Stone
& Eccleshall DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
an M d err H y ap C py hr i N stm ew a Y s ea r
Life
A bright beginning to festive season Lights switch on starts countdown to Christmas
GENEROUS SHOPPERS BOOST THE COFFERS Thousands raised for cancer charities
WIN
• A BOARD GAME BY QUIZ-MASTER PAUL STEELE • A BEAUTY TREATMENT AT REJUVENETICS
26 HIGH STREET, STONE, STAFFORDSHIRE, ST15 8AW
T: 01785 819 981
WWW.PLANTSTHEJEWELLERS.CO.UK
Season’s greetings
EDITOR’S LETTER
Belinda Hargreaves Contents Editor life@timesandecho.co.uk Sophie Cotton & Tracey Redfern Design & Production Jane Walters Advertising Manager Tel: 07817 128582 jane@timesandecho.co.uk Tom Brian Advertising Sales Tel: 07855 242693 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 Facebook - Search for Stone and Eccleshall Life
t's all getting lovely and festive in our beautiful area of middle England and in this edition of Stone & Eccleshall Life Magazine we take a look at the illuminating evening of the Christmas Lights Switch On which kicked off the festivities in Stone in November. And there's more festive fun to come! From Christmas Markets and Panto entertainment – take a look at our new What's On feature. Also in this edition, we take a look at the sterling work of two charity stalwarts raising funds for cancer charities; as well as the wordsmith talents of two local authors – each with a different focus in their debut publications. One commemorating policemen who died during the two world wars and the other focusing on 18th and 19th century history with fictional twists to their tales. We have two competitions for readers to take part in - the chance to win a new board game which has been produced by our very own quiz-master, and there's also a beauty treatment worth £80 up for grabs. Community groups are, once again, at the forefront of the coverage in our publication. From the activities of a young farmers club to meeting reports from local Women's Institutes, and from an awareness walk by a lions club to a society's flower show - there's plenty to read about life in Stone, Eccleshall and surrounding areas. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone from all at Stone & Eccleshall Life Cover photo courtesy Magazine. of Noel Bennett noelbennettphotography.co.uk Until next time – 01785 813888 take care!
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Belinda
December 2017/January 2018 5
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• 6 teams of expert carpet fitters • Uplift and remove old carpet. • Remove and replace furniture • Vacuum on request • Home visits and free estimates • Delivery anytime to suit you
• CARPETS FROM £2.99 • UNDERLAY FROM £2.99 • LAMINATE FLOORING • CUSHION FLOORING • KARNDEAN FLOORING FROM £4.99 FREE GRIPPER RODS & DOOR STRIPS WITH EVERY SALE ON PRODUCTION OF THIS ADVERT ALSO WE WILL TURN YOUR WASTE OFF-CUTS INTO RUGS/MATS
FREE OF CHARGE (MAX OF 4) 10b The Fillybrooks, Stone, Staffs, ST15 0DJ. Tel: 01785 813596 or 813339 Open Monday to Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm (Disabled access • Free off road parking)
Also at 38/42 High Street, Wolstanton, Staffs, ST5 0HE Tel 01782 204060 6 December 2017/January 2018
Dec 2017 & Jan 2018
Rejuvenetics..............................................32
Editor’s Letter .............................................5
Stone Chrysanthemum and Dahlia Society.41
Stone Advent Calendar .............................10
Win a Board Game ...................................48
What’s On ..................................................12
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust .....................50
Stone Christmas Lights ..............................8
Stone Community Hub..............................11
Recipe ........................................................13
Stone Food & Drink Festival.....................14 Stage Directions ........................................16
CONTENTS
Eccleshall Dental Clinic ............................31
Stone Lions Club.......................................33
Local Authors............................................36 Senior Staffy Club .....................................38 Flower Demonstration .............................40
Gardening .................................................44 Quiz Corner...............................................49
Back2Back Gymnastics .............................51
The Women’s Institute .............................52
Stone Young Farmers ...............................54
Slater’s Village...........................................18
Family Law................................................55
Health and Wellbeing ...............................24
Investment Matters...................................57
Charity Fundraising..................................22 Butterfly Beauty........................................26
Legal Matters ............................................56 Motoring ...................................................58
Stafford Fireplaces & Stoves
39 GAOL ROAD, STAFFORD, ST16 3AR
Tel: 01785 211 554 • www.staffordfireplaces.co.uk Open Monday-Saturday 9.30am-5pm, closed Sundays, open in evening by appointment
December 2017/January 2018 7
Illuminating festive fun STONE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
housands turned out to celebrate the start of the festive season in Stone. The town's Christmas lights Switch On event took place on the evening of Thursday November 16. Many families enjoyed the multitude of activities on offer. There was fairground rides, music and all the festive fun of a switch on event including a visit from Father Christmas himself. Taking place in Stone town centre, the event also included stalls hosted by community groups.
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STONE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
December 2017/January 2018 9
Christmas characters unveiled STONE ADVENT CALENDAR
special festive initiative is back in town for its eighth year. The Stone Advent Calendar will begin on Friday December 1 and involve 23 businesses hosting displays which have been created by 23 different community organisations. The festive fun, which is organised by Christ Church Stone, will this year be themed around the cast of the real Christmas Story including characters such as Mary, Joseph, Angels, the Three Wise Men, and of course Baby Jesus. Each day of advent in the run up to Christmas Day, at 11am, will see a new display unveiled starting with a display by St Michael's First School
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Date Day Host
Creator
at Co-op Funeral. Organiser Helen Bowes said: “As in previous years the Community Advent Calendar in Stone will be opened on each day in December around the town. “This is the eighth year of the Advent Calendar and we thank all the businesses who host the windows and the schools, nurseries and other organisations who create the windows for us. “Our theme this year is the 'Christmas Cast' all the characters involved in the Biblical Christmas story. “We would love people to come along each day in December at 11am to join in our openings.”
Character
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thur Fri
Co-op Funeral St Michaels 1st school Isaiah Stone Library Hub Craft Group Elizabeth Crown & Anchor Meaford Fields Day Nursery Zechariah Dunoon Dunoon John Simply Petals Oaktree Farm Nazareth Lock-Keepers Salon St Dominics Primary The Angel Gabriel Shear Genius Christ Church Academy Mary Home and Colour Alleynes Joseph The Lounge Meaford Day Nursery Caesar Augustus The Mill Restaurant Oulton Church Donkey Mayfairs Oulton 1st School Bethlehem Cats Protection Christ Church 1st School Innkeeper John Burtons Pirehill 1st school Jesus Katherine House Walton Priory Sheep The Royal Exchange St Dominics Priory School Angels Smarty’s Day Nursery Shepherds Outdoor Pursuits Star Inn Women's Institute Cattle/ox Maison Jacqueline Oulton Playroup Wise men Children's Society Trinity Skills for Life Herod M.Viron Phone Shop Little Stars Star Stone Pharmacy Mumbles Camels Peter Bowers Opt. Giggles and Wiggles Simeon
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Christ Church
Carol Singing Walk to end at Christ Church
10 December 2017/January 2018
Christmas Carol Unto us a Child is born What child is this? O Come all ye Faithful Go tell it on the mountain On Christmas night all Christians sing Angels from the Realms of Glory The Virgin Mary had a baby boy Joy to the world Silent night Little Donkey O Little Town of Bethlehem In the bleak mid-winter Little Jesus sweetly sleep While Shepherds watched Hark the Herald Angels Sing The First Nowell Away in a Manger As with Gladness Unto us a boy is born It was on a starry night We three Kings I saw three ships
Whole cast – Once in Royal David’s City Nativity scene – Ding Dong Merrily on High Bells ringing out
HUB GRUB ON OFFER THANKS TO FOUNDATION
STONE COMMUNITY HUB
tone Community Hub has received £1,500 to fund a hot healthy meal once a week for those who are struggling due to financial hardship or lack of knowledge/confidence in cooking. Hub Grub is now on offer on Mondays from 12.30pm to 1.30pm at the Lichfield Street venue. The donation was provided by the Santander Foundation, which offers Discovery Grants to UK registered charities for projects that help disadvantaged people in local communities. Stone Community Hub is an independent registered charity dedicated to improving the lives of residents of Stone and its surrounding villages by providing support and advice in times of need. The Hub provides a place to meet and discuss opportunities every morning (except Thursdays) from 10am until 1pm at the Frank Jordan Centre. Everything it does is in pursuit of its objective “Making Lives Better”. Karen Wardell, manager at Stone Community Hub, said: “Most of us will, at times, struggle for one reason or another and the Hub is a lifeline for many. “This grant is allowing the Hub to better serve
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those who are struggling in Stone. The money is being used to source the food and cover overheads. “The benefits of running the project include improving physical and mental health plus greater confidence in cooking meals at home.” The Hub welcomes more than 200 visitors a month. No referrals are needed to make the most of Hub Grub, people can just turn up. Amy Slack, Manager at the Santander Foundation said: “The Santander Foundation makes hundreds of donations every year to good causes throughout the UK. “Our branch is committed to playing a key part in the community and we are delighted to be supporting Stone Community Hub, and hope the donation makes a real difference to local people.” For more information about Stone Community Hub call 01785 812417.
December 2017/January 2018 11
What’s on
DEC/JAN
e If you’d like to se ed ur your event feat page, on the What’s On ail life@ remember to em .uk timesandecho.co
Sandon Hal l, Sandon. • Christmas H orse and Carr iage Rides. Sa November 25 turd – Sunday Dec ember 3. 10am ay 4pm. • Santa at Sa ndon. Saturd ay December 2 Sunday Decem and ber 3. 10am-5 pm. • A Very Mag ical Christmas . M and Christm usical theatre as classics. W ednesday Dec 13. 8pm-10p ember m. • Carols by Ca ndlelight. Tu es day Decembe 7.30pm-10pm r 19. . • Charles Dic kens: Terror on th December 22 . 7.15pm-9.30p e Tracks. Friday m. Details: www .sandonhall.c o.uk or 0188 508004. 9
ber turday Decem Barlaston as Market. Sa m st ri Ch e • Villag . 9. 10am-1pm eMarket : ls Detai lastonVillag ok.com/Bar www.facebo
Stone Revellers • Red Riding Hood an d the Enchanted Chopper at St Micha el's Hall in Stone. Wednesday December 6 – Saturday Decem ber 9. 7.30pm each day plus Saturday Matin ee at 2.30pm. Details: www.stonere vellers.org.uk or 017 85 817307.
