TM FREE
February 2015
For mature people who enjoy life! Also available online at www.seniorstoday.co.uk Tel: 01782 461711 A Property Trust Will can be your saviour
eventually sold! Bear in mind that average residential care fees start in the region of £500 per week, so it is clear how UNSURPRISINGLY, few of us have considered what quickly assets can be eroded. the effect might be on our savings and investments, The DSS has often become the sole, outright owner or even our home, if (as is most probable) we ever of the family home after the death of an elderly needed residential care later in life. parent, who had been living in a nursing home. Most people assume that we shall pass on our assets However, there is a solution - in the form of to our children or other relatives in due course; Property Trust wills yet, this may not always be the case, unless careful arrangements have been made to protect our assets from being taken to pay care home fees. In recent years, it has become increasingly apparent that the State will only provide for those with little or no savings or assets; everyone else is expected to pay at least part (if not all) of his or her own costs. Currently, anyone with assets in excess of £22,250 (this figure includes the family home) is not eligible for any state help with his or her residential care fees; if you have more than £12,000, but less than £22,500, you are only entitled to partial assistance. The net result is that anyone, who owns his or her own home, is unlikely to receive assistance, even if A 'Property Trust' is based around three, basic elements: the basis on which you own your they do not possess large amounts of cash-assets. Even if you DON'T have the cash readily available, property, the Trust terms and your Wills, which the Department of Social Security can still place a contain the Trust investment. The Property Trust can only be created, while charge against the family home, which enables it to recover the monies owing, when the property is both partners remain alive and the property
Professionally Written Wills FIXED FEE PROMOTIONAL PRICE valid only with this advert until 28th February 2015
£79 each (NO VAT) includes individual bound Will, Advice on executors, guardians, etc HOME VISITS TO SUIT DAYTIME-EVENING-WEEKENDS
Professional Will Writer
must be owned as Tenants in Common (the Trust instrument is, then, included in both Wills, but does not come into force until the death of the first). Upon the first death, their share of the property (typically 50%) is placed into the Trust to be adminstered by the Trustees nominated in the Will, and this, usually, includes the surviving spouse. The Will also specifies who is to be the ultimate beneficiary of this share in the property, and the Trustee's duty is to protect the property for the beneficiaries' benefit. The surviving spouse, under the Trust's terms, has the right to remain living in the property for the rest of his or her life; on the death of the second spouse, the Trust comes to an end, and the property passes absolutely to the beneficiaries. For further details, contact Anthony Heath, Associate of Countrywide Tax and Trust Corporation & Golden Charter Funeral Plans, on (01782) 361971/07780-009245 or anthony@ willsforu.co.uk
ANNOUNCEMENT!!!
OVER 1,000
Homes SOLD every week to pay Care Home Fees Protect your home with a Protective Property Trust Will
Including a Home Visit £250.00 the pair
Professionally Written Wills Standard Single Will With Home Visit £79.00 each
It’s never too soon but often too late
Anthony Heath
&
Standard Pair of Wills
With Home Visit £138.00 the pair (fixed fees however complicated)
01782 361 971 07780 009 245 anthony@willsforu.co.uk
www.willsforu.co.uk
Telephone Anthony Heath
01782 361971 see website for online prices
www.willsforu.co.uk
FREE Prescription Collection and Delivery from all Surgeries in Stoke on Trent Medication in trays for people on Multiple Medication
Post Office within Store Large Range of Household Goods Smoking Clinic FREE Minor Ailment Service Free Parking
Tel: 01782 215599
2 Southall Way, Eaton Park, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire, ST2 9LT
dDeaflinks Staffordshire “Supporting local Deaf people since 1868”
L I P R E ADING CLASSES
THIS charity has a long, proud history of supporting the area's deaf people, extending back to 1868.
"Our aim is to provide equal opportunities in key areas, including Education, Work, Employment, Training and Information, to enable informed choice," explains Ruth Woodcock, Junior Manager/Support and Development Co-ordinator.
Purpose-built in 1937, the Ellis Centre was designed to meet the specific needs of deaf people, creating a safe, relaxing environment, in which all are welcome.
Starting Thursday 19th February 2015 at dDeaflinks Centre 6:30-8:30pm Introductory offer – only £2.50 per session for 8 weeks Opportunity to continue to next stage Classes are informal and fun Come along to learn some useful tips, techniques and communication tactics.
02 | February 2015
they were in 1868, and the charity is proud to continue its strong history, offering support to meet changing needs.
With offices at Shelton, in Stoke-onTrent, dDeaflinks Staffordshire provides vital information, help, support and social gatherings for local people, who are deaf, deafened or hard-of-hearing.
NEW FOR 2015
For more information please contact dDeaflinks Staffordshire The Ellis Centre Wellesley Street Shelton Stoke-on-Trent ST1 4NF
Providing equal opportunities in key areas
Tel: 01782 219161 SMS: 07791 459307 Email: BSL@deaflinks.co.uk www.deaflinksstaffordshire.com
All its staff and volunteers can communicate by British Sign Language (BSL). The name, dDeaflinks Staffordshire, was introduced in 2001, with this, particular spelling refecting the community which it is supporting. (The lower-case 'd' represents the deafened and hard-of-hearing population, while the capital 'D' signifies those who are profoundly deaf). dDeaflink services and support are equally in-demand now, in 2015, as
Multiple services include the provision of a range of information and advice (delivered in clients' preferred communication method of BSL); BSL courses (ranging from Introduction to BSL up to Level 3 [two awarding bodies, Signature and ABC]), and bespoke deaf awareness courses, which can be delivered within your own venue. dDeaflinks Staffordshire will soon demonstrate equipment to aid people with a hearing-loss, and supplies an interpreting and communication support service (BSL, deaf blind interpreters, SSE, lip-speakers and note-takers provided for the local area [24-hour, out-of-hours emergency service available]); additionally, a Tinnitus Support Group is to be launched soon. sales: 01782 461711
CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2015 5 Regular exercise boosts energy, increases confidence and self-esteem, not to mention reducing the risk of heart-disease and strokes. By offering low-cost exercise, walking groups and walking football sessions, the Ageing Well Project (created by Age UK North Staffordshire) encourages older people to keep physically, mentally and socially active. With FREE training available in Spring 2015, Age UK is looking for people to fill volunteer vacancies in areas, including Cobridge, Meir, Stoke, Leek Town, Biddulph Moor and Ipstones. 6 Award-winning Lip Service Theatre returns to Blackpool on Friday/Saturday, February 13th/14th, as The Grand Theatre hosts 'The Picture of Doreen Gray'. Lauded by The Guardian as "the Laurel and Hardy of literary deconstruction", Maggie Fox and Sue Ryding have been writing and performing together since 1985. They have written 16 original comedies for the stage, had their own comedy series on BBC Radio 4, made many TV appearances and won several awards. Lip Service Theatre is one of the most firmlyestablished touring companies in the UK, also appearing abroad, including trips to Pakistan, Eastern Europe, the USA and Germany. 9 Baddeley Green WMC is the venue for a Northern Soul and Motown Night on Friday, February 6th. A Milton Carnival Committee event, the evening will feature fantastic DJ, Ken Stonier, resident DJ of The Crown in Burslem and a regular for the Outer Circle Scooter Group. 12 Each year sees the sending (and receiving) of tens of millions of cards, flowers and gifts galore in mid-February in the annual ritual of 'St. Valentine's Day'. In addition to all those cards (be they of the traditionalist, romantic nature or indecorous, in modern vein)throughout the land, millions of amorous couples (and those yet to consummate their passions!) will be enjoying an intimate, candle-lit dinner-for-two on February 14th. Commercially-printed Valentine cards (already being produced in tens of thousands well before the appearance of the first Christmas card in 1846) rapidly superceded homemade offerings, reaching the zenith of their popularity between 1870 and 1880. 16 Brewing in the UK has seen unprecedented growth during the past, ten years. Breweries of all shapes and sizes are flourishing, and the range of home-grown beers available in pubs and shops has never been so diverse. Britain's beer consumers have never had it so good, and, headed by 'real ale', a 'craft' beer revolution is sweeping the country! You can read all about it in 'Britain's Beer Revolution' (£14.99). sales: 01782 461711
Are you a Wise Owl or a Head-Burying Ostrich when it comes to that d-word? THIS month, we discuss the many complexities which can arise from NOT making a Will.
judicial decisions and custom.
WHAT MOST PEOPLE THINK OR HOPE!
SINGLE: If a single person dies without a Will, the line of Inheritance can be complicated and can often involve relatives you have never even met!
SO, if you are Cohabitee, the information on single people is more appropriate to you.
IF you die without a Will, all your money and possessions (your Estate) will be distributed, according to strict legal rules and regulations. These rules are called the Laws of Intestacy. In many cases, the Intestacy Laws distribute an Estate in a way the deceased would not have wanted, sometimes with disastrous results. YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES will fall into one of the following categories: Married, Cohabiting or Single. MARRIED: In the event of the death of a married person, the Intestacy rules divide the Estate into shares, with a share going to the surviving husband or wife (the spouse). The amount a spouse can inherit is restricted to an amount set by the Government. THE POPULAR BELIEF that a spouse automatically inherits everything is simply not true. This is because your nearest blood-relations (children, parents, brothers, sisters etc.) are also entitled to take a share under the Intestacy Rules inherit, with the rising values of Estates, the SPOUSE'S SHARE could be the smallest one. FACT: If you have not made a Will, even your life insurance policies will not be paid until probate has been granted, unless they are written into trust! (Probate will take many months, sometimes years, to be granted!). FACT: If your Children are orphaned and you have not appointed a guardian in a Will, then Social Services will decide who looks after them, including allocating them to Foster Parents). FACT: If there are no surviving members of your family, the whole Estate would go to the Crown (Government). COHABITING: Thousands of people live together without getting married. Unfortunately, most think that, after a few years together or if they have become a Common Law husband or wife and have same rights as a married person. Let there be no doubt about this. If you live with another person unmarried (including single-sex couples), with respect to finance and inheritance you are known as a Cohabitee and do not have the same rights as a married person. The general term, Common Law, means law-based
HERE WE GO... first, you children will inherit your whole Estate - if there are no surviving children, next in line are your grandchildren - if you have no grandchildren, then both your parents - if both have died before you, then your brothers and/or nieces - if none, then your cousins (however far removed) and, if no cousins, everything goes to the Government... phew! IF you are single and without a Will, I can hear you are thinking: 'Well, that's OK, it will go to my children, anyway'). That may be partly true, but what is also true is that it will take months and, possibly, years to sort out your affairs (obtain Probate), and the Solicitors who sort this out will charge THOUSANDS OF POUNDS for their work. This is money that, for the sake of making your Will (£69), you could have left your Children! Even if you have no Children or close family, many people would want their Estate to go to CLOSE FRIENDS or a CHARITY, rather than the GOVERNMENT OR UNKNOWN RELATIONS.
Professionally Written Wills FIXED FEE PROMOTIONAL PRICE valid only with this advert until 28th February 2015
£79 each (
NO VAT)
includes individual bound Will, Advice on executors, guardians, etc HOME VISITS TO SUIT DAYTIME-EVENING-WEEKENDS
It’s never too soon but often too late
Anthony Heath
Professional Will Writer
01782 361 971 07780 009 245 anthony@willsforu.co.uk
www.willsforu.co.uk
February 2015 | 03
BRASSINGTON TERRACE, DEN LANE, WRINEHILL, CHESHIRE
Telephone Ruth (01270) 820848 FUNDING NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2 YEAR OLDS
ROOSTERS
DAY NURSERY
0-After School Care Holiday Club Mon-Fri 7.30am-6pm
Childcare for Weddings and Other Family functions prices from £120.00 for 2 hours Parties for special events inc Halloween and Christmas Also Basic Parties from £45.00 for 2 hrs Food provided at £2.00 per head either at home or a venue of your choice Games and activities provided Offsted Reg and CRB CHECKED Contact 07792 207505 suetilly@outlook.com www.sues-childcare.co.uk
POTTERIES ANTIQUES CENTRE, 271 WATERLOO RD, COBRIDGE
Tel: SOT 201455 anytime
THEY "NEVER CEASE TO AMAZE" ONE of the outstanding chamber groups working in the UK today makes a welcome return to the New Vic Theatre on Monday, March 23rd.
Schubert (1797-1828) and Anton Arensky (1861-1906), encompassing beauty, sadness, energy and hopefulness.
Regulars at the Wigmore Hall and on BBC Radio 3 (as well as the Newcastle theatre-in-the-round), the string players of Ensemble 360 are joined by Norwegian cellist, Bjorg Lewis, for a programme of works by Franz
Old watches wrist & pocket ladies or gents, working or not all makes especially OMEGA Watches!
WANTED COINS & MEDALS Doulton and Beswick Figures
ANTON Arensky (1861-1906).
It comprises Schubert's String Quartet in C minor D703 ('Quartettsatz') and his String Quintet in C, and the String Quartet No 2 in A minor Op. 35 of Arensky.
Open 6 days or for home visits
North Staffs Housing Require TERRACED and ex local authority and mineshafted houses
in any condition
FOR CASH • Legal fees paid • Very fast completions • On the spot decisions AS HEARD ON SIGNAL RADIO Ring Rod Smith or Simon Keats
01782 638080
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FRANZ Schubert (1797-1828).
Tuesday Open Mic PAUL Walker's Open Mic Night takes place every Tuesday evening at Blakey's Café Bar, in Paradise Street, Newcastle. The weekly event offers amateur singers and performers the opportunity to take to the popular venue's stage and display their talents. The show starts at 9pm, and further details are available by telephoning (01782) 617585.
