October November 2014

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Stone OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2014

Life Independent education 7 page feature

Stone celebrates 10 delicious years of food and drink festival

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EDITOR’S LETTER

People power shows what great things can be achieved

Deborah Boden Contents Editor debbie@timesandecho.co.uk Sophie Cotton & Tracey Wardle Design & Production Jane Walters Advertising Manager jane@timesandecho.co.uk Tom Brian Advertising Sales tom@timesandecho.co.uk Times, Echo & Life Publications 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 1BD Tel: 01538 752214 www.timesechoandlife.co.uk life@timesandecho.co.uk 15,200 copies of every issue delivered to households and businesses in Eccleshall, Stone, Trentham and the surrounding areas

W

elcome to the October/November edition of Stone and Eccleshall Life magazine. We have another packed issue full of interesting and informative features for you to enjoy as well as all of our usual contributors and columnists.

I know I am always harping on about how time flies, but with Stone’s now country wide renowned Food and Drink Festival celebrating 10 years I'm sure many of you will agree it feels more true than ever.

Watching the event grow from humble beginnings to the amazing gastronomic celebration it is today really has been a pleasure, and undoubtedly goes to show what people can achieve when they are dedicated and work hard together towards a common goal. We wish the organisers all the best for the event and look forward to seeing what they have in store for visitors this year.

Highlights of Eccleshall’s popular country show also feature in this edition, another fine example of an event put on for the public to enjoy thanks to the dedication, hard work and support of the local community, the show was another resounding success and very much enjoyed by all who attended.

With the turning of the seasons apparent by the glorious sight the changing colours of the tress produce, it is hard not to look ahead to all the autumn and winter festivities still in store during 2014, of which there are plenty. Make sure you stop by Granville Square on Thursday 27th November or 4th December as a collection of businesses host two special late night festive open evenings in which everyone is invited to go along and enjoy nibbles and a complimentary glass of wine, definitely an invitation worth taking up!

I hope you enjoy this issue and look forward to seeing many of you at the Food and Drink Festival.

Deborah x

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Christmas

at Pasta Di Piazza

FESTIVE LUNCH MENU 3 courses £14.99 and normal menu

FESTIVE EVENINGS & CHRISTMAS DAY 3 courses £28.99

CHISTMAS EVE & NEW YEAR’S EVE Normal menu

12 High Street, Stone, Staffordshire ST15 8AW Open 7 days a week Mon - Sat 12.00 - 15.00, 18.00 - 23.00 Sun 12.00 - 22.00 Tel: 01785 813214 6 October/November 2014

125 High Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire ST5 1PS Open 7 days a week Mon - Sat 12.00 - 15.00, 17.00 - 22.00 Sun 12.00 - 21.00 Tel: 01782 617610

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Stage Directions ............................................28 Vintage Glamour Charity Ball....................30 MyStage Academy........................................31

2014

Stone’s Answer to Selfridges .....................34

Editor’s Letter ....................................................5

‘Coming to a bin near you’.........................44

Greetings from Stone .....................................8

STING Group ...................................................45

Plants the Jewellers ......................................12

Class Chat.........................................................46

Eccleshall Rugby Club..................................15

Independent Education..............................47

Eccleshall Show..............................................16

Investment Matters ......................................57

Young Poet Laureate....................................18

Legal Matters ..................................................58

Food and Drink Guide .................................19

Motoring Guide .............................................59

Remembering the First World War..........36 Homes and Gardens.....................................38 Katharine House Hospice...........................40 Stafford and Stone Canoe Club................42 Staffordshire Young Farmers Club...........43

Stafford Fireplaces & Stoves

39 Gaol Road, Stafford, ST16 3AR Tel: 01785 211 554 • www.staffordfireplaces.co.uk October/November 2014 7

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GREETINGS FROM STONE...

Don’t miss a date...

The canal town of Stone 2015 calendar

A

collection of greeting cards featuring landmarks of Stone which appeared in the last edition of Stone and Eccleshall Life have now been made into a calendar.

The calendar, produced by Robert Cartwright Photography depict 12 scenes of the canal town and the Trent and Mersey Canal with its colourful narrowboats.

Among Robert’s photographs is the Crown Hotel, the Church of St. Michael the Archangel, Granville Square, the High Street with its clock tower, the majestic houses of King’s Street and the old building of Joule's Stone Ales Brewery alongside the canal.

The calendar is of vertical format to suit the often narrow space available in a kitchen with the

8 October/November 2014

design providing plenty of space for all those important notes - reminders of birthdays, family gatherings and holidays.

Not only a must for personal use but a great gift to send to friends and relatives who no longer live in the town or for those who have moved overseas - the scenes will make them wonder why they ever left!

The calendar is available from Tylman of Stone, The Really Good Card Shop and Stone Library. If you have difficulty obtaining your copy please contact Robert on Tel. 01785 254283 or email robertandrew.cartwright@virgin.net.

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Christmas Parties The party season is nearly upon us!

Join us for a night to remember in a festive atmosphere, whether you’re celebrating with friends, family or colleagues.

Wednesdays & Thursdays in December 3 Course Festive Meal, Tea, Coffee & Mince Pies, Resident DJ

£34.50 each

Saturday 29th November & Fridays in December 3 Course Festive Meal, Tea, Coffee & Mince Pies, Resident DJ

£34.50 each (November) £38.50 each (December)

Saturdays in December 3 Course Festive Meal, Tea, Coffee & Mince Pies, Live Band

£43.50 each Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat Moddershall, Near Stone, Staffordshire, ST15 8TG

01782 399000 | events@moddershalloaks.com | www.moddershalloaks.com

10 October/November 2014

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Paradise Nurseries & Water Garden Centre

Est 1968

Paradise Nurseries and Water Garden Centre is situated in the beautiful Staffordshire dales 800 ft above sea level on a north facing slope.

We say ‘if it will grow here it will grow anywhere!’

Following an exceptionally successful year, we are expanding the wedding side of our business...

We now offer a full florist service at competitive prices e.g. bridal bouquet, bridesmaid posie, two gents buttonholes, two ladies corsages for £99.99

We also hire: • Bay trees (large,medium, small) • Twisted bays • Arches (green ivy, gold ivy, evergreen jasmine) • Water features • Evergreen screens All decorated with your preferred choice of colour scheme.

We can cater for ‘themed’ weddings e.g. ‘Winter Wonderland’ - standard hollies, bamboos, winter pyramid and a large selection of lighting.

FREE

LOCAL DELIVERY

Winnothdale Nr. Tean Staffs, ST10 4HB • Tel: 01538 722566 • Mob: 07860 666653 e.mail: paradisenurseries@hotmail.co.uk www.paradisenursery.co.uk Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm Saturday and Sunday 10.00am to 5.00pm If these times are inconvenient please request an out of hours appointment. Proprietor: Brian Spencer

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PLANTS THE JEWELLERS

New addition to Plants family business is set to sparkle

F

or the past 20 years the family run Plants Jewellers has been serving the people of Stone and the surrounding area.

The friendly and knowledgeable staff pride themselves on their personal customer service, the standard of jewellery in stock, and are always ready to assist in finding each and every customer their perfect piece of jewellery.

In store you will find a large range of beautiful silver, gold and platinum jewellery, with a particular emphasis on the more unusual which is where the newest member to join the Plants ‘family’, Helen Smith fits in.

36 year old Helen graduated with a degree from the Birmingham school of jewellery and has since been designing and manufacturing jewellery for the last 16 years before joining the team at Plants in June.

She has exhibited in various

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galleries across the UK including the prestigious Goldsmiths’ Fair in London where her showpiece at the exhibition was featured by Carol Wooton in Vogue. Helen has also been featured in several other glossy publications including Vanity Fair and in 2012 was awarded one of only six places to attend the prestigious Goldsmiths centre for a professional design programme, aimed at young designers to help build their collections, brand identity and business knowledge.

With the help of cutting edge technologies and industry professionals including renowned silversmith Stuart Devlin, the Queen’s jeweller and designer of the new one pound coin, Helen gained invaluable knowledge. The course aimed to train the candidates to the highest standard of design and manufacture, bringing both skills back to the UK. In 2012 Helen

was the runner up in the DIA innovation awards, a competition aimed at designing jewellery specifically in platinum, a metal which allows extremely intricate and detailed designs which would not be possible to manufacture in other materials.

Of her own unique style Helen said: “My vision is to create beautiful designs in all precious metals that are unique and stylish, that people love to wear.

“I like my designs to combine masculine elements with feminine colours and details, I feel this combination creates fine jewellery with an edge for the modern day siren.”

Now working full time at Plants the Jewellers in Stone, Helen is the go to girl if you have been thinking of how or where to get your jewellery visions and ideas realised.

And for all the men out there thinking of popping the question and know she deserves something extra special and unique, pay a visit to Plants in Stone High Street where Helen will guide you every step of the way to creating your perfect ring.

From selecting your own diamond to creating totally bespoke designs or elegant classics, you know you are in safe hands.

Helen can also re-model existing jewellery to breathe new life to your precious heirlooms working closely with clients from the initial design concepts right through to the finished piece.

Plants are proud to be able to showcase ‘Tantrum’ jewellery from 1st October, which is Helen’s ready to wear collection of precious jewellery.

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Venus pendant in 18ct white gold Tahitian Pearl & Diamond

26 High Street, Stone, ST15 8AW T. 01785 819 981 E. info@plantsthejewellers.co.uk W. www.plantsthejewellers.co.uk October/November 2014 13

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Have you recently tied the knot?

Send us a selection of your favourite wedding photos and a few details of your big day and we will publish it for free!

DOWNLOAD A FORM FROM OUR WEBSITE

www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

Quality in every detail

CELEBRATING OUR 1ST ANNIVERSARY IN THE NEW STAFFORD STORE

Autumn & Winter range now in stock 37 Mill Street, Stafford | ST16 2AJ | Tel: 01785 258648 Open Monday-Saturday 9.30am-5.30pm 1/2 Pepper Street | Newcastle-under-Lyme | ST5 1PR | Tel: 01782 616150 Open Monday-Saturday 9.30am-5.30pm 14 October/November 2014

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ECCLESHALL RUGBY CLUB

Eccleshall Rugby Club’s plan to relocate from Baden Hall

E

ccleshall RUFC have recently announced that they are to actively engage in the exploration and identification of land for purchase, with the objective of creating a permanent ‘home’.

Eccleshall RUFC was established in 1979 and while they have played rugby on a number of different sites in the Eccleshall area, have never owned their own pitches.

Eccleshall RUFC have been playing their rugby at Baden Hall since 1992, moving their changing facilities and taking advantage of the bar facilities some five years later.

While Eccleshall RUFC’s future at Baden Hall is not in jeopardy, it was felt that due to the clubs current strength and size, coupled with the opportunities brought about by the planned increase in the population of Eccleshall and the anticipated impact of Rugby World Cup 2015 and its legacy now was a good time to embark on this exciting initiative.

Eccleshall RUFC 1XV play in Midlands 3 WN and their 2XV are in the Staffordshire Merit League, and this season hope to run a regular 3XV. Junior and Mini rugby has flourished at Eccleshall over the last 10 years and now the club has in excess of 140 junior members providing rugby for children of age 3 to 18.

Eccleshall RUFC are seeking a site which will be able to accommodate rugby for their existing membership as well

as provide the opportunity to expand their playing base. It is envisaged that a site of some 20 acres would satisfy the clubs current need, although they will be considering sites in excess of 20 acres to ensure the clubs future growth is not unduly restricted.

Eccleshall RUFC has invited all club members, supporters, sponsors and the local community to become actively involved in this exciting project.

To maintain the club identity and links with the local community, a radius of no more than 5 miles from Eccleshall, will be considered for the clubs new home.

