FREE You can now read The Voice online at:
www.uttoxeter-voice.com Covering the whole of Uttoxeter Plus Rocester, Denstone, Beamhurst, Stramshall, Bramshall, Marchington, Kingstone, Leigh, Combridge, Crakemarsh, Gratwich, Loxley, Lower Loxley, Willslock, Doveridge, Draycott-in-the-Clay, Spath, Kiddlestitch, Highwood, Scounslow Green, Checkley, Lower Tean, Tean, Cheadle, Draycott, Forsbrook, Blythe Bridge and villages in between
Issue 21
13,000 FREE COPIES DISTRIBUTED TO LOCAL HOMES EVERY ISSUE
Merry Christmas
from Abbotsholme School
2
If you are responding to an advertisement in The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, please let the advertiser know. Thank you for your support.
The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice wish all our advertisers and readers
A Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Contents Author’s daughter flies from America to see CATS play
Plus • Christmas in Uttoxeter special feature • Christmas in Cheadle Special Feature • Christmas in Blythe Bridge & Forsbrook Special Feature
Uttoxeter & District Forum 50 Plus Dinner
• Just The Perfect Day Wedding Feature Superb turnout from local golfers for Ben Johnson
• All your local favourite columnists have their say • Plus lots more to read and hopefully enjoy!
To Advertise in The Voice Telephone: 01538 751629, Mobile 0776 784 6937 Email: uttoxetervoice@hotmail.co.uk BOOK YOUR ADVERT NOW FOR THE NEW YEAR’S ISSUE 22 OF THE UTTOXETER & CHEADLE VOICE Businesses get results from their adverts ask them!! Each issue of The Voice is distributed to 13,000 local homes within the area on the map.
How to get in touch Email: uttoxetervoice@hotmail.co.uk Telephone: 01538 751629, Mobile 0776 784 6937 By post: The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, 3 Spode Close, Cheadle, Staffordshire ST10 1DT The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice is wholly independent. Each month 13,000 copies are distributed free to homes and businesses in the Uttoxeter and Cheadle areas - clients are welcome to view our distribution figures.
Publisher and Editor: Nigel Titterton The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice is published by Community Voice Publications Ltd Telephone 01538 751629 e-mail uttoxetervoice@hotmail.co.uk
Abbotsholme SCHOOL
... An Education for Life Abbotsholme is a friendly school. With its beautiful surroundings, it is a wonderful place in which to learn and develop, and where each person’s contribution is properly valued. Independent boarding & day school for girls & boys aged 5-18 Excellent results at GCSE & A Level Outstanding Outdoor Education facilities with indoor climbing wall Set in a beautiful 140-acre estate in rural Derbyshire 70 Acre working farm & BHS approved Equestrian Centre First class facilities for Music, Art & Sport Purpose-built theatre for Drama Easy access by road, rail and close to international airports
For more information please contact Jessica Ash on 01889 594 265 Abbotsholme School, Rocester, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, ST14 5BS T: 01889 590 217 W: www.abbotsholme.co.uk
The views expressed in this publication are those of our contributors and are not necessarily those of the publishers, nor indeed their responsibility. All Rights Reserved. Copyright Community Voice Publications Ltd.
Let The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice take your business to 13,000 local homes. To advertise, call 01538 751629 or 0776 784 6937.
3
Charity Black Tie Dance In aid of Staffs Air Ambulance & Cystic Fibrosis A charity dance was held at JCB Lakeside Club, Rocester, recently. More than 150 people attended the black tie evening which included a hot meal, elegant socializing and an on-stage Live band ‘Wave’. Proceeds from the event will be donated to Staffordshire Air Ambulance
with a donation to Cystic Fibrosis. Donated items auctioned by Calum Forsyth together with a Raffle helped boost the total to over £2,000 raised on the evening. Organisers Lisa Minshall, Fiona Bostock and Della Robotham would like to thank all who attended and all who made donations. “It was a very successful evening in every way”
Hannah Britlebank, Sue Whieldon, Victoria and Steve Bennett
Beverley, Cerith Davies, Justine North, Jan Whieldon
Heidi, Rob Stevenson, Lynn, Andrew Burton
Sue Martin, Beryl Kelly, Karen Hughes, Dawn Costello (Barclays Bank Uttoxeter) - Barclays will match the sum raised £1 for £1 up to a max of £750.
Chris and Alison Allen
Paul, Carol, Sarah, Kevin Harbour, Denise Clayton, Phil Stubbs
A couple enjoy a wonderful evening.
Fiona, Martin Bostock, Eddie, Lisa Minshall
Paul and Delia Rowbotham
Gemma Tortoishell, Skye Mould, Tikira Finlayson
Lee Finlayson
Louise Leatherbarrow, Kirsty Broome, Julie Hulbert, Joanne Mayne
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5
C.A.T.S visitor from America christmas poultry & butchery orders Try a free-range Norfolk Bronze turkey, cockerel, goose or duck this christmas from the Evans family farm. Also available from the butchery: Denstone Hall beef, gammons, hams, pork, lamb, game and our award winning Staffordshire Sizzlers.
Call now to order. Tel: 01889 590050
luxury festive food hampers
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headle Amateur Theatrical Society (CATS) were delighted to welcome a very important visitor to the final performance of their play ‘The Camel’s Back’ by Arnold Helsby held at The Cheadle Community Theatre. The late writer’s daughter, Wendy Bateson travelled thousands of miles from her home in New Jersey, USA to see the production, a play she had not seen since she was a young girl. It was even more poignant as Arnold Helsby played the lead character of Ned Ruddle in the very first performance back in the 1930’s. Wendy heard about CATS production on their website having put an alert on her father’s name. She immediately told her husband, Simon, she wanted to come to Cheadle to see the play. Members of the cast were thrilled to be welcoming an important member of the audience. Warren Leese who played Ned Ruddle said, “We’re privileged, as this is the first time in many years that Wendy has seen her father’s work.” CATS own award winning actress, Janice Bentley directed the play. She had always loved it and had wanted to bring the characters to life for many years. Wendy was accompanied to the performance by her husband and friends from Liverpool and London, all of whom were watching the performance for the first time. She had also given interviews to local radio and newspapers. Prior to the show Wendy and Simon were given a guided tour of the set by Chairman of CATS Alan Price and President Marge Stanley. Wendy was particularly enamoured by the ‘Front of House’ farmyard scene. At the end of the performance, Wendy was invited on stage and presented with a framed photograph of the cast of 2010 as a memento of her visit. “My father was applauding with me, you were all amazing my dad is so proud,” she enthused. The cast and crew have little time to rest, as read-throughs and auditions start for the CATS Annual Pantomime - ‘Dick Whittington’. Written and directed by our dame, Cheadle County Primary School at 7.30pm. Written and directed by our dame, Ian Wood, it will take place during half term, 23rd- 26th February 2011. For further information, phone CATS Secretary on 01538 751173 or visit www.cheadle-cats.org.uk.
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Bargain Hunt star Charles Hanson values antiques at Checkley Church, in aid of church funds
Mavis Brandrick, Chris McBride and Keith Brandrick
E!! S A CRE N I AT V O N
Another satisfied customer...
Charles with Dorothy and Peter Fuller
Hi Wayne, Hmm... What does one say? I can barely believe that just over three weeks ago, Carol and I were vaguely considering replacing our very old partially rotted conservatory. I saw an advertisement in a local magazine for a company called... U Value Ltd, so I decided to have a word with them, just to find out the possibilities of getting a new conservatory. On his next visit Wayne provided drawings and an estimate of the total costs for us to consider. As we talked, it became obvious to us both, that Wayne took everything personally, in as much that he wanted us to have the very best that he could provide within our budget... Now only three weeks later, we have the most splendid conservatory that we could have wished for, so a very BIG THANK YOU Wayne, for his charming personality, and attention to detail to our complete satisfaction... ...But that’s not the end of the story... The construction team, Rob & Andy, that Wayne sent to carry out the work, were absolute magic!!! Totally professional... friendly and with an attention to detail that I wouldn’t have believed... So thanks also to Rob & Andy for providing us with a conservatory to be proud of. U Value... A very apt name... We certainly did get value..! We would have no hesitation in recommending U Value to anyone. Thanks again Wayne. Best wishes and our kindest regards. £500 OFF CONSERVATORY Carol and Ron Webster ORDERS PLACED The Lawns BEFORE JAN 1ST 2011 Rolleston on Dove
Betty Beaman
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7
Christmas in Uttoxeter he countdown to Christmas has hit feverpitch as the month of December signals a little panic for local shoppers! December brings with it the sheer reality that everything has to be sorted out for Christmas which is only a few short weeks away. The Christmas lights in Uttoxeter create such a wonderful festive atmosphere for everyone and traders in the town do their level best to provide shoppers with the best prices they can. Christmas in Uttoxeter is a special time of the year, walking down the main High Street is a terrific experience and shoppers can feel the excitement generated by shoppers eagerly visiting their favourite outlets which house a tremendous Christmas feeling which cannot be matched in the big cities. The superb variety of shops in Uttoxeter is extremely impressive with not only the High Street being jampacked full of different shops, but The Maltings, Carter Street, Smithfield Road, Church Street boasting a marvellous selection of businesses. And then of course is the historic Market Place which has always been a firm favourite with local shoppers. Uttoxeter attracts visitors from all surrounding villages and towns because of its unique atmosphere, even more so at Christmas. Now December is here and the Christmas shopping experience cannot be bettered by visiting wonderful Uttoxeter. The warmth of your visit will greatly add to your festive countdown and without all the hustle and bustle of those big cities!
T
Uttoxeter
A warm welcome awaits you at
Kohi
Noor
Restaurant & Take-Away
The finest Bangladeshi Cuisine Parties catered for, by arrangement Discounts available - Sunday-Thursday before 10pm Open Hours: Sunday-Thursday 5.30pm-11.45pm Friday-Saturday 5.30pm-12.45am Customers welcome to bring their own alcoholic drinks 11 Queen Street, Uttoxeter
Tel: 01889 562153/569646
Smithfield Carpets Limited FITTED CARPETS CURTAINS AND BLINDS FLOORING SPECIALISTS Smithfield House, Smithfield Road, Uttoxeter
Tel/Fax 01889 562993 smithfieldcarpets@hotmail.co.uk
Nanna B’s Knitting & Haberdashery mas Christ hers uc Gift vo able l i ava
S GIFT VOUCHER LE AVAIL ABse lection
ue We have a uniq as - Call in tm ris Ch r fo of gifts ! and take a look
• Experts in store by destination • Challenge us to beat your cruise price • Foreign Currency • Travel Insurance We provide all your holiday needs
01889 563261 Uttoxeter.865@thomascook.com
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1 The Maltings, Uttoxeter • Telephone 01889 568221
If you are responding to an advertisement in The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, please let the advertiser know. Thank you for your support.
Gifts Galore
Welcome to Moorland Mobility
at LG Woodward Ltd
Christmas has arrived...
FANTASTIC OFFER
Lighting, Costume Jewellery, Handbags and an array of unusual gifts.
RISE & RECLINE CHAIRS from only £599.00 You can have your chair for Christmas
Moorland Mobility Contact Terry at the Uttoxeter shop 4 The Maltings Uttoxeter, Staffordshire ST14 7LN. Open 10am-4pm Monday to Saturday Telephone: 01889 564099 Part Exchange Welcome - All Major Credit Cards Accepted
8-10 Balance Street, Uttoxeter
www.moorlandmobility.com .
01889 562758 Bathroom And Trade Heating Systems Ltd NO MORE TILING! ALTERNATIVE TO TILING & INTERIOR DECOR The Unique Alternative to Ceramic Tiles
WHAT WE DO...... • Decorative wall panels - no more tiling • Specialising in bathroom refurbishment • 100% waterproof laminate flooring • High efficiency boilers • All aspects of heating • All tiling • Fully Qualified Fitters • No subcontractors WE’LL BEAT ANY LIKE FOR LIKE QUOTES! BOILER FITTED from
£1,999 inc VAT
Bathroom & Heating Showroom DESIGN • SUPPLY • INSTALL
COMPLETE BATHROOM REFURBISHMENT SPECIAL OFFER £2,999 inc VAT Fully installed walls, ceiling, flooring, window sill, skirting, bath, bath panel, wc pan, top flush cistern, basin, pedestal, basin taps, bath taps, bath waste, basin waste. £289 inc VAT 1700m x 700m BATH (5m), bath taps, 55m, basin & pedestal, basin mixer taps, clicker waste pan and cistern, soft closed seat.
Off Derby Road, Dovefields Industrial Estate, Uttoxeter, Staffs ST14 8EE
TELEPHONE 01889 569185 Opening Times: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-3pm ALL TRADERS WELCOME - DIY AVAILABLE BEAT THE VAT INCREASE - ORDER NOW! Let The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice take your business to 13,000 local homes. To advertise, call 01538 751629 or 0776 784 6937.
