Inside Wilmslow & Alderley Edge Issue 43

Issue 43 April - May 2015

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inside wilmslow & alderley edge

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Welcome to the latest issue of magazines

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Issue 43 - April/May 2015

wilmslow & alderley edge

There is something very fresh and uplifting about springtime. Everywhere, people are more optimistic, more active and more outgoing. We are essentially social animals and with just a hint of better weather, we are ready to break free. Well, in this issue, there is no shortage of things to do with family or friends.

Plan another trip to Gisburn and enjoy an overnight stay at our favourite B & B. Visit one or more NGS gardens. Take a trip to nearby Cheshire Smokehouse for great food shopping and a sociable coffee or meal. Take advantage of a ‘special offer’ meal at The Farmers Arms in Poynton. Enjoy a day out at Saltaire. Or challenge yourself and friends to our eight-mile Etherow Walk.

We hope you enjoy this springtime issue, packed full of places to go and things to do. We also have lots of new advertisers. If you enjoy this magazine you really can help us to make it better and better.

All you have to do is to support our advertisers as often as you can. Keep them happy and we’ll look after the rest!

Co-Editors Garth Aspinall Claire Hawker

Inside Wilmslow & Alderley Edge is produced by Inside Magazines Ltd. We cannot be held responsible for views expressed by contributors or any advert content, including errors or omissions, or endorse companies, products or services that appear in this magazine. We endeavour to ensure that all local information given in this magazine is accurate, but we cannot always guarantee this. © Copyright Inside Magazines Ltd 2014.

Material from this magazine may not be reproduced without prior written permission from Inside Magazines Ltd.

Design and artwork by Spring Creative www.spring-creative.co.uk | 01925 714203

Cover photo: Inside the Cheshire Smokehouse

by Garth Aspinall.

Contents Lest We Forget

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Simply Books Book Club Choice

7

In Touch

11

Cheshire Smokehouse

14

Crossword 16 A Day in Saltaire

18

The Farmers Arms

20

Three Ways in Three Days

23

Spring into NGS Gardens

24

Sudoku 26 African Pride

28

The Walk

32

Children’s Activities

34

Just 4 Kids

37

Martin’s Money Matters

40

Tilly’s Choice

44

The Furniture Station

48

Inside Guide

51

Light & Shade

57

Puzzle Solutions

58

Useful Numbers

61

Classified Index

62

Contact us

Inside Magazines, 352a Park Lane, Poynton, Cheshire SK12 1RL.

Tel: 01625 879611

email: info@insidemagazines.co.uk www.insidemagazines.co.uk Copy deadline for the next issue:

Tuesday 12 May

Lest We Forget Some members of the Wilmslow Historical Society have pledged to commemorate the fallen of the Great War. We are researching the 273 local residents who died during and after the conflict. Details of the individuals and the context in which they died are released on the 100th anniversary of their passing and these monthly articles are available in various locations.

Wilmslow Town Council has done much to encourage our efforts and the noticeboard, marked with a poppy, outside the Library in the centre of Wilmslow is now dedicated to “remembering”. It displays the articles along with other items associated with the Great War. They can also be found on the council website (www.wilmslow-tc.org.uk) where a record is being kept going back to our first efforts in August of last year. In addition, we have recently approached the local website, wilmslow.co.uk and they have agreed to include them.

St Bartholomew’s Parish magazine has been keen from the beginning to join in the commemoration and publish them, but we also circulate the articles to other local churches – Dean Row Chapel, Norcliffe Chapel Styal, Society of Friends, St John’s Lindow, St Teresa’s, Styal Methodist, United Reformed and Wilmslow Methodist. Many of these have a memorial to their fallen parishioners.

Written largely by Alan Cooper, whose work is initially based on previous research by Jon Armstrong, the articles are circulated to other knowledgeable locals – Jon again, Adrian Lennard, Nancy and Nigel Morton and Eric Turner. They peruse and if necessary add to the text before the articles are sent for “publication”.

Inevitably the number of deaths we will be marking increases as the war intensifies: five in 1914, 27 in 1915, 41 in 1916, 79 in 1917, 93 in 1918.

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by Alan Cooper Wilmslow Historical Society

Sadly there were also deaths in 1919 (7) 1920 (3) 1921 (3). Little or no detail is yet known on 15 soldiers. If you wish to visit a grave then a number can be found in local graveyards: nine in St Bart’s, three in St Chad’s Handforth, four in St John’s as well as cemeteries in Alderley Edge (3) and Wilmslow (10).

A large number of names (176) can be found on the Wilmslow War Memorial and 17 Wilmslow men are also recorded on the Alderley War Memorial. Michael Scaife, a member of both Wilmslow Historical Society and Alderley History Group, produces monthly articles on the 71 men remembered on the Alderley Memorial and puts his work in the St Philip & St James parish newssheet which is distributed to every house in the village and via the website www.stphilipandst james.co.uk In parallel with the work being undertaken on the War Fronts, Mavis Timson of Wilmslow Historical Society is undertaking research on life on the Home Front and on individuals who fought in the war and returned home. She has been talking to a number of people who have interesting stories to tell and is writing them up.

If you have any information either on such individuals, please contact her on mavis.timson.504@btinternet.com or on the Fallen please send it to us at susieandal.68@hotmail.co.uk or via www.facebook.com/wilmslow historical society.

Simply Books Book Club Choice I have chosen two very contrasting books this month. Nora Webster by Colm Toibin is a beautifully written Irish novel. Nora is recently widowed. As she struggles to come to terms with her loss and the needs of her children she has to find a way to start living again. Set in Enniscorthy(Colm Toibin’s home town) in the late 1960’s the novel creates the tension between neighbourliness and claustrophobia that comes with living in a small Irish town. There are also allusions to larger events going on ‘North of the Border’ with the first of the protests and marches that signalled the start of the ‘Troubles’. Simply written, utterly gripping and not a word wasted.

The novel’s seemingly bleak storyline unfolds with such tenderness that you’ll find this is a book that stays with you long after you’ve put it down.

By way of contrast The Bees by Laline Paull is set inside a beehive! Inevitably the comparisons have been made with Richard Adams’ Watership Down – for rabbits read bees! Flora 717 is a survivor. Born into the lowest class of totalitarian hive society she is prepared to sacrifice everything for the Queen, surviving internal massacres, religious and political purges and terrifying invasions by vicious wasps. This is an extraordinary feat of imagination. Laline Paull has clearly done her research on bees. The book reads like a thriller – and as you might have already guessed is as much a commentary on human society (think 1984 or Animal Farm) as the world of the beehive. A brilliant read – you’ll never look the same way at a bee again!

And for the children...with Spring in the air and the chance to get out and about Wild Adventures by Mick Manning and Brita Granstrom is packed full of ideas for all kinds

of exciting outdoor adventures. Beautiful water colour illustrations and easy to follow instructions. In a world of gadgets it’s good to be reminded how much fun it is to explore nature.

Another one for the family bookshelf!

COFFEE AND CONVERSATION Join Andrew for half-an-hour of lively conversation about books in the news. Hear what’s happening in the shop and pick up suggestions for a few ‘good reads!’ Price: £2.50 (towards your coffee and homemade cake!)

Coffee and Conversation takes place on the third Wednesday of each month at 11am. Why not join us on Wednesday 22 April?

THE WRITING ACADEMY We are holding a half-day workshop on Wednesday 27 May with children’s author Julia Wills. Sessions limited to 10 places. Suitable for children aged 9-11. Price £20 (includes refreshments and a signed copy of one of Julia’s books). To book or for more details call in the shop, Tel 0161 439 1436 or email events@simplybooks.info Simply Books, 228 Moss Lane, Bramhall, Cheshire SK7 1BD 0161 439 1436 Open Tuesday to Saturday 9am to 5.30pm Andrew Cant www.simplybooks.info

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Wilmslow U3A

…Making the most of your retirement!

Wilmslow U3A (University of the Third Age) is one of a large number of similar groups up and down the country. It is an organisation which provides an opportunity for retired or semi-retired people to meet together, learn together, enjoy various activities and make new friends. We are a charity operating under the auspices of the Third Age Trust and our aim is for members to help each other get the most out of retirement.

Meeting of Wilmslow U3A Convenors.

We have a wide range of interest groups run by members which allow people to learn new skills, participate in things they enjoy and have fun. We currently have over 20 of these ranging from bridge, languages, country dancing, bowls, crafts, Scrabble, discussions plus lots more. We go on theatre trips, visit historic houses and gardens, and have monthly afternoon teas and Sunday lunches.

We are always looking to start new groups and at the moment have several ideas in the pipeline. All we need is an idea and a few people who would like to join in. If you have an interest that we don’t have a group for at the moment, suggest it and we will try to get one going.