Tim West, Eccleshall Rugby Union Football Club Chairman commented: “This is a very exciting time for our club, we know that finding a suitable site and putting in place the funding won’t be easy but we are determined to succeed.

“On the field our new coach Steve Dolphin is already coaching record numbers at pre-season training, we have recently won the Stafford 7s and we are looking forward to a successful season for all our teams.

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ECCLESHALL SHOW

Over 5000 people flock to this year’s popular

Eccleshall Show

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ailed as another great success by organisers, we take a look at the highlights of Eccleshall’s 2014 Show.

Speaking to Stone and Eccleshall Life following the popular annual event Sheila Kettle, the Show’s Publicity Secretary commented: “Fine weather had the crowds flocking in from the time the gates opened and a packed programme of events kept them thoroughly entertained all day.

Attendance was in excess of 5000 which is on a par with last year's record breaking number.

“The main ring headline attraction, the Knights of the Dammed, gave two performances of their medieval jousting tournament and was undoubtedly one of the best we have ever seen at the show, with the audience shouting their support for the contestants.

“The children's sports, dog agility classes and gun dog training demonstration all made for great entertainment in the main ring.

“Elsewhere on the showground, there were over 80 trade stands including many local charities. Over 200 classic cars turned up together with vintage vans and lorries and the equestrian section enjoyed a busy time all day.

“Overall it was another great show and when the accounts are finalised I am sure that we should be able to donate a substantial amount of our profits to local organisations (last year we gave £2500 to eight groups).

“Once again it was the hard working committee and volunteers who made it all happen and in particular Mary Cartmail our secretary who now lives in the Lake District and manages to juggle a full time job, a toddler daughter and co-ordinating all aspects of the show!”

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ECCLESHALL SHOW

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YOUNG POET LAUREATE

New local Young Poet Laureate welcomed S eventeen year old Harry Shenton has recently been named as the new Young Poet Laureate for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.

Harry, from Barlaston, performed his powerful poem ‘Worthwhile’, along with three fellow shortlisted poets, at a special poetry event at St Chad’s Church, Stafford on Saturday 6th September.

The prestigious competition is a joint initiative between the city and county councils aimed to showcase the creative writing skills of 14 to 18 year olds across the area.

The panel of judges at the event, including Staffordshire Poet Laureate, Tom Wyre and current Young Poet Laureate, Natalie Coterill, said they were impressed with Harry’s performance style and ‘ability to engage the audience when delivering his poetry.’

Staffordshire Library Chief, County Councillor Mike Lawrence said: “I’m delighted to welcome our new Young Poet Laureate to his new role.

“Harry is in for a busy year writing and performing poems for special events across our great county, and helping us to promote an enjoyment of poetry in younger people. I wish him every success in his forthcoming role.

“Our outgoing post holder Natalie Coterill, has done a marvellous job of promoting poetry to a younger audience across Staffordshire, and I would like to offer her our heartfelt thanks for all her hard work and our best wishes for the future.”

About his win Harry said: “I'm absolutely thrilled to have won the competition and being awarded the position as the new Young Poet Laureate is an incredible honour.

“I would love to thank all the judges, and my fellow competitors who were all marvellously talented themselves! I'm truly looking forward to everything this position entails and I can't wait to get started.”

Harry, currently a pupil at Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College, will receive his inauguration at a special celebration event on National Poetry Day on Thursday 2nd October.

Find us online...

Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk KEEP IN TOUCH ON FACEBOOK Search for Stone and Eccleshall Life Magazine 18 October/November 2014

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Stone and Eccleshall Life Magazines

Food & Drink Guide October/November 2014 19

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THE COFFEE CUP

A hidden treasure

J

ust off the beaten track at the Loynton Lakes trout fishery, the picturesque Coffee Cup tea rooms are a delight and well worth the effort to visit.

The tea rooms are situated in a wooden lodgestyle building with an attractive conservatory, there is also seating on the adjoining terrace and more tables on the grassed area - all of which overlook the three trout pools giving unrivalled views across to the Welsh hills.

The tea rooms are open from 9am until 4pm every day and offer a wide ranging menu to suit all palates and appetites. There is a choice of breakfasts, the fisherman's and the farmhouse, available all day. At lunchtime there is a wide range of specials, lighter bites throughout the day, and on a Friday there is a different delicious shortcrust pastry pie. Everything is homemade on the premises offering excellent value for money and as well as the sausages, much of the meat is sourced locally from Eccleshall butcher WM Perry.

For those just after a smaller snack, there is always a wide variety of mouth watering cakes and the ever-popular cream tea and in the winter months a choice of traditional puddings.

The venue recently hosted two fantastic and well

attended events - a Mediterranean night and a whodunnit murder mystery, in conjunction with Gnosall Players, in which guests enjoyed a three course dinner and entertainment.

But with the festive party season approaching the Coffee Cup is already planning its Christmas menus. For groups of 10 or more, there is a three course set menu from 12 noon til 3pm Monday to Friday. Alternatively, larger groups, up to 50 can book for an evening event. A three course menu or hot and cold buffets can be provided as well as a licensed bar selling a selection of wines, local ales and bottled lagers.

The Coffee Cup, Loynton, between Woodseaves and Newport, approximately five miles from Eccleshall. Open seven days a week, 9am until 4pm.

For enquiries or bookings, call 01785 284261.

The Coffee Cup at Loynton Lakes

Enjoy a warm welcome at The Coffee Cup

Loynton LAKES 20 October/November 2014

Offering spectacular views over the lakes of Loynton Trout Fishery, this picturesque lodge serves delicious hot and cold food, including all day breakfasts, jacket potatoes, homemade soups and delicious home baked scones and cakes.

Open every day, 9am to 4pm Telephone 01785 284261 Between Woodseaves and Newport, 250 yards from the Norbury crossroads on the A519

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Dining & entertainment at its best

ss mi n - ber n't lia al em Do r Ita Speci Nov ou ht 3th g Ni day 1 s ur Th

brasserie

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Celebrating 30 years in Stone

Delicious and refreshing cocktails Tempt your taste buds with weekend warmup offers before 8:30pm on Fridays & Saturday

Have you found it yet?

Christmas Parties

We look forward to giving you a warm Granvilles welcome

mid-week spaces still available

Granville Square, Stone 01785 816658 or visit www.granvilles.st for updates Serving till 1.30pm Friday & Saturday view our fantastic live entertainment & menus on our website

Christmas at The Fitz!

Christmas Christmas Day Fayre 4 courses £20 Discount for parties over 10

£34.95 1 sitting

Boxing Day Normal menu available

New Year’s Eve £10 per ticket

(arrive 12-12.30pm, sit down approx 1pm)

Ticket only Buffet & entertainment

New Year’s Day Brunch £6.50 12-3pm

The Fitzherbert Arms SWYNNERTON, ST15 ORA | T: 01782 796513

HOMEMADE FOOD SERVED EVERY DAY Mon-Fri 12pm-2pm & 5pm-9pm • Sat 12pm-9pm • Sun 12pm-4pm

FREE FUNCTION ROOM suitable for conferences, birthdays, weddings & wakes etc.

October/November 2014 21

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STONE FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL

Chance to get ‘hands on’ with Cookery Classes at this years Stone Food & Drink Festival

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ith the 10th Stone Food & Drink Festival on the 3rd, 4th and 5th October this year, the 2014 festival programme is already hitting local doormats; packed with a whole week’s worth of food & drink events in and around town.

One of the most exciting additions for 2014 is a new ‘Cookery Classroom’ at Westbridge Park, where visitors can book slots to get hands-on with food. Classes will be delivered by local Indian cookery school iCookIndian and renowned Staffordshire chef, Paul Gilmore, offering something for everyone. Paul’s classes will focus on getting ‘students’ to whip up a classic menu of Pan Fried Wild Sea Trout, The Perfect Garden & Herb Risotto and Pickled Cucumber Salad. iCookIndian, meanwhile, is offering a range of different courses over the weekend – on Friday the Vegetarian class will cover Saffron Pilaff Rice, Tarka Daal, Paneer Jalfrezie and Chapatti, whilst on Saturday and Sunday ‘Complete Classic Taster for 2’ (Saffron Pilaff Rice, Aloo Gobhi, Chicken Rogan Josh and Tawa Naan) and Street Food Special (Stuffed Paratha, Channa Chaat, Chicken Sheek Kebab, Carrot & Tamarind Relish and Coriander, Mint & Yoghurt Dip) will show how to prepare authentic, healthy Indian food from scratch. All ‘students’ will have the chance to sit down and savour the meal

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they have just prepared in the Cookery Classroom’s own dining area.

Speaking to Stone and Eccleshall Life Festival Chairman, Richard Stevens, said: “Every year, we try to bring something new to the festival to keep our visitors entertained and ensure they want to come back for more.

“Cookery classes have always been on our ‘wish list’ of attractions and it’s great to be working with two such brilliant chefs – Amarpal from iCookIndian is a great tutor and really shares his passion for authentic Indian food, while Paul is a hugely talented local chef and any foodie would be delighted to learn some of the secrets that have seen him win a coveted Bib Gourmand in the Michelin Guide. I’m certain that all of the classes will be very

popular and are set to be great fun as well as being educational.”

All adult cookery classes will be priced at £25 for a couple and those booking a class will benefit from two for one entry to Westbridge Park on the day of their course. While these new classes are aimed at adults, youngsters won’t miss out - free children’s cookery classes will once again run on festival Saturday and Sunday in Westbridge Park’s ‘Little Foodies’ marquee; courtesy of Kiddy Cook North Staffs.

For the full schedule of cookery classes and to book spaces, visit www.stonefooddrink.org.uk or pop into the Festival Office, The Market House, Mill Street, Stone ST15 8BA (courtesy of Tinsley Garner, Estate Agents); open daily from 25th Aug between 10.00am & 1.00pm

Ready, steady, cook! Amarpal Harrar of iCookIndian (L) and Staffordshire star chef Paul Gilmore (R) will both offer interactive cookery classes at the 2014 Stone Food & Drink Festival

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RECIPE FOR LIFE

Cosy up with some hearty home cooking this autumn

Serves: 6 Preparation time: 20 mins Cooking tim e: 1 hour 30 m ins

24 October/November 2014

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RECIPE FOR LIFE

A

utumn always seems such a wonderful time of year for food and with Stone hosting one of the top Food and Drink Festivals in the country it seemed only fitting to include a delicious recipe in this issue to have a go at.

With plenty of seasonal vegetables available, rich in colour and flavour, as well as a wide variety of fruits and berries, which really come into their

own, it would be rude not to make the most of them.

We have chosen a warm and wholesome dish to cosy down with this autumn season. This tasty boozy beef casserole is a rich, scrumptious dish perfect for a chilly evening now the evenings are dark. Serve over rice, a baked potato or simply with crusty bread to mop up all the delicious sauce.

Boozy Beef Casserole Method 1. Heat oil in a large casserole pot.

2. Add beef and cook until brown; remove from pot. Cook onions and mushrooms , stirring occasionally, until onions are tender. Remove and set aside.

