Seniors november web 14 by chris booth

TM FREE

November 2014

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

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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

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Standard Pair of Wills

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CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2014 12 The Poppy Appeal is the Royal British Legion's biggest fundraising campaign, running year-round. It takes 350,000 volunteers and staff to organise the Appeal each year. Money raised goes to support the Legion's welfare work for the Armed Forces community. The 2013 Appeal raised an amazing £39 million. The target for this year's Appeal (October, 2014, to September, 2015) is £40 million.More than 40 million Remembrance poppies, 500,000 poppies of other types, five million Remembrance petals, 100,000 wreaths and sprays, 750,000 Remembrance crosses and other Remembrance items are made each year. 16 The festive season starts in Leek on Friday, November 14th, with the Christmas Lights Switch-On. Activities begin at 7pm with a Lantern Parade (again led by Santa Claus, with his sleigh pulled by the very lovable reindeer, which were such a hit with the community lasty year) from Moorlands House, on Stockwell Street. Moorlands Radio will start entertaining the crowd from 5pm, and it has a family ticket for The Regent Theatre's pantomime, 'Dick Whittington', to give away. 20 'Pets Are For Life - Not FOR Christmas!' That's the message from the experts on this page. There is no excuse for readers to give an animal (be it a puppy, kitten, hamster, guinea pig or parrot) as a fleeting, Yuletide 'present', for it to be discarded just a few days (or weeks) later. Quite simply, pets are sentient creatures and gifts to be thrown out after this year's festive season in January, 2015. As anybody, who has taken steps to ensure heir pet is kept safe, protecting them against the potentially terrifying, violent explosions and alarminglybright flares associated with 'Bonfire Night' (Wednesday, November 5th), having a pet is a real task for a conscientious human being. 22 Kidsgrove Town Hall (Victoria Hall) is the venue for a charity concert, aimed at raising money for research into an inherited disease of the eye, RP (Retinitis Pigmentosa), on Thursday, November 13th. The event will feature internationally-renowned singer, Denise Leigh, and her husband, Stefan Andrusyschen, Cheadle-based Churnet Valley Male Voice Choir and Newcastle-based North Staffs. Accordion Band. The concert starts at 7.30pm. 30 This year's Christmas show at the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle, is Mary Norton's classic family adventure, 'The Borrowers'. The eponymous folk live happily in a perfect, little house under the floorboards of a quiet, old house. But, when young Arrietty gets itchy feet and decides to go exploring, their secret is out and nothing will ever be the same again! Featuring magical storytelling, original music and thrilling, live on-stage effects, 'The Borrowers' runs from Saturdays, November 22nd, to January 15th, 2015. sales: 01782 461711

Are you a Wise Owl or a Head-Burying Ostrich when it comes to that d-word? IF you're an Ostrich, you prefer not to think about the inevitable. Being an Ostrich means trusting the fortunes of your loved ones to chance, once you've gone, and having no control over what happens to your possessions and who should benefit from them. TO an ostrich, death is a five-letter word and a load of stigma. IF, however, you're a wise owl, you take the time to think, question, and act in order to write a will, and take steps to protect your loved ones, when you're gone. WHY BOTHER MAKING A WILL? MY FAMILY WILL GET EVERYTHING WHEN I DIE! WON'T THEY? WRITING a Will may be something you've been thinking about for many years. The reasons for having a Will are many, but, if for no other reason, a Will makes life a lot easier for those you leave behind at a time of sorrow. If you die without a Will (Intestate), your family has to sort out many administrative items and are obliged to the decisions made by law as to who inherits what, decisions you should have really made by writing a Will. AS to when you should write a Will, the answer is NOW. There may be plenty of life in you yet, but accidents and illness have absolutely no respect for age. Also, bear in mind that a modern Will is written in such a way that it shouldn't need much changing, so it's not something you have to think about often, but only in the event of a major change in circumstances, such as marriage, birth of a first child or divorce. SO, why do many people put off the task of writing a Will? EXCUSES: there are many excuses for putting off writing a Will. Here are the most common ones: 1. "WRITING A WILL IS TEMPTING FATE": One in three adults in Britain have already written a Will - so, if writing one has fatal results, the population would soon be reduced by 18 million people! In fact, the British annual deathrate is surprisingly stable and definitely bears no relation to the number of people who write Wills. 2. "I'VE GOT NOTHING TO LEAVE": Everybody leaves something. It may not be much, but, surely, that's even more reason to make sure it goes to those you care about? Also, it is not just making sure your worldly goods go to the right

people. As mentioned, a Will can mean a lot less inconvenience for those left to sort things out. 3. "I JUST HAVEN'T GOT ROUND TO IT": This is normally because the job doesn't rate high enough on your list of priorities. If the roof leaks, no matter what you're doing or how tight your finances, you get it fixed fast! We can honestly say that the vast majority of clients feel great after we have written their Wills. We often receive comments, such as "What a relief" or "I've put it off for years, but, at last, I can rest easy." THE ALTERNATIVE 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 and Single. Many complexities can arise, and we shall cover these in full detail (as well as dispelling many unfounded, but popular, beliefs about them) in our next issue.

Professionally Written Wills FIXED FEE PROMOTIONAL PRICE valid only with this advert until 30th November 2014

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NO VAT)

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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

NOVEMBER 2014 | 03

The Majesticare way of life at Lawton Manor

Lawton Manor Care Home On Friday 26th September we joined the rest of Come and see what we Proud to be Recognised as an Excellent Rated Home Lawton Manor Care have to offer at Lawton Manor! the countryHome in supporting Macmillan’s ‘Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning’. Family Home and friends Proud Excellent Rated We believe to that be life inRecognised a care home settingas an should be inspiring, fulfilling & entertaining, in a safe and friendly environment. We encourage our residents to get as much as they possibly can out of life.

Not only do we offer beautiful settings, modern facilities and a wonderful varied activities programme, we also go out of our way to create a real feeling of community and offer a warm welcome to all who come to Lawton Manor.

enjoyed the lovely home-made cakes donated whilst raising £130 for a very worthy cause.

Following our Harvest Festival celebrations in October, we held our monthly ‘Family & Friends Supper Club’. Our themed evening was a 1950’s disco, which proved to be a real favourite with our residents and their friends. Over the next few weeks we will be joining residents for lunch at some of our local country pubs. And in preparation for Christmas we have visits planned to Astbury Garden Centre, Trentham Gardens, Freeport and the Trafford Centre.

Set in two acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Lawton Manor, like all Majesticare’s luxury care homes, has always offered the best possible quality of life, and now with our Garden Rooms extension, we can offer ourinresidents, friends and families even more. Lawton Manor, like all Majesticare’s luxury care homes, Set two acrestheir of beautifully landscaped grounds, has the possible quality life, andthe now with our Gardenstandards Rooms extension, Wealways have aoffered number ofbest rooms available, all of featuring highest possible of luxury we andcan the offer latest our residents, their friends and families even more. technology, including full en-suite with shower, electric profiling beds, flat screen TV and extensive views of

thehave countryside or gardens. We a number of rooms available, all featuring the highest possible standards of luxury and the latest technology, including en-suite with shower, electric profiling beds, flat screen TV and views of Our residents benefitfull from experienced staff who provide professional personalised careextensive and a whole range the countryside or gardens. of services to enhance their lives. There is no better way to get a feel for the luxury and attention to detail we offerresidents at Lawton Manorfrom thanexperienced to come for a visit. Our benefit staff who provide professional personalised care and a whole range ofAtservices to enhance their lives. There is no better way to get a feel for the luxury and attention to detail we Lawton Manor we offer: offer at Lawton Manor than to come for a visit.

We a dedicated room for respite care • have 24 Hour Nursing Care • Day Care At Manor we offer: and bookings currently being • Lawton • Palliative Care Respite & are Convalescent Care taken for •the 24 Hour Nursing Care • coming months, offering families the Day Care •opportunity Respite &toConvalescent Care or take • a Palliative Care book a holiday break.

•

• •

•

Long & Short Term Care

Specialist Care Long & Short Term Care Specialist Care

If you would like to be part of our professional, dedicated and friendly team, we currently have the following staff vacancies: Registered General Nurse Days or Nights If you would like more information or have any questions and the Hoursabout to be Lawton workedManor negotiable

Majesticare way of life, please call our House Manager, Ann Ball, on 01270 844200 Assistant If you would like more information or have any questions Healthcare about Lawton Manor and the Address: Lawton Manor, Church Lane, Church Lawton, Stoke-on-Trent ST7hours 3DD 3 nights per on week 34.5 Majesticare way of life, please call our House Manager, Ann Ball, 01270 844200 Email: lawtonmanor@majesticare.co.uk Website: www.majesticare. co.uk Address: Lawton Manor, Church Lane, Church Lawton, Stoke-on-Trent If you are interested inST7 any3DD of the Email: lawtonmanor@majesticare.co.uk above Website: www.majesticare. co.uk vacancies please call 01270 844200

04 | NOVEMBER 2014 SeniorsToday

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Lawton Manor Care LawtonManor Manor Care Care Home Home Lawton Home Proud to be Recognised as an Excellent to be Celebrating Years ofRated CaringHome Proud Proud to be Recognised as an25 Excellent Rated Home

Set in two acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Lawton Manor, like all Majesticare’s luxury care homes, Setalways in two offered acres ofthe beautifully landscaped grounds, Lawton likeGarden all Majesticare’s luxury carewe homes, has best possible quality of life, and nowManor, with our Rooms extension, can offer has always offered the best possible quality ofmore. life, and now with our like Garden Rooms extension, can offer Set in two acres beautifully landscaped grounds, Lawton Manor, all Majesticare’s luxurywe care homes, our residents, theiroffriends and families even our always residents, their the friends families even of more. has offered bestand possible quality life, and now with our Garden Rooms extension, we can offer

ourhave residents, their friends andavailable, families even more. We a number of rooms all featuring the highest possible standards of luxury and the latest We have a number of rooms available, all featuring the highest possible standards of luxury and the latest profilingbeds, beds,flat flat screen TV and extensive views of technology, including full en-suite with shower, electric technology, including en-suite with shower, electric screen TV of and extensive views of We have a number of full rooms available, all featuring theprofiling highest possible standards luxury and the latest thethe countryside or gardens. countryside or gardens. technology, including full en-suite with shower, electric profiling beds, flat screen TV and extensive views of the countryside or gardens. OurOur residents benefit provide professional personalised care and a care whole range of services residents benefitfrom fromexperienced experiencedstaff staff who who provide personalised and a whole range to of enhance their lives. from There is noThere betterstaff to get a feel for athe luxury and attention toand detail offer services to enhance theirexperienced lives. isway nowho better way toprofessional get feel forpersonalised the luxury and attention towe detail weat Our residents benefit provide care a whole range Lawton than to come forcome a visit. offer atManor Lawton Manor than for aisvisit. of services to enhance theirto lives. There no better way to get a feel for the luxury and attention to detail we offer at Lawton Manor than to come for a visit. At Lawton Manor we offer: At Manor we offer: • Lawton 24 Hour Nursing Care • Day Care • Long & Short Term Care

