Newcastle Life Issue 8

ISSUE 8

Life photo special

Lymelight Festival and St George’s Day parade

WIN

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CONTENTS

ISSUE 8 Editor’s letter ..............................................6 Choir take home festival trophy .................8

Jazz and Blues Festival .............................10

Edenhurst Preparatory School ..................11

Competition ..............................................24 Gardening .................................................26 Top veterinary nurse ................................28

Double celebration for Lions ....................29

Narrowboat display ..................................30 Hearing Dogs for Deaf People ..................33

Miss Prom Staffordshire 2017 ..................12

What’s on ..................................................34

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

Photography corner..................................38

Lymelight Festival.....................................14 Recipes for life...........................................18 Stage directions ........................................20

Whitesnake’s Journey ...............................21

Investment for circus festivities ...............22

Young musician ........................................36 Newcastle Town Netball Club ..................42 Newcastle Scouts ......................................44 Motoring ...................................................47

Legal matters ............................................50

it’s time to step into spring

t’s that weird and wonderful time of year again - Spring. I say weird and wonderful, because in the space of one week I have gone from unexpectedly sunburning my shoulders at a friend’s wedding to scraping ice off my car before setting off for work.

Our Great British weather certainly keeps us on our toes and so it’s no wonder that as a nation, we are always banging on about it!

I seem to have spent a lot of time these past few weeks staring into the depths of my wardrobe. I’m never quite sure at this time of year whether it’s safe to go out wearing short sleeves or long sleeves, if I should be picking up my umbrella or my sunglasses, or whether I need a big coat or little coat, or maybe no coat, or perhaps a jumper?

When it comes to the weather, you’re probably all just as unsure as I am!

What you can be sure of however, is that once again Newcastle Life magazine is full to the brim with a fantastic array of news, events and stories straight from the heart of our vibrant local community. Add to that quizzes, photos, what’s on pages, competitions and recipes - and you’ve got yourself a bumper Issue 8!

There’s been plenty of goings on in and around Newcastle over the past couple of months so in this issue we delve straight in.

Were you lucky enough to enjoy any of Lymelight Festival 2017? Or perhaps you caught a glimpse of the St George’s Day Scout parade. Our photographer was out and about during these events so make sure you look at our photo features in this issue - you never know who you might spot!

If you’re a community group in need of funding I urge you to get in touch with the Newcastle Lions - in celebration of their 30th anniversary they are giving away a whopping £3,000 to deserving local causes, we have the full details inside.

Meanwhile we learn more about an exciting investment into our New Vic theatre, meet a young Clayton hopeful vying for the title of Miss Prom Staffordshire 2017 and we recognise the achievements of our local musicians, choristers, and even a vet!

So all in all, there’s plenty to get your teeth into, and as you sit back and relax with your latest copy of Newcastle Life magazine, I hope you are enjoying it in warm (short sleeves) weather, preferably with a nice cold glass of something tasty!

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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

Thank you to all of you who have been in touch with your stories and events for Issue 8. Remember, Newcastle Life is YOUR magazine and we want to hear from you!

Perhaps you have a story to tell or a photo to share; maybe you’d like to promote your event or your talent; or you may have exciting snippets of local history to interest our readers! Simply get in touch by emailing laura@timesandecho.co.uk

Laura

COVER PHOTO: Ian Dakin Photography E: iandakin@btinternet.com

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Newcastle Life Issue 8 7

CHOIR TAKE HOME FESTIVAL TROPHY

hospital choir sing t M

embers of the University Hospital Choir are celebrating success after taking home the trophy in the very first competition they have ever entered.

The Choir, which formed six years ago, won The Adult Choir Class in the Newcastle Festival for Music, Speech and Drama with honours.

Sue Pantin, musical director, trained as a music teacher, but chose a career in industry and the NHS before coming back to music by chance with the formation of University Hospital Choir.

She admitted that the choir did not know

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what to expect in the festival’s newest singing category. She said: “As a choir, we have come a long way over the past seven years in terms of confidence and performance and we felt that the competition would be a way to challenge and develop ourselves further.

“We entered with no expectation of winning; our primary motivation to be a part of the choir is a love of singing and socialising together. Our win, therefore, was all the more unexpected and appreciated, especially as the other six choirs were also such a high standard.

CHOIR TAKE HOME FESTIVAL TROPHY

their way to success “What mattered most was the accolade and the sheer joy of performing alongside so many other singers. Apart from the nerves, it shows just how good choral singing is for health!

“It was a nail-biting moment as the adjudicator announced third and second places, and finally University Hospital Choir as the winners. And it was very close, with just one mark between each of the top three choirs.

"The win came with a certificate, a silver trophy and a £200 cheque.”

University Hospital Choir started in 2010 as an antidote to the stresses of working life in the NHS. It became a ladies choir only because the group struggled to persuade enough men to take part.

The choir currently has around 50 active members made up of current and retired NHS staff and friends and they rehearse at the Royal Stoke Hospital on Tuesday evenings, 6pm - 8pm.

The group boasts a wide and varied repertoire, singing both accompanied and unaccompanied pop and rock numbers, songs from musicals of all eras, folk and traditional songs, classical and sacred music, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Sue continued: “We take our music seriously

and generally perform four or five concerts a year, but rehearsals have to be fun or there's no point in doing them. We are also a sociable bunch and organise social activities outside the singing. We don't audition and you don't have to read music to sing in the choir."

The group’s annual concerts are in the summer and at Christmas but they also perform at various events through the year and proceeds are donated to the hospital’s charitable fund – UHNM Charity.

In July 2016 the group were very pleased to be able to donate a cheque for £1750 to the charity, raised from the summer concerts in 2015 and 2016.

The adjudicator's comments about the choir's performance included: "A most musically poised account with lovely tonal projection", "Totally secure and performed with a real sense of enjoyment" and "This was a most polished performance".

To find out more about University Hospital Choir go to www.universityhospitalchoir.co.uk or find them on Facebook. If you think you might be interested in joining an award winning choir, just email the musical director at sue.pantin@btinternet.com.

Newcastle Life Issue 8 9

Jazz and Blues JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL

may 26th - may 29th

nce again Spring bank Holiday will see a cacophony of live bands head to Newcastle-under-Lyme to show off their amazing talents in the 12th annual Jazz and Blues Festival.

A hand-picked selection of local, national and even international artists and bands will be joining forces - and talent - to provide what promises to be the best Jazz and Blues Festival yet.

As well as hundreds of bands and artists performing at various locations in the town all weekend, you will also be able to enjoy the Newcastle Jazz and Blues Records Fair, which takes place on the High Street on Sunday, 28th May. With Vinyl Records outselling downloads these days, you will be pleased to see the return of VIP Record Fairs, which will see traders from all over the UK selling record and CDs in most genres of popular music. Free admission.

As well as this, the Market Co. will be

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delivering the Artisan Market to the town throughout the day on Saturday 27th.

Artisan traders deliver a diverse mix of quality goods and priority is given to locally based traders providing locally produced and sourced products for Newcastle. Complimentary traders are then sourced further afield to ensure the variety of goods on offer is exceptional.