3. Return beef to pot; sprinkle with flour, salt, marjoram, thyme, parsley and pepper. Stir in stock and wine. Add bay leaf. Bring to the boil; reduce heat, cover and simmer for one and half hours or until beef is tender.

rs & Delic utche ate eB

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n sse

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4. Stir in brandy, mushrooms and onions; heat through, stirring occasionally and serve.

om

or field to f

k

Ingredients • 500g of braising steak • 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil • 3 large onions, sliced • 250g punnet mushrooms, sliced • 2 tablespoons plain flour • 1 teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon snipped fresh rosemary or marjoram • ½ teaspoon snipped fresh thyme • ½ teaspoon snipped fresh parsley • 1 bay leaf • Freshly ground black pepper to taste • 125ml beef stock • 225ml red wine • 2 tablespoons brandy

CHRISTMAS ORDERS Order book opens October 3rd

get your orders in early

• Charcuterie • Homemade cakes • Pies • Jams • Pickles • Preserves • Salamis • Cheeses • Hot & cold rolls New range of ready meals from £2.50

STONE FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL SPECIALS Mon Sept 29th & Wed Oct 1st - 10% Discount on fresh meat Tues Sept 30th - BBQ sampling sausages & burgers Thurs Oct 2nd - 2 for 1 on all jars of pickles & preserves Fri Oct 3rd - 25% off homemade meat pies and pasties

COME AND VISIT US AT THE WESTBRIDGE PARK BONFIRE ON 8TH NOVEMBER AND ENJOY OUR FAMOUS BBQ ADIES ALLEY, STONE, ST15 8YQ • 01785 749347 • WWW.TCFOODS.CO.UK Open: Mon & Wed 7.30am-2pm Tues/Thur/Fri 7.30am-5pm • Sat 7.30am-4pm facebook.com/stonecountrybutchers

October/November 2014 25

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CAMRA PUB OF THE YEAR

Real ale pub raises a glass after receiving coveted award M ichelle Hughes and the staff at the Royal Exchange in Stone were celebrating being awarded a coveted pub trade award.

The Titanic Brewery owned pub was thrilled to be placed third in the ‘Staffordshire Pub of the Year 2014’ awards.

The Heart of Staffordshire CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) Group voted the Royal Exchange their Pub of the Year last year meaning it was submitted into the county wide competition in which the popular Stone watering hole was judged third.

Going up against some stiff competition from a number of exceptional rural and urban pubs which were also nominated has been a great achievement for Michelle and her team who hope to maybe even come top in next year’s county competition.

Manager Michelle Hughes and the staff at the Royal Exchange were all congratulated at a recent visit to the pub in which Phil Vickers, CAMRA Area

THE GEORGE & DRAGON

at Meaford from 17th November 2014 to 3rd January 2015 FESTIVE Available 2 courses £9.99 courses £11.99 per person FOOD Under 5’s 2 courses £4.95 and join the party! under CHRISTMAS Come 5’s eat 4 courses £44.99 per person FREE Children aged 5-10 £22.49 DAY Come and join the party! 3 courses £15.99 per person BOXING Book by 31st October 2014 and we’ll treat the party organiser to a £10 discount voucher for use on food and DAY drink during November.* Terms and conditions apply

HOUSE WINE £8.95 PER BOTTLE LAGER & BITTER £2.50 PER PINT • GUEST ALES

SPECIAL OFFERS ALL WEEK FROM 5PM • Monday - Grill night - 2-for-1 on steaks • Wednesday - Curry night - curry with a free drink £6.95 Function • Thursday - 2 main meals & a room bottle of wine £20 available • Sunday lunch - 12 noon - 9pm Please ask with free dessert £10.35 for details

MEAFORD ROAD, STONE, ST15 0PX T. 01785 748787 www.georgedragonmeaford.com Open 7 days 12 noon - 11pm Food served everyday 12noon - 9pm

26 October/November 2014

Organiser for Staffordshire; Michelle Hughes, Manager of the Royal Exchange; and Neil Butler, Chairman Heart of Staffordshire CAMRA are pictured.

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LAST ORDERS

Scottish Independence, enough to drive one to drink!

A

s I write this Scotland is about to make an historic vote and if the decision is yes how will this affect the sale of Scotch whisky here in England?

Tax and whisky have a long association and could this be a further twist in the story, time alone will tell. The general reaction is that whisky will cost more if the vote is yes. The whisky producers also seem firmly in favour of a no vote and if you dig below the surface you can see why.

For example, whisky is currently exported to 170 countries most of which have UK embassy coverage. The proposed Scottish government would have coverage of 70 countries and this coupled with a lack of immediate EU membership could result in markets being squeezed through lack of local representation. Why is this important?

Well at the moment nine out of every 10 bottles of whisky is exported.

Recent television coverage has shown retailers talking about whisky from other sources. We have seen the growth of Indian whisky and now the number of countries producing whisky is growing all the time. At Old School Wines we are just about to take delivery of a French whisky produced in Brittany at the Warenghem distillery which has been producing fine spirits for over 100 years. Armorik is a single cask double maturation whisky and we should have this available for the Stone Food and Drink Festival.

From the other side of the world we are also hoping to receive an allocation of Sullivans Cove French Oak. This whisky hails from Tasmania and has had rave reviews. It is Jim Murray’s Southern Hemisphere Whisky of the Year in his 2013 Whisky Bible. There’s not much of it about so time will tell how much we get if any! All of which goes to show that the world of whisky is developing fast.

Will I stop drinking Scotch whisky if the price rises? I doubt it very much. I might be unhappy for a wee short while but at the end

of the day the product speaks for itself. There’s a lot more at stake with this decision than the price of a dram, we are living through unprecedented times – it’s enough to drive you to drink!

Whisky expert Dave Pickard of Old School Wines, Tittensor.

T. 01782 372888

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Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty to be screened at Gatehouse Theatre

M

atthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty is coming to Stafford Gatehouse Theatre on Wednesday 21st January at 7.30pm.

A brand-new production created by Britain’s most successful choreographer to celebrate the 25 year anniversary of his company, New Adventures, Sleeping Beauty premiered at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, London in November 2012 to rave reviews and has just completed a hugely successful UK tour, delighting audiences and selling out at many venues. The magic of the performance has been captured

by Leopard Films in this fantastic new film.

Sleeping Beauty sees Bourne return to the music of

28 October/November 2014

Tchaikovsky to complete the trio of masterworks that started with Nutcracker! And the international hit Swan Lake.

The story begins in 1890 at the christening of Princess Aurora, a time when fairies and vampires fed the imagination, before moving forward in time to the modern day. A sumptuous, gothic fairytale with a twist on the classic story, this production will appeal to the younger ‘Twilight’ generation as well as traditional dance fans who will enjoy the masterful choreography and the trademark wit expected from Matthew Bourne.

Matthew Bourne worked again with three of his regular collaborators and New Adventures Associate Artists on Sleeping Beauty: the Tony and

Olivier Award-winning designers LezBrotherston (Set and Costumes), Paule Constable (Lighting) and Paul Groothuis (Sound Design) have created a truly bewitching spectacle.

Directed by Ross Macgibbon and produced by Fiona Morris, the production was filmed at the Bristol Hippodrome, UK in May 2013. Sleeping Beauty is a Leopard Films production in association with the BBC and Channel 13 Great Performances USA. Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty is a fabulous gothic tale for all ages.

Tickets for Sleeping Beauty are just £10 and can be booked by calling the box office on 01785 254653 or by visiting www.staffordgatehousetheatre. co.uk

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fter recently taking up the opportunity to offer her specialist services on Mondays and Tuesdays at Spa For You in Granville Square, Stone, local complementary therapist Diane Connor is already adding to her wealth of treatments by introducing two relaxation classes. As a highly qualified complementary therapist with over 14 years of experience in the field, Diane offers clients everything from aromatherapy, body massage, pamper packages, Reiki, Indian head massage, to reflexology, relaxation techniques, meditation classes and emotional freedom techniques such as the Matrix Reimprinting which is a very specialist treatment used to help remove past trauma and which Diane is the only therapist in the area to practice.

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In a class by themselves for

ST YLE and QUALIT Y Bowman Antiques Fairs Are delighted to remind the discerning lady and gentleman that the dates for their next two Fairs for 2014 are as follows

GIANT 3 DAY ANTIQUES & ART FAIR Stafford bingley hall ST18 0BD

Diane Connor FdSc, MFHT Your Local Complementary Therapist

Relaxation Classes

at

Friday, Saturday, Sunday

12th, 13th, 14th December 2014 10AM - 5PM EACH DAY Adm: £5 adults, £3 concessions

2A Granville Square, Stone ST15 8AB Tuesdays 1-2pm & 7-8pm (Please bring a blanket and a pillow)

as is usual at events organised by the Bowman family there are hundreds of good quality dealers in the rare the exotic the unusual the beautiful and the hard to find

£6.75 per session Limited places (Booking essential)

Pay online at www.angelinaholistictherapies.net Or phone 07967 434232

Holiday with a difference

Canal Cruising Company Ltd Est 1948

Celebrating quality antiques fairs organised by a family business since 1973 @antiquesfairs

Celebrating Celebra at ting qu quality alit y antiques f fairs air a rs or organisin ganisin

TITTENSOR

C H I R O P O DY / P O D I AT RY State Registered Chiropodist with the Health & Care Profession Council

Situated in the picturesque town of Stone, a family run business over 65 years Standard to luxury class 2-8 berth boats available with a choice of delightful routes Weekly hire and short breaks 10 & 11 night hire now available

SELF DRIVE DAY BOAT HIRE March-October (Tues,Wed, Thurs Pick up 10am Return 4pm) 2-4 persons £160 • 5-8 persons £250. Lock & driving tuition included

For more details, special offers and live availability

Member of "The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists"

Over a decade of NHS experience Bachelor Honours Degree in Podiatry Medicine Offer various treatments: Nail cut & treatment of skin & nail infections, Removal of Hard Skin & Corns, Verruca treatment, Ingrowing toenails, Nail surgery.

20 Bracken Close, Copeland Avenue, Winghouse Lane, Tittensor, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST12-9JD For an appointment please call

visit us at www.canalcruising.co.uk

Leila Burgess mobile: 07946 353816

Crown Street, Stone, Staffs ST15 8QN Tel: 01785 813982 Fax: 01785 819041 Email: mail@canalcruising.co.uk

www.tittensorchiropodyandpodiatry.co.uk Info@tittensorpodiatryandchiropody.co.uk

(please leave a message & you will be contacted)

October/November 2014 29

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VINTAGE GLAMOUR CHARITY BALL

BREAST CANCER CHARITY HOSTS EVENING OF VINTAGE GLAMOUR

T

he fabulous Lamours who have thrilled audiences around the country playing large festivals, theatres, and prestigious clubs are set to make an appearance at Staffordshire’s County Showground this November.

Fronted by the supremely talented Lola Lamour, this youthful and energetic band will take you on a roller-coaster ride of contrasting styles and tempos combining wonderful melodies with hypnotic rhythms.

Swing, soul, tango, blues,

30 October/November 2014

rockabilly, country, and much more, all amazingly but effortlessly follow each other and are connected beautifully by the vintage style 13 piece band in a way rarely seen or heard before.

Original songs and classic covers feature in their stunning show guaranteeing the audience an unforgettable evening.

The Lamours are set to delight an audience at Breakthrough Breast Cancer’s Annual Vintage Glamour Ball taking place on Saturday 22nd November at Staffordshire County

Showground.

The evening of vintage glamour comes complete with a delicious four course meal, the live entertainment and disco as well as an auction and raffle all for just £45 a ticket. And best of all, the proceeds will go to charity, Breakthrough Breast Cancer, the UK’s leading breast cancer charity dedicated to stopping people getting, and dying from, the disease.

Liz Osborn, spokesman for the Staffordshire branch of Breakthrough Breast Cancer, said: “I’d encourage everyone to come along and enjoy this fabulous event to help us raise even more money for Breakthrough Breast Cancer; it’s an extremely worthy cause.”

The Breakthrough Breast Cancer Staffordshire Group began fundraising in October 1999 and over the years has arranged numerous successful fundraising events that include fashion shows, Sunday lunches, wine tastings, hog roasts and a Valentine’s dance, raising nearly £500,000 for Breakthrough’s life-saving work.

Natalie Bridge, Breakthrough’s Community Fundraising Executive for the Staffordshire area, said: “Without the generosity and dedication of women like Liz, and groups like the Breakthrough Breast Cancer Staffordshire Group, we would not be able to continue our vital research. We’re immensely grateful for all of their efforts and wish them every success for their upcoming event!”

