Stone Life Aug Sept 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

09:55

Page 1

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Cricket club bowled over by funding

Life WIN

Summer festival highlights Joule’s Brewery, Stone. Courtesy of Robert Cartwright.

tickets to this year’s Eccleshall Show

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

09:55

Page 2

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

11:28

Page 3

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

09:56

Page 4

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

09:56

Page 5

EDITOR’S LETTER

Glorious weather provides perfect conditions for a summer festival frenzy 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

e have truly been blessed with the weather this summer up to now as our ‘Festival’ edition proves with a plethora of pictures from all the big local community events which have taken place over the past couple of months, all enjoying glorious sunshine.

When I looked back at this time last year I was writing about how the wet weather hadn’t dampened festival-goers spirits, but this year there has seldom been an event which has been let down by the usually unpredictable British summer time weather - perhaps I am speaking a little too soon still with a couple of months to go - but lets hope not.

In addition to all the festival highlights we have lots of interesting stories and features from in and around the area including; Little Stoke Cricket Club’s extraordinary transformation thanks to a massive injection of cash from the National Lottery Sport England’s Inspired Facilities fund; we celebrate the judging achievements of some of our local Young Farmers; and bid a fond farewell to one of Stafford’s longest standing businesss as Misters’ proprietor tailor Tom Till steps down after a staggering 52 years in the job.

Plenty of pleasurable reading right at your fingertips in this August/September edition of Stone and Eccleshall Life magazine.

May the sunshine continue happy reading.

W

Deborah x

August/September 2014 5

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

09:57

Page 6

Enjoy Staffordshire’s premier Italian restaurants, aiming to bring you traditional Italian cuisine in a relaxing atmosphere. We have an extensive menu and specially selected wine list and are open for lunch and evening dining.

SPECIAL OFFER

*

Sunday-Thursday (Stone only) Lunch or Evening

Choice of over 40 pizza or pasta dishes only £6.99 12 High Street, Stone,Staffs, ST15 8AW • T: 01785 813214 Open 7 days: Mon-Sat 12.00-15.00 (Lunch), 18.00-23.00 (Evening), Sun 12.00-22.00

125 High Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffs, ST5 1PS • T: 01782 617610 Open 7 days: Mon-Sat 12.00-15.00 (Lunch), 17.00-22.00 (Evening), Sun 12.00-21.00

Visit our website www.lafavorita.co.uk to view our menus online * Terms and conditions apply 6 August/September 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER

2014

09:58

Page 7

Fulfest ................................................................28 Stafford Festival .............................................30 Staffordshire Young Farmers .....................32 Food and Drink Guide .................................33 Stage Directions ............................................40 Mercia Morris Dancers.................................42 24 Hour Paddle-a-thon................................43 Class Chat.........................................................46

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

Homes and Gardens.....................................50

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

Property............................................................52

Little Stoke Cricket Club..............................10

Legal Matters ..................................................54

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

Investment Matters ......................................55

Stone Festival..................................................20

Reflections Coaching ...................................56

Eccleshall Festival..........................................24

Motoring Guide .............................................57

Stafford Fireplaces & Stoves

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

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

09:59

Page 8

GREETINGS FROM STONE...

New card collection now on sale he stunning pictures used for the front covers of Stone Life and Eccleshall Life magazines are those of talented local photographer Robert Cartwright.

Fans of Robert’s work will be pleased to hear he has recently added 13 new designs to his Stafford and District Greeting Card collection by introducing a range of 13 cards of Stone.

The illustration shows six photographs which are all available as individual cards. They feature scenes in the town centre and along the Trent and Mersey Canal to highlight the title

T

8 August/September 2014

Stone carries of being ‘the canal town of Staffordshire’.

The cards are blank within, making them suitable for all occasions and will be available to purchase from The Gift Shop - Tylman of Stone, located in Granville Square.

For further information contact Robert on Tel. 01785 254283, or email robertandrew.cartwright@virgin.net.

To view all the cards in his Stafford and District Collection take a look at Robert’s website at www.ccstafford.co.uk.

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:00

We’re turning up the heat this Summer

Page 9

SUMMER SALE 1 JULY - 31 AUGUST 2014 Fantastic savings across top industry brands. Ask about RXU IUHH XQGHUˊRRU g offer. heating

Norton rton Bat Bathrooms hrooms alsall R oaad Walsall Road Norton Canes, Cannock rton C an nes,, C annock Staffordshire affordshirre WS11 9NS

Stafford afford Bathrooms son House Anson mmascote R oad,, Staff ord Lammascote Road, Stafford Staffordshire affordshire ST16 3TA 3T TA

T: 01543 2 270800 70800 www.nortonbathrooms.co.uk ww.nortonbathrooms.c o o.uk

T: 01785 254377 www.staffordbathrooms.co.uk ww.staffordbathrooms.co.uk

B AT H S • S H O W E R S • W E T R O O M S • L I G H T I N G • T I L E S • F LO O R I N G • R A D I AT O R S FROM THE WEST MIDLANDS LARGEST INDEPENDENT FAMILY RUN SHOWROOMS

August/September 2014 9

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:01

Page 10

LITTLE STOKE CRICKET CLUB

Local club ‘bowled over’ by

Little Stoke Cricket Club awarded £41,015 from Sport England ittle Stoke Cricket Club is among 324 local sports projects to secure a share of £17 million of National Lottery funding from Sport England’s Inspired Facilities fund.

Since 2011, Inspired Facilities has been helping breathe new life into tired community sports facilities and converting existing buildings into venues suitable for grassroots sport.

Little Stoke Cricket Club have now completely modernised the Club’s two changing rooms, showers and pavilion facilities as well as installed energy efficient heating, lighting and water saving devices, loft and cavity wall insulation as well as new UPVC windows and doors. As part of this project disabled access and toilet facilities have also been improved.

As a result of this building modernisation programme, the Club aims to increase sporting participation in both cricket and crown green bowls, increase usage by local voluntary organisations, as well as ensure that the Club is accessible to all members of the local Little Stoke and Stone community including those with disabilities.

Sport England Property Director, Charles Johnston, said: “The Inspired Facilities Fund has had a huge impact on grassroots sport across the country. Since 2011, we’ve invested £88 million into more than 1,600 projects to improve and refurbish sports clubs and transform non-

L

10 August/September 2014

sporting venues into vibrant community sports clubs.

“It’s great to see Little Stoke Cricket Club join the long list of successful clubs to benefit from this fund.”

Club Vice Chairman, Alan Palmer, said: “We are delighted to have secured this Sport England Inspired Facilities grant funding which means we have been able to completely modernise Little Stoke’s facilities which will not only benefit the Club’s cricket and crown green bowls members, but also the many supporters and local community groups who visit the Club and use its facilities on a regular basis.”

Member of Parliament for Stone, Bill Cash, commented: “The local community in Little Stoke and Stone have immense pride in the achievements of Little Stoke Cricket Club and it is a real credit to their hard work that they have now been awarded funding from Sport England’s Inspired Facilities Fund to carry out their modernisation works.

This will give the Club the ability to modernise, with two changing rooms, showers and pavilion facilities, installation of energy efficient heating, lighting and water devices, and other significant changes.

For everyone involved with Little Stoke Cricket Club, I send my best wishes and hope that through the modernisation programme, the Club

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:01

Page 11

LITTLE STOKE CRICKET CLUB

y National Lottery funding is able to increase sporting participation in cricket and ensure the Club is widely accessible to all members of the local Little Stoke and Stone community.”

Warwickshire CCC First Eleven Bowling Coach and former Little Stoke CC cricketer, Alan Richardson said: “Little Stoke Cricket Club is my home club and is where I learnt to play and love the game I have been lucky enough to make a career out of. It has always provided tremendous support and facilities to all its members right through all the age group teams to the social members who help give it such a special atmosphere. With the aid of this grant the Clubs facilities will be significantly upgraded helping to make the experience for all its members and visitors a memorable one. This is vital to the Club as it provides such an important role in the grass roots of the game whilst also being a huge part of the local community.”

Many more communities are set to benefit from the hugely popular fund, with the latest round of the Inspired Facilities now open.

Community and voluntary organisations,

councils and schools can bid for a share of £20 million to help upgrade facilities that can be unattractive, expensive to run and difficult to maintain, and to convert existing non-sporting buildings into venues that are suitable for grassroots sport.

Applying for funding has never been easier.

Based on feedback from previous applicants, the Inspired Facilities Fund is now an open programme which means projects can submit applications as soon as they are ready rather than being restricted by a specific deadline. To find out more and bid, visit www.sportengland.org/inspiredfacilities.

August/September 2014 11

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

12 August/September 2014

25/7/14

10:02

Page 12

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:02

Page 13

FRANCESCO GROUP

Special offer following team’s success he Francesco Group salon in Uttoxeter is celebrating after ranking in the Top 3 Salons in the Company and was named Top Technical Team at Francesco Group’s Annual Business Awards.

Eleanor Everill, the salon’s Master Colour Expert, leads the Colour Team at the stylish Trinity Square salon and helped to secure the title for the second year running. Eleanor said, “It was amazing to win again, I couldn’t believe it! I have always leaned towards the technical side of hairdressing. I love the creative aspect of my job and that every client and colour service really is bespoke. I am always learning something new, whether a new colour product or technique, which ensures that our clients are always receiving the most up to date service and trends.”

As a Master Colour Expert, Eleanor is trained to the highest technical level by Wella Professionals.

The accolade is highly regarded across the industry and is only awarded to colourists of the highest calibre after intensive training sessions. They are renowned for their outstanding technical ability and creative skill, which means you really are in the best

T

hands!

Our Colour Team act as your very own image consultants; our skin tone analysis techniques look at your natural colouring, features and lifestyle to advise you not only on your perfect hair colour but complimentary clothing and make-up shades too!

You will always receive a warm and friendly welcome at Francesco Group Uttoxeter. The bright, modern and spacious salon provides the perfect backdrop for you to relax and let our experts pamper you. The Francesco Group experience is all about creating a gorgeous tailor-made style, whilst you sit back and relax. We offer in-depth consultations, complimentary refreshments, indulgent head massages, personalised recommendations for products and specialist tips about styling at home, at every appointment. So you will leave the salon not only looking great, but feeling great too!