The street food arena provides some of the very best street food available and is always a popular place to sit, meet friends and listen to the music, provided by local musicians, whilst enjoying the culinary delights.

Finally, on Monday 30th May, between 10am and 3pm, there will be a charity plant market, fairground, face painting, kids activities and outdoor acts to enjoy.

Performances will take place in 20 venues across town, most of which offer free entry.

For more information, visit www.newcastlejazzandblues.co.uk

visit us to find out what makes edenhurst so special

EDENHURST PREPARATORY SCHOOL

ocated in the Westlands, Newcastle-underLyme, Edenhurst Preparatory School is a co-educational independent day school for pupils from age 3 months to 11 years.

The School was established in 1961 by the Copestick family, and over the decades has continued to evolve into a nurturing, familyorientated and academically excellent school.

At Edenhurst we benefit from small class sizes, which enables us to offer a more personalised approach to learning, and allows each child's individual strengths to be nurtured.

Furthermore, we are committed to educating the ‘whole child’; our strong pastoral care system incorporates a structured Personal, Social and Health Education programme, including the School’s Core Values of Courtesy, Honesty, Respect, and Endeavour.

Children continue to achieve excellent 11+ results at Edenhurst. This year we once again achieved 100% success in getting the pupils into the senior schools of their choosing and 37% were awarded scholarships to notable Independent

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Schools.

We are very proud of our reputation as a leading school for sport; earlier this year we officially opened a brand new AstroTurf pitch, which has further enhanced our facilities. Recent successes including becoming ISA Midlands Netball and Tag Rugby Champions, Football County Champions and District Indoor Athletics Champions.

At Edenhurst, our fees include before and after school care every day from 8:00am until 6:00pm, and our Holiday Club, ‘Edventures’, offers fun-filled days for children aged 4 11 during the school holidays. Free transport is provided from Market Drayton, Ashley, Loggerheads, Nantwich, Willaston, Wychwood Park and Keele.

We do still have a couple of Reception places available for September 2017. To book a place at our Open Morning on 16th May, or arrange a visit at any other time, please call 01782 619348, email office@edenhurst.co.uk or visit www.edenhurst.co.uk

Newcastle Life Issue 8 11

Ambitious Ashleigh foc MISS PROM STAFFORDSHIRE 2017

community minded youngster aims to win the miss prom prize

ith dreams of helping her local community and fundraising for charity, 16 year old Ashleigh Blundred is about to embark on an experience which will see her ambitions help to raise the profile of local charity the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.

Earlier this year the youngster, who lives with her Mum, Dad, older sister and brothers in Clayton, was delighted to learn that she has been named as a finalist in the Miss Prom Staffordshire competition.

Unlike traditional beauty pageants, Miss Prom Staffordshire is all about raising money for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.

Fundraising for the Dougie Mac is the top priority, and by taking part in local events,

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finalists are encouraged to become more confident in their own abilities and given the chance to grow into strong, community minded role models for younger girls.

As one of the finalists, Ashleigh will spend the coming months taking part in as much charity fundraising as she can, before the finals take place in September.

Ashleigh, who will be starting college in September studying travel, tourism and events, told Newcastle Life magazine: “I entered this competition because it is for a great cause and I wanted to boost my confidence. At first I was a bit unsure as I'm quite a shy girl.

“Self esteem is something that I have always struggled with, but by entering Miss Prom I believe that my confidence is already improving!

“I hope to become a great role model for the younger generation in my local area.

“Taking part in Miss Prom 2017 has given me the opportunity to meet lots of

ocusses on fundraising

MISS PROM STAFFORDSHIRE 2017

new people and socialise with people I would have never met before this experience. the coaches and organisers (Debbie Hughes, Stephanie Wood and Heidi Leake) are so supportive and help me so much!

“They have really helped me and the rest of the girls, by giving us a space where we can build our confidence and also gain friendships!”

So far, Ashleigh has completed the 5k Douglas Macmillan Fun Run at the Wedgwood Estate dressed as an Easter bunny, raising £100, she has taken part in Newcastle Business Improvement District's Easter Fun Day with a Chocolate Tombola and Name the Duck stall, raising another £245, and she has organised her own 24 hour auction, which made £200.

She also plans to participate in the Dougie Mac's Moonlight Walk.

Ashleigh continued: “Since I have started I have generated over £100, all of which is going to the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.

“After the competition, I will still carry on raising money for the Dougie Mac and many other charities and also I wish to help out in the community.

“I eventually want to become an events manager.”

Ashleigh, who is being sponsored by local business Cotton Motor Services, will learn whether or not she is a winner at the Miss Prom Staffordshire finals, which are taking place on 2nd September at the Kings Hall, Stoke-On-Trent.

Ashleigh’s Mum Karen, and Dad David told Newcastle Life magazine: “We as parents are very proud and excited to have Ashleigh in the final of Miss Prom Staffordshire 2017.

“Ashleigh is selfless in every way and often gives up her free time to look after and care for her six year old twin brothers who have ASD. “She has done a fabulous job of raising money for the Dougie Mac. She is such a loving and caring young lady who makes us all so very proud every day.”

Finalists can win up to nine sashes on the night. One is Miss Charity, which goes to the girl who has raised the most money for the

Dougie Mac. Another, Miss Diamond Smile, is sponsored by the company 'Diana Dental' and looks for the girl with the great smile. Miss Publicity Queen recognises the girl who has achieved the most publicity in the run up to the final.

From everyone here at Newcastle Life good luck Ashleigh!

If you would like to support Ashleigh and her fundraising for the Dougie Mac, she has several events coming up including a coffee morning and pamper party. She will be holding a ‘Disco Through the Decades’ night with live singer Sam Hardy on June 24th at The Thistleberry. Tickets are £10 and available from the venue or by contacting Karen on 07432506187.

You can also like Ashleigh’s Miss Prom page on facebook: www.facebook.com/ashleighblundred. misspromfinalist/

Newcastle Life Issue 8 13

LYMELIGHT FESTIVAL

IN THE LYM fantastic festival Back with a musical Bang

he annual Lymelight Festival returned to Newcastle-under-Lyme town with a bang this year. Taking place from Friday 28th April to Monday 1st May, this popular and lively event brings together local talent from in and around Staffordshire to perform live on the town centre stage.

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And this year’s was bigger and better than ever.

Spectators enjoyed a fun-filled May Day Bank Holiday weekend, with a variety of live music being performed on two music stages.

On Saturday 1st May, there were performances on the Queen’s Gardens’

LYMELIGHT FESTIVAL

YMELIGHT bandstand too, while local brewery, Lymestone Vaults, held a real ale bar.

The extremely popular Artisan Market returned to the town after its successful debut as part of the Christmas festivities.

Positioned centrally on the Ironmarket, the Market offered an opportunity to browse stalls, taste the culinary treats, talk to artists, vintage dealers and designer-makers, all while being entertained by the musicians.

The highly-anticipated Festival saw hundreds of families flock to the town centre, to enjoy Stanworth’s Funfair and lots of fun and games for the children.

