and well-balanced curriculum provided for each child.

The School prides itself on going above and beyond the National Curriculum requirements, adding a diverse range of clubs, sports, societies and other co-curricular activities to the children’s programme of learning.

O

38 Newcastle Life Issue 7

Small classes throughout the School allow individual attention according to the child’s specific needs. Enthusiastic, inspiring and well qualified staff provide the right environment for children to grow in confidence and to learn effectively.

The School can boast an excellent sporting record, with superb on-site facilities, including a swimming pool, Astroturf pitches and Sport England badminton courts.

The School welcomes applications for all year groups – from Nursery and Reception through to Year 6, and can arrange visits at your convenience. To see the school in action and to sample the atmosphere, please contact Mrs Janet Hargreaves on 01782 664625 or jhargreaves@nuls.org.uk.

In addition, the Junior School is hosting an Open Morning on Wednesday 22 March 9.30am – 11.00am. Please contact Mrs Hargreaves on the details above.

As the School motto says, “Never old, never standing still, always striving for new heights”.

SIMPLE SMARTPHONE SNAPS

NEWCASTLE CAMERA CLUB

YOU DON’T NEED EXPENSIVE GEAR TO TAKE MEMORABLE SHOTS

njoying photography and taking professional shots doesn’t have to be difficult or daunting.

In fact, you can take expert images just by using your camera phone.

Newcastle Camera Club member David Seaton captured this images with his smartphone and wanted to show that good landscapes can be taken using a camera phone, if you can capture the right light and viewpoint.

This particular image was taken at The

E

Roaches near Leek, which is a well known area for landscape photography.

He explained: “At the time I took this image I had just purchased a new phone and thought I would test the image quality, which I think is pretty good, considering that it also doubles up as a phone.

“The only downside, is the image size is quite small compared to a full frame camera, which is what I normally use. If you want to print images from a camera phone file, the size is usually 10"x8".”

Newcastle Life Issue 7 39

FABULOUS PHLOX GARDENING

by Martin Blow

order Phlox are old fashioned plants with a bright new future as gardeners switch to perennials with great scent, hardy disposition and minimal care requirements.

They can give years and years of service in the herbaceous or mixed border and provide a wonderful, scented summer display.

Phlox hate being in pots so buy in spring and plant out before they become root-bound. They also hate being in greenhouses so avoid “pumped-up” plants forced on in heat.

We’re all guilty of impulse buys (how else have I ended up with over 70 varieties of Phlox in the garden) but before planting out, stop and think. Phlox are very long-lived plants and although easy to move they will always leave behind roots that will send up new plants – so plan where you want them to grow first. The ideal site is sunny, with rich, well-dug soil with perhaps a little late afternoon shade to protect them from the extremes of summer heat. In practice, they get full sun or light shade in my garden and do pretty well in either.

Border Phlox are incredibly hardy and start to show new growth in February. The new leaves are often attractively coloured but only a few varieties maintain these coloured leaves into summer, the others gradually turn green. Good coloured leaf types include Starfire, Blue Paradise and Logan Black. Variegated Phlox have lovely white and green or cream, red and green leaves throughout the summer to compliment the flowers.

Enriching the soil with compost dug into the top 1ft of soil will do wonders for the plants. I find the chalk in mushroom compost helps to reduce mildew problems. I always give my Phlox

B

a good dressing with a well-balanced fertiliser like Growmore in spring followed by blood, fish and bone in mid-summer. Also, give the plants some space if possible to improve air circulation; plant border phlox about 2ft apart.

Water the ground not the plant and try and use water at air temperature (say from a water butt, or a can filled a few hours before) rather than an icy blast from a hosepipe.

Phlox are often recommended as candidates for the “Chelsea Chop” – the practice of cutting plants by about half their height around the time of Chelsea Flower Show to create bushier, later flowering plants. I rarely do this: instead I remove spent flower head in late July and into August to encourage side shoots to flower.

Phlox make good cut flowers – cut in the morning and remove the lower leaves.

At the end of the season cut down the stems to ground level and put them in the council green waste bin rather than the compost heap to avoid carrying any pests or diseases from season to season.

There are 100’s of varieties to choose from and often it’s the old, heritage varieties that are new to our nursery range as they are “rediscovered” growing in happy neglect in an old garden. In recent years, we have reintroduced the old German varieties Sternhimmel (Starry Sky) and Lavendelwolke (Lavender Cloud) to go with Monte Cristallo and Kirchenfürst plus a brand new English variety raised by Terry Dagley and named Maude Stella Dagley as well as promoting old English varieties such as Elizabeth Arden, Bright Eyes and White Admiral.

Once you’ve grown border Phlox you will be hooked by the beauty of the flowers and the heady scent on a summer’s evening.

Janet & I run Special Perennials, website www.specialperennials.com We will be at Plant Hunters’ Fairs at the Dorothy Clive Garden (TF9 4EU) on Easter Sunday/Monday 16/17th April entry to the plant fair and beautiful 12 acre gardens only £3.50 (normally £7.50) Sugnall Walled Gardens, Eccleshall (ST21 6NF) on Saturday 22nd April £1 entry to fair and garden. Consall Hall Gardens, Wetley Rocks (ST9 0AG) on Sunday 23rd April where you can enjoy these spectacular 70 acre gardens and a great plant fair for only £3.00.

The beautiful gardens of Weston Park (TF11 8LE) can be enjoyed on Sunday 30th April and Monday 1st May with a special low entry price of £3.00 which includes the gardens, parkland and bluebell woods as well as the plant fair and Adlington Hall, Macclesfield (SK10 4LF) on Sunday 7th May with special half price entry for gardens and fair at just £3.00. For full details of these and other Plant Hunters’ Fairs please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect.