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Christmas Cracker breaks new ground Uttoxeter’s Christmas Cracker night promises to be bigger and better than ever before this year. The annual festival of late-night shopping and street entertainment on Thursday December 9th will be followed by two more nights of fairground attractions on the Trinity Road car park. The three-day fair starts on Cracker Night and runs until Saturday 11th. The organisers say that moving the large fairground rides out of Market Square means there will be more family attractions in the town centre. The fair, which is always popular with teenagers, will feature more rides than before. Most town centre shops will stay open late from 6-9pm on Cracker Night itself, with prizes for the best decorated shop windows and staff in fancy dress. Vin Bradley, of Uttoxeter Lions, who organise the event, said: ‘This is great news for the town’s people and town centre traders. The town will be full of family entertainment and charity stalls, and the fairground people are really happy as they’ve got more space and more time to put on their shows.’ The Market Square will now be a centre for live performers, including a magic act, Uttoxeter Morris Men, the Town Band and singers. Some children’s rides will still be based in the
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square and in nearby Carter Street there will be live reindeer and donkey rides. Teenage bands will be performing in Carter Street, with clowns, a puppet show and theatre organ elsewhere in the town. There will also be a vintage fire engine display. Father Christmas will be in his traditional grotto in the Town Hall, where there will also be craft stalls. The High Street will feature mostly charity stalls. Barclays Bank are sponsoring a mince pie and mulled wine stall. Uttoxeter Lions Club president Steve Shields said: ‘Cracker has become a muchloved family event in the town, and it’s valuable to traders and charitable organisations. We hope that by extending and improving the event this year we’ve taken it to another level. I just hope everybody has a lot of fun.’
Digital Colour Print on Demand Competitive Prices Design Service Short or Long Run 27a HIGH STREET, UTTOXETER, STAFFS. ST14 7HN Tel: (01889) 564415 Fax: (01889) 562425
E.mail: lavinprinters@btconnect.com Web: www.lavinprinters.co.uk
If you are responding to an advertisement in The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, please let the advertiser know. Thank you for your support.
Top Cashback business goes from strength to strength ith talk of spending cuts and dire forecasts about the economy it’s good to hear about a local business that is bucking the trend, moving to bigger offices and taking on new staff. That’s exactly what Top Cashback, a Uttoxeter business is doing, rapidly becoming a household name across the UK with over 600,000 members earning cashback on almost everything they buy online. The company has just celebrated its fifth birthday, moving to bigger offices just off the Market Place and has doubled staff numbers in the last year to handle all the extra business. Director Oliver Ragg is pleased with the growth and said “All the staff live in or around the town and we like to utilise other local businesses wherever we can. There’s not much we can’t source locally and the local business community is incredibly supportive.” The policy of the company is simple, to
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save people money on their online shopping by passing on 100% of the commission paid by retailers, back to the customer. The site is free to join and there are no charges, nothing to lose and just cashback to be earned. If it sounds too good to be true then the testimonials from members quickly put any doubts to rest. Members log into their account and then browse their favourite sites as normal, making any purchases without further reference to Top Cashback. The automated system logs the transaction and any earnings appear in the members account, sometimes within a few hours. Cashback can be withdrawn at any time or left to accumulate or even donate to charity. Almost every popular High Street name is featured among the merchants (currently more than 2,500) that operate through Top Cashback as well as some more unusual niche sites that can be found through the excellent search feature.
Let The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice take your business to 13,000 local homes. To advertise, call 01538 751629 or 0776 784 6937.
11
Uttoxeter & District Forum 50 Plus Dinner ttoxeter & District Forum 50 Plus Annual Dinner which was held at The Guild Hall, Balance Street, Uttoxeter. Civic dignitaries attended the event which proved to be a huge success.
U
For all your picture framing UNBEATABLE QUALITY UNBEATABLE PRICES SAVE £££££££’s on retail prices All framing including artwork, pictures, prints, photos, needlework, memorabilia including football shirts etc. Mount cutting at bargain prices Come and see our wide range of mouldings and mounts in our super smart hi-tech workshop at Knightley Farm, Needwood on B5017 near Five Lanes End.
Decormount call Sylvia on 01283 512425 or see our website www.decormount.com The only corners we cut are on frames and prices! Opening hours: Mon-Wed 9-4pm, Thurs 9-1pm, Fri 9-4pm and Sat 10-4pm Knightley Farm, Callingwood, Needwood, Burton-on-Trent DE13 9PU
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If you are responding to an advertisement in The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, please let the advertiser know. Thank you for your support.
Christmas All Wrapped Up At
Moddershall Oaks Gifts & Vouchers Seasonal Spa Days & Spa Breaks Special Offers Shop in Reception or Online Lakeside Restaurant Plus our new EVENTS VENUE coming soon...
Rocester Tandoori Bangladeshi & Indian Cuisine
Our brand new events venue opens at the start of December 2010 for Christmas & New Year celebrations. So whether you’re celebrating the holiday season with friends, family or colleagues, we have a variety of festive events.
Contact us now for our December 2010 Events Brochure. Call 01782 399000 (option 4) or email events@moddershalloaks.com
December 2010 Events Calendar CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS
Our Chef has 35 years experience
Monday 6th-Thursday 9th, Monday 13th-Thursday 16th, Monday 20th-Thursday 23rd
We use the best quality rich spices to make our own recipes and prepared each day fresh for each individual dish.
CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS WITH LIVE BAND Friday 10th, Friday 17th, Friday 24th
EXCLUSIVE PARTIES WITH THE BEATLES & THE RAT PACK
You are assured of a warm welcome and excellent food at Rocester Tandoori
Saturday 11th (Beatles tribute), Saturday 18th (Rat Pack tribute)
SUNDAY LUNCH WITH SANTA Sunday 12th, Sunday 19th
Bottle of Wine Free for every booked Table of 4
CHRISTMAS DAY FESTIVE LUNCH
Winter Bonanza at Rocester Tandoori 3 course meal for £8.95 Sun - Thurs Booking only
Saturday 25th
BOXING DAY FESTIVE LUNCH Sunday 26th
NEW YEARS EVE LIVE JAZZ, LIVE BAND & FIREWORKS Friday 31st
Moddershall Oaks Spa*Restaurant*Suites Moddershall, Stone, Staffordshire, ST15 8TG 01782 399000 www.moddershalloaks.com enquiries@moddershalloaks.com <RX FDQ DOVR ¿QG XV RQ IDFHERRN WZLWWHU
2 Glasses of Wine Free for every booked Table for 2
✁
We are now taking Christmas bookings Please call for further details and book your Christmas Lunch
Rocester Tandoori Authentic Bangladeshi & Indian Cuisine
£10 off
Sit-down menu for 4+ people
One voucher per order Please be aware that the management has the right to withdraw this offer at any time
Minimum order take-away over £10 for 10% off. Sit-down menu for 4+ people, get £10 off. Sit-down menu for 2+ people, get £5 off. Only 1 voucher to be used per table, not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.
37 High Street, Rocester, Near Uttoxeter ST14 5JU Car park at rear - Fully Licensed FREE POPPADOMS WITH EVERY TAKEAWAY CURRY 10% DISCOUNT ON COLLECTION
01889 590169 / 591931 Opening Times: 5pm to 11.30pm Please note we are closed every Tuesday until further notice. Our Chefs also serve a Sunday Barbecue at the Red Lion, Rocester 1pm- till 3pm Tel: 01889 595177 Let The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice take your business to 13,000 local homes. To advertise, call 01538 751629 or 0776 784 6937.
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Christmas in
D
Cheadle
DGS COMPUTERS PC SALES AND REPAIRS
Mother Nature BEAUTY THERAPY & SPRAY TANNING
Christmas Party Season... Book your Spray Tan or Airbase make up now. 90 High Street, Cheadle
Call Lynne: 01538 751666
• Service and Clean Up Your PC to keep it running in tip top condition From £35! • Same day service • Custom PC Builds - Home Callouts Printer Paper • PC Laptop Repairs (no fix no fee!) • Epsom Compatible Inks £10 per set Cheadle High Street
Telephone 01538 750400
WE BUY, WE SELL, WE TRADE All games and consoles from N64 to PS3 Promotion by Raven Squad Brave Warrior Tale on X Box 360 or Wii £3.99 each new with this advert Cheadle Game Pad 5 High Street, Cheadle ST10 1HH Tel: 01538 267041 Stoke Game Pad 165 London Road, Stoke ST4 7QE Tel: 01782 461054 Sharon@game-pad.co.uk
THE OATCAKE CORRAL Filled traditional and flavoured Oatcakes ORDER ON 01538 751761 0788 3812475 toc1@gmx.com
BREAD PIES CAKES
CHEADLE SHOPPING CENTRE
PEAKSTONES Rock Brewery Will be serving the following Real Ales: Black Hole abv 4.8% Chained Oak abv 4.2% Oblivion Bitter abv 5.5% Nemesis abv 3.8% Alton Abbey abv 4.5% Dimmingsdale Blonde abv 4.5% For further information contact Dave Edwards on 0789 1350 908 Also see us at Cheadle Outdoor Market on Saturdays
www.peakstonesrock.co.uk
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ecember marks the run-in to the most exciting period of the year as festive bargainhunters complete their Christmas shopping! Christmas in Cheadle has always been a time of the year when the enjoyment of shopping is at its highest! Now is the time to support your local traders in the town and make sure all your Christmas lists are completed within your community. Looking for those festive gifts, ordering the allimportant turkeys and meats, booking a pampering session and new hairstyle, deciding to buy new carpets and curtains to make your home look immaculate when the families arrive – everything that Christmas conjures up for all of us. Christmas lights can be seen throughout the streets of Cheadle and local traders make concerted efforts to make sure their shopfronts look their very best, inviting shoppers to go in and browse at the wonderful festive wares. There is such a superb atmosphere in the town, nurtured by the hard work and dedication of many of the traders who sell a large variety of quality stock which has given the town a unique and pleasant shopping experience for not only locals but to visitors from the surrounding areas. And don’t forget to get your vehicle checked out at this particular time of year so you don’t get your Christmas spoiled by a breakdown! A gentle stroll across the historic Cheadle High Street witnesses a host of different businesses, all offering top quality personal service and excellent goods. Located in the centre of Cheadle High Street are two markets, one indoor and and one outdoor, nestling adjacent to each other. The warmth exhibited by businesses to customers in Cheadle is extremely important in today’s hustle and bustle world. The traders take special care to provide that personal service which is so different to the large department stores in cities. There is a feeling of a genuine relationship between customer and trader which used to be so prevalent in days goneby but can still be retained in the smaller towns. Christmas in Cheadle is a wonderful shopping experience – why not give the town a try this month as the countdown begins to the Big Day? Take a look at all the advertisers in this special ‘Christmas in Cheadle’ feature and make a concerted effort to shop at each and every business, you won’t be disappointed!
It’s Here at Pat’s Unisex Hair Salon This is the GENUINE Professional FLABeLOS 3000 Don’t be misled by imitations! You can lose a dress size in 3 weeks!
10 minute session = 1 hour gym workout Buy 1 session for £2 or buy 12 sessions for £20 - you get 2 free!! No need to wear any special gym clothes - just come as you are. All in a lovely, private and calm environment for your enjoyment. Please call in and see for yourself!
Cross Street, Cheadle Telephone 01538 753212
If you are responding to an advertisement in The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, please let the advertiser know. Thank you for your support.
J. H. HEATH & SONS High Class Butchers & Delicatessen
eed you n l l a e r av We h make you cial! e o t so sp ! s a m t Chris DER NOW OR
We are proud to celebrate 130 years business in Cheadle Taste the excellent quality of our highly acclaimed meats, home-reared on our Cheadle farm Personal and Friendly Service Guaranteed
23 High Street, Cheadle
Telephone 01538 753139
Vogue Hairdressing FOR MEN & WOMEN LUXURY HAIR CARE Book your hair appointment now in time for Christmas! Plus - large selection of costume jewellery, handbags and accessories
General Servicing Exhausts - H.I.D. Lights - Diagnostics WAX OILING FROM ÂŁ25
R E T N I W E E R F K C E H C Leek Road, Cheadle (behind the former Library)
Telephone 07800 857 754 17 Cross Street, Cheadle Telephone 01538 753157
Opening Times: Monday to Friday 8.30am-5.30pm. Saturday 8.30am-1pm
Let The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice take your business to 13,000 local homes. To advertise, call 01538 751629 or 0776 784 6937.