•• •

24 Hour Nursing Care Care Respite & Convalescent Respite & Convalescent Care

•• •

Day Care Care Palliative Palliative Care

•• •

Long & Short Specialist CareTerm Care Specialist Care

If you would like more information or have any questions about Lawton Manor and the Majesticare waymore of life, please callorour Business Manager, Ann Lawton Ball, onManor 01270and 844200 If you would like information have any questions about the Majesticare way of life, please call our House Manager, Ann Ball, on 01270 844200 Manor, Church Lane, Church Lawton, Stoke-on-Trent ST7 3DD844200 If youAddress: would likeLawton more information or have any questions about Lawton Manor please call 01270 Email: lawtonmanor@majesticare.co.uk Website: www.majesticare. Address: Lawton Manor, Church Lane, Church Lawton, Stoke-on-Trent co.uk ST7 3DD Lawton Manor, Church Lane, Church Lawton, Stoke on Trent, ST7 3DD Email:email: lawtonmanor@majesticare.co.uk www.majesticare. co.uk lawtonmanor@majesticare.co.uk Website: website: www.majesticare.co.uk

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NOVEMBER 2014 | 05

BLACKPOOL • BLACKPOOL • BLACKPOOL

Defying authority during World War I BLACKPOOL'S Grand Theatre is presenting the world premiere of a stage adaptation of Pat Barker's 'Regeneration' in November. "I am making this statement as an act of wilful defiance of military authority, because I believe the war is being deliberately prolonged by those who have the power to end it" (Siegfried Sassoon, 18861967). Claiglockhart War Hospital, Salford, 1917: POET, Siegfried Sassoon poet and soldier, (1886-1967) Siegfried photographed in May, 1915, by Sassoon, George Charles Beresford. has been institutionalised

in an attempt to undermine his public disapproval of the war. His army psychiatrist, Dr. William Rivers, has been tasked with returning, shell-shocked officers to the trenches; yet, under Sassoon's influence, he has become tormented by the morality of what is being done in name of medicine. Reminding us that some of the most intimate of friendships are borne from the most brutal of conflicts, 'Regeneration' is a compellingly compassionate look at a nihilistic war and the devastating effect it had on a generation of young men. Marking the centenary of World War I, this new dramatisation of Pat Barker's unforgettable, Booker-nominated novel has been adapted by Olivier Award-winning playwright, Nicholas Wright ('His Dark Materials', 'Vincent in Brixton') and directed Simon Godwin (the National Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal Court Theatre).

JACK Monaghan as Second Lieutenant Billy Prior.

"Nicholas Wright's deeply moving play stays true to Barker's vision," reported The Guardian, while The Sunday Times enthused: "....powerfully performed 'Regeneration' is a brilliant and complex potrayal of the trauma of war....deeply moving and compelling." "Sometimes shocking, it is also tender and grimly funny, Simon Godwin's production gently breaks your heart. Godwin's fluid staging feels like a surreal, disturbing dream. It's one that won't be easy to forget. Stephen Boxer beautifully conveys Rivers's repressed turmoil." (The Times).

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A Touring Consortium Theatre Company and Royal and Derngate Northamption Production, 'Regeneration' runs from Tuesday, November 25th, to Saturday, November 29th. Tickets are priced at £18.50-£23.50 (Tuesday-Saturday evening) and £18.50 (Thursday & Saturday matinee performances), with £3 discount for concessionaries, students and under-18s; family tickets cost £66 (please select one full and three under-18s tickets to apply for the offer and obtain the discounted price). Tickets are available from The Grand's Box Office on (01253) 290190 or online at www. blackpoolgrand.co.uk

STEPHEN Boxer plays Captain William Rivers.

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OUT & ABOUT Britain now boasts the most breweries per head of any country in the world.

producing cask-conditioned 'real ales' as their core products, giving an even wider choice of beers for drinkers and a welcome boost to the embattled pub sector.

That's the message from the Good Beer Guide 2015, pubished by CAMRA (the Campaign for Real Ale), which reports there are are 1,285 breweries operating in this country - one for every 50,000 people and the largest number since the 1930s and '40s.

The guide lists breweries throughout the UK, including the 8,000-plus 'real ales' which they produce, alongside 54,940 real ale venues.

'HOP' TO IT: NEW GUIDE RECORDS BREWING BONANZA IT'S enough to make you 'hop' with joy!

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"This latest Good Beer Guide portrays a British brewing industry in excellent health," averred the managing director of the Society of Independent Brewers, Mike Brenner. "New brewery openings over the last year take the total number of brewers in the UK to over 1,200, a figure that would have been unimaginable to readers of this guide in the 1970s."

"Real ale is the only success-story in a declining beer-market," said the guide's editor, Roger Protz (one of CAMRA's founders). "New breweries, making hand-crafted beers, continue to come on stream, while many, long-standing regional and family breweries are expanding with new equipment and brands." Indeed, the continued growth across the whole of the country has been driven by small, independent

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The Good Beer Guide 2015 (RRP £15.99 also highlights a major swing to real ale among younger imbibers, mocking the image of its aficionados as 'old fogies'. More than a third of young people aged 18-24 have sampled real ale, and, of those, 87% say that they plan to quaff it again!

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During the past, twelve months, 170 breweries Before falling into decline, have opened in the UK, maintaining a growth- London was once one of the rate of over 10% per annum. world's greatest brewing centres, but 2013 saw Neddless to day, nearly all new breweries are brewery numbers double. 10 A WESTPORT ROAD BURSLEM ST64AW

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New Keele

exhibition is a brave, honest testimony

'Perhaps being old is having lighted rooms Inside your head, and people in them, acting.

(BY RICHARD SLATER)

of modern medicine; instrusive and uncomfortable. In others, the sheer, grinding exhaustion of the whole process.

The impact of the exhibition is heightened by Russell's very moving, poetical accounts of his experience. Like a deep loss restored, from Printed on display cards, they are known doors turning, interspersed with the drawings and Setting down a lamp, smiling from a prints, and most people who lost a parent will be familiar with the stair, extracting emotions they express. One, headed A known book from the shelves.' 'Inventory', somewhat reflects the Larkin extract; 'familiar pictures here Those lines are an extract from a poem called 'The Old Fools' by Philip and there, figurines, dried flowers in a vase, the foolish bric-a-brac Larkin. The rather harsh title belies of holidays, a book part-read and a powerfully moving, direct, but sympathetic insight into Alzheimer's, marked'. which never descends into sentimentality (Larkin's 'worst enemy' could never have accused him of being sentimental!). I quote from it because, if you were to read the whole work, it largely sums up an exhibition (previewed on Tuesday, October 7th) in The Art Gallery of the Chancellor's Building, Keele University. People you know, yet can't quite name; each looms

persuaded to do so, in the hope it may help others who tread the same path,"a commonality of experience", as he puts it. The show, placed as it is, in the social centre of university life, will be seen by a number of younger people, and may assist them to understand this distressing condition and those affected by it. The preview was attended by Mo Ray, Professor of Gerontological Social Work, and Professor David Amigoni, head of the School of Humanities, both of whom performed the opening, and Russell gave selected readings from his work. Over the years, this talented artist has created shows of noteworthy originality, but 'All The Days She Can Spare' is something extra; it is brave. It takes courage to expose such emotions, and all credit to him for doing so. I close with a piece from the exhibition, titled 'His Drawing':-

There is one major 'As she declines difference, however; her fine thread slips slowly Larkin's verse is a from the reel detached piece of observation. This and for every loop that exhibition - 'All The Days falls ARTIST, Russell Morris, with examples of his work. She Can Spare' by Russell an act of constancy Morris - is a very personal unspools Equally poignant, a small display account of his mother, Betty's, fourto fall as pencil lines upon an open year- battle with Alzheimer's. A battle case in the centre of the gallery houses Russell's original sketch-pads, page. she lost in August, 2012. a few photographs of his mother at My effort trails her gradual remove; Throughout the time she was different ages, shopping-lists and, hospitalised, Russell kept a visual with each fresh start in one corner, some notes she made diary, making one or two drawings about her life, a short history, if you progressing further from my grasp. per visit. This became a way of like, but it's all written on the back remaining engaged and attentive, of a folded-out, utility-bill envelope. Tired, she'd like to close her eyes in when it was obvious that his mother There is a certain charm about such private, was tired or his own conversation important details being set down on leave him to his drawing; was exhausted. Touchingly, he such a transient scrap of paper, and describes how Betty would hold his to unbind unseen seems to indicate a person with a own free hand while he drew. delightful lack of pretension. the grey line of the last skein These images are raw; they are not The decision to put this private of her departure.' the genteel 'ebbing of life' of some record in the public domain was Pre-Raphaelite 'concoction'. They a difficult one. Russell was only disturb; in some, we see the devices 08 | NOVEMBER 2014

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Ask for Tony Heath Fund-raiser was a 'grand' effort at Goldenhill WMC THE latest Family Fun Day held at Goldenhill WMC realised the impressive amount of £1,386 in aid of Douglas Macmillan

Hospice, on Bank Holiday Monday, August 25th.

runners-up, The Dolly Tubs.

The day-long event featured a Bouncy Castle, Face-Painter, Table-Top Stalls and Raffle & Tombola, complemented by entertainment from local artists, including 'Stoke's Got Talent'

"We were really pleased with the amount raised by this fundraising event, and would like to thank everyone who helped to make it all possible," said Goldenhill WMC Secretary, Mick Moran.

A Warm Welcome Awaits You At

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NOVEMBER Sat 1st Ball Green School Reunion Sun 2nd Stacie D Sat 8th **Heroes** Sun 9th Jason Taylor Sat 15th Roger Lee Sun 16th Paul Hand Sat 22nd **Young & Foolish Sun 23rd Laura Jenkins Fri 28th Gladis Night Experience Sat 29th Daniel O Shea Sun 30th Tori Lea

Berryhill W.M.C.