"...passion, vitality and virtuosity, whose performances never cease to amaze" enthused The Independent of Ensemble 360. This performance is in conjunction with Concerts at Keele, and full details of the concert programme are available at www.keele. ac.uk/concerts-events-forums/ keeleconcerts/ Tickets for the performance (which starts at 7.30pm) are priced at £15, £20.50 and £22 (with concessions and Under-16s Go Free), and are available from the New Vic Box Office or online at www.newvictheatre.org.uk sales: 01782 461711
HEALTH & WELL - BEING IN 2015 Get active and improve your balance, coordination and confidence! THAT'S the message to seniors from Age UK North Staffordshire, which runs a series of varied, gentle, lowmobility exercisegroups throughout Stoke-on-Trent each week, enabling you to learn from each other. These exercise-groups are funded by Stokeon-Trent CCG - Falls Prevention and organised by the Ageing Well Team, working with Senior Health Mentors who are trained by Age UK North Staffordshire. There is a small charge for attending a group. For more information, telephone: (01782) 200739, or visit: www.ageuk.org.uk/northstaffs
North Staffs Heart Commitee Founded 1979
(www.northstaffsheart.org.uk/charity)
THE LEADING
Reg.Charity 508743
LOCAL HEART CHARITY Caring for Cardiac Patients
We have raised over
LOCALLY
£5 MILLION
Supports Research, Diagnosis, Treatment and Welfare
Donations and Bequests welcomed & acknowleged
Chairman: A. J. G. (Tony) Berry MBE Sneyd Cottage, 5 Herm Close, Seabridge, Newcastle, Staffs., ST5 3LL
Tel/Fax (01782) 622463
The North Staffs Heart Committee is an independent charity serving the interests of cardiac patients residing or receiving treatment in North Staffordshire. IT IS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH ANY OTHER NATIONAL OR LOCAL CHARITY OF SIMILAR NAME
LEADING a 50+ weekly, low-mobility volunteer vacancies in areas, including exercise group is no sweat for Age UK Cobridge, Meir, Stoke, Leek Town, Biddulph mentors, Doreen (88) and Sandra (65), who Moor and Ipstones. have put members through their paces Additionally, there are volunteer vacancies, every Thursday at Longton Central Hall, both for walk leaders and for administrative since training in 2008. staff (particularly data base input). Said Sandra: "Helping older people improve For further information about our activities their mobility and reduce the risk of falls is programme, project membership or extremely rewarding. Our members have volunteering opportunities: fun getting fit, whilst making new friends." CONTACT: The Ageing Well Team, Age UK Regular exercise boosts energy, increases North Staffordshire, on (01782) 200739 or confidence and self-esteem, not to mention 286207. reducing the risk of heart-disease and strokes. By offering low-cost exercise, walking groups and walking football sessions, the Ageing Well Project encourages older people to keep physically, mentally and socially active. Added Doreen: "The fact that members report significant * Low – Mobility Exercise * improvement in (£2 per session - first visit free) their health and * Walk and Talk (under 1 mile) * well-being through * Step Out & Age Well (3 - 6 miles) * attending our exercise sessions * Walking Football * (£2) makes my role as a group leader very worthwhile. The Improve STRENGTH & MOBILITY exercise helps my Reduce THE RISK OF FALLS arthritis, too." With FREE training available in Spring 2015, Age UK is Further details on: (01782) 200739 looking for people like Doreen and Registered Charity number: 1087774 www.ageuk.org.uk/northstaffs Sandra to fill
A
NEW
YOU
HAVE FUN & MAKE FRIENDS !
sales: 01782 461711
February 2015 | 05
BLACKPOOL • BLACKPOOL • BLACKPOOL
"The Laurel & Hardy of literary deconstruction"!! AWARD-WINNING Lip Service Theatre returns to The Grand Theatre, Blackpool, this month with 'The Picture of Doreen Gray'!
her face no longer fits the bill.
At a school reunion, she stumbles across a The eponymous heroine has it all: a youthful drive-time radio show, a high-ratings selflifestyle prgramme on Even More portrait, 4, but, hitting 50, Doreen finds that and makes a dark and dreadful deal.
Gynway B&B
The Gynway is a small homely B&B where a warm welcome awaits you. Adjacent to the seafront, the Gynway offers:
• Range of Breakfasts • Colour TVs all rooms • Tea/coffee making facilities • Pet Friendly Environment (Dogs Free Of Charge )
£20.00 pp per night
205 Dickson Road, Blackpool
01253 314747
www.gynwayblackpool.com
Blenheim Mount Hotel The Blenheim Mount Hotel is a friendly, family owned seafront hotel with an easy going atmosphere and welcoming staff making your stay with us happy ones SPECIAL MID WEEK BREAKS MON-FRI (FROM) £88.00 P.P. B&B
DOOR
TO
Lauded by The Guardian as "the Laurel and Hardy of literary deconstruction", Maggie Fox and Sue Ryding have been writing and perfrming together since 1985. They have written 16 original comedies for the stage, had their own comedy-series on BBC Radio 4, made many appearances on TV and won several awards.
'The Picture of Doreen Gray' can be enjoyed on Friday, February 13th, and Saturday, February 14th. All seats are priced at £16.50 (concessionaries and Under-16s, £12.50), and tiockets are available from The Grand Box Office on (01253) 290190, or online at www. blackpoolgrand.co.uk
Lip Service is now one of the most firmly-established touring companies in Britain, not only throughout the country, but also abroad, including trips to Pakistan, Eastern Europe, the USA and Germany.
DOOR SERVICE AVAILABLE (EXTRA CHARGE)
The Blenheim Mount offers • Best location in Blackpool on Central promenade • Groups welcome • Lift to all floors • Free Wifi • Ramp access to the rear of building • Ground floor rooms • Static secured car park (ltd) • Seafront patio area • All en-suite • Sea view rooms • Tea & coffee facilities • Tinsel & Turkey midweeks • Themed weekends Please advise when booking if disabled.
207 Central Promenade, Blackpool FY1 5DL Tel: 01253 625867 www.blenheimmounthotel.co.uk 06 | February 2015
North
brooklynhotel@live.co.uk www.brooklynblackpoolhotel.co.uk
sales: 01782 461711
HEALTH & WELL - BEING IN 2015 STEP & AGE WELL! OPEN to everyone over the age of 50, Age UK Ageing Well Walking Groups offer seniors the chance to explore North Staffordshire and meet people. TUESDAY walks (of approximately 3 miles) meet at 10.45am and set off by 11am, while FRIDAY walks (approximately 4.5-to-6 miles) meet at 9.45am and set off by 10am. If you can join any of these walks (which are all led by experienced and trained volunteers) , simply turn up on the day. Don't forget to bring an umbrella and/ or waterproof clothing; and also wear appropriate footwear for walking through muddy fields. If you wish, bring a drink with you, as there's always a ten-minute break at some point during the walk. PLEASE KEEP DOGS UNDER CLOSE CONTROL.
and Friday 27th (5.5 miles, Easy) offers Hill Chorlton/Baldwin's Gate/Maer, starting from Slater's Craft Village, led by Marlene & Peter (07969-293745). In MARCH, the planned walks are:Tuesday 3rd (3 miles, Easy) features Biddulph Grange Country Park, led by Alan & Sue; Friday 13th (5.5 miles, Easy/Moderate) offers Denford/ Ladderage Country Park (starting from The Hollybush, Denford), led by Malcolm & Peter; Friday 20th (5 miles, Easy/Moderate) features Blacklake/ Hobbergate (starting from The Blacklake public house, Hilderstone Level), leaders Sam, Ellie & Malcolm (078366679833 & 07969-293745); and Friday 27th (5.5 miles, Easy) offers Fulford/ Saverley Green (23 stiles), meeting at The Shoulder of Mutton, Fulford, also led by Sam, Ellie & Malcolm.
Arms (NOTE EARLY START OF THIS WALK). A £5 annual membership-fee is payable directly to Age UK North Staffordshire. For any queries about the walks, telephone the appropriate walk-leader. Further details are available the Ageing Well Project on (01782) 200739; email: info@ageuknorthstaffs.org.uk, or visit the website: www.ageuk.org.uk/ northstaffs If you would like to become a volunteer walk-leader with Age UK and show others your favourite walks and places, telephone Jeanette on (01782) 200739 for further information.
Planned walks for APRIL are:-
Tuesday 7th (3.5 miles, Easy) features Bathpool, starting from Freeport, led Planned walks for FEBRUARY by Sue, Andy & Fred comprise:(07913-955087 & 07981-164598); Friday Tuesday 3rd (3.5 miles, Easy/Moderate) 10th (5.5 miles, Easy) features Greenway Bank Country offersForsbrok/Moor Park, led by Alan and Sue (Tel: 07858Green/Caverswall 011008); Friday 13th (5 miles, Easy/ Common (starting Moderate) offers Bagnall (starting from from Heath House The Stafford Arms), led by Malcolm Farm), led by Marlene and Peter (07969-293745 & 07599& Peter (07969230309); Friday 20th (5.5 miles, Easy) 293745); Friday 17th features Loggerheads (meeting at The Loggerheads Hotel), leaders, Alan & Sue; (6 miles, Easy) features Saverley Green (meeting at The Staff Greyhound Inn), For Hard Working? Full Time Mums? Required leaders Sam, Or You Just Fancy A Bit Of Me Time? Ellie & Malcolm; Why Not Book An Aromatherapy or Body Massage Friday 24th (5.25 Treatment From £15.00 miles, Easy) is Improves Posture And Circulation BUS PASS WALK Proven To Have A Positive Effect On Medical Conditions OPEN 11am-11pm, 2 - meet at The Natural Anti - Depressant Butchers Arms, Shower Rooms & Jacuzzi Available Forsbrook, catch Special Offer HOME VISITS WELCOME 30 Minute Back Massage £15.00 the 0955 bus (X51) to Cheadle 60 Minute Full Body Massage £25.00 Open 7 Days A Week and walk back Home Visits Can Be Arranged By Appointment to Forsbrook Contact Becky and take lunch 33 HARTSHILL ROAD, STOKE Mobile: 07719 800698 or 01782 361971 at The Butchers Email: Beckiie1904@googlemail.com
LADIES HOLISTIC THERAPY
01782 746278
sales: 01782 461711
February 2015 | 07
Robbie Mellor's latest extravaganza!! VIVA Music Promotions proudly presents its 'New for 2015' Multi-Agent Showcase at Knutton Ex-Servicemen's Club on Thursday, February 26th! Starting at 8pm, Robbie Mellor's latest extravaganza features THIRTEEN of, quite simply, the finest, professional entertainers from the North-West, North Wales, Midlands - and beyond.
The artistes include Gary T (rib-tickling comedy tribute show), Rock of Ages (Midlands' No. 1 rock tribute show), Chick (unbelievable Rod Stewart tribute), Asha Knowles (jaw-dropping female vocalist), Beat Brothers (UK's No. 1 Beatles tribute), Thinking of Murs (international Olly Murs tribute), Kelly Wilmore (high-end female vocalist), Wayne Roberts (outstanding personality vocalist), Laugh Out Loud (Stoke's NEW No. 1 comedy tribute show), Angie (standout Blondie tribute), Mr. President (top-draw '80s tribute) and Cherry
Girls (top, local harmony trio). VIVA Music Promotions has gone from strength to strength over the last, three years, and has proven itself as an honest, reliable and, above all, truly professional entertainment agency that ONLY works the finest professional entertainers around and ONLY trades with the most reputable agencies in the industry. In the past, VIVA has come up against many hurdles via the dreaded 'rumourmill', but it now feels that it has dispelled all these untruths, as the agency is now recognised by venues, artistes and fellow agents alike as one of Staffordshire's leading entertainment suppliers, booking the majority of the county's live music venues with solo artistes right up to full-size function bands, tributes - and everything in between! FREE services supplied by VIVA Music to your venue comprise:1) Free A3 & A4, full-colour, high-resolution posters to advertise your upcoming entertainment. 2) Free advertising on its Facebook pages, with over 1,500 local live music followers. 3) Free event management & advice. 4) Free monthly newsletter, highlighting new, available artistes, special offers, upcoming events & much more. 5) VIVA's last-minute 'let-down' service (for venues not using VIVA which have been let down by their act or agent). 6) Available via 'phone, email or Facebook 24/7. 7) Unbeatable personal service that is truly second-tonone - PLUS MUCH, MUCH MORE! VIVA Music caters for all venues & all entertainment needs to suit YOUR budget! Please feel free to contact VIVA anytime no-obligation, FREE quotes and enquiries you'll be presently surprised. A New Year, A New Start? Accept no substitutes - put your venue and entertainment first with VIVA MUSIC! Venues, public & reputable agents are all welcome to attend the 'New for 2015' Showcase.
08 | February 2015
sales: 01782 461711
Advertise your Club, Pub, or Entertainment Agency, in this magazine Telephone
01782 461711
Ask for Tony Heath Ken Stonier to DJ at Northern Soul night A NORTHERN Soul and Motown at Baddeley Green WMC on Friday, February 6th, will feature fantastic DJ, Ken Stonier.
Ken is resident DJ at The Crown in Burslem, and a regular for the Outer Circle Scooter Group. Tickets for this Milton Carnival Committee event are priced at £2.50, and are NORTON CENTRAL
A Warm Welcome Awaits You At
Berryhill W.M.C.
BEERS BY COORS
Beers by Coors, Excellent Facilities.
FEBRUARY Sun 1st - Michael Tremble Sat 7th - Steve J Sun 8th - Jason Kerr Meir And Longton Royal British Legion 197 Meir road Sat 14th - Amanda Stoke on Trent Staffs ST3 7JF Sun 15th - Simon Ore Friday 25th January - 8pm Sat 21st - Gemma Harper T . Sun 22nd - Trev Moray
on sale behind the bar at the Leek New Road venue (which is not open during the daytime, MondayThursday), with further information available on (01782) 541246.