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TRATTORIA at Coming soon!! Having been open for almost 3 years now, we have learnt a thing or two about the eating preferences of the local community and we have listened to suggestions and advice. So we at The Olive Tree have taken a step towards giving our customers a wider choice of the Mediterranean by introducing ITALIAN FOODS to our existing menu. We hope that this addition will be well accepted by our loyal customers and new customers alike. The First Floor has been re-designed to feel more like an ITALIAN TRATTORIA and the Ground Floor and Cellar will remain as the rustic SPANISH TAPAS BAR. Of course the menu will be available on
both floors so if you fancy a bit of Spanish in Italy it’s not a problem! And if you feel like a bit of Italy in Spain, that’s OK too! All of the favourite Spanish Tapas dishes will remain - The Homemade Beef Meatballs, Chorizo in Red Wine, Gambas Pil Pil and Tortilla, to name but a few will be joined by Smoked Mozarrella Wrapped in Pancetta Topped with Parmesan, Chicken and Wild Mushroom Tagliatelle Steak Filleto, House Spaghetti Bolognese and a selection of Anti Pasto and Pizzas to name a few. Of course if you fancy Traditional Steak, Chips, Onions and Mushrooms - they’ll be there too!! SO WATCH OUT FOR MORE INFO AND DETAILS OF THE RE-LAUNCH!
Call for more details
88 HIGH STREET, CHEADLE, STAFFS
www.theolivetreetapa.co.uk
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C headle Carpets & Beds Order your carpet now - expertly fitted for Christmas!
Carpets - Vinyls - Roll Ends Beds/Mattresses - Headboards Bedroom Furniture - Rugs Free measures & estimates - no obligation We offer over 20 years experience in the trade and a very Friendly, Professional Service Choose Cheadle Carpets & Beds - call in to see us on Cheadleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main car park (Next to Cheadle Post Office) 2 Shopping Centre, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, ST10 1UT
Tel/Fax 01538 750555 Open Monday to Saturday We wish all our customers a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Car, 4x4 & Motorcycle Specialists
Cantonese, Peking and Chinese Dishes to Take Away Home Delivery Available We wish all our customers A Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Unit A, Brookhouse Industrial Estate, Cheadle ST10 1SR
Church St, Cheadle Telephone orders welcome
01538 754 203 Open every day (including Bank Hols) 5.00pm - 12.00am Let The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice take your business to 13,000 local homes. To advertise, call 01538 751629 or 0776 784 6937.
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Various craft classes available…. Please call in and talk to Sue.
The advertisers in this special Christmas in Cheadle feature wish all their customers a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 79 High Street, Cheadle, Staffordshire St10 1AN
For all your craft needs Rubber stamps A4 • A3 • A2 • card glues • tapes • tools Glitter • inks • punches And much much more
Be Inspired…….Visit Crafty Urchins
The Bread Basket
Call in for a friendly welcome and try one of our delicious pies now made on the premises in our own bakery. Also available: • Bread and Rolls, baked fresh daily • Large Variety of Cakes • Extensive Range of Hot & Cold Sandwiches & Toasties ORDERS WELCOME
Tel: 01538 756899 Cheadle Car Park
For all Christmas Gifts come to
K&G RILEY Watchmakers and Jewellers We specialise in pre-owned jewellery Large range of Watches & Gifts for all Watch, Clock and Jewellery Repairs done on the premises
GOLD BOUGHT FOR CASH Wishing all our customers A Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year
55 High Street Cheadle Staffs
01538-754586
JACKY’S Fashions Trading for 38 years in Cheadle
Joules • Pomodoro • Emreco • Poppy Alice Collins • Florence • Bali Balk Open Monday to Saturday 9-5 Cheadle High Street
Tel: 01538 750423
All carpets & cushion floor roll-ends
HALF PRICE LARGE STOCKS LARGE STOCKS LOW PRICES
Special Deals for Full Houses and Rental Properties Contract Work Undertaken Free No Obligation Estimates Full fitting service We wish all our customers A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year
CARPETMART The Technology Specialists Cases and accessories for those valuable Christmas gifts! • Advice, repairs and accessories for: iPhone, iPod, Blackberry, Nokia, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, LG and PCs. • High speed internet access with iPod touch/iPhone charging docks. • Special offer for limited time only, iPhone 3G 3GS damaged glass replacement only £50 • Mobile contracts and solutions, tailored to fit your business available with our dedicated business team. Call the experts now: 01538 750800 Online: www.ishopuk.biz Instore: 46, Chapel St, Cheadle ST10 1DY
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12-14 Cross Street, Cheadle Tel: 01538 755586 or 07977 413 447
CROSS STREET PET STORES For all your pet requirements Stockists of Leading Brands of Food at Competitive Prices Birds, Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, Cold Water Fish & Tropical Fish Call in to see Chip, our adorable 4 year old Parrott
Tel: 01538 753193 8 Cross Street, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, ST10 1NP
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Just the
perfect day... Bride: Lisa Shenton, daughter of Gary and Sandra Shenton of Tenford Lane, Tean Groom: Ian Parker of Newcastle Wedding Day: 24th July 2010 Wedding Venue: The Ashes, Endon Best Man Pepe Zicari; Usher Jonathan Shenton; Bridesmaids: Laura Broadley, Rebecca Hartley, Elizabeth Keeling, Victoria Ball, Rebecca Ball, Ann Budge and Melissa Bull. Flower Girl: Freya Jackson
n the evening before our wedding, I spent it at my parents’ house with my family and bridesmaids. We had already been to have our nails and spray tan’s done leaving the rest of the evening to go through final arrangements and to have time to relax. I gave my bridesmaids beautiful necklaces and bracelets to wear on the day and wrote them special cards to thank them for all they had done for me. I was surprised as they gave me a beautiful butterfly necklace and a photo book with pictures of my hen party weekend in Edinburgh. I had a good night’s sleep in the room my parents had done up for me with cards and balloons. I woke up at 6:30am, had breakfast and got myself ready. As we had my dress and all of the bridesmaids’ dresses to take to the venue, my mum and I had to travel in separate cars. The next 3 hours was taken up by having my hair done by my friend & hairdresser Trudy and getting my make-up done by my colleagues from The Alton Towers Spa, Gemma and Elisha. Before I knew where the time had gone, I was getting into my dress and doing the final touches. As we all got ready in the Old Dairy at The Ashes, we watched the guests arriving and had chance to have pre-wedding photos by my photographer Robert Kent (ably assisted by James) with my dad. I didn’t have to worry about my flowers and wedding cake, as my former work colleagues Jason and Ellie did a fabulous job and helped out on the morning, putting everything together.
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bespoke photography by
Robert Kent turning your wedding day dreams into reality 7 Forge Side, Endon, Staffordshire ST9 9HD
Tel: 01782 505057 www.robertkentphoto.co.uk
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y father walked me down the aisle to ‘Everything I do’ by Brian Adams and as soon as I saw Ian, I had tears running down my face. The registrars made the service very personal and emotional, and were patient when I forgot what to say. Ann, Becky and Laura read out 2 beautiful poems, creating more tears. Ian and I walked out to Take That’s ‘Greatest Day’ and headed to the gardens to start our photographs, whilst our guests enjoyed reception drinks, taking in the breathtaking views. Our dogs Jack and Boo joined us to have photos, as they are an important part of our lives and we
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wanted them part of our day. As the rain decided to make an appearance, we were heading into the West Barn for our wedding breakfast. To start we gave our guests a choice of cheese & bacon oatcake wheels or vegetable soup, followed by a unique dining experience called Host a Roast. Before the wedding we decided each host for every table and personalised aprons and hats. Ian and I did the honour of handing these out, whilst explaining what to do. A trio of desserts with clotted cream was washed down with wine and pink lemonade.
Exclusive Country House Wedding Venue
Your Perfect Wedding Venue The Ashes is a magnificent Grade II listed family home with two listed barns which have been caringly converted to provide an unrivalled venue for weddings, civil ceremonies, functions and corporate events. The Ashes, Leek Road, Endon, Staffordshire Moorlands, Stoke-On-Trent ST9 9AX
Tel: 01782 502 164 www.theashes-venue.co.uk
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Just the
perfect day...
he speeches were done before the meal, so the boys could relax and enjoy the great food afterwards. A mixture of tears and laughter were experienced, whilst each of them spoke from the heart. We kicked off our evening reception at 7:30pm, quickly followed by us cutting the cake and taking to the floor for our first dance. We shuffled around the dance floor to ‘I am your Angel’ by R. Kelly and Celine Dion. My wish was granted by having my fabulous family and friends, joining us in a big circle to finish. Our evening entertainment started, in the form of a Take That tribute band from London called Take 2 That and I was in heaven. Everyone was up dancing and singing along and we even had a chance in the spotlight. Ian was joined by best man Pepe and close friend Lee to form a 5 piece to sing and dance to ‘Could It Be Magic’. The boys quickly learned a routine which they delivered brilliantly. Next up, it was my turn to take to the floor to provide Gary Barlow and Mark Owen with their Lulu, in a special rendition of ‘Relight My Fire’. I am a little of a showman, so I loved every minute of it. We finished our fantastic day with another group dance to ‘Greatest Day’ and then said our goodbyes to our guests. We would both like to thank everyone who made our special day so amazing especially my mum and dad (Mr & Mrs Shenton). Without their help and support we would have never been able to have enjoyed the wedding day we had always dreamt of. Lisa & Ian
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HRISTMAS is nearly here as we thunder into the month of December – so now is the time to get your festive period organised! We must always shop local so we can provide custom for our local businesses, especially the villages who provide the ultimate personal service. Blythe Bridge & Forsbrook villages have always been extremely popular shopping experiences during the run up to Christmas with a terrific variety of businesses offering excellent value for
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money. The warmth created by these businesses during our festive period reflects the superb atmosphere we all love at this time of year. The hard work and dedication of many of the traders in Blythe Bridge & Forsbrook gives the two villages a unique and pleasant shopping experience for not only locals but to visitors from the surrounding areas. The hustle and bustle of the large cities in our
Christmas in
Blythe Bridge & Forsbrook
Kitchen Supreme LTD
Aztec for your hair this Christmas Friendly Atmosphere Creative Hairdressing • Spray Tanning Beauty • Sunbed & Red Light Facility 262 Uttoxeter Road, Blythe Bridge
Telephone 01782 397625
• Kitchens, Bathrooms and Bedrooms • Quality and service you can rely on • Prices to suit everyone • Planning service • Professional installation • Established 30 years
36 Cheadle Road, Forsbrook, Stoke-on-Trent, ST11 9BX
Tel/Fax: 01782 394 835
To Meir
Duke of Wellington
Britannia Building Society
We are Here
Uttoxeter Road
Wesley St
Forsbrook Flowers
To Cheadle
A Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Caroline, Lisa and Emma
Late Shop
To Draycott & Tean
Stallington Rd
The Advertisers in this special feature wish all their Customers A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year
area is not everyone’s cup of tea and this is why businesses in Blythe Bridge & Forsbrook have stood the test of time. They offer that very special personal service which is totally different to the large department stories in the cities. Take a look at the advertisers in this special ‘Christmas in Blythe Bridge & Forsbrook’ feature and support them during their busiest time of the year – the motto has got to be ‘Shop Local!’
Marsh School
1 Wesley Street, Blythe Bridge, Stoke on Trent
Telephone: 01782 392952
Now open after major refurbishment The Ultimate Dining Experience in Indian & English Cuisine with 10 new dishes We are now taking bookings for Christmas Lunch - 2 sittings BOOKINGS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Restaurant
20% Off your Food Bill Sit-Down or Takeaway Over £10 with this voucher
19 Cheadle Road, Forsbrook, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs ST11 9BX
Comfortable, stylish shoes and boots, slippers, bags and gift ideas
SHOETIME 180 Utoxeter Road, Blythe Bridge ST11 9JR
Tel 01782 392171 Open 9am-5.30 pm Mon-Tues, Thurs-Fri, 9am-5pm Sat
15 minutes from Uttoxeter, 5 minutes from Cheadle • Established 1998
Telephone 01782 388 328 for table or takeaway 22
If you are responding to an advertisement in The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, please let the advertiser know. Thank you for your support.
HEATH HOUSE FARM NURSERY & TEA ROOMS
of Blythe Bridge Limited
For that special Christmas experience In the nursery we have • Cut and Potted Fresh Christmas Trees • Fresh Holly Wreaths backed with Spruce • Hand Made Garlands and Decorations • Indoor and Outdoor Plant Arrangements • Fantastic Large Poinsettias Visit our shop for • High quality Christmas Gifts • Christmas Trees and Decorations • Home-made Seasonal Fare • Fresh Fruit and Vegetables
ANIMAL FEED MERCHANTS PET SUPPLIES HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES HORSE FEED SPECIALISTS MOST LEADING BRANDS IN STOCK HORSE BEDDING & SHAVINGS: Aubiose - Easi-Bed - Miscanthus - Bliss
Call 01782 392 125 203 Grindley Lane, Blythe Bridge, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs ST11 9JS Email fords@blythebridge30.fsbusiness.co.uk
TAILORED FLOORS CARPETS,VINYL, SOLID WOOD AND LAMINATE
• Why not ask about our Christmas Delivery service? • In our Tea Room we will be serving Christmas lunches throughout December (Booking advisable) • Evening Parties and Outside Catering also available by arrangement • All our food is made on the premises and is prepared to the highest standard. • Superb New Conference Facility now also available for hire • Open 7 Days for Friendly Service and Advice
We will move furniture & dispose of old carpet Free Measuring Service • Samples brought to your door
Come and give us a try!