BINGO MON/SAT NIGHTS & SUN LUNCH THURS QUIZ NIGHT FOR CASH PRIZES ALSO INDOOR BOWLING

NOVEMBER Sat 1st - **SHOW NIGHT** Adam Jones, Runy May, Audacious

Sat 8th - Henna Sat 15th - Charlie Mack

NOVEMBER

Sat 1st - George Seqeia Sun 2nd - Leigh Anthony Sat 8th - Katie Barlow Sun 9th - Peter Knight Meir And Longton Royal British Legion 197 Meir road Stoke on Trent Sat 15th - Paul Gibson Staffs ST3 7JF Sun 16th - Louise B Friday 25th January - 8pm Sat 22nd - Smile T . Sun 23rd - Shelly West Sat 29th - Karen Kristian Sun 30th - Just a Girl 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

HIS AUDITION IS OPEN TO THE GENERAL

Sat 22nd - Over and Out Sat 15th - Shelly Marie

BEERS BY COORS

PUBLIC

Friday 25th January - 8pm

THIS AUDITION IS OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.

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 &

HIGH STREET, SILVERDALE, NEWCASTLE, TEL: 01782 622930

BINGO EVERY TUE, FRI, SAT & SUNDAY DINNER/EVENINGS COMMUNITY BINGO MONDAY & THURSDAY 7PM-9:15PM INDOOR / OUTDOOR BOWLS - LIVE FOOTBALL - DARTS

** ROOM TO HIRE**

@ . 94 Knypersley Road, ST6 8HZ

FOR WEDDINGS AND PARTIES - ENQUIRE AT CLUB OR EDDIECHELL GMAIL COM

Calvary Crescent,Bentilee,ST2 OAQ,

01782 545580

01782 314490

Goldenhill WMC We’re famous for our ‘Lounge Lizard’ Club Entertainment System

A warm friendly welcome awaits you at

COBRIDGE

CORONATION CLUB

(it does everything from Race & Quiz Nights - Karaoke - Top TV Show Games and more)

Every Saturday night is the best of Country & Western Class acts not to be missed • All line dancers welcome

Our Top-Flight live entertainment for Saturday & Sunday nights

WE ARE NOT CLOSED & WE'RE NOT GOING TO CLOSE!! NOVEMBER SAT 1ST - PRIVATE PARTY FRI 7TH - ROCK & ROLL SAT 8TH - COUNTRY & WESTERN-AMY MORGAN FRI 14TH - SOUL & MOTOWN SAT 15TH - COUNTRY & WESTERN DISCO FRI 21ST - ROCK & ROLL SAT 22ND - COUNTRY & WESTERN-BEN THOMPSON FRI 28TH - PRIVATE PARTY SAT 29TH - COUNTRY & WESTERN-PHIL LLOYD

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 COACH PARTIES WELCOME ON APPOINTMENT

NOVEMBER

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.

Meir And Longton Royal British Legion 197 Meir road Stoke on Trent Staffs ST3 7JF

Sat 1st - Steve Jackson Sun 2nd - Lydia Jordan Sat 8th - Frankie Flame Sun 9th - David Marshall Sat 15th - Kay Jay Sun 16th - John Martin Sat 22nd - Jane Woodward Sun 23rd - Alex Devine Sat 29th - Andrew Hall Sun 30th - Graham J. Deane

Friday 25th January - 8pm

THIS AUDITION IS OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.

Every Wednesday BINGO NIGHT

A GREAT CHOICE OF DRINKS FROM LWC

Pay All Out - All players get FREE open the box ticket

PLUS HAND-PULLED REAL ALES

Every Thursday Night Sequence Dancing/BINGO

(CARLING, WORTHINGTON & MORE)

Kidsgrove Road, Goldenhill, Stoke-on-Trent. Tel: (01782) 782748 sales: 01782 461711

Bingo every Friday & Sunday night in Lounge Wednesday Afternoon Social Afternoon LARGE Screen TV in Bar Soul & Motown Sessions (ring for details) 75/85 Mulgrave Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent

Tel: 01782 214093

NOVEMBER 2014 | 09

OFFERING A WARM WELCOME AT

MEIR SOCIAL & SPORTS WMC Bingo Mon/Wed/Fri/Sat & Sun

Top beers & lagers from Coors

100%

• Games room including snooker

NOVEMBER

• Bowling Green • Pigeon Club

Sat 1st .......... Joyride through the 80's Sat 8th ......... Electro 80's Sat 15th ....... Scandal Sat 22nd ...... Tytania Sat 29th ....... Tripple X

COACH PARTIES WELCOME • LARGE CAR PARK LIVE ENTERTAINMENT SAT/SUN EVENINGS

NOVEMBER

Sat 1st - DISCO Sun 2nd - **Brotherhood** Sat 8th - Steph Edwards Sun 9th - Trinity Sat 15th - Shelly Marie Sun 16th - Devotion Sat 22nd - Becky Rok Sun 23rd - Deep Timba Sat 29th - DISCO Sun 30th - Mick Taylor

EVERY MONDAY AUCTION NIGHT VIEWING STARTS AT 7PM --- BIDING STARTS AT 7.30PM FREE ENTRY

football bt sports all premier & top live matches function room available please ring club for details

NOVEMBER

Sat 1st - CONSPIRACY Sun 2nd - RADIO ACTIVE Sat 8th - HALCYON DAYS Sun 9th - DANCE-NATION Sat 15th - MAN-MAID Sun 16th - KEN MORRELL Sat 22nd - SENSATIONS Sun 23rd - VELVET SOULS Sat 29th - DEEP TIMBRE Sun 30th - JAMES FRANKLYN **Members Children Only**

TEL: 01782 314730 THE BEECHES, WESTON ROAD, MEIR

BUCKNALL BOWLING & RECREATION CLUB live entertainment

NOVEMBER

BROOKES Sat 8th - SCOTT DAVID Sat 15th - JANE GEORGE Sat 22nd - CHARLIE MACK Sat 29th - SARASH DEE

Sat 1st Steve McKnight Fri 15th Darren Johns Sat 29th Jacki Ryan

Sat 1st - MICHEAL

CARLING LAGER • TRADITIONAL BASS GUEST BEERS • CIDER WORTHINGTON CREAM FLOW BITTER

NOVEMBER ENTERTAINMENT

Sat 1st PRIVATE EYE Fri 7th BON JOVI EXPERIENCE tickets £10 available from the club Sat 8th MONKEY PUZZLE Sat 15th CAUTION Fri 14th sportsman dinner barry fry + comedian josh daniels - tickets £30 Sat 22nd HOLLYWOOD NITES Sat 29th TAKE TWO Fri 5th Dec the ivy league + man maid tickets £8 from club

GUESTS WELCOME FREE FUNCTION ROOM FOR HIRE

TELEPHONE:

(01782) 614297

Snooker - Line Dancing every Tuesday Sequence Dancing every Thursday Outdoor/Indoor Bowls

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

01782 214 091

430 Werrington Road, Bucknall

www.baddeleygreenclub.com

THE SUBURBAN SOCIAL CLUB

(ABBEY HULTON SUBURBAN CLUB) **ALL STOKE PREMIERSHIP MATCHES SHOWN HERE** £1,000 BINGO JACKPOT every Sunday Dinner & Night Bingo every: Sat night / Sun Dinner / Sun Night

FREE Function Room with FREE Disco available for any occasion (min of 50 guests for free disco)

MJE MANAGEMENT & VIVA

invite you to pay us a visit to share all our excellent facilities

NOVEMBER

ENTERTAINMENT PROVIDED BY

Sat 1st .............. MITCH CORNER Sun 2nd............. DENNIE DEE Fri 7th ..............PSYCHIC NIGHT £5 Sat 8th .............. INTRIQUE Sun 9th ............. JASON KERR Fri 14th ............80's TRIBUTE NIGHT Sat 15th ............ LITTLE MISS MOTOWN Sun 16th ........... MARC BOULTON Sat 22nd ........... BEATLE Sun 23rd ........... DEAN ALEXANDER Sat 29th ............ CONNIE RHODES Sun 30th ........... TREV MORAY

128 Greasley Road, Abbey Hulton ST2 8HZ Tel: 07716 711731 10 | NOVEMBER 2014

Sat 1st - BOBBY TAYLOR Sun 2nd - DAVE OZ Sat 8th - PETER MAY Sun 9th - CONNOR O'NEIL Sat 15th - JOHN ROWE Sun 16th - DEBRA PATTON Sat 22nd - FRANKIE FLAME Sun 23rd - LYDIA JORDAN Sat 29th - MATT FISHER Sun 30th - DAVID MARSHALL TELEPHONE:

(01782) 624573 sales: 01782 461711

SOUNDS MELLOW & ROUSING FIRST-class vocalist, David Marshall, is returning to Goldenhill WMC on Sunday, November 9th. David's repertoire features '60s' sounds to the present day and including swing, chart, dance, rock 'n' roll, opera and classical. He first began singing as a 15-years-old schoolboy in his home town of Southport.

BODACIOUS chanteuse, Lydia Jordan, boasts a terrific voice, and sings a wide range of songs; she is returning to perform at Goldenhill WMC on Sunday, November 2nd.

Fronting several bands, he achieved considerable success in winning 'a battle of bands' competition, and going on to release an album of original material. David worked as a session-guitarist and vocalist in the '90s, and has appeared on many hit-recordings for artists in the Merseyside region.

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

NOVEMBER Sat 1st - DNA Sun 2nd - Jonathon Paul Sat 8th - Starlights Sun 9th - Robbie Benson Sat 15th - Flashback Sun 16th - Mr Bojangles Sat 22nd - Arnold & Williams Sun 23rd - Becky Rok Sat 29th - La Belle Sun 30th - Al

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

NOVEMBER

Sat 1st - Dan Budd (Robbie Tribute) Sat 8th - Randy Sat 15th - Darren Colings Sat 22nd - Karen Kristian Sat 29th - All Sorts NOW live bands every friday

WOLSTANTON WMC live entertainment every saturday

NOVEMBER Sat 1st Kelly Louise Fri 7th Motown Magic

BINGO EVERY SAT NIGHT & SUN LUNCH

(Michael Brooks, Natalie Knight tickets £6 from club)

GAMES ROOMS POOL TABLE, DARTS, CRIB

Sat 8th THE GIANTS

FREE FUNCTION ROOM FOR HIRE

(RECENTLY REFURBISHED) LAST FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH SHOWCASE NIGHT (TICKET ONLY)

189 WERRINGTON ROAD WERRINGTON, ST2 9AL

01782 214306

Fri 14th Rock n Roll with Sunnyside Swing £2 Sat 15th RICHARD BARRY Fri 21st Race Night

QUALITY LIVE

proceeds to peter pan nursery for children with special needs

EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY EVENINGS

Sat 22nd TAKES TWO

NOVEMBER ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLIED BY

ELCOCK ENTERTAINMENTS

Sat 1st XS Sun 2nd TUESDAY MOORE Sat 8th RUN DEVIL RUN Sun 9th CRAIG McGANN Sat 15th CLASSIX GOLD

Fri 28th Rock n Roll with Big Colin £2 Sat 29th TREV MORAY + Jamie Sutherland (comedian) *members children only on saturday night* www.wolstanton.co.uk

Sun 16th HUMPH Sat 22nd TIDE OF SOUND

EXCELLENT GAMES ROOM FACILITIES

Sun 23rd SEAN LANEY

Function Room AvailableFor Hire

Sat 29th PARIS Sun 30th KELLY LOUISE sales: 01782 461711

Snooker - Darts - Crib - Indoor Bowls

01782 616 736

Chetwynd House, High Street, Wolstanton

NOVEMBER 2014 | 11

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.

Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal 2014 Can 2014's Appeal top last year's record amount?!

The Appeal is the Legion's biggest fund-raising campaign, and runs year-round. Lapel-poppies are available by donation in shops, supermarkets, pubs and clubs, from the last week of October, through Remembrance Sunday (November 9th) until Tuesday, November 11th.

POTTERIES ANTIQUES CENTRE, Featured crafts 271 WATERLOO RD, COBRIDGE include tapestry,

Tel: SOT 201455 anytime

Old watches wrist & pocket ladies or gents, working or not all makes especially OMEGA Watches!

WANTED COINS & MEDALS Doulton and Beswick Figures Open 6 days or for home visits

knitting and cardmaking. 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.

EACH year, the nation expresses its unequivocal support for the Royal British Legion's work through the Poppy Appeal.

The 2013 Poppy Appeal raised an amazing £39 million, and 10 A WESTPORT ROAD BURSLEM ST64AW The Oldest Pub in Burslem - Shane and Rachel Welcome All the target for 2014's Appeal OPEN FROM 4 PM MON - THURS • 11 AM FRI - SUNDAY (running from 2 LARGE TVS PLUS BIG SCREEN SHOWING FOOTBALL Supporting the Poppy Appeal 2014 October, 2014, FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH NORTHERN SOUL NIGHT to September, SECOND FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH ALTERNATIVE NIGHT WITH STAN MUGGINS 2015) is £40 SOUND OF STONE ROSES, ECHO AND THE BUNNYMEN, SKA ETC million. EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT GOLDEN TORCH SCOOTER CLUB

Ye Olde Crown

DJS WELCOME BRING YOUR OWN SOUNDS

A Warm Welcome Awaits You At

BRADWELL W.M.C. Top Class Entertainment Every Saturday & Sunday Nights

Supporting The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal 2014

Specialists in horse box repairs & service Mechanical & structural repairs, welding, new floors fitted UK recovery available.

Cedar Avenue, Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST7 1LA

Bradwell Lane, Bradwell.

01782 635701

Supporting The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal 2014

12 | NOVEMBER 2014

sales: 01782 461711

We are Proud to Support the Poppy Appeal 2014

Royal British Legion Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal 2013 Poppy Appeal 2014

It takes 350,000 volunteers and staff to organise the Appeal each year. Monies raised go to support the Legion's work for the Armed Forces community.

NORTON CENTRAL BEERS BY COORS

Supporting The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal 2014

COMMUNITY BINGO MONDAY & THURSDAY 7PM-9:15PM INDOOR / OUTDOOR BOWLS - LIVE FOOTBALL - DARTS

** ROOM TO HIRE**

FOR WEDDINGS AND PARTIES - ENQUIRE AT CLUB OR EDDIECHELL GMAIL COM

94 Knypersley Road, ST6 8HZ

01782 545580

workers with a disability could easily assemble it, and this principle remains today.

More than 40 million Remembrance poppies, 500,000 poppies of other types, five million Remembrance petals, 100,000 wreaths and sprays, 750,000 Remembrance Crosses and other Remembrance items are made each year. On the eleventh hour of the eleventh month in 1918, World War I ended.

BINGO EVERY TUE, FRI, SAT & SUNDAY DINNER/EVENINGS

We are Proud to Support the Poppy Appeal 2014

Civilians wanted to remember the people who had given their lives for peace and freedom. An American War Secretary, Moina Michael, inspired by John McCrae's poem, 'In Flanders' Fields', began selling poppies to friends to raise money for the ex-Service community.

UNTIL Tuesday, November 11th, a major, artistic installation, entitled 'BloodSwept Lands and Seas of Red' , fills the Tower of London's famous dry moat with 888,246 ceramic poppies (one for each British and Colonial fatality during World 25 Hazeldene Road War I), creating a Trentham powerful, visual C O N T R A C T O R S Stoke-on-Trent commemoration FLAT ROOFS ï GUTTERING ï STORM DAMAGE ST4 8DN wwww.baileysroofing.co.uk Tel: 01782 646632 of the conflict's Email: baileysroofing@btinternet.com centenary. We specialise in all forms of roofing and

Bailey’s Roofing

guttering

We cover Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding areas

Storm Damage / Emergency Work, Fascias and Soffits

All types of insurance and contract work Call us on 07989 258351 Family Run Business

And so the tradition began.

A S DECORATORS We offer a full Decorating Service both inside and out Quality Paper Hanging General Maintenance work undertaken Ring Alan on 07542 762324

We Offer: Artex Artex removal Bathroom and kitchen tiling Cornices Coving Decorating paint effects Exterior decorating sales: 01782 461711

Floor painting Floor tiling Industrial painting Interior design Paint stripping Wallpapering

In 1922, Major George Howson, a young infantry officer, formed the Disabled Society to help handicapped ex-Service men and women from World War I. Howson suggested to the Legion that members of the Disabled Society could make poppies, and the Poppy Factory was subsequently founded in Richmond, in 1922. The original poppy was designed, so that NOVEMBER 2014 | 13

A FESTIVE CELEBRATION TO REMEMBER!

turns into complete chaos.

LEGENDARY Uncle Eric is back at the New Vic Theatre with a fantastic night of Christmas comedy and great '60s' music!

More audience participation than you could shake a stick at, rolling-in-theaisles comedy and over 20 of the very best '60s' hits to bring you a Christmas party that you'll remember for a long time!

Join Eric and his multi-talented band of actors and musicians for the best night-out this Christmas. In 'Uncle Eric's Christmas Party', our eponymous hero's neighbours have won the Pools, and are having a festive celebration to show off their new-found wealth. A few undesirables (including Eric) turn up, and it's not long before everyone's behaving badly. And, when some bungling burglars decide to make a call , the party

Chelsea Fashionwear

Tel: 01782 325963 / 07877 871986 Ladies Fashionwear Children’s School Uniforms Established in Longton for 40 years 41 The Strand, Longton, ST3 2NS

You can enjoy this new show from David Graham Productions from Monday, December 1st, to Saturday, December 13th, at 7.30pm. Tickets (priced at £15 [Monday & Tuesday] and £18, £19.50 & £21 [Wednesday-Saturday]) are available

LAUDED by The Guardian as "the perfect antidote to the corporate Christmas", the Albion Band returns for its latest New Vic Theatre visit on Wednesday, December 17th.

Visit our Stand at The Crewe Model Railway Exhibition Victoria Centre 15th and 16th of November Come Along and check out Hornbys New Sound Loco

Working DCC layout Highly competitive pricing and friendly service 01782 823818 07973 478294

www.thehobbygoblin.co.uk info@thehobbygoblin.co.uk

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

14 | NOVEMBER 2014

Tickets cost £60 for groups of four or more (£15 per ticket); ten paid tickets also get a FREE bottle of champagne and a FREE ticket for the organiser.

A guided tour of British Yuletide

MODEL RAIL SPECIALISTS

13 Queen Street, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent

from the New Vic's Box Office on (01782) 717962 or online at www. newvictheatre.org.uk

This will be an ideal way in which to start 2014's festivities, as the folk band's members take the audience on a guided tour through the Yuletide customs of Britain with four of our greatest, traditional musicians. This seasonal mixture of carols, spoken word, humorous readings and dance features the combined talents of Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Kellie While (Albion Band), Simon Care (Edward II) and the Guv'nor himself, Ashley Hutchings, founder of Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span and the Albion Band. Tickets for this special Christmas concert (which starts at 7.30pm) are priced at £15, £17.50 and £19.50, and are available from the New Vic Box Office on (01782) 717962 or online at www.newvictheatre.org.uk

Divas

Staff Required

OPEN 11am-11pm, Shower Rooms & Jacuzzi Available HOME VISITS WELCOME Open 7 Days A Week

01782 746278 33 HARTSHILL ROAD, STOKE

sales: 01782 461711

THE MOST POPULAR NIGHT OF THE YEAR! MOVING, uplifting, memorable; it just wouldn't be Christmas at the New VicTheatre without the wonderful sound of the men

HARTSHILL CYCLES BIKES WANTED FOR CASH

DISCOUNT NEW/USED BIKES FOR SALE Servicing from £20.00 Hartshill Business Park Shelton New Road, Hartshill. ST4 6DS

07816 683299

from the valleys! Yes, the members of Froncysyllte Male Voice Choir will be offering their annual concert (the New Vic's longestrunning tradition, dating back for more than 30 years) at the Newcastle theatre-inthe-round on Saturday, December 21st, starting at 7.30pm. 'The Fron' remains a leading choir in the land of choirs: it brings the glorious sound of Wales with a programme of traditional Christmas music and an opportunity for the audience to join in with such bestloved carols as 'O, Come All Ye Faithful',

OLD HALL N U R S E RY Christmas Trees

Nordmann. Spruce or Lodgepole pines Cut offs, potted or rooted

The Sneyd Arms Hotel Offering a warm friendly welcome

Traditional Holly Wreaths Selection of Pot Plants Tel: 07866 175 881 01538 308 257 Ask for Sandra

Pensioners Specials £5.95 for 2 courses 4th The Rude Boys Local Band 18th Andy Harrison (Solo Artist) HALLOWEEN DISCO (FANCY DRESS) EVERYONE WELCOME TAKING BOOKINGS

FOR

CHRISTMAS

Tower Square Tunstall: 01782 826722

01782 594 042

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF SUCCESS To look and feel great call Beauty Box Hair Studio! Whether it's a new hairstyle before a night out or a beauty treatment in preparation for the Party Season, let the skilled professionals at Beauty Box Hair Studio help you!

