Stone and Eccleshall Life Issue 86

ISSUE

See page 9

Best feet forward for charity

See page 10

Success for Gang Show

See page 6

Front cover photo by Debbie Jones

Belinda Hargreaves Contents Editor

Gastronomical festival time for town

Summer is well and truly here and with the warmer months comes an increase in community events, no more so than in this fabulous area. There’s so much on offer to be able to get out and about and enjoy lots of community spirit – in particular with the ever growing and popular Stone Food & Drink Festival which is taking place at the different venue, this year, of Kibblestone Scout Camp on Saturday, July 15, and Sunday, July 16.

The gastronomical festival is, once again, set to see thousands of folk visiting Stone to enjoy the refreshments and culinary

delights.

See pages 18 and 19 for more details about this years festival.

Yet again, in this edition of the Stone & Eccleshall Life Magazine, we have featured a number of fabulous events and activities which have been taking place across the community of late. Plus we take a look at just some of the achievements which have been made recently by some of the townsfolk. Happy reading!

Until next time – take care!

Success for Scouting members gang show

The 2023 Stone Gang Show took place at the Mitchell Arts Centre in Stoke-on-Trent this Spring.

Stone District Gang Show has been putting on a variety show for over 50 years, with the youngest Beaver to the oldest Scouting leaders taking part. Any profit from the show is put back into Stone District Scouting to provide Scouting for many young people.

A spokesman for the show further explained: “A Gang Show is a collection of Scouts, Leaders, Explorers, Beavers and Cubs joining together to make a theatrical performance to entertain their

community.

“Gang Show offers great opportunities for learning, building confidence, making friends and life long memories for all those involved.

“Entirely volunteer run, this show is packed full of musical talent and entertainment with comedy, music, acting and singing.”

The spokesman said of this year’s five performance production: “Congratulations to all involved in Stone GangShow 2023. What an amazing achievement by all.”

For further information go online to: www.facebook.com/gangshowstone.

Cash boost for defib charity

Acharity, which is based in Stone, has received a cash boost thanks to a water and waste company.

AEDdonate has received a grant of £67,290 from Severn Trent Water.

A spokesman for Severn Trent said: “More than 19,092 people living in Staffordshire are benefitting from grants from the Severn Trent Community Fund, as £239,873 was awarded across six local projects in the last year. Projects spanning the region have been supported by the Fund, which includes improvements of more than 2.5 acres of local environment.”

The latest supported projects include SPLA Staffordshire CIC – SPLAT Communities, which provides inclusive play sessions for children from 412 years old, and support and train unemployed young people,

with the funding to go towards running sessions in three additional communities; and AEDdonate, which works with local groups including schools, communities, businesses and clubs to raise awareness of sudden cardiac arrest and provides public access defibrillators.

Sue Heyes, Severn Trent Community Fund Advisor, said: “Over the last year, the Community Fund has provided grants to a really broad range of different projects, like SPLAT and AEDdonate, which can have a genuinely positive - and literally lifesaving - impact on the wellbeing of people in these communities.

“We are continually on the lookout for projects such as these which offer a genuinely fantastic service to local people but lack the necessary funding to get going. We would love to hear from any community-based organisation which feels that they have a fantastic project that would benefit from a funding boost.”

For more information on the Severn Trent Community Fund and to read a full copy of the 2022/23 annual report, visit stwater.co.uk and search for Community Fund.

Cadets thank companies for tree work

ASea Cadet group in Staffordshire has thanked two companies which have helped clear a dead tree which had been overhanging the group’s access to a river.

The Stafford and Rugeley Sea Cadets have received free of charge help from ABA Crane Hire and Hill Tree Care in carrying out the muchneeded work.

Sea Cadet member Kerry Bailey explained: “The situation we had was that we had an extremely dangerous tree on the land that the group runs from. This tree seriously needed taking down as it was completely rotten.

“It covered the main through route to the river that the kids use to kayak from, meaning until this tree was removed the kids could not do this activity safely.

“The other issue we also had is that the tree was also overhanging the main footpath into Stafford next to the river, and if anything fell and hurt someone it was not even worth thinking about.”

Kerry continued: “All of the activities the kids do are completely self funded through various fundraising activities as well as the kids paying a monthly ‘subs,’ so as you can imagine paying for a tree surgeon as well as all of the additional equipment was just something that wouldn’t be possible without extensive funding which we don’t have.

“However two businesses agreed to help us, doing so completely free of charge in order to help the community and the kids, which I think is nothing short of a miracle in this current financial climate.

“These two companies - ABA Crane Hire and

Hill Tree Care – are utterly fantastic.”

The work on the tree was carried out earlier this Spring by the two companies.

Kerry said: “What a job those fellas had on their hands.

“I would like to emphasis how amazing they are and thank them for their extremely spectacular generosity in such times.”

Following the removal of the tree, a ‘Big Help Out’ event took place at the Sea Cadet’s unit and grounds which saw lots of volunteers band together to further spruce up the site including painting, clearing, gardening, refurbishing and more.