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We also meet monthly from 2.30pm to 4pm on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the United Reformed Church hall, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow to hear speakers on a variety of topics. In the last few months these have included auctioneering, forensic science, music and judging ice skating at the last Winter Olympics. We have speakers arranged for the next few months, but are always on the look out for good speakers for future meetings. After the speaker most of us stay for a cup of tea and a chat, and it is an opportunity to find out about any new or existing group that you are considering joining.

As well as the chance to learn new things and take part in activities which we enjoy, U3A gives you the chance to get out and meet people.

Many members find this social aspect very valuable and the chance to join in with others means that they get to do things that they could not or would not want to do by themselves. This might be something you have always wanted to do, or something you hadn’t ever thought of trying! Some people go to just one thing such as the monthly meeting or a specific group; others are involved in several of the groups.

There is an annual subscription of £12 and some of the groups that require specialist facilities or more space need to charge small amounts, but many of the groups are free to Wilmslow U3A members. We always try to keep the cost to a minimum.

To see what is on offer, please go to our website wilmslowu3a.org.uk for more details or come along to our next meeting and we will be very pleased to see you.

In Touch Your Community Noticeboard QUIZ & PUDDING FUNDRAISER Following on from the success of last year’s fun event and after many requests for it to be repeated, Wilmslow Wells for Africa is organising another Quiz and Pudding evening which we hope will bring us close to reaching the £1 million milestone. The date is Saturday 25 April at 7pm in the United Reformed Church, Wilmslow.

Wilmslow Wells for Africa has raised about £972,000 since we were founded in 1984 and we expect to reach a milestone of £1 million during 2015.

The photo is from one of the projects Wilmslow Wells funded in Malawi, costing £1050, which has made an enormous difference to the lives of those living in the Bilisoni Village. The project completion report stated “Working together with Wilmslow Wells we’ve successfully extended the pipeline bringing water from the Phala River to Bilisoni Village. This has brought safe, clean, local water to over 100 households—more than 500 people for the first time ever.”

For further information visit www.wilmslowwells.org

ENTERTAINING ANGELS Richard Everett’s sharp-edged comedy, Entertaining Angels, is a ‘very English comedy’.

As a vicar’s wife, Grace has spent a lifetime on her best behaviour. Now, following the death of her husband, Bardolph, and whilst contemplating her years of duty and devotion to him and his work, she finds enjoyment in her new-found freedom to do and say exactly as she pleases.

The return of her eccentric missionary sister, Ruth, home to support her in her hour of need, however soon forces her to confront the truth of her marriage during their inevitable sisterly bickerings. The tales of grief, regret, lack of communication within a family and long buried secrets soon surface - adultery, miscarriage, divorce and deception are emotional subjects all warmly handled and delivered with well-received jokes in this probingly witty comedy.

Entertaining Angels runs at the Wilmslow Green Room from 9 to 16 May 9th - 16th 2015.

Tickets can be booked online or via the Green Room Box Office on 01625 540933. For further information, please visit www.wgrsoc.org.uk

CHESHIRE TORTOISE DAY Now in its 14th year Cheshire Tortoise Day, organised by the Cheshire Group of the British Chelonia Group, will again be held at Woodford Community Centre on Saturday 16 May. The Cheshire group plans the event to include educational and natural history aspects of chelonia and also fun activities for younger visitors.

Siuna Reid and her nursing staff from The Veterinary Health Centre Ltd, Lytham St Annes, will be in attendance throughout the day, offering micro chipping, worming, health checks and advice on husbandry. Various stalls will be displaying their wares, including plants, books and crafts. Refreshments are available including the now famous hot bacon barmcakes.

Entry fee £2, children free. For more information email annetortuga@btinternet.com or julia.davenport@virgin.net Continued over...

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in touch

TWO NEW COMMUNITY CHOIRS Cheshire Community Choirs are launching two new choirs, one in Alderley Edge and one in Wilmslow. Each choir will run for three, 12-week terms each year and members can attend as many of the choirs each week, as they wish.

Kate Firth, the Choir Director says “These Choirs follow on from the huge success of the Bramhall, Heald Green and the newly launched Knutsford Choirs. All choirs learn the same songs and arrangements which enable them to join together for events to create one big Community Choir. We pride ourselves that our choirs are a great deal of fun and laughter is paramount. So many friendships have been forged over the last few years and members meet regularly for coffee and a chat. We want to share this feeling of community and joy with more people within the Cheshire area.”

“Choir singing has never been more popular than it is today. Singing as part of a small community will give you a sense of belonging and the pressures of everyday life can be forgotten for a while. We provide members with healthy singing techniques and methods to improve physical fitness. Many of our members have a variety of medical problems, some of whom have seen a great improvement.”

The health benefits of choral singing are well documented. Singing unites people, and it’s medically proven to slow the heart rate, lower blood pressure, reduce stress and produce a natural endorphin-fuelled high. It has been used as music therapy in hospitals, care homes and hospices for decades. It’s a great way to meet new people and share a love of singing which is exceptional for keeping healthy. We also run ‘how to read music and learn basic music theory’ sessions for anyone interested.

Singers and non-singers of all ages and experience are welcome to join. The first meeting will be to ‘have a go’ and see if you are interested in our community choir.

Alderley Edge Community Choir will be starting on Tuesday 21 April from 2pm to 3.30pm at

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Alderley Edge Methodist Church, Chapel Road and Wilmslow Community Choir will be starting on Wednesday 22 April from 2pm to 3.30pm at Wilmslow Methodist Church, Kings Close, Water Lane.

Contact Kate Firth on 07794 050591 or email cheshirecommunitychoirs@gmail.com www.cheshirecommunitychoirs.com

HAPPY PLANT HUNTING Plant Hunters’ Fairs return to Adlington Hall on Sunday 10 May for what has become one of the best loved garden events in the area with a winning line up of the best nurseries around, a most charming and beautiful garden and a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere.

For this special event Adlington Hall offers half price entry to the gardens and plant fair of just £3. With so much to see, why not take one of the free guided tours of the gardens with the Head Gardener Anthony O’Grady or simply relax, take in the beautiful gardens and enjoy traditional teas and home made cakes?

The nurseries will of course come loaded with a really great mix of plants and specialities to delight plant lovers of every level of experience and will be more than happy to give you the benefit of their experience in planting and caring for the plants you buy so you can get the best from them. The fair opens at 10.30am and closes at 4pm.

For further information please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk

FINE ART SOCIETY VISITS ITALY A visit to Italy by members of North East Cheshire Decorative and Fine Arts Society on 23 April will focus on the art and palaces of Bologna,

Mantova and Ravenna. Their four-night stay in Bologna will include a tour of the city’s university – the oldest in Europe – and Renaissance art in the Pinoteca Nazionale. They will also see the famed Byzantine mosaics in Ravenna and, in Mantova, the Palazzo Te and Giulio Romano’s Room of Giants.

On 13 May there will be a one-day visit to Towneley Hall historic house and museum, near Burnley, and Elizabethan Gawthorpe Hall, near Padiham.

The Society holds monthly lectures, usually on the second Wednesday, at the Brookdale Club, Bramhall. On 8 April the subject is Russian Art and 20th Century Modernism, followed, on 13 May, by Trees in Art and Literature.

The 20km route has been added to five Macmillan Cycletta events nationwide throughout 2015, including Tatton Park on Sunday 27 September where women can now enter 20k, 50k, 100k or 150k distances.

More information: www.necdfas.org.uk or email info@necdfas.org.uk

Cycletta was launched three years ago and so far over 10,000 women have taken part in an event across the UK.

MACMILLAN CYCLETTA CHESHIRE ANNOUNCES NEW 20K ROUTE Macmillan Cycletta, the UK’s leading womenonly sportive series, has announced they are extending their series distances at five of their events to include the 20km distance. The shorter distance will offer participating ladies an alternative to the longer distance routes preferred by more experienced cyclists and is ideal for beginners looking to take up cycling, or participating in their first major cycling event.

Earlier this year, Macmillan Cycletta announced it was also adding new long distance routes of 150km to several of the events, in response to feedback from participants that they were looking for greater physical challenges.

Liz Hemming, Cycling Challenge Events Programme Manager from Macmillan Cancer Support commented: “It is such a rewarding experience taking part in an event like Macmillan Cycletta Cheshire and raising vital funds for charity in the process. Many participants raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and we believe the 20k distance will very much appeal to a wide spectrum of fundraisers of all abilities, as well as those ladies who may be entirely new to cycling as a sport.”

Entries are now open for the Macmillan Cycletta in Cheshire at www.humanrace.co.uk/cycletta

FREE TREES The Woodland Trust sends out free trees every March and November to groups across the UK. Packs come in various mixes of 30, 105 or 420 saplings approximately 20-40cm tall. We want to help school, youth and community groups bring people together to plant green shared spaces.

Planting trees is also an ideal way of creating a beautiful, living tribute to those who have helped shape your local community.