DISCOUNTS ON CUTS AND COLOURS Pamper Packages Ideas for Hair and Beauty

64 Weston Road, Stoke-On-Trent, ST3 6AD

Email: beauty.box@btinternet.com sales: 01782 461711

www.beautyboxstoke.co.uk

Winkhill, Leek ST13 7PN on A523

'Hark the Herald Angels' and 'The First Noël', in what promises to be a dynamic and moving concert in traditional, seasonal style. This annual concert is always a 'sell out', so early booking is recommended! Tickets for the Froncysysllte Male Voice Choir are priced at £17, £20.50 and £22 (with concessions), and are available from the New Vic box office on (01782) 717962 or online: www.newvictheatre.org.uk

Piece of Cake

Weddings and Celebration Cakes Traditional Puddings, Cake Decorations and Sugar Craft Accessories 01538 398939 / 07815672148 Karen Greenwood

16 Moorhouse Street or No.6 The Buttermarket, Leek, Staffordshire 01782 281 774

Why choose Cookies Hair Design?

• Creative colouring specialists • Hair extensions • All colouring techniques • Wedding hair ups including foils, high & low lites • Ladies, gents & children’s • Modern & traditional styling hairstyles • Top quality products used

• Nail art • ibd gel nails

• Perms

• Acrylic nails • Manicures

Beautician Service Now Available Friendly & fully trained staff Appointments not always necessary

Tel: 01782 519070

70 High Street, Biddulph

• 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

HASLINGTON MODELS 134 Crewe Road, Haslington, Crewe. CW1 5RQ

01270 589 079

Appointed Stockists of

Hornby, Bachmann Graham Farish Heljan, Dapol, Peco, Gaugemaster, Precision Metals, Humbrol, Plastruct etc. OPEN HOURS THUR, FRI & SAT 10:00 - 16:00

For All Your Model Railway Needs Visit us for your Christmas Requirements

NOVEMBER 2014 | 15

Christmas in Cheadle & Leek Switch on date for Cheadle - 22nd November and Leek - 14th November

ENTERTAINMENT GALORE!!

THIS year's festive season inLeek starts on Friday, November 14th, with the Christmas Lights Switch-On. Activities commence with the nowtraditional Lantern Parade from Moorlands House, on Stockwell Street, at 7pm; this will, once again be led by Santa Claus on his sleigh, pulled by his very lovable, reallife reindeer, which proved such a hit with the community in 2013! Joining the parade will be local schoolchildren and their families, and dignitaries, dance groups and bands

INTRODUCING - AN ALTERNATIVE TO JOINT-PAIN STEP inside this long-established, Leek shop, and a WHOLE, new realm

of NATURAL benefits to you and your body! Yes, Breckles Wholefood, of Stanley Street, is now playing host to a range of products from acclaimed Elixir Health Products. MANUKA HONEY has gained a huge, worldwide following during the last, few years; it can be used for everything from a simple, sore throat or skin-problems, to dealing with more serious complaints, such as bed-sores, IBS, stomach-ulcers or killing off the MRSA virus. Recent laboratory and medical evidence using Manuka Honey supports the reputation of this valuable resource.

Breckles 14 Stanley Street, Leek Telephone: 01538 387660 16 | NOVEMBER 2014

Amazingly, it can be used in conjunction with BEE VENOM, the natural components of which have been

from the area. Moorlands Radio will start entertaining the crowd from 5pm, and it has family ticket for The Regent Theatre's pantomime, 'Dick Whittington', to give away! John Collins's Funfair will be playing carols and the fantastic 'Take That Live' tribute band is scheduled to be on-stage after the Lights are switched on. Comprising Sam Glover as Jason Orange, Darren Hosker (Gary Barlow), Lee Holland (Marc Owen) and Arron Burden (Howard Donald), the quartet will be performing a host of Take That tunes, from the '90s to the band's latest songs from the 'Progress Tour'. In addition to performing from a stage in Derby street for the community celebration, 'Take that Live' will also be

isolated and studied scientifically. (One of the most important of these components has been identified as Mellatin [recognised as a powerful anti-inflamatory]). MANUKA EASE, from Nelson Honey, combines these two, natural products, and is hailed as of statistically significant benefit for osteoarthritis patients, in terms of pain-reduction and increased mobility. NECTAR BALM is a mixture of Manuka Ease and cold-pressed oils which warm the skin and assist absorption. Nectar Balm has been developed to rub onto painful joints, and deliver the bee venom straight to the trouble-spot. It can be used in conjunction with Manuka Ease, if you have 'break through' pain in joints, or on its own for relief from occasional pain (or even bumps and bruises). Open from 9am to 5pm (MondaySaturday), the Leek shop majors in not only health foods, snacks and treats, but also vitamins and muchin-demand sports supplements; it also dispatches products via mailorder. sales: 01782 461711

Christmas in Cheadle & Leek Switch on date for Cheadle - 22nd November and Leek - 14th November appearing at The Old Central, in Market Street, after the festivities. Tickets for The Old Central gig are priced at £12.50, and are available from Bits 'n' Bytes Computer Shop, Bath Street, Leek. Stallholders will be selling delicious, locally-made food products and unique, Christmas gifts at the very popular Totally Locally and Indoor Butter markets, and, as an additional bonus, town centre shops and caf'es will be open until late.

Community and charity organisations (located on Derby Street) will also be raising money for good causes. The Lights will be switched on in the public realm area of Derby Street by Leek Town Mayor, Councillor Keith Harrison, at 7.30pm For further information about the event and to book a community stall (which cost £15), telephone Julie Taylor, Town Clerk, on (01538) 381271 or email: julie. taylor@leektowncouncil.co.uk

• MOTORCYCLE MOTs • TYRES • EXHAUSTS • CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS • RECOVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE

CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST • Spinal problems • Back and Neck pain/Sciatica • Joint and Muscular problems • Electrotherapy/Massage • Advice and Exercise • Reflexology FRIENDLY SERVICE

Linda J. Skellam MCPS MOORHOUSE NATURAL THERAPY CENTRE 16 Moorhouse Street, Leek, Staffordshire ST13 5NB (above Piece of Cake)

01538 383726

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In nearby Cheadle, a great fun afternoon (2-6pm) for all the family is ensured, as the High Street is lit up by the town's Christmas Lights on Saturday, November 22nd! Organised by Cheadle Business Group, the day's entertainment will include music, choirs, Santa's Grotto, magician, clown, streetsingers, face-painting, stiltwalker, fire-eater, fairground, charity stalls and Christmas Market, and much, much more. The official Christmas Lights SwitchOn (when dark at 5pm) will be performed by the Town Mayor. The day's 'Rockin' around the Xmas Tree' theme will allow lots of creative opportunities for those entering the fancy-dress competition. On Wednesday, December 10th, the Christmas Choral Society is holding its Christmas Concert

NOVEMBER 2014 | 17

Christmas in Congleton & Biddulph Switch on date for Congleton - 28th November and Biddulph - 29th November

Family fun will boost towns' Xmas Lights Switch-On events

Every guarantee honoured over 46 years! FOR more than 40 years, Congleton Glass has taken great pride in adhering to its original ethos of good service, premier quality and excellent workmanship. 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. When the business first opened its doors 46 years ago, it comprised just one man and a single van; however, it has (deservedly) expanded to the point where it is, now, one of the busiest glazing companies in the town, serving clients not only in Cheshire, but also throughout the North-West. As a double-bonus for readers, Congleton Glass sells the very best in windows and doors from such top-rated brands in the industry as KAT, Nova and Rockdoor, but offers them at eminently-affordable prices. The Royle Street business, then, complements this by installing all

products to correct standards, adhering to strict guidelines on energy-efficiency and ventilation (as set out by FENSA [the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme]). This insistence upon first-class products AND service has, necessarily, meant that it has outlasted numerous, other companies unable to match its sheer skill and invaluable, decadeslong experience, which has allowed it to identify the kind of quality and value that will enhance and protect a client's property. Quite simply, customers may locate cheaper products on the market, but these lack the service, support and longevity which Congleton Glass offers. Pay a visit to Congleton Glass (located by the River Dane, close to the very heart of the town centre) and you will discover that its stock represents the very latest 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.

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Additionally, Congleton Glass features a pleasinglydiverse range of miscellaneous services, including the supply of materials, broken-windowrepairs and cut-glass and plastics.

VISITORS to the neighbouring towns of Congleton and Biddulph during the build-up to 2014's Yuletide season can enjoy myriad, varying attractions.

Hall Silver Band to mark the lights switch-on), complemented by a host of street-food and festive attractions, Decidely attracting thousands of people into its town centre, Congleton located throughout Congleton town centre (rather than the evening Christmas Lights festive fair will focusing on a main stage-show). take place between 4pm and 7pm on Friday, November 28th, with the As with previous years, the event switch-on scheduled for 6pm. will feature 28 outdoor charity stalls (available for hire by local charities This year, the Christmas Lights and groups [which should be CW12switch-on will be different, marking based or benefiting CW12 residents]), a return to traditional market town held on the pedestrianised area, and festivities, with Santa Claus being these are priced at just £15 (including pulled into the town on his sleigh by the cost of the gazebo, table and his own team of reindeers. lighting, with funds raised on the stall The jolly, bearded gentleman in kept by the local charity) apiece. red will lead the traditional 'Grand Additionally, there will be the same Lantern Parade', and, following this, number of pitches available in children will be able to pay a visit to him in his special, town centre grotto. Congleton Town Hall for the quality Christmas Gift and Craft Fair, which On November 28th, there will be is being held on the evening of the street entertainment (including a Lights switch-on (with stalls within performance by the acclaimed Rode the Venetian Gothic building costing £25 each).

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HELP us with OUR HERITAGE We need artefacts, paperwork and any other interesting things on Biddulph

Artefacts • Coal Mining • Coins and Tokens Library • Paper and Ephemera Photographic Images • Sports • Stamps Things that you may throw away! Call Robert on Tel: 01782 523855 Mob: 0798 4002953 Or view our website for address and e-mail http://www.biddulphmuseum.com

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Christmas in Congleton & Biddulph Switch on date for Congleton - 28th November and Biddulph - 29th November (01260) 270350, ext. 6. On Saturdays, November 8th, 15th and 22nd, the Electric Picture House, Cross Street, will be hosting FREE public lantern-making workshops between 10.30am and 4pm, with everyone welcome (but children must be accompanied). Meanwhile, just over the Staffordshire border, Biddulph Christmas Lights Switch-On takes place outside the Town Hall on the High Street, at 6pm on Saturday, November 29th. There will be family fun in Biddulph town centre, in the shape of kiddies' rides, a Christmas Market, an appearance by Santa Claus, fairground, carolsinging and street-entertainment, commencing at 3pm. Selling hand-made, locally-produced and reared products and produce, Biddulph's popular Artisan Markets will be held on the High Street on Fridays, November 7th (9am-3pm) and December 5th (4pm11pm). Congleton Amateur Youth Theatre is presenting 'Alice' (a musical based on Lewis Carroll's evergreen classic, 'Alice in Wonderland') at

On Saturday, November 29th, the Congleton Youth Orchestra is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a gala concert at Congleton Town Hall.