FEBRUARY Sun 1st Lee Bradley Sat 7th **BEETLEMAN** Sun 8th Eddie Lee Sat 14th Conspirators Sun 15th Dennie Lee Sat 21st Devotions Sun 22nd Mike Taylor Sat 28th ** Rock (Rod) Stewart Sun 1st Mar **Sarah Dee** Sat 7th ** Too Toned (scar)**
WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW ACTS TO JOIN OUR TEAM
WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW ACTS TO JOIN OUR TEAM
Anyone wishing to audition for us we are holding the next one at. You can be an established act or just getting started. We'd love to meet you.
Anyone wishing to audition for us we are holding the next one at. You can be an established act or just getting started. We'd love to meet you.
Offers you FEBRUARY Sun 1st - Alan Turner
Meir And Longton Royal British Legion 197 Meir road Stoke on Trent Staffs ST3 7JF
HIS AUDITION IS OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC
Friday 25th January - 8pm
Sat 7th - 2-Toned Sun 8th - Johnny Holiday
THIS AUDITION IS OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
Sat 28th - Darren Collings BAR ,SMALL LOUNGE, LARGE LOUNGE GAMES ROOM WITH INDOOR GAMES DOMINOES, CRIB AND POOL CONCERT ROOM WITH TOP ENTERTAINMENT BY VIVA MUSIC PROMOTIONS EVERY SAT & SUN NIGHTS PLUS BINGO LARGE SCREEN TV, LARGE CAR PARK , COACHES WELCOME BY APPOINTMENT
Calvary Crescent,Bentilee,ST2 OAQ,
01782 314490
Sat 14th - Man Maid Sun 15th - Michael Brookes Sat 21st - Karnival
BINGO EVERY TUE, FRI, SAT & SUNDAY DINNER/EVENINGS
Sun 22nd - Derek Jones
COMMUNITY BINGO MONDAY & THURSDAY 7PM-9:15PM INDOOR / OUTDOOR BOWLS - LIVE FOOTBALL - DARTS
Sat 28th - Randy
** ROOM TO HIRE**
@ . 94 Knypersley Road, ST6 8HZ
FOR WEDDINGS AND PARTIES - ENQUIRE AT CLUB OR EDDIECHELL GMAIL COM
MARCH
01782 545580
Sun 1st - Carl Stevens
Goldenhill WMC
Sat 7th - Something Old Something New
We’re famous for our ‘Lounge Lizard’ Club Entertainment System
Sun 8th - Generation Gap
(it does everything from Race & Quiz Nights - Karaoke - Top TV Show Games and more) BINGO
for all full houses on Sat / Sun evening
HOT & COLD FOOD AVAILABLE FROM THE KITCHEN AT VERY REASONABLE PRICES LARGE CAR PARK
ALL Premier League Games on Every Week COME & WATCH THE MIGHTY POTTERS!!! Our large Concert Room is offered for private hire to all customers on Fridays nights (when available), and you can also relax in the club’s refurbished Lounge.
EXCELLENT INDOOR GAMES FACILITIES PLUS OUR OWN BOWLING GREEN
Our Top-Flight live entertainment for Saturday & Sunday nights
FEBRUARY
** MEMBERS' CHILDREN ONLY **
WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW ACTS TO JOIN OUR TEAM
WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW ACTS TO JOIN OUR TEAM
Anyone wishing to audition for us we are holding the next one at. You can be an established act or just getting started. We'd love to meet you.
Anyone wishing to audition for us we are holding the next one at. You can be an established act or just getting started. We'd love to meet you.
Meir And Longton Royal British Legion 197 Meir road Stoke on Trent Staffs ST3 7JF
Meir And Longton Royal British Legion 197 Meir road Stoke on Trent Staffs ST3 7JF
Sun 1st - Adam South Sat 7th - John Paul Sun 8th - Lee Davidge Sat 14th - Nicola Ashleigh Sun 15th - Dave Oz Sat 21st - Natalie Ritchie Sun 22nd - Connor O'Neil Sat 28th - Paul Tate
Friday 25th January - 8pm
Friday 25th January - 8pm
THIS AUDITION IS OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
THIS AUDITION IS OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
COACH PARTIES WELCOME ON APPOINTMENT
ROCK & ROLL EVERY WED 8-30 TILL LATE BINGO THURS/FRI/SAT & SUN FREE FUNCTION ROOM FOR HIRE SKY TV ALL SPORTS SHOWN INC STOKE BUS TO ALL STOKE CITY FC HOME GAMES
A GREAT CHOICE OF DRINKS FROM LWC
Pay All Out - All players get FREE open the box ticket
Every Wednesday BINGO NIGHT
300 Hanley Rd Smallthorne ST6 1RE
PLUS HAND-PULLED REAL ALES
Every Thursday Night Sequence Dancing/BINGO
Tel-office 836652 club 837017 Email: ianmachin53@hotmail.co.uk
(CARLING, WORTHINGTON & MORE)
Kidsgrove Road, Goldenhill, Stoke-on-Trent. Tel: (01782) 782748 sales: 01782 461711
february 2015 | 09
OFFERING A WARM WELCOME AT
MEIR SOCIAL & SPORTS WMC
THE
Bingo Mon/Wed/Fri/Sat & Sun
Top beers & lagers from Coors
BINGO MON/SAT NIGHTS & SUN LUNCH THURS QUIZ NIGHT FOR CASH PRIZES ALSO INDOOR BOWLING
100%
• Games room including snooker
Sat 7th ......... Relentless (Amazing Band)
COACH PARTIES WELCOME • LARGE CAR PARK LIVE ENTERTAINMENT SAT/SUN EVENINGS
Sat 7th - Trevor Leesson
Sat 14th ....... Couer D'Alene (Brilliant Duo)
FEBRUARY
Sun 1st - Double Sensation Sat 7th - *SHOW NIGHT* 3 acts Sun 8th - Laughing Legends Sat 14th - Ruby May Sun 15th - Over and Out Sat 21st - Gary Wells Sun 22nd - Man Maid Sat 28th - Johnny Deaville
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY
• Bowling Green • Pigeon Club
Sat 21st......... Synergy (Amazing Trio) Sat 28th ....... CK2 (Excellent Duo) Auction Nights Sunday & Monday
Sat 14th - Get In 2 Sat 21st - Tony Rutherford Sat 28th - Steph Edwards
Every Sunday Boot Camp Training (keep fit) 7:30pm - 8:30pm £3 per session
football bt sports all premier & top live matches function room available please ring club for details
TEL: 01782 314730 THE BEECHES, WESTON ROAD, MEIR
&
HIGH STREET, SILVERDALE, NEWCASTLE, TEL: 01782 622930
FEBRUARY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY
Sat 7th Double Take Sat 14th Colette Sat 21st Beat Brothers
FEBRUARY Sat 7th - OVER AND
OUT Sat 14th - SEAN LANELY Sat 21st - DALE WILLIAMS
top beatles tribute duo - free entry Sat 28th Skinch
Sat 28th -
BINGO EVERY SAT NIGHT & SUN LUNCH
LAUGHING LEGENDS
GAMES ROOMS POOL TABLE, DARTS, CRIB FREE FUNCTION ROOM FOR HIRE
TELEPHONE:
(01782) 614297
(RECENTLY REFURBISHED) LAST FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH SHOWCASE NIGHT (TICKET ONLY)
Sat 7th KILLING TIME Sat 14th JUNCTION 27 Sat 21st DEEP TIMBRE Sat 28th RICHARD BARRIE
MONDAY: Line dancing • THURSDAY: Night bingo INDOOR GAMES SNOOKER, SKITTLES, POOL, CRIBBAGE, DOMINOES ETC SUNDAY LUNCH, available in the lounge resteraunt DISC DRAW every Thursday, Friday & Sataurday Every alternative Thurs afternoon FRIENDSHIP CLUB Bingo Fri/Sat Nights
189 WERRINGTON ROAD WERRINGTON, ST2 9AL
01782 214306
www.baddeleygreenclub.com
THE SUBURBAN SOCIAL CLUB
(ABBEY HULTON SUBURBAN CLUB)
ENTERTAINMENT PROVIDED BY
MJE MANAGEMENT & VIVA
**ALL STOKE PREMIERSHIP MATCHES SHOWN HERE**
FEBRUARY Sun 1st............TYLER JOHN
£1,000 BINGO JACKPOT every Sunday Dinner & Night
Sat 7th...... TWO TO TANGO
Bingo every: Sat night / Sun Dinner / Sun Night
Sat 14th.................. HENNA
Sun 8th......... PETER JONES Sun 15th.. ANDY HAMMERSLEY
Sat 21st............ MAN MAID FREE Function Room with FREE Disco available for any occasion Sun 22nd..... EDDIE BROWN (min of 50 guests for free disco) Sat 28th...... ROBBIE DIXON
128 Greasley Road, Abbey Hulton ST2 8HZ Tel: 07716 711731 10 | february 2015
invite you to pay us a visit to share all our excellent facilities FEBRUARY
Sun 1st - RYAN JONES Sat 7th - JASON KERR Sun 8th - SARAH JAY Sat 14th - HERMAN & THE HERMITS Sun 158th - NATHAN JOHN Sat 21st - KELLY MARIE T T . Sun 22nd - DARREN COLLINGS Sat 28th - DIONNE GIORGINO WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW ACTS TO JOIN OUR TEAM
WE ARE LOOKING FOR N JOIN OUR TEA
Anyone wishing to audition for us we are holding the next one at. You can be an established act or just getting started. We'd love to meet you.
Anyone wishing to auditi are holding the next one a an established act or ju started. We'd love to m
Meir And Longton Royal British Legion 197 Meir road Stoke on Trent Staffs ST3 7JF
Meir And Longton Royal B 197 Meir road Stoke on Tren Staffs ST3 7JF
Friday 25th January - 8pm
Friday 25th January
HIS AUDITION IS OPEN TO THE GENERAL
HIS AUDITION IS OPEN TO
PUBLIC
PUBLIC.
TELEPHONE:
(01782) 624573 sales: 01782 461711
Let Natalie entertain you! SUPERB chanteuse, Natalie Ritchie's, repertoire ranges from the '60s, '70s and '80s, up to the present day, and you can hear her at Goldenhill WMC on Saturday, February 21st.
Dave Oz is Sunday's 'Music Man' TERRIFIC male vocalist, Dave Oz, is providing the live musical show at Goldenhill WMC on Sunday, February 15th, thanks to Riverside Entertainments Agency, of Liverpool.
Natalie has been singing professionally for eleven years now on holiday parks and as a resident performer at overseas resorts, touring shows and hotels in this country. She is also a dancer, children's entertainer and presenter, as well as host and compering corporate and private events.
A Warm Welcome Awaits You At
we bid a friendly WELCOME to associates and vistors to the hospitable
BRADWELL W.M.C. Top Class Entertainment Every Saturday & Sunday Nights
WOLSTANTON WMC
FEBRUARY Sun 1st - Jason Oliver Sat 7th - Coeur D'Alene Sun 8th - Johnny Corrigan Sat 14th - Elite Sun 15th - Connor O'Neil Sat 21st - Coulrophosia Sun 22nd - Mark Shaw Sat 28th - Scarletts Webb BINGO WED/FRI/SAT/SUN NIGHTS AND ALSO SUNDAY LUNCH ** MONDAY NIGHTS** PRIZE BINGO WITH GOOD PRIZES - WHY NOT COME ALONG & BRING THE KIDS FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE - RING CLUB FOR DETAILS COACHES WELCOME BY APPOINTMENT BEERS FROM CARLSBERG, COORS & HEINEKEN
Bradwell Lane, Bradwell.
01782 635701
live entertainment every saturday
FEBRUARY
Sat 7th Heaven Knows
Sounds fantastic from Nicola FANTASTIC chanteuse, Nicola Ashleigh, will be wowing the audience at Goldenhill WMC on Saturday, February 14th, courtesy of Liverpool-based Riverside Entertainments Agency.
QUALITY LIVE
FEBRUARY ENTERTAINMENT EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY EVENINGS SUPPLIED BY
ELCOCK ENTERTAINMENTS
Sun 1st GEORGIE Sat 7th ROCK OF AGES Sun 8th AMY Sat 14th GOOD TIME ROCK
Thursday 12th Micheal Brookes Sat 14th Dale A Williams Sat 21st Family Affair Sat 28th Martin Lee Jordan + Mike Farrell (comedian)
*members children only on saturday night* www.wolstanton.co.uk
Sun 15th RICH PARSONS Sat 21st LAUGHING LEGENDS Sun 22nd SIMON GARCIA Sat 28th SIX APPEAL
EXCELLENT GAMES ROOM FACILITIES Snooker - Darts - Crib - Indoor Bowls
Function Room AvailableFor Hire
01782 616 736
Chetwynd House, High Street, Wolstanton
sales: 01782 461711
february 2015 | 11
VALENTINE Gifts
A date for paramours everywhere! intimate, candle-lit dinner-for-two
(already being produced in tens of thousands well before the appearance on February 14th - so, ensure that FOR those readers of an amorous you book your table at the restaurant, of the first Christmas card in 1946) persuasion, Saturday, February 14th, pub, bistro, wine bar or hotel of your rapidly superceded home-made is THE date of 2015! offerings, reaching the zenith of their choice early, using the feature as an Each year sees the sending (and popularity between 1870 and 1880. invaluable guide. receiving) of tens of millions of cards, By then, the sentimental type was Of curse, there is nothing modern flowers and gifts galore in midfeaturing birds (made with red about all of this, since February February in the annual ritual of 'St. feathers), posies of dried flowers 14th has been a Valentine's Day', customary date for and spun-glass hearts, all trimmed celebrating what with ribbon and gold lace, whilst the choosing date for lovers (of all ages) choosing sweethearts 'vulgar' sort (which specialised in do best (at any figures with removable hair, legs and and exchanging time of the year)! even teeth) had grown coarser than love-tokens since In addition to ever! time immemorial, all those cards with countless (be they of the generations Specialising in: traditionalist, cutting, coloring, perming of amorous, Qualified professional staff romantic nature young people Revlon professional or indecorous, acknowledging appointed salon Nail & beauty treatments in modern vein), Saint Valentine Gift vouchers available throughout the as the friend and Creative Unisex Hair Salon land, millions of patron of lovers. Tel: 01782 746484 Mobile: 07899 833662 amorous couples 609 London Road, Oakhill, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 5AZ Not only (and those who that, but have yet to commerciallyconsummate their printed GOLD & SILVER JEWELLERY AN Antique Valentine (dating passions) will Valentine cards AT BARGAIN PRICES from 1909). be enjoying an WED, FRI & SAT
The Collector
Tower Square, in Tunstall, Discounts on NEW jewellery during February! we have new AND SECONDTHE amount of thought you give to YOUR VALENTINE'S gift is as important as the amount you spend on the present! At Hemmings Jewellers, on
HAND jewellery and gifts, priced from below £100 to over £1,000. If you have any GOLD jewellery that is looking a bit tarnished or in need of repair, why not have it cleaned or restored - or sell it for cash?