A spokesman for the group said: “A huge thank you to all cadets, parents, staff, supporters and others that came to the unit for our Big Help Out evert.

“We were overwhelmed with the amount of people that came to lend a hand - 36 in total.

“This meant that we got everything we wanted to do and more completed and the unit now looks great.”

They continued: “We managed to clear the grounds of years of build up weeds, litter and we even got rid of equipment that we don’t need anymore.

“The grass was mowed, entrances tidied and we even managed to get some painting done inside too. We can’t thank you all enough.”

The group is on the look out for volunteers to join the committee to help keep the group going.

To find out more about the Stafford and Rugeley Sea Cadets, which has members from across Staffordshire, go online to: www.facebook.com/staffordrugeleyseacadets.

Top accolade for watering hole

Apublic house in Stone has come out tops for an annual award.

The Heart of Staffordshire branch of Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has awarded The Borehole in Stone with their ‘Urban Pub of the Year Award’ for 2023.

The Lymestone Brewery pub is situated on Mount Road Industrial Estate in Stone.

According to a spokesman for CAMRA: “The Borehole is a traditional pub that has been created from an empty and disused office building/music school on the site of the old Bent’s Brewery well, hence the name.

“Originally part of the Bents Brewery site this lovely old building has been lovingly refurbished into a brewery tap for Lymestone Brewery.”

They continued: “It is a bit of a tardis once you get inside with rooms towards the back of the building all centred around a

log-burner.

“The pub offers its customers the full range of Lymestone ales, occasional guest beers, a wide range of bottled beers and a quiet cozy spot to enjoy them.

“Dog walkers, dogs and well-behaved children are welcomed (children up to 8pm).

“A light menu of pork-pie, paninis, pickled eggs and home made cakes are available and locally sourced where possible.

“There is a small enclosed beer garden to the rear. Quiz night on Thursdays, £15 for the full evening out, book at the brewery or the bar. A mini pub not a micropub.”

A spokesman for the Borehole said of the award on the venue’s Facebook page: “Our local CAMRA branch Heart of Staffordshire have voted us Pub of the Year 2023.

“Not only would I like to thank all who voted for us, but I’d also like to thank everyone who has helped make our quirky little pub the success it has become.

“Sarah and I want to thank our suppliers, customers and staff for their support through this difficult year.”

Best feet forward for Martha and Peggy

Aschool girl has been raising funds for charity with her pooch pal.

Martha Swinnerton, who lives in Milwich near Hilderstone, carried out the charity challenge during the month of April with her family’s Cockapoo Peggy.

The Walkies Challenge was organised by Cancer Research-Stand Up2Cancer. The idea was to walk your dog two miles every day for the whole of April.

Eleven-year-old Martha and Peggy walked every day in April. Due to school and activities the duo sometimes just did the two miles a day, but other days they smashed five or six miles a day.

They walked in hail, wind and rain, and walked on holiday and late in to the evening if Martha had a particularly busy afternoon after school.

Their final walk was on Newborough Beach in Anglesey.

Martha, who is in Year Six at St Thomas’ Primary School in Tean, said: “I wanted to take part in the Walkies Challenge to help raise money for Cancer Research.

“My Granny Jo had cancer a few years ago and all the treatment she received has helped her to share life with us.

“This encouraged me want to help raise lots of money to help fund the research for a cure for cancer.”

She added: “I really enjoyed taking part and have been supported by so many family and friends raising a grand total of £1,220.”

Martha’s mum Catherine Hurst said: “It all started when we tuned in to watch Celebrity Bake off for Stand Up2Cancer. During one of the episodes they advertised an April ‘Walkies Challenge.’

“The idea was that you walked your dog two miles a day for the whole of April.

“Peggy, our cockapoo, was very much up for the challenge, so Martha signed up immediately with the hope of raising money for a charity very close to our hearts.”

Catherine added: “We are so proud of Martha. Her enthusiasm and commitment to this challenge has been so inspiring.

“She has raised an amazing amount of money which will benefit so many people.”

Work continues on new heritage centre

Workto bring a heritage centre to the town of Stone is progressing.

Stone Town Council has awarded a contract for building works at the former Stone Fire Station to bring it back into use as a Heritage Centre.

A spokesman for the council said: “The Heritage Centre at Crown Wharf is part of an exciting project, supported by Joules Brewery, that also includes the new Crown Wharf public house and the Crown Wharf Theatre.

“The project is intended to bring new facilities to the town and regenerate an underutilised area of Stone next to the canal.

“The town council is already well on the way with the project to convert the old and run-down former Fire Station building into a prestigious new centre to showcase the heritage of our town.”

They continued: “Work previously completed includes extending the building, renewing the roof and connecting to new utility supplies.

“The building work is the next critical stage of the project, which will see the building

returned to a usable condition ready for its final fit-out and subsequent reopening as the town’s new Heritage Centre.