For booking and information details contact Liz Osborn on Tel. 01785 780 022 or email breakthroughstaffs@gmail.com.

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MYSTAGE ACADEMY

Musical theatre at MyStage Academy

P

rofessional Singer, Pippa Attwood has selected Alleyne's Academy, Stone as a base for a new branch of her successful performing arts academy. Pippa, from Eccleshall and her twin sister Charlotte Pearson, currently run 3 other sister schools (literally!) of MyStage Academy.

Pippa is a classically trained mezzo soprano, dancer and actor and is proud to offer a wealth of professional experience within musical theatre and performance, having worked for the reputable Disney Cruise Line and Thomson Cruises as Lead Singer within the onboard production casts for a number of years. With not just musical theatre in her repertoire and ability, she has also fronted resident show band “The Allstars” on board the Disney Wonder Ship and at various venues around the UK.

Having previously acted as Artistic director for our sister company, Chase Stage Academy, Pippa is delighted to be expanding the company, and with her strong musical theatre ethic, she is excited to continue to produce a high level of tuition and performance at MyStage Academy.

Open to all students between 6 and 18 years old who want to become involved in musical theatre, MyStage Academy offers three hours of expert tuition in singing, dancing and acting, delivered by a highly experienced team of professionals. Students will learn how to capture the art of expression through modern, jazz and street dance, they will be taught essential vocal techniques including breathing, diction, dynamics and harmony and they will discover how to take on a whole new persona through drama, exploring characterisation, improvisation and essential stage craft.

MyStage Academy in Stone will run from 2pm – 5pm on Saturdays starting on September 20th If you are interested in booking a FREE TASTER SESSION or for more information then please visit www.mystagacademy.com

EE R! FR STE TA STAGE SCHOOL OPENS IN STONE! MYSTAGE ACADEMY HAS OPENED A NEW SCHOOL AT ALLEYNE’S ACADEMY, STONE EVERY SATURDAY 2PM-5PM CALL NOW TO BOOK YOUR FREE TASTER SESSION Open to students between 6 - 18 years, we offer 3 hours of SINGING, DANCING and DRAMA classes. Students benefit for Major West End and International performance opportunities (Inc. The O2 Arena and The Theatre Royal), industry professionals for coaches, self confidence, team work skills, vocal technique and much more!

To book your child a FREE TASTER SESSION call 07712 429350 or email info@mystageacademy.com MyStage Academy, Alleyne's Academy, Oulton Rd, Stone ST15 8DT - www.mystageacademy.com October/November 2014 31

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TRYREE ONE 2 ONE TRAINING RF OU STER BODY TRANSFORMATION TA SION SES NUTRITION SUPPORT Join our wellbeing family where you can lose fat, get fit and have fun through a personal training service in a small, community group environment.

A new you is just a call away 0845 686 0444 www.academy4wellbeing.com 32 October/November 2014

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POST SUMMER BLUES? REFOCUS AND GET LEAN, FIT AND HEALTHY NOW! If like most of us, you have put on some unwanted body fat after a great summer and are struggling to refocus back into your health, fitness and wellbeing, then the Academy4Wellbeing could have just the solution for you.

ONE 2 ONE PERSONAL TRAINING An individually tailored one-to-one fat loss, health and fitness training programme with dietary advice, meal plans and regular checks is the best way to get results.

It can take place in privacy at times that suit you, and the one-to-one service means you get the trainers full attention. Claim your FREE consultation with Daniel who will tailor a package around your needs.

You will also gain access to all of the Wellbeing team of experts where needed or simply book exercise sessions if that’s all you require?

Some of the services on offer include: • Regular clinical body composition assessment including: weight, body fat percentage, lean/fat free mass, muscle mass, resting heart rate, blood pressure.

• Biomechanical analysis, postural, muscle balance/imbalance assessment.

• Assessment of previous injuries with Martin Copeland and Daniel Bowers at Lakeside Physiotherapy Clinic.

• Consultation with our Weight Management Counsellor/Dietitian and regular nutrition support and guidance and healthy recipes.

• Assessment with Professor Anthony (Clinical Psychologist) to identify and combat any emotional eating triggers.

• To use ‘mindfulness techniques’ to help make informed best health eating choices and to assist further focus and motivation.

Meet Daniel...

Daniel is Managing Director of Academy4Wellbeing and has both an academic and applied Sport, Health & Exercise Sciences background.

He has a passion for helping people and will help you become a healthier, leaner, fitter person through hard work but still having plenty of fun along the way.

Daniel’s qualifications include...

• BSc Sport Health and Exercise Sciences Graduate.

• University Sport, Health and Exercises Lecturer and Researcher.

• Sports Consultant.

• CYQ Level 2 and 3 Fitness Trainer.

• Certified Outdoor Fitness Specialist.

• Advanced Functional Boot Camp Trainer.

• Boxercise Instructor.

• CPD Cross Fit. • CPD Olympic Weight Lifting.

• CPD Gymnastics for Fitness.

• Completing Level 1 CrossFit qualification this Winter.

Using the latest most effective strength, conditioning, body transformation training and nutrition techniques and methods with proven, sustainable mind blowing results. Look leaner, slimmer and feel healthier and fitter. A personal training service in a smaller fun, community group environment. Daniel will progress everyone carefully at the correct individual rate, to achieve the best results for you.

So what are you waiting for? Contact us now and start your journey to a healthier you!

0845 686 0444 www.academy4wellbeing.com daniel@academy4wellbeing.com October/November 2014 33

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STONE’S ANSWER TO SELFRIDGE’S

TYLMAN OF STONE Renowned for its high quality bespoke handmade kitchens and solid oak furniture Tylman of Stone’s reputation goes before it. However Claire and Phil Tylman are keen to stress that their ground floor Granville Square shop, which the business moved into 18 months ago, has so much more to offer its discerning customers.

The 40 year old family business which specialises in handemade kitchens and, furniture is complemented by the beautiful array of gifts and cards also on offer.

Claire is encouraging people to come and have a look around the shop particularly on the open evenings where she and Phil plan to stay open until 8pm. Customers will be offered a complementary drink and the chance to purchase a raffle ticket in which prizes donated by the individual businesses will be up for grabs, with all proceeds going to charity. Tylman of Stone is the ideal place to pick up that perfect gift from clocks from Thomas Kent, to homeware items, woodwick & country candles, photo frames, pottery ,cards, calendars, cushions to their selection of unique gifts and children’s toys. In addition visitors can also enjoy new artwork by local artists on display in the shop’s gallery.

Special offers on the evening.

The businesses which make up the exclusi Stone’s Granville Square are joi

Snooty Madam

Sizes 10-20 Accessories available

Life is too short not to be glamorous Unit 2B Granville Square, Stone, Staffs, ST15 8AB Tel: 01785 747858 Mob: 07805 046077 email: ceri@snootymadam.co.uk www.snootymadam.co.uk 34 October/November 2014

LATE NIGHT FESTIVE O THURSDAY 27TH NOVEMB

where business owners and proprietors will be show products. All are welcome to peruse the premises, ta enjoying a complementary g

SNOOTY MADAM Snooty Madam is the latest ladies fashion boutique in Stone.

Owner Ceri Archer wants shopping in Stone to be a new experience.

Where do you go and what do you wear? Finding the perfect prom and evening outfit is a major task, but it should be fun too, welcome to Snooty Madam. Snooty Madam specialises in prom and evening wear including structured outfits in fabulous colours and styles, dresses for Ascot events and weddings, all in a variety of fabrics to suit all shapes and sizes, and now an extensive matching handmade hat collection.

Customers can purchase perfect day wear made with good quality stretch fabric that hugs the figure in all the right places, is machine washable and makes you feel slimmer! What more can Ceri say, it sells itself.

Snooty Madam sizes range from 10 to 20 and we also stock a wide range of accessories including leather bags, evening bags, costume and silver jewellery.

Ceri added: “I hope to offer people current trends and to keep it exclusive. I want to keep things fresh, new and exciting and for it to be a new shopping experience for my customers.

Whatever the occasion, there will be a dress that's right for you.

“I am renowned for my friendly advice and hope that you will enjoy this first hand when you visit Snooty Madam.”

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STONE’S ANSWER TO SELFRIDGE’S

GLITZ IN THE BAG An accessory colour boutique which aims to provide customers with a huge choice of adornments, in a wide range of colours at affordable prices. Proprietor Nicola offers unique accessories that stand out from the crowd, rather than the mainstream, mass produced alternatives found on the high street. The shop prides itself on the ability to create stunning accessory displays, helping customers invest in pieces to compliment their new and existing wardrobe items.

In store is a fantastic new range of wool and tweed bags, purses, scarves and gloves in for Winter, as well as introducing men's accessories on the run up to Christmas.

Nicola also offers private wardrobe consultations starting from just £20. She commented: “We can even bring our unique collection to your home, for your friends and family to experience, in the comfort of your home. Our matching service is highly sort after and we offer a one to one consultation at our boutique to find you the perfect matching accessories for that special occasion. We have recently expanded into handmade jewellery with all our pieces made locally in Stone. In addition to our matching service, we also offer a bespoke jewellery making service, with our lead time on personalised items normally 48-72 hours.”

clusive shopping and leisure emporium of re joining forces for two special

E OPEN EVENINGS ON MBER AND 4TH DECEMBER

Handbags Purses Scarves Gloves Umbrellas Handmade Jewellery WIN A PRIZE PACKAGE WORTH OVER £100 Visit Glitz in the Bag before 6th December to complete a prize draw entry form and you could be the lucky winner

2a Granville Square, Stone, ST15 8AB (above Tylman of Stone next to Fleur),

Tel: 01785 749724 www.glitzinthebag.co.uk email: glitzinthebag@live.com www.facebook.com/glitzinthebag

showcasing their unique and individual services and ses, take advantage of the many special offers, while ary glass of wine and nibbles.

SPA FOR YOU

Celebrating the first anniversary this November in her central Stone location, Spa For You proprietor Agnese Everte is proud to provide her clients with a luxury spa environment in which she offers beauty, holistic and aesthetic treatments.

Since setting up at Granville Square Agnese’s business has been going from strength to strength, so much so that the married mother of one recently appointed an apprentice beautician to work alongside her at the spa making it possible to offer ‘Double Pamper sessions, in which both therapists work on the client at the same time making it possible to enjoy a luxury facial at the same time as a luxury manicure or pedicure, as well as a whole host of other treatment options which are available.

During the open nights, anyone booking a treatment will receive a £30 voucher for skin specific treatments, which Agnese specialises in at her skin clinic, such as skin resurfacers and peels, a great saving. Clients can also get a foot or hand treatment or an eyebrow shape for just £5 as well as the chance to test some of the Spa’s aesthetic products.

Agnese is now able to take bookings for treatments on Fridays between 11am and 3.30pm.

On Mondays and Tuesdays Diane Connor FdSc MFHT a local professional complementary therapist is now offering her therapies at the Spa and will be present at our late night openings to discuss how she can help people to improve their health and wellbeing.

Skin care & body clinic

For your health & beauty • Microdermabrasion facials • Non-surgical facelifts • Acne management • Age management • Skin resurfacers • Oxygen facials • Skin peels

• • • • • •

Holistics Pamper parties Beauty treatments Massage therapies Educational evenings Weddings and occasion makeup • Gift vouchers for your loved ones

2a Granville Square, Stone, Staffordshire, ST15 8AB

07876 171 026 /spaforyou.co.uk High performance aesthetic skincare range and advanced nutritional programme

October/November 2014 35

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REMEMBERING THE FIRST WORLD WAR

Commemorating t P

rivate Horace Harris from Eccleshall was just 19 years old when he was killed in action on the frontline at Soissons in France.