This year, the Lymelight Music Festival’s chosen charity is Caudwell Children and the event aimed to raise awareness of the amazing work the charity undertakes; providing family support services, equipment, treatment and therapies for disabled children and their families across the UK. Newcastle Life Issue 8 15

latest news, exhi and offers at tr

TRENT ART GALLERY

come and Join us in the gallery at Brunswick street

we are incredibly fortunate to have amazing talent on our doorstep. in the next few months we have the following events taking place.

Jiri Borksy Paintings - Friday 12th May to Friday 26th May Trent Art are pleased to be hosting an Exhibition of Jiri Borsky’s work. With up to 50 paintings in the Exhibition and for sale Jiri’s 1st One Man Show for 5 years promises to be a very special event.

Meet the Artist.

Thursday 15th June come and meet Artist Ian Pearsall.

Ian will be in the gallery from 6pm to share what inspires his work. Ian is driven by a desire to capture the past of well-known North Staffordshire scenes in a landscape that is continuing to change.

Ian’s work will be on display and for sale. Join us for drinks from 6pm onwards.

Ian’s work is on permanent display in the gallery throughout the year.

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hiBitions, events rent art gallery

TRENT ART GALLERY

Trent Art Bespoke Framing We offer a wide selection of quality framing solutions for Pictures, Prints, Photos, Memorabilia and Collectors’ Items.

Come and visit us during May and June and get

10% OFF ALL FRAMING when you mention Newcastle Life.

The area’s leading supplier of

Original Art

At Trent Art you can take the Art you love home today with an interest free loan from Own Art

0% Interest Rate 10 months equal installments with loans from £100 - £2500 for works by living artists Representative 0% APR

Trent Art Gallery, 19 Brunswick Street, Newcastle under Lyme, ST5 1HF Open Tuesday – Saturday

Tel: 01782 610588

Newcastle Life Issue 8 17

SIMPLE SPRINGTIM

RECIPES FOR LIFE

MINTED ROAST LEG OF LAMB

Ingredients: The Roast: • 2.7kg leg of lamb sourced from your local butcher • Fresh thyme and rosemary • 250ml chicken stock • 100ml water The Rub: • 15 fresh mint leaves chopped • 4 garlic cloves, crushed • 50g butter • 2 tsp whole grain mustard • ½ tsp English mustard powder • Juice and rind of 1 lemon, grated • Black pepper

Method: While waiting for your preheated oven to reach 140°C, put the lamb into a roasting dish and make incisions on the top of the lamb leg all over 18 Newcastle Life Issue 8

the meat with a sharp knife. This will help the flavours from the rub to infuse the meat In a separate bowl mix together the mint, crushed garlic, butter, whole grain mustard, mustard powder, lemon juice and grated rind and then smother the rub all over the lamb.

Place the fresh thyme and rosemary at the base of the roasting tray, tucked underneath the leg of lamb.

Pour the stock and water into the roasting tin around the meat, and cover with a lid or tin foil to seal.

Roast in the oven at 140°C for 3 1/2 to 4 hours or until tender.

Increase the temperature to 180°C, remove the tin foil, place back and roast for 30 minutes until golden.

Remove from the oven, and transfer lamb to serving board to rest whilst you make the gravy.

Seasonal serving suggesting: Jersey Royal new potatoes and spring greens are at their best during April and May and would make a great accompaniment to roasted leg of lamb.

ME FAYRE hat better way to welcome in the spring than with a traditional roast lamb lunch served up with a seasonal selection of mouth watering sides and a tempting, but simple, dessert to finish.

Here we add a little twist to your regular roast leg of lamb with a beautiful homemade mint rub, which is quick and easy to execute but for which you will reap the rewards tenfold when it comes to the all important taste test!

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RECIPES FOR LIFE

A SIMPLE SIDE OF ONION SAUCE

Ingredients: • 1 large onion finely chopped • 1 tbsp water • 2oz butter • Dessert spoon plain flour • Approx ½ pint (to desired thickness)

Method: Place the chopped onion in a small dish with the water, cover and microwave for four minutes on a high setting.

Make a simple white sauce, either in a pan on the hob or using the microwave, by adding the flour to melted butter and cooking for a minute or so before gradually whisking in the milk.

Once your white sauce is ready combine this with the softened onions and keep warm until it’s time to serve.

And for dessert:

PERFECT POACHED PEARS

Ingredients: •1 bottle of soft, fruity red wine • 125g granulated sugar • 2 cloves • 1 stick of cinnamon • 1 strip of lemon zest • A few drops of vanilla essence • 4 hard pears halved, preferably conference • Lemon juice to taste

Method: Heat the oven to 180C. Put the wine in a pan with the sugar, spices and zest and bring to the boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

Meanwhile, peel and halve the pears and cut out the core at the base, but leave the stalk intact.

Find an ovenproof dish just wide enough to hold the pears in one layer and lay them in there.

Pour the spiced wine over the top - it should just cover the fruit - and cover. Bake for about an hour, checking after 45 minutes; once the fruit is tender to the point of a knife, but still holds its shape, lift it out of the liquid and set aside.

Pour the liquid back into the saucepan and bring to the boil. Reduce by about half until syrupy, then taste and add lemon juice to taste and perhaps a little sugar too if required. Pour the sauce back on to the pears and serve warm or cool with creme fraiche.

Newcastle Life Issue 8 19

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

WIN TICKETS to see Anna of the Five Towns W e have teamed up with the awardwinning New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-underLyme, to give away a pair of tickets to see Anna of The Five Towns.

To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Arnold Bennett – one of Stoke-on-Trent’s greatest literary legends – this new adaptation of his most-loved novel tells the absorbing love story of a spirited young woman, set against the backdrop of life in the Potteries.

Anna Tellwright’s 21st birthday brings with it newfound responsibilities, wealth and a suitor for her heart. Courted by desirable

bachelor Henry Mynors, Anna struggles to gain her independence. She finds herself torn between trying to please her tyrannical father and a desire to help young

Willie Price and his family from the brink of ruin. As pressure mounts, tragedy strikes, and Anna must discover where her heart truly lies before it’s too late.

TO WIN TWO TICKETS TO SEE ANNA OF THE FIVE TOWNS ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:

Which is not one of Arnold Bennett’s Five Towns?

A) Burslem

B) Longton

C) Fenton

(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 16th May 2017.

Tickets are for any performance of Anna of The Five Towns. The production runs at the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, from Friday 26 May to Saturday 17 June. Box Office: 01782 717962.

Tickets are non-transferable and are subject to availability.

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local rockers to tour on the continent

WHITESNAKE’S JOURNEY

whirlwind 18 months for fledgeling glam rock Band

fledgeling glam rock band featuring five Staffordshire musicians has made waves across the local rock music circuit since forming just over 18 months ago.

Ryan Gillespie, Steve Miller, John Miller, Jason Imbro and Neil Bourne - known collectively as Whitesnake’s Journey - came together as a group a year and a half ago and since then have been gigging in the Newcastle area.

The rock musicians, all of whom have been members of other bands in the past, already knew of each other thanks to the part each played in their previous musical groups.

Speaking to Newcastle Life Magazine 23 year old Ryan who works at Blacks Menswear in

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Newcastle explained: “Whitesnake’s Journey came about thanks to Steve really. He had seen us all in other bands and asked if we wanted to get together as a new group.