Anyone mentioning this publication can Hemmings Jewellers enjoy a Discount on NEW jewellery throughout the month of February. 18 Tower Square, Tunstall, Stoke on Trent, ST6 5AB 01782 839279
12 | February 2015
LEEK TRESTLE MARKET Ideal gifts for Valentine Gifts
BUTTERMARKET, LEEK TEL: 07785 710200
IC IMAG BLUNISEX E U P HAIRDRESSERS
A unisex salon offering perms, creative colouring & cutting, ear piercing, waxing Friendly & relaxed atmosphere Special rates for OAP’s
Tel: 01782 837844
12 FORSTER STREET, TUNSTALL, S-O -T ST6 58Q
Moorville Hall Hotel CELEBRATE YOUR LOVE FOR EACH OTHER we can arrange all aspects of your wedding from flowers to catering www.moorvillehall.com • moorville@hotmail.com
01782 302326
Leek Rd, Werrington, Stoke-On-Trent, Staffordshire ST9 0DG sales: 01782 461711
VALENTINE Gifts
Valentine-sending decreased markedly during the end of Queen Victoria's reign (1837-1901), and was reported to be 'dying' by the 1920s. However, World War II (1939-45) saw it revived triumphantly, with 'naughty' or 'daring' cards, once again, in vogue.
As for Valentine gifts, we need look only to the mid-17th century and Samuel Pepys' famous 'Diary', which contains several entries concerning expenditure thereupon.
In 1661, for instance, a pair of embroidered gloves and According to a country tradition six pairs of plain ones for which was recorded in England as a Martha Batten cost hime early as the 14th century, it is not 40 shillings (£2) and, in only human beings, but also birds 1669, he spent 28 shillings (£1.40) on that are 'love-struck' on February green, silk stockings. garters, shoe14th. strings and "two pairs of Jessamy In 'the Parlement of Foules', Geoffrey gloves" for his cousin, Turner. Chaucer (c. 1340-1400) refers to a common belief that all avians choose These were, of course, quite their mates for the coming Spring on considerable sums, in those days, when the value of money was the same date. far greater than it is now, but 01782 594 042 they were small, indeed, by comparison with the To look and feel great call Beauty Box Hair Studio! amounts sometimes spent Whether it's a new hairstyle before a night out or a beauty treatment in preparation for your by far wealthier holidays, let the skilled professionals men than the at Beauty Box Hair Studio help you! Admiralty civil Valentine Package servant.
James II [reigned 1685-88]) "having once been Mrs. Stewart's Valentine, did give her a jewel of about £800, and my Lord Mandeville, her Valentine this year, a ring of £300"! 01782 281 774
Why choose Cookies Hair Design? • Over 34 years' experience • Wella Master Colour Expert • Friendly, experienced staff • Talented stylists
Tues to Fri - 9am - 6pm Saturday - 9am - 4pm Every other Thursday - 9am til 8pm Closed Monday Phone: 01782 281 774 17A Stafford Street, Hanley ST1 1JW Email: info @cookieshairdesign.co.uk www.cookieshairdesign.co.uk
The Hair Team At Kidsgrove
GELISH OFFER £15.00 INCLUDES A MANICURE COLOUR AND RESTYLE & COMPLIMENTARY GIFT FROM BEAUTY BOX
Pamper Packages Ideas for Hair and Beauty
64 Weston Road, Stoke-On-Trent, ST3 6AD
www.beautyboxstoke.co.uk
On April 26th, 1667, Pepys (1633-1703) noted that The Duke of York (later King
Unisex hairdressing Treat your loved one this Valentines
The Hair Team provides a comprehensive range of hair services. Our hairdressers and stylists are fully qualified and carry a wealth of experience between them.
Always & Forever
wedding cars
Whether you are looking for a simple trim or a complete change and restyle, we are able to offer our friendly advice on any aspect of your hair. “Always & Forever” is a family business based in Stone, Staffordshire, and our aim is to make your special day even more special. Covering the Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Stafford and South Cheshire regions, we can make sure you arrive in true style on your most important day. Tel: 07979
526827
terry@alwaysandforevercars.com http://alwaysandforevercars.com/
sales: 01782 461711
1 Caroline Street, Longton. ST3 1DB 01782 598151
We offer a wide range of hairdressing services from trimming to permanent chemical hair straightening. We aim to provide a welcoming environment offering the highest quality hair design. We use top quality brands and products including the very highly regarded Goldwell range of hair products.
01782 782 293 or 01782 782 710 www.thehairteamatkidsgrove.co.uk February 2015 | 13
VALENTINE Gifts
Piece of Cake
The perfect ambience for Valentine's Day
Weddings and Celebration Cakes A CANDLE-LIT dinner for two, accompanied Traditional Puddings, Cake Decorations by sweet, romantic music - what could and Sugar Craft Accessories be more apposite for Valentine's Day, on 01538 398939 / 07815672148 Karen Greenwood 16 Moorhouse Street or No.6 The Buttermarket, Leek, Staffordshire
Saturday, February 14th?! Valentine's Day is, of course, a day of remembrance, when the cordiality, closeness and bonhomie of two hearts remain afresh and rejuvenating. (A special dish of your sweetheart, coupled with a bottle of 'bubbly', always goes down well, needless to say). Suggestion One: the dinner table should be decorated with chiffon of amber colour or attractive netting.
North
BINGO MON/SAT NIGHTS & SUN LUNCH THURS QUIZ NIGHT FOR CASH PRIZES ALSO INDOOR BOWLING
VALENTINES DAY Saturday 14th February Enjoy a Relaxed Night at Silverdale Club
&
HIGH STREET, SILVERDALE, NEWCASTLE, TEL: 01782 622930
brooklynhotel@live.co.uk www.brooklynblackpoolhotel.co.uk
Suggestion Two: a cupid-sign in fabric could be entangled either on the top of the dining HOLISTIC MASSAGE & FACIALS table or tying with the dining FOR LADIES OF ALL AGES chairs, or, perhaps, a lover's bow over the lampshade or on the chandelier (if no candlelit dinner is preferred)?
BLISS
It goes without Using Neals Yard Award Winning Organic Products saying that Each treatment is tailored to your needs whether for medical the amorous conditions or simply to relax. Benefit from a wide range of nature of any treatments including a full range of body massages or a candle-lit repast variety of luxury facial treatments. would be greatly Special introductory offer with this advert enhanced by an 60 MINUTE FULL BODY MASSAGE £25 60 MINUTE FRANKINCENSE ANTI AGEING FACIAL £21 abundance of Gift vouchers are available flowers (viewed For More information or to book an appointment contact Alisa as the symbol of Tel: 07854 894087 Email: alisaphillips@hotmail.co.uk Valentine's Day Regency Drive, Stockton Brook by most people). 14 | February 2015
AN example of The Gynway's superb bedroom accommodation.
Gynway B&B The Gynway is a small homely B&B where a warm welcome awaits you. Adjacent to the seafront, the Gynway offers:
• Range of Breakfasts • Colour TVs all rooms • Tea/coffee making facilities • Pet Friendly Environment (Dogs Free Of Charge )
£20.00 pp per night
205 Dickson Road, Blackpool
01253 314747
www.gynwayblackpool.com sales: 01782 461711
OUT & ABOUT Join in the for the Countdown!! THE theme of devilry continues at Newcastle's New Vic Theatre in March with its exciting, new production of 'Dracula', adapted and directed by Theresa Heskins. Combining imaginative staging and her trademark, theatrical invention with spectacular sequences and specially-commissioned music, Theresa Heskins's new version captures Bram Stoker's enduring, 1897 novel in all its epic sweep and intimate terror. An ominous presence haunts Lucy Seward's dreams. Something evil is approaching. A ship founders on the Whitby rocks, its crew nowhere to be found.
CHRISTOPHER Lee played the eponymous Count in (too) many Hammer Horror films from the late-1950s to the '70s.
2015
Rumous of a monstrous, black dog spread panic among the locals. An inmate of the local asylum raves about the arrival of his 'Master'.... They are right to be afraid. Count Dracula, one of the Undead (who drink the blood of the living) has arrived in England. As their loved ones fall victim, a determined group - led by Professor Van Helsing - hunts the Count through the length of England and back to his castle in Transylvania. Now, it is the time for one, final showdown! 'Dracula' runs from Friday, March 6th, to Saturday, March 28th, at 7.30pm, with 2.15pm matinee performances on Saturdays 21st and 28th. Tickets (priced at £13-£22, with group-discounts of £2 for parties of ten or more, £2 off for concessionaries and Under16s Go Free) can be purchased from the New Vic Box Office on (01782) 717962, or online at www. newvictheatre.org.uk
BELA Lugosi (1882-1956) played Dracula in the first Hollywood version (directed in 1930 by Tod Browning). He actually was born in Lugos, Transylvania (then, part of the Kingdom of Hungary). sales: 01782 461711
in
IRISH author, Bram Stoker (18471912), photographed in 1906.
MAX Schreck starred in the first filmversion of Dracula: 'Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror' (1922) by German Expressionist director, F W Murnau. february 2015 | 15
TRADITIONAL 'REAL ALE' PUBS They're really 'on the right track'!
The popular couple (who took over at the Alsager venue on Friday, September "REALLY tastefully 19th, having run THE OLD refurbished pub. Clean, QUEEN'S HEAD, at Swan bright and airy. Great Bank, in nearby Talke, for selection of hand-pulled ales" the past, three years) also feature live entertainment Part of one of the myriad, (by pop and rock bands) most fulsome endorsements of this rejuvenated public house Friday evenings, and this is wonderfully complemented in Alsager on its popular Facebook pages; yes, it's 'full- by 'Open Mic' nights on steam-ahead' for new 'mine Wednesdays. hosts', Chris and Zoey, at THE (Indeed, the pub interior RAILWAY INN (formerly The displays a 'WANTED' poster Yeoman)! singer/songwriters and acoustic musicians for the Readers will discover that
the pub boasts its own traditional 'real fire', beer garden and smoking-area. Now part of the portfolio of Stafford-based Reclamation Inns Limited, the historic pub was originally built by industrialists in 1835, and pre-dates Alsager station, which was constructed 13 years later, to serve the area's thriving industry by linking the neighbouring Potteries to the rail network at Crewe.
Literally just a few minutes' walk from Alsager BR station, the pub (unsurprisingly) EVERYONE (and that features railway includes children [until memorabilia on the 9pm]) is welcome at the internal and external Audley Road hostelry, walls, with pride-ofand there's something place occupied by an to attract all customers original, 1900 mural from 'real ale' aficionados (signed by 'F R Ford'), to music-lovers. depicting a stylised, Midlands Railway steam As a free house, The locomotive (possibly, a 115 Railway Inn offers lovers Wednesday evening 'Acoustic class, nicknamed 'Spinners'). of 'real' beer a choice of no Showcases', when they are less than NINE, traditional, Also striking is the pub-sign: invited to perform solo or cask-conditioned brews a painting of LMS 'Royal play along with the rest of as regulars and 'guests' Scot' class locomotive, 6137, the enthusiasts!). (including acclaimed Abbot 'Vesta', which was built in Ale, Old Speckled Hen and St. Traditional pub games are 1927 and scrapped at Crewe Edmund's) - all lovingly kept a strong feature here, with in May, 1963. Monday Darts Night, and by landlord, Chris. another popular The Old Queens Head attraction is Chris and staff Welcome all the free-entry (NEWLY REFURBISHED) A Traditional Local with Tuesday Quiz Traditional Ales, Cask Marque Night.
THE RAILWAY INN
MOREOVER, Chris and Zoey Offer a warm welcome THIS MONTH OF FEBRUARY Families Welcome SEES CHRIS AND (Children welcome till 9pm) ZOEY ADDING Traditional Ales 9 Cask Ales TRADITIONAL Mon Darts | Tues Quiz & Bingo PUB FARE TO THE RAILWAY INN'S Wed Open Mic MANY BONUSES! Fri Live Entertainment
Under New Management
Food Coming Soon Audley Road, Alsager 07833 653474 Check us out on 16 | February 2015
Open from 12 noon to 12 midnight, Monday-Sunday,
& Guinness Accreditation Award Mon - Thur 3pm -11pm Fri 3pm - 12am | Sat 1pm - 12 am Sun 11am - 11pm Monday Darts Night Sunday and Thursday Quiz and Bingo Live Entertainment every Saturday Functions Catered For parties and All Occasions Crewe Helicopter Club on 1st Wednesday each month Swan Bank Talke
07833 653474
Beer revolution is sweeping the country!
BRITISH beer consumers have never had it so good - and, headed by 'real ale', a 'craft' beer revolution is sweeping the country! That's the message contained in 'Britain's Beer Revolution' (priced at £14.99), appositely published by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale). The country's brewing has seen unprecedented growth during the past, ten years. Breweries of all shapes and sizes are flourishing, and the range of home-grown beers available in pubs and shops has never been so diverse.