To celebrate our recent success we would like to introduce new clients to our salon with a special offer. Take advantage of £10 off a cut and finish and treat yourself to a brand new summer look.

Please telephone 01889 568708 or call in at the salon to book, we’d love to see you."

August/September 2014 13

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:04

Page 14

End of an era for town tailor To he owner of one of Stafford’s most respected men’s outfitters has much to be proud of after announcing his retirement from the tailoring profession after 52 successful years.

It will certainly be the end of an era when Misters of Stafford closes its doors for the final time. As one of the areas few remaining independent men’s clothing specialists, proprietor Tom Till has been helping his loyal customers find the perfect fitting garments for every occasion year on year.

Tom, 68, set out in the tailoring industry as a junior for a small, local company back in 1962 and spent many years working hard to develop his grasp of the profession.

After 27 years, he seized the opportunity to branch out alone and so came the launch of his very own business enterprise - Misters Menswear of Stafford in the conveniently located Salter Street - which became a familiar and trusted part of

T

Stafford’s retail sector.

As Tom explained, a high quality, well-made suit that really enhances the appearance and gives a genuine confidence boost to the wearer has provided a constant stream of loyal customers to Misters, who generation after generation have turned to Tom for his trusted expertise in the field.

Although it has become more and more tempting to head out onto the high street and purchase an ‘off the rail’ item, Tom’s philosophy not to compromise on quality when you can stand out from the crowd in a garment that has been made to measure has certainly stood the test of time.

Tom and his team of assistants have over the years offered an unrivaled level of customer service and experience, which they will continue to do over the forthcoming closing down period, with their commitment to a traditional retail service there really isn’t anywhere to rival Misters.

As specialists in clothing and hire attire for discerning gentlemen, customers of this store have been able to rely upon not only quality clothing but also the sort of personal service which has sadly become virtually extinct in many modern shops.

Owner Tom has continued to buy from independent clothing manufacturers, which means that customers of Misters have been able to benefit from individual styles and designs with mainly traditional clothes and accessories still made here in Britain stocked.

This simple recipe for success has meant that Misters’ customers have felt safe in the knowledge that the clothes they were buying not only fit well but looked good too.

Tom emphasised that it was his loyal and longstanding customers who he had to thank for their continued and unwavering support for the store, adding that they have looked after him as much as he has looked

Salter Street Corner, Stafford, ST16 2JU Tel: 01785 21 14 August/September 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:04

Page 15

LAST FEW WEEKS OF RETIREMENT SALE Everything must go!

Suits, jackets, trousers, knitwear, shirts, ties & accessories - many half price

Tom as he retires after 52 years after them over the years.

There are however now many bargains to be had in the final weeks before the store closes its doors for good so get down and grab a great discount before its too late.

Once officially retired Tom plans to spend some quality time relaxing starting with a holiday to Spain and of course with plenty more spare time he says he will get to enjoy one of his favourite past times, golfing. Running the business has given Tom limited time for his leisure pursuits so in that respect his retirement is long overdue.

On a final note he thanked local people for all their friendship, support, and business over the years and added that he would miss tailoring in the town as he bid a fond farewell.

For more information please call into Misters of Stafford, located on Salter Street Corner. Tel. 01785 211450. Alternatively visit the website: www.mistersallsizemenswear staffs.co.uk.

211450. www.mistersallsizemenswearstaffs.co.uk August/September 2014 15

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:05

Page 16

ECCLESHALL SHOW

Eccleshall Show on target for another bumper event he volunteers who make up the Eccleshall Show committee are hard at it once again to ensure that this year’s 67th annual show on Saturday, 30th August is another huge success.

The showground at The Parks, Sugnall which now extends over two fields will see a packed programme of equestrian events, a huge entry of Classic cars and also lorries this year, plenty of trade stands, the giant Craft and Horticulture marquee and main ring events throughout the day.

Show Chairman Edward Lambert is very optimistic for the success of the 2014 show, speaking to Stone and Eccleshall he said: “This show is all about giving our visitors a really good day out, and once again we are confident that it will all come together really well. In the main ring we have a really exciting show from a Medieval Jousting stunt team plus all our regulars like the dog agility and children’s sports. There’s so much going on all over the showground - great traditional family entertainment with real community spirit.”

The show has always been about family fun and this year will be no exception with The Knights of the Damned jousting team heading up the entertainment in the main ring. Also in the main ring will be the ever popular Dave Coe demonstrating his skills with his Jarrovian gun

T

16 August/September 2014

dogs and of course there will be Children’s Sports and home spun fun with the Dog Agility Competition where anyone can enter their pet.

The massive Craft and Horticulture Marquee is home to nearly 120 competition classes. From vegetable growing, cookery and wine making to handicrafts and photography there is something for everyone to enter. Children are especially encouraged to enter their own dedicated classes.

Schedules for the classes are now available on the Show website and also from Eccleshall library.

Latest date for entries for the Marquee is 27th August.

For the first time this year there is a Pet Show so youngsters can enter their rabbits, gerbils, guinea pigs and others in any of the nine classes.

For full details please see the show website.

With 43 classes in the Equestrian section, secretary Fiona Fraser and her team are once again anticipating a large number of entries for this very popular event which draws entries from far and wide. A huge turnout of Classic Vehicles of all descriptions is expected including lorries this year. Vehicles arrive with their enthusiastic owners keen to share their knowledge.

A host of other attractions around the showground including the Companion Dog Show, Craft Show, Children’s Funfair, Punch and Judy, Ferret Show and Caged Birds Display will ensure a really good day out for all the

®

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:05

Page 17

ECCLESHALL SHOW

August/September 2014 17

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:06

Page 18

ECCLESHALL SHOW

®

family. There is a licensed bar, hog roast and providing great refreshments will be Eccleshall and Broughton Women’s Institutes.

The gates open on 30th August at 10.30am.

Advance tickets (at a 20% discount) can be purchased online from the show website and from main ring sponsor James du Pavey’s Estate Agency in the High Street from the beginning of August. Tickets on the day are £8.00 with special

18 August/September 2014

rates for families, children and senior citizens and under-five’s are admitted free. Credit and Debit card payments can now be processed on the gate. There is a free shuttle bus from Eccleshall town to the showground which runs throughout the day.

Schedules are now available on the show website: www.eccleshallshow.co.uk and at Eccleshall Library.

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:06

Page 19

ECCLESHALL SHOW

TICKET GIVE AWAY Eccleshall Show Society have once again kindly offered Stone and Eccleshall Life three pairs of family tickets (two adults and three children) worth £25 each for this year’s show to give away to three lucky winners of our competition.

To be in with a chance to win a pair of tickets simply answer the following question correctly.

Q. What is the name of the main ring attraction at this year’s show?

Answer:........................................................................Name:.......................................................................

Address:......................................................................................................................................................... ...............................................................................................Tel number:.....................................................

Closing date for competition entries: Friday 22nd August 2014 Send your entries to: Times, Echo & Life Publications, 2014 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, S-O-T, Staffs ST10August/September 1BD

19

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:07

Page 20

STONE FESTIVAL

FESTIVAL CELEBRATES EVERYT

20 August/September 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:07

Page 21

STONE FESTIVAL

YTHING GREAT ABOUT STONE

B

illed as a celebration of everything that is great about Stone, the town’s popular summer festival certainly didn’t disappoint again this year with events stretched out over two weeks and with something for all ages to enjoy there is little wonder the event again proved as popular as ever.

With everything from parties, competitions, celebrations and quizzes to a car boot sale, the action kicked off on Sunday 1st June with the annual five mile multi-terrain race from Westbridge Park.

This was the start of festivities leading to the highlight of Carnival Day over at Westbridge Park and the Parade through the town on Saturday 14th June.

This was then followed by the perfect crescendo to the

®

August/September 2014 21

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

STONE FESTIVAL

®

celebrations with the traditional ‘End of Festival Week’ Service at St Michael and St Wulfad’s Church on Sunday 15th June.

See some of our picture highlights from the quite literally scorching success that was Carnival Day, in which what seemed like the majority of the town turned out to take part in and enjoy to the brave participants of the raft race and Stone Festival dog show at Westbridge Park which kicked off the week of festivities.

Beatles tribute The Fab 4 certainly lived up to their name ‘fab’ as they headlined this year’s popular Party in the Park at Westbridge Park on Friday 13th June, as were supporting acts The Supersets and Monkey Finger who provided some great live music and a fabulous atmosphere.

22 August/September 2014

25/7/14

10:08

Page 22

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:08

Page 23

STONE FESTIVAL

August/September 2014 23

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:08

Page 24

ECCLESHALL FESTIVAL

Ten day ‘fantastic festival’ definitely has the Eccy Factor he 2014 Eccleshall Festival Street Market held in the town centre on Saturday 21st June was a huge success with the weather, the attractions, and the crowds all turning out for the big day.

It is impossible to put a number on the visitors to the town that day but judging by the photos and reports from the stall holders and town centre businesses the turnout was one of the best ever.

The pinnacle of the Festival may have been the Street Market but with ten days of festivities ranging from fashion shows to pub quizzes, walks to family treasure hunts, quiz trails to talent contests there was something for everyone to enjoy and get involved with.

We captured a selection of the highlights from various events which made up this year’s Eccleshall Festival including the Ecclian Open Gardens weekend on 14th and 15th June which kicked off festivities, the Festival Street Market, and the Scarecrow Fest at Holy Trinity which saw over 40 scarecrows entered and created by businesses, clubs, organisations and individuals.

All of the scarecrows were on display in the Church and the weather allowed them to be on display in the churchyard on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd June.

A massive thank you was expressed by organisers to everyone who took part and made the event possible. The next Eccleshall festival will now take place in June 2016.

T

24 August/September 2014

Street Market

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:09

Page 25

ECCLESHALL FESTIVAL

August/September 2014 25

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

ECCLESHALL FESTIVAL

Scarecrow Fest

26 August/September 2014

25/7/14

10:10

Page 26

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:10

Page 27

ECCLESHALL FESTIVAL

Open Gardens

August/September 2014 27

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

FULFEST

his July saw the return of a popular village festival. Fulfest '14 enjoyed a brilliant turnout and equally as good weather when it was staged on Fulford Village Green on Saturday 12th July.