Daneside Theatre, Congleton, from Wednesday, November 12th, to Saturday, November 15th. In this adaptation, the eponymous heroine is at the centre of a bewildering and hilarious plot, as she glimpses a white rabbit, dressed in a waistcoat and holding a pocket-watch, complaining that he is late.

Musical director, Eddie Garrard, has compiled a concert, including such previous showstoppers as RODE Hall Silver Band will be performing in Congleton town centre George Gershwin's Rhapsody on Friday, November 28th. in Blue, featuring pastmember, Hannah Donkin, The show features such perennially popular whom audience-members will remember from her characters as pugnacious Tweedledum and acclaimed performance in 2012. Tweedledee, the violent Queen of Hearts, the enigmatic Cheshire Cat, the Caterpillar and, of course, the zany Mad Hatter!

The show starts at 7.30pm, with a 2.30pm matinee performance on Saturday 15th, and tickets (priced at £6-£8) are available by telephoning (01260) 277502, Congleton Tourist Information Centre, Tel: (01260) 271095, or online at congletonyouththeatre.com

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The orchestra will also be performing the premiere of 'We Will Remember Them', a speciallycommissioned piece written by his A-levels by wellknown musician, Joseph Hearson, 17, who will also make his conducting debut on his own work. Tickets are on sale at Congleton Tourist Information Centre and A & A Music, High Street; they are also available from the Secretary on (01260) 278843 or via email: helenchappel@ btinternet.com, or online at congleton-youthorchestra.org.uk Biddulph High School's Christmas Fayre takes place at its Conway Road, Knypersley, premises on Saturday, November 29th, while Biddulph Town Hall is hosting MY Theatre's Annual Festive Family Evening on Sunday, December 14th.

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NOVEMBER 2014 | 19

They are living, breathing creatures - NOT Yuletide presents!! THAT'S the message that we are trying to get over for 2014! These days, you can purchase practically anything as a Christmas gift - from a life-sized chocolate figurine of Nigel Farage for dad to a grenade-launcher for grandma. So, why oh why, do people see fit to buy puppies, kittens and all manner of fauna (cuddly or otherwise) for the festive season - only to discard them the following January (if not earlier)? As anybody, who has

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taken steps to ensure that their pet is kept safe, protecting them against the potentially terrifying , violent explosions and alarmingly bright flares associated with Bonfire Night (Wednesday, November 5th), having a pet is a task for only a conscientious human being. (And, of course, remember that numerous idiots [not all of them particularly youthful] will continue to let off fireworks at all hours of the day and night long after this gruesome 'celebration' [especially during Christmastime and New Year's Eve]). Thus, we urge all readers not to purchase ANY animal as a present in a 'spur-of-the-moment' mood - and this applies to not only to the socalled festive season, but also to every month of the year! In short, creatures should only be purchased as pets, once the cost of their up-keep, good health and status within the family environment have been FULLY thought out!

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LUDICROUS misunderstanding, mischief and mayhem will reign at Newcastle's New Vic Theatre during the first half of November! For, acclaimed touring company, Northern Broadsides, is making a welcome return to Newcastle's New Vic Theatre with its latest production - Oliver Goldsmith's 18th comedic classic, 'She Stoops to Conquer'. Town and country, old and new collide at Mr. Hardcastle's ancestral home - the shabby and unchic Liberty Hall. Confined within these provincial walls, the excessively coiffured Mrs. Hardcastle pines for the cultural polish of 'The Capital'. Enter the good-looking and eligible Young Marlow - potential suitor to the quick-witted, resolute Miss Kate Hardcastle. He is a man (hopelessly tongue-tied with toffs and positively improper with plebs). She is a woman (sharp, sassy and in complete control). So, when he is duped into believing that Liberty Hall is a country inn, and mistakes Kate for a lowly barmaid, what could possibly go wrong?

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Set around the chaotic proceedings of one, very long night, Northern Broadsides' talented cast of actormusicians bring its theatrical magic and innate sense of fun to this accessible and delightfully ludicrous, romantic romp.

'She Stoops to Conquer' was written in 1771 (and first performed in 1773) by Irish novelist, playwright and poet, Oliver Goldsmith (1730-74). "Very funny," enthused The Independent about the company's production of Gogol's 'The Government Inspector', while The Guardian lauded 'Lisa's Sex Strike' as "Hysterically funny... left the audience gagging for more", and The Stage found Dario Fo's 'accidental Death of an Anarchist' "... an absolute riot. A farce for the soul." Directed by Conrad Nelson, 'She Stoops to Conquer' runs from Tuesday, November 4th, to Saturday, November 15th, at 7.30pm, with 2.15pm matinee performances on Saturdays 8th and 15th. Tickets (priced at £12-£21, with group-discounts of £2 for parties of ten or more, £2 off for concessionaries and Under-26s Go Free) can be purchased from the New Vic Box Office on (01782) 717962, or online at www.newvictheatre.org.uk

Jazz Night in Alsager MEMBERS of the Alsager Friends of Christie are holding a Jazz Night at the town's Bank Corner on Wednesday, November 12th. The fund-raising event will also feature a pie-and-pea supper, starting at 7pm. Most of the group's volunteers have been treated, or have a relative who received treatment, at the Christie Hospital, in Manchester. All proceeds will go to the Christie NHS Foundation Trust. NOVEMBER 2014 | 21

Charity Concert to Help Prevent Blindness A CHARITY Concert is to be held at Kidsgrove Victoria Hall on Thursday, November 13th, to raise money for research into an inherited disease of the eye, RP (Retinitis Pigmentosa), which can cause progressive blindness. Dimitri, the one-year-old son of local operatic singer Denise (Leigh) and her husband, accordionist, Stefan Andrusyschyn (both blind themselves), has inherited the gene that can cause the disease, and, if there is no cure by the time that Dimitri is in her teens, he may start to lose his sight. Starting at 7.30pm, the concert will feature Denise (who, since winning the TV reality show, 'Operatunity', in 2001, has become an internationallyrenowned singer, having sung at the Beijing Paralympics, the London Paralympics closing ceremony and for royalty at St. James's Palace) and Stefan, a popular musician, who plays piano and accordion, both solo and as accompanist to Denise and others. Also performing will be Cheadlebased Churnet Valley Male Voice Choir, which enjoys a reputation for creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and for providing a varied, regularlyupdated repertoire.

POPULAR Phil Eardley is MC. 22 | NOVEMBER 2014

The choir is as likely to recreate the music of Matt Munro, The Hollies,

The Beatles, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Westlife and 'Les MisĂŠrables' as it is to sing opera, spirituals or a love song in Maori or Welsh. Based in Newcastle-underLyme, the North Staffs. Accordion Band plays throughout North Staffordshire and East Cheshire. Its new musical director has introduced several, new pieces, and the band was delighted with a high placing at the 2014 Newcastle Festival for Music, Speech and Drama.

CHEADLE-based Churnet Valley Male Voice Choir.

Taking the role of MC (Master of Ceremonies), Phil Eardley is a graduate of the UK School of Professional Toastmasters and a member of the Magic Circle.

DENISE Leigh and Stefan Andrusyschen.

that some 25,000 families are affected). Currently, there is no available cure or treatment. All the monies generated from the concert will be donated to 'RP Fighting Blindness' (registered charity number 271729), which funds research into a cure for the disease. The charity was founded in 1975 by Lynda Cantor MBE, following her own diagnosis of RP. She is concerned with the lack of knowledge about the disease in the medical profession, as well as the limited support for patients.

Kidsgrove Town Hall is situated This charity is entirely funded on the main A50 (Liverpool Road), by voluntary donations, and it and the parking-area is located supports seven research projects. behind the building. Tickets (priced at ÂŁ15) are The bar will be open from 7pm on available from Steve Hughes by the night. telephoning (01782) 787935, or RP stands for Retinitis texting him on 07939-362294. Pigmentosa; it is a hereditary disease of the retina which results in the progressive loss of sight and blindness (in the UK, it is estimated NEWCASTLE-based North Staffs. Accordion Band. sales: 01782 461711

Think ahead & be prepared! TO help stay well, it is important that you keep warm at home and outdoors, follow as healthy a lifestyle as you can and, yes, have that 'flu-jab. Thinking ahead and getting ready for the cold weather (which can start any day in November or December) means that you are more likely to keep warm and well this Winter. Twelve things you can do to prepare:* Have your heating-system serviced and chimney swept. * If you have wood-burning, coal- or gas-heaters: make sure you have adequate ventilation. * Have your electric-blanket serviced at least every three years. * Make sure that your smoke-alarm is working.

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* Ensure that you claim all the financial support you can to help with heating-bills (your local Age Concern can advise on this). * Be sure that you have some warm shoes or boots with non-slip soles. * Maintain a mixture of salt and sand handy to put on steps or paths in icy weather. * Keep simple cold, 'flu' and sore-throat remedies in the house: your pharmacist can make suggestions and also advise on how to manage minor illnesses. * Make sure that you follow up your GP's invitation to have a 'flu-jab'. * Order repeat-prescriptions in plenty of time (particularly, if bad weather is forecast). * Keep basic food-items in the cupboard or freezer, in case it is too cold to go shopping. * If you smoke, think about stopping. Keeping active generates heat and, so, helps to keep you warm: it's good for general fitness and well-being, too. So, when indoors, try not to sit for more than an hour; get up and walk around, make yourself a warm drink and spread chores throughout the day.

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Chair-based exercises and simply moving your arms and legs and wiggling your toes are helpful, if walking is difficult. Consume at least one hot meal and hot drinks during each day, as they help you to keep warm. Include a good range of foods in your diet and aim for FIVE portions of fruit and vegetables every day. Remember: frozen vegetables are as good as fresh; having a hot drink before bed and taking a flask to bed are good ideas, too. Fully Qualified and Insured Local Family Run Business Serving Staffordshire & South Cheshire

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If you are over 65, be sure to have a seasonal 'flu-jab: seasonal 'flu-viruses are always changing, so you need to have a jab every year, using the latest vaccine. 'Flu is not only only unpleasant, but it can develop into pneumonia, which can be serious. A 'flu-jab is also recommended if you are under 65 with a condition, such as diabetes; a chronic heart-, lung-, kidneyor liver-problem; have Parkinson's; or have had a stroke. Several, thin layers of clothing will keep you warmer than one, thick layer, as the layers trap warm air.