THE WHEEL
Linda and Jeff welcome you
open 12 noon - 2.30pm & from 6pm Mon-Sat open 12 noon Sunday Good Home Cooked Food Served Mon-Sat 12 noon - 2.30pm & 6pm-9pm Sun 12 noon - 9pm Excellent Menu Choice All Home Cooked & Freshly Prepared
Traditional Sunday Lunch
ALL FUNCTIONS CATERED FOR - weddings etc (seats 36) REAL ALES • LARGE BEER GARDEN • CHILDRENS PLAY AREA OUTSIDE BAR & CATERING AVAILABLE
Ladies Darts - wednesday • All Major Football Matches
Leek Rd, Longsdon, ST9 9QF T: 01538 385012
Broughton Arms 1835
www.broughtonarmsatbalterley.com
broughtonarmsatbalterley@mail.com
Newcastle Road, Balterley, Nr. Crewe CW2 5PY • Freshly prepared food in a traditional country pub • Food served 7 days a week 12noon - 2pm & 6pm - 9.30pm • Sunday - open all day • Traditional Sunday lunch • Traditional ales • Beer garden • Function room available for special occasions Please contact Maria or Ken on
01270 820227
for bookings and further details
sales: 01782 461711
TRADITIONAL 'REAL ALE' PUBS CAMPAIGN WIN "WILL SECURE THE FUTURE OF THE GREAT BRITISH PUB"! A LANDMARK victory for beer-drinkers, pubgoers and licensees has been won! The Government was defeated in a Commons vote last November, thanks to the support of over 8,000 CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) members and campaigners who lobbied their MPs in the final week alone. As a result, MPs voted to introduce a market rent-only option for licensees tied to large pub companies, as part of the Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Bill. The Government was bested by 284 votes to 259, with MPs from all parties voting in favour of a new clause to the Small Business Bill which will empower pubco licensees to choose between a tied agreement and a market rent-only agreement, allowing them to buy beer on the open market. This will deliver more investment in your
Olde Olde Barbridge Barbridge The The
Inn
Inn
local pubs, better choice and, ultimately, fewer pub-closures. The new amendment follows the Government's decision to introduce a Pubs Adjudicator and Statutory Code to to protect thousands of licensees from unfair business practices in the pubs industry earlier in 2014.
CAMRA members and campaigners pictured This extraordinary outside the Houses of Parliament. win would not have been possible without be able to charge their tenants prices the support of CAMRA members and up to 60 pence a pint higher than open campaigners who had backed this market prices. campaign for over ten years, averred the "This simple choice should spell the end pressure group's Chief Executive, Tim of pubco licensees being forced out of Page. business through high rents and tied"Allowing over 13,000 pub tenants,tied product-prices. to the large pub companies, the option "Thank you to 8,000 CAMRA members of buying beer on the open market will and campaigners who lobbied their MP help keep pubs open, and ensure the to help make this happen, and to those cost of a pint to the consumer remains MPs who voted to support pubs; CAMRA affordable," he said. is now urging the Government to accept "The large pub companies will no longer the outcome of the vote."
Over 60s Menu
Special Offer
STARTERS
STARTERS
2 courses £7.95 3 courses £9.95
• Soup of the day • Deep fried Brie Wedges with Cranberry Sauce • Chicken Liver Parfait with Croutes & Red Onion Marmalade • Prawn Cocktail with Marie Rose Sauce
MAINS
SPECIAL OFFER MENU & OVER 60'S 60'SMENU MENU VALID MONDAY TO FRIDAY FRIDAY Woodlands Brewery Brewery Real Real Ale Ale Locally Sourced Sourced Food Food Tel: 01270 528 327
Tel:01270 528327
Old Chester Road, Barbridge, OldNantwich Chester Road, Barbridge, CW5 6AY Y
Nantwich CW5 6A www.thebarbridgeinn.co.uk www.thebarbridgeinn.co.uk sales: 01782 461711
• Small Fish and Chips with Mushy Peas • Minced Beef Lasagne with Salad • Cottage Pie with Bread Roll and Butter • Homemade Steak and Ale Pie with Chips and Peas • Ham, Egg, Chips and Peas • Mushroom Stroganoff with Rice
DESSERTS
2 courses £10.00 3 courses £13.50
• Soup of the day • Deep Fried Brie Wedges with Cranberry Sauce • Chicken Liver Parfait with Croutes & Red Onion Marmalade • Prawn Cocktail with Marie Rose Sauce
MAINS
• Mixed Grill - Rump Steak, Sausage, Gammon, Lamb Chop and Black Pudding served with Mushroom, Pepper, Tomato and Chips • Slow cooked BBQ Spare Ribs served with Chips, Salad and Coleslaw • Salmon served with New Potato Cake, Green Beans and Hollandaise Sauce • Mushroom Stroganoff with Rice
DESSERTS
• Chocolate Brownie with Chocolate Sauce • Apple Sponge and Custard • Fruit Salad • Cheese and Biscuits
• Chocolate Brownie with Chocolate Sauce • Apple Sponge and Custard • Cheese and Biscuits
All our dishes are freshly prepared in our kitchen so if you have any special requests please do not hesitate to ask. Dishes may contain traces of nuts, garlic or gluten so please make us aware of any allergies you may have. *Monday to Friday, ongoing
All of our dishes are freshly prepare in our kitchen so if you have any special requests please do not hesitate to ask. Dishes may contain traces of nuts, garlic or gluten so please make us aware of any allergies you may have. *Monday to Friday only, available until end of February
february 2015 | 17
TRADITIONAL OUT & ABOUT in 2015 'REAL ALE' PUBS
'Trad. ale' aficionados drink to successes
"New breweries, making hand-crafted beers, continue to come on-stream, while many, long-standing regional and family breweries are expanding with "'REAL ale' is the only success-story in a new equipment and brands," he said, declining beer-market." emphasising that the continued growth That's the (understandably) cheery across the whole of the country has been message from Roger Protz, co-founder of driven by small, independent breweries. CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale)! "New brewery A warm welcome from Shane and Rachel at openings over the last year take the total number of brewers 10 A WESTPORT ROAD BURSLEM ST64AW in the UK to over 1,200, a figure that OPEN FROM 4 PM MON - THURS • 11 AM FRI - SUNDAY would have been 2 LARGE TVS PLUS BIG SCREEN SHOWING FOOTBALL unimaginable in the 1970s," added Mike All Port Vale Matches (inc) 3pm Kick Off Brenner, managing Saturday Matches - Fresh Baps Served director of the Society FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH NORTHERN SOUL NIGHT of Independent SECOND FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH ALTERNATIVE NIGHT WITH STAN MUGGINS Brewers. As an added bonus, SOUND OF STONE ROSES, ECHO AND THE BUNNYMEN, SKA ETC the latest statistics EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT GOLDEN TORCH SCOOTER CLUB show that more than DJS WELCOME BRING YOUR OWN SOUNDS a third of young people, aged 18-24, PRIVATE HEATED COVERED SUNDAY 12-5PM have sampled real ale, and, of those, 87% SMOKING FUNCTIONS ALL DRAUGHT say that they plan to CATERED FOR ALES £2.50 AREA quaff it again!
Ye Olde Crown
THE ROYAL OAK - FREE HOUSE -
The Duke Of York Ant and Yaz Offer A Warm Welcome
MON AND TUES 7PM - 11 WED AND THUR 5 - 11PM FRIDAY 5 - 12 AM SAT 2PM -12 SUN 12 - 11 PM 6 TRADITIONAL ALES 3 GUEST ALES ALSO SAMUEL SMITH
Fine Traditional Ales & Good Wine Selection Menu Served Tues - Sun 12 Noon - 8.30pm Daily Specials • Great British Favourites
Tel: 01782 513362
Speciality Steaks Served The Way You Want Them
THE REGENT Jennie and Matt Welcome all
Entertainment Saturdays • Monday Poker Night Singing Landlady Yaz • Traditional Pub Games
High Street, Harriseahead, ST7 4JT www.royaloak-harriseahead.com
(Bookings Recommended )
01782 373316 Longton Road Barlaston
Open Mon - Thurs 5pm - 11.30pm Fri & Sat 12noon - 12.30am Sunday 12noon- 10.30pm
Special offers on Shots Stella Bottles £2.20 Guest Ales Free Pool Every Monday Showing Sky Sports Fridays Disco Karaoke Most Saturdays Live Artists Hot Drinks Now Available Free Wifi
01782 853788
Old Whieldon Road Fenton, ST4 4HW
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK 18 | february 2015
A heart-warming, wartime tale of bravery & love "DON'T go to watch Vamos Theatre if you've recently had a hernia operation. You'd have to get it redone next morning!"
Thus, UK Touring on one of the country's best, full-mask theatre companies which is presenting 'Nursing Lives', a humorous and poignant drama, set in the hard-working, heartbreaking world of Britain's wartime hospitals (and in the early-1980s), at Newcastle's New Vic Theatre in March. When Flo, a feisty70-something, learns that the hospital she worked at during the Second World War is being demolished, she decides to take one, last look - and stop the bulldozers in their tracks. Her illicit visit becomes
a personal celebration of friendship, courage, adventure and romance, but it also reveals a hidden secret, one which Flo still holds close.
Vamos Theatre's show is wordless, telling its story through physical communication,, a strong, visual design and original soundtrack. 'Nursing Lives' can be enjoyed at the New Vic on Monday, March 16th, at 7.30pm, with tickets (priced at £13 and £15, with concessions and Under16s Go Free) available from the New Vic Box Office on (01782) 717962, or online at www. newvictheatre.org.uk
A truly original & special talent! WEDNESDAY, March 11th, sees a first visit to Newcastle's New Vic Theatre for one of England's finest songwriters. Weaving the folk tradition with his own, contemporary compositions, Chris Wood's last album, 'None the Wiser', met with universal praise: "a masterpiece" (The Independent), "songwriting perfection" (The Daily Express) and "nobody comes even close" (The Irish Times). Chris has toured with Joan Armatrading and collaborated with artists of the calibre of Billy Bragg and Martin and Eliza Carthy. He was voted 'Folk Singer of the Year' and 'Best Original Song' (BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2011) and 'Songwriter of the Year' (Spiral Earth Awards 2014). Tickets for the performance (commencing at 7.30pm) are priced at £17 and £19 (with concessions and Under-16s Go Free), and can be purchased from the New Vic Box Office or online at www. newvictheatre.org.uk sales: 01782 461711
"Finding lovely homes for lovely dogs & cats" THAT'S the mission of this small, caring rescue-service (covering Alsager and the immediate, surrounding area)! The good news for Alsager Animals in Need (and its many, enthusiastic supporters) is that it has now found its much-needed, third cat-fosterer and is now running three catteries (all of which boast roomy pens and exerciseareas), but the fact that remains that its kennels are "very full", and that the organisation has been forced to rent two, additional kennels at a cost of £1,000. A "LOVELY" cat, 13-years-old 'Tom' needs a caring foster-home.
This small (but dedicated and ultra-determined) group offers shelter
Should an animal coming into the care of the rescue be sick or very old, a long-term foster-home is sought (also, short-term foster-care may be available, if people have to go into hospital).
ALSO, AN AUCTION HAS BEEN ORGANISED FOR FRIDAY, However, the problem of very slow re-homing continues to MARCH 6th (VIEWING FROM 6PM, COMMENCING AT 7PM). "Our auctions offer 'something for everyone', and are be a major problem for the organisation. always a good night-out, with the chance to pick up "The only exception to this slow re-homing reality is some bargains and enjoy refreshments and the bar," kittens, because they are so cute, but the kitten-stage of a added Hilary Baxter, who can be contacted for further cat's life is a short one, and we want to give young adults information on (01270) 875260/07939-255444. of one-to-two-years a chance," explained Hilary Baxter, "Currently, we have with us 'Tom', a 13-years-old cat, which has been a stray within the Talke Pits areas for no less than 10 years; although micro-chipped, he would not stay with his legal owners.
Mikey Cheema would like to wish Alsager Animals in Need the best for the future
01270 875055 MERE MOGGIES SMALL LUXURY CATTERY
Exclusive indoor heated penthouses UPVC double sized &double glazed 17 years as RSPCA inspector Can collect / deliver • Special diets catered for Quiet rural location • Double pens • Fully licensed Luxury boarding for Rabbits / Guineapigs , etc
supporting Alsager animals in need
LAWTON MERE COTTAGE, CHERRY LANE, RODE HEATH
01270 882507
Mob: 07740 47 83 05 www.meremoggies.com Email: amanda@meremoggies.com
KIDSGROVE TROPICALS & WATER GARDEN CENTRE
Family run business, qualified staff, established 31 years
Tropical fish, marine fish, corals, invertebrates, tropical plants & aquariums Marginal plants, fish, pumps, filters, liners THE LARGEST SELECTION OF WATER LILIES IN THE AREA
OPEN 7 DAYS
sales: 01782 461711
Readers can email alsager.animals@googlemail.com, and also visit the website:thecheshirepetcharitynetwork.co.uk/ the-charities/alsager-animals-in-need (the organisation also features its own, popular [and, importantly, constantly updated] Facebook.
Animal Co-ordinator.
Chocolates, papers, wines & spirits, lotto, Convenience store
Tel: 01782 775947
"Everything we achieve is possible only through the generosity of the public, especially our loyal Alsager and district supporters: without £2,000 each month, Alsager Animals in Need wouldn't exist."
This registered charity may be a small rescue-service, but the RSPCA often refers people to it.
NEWSAGENT & OFF LICENCE
shop online at www.kidsgrovetropicals.com
"Our coffee mornings have become an institution; we are giving something to the local community, which appreciate them," said Hilary.
Every effort is made to trace the owners of animals coming into care, but, failing this, once the animal is confirmed as healthy by the veterinary surgeon, the creature is vaccinated, micro-chipped and, if necessary, neutered.
SHADY GROVE STORES
• • • • • •
The next coffee morning is being held at Alsager Civic Centre on Saturday, February 7th, between 9.30am and 11.30am, when good-quality clothing, books, gorgeous cakes, bric-a-brac, toys, plants etc. will be on sale, complemented by a raffle.
and veterinary care for sick, injured and abandoned cats, and helps with the re-homing of dogs.
