Stone Life Oct Nov 2016

& Eccleshall OCT/NOV 2016

S LD NG O RI E G E B TH JO E M HO

Stone

Life

A

Festive Menu

Available from 5th December until 24th December 2016 (Monday-Saturday 12pm-3.00pm & 6.00pm-9.00pm 2 Courses £11.95pp or 3 Courses £14.95pp

Christmas Day

Available on 25th December 2016 between 12noon & 1.30pm 4 courses for just £42.95pp

Boxing Day Menu

Available 26th December between 12 noon & 3pm 3 Courses £17.50pp

NEW YEAR’S EVE FREE Buffet & Disco

Please call to reserve your place for you and your guests.

38 High Street, Stone, Staffs, ST15 8AS • Tel: 01785 747477 www.crownhotelstone.com

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Celebrating a super summer of sport

t has been an amazing summer of sport with Team GB’s spectacular medal haul from the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympic Games.

It of course had that extra bit of magic and sparkle this year as Stone’s very own Olympian Joe Clarke added to the tally with his amazing gold medal winning performance in the canoe slalom, there is little wonder spirits were high as the 23 year old was carried through the town in his kayak in a special home-coming celebration, what a real life inspiration our youngsters have to look up to.

The Olympic medals didn’t stop there however with another local athlete, paracanoeist Ian Marsden also picking up a Bronze medal in the following Rio Paralympics in September - an amazing achievement for both men and one of which we are all extremely proud of too.

But with summer behind us and the schools all firmly back in the swing of things, the highlight of autumn is upon us once again, yes Stone’s acclaimed Food and Drink Festival makes a welcome return to Westbridge Park on Friday 30th September through to 2nd October don’t miss a single delicious minute of it.

And finally in Eccleshall we catch up with all the highlights of the annual Show and doth our caps once again to the amazing work the town’s young Farmers Club do in putting on entertaining, fundraising events for the whole community to enjoy. This was the case once again over the summer with their Speed Sheep Shear and Beer Festival, which was another storming success for the group.

All that plus much more in this edition of Stone and Eccleshall Life.

I

Deborah Boden Contents Editor debbie@timesandecho.co.uk Sophie Cotton & Tracey Wardle 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

Deborah

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October/November 2016 5

The Stone House Hotel

Christmas bookings now being taken

Contact our Sales Team for more details on our early booker offers. 01785 815531

Are you planning a celebratory lunch or dinner?

We have beautiful private dining rooms perfect to host those special occasions.

Call our dedicated Events Team for further details. 01785 815531

STAFFORD ROAD, STONE, STAFFORDSHIRE, ST15 0BQ

October/ November

CONTENTS

Stage directions ........................................24

Stoke Youth Musical Theatre Company ...25 Rio Paralympics 2016 ...............................26 Quiz corner ...............................................29 Health and wellbeing ................................31

1st Stone Guides........................................34

Eccleshall Community First Responders .35

Stafford and Rural Homes........................36 Gardening .................................................40

Homes and gardens ..................................42 Eccleshall Show ........................................46

Editor’s letter ..............................................5

Eccleshall Young Farmers ........................48

Stone Food and Drink Festival .................12

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust......................52

Competition...............................................16

Investment matters...................................55

Olympic gold medallist...............................8

Recipes for life...........................................14 Last orders ................................................20

Independent education ............................50

Legal matters ............................................53 Motoring ...................................................56

Stafford Fireplaces & Stoves

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October/November 2016 7

OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALLIST

GOLDEN MOMENTS FO CLUB CONTINUES OLYMPIC LEGACY IN RIO

interview for BBC Radio 5 Live and the excitement continued once Joe arrived home with escalating media interest and a trip to the GQ Magazine Men of the Year Awards where he lympic gold medallist, Joe Clarke, was took a selfie with fellow Olympic Tom Daley and carried through his hometown of Game of Thrones star, Gwendoline Christie.

Stone in his kayak as part of a summer Joe’s homecoming celebration, on Monday of celebration after his amazing feats in 29th August, included a family picnic at the Rio de Janiero 2016 Olympic Games.

Westbridge Park as well as a high street parade.

Honours have been heaped on the 23-yearStafford and Stone Canoe Club had erected a old, who has been a member of Stafford and banner supporting Joe’s Olympic dream, while Stone Canoe Club since the age of 11. townsfolk paid tributes in their own unique way The epic moment when Joe achieved the gold with posters, flags and even a scarecrow! medal in the canoe slalom final was shown Music on the day was provided by The around the world, prompting a huge cheer for Cartoon Kinds, Ben Owen and the Trentham Joe along with a wave of plaudits and Brass Band. congratulations.

Stone MP, Sir Bill Cash said: “I was absolutely The young Olympian was congratulated by his delighted to meet with Joe Clarke and his parents long-time hero Sir Steve Redgrave during an at the Homecoming Celebration in Westbridge

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8 October/November 2016

OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALLIST

FOR CANOE STAR JOE Park.

“We met and I paid tribute to him and his marvellous achievement of an Olympic victory, which is superb for Stone, Staffordshire and the country.

“I am extremely proud of his inspirational story and success in Rio. His victory is down to tremendous hard work, talent and sheer determination to succeed.”

Thousands turned out to cheer Joe, who is also expected to be awarded the Freedom of the Borough after his spectular showing at the 2016 Olympics.

Leader of Stafford Borough Council, Patrick Farrington, proposed the honour for Joe after the Union Flag was raised above the Civic Centre in recognition of Joe’s victory.

Cllr Farrington said: “This was an unbelievable achievement. Like the rest of the

country I was cheering Joe on from the start to the finish line.

“And it was great to see members of his family were there in person to cheer him on.

“The skill, courage and commitment he displayed in achieving Olympic gold will be an inspiration to so many.

“It is also a fantastic tribute to the Stafford and Stone Canoe Club who, time and time again, have demonstrated what a successful organisation they are at producing world class competitors.”

Joe’s fantastic Olympic feat continues a long legacy of world-class competitors at Stafford and Stone Canoe Club.

Jon and Pauline Goodwin competed at the Munich Olympics of 1972 before becoming founder members of the club a year later.

Pauline went on to compete in the

>>

October/November 2016 9

OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALLIST

sprint at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal.

Liz Sharman followed her win at the Canoe Slalom World Championships in 1987 with a stint in the canoe sprint at the Seoul Olympics the following year.

Canoe slalom did not feature at the Olympics again until 1992 when Richard Fox, four-time World Canoe Slalom Champion, competed in the slalom event at La Seu d’Urgell during the Games in Barcelona alongside club-mate Melvyn Jones.