At the top of the musical bill during the ‘Full’ packed afternoon was Young Talent of Fulford followed by Honour, Black Dog Molly, Ukulele Orchestra, Black Dog Molly, Steve and John, Daisy Jaks, Copy Catz, SMYJO, Kiss the Blarney and Mark Clay as the King himself - Elvis.

With large crowds gathering for the afternoon

T

28 August/September 2014

10:12

Page 28

Village fe

and evening the Village Green rang out to the sounds of all genres of music and entertainment from pop to morris dancers as the village hosted its annual Fulfest celebration.

Hundreds of residents and visitors of all ages flocked to the event which was originally stated as a Best Kept Village initiative, bringing with them their own chairs and blankets, where as well as the entertainment, enjoyed a hog roast barbecue, tea and cakes and real ale provided by the Shoulder of Mutton which supported the festival.

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:14

Page 29

FULFEST

festival is ‘Ful’ of fun...

FULFEST 2014

August/September 2014 29

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

STAFFORD FESTIVAL

25/7/14

10:16

Page 30

TV favourites provide a ray of housands of young people and families enjoyed a day in glorious weather for this year’s Stafford Festival’s Party in the Park event.

Revellers were tickled pink when they came face to face with a pair of popular children’s TV characters Mr Tickle and Little Miss Sunshine who made an appearance at Victoria Park to help celebrate Party in the Park on Sunday 6th July.

Between the character appearances there was story telling in a marquee and a chill out reading area with beanbags which had Mr Men and Little Miss books for visitors to read.

Stafford Radio and Staffordshire Music Centre again provided music and entertainment throughout the day at Party in the Park while festivalgoers also enjoyed face painting, art workshops, Hula Hoop workshops, the popular land train, climbing wall and lots more entertainment which was on offer to families all free of charge.

The ‘Party’ is just part of the Borough Council’s annual summer festival and has been an important date in the calendar since 1991 attracting more and more visitors over the years along with thousands of music lovers who descended on Stafford Castle the following week on Sunday 13th July for the popular Live@ the Castle music event featuring two stages and an abundance of local talent. These of course running alongside the now widely acclaimed open air Stafford Festival Shakespeare. This year ‘As You Like It’ one of Shakespeare’s most popular musical comedies took to the stage starring John Challis and Eric Potts.

Stafford Festival official photos courtesy of Paul Milgate. Copies of photos are available to purchase from Stafford Photo Centre with 10% going to Katharine House Hospice, Stafford.

T

30 August/September 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:17

Page 31

STAFFORD FESTIVAL

of sunshine for popular party

August/September 2014 31

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:18

Page 32

STAFFORDSHIRE YOUNG FARMERS

Stockjudging success on home ground for local YFC Members n Sunday, 20th July 2014, Staffordshire YFC hosted the West Midlands Area round for the Stockman of the Year/Young Stock Judge Competition held at Oxclose Farm, Lichfield by kind permission of the Robinson family.

Staffordshire YFC had a great compliment of members in both classes including members of

O

Eccleshall Young Farmers who were competing against fellow members from Shropshire and Herefordshire to go forward to the NFYFC Finals held in September at Harper Adams Agricultural College. After judging four rings of stock – Dairy, Beef, Breeding Ewes and Butchers Lambs, placing them in order of merit and giving reasons to the master judges along with

Rob Mollatt, Hannah Britland, Peter Cotton, Sally Leese

Becky Cotton, Peter James, Becky Stubbs, Matt Wright

Alicia Fallow, Amy Arkinstall, Henry Robinson, NIck Hollinshead

32 August/September 2014

completing a Vet Questionnaire, the results were given.

Peter James of Leek YFC came first as the Overall Individual in the Stockman of the Year Competition, ahead of the second place competitor from Herefordshire by 20 clear points. Peter will now represent the West Midlands Area at the National Finals.

The Staffordshire teams were also placed with the A team comprising of members including both Becky Stubbs and Matthew Wright from Eccleshall, coming third overall. In the Young Stockjudging section, the Staffordshire A team which included Sally Leese from Eccleshall, were placed second closely followed by the Staffordshire B team which comprised of another Eccleshall YFC members Amy Arkinstall.

Stockjudging is just one of the many competitions which YFC members can get involved in. It provides members with the opportunity to put their training to the test by judging high quality live stock and presenting their findings to industry experts.

Members then have the opportunity for feedback and advice from industry experts.

For information on becoming a member or details of your local Club, contact Julia Taylor, County Organiser, on Tel. 01785 248645 or email countyoffice@staffsyoungfarmer s.org.uk. Alternatively check out the website www.staffsyoungfarmers.org.uk, take a look at the Facebook page Staffordshire YFC or follow the club on twitter @staffsyfc.

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:18

Page 33

Stone and Eccleshall Life Magazines

Food & Drink Guide August/September 2014 33

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:19

Page 34

DISCOVER SWYN TEA AT THE FITZ NOW BE

THE Fitzherbert Arms in Swynnerton, steeped in local history and boasting a fabulous rural setting, has now opened a brand new tea room for visitors to enjoy.

Extremely popular amongst families, walkers and cyclists, The Fitzherbert Arms already provides a fantastic stopping point for many who are out and about enjoying everything the local area has to offer.

And now there's even more reason to visit this popular and welcoming local pub – the brand new Swynnerton Rose Tea Room.

Open 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Sunday, the tea room serves a fabulous array of homemade cakes, paninis and sandwiches, as well as toasted teacakes, afternoon tea and cream teas, all made fresh on the premises.

Beautifully decorated, with a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, The Swynnerton Rose Tea Room gets its name from the so called Swynnerton Roses; ladies who worked nearby helping to make the bombs during the war.

During this time the ladies stayed at The Fitzherbert Arms, which is why the name the Swynnerton Rose Tea Room was chosen in their honour.

The Fitzherbert Arms is a fantastic place to enjoy good, home cooked food and savour a cool drink this summer.

Take advantage of the pub's lovely garden, with its magnificent views over to Wales.

A south facing sun trap which is truly glorious in the Great British sunshine, this spacious garden has a lovely new pathway with plenty of flower beds and a grassy area for the kids to play on.

The garden is dog friendly and even when it's raining, your pet pooch can make themselves at home in the pub's top bar, which does not serve food and therefore welcomes pets.

The Fitzherbert Arms and The Swynnerton Rose Tea Rooms really do have something on offer for everyone this Summer, and you can be assured of a friendly welcome from landlord Edward Lawton.

THE FITZHERBERT ARMS A dog friendly establishment

SWYNNERTON, ST15 ORA | TEL: 01782 796513 34 August/September 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

YNNERTON EING SERVED Fabulous food at The Fitz!

10:19

Page 35

M O H

E FA R M

ed Breakfast

A BEAUTIFUL LOCATION IN THE HEART OF SWYNNERTON VILLAGE

28 DAY MATURED STEAKS THAT MELT IN THE MOUTH 10oz RUMP £9.95, 8oz SIRLOIN £13.95, 16oz T-BONE £16.95 AND OF COURSE OUR FAMOUS

MIXED GRILL £16.95

SUNDAY LUNCH (3 COURSE) £12 PLUS OUR USUAL MENU SEE ALL OUR MENUS ON

8 bedrooms many with ensuite, consisting of family rooms, twin rooms, double and single rooms.

Special rates for long term Evening meals can be arranged at The Fitzherbert Arms at discounted rates.

Please ask for details.

MAIN ROAD, SWYNNERTON, ST15 0RA

T: 01782 796196 M: 07799 580451

Summer salads available now Come and enjoy a lunch and drink in our new garden area

Swynnerton Rose Tea Room Enjoy a selection of sandwiches, cakes, pastries, tea or lavazza coffee

S August/September 2014 35

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:19

Page 36

RECIPE FOR LIFE

The summertime’s Best of British

ith the school holidays now well and truly underway and being at the height of another glorious British Summer we thought what could be better than a ‘Best of British’ inspired recipe page. After all nothing goes

W

better with a pot of afternoon tea than a traditional homemade scone with jam and cream, the perfect way to spend a relaxing summers afternoon while paying homage to one of the nation’s most iconic dishes, a deliciously traditional cream tea.

Jam and cream scones

Serves: 6-8 Preparation time: 25 minutes Cooking tim e: 15 minutes

Ingredients: • 225g of plain flour • 2 teaspoons of baking powder • ½ teaspoon of salt • 30g of caster sugar

Method:

rs & Delic utche ate eB

fr

n sse

Sto n

1. Heat the oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. Mix the flour, baking powder, salt and caster sugar in a bowl, then rub in the butter with your fingertips until the mixture

om

or field to f

k

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

• 55g of butter • 55g of raisins or sultanas (optional) • 150ml of milk

looks like breadcrumbs. Stir in the raisins or sultanas, if using.

1/2 cm thick and cut out the scones.

2. Bit by bit, add 150ml milk until you have a firm dough. Turn out onto a floured work surface. Pat the dough into a circle about 1

3. Put onto a non-stick baking sheet and brush the tops with milk. Bake for 12-15 minutes.

Serve with jam and cream.

BBQ First Saturday of HAVING A SUMMER EVENT? eveFarrymemors’nthMaatrkeStotne Call for a quote on our 5# outside catering including barbecues and hog roasts

Large selection of picnic ideas

BREAKFAST

served 7.30am10.30am from £1.50

ENJOY COFFEE AND CAKE IN OUR SECRET GARDEN

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

36 August/September 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:21

Page 37

STONE FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL

New website launched for Foodie Fest o mark the 10th anniversary of Staffordshire’s biggest gastronomic gathering, the Stone Food and Drink Festival has launched a brand new website; aimed at making it even easier for visitors to find out what’s going on during festival week.

Designed and built by the Stafford Website Company, the new site offers a clean, fresh look and feel that reflects the event’s new brand and has a host of new, user-friendly features.

Festival Chairman, Richard Stevens, said: “It’s almost four years since we launched our last website and, in that time, the festival has grown so much that we needed to completely revisit the structure of the site and how information is displayed. This, hand in hand with the rebrand and the fact that so many people are now using mobile devices, meant that a complete redesign was the best route forward.

“We’ve worked with Stafford Website Company to come up with a website that will not only make it quick and easy for visitors to find the information they’re looking for - with the programme searchable by day, event type and location - but will also streamline the

T

administration side of the site for our team of volunteers; making it easier to add programme information and process online ticket sales. We’re really excited about this launch – the website, alongside social media, has become an increasingly important tool for marketing the festival and we now sell a significant proportion of advance and special events tickets online. This website should stand us in great stead for the next decade of festivals!”