“The building will also contain a classroom/meeting room to support the work of schools and others using the centre and studying the nearby canal.”

Councillor Rob Kenney, Chairman of the Council’s General Purposes Committee at Stone Town Council, said: “I’m pleased to see this building work getting underway, as the next stage in bringing this exciting town council project to fruition.

“I look forward to the opening of the Heritage Centre, and its addition to the facilities of our town.”

To keep up to date in this project, go online to: www.stonetowncouncil.gov.uk.

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“Rambling really is great fun”

Summer is finally here and here at the Stone Ramblers, we are making the most of every minute.

We’re always busy, arranging walks locally and in surrounding counties, or mending footpaths and stiles, not to mention our ‘Wellbeing Walks’ every Wednesday.

A whole group of us visited Malhamdale recently and enjoyed the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, visiting Malham Cove, Goredale Scar, Appletreewick and Grassington, to name but a few.

Coming up soon is a trip to Malta and Gozo and we’re already planning trips for 2024. Have a look at our website www.stoneramblers.org.uk, where you’ll find information on how you can join us. You can try a

couple of walks to see how you get on. It really is great fun and it helps your fitness levels.

One of the most emotional walks that we have recently completed was to High Shelf Moor in Derbyshire. Part of the walk visited the crash site of B-29 Superfortress, of the 16th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron USAF, which tragically crashed on 3 November 1948.

A huge amount of wreckage still scattered the site, which is now a shrine to the 14 members of the crew that died. We all felt so honoured to be there.

Once again, a huge thank you to our amazing volunteers and happy walking.

Report

Penny Meakin

by

Photos courtesy of Fiona Brown

Aston-by-Stone WI

Paula White, of a local radio station, was the speaker at a recent meeting of Astonby-Stone WI. Over the years she has held a comprehensive list of posts at different Midlands radio stations, and has experienced the highs and lows of life in that medium. One ‘high’ was literally that: flying in a small Cessna plane at 2,000 feet, reporting on the traffic.

Paula was an amusing speaker, full of anecdotes and keeping us laughing. The best stories, apparently, are overheard on the bus. Memories of the wartime cartoons featuring German spies.

This meeting was also a salute to the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. Members responded enthusiastically to the

appeal to wear red, white and blue, and the competition, which attracted a bumper entry of well-crafted items, was to make a crown. We also sang ‘God Save the King’ with gusto.

Next month we are to have a fashion show. This will be an open meeting, so all are welcome, as indeed is the case every month. We meet at Aston-by-Stone Village Hall. Come early, bring a friend, observe, browse and maybe buy the fashion bargains on offer, then enjoy delicious home-made cake with your cup of tea.

If you’d like more information, please contact us on 01785 615662 or astonbystonewi.secretary@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you.

Report by Kate Wain

St Joseph’s Preparatory School

The set under construction

The Grand Staircase transformed

Rotarians support lots of charities

The Rotary Club of Eccleshall Mercia has recently awarded grants to several worthy local organisations, and to a Rotary-run Disaster Relief charity - after being very busy with raising generous donations from the public in Eccleshall and surrounding villages, through the Club’s Hook a Duck stall at various events, December’s many Santa Sleigh fundraising activities, and bucket collections held outside the local Co-Op store.

Despite being a small club in terms of membership numbers, Eccleshall Rotary are active in the community, and looking for new members to help them continue with their fundraising activities to enable them to support more charities, and to help with project service volunteering work in the area. You can see some

activities the club supports on their Eccleshall Rotary Facebook page.

President Sylvia Keris, who is also an ambassador and volunteer for other local and international charities, recently presented a number of cheque donations to several organisations, and was able to meet in person some of those who would be benefitting from the grants in the local area.

These included an award made of £600 to Tittensor Primary School towards the cost of buying Chrome Books to help the children with their lessons, for which the school teachers, pupils and PTA were delighted, and invited Sylvia along to a special school Assembly to hear them sing and give their thanks.

Eccleshall Stay and Play Group were given £150 to purchase a sensory tent with equipment that they wanted, to provide a quiet space, which some children who attend the regular playgroup would benefit from.

Rotary president Sylvia was able to meet the mums, play with the children, and see the Sensory tent, before presenting the cheque to the group's founders Hayley Wall and Lucie Talbott.

A £200 donation was given to the Buddy Bag Foundation (BBF), to help towards the cost of the Buddy Bags which contain essential clothing, toiletries and comfort items, for children who have been taken into the safety of a Refuge, away

from domestic violence. Sylvia also acts as the collecting point for knitted teddies and fabric toiletry bags which are included in each Buddy Bag.

And with the help of a bucket collection, and other fundraising, a donation of £1,000 was made to Disaster Aid UK & Ireland (DAUK&I) for their Syria/Turkey Earthquake appeal, and an additional £1000 given to DAUK&I's Ukraine Appeal. This charity is run by Rotarians, (all volunteers) who send trained Disaster Relief Response teams to areas where there has been

conflict or natural disasters - providing essential supplies such as home rebuilding equipment or tents (as appropriate), water filters, tools and other provisions, to help those in emergency situations.