205 Grindley Lane, Blythe Bridge, Stoke-on-Trent ST11 9JS Tel: 01782 395950 Mob: 07970 250393
Heath House Farm, Caverswall Old Road, Forsbrook, Stoke-on-Trent ST11 9BQ
Open 6 days: 9.30am-5pm Weekdays; 9am-2pm Saturday Parking in front of building
01782 396027 Open from 0900-1700 Every Day
Also at: 30 High Street, Stone ST15 8AW Tel: 01785 813469
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Ginny’s Gardening Guide By Uttoxeter’s Ginny Gibson ecember for me always brings to mind cones, not the orange cones that seems to blight our roads, but the ones that grow on trees. We used to spray them red, gold and white for decorations at Christmas and with the left over ones we would put them on the fire, probably not allowed these days, but hey I am an old girl and remember the joys of that smell. The variety of cones is huge, I have a Pinus (this means Pine) Mugo Portille (this is the variety), the cones are like small flowers. But if you are walking round Uttoxeter then look out for the Monkey-puzzle tress, they have fantastic large circular cones. Or for long pointed cones then try an Abies (Silver Fir) Lasiocarpa, the cones are covered in resign, so be careful, but they grow upwards, so if you get to see a good example the cones look like birds all perched along the branches. However if you like Chocolate, then the colour of the Cupressus Macrocarpa cones is for you, they are miniature chocolate balls, heavenly and not fattening !!!! Sorry if that was all a bit technical and Latin – but to summarise these trees need well drained soil and sun and they will reward you by firstly being evergreen and secondly by creating structure that will shape your garden. My plant this month is the Helleborus or Christmas Rose, they are so wonderful, some are evergreen most are semi evergreen, (which means they those their leaves) but in January through to March most varieties reward you with flowers. The lady who lived here before us, left the most stunning example, dusty pink flowers
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and evergreen, they have large fan like leaves with longish flower stems that hold bell like drooping flowers, they give a wonderful show and last year flowered throughout the snow. I feed ours with bone meal each year. Helleborus love well drained soil with partial shade and if you want to divide them do so after they have flowered, but do wait until the soil is warming up after winter. There are two places to view the national collection in the UK, Kent and (yes, you guessed it). Staffordshire. The Staffordshire collection is at Hazels Cross Farm, Hollins Lane, Kingsley ST10 2EP – call Mike Byford on 01538 752669 or e-mail him on mikebyford@ hazlescrossfarmnursery.co.uk - or visit the website at www.kirmandesign.com/ helleborus.asp My allotment tip this month was going to be from the allotments at Doveridge, I had never been to Doveridge before so as I drove aimlessly round the village, clearly lost, I was helped out by the wonderful Reginald Chadwick, he guided me to the allotments where I was not fortunate enough to find anyone actually out in the cold, but I did see their plots, and I can report they are very well tended and lots of composting is going on (see photo right). Feeling embarrassed to come
home without an allotment tip, again I hear you say, I went back to see Mr Chadwick who agreed to give me some tips, he seems well qualified as he had been gardening for over 70 yrs! He said that he will be taking up the last of his Leeks and then burning the runner bean stalks to make way for the new bean trench. He also advised I need to get those Onion sets going, I had heard that you can plant Onion seeds on Boxing day, but he grows his from sets, so wasn’t prepared to comment on that tip. He was a true gentleman and I wished him well. I came away from the village of Doveridge with a great feeling, kindness is a wonderful quality and Reginald Chadwick has it in abundance. So that’s it from me, I hope you all have a lovely Christmas round your tree and if you buy one in a pot you can plant it out in the garden. Happy Gardening to you all.
Let The Voice Be With You By Les Humphries ell readers, as always early November was a busy time with parades and poppy selling, and as always the public have been more than generous with their donations. I personally would especially like to thank the workforce at JCB for their support, with a special mention to Gordon Richardson and the shop stewards for their generous donation. Uttoxeter Standard Bearer Bob Hoskins, who is my neighbour, and myself, had a busy week. Dipping our standards at 11am on the 11th at the Uttoxeter War Memorial, where there was an excellent turnout of both veterans and the public who showed their support, including the mother of Barry Buxton who recently lost his life in Afghanistan which made the proceedings even more poignant. Saturday the 13th saw the Royal British Legion Remembrance Concert in St. Marys Church virtually a sell out, with the Uttoxeter Town Band and the Heath singers putting on a superb programme of playing and singing many wartime favourites and anthems. Bob and I paraded our standards, along with Jean from the ladies branch of the legion, and young George the local Army Cadets Standard Bearer, who hopes to join the paras when he leaves school, good for him! Hugh Smalley, Chairman of the Uttoxeter Branch of the Royal British Legion was the Master of Ceremonies, and at the end of the programme Sunset and the Last Post were played, Legion President and former Redcap Bill Hurst laid a wreath, and the Army Cadets dropped poppies from the balcony for a touching end to the proceedings which everyone enjoyed. The following day up bright and early for Remembrance Sunday. Uttoxeter had their usual parade and service culminating at the War Memorial, where Bob was again carrying the standard of course - accompanied by George and the cadets. Meanwhile I was at Denstone doing likewise, where this year we were extremely fortunate to have the services of some wonderful trumpeting from Matt Pope, who is a well known local musical organiser, and former conductor of the Uttoxeter Town Band. He has a strong link with Denstone.
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Not only did Matt blow the Last Post and Revellie, he also played along with the organ on a number of hymns and the National Anthem, which added a special touch to the service. He will hopefully be a regular addition for us in the future. Following the procession to the War Memorial John Stanton and myself, as always, joined the Rocester congregation for their service, before our usual pilgrimage to Lask Edge in the afternoon with the Churnet Valley Male Voice Choir, where we squeeze into their little chapel to join in another Remembrance service, then home for tea! Another feature of November is the so called ruddy bonfire night. It has gone beyond a joke, as fireworks are going off for 3 weeks at all times of the day and night with those who are letting them off having no thought for peoples pets, young children who may be in bed, or the elderly. When I was a kid ( yes I can remember that far back!) we had penny bangers which literally just went bang. Nowadays they bang away for ages, like jumping jacks, and lights fly into the air making a squealing noise. Just spare a thought for others will you.... On a sad note, an old chum Jim Podmore recently passed away at the age of 67 after his lung collapsed. Jim was an amputee having suffered from ulcerated legs which were removed some years ago. Although Jim rarely moved out of his bungalow in recent times, on sunny afternoons he would sit outside with Pete Mellor in attendance, and I would walk across and chat to him about old times when we worked together at Unigate in Uttoxeter, along with Joe Richardson and George McNamara as the Rocester connection, before he returned to being a stonemason which had been his trade since a lad. Jim always had a smile for his friends and family, and although he must have suffered great pain he never let it show. He will be sadly missed by his children, grandchildren and great granddaughter, not to mention his family and and many friends. You know readers, some days are really the pits aren’t they! I had just got home from Jim Podmores very moving funeral when the telephone rang. It was my good friend
John Stantons daughter Susan, to tell me that her Dad had unexpectedly died following a heart attack that morning. To say I was stunned would be an understatement We had been on parade together for Remembrance Sunday in Denstone and Rocester only four days before, and sung with the Churnet Valley Choir the same day out at Lask Edge, and then attended choir practise two days later, and John had been in fine form as always. A day and a half later he was gone! John, who had celebrated his 80th Birthday earlier this year, was a well respected and deeply religeous man, and nothing would ever interfere with his Wednesday fellowship evenings. He was an active member of St. Michaels Church congregation and a member of the choir. In addition to which he also regularly attended the Penticostal Church in the evenings in Uttoxeter. John was a Korean Veteran and used to joke about his Army mates referring to him as ‘The Vicar’. Since those days John has been an unsung hero, raising thousands of pounds for Romanian orphans, making many trips to that Country with gifts and equipment in addition to money sent every year.He also travelled around with his slide show of his travels over there, which could not fail to melt the hardest of hearts. I know that John always believed that we go to a better place when we depart this mortal coil, and his beloved wife Betty will find solace in that fact, as she is of the same belief. None the less he will be sadly missed by many people, but none more so than his children and grandchildren of whom he was so proud. One grandson Jamie is due to go to Afghanistan with his Army Unit in the near future, and I am sure we all wish him well. John - it has been a privilage and a pleasure, to have known you and call you a friend for the past fifteen years or so, may you Rest in Peace... In closing, when this issue goes to press Christmas will be approaching so don’t forget the Christmas Eve Eucharist in St. Michaels Church and the Christmas Day Service. I’ll sign off now and wish you all a very Happy Christmas. TTFN Les
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Take a drive out to one of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most beautiful â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;olde worldeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; country inns and restaurants and savour a truly delicious experience! Enjoy wonderful views overlooking Croxden Abbey and the surrounding countryside. Open every day, 12-10pm Pensioners Specials Monday to Saturday 12-2pm Main Meal ÂŁ3.50, 3 Courses ÂŁ6.00 Sunday Lunches served all day Take your pick from Beef, Turkey, Lamb, Pork or Chicken Selected Evening Meals ÂŁ3.50, Rump Steak or Mixed Grill ÂŁ5.50
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Ramble on My favourite walks by Peter Matthews
No 11 Combridge his is an easy and level walk mainly along good paths though there are a couple of short, muddy sections. From the car turn right to walk towards Combridge. Shortly reach a road junction, turn left along the lane. Pass a farm on the left and after the buildings on the right look for a footpath sign pointing right, just before the white ended house. Over the stile and keep to the left edge of the field to reach a gate. Through this and a second gate to enter a compound. Ahead a few yards, then left, along the track. At the end of the trees follow the path round to the right. It now becomes grassy. Continue alongside the hedge on the right to soon see a stile ahead. Over the stile and onto the farm drive. Follow this to the road and turn right, soon reaching one of the lakes at JCB on the left. Follow the lakeside path and swing left by the main road. Very shortly right, to take a path beneath the road. Emerge on the road into Rocester. Follow the road to a junction and a memorial on the right. Slightly right (which is really ahead) and follow the road for a quarter or mile or so, passing Tutbury Mill to the bridge over the River Dove. Immediately after the bridge, turn right on the Staffordshire Way. The path follows the left side of the river to reach some playing fields. Here follow the signs along the edge of the playing field then across it, to a
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Difficulty
A flat walk. Most of the paths are well marked and easy to find. Follow route clockwise
Distance
4.6 miles
Time
2 ½ hours
Parking
On roadside at Combridge GR SK 096 375 or centre of Rocester, GR 109 393
Refreshments
In Rocester
stile. Follow the Staffordshire Way signs and obvious path to reach a small embankment on the left. Then way is clearly marked, slightly right of the base of the embankment. Ahead at a green footpath sign and then at the next one, follow the Staffs Way slightly left towards the embankment. Keep to the side of the ditch on the left until it bends slightly right to locate a stile and gate on the left. Through this then cross a field to join a rising track ahead. Pass the derelict house on the left and then take the clear track to the next building. Here turn right along the private, metalled road. Soon reach a fourway footpath sign. Here you leave the Staffordshire Way. Follow the metalled road for half a mile or so to reach the main road. Go straight across and locate the footpath opposite. Take this to emerge back at the start (or if starting from Rocester, right to para one). Contributed by Peter Matthews, Publicity Officer for Staffordshire Area Ramblers’ Association. For further information, visit our website www.ramblers.org.uk or phone 01782 336556. Without the work of the Ramblers some of these walks would not be possible – we help to keep footpaths open and maintained.