12 December 2017/January 2018
World of W • Christmas edgwood, Barlast on. Market. T hursday D – Sunday ecember 7 Dec 12pm-8pm ember 10. Thurs an d Fri: .S • Christmas at and Sun: 10am-4 pm. Demonstra Teas. Dec tions and ember 6 w Afternoon ith Jacquel and A Tou ine Owen ch of Frost . December Kate Russ ell & Patti 13 with Dawson an Georgian dA or Regency Christmas 12pm. . Starting at Details: w ww.world ofwedgwo 01782 282 o d .c 986. om or
Creamy smoked salmon, leek and potato soup
RECIPE
Ingredients • large knob of butter • 2 large leeks, halved and finely sliced • 1 bay leaf • 1kg floury potatoes, diced • 1 litre chicken or vegetable stock • 100ml double cream • 200 g smoked salmon, cut into strips • small bung chives, snipped
Method Heat the butter in a large saucepan and add the leeks and bay leaf. Cook over a low heat for 8-10 mins or until the leek is really soft, then stir through the potatoes until coated in the butter. Pour over the stock and cream and bring to the simmer, then gently bubble for 10-15 mins until the potatoes are really tender. If freezing at this stage, slightly under-cook the potatoes, then
Good beer in Stone and surrounding areas
number of 'watering holes' in Stone have been recognised in the latest CAMRA Good Beer Guide. The 2018 edition of the national publication has listed three venues within Stone as being good suppliers of real ale. These include: The Borehole, Royal Exchange and The Swan Inn. In surrounding areas the following have been included in the 2018 Good Beer Guide: Brushman's Arms in Oulton, Green Man in Milwich, and Hollybush Inn in Salt. Meanwhile in our neighbouring town of Stafford, the following are included: Floodgate Ale House, Greyhound, King's Arms. Market Vaults, Olde Rose & Crown, Picture House, Spittal Brook, and The Sun. Breweries within the area which have also been included in the publication are: Lymestone in Stone and Slater's in Stafford.
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defrost and bring back to a simmer to finish cooking them and continue the recipe. Add two-thirds of the smoked salmon, stir through and season. Serve the soup in deep bowls with the remaining smoked salmon and snipped chives on the top.
CHRISTMAS IS COMING... So don't forget that you can get all your Christmas beers here at the Lymestone Brewery and at any of our 3 pubs
• The Lymestone Vaults, Newcastle • The Borehole, Stone • The Quiet Woman, Leek We stock all of our beer in bottles, which can be purchased individually, as a 3 bottle gift pack or as a case of 12 bottles Your party beers can also be purchased in 9 pint, 18 pint and 36 pint bag in boxes! (pre-order is required) We now have our Stray Cat Strut lager in bottle and stock a small range of bottled ciders too. Please contact the brewery to place your order for collection
FREE LOCAL DELIVERY FOR ORDERS OVER £50 Unit 2 Mount Road Industrial Estate, Mount Road, Stone, ST15 8LL
Tel: 01785 813581 December 2017/January 2018 13
BUSTLING FESTIVAL FOR ALL STONE FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL
here was certainly a wide variety of culinary delights on offer at this year's Stone Food & Drink Festival. And a multitude of beverages – from the soft, hot and alcoholic kind – available for festival goers to try and buy. The wet weather over the three-day festival, which took place at it's regular venue of Westbridge Park in Stone, did not deter the thousands of families who visited the food and drink extravaganza. At the height of the festival, there was a long
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14 December 2017/January 2018
queue of visitors waiting to get in the site to browse the many stalls and displays and furthermore enjoy the wide range of food demonstrations, live music and activities. The Stone Food & Drink Festival is run by a non-profit organisation which was founded in 2004 to bring the community together to celebrate the very best of local produce. Since the first event in 2005, the festival has gone from strength to strength. Festival Chairman, Richard Stevens, said: “This year we experienced the most amazing weekend. Although the numbers are still being crunched, it's already evident that we welcomed more people to the festival than ever before. We think in the region of 18,000 passed through the gates of Westbridge Park over the three days. “Although the weather was not especially kind, it did little to dampen the spirits of some very happy festival goers.” Many businesses across Stone also joined in on the food and drink celebration with a range of activities such as an ale trail, beer tasting, afternoon teas, and special themed nights.
ALL TASTE BUDS
December 2017/January 2018 15
Stage Directions
by Richard Lane
GATEHOUSE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL PANTO ollowing the box office smash hit that was Aladdin, the production team at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre have recently announced the casts list for this season’s show, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood – the rock ‘n’ roll panto! Sandy Grigelis as Robin Hood will be leading the multi talented cast. The show will be the sixth consecutive rock ‘n’ roll panto at the Gatehouse Theatre since its return in 2012. This hilarious version of the traditional tale provides a rock ‘n’ rolling rollercoaster of an adventure story, as Robin Hood attempts to outwit the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, free the unfortunate Babes and
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Sandy Grigelis 16 December 2017/January 2018
their outrageous, oversized Nanny, Nellie Nightnurse, and marry the beautiful Maid Marion. The result is a fast, furious and funny feast of festive entertainment, designed to delight all the family, with a talented cast of actor/musicians serving up over twenty rock and soul classic songs, including The Hippy Hippy Shake; I Shot the Sheriff; Girls Just Want To Have Fun; Kiss; Born to Run; Signed, Sealed, Delivered and many, many more. This year Stafford Gatehouse Theatre welcomes back the critically-acclaimed Creative Team behind last season’s show: Director Rob Salmon, Musical Director Craig Adams and Choreographer Verity Bray. Joining them will be a host of new (and one or two old) faces, comprising the cast of Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood… Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood – the rock ‘n’ roll panto will open on Thursday 7th December 2017 and run until Sunday 7th January 2018. Tickets are priced at £20 adult / £15.50 concessions / £66 family, with school and group discounts available via the box office only. Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood will also see the return of the ever popular late night adult only performances. Due to increased demand for these shows, an extra date has been added to the performance schedule for 2017/18, meaning for the first time there will be three adult only performances on Wednesday 3rd, Thursday 4th and Friday 5th January 2018. Tickets can be booked by calling the box office on 01785 619080 or by visiting www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk
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Moddershall Valley Shopping Village & Trout Farm, Stone, Staffs ST15 8TB Tel: Jessica Whitney on 07713 511542 December 2017/January 2018 17
SLATER’S VILLAGE
Slater's Village is a lovely haven for shoppers – and also diners. It is situated along Stone Road at Baldwins Gate near Newcastle-under-Lyme and is housed within a former Shippon (cow shed). Behind the 19th century facades of this enchanting hamlet visitors can discover a variety of specialist businesses and brand quality retailers offering an impressive selection of quality goods, products and services. Opening times for Slater's Village are Tuesday to Sunday and every Bank Holiday from 10am until 5pm – with longer hours for the eateries. There will also be special festive opening times on Thursdays: December 7, 14 and 21 when businesses will be open until 8pm. There will be a magical Christmas theme with mince pies on offer for all shoppers. For further details visit www.slaterscountryinn.co.uk STOCKIST OF: PILGRIM | COEUR DE LION DANSK | RAVINALA | SOAKE | ST EVAL
FINE JEWELLERY, EXQUISITE ACCESSORIES AND BEAUTIFUL GIFTS
SLATERS CRAFT VILLAGE, STONE ROAD, BALDWINS GATE, NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME, STAFFORDSHIRE, ST5 5ED
07923 996509 WWW.LAUVAUX.CO.UK FIONA@LAUVAUX.CO.UK
18 December 2017/January 2018
A MAGICA FOR LAUVAUX Lauvaux opened its doors in Slaters Village in August this year and offers a range of stylish jewellery, beautiful accessories and unique gifts at a price to suit most pockets. Business owner Fiona Hodgkinson said: “This is the first time I have ever ventured into the retail world but the Slater's community have made me feel very welcome.” Brands at Lauvaux include Coeur de Lion, Pilgrim, Dansk, St Eval, Soake and Watch This Space. Including within, in the run up to Christmas, are a lovely variety of festive gifts for your loved ones. Fiona added: “I would to like thank everyone who has visited Lauvaux in 2017 and I send out a warm welcome to customers old and new in 2018. Happy Christmas.”
SLATER’S VILLAGE
AL HAVEN R SHOPPERS
JR'S TEXAS SMOKEHOUSE Staff at this lovely eatery at Slater's are very passionate about authentic Texas BBQ and slow smoked meats. They combine the very best produce from the heart of the English countryside with the traditional techniques from the heart of Texas. The venue also offers private catering for parties, wedding and private functions, prepackaged meats, side and sauces for your own backyard barbecue and custom smoking for local pubs, restaurants and caterers. “Our food is our passion – we love the art of slow smoking the very best produce and turning it into something heavenly.”