>>

10 October/November 2016

Richard narrowly missed out on a medal, reaching fourth place, but returned the following year to claim the world championship for the fifth time at Mezzana in Italy before retiring from the sport. Melvyn came 7th, placing 3rd behind Richard at the Mezzana championships.

The club produced Olympic competitors in the 21st Century too, with Laura Blakemen selected for TeamGB at Sydney in 2000 and Lizzie Neave also joining the national squad for London 2012.

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STONE FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL

NEW AND OLD FAVOURITE TOWN’S GASTRONOMIC FEAST RETURNS

ith the Stone Food and Drink Festival’s eagerly awaited print programme hitting doormats in and around Stone, the 2016 event looks set to offer foodies a whole week packed with events.

The ‘big weekend’ – Friday 30th September, Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd October - will once again see Westbridge Park transformed into a haven for food and drink fans, with ample opportunity to shop, eat, drink, learn and enjoy a huge variety of culinary delights. Top local chefs will entertain the crowds on the hour, every hour in the ever-popular Demonstration Kitchen, kindly sponsored this year by Platt’s Garage Group whilst, in the Mercedes Benz of Stafford Talks & Tastings Tent there will be sessions covering everything from butchery skills to cocktail mixing, cheese sampling and wine tasting.

Keen cooks can get hands-on in Cookery Masterclasses – either whipping up authentic Indian dishes with iCookIndian or honing their cupcake decorating skills with local cake artist Beth Lauren. Shoppers will be spoilt for choice with well over 100 stands selling artisan food

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12 October/November 2016

stuffs from around the country, and real ale fans can indulge in the Joule’s Brewery Beer Tent, where local brewers will be out in force. Families, meanwhile, can enjoy free kids’ cookery classes and Professor Panic - back by popular demand – will host circus shows and skill sessions in the Panic Circus Big Top, with crafts and face painting also on offer.

However, the festival is about more than three days on Westbridge Park – throughout the week running up to the event, local pubs, restaurants and businesses are hosting events ranging from foodies quizzes and challenges through to themed evenings and special offers. There are also two new trails – a town centre Real Ale Trail, organised by Stone Pub Watch, and a Tapas Trail, kindly sponsored by R&A Knight Accountants, to enjoy this year. Festival chairman, Richard Stevens, says: “I always think that the programme will be hard to beat the following year and, once again, I have to say I think this is our best line up of events to date. I am especially impressed by the support of the town centre businesses. The very reason we run this event is to bring visitors – and their money – into town centre businesses, so it’s fantastic to have so many getting involved. There are some cracking events planned this year and

STONE FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL

TES DISHED UP AT FESTIVAL

there’s a fantastic buzz about all the new additions. We’re once again expecting bumper crowds, so there should be a party atmosphere in town for the whole week!”

The 2016 Stone Food & Drink Festival will take place on Friday 30th September, Saturday 1st and

Sunday 2nd October 2016, with events in and around town beginning from Saturday 24th September.

To view the full programme and book advance tickets to the main festival on Westbridge Park visit www.stonefooddrink.org.uk October/November 2016 13

SHAKE UP YOUR RECIPES FOR LIFE

Breakfast. It’s hailed as the most important meal of the day; providing the body and bra That’s why it’s called breakfast - breaking the fast! Eating a meal within two hours of wa skippers tend to reach for high sugar and fatty snacks mid-morning. But if you’re stuck i from cereal and toast, why not shake up your wake up and try these recipes on for size...

SOMETHING SAVOURY BAKED SALMON AND EGGS

Do something different with your eggs and smoked salmon by baking into a bread roll for an extra special weekend breakfast that will keep you full up until lunch Preparation time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10-15 minutes Serves: 6

Ingredients • 6 crusty white rolls (poppy seeded if possible) • 25g melted butter • 6 slices smoked salmon or gravadlax • 6 medium eggs • Chopped chives

Method 1) Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4.

Slice off the top of each roll, then remove the bread inside until there is a hole large enough for a slice of salmon and an egg.

2) Arrange the rolls on a baking sheet, reserving the tops.

3) Brush the inside and edges of the rolls with

14 October/November 2016

a little melted butter, then arrange a slice of salmon inside each one.

4) Crack an egg into each and season.

5) Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your liking. Scatter with chives.

Toast the tops, brush with the remaining butter, then cut into soldiers and use to dip into eggs.

UR WAKE UP

brain with the fuel it needs after a long overnight fast. f waking up can be good for the waistline too, as breakfast uck in a rut with your boring breakfast, and fancy a break ze...

RECIPES FOR LIFE

EAS NEW IDMOST E FOR TH TANT IMPOR OF MEAL Y THE DA

SOMETHING SWEET BREAKFAST MUFFINS

Make muffins healthier with mashed banana and apple sauce for natural sweetness, plus blueberries and seeds for an extra nutritious hit. A great breakfast to grab and go - these muffins can be sealed in a container for up to 3 days Preparation time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Makes: 12

Ingredients • 2 large eggs • 150ml natural low-fat yogurt • 50ml rapeseed oil • 100g apple sauce or pureed apples • 1 ripe, mashed banana • 4 tbsp clear honey • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 200g wholemeal flour • 50g rolled oats, plus extra for sprinkling • 1½ tsp baking powder • 1½ tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1½ tsp cinnamon • 100g blueberries • 2 tbsp mixed seeds

Method 1) Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Line a 12-hole muffin tin with 12 large muffin cases.

2) In a jug, mix the eggs, yogurt, oil, apple sauce, banana, honey and vanilla. Tip the remaining ingredients, except the seeds, into a large bowl, add a pinch of salt and mix to combine.

3) Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix briefly until you have a smooth batter –

don’t overmix as this will make the muffins heavy.

4) Divide the batter between the cases and sprinkle the muffins with the extra oats and the seeds. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and well risen, and a skewer inserted into the centre of a muffin comes out clean.

5) Remove from the oven, transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool.

October/November 2016 15

COMPETITION

A NEW ‘SUPER SKINNY’ STYLE OF PROSECCO

delicious Prosecco with only 3 grams of sugar per litre, sounds too good to be true, given the average is around 16 grams.

However, Cirotto, an artisan winery, have managed to achieve it with their new Prosecco Superiore Extra Brut.

Having very little sugar leaves no room for error in the winemaking process. From caring for the grapes to bottling, every step has to be of a very high standard in order to produce a top quality wine which is a pleasure to drink. Sugar is often used to cover up quality imperfections, so

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when there is hardly any, “You really are laying your cards on the table”, says Barbara Cirotto of the Cirotto Winery in Italy.