Eccleshall Rotary Club would like to thank members of the public who showed their support with fundraising activities over the last few months, that enabled the club to make donations to these local and International charities.

Report by Sylvia Keris

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It’s nearly time for ga

Following the success of its first summer festival in 2022, the Stone Food & Drink Festival is once again set to run in July next year – on Saturday, July 15 and Sunday, July 16.

However, with work set to commence on extensive developments on the town’s Westbridge Park, the event’s usual site, the festival team has been forced to find an alternative venue for the 2023 event.

The festival, which attracts thousands of visitors to Stone each year, will take place at Kibblestone Scout Camp just, 1.5 miles north of the town centre.

With a shuttle bus service and a packed programme of events planned for the town centre throughout festival week, the goal of the event remains to help bring visitors, and their revenue, into Stone for the benefit of local businesses.

Chairman of the non-for-profit event, Richard Stevens, explained: “After a fantastic return to full capacity last year and seeing a great turnout for our first ever summer event, the team was excited to start early planning for a July 2023 festival on Westbridge Park.

“However, when we approached the borough council to secure the park site it was made clear that, due to proposed works, we would be unable to use Westbridge Park in July or October 2023.

“This was a huge hit for the team – following a year out due to Covid and a reduced capacity event in 2021, the festival simply would not survive another year out – so we started looking at alternative ways that we could still run a festival.”

Richard continued: “Having investigated various options, Kibblestone provided an ideal opportunity – it has the space and infrastructure

astronomical festival

the event needs, ample on-site parking and is close enough for us to run shuttle buses to and from the town centre to ensure the festival still benefits town centre businesses.

“As part of our commitment to the town, we are once again working closely with Stone Traders’ Group to get local businesses involved in the event and will be running a packed programme of town centre events during the

run-up to the event, something we are delighted to return to now restrictions have fully eased.

“We are confident that we will put on a great foodie event for Stone in 2023, and intend to return to Westbridge Park as soon as we are able – hopefully for the 2024 festival.”

For further information and to book tickets, go online to: www.stonefooddrink.org.uk.

Sat

& Sun 16 July 2023

Kibblestone Scout Camp

(Our

Epic challenge for Team Neon

AStoneman is set to be part of a team which will be taking on an epic challenge to raise awareness of the worldwide need for cystic fibrosis modulator therapies.

On Sunday June 25, Craig Stanway, who lives in Stone, will be joining Marc Cotterill, Pete Oakden and Dean Robertson as ‘Team Neon’ which will be taking on an epic endurance challenge of 80-miles across the Gulf Stream ocean from Bimini in the Bahamas to the Florida mainland on paddle boards.

As part of the ‘Crossing for CF’ event organised by US charity Piper’s Angels Foundation, the team are set to paddle their way across the ocean with two main aims.

Marc, who was born with cystic fibrosis, explained: “Firstly, to support the incredible work of ‘Piper’s Angels Foundation’ and help them in their mission to improve the lives of families in the global cystic fibrosis community. From financial and mental health support to innovative lifeexpanding activities and programs.

“Secondly, to assist an organisation called ‘Vertex Save Us’, which is campaigning for global access to the CF wonder drugs that saved my life and transformed my health.”

Marc, who lives in Cheadle, further said of the challenge: “It will be an epic 80 mile journey that will see us set off in complete darkness at midnight into the ocean, where at the halfway point, after approximately eight hours of paddling, we’ll be so far across the Gulf Stream we’ll be surrounded by nothing but water.

“With no land in sight, the only way to reach the shore in Florida will be through more of the same, the only thing that will get us back safely is our paddle and our will to succeed.”

Marc has quite a history of facing big challenges. Born with cystic fibrosis, a progressive disease, by 2019 Marc’s lung function had dropped to a low of 29 per cent - he describes the feeling as like “suffocating in his own body” - and the intravenous (IV) therapy that was his main line of defence against recurring chest infections was causing him major vascular issues.

Marc was facing vascular surgery that would have involved having a huge incision from his wrist to his armpit in an attempt to construct a new robust vein that might somehow withstand IV lines.

As he struggled with the decision to agree to the surgery Marc heard that his application for compassionate access to Kaftrio (known in some countries as Trikafta) had been approved.

He said: “Kaftrio is truly a miracle drug. I took my first dose in my car at 11am on March 3, 2020 and the transformation happened overnight. I experienced a purge of mucus during the first day and had the best night’s sleep I have ever had.

“The next day, I woke with no cough for the first time in over 20 years. I had become used to waking and coughing so violently that I would begin each day exhausted, with sore lungs and with a severe headache. It is quite difficult to believe the improvement in my health.

“After a couple of days I was getting up at 6am to work out in the garden before work or my other treatments. Previously I would have needed to do an hour of treatments minimum before I could even attempt to face the day.