"He is lovely and very affectionate, and has had several homes, but has kept moving on. "'Tom' has only one eye, and needs a great deal of TLC; obviously, he can't spend the rest of his life with us in a pen in our 'sanctuary' – he requires a proper foster-home, a loving, responsible environment.
Hovis Oatcakes
"We have six cats and four dogs, which are a constant draw on our vets' bills, and desperately require fosterers. "Another 'pain' for us as an organisation are those people who don't update their micro-chipping of pets (it's no good, if not updated); for example, we are trying to reunite a dog with its owners who moved to Liverpool. "The trouble is that pet-owners think that 'it will never happen to happen to them'." In addition, Hilary urges readers NOT to buy puppies from unscrupulous, 'back-street' breeders. "Recently, I came across a poor creature, only twelve months old, which had been kept in a cage; it was in such a terrible state that I thought it was a ferret," she told us, adding: "These animals are treated simply as little 'breeding-machines!" Alsager Animals in Need operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and funds are raised through essential, monthly and annual events, together with donations made by the rescue's supporters.
OATCAKES & PIKELETS FILLED OATCAKES • FRIENDLY SERVICE Best wishes to Alsager Animals in Need from Tony & the team at Hovis
61 FORD GREEN ROAD Tel: 01782 811405
01782 784586
Fully Licensed Boarding Cattery Open 7 Days a Week All Year Round Heated Individual Accommodation & Large Spacious Runs, Collection and Delivery Service Available
STOCKISTS OF A LARGE RANGE OF ANIMAL FEEDS AND EQUESTRIAN SUPPLIES. The Meadows, Off High Street, New Chapel, Stoke-on- Trent, ST7 4PT
01782 784586 february 2015 | 19
PET HEALTH: CAN YOU PINCH AN INCH? NOW is a good time to look at your pets and think about whether they are fit and healthy. With obesity becoming increasingly common, it is wise to look objectively at your pets and see if they are overweight or not. In a healthy pet with an ideal condition-score, the ribs should be able to be felt but not seen, and there should be an obvious 'waist'.
* breathing difficulties
seen quite quickly.
* decreased stamina and heatintolerance - to name just a few!
So, if your pet has gained weight, or seems to have Given the potential health-problems slowed down, why associated with excess weight, it is not give The Croft important to address it, and it is a call - its staff are here that The Croft Veterinary Clinic there to help! can help. REMINDER: the Dogs' Trust FREE If you feel that your pet is getting microchipping scheme ends on a little portly, The Croft is happy to Tuesday, March 31st, 2015. weigh him or her, and advise you on their ideal weight.
Staff will also examine your pet to check for any medical By contrast, if you CAN pinch an inch conditions (such as an underor more and, if your pet's turn sags active thyroid gland in middledown and bulges out, then a diet aged dogs) that may result in may be in order. weight-gain. Carrying extra weight places additional demands on virtually all the organs of the body.
To achieve weight-loss, pets need a combination of a specially formulated, calorieExcess weight can lead to, or worsen, controlled diet (often down many medical conditions, including:- to around two-thirds of their previous calorie-intake) and more exercise. * joint- and ligament-problems * heart-disease * raised blood-pressure * diabetes mellitus
01782 214683
Lat e n igh t o p e n in g M o n / Th u rs
at HOVERINGHA M DRIVE EATON PARK ST2 9PS Friendly, affordable, modern health care for all your pets
PLEASE TELE PHONE FOR AN APPOINTMENT
All pets need regular exercise, Buy direct from the Millers www.hjlea.com and increased walks, more frequent play Farm & Smallholder Feeds Poultry Feeds or increased access Horse Feed to outdoors are all Dog & Cat Food of help. The good news is that, as your pet loses weight, the benefits of increased healthiness and vitality are usually
Wild Bird Seed
Thinking of your pets? Think of The Croft 1 Hempstalls Lane, Newcastle under Lyme Staffordshire ST5 0SN
Dog Trust FREE Microchipping
through Vets Campaign Starts 1st April 2014 runs for one year. appointment only
Opening times: APPOINTMENT ONLY
Monday - Friday: 8.45am - 7.30pm Saturday: 9.00am - 2.00pm
Tel: 01782 711 800 20 | february 2015
• Friendly Caring and Professional Staff • RCVS Accredited Practice • Comprehensive Diagnostics and Surgical Equipment including Digital Radiography Ultrasound Scanner, Ultrasonic Dental Equipment, and Diabetic clinic • Homeopathy & Acupuncture • Range of Pet Products, including Arden Grange Pet Food and Prescription Diets • Weekly Evening ‘CAT ONLY’ Clinic to Reduce Stress in our Feline Friends
www.croftvets.com
Wheelock Pet Food Superstore, Wheelock, Sandbach, CW11 3RS. T: 01270 753295 Congleton Pet Food Superstore, Hightown, Congleton, Cheshire, CW12 3LG. T: 01260 299889 A&F Williamson & Son, Gate House Farm, Gratton Lane, Endon, ST9 9AB. T: 01782 503121 sales: 01782 461711
Over 50 & considering starting your own business? Now is the best time! 07840 371014 Hydro Bathing • Clipping Grooming • Turbo Drying Shampoo & Conditioning One To One Attention Flea Treatment Hair De-Shedding
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S
Corkscrew - a Devon-based start-up consultancy - is appealing to the over50s across the country to sign up to a seven-day 'start-up retreat', and take their retirement ia new and exciting direction. Statistics reveal that age is a positive asset for those considering going out alone. Commented, Neil Finnie, Corkscrew's founder: "Some people over 50 might think it's too late to start a new business.
ST
LS
.uk
EY
SENIORS are being urged to 'screw retirement' this Spring, and put in a pledge to become their own boss.
BOARDING KENNELS AT BORDER COLLIE TRUST
Rescue and re-home border collies throughout the UK RESCUE CENTRE & KENNELS
01785 815587 07870 961779 auburnconstruction@yahoo.co.uk 40 Eccleshall Road, Walton, Stone ST15 0HN sales: 01782 461711
Working well into the 60s and 70s appears to delay the onset of Alzheimer's (International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry), and can also help to ward off other mental and physical health problems that creep up in old age. Since 2010, Corkscrew has been welcoming budding entrepreneurs from across Europe and beyond, offering start-up programmes with a difference. Corkscrew alumni have gone on to grow successful businesses, including catering companies, fashion houses, aerial photography and graphic recording services, as well a foundation to help combat eating disorders. The Screw Retirement Retreat will be running at regu;lar intervals in Spring 2015 at Seal Hayne - a luxury residence, based in the South Devon countryside.
"In fact, if you fall into the the 50-to-60 agebracket, you are statistically more likely to succeed as a start-up than if you are under 35.
The cost of the course is £899, and it is open to individuals or couples over 50 with an interest in taking their retirement in a new direction.
"The retreat we are offering is for those www.bordercollietrustgb.org.uk who come to retirement, but feel they have unfinished business. They may be HEATH WAY, COLTON, RUGELEY bored, or forced into retirement, due to www.acresfold.co.uk redundancy.
Range of services for all breeds including giant and rare. problem/nervous dogs welcome. Dog,cat, bird and small animal supplies.
Research also shows that working later in life can have positive health benefits.
"However, there is a great deal of research out there which suggests that being over 50 is actually the best age.
TEL: 01889 577058
professional grooming salon and pet supplies
retirement around and discover a new direction."
"We want to get the message across to these people that not is it NOT to late to start a new business, it's actually the best time!" "Our start-up retreat is set in the beautiful, Devon countryside - the perfect place to learn new skills and be inspired. "Not only will you be taught everything you need to start a business, you will have the chance to take a break from the daily grind and properly relax. "With activities organised every day, this is a unique opportunity for anyone who isn't ready to slow down, to turn their
To discover more, go to:http://corkscrew.io/startup-programs/ screw-retirement-retreat/ or contact Neil Finnie: neil@corkscrew.io
Latest Bennett Society lecture THE Arnold Bennett Society will host a talk on food in the Hanley-born author's stories by Catherine Burgess at the Friends' Meeting House, in Miller Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, on Saturday, February 28th, at 2pm. Admission to the talk, being given by Catherine Burgess, an English literature lecturer, costs £3. This event is followed by the Society's annual literary lunch, featuring a talk by Theresa Heskins, Director of the New Vic Theatre, at Stoneyfields, Newcastle, on Saturday, March 28th. "We had a very good year last year, and we're hoping for another busy one in 2015," said Carol Gorton, secretary of the Arnold Bennett Society. february 2015 | 21
adhering to strict guidelines on energy-efficiency and ventilation (as set out by FENSA [the Fenestration Self-Assessment FOR more than 40 years, Congleton Scheme]). Glass has taken great pride in adhering to its original ethos of good service, premier quality and excellent workmanship.
Every guarantee honoured over 46 years!
Since the family business was established in 1968, it has acquired a nonpareil reputation for providing its customers with the highest-quality windows and doors.
This insistence upon first-class products AND service has, When the business first opened its necessarily, meant that it has doors 46 years ago, it comprised outlasted numerous, other just one man and a single van; companies unable to match its however, it has (deservedly) sheer skill and invaluable, decadesexpanded to the point where it long experience, which has allowed is, now, one of the busiest glazing it to identify the kind of quality companies in the town, serving and value that will enhance and clients not only in Cheshire, but protect a client's property. also throughout the North-West. Quite simply, customers may locate As a double-bonus for readers, cheaper products on the market, Congleton Glass sells the very best but these lack the service, support in windows and doors from such and longevity which Congleton top-rated brands in the industry as Glass offers. KAT, Nova and Rockdoor, but offers Pay a visit to Congleton Glass them at eminently-affordable (located by the River Dane, close prices. to the very heart of the town The Royle Street business, then, centre) and you will discover that complements this by installing its stock represents the very latest all products to correct standards, in window-technology, while its doors provide security, longevity and style. All of the company's PVCu products come with a redoubtable, 10-year warranty.
• Family run business for 45 years
YOUR LOCAL uPVC WINDOW, DOOR & CONSERVATORY SPECIALISTS
NEW SETTANTA 8000 SERIES Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas
• A+ rated
• Energy saving recommended • Latest thermal insert reinforcing
ROCK DOORS Fitted with
A rated from £950 C rated from £850
RoyleStreet,Congleton,Cheshire,CW121HR www.congletonglass.co.uk
22 | February 2015
• Secured by Design
Tel 01260 274505
Email: congletonglass@btconnect.com
Additionally, Congleton Glass features a pleasinglydiverse range of miscellaneous services, including the supply of materials, broken-windowrepairs and cut-glass and plastics.
Peace-of-mind for double-glazing installations
OFFERING consumers increased protection, FENSA is a Government-
authorised scheme for homeowners looking to replace windows and doors.
The Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme works with thousands of double-glazing contractors in England and Wales. In choosing a FENSA double-glazing registered company, the consumer is offered greater protection, when purchasing double-glazing for his or her home. For peace-of-mind, homeowners can use a FENSA-registered business for your double-glazing installations:1. Avoid 'rogue traders' - use a FENSA installer. 2. More than ten
CASTLE REPLACEMENT WINDOWS QUALITY UPVC WINDOWS DOORS AND CONSERVATORIES 10 YEAR INSURANCE BACKED GUARANTEE
TEL 01782 821402 MOBILE NO 07816 595615
standards in the glazing industry.
3. FENSA - the quick and simple route to building regulations compliance.
Five Star Windows Ltd
The Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme has issued
• uPVC & Aluminium windows,
SPECIAL doors & conservatories OAP • Fascias, soffits & guttering DISCOUNTS Tel: 01782 305393
or mobile 07715 522743 6 WESTON CLOSE, ASHBANK
years of raising
over nine million window and Reg No 22478
door homeowner
sales: 01782 461711
Cycle Shops
Fishing Tackle
HARTSHILL CYCLES J. DARLOWS BIKES WANTED FOR CASH
TACKLE & BAIT
DISCOUNT NEW/USED BIKES FOR SALE Servicing from £20.00
Open 7 days a week
Hartshill Business Park Shelton New Road, Hartshill. ST4 6DS
07816 683299
Driveways certificates, and is the recognised double-glazing industry leader.
FENSA was set up by the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) and other industry bodies, in response to Building Regulations TRENT GLASS AND GLAZING WIND OWS MISTING UP? DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS REP LACED
Locks, handles, hinges Free measuring/quotations
England and Wales. When replacing windows and doors, homeowners must comply with current thermal performances standards, and ensure that they get a certificate from FENSA or Local
Building Control. FENSA enables companies which
install replacement windows and
SPECIAL OAP DISCOUNTS Also UPVC windows, doors and conservatories Top quality, lowest prices
Tel: 01782 658932
30yrs exp. 7 days 7am-10pm
for double-glazing companies in
doors to self-certify compliance
Reg No 30903
Tel: 01782 321036 Mobile: 07979 313692
Dresden Fisheries For those Traditional English Fish & Chips
be contacted on 020 7645
• WINDOWS • DOORS • FASCIAS • SOFFITS
• GUTTERING • TILED CANOPIES CONSTRUCTED FREE ESTIMATES
you can also visit the website:
Double Glazed Units from £25.00 www.fensa. Doors from £470.00 co.uk Tel: 07976 819304 or 01782 774614
PET FOOD
Weekdays from 7am, weekends from 6am Debit & Credit Cards Accepted 164 Ford Green Road, Smallthorne, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 1NJ
01782 860068 Van Hire
VAN & DRIVER FOR HIRE Local or Distance Anything Considered Competitive Rates
07759 451232
blueboy@toucansurf.com No Rubbish Removed!