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call 01782 824223

J & J Property Maintenance No job too big no job too small! Just Give J & J Property Maintenance A Call!

COMPETITIVE PRICES Call Jason on

01782 723744 or 07855 507527

Most of us spend a lot of time indoors in Winter; so, it is important that you are comfortable and safe. One tip is to close the curtains and fit thermal-linings, if you can (this will help to keep the heat in).

Email: lownd8@aol.com

TRENTHAM CONSTRUCTION ALL TRADES FULLY QUALIFIED FULLY INSURED FOR FREE QUOTES

07973 440058 or 01782 642264

DECOELECTRIC

All Electrical Work, Garden & Home Refurbishment & Decoration

G.M. ENGLISH Ltd THE DOMESTIC APPLIANCE CENTRE

Sales, Spares & Repairs

DYSON Approved Agents

Value & Service All Major Brands

07913 734991 / 01782 544416 enquiries@decoelectric.co.uk www.decoelectric.co.uk sales: 01782 461711

Fishing Tackle

CLINTS BARBERS Est 2004

EXPERIENCED IN ALL TRADITIONAL AND MODERN BARBERING

O.A.P. Rates Available

HIGHLIGHTING • CUT THROAT SHAVING • PATERNS American Crew Stockists Open Mon/Tues/Thurs 9am-6pm Fri 9am-7pm & Sat 8.30am-5pm

01782 616855

91 Victoria Street, Basford

J. DARLOWS TACKLE & BAIT Quality Fishing Tackle Open 7 days a week

PET FOOD

Weekdays from 7am, weekends from 6am Debit & Credit Cards Accepted 164 Ford Green Road, Smallthorne, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 1NJ

01782 860068 Garden Services

Double Glazing TRENT GLASS AND GLAZING WIND OWS MISTING UP? DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS REP LACED

Locks, handles, hinges Free measuring/quotations

SPECIAL OAP DISCOUNTS Also UPVC windows, doors and conservatories Top quality, lowest prices

Tel: 01782 658932

30yrs exp. 7 days 7am-10pm

Reg No 30903

Fish & Chip Shops

Dresden Fisheries For those Traditional English Fish & Chips

A reliable and well established service covering your entire garden needs at competitive prices

• Clear out • Garden maintenance • Hedge and tree cutting • Hard/soft landscaping • Fencing and decking • Free quotations and advice

Tel: 01782 545544 / 07733 378117

Van Hire

VAN & DRIVER FOR HIRE Local or Distance Anything Considered Competitive Rates

07759 451232

blueboy@toucansurf.com Tel: 01782 315561

No Rubbish Removed!

If You Are Reading This Then So Are Your Potential Customers

Call: 01782 461711 And Start Your Advertising Campaign

Established 30 Years

24 / 7 Service

NAPIT Registered Electrician Electricsafe Registered

Barber Shops

98-100 The Strand Longton Tel: 315792 / 599332

Open Mon-Sat 9-3 (closed Thursdays)

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

NOVEMBER 2014 | 25

***DJZ***

To Advertise Driveways, Paths & Patios, Call: Fencing & Landscaping 01782 OAP DISCOUNTS 461711 RELIABLE SERVICE And Start FREE Quotes Your 01782 393848 / 07870 984913 Advertising www.djzconstruction.co.uk Campaign

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!

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

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 26 | NOVEMBER 2014

sales: 01782 461711

Events throughout the year A reliable and professional service FOR the retail of, or expert repairs to, garage doors in Stoke-on-Trent, nobody does it better than this family-run business! L T Garage Doors is a highly reputable garage door supplier and fitter, providing complete and comprehensive coverage throughout the whole of Staffordshire. This business really does

offer outstanding quality workmanship and great value for both installation of, and repairs to, garage doors, meeting and exceeding all your expectations. The well-established company boasts an extensive range of garage doors ready for supply and fitting, and can also help with the installation of fire doors for any property. Priding itself on delivering the best products for the best value, L T Garage Doors features its own showroom (located at 1887, Leek Road, Milton), which enables 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

sales: 01782 461711

A & G Tiling Floor,Wall, Ceramic & Natural Stone Tiler Bathrooms, Conservatories, Kitchens & Garage Floors Living Rooms in Natural Stone

Tel: 01782 323111 Mob: 07890 846766 32 ALTHROP GROVE, STOKE-ON-TRENT ST3 1UF

TWELVE acres of relaxing gardens await visitors to the Dorothy Clive Garden. Set amidst glorious countryside, where the borders of Staffordshire, Cheshire and Shropshire intersect, this beautiful, hillside garden has continuously evolved since 1940. In that year, Colonel Harry Clive began landscaping a disused, Victorian quarry for his beloved wife, Dorothy. Plant enthusiasts will discover lots of unusual species - from the spectacular to the supremely subtle- and an abundance of assorted flora will satisfy all tastes (and many are available to buy!). The Dorothy Clive Garden is both intimate and informal; a network of paths ensure that there is always something to discover and delight.

Throughout the year, the garden hosts a A. M. Landscape & Contract Gardener wide variety of events, from small, guided for all your landscaping and garden maintenance needs walks to major plantLarge Grass Areas Maintenance, Lawn Treatment, Hedge Cutting, Tree Felling, Paving, hunters' fairs. Dry Stone Walling and Water Features Home-made food is available, and new for Anything else don’t hesitate to ask ashleymansell@hotmail.co.uk www.amllandscape.co.uk 2014 are gluten-free choices in the Garden Call Ashley today for a free no obligation quote Tea Room.

07929 114207

Tel: 01782 823460 Email: info@got2clean.co.uk Web: www.got2clean.co.uk 8 Hatherton Avenue, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 5GL

Situated in North Staffordshire at Willoughbridge, near Market Drayton, close to the Shropshire and Cheshire borders, the Dorothy Clive Garden is located on the A51 midway, between Stone and Nantwich. During the Winter, the Garden and Tea Room is open from 10am to 4pm every weekend in October, February and March. Disabled and coachparking is available. For admission-prices, special offers for group-bookings, events and all other information, visit www. dorothyclivegarden. co.uk or email: info@ dorothyclivegarden. co.uk

NOVEMBER 2014 | 27

A COMBINATION OF DRIVING-SKILLS AS this month progresses, one major YOUR LOCAL ACCIDENT illumination (other than the miles REPAIR SPECIALISTS of lights offered at Blackpool) to • Car & light commercials • Fully equipped body shop • Insurance work undertaken • Resprays • Low bake oven strike a motorist's consciousness is • Welding • Body Repairs • Friendly & personal service Telephone 01270 763 256 the fact that the season of Autumn STOKE 01782 848484 Fountain Street, Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent is not all THAT far away! This, in turn, re-emphasises the LOOKING FOR A USED CAR absolute necessity of safe driving but what (I hear you ask) is, EXACTLY, 'safe driving'?! It involves many factors, and a involves a combination of each ALWAYS A LARGE SELECTION OF VALUE FOR MONEY driver's physical skills, knowledge NEW AND USED CARS ON DISPLAY and attitude to motoring. To drive safely, you need to think CARS / VANS and act decisively: this requires Newcastle Street, Burslem PROMPT COLLECTION information, which, in turn, WE PAY THE BEST PRICES demands that you make sense of what you look at! MOT Testing • Servicing Engine Diagnostic Advances in modern technology mean that most people can learn Brakes • Air Conditioning to drive and pass a driving-test, Exhausts • Clutches regardless of their physical (m) AD AUTOS We Now Stock All Makes of Tyres disabilities. Car Sales But, while cars can BADDELEY GREEN LANE, BADDELEY GREEN be specially adapted OPEN 6 DAYS 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

MOTORCADE CAR SALES

ABSOLUTELY

ANY SCRAP

Tel: 01782 823888

ACORN GARAGE

TEL: 07871 359506

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

01782 543739

AUTOTEC

Motor Factors WE STOCK A FULL RANGE OF VEHICLE PARTS & ACCESSORIES

Tel: 01782 314445 27 COMMERCE STREET, LONGTON

PHOENIX AUTOS

MOTs £25.00 Free Retest Brakes Servicing & Repairs Exhausts Cars & Light Commercial Vehicles No job too large or small

Clutches Welding Diagnostics

adrian wilson

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 28 | NOVEMBER 2014

sales: 01782 461711

Driving up standards!

* Adhere to a strict Code of Conduct and pledge to have their customers' best interests at heart;

DEDICATED to driving up standards in the car-service and repair market, the Good Garage Scheme also aims to ensure that customers get a fair deal.

* Must agree what works needs doing with their customers before it is carried out;

The GGS was formed, in response to the need for the effective selfregulation of independent workshops and MoT centres.

* Work to an industry-standard checklist; * Must supply each customers with a feedback card, allowing him or her to give their viewss on service directly to the GGS, which operates a stringent complaints procedure;

Indeed, it was launched in 2008, because there was a general, pervasive view that the motor trade did not offer value-for-money and, even worse, was not to be trusted!

to meet the requirements of the disabled, there is, unfortunately, no such help available for partiallysighted people, unless glasses or contact-lenses will do the trick. In short, good eyesight is essential for safe driving. When people take the practical part of theirefreshments before resuming the drive. Stress can, of course, effect you in a similar way. Even a cold can disturb your concentration, if you are • General servicing • Repairs and, feeling unwell, it be better • Bodywork • Diesel & Catalytic might not to drive, take • Petrol • Full MOT Facilities things slower than usual, as • Open 6 days a week this will give you more time to 01260 273580 react. Moreton Level, Astbury, nr. Congleton

JUBILEE MOT CENTRE

* WE NOW HAVE THE FACILITY FOR FIRST CLASS ACCIDENT, INSURANCE & BODY REPAIR WORK *

As a result, the Good Garage Scheme insists that its members adhere to a strict Code of Conduct, and offer a 50-point Industry Standard Service. This, coupled with a customerfeedback system, means that customers enjoy peace-of-mind, when choosing an independent garage, knowing that they will find a trustworthy business IN YOUR AREA by visiting its website - www. goodgaragescheme.com

Unsurprisingly, this initiative has grown in strength, with member garages carrying out an average 67,666 services a month, generating over 6,000 feedback-cards from consumers per month, allowing the garages a valuable insight into their performances, as seen through the eyes of the customer. The feedbacks are posted on the GGS website to help motorists choose a reputable garage.

Garage joining the GGS:-

Adderley Green

G A R A G E

* Are subject to regular 'mystery' shopper-style audits and face expulsion, if they break the Code of Conduct.