You can apply for multiple packs (e.g. 1x105 wild harvest, 1x30 copse, 1x30 hedge) up to a maximum of 420 trees per delivery season. One application per pack is required for community and youth groups. Schools interested in receiving free trees can use a dedicated form to place an order.

Applications for packs to plant in November 2015 can be submitted online now until 3 September, while stocks last. Visit our website today for more information and help with how to apply. www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

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The Cheshire Smokehouse Many Wilmslow readers will have visited The Cheshire Smokehouse and others will be aware of its reputation. After all, its right on your doorstep.

I visited this wonderful oasis of food just a few weeks ago and will go there again at the earliest opportunity. I loved the whole ambience, its amazing diversity of products and not least its café.

(Anyone that knows me knows I like a good café!).

Now that spring is here, take a short drive to Morley Green, with family or friend, and bring home a little quality fare. If you’re planning a special event or party, you will be truly spoiled for choice.

Not just a smokehouse Over the last 22 years in Morley Green, just outside Wilmslow, the Cheshire Smokehouse has developed and introduced: ■■ A bakery- making fantastic fresh breads, cakes, pies and pastries ■■ A butchery -sourcing great local beef, pork, lamb and poultry ■■ A wine section- with over 400 wines, spirits and beers ■■ A kitchen- making a vast array of ready meals, salads and dips ■■ A selection of superb British and continental cheese ■■ Fresh fruit and vegetables

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by Garth Aspinall

There is also the Smokehouse Café. This is open Tuesday-Saturday and serves contemporary dishes using the large variety of foods that have been made onsite. The ever-changing menu features morning coffee favourites, a full lunch menu and afternoon tea classics.

All this is complemented by a shop full of handpicked delicacies from local artisan producers, the UK and the rest of the world.

Food hall, Farm shop, Delicatessen - call it what you will! But what sets the Smokehouse apart from other outlets is that most of the products available are produced onsite by a team of nearly 40 dedicated foodies, bakers and chefs.

As owner and Managing Director Darren Ward remarked ‘ Four generations and over 100 years’ experience of smoking fine foods enables us to produce a range of smoked fish, meats, poultry,

charcuterie, cheeses and even nuts using the same techniques, cures and smoke stoves that our father, grandfather and great grandfather used’ If you are looking for something a little different from the “run of the mill farm shops” and you enjoy good food, you must call in.

It’s a lot more than just a Smokehouse.

We will certainly revisit The Cheshire Smokehouse in future issues of our magazine.

It’s always exciting to discover ‘a hidden gem’ and to bring it to the attention of our readers. Actually, this gem is really not all that hidden! It’s just on the fringe of Wilmslow as you head towards the airport. Follow the signs for Morley Green off the A538 Wilmslow - Altrincham road.

Visit their superb website now if you are eager to find out more: www.cheshiresmokehouse.co.uk Opening Times Smokehouse Shop: Monday 9am - 5pm, Tuesday – Friday 9am - 6pm, Saturday 9am - 5pm.

Smokehouse Café: Tuesday – Saturday 10am - 4pm.

Cheshire Smokehouse Limited, Vost Farm, Morley Green, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 5NU. Tel. 01625 548 499.

Quick Crossword

16

Across

Down

1 5 9 10 12 13 14 16 19 21 23 25 26 27 28 29

1 2 3 4 6 7 8 11 15 17 18 20 21 22 24 25

Authorisation (8) Fading (6) Plunged (8) Motto (6) Acquires deservedly (5) A white gypsum used for carving (9) A rolled up document (6) Diary (7) Badmouths (7) A parakeet or cockatoo (6) Extremity (9) Different (5) Short sleep (6) Read aloud for recording (8) Wife or husband (6) Used (8)

Anagram of “Milers� (6) Dealing with numbers (9) ____ and Caicos Islands (5) Including everything (7) Besiege (9) Metal bar (5) Army officers (8) A pilgrimage to Mecca (4) Coordinates (9) Beginners (9) Stalemates (8) Smack (4) Forecast (7) Marked (6) Prefix indicating the first or original (5) Base 8 number system (5)

Solution on page 58.

Our Day Out - Saltaire

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Now that spring is here, take a chance and start planning some great days out. Saltaire in West Yorkshire, some four miles from Bradford and about one hour and twenty minutes’ drive from home, is our first suggestion this year for a great individual or family experience. Enjoy your day according to the weather. There’s lots to see and do, indoors and outside – too much to describe in detail - but here is a flavour of what you can expect.

one of the earliest, largest and best preserved ‘model villages’ anywhere in the world.

Saltaire takes its name from its founder, Sir Titus Salt (1803-1876) and the River Aire which runs through the village. Salt made his fortune in the Bradford textile industry, manufacturing fine woollen fabrics. Determined to escape the polluted and overcrowded town centre, he decided to relocate his business to greener pastures – to a place where his workforce would be healthier, happier and more productive.

Work began in 1851 and Salts Mill was the first building to be completed in 1853. Saltaire is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its international influence on town planning and as

On the third floor, two new permanent exhibitions have recently opened: The Arrival of Spring by David Hockney and People and Process, a History

by Garth Aspinall

Salts Mill - World Class Art, Exhibitions and Shops Galore Admission is free. Salts Mill is home to one of the largest collections of David Hockney’s art. On the ground floor you will find the 1853 Gallery which houses a permanent exhibition of works by David Hockney, seven days a week.

of Salts Mill. These latter two spaces, along with Café in the Opera (a specialist fish restaurant) are open only Wednesday – Sunday.

On the second floor, Gallery 2 is home to a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, whilst the Saltaire Exhibition, at the rear of the Gallery, depicts Saltaire’s history from 1853 to the present day.

There are many independent shops in the mill, including everything from bikes to handmade jewellery and antiques. Stroll around the Salts Book and Poster shop and browse in The Homea luxury homeware and furniture shop. A few of the mill shops are closed on Sundays (eg The Early Music shop and the bike shop) so check beforehand if you have a particular one in your sights - 01274 531163.

the family can enjoy an easy-going lunch. Café in the Opera - open Wed-Sun is -a very popular fish restaurant and perhaps advisable to book.

Whilst out and about, look out for Vicars Café Bistro, Massarella Fine Art & Tea Rooms, The Boat House Inn and the café in Roberts Park. In the evening you could dine at Don’t Tell Titus a popular bar and restaurant or La Rue on Bingley Road. Otherwise take a ten minute walk to nearby Shipley, during the day or evening where you will find even more enticing cafes and restaurants.

Other things to do

The Heritage Trail Call in at the Visitor Information Centre, obtain a map of the Heritage Trail and decide your own route and timescales. Alternatively, book a guided walk (you can book in advance 01274 437942) and travel back in time, with never a dull moment!

At least, that was my experience. However you proceed, here are a few of the places you should not miss – Saltaire United Reformed Church, Victoria Hall, The Factory School, The Almshouses around Alexander Square, cobbled Albert Terrace and the characterful streets that branch off in a purposeful grid formation, The Boat House Inn and Roberts Park.

Eating Out Salts Mill itself offers two great value restaurants.

Salts Diner is a large and friendly space where all

There are some lovely self-guided walks around Saltaire: The Aire Sculpture Trail, Aire Valley Woodland and Water, Shipley Glen and Hirst Lock and Tong Park Dam. During one weekend In May, local artists welcome you into their houses, showcasing a range of art and crafts. September is the time to chill out at the ten-day Saltaire festival. There is so much going on throughout the year, you are best advised to visit the Saltaire Visitor information Centre or the following websites to find out what is current at the time of your visit. www.visitsaltaire.com and www.saltsmill.org.uk Getting there by car: Sat Nav BD18 3TT for the car park.

Trains and bus services are also available.

In summary Saltaire offers something for everyone and has a very different feel from the leafy lanes of Cheshire. Personally speaking, I experienced a wonderfully warm day in Roberts Park and felt totally uplifted by the works of David Hockney.

Everything else was just a bonus.

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The Farmers Arms - Surpassing all Expectations If you want to visit a place that is hospitable, serves great food and can bring a twinkle to your eye, the Farmers Arms in Poynton takes some beating. This wonderful pub typifies the spirit of change that has overtaken Poynton in recent years. Who could have imagined all of this just a few years ago? A new village landscape, superb shopping facilities and a pub that just oozes character and appeal.

The Farmers Arms has been with us in many guises over the years, but most would agree that this time it has truly reinvented itself and should give great pleasure for many years to come.

Certainly, it represents a landmark investment by Robinsons Brewery.

Neil Robinson-Stanier, Robinsons Director, said: “The last major refurbishment took place around 32 years ago and although we have carried out minor design changes over the years, the pub needed an overhaul to meet the retail design expectations of a pub in 2014. The plan was to design a scheme that was full of fun, theatre and interest.”

As you enter, you come face to face with Ermintrude – a life-sized fibre glass cow. Hand painted, her floral design gives a clue to the upholstery that adorns several new seating areas and is a taster of the general décor that awaits you.