A taste of texas THE NEW EATERY AT SLATER’S CRAFT VILLAGE
Come and try our exciting menu that includes: • British Fayre • Texas Classics and • New Brit-Tex Fusion Dishes FOR BOOKINGS AND ENQUIRIES PLEASE CALL 01782 680536 @jrstexas www.jrstexas.co.uk
Stone Road, Baldwins Gate, Newcastle under Lyme, ST5 5ED December 2017/January 2018 19
SLATER’S VILLAGE
THE LITTLE WHITE COTTAGE
Clothing by A Postcard from Brighton, Pomodoro, Mat Fashion & JayLey Italian knitwear Eliza Gracious Jewellery
facebook.com/thelittlewhitecottage
Country Gallery High quality picture restoration service for oil paintings, watercolours and prints • No matter how damaged, old, dusty or discoloured • They can be restored and cleaned to their original condition and colour
Please call 07746 001904 or 01630 647345 for an appointment Slaters Village, Stone Road, Baldwins Gate, Newcastle-underLyme, Staffs, ST5 5ED
20 December 2017/January 2018
The Little White Cottage is a family run business which began 15 years ago and specialises in unique and affordable ladies clothing and accessories. Brands are sourced carefully and staff look for flattering styles, gorgeous fabrics and prints. Many of their brands are UK based brands and include: Jayley Collection, A Postcard from Brighton, Pomodoro, Bella Blue, Mat fashion. Mother-of-four Della runs the business with her sons. She said: “Our customers love the relaxed atmosphere here, where they can purchase whilst having a coffee and a chat, without the worry and hassle that high street shopping brings. “I would like to wish all our customers, past, present and future a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.”
COUNTRY GALLERY Professional artist Derek Shapiro has a working gallery at Slater’s Village, where visitors can view a varied collection of works covering a variety of subjects which include Still Life, Landscape, Animal and figurative paintings. Derek specialises in commissioned work and is happy painting any subject. Visitors will also find a selection of limited edition lost wax bronzes that compliment his paintings and a picture framing service. As well as paintings, Derek offers a high quality restoration service for oil paintings and watercolours, no matter how old and damaged. You can telephone Derek to make an appointment on 07746 001904. Take a look at Derek's website www.shapirofineart.com to gain a full insight and appreciation of his variety of fine paintings.
SLATER’S VILLAGE
TIFKIMS A new business to Slater's is Tifkims which opened its doors in November and offers fine chocolates, confectionery and sugarcraft. Cake decorating has always been a passion of Sally Jones, having made and designed celebration cakes for friends and family for many years. Sally said: “I have always wanted to own my own shop and Slater’s seemed like the ideal location. I am providing beautiful bespoke decorated celebration cakes, and I am also stocking materials and toppers for those who wish to decorate cakes themselves.” Sally has a section of cakes displayed in her shop to provide ideas and examples of her work plus edible lace and flowers can be made to order. She said: “My other great passion is chocolate and I am selling a wide range of fine delicious loose chocolates and confectionery.” Sally is also offering pre-boxed chocolates, homemade brandy soaked Christmas cakes, lovely stocking fillers and much more. Sally added: “Christmas is a perfect time to spoil yourselves, family and friends. There's something here for everyone to enjoy. “I look forward to meeting you all. Don’t forget browsing is free and if I haven’t got what you want, I will do my best to get it.”
Tifkims Fine Chocolates (loose & boxed), Confectionery, Sugarcraft, Celebration Cakes, Bespoke Wedding Cakes & Favours
Now open at Slaters Craft Village Stone Road, Baldwins Gate, Newcastle-under-Lyme ST5 5ED T. 07949 320 793 E. tifkims@ outlook.com
ORIENTAL INTERIORS Oriental Interiors is a family run business which was established 28 years ago. The furniture business has thrived as a company because of their meticulous endeavour to provide the upmost in quality and service and excellent prices. Oriental Interiors, which also has an outlet at Chester, has been located at Slater's Shopping village for 14 years and offers a wide range of products including lighting, modern furniture, oriental lacquer furniture, garden ornaments and much more. The business currently has a range of furniture which is 100% solid oak called 'The Charnes' exclusively available through their shop at Slater's. Customers are being invited to take this advert with them to Oriental Interiors to gain a 10% reduction on this range of furniture which has been handmade creating the unmistakable feel of quality and attentiveness the business themselves convey.
10% OFF
WITH THIS ADVERT
December 2017/January 2018 21
CHARITY FUNDRAISING
Charity stalwart raises thousands
festive shopping extravaganza organised by Audrey Shenton has raised thousands of pounds over many years for Cancer Research UK. The latest event took place on November 15 at Baden Hall Clubhouse in Eccleshall at which there were around 37 stalls selling various products including wine, cheese, chocolates, plants, Cancer Research Christmas cards, fashion and beauty items and many more. Audrey is supported by Sally Allman who takes care of all the catering needs. Audrey also has a fantastic group of friends whose help and support is essential to the success of her events. Audrey started fundraising for this charity in memory of her son Nicholas who sadly passed away in his early twenties after losing his battle with spinal cancer.
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Audrey said: “I started in a small way by doing coffee mornings with my friend Gleide Reid at her home in Lightwood before progressing to larger events at Baden Hall for which we are so truly grateful to Jamie, Debbie, and Jonty Goucher for their kindness and generosity for allowing us to use the clubhouse for this event.” Audrey, who lives in Oulton Heath in Stone, says Cancer Research UK is a charity that she is so passionate about. She said: “The charity is so vital in helping to fight this dreadful disease and help save lives. “Our annual fundraising events are always an enjoyable shopping experience that take place every November. Anyone who would like to join us would be made very welcome.” Anyone interested in getting involved can email Audrey at audjohn216@gmail.com.
SHOPPERS HELP RAISE CASH FOR CHARITY A
CHARITY FUNDRAISING
shopping extravaganza has raised thousands of pounds for a breast cancer charity. The event was held at The Moat House, Acton Trussell and was organised by the Staffordshire Breast Cancer Now Group. Guests to the venue were able to browse many stalls which offered an array of wares from clothing and portraits to gardening accessories and cosmetics. Staffordshire Breast Cancer Now Group committee member Liz Osborn, of Bradley, said: “We would like to thank all the ladies who made cakes for the cake stall including all committee members, Little G's & Things for organising the Shopping Stalls and of course the Lewis Partnership and staff at The Moat House Hotel, Acton Trussell for being so helpful and cooperative in the organisation.” The fund-raising group also organised a Lunch in aid of Breast Cancer Now on Wednesday November 29, also at the Moat House. This fund-raiser included a two-course lunch as well as a glass of Bucks Fizz on arrival for guests. Liz added: “Our group started in 1999 with our first event being a Promise Auction and
Lunch at The Moat House and our first Ball was in 2000 at the County Showground. “We started with quite a large committee but now quite small but always welcome new members and helpers if anyone wants to contact me at louo926@btinternet.com or 01785 780022.” The Staffordshire group was presented with a special edition Emma Bridgwater Bowl by our CE Baroness Delyth Morgan at the 2017 Chelsea Flower Show where Breast Cancer Now has a specially designed garden.
Staffordshire Group – Committee members Liz Osborn and Liz Sands pictured with Baroness Morgan.
December 2017/January 2018 23
Healthy gift shopping for Christmas HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Hints and tips on wellbeing with Diane Connor FdSc MFHT
t’s that time of year again, yes Christmas is not far away. What sort of a gift buyer are you? Are you super organised and already have all your presents purchased and wrapped or are you still pondering what to buy? Here are a few healthy ideas for your family and friends.
Treat your friend to an Indian Head massage Ideal for releasing neck and shoulder tension and headaches.
Treat the lady in your life to a Relaxing Reflexology Treatment Foot spa with peppermint oil to soothe and relax tired aching feet followed by a foot massage, reflexology treatment and ten blissful minutes of Reiki healing.
Don’t forget to treat yourself All the above treatments can be purchased by Gift Voucher at Angelina Holistic Therapies.
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Treat the man in your life to a Rosemary and Chamomile Aromatherapy Massage Ideal for muscular aches and pains and also incredibly relaxing. Includes a free 30ml jar of Rosemary and Chamomile Body Balm.
Treat your Grandparents to a lovely Lavender Hand Reflexology Great for stiff knuckles and joints, very soothing and relaxing.
ANGELINA HOLISTIC THERAPIES DIANE CONNOR FDSC, MFHT
07967 434232 Mount Street, Stone • www.angelinaholistictherapies.net
CHRISTMAS TREAT
RELAXING REFLEXOLOGY (inc. foot spa, foot massage and reflexology)
Special offer £35 (usually £42) Christmas Gift Vouchers 10% Discount Valid until 31st January 2018
24 December 2017/January 2018
If you are looking for a stocking filler or present for the children to give to their teacher then Rose and Frankincense Face Cream or Lavender Hand Balm is ideal £5 for 30ml jar. No chemicals, all completely natural and contain pure aromatherapy essential oils.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
LIFE MAGAZINES
FREE TO READ at issuu.com/timesechoandlife ISSU E8
Stoneife shall & Eccle 7 AY 201 APRIL/M
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MAY/JUNE 2017
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NEC Tickets - BBC Good Food Show & BBC Gardeners’ World Live
STAFFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW Plan ahead to make the most of your day out
Times, Echo & Life Publications, 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 1BD • Tel: 01538 752214 www.timesechoandlife.co.uk • life@timesandecho.co.uk Search Facebook for Leek Life, Newcastle Life and Stone & Eccleshall Life
TITTENSOR P O D I AT RY
Offering various treatments: nail cut & treatment of skin & nail infections, removal of hard skin & corns, verruca treatment, ingrowing toenails, nail surgery.
• OVER 15 YEARS OF NHS EXPERIENCE • BACHELOR HONOURS DEGREE IN PODIATRY MEDICINE
Now recruiting new patients on Denplan.
A practice that is committed to your complete oral health care. Our members and visitors are always talking about our warm and friendly approach. Read the testimonials and experience the unique care for yourself. Be in charge of your dental treatment with our easy flexible plans. Dr Mohammed Hirji BSc (Hons), Mphil (med), BDS, GDL/LLB (Hons), LPC, GDC 72668.