The new Stone Food & Drink Festival website is now live at www.stonefooddrink.org.uk with advance tickets for Westbridge Park already available for online purchase. The full 2014 programme will be live from mid-August and tickets for the festival’s legendary ‘Mangér a Trois’ roving meals and Minibus Real Ale Trails will be available via the website from 1st September 2014.

For those who prefer purchasing their tickets the good ‘old fashioned’ way, the Festival office will open in Stone’s Market Street (by kind permission of Tinsley Garner Estate Agents) daily between 10am and 1pm from Monday, 25th August – alternatively Tel. 07564 378 916 or email info@stonefooddrink.org.uk.

August/September 2014 37

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

11:39

Page 38

WINE CELLAR AUCTION

Private wine cellar auction set to attract global interest n auction of wines from two private cellars is set to take place at Staffordshire auction house Cuttlestones including bottles from exceptional vineyards, alongside fine examples of port.

The sale will handle an estimated 500 bottles, with highlights expected to include a 1945 bottle of Premier Grand Cru Classe Sauternes from Chateau d'Yquem; a number of fine vintage Red Bordeaux from the renowned Chateaux of Latour, MoutonRothschild, Lafite-Rothschild ranging in date from the mid 1920s to 1950s; and over 200 bottles of port from the 1960s, 70s and 80s.

The auction house is hosting the specialist wine sale in conjunction with local wine expert Andrew Wilson, from Tittensor’s Old School Wines, he said: “The cellars from which these wines hail are true treasure troves. The collectors who amassed these wines and ports really knew their stuff and there are some truly stunning, rare examples here which means the sale is likely to attract both serious private collectors and members of the wine trade.

A

30 Ce ye leb ar ra s i ti n ng St on e

brasserie

Relax & unwind beneath the stars

“What makes the old rare wines almost unique is that they have lain undisturbed in perfect conditions for nearly 50 years and this is reflected in the condition of many of the bottles. As a wine lover, it has been a delight to investigate and catalogue these wines and we are confident that their quality will be reflected in the achieved prices.”.

Dining & entertainment at its best The perfect venue to drink, dine and be entertained by our many great bands Have you found it yet?

drink & dine al fresco in our award-winning garden

New Cocktail Bar upstairs

We look forward to giving you a warm Granvilles welcome

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 38 August/September 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:22

Page 39

LAST ORDERS

Malt whisky - the true ‘spirit’ of the high seas y next door neighbour has recently bought a new boat and a very good looking craft it is.

When fully assembled it has two masts and a traditional sail arrangement that reminds you of the old days of inshore fishermen battling against the elements launching their boats from chocolate box villages. Now what should he use to christen such a beast. The queen, of course, had no such dilemma when she performed her official duties recently launching the UK’s latest warship, the 65,000 tonne aircraft carrier The Queen Elizabeth.

Traditionalists would argue that Champaign may have been more appropriate but I whole heartedly approve that in this case, given the Scottish connection of both the workforce and the dockyard, that a bottle of malt whisky be used. The question then is which malt to use? The whisky selected was a bottle of Bowmore Surf. To date this has only been available through duty free outlets at airports but when I spoke with Bowmore they told me that it will soon be available at the distillery.

Why Bowmore? The distillery is Islay’s oldest surviving distillery founded in 1779 by John Simpson a local entrepreneur on the shores of Loch Indaal.

However, the choice of this particular distillery probably has more to do with the fact that when the

M

love

Slimming World Join a warm and friendly group today…

Barlaston Cricket Club Longton Rd, Barlaston ST12 9AJ Wednesday at 5.30 & 7.30pm Consultant: Sue 07516 413994

Eccleshall Methodist Church Stone Rd, Eccleshall ST21 6DN Thursday at 5.30 & 7.30pm Consultant: Lynne 07912 145932

Walton Community Centre

save £5

your Just £9.95 on first night then £4.95 a week.

Whitemill Lane, Stone, ST15 0EQ Saturday at 9.30am Consultant: Lynne 07912 145932

scan here or visit the website to read Alix ’ s story slimmingworld.com 0844 897 8000

queen visited Bowmore in 1980 it remains her only official visit to a distillery.

Bowmore whisky is traditionally peaty and they offer a range of whiskies to suit every budget up to a stunning 50 year old which will have 50 bottles available each year until 2016. A good dram if you’ve just won the lottery!

As to the use of whisky to launch ships I understand, that in modern times, the only other vessel to receive such an honour was HMS Sutherland in 1996 again because of her Scottish connections. In her case the spirit was a bottle of Macallan. The other warships normally associated with Scotland are submarines but it appears they are a much more frugal lot. Although their vessels are state of the art costing who knows what the tradition is to launch a submarine with home-made beer!

Now that’s what I’ll recommend to next door!

Whisky expert Dave Pickard of Old School Wines, Tittensor.

T. 01782 372888

THE GEORGE & DRAGON at Meaford

NEW LUNCH & EVENING MENU Lunchtime special 2 courses £6.99 12noon - 5pm 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 for details with free dessert £10.35

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

August/September 2014 39

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:22

Page 40

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

MOCK THE WEEK STAR to preview new tour at Gatehouse Theatre ilton Jones is the latest addition to the Autumn Winter Season at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre.

The popular comedian will be performing a warm up show ahead of his 2015 UK Tour of Milton Jones: The Temple Of Daft.

Milton Jones is regularly on Mock the Week (BBC2), has appeared on Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow (BBC1), Live at the Apollo (BBC1) and he has headlined Dave’s One Night Stand (DAVE). His last Tour, On the Road (2013), played to over 100,000 people live.

In 2011, Milton’s radio show won a silver Sony Award, as well as winning Chortle Headliner of the Year for his stand up. His radio show was also nominated for a Writers Guild Award in 2012, and he has just finished his tenth series on Radio 4.

He is a previous Perrier Best Newcomer and Nominee, Sony Award winner and British Comedy Award nominee.

M

40 August/September 2014

Reviews for Milton Jones: ‘The wild-haired Jones has raised wordplay to the level of fine art” Radio Times “He’s fast, absurd and very Funny” Radio Times ‘No-one can touch Jones when he hits his stride’ The Guardian

Milton Jones Work In Progress is on Wednesday 1st October at 8pm. Tickets are on sale now and cost just £12. Tickets can be booked by calling the box office on 01785 254653 or by visiting www.stafford gatehousetheatre.co.uk

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:22

Page 41

Holiday with a difference

In a class by themselves for

Canal Cruising Company Ltd

ST YLE and QUALIT Y Bowman Antiques Fairs

Est 1948

Are delighted to remind the discerning lady and gentleman that the dates for their next two Fairs for 2014 are as follows

Situated in the picturesque town of Stone, a family run business over 65 years

GIANT 3 DAY ANTIQUES & ART FAIR

Standard to luxury class 2-8 berth boats available with a choice of delightful routes

Friday, Saturday, Sunday

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

Stafford bingley hall ST18 0BD

8th/9th/10th August 26th/27th/28th Sept Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10AM - 5PM EACH DAY Adm: £5 adults, £3 concessions 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

For more details, special offers and live availability

visit us at www.canalcruising.co.uk Crown Street, Stone, Staffs ST15 8QN

Tel: 01785 813982 Fax: 01785 819041 Email: mail@canalcruising.co.uk

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

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FROM A CONVENIENCE STORE

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

Member of "The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists"

• Newspapers • Magazines • Lottery • Top-up • Off Licence • Bread & Milk

FREE

returns

MyHermes online parcel service now available

OPEN EVERYDAY

Mon-Sat 6am-9pm Sun 7am-9pm 2 Orchard Place, BARLASTON, ST12 9DL Tel: 01782 372653

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

Leila Burgess mobile: 07946 353816 (please leave a message & you will be contacted)

www.tittensorchiropodyandpodiatry.co.uk Info@tittensorpodiatryandchiropody.co.uk August/September 2014 41

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:22

Page 42

MERCIA MORRIS DANCERS

MORRIS COMES TO STONE tone residents are being invited to put on their dancing shoes and join in the fun when the Mercia Morris dancers move their successful group to town.

Organisers Sue Bell and Jeff Kent will be leading the weekly sessions which start on Thursday 18th September at Pire Hill First School, in Tilling Drive (ST15 0AA).

Sue has many years’ experience as a morris teacher and as a dancer and musician with a number of different sides, including Glorishears of Brummagem, from Birmingham. Jeff is an accomplished musician who mainly plays percussion, but also assists with the dance instruction.

Sue and Jeff launched Mercia Morris in their home village of Cotes Heath in 2013 and are now looking forward to bringing the team to a new venue in Stone.

Speaking to Stone and Eccleshall Life Sue said: “Morris dancing is great fun and helps improve fitness. I have taught hundreds of people to dance and there have been very few who haven’t mastered the essentials within a short time.

Anyone can come along and have a go as we will be starting with the basics.”

The origins of morris dancing remain a mystery, but there are several references to it in Shakespeare’s works. In the late 1800s, Cecil Sharp toured Cotswold villages noting down the music

S

42 August/September 2014

and figures of the traditional English dance.

Today there are a number of distinct types and Mercia Morris concentrate on performing dances based on traditional Border and Cotswold styles, along with Molly dances from East Anglia.

The side includes plenty of the traditional elements of morris dancing, such as clashing sticks and waving hankies, but, as Jeff explained: “We like to develop our own dances, often using 20th century music, played on the melodeon and percussion to give it a traditional flavour.”

The group is open to all adults - beginners and experienced dancers - and Sue recommends that participants wear training shoes or similar footwear. The first two sessions will be free of charge and the cost from then on will be £3 per week. The sessions run from 7.45pm to 9.15pm.

Further information can be obtained from Sue or Jeff on Tel. 01782 791673 or by emailing suebell28@aol.com, but interested people can just turn up on the night!

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:23

Page 43

24 HOUR PADDLE-A-THON

Sally makes a splash after 24 hour charity paddle-a-thon hen Sally Jones’ friend and colleague was struck down by a an incapacitating illness, as the Secretary of Stafford Canoeing and Watersports Club she was keen to put her skills on the water to use and so came up with the idea for a 24 hour paddle-a-thon.