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Miscellaneous agricultural artefacts are tastefully displayed throughout its space, butterflies adorn the ceiling and cascading flowers bring a vast sweep of colour to its walls. Such daring creativity has never before been seen in a Robinsons pub, or in any other pub I have visited.

Opening the new look Farmers Arms, William Robinson, Managing Director of Robinsons Brewery (Pubs Division), said: “This pub is not only a landmark pub for Poynton but for our brewery as a whole. We believe that pubs are all about stories and history. The entrance even incorporates a half crown coin which was originally stuck onto the old bar over 50 years ago by Martin’s father-in-law; it is part of the rich history of the pub and is a microcosm of our core beliefs – embracing heritage whilst looking towards the future.”

“The design has turned everything on its head” said licensee Martin Crank. “If you compared the pub to what it looked like at the start of 2014 you wouldn’t believe it’s the same place!”

The pub serves a menu that combines honest home cooked dishes with locally sourced produce. Grazing boards, 28 days matured steaks, freshly made salads, English sausages, leeks wrapped in bacon and mackerel pate are just a taste of what’s available on the menu.

If you enjoy doing things that surpass your expectations, visit the Farmers Arms. It’s as simple as that.

Three Ways in Three Days... …to improve your positivity, happiness and frame of mind Day 1: Incorporate Laughter into Your Day If you wake up feeling tired and negative, take positive action and incorporate laughter into your day. You don’t have to fake it, just deliberately seek out people, things, events and media that make you laugh. An episode of Friends usually does it for me! You could start the day with a funny YouTube video, share it with your family and laugh together, or call a friend who always makes you laugh. You won’t believe how powerful laughter is and how it can take you away from a depressed, negative and lethargic state!

‘Why can’t you just hang your coat up?’ in an exasperated tone say, ‘Ah thanks for hanging your coat up, it really helps me.’ First a look of confusion and then a smile and ‘oh right sorry’ comes out. You avoid a bad atmosphere, there’s no huffing and puffing and ‘Teenage Kevin’ doesn’t even come out. Honestly try it! Try to use positive language eg when you, when I, I can, I’m going to try, instead of I can’t, you can’t, it’s impossible, it’s not fair etc. This really helps to maintain and improve a positive mood and atmosphere.

Two extra quick fixes Involve others and share your feelings whenever you can. ‘A problem shared is a problem halved’ is so very true. And finally, make sure you exercise.

Anything will do as long as you get your heart rate up and work your muscles. This releases the endorphins which are the same feel good hormones we feel during laughter.

Day 2: Practise gratitude Before you even climb out of bed, think about all the things you have to be thankful for and write them down in a long list. It can be anything: your health, your family, your friends or the fact that you have food in your fridge, a roof over your head, and you can walk in the park. The longer your list is, the more it should improve your frame of mind making you feel more positive and ready to face your day. If you are feeling low then just stop and collate your list.

Day 3: Use positive language Have you ever listened to yourself talking to your children? Do you say things like, don’t do this and don’t do that? Why have you done...? Stop doing… all said in a very demanding and harsh tone. Don’t worry, we all have; however, you can try this: If you pick the thing they haven’t done or did wrong and turn the sentence round into thanking them for doing it before they have, you won’t believe the reaction. For example: Ben walks in and throws his coat on the floor. Instead of

by Wendy Bateman www.choose-u.com email: wendy@choose-u.com

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Spring into an NGS Garden This edition of your Inside magazine covers April to May with, we hope, the return of drier and warmer weather so that we can get into our gardens and start work for the season ahead.

There’s plenty to do, from tidying the borders to preparing beds for outdoor crops and plants.

You’ll find some useful tips in “Barry’s Gardening Tips” at the end of this article. Remember that gardening should be fun, so be sure to make time to visit some NGS gardens for inspiration ... and relaxing with afternoon tea!

About the National Gardens Scheme (NGS) The NGS is the biggest garden-based charity fundraiser in England and Wales with nearly 4000 gardens due to open this year. In Cheshire and Wirral, there are 83 NGS gardens, including 11 that are new for 2015. You can plan your NGS visits with the famous Yellow Book or the free county booklets. There’s also a free mobile app for Apple and Android and social media fans can find us on Facebook /Cheshire NGS or follow us on Twitter /CheshireWirrNGS. NGS Gardens to visit in April and May The following Cheshire and Wirral gardens are open to the public on the dates listed; admission to each garden is £4, children free. Note that many also welcome group visits on other dates

Nursery rhyme theme at Poulton Hall.

– just select the “By arrangement” option on the NGS Garden Finder website.

All Fours Farm, Colliers Lane, Aston by Budworth, Northwich New! A traditional and well-established country garden with a small vegetable garden, pond and greenhouse. Also, vintage machinery and original features from its days as a working farm. Open: Friday 3 April (10-4pm) Racefield, St. Margaret’s Road, Bowdon New! The front garden is semi-formal, with tree peonies and herbaceous peonies edged with lavender. Central beds are surrounded by rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and acers.

The side garden has a large rockery with conifers and climbers. Open: Saturday 18, Sunday 19, Saturday 25, Sunday 26 April (12-4.30pm).

Briarfield, The Rake, Burton, Neston Tucked under the south-facing side of Burton Wood, the garden is home to many specialist and unusual plants, some available in a plant sale.

Shrubs, bulbs, alpines and several water features compete for attention as you wander through four distinctly different gardens. Open: Sun 19 Apr (2-5). Visitors also welcome by arrangement, April to October.

Bank House, Goldford Lane, Bickerton

Shaded patio at Racefield.

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by Graham Beech www.ngs.org.uk

1¾-acre garden at the foot of Bickerton Hill, an area of outstanding beauty, with extensive views to the east and south. Sheltered, terraced borders with a wide range of shrubs, trees and herbaceous plants; established wild garden, Millennium garden with water features and productive vegetable garden. Open: Saturday 25,

Sunday 26 April (1.30-5). Visitors also welcome by arrangement, April to July Poulton Hall, Poulton Lancelyn, Bebington 3 acres of gardens with lawns fronting the house and many other features:. wildflower meadow; walled garden with reminders of Roger Lancelyn Green’s retellings of Excalibur, Robin Hood and Jabberwocky; scented sundial garden for the visually impaired; rose, nursery rhyme, witch, herb and oriental gardens. Open: Saturday 25, Sunday 26 April (2-5.30). Visitors also welcome by arrangement, April to August.

Long Acre, Wyche Lane, Bunbury Plantswoman’s garden of approx 1 acre with unusual plants and trees, pool, gardens, exotic conservatory specialising in proteas, S African bulbs and clivia. Spring garden with camellias, magnolias, bulbs. Open: Sunday 26 April (2-5).

Visitors also welcome by arrangement April to June groups of 10+

Barry’s Gardening Tips How will you get the best out of your garden this year? There’s plenty of gardening advice in newspapers and magazines, but it’s always good to have a local perspective. Barry Davy, NGS garden owner and designer from Handforth, gives us his top tips for April and May: Ferns come in a huge variety of forms and colours besides the ubiquitous British native Dryopteris filix-mas. If you’re a fan of ferns, as I am, then make sure all old foliage has been removed, as the new fronds will be on their way.

One of the best is Dryopteris affinis cristata ‘The King’: elegant, evergreen during a mild winter and will cope with dry shade, once established.

If you’re in the market for azaleas and rhododendrons, now is the time to go shopping.

They’re in flower so you can see exactly what you’re buying, rather than rely on labels and pictures in books. Bodnant Garden, near Colwyn Bay in North Wales, is a great place to see these plants at their best. Their famous laburnum arch will be in full flower towards the end of May so that’s a great time to visit. Be sure to phone first

A colourful corner at Long Acre.

(01492 650460, just to check the laburnum is sticking to the timetable.

This is tulip time. See which you like and make a note in that garden diary you meticulously keep (or take photos), so you remember which to buy in the autumn. Many modern tulips are relatively short-lived and rarely flower well after their second or third year, but there are exceptions.

‘Princess Irene’ and ‘Ballerina’ (scented) have returned year after year in my garden. These are shades of orange which look particularly wonderful growing through Euphorbia griffithii ‘Fireglow’ or ‘Dixter’ (a Christopher Lloyd selection), with its orange shoots. Alliums such as ‘Purple Sensation’ or the larger, and slightly later flowering, ‘Giganteum’ and ‘Globemaster’, provide a great contrast. It’s worth remembering that tulips should be planted fairly deeply. I bury mine at least 6 inches underground.

A plant that should feature in every garden is Brunnera ‘Jack Frost’. It produces its pretty forgetme-not flowers in April but as they fade the silverand-green variegated leaves expand to form an eye-catching clump. Best kept away from full sun, which will cause it to go crispy around the edges, it will brighten a shady corner for several months.

It forms a good combination when grown around the base of white-flowering hydrangeas.