For an appointment please call
Leila Burgess mobile: 07946 353816 (please leave a message & you will be contacted)
20 Bracken Close, Copeland Avenue, Winghouse Lane, Tittensor, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST12-9JD Member of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists and HCPC registered
01785 812412 8 The Fillybrooks, Stone, ST15 0DJ www.fillybrookhouse.co.uk info@fillybrookhouse.co.uk December 2017/January 2018 25
Butterfly Beauty 9 Radford Street, Stone, Staffordshire, ST15 8DA.
01785 874066
Dermalogica, Sienna X Mii Cosmetics Stocking
26 December 2017/January 2018
Back home
A Stone beautician has come back Charlotte Gerrity, of Butterfly Be room within Simon David Hairdr Charlotte, who has been in the offering a range of treatments fro to Dermalogica Facials, Shellac N She is fully qualified to Level 2 have trained to high levels as I ha spas and Hoar Cross Hall. I'm alw to date.� Charlotte has also worked at C
me in Stone for beautician Charlotte
e back to her home town. ly Beauty, opened her new treatment Hairdressing in Stone last month. in the beauty industry for 12 years, is nts from waxing and relaxing massages llac Nails to Sienna X Spray Tanning. evel 2 and 3 in Beauty. She said: “I s I have worked in flag ship Clarins m always training to keep my skills up
d at Clarins Spas in Birmingham and
Chantillys of Stone. She said of being back working in her home town: “I'm really excited to be back in Stone, after all it's where I live. “I love the buzz of Stone and all the familiar faces. I have lived in Stone since I was four years old and I love the area and all it offers.” Charlotte's new workspace is within one room at Radford Street salon. She has different stations for nails, tanning and couch treatment. Her opening hours are Monday to Wednesday from 9am until 6pm, Thursdays 9am-7pm, Fridays 9am-6pm, and Saturdays 9am-4pm. Twenty-nine year old Charlotte added: “I'm professional and really care about people's experiences and treatments and expectations and I think it shows in my work. “It will just be myself working at Butterfly Beauty for now but who knows what the future holds as to whether I will employ anyone to help in the future.” To find out more about Charlotte's Butterfly Beauty offerings, along with opening discount offers, find 'Butterfly Beauty' on the social networking site of Facebook.
December 2017/January 2018 27
28 December 2017/January 2018
December 2017/January 2018 29
Family Dental and Cosmetic Treatments
Christmas Offers
Pola Tooth Whitening (normally £295)
Now £250 Inc. consultation and X-Rays
Enlighten Combination Tooth Whitening (normally £595)
Now £495 Inc. consultation and X-Rays Available until 31st Jan 2018
• Comprehensive new patient examination using digital radiographs • Emergency and late night appointments • IV sedation available for anxious and dental phobic patients • Cutting edge equipment and facilities to aid diagnosis • Trained in cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics • A range of payment plans for all the family, and Interest-free finance • Teeth whitening and cosmetic braces • Dental implants
Principal Dentist Dr Ashok Jakhu and Dr Pritpal Matharu 6 Castle Street, Eccleshall, Staffordshire, ST21 6DF
Tel: 01785 850199 www.eccleshalldentalclinic.co.uk | reception@eccleshalldentalclinic.co.uk Mon 8.30am-8.00pm, Tuesday, Wed, Thur 8.30am-6.00pm, Fri 8.30am-4.30pm Wheelchair access and ample free parking within Eccleshall Christmas opening hours: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Boxing Day Closed (Emergency on–call service) Wed 27th, Thurs 28th, Fri 29th December 8.30am – 5.00pm • Sat 30th December closed (Emergency on–call service) New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day – Closed
30 December 2017/January 2018
ary
WHITER BRIGHTER CHRISTMAS
ECCLESHALL DENTAL CLINIC
ave you always wanted a whiter smile or have your teeth darkened over night? Whatever your reason for wanting whiter teeth, you are not alone. It is estimated that over 100,000 people in Britain had their teeth whitened last year. At Eccleshall Dental Clinic we will firstly carry out a detailed consultation and we will always make sure your whitening is carried out in a safe, professional environment by appropriately trained staff.
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Is Teeth Whitening Safe? Tooth whitening is one of the safest and conservative forms of cosmetic dental treatment allowing the natural colour of your teeth to be lightened without removing any tooth surface. If carried out by a dental professional, tooth whitening is perfectly safe. After a full examination and assessment of your oral health I will discuss with you the options available. Decide which tooth whitening is appropriate for you and develop an overall treatment plan that gives the desired result. Whitening your teeth will not damage the enamel or harm your gums if done correctly. You will get to see on a chart what shade your teeth are before the treatment and what shade you are likely to achieve. At the end of the treatment I will show you the actual result so you can see how effective it was, along with digital before and after images.
How Tooth Whitening Works Whitening will not remove the surface of your teeth or change their shape. It’s often a better option than alternatives such as veneers, because it does not involve permanently altering the tooth’s surface and is easy to look after. Some teeth are yellower or darker than others even when they are quit healthy and teeth tend to get darker as people get older. To whiten the teeth, a whitening gel (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) is applied to your teeth using specially made trays that fit in your mouth, these trays are worn at night. You may experience some sensitivity for a short time during your treatment but this is normal and will soon fade away after you stop whitening your teeth. We use the Enlighten teeth whitening system; it is the only system to guarantee that the teeth will get to a Vita shade B1 which is the whitest shade on a regular dental shade guide. We also offer a basic Pola home teeth whitening service. Teeth whitening will only lighten natural tooth substance. It will not work on any types of false teeth such as fillings, dentures, crowns, and veneers. If your dentures are stained or discoloured, visit your dentist and ask them to be cleaned. Stained veneers, crowns, fillings, bridges or dentures may need
replacing again, ask at your consultation.
Enlighten Combination Tooth Whitening You are given Enlighten tooth whitening syringes to whiten your teeth at home for two weeks. After this a high concentration tooth whitening gel is carefully applied for 2 sessions of 20 minutes in surgery, on the fifteenth day of whitening. The hydrogen peroxide in the gel penetrates the enamel and removes underlying stains and discolouration. The results should last many months depending on your lifestyle. The advantage with combination whitening is that it is done in a controlled and gradual way. These syringes can be purchased at your examination. Pola Tooth Whitening The essence of this technique is that you whiten your teeth at home. We will take impressions of your teeth and from these impressions we will make customised trays. You will be shown how to apply the tooth whitening gel to the trays. We recommend that the gel and the trays should be worn overnight. It should take approximately one week for the results to show (if your teeth are heavily stained you may need to have the combination teeth whitening system). When you achieved the shade that you desire, you will then have to maintain that beautiful bright smile.
Only Trained Dental Professionals can Whiten Teeth The law says that tooth whitening is a dental procedure that should only be offered and carried out by qualified dental professionals. In the UK and some other countries teeth whitening can only legally be carried out by a dentist, dental hygienist or dental therapist. The European Directive on this has been confirmed by the high court. This means that anybody carrying out tooth whitening other than a qualified professional is doing it illegally. Some beauty salons offer tooth whitening, but this is illegal if there is no dental professional present. Beauticians, hairdressers and salon staff will not have the right training and knowledge and won’t be able to help you if something went wrong. If you would like more advice, you can contact the General Dental Council (GDC), the British Dental Association (BDA) or call Eccleshall Dental Clinic on 01785850199 I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the patients of Eccleshall Dental Clinic for your continued support throughout 2017 and wish you all a very happy Christmas and a prosperous new year. Should you require emergency dental treatment over the festive period please do not hesitate to call the practice on 01785 850199 .
December 2017/January 2018 31
REJUVENETICS
“BEAUTY IS MORE THAN JUST SKIN DEEP”
beauty business in Stafford has celebrated four years of offering a variety of treatments to its customers. And the staff at Rejuvenetics in Church Lane, Stafford now have new treatments on offer to add to their portfolio. One such treatment is the M3 Facial Rejuvenation which is a safe and gentle bespoke fusion of Thermo Therapy, Microdermabrasion, Mesotherapy, Non-Surgical Facelift and Cryotherapy. The most complete treatment ever made to provide total skin solutions to combat: Fine lines and wrinkles, Tired sagging skin, Dehydrated skin, Acne and acne scaring, Acne Rosacea, and Pigmentation/sun damage. The treatment has been reviewed and is described as “very relaxing and leaves the skin feeling amazing and glowing. Eyes don't feel as droopy and the treatment comes highly recommended.” Rejuvenetics is owned by Lorraine Tolley, who employs four people at her business which offers beauty, holistic and aesthetics. Lorraine, who has been in the beauty industry since 1991, said: “We offer a full range of beauty but also well-being treatments such as aromatherapy and therapeutic massage, reflexology, Indian head and hot stone massage. “We also offer high end aesthetic treatments which treat more complex needs such as permanent hair removal, thread vein reduction, acne and roscea reduction, skin tag and pigment removal.
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“Our progressive and advanced approach to anti-ageing treatments is very successful.” The team at Rejuvenetics has also developed a skincare range Vs-Age with the help of Harley Street. Lorraine said: “We launched our own brand of cosmeceutical grade products VS-AGE (Very intelligent Skincare versus Ageing) in November 2016. “Made in the UK with advice from Harley Street Skin Clinicians, our products provide advanced skin care and achieve amazing results. “Clients who have used products from high end international ranges are now switching to our products and coming back for more. “We pride ourselves on producing an effective skincare range that is suitable for all skin types including sensitive. “Our products contain advanced active ingredients that are not tested on animals and contain no animal by products. The new technology packaging is clinically sealed to preserve the ingredients whilst also being earth friendly with no outer packaging to discard.” Rejuvenetics won a national Best in UK Beauty Award in 2016 for their treatments and products. Lorraine added: “Our Grade 2 listed building and friendly staff provide a unique environment where clients receive high quality and advanced treatments in a relaxing way. “Harley Street quality treatments in Stafford. Our motto is 'Look good feel good, feel good look good.' Beauty is more than just skin deep.”