PC Steve Prince was recently diagnosed with a rare and debilitating spinal disease, known as Baastrup’s Disease. The South Staffordshire-based Police Constable has had surgery to remove calcified cysts from his spine, but in the long term it is unlikely he will ever regain full mobility.

Sally, who works with PC Prince’s wife Lorraine in the Staffordshire Police’s control room, got underway with the mammoth challenge at the Manor Park Sailing Club in Kings Bromley, on Friday 11th July where special guest Police Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis witnessed the start of the gruelling 24 hour fund-raising attempt.

Sally said: “I’ve known Steve and Lorraine for a number of years, and as club secretary, I knew I could get assistance and support to do a marathon paddle – it all escalated from there.

“I am extremely grateful to the canoe club for the support, and also to Manor Park Sailing Club for letting me use their lakes at Kings Bromley for the event, as well as my colleagues from Staffordshire Police.

“The best part of being on the water for that length of time was all the wildlife that I was able to watch, including kingfishers, an otter, woodpeckers, geese, cormorants, various other water birds and lots of bats overnight!”

Throughout the event, members of Stafford Canoeing and Watersports club paddled alongside Sally, keeping her awake and providing company, whilst other members ashore provided food and drink.

Lorraine Prince added: “Steve and I have known Sally for a long time and have always been impressed with her enthusiasm – we were delighted to hear that she was planning to raise money for Steve following his recent illness.

“Completing a 24 hour canoe paddle is a fantastic achievement and we are extremely grateful to those people who have sponsored her and especially to Sally for undertaking this demanding challenge.”

W

So far, around half of the £3,000 target has been raised which will be used to purchase essential kit to help make PC Prince’s home life more comfortable. If you would like to make a donation, please contact Sally at salandmick@madasafish.com.

Diane Connor FdSc, MFHT Your Local Complementary Therapist Aromatherapy & Body Massage, Pamper Packages, Reiki, Matrix Reimprinting, Indian Head Massage, Reflexology, Relaxation Techniques, Meditation Classes, Emotional Freedom Technique, Taster Treatments Mondays and Tuesdays Spa For You, 2, Granville Square, Stone ST15 8AB (Upstairs, next door to Fleur Tea Rooms) Appointments are available on other days at my home practice

facebook.com/angelinaholistictherapies www.reikihealingcentre.net 07967 434232

Bringing the outdoors indoors We hav extend e e our pla d structu y re

A great venue for Opening Times: children’s parties Mon - Fri 9.30am - 6.30pm Sat 10.00am - 6.30pm Call now Sun 10.00am - 5.30pm to book Climb timber towers and cross rope bridges in the bespoke timber structure.

Whizz down the mega 4 lane Astra slide, get sporty on the sport court and have fun in the ball blast arena.

T. 01785 286882

Unit A, Whitebridge Estate, Stone ST15 8LQ

www.comeintoplay.co.uk info@comeintoplay.co.uk

Scan here to watch our video

August/September 2014 43

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:23

Page 44

PAY -GO YOU S AS- TION OP OW E N ABL IL V A A

ONE 2 ONE TRAINING BODY TRANSFORMATION NUTRITION SUPPORT

Join our wellbeing family where you can lose fat, get fit and have fun through varied, functional training methods with proven sustainable body transformation results.

• New purpose built private indoor fitness centre at Wellbeing Park, Stone, Staffordshire • 26 acres of outdoor, beautifully manicured sports fields, in a serene, tranquil environment • Work with a sport, health, wellbeing and exercise sciences specialist team • Flexible and extensive class timetable

A new you is just a call away 0845 686 0444 www.academy4wellbeing.com 44 August/September 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:23

Page 45

SUMMER’S HERE - GET FIT, LOSE FAT, LOOK GREAT! With summer here we all want to look and feel our best. However do you find that you’re just not getting the sustainable results you want?

Are you bored of the gym? Have you hit a plateau in your fat loss or fitness levels? Do you need some extra motivation? Do you want proven fat loss results and want to look slimmer and leaner?

Well help is at hand. Join one of our many different Wellbeing packages and work out in a friendly, family, supportive; atmosphere. We are based in 26 acres of tranquil Staffordshire countryside with both indoor and outdoor gym areas suitable to exercise whatever the weather. Be prepared to work hard whilst, having fun, making friends and getting the results you have only ever dreamed of. Now’s your time to be the best you can.

PAY AS YOU GO OPTIONS Take advantage of incredible special offers including Pay As You Go options from as little as £5 per hour session (exercise only).

FLEXIBLE CLASS TIMETABLE Ask about our new class timetable, including early and mid morning sessions, late afternoon and different evening sessions and shorter express classes.

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

Join our full 4 week Wellbeing Bootcamp for just £65 and get: • Unlimited exercise sessions for 4 weeks.

• Regular clinical body composition measurements including body fat %, muscle content.

• Nutrition guidance, support and advice workshops.

• Meal planning and healthy recipes.

• Proven sustainable results.

Ask about our flexible packages.

TRYREE R F ER U O ST TA SION SES 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 August/September 2014 45

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:23

Page 46

CLASS CHAT

New and improved Eccleshall primary school officially opens local primary school that has been extensively remodelled and refurbished has officially opened.

Bishop Lonsdale C of E Primary School in Eccleshall will now be housed on a single site, and will benefit from extended teaching spaces, a full office suite, internal remodelling plus a new car park, entrance gates and play area.

The school now also boasts a brand new all-weather outdoor pitch which will encourage outdoor play.

Staffordshire County Council, along with the local church, Lichfield Diocese and a design team from Entrust have worked together on the development, which has been funded by the sale of the now vacant northern site of the school.

The project has taken 12 months to complete ready for the start of the school year in September 2014. Now, school staff and pupils are ready to celebrate the official opening of their new school.

Speaking to Stone and Eccleshall Life

A

46 August/September 2014

Headteacher Chris Middleton said: “It is wonderful to have all the children and staff on a single site.

Children now get to see each other on a daily basis and have wonderful resources including a new library, music room and small group room. We are very proud of our new building and look forward to making the most out of it in the coming years.”

County Councillor Ben Adams, the county’s education chief said: “It is really important for young people in Staffordshire to be able to learn in a welcoming and stimulating environment. This refurbishment has consolidated the school onto a single site, giving it a sense of unity and making it easier for pupils to move freely around the school. We want to ensure young people in Staffordshire have access to a great education, and by focussing on standards and improving school environments, we can ensure we are giving the pupils of Bishop Lonsdale an excellent chance in life.”

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:24

Page 47

Pupils get busy before school is out for summer he summer holiday’s may now be in full swing but before the school’s all broke up we caught up with what some pupils had been up to during their final term.

At Walton Priory Middle School in Stone twelve pupils spent the last few weeks visiting Stone Library as part of a project commemorating the anniversary of the First World War. Pupils from years 5, 6 and 7 have participated in activities relating to a set of letters written to Lois Clark of Stone between 1914 1918. The project was run by Staffordshire Libraries with funding by the Arts Council.

The children are pictured with two officers from M.O.D. Stafford who explained to them how communication between soldiers and home has changed in the last hundred years.

Year 5 pupil Cameron said: “I really enjoyed going to the library and working with people of different ages”. Tobias who is also in Year 5 said: “I have learnt more about how hard it was for people at home as well as the soldiers.”

While earlier in the Spring term of this year pupils at the school took part in a reading competition run by the Book Trust. With a target to read 250 books, pupils smashed this reading well over 1,000!

Mrs Heather Ward, Teacher of English said: “We are really proud of our children, because of their amazing efforts we have won 100 new books for our

T

CLASS CHAT

school library”. The photo shows Mrs Ward with Year 7 children.

And on Thursday 1st May, 76 children from Walton Priory took part in the UK Junior Mathematical Challenge.

The children were set a series of puzzle questions designed to encourage pupils to use logical thinking.

Sally Proudman and Cara Jackson both received Gold Certificates, three children received Silver and eleven received Bronze. Walton Priory children were in the top 6% of schools who took part nationally.

Maths teacher Mr Andy Chandler said: “We are extremely proud of all the children who took part and of their achievements”.

The photo shows Sally and Cara with their Gold Certificates.

August/September 2014 47

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:25

Page 48

CLASS CHAT

VIP’S GALORE FOR ST. DOM taff and pupils at St Dom’s in Stone were thrilled to welcome Blue Peter Presenter Radzi Chinyanganya to their school on Monday 7th July.

Radzi kindly agreed to open the school’s Eco Garden in memory of colleague and teacher, Mrs Carey, who sadly passed away last year. The Eco Club members and teachers worked hard to ensure the garden was ready for the opening of the garden which is now officially known as The Mrs Carey Garden.

Radzi commented: “It’s really important for us to encourage children to think about caring for their environment and I think as they plant and nurture the vegetables and see them flourish, it will mean so much more to them.”

Radzi also opened and had a go on the new climbing wall with pupils from Y4, 5, 6, 7, and 8; Radzi has apparently been practicing his climbing for some Blue Peter stories that are scheduled to air before Christmas. He talked to all the children and on officially declaring the wall open said how lucky the pupils at St. Dominic’s Priory School were to have the facility of the climbing wall, as there was nothing like this at his school.

Meanwhile after weeks of preparation, St. Dominic’s Priory School’s Nursery and Prep took part in the Stone Festival carnival day parade on Saturday 14th June.

Members of Staff rose bright and early to meet the two floats, kindly supplied by Bassetts, at the Priory Hall. They spent the morning working tirelessly to dress the vehicles before being joined by the children to add the finishing touches.

The nursery created a colourful version of Peter Pan’s Neverland. Staff, parents and pupils dressed

S

48 August/September 2014

the part as: The Darling family; the Lost Boys; pirates, fairies; Native Americans; and, of course, Captain Hook.

The Prep School decided to turn their vehicle into Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. The float was covered in giant sweets, Oompa-Loompas, and an enormous Golden Ticket. A bed was even lifted onto the float so that Charlie’s ‘grandparents’ could take part in the parade too!

All the floats gather at ABB where the judging of the best design took place. The prep school children ‘whooped’ as it was announced that they had won first prize!

At 1.30pm the floats slowly made their way through Stone to Westbridge Park. The children thoroughly enjoyed being cheered on as they passed through the town. The floats finally arrived at Westbridge Park at 2pm where the children were greeted by Stone Town Mayor who presented them with the first place cup.