Early flowering shrubs can be cut back around now (when their flowers have finished of course), such as the flowering currant Ribes. Look out for white ‘Icicle’, which makes a welcome change from the usual pink variety. The nursery at Arley Hall has a particularly fine example and I’m sure they will be happy to sell you one.

If you’re looking for inspiration or need help with planting your garden, you can contact Barry by email: barry.davy@ntlworld.com. Or meet Barry and his wife Melanie at their NGS open garden days at Brooke Cottage, Handforth on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July from 12 – 5pm. Homemade teas available!

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Sudoku

How to play Sudoku Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

You don’t need to be a genius.

These puzzles use logic alone.

Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.

Solution on page 58.

African Pride There is an old African proverb “Let him speak who has seen with his eyes” and reading these few wise words it could easily be extended to add… “heard with his ears, smelt with his nose, touched with his hands and felt with his heart” for anyone visiting Africa will have their senses stimulated more than anywhere else on earth.

Is it because we all can trace our roots to this ancient land and each of us therefore retains a piece of it deep within us? Whatever the reason, there is no doubt that once experienced, Africa will call you back again and again.

But where to start? Africa is a huge continent and the area we are looking at here only covers eastern and southern Africa, commonly referred to as the ‘safari region’ for that is usually the main reason that visitors travel here. The choice of holiday ideas is vast but most incorporate a safari at some point of the holiday. To experience the Great Migration in full force in east Africa; see gorillas in the mist of the Mountains of the Moon in Rwanda; be in awe at the grace and elegance of a leopard; the gentleness and strength of a herd of elephants; the sheer range of birdlife that appears almost round every corner or the

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by Kristina Hulme www.travelbydesigngroup.com

skittishness of the antelope species as they constantly stay on the lookout for danger from the masters of the African bush and plains, a pride of majestic lions.

In general terms, southern Africa has seasons that are the opposite of ours but as it is bordered by two very different oceans – the cool Atlantic and the warm Indian – and with a lot of its area in the sub-tropical or equatorial regions, choosing the best time to travel is essential and this is where expert advice can help.

Travel Each holiday to Africa is different and there is more on offer than just safaris. Amazing scenery, world-class wineries, ancient rock art, beautiful coasts, whales and dolphins, stunning accommodation and most of all the people who are so proud of their heritage and are always keen to impart a little flavour of Africa to all their visitors.

Choosing an African holiday requires careful planning and expert advice and using our many years of knowledge and experience we work with you to ensure that each one is tailored to meet your own individual requirements. So choose Travel by Design and African Pride for your holiday to Africa and as the old African proverb says...�see with your own eyes�.

To book your next Africa holiday phone us on 01625 584195, email to info@travelbydesigngroup.com or call in to see us at Travel by Design in Alderley Edge. For an in depth chat why not make an appointment with one of our expert team.

Your Favourite Gourmet Break The Ribble Valley village of Gisburn just gets better and better.

Book a luxury night or two away in the beautiful Ribble Valley village of Gisburn, only 30 minutes from the M6 and 15 minutes from the M65.

Reserve your room at Park House Boutique Georgian B & B, enjoy dinner at the award winning La Locanda Italian Restaurant and try Gisburn’s newly refurbished Country Pub. Yes, the White Bull is now open. Chef, Simon Salt, a finalist of Masterchef The Professionals is hoping to make his mark in this beautiful corner of The Ribble Valley.

The Walk - Etherow 8 Mile Circular Map: Dark Peak 1-25,000 Start: Marple Bridge SK965 895 Car Park: In Brabyns Park Leave the car park and walk back to the main road, Brabyns Brow. Turn left and walk up Lower Fold. Cross the road at the old Compstall Co-op (with the large clock) and take the first footpath on the right, signed St. Mary’s School. Emerge on to Lowry Drive, walk up to the road junction and climb the hill ahead, Constable Drive. Follow the hill round to the right to the junction with Hollins Lane. Turn left and after leaving the houses on the left (just beyond No.89), take the narrow footpath on the left leading to Ley Lane.

On reaching the lane, take the path diagonally left towards Broadstone which was once a farm; go between the old farm buildings to climb a stile. At this point the way ahead is unclear but proceed on a bearing of approx. 20 degrees or, if no compass is available, look up directly ahead away from the stile to find a gap between the trees on the horizon. Walk towards the gap and the edge of some farm buildings will appear and another stile. Go over the stile, keeping the hedge on the right, towards a curving stone wall (this

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by Frank Nolan www.marple-uk.com/rambling

section can be muddy). Continue to follow the wall around the back of Sunhill Farm to pick up the farm drive, curving round to the left where it joins Sandhill Lane.

Higher Chisworth.

Turn right and walk along the tarmac, (the views ahead open up to reveal the Kinder Plateau and to the right Glossop and Bleaklow), to the junction of Ernocroft Lane and Gird Lane. Go straight ahead for 20 yards and take the footpath on the left climbing up past Brown Low (an ancient burial site). Go straight ahead keeping the wall on the left through approx. 6 stiles, gradually descending to an old farm ‘Sandlane’.

Go past the farm on the left down to the minor road, turn left and descend to cross Glossop Road to the unmade road in front; continue to the

end, Far Woodseats (again, another old farm).

Take the path ahead and to the left keeping the fence on your right; follow this path winding through trees and dropping down to a narrow footbridge across the river Etherow. Turn left on to the track towards Bothams Hall, turn left and immediately left again, through a picket gate in front of a greenhouse/summer house (made from an assortment of windows). Five yards past this drop down on the left, cross a plank bridge over a minor stream. Go up to follow a winding path through trees to eventually climb a narrow rocky gully, which will bring you up to the side of a cottage to Apple Street.

Turn left and look for a large metal sign on the left saying Lumn Farm, partly obscured by a small conifer. Go past this and follow the road uphill to the right, looking now for a 5-bar metal gate on the left, about 30 feet after the bend in the road.

At the side of the gate go through the stone stile and through two fields, climbing the stile at the end of the second field to emerge into a field containing an electricity pylon. Go diagonally up the field, passing the pylon on your left, and looking out for a metal 5-bar gate ahead. Go through the gate and join a lane (Become Lane).

Turn left towards Become House, go through the yard and turn left downhill. Follow the road for approx. 100 yards to find a signpost on the

left pointing down towards trees. Go over the stile and drop down to cross another stile, follow the path down Mortin Clough to emerge at the side of a wooden shelter. You are now in Etherow Country Park.

Turn right and follow the path down, passing toilets on the right. At the bottom, turn right following the sign for the car park. When you reach the car park, go diagonally left to a short path leading down to Compstall Road.Turn left and keep on the left hand side, crossing the bridge and cross the road opposite the old George Hotel. Keep walking up the road and look for a sign on the right to Brabyns park. Take the path into the park, crossing the recently refurbished footbridge, turning immediately left on to a path following the river Goyt along its banks to return to the car park and starting point.

This walk was contributed by Marple District Rambling Club. They organise over 30 walks of all levels and distances every month, going out on Thursdays and Sundays. To see copies of their programme, visit www. marple-uk.com/rambling To join the Club, contact either Barry Wilson, 0161 948 0566, or Deirdre Nolan, 0161 427 7794.

Cottage in Simmondley

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Wilmslow Children’s Activities Things to do with pre-school kids

Monday WFA Little Strikers Pre-School Football 10-11am Term time only. Wilmslow Parish Hall, Cliff Road. £5 per session, no pre-booking required. Contact Erik on 07792 791382

NCT Bumps, Babies and Toddler Group 10.30-12 noon Twice a month, the Coffee Lounge at Wilmslow Methodist Church. No admission charge just a small charge for drinks and biscuits payable to the church.

Contact bumpsandbabies@eastcheshire-nct.org.uk or call 0844 2436115.

Under 5’s Story Time 11-11.30am Term time only. Wilmslow Library. Children must be accompanied by a parent or carer. Contact 01625 374060

Under 5’s Rhyme Time 11-11.30am Term time only. Wilmslow Library. Children must be accompanied by a parent or carer. Contact 01625 374060.

Tuesday Baby Sensory 9.30am, 11am, 12.30pm and 2pm St Johns Church Hall, Knutsford Rd. To book, call Becky on 07503547083 or email eastcheshire@babysensory.co.uk Under 5’s Rhyme Time 10-10.30am Term time only. Alderley Edge Library. Children must be accompanied by a parent or carer.

Contact 01625 374030.

Wednesday Coffee, Cake & Craft/Tiddlywinks 10am-12noon Wilmslow Methodist Church. Coffees, hot chocolates and cakes with play area for little ones. Prices from 50p to £1.50. More information from the church office on 01625 528892.

WFA Little Strikers Pre-School Football 10-11am Term time only. Alderley Edge Scout Hut, Talbot Road. £5 per session, no pre-booking required. Contact Erik on 07792 791382.