Stone & Eccleshall Life Magazine has teamed up with Rejuvenetics to offer one lucky reader a free treatment worth £80. To be in with a chance of winning the M3 Facial Rejuvenation, just answer this question: In which year did Rejuvenetics launch their own brand of cosmeceutical grade products VS-AGE?
Answer........................................................................................Name............................................................................................. Address......................................................................................................................Daytime tel no........................................... Closing date for entries is 5pm on January 1, 2018. Email your answers along with your name, telephone number and address to life@timesandecho.co.uk or post to 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Staffordshire. ST10 1BD 32 December 2017/January 2018
Community comes together to raise awareness
STONE LIONS CLUB
embers of Stone Lions Club were recently joined by Stone Town Mayor, Councillor Jim Davis, guide dog Tango and children from St Michaels First School, Christchurch First School and Walton Priory Middle School for their annual Walk for Sight, which formed part of World Sight Day. A spokesman for Stone Lions Club said: “The problems experienced by the blind and partially sighted has been a cause very close to the hearts of Lions Clubs worldwide since 1925, when Helen Keller challenged the Lions to be “knights of the blind in this crusade against darkness”. “Lions Clubs around the world continue their mission of addressing eye health and promoting research for solutions to preventable eye disease
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Back to school for grandparents
and blindness. “The Lions Sight Savers Programme has facilitated over 207 million treatments for eye disease in the developing world and the use of the ‘white stick’ to identify a person with restricted vision, originally a Lions initiative, is recognized world-wide. “Within the UK, individual Lions Clubs collect used spectacles to be recycled for use in poorer countries and, with the help of local opticians Peter Bowers and Nusyte, and the support of the local community, Stone Lions Club have provided over 13,000 pairs of used spectacles for use in the third world.” For more information about Stone Lions, please call 0845 833 8478.
randparents have been enjoying going 'back to school'. Yarlet School's recent annual Grandparents' Afternoon was a great success. A spokesman at the school said: “This event is a firm favourite in the Yarlet calendar and one which is enjoyed equally by grandparents and pupils. “This year, however, in addition to the headmaster’s speech, grandparents were treated to a musical introduction to the afternoon where Pre-Prep children sang ‘This Little Light of Mine’ followed by the Main School Choir’s beautiful rendition of ‘Thank You for the Music’ “Fortunately, the weather held for the afternoon and grandparents were able to watch a sports fixture as well as tour our lovely school grounds and visit their grand-children's classrooms, with afternoon tea being a lovely way to round off this wonderful occasion.”
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December 2017/January 2018 33
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December 2017/January 2018 35
Honouring the duty of the fallen A LOCAL AUTHORS
n author has created a wonderful tribute to Staffordshire police officers who died in the two World Wars. 'Their Duty Done', which has been written by David Baldwin, also includes tributes to officers in the force who have lost their lives as a result of criminal action. David, who lives in Stafford, is a former policeman himself. He started off his career in the force at Stafford before being promoted to motorway and then moving on to work in Newcastle before becoming an inspector in Stafford. He retired in January 1997. The father-of-two and grandfather-of-five explained how the idea for his book came to fruition: “While serving in Stafford, the then chief constable asked someone to write a list of those who died in the two wars which led to a Service of Dedication and Remembrance in November 1995. “Eight police officers from the Great War were commemorated, and nine from the Second World War. “Four months later a further dedication was held for eight Staffordshire Police officers who lost their lives through criminal action between 1862 and 1986.” However after conducting further research, David discovered that even more police officers had lost their lives during the two wars. He said: “After several years of research I managed to find other men who served in the Staffordshire Constabulary who had lost their lives in the Great War and also discovered the names of the police officers from Stoke-on-Trent who dies in both world wars.” A total of 33 police officers died during the Great War, 14 during the Second World War and
eight were killed on duty. Four commemorative plaques were made listing those officers who had died and a Service of ReDedication was held in November 2011, again at Police headquarters. David said: “Having acquired a large amount of information in order to have the new plaques made, I was 'encouraged' to take it one step further by writing a book about these former police officers who laid their lives for their country and for the community in which they policed.” This involved further research by David, including delving into original material such as newspapers, and also personal recollections and knowledge. David, aged 71, said: “It has taken me years to complete the book but these officers needed to be remembered. When I joined the police force, I was following in the footsteps of these people. “The book is not a history of the two world wars nor is it a history of the three police forces that were serving in Staffordshire but it is about the individual, personal stories of those officers who gave the most valuable gift a person can ever give their country or their society. “Each one of these men were part of our police family and they should never be forgotten. “As a society we tend to take for granted the freedom we have today but the freedom we enjoy has come at a great price.” The 94-page 'Their Duty Done' is priced at £12 and available from Ancient High House in Stafford as well as from Stafford Tiles and Flooring Solutions in Newport Road, Stafford. David has pledged that all profits from the book will be donated to 'Canine Partners'.
David Baldwin, Reverend John Davis MBE (Rural Dean of Stafford), Mike Cunningham (the then Chief Constable of Staffordshire Police) and Bishop of Stafford Rt Reverend Geoffrey Annas.
36 December 2017/January 2018
Steve navigates his way to be published
LOCAL AUTHORS
Stone man has had his first set of short stories published. The Navigator, which has been published by North Staffordshire Press, is a collection of tales by Steve Dyster. The tales are set in the 18th and 19th centuries, as an old bargee looks back on a longlife spent working on the canals that carried the good of industrialisation in a rapidly changing world, before the hand of Victorian respectability laid hold. Steve, a former teacher, said: “I am really excited to have had these stories published. I have always been fascinated by history. I spent 24 years teaching it but historical fiction allows you to tell a few tales too. “I was once told that writers should write about what they know. I was also told that one should write to entertain oneself. I did, but I hope my stories will entertain other people too.” The father-of-one added: “The stories are unashamedly from the lower levels of society, though the rich and wealthy pop-up frequently.
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“In the 21st century we have heard a lot about the 'left behind'. Many of the characters were, or are being, left behind, though some further and more rapidly than others. Others have kept up and a few lead the way into the distance. That has always happened.” Steve hosted a book launch in November at The New Vic Theatre in Newcastle-under-Lyme. Steve said: “It was very well-attended. I gave a short talk about The Navigator. Some of the questions posed in this were whether George III would have been consigned to a council depot in Northamptonshire if Napoleon had invaded and whether a Middlesex magistrate was really sarcastic about folk from Staffordshire.” Steve's The Navigator is priced at £10.99 and available from Amazon or direct from the author via www.stevedyster.com. December 2017/January 2018 37
SENIOR STAFFY CLUB charity is on the look out for dog lovers to help in their work of re-homing pooches. Senior Staffy Club was set up by Kate Lee in 2012 after she adopted two Senior Staffordshire Bull Terriers separately. Kate, who lives in Coppenhall, Stafford, said: “They were the adorable Buster who had been waiting eight months in kennels for a new home, and the beautiful Madge who was in the pound and due to be put to sleep. “Both dogs were never any trouble. They were house trained, not destructive, good with people and other dogs so why were they unwanted? Simply because they were Senior dogs and they were Staffies.” Kate set up Senior Staffy Club to help all the other pooches like them who are searching for rescue help and new homes, and also to promote the Senior Staffies as being adoptable, and not to be written off. Since the first dog was taken in to Senior
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Staffy Club in 2012 the rescue has continued to grow with more seniors being helped and rehomed each year. 2016 saw Senior Staffy Club re-home 46 Seniors to new homes and 2017 is so far proving to be even more successful. Since the club opened its doors over 180 Senior Staffies have been adopted. Kate said: “None of this could be done without all the volunteers who work tirelessly to achieve the Clubs success. “Our charity has no paid staff and has to raise all its own funds. A dedicated committee of 11 are supported by an equally dedicated force of 100 plus volunteers who work upon all aspects of the charity from sorting the paperwork, running the Facebook page through to fundraising, walking and fostering the dogs.” Senior Staffy Club uses boarding kennels based in Hilderstone, near Stone, and Worcester area.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR
SENIOR STAFFIES WHO ARE CURRENTLY
Diesel (aged seven) Diesel is one of our younger ‘Seniors’ who needs an active home. He can be boisterous so best in a home with older children 10-12 years plus and he may be able to live with a female dog. 38 December 2017/January 2018
Henley (aged nine) Very affectionate boy who loves to play with a tennis ball and enjoys his walks. Okay with older children and used to be the only dog in the house.
Snouty (ag
Very lovely lady, well well on lead. Good aro and and in the car
SENIOR STAFFY CLUB Kate further explained: “The seniors are always placed there initially whilst they are further assessed and receive a thorough vet health check, vaccinations, and microchip. “They will be spayed or neutered and receive any other vet treatment needed. They will also be walked on a daily basis by our volunteer walkers. “Whilst the walking is good for the dogs, the one-to-one interaction and socialisation with the walkers really helps the dog to settle and thrive in the kennel environment, until either a foster home or adoptive home is found for them as soon as possible, but we always offer a lifetime back up should they need our help again in the future.” Senior Staffy Club is now known UK wide (and internationally) and the charity has adopters travel many miles to visit and adopt the dogs looking for new homes. The volunteers work with, and have been asked to help, the RSPCA, Dogs Trust and many other rescues to help re-home Senior Staffies, as well as taking in seniors from the stray pounds and from homes where they can no longer be cared for through no fault of their
own. Recently the Senior Staffy Club has acquired its own office base in Stafford and the charity is on the look out for volunteer admin staff to help there. Kate added: “We also always need more volunteer walkers as the more walkers we have the more seniors we can help, and we always need pet free foster homes so that the seniors can move out of kennels into the comfort of a home whilst they wait for their new family.” As well as volunteers we of course are always looking for adopters. Senior Staffy Club does not have set criteria for adopting but prefers to match the right dog to the right home. So we will consider applications from older people, full time workers (where there is someone going in at lunchtime to see the dog) or adopters who live in flats. We will carry out a home visit and guide the adopter to a suitable dog. The further information about the charity go online to www.seniorstaffyclub.co.uk. Alternatively email seniorstaffyclub@hotamil.co.uk or call Kate on 07513 591784.