And if one special guest wasn’t enough members of Mrs Jarvis’ class were in for a very regal surprise during a visit to the Etruria Industrial Museum where on arrival; they were told that a special guest would also be visiting.

The children were amazed when they saw Prince Charles who was visiting a number of historic sites in Stoke-on-Trent. He visited Etruria along with Middleport Pottery, where extensive works have been completed by the Prince’s Regeneration Trust.

The Prince stopped and spoke to the children, saying that he liked their school uniform. Later on he showed great interest in the activities that the children were doing, joining them as they discovered how cargo was taken along the canals to and from the pottery factories.

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:25

Page 49

CLASS CHAT

OMINIC’S PRIORY SCHOOL

August/September 2014 49

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:25

Page 50

HOMES AND GARDENS

Get ahead of the game while t I t may be the last thing on everyones mind as we continue to enjoy a largely fine, dry and hot summer but by the end of September this could be all be a distant memory so to make sure you utilise every last second of the remaining long days, why not read our top tips on how to get the most out of the season before it draws to a close.

The great British summertime is celebrated for giving homeowners a golden opportunity to spruce up their surroundings, but as we approach the end of the season now is the time to prepare your home for the autumn days ahead.

With the warm summer days still upon us, in between the traditional British showers, now is the perfect chance to spend some time in the garden and get everywhere looking nice and smart for when the weather begins to cool.

For inspiration why not call into your local garden centre? There are lots of late flowering

50 August/September 2014

plants which will help keep your garden looking vibrant into the autumn.

For those of you thinking further ahead, the shelves at your local nurseries are beginning to fill with bulbs of all shapes, sizes and colours. So why not get ahead of the game and give yourself something to look forward to in the Spring?

If you were hoping to focus your attentions on the interior of your home, there are plenty of tasks which can be completed within a relatively short period.

Spruce up your paintwork with a fresh neutral look throughout giving a simple and effective finish.

Why not hire a carpet cleaning machine for the weekend and give your carpets a deep cleansing shampoo or give your kitchen cupboards and units a new look with some replacement doors and handles or a lick of paint which is far cheaper than a complete kitchen overhaul.

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:26

Page 51

HOMES AND GARDENS

the summer is still being kind If you are thinking of setting the wheels in motion for some more major improvements why not head to some of the fantastic showrooms located in and around the area to help spark

your imagination.

From kitchens and bathrooms to fireplaces and bedrooms look to the experts for professional advice and a finish to be proud of.

Housecare

Domestic Cleaning and Ironing Service is here to help!

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

A local family-run business

Mini , Midi & Large Skips Mini Digger Hire

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

Home: 01785 811143 Mobile: 07790 995389

mater ials suppli ed

Fully ins ured

MaxGas Staffs • Commercial and Domestic Gas Engineers • Commercial Catering Service & Repairs • Domestic Plumbing • Emergency Call-outs

T 07504 446214 www.maxgas-staffs.co.uk | maxgas2002@gmail.com

August/September 2014 51

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:26

Page 52

PROPERTY

Will rising interest rates kill the housing market recovery? alk of a new house price bubble and potential interest rates rises have started to take the heat out of the property market in the last couple of weeks. However, it seems more likely that any interest rate rises will be modest.

To quote Andy Haldane, the Bank's Chief Economist on rate rises "it's going to be gradual" meaning an increase of around 0.25%. He has also said the rates, even when the economy is fully back on its feet, will be well below the long term average of 5% stating "the new norm will be closer to 2-3 per cent".

The Bank of England now have the ability to control lending from our high street lenders, including setting leading rules on multiples of salaries for high loan-to-value mortgages. Making

T

sure lenders put enough aside for a rainy day, which will also subdue lending to high risk borrowers.

2014 will always be remembered as the year that the housing market kicked back into life after five very subdued years, but our view is that this recovery will be a sustainable one. In many areas of the UK, prices in real terms (after allowing for inflation) are below 2007 levels and our hope and belief is that sensible economic management and a sustained economic recovery will be accompanied by a housing market where prices grow at around 5% per annum. This is an ideal situation for homeowners and long-term investors.

If you want to find out what’s happening to house prices in your area, contact Kerry or Daniel Smart from Hunters Estate Agent and ask for a free valuation. They are franchise owners of Hunters in Stoke on Trent and experts in the local property market. You can reach them on 01782 626522.

Hunters is the UK’s fastest growing, independent UK estate agent & letting agent chain 52 August/September 2014

25/7/14

SOLD IN 24 HOURS

Underwood Road, Keele

Lymebrook Place,Trent Vale

SOLD WITHIN 10 DAYS

Quarry Avenue, Hartshill

SOLD IN 5 DAYS

HD A9

Seabridge Lane, Clayton

SOLD WITHIN 7 DAYS

HD A9

HD A9

Godwin Way, Trent Vale

Page 53

SOLD WITHIN 30 DAYS

HD A9

Godwin Way, Trent Vale

10:26

HD A9

HD A9

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

SOLD WITHIN 4 WEEKS

August/September 2014 53

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:26

Page 54

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

54 August/September 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

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:27

Page 55

INVESTMENT MATTERS

INCOME OR TOTAL RETURN? raditionally, investors with an income objective have achieved their desired objective by investing their capital in income generating assets. Unfortunately, in today’s economic environment of low interest rates, those traditional income generating assets such as bank deposits and government bonds are generating very low income, whilst those assets that are considered higher risk, such as high yield bond or equity income funds, are paying a relatively attractive income.

Investors looking for income naturally seek out income yielding assets, but this may not be the most tax efficient approach in that an investor is liable to pay tax on interest or dividends received. For basic rate tax payers, tax is usually paid at source on interest or for a dividend through a tax credit, but higher rate taxpayers will have to pay additional tax.

However, rather than chasing the highest yields, with potentially higher risk and higher tax implications, there is an alternative, in that investors seeking income could manage their portfolio on a total return basis and invest in capital growth funds, using their annual capital gains tax (CGT) allowance to provide their income requirement.

If an investor opts for utilising capital gains in order to pay an ‘income’, the capital gain is tax free within the CGT allowance. The annual CGT allowance for the 2014/15 tax year is £11,000, therefore, a couple have a joint annual CGT allowance of £22,000. If the gains exceed the CGT allowance, then tax is paid at either 18% or 28%.

Investors should be aware that if the capital is withdrawn at a greater rate than the capital growth on the underlying investment portfolio, the value of the portfolio will fall over time.

Another advantage of an income investor managing their portfolio on a total return basis rather than on an income basis, is that the underlying portfolio can include asset classes that pay low or no income, for example,

T

absolute return or emerging equity market funds, and these assets may offer the prospect of a higher total return than the income generating assets. This advantage also has the benefit of increasing the diversification, which should reduce the risk. An income seeking investor may have a portfolio that has a strong bias to certain assets or sectors that generate a high income and, therefore, the portfolio may not be diversified.

There are other strategies that investors could use to improve the tax efficiency of their portfolio. For example, an investor should consider utilising their New Individual Savings Account (NISA) allowance each tax year. The current NISA allowance is £15,000 and by utilising this allowance, tax payers will protect their portfolio from further income tax and capital gains tax.

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 August/September 2014 55

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:27

Page 56

REFLECTIONS COACHING

Dealing with changes in ‘Life’ he summer has arrived, everyone is looking forward to the school holidays and exams are over and done with. Young adults are entering further education, university or going out to seek their first employment.

It’s a time of unsettlement and change and with change comes uncertainty, worry, and stress. How do we ensure that our young adults are equipped to cope at this difficult time?

Understanding how change affects us is key to how we cope with it. There is a cycle that we go through with any change and understanding that the emotions we feel are normal can really help us through the process.

The Reflections Coaching Change Curve demonstrates the 7 steps that we all go through when a change comes our way and applies whether the change is of our own making e.g. going off to university or enforced e.g. compulsory redundancy.

T

• Shock - This occurs when you first face the change. Have you ever heard that voice in your head saying ‘this really isn’t happening to me?’

• Denial - This is when we pretend that the change isn’t happening or it won’t affect us.

• Frustration - We look for someone to blame, ourselves or someone else. Thoughts of ‘if only I hadn’t…….’, ‘Why did she have to suggest that?…….’. We start to look for all the things that might go wrong.

• Confusion – It’s common to spend time wondering what’s going to happen next. You may start to question why things are being done a

certain way.

• Acceptance – This is the turning point and is particularly important if you want to move forward in your thinking. It’s at this point that you start to understand why things happen.

• Discovery - is where problem solving starts and you start to view the change in a positive way. You will see opportunities ahead and start to plan the future.

• Moving on - The last stage. You can look back over what’s happened. Take learning from some of the negative aspects and focus on your strengths here. You will by now have fully accepted the changes.

You may find that after the initial shock a lot of time is spent going between the stages of denial, frustration and confusion and your journey might not be a linear one, until at some point you accept the change.

Remember it’s natural to experience some or all of the elements of the 7 stages. The most important thing you can do to support a young adult or help yourself through this time of change is to aim to reach the acceptance stage. Do acknowledge the negative emotions, and deal with the symptoms, but keep a focus on the positive aspects of the change.

Carolyn Trafford is a Leek based personal development coach and an expert in supporting others to deal with life change. Whether it’s a new job role, starting a business or dealing with redundancy get in touch today.

Denial Moving on

Shock Frustration

Carolyn Trafford Reflections Coaching

Discovery Tel: 07714 216388 Acceptance

Confusion

Change curve 56 August/September 2014

Email Caro@reflectionscoaching. co.uk www.reflectionscoaching. co.uk

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:27

Page 57

Stone and Eccleshall Life Magazines

Motoring Guide

August/September 2014 57

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

12:11

Page 58

MOTORING

Nicola tells cancer to hit the road hen 36 year old Nicola Thursfield was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, her good friend Jayne Broadhurst decided to run the Race For Life for her, raising money for Breast Cancer Research.

Now one year on and with the ‘All Clear’ from her doctors, Nicola has crossed the finish line herself, alongside Jayne, raising a whopping £1068 for the charity that researches ways to beat the disease.

Originally from Cheadle, Nicola now lives in Hilderstone with her husband Chris, who not only supported her through her treatment, but helped her to achieve her total by organising fundraising at Hyundai Holdcroft, where he works as

W

general manager.