If You Are Reading This Then So Are Your Potential Customers
Call: 01782 461711
assessment
3700 or via email: enquiries@ Specialist in all joinery work fensa.org.uk;
sales: 01782 461711
Fish & Chip Shops
without the need for a separate
Control. Located at 43, Ayres Street, London SE1 Windows • Doors • Conservatories 1EU, FENSA 25 Imogen Close,Fenton,S-o-T,ST4 3QY Limited can
FENSA
Driveways, Paths & Patios, Fencing & Landscaping OAP DISCOUNTS RELIABLE SERVICE FREE Quotes 01782 393848 / 07870 984913 www.djzconstruction.co.uk
under these Building Regulations
from Building
Reg No 16210
***DJZ***
Quality Fishing Tackle
Tel: 01782 315561
And Start Your Advertising Campaign
Offering a range of graphic design and print services
T: 0800 6125 221 M: 0797 9732 415 info@paulharrisondesign.co.uk www.paulharrisondesign.co.uk
Stoke craft group
NEW members are being urged to join a craft and social group run by by Age UK North Staffordshire's Social Activities Service. The group meets on Wednesdays from 2pm to 4pm at Bakewell Street Park Pavilion, located just off Regent Street, in Stoke-upon-Trent.
Featured crafts include tapestry, knitting and
card-making.
The group is open to anyone aged 50 and over, and costs £2 per week, with tea or coffee provided. Further information is available from Jenny Bell on (01782) 200729/286209. February 2015 | 23
New Roofs
Roof Repairs
Re-Roofs
CHIMNEY/LEADWORK, POINTING, GUTTERING AND UPVC FASCIA, SCAFFOLDING
DISCOUNT FOR OAPs WITH THIS ADVERT FOR A FREE ESTIMATE
Tel: 01782 504344 / 07941 779009 21 Fairfield Avenue, Brown Edge, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 8SA
A1Skip Hire
SAME DAY CHEAP SKIPS! Homeowners? Builders? Developers? Factories?
1,2,3,4,5,6 & 8 Ton Skips • Drop Door Skips 7 Day Delivery & Collection Service Won’t Be Beaten On Price Professional, Fast & Reliable Service Waste Licence • Dumpy Bags we also supply Sand and Gravel, Soil, Golden Gravel, Plum Slate, Green Slate, Gobble Stone and Hardcore
01782 786242 / 07831 224396 A1 Skip Hire, Little Farm, 86 The Hollow, Mow Cop, Stoke-on-Trent. ST7 4NW
Joe & Julie pride themselves on a friendly, efficient service in furnishing your home
showroom, you will discover thousands of carpets, available at ultra-competitive prices to suit every budget; in addition, there's FREE delivery on all items and no charge for fitting on most.
POSSESSING numerous, fulsome testimonials from ultra-satisfied customers, this Stoke-onTrent based business can bring a touch luxury and quality to every home.
(Most orders can be fitted within three working-days of purchase, and, as a registered member of the Carpet Foundation, it guarantees ALL work carried out).
Yes, if it's soft furnishings you are after, then Victoria Carpets and Curtains have got it covered beautifully! Proprietors, Joe and Julie Harrington-Thorley, are confident that their business's friendly, efficient service can furnish readers' every requirement. Located on Weston Road, Meir, Victoria Carpets and Curtains prides itself on good, old-fashioned service, and readers enjoy the assurance that its expert staff will help to re-style your home - and at surprisinglyaffordable prices! Whatever your intention (to 'make over' a single room or effect a complete transformation of your entire domicile), the business will bring an extensive selection, enabling you to see how the floor-covering or curtains will look in your home. To complement this, staff will measure up and provide you with an estimate of the final cost. At the Meir
24 | February 2015
A family-run business since 1979 and based at its current premises since 1995, Victoria Carpets and Curtains also supplies and fits premier-brand cushionflooring (including Nairn and Rhinofloor), with many available in two-, three- and four-metrewide strips, to reduce wastage, and next-day fitting offered on rolls from stock. Additionally, Joe
and Julie sell and fit laminates, which continue to be popular (owing to its modern, clean appearance). Their firm's curtains and blinds department also provides the perfect finish to your windows. And there's more, since an impressive selection of fabrics (from, for example, Hardy and Belfield), which are ideal for creating your desired 'look'. As well as a terrific choice of curtains (taking in dramatic pelmets and valances), you can choose from an extensive variety of blinds, including Roman, roller, vertical, metal and wood Venetian - all made-tomeasure. Why not call into Joe and Julie's showroom today? Alternatively, visit the business's website: www. victoriacarpets.co.uk
EXPERIENCED, RELIABLE AFFORDABLE & LOCAL . . . • Carpets • Rugs • Vinyls • Laminates • Cushion Floors • Vertical, Venetian and Roller Blinds • Curtains • Pelmets • FREE Measuring & Home Selection
0800 026 4313
www.victoriacarpets.co.uk 33 Weston Rd, Meir, Stoke-on-Trent, ST3 6AB sales: 01782 461711
5
M&M CONSTRUCTION EXTENSIONS GARDEN WALLS BLOCK PAVING
GARAGES
FLAGGING
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
tel: 01782 523 026 mob: 07970 977 089 / 07779 241 767
R. B. Plumbing and Heating A reliable and professional service
workmanship and great value for both installation of, and repairs to, garage doors, meeting and FOR the retail of, or expert repairs exceeding all your expectations. to, garage doors in Stoke-onTrent, nobody does it better than The well-established company boasts an extensive range of this family-run business! garage doors ready for supply and fitting, and can also help with the L T Garage Doors is a highly installation of fire doors for any reputable garage door supplier property. and fitter, providing complete and comprehensive coverage Priding itself on delivering the throughout the whole of best products for the best value, Staffordshire. L T Garage Doors features its own showroom (located at 1887, Leek This business really does Road, Milton), which enables offer outstanding quality readers to look and try, before purchasing. If you are looking for garage doors or garage door spares and parts, it welcomes all enquiries, striving for complete customer satisfaction with every project undertaken. "We have no sales, just low prices all year round," says Lee Taylor. For further information about what the company has to offer, get in touch on 0800 756 3284 or (01782) 533552 or by emailing: info@ ltgaragedoors. co.uk
Fully qualified for all your plumbing needs • Boilers • Service • Repair or replacement • Central heating • Kitchens • Bathrooms etc.
Discounts for OAPs Gas Safe registered
Call 07963 326803
AS Electrics • DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
3 Bosley Grove, Goldenhill, S-O-T ST6 5NS
01782 868668 • 07771 735146
John Cooper
Plumbing & Heating
35 Years Experience Advice Given & Solutions Found For All Your Plumbing & Heating Systems No call out fee! Call John on
01782 533790 or 07973 522998 “We do it right!”
BROWNS
FURNITURE 01260 273403
IF you are intending to turn your house into a supremely attractive home, it's important to realise that it doesn't cost a fortune! Indeed, it costs no money whatsoever to rearrange the furniture, but this simple, domestic act can make a world of difference - as long as it is done thoughtfully. The key to success is thinking about how you use each piece of furniture (whether it's a small table which is used merely to display your car-keys, or a large sofa that is a favourite spot, upon which to watch television), and ensuring that it is fulfilling its purpose. But it is important not to feel inhibited about 'your space'; try mixing old and new pieces, or experimenting with striking aesthetics alongside more simple, muted features. Sorting out a jumble of clutter can make you feel more in-control of your domicile. So, remove everything from a room and, then, put it back in, omitting what you don't require ('losing' clutter will allow the remaining details to become much more important).
G.M. ENGLISH Ltd THE DOMESTIC APPLIANCE CENTRE
Sales, Spares & Repairs
SALE NOW ON Browns are retailers and manufacturers of quality furniture and specialise in traditional and contemporary pieces of all aspects of your home, with furniture on display over 3 floors.
www.brownsfurniturecongleton.co.uk 36 Lawton Street, Congleton, Cheshire CW12 1RS
sales: 01782 461711
Gas Safe Registered 10434
Be thoughtful!!
DYSON Approved Agents
Value & Service All Major Brands
Established 30 Years
98-100 The Strand Longton Tel: 315792 / 599332
Open Mon-Sat 9-3 (closed Thursdays) February 2015 | 25
5 Adding instant value & appeal to your home IT is self-evident that a high-quality, tailored 'finish' can add instant value and appeal to any property (be it your domicile or business). Whether you require the fixing of a leaky tap or a complete refurbishment, it is always advisable to consult an expert (i.e., an experienced, professional plumber, carpenter, roofer, plasterer etc.).
Indeed, readers are obviously seeking a qualified tradesperson to fit your bathroom, replace decking, install a radiator, tile walls or floors, unblock drains and/or fix guttering - all carried out both reliably and accurately. Standard painting and decorating includes wallpapering, tiling, repainting and plastering, while carpentry involves fitting doors, floors, skirtingboards, fencing, decking, joists, fascias, staircases (and much more!).
Traditional carpentry and joinery techniques, using modern materials, ensure a permanent repair to even period properties. Examples of carpentry repair-work undertaken include replacing floorboards and decking, securing staircase-spindles, expoxy resin repairs, replacements and refinishing skirtingboards.
Plumbing and drainage tasks include carrying out thorough roofingassessments (essential for older DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS SERVICE properties and those with slow leaks).
D. GOODWIN FREE QUOTATIONS & FULLY INSURED
Tarmac Drives, Dropped Access, Block Paving, Drive Sealing, Patios and Indian Stone, Decorative Gravel and Slate Garden Walls and Fencing
T: 07745514188 / 01782 761191
Expert roofers can advise on roofcare, and also make repairs to your roof, chimney and guttering. Using experienced professionallytrained carpenters/joiners make a real difference to the finish of your property.
dgoodwindriveways@hotmail.com
Westlands Windows
• Windows • Doors • Conservatories • Fascia, Soffit & Gutter We supply & fit quality uPVC
01782 538871 07752 318649
S B GALLIMORE Fuel Supplies for
Family-run business Personal delivery service LOW LOW PRICES THROUGHOUT THE YEAR Seperate Bed Bases And Mattresses Available WE ARE ALSO AT:
Unit 3 Heron Court, Fenton Drive, Northwich CW9 7LU 01606 227483 26 | February 2015
open fires multistoves log burners coal coke part seasoned or kiln dried logs Collect or Delivery most areas covered
07971 458 372
email sbgallimore@gmail.com
SNEYD CARPETS AND FLOOR COVERING FAMILY BUSINESS OFFERING PERSONAL SERVICE
Full range of carpets, floor coverings and laminates to suit all budgets HOME SELECTION
www.sneydcarpets.co.uk 412 SNEYD STREET, SNEYD GREEN 01782 204333 240 HIGH STREET, TUNSTALL 01782 837874
If You Are Reading This Then So Are Your Potential Customers Call: 01782 461711 And Start Your Advertising Campaign sales: 01782 461711
Vauxhall Corsa beats Ford Fiesta to premier place THE Vauxhall Corsa has ended Ford's longstanding status as the UK's most popular car by trading over 500 vehicles more in December, 2014.
extensively reworked to cure many of the old model's many failings), and offer a much more competitive alternative to the Ford favourite. (Buyers, it seems, have responded).
number one spot. Curing the biggest weakness in its model-range - an ageing, off-the-place supermini is easily the country's biggest car-sector - will play a key role in this.
The first signs are that it could just work! The late rally couldn't help the Corsa better a third-place-spot overall in the With 8,054 more registrations, the full-year 2014 rankings, though: the Vauxhall Corsa displaced the Ford Fiesta Fiesta's dominance was clear, as the (on 7,507 units) for the first time in years. SMMT revealed 131,254 units were registered last year - the next-best, Ford's The big registration fillip follows the launch of the new Corsa (which has been Focus, trailed far behind on 85,140. The Corsa ended the year on 81,783 units. YOUR LOCAL ACCIDENT REPAIR SPECIALISTS
• Car & light commercials • Fully equipped body shop • Insurance work undertaken • Resprays • Low bake oven • Welding • Body Repairs • Friendly & personal service
STOKE 01782 848484 Fountain Street, Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent
The December result will be a real 'lift' for the Griffin, which is fcused on beating Ford to the UK
PHOENIX AUTOS MOTs £25.00 Free Retest Brakes Servicing & Repairs Exhausts Cars & Light Commercial Vehicles No job too large or small
Clutches Welding Diagnostics
JUBILEE MOT CENTRE LOOKING FOR A USED CAR?
MOTORCADE CAR SALES
ALWAYS A LARGE SELECTION OF VALUE FOR MONEY NEW AND USED CARS ON DISPLAY
In the driving-seat the Vauxhall Corsa.
Saxon Tyres Ltd ALL PURPOSE ALL MAKES SUPPLIED Winter Checks, Laser Tracking Snow Tyres Tel: 01782 514226 Mobile: 07968 716444 dvdlovattt@yahoo.co.uk Wharf Road, Biddulph, Stoke-on-Trent
E FRE TION CHESTERTON DEL REE • General servicing • Repairs IVE C E RY OLL C AUTO CLINIC LTD • Bodywork • Diesel & Catalytic unit 15 & 16 Valley Park • Petrol • Full MOT Facilities Watermills Road, Chesterton, ST5 6AT 24HR RECOVERY • Open 6 days a week Lee - 07971 881 908 Neil - 07801 981 004 01260 273580 SERVICING to all makes of cars & vans
Moreton Level, Astbury, nr. Congleton
adrian wilson
F
Full & Part Resprays / Insurance work undertaken
01782 576304
Tel: 01782 823888
Newcastle Street, Burslem
up to £250 per Car STEEL up to £245 pt • COPPER up to £4,800 pt BRASS up to £2,650 pt • BATTERIES up to £600 pt
Telephone 01270 763 256
sales: 01782 461711
February 2015 | 27
STATION CARS STAFFORDSHIRE LTD Quality, Value & Choice - key ingedients of relocation's incredible success!! AFTER eleven years' highly-successful trading as a supplier of quality used vehicles in Stoke-upon-Trent, coproprietor, Brian Smith's, business recently 'returned home' to the Biddulph area where he started in 1997. Previously located at the junction of Leek Road and Thornton Road (near Staffordshire University), Station Cars Staffordshire Ltd. moved to larger, superior premises (complete with superb, new showroom) at Mill Hayes Garage, on Tunstall Road, Knypersley, last year. What hasn't changed is the fact that the company is continuing to sell goodProud to support Station Cars
quality, low-mileage vehicles with a service-history, priced at £1,500-£4,000, complemented by the same type of warranty and service that made it such a huge success in the neighbouring Potteries. "We are maintaining our reputation for selling locallysourced cars to local people," said Brian, who runs the company in partnership with his wife, Jill. "The terms which we offer - three-months, parts and labour, RAC warranties - are as good as customers will find, if they go to a main dealership.