Mums, Dads and Tots 1.30 to 3pm Term time only. St Benedict’s Church Hall, Hall Road, Handforth. Lots of toys for under 5’s, come along for a cuppa. Contact Jo on 07762 494843

thursday

Moo Music various sessions between 10-11.50am Dean Row Village Hall. Music is an essential part of every child’s development. Our interactive sessions will help your child gain confidence and develop memory, language and co-ordination skills in an exciting, enjoyable and multi-sensory way. Great fun for children and parents/carers too. For more information and to book your place, call 07837345253 or email lucy@moo-music.co.uk

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Compiled by Jenny Riley e: jenny@insidemagazines.co.uk

Baby Massage 1.30pm Wilmslow Methodist Church. For babies 8 weeks+ with their carers, £5 a session. For information and to join the waiting list, call either the church office 01625 528892 or Christine Goddard 07973 787067.

Thursday Tots 2-4pm Term time only, Wilmslow United Reformed Church, Alderley Road. For pre-school children and parents/ carers. £1.50 per family.

Contact thursdaytots@hotmail.co.uk, or phone Barbara on 01625 584267.

Friday Friday Tots 10-11.30am Term time only, Alderley Edge Methodist Church, Church Hall, Chapel Road. Contact Susan Moran on 01625 585166.

Saturday WFA Little Strikers Pre-School Football 10.30-11.30am All year round. Pownall Hall School, Carrwood. £5 per session, no pre-booking required. Contact Erik on 07792 791382

Sunday Messy Church 4pm onwards First Sunday of every month, Wilmslow United Reformed Church, Alderley Road. For more information please contact messychurchwilmslow@hotmail.com or phone Barbara on 01625 584267.

If you run a local activity for young children and would like to be included on this page please email jenny@insidemagazines.co.uk

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Answers: sea captain, seven seas, cannons, treasure, jolly roger flag, ship Extra letter answer: parrot

S D I K 4 JUST

It’s Time to Dust Off That Bike Spring has sprung! As the lighter nights approach, it’s a great time for pulling your bike out of the shed and getting out there to enjoy the freedom and health benefits of life on two wheels.

Even if you’re a keen cyclist and have continued to cycle throughout the winter, now is a good time to get your bike looked over for a Spring health check.

As with your car, regular servicing will not only prolong the life of your bike but will also help keep you safe on the road. Equally, if you’re a keen or competitive cyclist, ensuring that every component is well maintained and fine-tuned will also help to enhance your cycling performance.

Health & Fitness 4. Mudguards - while we’re still not fully out of the winter woods, good mudguards are essential for helping to keep you, your bike and those behind you reasonably clean and dry.

5. Finally, a quick visual check that your frame is in good condition, your spokes are undamaged and there’s no fraying on your brake and gear cables will complete the basics!

Cycling for fitness, pleasure and commuting is now more popular than ever. A quick look at the UK’s cycling calendar of competitive races, sportives, charity and fun rides is testament to that – and there’s plenty in the North West. There is an event out there for absolutely everyone whatever your cycling ability, so if you fancy a challenge for 2015 – get on your bike!

So, whether you’re bringing your bike out of hibernation or it’s just due for some regular TLC, here’s a few priority jobs that will get you set up and ready to ride: 1. Brakes - this is clearly top of the safety checklist! Ensuring brake mechanisms are clean and free of dust and dirt is essential before even thinking about getting on your bike. Brake pads can also wear out and degrade over time, particularly over the winter months, so ensuring they still have plenty of wear left in them is also a safety must.

2. Chains and Gears - make sure your chain and gears are fully lubricated and functioning well.

This can be done with oil, although a specialist bicycle lubricant that contains additional slip compounds will be more effective in helping reduce future wear and tear and will prolong the life of your chain and gears.

3. Tyres - check that your tyres are free of nicks or tears that could result in a puncture. Keeping your tyres pumped to their optimum pressure, which will vary according to your type of bike, will maintain your ride performance and help prevent tyre damage.

by Martin Girdwood, Cycle Mechanic velotechcheshire.co.uk 07929 892429

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Holidays If you’re jet set on tripping abroad this year, here are my top tips on how to use the web to pay less to get more.

Flights Slash flight costs using the RIGHT comparison.

Unlike package holidays with scheduled flights, leaving it until the last minute means prices rocket. So make sure you’re booking in advance and use the right site for the job.

For normal flights just use a flight comparison site. I like www.kayak.co.uk (for gizmos), www.skyscanner.net (for ease), and www. travelsupermarket.com (for breadth). If you’re flying to a traditional package holiday destination, like Majorca, you should also check for spare capacity being sold on tour operators’ own flights.

The comparisons that include these ‘charter flights’ are www.travelsupermarket.com, www. avro.co.uk and www.flightsdirect.com.

Use the Flight Insight tab on comparison site www.momondo.co.uk, eg on average 59 days ahead is the perfect time to book, but it varies by destination, so worth a check. Once you’ve found the cheapest price via a comparison, if you want to push harder, you need to get clever.

Easyjet’s Flexifares let you switch dates by a few weeks without paying more. So bag cheap termtime flights, then swap for your chosen school holiday dates. One of my users saved £700 on her family’s break, yet there are pros and cons. Full step-by-step in www.mse.me/easyjet.

Sometimes two or more airlines sell the same flights and booking via one partner is cheaper eg a United flight from Birmingham to New York can be cheaper via Lufthansa.

Hotels Forget the star system. There’s no world standard and it’s often about facilities, not quality. To find the hotel you want to stay at read reviews on the ubiquitous www.tripadvisor.co.uk, but

40

by Martin Lewis twitter: @MoneySavingExpert

Martin Lewis Column always ignore the best and worst 10%. Check comparison sites, both www.trivago.co.uk and www.travelsupermarket.com allow you to see who’s selling your hotel room for less. Also be aware there are commonly promo codes available for the big hotel booking sites which can cut your costs by a further 15% - for a full list of current ones see www.mse.me/hotelsales.

If you’ve time to play and want the really big discounts, try this naughty (but legal) routes. www.lastminute.com sells secret hotels at big discounts, where you know the star rating, description and rough location, but aren’t told the name till you’ve paid. Yet by cutting and pasting key words into google then matching up the ‘ratings’ you can uncover them before you book – full step by step in www.mse.me/secrethotels.

Packages Package holidays can undercut DIY web bookings... especially for 7, 10 or 14 days in a traditional resort.

Massive savings are possible in the late market, where deals are done within eight weeks of travel, yet of course there’s restricted choice and you may need to be flexible. So if you need special facilities (eg for families) you need to book now and try to cut prices down.

Remember tour operators make holidays, travel agents sell them. So one operator’s holiday may be on sale at many travel agents - the aim is to find who’ll sell it cheapest. Either scan for discounts, or often more lucratively, but more time consuming, is to haggle. To do this first find the trip you want, then write down all details and take it to the travel agents. Go to a few to find the best price, but to be fair if one has spent a lot of time helping you, always give them the last chance to match it.

Keep on Running The bright mornings and light nights are nearly here and for many that brings the start of the running season. Whether you are signed up for the London marathon or the Manchester 10K, if you want to maximise your performance you need to provide your body with the correct fuel.

The Amaranth nutrition team are on hand to help.

Having trained for and run a marathon last year, I know that my performance could not have been achieved without my understanding of nutrition.

Your personal requirements will vary depending on your physique, goals and distance but here are a few ideas to get you started. You can read more at www.amaranth-wellbeing.com/newsletters ■■ A couple of hours before a long run, you need a combination of simple and complex carbohydrates and proteins. Fruit, natural yoghurt, almonds, some orange juice and a protein based bar (eg Pulsin) or smoothie would provide this.

Also in April Book a full 75 minute consultation with a BANT registered nutritional therapist for the special price of £60 (normally £75).

■■ An easily digested carbohydrate such as a banana or a multi-nutrient shake 30 minutes before will provide a top up. TerraNova Life Drink with ½ a banana was my pre-race favourite.

■■ A general guide is to top up your glucose and hydration after approximately one hour of running, then every 30 minutes after. A Performax Hydrate sachet mixed with water along with a few of our dried mulberries will provide natural sugars, fluid and minerals.

■■ Additional vitamins and minerals may be required during your training. A sports multi vitamin such as Lamberts MultiGuard Sport provides B vitamins and magnesium for energy.

To find out more, throughout April our nutrition team are offering free 20 minute consultations to include specific nutrient suggestions and meal plans for your individual training needs.

by Joanne Hill www.amaranth-wellbeing.com

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Promoting Kindness I recently read an article about a vulnerable pensioner who received more than ÂŁ250,000 in donations after he was mugged outside his home. Following the publication of the news story a lady, a stranger to the gentleman, was so moved by the story and how he was frightened to return to his home, that she set up an online donation page with the intention of raising ÂŁ500 for him.

People were shocked to hear that someone could so cruelly treat such a vulnerable individual, they made their voices heard and showed their support by donating online and raising significantly more than anyone expected. This has resulted in the gentleman being in a position to buy a property in a different area.