The new Cirotto Extra Brut Prosecco Superiore is imported into the UK by Prosecco and Sparkling Wine specialist, Just Perfect Wines based in Stoke on Trent. The new Prosecco is now available to buy from il Gusto stores in Leek and Trentham Gardens. @justperfectwine www.justperfectwines.co.uk

To win a fabulous gift set featuring a bottle of Cirotto Extra Brut Prosecco Superiore signed by Barbara Cirotto, together with 2 Riedel Prosecco Superiore glasses, simply circle the correct answer

HOW MUCH SUGAR IS IN THE NEW EXTRA BRUT CIROTTO PROSECCO SUPERIORE? a.3 grams per litre

b. 10 grams per litre

c. 16 grams per litre

Name........................................... Address........................................................................................................................................ .........................................................................................................................Daytime phone no.................................................

Please send your entry to Leek Life Magazine, 18 Tape St, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST10 1BD. Deadline for entries: Friday 18th November 2016.

16 October/November 2016

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Varying tastes according to the season

LAST ORDERS

A DRINK FOR ALL SEASONS

ime flies and here we are with the Stone Food and Drink festival imminent all of which turns my thoughts to autumn and the close of yet another year.

It’s now very noticeable that the nights are drawing in but as I write this the weather is still very warm. It all emphasises the seasons and that got me thinking as to whether the seasons effect what I like to drink? If you ask a retailer they will tell you that whisky sales are very seasonal. The run up to Christmas is the key time of the year but do we only imbibe at Christmas time?

Thinking about it my tastes do vary over the year. In spring and summer I prefer lighter sweeter whiskies, lowland and Irish malts in the spring and more Speyside in the summer.

In winter visions of relaxing in a comfortable chair in front of a roaring fire sipping a heavily peated Islay malt is my idea of finishing a perfect day.

Then came the thought what would constitute my ideal Autumn malt, something to go with ‘mists and mellow fruitfulness’? The

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20 October/November 2016

answer came in the form of a present, a bottle of Longrow which is a peated expression from the SpringBank distillery in Campbelltown.

Whilst being described as heavily peated it is not in the medicinal phenolic class of the Islay monsters but sufficient to make you think of burnt umber landscapes and fallen leaves. I didn’t think I would like it but I really do.

However, they don’t make much of it, this is not one to find in the special offers section in your local supermarket, less than 100 casks are filled each year so it will need a bit of searching out.

As a well-known TV drama proclaims ‘winter is coming’ but I think you will all agree that whisky truly is a drink for all seasons!

Whisky expert Dave Pickard of Old School Wines, Tittensor.

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October/November 2016 23

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

WIN A FAMILY TICKET to see

Snow White at Buxton Opera House hat better place to watch a pantomime than the sparkling, fairytale setting of Buxton Opera House.

This year James Holmes is back by popular demand to play the role of the dame and Lucy Dixon will make her debut appearance as Snow White.

TV actor James Holmes is best known for playing barman Clive in the BBC’s popular comedy series Miranda.

This year James takes the helm as Dame Brenda Bakewell, who works as a long-suffering palace cook for the wicked Queen Belladonna.

Also performing at Buxton Opera House this Christmas will be the gorgeous Lucy Dixon, who is well known for her many telly roles including Hollyoaks and Waterloo Rd. 2016 marks the 25th year that writer/director Philip Dart and his company have produced the pantomime at Buxton Opera

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House. The anniversary year with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Philip assures us, will be better than ever, “a real blockbuster of a family show, to celebrate the anniversary in style.” The critics tend to agree - last year The Stage called the show “a delightful traditional pantomime with some innovative tweaks.” Whilst Manchester Theatre Awards hailed it as “a thoroughly entertaining and colourful panto.”

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs runs from Saturday 10th December to Sunday 1st January.

Tickets cost from £17.50 to £23 and discounts and group rates are available.

Tickets are £10 for groups of ten or more, with one adult free per ten children. Groups of ten adults or more are priced at £16.

To book seats go online at www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk or telephone the Box Office on 01298 72190.

To win a family ticket for 4 on December 10th at 1.00pm, answer the following question.

WHICH OF THE DISNEY SEVEN DWARVES WORE GLASSES? a.Bashful

b. Dopey

c. Doc

(Circle your answer)

Name........................................... Address........................................................................................................................................ .........................................................................................................................Daytime phone no.................................................

Please send your entry to Leek Life Magazine, 18 Tape St, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST10 1BD. Deadline for entries: Tuesday 29th November 2016.

24 October/November 2016

LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL

STOKE YOUTH MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY

GOOD ADVICE CONSIDERED BUT NOT TAKEN FOR PREMIER OF BROADWAY BLOCKBUSTER

sk any actor who has worked with children or animals and they will confirm the wisdom of the old W C Fields saying, ‘never work with children or animals.’ They are scene stealing and completely unpredictable!

This point considered, Stoke Youth Musical Theatre Company are making absolutely sure they have two canine stars of exactly the right character, charisma and predictability for their local autumn premiere of ‘Legally Blonde The Musical’ by holding doggie auditions for the show.

Legally Blonde is a fabulously fun international award-winning musical based on the adored film of the same name and follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery and scandal in pursuit of her dreams.

This actionpacked musical explodes on the stage with memorable songs and dynamic dances and will take you from the sorority house to the halls of justice with Broadway’s brightest

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new heroine and, of course, her beloved Chihuahua, Bruiser.

Casting Bruiser will probably be as timeconsuming as the principal auditions for the show back in May, but dad and daughter director team, Ian and Olivia Birkin, feel sure that just the right little doggie will come along together with the second perfect pooch required, a bull dog or similar-sized breed.

‘Legally Blonde The Musical’ stays true to form with a peppy score and playful book and is ridiculously enjoyable from start to finish.

Elle Woods appears to have it all. Her life is turned upsidedown, however, when her boyfriend dumps her so he can start getting serious about his life and attend Harvard Law. Determined to get him back, Elle uses her charm to get into Harvard Law. At school she struggles with peers, professors and Warner Huntington. With the help of Paulette and Emmett though, Elle quickly realizes her potential and sets out to prove herself to the world.

Newcomer to Stoke Youth Musical Theatre Company, 17-year-old Nikki Biddington (pictured) from Trentham plays the leading role of Elle and is supported by a hugely talented cast of 44 including Mollie Angus, Hannah Brown and Ellie Wheeler all from Stone.