40 Newcastle Life Issue 7

GARDENING

Newcastle Life Issue 7 41

SPRUCE UP FOR SPRING WITH A DEEP CLEAN HOMES IMPROVEMENTS

ow many of us actually do a good old fashioned spring clean these days? A 2014 study suggested only around half of people in Britain gave their home a spring clean each year.

Many house-proud people believe their home doesn’t need a spring clean, but even though we have more cleaning products and gadgets than ever before, it is still vital to give your house a really thorough scrub in every nook and cranny each year.

In fact, households in Staffordshire are being urged to get their house in order now to prevent problems with pests this summer as dust and dirt which can accumulate in any home over the winter months can support an entire eco-system of bugs.

And pest experts say acting while any insects are still dormant can help to avoid infestations from occurring later in the year.

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42 Newcastle Life Issue 7

Dee Ward-Thompson, of the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), said: “Spring is a time when temperatures begin to rise and nature starts to wake up.

“Insects will emerge to build nests and forage for food and, left unchecked, their presence can turn from a minor nuisance in February or March to a major problem in summer.

“The better the weather, the faster they breed and, when insects are breeding rapidly, they can become a real issue in no time at all.

“Householders who add simple preventative measures to their list of spring cleaning jobs could therefore save themselves a lot of trouble in the long run – it’s definitely worth the effort.”

Rats and mice are a common problem for many households even throughout the winter as they seek shelter from the cold.

But the start of spring brings with it the potential for issues with a variety of other pests

“

Cleaning the house from top to bottom is a good idea as it’s a chance to give attention to areas that would perhaps normally be forgotten

”

su rv F ey R & EE qu ot es

too including ants, flies, wasps and cockroaches.

Mrs Ward-Thompson added: “Just because you won’t necessarily see insects in your home yet doesn’t mean they’re not there.

“The chances are that eggs and nests are hidden in a dark corner somewhere and will spring to life once the weather starts to get warmer.

“Cleaning the house from top to bottom is a good idea as it’s a chance to give attention to areas that would perhaps normally be forgotten.

“But there are a number of other practical measures that can be carried out now to ensure pests are kept away from your property as much as possible this summer.”

The BPCA website contains advice on all domestic pests along with a search tool to find professional controllers in your area. Visit www.bpca.org.uk

HOMES IMPROVEMENTS

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Newcastle Life Issue 7 43

MODERN LIFESTYLES CAU M HOMES IMPROVEMENTS

odern living could be causing damp and mould problems in our homes, a trade body has warned.

The Property Care Association (PCA), says many of its 400 members across the UK are encountering higher levels of humidity and wetness in homes.

According to the association, a range of factors associated with modern living and the way homes are occupied have contributed to the rise.

These include increased levels of occupation and rising fuel costs, as well as a drive to make homes more energy efficient.

Efforts to reduce air leakage through draught proofing and retrofit insulation, as well as the changing climate patterns, featuring warmer, wetter weather, are also of significance.

The PCA says that left unchecked, the resulting problems from excess moisture can include poor air quality, condensation, dampness and mould.

Steve Hodgson, chief executive of the PCA,

44 Newcastle Life Issue 7

said: “This is an issue which can have significant consequences, with excess moisture in a building potentially affecting both its fabric and the comfort and wellbeing of occupants if left unchecked.

“We believe the frequency of problems associated with damp and mould from indoor air is only set to get worse, with unseen and as yet underestimated problems being created due to these new pressures on properties.”

The PCA says a greater focus on more effective ventilation in UK homes can help tackle the problem.

The PCA is also working with other professionals and organisations to investigate the issue.

Kitchens and bathrooms are particularly prone to dampness and mould due to cooking and washing activities.

Tackling condensation and mould issues can be more complex than many people think and should be undertaken by a qualified trader.

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Newcastle Life Issue 7 47

MOTORING

POTHOLE WARNING BEAMS TO YOUR DASH COULD SAVE YOU CASH

ostly car repairs could be prevented with the help of an ingenious, crowd-sourced virtual pothole map, which Ford is researching, with testing due to start later this year. The map would show drivers, in real-time, on in-car displays, where potholes are, how bad they are, and suggest alternative routes.

In the UK alone, a pothole damage claim is received by local authorities every 17 minutes – with claims averaging £432. In 2011, 20 million potholes were reported in Europe but only half were filled – at an estimated cost of more than €1.2 billion.

“A virtual pothole map could highlight a new pothole the minute it appears and almost immediately warn other drivers that there is a hazard ahead,” said Uwe Hoffmann, research engineer, Advanced Chassis Control Technologies, Ford of Europe. “Our cars already feature sensors that detect potholes and now we are looking at taking this to the next level.”

Cold, ice and snow all cause roads to freeze, thaw and ultimately break apart, a situation compounded

C

48 Newcastle Life Issue 7

by heavy spring rain that fills the holes – spelling trouble for the 16 million motorists who hit the road for the Easter break.

Ford models including Galaxy, Mondeo and SMAX already use on-board sensors for Continuously Controlled Damping with Pothole Mitigation, which detects potholes using sensors and adjusts the suspension to help reduce any potential damage.

Engineers are now researching the use of cameras and embedded modems, at the Ford Research and Innovation Centre, in Aachen, Germany. Together, these technologies would gather detailed information on the potholes and beam it to the cloud – where it can be made available to other drivers – in real time.

Further research is also exploring the use of an active suspension system designed to massively reduce the severity of bumps and rough road surfaces.

Ford already tests new cars on a nightmare 1.2 mile road at Lommel Proving Ground, in Belgium, using replicas of some of the world’s worst potholes.

MOTORING

Newcastle Life Issue 7 49

LEGAL MATTERS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Then there are the cohabitees. English law currently

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.family-law-and-divorce.co.uk 50 Newcastle Life Issue 7