THE company's impressively-spacious, new showroom at Knypersley.
"Initially, the building was in a very poor state, but, following a total refurbishment, costing £30,000, we can now offer motorists a fabulous, new WOODWAY (STOKE) LTD showroom here." PURPOSE MADE JOINERY At Station Cars, motorists will discover a host of first-class cars, ranging from Fiat and Volkswagen to Mercedes-Benz
Matt Irish & Andrew Porter Proud to support Station Cars
Doors, Windows, Stairs, Conservatories, Roof Lanterns, Bifolding Doors, Wardrobes, Kitchens All types of joinery products
T: 01782 517334 F: 01782 516660 Email: woodway.ltd@btconnect.com www.woodwayjoinery.co.uk
and BMW; moreover, CARS ARE BOUGHT FOR CASH!
Proud to supply Station Cars
MILL HAYES TEST CENTRE DIAGNOSTICS, MOT’S & SERVICING (CARS AND COMMERCIAL)
PROUD TO SUPPORT STATION CARS TUNSTALL ROAD, BIDDULPH
TEL 01782 510577 28 | february 2015
The business boasts generous opening-hours, seven days a week (9am-5.30pm, MondayFriday; 9am-5pm, Saturday, and 11am-4pm, Sunday), but Brian stresses that people can turn up at 9pm and comfortably view cars on full display in the new showroom (by appointment, naturally). Readers can view cars available at Station Cars by visiting the company's website, www. stationcarsstaffordsltd.co.uk, and a popular Facebook facility is also offered.
The Workshop, Mill Hayes Garage, Tunstall Road, Biddulph ST8 7PZ
STATION CARS (Staffordshire) LTD
Locally owned by husband & wife in business for 18 years
Used vehicles all with service history - Prices £1,500–£3,000 (Mill Hays Garage) Tunstall Road,Knypersley, Stoke On Trent ST8 7PZ. Tel: 01782 518959
www.stationcarsstaffordshire.co.uk
sales: 01782 461711
BIDDULPH EXHAUST & TYRES LTD New diagnostic system is major advance A BRAND-NEW investment has brought this family-owned and run business in Biddulph to the forefront of 21st century technology! Biddulph Exhaust & Tyres Ltd. has long enjoyed a reputation for offering motorists a 'full
package' of services and facilities (including laser-tracking), but the acquisition of a new diagnostic system has extended further its reputation for excellence. To put it simply, this new system is a high-level, software-based diagnostic tool, which enables the company's technicians to repair a range of vehicles without having to involve the main dealers.
Proud to supply Biddulph Exhausts & Tyres
TRAINED diagnostic tecnician, Richard Morrey (above), at work, and (below) a typically-busy scene at the garage.
The new system is a premium product which allows the garage to work at the highest level of diagnostics, and it can provide quicker diagnostics, programming, coding, re-mapping, tuning, key-coding and flashprogramming. (The Walley Street garage currently covers VAG and French vehicles with the new system).
JOHN GARSIDE & Sons
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Established 1856 • 24 Hour Service
HIGH STREET, BIDDULPH 01782 513210 CONGLETON BRANCH 01260 298829
www.johngarside.co.uk
Proud to support Biddulph Exhausts & Tyres
CARS WANTED
Biddulph Exhaust & Tyres is a member of of the prestigious Retail Motor Industry Federation (the voice of thousands of retail motor businesses, including independent garages and workshops). "All members work to a certain code of practice; so, everyone here is fully skilled," explained Managing Director, Dave Morrey, who brings a working-lifetime's experience to the business, and is joined by his highlyqualified sons, Stephen and Richard. Also a member of the acclaimed Good Garage Scheme (which promotes trustworthy, local, independent businesses), this company enjoys long-established expertise in MoTtesting, air-conditioning, enginediagnostics and engine-tuning, and this is combined with a local bodyshop facility.
Chris Thompson Authorised Dealer
Mobile: 07973 157665 Proud to supply
Biddulph Exhausts & Tyres For All Your Car & Motorcycle Paintwork Plasti Dip Vinyl Wrap Specialists Call Chris on: 07833 331 948
paintpalace@rocketmail.com Shepherd Street, Biddulph, ST8 6HZ Find us on Facebook
* WE NOW HAVE THE FACILITY FOR FIRST CLASS ACCIDENT, INSURANCE & BODY REPAIR WORK *
Dave Morrey is delighted by the move of Station Cars Staffordshire Ltd. (see feature on Page 28) from Stoke-on-Trent to neighbouring Knypersley.
MOT’s, Service & Repairs, Air "We have worked with Brian and Jill's Conditioning, business for a number of years, and Diagnostics, their move to this area will greatly Laser Tracking
facilitate our co-operation," he said. MOT FAILURES DAMAGED CARS Telephone: 01538 754905
Specialists in Late Second Hand Spares and Damaged Vehicle Sales Extensive Stock Current Makes and Models 4x4 Vehicles • Cars and Vans
AUTOLINE MOTORS Ltd
• 01538 754888 ( SPARE PARTS)
• www.autolinemotors.co.uk
The Hawthorns, Froghall, Stoke-on-Trent. ST10 2HA Mail Order Spares service also available
sales: 01782 461711
The business is open six days a week (8.30am-6pm, Monday-Friday, and 8.30am-1pm on Saturday), and you can visit its website: www.biddulphexhausts.com february 2015 | 29
Alexandra returns by popular deman ACCLAIMED pianist, Alexandra Dariescu,is making her third appearance (by popular demand) in the Harding Trust Piano Recitals in Hanley's Potteries Museum & Art Gallery in February. Alexandra won the 'Woman of the Future Award' in the Arts & Culture category to add to her alreadyimpressive CV! She will be playing the Sonata in D major No. 3 by Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827),
Préludes Op. 1 by Karol Szymanowski(1882-1937), Polonaise in A flat major and Scherzo No. 2 in B flat minor Op. 31 by Frédéric Chopin (1810-49) and 24 Préludes Op. 34 of Dmitri Shostakovich (1906-75)in the Forum Theatre on Thursday, February 12th, starting at 8pm.
PIANIST, Alexandra Dariescu.
The Harding Trust Piano Recitals are given in the Forum Theatre, at the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, in Bethesda Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent. This intimate venue (with 300 comfortable seats) has superb sightlines and excellent acoustics, making it an ideal setting for the recitals. Doors open at 7pm, to allow music-lovers to enjoy a pre-concert meander around the Museum shop and foyer, prior to the recital's commencement one hour later.
DMITRI Shostakovich (1906-75).
Tickets (priced at £23, which includes a complimentary programme and interval wine or coffee/tea/fruit juice) are available only from Stoke-on-Trent Festival Office at Music Mania, 4-6, Piccadilly Arcade, Hanley, Stokeon-Trent ST1 1DL, Tel: (01782) 206000.
FREDERIC Chopin (1810-49).
KAROL Szymanowski (1882-1937).
FUNERAL SERVICES Optimum advice at a time of personal grief IT is an indubitable truth that the healing process is something which each and every person in the country must experience at least once in his or her life. For, bereavement is, quite simply, one of the great immutables in quotidian life. It is, however, equally true that, when it impinges on our consciousness, the overwhelming majority of us are completely unprepared for the demands which it makes upon us.
It is, of course, essential that we are able to cope with the practical and emotional demands encountered at this potentially harrowing time. The subject of death was a constant theme in conversation and thought in Victorian and Edwardian society, prior to World War I.
and understanding combine to lift the inexorable burden imposed upon the bereavedas is humanly possible, providing help, comfort and support, when it is most required.
In truth, grieving is a healing process, and, whilst our sense of loss will never disappear entirely, it will diminish, as a return to normalcy (in terms of working But, now, in the early-21st and social life) reasserts itself. century, it is something that is (to put it mildly) assiduously avoided.
Accordingly, when we losed a loved one (be it a partner, relative or a very close friend), it is imperative that we acquire the support, help and care of a reputable, well-established firm of funeral directors.
C. EDWARDS & SON FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Private Chapel of Rest Complete 24 Hour Personal Service GOLDEN CHAR TER Monumental Services Available Family Run Business Est.1918 Floral Tributes • Catering Available Horse Drawn Service Available on Request
01782 782842
This company should possess the requisite experience of dealing with all the arrangements and, at the same time, providing optimum advice at your time of personal grief.
Its professional standards 155 HIGH STREET, TALKE PITS, STOKE-ON-TRENT ST7 1QQ ensure that kindness, sympathy 30 | February 2015
Workshop/Showroom:
Showroom:
Victoria Road, Fenton,
91 Haywood Street,
Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2HS
Leek, Staffs ST13 5JH
Tel/Fax: 01782 411106
Tel/Fax: 01538 398493
Email: jbmmemorials@btconnect.com sales: 01782 461711
Tel: 01782 825 598 07979 827 006
COURIERS & HAULAGE LTD
www.edwaycouriersandhaulageltd.co.uk
Edway Couriers & Haulage operates from a secure storage depot in Stoke on Trent, we are equipped to handle any size of consignments from a single document pack up to fully palletised loads. Immediate Response; our large fleet of professional couriers are on standby around the clock Vehicles can be booked as you need them or in advance Safe transportation of secure documents or sensitive equipment Transportation of small items through to several pallets Service Level Agreements for contract based work In-boot overnight service to field engineers Contact access to the courier for immediate updates on the consignment Fully documented delivery times with signaturesSecure storage depot with pallet racking and 24 hour security cameras Comprehensive Goods in Transit insurance. Unit 10a winghay Close, Longbridgehays Ind Est, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire ST6 4DU
Would you like some help with your cleaning? Ironing? Or both? Are you too busy or unable to do your housework?
• Same regular cleaner • Very low affordable rates • Cleaners are insured • 1off cleans available All cleaners have been carefully vetted “It’s only natural that you want the best, so give us a ring and put us to the test”
01782 850812 paul@maid2clean.co.uk www.maid2clean.co.uk/northstaffs sales: 01782 461711
Guaranteed to arrive on time - every time! FROM the transportation of small items to multiple pallets, this locally-based company's fleet can deliver! Edway Couriers & Haulage was established in 1995 to provide a complete courier and road haulage service throughout the UK, with the aim of exceeding clients' expectations. Operating from a secure storage depot (featuring pallet-racking and 24-hour security cameras) at Longport, Stoke-on-Trent, Edway is superbly equipped to handle any size of consignment - from a single document-pack, up to fully-palletised loads. The company's booking-office is staffed 24 hours a day, every
day of the year; so, no matter when you call, there will be someone available to help you. Today's business world is fastmoving, and Edway's clients know that they can rely on it for a speedy and reliable service. The company's extensive experience of road haulage means that it can provide solutions for every stage of the journey, from pickup to delivery. This includes assigning the correct vehicle and driver, depending on the type of consignment. To find out more, telephone (01782) 825598, email: keithedwards@ edwaycouriers.co.uk, or visit the website: www. edwaycouriersandhaulage. co.uk
OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK: Mon-Fri 9:00-6:00 Sat 9:00-4:00
from budget tyres to branded
we do it all!
laser tracking & steering wheel re-positioning latest fitting & balancing equipment puncture repairs including run flats caravan tyre-on-bands fitted motorcycle tyres supplied & fitted special order or o.e. tyres fitted sameday if ordered before 11:30am free advanced booking available no waiting free tyre & pressure check
FREE WINTER TYRE CHECK prices to suite everyone’s pockets we pride ourselves on excellent customer service & a honest friendly environment ®
Unit A Dewsbury Road, Fenton Industrial Estate, Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent. ST4 2TE
T. 01782 844 440 E. tyretime@hotmail.co.uk February 2015 | 31
Excellence is Martyn's trademark
naturally, fencing).
"I treat my customers as if they were members of my own family, and I don't stand for the 'It'll Do' attitude that is prevalent in so many trades," he told us.
"If you treat customers well, you have them for life; they start out as a customer and end up as a friend," commented sole proprietor, Martyn, who is very flexible in his approach to clients.
Unsurprisingly, MS Services enjoys an abundance of customers' MARTYN Stanyer strongly believes recommendations! in offering customers a service so excellent that it would even satisfy Of course, caring genuinely about himself! your clients has its positive aspects.
FRIENDLY RELIABLE SERVICE EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR HOME.
Moreover, his business, MS Services, offers such a wideranging remit in terms of home improvement (both internal and external) that it encompasses everything from changing a washer to building a house! M.S. Services encompasses bathrooms, bedrooms, windows, doors and loft-conversions, with exemplary kitchen and bathroom work being Martyn's particular fort'e, as he utilises his wealth of experience and expertise. However, 2013 saw his business enhanced by moving into the gardening sphere (including,
"I don't give the usual, massive quotes (which are often unfairly inflated to the tune of about 20%), with the result that most established customers never ask for a price. Also, they can buy their own materials, using my own trade-discounts." MS Services operates over a wide radius, taking in Staffordshire (including the whole of Stoke-onTrent) and parts of neighbouring Cheshire. IN ADDITION, MARTYN'S WEBSITE WILL SOON BE AVAILABLE!
Address: Telefaults Building, Furlong Road, Tunstall, Stoke On Trent, Staffordshire ST6 5UN Tel:01782461711 email:sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com