‘Legally Blonde The Musical’ is being staged at the Mitchell Arts Centre in Hanley from Tuesday 15th to Saturday 19th November.

There are nightly performances at 7.30pm and a matinee on Saturday at 2.30pm.

Tickets can be reserved by calling 01782 616486 or 07732 167271. Online bookings can also be made at www.stokeyouth.org.

October/November 2016 25

IAN ‘CAN’OE DO IT...

RIO PARALYMPICS 2016

LOCAL PARACANOEIST MAKES A SPLASH IN RIO ollowing local Olympians Joe Clarke and Adam Peaty’s success in Rio, 44-year-old paracanoeist Ian Marsden has also proudly added his name to Staffordshire’s medal tally after competing in the Brazil Paralympics.

Ian, who competed in the Men’s KL1 Canoe Sprint in Rio on Thursday 15th September, proudly brought home the bronze medal with an impressive time of 51.220, successfully taking the third spot behind Poland and Hungry who took the gold and silver respectively.

Classified as a KL1 athlete – a competitor with no use of their legs and no or very little use of their trunk, Ian took part in the Paracanoe Sprint which is new to the Paralympics this year.

The demanding sport sees athletes in kayaks complete a straight 200m course across Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas in the fastest possible time.

Backing Ian in making his Paralympic dreams come true was Ron Jeffries, Managing Director of Stone-based Jeffries Group by contributing towards the cost of one of Ian’s specialized canoes, is proud to have played a part in supporting the Trentham sportsman.

“Ian is an amazing sportsman who has overcome numerous injuries and illnesses to win multiple awards over the years.

“We first made contact with Ian a few years

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26 October/November 2016

ago when we heard he needed funding for a more competitive canoe. We helped fund this; it was obvious to us that Ian was going to go all the way in this sport. He is truly an inspirational person and athlete” said Ron. Following injury which would have been the end of any hope of sporting success for many, Ian has gone on to achieve world class recognition in not one but three sports including powerlifting and hand cycling as well as canoeing now adding what must be the pinnacle of his successes, a Bronze Paralympic medal to his accolades.

The two-time paracanoe European champion and two-time world silver medallist’s hard work and training paid off when he was selected for the Paralympics earlier this year.

Ron added: “All of us at Stone Property Buyers are delighted for Ian that his dream to get to Rio and bring home a medal has been realised. He trained so hard for the September Games and we are continuing to fund towards Ian’s training and travel costs to support his efforts.

“It is more than apt that the Paralympics motto this year was ‘Yes, I can’ as Ian has shown us time and time again that he can, and has overcome all the odds to be the best at all he does.”

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28 October/November 2016

QUIZ CORNER

Let’s get quizzical COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

General Knowledge Quiz 1. In the children's TV series Bagpuss, what was the name of the little girl who owned Bagpuss?

2. What is singer Adele's surname?

3. Where on the human body would you find a lunula?

4. What do we call the wife of an Earl?

5. In the Indiana Jones films, what is Indiana's real first name?

8. Which fruit is a hybrid between a blackberry and a raspberry?

9. Which is the only Shakespeare play in which the name of an animal appears in the title?

10. How old was the girl the Beatles saw Standing There?

A ‘Witch’ quiz for Halloween 1. On which night do witches traditionally hold their meetings?

2. Which witch was killed by a falling house in 'The Wizard of Oz'?

3. According to the Brothers Grimm tale, did Hansel or Gretal push the wicked witch into the oven?

4. Who wrote the novel 'The Witching Hour'?

5. In which Disney film does Angela Lansbury play Eglantine Price, an amateur witch?

6. Cher and Michelle Pfeiffer were two but who was the other Witch Of Eastwick?

7. In which 1993 film did Bette Midler play an evil witch?

8. What is the name of Sabrina the teenage witch's cat?

9. In which English county is the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic?

10. Taken from the initials of the writer of 'The Wizard of Oz', what is the name of the Wicked Witch of the West in the musical 'Wicked'?

Halloween Answers: 1. Friday; 2. Wicked Witch of the East; 3. Gretal (The original story was published in 1812); 4. Anne Rice (The American author published the novel in 1990); 5. Bedknobs and Broomsticks (This 1971 film was based on The Magic Bed-Knob & Bonfires and Broomsticks novels by Mary Norton); 6. Susan Sarandon (The 1987 film also starred Jack Nicholson as Daryl Van Horne); 7. Hocus Pocus (She played Winnie, one of the three Sanderson sisters); 8. Salem (Melissa joan Hart played the title character); 9.

Cornwall (Found in Bocastle it was founded in 1951); 10. Elphaba (The author's name was L. Frank Baum and therefore LFB).

General Knowledge Answers: 1. Emily (Bagpuss was first shown in 1974 and only 13 episodes were ever made); 2. Adkins (Her full name is Adele Laurie Blue Adkins born in London in 1988); 3. Fingernail (It is the crescent-shaped whitish area of the bed of the fingernail); 4. Countess; 5. Henry; 6. June (June 23rd when Leave won 51.9% to 48.1%); 7. Liverpool; 8. Loganberry; 9. The Taming Of The Shrew (The comedy was written between 1590 and 1592); 10. Seventeen.

Quizzes compiled by Paul Steele (Question writer and Quizmaster) from Cheddleton email: pnsteele@aol.com

6. In which month did the UK vote to leave the EU? 7. In which British city would you find two cathedrals near Hope Street and a football club on opposite sides of Stanley Park?

October/November 2016 29

30 October/November 2016

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Small changes can make a big difference ). %0-.(0 ) %0,.0&+ +). 0&) )-.+0 ,.., 0 (# 0 " he summer is over and we are eagerly awaiting Stone Food and Drink Festival so I thought I would share with you some great ways to look after your body.

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• Begin your day by ditching the caffeine and having a cup of boiled water (not too hot) with a slice of lemon.

This will help to clear out toxins and stimulate a sluggish digestion.

• Always carry a bottle of pure filtered water with you and drink regularly.

Keeping hydrated flushes out the liver (which is particularly important if you regularly consume alcohol), eliminates headaches and helps the brain to function more efficiently enabling you to stay mentally alert particularly if you have a deskbound job or are sat in front of a computer for long periods of time.

• Meditate daily.

Even if you only have 5-10 minutes to spare. Close your eyes and simply allow your mind to wander without trying to change your thoughts. Just simply observe your thoughts and allow them to be as they are. When you observe your thoughts without judgement you will find that your thoughts slow down and become quieter and you begin to sense a feeling of peace and tranquillity.

• To keep your energy levels high cut out sugary snacks.