OR SENIOR DOG CHARITY
TLY IN NEED OF NEW FOREVER HOMES:
(aged 11)
well behaved, walks od around other dogs he car and home.
Sox (aged ten)
Lady (aged 10)
A gentle girl who walks very well on her lead. Likes a cuddle and a fuss. Fine with dogs outside but prefers to be the only dog in the home.
Lady is new to Senior Staffy Club and we are just getting to know her but she is an affectionate girl who will be ready for her new home soon. December 2017/January 2018 39
FLOWER DEMONSTRATION
FLOWERS BRING A MAGICAL EVENING n evening filled with “love, friendship and fellowship” was how Mrs Diana Scott, M.B.E described a fund-raising evening she hosted recently. Walton Community Centre in Stone was the setting for an entertaining flower demonstration
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by Diana. The evening also included music, poetry and several songs that were signed beautifully by students of Midlands Psychology. The evening raised more than £1,000 which is to be divided between Midlands Psychology, Stone Community Hub and St John’s Church.
STONE CHRYSANTHEMUM AND DAHLIA SOCIETY
Colourful show with lots of scent
isitor numbers were up for this year's Annual Open Show of the Stone Chrysanthemum and Dahlia Society which was recently held at Walton Community Centre. Now in its 31st year, the show is well-known in the region with growers coming from all over Staffordshire, the West Midlands and Derbyshire to take part. Chrysanthemums were judged, under the National Chrysanthemum Society Rules, by Mr Arthur Wright and Dahlias by Mr Barry Smith under National Dahlia Society Rules. Stone Town Mayor, councillor Jim Davies, presented the trophies to the winners.
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The Stone Chrysanthemum and Dahlia Society expanded to incorporate the Gardening Club in 2007 and now welcomes all garden enthusiasts whatever their interest. With a membership of over 100 it is a lively and thriving group. Whether you are an armchair gardener, a garden visitor, a novice or enthusiastic allotment holder you are bound to find something of interest in the society's annual programme of events and activities. To find out more about the Stone Chrysanthemum and Dahlia Society go online to www.stonecanddgardenclub.word press.com.
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December 2017/January 2018 43
GARDENING
PUTTING THE PERENNIAL GA
oday I have been marvelling at the brilliant show of colour from our cone flowers (Rudbeckia) and as winter approaches and colour fades it’s time to think about what to cut back and what to leave standing in the perennial garden. Those cone flowers will be left until spring as the seed heads will continue to look interesting and also feed the finches over winter. I get lots of people asking about winter "pruning" of different perennials. It’s not something many books cover. Most leafy perennial plants become dormant over winter and both novice and experienced gardeners are often worried about when and how much to cut back. The short answer is that you can cut down most herbaceous plants as soon as the leaves die off in late autumn to just above the point where new, living growth remains – often at ground level - but getting to know your plants can help you squeeze more enjoyment from them through the winter months. The following methods work well for us but most important is getting to know your garden and its own micro climate. Keep records of what is damaged over winter and what pruning and protection methods work for you. The first consideration is: does it need the extra protection given by the old growth? If you have a particularly cold, frost prone garden or are growing tender perennials it is sometimes worth leaving the top growth on until late winter as this provides a
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44 December 2017/January 2018
little protection to the crown (the part where new shoots and leaves appear from) of the plant. The old shoots trap some warmer air around the plant. This has helped me keep some fairly exotic plants, like the pitcher sage (lepechinia) from Hawaii, through the winter in Cheshire. If you do leave old stems and leaves on over winter, take care to choose a period of frost-free weather in spring when you do cut them back – cutting them back is like taking away their coats all of a sudden – they need time to acclimatise. Will strong winds be a problem? In windy areas it is worth shortening the stems to avoid too much wind rock which will disturb the roots. So, for example tall heleniums, helianthus all get cut down to a few inches above the soil once the leaves have died. Will the stems add interest over winter? Don’t be too hasty to cut everything back: some perennials have wonderfully architectural bones in winter: sea hollies, bergamot, bubble mint and many others have attractive flower stems and seed heads that last through the winter. I simply remove any dead leaves in early winter and then tidy up the stems in early spring. In all cases don’t prune the new, fresh plantlets at the base of the stems. Ornamental grasses always give a good show through the winter. For those that keep green leaves the best treatment is to merely comb out dead leaves and cut out old flower stems in early spring. For ones where the leaves go brown, cut
GARDENING
GARDEN TO BED FOR WINTER back quite hard before new growth starts in spring. I cut tall ones down to 1ft / 30cm high and shorter ones to about 6in / 15cm. Will it help wildlife? Another reason to leave old stems in place until March is to provide a home for ladybirds – plants with hollow stems are ideal hibernating places for them. Also seed heads are a welcome winter food for birds and small mammals. Will it self-seed? Some perennials are shortlived so leaving seed heads on helps ensure the next generation of plants. On the other hand, some plants are best cut back to avoid inferior self-seeds examples include cone flower (Echinacea), Granny’s Bonnet (Aquilegia), Foxgloves, and yarrow (Achillea). Some perennials seed to excess and removing the seed heads stops them from sprouting like mustard and cress all over the garden in the spring. On the other hand, I leave the stems and heads on Verbena to encourage self-seeding of this slightly tender, short-lived flower.
Does it need tidying? With ground hugging or mound forming plants, remove dead or damaged leaves and flower stems in early winter– cutting them back at this time saves damaging fresh leaves in spring. Trailing plants are also best cut back at this time. Some plants will keep leaf over winter but this will become damaged and ugly by the spring so it’s best to cut these back hard (provided they’re hardy). I do this with the evergreen day lilies, whereas Heucheras look good through winter and are best tidied in spring. Once you’ve cut back plants some benefit from a bit of insulation over winter. Shallow rooted plants like Phlox and Heleniums can be mulched with old compost, bark or leaves but watch out for slugs in spring. There is no reason why the perennial garden needs to be bare and barren in winter. There’s plenty to interest the gardener and wildlife if you avoid the urge to cut back too early! Martin Blow
Janet & I run Special Perennials, our website www.specialperennials.com is full of colour photos and growing tips. We sell by mail order and at Plant Hunters’ Fairs only throughout the season. Please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2018: we will be at the Plant Hunters’ Fair at Alderford Lake, Whitchurch on Sunday 18th March, free entry to plant fair; The wonderful Dorothy Clive Garden, TF9 4EU on Easter Sunday/Monday 1st/2nd April fair and gardens £4 (less than half standard price); at Consall Hall Gardens, Wetley Rocks ST9 0AG on Sunday 15th April, gardens and fair entry £3, and at Sugnall Walled Garden, Eccleshall ST21 6NF on Saturday 28th April garden and fair £1. We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect. December 2017/January 2018 45
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December 2017/January 2018 47
It’s game on for quiz-master Paul WIN A BOARD GAME
tone & Eccleshall Life Magazine's very own quiz-master Paul Steele has launched a new board game. The 46-year-old has teamed up with crafty creator of games and gifts Ginger Fox, to produce and launch the new innovative board game 'Which One?'. Paul, who lives in Cheddleton, is no stranger to the quiz world both locally and even internationally as he has written quizzes on a multitude of topics for the likes of Sky, the BBC, American Airlines, and The Sun newspaper, to name but a few. The father-of-two has also worked on many computer games, board games and apps, including Trivial Pursuit, The Weakest Link and Quiz Up and he has supplied questions for the 'Are You Smarter Than A Ten Year Old?' quiz book. Paul's love for quizzes began by attending a pub quiz. He said: “It was 20 years ago when I went to a pub quiz in Stoke. The quiz master at the time gave it up and they needed someone else to take over so I took it on, and then one thing led to another.” 'Which One' is a question and answer game which is aimed at players aged 14 and over and can be played singly, against each other or collaboratively against 'the game'. This make-or-break game has been designed to test players' knowledge as well as their nerves. Simply work out which questions match which answers to win points – but if you match just one question and answer incorrectly,
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you lose everything. Paul said of his debut quiz board game: “I am happy with the end result of 'Which One?'. It is slightly unique and I hope everyone who buys it will be happy with it. “I do have a few more ideas for other board games.” Paul has his new game for sale, with the recommended retail price of £18, at a number of stores including at John Lewis across the country, as well as locally at Gafuzzle in Stanley Street, Leek. Paul is also, through the Stone and Eccleshall Life Magazine, and our sister publication of the Leek Life Magazine, giving away one of his 'Which One?' board games.
To be in with a chance of winning the game, just answer this question:
WHICH SHOP IN LEEK IS SELLING PAUL STEELE’S DEBUT BOARD GAME OF ‘WHICH ONE?’ Answer............................................................................................................................................................................................... Name........................................... Address........................................................................................................................................ .........................................................................................................................Daytime phone no................................................. Please email the above details to life@timesandecho.co.uk or post your entry to Stone & Eccleshall Life Magazine, 18 Tape St, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST10 1BD. Deadline for entries: Friday 15th December 2017. 48 December 2017/January 2018
QUIZ CORNER
Let’s get quizzical COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE
General Knowledge Quiz 1. In computer file-names, what do the letters PDF stand for?
2. What was the first name of the television private investigator Magnum?
3. The action of which 1952 western took place in virtually real time, starting at 10:40 in the morning and ending at five past midday? 5. Which coffee shop franchise shares its name with a character in Herman Melville's novel 'Moby Dick'? 6. Where on the human body would you find the philtrum?
7. Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh are three but who is the fourth 'X Factor' judge this year? 8. Which 'Downton Abbey' actress played Laura Nielson in the 2017 BBC miniseries 'Liar'? 9. Rebecca Rabbit and Suzy Sheep are characters in which children's televison series?