“We now rehearse once a week in Heron Cross and it’s great really how we’ve just clicked together as a group.

“We’ve played a couple of local gigs and are hoping to now move onto bigger venues in the area such as the Victoria Hall.”

Whitesnake’s Journey perform covers of well known hits by the two bands which form their name - Whitesnake and Journey and are proving popular wherever they go.

The group has even secured an incredibly exciting gig touring the Greek island of Lindos this summer which comes as the icing on the cake for the promising new band.

For more information on Whitesnake’s Journey including forthcoming gigs take a look at the Facebook page facebook.com/whitesnakesjourney.

Newcastle Life Issue 8 21

Big top investme INVESTMENT FOR CIRCUS FESTIVITIES

newcastle theatre receives over £749,000 ith the modern day circus celebrating its 250th birthday next year, more than £749,000 has been invested in the New Vic Theatre, as part of the Arts Council England’s National Lottery supported Ambition for Excellence Programme.

The £749,592 will be used to host Circus Past, Present and Future, a highlight of the 250 year celebrations of Philip Astley, the father of modern circus.

The theatre will become the centre of the Circus 250 festivities during 2018 which will include an ambitious programme of exhibitions and installations, spectacular performances and professionally-led community projects.

Circus Past, Present and Future will bring to life the history of the local area by revealing Philip Astley’s extraordinary legacy and will

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image by Geraint Lewis

further develop Newcastle-under-Lyme into a nationally recognised destination for dance, drama and circus.

The New Vic Theatre, alongside NoFit State Circus will work with partners Victoria & Albert Museum, Newcastle-under-Lyme Building Improvement District, Newcastle Borough Council and Brampton Museum & Art Gallery to create borough-wide events reflecting on the past, present and future of British circus.

The Ambition for Excellent fund supports organisations and partnerships with production, commissioning or creative development projects that show potential for significant impact on the development of talent and leadership, and the growth of an ambitious arts infrastructure in England.

Theresa Heskins, New Vic Artistic Director, said: “We’re so thrilled to have been successful in this Ambition for Excellence award.

Allowing us to shine a light on Newcastleunder-Lyme, the town where the father of modern circus Philip Astley was born, it is

ent for new vic

INVESTMENT FOR CIRCUS FESTIVITIES

Image by Andrew Billington

fantastic that the Arts Council support our vision and we will now be able to work with NoFit State Circus, who create spectacular work

on a grand scale. We look forward to sharing a celebration of circus with audiences from near and far in 2018.�

Newcastle Life Issue 8 23

COMPETITION

The UK’s biggest food show returns to the NE

BBC Good Food Show and BBC Gardeners’ World Live, 15 - 18 June 2017 at The NEC Birmingham BC Gardeners’ World Live and BBC Good Food Show, sponsored by Lexus, return together, with what promises to be the best show yet. For over 20 years these Shows have taken up residency at The NEC and have entertained over two million visitors in this time. Quite simply, together they’re one of the biggest and best events of the summer, packed with garden inspiration, artisan food and drink, the UK’s most famous gardeners and food experts including Monty Don, Mary Berry, Alan Titchmarsh and James Martin to name a few, plus magic moments around every corner leaving visitors spellbound.

Every ticket includes entry to both BBC events the perfect combination for all food and garden lovers. Visitors can get up close and personal with household names in food and gardening as the experts take part in live interviews and demos, mix with the crowds, sign books and have a thoroughly great day out.

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“Our big anniversary bash!” Monty Don This is a very special anniversary year for gardening, as Gardeners’ World turns 50. BBC Gardeners’ World Live is at the very heart of the celebrations, which includes: • The BBC TV team filming on Thursday for the 1hour anniversary special airing later this year • The unveiling of the much-anticipated Gardeners’ World Golden Jubilee Plant by Mary Berry • Anniversary Show Gardens packed with iconic garden styles from the past 50 years • Presenters past and present gracing the expert

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line-up • Themed Beautiful Borders including ‘Nigel the Dog’ Border inspired by the nation’s favourite golden retriever • Birthday cake created for the Show exclusively by Nadiya Hussain Gardeners can be inspired by the UK’s best loved experts in the Gardeners’ World Live Theatre sponsored by Wyevale Garden Centres including TV favourites Monty Don, Alan Titchmarsh, Carol Klein and Adam Frost. And it doesn’t stop there. Visitors will enjoy: • Show Gardens packed with take home ideas, space-savvy solutions and stunning planting • The BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine editors demonstrate top techniques for container gardening • Gardeners’ Question Time’s Matt Biggs hosting the VegTrug Grow Your Own Stage packed with ideas for growing tasty ingredients • The shopping sensation that is the Floral Marquee, including the heaven-scented Rose Festival, and Plant Village – with over 100 place to shop for quality plants

“An amazing foodie vibe” Tom Kerridge Each year the BBC Good Food Show, brings its Supertheatre experience to the NEC, showcasing some of the UK’s favourite top chefs cooking live in a unique 30-minute theatre experience.

2017 will see Michelin masters Tom Kerridge and Michel Roux Jr taking to the stage, queen of baking Mary Berry back by popular demand, firm Show

COMPETITION

d and gardening NEC this June

favourite James Martin, the fantastic Two Greedy Italians, Antonio Carluccio and Gennaro Contaldo, and star baker Nadiya Hussain.

** Hot off the press ** Joe Wicks, aka the Body Coach, comes to Birmingham for the very first time! This global success story brings his enthusiasm and hugely popular nutritional and healthy dishes to the stage.

The Healthy Kitchen is the place to pick up fresh, summer inspiration from stars including Instagram’s infamous ‘Clean Eating Alice’, Alice Liveing and health and fitness blogger Dr Hazel Wallace. Likewise, fans can interact up close with their food and gardening heroes at book signing sessions throughout the weekend.

For all the Good Food magazine lovers, the Show gives the chance to meet the Good Food Test Kitchen team on the BBC Good Food Stage, headed up by Barney Desmazery. They’ll be demonstrating their favourite dishes for the season and interviewing guest chefs and experts.

The line-up continues to highlight emerging chefs, restauranteurs and local experts too – making it a

10 PAIRS OF TICKETS UP FOR GRABS!

must for anyone who is serious about improving their culinary skills. This year sees the addition of free, ‘Eat Like a Local’ Supertheatre sessions featuring local chefs Luke Tipping from Simpsons in Birmingham and Adam Bennett from The Cross, Kenilworth.

Taste and try before you buy in the Producers’ Village, BBC Good Food Champions area, Eat Well Pavilion, Drinks Cabinet, plus discover regional treats in the Ludlow Producer Market. There’s hundreds of exhibitors to sample and shop from.

Complementing the ever-popular classic VIP tickets, new this year is our extra special VIP Luxe Package. Meet your culinary idols whilst enjoying the comfort of the private Luxe Lounge complete with complimentary bar, delicious buffet lunch and much more – a touch of the red carpet treatment.

When two of the country’s most loved brands, BBC Gardeners’ World and BBC Good Food, come together with a line-up of their most famous faces, you know it’s going to be an exceptional day out - it’s the most unmissable food and gardening experience.