If you are feeling peckish mid morning or late afternoon eat a handful of almonds to maintain your blood sugar levels naturally.

• Get out in the fresh air and take a brisk 30 minute walk.

This will clear your mind and also aid digestion.

• Take time to appreciate and enjoy your life.

Count your blessings and cultivate gratitude and notice how much better you feel.

Angelina Holistic Therapies Diane Connor FdSc, MFHT Your Local Professional Complementary Therapist

Weekly Meditation Classes Begins Wednesday 12th October 10am-12 pm • Suitable for all levels including beginners • Calm Peaceful Environment • Experienced Teacher • Only 5 minutes walk from Stone Town Centre • Booking Essential • £7 per session (payable in advance)

Call 07967 434232 for details www.angelinaholistictherapies.net

October/November 2016 31

32 October/November 2016

October/November 2016 33

AFTERNOON TEA TO CELEBRATE 100 YEARS 2 1ST STONE GUIDES

016 has been a very busy year for 1st Stone Guides as they celebrate their 100th birthday!

The Guides decided they wanted a party to celebrate and what better way than to host an Afternoon Tea Party!

The girls planned and organised the event themselves, making decorations and preparing food. Among the guests invited were former 1st Stone Guides and Leaders and current Guiders in Stone. The Guides enjoyed being hostesses, serving food and drinks, before gathering around the cake to blow out the candles. The event was made even more special with five new Guides making their Guide promise.

34 October/November 2016

The wonderful occasion was thoroughly enjoyed by all and it was lovely to see so many people there reminiscing about their time in Guiding.

The Guides have done a number of exciting activities already this year including bell-boating, climbing, outdoor cooking and taking part in the County Challenge Event ‘Wipe out or Win’ where they came runners up.

The girls are looking forward to continuing their celebrations this term...so here’s to the next 100 years!

For more information on Guiding in Stone please contact Cathy Collier on Tel. 01785 247306.

ECCLESHALL COMMUNITY FIRST RESPONDERS

CHIEF OFFICER COMMENDATION MARTIN WATSON HONOURED

n Eccleshall Community First Responder has received a Commendation from the West Midlands Ambulance Service Chief Officer, Dr Anthony Marsh, for his actions as the first person on the scene at a prolonged dog attack last year.

The commendation was presented to Eccleshall Group Coordinator, Martin Watson ‘in appreciation of his outstanding dedication and

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service above and beyond the call of duty.’ Martin was the first ambulance resource on the scene of the attack and showed a total disregard for his own safety by going to the aid of a young child and his grandmother both of whom had been attacked by the dog, a French Mastiff.

Despite the dangers posed by the dog he managed to safeguard the two patients and start treatments until further medical services arrived.

Martin said that at the time of the attack his thoughts were not for his own safety but for that of the two patients. He just rendered what aid he could until additional resources from the police and ambulance arrived.

October/November 2016 35

STAFFORD AND RURAL HOMES

ALLOTMENT PROJECT TRANSFORMING LIVES AS WELL AS DISUSED LAND he Mayor of Stone, Councillor Jim Davies, has praised the efforts of volunteers who’ve transformed a disused piece of land into a thriving community allotment with the help of Stafford and Rural Homes (SARH).

He was among the many visitors to the allotments in Priory Road during an open day to mark the success of a project that is improving the health and wellbeing of local residents while helping to tackle anti-social behaviour in the area.

Laura MacPhee, Community Involvement Officer at SARH, explained: “The allotments are part of a wider ‘Growing Health’ project that aims to encourage people to eat more healthily by growing their own vegetables, while getting more exercise out in the fresh air.

“In Stone the project has brought the local community together to clean up a plot of disused land that had been attracting fly tipping and other unwanted activity.”

During the open day, which was blessed with some blazing sunshine, allotment holders took part in a wide range of competitions and activities. Categories on the day included largest

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36 October/November 2016

and smallest vegetable and most unusually shaped produce.

Councillor Davies commented: “It was fantastic to see so many local residents getting involved in such a wonderful project. They’ve done a terrific job in transforming what was a plot of disused land into a valuable community resource.”

In addition to local families, plots on the allotment have been tended by several community groups, including a local youth club, that have been creating wildlife havens.

Karen Armitage, SARH Chief Executive, added: “The allotments in Priory Road follow the success of similar Growing Health projects across Stafford Borough.

“The project has proved a great way to encourage people to grow their own healthy food while building a sense of community.”

Pictured during the allotment open day in Priory Road is left to right, Jayne Smith; Stone Mayor Councillor Jim Davies; Laura MacPhee, SARH Community Involvement Officer; young gardener Dennis Rock and (kneeling) Jane Meyrick from the WhyCH Youth Group.

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38 October/November 2016

GARDENING

FEELING HOT, HO I

’ve always loved flowers in hot colours – reds, oranges and yellows and all shades between.

They add a zing and vibrancy that makes your heart quicken and puts a smile on your face. But hot colours don’t have to be bold and brazen they can be subtle as well simply by making them paler or deeper.

I love to use hot coloured flowers in every season and there are plenty of lovely, easy to grow perennials to choose from.

Red Hot Pokers (Kniphofia) must be the epitome of hot! These South African plants are hardy and easy to grow in a rich soil that retains some moisture in summer without becoming boggy in the winter and there are lots of varieties to choose, from the 6ft giant of the red and yellow Nobilis to dainty dwarves like the lemon-yellow Brimstone. Pokers can be subtle too! If you don’t like bright orange, then darkening the shade takes away some of the heat: Tawny King has large caramel and cream flowers in late summer. Little Maid has very pale cream flowers and Percy’s pride has pale yellow and green flowers.

Bergamot (Monarda) is a wonderful nectar 40 October/November 2016

plant for bees with aromatic leaves smelling of Earl Grey tea. Among the many varieties are some of the best scarlet red summer flowers. Choose varieties like Squaw or Gardenview Scarlet which resist attacks from mildew. The darker red flowers of Fireball are subtler and the plants are shorter as well.

Cinquefoil (Herbaceous Potentilla) have leaves like a strawberry plant but don’t spread by runners. The low mound of silvery-green leaves show off the flowers to a tee. Gibson’s Scarlet is the brightest red and Flambeau a deep, dark semidouble red. William Rollison has large orange and yellow flowers and the self-seeding recta Sulphura has pale lemon flowers. Lemon is a great colour to introduce a soft warmth as it will tone well with hotter colours as well as pinks and pastel shades.

Coral Flower (Heuchera) is now mainly grown for its colourful foliage although the flowers are great for bees and good for cutting. The leaves are often patterned and very showy. Paler versions of hot colours are more subtle but still retain some warmth, pale red becomes plum-coloured.