10. Which footballer was handed a two-year ban for drink-driving after being stopped by police in Wilmslow in September?
A 'Christmas' quiz for the festive season 1. In 'A Christmas Carol', what is the first ghost to appear called?
2. What is the little boy's name who builds a snowman that comes to life in the animated version of 'The Snowman'? 3. Which actress who starred as Carrie in the film of the same name in 1976 was born on Christmas Day 1949?
4. In which 1990 Christmas film did Macaulay Culkin first play the character Kevin McAllister?
5. The song 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' comes from which 1944 film? 6. What sauce is commonly eaten with Turkey at Christmas?
7. Who did Tom Cruise get married to on Christmas Eve 1990?
8. According to 'The Christmas Song' what kind of nuts should you be roasting on an open fire? 9. 'Long time ago in Bethlehem, so the Holy Bible said' are lyrics from which Christmas song?
10. In the popular Christmas pantomime who is the son of Widow Twanky?
General Knowledge Answers: 1. Portable Document Format; 2. Thomas; 3. High Noon; 4. It was on the moon; 5. Starbucks; 6. Above your lip; 7. Nicole Scherzinger; 8. Joanne Froggatt; 9. Peppa Pig; 10. Wayne Rooney. Christmas Link Answers: 1. Jacob Marley; 2. James; 3. Sissy Spacek; 4. Home Alone; 5. Meet Me In St. Louis; 6. Cranberry; 7. Nicole Kidman; 8. Chestnuts; 9. Mary's Boy Child; 10. Aladdin.
Quizzes compiled by Paul Steele (Question writer and Quizmaster) from Cheddleton email: pnsteele@aol.com
4. What was unique about Alan Shepard's golf shot on February 6th 1971?
December 2017/January 2018 49
Trust A takes on Bluebell spectacle
STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST
50 December 2017/January 2018
nature reserve close to Stone will provide the dazzling spectacle of spring time bluebells for years to come after the county’s leading nature conservation charity purchased a 29 hectare extension to its Hem Heath Woods nature reserve. Staffordshire Wildlife Trust has purchased the area of the reserve which is currently leased from the Wedgwood Estate. In doing so, the deal will enable the trust to continue managing the woodland and ensure that it remains a place for wildlife and people to visit for future generations. As well as supporting an amazing display of woodland flowers in spring the reserve is also home to a diverse range of woodland birds such as nuthatch, treecreeper and mistle thrush. Hem Heath Woods is an ancient woodland that would take centuries to replace should it be lost. Helen Dale, Head of Conservation Delivery for the trust, said: “The trust has been working for many years at Hem Heath to manage the site to make it better for wildlife and for people to visit and enjoy. “We are very pleased to complete this purchase and would like to thank the team at the Wedgwood Estate for all of their help. They have been very supportive of our management of the site and we look forward to continuing to work alongside them in the future.” Chris Perkins, Head of World of Wedgwood added: “We are delighted with the purchase and really pleased that the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust will be managing the woodland. It is adjacent to World of Wedgwood and many of our visitors also enjoy exploring the area – it is a wonderful complement to the site.”
SPRING INTO THE NEW YEAR WITH NEW CLASSES
BACK2BACK GYMNASTICS
ymnasts are turning cartwheels after a championship standard training school has opened in Stone. Former junior international gymnast Adele Booth has opened Back2Back Gymnastics on the Walton Industrial Estate, Stone. Adele, from Stafford, says Back2Back now fills a need for an international class facility, providing expert coaching for pupils from beginners to aspiring international gymnasts. She said: “Interest in gymnastics has grown massively in the UK but there is a large gap in facilities and a need to raise coaching standards. “Below the national level, training facilities are generally not high and Back2Back was born because I can see a major opportunity to develop a premier gymnastics centre in the heart of England.” Back2Back has opened at Unit 4, Beacon Road, on the Walton Industrial Estate. Adele is working with Ceri Cox, a fellow former British international, and two part-time coaches. Adele and Ceri are British Gymnastics
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qualified coaches. Adele added: “The Walton premises are ideal for a training centre. Along with the gymnastics centre, we have space for a first floor viewing area and a café. “We began classes in early November, initially opening on Mondays to Thursdays and Saturdays. Adele and Ceri trained at Park Wrekin Gymnastics Club together for many years on a county regional and international level and are happy to be giving the same opportunities to children running our own gymnastics club. Adele said: “It is important to start gymnastics from a pre-school age to develop coordination and core strength. Gymnastics provides children with a strong base for all sports. “We are also planning to develop plans for classes for disabled children for 2018 as we feel strongly that there should be equality of opportunity for all.” For further information and to book a class email info@back2backgymnastics.co.uk. Adele Booth and Ceri Cox, of Back2Back Gymnastics, with aspiring gymnasts Hattie Hobson and Keira Mai Mullen, both aged three.
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THE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE
Oulton WI ulton WI had a relaxing evening in September listening to Ron Thomas playing his guitar and telling us briefly about the variety of pieces he played, which ranged from an Argentinian tango to familiar classical pieces and some favourite Beatles tunes. The mood was quite different in October when Donna Maguire provided a hands-on session helping us to make a variety of chocolate truffles: white chocolate with lemon, Bailey's with coconut and rum and raisin. There was lots of laughter and some very sticky hands and we took home our home made truffles, being absolutely certain they were well worth the calories. On November 13th, we had another handson craft session in the village hall: book folding
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Hilderstone WI ilderstone WI was formed in 1934 and we have just celebrated our 83rd birthday. We meet at 7.30pm on the second Tuesday of the month at Hilderstone Village Hall. We have 30 members and really enjoy our varied programme of talks and activities. New members are always very welcome. Our 83rd birthday celebrations contrasted with those for our 1st birthday, back in 1935. Then, a Miss Strachan read extracts from 'The English housewife of 1676' and the evening concluded with dancing and musical chairs. In 2017, our birthday was enjoyed by 30 ladies. Our guest of honour was Reverend Marion Reynolds, Vicar of Fulford and Hilderstone. We all tucked in to the lovely meal provided by our caterer, Rachel Goodwin and her family, followed by a slice of the delicious birthday cake made by our own Anna Davies. Entertainment was provided by John Woodward on keyboard. Members sang along to many of their favourite tunes from the past. However there was no dancing and no musical
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and card making. We also had a coffee morning at The Wheatsheaf in Oulton on Wednesday November 22. December is set to be a busy month: on the 6th we will eat a Christmas meal together at The Wheatsheaf to gather our energy for the 9th when we will prepare and serve our annual Christmas lunch for about 60 villagers. It's hard work but very rewarding. The villagers sit down to eat and we even provide entertainment: reciting comic monologues or enacting humorous short plays. There is much hilarity when we appear in silly costumes or forget our lines. All good for the wonderful community spirit of our village. On Monday, December 11th and Monday, January 8th we have speakers booked for the normal monthly meetings. New members are always welcome. For further information about Oulton Wi contact Mary Cackett on 01785 815697.
chairs. Now it is onwards and upwards to our next milestone in 2018. Why not join us on our journey? If you are interested call Pat on 01785 812580.
THE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE
Barlaston Herons WI n September a fascinating evening was had by the lovely ladies of Barlaston Herons WI. Steve Wood came and gave the ladies a wonderful walk through the history of the Trent and Mersey Canal. He illustrated the historic points with the aid of photographs and documents from 1577 onwards. He discussed the use of the canal through the industrial start to modern day leisure facilities. He highlighted a couple of projects are currently being discussed and the future of our local canals including the Burslem Port Project and the Cheshire Locks Project. Steve was at pains to thank any groups that volunteer on the canals as many stretches are made to look loved and cared for by such generous people. There are numerous opportunities to get involved and to embrace the history of canals through organisation such as the Canal and River Trust. It certainly made you feel proud of the industrial heritage of Stoke-on-Trent and the fact that we are all close to a canal. In October a wonderful morning was had by ten of the Barlaston Herons and their families at Barlaston Village Hall. Sam, the president, ran a seaside cottage craft workshop and had the ladies sanding, staining, painting, hammering and drilling. The result was some fantastic little cottages that everyone was proud of. It was a lovely social event and everyone chatted whilst they worked. There was, of course, the usual home-made refreshments to enjoy. Penny Rowley was the interesting speaker for the WI's October meeting and the evening just flew by. She was very informative and
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explained all about crystals and what they can offer. Crystals and minerals are found within the crust of the earth and are naturally occurring. There are over 250,000 crystals and minerals and many offer a range of benefits. A couple of examples include Lapis Lazuli that many believe brings wisdom, Carnelian can aid stamina and confidence. Penny explained that all crystals can help to remove negativity. She went on to highlight where you can purchase crystals and how you can energise them and look after them. A thoroughly fascinating evening. There are many events and activities that Barlaston Herons WI can offer. We regularly go on social outings such as the theatre and undertake a range of craft activities. The November meeting was making Christmas crafts whilst making new friends and catching up with old friends. New members always welcome. We meet on the third Tuesday of every month at 7.15pm at the Methodist Hall, Park Drive. Our Christmas Party will be held on Tuesday December 19. For further information please visit www.barlastonheronswi.webs.com December 2017/January 2018 53
STONE YOUNG FARMERS
End of year celebrations for young farmers
tone Young Farmers Club (YFC) recently held its annual dinner dance at Park Hall Farm Leigh. A total of 195 quests attended, a mixture of both Young Farmer from the many clubs around Staffordshire, along with their friends and family. Everyone enjoyed an excellent three course meal, which concluded with the annual presentation of awards by the retiring top table and President. Dan Weaver and Phillippa Bourne received the boy and girl Merit Cups, whilst the President's cup went to Emma Timmis. Felicity James, the retiring Chairperson, then gave her annual report and thanked Emma Timmis and John Beardmore, Secretary and Treasurer respectively, for their services and
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assistance during the past year. Thanks and presentations were also made by the top table to those who had assisted the club over the last twelve months. During the evening a raffle took place, the proceeds of which went to the club’s chosen charity for the year, Katharine House, raising a magnificent sum of £479. Music and dancing was then provided by an excellent disco and the night went on into the early hours of Sunday morning. If you would like to become involved with the many different activities Young Farmers Clubs provide, please view the Staffordshire YFC website or contact the Staffordshire office on 01785 248645. Remember you don't have to be a farmer to join a Young Farmers Club.