Nicola told the Stone and Eccleshall Life: “Thank you to all

my family and friends and especially my husband, they are the reason I am ok today.”

Nathan Lee, Nicola Thursfield, Chris Thursfield and Chantelle Williamson

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 58 August/September 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

11:07

Page 59

Order your 64.

New 64 registered Audi A5 S line 2.0 TDi 177PS 5-door £34,675.

Solutions representative example from Audi Finance based on 8,000 miles per annum for Audi A5 S line 2.0 TDi 177PS 5-door†

Duration 35 monthly payments of Customer Deposit Dealer Deposit Contribution

3 years £369.00

Total amount payable Acceptance fee*

£7,206.00

Option to purchase fee**

£2,000.00

Rate of interest

Recommended on the road price

£34,675.00

Representative APR

Amount of Credit

£23,468.14

Total amount payable by customer

Optional final payment

£14,582.45

£38,764.31 £125.00 £60.00 7.0% fixed 7.4% £34,764.31

Stafford Audi Hurricane Close Primepoint 14 Stafford ST16 1GZ. 01785 250444 www.staffordaudi.co.uk Official fuel consumption figures for the Audi range in mpg (l/100km): from Urban: 12.5 (22.6)-48.7 (5.8), Extra Urban: 27.7 (10.2)-74.3 (3.8), Combined: 19.2 (14.7)-62.8 (4.5). CO2 emissions: 119 - 351 g/km. Standard EU Test Figures for comparative purposes and may not be reflect real driving results. †Retail sales only: Centre Deposit Contribution is only available to customers who purchase their car with Solutions Personal Contract Plan from Audi Finance.*Payable within first payment. **Payable with optional final payment. 7.2p per mile excess mileage charges apply. Further charges may be payable if vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. Available to over 18s from participating Audi Centres only (subject to availability) for vehicles ordered before 30 September 2014 and delivered by 31 December 2014. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at anytime. The quoted ROTR prices and finance examples shown reflect the current rate of 20% VAT. Audi Finance, Freepost Audi Finance.

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

11:18

Page 60

DEFY CONVENTION

STILL RAISING THE ROOF AFTER 25 YEARS MAZDA MX-5 25TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITION AT HOLDCROFT

0% APR* REPRESENTATIVE INCLUDES A £500 MAZDA DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION FROM £330 PER MONTH

WITH ONLY 750 MODELS AVAILABLE IN THE UK, BOOK YOUR TEST DRIVE° TODAY. Mazda MX Mazda MX-5 -5 2 25 5th Anniv Anniversary ersary y Limit Limited ed E Edition dition c comes omes with a lis listt o off e exclusive xclusive de design sign features features 17"" Dark Gu Gunmetal Black such as unique numbering, Soul Soul o Red Red Metallic Metallic paint, paint, 17 nmetal alloys, alloys, Brilliant Brilliant B lack contrasting hardtop mirrors, innovations. c ontrasting rretractable etractable har dtop rroof oof and mirr ors, and the latest latest cutting-edge cutting-edge inno vations.

Yet every ounce off the legendary driving e exhilaration by very Y et it sstill till rretains etains e very ounc eo xhilarration embodied b y the v ery first the back 1989. fir st model that burst burst onto onto th e sscene cene b ack in 19 89.

Holdcroft Mazda Hanley Stoke-on-Trent 01782 Leek Road, Hanley, Stoke-o on-Trent ST1 6AT. 0 1782 202330 www.holdcroft-mazda.co.uk www.holdcroft-mazda.co. .uk

HOLDCROFT HOL DCROFT

The official figures (l/100km)) ffor Mazda T he o fficial fuel consumption consumption figur es in mpg (l/100km or the Maz da MX-5 MX-5 range: range: Urban Urban 25.4 25.4 (11.1)-28.8 (11.1)-28.8 (9.8).

(9 .8). Extra Extra Urban Urban 45.6 45.6 (6.2)-50.4 (6.2)-50.4 (5.6).

(5 5.6). Combined Combined 35.3 35.3 (8.0)-39.8 (8.0)-39.8 (7.1).

(7.1). CO2 CO2 emissions emissions (g/km) (g/km) 188-167.

188-167.

The mpg figures The figures quoted quoted ar are e ssourced ourced fr from om o official fficial fi EU-r EU-regulated egulated test test results results obtained obtained thr through ough labor laboratory atory ttesting. esting. These These are are provided provided for for ccomparability omparability purposes purposes only and may may not not rreflect eflect y our act ual driving results. results. your actual R etail sales sales only ov ehicle a vailability for for vehicles vehicles registered registered between between 01.07.14 01.07.14 and 30.09.14 30.09.14 at participating participating dealers. dealers. T &C apply Retail only,, subject tto vehicle availability T&C apply.. *0% finance finance a vailable on all Maz da MX -5 models. mod dels. Example Example shown: shown: Mazda Mazda MX-5 MX-5 Roadster Roadster Coupe Coupe o 2.0i 25th 25th Anniversary Anniversary Limit ed E dition, available Mazda MX-5 2.0i Limited Edition, O TR £22,995. £22,995. O TR pric e include AT, numbe es, deliv ery, 12 mon ths’ rroad oad fund lic ence, fir st rregistration egistration ffee, ee, 3 y ear or 60 ,000 mile OTR OTR price includess V VAT, numberr plat plates, delivery, months’ licence, first year 60,000 w arranty and 3 y ears’ E uropean R oadside As s tance. °Test sis °Test drives drives subject to to applicant applicant sstatus tatus u and a vailability. Details Details correct correct at time o warranty years’ European Roadside Assistance. availability. off prin t. No vailable in cconjunction onjunction with an yo t ther o ffer unle ss specified. W e ccan an in troduce y o tto ou o a limit ed number of of carefully carefully sselected elected print.

Nott a available any other offer unless We introduce you limited financ e providers. providers. We We may may receive receive a commission commission from from them for for the introduction. introduction. Images Images may may not not be tto o UK specific ation. finance specification.

60 August/September 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

11:07

Page 61

MOTORING

Mazda launches unique 25th anniversary edition MX-5 elebrating the 25th birthday of its iconic twoseat sportscar this year, Mazda is delighted to announce the launch of the MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0-litre 25th Anniversary Limited Edition, which goes on sale throughout the UK from 1 August.

First revealed to the public on 9th February at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show, the Mazda MX-5 caused a sensation. Reintroducing a category of vehicle that had become all but extinct by the early 70s, it was an instant hit on a global scale, far outstripping the company's own sales predictions.

When global production reached 531,890 units in May 2000, the little Mazda was certified

by Guinness World Records as the world's bestselling two-seater sports car in history. Total global production passed the 900,000 mark in February 2011, and the Mazda MX-5's Guinness certification was updated.

Just 1000 individually numbered examples of the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0-litre 25th

C

Anniversary Limited Edition will be built. It is a testament to Britain's enduring love affair with open-topped motoring that 750 of them will be made available to UK customers with number one being unveiled at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed on 26 to 29th June.

“To date, three generations of Mazda MX-5 have witnessed the release of over 43 Special Edition models in the UK since 1990,” said Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director of Mazda UK. “None, however, could be more significant to us than this 25th Anniversary Limited Edition, which marks such an important milestone for a car that single-handedly reintroduced the world to the pleasures of exhilarating and affordable open-topped motoring.”

With a comprehensive equipment specification based on the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0 litre Sport Tech Nav, the 25th Anniversary Limited Edition boasts a wealth of additional exterior and interior features unavailable on any other Mazda MX-5.

August/September 2014 61

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

11:08

Page 62

MOTORING

RECORD SALES KEEP LEAF AHEAD OF THE CLASS here’s just no stopping the 100% electric Nissan LEAF. The practical and affordable family hatchback has continued to hit the right note with Britain’s drivers, shattering yet another sales record.

Figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show the Nissan LEAF powered to an impressive 630 sales during March, up 155% on March 2013 (247 sold), topping September 2013 (the previous record month) when 332 were sold.

This remarkable result in plate-change March tops a record-breaking first quarter of 2014 during which sales of the LEAF hit 898, up 47% on quarter three 2013 (612 LEAFs sold) which held the previous sales record.

The figures underline the LEAF’s position as the UK market leader and provide further evidence that

T

62 August/September 2014

the British-built model’s class-leading range and running costs, coupled with its everyday usability, are keeping it well ahead of the chasing pack. In fact, the SMMT statistics reveal the Nissan LEAF outsold all other pure electric models combined by more than two-to-one.

James Wright, Managing Director, Nissan Motor GB, said: ”The continued success of the Nissan LEAF comes as no surprise to those of us who have been involved with its development since the start.

Designed from the wheels up as a 100% electric model, it blazed the trail for EV technology when it was launched and today it still leads the way.

“As the LEAF becomes an increasingly familiar sight on the nation’s roads, word of mouth is spreading, and more and more drivers are being won over by its undeniable economic and environmental credentials.”

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

11:18

Page 63

FUEL COSTS FROM JUST 2p A MILE

THE ELECTRIC SIDE OF DRIVING CONTACT PAUL PARRY TODAY FOR A 24 HOUR TEST-DRIVE

Recommended by 95% of ownersâ€

The 100% electric Nissan LEAF PERSONAL CONTRACT PERSONAL CONTR AC T PURCHASE PURCHASE RE REPRESENTATIVE PRESENTATIVEE EXAMPLE E X A MP L E MODEL M ODEL MONTHLY OONN THE THE ROAD ROA D CCUSTOMER USTOMER PPAYMENTS AYMENTS CCASH ASH PPRICE RICE DDEPOSIT EPOSIT LEAF VI VISIA SIA a a

a

NISSAN NISSAN DEPOSIT DEPOSIT CCONTRIBUTION ONTRIBUTION ÂŁ3,250 ÂŁ3,250

TOTAL TOTAL AAMOUNT MOUNT OF CREDIT CREDIT a

DURATION DUR ATION OOFF AAGREEMENT GREEMENT MONTHS

OPTIONAL OP TIONAL FINAL FINAL PPAYMENT AYMENT a

From just ÂŁ199 a month TTOTAL OTAL AAMOUNT MOUNT PPAYABLE AYABLE a

R ATE OOFF IINTEREST RATE NTEREST % % APR PP.A. .A. (FIXED) (FIXED) RREPRESENTATIVE EPRESENTATIVE

Also o available for 24 Hour T Test e esst Drive the e all new eNV200 1 00% electric Nissan V an. a 100% Van. W h h one will you choose? hic choose?