GARDENING

OT, HOT...

Heucheras in this shade such as Plum Pudding and Pewter Moon give colour right through the year. The variety Caramel becomes deep dark orange in summer but is more apricot in winter.

The only problem with heucheras is that there are just too many varieties to choose from.

When orange is made paler, pastel shades of peach and apricot are formed. Geums like the new variety Mai Tai have lovely peachy flowers in spring and often again in autumn. Alabama Slammer has apricot and orange flowers; Tequila Sunrise, as you might expect, is orange and yellow.

The variety Eos adds to the spring heat with

orange flowers set off by bright, golden leaves.

Cone Flowers (Rudbeckia) usually have yellow flowers with a green or black central cone. The range in size from the short Goldsturm to the very, very tall Herbstsonne (“Autumn Sun”). The perennial types can be grown in full sun or even in dappled shade.

These are just a few of my favourite plants for hot colour in the garden. I could also add Helenium, Day Lilies, Euphorbia for spring flower and autumn leaves, Peruvian Lily, Poppies; the list is endless. But whichever you choose be bold and get hot, hot, hot! In your garden.

Martin and Janet run Special Perennials, www.specialperennials.com which is full of colour photos and growing tips. They sell by mail order and at Plant Hunters’ Fairs throughout the season. See www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk. The couple are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for customers to collect.

October/November 2016 41

PREPARING YOUR H

HOMES AND GARDENS

NATIONAL trade body, the Property Care Association (PCA) has a list of easy steps householders can take this autumn to stop the harsh weather taking its toll on their homes.

Here are a few little reminders for anyone who looks after a building - regardless of its age, type or purpose - of the simple, achievable steps you can take to prepare for the worst that mother nature has to throw at us.

The PCA has produced a 10 point check list of useful steps property owners can take to prevent small concerns escalating into big issues.

Chimneys - Lead flashings at the joint with the chimney stack and the roof can fail due to age or wind damage and then they will let water stream into a property.

Roofs – The wind and rain can take its toll causing cracked tiles or slipped slates

which provide an easy route for water to enter. The problem can be worsened if there is not a secondary underfelt. If anything is loose or worn, water will find its way in.

Gutters and downpipes – Water needs to drain away via gutters quickly, so this is an important time to clear out the guttering and ensure hoppers are free from moss, leaves and other debris. It is best to check everything, including the downpipes, as they should be properly connected with no faulty joints.

Pointing and rendering – Extremes of weather can take its toll on pointing and rendering, especially driving rain. When the pointing becomes loose, eroded and weak or the render cracks or delaminates it allows water to enter and causes internal staining.

Now is the time to check - especially on the weather prevailing side of a property.

Window and doorway openings –

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HOME FOR WINTER

HOMES AND GARDENS

During the warm summer months the weather sealing between frames and masonry can deteriorate. This will become an area where rain can enter.

External vegetation – Various shrubs and ivy will grow well in the summer months however this vegetation should be checked or cut back in the autumn so that water penetration of external walls and growth into weak pointing does not occur.

Air extraction systems – Often an area of property maintenance that is overlooked, these systems are out of sight and mind, but if they are not serviced then problems can occur. Waste can build up in the system. This can become a breeding ground for bacteria and also reduce efficiency. As these systems remove steam from homes, they need to be in good condition to protect against problems with condensation, which can be prolific in autumn and winter, as temperatures outside

drop and warm air hits colder surfaces, such as windows.

Drains – It is important that gulleys and drainage points are cleared of leaves and other debris, so that rainwater

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HOMES AND GARDENS

can drain away from a building quickly, particularly during heavy downpours.

Drives and paths – Surface water must drain away from a building quickly,

>>

44 October/November 2016

particularly during heavy downpours, so check and clear away any build-up of leaves on the drive and paths.

Storage water butts – These tend to be forgotten during the autumn/winter. They often overfill, become blocked up with debris and excess water soaks the surrounding ground and adjoining house walls of the building causing local internal dampness problems. Either organise the overflow drainage or remove and store away.

Steve Hodgson, Chief Executive of the PCA, said: “Dark nights are looming but there’s still time to fit in jobs that will help get properties through the cold, wet weather and in sound condition for the challenging months ahead.

“These small steps can prevent bigger problems emerging in the future.”

The PCA is a member of TrustMark, the scheme supported by government to help property owners find reliable and trustworthy tradespeople to make home improvements.

NEW COMPETITIONS A ECCLESHALL SHOW

rganisers of Eccleshall show were thrilled with three new fun competitions which took place on and around this year’s show day on Saturday 3rd September.

Coordinated with the help of Eccleshall Young Farmers, on the Sunday prior to the show a Family Car Treasure Hunt, starting from the Showground at The Parks in Sugnall took place. Cars followed the clues eventually returning to the showground where a barbecue and refreshments were laid on.

Then on the day of the show itself there was a new Decorated Wheelbarrow competition in which businesses, clubs, organisations and individuals all entered with the theme of ‘children’s television programmes. A procession and judging then took place in the main ring at 1.00pm.

For many years the final competition in the main ring at the Show was the Tug of War. Sadly, enthusiasm for this event has waned over the past few years but with the help of Eccleshall Young Farmers it was reborn.

Show Chairman Edward Lambert said: “Eccleshall Young Farmers have always been great supporters of the show and we were delighted to have these new competitions this year.”

Despite the damp weather conditions on the day, the local community rallied to make the annual show another success.

O

46 October/November 2016

S A HIT AT 2016 SHOW

ECCLESHALL SHOW

October/November 2016 47

ECCLESHALL YOUNG FARMERS

SECOND SHEAR AN

48 October/November 2016

ECCLESHALL YOUNG FARMERS

AND BEER FESTIVAL LOCAL FARMERS ALSO BRAVE THE SHAVE THEMSELVES FOR CHARITY

ccleshall Young Farmers ‘braved the shave’ at their ‘Speed Sheep Shear’ this year not only shearing sheep, but this year their own hair came off for charity too!

The local club teamed up with The Kings Arms’ new landlady Ally Heath, to hold their second speed sheep shearing competition that was combined with a beer festival at the pub on the same evening at the beginning of August.

“Last year we held our Speed Shear for the first time, it was the first of its kind in this area, and it was a huge success” said Charlotte Atkin, Eccleshall Young Farmers chairman. “We were overwhelmed by the attendance of shearers, some who had travelled huge distances, and the support from spectators with over 350 people!”