Now previously unseen letters to his family, have been unveiled, written only nine days before he died documenting his final thoughts.

Many letters sent to and from soldiers on active service during the Great War have been lost over the passage of time. Some, however, remain with family members and on the public record.

Letters relating to Private Horace Isaac Hill, of the North Staffs & Durham Light Infantry, tell the story of an ordinary young man in wartime.

Horace joined up by April 1917 but he did not

36 October/November 2014

leave for France until April 1918. During this time it would appear Horace wrote regularly to his mother, girlfriend and great uncle.

Horace was lost at the 3rd Battle of the Aisne 27 to 30th May 1918 having been in France for around six or seven weeks, and his name appears on the Eccleshall War Memorial.

It is stories like this which make up just part of an extensive programme of events which have been taking place locally to commemorate the centenary of the Great War. Staffordshire has as good a claim as anywhere in Britain to be the national focus for the centenary commemorations. The National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas is a national and international centre for commemoration, while the Cannock War Graves cemeteries, the Staffordshire Regimental Museum and many memorials all offer poignant reminders of the Great War. Furthermore, WWI camps at Brocton, on Cannock Chase trained over half a million soldiers for the Great War and last year a terrain model showing the battle of Messines, also used to train troops was unearthed.

County Councillor Mike Lawrence, who is involved in leading the commemorations said: “As we commemorate the centenary of the First World War, it is important we never forget the sacrifices made by millions of people. Many brave soldiers from all of our communities lost their lives in the war and our plans are aimed at helping people reflect and remember those who did not return home to their families and friends.

“We have many events still planned to take place over the next four years to remember the county’s role in the conflict and to help teach future generations about the legacy of the Great War with our many special exhibitions, events and activities planned over the next four years.”

A dedicated Staffordshire Great War website has been set up at www.staffordshiregreatwar.com to help people discover the many events, activities and exhibitions happening across their local area.

At the County’s Records Office people can explore thousands of records of the time, including the previously unseen letters of Private Horace Hill and over 20,000 WWI military appeal tribunal records, while other moving stories of Staffordshire soldiers and the

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REMEMBERING THE FIRST WORLD WAR

the Great War memorials that honour them have also been captured in a free 92-page guide which features over 114 of the county’s memorials, including the famous ‘Shot at Dawn’ memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum.

Pictured is Private Horace Hill and his last letter written from the frontline in May 1918 shortly before his death.

October/November 2014 37

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HOMES AND GARDENS

The perfect time for home im T

here seems to be something in the air at the start of autumn which makes homeowners want to re-decorate, or spruce up tired looking rooms.

October and November are good months to consider adding on to your home before winter and Christmas, as well as completing indoor projects as the weather starts to turn cold. Home improvements can range from upgrading existing fixtures and finishes to knocking down walls and adding on square footage.

Whichever improvements you have in mind, here are a few tips to guide you throughout the process.

Firstly, assess your home to determine the current state of things and look at what ideas you want to implement. Walk through your rooms and decide what jobs feature on the wish list and which need doing out of necessity.

Also ask yourself how long you plan to be in your home. If you are planning on selling your home the budget for improvements may be different than if you plan to stay put for a while. If

you want to get a return on investment, ensure you upgrade the parts of your home that home buyers are interested in.

Seek out inspiration by flicking through home and garden magazines, picking up colour swatches from the local DIY shops and seek out some innovative ideas.

It is however important to know your budget.

With Christmas only just ahead of us money can often be tight for many home owners at this time of year. Instead of getting discouraged, use your time productively by planning your project and a realistic budget to stick to which won’t cause too much stress.

If major improvements are on the cards, make sure you seek out the proper permits from the local planning authority.

And remember to be flexible. Even though you would like your new kitchen remodel done in eight weeks, the reality is it may take 12 weeks. The same is true for budget, and resources. Try and become more flexible with your planning and

OUTDOOR LUXURY and more • Hot Tubs & Swim Spas Jacuzzi HOT TUBS • Swimming Pools & Spa Enclosures

www.malibuhottubs.co.uk

• Saunas & Accessories • Luxury Garden Buildings • African Style Buildings • Cedar Wood Buildings • Garden Design Services

FIREWORKS

We sell fireworks in Stafford and the surrounding areas. Whether you are looking for a quiet firework display in your back garden or an amazing professional fireworks display for New Year or Bonfire Night, we can cater for your preference.

RUGS

Great selection of both traditional and modern designs

DE-STRESS! UNWIND! RELAX! with a

38 October/November 2014

HOT TUBS

NEW FROM

£2999!

HOT TUB HIRE FROM www.staffordshirehottubs.co.uk

Full range of spa & hot tub accessories Also available a selection of pre-loved tubs

Yarlet Bank (A34), Yarlet, Stafford, Staffordshire ST18 9SD. 01889 508787 info@malibuhottubs.co.uk

facebook.com/malibuhottubs

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improvements

Page 39

HOMES AND GARDENS

factor in extra buffer time and money for your own sanity.

Even though there is a serious side to home improvement, it should also be fun and rewarding. If you aren’t going to enjoy your hard work and effort, hire a professional and leave the hard work to them.

Housecare

Domestic Cleaning and Ironing Service is here to help!

ng - weekly, Cleaning & ironi e-offs Clean fortnightly or on in FOR A FREE QUOTE CALL

Home: 01785 811143 Mobile: 07790 995389

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Mini , Midi & Large Skips Mini Digger Hire

24-7 SERVICE Tel: 01889 566262 Mob: 07971 566383 www.boultonsskiphire.co.uk

• CARPETS • WOODS • LAMINATES • VINYL • CUSHIONFLOR • LUXURY VINYL TILES • RUGS AND MUCH MORE!

FOR QUALITY, TRUST, SERVICE & VALUE MAKE THE SMART CHOICE

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Stone Carpet & Flooring Centre has provided high quality flooring for over 35 years, offering a diverse range of superb carpets, natural flooring, laminates, woods & vinyls at competitive prices.

We support British industry...

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T: 01785 818176 WWW.STONECARPETCENTRE.CO.UK STONE CARPET CENTRE, UNIT 5 CO-OP SUPER MARKET ARCADE, STONE, STAFFS. ST15 8AU October/November 2014 39

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KATHARINE HOUSE HOSPICE

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Fashion, furniture and ev

40 October/November 2014

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KATHARINE HOUSE HOSPICE

everything in between...

without the big price tag

K

atharine House Hospice opened a large new shop in Stafford town centre on Monday 29th September.

The shop at Princes Street, Stafford is already proving to be a treasure trove for bargain savvy local shoppers offering a huge selection of ‘fashion, furniture and everything in between’ spread over two floors.

Speaking to Stone and Eccleshall Life, Area Manager George Bradley said: “Our Stafford Street shop was always very popular - now we are offering local people more choice by moving to much larger premises. You won’t believe the quality of the items on sale, it is an Aladdin’s cave of choice and value.

Our stock will change daily so it is certainly worth popping in regularly to see what we have on offer.”

Not only can shoppers walk away with a unique bargain – they can also leave in the knowledge that they are helping a vital local charity.

George added: “Every penny we raise through the sale of goods helps us to provide free care for local people in our community with progressive illnesses and their families. We rely heavily on donated items and we can even collect the larger items such as furniture for free.

“Pop in and browse, clear out the clutter and drop in a bag of clothing or other items, or call us to arrange a free collection of furniture and other larger items on Tel. 01785 760715.”

You can find other Katharine House Hospice shops in the region by visiting www.khhospice.org.uk.

October/November 2014 41

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STAFFORD AND STONE CANOE CLUB

Canoeists paddle to victory for 11th year in a row at National Interclub Championships

T

his year’s Canoe Slalom National Interclub Championships held in Cardington, Bedford saw Stafford and Stone Canoe Club enter two hopeful teams to compete.

The competition was held over two days, on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th September with canoe clubs from all over the UK invited to compete including the previous year’s winners.

Teams were made up of 13 competitors over 11 categories, including men and women and a variety of ages. Each team was lead by a non-paddling captain with all the local paddlers from Stafford and Stone Canoe Club competing regularly in slalom events all over the country.

Stafford and Stone entered two teams (team A and team B), with both containing current GB team members. Team A’s captain was Steve Harratt (SSCC Adult Beginners Coach) and Team B’s captain

42 October/November 2014

was Kay Royle.

Competition was fierce with teams from Holme Pierrepont, Nottingham the home of GB Canoeing’s Central Region Talent Squads, and two teams from Lee Valley National White Water Centre, hosts of the Olympic Canoe Slalom events in the London 2012 Olympic Games, as well as many other top UK clubs.

This year Stafford and Stone Canoe Club’s A team were victorious, with the B team coming a very respectable fourth out of 22 teams. Many team members also won individual trophies.

The National Interclub Championships first took place in 1985 and has been held every year except for in 2008 when the course was flooded. In that time Stafford and Stone have won the competition 22 times, keeping up their long winning streak at the Championships this year with their eleventh year win in a row.

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STAFFORDSHIRE YOUNG FARMERS CLUB

NEW FUNDRAISING APPROACH TO REAP SUCCESS FOR LOCAL YFC M

embers of Eccleshall Young Farmers Club held their Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 10th September.

The meeting, which was held at the Royal Oak, in the town, was an opportunity for the club to reflect on their achievements over the past 12 months and present their chosen charities with nearly £1,300. This is a sum that out-going Chairman Becky Stubbs is extremely proud of. She commented: "This year we have decided to raise money for The Midlands Air Ambulance and Eccleshall First Responders, along with the annual donation we give to the British Legion’s poppy appeal and a contribution to The Women’s Land Army tribute. This is more than double the amount we have donated in the past two years and so it is a great achievement for the club."

Although a large majority of the funds will be donated to The Midlands Air Ambulance, the club are supporting the creation of a sculpture to honour the Women’s Land Army. The sculpture, which is being modelled on Eccleshall YFC member, Isobel Wright, will be unveiled this autumn at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

Incoming Chairman, Harriet Wilson, reflects on the club's fundraising highlights for the year, she said: “This year’s committee have held some excellent events and we have been so pleased with the support we have received. Two new events for us have been an Easter Sunday disco and fun ride for local horse riders. The ride saw 107 riders turning out to complete the 10 mile course which included over 30 hunt jumps.

“The club will be holding their new members night on Wednesday 15th October. They invite prospective members aged 13 to 26 for an evening of fun and games at 8pm at Eccleshall Cricket Club. Everyone is welcome and it is not necessary to have a farming background to join Young Farmers. You just need to be willing to get involved in order to make friends for life and have an amazing time!”

For more information about the Young Farmers organisation, visit the Staffordshire YFC website www.staffsyoungfarmers.org.uk.

Eccleshall Young Farmers incoming Chairman Harriet Wilson on the left and out-going Chairman Becky Stubbs on the right pictured at the Stafforshire YFC's New Year Ball October/November 2014 43

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‘COMING TO A BIN NEAR YOU’

Recycling pays off for Christine

A

mum from a local village got an early birthday present when she was the first to scoop £60 in a doorstep challenge aimed at increasing recycling.

Christine Clarvis proved she had no recyclable products in her green refuse bin when her home was picked at random as part of the new challenge.

It is the latest initiative from the borough council to boost recycling to 60% from households across the area. The current figure is around 54%.

Council bosses say the move will help keep council tax down - with an increase of just one percent on their recycling worth nearly £14,000 to the authority.

The new scheme - called ‘Coming to a Bin Near You’ - offers residents £60 if they have no recycling in their green rubbish bins. The first address picked at random was in Marlborough Close, Great Haywood, and when council waste experts called at Mrs Clarvis’ home they found no recycling in her green bin.

The mum of one, who celebrated her 53rd birthday just after being picked for the challenge, said: “I’m very happy. It's fantastic. I didn't expect that. There's been a lot of advertising about it but I didn't think it would be me because there are a lot of houses in Great Haywood."