CHRISTMAS ‘CALM BEFORE THE STORM’ FOR FAMILY SOLICITORS
FAMILY LAW
ara Anderson, a Family Lawyer at Stafford based ORJ Solicitors provides some useful advice for couples who may not be looking forward to the Christmas holidays. Without wanting to put a dampener on the festivities, for family solicitors Christmas is often seen as ‘the calm before the storm’. It’s a sad fact that we solicitors see a sharp rise in the number of people visiting our offices in the New Year. In fact, the first working Monday of the year is known as Divorce Day. But what is it that makes so many people want to begin divorce proceedings immediately after the festive season? Why has the season of ‘goodwill to all men, a time of kindness and giving, become the breaking point for some families? Right now, more than 40 per cent of British couples are considering ending their relationship in the divorce courts. It’s hard to underestimate quite how big a decision this is for either party. Going through a divorce can be one of the most demanding and emotionally turbulent times anyone can experience. Although each case is different, if there is significant disagreement, the complexities of dividing ‘a life shared’ can mean a long and difficult process. For this 40 per cent, what is traditionally an enjoyable time of year can put undue stress on an already failing relationship. While spending ‘quality time’ with the family can be a wonderful experience for a couple whose relationship is strong, for those whose relationship is under strain, increased time with the other partner in confined spaces can be a recipe for disaster. While Mr and Mrs Bloggs might ordinarily find relief in time apart whether at work, when out and about or sharing time with friends, Christmas brings 2-3 days of close contact. This is more so if the winter weather makes travel outside the home all but impossible! What’s more, a warring couple often find themselves under close scrutiny from friends and family. The usual rounds of visitors cannot help but notice any tension and there will be increased pressure to ‘keep up appearances’, particularly at this time of year. Finances can also play a part creating more stress and strain. Christmas is a time for giving. But, like most things in our modern world, giving
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often equates to parting with significant amounts of cash. This will inevitably raise tensions and cause arguments, particularly where money is tight. Add into the mix a heady blend of beer, wine and spirits, rich food, red meat and – quite possibly – one or two hangovers, and a fragile relationship is likely to be tested to its very limit. Each of these elements can be the ‘final straw’, the point at which either party, or both, realises that they cannot cope anymore. The urge to cut the ties can be overwhelming, hence why we see more divorce cases around this time of year than at any other. However, there are ways to manage a difficult relationship over the festive period and perhaps even strengthen it if a few key rules are followed: Take some time to think about what you want from the festive season. Talk about this with your partner. Discuss how this would work in practice. Make sure you are willing to compromise for his/her sake, agree upon a plan and then stick to it. The same goes for money. Put aside an hour or two with your partner to talk about your budget for the Christmas period. What do you need, what would you like and what could you do without? Think about important people like children and close family. Again, be prepared to compromise and stick to the plan you agree. Don’t bring unnecessary burdens into the holidays. If there are problems or issues that are likely to make Christmas less enjoyable for you and your family, discuss them with your partner. If not, you might find them bubbling to the surface at the wrong time, potentially upsetting you and your family. One thing to consider, above anything else, is the role that good communication can play in helping to soothe tensions in your relationship. This isn’t as simple as just announcing how you feel and expecting to be listened to. Communication, particularly where a relationship is under stress, involves a great deal of listening too. Take the time to understand how your partner feels and resist the temptation to simply bury the issue. Please feel free to contact one of our solicitors in the Family Law team on 01785 223440 if we can be of any assistance to you.
December 2017/January 2018 55
LEGAL MATTERS
2017: The year that illustrates the complex and forever changing face of family law
n March 2017, a divorce case hit the national headlines because the courts refused to grant a divorce to a wife because the husband’s behaviour was not deemed ‘unreasonable’ enough to grant a divorce petition. This decision has left a wife trapped in a loveless marriage with the husband and wife’s financial and personal affairs tied. There are currently five accepted reasons for divorce; adultery, unreasonable behaviour, two years separation if the other party consents to the divorce, two years desertion or five years separation and this does not require the other party’s consent.
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No Fault Divorce The wife, who has been refused the divorce, may have to wait five years before she can divorce her current husband without his consent. Five years before she can truly move on with her life! This is a scenario that doesn’t fit with the views of modern day society which is why 2017 has seen various family law lobby groups such as Resolution, increase their campaign for the introduction of ‘No Fault Divorce’ a concept English Law has yet to grasp.
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The Sharing Principle is now not applicable to all The traditional starting point for a court when separating a couple’s finances is a 50:50 split. The 50:50 split is then altered depending on the needs of each party to the divorce. However, in a recent Landmark Ruling it seems that double income couples with no children may no longer have to share assets equally when divorcing. In this case Lord Justice McFarlane ruled that the couple’s marriage had been relatively short and that the usual principle of sharing assets did not apply. In what other circumstances will the ‘usual’ principle not apply? In a separate case involving a childless couple who were married for only two years the judge made a £4.2 million financial award to the wife based on ‘her’ needs. In this case the husband brought the wealth to the marriage but the judge deemed the settlement figure to be in-line with the wife’s needs. These two cases illustrate that when deciding what Orders to make, the Court has a very wide discretion. They need this freedom because the facts of each divorce and financial settlement case are always different and not always comparable. Family Law is Forever Changing Daniel Rushton, Head of Family Law at Grindeys comments, “There is a worrying trend for divorcing couples to avoid divorce solicitors and to opt for a DIY Divorce for fear of expensive legal fees. The DIY Divorce may seem like the cheaper alternative but that isn’t necessarily the case because the DIY option may not result in a full, fair and final divorce and financial settlement. These high-profile cases in 2017 clearly demonstrate that the rules and precedents within modern family law are forever changing and are often very complex.” Daniel continues, “A rule and application of law applied to the circumstances of one divorcing couple may be entirely inappropriate for another couple, even where the circumstances are broadly the same. It’s the detail of the circumstances that need to be considered which is why it is always advisable to seek legal advice from a solicitor that specialises in family law. The decision to use a lawyer could be the difference between financial certainty or financial ruin!”
Give your investments a New Year review
ith the dawn of the New Year approaching, it is usually a time for quiet reflection – not least to ensure your finances are in good shape after the demands made on them by the festive season. Nobody begrudges spending money on family and friends over the festive period, but it is important also to consider one’s own long-term future; so thinking about how your investments are currently structured is a good idea. The first consideration is, of course, whether you are saving enough overall to ensure a secure future. But this cannot be achieved in isolation from a review of your personal lifetime goals, as how will you know what is ‘enough’? So this needs to be put into the context of an overall plan.
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Overview The first issue to consider is whether you have adequate money to provide for short-term needs – including the unexpected. Ideally this should be placed so it is easily accessible without penalty and no ‘hidden’ charges. Looking towards the longer term, to cover such things as special holidays, wedding costs, school fees and, of course, retirement, involves additional considerations, such as the need to balance potential risk with possible reward and the tax efficiency of different classes of investments. Balance The importance of adopting a diverse asset allocation strategy within investments cannot be overemphasised because this gives you the opportunity to ‘spread your risk’. Of course, you
INVESTMENT MATTERS
miss out on the upside potential of having picked the best performing asset class, but it also protects you from only having picked the worst! One of the most important things to remember with investments is that the variations directly resulting from the different performance of each asset class will automatically result in the balance of investments changing. For example, if Far East shares rise by 15% and UK shares fall by 10% over the year, then the proportion of the portfolio held in the Far East will also increase relative to the UK. Whilst you could argue this is good, there is always a chance that the performance will reverse in future and then holding a higher than intended proportion of Far Eastern shares could reduce the overall performance of the portfolio. This makes it important to consult your financial planner in order to review the balance of your investment portfolio and also to consider whether plans put in place in the past are still appropriate. It is important always to seek independent financial advice before making any decision regarding your finances. For further information, please contact us. 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
NOTHING CONTAINED IN THE ARTICLE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS GIVING INDIVIDUAL FINANCIAL ADVICE. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS ARTICLE IS BASED ON OUR CURRENT UNDERSTANDING OF LEGISLATION, WHICH CAN BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. THE VALUE OF INVESTMENTS CAN GO DOWN AS WELL AS UP; YOU MAY GET BACK LESS THAN YOU INVEST.
December 2017/January 2018 57
MOTORING
WIN A TRIP TO JAPAN BY GETTING CREATIVE A
car dealership is encouraging youngsters to get creative during the winter holidays. Staff at WR Davies Toyota in Stafford are inviting children to take part in a 'Dream Car Art Competition' where the top prize will be a trip to Japan. The international contest is open to children aged 15 and under and WR Davies Toyota is a point for families to pick up an entry form in order for their youngsters to take part. The winning artist of each age category will receive an iPad at a UK National Awards Ceremony, as well as be in with a chance of winning a lifetime trip to Japan. Children are invited to draw or paint their dream car with a background so the judges can imagine what it would look like on the road, or in the sky, or even underground. The deadline for creative entries to be
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dropped off at WR Davies Toyota in Stafford is January 16, 2018. Further terms and conditions are outlined on the entry form available from the Lichfield Road car dealership. A spokesman for the dealership said: “This will be a great homework project for children during the Christmas holiday. We are hoping this will encourage children to get creative as well as get thinking about cars.� In October WR Davies Toyota, Stafford celebrated 25 years and Toyota nationally is celebrating 25 years in the UK. The Stafford car dealership, which offers new and used cars, is acting as a drop-off point for any donations to this year's Salvation Army Christmas Appeal for new toys which will be distributed to under-privileged children in the area.