For more details, including free weekend tickets for under 18s, visit bbcgardenersworldlive.com or bbcgoodfoodshow.com.

TO WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO THE BBC GOOD FOOD SHOW AND BBC GARDENERS’ WORLD ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION CORRECTLY:

Which special anniversary is Gardeners’ World celebrating?

A) 30 years

B) 50 years

C) 70 years

(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 31st May 2017.

Tickets are general admission and are valid any day except Saturday 17th June 2017.

Newcastle Life Issue 8 25

GARDENING

heleniums - my f

By Martin Blow

he great garden writer Christopher Lloyd, when asked what his favourite flower was, replied: “the one I’m looking at now”. It’s that way with me with Heleniums; all are beautiful in their own right, all are equally easy to grow and all do a great job in the border, be it a 15-inch (38cm) edger to a 6-footer (180cm) at the back.

Heleniums come in all shades and variations of Yellow, Orange and Red. The only thing to remember is that Heleniums need good sunlight to obtain the best colours. Yellow varieties will perform in some shade, but the reds need 3 or 4 hours of good sunlight to colour up properly. Left in the shade they will be pale orange and yellow.

The common name, “Sneezeweed”, comes from the use of dried and powdered leaves as medicinal snuff to cure colds and bronchitis.

Don’t try this at home! Heleniums are toxic and harmful if ingested. In Germany, they are called “Sonnenbraut” – “Sun Brides”; far more romantic!

All heleniums are a great source of nectar for

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26 Newcastle Life Issue 8

bees and butterflies which will flock to the flowers with glee.

Gardeners often think of Heleniums as lateflowering, adding colour to the August and September garden, but with careful selection of varieties and regular dead heading and watering, you can have Heleniums in bloom from mid-June until the beginning of November without having to resort to forcing plants in a greenhouse.

The short varieties are usually earlier to flower and with dead heading will go on longest.

Probably the best is the 2ft (60cm) tall Mardi Gras with its jolly masses of flower and a strong constitution. Also, highly recommended is the bright red Red Army and Fata Morgana a lovely variety with upswept petals in apricot with orange undersides making a beautiful two-toned effect in the garden.

Mid height Heleniums (3ft / 60cm tall) are great for the middle or back of borders (depending on the size of border). The most popular is Sahin’s Early Flowerer but a better choice is the magnificent El Dorado with very large golden yellow flowers. Hot Lava is a brand new one that is later to flower but very bushy.

GARDENING

favourite plant Tall varieties (4-6ft / 120-180cm) might need a stake in an exposed site but I rarely need to resort to this as the stems are very thick and strong. Amber is the best of newer varieties with masses of flower on upright plants. You can’t go wrong with the 4-5ft old variety Kanaria with its canary yellow flowers. For something showier the picotee-edged flowers of Fiesta stand out well at the back of the border.

Heleniums mix well with lots of garden plants.

I particularly like them with grasses in late summer – short moor grasses (Molinia) or taller

Silver Grass (Miscanthus) and Feather Grass (Pennisetum). Monarda (Bergamot) and Phlox make great companions as all require similar growing conditions.

There are a few simple rules to follow to get the best out of heleniums: water whenever dry even in spring or autumn; deadhead short varieties regularly; cut down the stems to just above the ground in winter and only divide or move them in spring not autumn. Follow these and heleniums should come back each year to brighten up your summer and autumn garden.

Janet & I run Special Perennials, website www.specialperennials.com We will be at Plant Hunters’ Fairs at Cholmondeley Castle Gardens, Malpas (SY14 8AH) on Sunday 21st May entry to the plant fair and lovely gardens is half standard adult price at only £3.50. At Hodnet Hall Gardens TF9 3NN on Sat 3rd and Sun 4th June for a great plant fair and 63 acres of wonderful gardens all for the special event low entry price of £3.50. Sugnall Walled Garden, Eccleshall ST21 6NF on Sunday 25th June, fair and gardens £1.00 entry. Henbury Hall Garden, Macclesfield (SK11 9PJ) on Sat 1st & Sun2nd July, with entry to this lovely rarely open 12-acre garden and plant fair only £2.50. At Battlefield 1403 Farm Shop, Shrewsbury SY4 3DB on Sat 8 July with free entry to the fair. 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.

Newcastle Life Issue 8 27

going the extra mile TOP VETERINARY NURSE

dedicated staff member of an Alsager veterinary practice has been announced as one of three top support staff nationally, in the prestigious 2017 Petplan Veterinary Awards.

Liam Grocott, of Alsager Vet Centre, was shortlisted for the esteemed title of Practice Support Staff of the Year, and finished runner up.

The awards, now in their 18th year, celebrate the nation’s most outstanding vets, vet nurses, practices, practice managers and support staff who have been nominated by their colleagues and clients for continually going that extra mile, keeping pets healthy and giving owners peace of mind.

While Liam’s passion for the Veterinary industry started when he was just six years old, it

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28 Newcastle Life Issue 8

was only when he decided to enrol on a Veterinary care assistant course as an adult that he discovered his aptitude for nursing.

He joined Alsager vet centre as a work experience student four and a half years ago and he has never looked back; completing a 12 month stint for the practice as a Veterinary care assistant before embarking on his training in Veterinary nursing.

Liam said: “I never expected it in a million years and would just like to thank everyone who took the time to nominate me.

“I love working with animals and members of the public and that’s why this is the perfect job for me.”

DOUBLE CELEBRATION FOR LIONS

lions announce first round of winning groups I

Pictured are representatives from Our Space Falkirk Grange, Newcastle-under-Lyme District Scout Council and Newcastle Festival of Speech and Drama.

n 2017 the Lions Club of Newcastle under Lyme celebrate their 30th year. It is also the 100th year of Lions Clubs International, which was founded in Chicago USA. To celebrate these anniversaries the Lions have made £3000 available for groups based in the Newcastle Borough, who can apply for part of their 30 x £100 donations scheme.

30 donations are to be made of £100 and any group may apply for up to £300 from the scheme.

The first part of the scheme has now been completed, with four groups receiving a total of £1100.

Our Space (Staffordshire), Falkirk Grange, Newcastle-under-Lyme District Scout Council and Newcastle Festival of Speech and Drama have now been announced as deserving recipients of the funds.

There is still money available for local groups to apply for in the third round of funding which will be presented in the summer.

Criteria for applications are; Groups applying

must be based in Newcastle Borough, for the benefit of local people; There must be a specific project, with estimated costs and a breakdown of the project; Administration, meeting /venue hire or wage costs of a group would not be considered; Applications must include: Name, e-mail address and telephone number of Applicant Group Chair & Secretary, also the address for where the group meet; Donations must be used within four months of the presentation.

Applications can be made through the Lions email - newcastlelions@lions105bs.org.uk or by Royal Mail to Lions Anniversary, 1 Norman Grove, Basford, Newcastle ST5 0NF Lions clubs are groups of men and women who identify needs within the community and work together to fulfil those needs.

Newcastle Lions meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month.