Speed sheep shearing competitions require competitors to shear just one sheep in the fastest time, with the fastest three shearers in each class going through to the final. While many agricultural shows host sheep shearing competitions, such as The Staffordshire County Show, pub speed shears are growing in popularity across the country bringing a fun, social environment with them.

44 October/November 2016 There were some exciting editions to this

Photos: Eccleshall Young Farmers Facebook page

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year’s event including the local band Stone Cold Sober..ish and a team event called ‘Pint, Pie, Pedal and Peel’ which includes pedalling a bike to power a sheep shearing machine.

Topping the day off two local young farmers, Simon Baskerville and Dave Benbow, took on their own challenge ‘braving the shave’ with organisers taking the shears to their heads to raise funds for Katherine House. All other money raised from the night was then donated to the Midlands Air Ambulance.

“We were pleased to support Eccleshall Young Farmers, and loved working together on this event. It was a huge success with them raising money for a worthy cause.” Said Ally Heath, Landlady of The Kings Arms.

Organisers welcomed sheep shearing competitors from southern parts of Wales and northern parts of Scotland, who fought it out for a total prize money fund of £1,345.

This event was generously sponsored by companies such as the ABP Food Group, Shires Vets, Dunbia, C&R Livestock Hauliers, NFU, Mole Valley Farmers and Livestock Management Systems to name a few.

“It really was a night to remember” said Charlotte “Spectators cheered on some of the country’s fastest sheep shearers, while sipping on some of the Kings Arms finest ales before dancing the night away.”

October/November 2016 49

A GREAT START IN LIFE H INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

igh academic standards, superior facilities and extra-curricular opportunities are on offer for your child at independent schools.

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

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

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

Independent schools offer varieties of education which include various faith schools, boarding schools, day schools, single-sex schools, coeducational schools, selective or non-selective schools, big schools and small schools.

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

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

Independent schools usually offer students the

50 October/November 2016

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

The Independent Schools Counsel (ISC), an association which represents 1280 private schools teaching around 500,000 pupils, published a census in 2007 which reported that the average pupil/teacher ratio of their member schools was one teacher for every 9.7 students. Smaller classes and a higher quantity of teaching staff may also permit class sizes to be tailored according to students' individual needs.

Since independent schools do not have to follow the National Curriculum, and organise their own individual policies, many provide a huge diversity of extra-curricular activities and unusual educational initiatives. This may be particularly evident in primary schooling, where private schools tend not to ask their students to sit Standard Assessment Tests (SATs) and therefore are able to focus on other areas of education and personal development.

In addition, most private schools organise a wide variety of trips in the school holidays. These often include foreign exchanges to boost language ability and activity trips such as skiing holidays, plus sports and choir tours.

FOREST SCHOOL TRAINING

STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

GET BACK TO NATURE

taffordshire Wildlife Trust is giving people the chance to learn valuable new skills and earn a nationally recognised qualification through its Forest School Training Programme.

The Trust is inviting people to sign up for its Forest School Training Open College Network Level 3 qualification – a professionally accredited hands on course which enables practitioners to lead groups of children/young people at Forest School.

Forest School is a educational approach which increases children's confidence, raising their self-awareness and self-esteem in a woodland environment. Forest School encourages free play and self discovery, setting small achievable tasks. Training for the course includes sessions in woodland management, learning theories, practical skills and planning and delivering Forest School programmes.

One of the guiding principles of Forest

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52 October/November 2016

School is that it is organised and delivered by qualified Forest School leaders.

The training course takes place at the Trust’s Wolseley Centre headquarters, near Rugeley, from Monday 17th October to Friday 21st October, with practical skills days taking place on Tuesday 1st and Wednesday 2nd November. There is also a two day emergency outdoor First Aid course on Wednesday 9th and Thursday 10th November.

Duncan Coleman, Education Services Officer for Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, said: “The Trust is well-respected and experienced in training people so they gain the skills they need to run their own Forest School programmes.”

The full cost of the training course is £900 per person which includes First Aid Training, student registration and tutor support. To book, or for more information, contact education@staffs-wildlife.org.uk or call 01889 880106.

PREPARATION FOR A SECOND MARRIAGE –

LEGAL MATTERS

A GRIM TOPIC THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED

igh divorce rates mean second marriages are now more commonplace then ever.

However, second marriages come with their own complications particularly when second families are involved.

Second marriages are causing an increase in the amount of disputed wills and have now become one of the main reasons for families taking legal action following the death of a relative.

For example, a man marries for a second time and a few years later dies. He didn’t make a Will and so all his worldly possessions, property and money go to his second wife.

The man has children from his first marriage and they find it very hard to accept that the wealth their father accrued whilst married to their mother has gone to the second wife who has only been around for a few years. To add insult to injury when she dies, all that she now owns could go to her children who have had little contact with their father.

The problem also occurs the other way around. A man marries for a second time and a few years later dies. In this scenario he writes a Will and leaves all his worldly goods to his children of his first marriage and makes no provision for his second wife.

In either of these situations the relatives, at a time of grieving, may feel the need to begin legal action.

Too many children from a first marriage miss out because a parent ‘never got around’ to making a Will. This means the estate is dealt with by the Rules of Intestacy - the wealth automatically passes to the next of kin, the second wife.

This is why we strongly recommend that anyone entering into a second marriage ensures they have a professionally written will which clearly outlines their intentions to who should benefit in the event of their death. If they are not making provision for someone, like the second wife or a child, then they must use the Will to clearly explain why. This approach prevents costly

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and stressful disputes.

There are also other documents that people entering into a second marriage should consider.

A prenuptial agreement outlines what happens to the marital assets in the event of a relationship breakdown. These were once common place only amongst the rich and famous but are now increasingly used by normal, everyday people who wish to protect wealth they have accrued.

For advice on making a Will please contact Fred Parkinson, Head of Wills and Probate at Grindeys, or Daniel Rushton, Head of Family Law, for advice on a prenuptial agreement.

T: 01782 846 441 E:info@grindeys.com

October/November 2016 53

LIFE MAGAZINES E4 ISSU

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54 October/November 2016

INCOME OR TOTAL RETURN?

INVESTMENT MATTERS

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

Investors looking for income naturally seek out income yielding assets, but this may not be the most tax efficient approach in that an investor is liable to pay tax on interest or dividends received, above their Personal Savings and Dividend Allowances.

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

If an investor opts for utilising capital gains in order to pay an ‘income’, the capital gain is tax free within the CGT allowance. The annual CGT allowance for the 2016/17 tax year is £11,100, therefore, a couple have a joint annual CGT allowance of £22,200. If the gains exceed the CGT allowance, then tax is paid at either 18% or 28%.