“Before Kaftrio, CF was working against me, impacting every part of my body, but that has now been thrown into reverse. Because my lungs are now working much more efficiently, health and quality of life has dramatically improved. My lungs no longer produce excess mucus that previously clogged my airways making me constantly breathless. And because I no longer cough up mucus, which was easily swallowed, it leaves my stomach empty, sending my appetite through the roof.

“The increase in food leads to more energy, energy that fuels my workouts like never before. When everything works in your favour, everything improves.”

Without access to Kaftrio (which is now available on the NHS in the UK) Marc knows that his life expectancy would be considerably shorter.

He has shared his experiences on social media and he regularly receives desperate messages from people with cystic fibrosis who live in poorer countries and have no hope of accessing Kaftrio.

Marc said: “One lovely young boy, his name was Mohammed Alsayed, contacted me towards the end of 2020.

“Mohammed was 21 at the time, still in education with a dream of becoming an engineer. He relied heavily on oxygen pretty much all the time. He had only a 20 per cent Craig Stanway from Stone

lung function and he was desperate. I wrote to Vertex Pharmaceuticals who manufacture Kaftrio, on his behalf begging them to help. This appeal however, went nowhere and Mohammed began crowdfunding for a lung transplant, because of course the cost for that was way out of his reach too.”

“At the end of 2021 Mohammed, lost his fight for life. He never got the CF modulator therapy or the lung transplant. Either could have saved him. Instead he died. I later contacted his mum who thanked me for trying to help him.

“Engaging so personally with people like Mohammed has lit a fire in me. How can it be fair that because he was born in a different country, Mohammed’s fate was to die from a condition for which life-saving medication exists, while I have been given what seems like a miracle gift of life? And not just the gift of a longer life, but such a better quality of life than I was experiencing before I took Kaftrio.”

Marc continued: “I know that without this lifechanging modulator therapy, there’s a chance I wouldn’t be here, I had already started to reduce my working hours and I wasn’t fit enough to fly on a plane, let alone feel healthy, fit and strong enough to take on a challenge like the ‘Crossing For CF’.”

“When we were campaigning in the UK for access to these modulators, one frequently used hashtag on social media was #NoOneLeftBehind – and intend on sticking to that promise.

“I consider myself ‘one of the lucky ones,’ and it is my belief that we should use our new found health to help others who also deserve to benefit from the best medicine available.

“People from around the world lost their lives because Kaftrio wasn't developed in time to save them. But more than 3 years after approval, there are thousands of others in over 150 countries who may also die waiting because Kaftrio is priced out of their reach.”

To donate to Team Neon’s cause, go online to: www.classy.org/team/454643.

Team Neon Team Neon

Members of the Stone & District Rotary Club work hard all year round to fundraise and also carry out lots of other supportive activities for charities and their local community and beyond.

Here is just some of the latest activities they have been up to. The reports have been kindly written and sent in to us by Rotarian Mike Ellis.

To find out more about the group, go online to: www.facebook.com/stonerotaryclub

Families turn out for Teddy Bears Picnic in the square

The opening day of the Stone Festival saw a fabulous Teddy Bear Picnic in the Market Square at Stone, organised again by Stone and District Rotary Club.

Following on from last years successful picnic, the Rotary Club decided to expand the event and were able to secure benches for the picnickers and additional treats as well as increasing the number of free picnics for the visitors.

This years Teddy Bear Picnic was also wellattended and featured book readings in the library by Rotary Club members, face painting and puppet performances by the Staffordshire Puppet Tree.

The weather was fantastic so families were able to enjoy their picnics in the sun.

The Rotary Club provided 75 free picnic bags for children who came along with teddies so a great time was had by all. For those without their own teddies, a local donor gave us some to give to children to look after on the day, and then take home and keep.

The Stone Town Council Mayor, councillor Jim Davis, came along to award prizes for the best teddies. As last year, the oldest bear at the picnic was Edward, now 74-years-old but this time wearing a new outfit made especially for the event.

Victoria Fern, President of the Stone and District Rotary Club and Joint Chair of the Festival Committee was delighted with how the event ran. She said: “We were really pleased that we were able to include a face painting booth and puppet show this year. Fellow Rotarian Bob Knight was one of the first to have a face paint to match his springer

spaniels.

“All the additions made a great difference, families stayed longer and had a great time. We greatly appreciate the support that we received from Stone Town Library, Stone Town Traders, All Seasons and the Secret Tea Room. Thanks too to our fantastic Rotary Club members who came along to read stories and help.”

This was the first event in a packed calendar for the 2023 Stone Festival and Carnival and it is hoped that it will have a regular place in festival plans in the future.

Rotarians making a difference with lots of support

for them to be together and not isolated in another country as well as introducing them to English culture.

“For local people, it has been great for the many volunteers who have helped me and I extend my thanks to them. The support of the Stone and District Rotary Club has been invaluable and greatly appreciated by all.”

In the last year, Stone and District Rotary Club have supported the amazing voluntary work by Andy Babb who has been helping Ukrainian refugees learn the English language.