For more information or to get involved with the Newcastle Lions Club, please contact at 0845 833 9573 or newcastlelions@lions105bs.org.uk Newcastle Life Issue 8 29

canal memories come to life NARROWBOAT DISPLAY

a lasting reminder of hard working canal families

hree model canal boats and a number of items of cabin furniture have been donated to the nearby Etruria Industrial Museum.

The items were made by the late Harry Bentley in the 1960 and 70s.

Harry was born into a canal family who plied their trade between the Potteries, Runcorn, Liverpool and Manchester.

In the 1940s he married Sarah and they worked the canals until the 1970s when they opted for a change in occupation and life ashore.

On Saturday 1st April 2017 Sarah, who is now in her 90s, visited the museum to present the items to Tony Green, chair of the charitable trust who operate the museum.

The model of the 'Anderton' style narrowboat, known as Anne, is five feet long and was made over a period of several years from a solid piece of oak.

The slightly smaller Tug Boat No.3 is of the

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30 Newcastle Life Issue 8

steam powered type used to pull boats through the Preston Brook tunnel at the north end of the Trent and Mersey Canal and the third is a wide beam barge typical of the type used on the Bridgwater canal.

A stool, washing bowl and water container are typical of the highly decorated cabin furniture used daily.

Bernard Lovatt, company secretary said: “We are delighted to accept this very generous donation from Mrs Bentley. The items are not only a tribute to the dedication and skill of Harry but are a reminder of the commercial importance of canals from the mid 1700s to the mid 1900s and the hard work of the families who operated them.�

They may be seen displayed at the museum during open weekends see www.etruriamuseum.org.uk for more information.

Home-Start Newcastle Borough offers friendship and practical support to families with young children, in their own home.

Families can often need a helping hand and our volunteers work with local families to overcome barriers in life caused by isolation, stress, depression and anxiety and the workload caused with multiple children.

For more information about volunteering with Home-Start Newcastle Borough and our volunteers’ course or preparation starting in May 2017 please contact Sandra or Anne on 01782 938981 or at info@hsnb.org.uk.

Mrs Madge Walker, Berry Hill, Stoke-on-Trent

OUR SHOWERS CAN FIT IN EXACTLY THE SAME PLACE AS YOUR OLD BATH Newcastle Life Issue 8 31

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32 Newcastle Life Issue 8

B JO O N OO T L AL SM

LOCAL DOG LOVERS URGENTLY NEEDED

HEARING DOGS FOR DEAF PEOPLE

earing Dogs for Deaf People, a national Charity that trains clever dogs to alert deaf people to important sounds, is scouring the Newcastle area for dog-lovers willing to take care of their adorable puppies.

Speaking to Newcastle Life Magazine about how becoming involved with the charity has enriched their lives local volunteer puppy socialisers Caroline and Terry Roeves explained: “We have had our first puppy, Daphne, a Show Cocker Spaniel, for just over a year and have made dozens of new friends from regular dog walks.

“We are also much fitter and enjoy opportunities to socialise with Daphne in local libraries, schools, stores, cafes and restaurants.

H

“We would definitely recommend puppy socialising for Hearing Dogs: your life will change for the better from day one!”

Speaking about the charity’s latest campaign Ruth Turner, Hearing Dogs’ Puppy Training Instructor for Cheshire East & Staffordshire said: “If you live in the area and are looking for a new challenge, then why not give something back and meet some loveable lifechanging puppies along the way?

“As long as you have a car, a secure, private garden, and enough time on a daily basis to train a puppy, then we would absolutely love to hear from you. You really can make such an enormous difference.”

To find out more about puppy socialising, contact the volunteering team on volunteer@hearingdogs.org.uk , 01844 348122 or visit our website www.hearingdogs.org.uk/volunteer.

Newcastle Life Issue 8 33

What’s on

M AY / J U N E

Seated Samba danc ing Free gentle seated dan ce class for over 50s at Knutton Community Centre. 40 minute dan ce followed by tea and cof fee. Contact Mika for more information, visit ww w.artbrasil.org.uk or phone 07505109910. Suppor ted by Newcastle under Lyme Borough Council Comm unity Chest.

Tuesdays 11am-12p m

UHNM Nursing Service Choir will be The University Hospital of North Midlands e to celebrate servic the of part as er Minst Stoke at g singin to care for er togeth work who ls siona all the health profes ct organisers, patients. For more information and to conta go to universityhospitalchoir.co.uk/upcomingperformances Wednesday, 10th May

al en Rehears hestra Op like to rc ld O ou y w it a n Commu ity orchestr un m om l.

C arsa stle The Newca t open rehe d all another grea socialise an n, fu e invite you to th in in jo d an t Come along e music. d instrumen y make som can play an ho w importantl ne yo en to an NULCO is op and your d any level. an e ag y instrument an e. at urself, your ents availabl yo m is sh ed re ne ef R , pm All you 30 9: 7:30pm music stand. 10th May , y a d es n Wed

r skirts under thei Lightning hosting Joy be brary will crets Newcastle Li ork. Full of se st piece of w by te ay la pl ’s y er nn kl Win and fu this beautiful eates is ur La et and poetry, Po ire’s former oved one of Chesh 50’s being sh ochrome 19 on k. m or e w th w t abou bright ne placed by a brary aside and re Newcastle Li om fr e bl la ai av £7 s et Tick 7332 email . Starts Tel: 01782 29 shire.gov.uk ary@stafford br newcastle.li at 7.30pm. y y, 17th Ma Wednesda

Pictorialism Revisited An exhibition of work from James Hall, th recent winner e of the Three Co unties Photographic Exhibition will be taking place at Trent Art, Brunswic k Street. His success at the Keele event, th e first time he had entered, follows on from one of his pictures being selected as a Po rtrait of Britain in last year’s nationa l competition organised by the British Jo urnal of Photography.

17th - 27th M ay

Taking card payments - free sess Newcastle U ion nder Lyme BID (Busin District) in ess Improvem conjunction ent with King St offering a fr reet Studios ee training are session for currently do lo cal business n’t take card es who or electronic 1.3pm, you can book yo payments. 9. ur 30am free place on Under Lym e BID websi the Newcast te. le Thursday , 11th May

34 Newcastle Life Issue 8

e If you’d like to se ed your event featur n on the What’s O to page, remember email laura@ .uk timesandecho.co

Newcastle Fest ival of Sport To celebrate the Newcastle-under -Lyme Festival of Sport 2017, Ne wcastle Town FC Youth are holding an Open Event at Roe La ne Playing Field for youngsters an s d adults from th e local area to attend and try ou t football.

Activities on the day will include ; Open sessions for players with disabilities run by the Staffords FA; SSE Wildca hire ts Open training session for girls aged 5-11 who wa nt to try out foot ball for the first time; Under 10s Mini Soccer Tour nament for Boys and Girls teams mixed; Handover event between Newcastle Boro ugh Council, Staff ordshire FA and Newcastle Town Youth for the Ro e Lane site.

There will also be bouncy castles an activities on site. d fun All football sess ions and tournaments ar e free.