L T D

MOT’s Motorhomes, Cars Light Commercials, 4x4’s, Motorbikes

SAVE £££’s on all Dealer Serving ✓ Late/Emergency Bookings Welcome

✓ Service History Fully Validated

✓ Full Dealer Servicing & Repairs for all Makes & Models of Cars without affecting your dealer warranty

✓ Diagnostics

✓ Member of the Good Garage Scheme

✓ Car Sales

Open 6 Days

01782 312510

✓ Fully Trained Technicians

✓ Air Conditioning

345 Anchor Road, Longton, Stoke-on-Trent ST3 5BL

aggl154@googlemail.com www.adderleygreengarage.co.uk

MOT’s, Service & Repairs, Air Conditioning, Diagnostics, Laser Tracking

UNIT 1, PLOT 10, LEEKBROOK WAY, LEEKBROOK IND EST, LEEK, ST137AP Dedicated Land Rover Diagnostics • Servicing MOT'S • Scheduled maintenance Engine repair • Gearbox repair • Clutch replacment Offroad and Expedition equipment Electronic specialists • Chipping & Remapping Infact anything to do with Land Rovers www.lrxservices.co.uk

Whether your vehicle needs routine service, emergency repair or just an mot, you can trust our team of experts. sales: 01782 461711

The GGS takes a strong line with its members, and has removed 900 garages from the Scheme. Additionally, it offers to liaise with motorists who may have issues with member garages, so that problems are resolved.

CARCRAFT TEST CENTRE

Highest quality of products & services on the market today. Specialists in car servicing and class 4, 5 & 7 M.O.T. testing, clutch, diagnostic, 4 wheel alignment, air conditioning, recovery, tyres and any general car work, all at prices you can afford. please call us on

01782 269542

or visit www.carcrafttestcentre.co.uk 88-90 Cannon Place, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. ST1 4QA.

NOVEMBER 2014 | 29

FUNERAL SERVICES Offering Quality & Care Which You Can Trust

For little people & for grownup 'human beans'.... THIS year's Christmas show at the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle, will be Mary Norton's classic family adventure, 'The Borrowers'. The eponymous folk live happily in a perfect, little house under the floorboards of a quiet, old house. But, when young Arrietty gets itchy feet and decides to go exploring, their secret is out and nothing will ever be the same again! Adapted by New Vic Director, Theresa Heskins, the show will be brought to life by the same creative team behind 'Alice in Wonderland', 'The Hundred and One Dalmatians' and 'Peter Pan'.

and chasing 101 spotty dogs across all of England, I'm looking forward to surprising and delighting audiences with out ingenious solutions to the challenges." Featuring magical storytelling, original music and thrilling, live-on-stage effects, 'The Borrowers' will run from Saturdays, November 22nd, to January 15th, 2015. A special deal for school groups comprises tickets priced at £10; free teachers' tickets (one per ten children); on-site parking, and an education programme. Tickets cost £15-£22 (with £2 off for concessionaries and a discount of £2 for groups of ten or more), and a Family of Four Ticket is priced at £64 (must include one adult and one child).

She said: "Bringing this story to the stage will be no mean feat, but, after making Alice shrink and grow in Wonderland,

All are available from the New Vic Box Office on (01782) 717962 or online at

Merits of mentallystimulating games

Institute and the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Centre, in the USA) examined 329 persons, with an average age of 60, who were healthy, but adjudged to be at a higher risk of the disease, on account of their genetic background or family history. They performed a series of tests (including brain-scans and cognitive assessments) on the participants, who were asked how often they took part in activities, such as reading books, visiting museums, playing card-games and doing puzzles. The researchers discovered that people, who reported playing games, like cards or draughts, and doing crosswords or other puzzles, were more likely to possess a greater brain-volume in several regions involved in Alzheimer's disease and higher scores in cognitive tests. They concluded that, for some individuals, participating in such games could help to avert Alzheimer's disease.

'USE it or lose it': that's the message from a new study, which suggests that playing games or completing puzzles may help fend off Alzheimer's disease. Presented to the Alzheimer's Association International Conference, in Copenhagen, fouund that these types of brain-stimulating activities could help preserve vulnerable brain structure and cognitive functions. Researchers said that people who spent more time playing mentally-stimulating games were also more likely to perform better in learning, memory and information processing tests. However, the charity, Alzheimer's Research UK, averred that, while the study contributed to the 'use it or lose it' debate, it did not confirm whether playing such games prevented the condition. The researchers (from Wisconsin Alzheimer's 30 | NOVEMBER 2014

www.newvictheatre.org.uk

THE service which this family-run business provides is designed to be affordable and reliable at all times. Whether readers are looking for a headstone or cremation memorial, JBM Memorials is able to give you the information which you need to purchase a lasting tribute to the memory of a loved one, thanks to the sensitive approach shown by its friendly staff. JBM Memorials ensures that it can offer quality craftsmanship by employing a small, close-knit team of experienced masons. Cemetery and churchyard authorities almost always have regulations regarding the types of memorials which they will allow. These regulations vary from place to place and, therefore, need to be checked before any choice is made. In addition, certain varieties of stone may be more appropriate in some places than in others, not only for their appearance, but also because of the effect of weather or local conditions. There are several, different factors to be taken into consideration, when choosing a memorial: stone-type; selection of stone-shape and ornamentation; and selection of size and lettering-finish. A reputable memorial mason will advise you on all of these matters. It is, of course, possible to choose a design from a mason's brochure or display; however, if you would prefer something more individual, a reputable memorial mason will be only-toopleased to design it for you. The staff at JBM Memorials are committed to making your choice of memorial as easy and stress-free as possible, and home-visits are available, on request, for people's convenience. They do this by providing the general public with high-quality stone masonry; offering an outstanding level of traditional, hand-carved craftsmanship; and have many headstone memorials on show in the workshop. All types of monumental and stonework are undertaken, wonderfully complemented by cleaning and restoration work and second inscriptions. Using granite, slate, marble, limestone and York stone, the business's range of products also includes pet memorials, crematorium plaques and stone renovation work. Supplying everything from gravestones to individual design memorials, JBM Memorials has two shop-outlets with a showroom and workshop.

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

A perfect paint-match thanks to Andy!

Low Cost, Convenient Mobile Car Body Repairs for

Scratches • Bumper Scuffs • Small Dents • Alloy Wheels • Stone Chips • Machine Polishing • Colour Rectification • Textured Plastic Bumper Welding and Trim Repair Perfect repairs that last! + LIFETIME GUARANTEE! Call 'TODAY' on 07973 313 057 or 01782 478 707 for a FREE No Obligation Repair Estimate at your convenience

www.smartautofix.co.uk COURIERS & HAULAGE LTD

Tel: 01782 825 598 07979 827 006

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 sales: 01782 461711

"I HAVE had my car done twice by Andy. The work was excellent on both occasions. I would recommend Andy's work every time, and would not hesitate to use him again." There are many, fulsome testimonials to the workmanship of Smart Auto Fix technician, Andy Withers, who expertly uses a revolutionary vehiclerepair system which is affordable for ALL car-owners and this is just one of them! If you're worried, because your vehicle has picked up a scratch, scuff or dent lately, he operates his Smart Auto Fix Repair Service within Stoke-on-Trent and surrounding areas, providing a FULLY-MOBILE facility that he'll bring to your home or workplace. operated from a Mobile Mercedes Workshop. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL ABOUT SMART AUTO FIX? Quite simply, it uses the most advanced colouranalysis technology and the

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

highest-quality products, which are universally recognised as the best in the country. "A Smart Auto Fix technician uses the world's most technologicallyadvanced colour-matching system, which ensures a perfect paint-match on all painted surfaces across a wide selection of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, vans, buses, coaches and trucks, meaning no more expensive trips to the bodyshop, or your car off the road for several days," explains Andy, whose enjoys well over 20 years' experience within the body-repair industry (a fact which shines through, whilst he carries out his work!). "I work with private, trade and corporate clients, and can offer a repair-solution to suit your requirements, ranging from paint-rectification work, through to colour-coding and paint-coderetrieval at affordable prices." All repairs are covered by a LIFETIME GUARANTEE, and cost-savings are typically up to 50% (compared to a bodyshop). 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 NOVEMBER 2014 | 31

WINTER EXCURSIONS

ABC

SUPREME COACHES

ABC

SUPREME COACHES

01782 824232

20TH NOV – NOTTINGHAM

CHRISTMAS MARKETS & ICE RINK WINTER WONDERLAND - £12.00pp

This quality "Old England" themed event will feature over 50 bespoke Victorian styled trading cabins, a real ice rink, timber decked walkways, tow themed winter bars, a bandstand,100's of real xmas trees, snow dressing and all the magical delights of the season

30TH NOV – BIRMINGHAM BULLRING & GERMAN MARKETS - £13.00pp The Bullring is the glamorous heart of Birmingham with over 160 imaginative and desirable shops to explore & also the largest authentic German market outside Germany and Austria, Explore over 180 stalls selling gifts, jewellery, decorations, handmade toys, delicious German fare and of course the ever popular Glühwein!

7TH DEC – BLISTS HILL VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS - £20.00pp

This Christmas join the residents at Blists Hill Victorian Town as they get in to the festive spirit and enjoy a magical day out with your family and friends, As you wander around the Town you will experience the atmosphere of a bygone era and be treated to an array of traditional celebrations from the 1800s. In the cosy cottages listen to stories of life more than 100 years ago, enjoy seasonal music from bands and choirs alongside fabulously festive entertainment

11TH DEC – WREXHAM CHRISTMAS MARKET (LATE RTN 7.30 PM) - £12.00pp

Located in the most picturesque part of the town centre, the Christmas market, which is bustling and attractive during daylight hours, really comes into it own and takes on a magical look as darkness approaches as each stall is lit and decorated with greenery and tiny twinkling lights

14TH DEC – MANCHESTER SHOPPING & GERMAN MARKET £13.00pp

Don your Santa hat, dust off the mulled wine glass, and get into the festive spirit - it’s time to head down to Manchester’s world famous Christmas Market

21ST DEC – CHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKET - £12.00pp

Shoppers will be able to revel in the choice of stalls at the FREE Christmas Market with over 70 traditional wooden chalets positioned outside Chester’s Town Hall, Library Square, St Werburgh Street and other central locations.

22ND DEC – NANTWICH & CREWE LYCEUM PANTO - £27.50pp

Enjoy a morning in Nantwich before heading to the Crewe Lyceum Theatre for the Christmas panto, Jack & the Beanstalk.

To Make a Reservation Please Contact

01782 82 42 32 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