Magisterial Memories By John Glandfield Uttoxeter’s Most Charismatic Solicitor o start on a serious note I make no apologies for repetition of something that I touched upon in a previous Article, namely that I still hold fervently to the view that the great strength of local Magistrates was in the dispensing of Justice in a Local Court to Local People by Local People. If you then couple that with a time when “Bobbies” knew all the locals and all the locals knew them then I think miscreants probably got away with a great deal less than they seem to nowadays. Today I often wonder to what extent the Mobile Phone No. of your local Police Contact resplendent on a Fish and Chip Shop wall is an adequate replacement for being out and about and seeing and being seen. I know that there are many who say that the greatest deterrent to the would-be criminal is the risk of getting caught and if you can readily be identified the risk of apprehension becomes even greater. Remember how at School once the Teacher knew your name your antics were severely curtailed. Enough of the Sermon. Let’s return to those halcyon (so they tell me) days when many of our Judges were anything but worldly or even, sometimes, physically fit to sit in judgment and, generally, our Courts got it right but not infrequently for entirely the wrong reasons. That brings me nicely to the tale of the elderly
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Judge (at one time there was no compulsory retiring age for our Judiciary and there were some on the Bench who took full advantage of that) who was very deaf. Prior to passing Sentence he asked the Accused if there was anything he wanted to say. “Sod all” came the curt and most disrespectful reply, “What?” queried the Judge. “”Sod all” the Accused repeated. “What did he say?” the Judge enquired of his Clerk as he lent forward . “He said Sod all, My Lord”, came the Clerk’s response. “That’s very odd, “ commented a patently concerned Judge,” I could have sworn that I saw his lips move”. On one of my rare visits to the High Court in Birmingham I failed to take account of a Judge who apparently could lip read. “This is a case of abandon hope all ye who enter here” I mumbled to our Barrister as the Judge swanned into Court. The Judge had hardly sat down before the question was put to the Barrister, “Does your Instructing Solicitor have some comment to make concerning the competency of this Court?”. I truly squirmed for what seemed an eternity until the incident was finally allowed to pass over. We’re going back a few years but that same Judge, a lady I hasten to add, was reputed only ever to wear make-up when hearing a Case that carried a Life Sentence. In my very early days and when I was still training
I was sent by my Firm at the time to sit in on a Case at the Old Lewes Assizes. I was privileged to be there on the opening day when the High Court Judge was escorted into Court by the Lord Lieutenant of the County in full regalia and also accompanied by other dignitaries. At this point the Reader should appreciate that to Lawyers, at least, a High Court Judge was and mostly still is the nearest thing to The Almighty that there is on this Planet The solemnity of the occasion was unexpectedly shattered when the Judge, “Upended” as it were, tripped, presumably by catching one of his feet in the bottom of his robe, and totally disappeared from view. As his frame hit the deck with a sickening thud all present could hear a loud exclamation of,”Bugger”. What hell it can be when you’re dying to burst out laughing but dare not. Also when I was training I was privileged to be sent up from Brighton to the Court of Appeal in London where, on the day in question the Late Lord Denning was sitting. As it got to lunchtime without further ado or any prior warning and as a parting shot to the Barristers present in Court he got up and left the Courtroom with the words,” A most interesting case, Gentlemen, good morning.” See you in Court John E.Glandfield
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ay JanetHyde, Hyde, of Stone, had solar ay and and Janet of Stone, had solar panels installed onroof their roof in panels installed on their in September. September. They chose Stafford Solar. After freesurvey survey of roof the and rooftheand the After aafree of the house electrical system,Gary Gary Karen Bromley, electrical system, andand Karen Bromley, of ofStafford Stafford Solar, explained how the system Solar, explained how the system would operate,operate, what electrical was required would whatwork electrical workand was how the installation for the would required and howwould the qualify installation Government’s Feed-in-Tariff whichFeed-in-Tariff enables qualify for the Government’s householders to generate their owntoelectricity, which enables householders generate and to be paid tax-free and for 25 their own electricity, toyears. be paid tax-free The proposed installation, on two roofs, was for 25 years. forThe 13 solar panels, installation, 2 inverters, 2 generating proposed on two roofs, meters work. Ray Janet was forand13all electrical solar panels, 2 and inverters, 2 found Stafford Solar’s and price compared favourably generating meters all electrical work. with bigger The contract was signed Ray and companies. Janet found Stafford Solar’s and Gary and a colleague installed with the whole price compared favourably bigger system in lessThe thancontract a week. was signed and companies. “Everything is so neat and, GaryJanet andexplains: a colleague installed the whole because of the new generating meters, we can system in less than a week. see that the panels are generating electricity and Janet explains: “Everything is so neat and, tax-free income. Stafford Solar ensured that we because of necessary the new generating meters, we the can had all the paperwork to apply for see that the panels are generating electricity and Feed-in-Tariff.” tax-free Stafford ensured that we Ray income.” added: “We chose Solar Stafford Solar because had all the necessary paperwork toWe apply for the we wanted to use a local company. knew Feed-in-Tariff.” Gary as an excellent electrician and we were Ray added: chose Solar delighted he had “We diversified into Stafford solar energy because we wanted to use a local company.
We knew Gary as an and excellent electrician installation and qualified registered under and we were delighted he hadCertification diversified the Government’s Microgeneration into solar energy installation and qualified Scheme (MCS). This meant that our installation and registered under Feed-in-Tariff.” the Government’s qualified for the attractive Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). Janet concluded: “I was pleasantly surprised This meant that installation for at how quickly weour were accepted forqualified the Feed-inthe attractive Feed-in-Tariff.” Tariff. Within two days of completion, Gary provided us with the MCS “I certificates. Within a Janet concluded: was pleasantly week our installation was accepted by the surprised at how quickly we were accepted National Grid and we received confirmation for the Feed-in-Tariff. Within two daysfrom of our energy supplier that we will tax-free completion, Gary provided usreceive with the MCS payments each quarter certificates. Within a until week2035.” our installation explained: “TheNational Government was Gary accepted by the Gridintroduced and we Feed-in-Tariffs in April this year. Karen I received confirmation from ourandenergy decided to that diversify electrical contracting supplier weourwill receive tax-free business toeach establish Stafford Since our payments quarter untilSolar. 2035.” first few installations, responseGovernment has been Gary explained:the“The very encouraging. It is clear that increasing introduced Feed-in-Tariffs in April this year. numbers of people recognise that solar panels Karen and I decided to diversify our electrical are a good investment, add to property values contracting business to establish Stafford and reduce carbon emissions. People are keen to Solar. Since our first few installations, the go green, generate their own electricity and get a response been encouraging. It is good deal.has We are herevery to help” clearForthat numbers people a freeincreasing suitability survey, adviceofand recognise solar a good informationthat contact Garypanels on 01785are 256610, investment, to orproperty values and Mobile 07802add 396587 Email: reduce carbon emissions. People gary@staffordsolar.co.uk and visit are keen to go green, generate their own electricity and www.staffordsolar.co.uk get a good deal.We are here to help.”
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At The Hermitage the well being of our residents is our priority The Hermitage is a well established charitable care home dating back to 1934 which was redeveloped in 2010 to a 30 bedded home with state of the art facilities. The Hermitage has built a first class reputation for providing residential care for ladies only.
Pictured right: Dr F. Alcock, former trustee of The Hermitage, cutting the ribbon in the presence of other trustees of the home and representatives from M. J Barrett Development.
• Broadband and Digital TV in 24 bedrooms
If you wish to find out more or to arrange a visit, please contact: Care Manager, 66 Holly Road, Uttoxeter, Staffs ST14 7DU Tel: 01889 562040
• En suite shower rooms
Email: manager@uttoxeterhermitage.co.uk
• Comfortable lounges with direct access to gardens
Web: www.uttoxeterhermitage.co.uk
• All rooms on the ground floor • Quality freshly produced meals • Specific diets catered for The official opening of the Ellen Mary Wing at The Hermitage took place on the 5th November, exactly 76 years to the day after Mrs Ellen Mary Bamford donated her home and gardens as a convalescent home for ladies of Uttoxeter and surrounding area.
Mr. James Wilks Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Hermitage states “I cannot emphasise too much how pleased we have been with our relationship with M.J. Barretts. It was not an easy task extending the old part of the Hermitage and working around the existing residents but M.J.Barretts have been excellent in their attitude, their communication and their support which has exceeded all expectations. It was the perfect example of teamwork, from the initial meetings to the final product, it was second to none. The end results speak for themselves.”
M J BARRETT G R O U P O F C O M PA N I E S (Construction, Development, Retail, Leisure)
The M J Barrett Group are a Uttoxeter based company with 35 years expertise in delivering high quality Construction, Development and Structural work on Local and National projects. These cover construction and development projects across the private and public sectors from retail and leisure complexes to agricultural and commercial property development. Chairman M.J. Barrett states that “We take pride in embracing our objective to provide a comprehensive service to ensure Quality, Safety and Performance, working closely with our clients, professionals and the community.” With regards to the successful £1.5 million redevelopment of the Hermitage Residential Home
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in Uttoxeter, Mr. Barrett states “we have developed a specialism in delivering Care and Community based projects and it’s been a pleasure constructing this state of the art residential home for ladies with purpose built bedrooms all with ensuite rooms together with a new lounge and kitchen. From all at M J Barretts we wish the Hermitage all the best for the future.” Contact: Howard Clulow, Brookside Business Park, Brookside Road, Uttoxeter. ST14 8AT Tel: 01889 564295 Email: howard@mjbarretts.co.uk Web: www.mjbarrettgroup.co.uk
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With its elegant and refined appearance, the Barrington Stove draws its inspiration from the delicate interiors and fine furniture of Barrington Hall, a neo-classical mansion owned by The National Trust. The Barrington is available as a six and eight kilowatt multi-fuel stove and a four kilowatt wood burning stove.
The Chesney National Trust Stove Collection can be seen at
The White House, Main Road, Milford, Stafford, ST17 0UW www.chaseofmilford.co.uk email: chaseofmilford@aol.com Telephone: 01785 660939 Opening Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 10-4, Saturday 9-2. We are also offering individual evening showroom appointments by prior arrangement - please ring to book. Let The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice take your business to 13,000 local homes. To advertise, call 01538 751629 or 0776 784 6937.
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By Steve ‘Lank’ Lavin Golden Memories from one of Uttoxeter’s Favourite Characters uring a stroll through Uttoxeter Town centre the other day I was amazed at the amount of people, mainly school children who were queuing up outside the various take away establishments for something to eat. I reckoned up that in the Uttoxeter Town centre alone there are close on 30 food outlets offering a vast choice of various delicacies. When I was a teenager the choice of outlets was extremely limited. In those days you had a choice of 2 Fish & Chip Shops (Shaws & Roberts’s) a few cafes (Milk Bar, Whieldons Green Bus Cafe, Mark Orme’s Coffee Bar & Potters Cafe) and if you wanted a proper dinner you had the choice of The Meeting Point Restaurant in Bridge Street (now closed after been turned into an antique shop) The White Hart Hotel and the Trienna Restaurant in the Market Square (now the Najmoon Indian), that was about it. My personal favourite was the Trienna. Ran by the Lynch family for quite a number of years, it was very popular for good old English grub. The waitresses there used to be immaculately dressed in black uniforms with the little white cap and a white apron. Their Full English Breakfasts, Roast of the Day Lunches and Home made Desserts were something to die for. The portions were more than ample and the prices were affordable even to the smallest of pockets. Foreign food outlets were unheard of unlike today where they have sprung up almost everywhere, especially Indian Restaurants. These are certainly extremely popular probably due to the fact that they offer a vast choice of dishes at competitive prices and many allow you to take in your own drink saving you paying ridiculous prices for a beverage to accompany your meal.
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Uttoxeter’s first introduction to foreign food was the opening of the Green Pasture Chinese Restaurant and Take Away which was situated at the top of Bridge Street. It still remains there today but under different ownership and is now called the Capital and is still thriving, the present owner “Tony” has been there well over 30 years, which in todays climate is in itself a great achievement. When the Green Pasture first opened it was an instant success. I personally, along with the majority of Uttoxeter residents had never met or spoken to a ‘real’ Chinaman never mind eaten his food. I can remember long queues of people stretching right down to the Wheatsheaf pub waiting to get in. The conversation around town was buzzing about strange sounding dishes called Chow Mein, Foo Yung, Chop Suey and other exotic names of the food available there. On odd occasions I witnessed people climbing out of the upstairs restaurant windows without paying their bill and being chased by an irate Chinaman, cleaver in hand up the High Street! These episodes were eventually quelled when the proprietors fitted padlocks to them so that they could not be opened! Eventful days indeed!!! Nowadays it appears that people have more spare income to spend hence the abundance of the Take Away establishments or can it be ‘Can’t Cook or Won’t Cook Happy Eating, Lank.
More Fun for More Teens een Scene is a Monday night youth club for 11-16 year olds in Uttoxeter. They have nearly 200 names on their books and have an average weekly attendance of 40 - 70 young people. Teen Scene provides different types of activities for young people in Uttoxeter and the numbers attending has been increasing, posing a problem in that more equipment was needed to keep up with the demand. A successful bid was submitted to East Staffordshire Borough Council to fund sports equipment and electronic entertainment equipment. The newly acquired equipment can also be shared amongst other groups during the week, impacting closer to 200 young people. Councillor David Brookes, who supported the bid said, “We have supported Teen Scene as they provide a facility in Uttoxeter which is a safe entertaining place for teenagers to meet.” Phil Jankovskis, organiser of Teen Scene said, “We value and respect the children who attend Teen Scene with a view that they too can learn to value and respect each other. It is hoped that Teen Scene provides an attractive alternative to being on the streets of Uttoxeter.”
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Above: Section of Green Pasture menu 1971, note the prices!!! Left: Trienna bill from 1969
The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice wish all our advertisers and readers
A Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Jayne, Dean, Family and Staff offer a warm welcome to
THE CROSS KEYS INN Cheadle Road, Tean Real Ales - Sky Sports Children and Dogs Welcome A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year to customers old and new BEAGLE WEDDING HIRE Chauffeur driven classic Bentley and Mercedes available for Wedding hire
David Brookes, Andy Mason, Mandy Hales, Emily Pettitt, Chelsea Johnson-Edwards, Harry Hudson, Lewis Chatfield.