To get involved in the event, eithe r to register a player for a sess ion or a team to join in, please contact Gavin Ap pleby on 07904 511561 or gav@ntfcyouth.co .uk Sunday, 21st May

Dash, fun run and Charity Silverdale nt family treasure hu otball Club, Sutton Silverdale Athletic Fo m 11a e.

Avenue, Silverdal Sunday 25th June

arket esh including fr Farmers M fabulous food range meat of n ee A selectio fr and veg, organic and homegrown pies, cheese e ad m nd pm at the 30 2. and eggs, ha to s. 9.00am ke ca ain e ad th em hom next to e m uildhall and side of the G market st July Friday, 21 th August 28 , y Frida

es Festival Newcastle Jazz & Blu of holiday will see dozens k Ban ing Once again Spr n 20 tha re mo oss acr m for per live bands and artists this issue have a full round up in venues in the town. We ine. of Newcastle Life magaz th 29 y Ma th 26 y Ma

Monthly Artisan Marke t This monthly market will be run by The Market Co. and held in the Ironmarket.

Saturday, May 27th Saturday, June 24th Saturday, June 29th Summer Con cert The University Hospital Choi collaborating once more with r will be Audley Male Choir to perfor Voice m their annu al summer co this year with ncer a summer ho liday theme. Th t, event takes pl e ace at St Mar y Magdalene’s Alsager. For m Church, ore informatio n and to cont organisers, go act to universityhosp italchoir.co.u k/upcomingperformances Saturday Ju ne 24th

Newcastle Life Issue 8 35

10 year old flautist crowned young musician of the year YOUNG MUSICIAN

award winning Jeremy celeBrates achievements

budding young Trentham musician has topped the charts with his incredible talent, taking home not just one but two prize winning titles - Chester Young Musician of the Year and under 12’s Solo winner.

10 year old Jeremy Bailey is a year 5 pupil at St Theresa’s Catholic Primary School in Newcastle, where he began flute lessons in September 2015 provided by the Stoke on Trent City Music

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Service.

Jeremy demonstrated his natural musical aptitude and progressed remarkably quickly, achieving a merit at a grade 5 in just 18 months.

He’s also recently taken up the piano.

Incredibly, he has won the under 12's title of Chester Young Musician of the year and at the recent Newcastle Music Festival, he was crowned the winner in the Any Instrument Solo category for the Under 12's.

His piano accompanist Anne Handley told Newcastle Life magazine: “Personally, I've known Jeremy for about two years as I'm an occasional helper with the cubs of the 89th Stoke Sea Scouts, where he was a cub.

“We did the musicians badge one evening and I knew straight away that he had talent!

“In October last year, his mum rang me to ask if I knew any piano players who could accompany him at the Chester Young Musician of the Year competition as his original accompanist had to pull out. I offered my services and the rest is history as they say!

“He is a lovely lad who is very dedicated to his music - I think he has a very musical future ahead of him.”

Each week Jeremy attends the Bridge Centre for Concert Band sessions and plays in church as part of the music ensemble.

Out of school, he enjoys swimming, cycling, gaming and reading, especially Harry Potter and Alex Rider.

Jeremy is currently working on his music theory and hopes to do his grade 6 flute early next year.

He is also looking forward to playing at the Newcastle Male Voice Choir concert in May. Jeremy is pictured here with his flute and his trophy alongside his accompanist, Anne Handley.

36 Newcastle Life Issue 8

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 8 37

Focus on...

PHOTOGRAPHY CORNER

roBair Becherraz

ewcastle Life is pleased to be able to feature the work of local hairdresser and photographer Robair Becherraz in this issue. The images and information have kindly been supplied by the Secretary of Newcastle Camera Club, Marshall Fear. He told Newcastle Life magazine: “Mr Robair Becherraz was a Swiss born hairdresser and photographer, who came to Newcastle in 1954 to open a Hairdressing Salon in Henry Whites Store in the town.

“With his ‘Coiffure Française’ business growing rapidly, Robair was honoured with a national award for his creative hairstyle designs throughout the 50’s 60’s and 70’s.

“At its peak, Robair had Salons in Newcastle, Stafford, Crewe, Leek and eight others nationally.

“His interest in photography was ignited due to wanting to capture images of all the fashion shows he was organising and beautiful ladies he

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was styling for.

“Robair’s work always involved looking at reflections and shadows in the mirror, which influenced his photography work, as did the fact that he came from Switzerland with its beautiful landscapes.

“Robair says that ‘photography is not only the view we see but the feeling it invokes within each individual.’. Sound advice from a very nice man.”

For more information about Newcastle Camera Club, including galleries of member photographs, visit www.newcastlecameraclub.org The new season starts on Monday Nights from the 4th September 2017 at 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Please note the club's new meeting venue is Clayton Sports Centre on the same site as Newcastle and Hartshill Cricket Club, Stafford Avenue, Newcastle under Lyme, ST5 3BN.

Shadows: This is one of Robair’s favourite photos because of the textures and unusual shadow patterns. It was taken while on holiday in Lanzarote 38 Newcastle Life Issue 8

PHOTOGRAPHY CORNER

Foxes on the Brampton This shot was taken early one morning in Brampton, Newcastle

A Winter Landscape: One of many photos taken while out on his bike, this winter landscape was taken at nearby Whitmore Heath Newcastle Life Issue 8 39

nature’s Beauty PHOTOGRAPHY CORNER

ewcastle amateur photographer David Seaton has captured these two beautiful images and has kindly shared them with Newcastle Life readers.

David photographed the Kingfisher, who had managed to catch not just one but two fish for his dinner, next to a small river from a hide.

Meanwhile the Red Squirrel was photographed in the snow in North Yorkshire.

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If you would like to share your images with us, email laura@timesandecho.co.uk

40 Newcastle Life Issue 8

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Get 30% OFF when you quote Newcastle Life Valid until 7.7.17 Newcastle Life Issue 8 41

Anniversary milestone for nurturing sports club NEWCASTLE TOWN NETBALL CLUB

embers of a Newcastle based sports club, which is renowned for it’s inclusive ethos and welcoming nature, are about the celebrate it’s 30th anniversary.

Newcastle Town Netball Club is a sporting organisation in which value is placed on all members regardless of ability. The club also believe in helping each member continue to

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42 Newcastle Life Issue 8

develop whether they be players, coaches, umpires or volunteers and supports them on the way to reaching their full potential.

It is probably this approach that has helped the sports club stand the test of time and grow into the thriving organisation it is today.

Newcastle Town was founded in 1987 by Jane Fenton and Bernadette Hancock who wanted to set up a netball club for players in the Newcastle area.

What started as a group of seven friends playing netball now is a club with 18 teams and 150 members to date with numbers continuing to grow.

To this end the club has top teams in all age groups who play at regional level, but also has other members who simply want to play either for enjoyment or to keep fit.

Newcastle Life Magazine caught up with Club Secretary Julie Tinsley recently to hear what the anniversary year has in store for players and supporters of the club.

“As part of our anniversary celebrations we will be hosting an anniversary dinner for current and past club members at the Borough Arms on Friday 12th May. “We will also be staging two open

NEWCASTLE TOWN NETBALL CLUB

tournaments, both at Newcastle Under Lyme School as part of Newcastle Festival of Sport.