In addition to providing English language learning books for Andy’s classes, Stone and District Rotary Club have also helped support 20 or so Ukrainian families in Stone with the provision of school clothing and equipment to help their children better integrate at school.

Recently, Andy came to a rotary club meeting to tell the members about his work with Ukrainians here in Stone and explained how the financial support we have provided has helped. The text books that the club sourced for Andy have made a terrific difference for all who attend the classes. Not only has Andy taught language skills to 14 to 70-year-olds but help has been provided with accessing local services, he has organised special events and provided some with laptops and phones.

Andy and his team of volunteers run free language classes at St Michael’s Hall in Stone three times a week and from three students attending the first session in April 2022, classes now average 15 or 20. The classes have been really successful with some individuals being able to continue and advance their original Ukrainian careers here in Staffordshire by getting compatible jobs. Andy has also been helping younger students with pre-university support so that they can advance their education whilst they are here.

Andy said: “By running these classes, we have made Ukrainians welcome, helped them with learning the language and find employment. It has provided an opportunity

After the talk, Rotary Club Vice President Victoria Fern thanked Andy for visiting the Club. She said: “Members of the Club have been delighted to help and it is really rewarding to see how well the financial support we have provided has been used, it’s very, very pleasing.”

As a result of the work that the club has done with Andy, club members now also have contact with many of the Ukrainian refugee families and have been able to assist them in other ways.

It has been a perfect Rotary Club project but working with Ukrainian refugees is only a small part of what Stone and District Rotary Club do to support our community…ordinary people making a real difference.

Success for two day extravaganza

Staffordshire County Show’s organisers are celebrating following an incredible two show days with attendance topping 55,000 visitors.

The public flocked to the show in their masses with huge crowds surrounding the arena to watch the spectacular Bolddog Lings Motorcycle Display Team, thrilling the audience with their jaw dropping stunts and the grandstand seating was full to bursting.

A spokesman for the show said: “The sun broke through at lunch time and the 100-acre site looked magnificent with the trade stand avenues bustling with people.

“The quality and quantity of trade stands are improving year on year and the site was totally sold out of space well before show day.

“For the first time in history a new trophy was presented to the stand awarded overall in the Trade Stand Competition kindly donated by The Hobson Family.

“Lower Drayton Farm of Penkridge were delighted to receive the trophy.”

They continued: “With a Craft Fair, Food Hall, Vintage Section, Classic Car Displays, Model Railway Rides, a Fun Fair and so much more, visitors were spoilt for choice.

“The livestock entries were up on previous years and the Grand Parade was a true testimony to British Agriculture with the finest champion animals paraded for all to see.”

Richard Williams, Chief Executive of the show, added: “I would like to thank all those involved in putting on a spectacular two days and I pay tribute to the tireless work of the hundreds of volunteers involved. “Next year’s show will be held on May 29 and 30, again in the half term week.

“The new attractions for this year were incredibly well received, especially the West Lancs Dogs Display Team in the Country Pursuits Area, who we hope will be back with us next year.”

The West Lancs Dogs Display Team

Crowds in the grandstand watching displays at this year's Staffordshire County Show

Pictured are Ray Bower and Richard Bower of Lower Drayton Farm with Anthony Hobson

Celebrating 75 years on the waters

batteries/invertors.”

In celebration of the 75th anniversary, Canal Cruising are running some offers and competitions.

The spokesman said: “All holidays taken in 2023 will be automatically entered into a prize draw to win ‘One Weeks Holiday for up to eight people.’

Canal Cruising Co Ltd is celebrating 75 years in business this year with the same family, five generations of Wyatts.

A spokesman said: “We would like to thank customers old and new, as without you we would not be here.

“We have teamed up with a local artist Emma Joustra and have had a commemorative tea towel produced which will be gifted to all holiday customers this year as a thank you.”

The spokesman continued: “Over the last few months, we’ve been updating and researching our boat manual, during which we discovered an early boat manual from 1948.

“Comparing the two manuals, it is astonishing how many changes we’ve seen throughout the 75 years of hiring. Toilets are no longer a bucket with a toilet seat on top and emptied with a trench shovel (loving called a bucket and chuck it). There were no sanitary stations in those days so a hole in the hedge row had to be dug before the bucket got too full. Now we have electric or dump through type toilets with a flush going into holding tanks.

“Water cans were used for collecting and storing water and you had to boil the water for washing and cleaning, no showers on board. Unlike modern hire boats of today with water tanks lasting about two to three days, hot and cold water on tap, and often with one or two shower cubicles on each boat.

“Gone also are the days of “O- So-Cool” coolers made of plaster of Paris boxes with an aluminium insert, on which you had to pour water every day, to keep food chilled.

“Oil Lamps for lighting or the newer boats build in the early 50’s a single 12v light. Modern boats now have electricity to run the electric 230V fridges with freezers, radios, TV’s/DVD’s, charging points for mobile phones all generated by a system of alternators and

“We are also running the following competitions: Grownups competition to win ‘A Short Break For Four People.’ Why not share your adventures with us. We would love to see a canalboat holiday photograph that tells a tale.