Investors should be aware that if the capital is withdrawn at a greater rate than the capital

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growth on the underlying investment portfolio, the value of the portfolio will fall over time.

Another advantage of an income investor managing their portfolio on a total return basis rather than on an income basis, is that the underlying portfolio can include asset classes that pay low or no income, for example, absolute return or emerging equity market funds, and these assets may offer the prospect of a higher total return than the income generating assets.

This advantage also has the benefit of increasing the diversification, which should reduce the risk.

An income seeking investor may have a portfolio that has a strong bias to certain assets or sectors that generate a high income and, therefore, the portfolio may not be diversified.

There are other strategies that investors could use to improve the tax efficiency of their portfolio.

For example, an investor should consider utilising their Individual Savings Account (ISA) allowance each tax year. The current ISA allowance is £15,240 and by utilising this allowance, tax payers will protect their portfolio from further income tax and capital gains tax.

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.

October/November 2016 55

COMPACT CARS MOVE QUICKEST BUT CROSSOVERS DOMINATE FASTEST SELLING CARS MOTORING

he BMW 1 Series was the fastest set of wheels off the UK’s forecourts in August.

The 2012 premium hatchback proved a big hit with buyers and in this petrol automatic guise took just an average of 19 days to sell.

Taking second spot is a regular visitor to the UK’s fastest selling cars, the Toyota AYGO. The 2014 model with petrol engine and automatic gearbox took 21 days to find a buyer and this is the fourth time this year the compact city car has made an appearance in the UK’s top ten quickest selling cars.

Meanwhile the Fiat 500L, the larger five-door version of the popular urban runaround, pops up for the second time in the nation’s rapid sellers to rank third. The diesel automatic version took 21 days from forecourt to buyer – the same time as the Toyota AYGO. It’s Crossovers, however, dominated the sales charts in August taking five of the top ten spots nationally and were the quickest sellers in seven of the UK’s regions.

Nissan’s Qashqai continues to prove popular as a used buy and makes frequent appearances in the UK’s and regional’s monthly fastest sellers.

It’s the rarer seven-seat model, the Qashqai+2, that ranks as the fifth fastest selling car in the UK

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and takes first place in Yorkshire. The standard five-seat model found was changing hands quickest in the South West and ranked ninth nationally.

The SMMT new car registration data for August echoes the UK top ten fastest selling used cars as the Nissan Qashqai is the tenth most popular new car. What’s more, the new car registrations ranked the Ford Kuga as the ninth best-selling model in the UK. It’s a 2015 Kuga with petrol engine and manual gearbox that ranks as the tenth fastest seller in the country taking 25 days from landing at the showroom to finding a buyer.

Karolina Edwards-Smajda, Retailer and Consumer Products Director said: “Crossovers continue to be highly sought after by buyers as our fastest selling car data and the SMMT’s new car registration figures confirm. But as the UK’s top three fastest selling cars prove it’s not always easy to tell what type of car will always prove popular with consumers. Retailers who place data at the heart of their business will be able to glean insights as to what cars are desirable in their area and where to price them to the market to attract buyers, and these insights can supplement a retailer’s own expertise and knowledge.”

Rank* Description

Ave Days Ave Price to Sell Position

Ave Retail Price

1

2012 BMW 1 Series Hatchback Petrol Automatic

19

100.10%

£12,999

3

2013 Fiat 500L Hatchback Diesel Automatic

21

98.75%

£8,024

23

99.12%

£14,243

99.87%

£15,920

2 4

2014 Toyota AYGO Hatchback Petrol Semi-Automatic 21 2013 Seat Altea XL MPV Diesel Automatic

22

2009 Mazda Mazda6 Hatchback Diesel Manual

24

8

2014 Volkswagen Tiguan SUV Diesel Automatic

25

10

2015 Ford Kuga SUV Petrol Manual

25

5

6

7

9

2013 Nissan Qashqai+2 Hatchback Petrol Automatic

2013 Volkswagen Tiguan SUV Diesel Automatic

2014 Nissan Qashqai Hatchback Diesel Automatic

25 25

98.17%

97.65%

92.87%

99.70%

98.98% 99.44%

£6,713

£8,094 £4,133

£18,459 £17,513

£17,201

*Please note that ranking for fastest selling is based on days to sell and the vehicle count with those cars enjoying the fewest days to sell and the highest vehicle count being ranked highest.

56 October/November 2016

October/November 2016 57

MOTORING

DACIA AMONGST MOST RELIABLE BRANDS

acia has been voted the fourth most reliable car brand out of the 34 manufacturers in the 2016 Which? Car Survey – the largest of its type in the UK – outperforming many wellestablished and premium brands.

Dacia received a 90% satisfaction score from customers completing the 2016 car brand reliability survey – placing the no-nonsense car company above many premium and luxury brands.

The Dacia Duster – the best value SUV on the UK market – was voted third Best Compact SUV

by Which? readers for ownership satisfaction.

The Dacia Sandero, the UK’s most affordable new car, received a Which? four-star reliability rating from owners with the Dacia Logan MCV – offering the more space for owners’ money than any other car in the UK – also received a Which? four-star reliability rating.

Dacia has won numerous awards in the UK since launching just over three years ago including What Car?’s ‘Best Small Car under £12,000’ for four consecutive years for the Sandero. One of the UK’s largest automotive owner satisfaction studies, Auto Express Driver Power, has placed Dacia in its top five best

D

58 October/November 2016

manufacturers for three consecutive years – out of 32 brands featured in the 2016 survey, with customers in particular praising the brand’s reliability.

The Dacia range comprises of the Sandero which is a five-door hatchback, available in three trim levels with a choice of two petrol engines and one diesel engine. Pricing starts from £5,995, making it the most affordable new car on sale in the UK today. The versatile Dacia Logan MCV is available in three trim levels and comes with a choice of three engines, including a diesel option that returns up to 80.7mpg (NEDC combined cycle). The Logan MCV is priced from £6,995 OTR. The multiple award-winning Duster has been a part of the Dacia range since the brand’s launch in the UK in 2013 and is the most affordable SUV on the UK market today – priced from £9,495. Duster is available in a choice of three trim levels, with 1.6-litre petrol or 1.5-litre dCi diesel engines and in 4x2 or 4x4 set-ups.

Over four million Dacias have been sold since Groupe Renault reintroduced the brand in Europe in 2004. Dacia was launched in the UK in 2013 and over 78,000 of its ‘shockingly affordable’ vehicles have found UK homes to date.