Mrs Clarvis, who is married and has a 12 year old daughter, added: “I was pleased there was nothing in my green bin that could be recycled. I am sure my daughter will think of something to spend the money on.

"It was my birthday just after so it was a nice early birthday present."

Councillor Frank Finlay, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “I think this is a fantastic scheme. The amount of people who have told us they have heard about it, and said they hoped to win the £60, demonstrates that people will be trying to recycle more.

“We have had tremendous support in the past for our recycling initiatives and I hope this will prove a popular addition to help spur the community on.

“Where other councils may have looked to fine residents for not recycling properly - we want to reward those who are doing all they can.”

Each month an address will be picked at random and will be kept secret - although the council will publicise in advance the area they will be visiting on its website and twitter account or people can find out by contacting the Civic Centre.

44 October/November 2014

Previous initiatives which allow more to be recycled include taking waxed drink cartons and aerosols, and allowing residents to put batteries and small electrical items in a carrier bag by the side of the recycling blue bin.

Councillor Finlay continued: “A lot of the stuff residents throw in the green refuse waste bin can actually be recycled - this is a message we are keen to get across which will help towards hitting the 60% recycling target we have set ourselves.

He added: “We all know that recycling is good for the environment but what many do not know is that it is also good financially. The council is given money for the amount we recycle and this cash is pumped back in to the service. And the more money coming back to the service, means less money needed to run it - so ultimately recycling is helping to keep council tax down.”

To find out what you can recycle and more information on the bin collection service go to www.staffordbc.gov.uk/binday.

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STING GROUP

SET-BACK FOR GROUP ONLY GIVES THEM MORE ‘STING’ IN THEIR TAIL

F

or those who knew Unit 22B on the Whitebridge Estate as the home of SAMS, the local branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre you will probably be interested in hearing about a rather surprising change in circumstances.

Back in February this year the Stone based group was told that MS-UK was withdrawing its support from them and closing the centre down.

SAMS had no previous warning of this decision and so, understandably were totally devastated. MS-UK left the group with no funds and no charity number meaning raising funds to carry on would be very difficult. Then on 21st April MSUK closed the doors to the Centre.

However the group was not to be defeated and like a Phoenix rising from the Ashes members have rebranded the organisation as STING: Staffordshire Therapeutic Independent Neurological Group. The new name allows members to support anyone living with a Neurological condition so not just Multiple Sclerosis, but Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and stroke victims for example.

The group has been able to remain open in the short term thanks largely to the support of Charles Baines, Phil Darby, Stone Town Council and Stone Lions, and are currently in the process of applying for grants and charitable status while organising fund raising and social events to raise the money to be able to continue running.

STING is now appealing to

local businesses to help raise further funds and secure the future of the centre which provides activities such as Tai Chi, gentle exercise and drop in sessions, neuro physiotherapy, coffee mornings and lunch clubs, craft sessions, a small accessible gym and social outings. If you can help in

anyway, either by making a donation, organising a fundraising event or offering a prize for a raffle the group would be very grateful.

For further information please contact STING Chairman Chris Green on Tel. 01630 673162 or email: stings2014@gmail.com.

October/November 2014 45

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CLASS CHAT

Grant secures new play equipment for Eccleshall school

I

t’s certainly not all work and no play for youngsters at an Eccleshall primary school, thanks to a grant of £820 towards some brand new play equipment.

Pupils in keystage one at Bishop Lonsdale Primary School have been enjoying a new set of Little Tikes climbing equipment plus an outdoor musical instrument stand after receiving funding from the Tesco Charity Trust Community Award.

Helen Yeomans, treasurer of the school’s PTFA applied for the money on behalf of Bishop Lonsdale, to ensure youngsters in the nursery and reception classes have an even greater diversity of things to play with during break and lunch-times.

Chris Middleton, headteacher of the school in Shaw Lane, told Stone and Eccleshall Life how he was grateful to Mrs Yeomans for her help in securing the grant and to Tesco for their generous award. He added that children from the school

46 October/November 2014

have made and sent cards to the company to thank them for the funding.

Pictured are pupils from the nursery and reception classes at Bishop Lonsdale Primary School testing out the new play equipment.

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Stone and Eccleshall Life Magazines

Independent Education

October/November 2014 47

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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

Endless benefits for growing minds T he main advantages of an independent education are high academic standards, superior facilities and extracurricular opportunities.

Private schools can make higher investments in facilities such as sports grounds and musical education provision due to their school fees; likewise, independent schools are able to teach students in smaller class sizes, and may also recruit particularly qualified teachers by offering higher salaries.

The diversity of independent schools is in part due to the fact that these schools are selfgoverning.

These means that, when choosing a school from within the private education sector, parents have more choice.

Independent schools offer varieties of education which include various faith schools, boarding schools, day schools, single-sex schools, co-

48 October/November 2014

educational schools, selective or non-selective schools, large schools and small schools.

Each of these factors involves individual benefits to the quality of education offered at a school.

Single-sex education, for example, can capitalise on the different rates of maturity for boys and girls, and the manner in which the two genders tend to learn in different ways.

In addition, the depth of education offered in many independent schools means that parents can opt to send children to one private school for their entire education, from 4-18.

Independent schools usually offer students the opportunity to study in small classes and the resultant increased individual attention is thought to boost academic attainment and exam grades.

Since independent schools do not have to follow the National Curriculum, and

organise their own individual policies, many provide a huge diversity of extra-curricular activities and unusual educational initiatives.

This may be particularly evident in primary schooling, where private schools tend not to ask their students to sit Standard Assessment Tests (SATs) and therefore are able to focus on other areas of education and personal development.

Independent secondary schools, while usually putting their students forward for national qualifications like GCSEs and A Levels, tend to offer an impressive array of extra-curricular facilities and activities.

These may include clubs and societies organising activities such as debating, horse-riding, chess, and foreign-language learning; sports, which will often include more unusual options such as lacrosse or badminton; voluntary work in the local and international communities; cultural events and community service.

Independent schools are sometimes set in expansive grounds which allow many of their extra-curricular activities to occur on site.

In addition, most private schools organise a wide variety of trips in the school holidays.

These often include foreign exchanges to boost language ability and activity trips such as skiing holidays, plus sports and choir tours.

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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

St. Dominic’s Priory School - Stone

S

t Dominic’s Priory School, Stone is an outstanding independent day school and nursery, educating girls from 3 months to 18 years and boys to 11 years.

We are proud of our reputation for academic achievement. This year our girls gained a 100% pass rate in their GCSE and A Level exams with over half achieving A*- B results.

We excel in the Creative and Performing Arts and our busy programme of sport, cultural events, visits and activities ensures that there is something for everyone at St Dominic’s.

Scholarships and bursaries are available as well as an extensive transport network from a variety of locations.

Prospective parents and pupils are invited to experience the warmth and enthusiasm of teaching staff and pupils by attending our Open Day on Saturday 18th October, 9.30am – 1pm. Alternatively please call the school office on 01785 814181 to make an appointment on a date that is convenient for you.

Please visit www.stdominicspriory.co.uk for more information.

October/November 2014 49

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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

YARLET SCHOOL Open Mornings – Saturday 11th & Monday 13th October, 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

A

iming high is key to a Yarlet education, whether starting out in the Nursery at the age of 2 years, or preparing for the next stage of academic life at 13 years.

Aiming high means that we expect the very best from your child inside and outside the classroom. It means that we set challenging, but achievable, academic targets to ensure that all pupils are stretched to achieve to the best of their ability and also learn to become responsible, independent thinkers.

Excellent standards of teaching ensure that the vast majority of pupils are at least one year ahead of the national average in Mathematics and English. These standards continue throughout the school, with a number of pupils achieving scholarship awards to their senior school, and every pupil passing entry examinations to the senior school of their choice.

Outside the classroom, Sport, Dance, Drama

50 October/November 2014

and Music complete the picture of a Yarlet education. Pupils take part in a daily games session, with a full and varied programme being organised for pupils of all levels of sporting ability. Our programme is fully inclusive and all pupils will have opportunities to represent their school in teams. Annual drama productions, ballet shows, nativity plays, music concerts and carol services bring the arts to life at Yarlet and inspire self-belief and creative confidence in all our pupils. Every child has the opportunity to shine.

You are welcome to visit our Open Mornings on Saturday 11th and Monday 13th October between 9.30 am and 12.30 pm. If these dates are not convenient, either telephone (01785 286568), email (julia.bryan@yarletschool.org) or contact us through our website (www.yarletschool.org) to arrange an appointment. We look forward to meeting you!

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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

Fourth expansion in seven years for Stafford Preparatory School

R

eception age children were welcomed for the first time at the start of term as Stafford Preparatory School had its fourth expansion in seven years since the school opened in September, 2007. A vibrant learning environment for the class of 4 & 5 year olds has been enhanced with a newly built covered outdoor area for the children to work and play in.

Lessons for children at SPS are taught principally by specialist primary teachers, with Stafford Grammar School staff teaching subjects such as design technology, music, ICT and P.E. in Years 5 and 6. Science is taught in a fully equipped laboratory. Children learn French, German and Spanish during their time at SPS. Activity beyond the classroom is plentiful – competitive sport, a wide variety of music and outdoor education, all complemented by clubs and educational visits which enrich the curriculum. The most recent dramatic productions were ‘Cinderella & Rockerfella’ and ‘What a Knight!’ The School Choir sings at a range of venues and at Christmas took to the stage at Symphony Hall, Birmingham in a Gala Concert.

Admission to Stafford Prep at KS2 is based on an informal assessment conducted in a small group or on an individual basis. Children spend a morning/day in school during which time they are tested in English and mathematics. Entry at Reception/KS1 follows an introductory visit by the pupil.

Pupils in Year 6 are prepared mainly for the entrance examination for Stafford Grammar School, but also for other selective senior schools. Four of last year’s Year 6 class moved up to the senior school with academic scholarships.

During Stafford Prep’s inception, the children have achieved some spectacular successes on the sporting front winning fifty trophies locally and nationally. In 2014 the tag rugby team won the Stafford competition. Earlier this year the girls have won the ISA U9 netball tournament and U11 high fives competition, while the U9 & U11 football teams won tournaments at both local and Midlands levels. All pupils have two weekly PE/Games sessions and these are supplemented with a full programme of extra curricular activities, both sporting and non sporting.

Our aim is to give our pupils an exciting and challenging primary education which will give them an enthusiasm for learning and prepare them for life at senior school in the best possible way. Parents may visit by prior appointment on any school day, with the next Open Morning taking place on Saturday, October 18th from 0930 – 1230.

For further information please visit our website www.staffordprep.co.uk email reception@ staffordprep.co.uk or ring 01785 251337

October/November 2014 51

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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

THE OLD HALL SCHOOL Encouraging self sufficiency

A

lmost 200 children at the Old Hall School, some as young as seven have taken part in a series of successful residential trips staying away from home for two to four nights.

The Headmaster, Martin Stott has called upon parents and school to work together to give children a greater sense of independence as early as possible in their school journey. Mr Stott said boosting confidence by nurturing an ability to cope away from parents was integral to ensuring a child benefits fully from a happy and productive education. He said: “When we first introduced a two night residential trip for year 3 pupils, it was met with some reluctance from parents but by the time the trip went ahead the parents were very supportive and it was a resounding success with teachers seeing a positive impact on engagement and a willingness to try more complex tasks in the classrooms�

This year the children in Year 3 went to

52 October/November 2014

Condover Hall Activity Centre while Year 4 went to an activity centre in Stottesdon, Year 5 to Robinwood in Lancashire and Year 6 enjoyed a four-day cultural and activity trip to France.