“Children’s Competition to win ‘A Commemorative Jigsaw Puzzle.’ Write a story about their canal boating adventure or draw a picture.

“Please send your entries to mail@canalcruising.co.uk.”

They added: “Winners will be notified in November 2023. One weeks holiday and short break to be taken during 2024.

“Happy Cruising from all the team.”

Town celebrations HM The King’s coronation

The town of Stone joined the nation in celebrating HM King Charles’ coronation this Spring.

Stone Town Council organised a Coronation party in the High Street on Sunday, May 7, the day after the King’s official coronation.

It all kicked off at 12.30pm and was a free to access family fun day which ran until 5pm.

There was a variety of entertainment including: Stone Town Mayor opening the event alongside

Stone Choral Society; 80’s tribute band Head over Heels; Murphy’s Marbles featuring Sean Cannon of the Dubliners; as well as Abba tribute band Bjorn UK.

Kath Stanway was the compere for the day, and her duo act, Vinyl Overdrive, also performed between sets.

Children’s entertainment included Warwick’s Funfair, plus a best Coronation-

themed cake competition took place. Meanwhile, floral tributes were put in place at parks in both Stafford and Stone, to commemorate the coronation of King Charles III.

The flowers in the carpet beds at Victoria Park in Stafford and Stonefield Park in Stone were designed to mark His Majesty’s coronation. These were organised by Stafford Borough Council which maintains the two parks.

The Victoria Park bed was moved into the heart of the park, near to the popular bowling green, following its £2.5 million Heritage Lottery Funded restoration in 2020 - and last year it paid tribute to the Platinum Jubilee of the late Queen Elizabeth II

Nearly 9,000 plants were used to create the bed at Stonefield Park - while more than 5,000 were used on Victoria Park.

Let’s get quizzical

COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

1. From a recipe created by Mark Flanagan, what dish is made up of pastry, milk, cream, eggs, tarragon, cheddar, spinach, salt, pepper and soy or broad beans?

2. Which male doll was introduced by Mattel in 1961 as a counterpart to his even more famous female companion?

3. Philip II of Spain and James Bond shared which motto?

4. Which three best picture Oscar-winners have four-letter titles?

5. The Final in 1986 was whose farewell concert?

6. Who sailed from Varna to Whitby on the Demeter?

7. Which river carved out the Grand Canyon?

8. Which country won this years Eurovision Song Contest held in Liverpool?

9. Which three teams were relegated from the Premier League in May?

10. In which city is the French Open tennis tournament held?

11. Wiki, as in Wikipedia, meads ‘fast’ in which language?

12. In what year did pupils in the UK sit O-Level exams for the last time?

13. In 2003 which country became only the third, after the US and Russia, to send its own person into space?

14. What English city was once known as Jorvik by the Vikings?

15. In Cockney rhyming slang what does ‘tom’ mean?

16. Which ventriloquist appeared with Orville the Duck?

17. What novel by James Joyce is set on June 16th 1904?

18. What part of a cow’s anatomy has four departments?

19. Where in the UK is the Spinnaker Tower?

20. Which organ of the body does a hepatologist specialise in?

Pincushion Flowers

Scabious are well loved cottage garden flowers grown to attract bees and butterflies and also as lovely cut flowers in summer. They are easily grown from seed, and some will flower in their first year. They also have some wonderful close relatives such as that add to the range of flowers.

Most Scabious require well-drained soil that isn’t too acidic, included in this are the Giant Scabious (Cephalaria) and Knautia, whereas the Devil’s Bit Scabious (Succisa and Succisella) like moisture but also reasonable drainage in winter.

The Caucasian Scabious have lovely large flowers in shades of Blue and White. The Perfecta Strain of seeds produces reliable plants with large flowers.

The smaller flowered Columbaria types are also raised from seed, for example Butterfly Blue and Butterfly Pink. Ochroleuca (meaning pale yellow) is tall and rangy and best in a wild garden. The shorter form, Moondance, is better for more formal settings.

Very closely related is Knautia macedonica with its wine-red flowers though the summer. Mars Midget is a shorter, redder, variety. Melton Pastels is a seed mix that produces a mix of mauve, pink and pale violet shaded flowers.

The giants amongst Scabious are the closely

related Cephalaria. The best known is the 6ft / 2m plus Giant Yellow Scabious (Cephalaria gigantea). The large pale yellow flowers are a magnet for bees and butterflies. Alpina is half the height but with the same sized flowers.

The Devil’s Bit Scabious have globular flowers and prefer a moist soil. The British native Succisa pratensis grows in damp meadows grows to about 2ft / 60cm tall. Succisella is perhaps better for a garden border as it tolerates driers spells and produces more flower. Known as Frosted Pearls, the basic species has lavender blue flowers, and the form Alba is not pure white as the name suggests but more of a very pale pink. Both have creeping stems and ground hugging leaves.