Telephone John Naylor on 01889 565 694 or 07952 778869
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Treat yourself this Christmas! Choose JCB Lakeside Club
CHRISTMAS MENU £15 per person Chef’s Homemade Soup Prawn Cocktail Pate with Melba Toast Traditional Roast Turkey with Sage & Onion Stuffing and Chipolata Sausage or Roasted Salmon Fillet with Hollandaise Sauce Served with Roast and Boiled Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables
Christmas Parties and Dining at JCB Lakeside Club Whether you are planning a party, a night out with work colleagues or with family and or/friends we are sure we will be able to accommodate you in our Dining Room. We can cater for parties up to 50 persons for a meal or up to 70 for a seasonal buffet. In addition, why not make a night of it and book the lounge for a party after your meal. We can book entertainment either disco, live music or both, or if you prefer you may book your own. Our Christmas menus have now commenced and are available Sundays 12 noon till 3pm and Tuesday to Saturday evenings from 6pm till 9pm by prior booking. For details of the menu and prices call JCB Lakeside club on 01889 591057 or email jcblakeside@tiscali.co.uk L I V E E N T E R TA I N M E N T • F U N C T I O N R O O M L O U N G E B A R • S P O R T S C O U R T • R E S TA U R A N T
JCB Lakeside Club, Hollington Road, Rocester, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire ST14 5HY Telephone 01889 591057 www.jcb-lakeside-club.co.uk
Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce Sherry Trifle Fruit of the Forest Cheesecake SUNDAY LUNCH Main Course £5 - 2 Courses £7.50 3 Courses £10 Soup of the Day Prawn Cocktail Roast Beef & Yorkshire Pudding Roast Turkey and Stuffing Roast Pork and Apple Sauce Served with Roast and Boiled Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables Apple Pie and Cream Profiteroles and Cream Lemon Meringue Ice Cream Served Every Sunday from 12 Noon to 2.30pm FAMILIES WELCOME
Cherry Hill Clinic Open Day herry Hill Clinic, based at 112 Stone Road, Uttoxeter, welcomed civic dignitaries David Brookes and Andrew Griffiths MP to their Open Day recently. For more information on Cherry Hill Clinic, please telephone 01889 560139 or visit www.cherryhillclinic.co.uk
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Right: Gar Nevin uses his osteopathic skills on Andrew Griffiths MP. Below: Anna Felthouse, Deborah Fisher, David Brookes, Gar Nevin, Nickie Blest and Andrew Griffiths MP.
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Food on a Budget by Fiona Atkinson from Osmaston A Christmas Meal in One Hearty Pie (part II) ith the festivities of Halloween and Bonfire Night having long gone for another year, the mind now focuses on the planning and preparation of Christmas. Christmas is a time of celebration, of giving and sharing amongst family and friends. It’s also a time when the purse strings are stretched to the max when choosing presents, and in particular, what you will eat over the festive period and New Year. There is far too much hype in what should be put on the table at Christmas, and I’m one for tradition and like to have a good ‘spread’, within a budget or you find the cost spirals out of control. I always like to start planning as early as October, that way the cost is spread over a few months instead of a big hit in December. Shop around early for pricing up your turkey or goose, and don’t forget to shop locally, not only for the freshest of produce, but also knowing where it’s coming from. It is always good to support your local businesses also. Book it and pay a deposit on your bird, that way the final payment doesn’t look so bad! If you’re visiting your local farm shop to purchase quite a bit from your list, see if you can get a discount – you don’t know till you ask! Don’t be tempted by purchasing a selection of pre-packed vegetables or pre-cooked roast potatoes, stuffing, gravy etc – it’s not always cheaper - it’s convenient food at high prices (and certainly doesn’t taste as good as making it yourself). Don’t forget to stock up your freezer and pantry (or cupboards) with condiments and those ‘extras’ early, again so it doesn’t seem like a big expense in December. At Christmas, not everyone has the opportunity of celebrating, or even wants to celebrate, and that goes for spending on the traditional Christmas. So with that in mind what are the alternatives? In my last column, I covered the delights of using up your seasonal fruits. Hopefully I can continue getting those taste buds going by introducing ‘a meal in
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one hearty pie’ as an alternative to turkey and all the trimmings, and for those who don’t eat meat it’s always good to have a vegetarian alternative. By combining simple ingredients into one pot you can have a complete meal in one that doesn’t require extra work, is cheap to make and can be as delicious as any other meal, whatever the occasion. You can still have your seasonal turkey, or chicken if you prefer, or any kind of meat for that matter, alternatively, you can use the concept for the Christmas leftovers: For the filling: • Cooking spray (always handy in the kitchen) & 4 teaspoons olive oil • ¾ teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 700g pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ½” chunks • 1 medium onion, 2 medium carrots, 1 leek, 3 small new potatoes, 2 celery stalks, all chopped • 225g green beans, trimmed and chopped into ½” pieces • 2 cloves garlic, crushed • 1½ cups low fat milk • ¼ cup flour • 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth) • 1 cup peas, thawed if frozen • 1½ tablespoons fresh thyme leaves For the crust: ½ cup whole-wheat flour ¼ cup flour ¾ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil • ½ cup low fat buttermilk • • • • • •
To make the filling: Preheat the oven to 375°F/ 190°C. Spray a large shallow casserole dish, or 6 individual casserole dishes with cooking spray. Season the chicken with ¼ teaspoon each salt
and pepper. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of the oil over a medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer the chicken with its juices to a bowl. Add 2 more teaspoons of oil to the same pan and heat it over a medium-high heat. Add the onions, carrots, potatoes and celery and cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the green beans, garlic and remaining salt and pepper and cook for 2 minutes more. Add the milk. Stir the flour into the broth until it is completely dissolved and add to the pan. Cook, stirring until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 2 minutes more. Return the chicken with its juices back to the pan. Add the peas and thyme and stir to combine, season with salt & pepper. Spoon the mixture into the baking dish or individual dishes. To make the crust: Put the whole-wheat flour, flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt into a food processor and pulse a few times to combine. Add the butter and pulse about 12 times, or until pebble sized pieces are formed. Add the buttermilk then oil to the food processor and pulse until just moistened. Do not over mix. Drop the batter in 6 mounds on top of the chicken mixture (1 mound on each individual dish, if using) spreading the batter out slightly. Bake until filling is bubbling and the biscuit topping is golden brown, about 20 minutes. A very nutritional, low calorie meal-in-one which as a vegetarian option can be overloaded with vegetables, and if being made in individual pie dishes can be put in the freezer for another day. So, whatever you’ll be eating this Christmas, enjoy, have fun and I wish you all a very Happy New Year.
NEW YEAR - NEW CAREER? The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice are looking for enthusiastic Advertising Sales Personnel Write to Uttoxeter & CheadleVoice, 3 Spode Close, Cheadle, Staffs, ST10 1DT Deadline for applications: December 31st 2010
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If you are responding to an advertisement in The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, please let the advertiser know. Thank you for your support.
Book Corner by Tony Williams
Specialists in Wooden Sliding Sash Windows
It is quite easy picking a book to read for holiday or a long train journey, but very difficult to choose books for a youngsters’ birthday or – soon to be with us – for Christmas! Children’s books are now so beautiful to handle, the jackets so colourful and the contents sometimes quite fascinating that an adult choosing the books will get as much pleasure as the lucky youngster unwrapping them. The variety is so great that all I can do is to mention some of the new titles and emphasise the tremendous price reductions which can be enjoyed. I picked TREASURE ISLAND and paid £9.99 for a £20 book, and GREAT EXPECTATIONS and paid £2.99 instead of £9.99, and I paid £2.99 for a £5.99 book on THE ROMANS – and I’m reading that myself ! Now available at Bargain Books of Uttoxeter, 49 Market Place
Visit this great Christmas Fair and Children’s activity afternoon! n December 10th, Abbotsholme School junior school at Rocester will be open from 3pm to 7pm for a fun filled afternoon of Christmas activities for children of any age (and mums and dads are welcome too!) Santa will be interrupting his busy schedule to drop by and several of his elves will be helping out on the farm, where children can come and visit the sheep, chicken and horses. Mum might catch up on a bit of last minute shopping at the gift stalls (Joules and Body Shop are just two of the stands) and everyone can participate in a range of Christmas arts and crafts. There will be a free gift for every child who visits Santa’s grotto! For more information call 01889 594265 or view www.abbotsholme.co.uk
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Telephone 01538 755 454 Mobile 07791 891 393 www.ksbwoodcraft.co.uk Email: sales@ksbwoodcraft.co.uk Call today for a free no obligation quote! Let The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice take your business to 13,000 local homes. To advertise, call 01538 751629 or 0776 784 6937.
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Povey’s People By Radio Stoke’s Owd Grandad Piggott Each month Radio Stoke’s Owd Grandad Piggott (Alan Povey) will write a unique insight into our local life and its many characters. His infectious, humorous slant on people provides a different and unusual mix which hopefully will bring a warm smile to the faces of our readers.
This month: SPICY WALKER picy Walker was one of those kids who took television seriously. People say that most kids can easily take television programmes for what they are – a mixture of fact and fiction and are quite able to differentiate between the two – but Spicy wasn’t one of them. Everything he watched on the television to him, was real. Superman, Batman, Hank, Popeye and Bluto were actual people. Count Dracula and The Frankenstein Monster would kill you given half a chance and Sooty, who lived in a box under Harry Corbett’s bed, really could do magic tricks. We didn’t rag him for his beliefs. On the contrary, we tried to convince him that there was a difference between fact and fiction. As he got older, he did begin to see that we were probably right, but he was still strongly influenced by things he saw on the telly. The documentary on spices was one such programme. From the moment the programme came on, Spicy was hooked. Spices intrigued him. Eager to learn about this fascinating subject, he got books from the library and pestered the teachers at school for information and before long, he knew more than they did. Then one day, Spicy bit off a bit more than he could chew. There was a programme on the television about cider making, and once again, Spicy was glued to the television, totally transfixed by the art of the old cider makers. Afterwards, he came round to our house and asked me to help him make a vat of cider, which sounded a
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wonderful idea at the time. Armed with a large sack, we raided the orchard at the nunnery at Caverswall castle and dragged half a hundredweight of Bramley cooking apples back to Spicy’s house which we mixed with a quantity of crab apples which we had obtained from a tree that we knew the other side Weston Coyney. However, we hadn’t got a cider press, so Spicy purloined a pair of his mother’s tights and in the greenhouse at the bottom of the garden, we stuffed the apples into the tights and reduced them to mush on the slabbed floor with his father’s lump hammer. That done, we crammed the resultant goo into a watering can, which was the largest container we could find and set out to find a reasonably clean oil drum. We found one half submerged in ‘The sewerage’, a polluted little watercourse that glooped and gurgled its way beside the railway line at the bottom end of ‘Spuggers’ (Spoily Banks). We dragged it back to Spicy’s house and spent a whole day trying to sanitise it to a condition fit to hold twenty gallons of liquid suitable for human consumption, but after a superhuman effort, even Spicy’s fertile imagination couldn’t stretch to drinking any liquid contained in that obnoxious vessel . Eventually, we gave up on the oil drum and pinched an empty five gallon paraffin container from behind an ironmonger’s. shop. A bottle of Fairy Liquid and a few gallons of hot water later, we had got rid of most of the paraffinny odour and it didn’t smell anything like it should have done but it was the best we were likely to achieve. We crammed all the gloop through the narrow neck of the paraffin
“ Afterwards, he
came round to our house and asked me to help him make a vat of cider, which sounded a wonderful idea at the time.
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Celtic Band
THE ARTHUR DOHERTY BAND See them perform at the Cheltenham Horseracing Festival 2011
See how The Voice can publicise your business Give us a call on 01538 751629 or 0776 784 6937 Advert prices start at only £25and can hit over 13,000 homes
can, along with a bag of sugar and topped it up with water. Spicy rubbed his hands in satisfaction. ‘Now then – just the final touch, then all we’ve got to do’s get it up the loft and let it ferment out’. I looked at him blankly. ‘What’s the ‘final touch’? I ventured. ‘When the old cider makers made a brew, they threw in a dead rat... it was tradition!...’ explained Spicy ‘...So we need a dead rat!’ Spicy seemed to think that it was the easiest thing in the world to obtain a dead rat, but after many hours of hiding in the vegetation at Spuggers with catapults and his brother’s air pistol, we had not managed to kill a rat and Spicy was beside himself with frustration. ‘Would a dead bird do?’, I asked. ‘...or a mouse or a dead cat?’ In the end, we settled for a tin of corned beef. We justified it by deciding that it was meat, as was a rat would be a lot easier to force through the neck of the paraffin container than a dead rat. So a tin of corned beef it was, which we crammed in with a spoon after which, with the help of Nostrils Moffitt, we mauled it upstairs with about a twenty percent loss and installed it in the loft. Then we completely forgot about it. It was just before Christmas when Spicy’s dad went up into the loft for the decorations and was nearly knocked off the loft ladder by the stench that hit him. Spicy lived five doors along the street but we clearly heard the stentorian bellow that emanated from their house. Ten seconds later, it was followed by Spicy who dashed headlong into our garden and hammered on the door. ‘Save me!’, he gasped, panic stricken. ‘He’s going to kill me.’ His father almost did kill him. He brought the paraffin container down from the loft, filled a glass with the vile contents and made him drink it. Spicy luckily threw up as soon as the contents of the drum hit his stomach. The five gallon drum was never emptied. Several large spongy things that resembled suet dumplings the size of footballs had formed inside the container and instead of trying to remove them, the drum had gone to the dump. From then on, Spicy’s activities were concentrated on the theory side of his interests rather than the practical.