Which Holdcroft Nissan Hanley Leek Road, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent Tr ST1 6AL Te 01782 204040 Tel:

Holdcroft Nissan Crew we Weston Road, Crewe, We re Cheshire CW1 6JS Te 01270 531000 Tel:

www.holdcroft-nissan.co.uk ww ww.holdcroft-nissan.co.uk

THE NISSAN DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION IS ONL ONLY LY AVAILABLE AVA AILABLE TO CUSTOMERS CUSTO OMERS TAKING TAKING A NISSAN FINANCE ON A NEW LEAF REGISTERED BETWEEN BETW WEEN 01/04/2014 AND 30/06/2014 AATT PPARTICIPATING AR A TICIPPATTING DEALERS ONLY. ONL LY. The offer is based on 6,000 miles pa, excess mileage 10p per mile m and is not available in conjunction with any schemes or offers. offers. Finance Financce provided by RCI Financial Services Services Limited, PO Box 149, Watford Watford WD17 1FJ 1FJ.. Subject to status status.. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. required. You You must be at least 18 and a UK resident (excluding the Isle of Mann and Channel Islands). Terms Terms and conditions apply apply,, please visit www. www. nissan-offers.co.uk nissan-offers .co.uk or your local dealer for full details. details. All prices includee ďŹ rst registration fee and 12 months’ road fund licence. licence. Information Information correct corrrect at time of going to print. Model shots shown are for illustration purposes only and are subject to availability. availability. LEAF Visia shown has metallic metaallic paint at ÂŁ525 inc. inc. VAT. VAT. Our dealership introduce customers to a limited limitted number of ďŹ nance providers including RCI Financial Services Services Ltd. Finance providers pay us for introducing you to them. CO2 while drivingg 0. MPG N/A. FFrom rom 2p per mile is based on (i) over overnight night electricity costss (British Gas Standard Tariff Taariff unit rates for a customer paying by direct debit as at 1 May 2014, assuming seven hours of charging at the nigh night ht rate and one hour on the day rate), and (ii) a range of up to 124 miles per full charge (assuming 95% efďŹ ciency). Actual consumption and range may vary vary due to driving style style,, road condition, air conditioning and and other factors outside our control. Daily standing charge of 26p also ap applies. pplies. LEAF 24-hour test drive is subject to availability and eligibility criteria, and from participating Nissan dealers only. only. Restrictions and limitations limitations apply, apply, see nissan.co.uk/leaf24. nissan.co.uk/leaf24. †Source: December 2013 Nissan Nissaan Europe Customer Satisfaction survey survey of 498 LEAF buyers across UK, Portugal, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, Norway and France, Frannce, who had owned their car for approximately one month. Model shown show wn is LEAF Visia, 80 kW AC electric motor. motor. Nissan Motor (GB ) Ltd, The Rivers OfďŹ ce PPark, ark, Denham Way, Way, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 WD3 9YS. 9YS.

August/September 2014 63

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:28

Page 64

VIES

AT W R DA

APR PR 4.9% AP

Representative Repres sentative

W R Davies 123 Lichfield Road Stafford ST17 4LF

1y year’s free iinsurance nsurance

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 manufactturer warranty warranty subject to terms and conditions. Price correct at time of going to press. presss. *4.9% APR Representative only available on new retail re etail orders of MY15 AYGO when ordered between 1st June and 30th September 2014 and and registered and financed through Toyota Financial Services Se ervices by 31st 31st December 2014 on a 3 year AccessToyota (PCP) plan with 0-35% deposit. Toyota T Financial Services (UK) PLC; registered office Great G Burgh, Burgh, Burgh Heath, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5UZ. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Fina ancial Conduct Authority. Indemnities may be required. required d. Finance subject subject to status to over 18s.

Other finance offers are available but cannot be e used in conjunction with this offer. Excess miles over 30,000 charged charged at 8p per mile. Toyota Centres are independent of Toyota Financial Services.

Se ervices. Terms and conditions apply. Affordable finance e through AccessToyota.

AccessToyota. †1 year’s free comprehensive insurance offer is subject to purchase purrchase being made via Toyota Financial Services on a Personal P Contract Contract Purchase (PCP) only and is available on MY15 AYGO models (Excluding AYGO A X grade) when ordered and financed between 1st 1sst June 2014 2014 and 30th September 2014.

Vehicles must be registered by 31st December 2014.

2 All drivers must be aged 21 years and over. Offer Offer is limited to to the insured plus up to four additional drivers. The insured and all drivers must mu ust have held a full UK driving licence for a minimum off 2 years and had no more than 1 fault claim in the last 3 years. Offer only available to customers custom mers with no more than 1 minor motoring conviction in n the last 3 years. years. Standard Toyota Motor Insurance Terms & Conditions apply (available on o request) - these will be confirmed in the policy document. docu ument.

AYGO x-cite 1.0VVT-i 5 door manual. Official O Fuel Consumption Figures in mpg (l/10 (l/100km): 00km): Urban 56.5 (5.0), Extra Urban 78.5 (3.6), Combined 68.9 (4.1). CO2 Emissions Em missions 95g/km. The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results. These are provided for com comparability mparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

64 August/September 2014

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:29

Page 65

MOTORING

NEW TOYOTA AYGO: MORE STYLE, MORE CHOICE, MORE FUN

he new Toyota Aygo is a small car that offers customers a huge choice when it comes to making their car distinctively their own. Never before has a Toyota offered so many opportunities for personalisation, with a wealth of features inside and out that can be specified in different colours and finishes.

From the new X-shape front end element that defines Aygo’s hip new look, to the alloy wheels, instrument panel and seats, owners can give their car its very own style.

In spite of the huge number of possible permutations, with up to 10 interchangeable elements, customers will not face a long wait for their bespoke new Aygo to arrive, nor will they face huge extra cost. The customisation packs have been keenly priced and they are fitted by Toyota in the UK, to customer order, at a new hub set up at

T

Toyota Manufacturing UK’s Burnaston factory in Derbyshire.

Customisation is just one aspect of the fresh, vibrant approach Toyota has taken with its new city car, with higher equipment specifications that include plenty of “big car” features, such as the new x-touch multimedia system with MirrorLink function for smart connection of mobile phones.

New Aygo is also the first in its class to offer a rearview camera and it can be specified with Smart Entry and push button start.

New Aygo is designed above all to be fun – to own and to drive – while maintaining its established high value price tag and running costs.

New Aygo hits the road in the UK from 1 July with on-the-road prices from £8,595 – reduced to £7,995 with the benefit of a £600 customer saving offer.

August/September 2014 65

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:29

Page 66

MOTORING

Mercedes-Benz C-Class named top family car ercedes-Benz has risen up the rankings in the latest What Car? / JD Power ownership satisfaction survey - claiming third place overall and scooping the top family car position with the C-Class.

Mercedes-Benz featured prominently in a survey taking in the views of over 15,000 owners of cars registered between January 2011 and December 2012 and covering 27 different car brands. Focusing on a diverse range of attributes, from reliability and quality to comfort, performance and economy, the survey is the most detailed and comprehensive of its kind.

The C-Class finished in fourth place, making it the UK’s most satisfying family car, according to the owners surveyed by JD Power and What Car? Particular praise focused on its efficient and powerful range of engines, the comfort features and its styling.

M

66 August/September 2014

Gary Savage, CEO of Mercedes-Benz UK Limited, said: ‘Winning the family car class is an achievement we’re proud of – not least because it’s possibly the most demanding segment of them all. Our customers rightly depend on their Mercedes-Benz and our dealers work hard to exceed expectations and make the ownership experience as enjoyable and reliable as the cars themselves. Likewise, our engineers and designers go to extraordinary lengths to ensure our cars meet the exacting standards of safety, comfort, versatility and quality expected of any Mercedes-Benz relied on to carry families day in, day out.’

Launched in 2007, the 204 series C-Class accounted for over 165,000 registrations in the UK and 2.4 million registrations globally, making it the most popular single model in the MercedesBenz range during this time.

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:30

Page 67

w l Ne ode M

The new C-Class Saloon.

From only £329 per month.

Drayton

Eye-catching looks. Innovative technology. Extraordinary comfort. Remarkable efficiency.

The new C-Class Saloon combines all these and more to provide an exceptional driving experience.

The new C-Class Saloon has now arrived at the dealership and is available to test drive.

Representative example for a Mercedes-Benz New C 200 SE Saloon Manual* Monthly Payments

£329.00

Total Deposit

£5,175.06

Total Amount Payable

£30,369.06

On the Road Price

£27,500.00

Number of Payments

36

Credit Acceptance Fee

£180.00

Customer Deposit

£3,999.00

Optional Final Payment

£13,075.00

Purchase Activation Fee

£95.00

Retailer Deposit Contribution

£1,176.06

Amount of Credit

£22,324.94

Fixed Interest Rate

4.82%

APR Representative 5.5%

Call us on 01785 748268 to book your test drive.

Drayton Group Mercedes-Benz of Stafford

Drayton Group

Station Garage, Victoria Road, Stafford, Staffordshire ST16 2DT 01785 748268 www.draytongroup.co.uk Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the new C-Class range: urban 41.5(6.8)-58.9(4.8), extra urban 64.2(4.4)-83.1(3.4), combined 53.3(5.3)-70.6(4.0). CO2 emissions 123-103 g/km.

Model in image shown is the C 200 BlueTEC AMG Line Saloon at £389 per month. *Annual mileage for the New C 200 SE is 10,000 miles. Credit Acceptance Fee payable with first payment. Quotations are based on a 3 year PCP at 10,000 miles per annum. All quotations are subject to approval and vehicles must be ordered between 01.07.2014 and 30.09.2014 and registered before 31.12.2014, subject to availability. Excess mileage charges apply. Amount of dealer deposit allowance dependent on model. All finance examples are 36 months and subject to the acceptance and purchase fees. Finance available from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Ltd, MK15 8BA. Model images shown for demonstration purposes only. Finance subject to status. Guarantees and indemnities may be required.

Stone Life Aug Sept 2014:Layout 1

25/7/14

10:30

Page 68