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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

A Level results at Wrekin College highlight ‘added value’

T

he headmaster of Wrekin College has hailed another strong A Level performance by its pupils, with 60% receiving grades between A* and B and more than half getting at least one A grade.

Dr Haydn Griffiths said he was proud of the way students had coped with significant additional commitments, most notably in sport and music, to post such good grades.

The results cement the independent Shropshire school in the top six per cent of schools nationally for ‘added value’.

Value Added Assessment is a way of evaluating the teaching methods and shows that the quality of lessons on offer at Wrekin can boost the grades of all students regardless of what level they start at.

Dr Griffiths said the majority of Upper Sixth pupils have had their first choice university place confirmed, adding: "These results are the product of sustained hard work by pupils and staff, and I am delighted that so many of our pupils have done

so well.

“At Wrekin we have a wide academic embrace and many of our pupils have either met or exceeded their expectations. Whatever their grades, we are thrilled that so many of our pupils have made substantial progress. We are truly a school where every child can flourish.”

WREKIN

COLLEGE makes the difference

Small classes, individual learning and excellent facilities give life-changing opportunities.

Daily mini bus service from Eccleshall available.

11-18 co-educational day and boarding school. www.wrekincollege.com

admissions@wrekincollege.com

01952 265603

October/November 2014 53

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Busting the myths on who can foster ‘YOU need to be a certain age’, ‘be in a relationship’, or ‘own your own home’– these are just some of the myths that prevent people from considering fostering according to findings by Staffordshire County Council.

As part of its latest campaign to highlight the urgent need for foster families, the Council has set out to dispel commonly held misconceptions about who can foster in a bid to get more people to come forward.

Staffordshire needs 150 foster families over the next three years and has a particular need for carers for sibling groups and teenagers but wants to hear from anyone interested.

Fostering is not always easy, but it offers the opportunity to make a real difference to a child’s life and can be a hugely rewarding experience. People who want to foster simply need to care about children, have good communication skills, have a spare room and be ready for a challenge.

Staffordshire foster carers Tracy and David are urging people to come forward. Tracy said: “Many people think fostering is just for the older generation, but it’s not. We started fostering in our 20’s and we love it. Seeing a child make progress and knowing you’ve helped them is so rewarding.”

Anyone who is interested in becoming a foster carer can find out more at an information evening in their local area. Dates and times along with further details on fostering with Staffordshire County Council are available at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/ youcanfoster, or text ‘FOSTER’ to 60003 for a chat with a social worker.

“

People who want to foster simply need to care about children, have good communication skills, have a spare room and be ready for a challenge

54 October/November 2014

”

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R E T S O F u o y Could or ADOPT a local child?

Get in touch and ďŹ nd out more about fostering or adopting a Staffordshire child.

0800 169 2061

Supporting

you

to make a difference

staffordshire.gov.uk/fosteringandadoption October/November 2014 55

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Yarnfield Park Training & Conference Centre T: 01785 762900 E: enquiries@yarnfieldpark.co.uk www.yarnfieldpark.co.uk

meet. learn. relax. enjoy.

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Yarnfield Park is the place where people come to connect. We work with organisations who want to bring people together to meet, share experience and enjoy learning.

We provide them with the tools to do this.

And with our outstanding new 300Mbps internet solution we can help even more people to grow, be inspired and feel empowered.

56 October/November 2014

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INVESTMENT MATTERS

THE KEY TO SUCCESSFUL INVESTING PORTFOLIO STRUCTURE AND DIVERSIFICATION

I

f financial markets were simple we could watch our investments rise in value on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, financial markets are not simple and can rise or fall depending on the economic or financial outlook. Financial markets are forward looking. Should investors be worried about the volatility? Provided the investor takes a long term time horizon, the investor should not worry about short term movements in the markets. Trying to time entry and exit to financial markets is exceedingly difficult and investors often get their timing wrong.

However, remaining invested for the long term can bring rewards for patient investors.

Investors making regular investments into, for example a pension fund or ISA, could take advantage of fluctuating financial markets through pound cost averaging. The reason for this is that more shares (or units in a collective investment) are purchased by a given regular sum of money invested when prices are lower, than they are when higher.

This does not mean that lump sum investment is inferior to regular investing, as there are potential benefits from each approach.

Investors do, however, need a proper plan and structure to their portfolio. With a structured portfolio, income and capital requirements can be planned ahead on an ongoing basis, removing these difficulties and ensuring that money is available as and when required. Additionally, investments can be made in a tax efficient way when a portfolio is suitably structured.

Investors must have a clear investment strategy that reflects their objectives and risk tolerances. An investment portfolio must also be diversified with different asset classes to avoid the investor putting all their ‘eggs in one basket’. A well-diversified portfolio will include allocations to different asset classes and different geographies in order to spread risk and to produce a variety of returns at different times. Diversification is not a guarantee your portfolio will not fall in value, but having a diversified portfolio may help reduce volatility and fluctuations, whilst achieving your objectives within your risk tolerances.

NOTHING CONTAINED IN THE ARTICLE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS GIVING INDIVIDUAL FINANCIAL ADVICE. PLEASE NOTE THIS ARTICLE IS BASED ON OUR CURRENT UNDERSTANDING OF LEGISLATION, WHICH CAN BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. THERE MAY BE VARIATIONS FOR THOSE LIVING IN SCOTLAND AND NORTHERN IRELAND.

Stuart D Bryant is a fee-based Certified Financial Planner, specialising in personal lifestyle planning and investment planning.

SDB Strategic Planners Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Tel: (01782) 712233 October/November 2014 57

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LEGAL MATTERS

Grindeys are looking for stall holders to support their 2014

CHARITY LADIES NIGHT L ast year the Ladies Night held in November 2013 was a resounding success and raised over £1,300 for the nominated charities of Grindeys Community.

We are hosting the event again on the 12th November 2014 at the 6th Form College, Stoke on Trent but this time we’re aiming to make it even bigger and even better.

Tickets will be on sale later in the year but for now we are looking for stall holders to promote and sell their wares at the event.

Do you have, or do you know anyone, that has the type of goods or services that would appeal to the ladies? Hair, make-up and handbags are obvious items but, since the event is so near to Christmas, anyone who sells unique Christmas ideas would be welcome.

Stalls cost £20, which will all be donated to charity, and that buys a space at the event to promote goods and services on the night but that’s not all.

Once a business has registered and paid for the space, their business logo and contact details will be added to all marketing material used to promote the event. The event will be promoted to Grindeys’ clients and contacts, placed on our website and promoted via our email newsletter and social media platforms Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. It will also be promoted to all the supporters of the Douglas Macmillan Hospice and the Peter Pan Nursery and students at the 6th Form College.

That’s 1000’s of local people which makes this a fantastic marketing opportunity and all for just £20.

Places are limited so please book quickly. Space at the event will be allocated

58 October/November 2014

on a first come first served basis. In other words those who register first get to choose the premium positions on the night. And, the sooner you register the sooner we can start the promotion.

Anyone wishing to apply for a stall will need to email community@grindeys.com or, contact Julie Draper on 01782 846 441 For more information on our Charity Ladies Night visit our website or follow us on Twitter or Facebook for regular updates.

W: http://www.grindeys.co.uk/news-andevents/events/ E:community@grindeys.com T: @grindeys F: www.facebook.com/grindeys

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Stone and Eccleshall Life Magazines

Motoring Guide

October/November 2014 59

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DEFY CONVENTION

WE’VE BROUGHT A NUMBER OF THINGS TO THE TABLE For more information or to book a test drive° call 01782 202330.

All-new Mazda3 120ps SE Mazda Personal Contract Purchase Representative Example 42 Monthly Payments of

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On The Road Price

£17,955.00

Mazda Deposit Contribution

£1,250.00

Customer Deposit

£4,229.00

Amount of Credit

£12,476.00

Interest Charges

£1,925.50

Optional Final Payment

£6,043.50

Total Amount Payable

£19,880.50

Fixed Rate of Interest

3.04% p.a.

Duration of Agreement

43 months

Annual Mileage

9,000

Excess Mileage Charge per mile

14.9p

Representative

5.9%~ APR

Holdcroft Mazda Hanley H Leek Road, Hanley y, Stoke-on-Trent ST1 6AT. 6A AT. 0 1782 202330 Hanley, 01782 www.holdcroft-ma azda.co.uk www.holdcroft-mazda.co.uk

HOLDCROFT H OLDCROFT

ards 2014 Aw

The o The official fficial fuel fuel cconsumption onsumption fi figures gures in mpg mpg (l/100km) (l/100km) ffor or tthe he a all-new ll-new Ma Mazda3 zda3 rrange: ange: Urban Urban 37.7 37.7 (7.5) (7.5) - 60.1 60.1 emissions 135 ((4.7).

4.7). Extra Extra Urban Urban 58.9 58.9 (4.8) (4.8) - 80.7 80.7 (3.5).

(3.5). Combined Combined 48.7 48.7 (5.8) (5.8) - 72.4 72.4 (3.9).

(3.9). CO CO2 e missions (g/km) (g/km) 13 5 – 1104.

04.

The mpg figures The figures quoted quoted ar are e ssourced ourced fr ffrom om o official fficial EU-r EU-regulated egulated test test results results obtained obtained thr through ough labor laboratory atory testing. testing. These The ese are are provided provided for for comparability comparability purposes purpo oses only and ma y not not rreflect eflect y our act ual driving rresults. esult s s. may your actual The T he mpg mpg fi figures gures quoted quoted are are sourced sourced from from official of ficial EU-regulated EU regulated test test results results obtained obtained through through laboratory laborator y testing. testing . These These are are provided provided for for comparability comparabilit y purposes purposes only only and and may may not not reflect reflec t your your actual ac tual driving driving results. re s u l t s .

Retail R etail sales sales only, only, subject subjec t to to vehicle vehicle availability availabilit y for for vehicles vehicles registered registered between b etween 01.07.14 0 1 .07.14 and and 30.09.14 30.0 9.14 at at participating par ticipating dealers. dealers . T&C T&C apply. apply. ~5 5.9% .9% finance fi n a n ce a available vailable on on all-new all new Mazda3 Mazda 3 models models on on Mazda Mazda Personal Personal Contract Contrac t Purchase P u rc h a s e with with no no minimum minimum deposit deposit required. required . At At the the end end of of the the agreement agreement there there are are 3 options: options: (i) (i) Renew: Renew : Part Par t exchange exchange the the vehicle, vehicle, where where equity equit y is is available, available, (ii) (ii) Retain: Retain: Pay Pay the the Optional O ptional Final Final Payment Payment to to own own the the vehicle vehicle or or (iii) (iii) Return Return the th e vehicle. vehicle. Further Fur ther charges charges may may be b e made made subject subjec t to to the the condition condition of of the the vehicle. vehicle. Finance Finance subject subjec t to to status, status , 18s 1 8s or or over. over. Guarantee/indemnity G u a r a n te e / i n d e m n i t y m may ay b be e rrequired. equired . Mazda Mazda Financial Financial Services S e r v i ce s R RH1 H 1 11SR. SR . M Model odel sshown: h ow n : A All-new l l - n ew M Mazda3 azda 3 1120ps 20 ps SE, months’ SE, OTR OTR ffrom rom £17,295. £ 1 7, 2 95 . Model M odel shown shown features features optional optional Soul Soul Red Red Metallic M etallic paint paint (£660). (£6 6 0). OTR OTR price price includes includes VAT, VAT, number numb er plates, plates , delivery, deliver y, 12 12 m onths’ rroad oad ffund und licence, licence, first first rregistration egistration ffee, ee, 3 year year or or 60,000 6 0,0 0 0 mile mile warranty warrant y and and 3 years’ years’ European Eu ro p e a n R Roadside o a d si d e A Assistance. ssistance. °°Test Test d drives rives ssubject ubjec t tto o applicant applicant status status and and availability. availabilit y. Details D etails correct correc t at at time time of of going going tto o print. print. Not N ot available available in in conjunction conjunc tion with with any any other other offer offer unless unless specified. sp ecified . We We can can introduce introduce you you to to a limited number l i m i te d n umb er of of ccarefully arefully selected selec ted finance finance providers. providers . We We may may receive receive a commission commission from from them them for for the the introduction. i n t ro d u c ti o n .