One of the area’s top Bands - now available to book for all local functions e.g. Weddings, Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Club Fundraisers etc. Telephone ARTHUR on 01782 396027 or ROGER on 01889 270594 BUY THEIR LATEST SUPERB CD - ‘MEMORIES’ - THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT. Available from Heath House Farm and Tea Rooms, Caverswall Old Road, Forsbrook, SOT, ST11 9BQ.
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The good old days Left: Can you remember Mrs Joyce McDermott, former landlady of the Wheatsheaf, Uttoxeter? Joyce is pictured at Uttoxeter Town Hall in March 2007 returning to Uttoxeter to visit her past customers at a 60th birthday party after leaving Uttoxeter for the Isle of Man over 30 years ago! Left tor ight: Steve Lavin, Joyce, Dave Foster, Jackie Lavin, Tina Foster, Chris Roebuck. Right: Uttoxeter lads enjoy a drink at Geoff Dyche’s Stag Do pictured in Stratford on Avon in the mid 90’s. Left to right: Jim Dyche, John Marrow Woodcock (landlord of the Old Talbot, Uttoxeter), Danny Mellor, Tom Lomas, Kevin MacGloughlon, Glyn Douglas is bottom left.
Above: Fundraisers enjoy a fantastic event with their Union Jacks at Churchill Road/Harbourne Road, Cheadle a few years ago. Above right: Pictured are Staff at Salon Forbes Wardman Hairdressers which was located in Uttoxeter High Street in the early 1970’s. Back row left to right: Christine Wright, Kay Shaw, Geoff Bradbury, Keith Grimley, Ann Bradbury. Front Row: Sue Morris, Janet Heinich, Pearl Heinich. Right: Four glamorous Cheadle ladies have their photograph taken during a social evening (nice jumpers!).
Photographs which were identified in the last issue of The Voice’s Good Old Days page were: Two photographs from Cheadle Festival of yesteryear which was one of the biggest events in the county at one time. The green bus was part of a fleet of Wheeldons Green Buses which were a familiar sight around Uttoxeter, parked up at their Uttoxeter Depot which was situated in Bridge Street, Uttoxeter, which is now a block of flats.
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The photograph was of the Sheep Pens at Uttoxeter Livestock Market, now demolished of course, taken in the 1980’s when times were a lot better and busier for our farming community. The revellers were Uttoxeter lads on a weekend tour to Amsterdam in November 2009. Left to right: John Powell, Tom Hudson, Wes Cockshutt, Dan Bullock, Paul Coates, Tom Hodson, Andrew Ratecliffe, James Ratcliffe, Joe Austin. Front Row: Harry Ratcliffe, Tom Bostock.
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Victory Lane Awards Victory makes a speedy start
Lane Awards L Trophies & Awards for all sporting and academic activities Whether you are a company, club, committee, school or corporate event we have the perfect award for your lucky champions. We cater for any sport from football to cricket, rugby to hockey, shooting to karate, horse riding to motorsport – the list is endless! Trophies, glassware, resins, rosettes, silverware and much more available. Full engraving service available for new and annual awards. Photo and logo engraving facilities also on site. We also stock a range of personalised gifts for that extra special present. Feel free to call in for an info pack or telephone and one can be delivered to your door Contact : Victory Lane Awards, Stock Lane, Marchington Woodlands, Uttoxeter, Staffs. ST14 8PB Tel : 01283 821 689 Mobile : 0777 234 4648 or visit us at www.victorylaneawards.co.uk
ocal business woman Sophie Clark has recently opened the doors to Victory Lane Awards at Marchington Woodlands and what a hectic first few months it has been. After years of running a successful motorsport formula Sophie has branched out in the trophy business and her contacts within the motorsport arena have certainly been very useful as Victory Lane supplied all the awards for the BriSCA FI Championship of the World that took place at Coventry Motorspeedway. This event is the pinnacle night on the motorsport calendar and all the stars from the BBC One Show Gears and Tear were fighting it out for the silverware with Rochdale based Andy Smith taking the chequered and the superb trophy, laurels and champagne. Victory Lane has provided trophies and awards for the vast majority of oval racing meetings nationwide this year enabling the business a flying start. Although motorsport is where the heart is, the shop stocks awards for all types of sporting events from football to rugby, cricket to shooting, karate to bowling, horse events to boxing – the list is endless. They also carry a wide range of school and academic awards suitable for playgroups right through to colleges. Another favourite is the popular dance award range as dancing has certainly become increasingly popular over the past few years and there are plenty of awards to choose from. With the latest technology for photo and logo engraving this really does add the personal touch to any award or gift. Annual awards can also be engraved and they offer the service of arranging presentation evenings for clubs so that everyone can enjoy the evening and not have the worry. If you would like an information pack feel free to telephone 01283 821 689 or 0777 234 4648. Alternatively feel free to visit www.victorylaneawards.co.uk
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The ‘Utcheter’ and beyond Football Diaries from 1979 onwards... By Tim Leech, our Uttoxeter man exiled in the Potteries Kidnapped to play in “Marchington !” funny but true footballing story happened in the mid to late 1980’s and involves the current manager of the Three Tuns F.C, “Young” Tony Greenaway. In August/September just before the start of the Season a friendly game had been arranged away in Irlam, Manchester. How it came about was the former Landlord of the Black Swan, namely Bill Skellern had moved to live there and was again running a pub in Irlam. His son, Leon, the former skilful and powerful centre half for Uttoxeter Town had been asked to get a team up to play the pre-season friendly. Before I expand on this tale a quick ditty that relates to Bill when he was Landlord of the Black Swan. At the time the Swan was very much a man’s, man’s pub and a real ale drinker’s paradise. One day a Husband, Wife and 2 kids on their way back from a trip to Alton Towers had stopped in Utch for a bite to eat but made the fatal mistake of walking into the Swan. Well early doors it was full of a rough and ready mix of blokes and they all raised their eyebrows as the family walked into the pub. The wife pushed a sheepish husband to the front of the bar, who under duress enquired “Do you serve food?” Landlord Bill was pulling a pint and without looking up at the down trodden man replied “Yes we do mate, you can have plain, salt and vinegar or cheese and onion”. With that the husband and family made a swift exit as the
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regulars sniggered away to themselves. Anyway back to the friendly game in Irlam, Leon had instructed all players to meet at 10am in the Three Tuns for a 10.30am departure and it soon became apparent that his squad of the Town’s finest were not turning up and he only had a handful of fit players. Myself only the day before had come out of plaster after breaking my ankle and some of the supporter’s who were intending to come along to watch and have a day out were now becoming part of the managers team plan. Five minutes before our coach departed we literally had about 7 fit players and a few press ganged stand ins. In walked “Young” Tony Greenaway, “Fancy a game, Young Tone?”, I enquired. Yeahh, came the reply where are you playing “Oh, we are only playing Marchington” O.K then my kit bag is behind the bar, I left it here last week and had just popped in to collect it”. Happy Days, we had a bare 11 including myself, Young Tone’ and other stragglers. “Nice coach”, “Young” Tony remarked, “why do we need this if we are only playing at Marchington ?” “Because we are not playing on their usual pitch” as he was shoved on the bus. As we were driving up the A50 towards the M6, he smirked and said “We are playing at Blythe Bridge, aren’t we?” “Well not quite” as I explained to him the truth and he went white and said “My missus will kill me, I only told her I would be half an hour and we are meant to be going out for a meal tonight”. You must understand this was
Village Art Success he exhibition of art by professional artist John Rattigan that was held at Doveridge Village Hall on the weekend of 14/15 November was an overwhelming success. John, who is steadily making a reputation with his unique monkey and owl paintings since retiring from full time teaching in July, said of the event; “I didn’t expect the response I received. I estimated that over 100 people visited the exhibition over the two days and I sold 43 pieces of art in total.” “I think this shows the level to which Doveridge people support activities in their Village Hall, which they see as being at the forefront of village life”. The work on display ranged from small scale ceramic reliefs to medium sized drawings and large scale canvas pieces. The artist was keen to have something available for all ages and budgets and because he didn’t have to pay normal art gallery commissions he was able to keep prices at a reasonable level. Nevertheless he says he was “ bowled over with the number of pictures sold and the positive comments I received. I would certainly like to use this venue again next year”.
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in the Pre-mobile phone days and realism was now starting to hit young Tone that he was in serious domestic trouble. Well we arrived in Irlam and pulled up at a football stadium, Irlam Town F.C, a bit of a good setting for a friendly against a pub team we all thought. Well the hardy 11 got changed and hobbled out onto the pitch only to be confronted by the sight of a full squad being put through a vigourous pre-match warm up. The whole squad in tracksuits with Irlam Town F.C on the back of each tracksuit top. Irlam Town F.C at the time were playing in the Old Northern Premier league, playing against the likes of Burton Albion, Stafford Rangers etc. Talk about being set up. The hardy bunch did fantastically well and it was 0-0 at half time and we only went behind with 10 mins’ to go via a hotly contested penalty and eventually we collapsed, literally to a 3 -1 defeat. We were knackered but rather impressed with our achievement after being stitched up by Leon and Bill collectively. “Young” Tone arrived back in Utcheter at 7am on Sunday Morning only 22 hours after he had “nipped out for half an hour”. Bad Joke time - I was in my local Tesco Express buying my newspaper when a guy threw a piece of cheese at me, as I looked up hurtling towards me was a pint of milk, a carton of cream and 2 yoghurts. I thought to myself “How Dairy !” Happy Days Regards, Roachy
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Ben Johnson Golf Day By Andy Carr, Checkley Cricket Club Captain en Johnson plays for Checkley Cricket Club and was badly hurt in a collision with a car recently and has been in a coma. On behalf of Checkley Cricket Club, I’m delighted to express that the golf which we organised for The Ben Johnson Fund was a huge success. In total we had 70 golfers who braved the weather conditions, and it was a credit to Uttoxeter Golf Club, and the green keepers for the up keeping of such a high standard course. Although the rain passed on around lunchtime, the general feeling was, the golf was quite tough due to the conditions. But we were all very mindful for the true reason of the day. I would also like to thank the Professional at Uttoxeter Golf Club Adam McCandless, and the
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catering Manager Jackie, for their help and quality of food and facilities leading upto and on the day. A special thanks also has to be expressed to the House Chairman Len Woodward, who I worked very closely with in organising the day. I thank you all, and you have every right to be proud of the facilities you offer at Uttoxeter Golf Club, and we would love to enjoy your facilities sometime soon. The golf itself had various competitions throughout the day. Team comp. Individual comp. Longest drive, Nearest the pin, and nearest the pin 2nd shot. We also ran a competition on the 12th hole. It was £5 a go, and for anyone who hit the green received £10 back. In total on a very tricky day for golf we had only 2 golfers that hit the green. I would like to thank each and every golfer who
braved the elements, and your support was very much appreciated. It was quite noticeable on the day the array of prizes we had on offer, for the individual competitions, raffle and also the auction. Again a huge thank you for those that donated prizes, and begged each and every company for a prize. The golfers came wide and afar, which relates to the kind of person Ben is. He is a loveable character, and I’m sure that he would have loved to be part of the day. On behalf of Checkley Cricket Club, Ben and his family we would to once again thank you for your valid support in raising £2500 on the day, which will be passed on to Ben for his rehabilitation. Get well soon Ben.