What struck me were the extremes in human nature, how anyone could be so cruel as to carry out such an attack, but then the overwhelming acts of kindness from strangers. All too often it is the negative aspects of human nature that are reported in the media and not enough of the kindness. The positive impact of a kind act or gesture can go a long way and it doesn’t have to cost us anything. There are many vulnerable people in our community who would benefit from a small act of kindness, from something as simple as a warm smile to making time to ask them how they are and it will most likely make us feel better too.

Karen Perry, Founder alice chilton In-Home Care Services Limited www.alicechilton.com

inside magazines We are looking for Local Reporters Are you a keen writer? Do you love where you live? Is there a lot going on in your village/town?

It can be tricky for us at ‘head office’ to keep up with what’s going on in each area. That’s where you come in.

Email your article to claire@insidemagazines.co.uk and we will be in touch.

We need reporters to send us articles about what’s going on where you live. This is a voluntary role but it’s a great opportunity to keep people informed about what’s coming up in your area.

To become an INSIDE reporter, send us a brief article (max 200 words) about your area and what kind of articles you would like to submit.

Tilly’s Choice Local business Tilly’s Choice, which provides natural and nutritious food for cats and dogs, was inspired by the desire to feed the very best to our pet Yorkshire terrier!

Natural and high quality nutritious food can improve an animal’s health and even prolong its life.

But typical dog food is poor quality, with low meat content, artificial preservatives and fillers which make your dog feel full but has little nutritional benefit.

Tilly’s Choice supplies only natural products which are grain free, hypo-allergenic and have a clear list of ingredients so you can see what is in your pet’s food.

We offer a variety of products, including gluten and dairy free products, catering for different diets and allergies/conditions. However the food

isn’t just for animals suffering with allergies.

It is extremely nutritional, generally helping to improve dogs and cats health via their diet and helps to improve coats and skins. It is also very suitable for fussy eaters or animals with stomach problems.

Tilly’s Choice is independent and we have chosen food which we consider to be the best for our own pets. The food we supply can’t be bought in the supermarket so we make it convenient for you by delivering it direct to your home at a specific date and time agreed with you. This saves you having to travel out of your way to a specialist store and carry heavy food home yourself, or having to wait in ‘just in case.

Pet owners love their animals but often they don’t realise that they are feeding poor quality food to their beloved pets. We are certain that the natural food we supply will make a difference to your pets’ life.

The Furniture Station Don’t throw it away, please give us a call & allow us to re-use your items.

The Furniture Station relies heavily on local donations of unwanted, good-quality furniture and electrical goods in order to help the families and individuals in Stockport who are in need of such basic items.

We require a healthy stock of furniture and electrical items in order to help people who do not have the household basics for their home.

We are appealing for your re-usable items to be donated to The Furniture Station by simply giving us a call on 0161 456 0717 to help us maintain this stock.

We collect free of charge from Stockport, certain East Cheshire and Greater Manchester areas including Wilmslow & Alderley Edge.

There is heavy competition locally for your items and this is very challenging to compete with.

By choosing The Furniture Station you are not only re-using your items and preventing landfill waste, but you are supporting families with an urgent need for such household basics to turn a house into a home. Together, we can continue to relieve poverty and distress to people in need living in Stockport through the provision of these essential furniture and household items and better support them to maintain their tenancy and establish a more independent lifestyle.

The Furniture Station is not a shop open to the public, but a local charity which specifically helps those referred to our services via the council,

housing officers, Age UK, Citizens Advice, social services etc. Operating with the support of 28 volunteers and just six members of staff we deliver these items each week day for only a nominal charge, and continue to do so as the demand for our service continues.

Celebrating 20 years in operation, it is these collections that help our organisation continue the delivery of around 4,000 essential furniture and white good items to some 1,000 homes in the Borough of Stockport each year.

For a list of items we can collect please visit our website www.furniturestation.org.uk/ freecollections Unfortunately gas appliances are not accepted and certain safety criteria apply. All items are accepted at the driver’s discretion; please do not be offended if your items are refused.

Call us on 0161 456 0717 to book your collection today. Please leave a message if you get through to voice mail and we will return your call as soon as possible.

Joanne Watson Twitter: @fsstockport Facebook.com/furniturestation

The Furniture Station, Hazel Grove Baptist Church, Station Street, Hazel Grove, Stockport SK7 4EX.

48

inside magazines

Have you used any of the advertisers in INSIDE Wilmslow & Alderley Edge and received a particularly good service?

If so, we want to hear about it!

All we need is your name, contact details and the area where you live, along with a brief description of why you were so impressed.

Please email to claire@insidemagazines.co.uk or post to Inside Magazines, 352a Park Lane, Poynton, Cheshire SK12 1RL. A selection of these will be printed in future issues of our magazines.

Inside Guide Wednesday 1 April The Flower Club of Wilmslow & District. Karen Schofield (Preston) ‘Garden Party’ New members and visitors are always welcome Royal British Legion Hall, Wilmslow 1.30pm

Sunday 5 April Cemetery Heritage Trail This fascinating tour of some of Macclesfield’s 68 acres of Cemetery and Gardens of Remembrance will reveal curious histories and graveyard symbolism. Booking in advance is essential. Booking: cemeteryheritageapril2015.eventbrite.co.uk or for information call 01625 383948 The Cemetery Lodge, Prestbury Road, Macclesfield 1pm to 3pm

A guide to selected events in East Cheshire during April & May Thursday 9 April Macclesfield Decorative & Fine Arts Society: In the Wake of Handel- The Impact of Handel on British Culture with Peter Medhurst. Visitors welcome £7. Please contact Membership Secretary 01625 611514 Heritage Centre, Roe Street, Macclesfield2pm

Friday 10 April Organist Philip Underwood FRCO performs Suite from the Water Music, Handel; The “Raindrop Prelude,” Chopin; Raindrops keep falling on my head, Bacharach; I’ll Remember April, Raye/De Paul/Johnson; Venus from the Planets, Holst; Final from Symphony no. 1, Vierne.

Admission Free – Retiring Collection St Bartholomew’s Church Wilmslow 1.15pm for 30 mins

WEDNESDAY 8 APRIL

Tuesday 14 April

Wilmslow Historical Society. Barbara Foster, a very knowledgeable local National Trust guide will give a presentation entitled “Sanctuary from the Trenches – the recreation of Stamford Hospital at Dunham Massey Hall.” Visitors £2 including tea/coffee and biscuits.

Tel 01625 529178

NTLecture – Quarry Bank: at the Edge of Revolution, speaker Eleanor Underhill

St Bartholomew’s Parish Hall, Chancel Lane, Cliff Road, Wilmslow 7.45pm

Wednesday 8 April Craft and Chatter. A get together for crafters of all kinds, card making, quilting, collage, embroidery, sewing etc. Bring your own project and enjoy good crafting company with a cuppa. Contact Chrissie 0161 439 8262 for further details. £2 Dean Row Chapel Hall, Adlington Road, SK9 2BX 2pm to 4pm

Wednesday 8 April Easter Crafts. Join the Bollin Valley Rangers on an afternoon of Eastery fun for the under 10s at Macclesfield Riverside Park. Will you be able to find the Easter bunnies on a scavenger hunt down the Park?

Booking and payment in advance is essential. Cost £3 to cover materials.

Booking: eastercrafts2015.eventbrite.co.uk by April.

Information: 01625 374790 Riverside Park Ranger Centre, Beechwood Mews, Beech Lane, Macclesfield 2pm to 4pm

St Michael’s Church Hall, St Michaels Avenue, Bramhall 2pm

Tuesday 14 April Wilmslow Decorative & Fine Arts Society Lecture: Wonderful Copenhagen: The story of its four magnificent royal palaces with Hanne Sutcliffe.

Non-members wishing to attend should contact the membership secretary in advance wilmslowdfas.org.uk Wilmslow Parish Hall, Wilmslow 7.45pm

Wednesday 15 April Alderley Edge Lunchtime Concert: Elizabeth Lawton / flute, Russell Lomas / piano. Light lunch from 12 noon, performance 1pm Alderley Edge Methodist Church

Wednesday 15 April Drop-in children’s craft activities – discover Tudor Remedies and meet Tudor healers, Suitable for children of all ages, parents must accompany. £2 The Old Sunday School, Roe Street, Macclesfield 1.30-3.30pm

Thurs 16 & Fri 17 April Children’s Craft Clubs – make giant spring flowers from a variety of materials. £6.50 for children aged 6-11.

01625 613210 The Silk Museum, Park Lane, Macclesfield 10am-12pm

Compiled by Claire Hawker e: claire@insidemagazines.co.uk

Continued over...

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inside guide

Thursday 16 April

Thursday 23 April

Teenage art class- get inspired by music and create different pieces of art based on different types of music. £6-50 for children aged 11-16. 01625 613210

NT Lecture – The Romance of the Barrel Piano. Speaker Roland Antonelli.