60 October/November 2014

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MOTORING

The Mazda3 - Performance and economy with uncompromised fun

T

he 36-strong all-new third-generation Mazda3 line-up of 21 hatchback and 15 Fastback models are priced from £16,695 to £23,345 on-the-road .

The range is powered by a choice of three petrol engines and a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine, with a choice of six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.

With its combination of sleek rear-drive proportions and low-slung stance, the all-new Mazda3 propels Mazda’s award-wining KODO Soul of Motion design theme on to a dynamic new level.

Curvaceously distinctive, the all-new Mazda3 sets new design standards in its class, while creating a powerful visual link with its new Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5 counterparts.

Like the new Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5 before it, the all-new Mazda3 is infused with the company’s ground-breaking suite of technologies that focus on advanced engines with worldbeating compression ratios, highly efficient transmissions, and sophisticated lightweight

body and chassis technology to deliver an outstanding basis for both engaging driving dynamics and excellent crash safety performance.

The all-new Mazda3 posts some exceptionally competitive combined economy and CO2 emission figures.

The diesel-powered SKYACTIV-D 150ps fourdoor Fastback with manual transmission returns 72.4mpg and emissions of just 104g/km, while the SKYACTIV-G 120ps petrol-powered five-door hatchback with manual gearbox, returns 55.4mpg and 119g/km.

The all-new Mazda3 is officially one of the safest cars on the road in Britain after receiving a 5-Star safety rating in the latest Euro NCAP tests.

Further standard equipment also includes 16inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, power-folding heated mirrors, leather steering wheel, trip computer, radio/CD with six speaker audio system, 7-inch colour touch screen, USB/iPod connectivity and Bluetooth® hands-free system.

All-new Mazda3 will be available in a range of nine striking exterior colours.

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MOTORING

The new Audi A6 - Ready fo

E

nhancements to styling, equipment, engine performance and efficiency keep the A6 Saloon and Avant ranges in the vanguard of the executive class.

The new A6 and S6 Saloon and Avant ranges

were open for orders in the UK during September with the first customer deliveries due in late 2014.

Already notable as the first conventionally powered premium executive class car to combine groundbreaking efficiency with a full, unfettered

Experience the difference COME TO YOUR NEAREST

AUDI CENTRE

STAFFORD AUDI Just 1 Min off M6 (J14) Tel: 01785 250444 www.staffordaudi.co.uk

SERVICE SPECIALISTS 62 October/November 2014

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MOTORING

or an even cleaner getaway sports specification, the Audi A6 is about to shift up another gear as a new model waits in the wings.

“With the new Audi A6, we are writing the next chapter in an excellent success story. It represents innovative technology and Audi's premium claim,” says Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Board Member for Technical Development at AUDI AG. “The Audi A6 sets new standards in many technical fields: the lightweight body containing many aluminium components, the powerful and highly efficient engines, the sporty chassis and the advanced assistance and multimedia systems.”

The sharp lines and taut surfaces which already create an impression of elegance delivered with meticulous precision in the A6 have been carefully honed as part of the model update.

Revisions have been made to the Singleframe grille, the air inlets, the bumpers, the side sills, the rear lights and the tailpipes.

One particular exterior highlight is the addition of xenon headlamps as standard for UK A6 SE models, and LED headlights with dynamic ‘sweeping’ rear indicators for S line versions and above.

Matrix LED headlights, incorporating clusters of LED bulbs which can be individually dimmed when sensors detect oncoming or following traffic to automatically divert their beams around obstacles, are optional for all A6 and S6 variants and standard for the RS 6 Avant.

The sinewy style of the exterior is echoed in the car’s spacious interior, which in the Avant is combined with a 565-litre load bay that can be expanded to 1,680 litres.

Every detail attests to an uncompromising approach to quality, and the elegant colours and

carefully selected materials emphasize the premium class ambiance.

In the UK the engine line-up for the new A6 and A6 Avant will comprise four TDI engines with either four or six cylinders and either single or twin turbo charging.

All engines comply with the limits of the Euro 6 emission standard, and their CO2 emissions have been reduced by as much as 22 percent.

The chassis with its sophisticated, fully independent five-link front and trapezoidal link rear suspension also combines supreme comfort with crisp handling.

In the A6 Avant 2.0 TDI ultra, the springs are made of glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP) – an Audi innovation that shaves off approximately 4.4 kilograms in weight, boosts fuel economy and improves both driving precision and comfort.

The new Audi A6 allroad quattro, which is based on the A6 Avant, features a raised body accentuated by wheel arch extensions and stainless steel protectors that encapsulate the underside of the front and rear ends.

The new Audi S6 and S6 Avant are sports cars for everyday use. They use the 4.0-litre TFSI petrol engine, a twin turbo V8 producing 450PS, which accelerates the Saloon from rest to 62mph in 4.4 seconds.

Standard equipment in the new Audi S6 and S6 Avant includes quattro permanent all-wheel drive incorporating the sports differential and the adaptive air suspension, which lowers the body by 20 millimetres. Matt black brake calipers grip the front discs mounted behind the 19 inch wheels.

On the road prices are expected to start from £32,000.

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VIES

AT W R DA

4.9% APR Representative

W R Davies 123 Lichfield Road Stafford ST17 4LF

1 year’s free insurance

Tel: 01785 236 700 www.wrdavies.co.uk

Model shown is All New AYGO x-cite 1.0 VVT-i 5 door manual £11,595. 5 year/100,000 mile manufacturer warranty subject to terms and conditions. Price correct at time of going to press. *4.9% APR Representative only available on new retail orders of MY15 AYGO when ordered between 1st June and 30th September 2014 and registered and financed through Toyota Financial Services by 31st December 2014 on a 3 year AccessToyota (PCP) plan with 0-35% deposit. Toyota Financial Services (UK) PLC; registered office Great Burgh, Burgh Heath, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5UZ. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Indemnities may be required. Finance subject to status to over 18s.

Other finance offers are available but cannot be used in conjunction with this offer. Excess miles over 30,000 charged at 8p per mile. Toyota Centres are independent of Toyota Financial Services. Terms and conditions apply. Affordable finance through AccessToyota. †1 year’s free comprehensive insurance offer is subject to purchase being made via Toyota Financial Services on a Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) only and is available on MY15 AYGO models (Excluding AYGO X grade) when ordered and financed between 1st June 2014 and 30th September 2014.

Vehicles must be registered by 31st December 2014. All drivers must be aged 21 years and over. Offer is limited to the insured plus up to four additional drivers. The insured and all drivers must have held a full UK driving licence for a minimum of 2 years and had no more than 1 fault claim in the last 3 years. Offer only available to customers with no more than 1 minor motoring conviction in the last 3 years. Standard Toyota Motor Insurance Terms & Conditions apply (available on request) - these will be confirmed in the policy document.

AYGO x-cite 1.0VVT-i 5 door manual. Official Fuel Consumption Figures in mpg (l/100km): Urban 56.5 (5.0), Extra Urban 78.5 (3.6), Combined 68.9 (4.1). CO2 Emissions 95g/km. The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results. These are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

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Toyota shines in Which? Car survey

T

HE 2014 Which? Car Survey shows that Toyota models across the board are regarded as top performers when it comes to cars you can trust not to let you down, or cost a fortune in repairs.

This survey is officially the largest of its kind in the UK, sourcing opinions and experience from more than 49,000 motorists and these latest results have helped secure Toyota a fourth spot among the survey’s best car brands.

The Toyota Auris and Auris Hybrid, both built in Britain, are star performers, being rated first and second in the medium car category for reliability.

Likewise, the seven-seat Verso is top-ranked among MPVs, while RAV4 is just shaded into second in the 4×4/SUV class. Yaris and Yaris Hybrid both achieve top-five placings and Avensis, another UK-manufactured Toyota, and Prius both figure strongly against their large car rivals.

The Which? Car Guide says: “If you’re looking for dependability, look no further than Toyota.

“The Auris medium car and Verso MPV top the reliability tables for cars up to three years old, but expect to see Toyotas dominating the table across all classes and ages.”

Remember Yaris Verso? It hasn’t been part of Toyota’s showroom range for almost 10 years, but owners still adore this quirky but highly versatile car, so much so it still ranks as the survey’s “most satisfying MPV to own” with a 92.1 per cent score.

President of Toyota (GB), Matt Harrison, said: “You can depend on Toyota for reliability, whether it is a car fresh from the showroom, or one that has already been on the road for three years or more.

“The achievement of Auris and Auris Hybrid is particularly rewarding for us, cars that sit right at the heart of the market and which represent the excellent quality of our British manufacturing.”

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THE NEW MERCEDES B-CLASS In better shapes than ever

I

N terms of both design and technology, the second generation of the B-Class car has heralded a new compact class era at MercedesBenz.

More than 350,000 of the sports tourer have been sold since the market launch in late 2011.

Now the best-seller from Mercedes-Benz has undergone a major facelift including exterior and interior enhancements along with attractive, redefined design and equipment lines.

“As the first member of a completely new generation of compact class, for us the B-Class paved the way for great success in this vehicle segment. The pioneer is now in better shape than ever,” says Ola Källenius, Member of the Divisional Board Mercedes-Benz Cars responsible for Marketing & Sales.

A high-grade, functional interior underscores the B-Class's premium quality claim.

The facelift gives the vehicle a more exclusive, up-to-date feel and boosts the scope for

66 October/November 2014

individualisation.

When it made its debut, the B-Class redefined the standard of safety in the compact class with a variety of new driving assistance systems, some of them included as standard equipment.

These functions have now been enhanced and new assistance systems added to give the driver more support.

In terms of efficiency, the new B-Class continues to set benchmarks with the best Cd value in its segment.

The choice of efficient engines is extensive – four diesel engines, four petrol engines and two models with alternative drive systems. Also available are the B 180 and B 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Editions.

Ola added: “The B-Class is the perfect (family) car for anyone who attaches importance to practicality, comfort and safety, but at the same time doesn't want to miss out on sportiness or driving dynamics.”

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Up to £2,000 finance deposit contribution* on selected Approved Used models.

Drayton

Drayton

Drayton

We have an unbeatable offer available until the end of the December on our Approved Used Car range. Enjoy up to £2,000 finance deposit contribution on selected models.

Visit the dealership to browse the fantastic range of stock that qualifies for this offer.

Choose Mercedes-Benz of Stafford for your Approved Used Mercedes-Benz.

Priced to sell 12 months unlimited mileage warranty 12 months roadside assistance Expert guidance from our experienced sales team

Call us on 01785 748769 for more information on this exceptional offer.

Drayton Group Mercedes-Benz of Stafford

Drayton Group

Station Garage, Victoria Road, Stafford, Staffordshire ST16 2DT 01785 748769 www.draytongroup.co.uk

*The offer is open to all SL-Class, SLK-Class, C-Class and E-Class vehicles that have reached 90 days old from the date of first registration and are under 4 years of age. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other retailer offer. £2,000 contribution towards SL-Class and £1,000 contribution towards SLKClass, C-Class & E-Class vehicles. All vehicles must be sold and delivered by 31 December 2014. Minimum £7,500 balance financed with a minimum contract length of 24 months and maximum length of 48 months. No cash alternative. Image shown is for illustration purposes only. This offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, we do arrange finance on behalf of other companies as well. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Terms and conditions apply. Credit provided, subject to status, by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Ltd, MK15 8BA.

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