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On and off the field By Alan Smith Alan Smith has enjoyed a lifetime of sport in the Cheadle and Uttoxeter areas. Here Alan delves into his memory bank to write his unique brand of humour on colourful sports and life comments with memories of past and present which we hope readers will enjoy... ell Christmas is upon us once again, a great time for families, but oh so expensive, some families can ill afford that expense. I was one of 6 children and my parents were hard working, very hard working people. At Christmas they did their best for the 6 of us which meant we all had one main present. For the lads that meant probably a compendium of games, that consisted of snakes and ladders, ludo, blow football, all kinds of things that could be played on the kitchen table. My sisters would have a book, perhaps I can’t remember, a little make-up, but we all had a bag of treats which were an apple, orange, a few sweets and always a small packet of dates and that was it! But we were oh so thankful. Today I shudder to think about the amount spent on children and in a lot of cases after a couple of days they are discarded and placed up into the loft never to see the light of day again. I keep harping on about the value of money and getting our kids to respect it. My mum said ‘Money is the root of all evil’ and bless you mum you were right. I read only the other day that the Rocester manager says he’s struggling to bring players in because of the wages they cannot compete with other clubs. Well I ask you, I managed Rocester when not one penny crossed the table either on top or underneath. But what superb players I was lucky to have, the Hibberd brothers, Tony Keeling, Graham Eley, and probably the two best players not to become top full time professionals, Peter Swanwick and Barry Hulton. All of these lads remain dear friends, and I can still see them all on a request from Ken Green or Gilbert Egerton, those 2 being jointly Mr Rocester FC to go out before the match and put up the nets and on the conclusion of the game take them down, or any other menial jobs which needed doing including selling raffle tickets to help the club to run. Can you see them today – no chance. I don’t get paid for that would be their response. They wear the shirts with the sponsors name emblazoned on the front, which means instant money into the club’s coffers. Therefore less raffle tickets to be sold. We have become a nation, no world of takers with very few givers. Crikey, I’m a moaner aren’t I, my kids call me Victor Meldrew, what do they mean? But you see only too many things to moan about invariably on the television, if you watch the football especially and these antics are mirrored by our kids whether it be diving, swearing etc. There was an incident when I was a player which involved a bit of cheating by my marker and I mean marker literally. As I swear his instructions were to kick me hard and often. After numerous whacks I got a little fed up and decided to get my revenge. Well if anyone can remember I wasn’t a clogger but decided to thump him to the top of the nose and I grabbed him, but before a blow could be struck, dear old George Kavanagh who was the referee of the match blew up and said ‘Right Alan off!’ ‘Off’ I said ‘what for George?’ He said ‘fighting.’ ‘Fighting, fighting,’I roared! My attacker by this time was smirking and thought he’d done his job, he’d got Smithy sent off by fair or fowl. I went a little ballistic and chased the smirker and my hand came into contact with his nose. ‘Now you can send me off George for fighting!!’ I said. At the completion of the match whilst we were getting changed in our cars at the Westlands Road ground, George who was parked next to me, said ‘I wont send it in Al.’ ‘Thanks George,’ I said. You wouldn’t get that nowadays would you, compassion from a referee and more so getting stripped to play in our cars on the touchline! Today’s players don’t know they are born...
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But I really do resent the time when money was paid to local players who honestly don’t merit it. My predecessors at Rocester and other local clubs who introduced it have started something that can only end up in tears. The guy with the silver spoon at Rocester has gone now and they are left to struggle to survive. My happiest times as regards players giving especially to their local community was when I managed Cheadle United Football Club, a great club who at that time had a tradition of players dressing up in fancy dress and collecting generous donations of money and using that money to buy presents for patients in Cheadle Hospital. These presents we would deliver Christmas Day morning to the wards. The patients’ faces I will never forget. That was a present for me in itself. Great times, great club! But now a change of topic, now from sport to my promise that I would acquaint you with my brief excursion into Her Majesty’s Army. Well at 17 I’d decided that following my brothers into the Royal Navy was not for me but The Army excited me. I duly joined up in the Royal Artillery and was sent to Gabowen near Oswestry to do my training. After a couple of days and on meeting my fellow recruits we were getting to know one another and also our NCOs, one, Sergeant Routh was just like him off It Ain’t Arf Hot Mum with the moustache etc. And this particular morning whilst outside our billet at 6.30am awaiting inspection, this Sergeant came right into my face and bellowed ‘Have you shaved this morning Gunner Smith?’ ‘No Sergeant, I don’t shave every day yet!’ God I wished I hadn’t said that, what a reply was about to be given to me? ‘Well Smith, you f...... do now, go and get one!’ My feet propelled my quivering body back into the toilet block and I didn’t forget to shave ever again! On settling into a routine we were sorted out as regards to having a leader for each intake and each billet, Bombardier Farrah a Corporal to those who are not familiar what a Bombardier is told me that I would be our section leaders. This entailed organising the lads into cleaning your rooms and marching them around the camp in the event of there not being an NCO available to do it. You had a green stripe to wear on your arm and I felt proud. I had also been selected to play in the camp cricket team but that I realised was to make sure the kit got back to the sports store. I was left with the impression as I read down the team sheet it went something like this: Captain?, Captain?, Lieutenant?, Lieutenant?, Sergeant Major and so on and last on the list was Gunner Smith, in brackets alongside my name was collect all kit up after the game and return to sports store. And I thought it was about my ability ha ha. But the problems which arose from my selection as section leader were to decide my future in The Army. The reason being that two fellow recruits Haynes and Dong, Haynes being a big docker from Portsmouth and Dong a Scouser of Chinese parentage, did not take to a slight black guy issuing them orders. But believe me they needed them as they were untidy and could never keep in step whilst marching around the camp. Well one particular night after a long hard day’s training I went to the blankoroom, thats the room dedicated to cleaning your gaiters, belts etc and applying the greenish blanko. I entered and the door slammed shut behind me. I soon realised that I had a problem. And within a couple of minutes I had been well and truly beaten, kicked etc. I must have really got up Haynes and Dong’s noses but they made a good job of trying to flatten mine! I staggered back to my bed and eventually tried to settle down to sleep. During the night my colleagues
who knew nothing about the assault had to get the medical officer on duty out as I was bleeding and must have been concussed. He asked me what had happened and I told him that during my excursions earlier that day in the assault course my knee had hit me on landing off a rope jump and struck me under the chin. He said ‘likely story’ – report to the sick bay tomorrow morning which I did. I was then sent to RAF Cosford and told my jaw had been broken after medical examinations and it needed specialist treatment which required me travelling across country to Ely in Cambridgeshire. That journey was hell, believe me, no painkillers, an Army jeep etc etc. On getting there my jaw was wired together with the help of a metal cast formed around my teeth. No food, only liquids for weeks. But the terrible thing for me was that I couldn’t complete my training, therefore would not pass out with my mates and obviously would be back squadded which to you means to start my training again from scratch. My mates would depart to their postings – some of them to fabulous places.I was gutted and even though I had had a letter off my mates whilst I was recovering in hospital to say that Haynes and Dong had been sorted, I leave that to you to decide what that meant. They got their cumuppence, I’ll tell you, I came out of hospital and returned to camp and felt terrible that my mates had left, I also missed my girlfriend in civvy street, albeit she’d chucked me but I decided I was going to buy myself out and informed the powers that be of my intentions. I was summoned in front of my commanding officer the interview went something like this: ‘Gunner Smith I’m told you want to buy yourself out of The Army.’ ‘Yes sir,’ I replied. ‘Do you know we think you are NCO material,’ the officer said. I said thank you sir but I still want to buy myself out and was met with the CO’s reply off ‘Sergeant, march this man out.’ About turn, left, right, left, right were the Sergeant’s orders, I was then taken on until my discharge an undesirable left to do all the crap jobs and rightly so. What a massive, massive, mistake I made. What would I have made of myself serving Her Majesty. My tests earlier on in training rendered to become after much more training and education a surveyor, I will remember leaving that camp and looking back and swearing that no one would beat me like I’d been beaten again. Thinking about that the player who earlier in the piece kicked lumps out of me did well to last as long as he did, but the football is a game isn’t it. And so is cricket and local cricket has sadly lost with the retirement of Gully, Ian Worthington to most people, a player of tremendous ability and dedication, a faithful servant to Boltons and Oakamoor, who also had a spell with Caverswall and played numerous games for Staffordshire. Gully was believe me a fearsome sight bearing down on you with his well over 6ft frame. Gully has played over 30 years for his beloved Boltons and Oakamoor and in the last 2 seasons topped the league’s bowling averages with one of the season’s accumulated a massive 99 league wickets, truly amazing! Last season on his very last match he was asked to open against Bagnall, not not the bowling but the batting, and he duly obliged with his maiden league century, well it was 162 not out to be precise, truly amazing! But when asked to bowl, sadly he managed just one over before asking Joe Emery his skipper to take him off as he couldn’t get his arm over, so he said. I always maintained Gully, it took more out of you to be a batsman rather than a bowler! Seriously Ian, we all say thank you for being a true gentleman and may you find plenty of enjoyment hitting the little white ball about, I don’t know if they will find golf clubs long enough though! Have a great festive time everyone, hope to be with you again in the New Year. Smithy
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All-time Local Soccer Hall of Fame Team
1, Barry Allcock - Rocester Superb agile natural keeper a dream of a player on the training ground and the dressing room.
By Roy ‘Razzer’ Astbury
2, Kev Barry - Rocester The Gentleman of sport a born leader with a desire to win not matched by many.
Each month Uttoxeter’s best known character Roy ‘Razzer’ Astbury will compile his very own ‘All-Time Local Football Team’ which in his opinion is the very best of players past and present. ‘Razzer’ will create a team in each issue of The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice which he believes incorporates all the ingredients of a football outfit which could be unbeatable! He will be delving into his thoughts to remember all the terrific players in years gone by whilst selecting those who are exceptional in our present day. It should be a fantastic talking point in our community and no doubt you all will have your views on ‘Razzer’s Hall of Fame team. If you have your own Hall of Fame team then get involved and just give Nigel a call at The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice on 01538 751629, 0776 784 6937 to tell him or send your team to: The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, 3 Spode Close, Cheadle, Staffordshire, ST10 1DT or email uttoxetervoice@hotmail.co.uk
Alan Beaman, former Rocester FC Manager and Player, has selected his Hall of Fame football team See Right:
Razzer’s Hall of Fame December Team
6, Keith Hibbard Rocester A quick top drawer defender who read the game beautifully with powerful tackling
A very steady keeper who would never let his side down. Great consistency and a brilliant pair of hands.
JOHN ROWNTREE Bamfords FC A really clever, strong player who always gave 100%.
ROGER HOULDCROFT Uttoxeter Rangers Possessed a tremendous football brain which helped to give him the vision for defence-splitting passes – Roger could also get onto the scoresheet pretty regularly.
Strong in the tackle and a very hard defender who could hold the back four together.
ANT FULLER Leigh United Top class local player who never gave in – excellent club man.
DENNIS HARRISON Rocester FC A real handful who could hit the back of the net most matches. Great forward.
4, Barry Hulton - Rocester What an honour to have played with one of the best players this area has produced set a lot of standards I was happy to copy with all the players I managed 5, Wayne Johnson - Leek Town A quality defender who pushed himself to high standards still with a great future in management
STEVE KERRIGAN White Horse
FRED KIRK Uttoxeter Amateurs
3, Mark Allcock - Cheadle Town A model local player with a smashing attitude manager of Cheadle town a true football man.
CHARLIE MUNDEEN Uttoxeter Amateurs Solid and reliable, Charlie was a rock at the centre of the defence.
DAVE FULLER Leigh United A player who would get into most local teams because of his great vision and tremendous workrate.
KEVIN GEAR Bamfords and Picknalls OB Superb passer of the ball, Kevin could turn defence into attack with his distribution. Always gave it his all for the team.
MARTIN WARD Uttoxeter Amateurs A very shrewd player who was very dangerous on the flanks.
DEREK ROBERTSON Stramshall FC Always a menace to defenders, this quick thinking forward would cause all sorts of trouble to his opponents, especially in front of goal.
7, Nigel Mottram Rocester Wide or centre forward two footed scored goals great feet never ending work rate. 8, Daryl Beardmore Cheadle A talented ball player good tackler could control the middle of the park with ease 9, Mick Collins - Rocester The best goal scorer I ever played with or managed a natural athlete scored goals for fun against anybody 10, Mick Ratcliffe Uttoxeter Amateurs A lovely balanced player with tricks could score goals he would stand out in most games. 11, Paul Croft - Rocester A model local player who extracted every ounce from himself with his play and training. So many other players I could select sorry about bias to Rocester Players but these were so many I managed and played with who loved the game as much as I do.
We have inserted one football club each player has performed for. Obviously, many have played for several clubs in their careers.
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Your local MOT Testing Centres Established in 1992 under the same ownership Open seven days a week, Saturday and Sunday till noon Following year reminder service
Free re-test If your vehicle fails then take it to a repairer of your choice Customer viewing and waiting area
We carry out a completely independent test - we do not repair Plus a chance to enter our FREE monthly MOT draw
Uttoxeter Test Centre Cars and vans, Class IV Smithfield Road, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire ST14 7JB
Tel: 01889 563838 www.uttoxetertestcentre.co.uk email: service@angusmackinnon.co.uk
Cheadle Test Centre Cars, vans, light commercials, motor homes, motor bikes, Classes I, II, IV, & VII Brookhouse industrial Estate, Cheadle, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire ST10 1SR
Tel 01538 750 737 www.cheadletestcentre.co.uk email service@angusmackinnon.co.uk
Opening times, 8.00am until 5.30pm Monday to Friday. 8.00am until 12.00pm Saturday and Sunday. Did you know, you can MOT your vehicle up to 28 days before expiry date without forfeiting any day on the current certificate