Scabious are an old fashioned favourite enjoying something of a comeback for more natural styles of garden and there’s sure to be a sunny spot in most gardens for one or more. The bees, butterflies and birds are sure to thank you for growing them.

Janet and I run Plant Hunters’ Fairs, specialist plant fairs at wonderful locations offering special reduced entry rates to the gardens on the plant fair dates.

Coming up is:

Cholmondeley Castle Garden on Wednesday, August 2, Garden and Fair £5; Capesthorne Hall, Macclesfield on Sunday, August 13, Gardens and Fair £4; The Dorothy Clive Garden on Sunday, August 27, and Bank Holiday Monday, August 28, Garden and Fair £5; Weston Park on Sunday, August 27, and Bank Holiday Monday, August 28, Garden and Fair £4.

For up to date information about all our Plant Fairs, go online to: www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk.

Martin Blow

Martin Blow

Here’s just some of what’s coming up in Stone, Eccleshall and surrounding areas. Please note that the information in this feature was correct at the time of print but all events are subject to change. Please check with the venues/organisers for updates.

Regular Events

Craft & Collectable’s Markets

Every third Saturday of the month in Stone town centre. 9am-3pm. Details: www.stonetowncouncil.gov.uk

Fulford Village Walks

Starting on the Village Green at 10.30am the walks take a gentle pace and take participants on footpaths around the village. The walks also however, involve climbing over stiles and walking across muddy terrain, so sturdy footwear is recommended and wellies if there has been lots of rain. Generally back by 1pm in time for anyone who has worked up an appetite to have Sunday lunch or hot baps at the Shoulder. Every first Sunday of the month. Details: 01782 398280.

Rock Choir

8pm-9.30pm at The Main Hall, The Crossing Community Centre, Station Approach, Stone. Every Tuesday. Plus 10.30am-midday at St Bertelin’s Church Hall, Holmcroft Road, Stafford. Cost: £25 a month. Details: www.rockchoir.com.

Stone Farmers Markets

Every first Saturday of the month in Stone town centre. 9am-3pm. Details: www.stonefarmersmarket.co.uk

Stone Street Food

Thursdays: July 20, August 17, September 21, October 19. Stone High Street. 3pm9pm. A celebration of global flavours in the heart of Stone.

Walton Lunches

Every Thursday at Walton Community Centre. Free two-course hot meals for those in need. Details: 01785 814813.

World of Wedgwood, Barlaston

Lots of different events and activities at this Barlaston tourist spot including markets and workshops. Details: 01782 282986 or www.worldofwedgwood.com

Coming up...

Friday, June 23

Stafford Shakespeare at Stafford Gatehouse. A Midsummer’s Night Dream. Running until July 9. Details: www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk.

Sunday, June 25

10k Road Race . 10am-noon. Stone. Organised by the Stone St Michael’s 10k Road Race group .

Thursday, June 29

Stafford Beer & Cider Festival Running until Saturday. Details: www.hos.camra.org.uk

Saturday, July 8

Puppet Festival in the Market Square, Stone. Details: www.stonetowncouncil.gov.uk.

Community Fun Day and Dog Show In Fulford. Details: www.fulfordvillage.com

Sunday, July 9

Civic Sunday Parade and Service 10.30am-noon in High Street and St Michael & St Wulfad’s Church in Stone. Details: www.stonetowncouncil.gov.uk.

Saturday, July 15

Stone Food & Drink Festival . Also on Sunday at Kibblestone Scout Camp. Plus lots going on in Stone town centre. Details: www.stonefooddrink.org.uk

Wednesday, August 9

Stone by the Sea 11am-5pm running until Saturday, August 12, in the High Street, Stone. Details: www.stonetowncouncil.gov.uk.

Sunday, August 13

Bandstand Concert 2pm-4pm at Stonefield Park. With Florence Brass Band Concert and Burma Star Commemoration. Details: www.stonetowncouncil.gov.uk.

Sunday, August 20

Family Dance Festival in the High Street, Stone. Family fun with dancing and singing from multiple dance studios.

Sunday, August 27

Summer Plant Hunters’ Fair at the Dorothy Clive Garden, Willoughbridge. Also on Monday. Details at www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk

Plant Hunters’ Fair 10am-5pm at the Dorothy Clive Garden, near Bridgmere. Also on Monday. Details www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk .

Do you have a public/community event coming up which you would like to appear in our What’s On feature? Email what, when, where, etc, to our Editor Belinda at hargreavespr@outlook.com.

Scenic snaps of our area

Stoneand Eccleshall is such a beautiful area of middle England where we are so lucky to have so many scenic sites.

Here are some fabulous photographs which have been kindly sent in to us by Debbie Jones.

Have you captured a good photograph of our area recently which you would like to see appear in the Stone & Eccleshall Life Magazine?

Email your photos to our editor Belinda at belinda@timesandecho.co.uk.