“The first will take part on Sunday 14th May and will be a Junior High Five Tournament and the second, a Senior Tournament, will take place on Sunday 21st May. “Each tournament will be open to the public and have a fun day feel. We hope to include walking netball demonstrations and shooting competitions for spectators to take part in.”

Aside from the club having a special anniversary to mark during 2017 the club is set to have a host of further successes to celebrate after being nominated for a host of sporting awards.

Newcastle Town Netball Club has been announced as a finalist in six categories of the annual Newcastle Sports Awards as follows: Services to Sport - Founder member Bernie Hancock; Young Volunteer of the Year - 15-yearold Sian Davies; Young Sports Woman of the Year - Olivia Moore; Junior Team of the Year - U14s Tigers (represented Staffordshire in the West Midlands regionals); Coach of the Year - Esther Rutherford; Senior Team of the Year - Newcastle Town Top Senior Team (runners up in the West Midlands regional league division one).

The club is also poised for yet more good news after being nominated for two awards from the Golden Globe England Netball awarding body.

The club stands to receive the Outstanding Netball Club Award while club member Sian

Davies has been nominated for the Young Volunteer Award.

Reflecting on the success of the club Julie added: “There really is a place for all at Newcastle Town and that’s what makes it so special.

“The camaraderie is so strong and everyone helps one another. It is such a great club to get involved in, no player is ever not good enough.

New members are always welcome to join as players with opportunities to play at local, county and regional level. If you wish to gain umpiring or coaching qualifications the club has the personnel to help you achieve your goals.

Alternatively, if you just want to volunteer in any capacity the club is always looking for extra help and you will enjoy being part of a big friendly club where members are valued. For more information email: newcastletownnetball@hotmail.co.uk.

Newcastle Life Issue 8 43

NEWCASTLE SCOUTS

st george’s day

over 300 scouts parade through newcastle

he spring sun shone brightly as over 300 local scouts proudly paraded in Newcastle in celebration of St Georges Day, Sunday 23rd

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April.

Expertly led by Porthill Scout Drum Corps, the

44 Newcastle Life Issue 8

group were also joined by Newcastle Mayor, Mr Ian Wilkes.

Councillor Wilkes took the formal salute before a short outdoor service, which looked at the promise and fulfilment that scouting offers.

The event was followed by a highly anticipated bring and share picnic.

St George is the not only the Patron Saint of England, he is also the Patron Saint of Scouting, which means that St George’s day is celebrated by Scouts worldwide in a variety of ways.

This years’ celebrations were planned and coordinated by the district’s ‘Youth Executive,’ a group of young people aged 14 to 18.

The Youth Executive are developing management and organisational skills, and growing in confidence all the time.

A number of awards were also presented on the day, including Duke of Edinburgh Gold, Silver and Bronze.

District Commissioner Vera Bloor told Newcastle Life magazine: “I am immensely proud of the district and what the youth executive have achieved, we had a wonderful day. The addition of a picnic created a great opportunity to mingle and smile together.”

On Saturday 29th April Cub scouts from 10 groups around the borough came together to

NEWCASTLE SCOUTS

ay celeBrations compete in a swimming gala, at Newcastle's Jubilee 2 pool. Fierce but friendly competition was the order of the day, with many of the races won by just a fingertip. Watched by cheering parents, St Wultans won overall, with Holy Trinity and Whitmore, in second and third.

This was another example of scouting giving the opportunity to participate in something a little different, organised and supported by

volunteers. In order to continue to provide these and similar opportunities throughout the Newcastle area, we would love to hear from anyone, who can support us either financially, or with a little time, even 1 hour a year would help.

There are a variety of ways that people can get involved, you don't have to have previous experience, or volunteer in uniform, please contact us at www.newcastledistrictscouts.org.uk

Newcastle Life Issue 8 45

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

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Car sickness research to put brakes on family road trip curse

MOTORING

uaranteed to strike fear into any parent, the phrase “I feel sick!” will be dreaded and chorused in cars this summer.

Stop-start traffic and winding roads will worsen a condition that afflicts two-thirds of us at some point, is most prevalent in passengers, especially children and teenagers, and is made worse by sitting in the back, head down playing video games or watching movies.

In new research carried out by Ford, with the help of motion sickness experts, passengers who stared at screens for the duration of a short journey fell ill after an average of just 10 minutes.

And those were all grown-ups.

Yawning and perspiring are warning signs for a condition that is caused by mismatches between signals the brain receives from the eyes and from the organs of balance, in the ear. Babies don’t get car sick. This only comes when we start walking. Pets are affected though, and incredibly, even goldfish suffer from motion sickness, a

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phenomenon observed by sailors.

In the initial testing it was found that when screens were mounted higher, and the road ahead could be seen on either side, volunteers were less likely to feel sick. Further experiments will explore alternative ways that journeys could be displayed in the cabin so that unseeing passengers can be warned of events such as twisty roads or hump backed bridges.

Here are some ways that car sickness can be eased: • Move to the middle in the back seats, or preferably the front, to see the road ahead • Drive smoothly and where possible avoid sudden braking, harsh acceleration, potholes • Distract sufferers – even a family sing along could help • Drink cola, eat ginger biscuits, but avoid coffee • Use a pillow or head support to keep your head as still as possible • Operate air-con to keep fresh air circulating

Newcastle Life Issue 8 47

fiat 500 mirror: reflecting the need to Be connected MOTORING

esides marking the sixtieth anniversary of the Fiat 500, 2017 also sees the debut of the Fiat 500 Mirror. This special edition marks the introduction of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the Fiat 500, with a car that’s always connected and packed with content.

The Fiat 500 Mirror is available in a choice of five exterior colours, including Electronica Blue, and enhances its classic look with chrome finished door mirror covers, a brushed aluminium “Mirror” badge on the B pillar and 14-inch wheels with chrome finished wheel covers. 15-inch alloy wheels are also available as an option.

Standard equipment is extended to include speed limiter, integrated controls on the leather steering wheel and Uconnect™ 7-inch HD LIVE touchscreen with Bluetooth, USB-AUX IN ports and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The introduction of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto means that users can access the main applications of their smartphones directly on the

B

48 Newcastle Life Issue 8

7-inch screen of the Uconnect™ system. Apple CarPlay enables iPhone users to access Apple Maps, Apple Music, messages, phone and more with Siri or the Uconnect™ touchscreen, while Android Auto integration also allows drivers to manage the compatible content and features on their device directly from the integrated touch screen or by using the system’s vocal commands.

The new Fiat 500 Mirror is available as both a hatchback and a convertible, with the 1.2-litre 69hp petrol engine. The 1.2-litre petrol registers a fuel consumption of 60.1mpg on the combined cycle and emits just 110g/km CO2. When combined with the Dualogic gearbox, the mpg increases to 62.8 on the combined cycle and the CO2 drops to 105g/km.

The Fiat 500 Mirror is now available to order with a starting price of £12,515 OTR. For more information on the new Fiat 500 Mirror please visit www.fiat.co.uk or to locate your nearest Fiat dealer visit www.fiat.co.uk/dealer.

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Newcastle Life Issue 8 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 8