The Silk Museum, Park Lane, Macclesfield 12.30-3.30pm

Saturday 18 April Music for Eastertime with The Lawrence Singers including: Faure – Requiem,Poulenc – Gloria, Williamson – Procession of Palms. Tickets: £9 (Concessions £8, Children u16 free) Ring 0161 439 4293 or 0161 928 2769 Wilmslow United Reformed Church, Alderley Road, Wilmslow 7.30pm

Saturday 18 April The Wilmslow Symphony Orchestra will perform a challenging programme of Beethoven symphony No. 1 and Strauss ‘Ein Heldenleben’, with maestro Ken Woods.

Tickets £12, Conc £10, Under 18’s £2 Wilmslow Leisure Centre, 7:45pm

Saturday 18 April Northern Chamber Orchestra- Ian Fountain, piano: Mozart Piano Concerto in C minor K491 7.30pm, are available from the NCO Box Office: 0161 247 2220, Macclesfield Visitor Information Centre: 01625 378123; Congleton Tourist Information Centre: 01260 271095; the Silk Museum Shop, Heritage Centre and ON THE DOOR. They are priced: £16 / £13, £7 students, 18s & under FREE. www.ncorch.co.uk

Sat 25 to Sun 26 April Wilmslow Parish Spring Festival at St Barts and St Annes. Two days of music including choirs, piano and organ recitals, brass ensembels and more – all proceeds to the Oscar the Organ appeal.

Details at www.wilmslowparish.org/events

Saturday 25 April Wilmslow Wells for Africa’s Famous Quiz & Pudding Night! £10 admission (children free) includes quiz entry, pudding and soft drink. Bring your own wine. Teams can be assembled on the night. Tickets are available from Donna Johnstone 07771 900 294 or Jenny Spiller 01625 524649 Wilmslow United Reformed Church Church Hall, Chapel Lane 7pm start

Saturday 25 April Liverpool based Vintage Fair specialist ‘Pillbox Vintage’ brings their unique vintage fair experience to The Old Sunday School, suitable for everyone and free of charge! 01625 613210 The Old Sunday School, Roe Street, Macclesfield 10am-4pm

Macclesfield Heritage Centre 7.30pm

Sunday 26 April

Wednesday 22 April

Carrs Working Party and Clean-up. Join the Friends of the Carrs and the Bollin Valley Rangers for a thorough clean-up of the park including path and river bank work.

Turn up for an hour or join us for the full day! Tools, work gloves and tuition will be provided. Information: 01625 374790.

Craft and Chatter. A get together for crafters of all kinds, card making, quilting, collage, embroidery, sewing etc. Bring your own project and enjoy good crafting company with a cuppa.Contact Chrissie 0161 439 8262 for further details. £2 Dean Row Chapel Hall, Adlington Road, SK9 2BX 2pm to 4pm

Parish Hall Car Park, Cliff Road, Wilmslow 10am to 3pm

Wednesday 22 April

Tuesday 28 April

Wilmslow U3A: “Constance Coltman, pioneer woman minister” by Rev. Kirsty Thorpe. A charge of £1 is made per meeting after initial joining fee. All are welcome.

Macclesfield Group of the Family History Society of Cheshire (FHSC). ‘Family History on the Internet’

by Howard and Rosie Rowley. A look at some useful family history websites other than the usual Ancestry, FindMyPast etc. Admission £2 including tea/coffee and biscuits. Visitors welcome. For up to date information/ last minute changes please see our page on the FHSC website www.fhsc.org.uk. Contact Rosie Rowley by email macclesfield@fhsc.org.uk or tel 01625 501240

URC schoolrooms, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow 2.30pm

Wednesday 22 April Fundraising quiz night – pit your wits at our quiz night to help raise money for the Macclesfield Museums. £4 per person, refreshments provided. 01625 613210

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St Michael’s Church Hall, St Michaels Avenue, Bramhall 7.30pm

The Old Sunday School, Roe Street, Macclesfield 7.30pm

The Salvation Army Hall, Roe Street, Macclesfield 7.30pm

inside guide

Wednesday 29 April

Sat 9 to Sat 16 May

Wilmslow Guild Flower Club: All that Jazz with Sylvia Bower, Cheshire Area Demonstrator. Non-member visitors welcome but limited to two visits per Guild year at £6 - £8 (special events extra). Contact Linda Cocker on 0161 440 0704, see also our listing at NAFAS Cheshire www.nafascheshire.org.uk

Wilmslow Green Room presents Entertaining Angels, a ‘very English comedy’ by Richard Everett. Tickets can be booked online or via the Green Room Box Office on 01625 540933. For further information, please visit www.wgrsoc.org.uk

Wilmslow Guild, Bourne Street, Wilmslow 1.45pm

Thursday 30 April ‘Newts in Your Pond’ by James Grundy, all you need to know about caring for wildlife in your garden pond, illustrated with some live specimens with the Wilmslow Guild Natural History Society. Visitors welcome £3, further information from 01625 874387 Wilmslow Guild, 1 Bourne St. 7.45pm

Friday 1 May Organist Philip Underwood FRCO performs Prelude and Fugue in D major,Bach; Moonlight and Roses, Lemare; Chant de Mai , Jongen; Tulips from Amsterdam, Klaus-Günter Neumann; Lied to the Sun, Flor Peeters.

Admission Free – Retiring Collection St Bartholomew’s Church Wilmslow 1.15pm for 30 mins

Saturday 2 May Summer Print Fair. Browse and buy a slection of prints, illustrations, comics and zines by various artists and illustrators from across the North West. Free Entry The Old Sunday School, Roe Street, Macclesfield 10am-4pm

Wednesday 6 May The Flower Club of Wilmslow & District. Linda Hardman (Goosnargh) ‘Season to Season’ New members and visitors are always welcome Royal British Legion Hall, Wilmslow 1.30pm

Saturday 9 May Northern Chamber Orchestra - Soloists from the NCO: Tchaikovsky Souvenir de Florence Macclesfield Heritage Centre 7.30pm

Saturday 9 May Bollington Brass Band Charity Concert. Bollington Brass Band, which has recently made its home back at the Arts Centre, will perform a concert of favourites with all proceeds in aid of Bollington Arts Centre. Tickets £8 available on 01625 613851 Arts Centre 7.30pm

Wilmslow Green Room, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow

Sunday 10 May Plant Hunters’ Fair. Half price entry to the Gardens and Plant Fair £3 Adlington Hall, Mill Lane, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK10 4LF 10.30am – 4pm

Tuesday 12 May Wilmslow Decorative & Fine Arts Society Lecture: The Anatomical Draawings of Leonardo Da Vinci – A Surgeon’s View with Guy Rooker. Non-members wishing to attend should contact the membership secretary in advance. www.wilmslowdfas.org.uk 7.45 pm in the Wilmslow Parish Hall, Wilmslow

Wednesday 13 May Craft and Chatter. A get together for crafters of all kinds, card making, quilting, collage, embroidery, sewing etc. Bring your own project and enjoy good crafting company with a cuppa.Contact Chrissie 0161 439 8262 for further details. £2 Dean Row Chapel Hall, Adlington Road, SK9 2BX 2pm to 4pm

Wednesday 13 May Wilmslow Historical Society. Three members of the Society will give presentations on local people involved in the Great War – both at home and abroad. These will be followed by a brief AGM. Visitors £2 including tea/ coffee and cakes. Tel 01625 529178 St Bartholomew’s Parish Hall, Chancel Lane, Cliff Road, Wilmslow SK9 4AA. 7.45 pm

Thursday 14 May Macclesfield Decorative & Fine Arts Society. Design Matters: The Creation of Fine Leather Bindings Dominic Riley. Visitors welcome £7. Please contact Membership Secretary 01625 611514 Heritage Centre, Roe Street, Macclesfield. 2pm

Saturday 16 May Barnby Choir Concert: Music Through the Ages (from Renaissance to Present Day). Tickets available in advance from Anne Macdonald 07810 517464 or on the door. £12, £10 (Concessions) and £5 (students). For more information please visit www.thebarnbychoir.co.uk Wilmslow United Reformed Church, Chapel Lane 7.30pm Continued over...

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inside guide Saturday 16 May

Tuesday 26 May

Cheshire Tortoise Day. In its 14th year, the event will include educational and natural history aspects of chelonian and fun activities for younger visitors. Micro chipping, worming, health checks, and advice on husbandry will also be available throughout the day, as well as various stalls including plants, books and crafts.

Refreshments are available. Entry £2, children free.

Exploring Fabrics at Paradise Mill. Learn about the production of silk, examine fabrics and weave patterns on loom cards. Costs £5 per person which includes a tour of the mill. Paradise Mill, Park Lane, Macclesfield 10-11.30am

Woodford Community Centre, Chester Road, Woodford 10am-4pm

Saturday 16 May Alderley Edge Orchestra, conductor Juan Ortuno.

Programme includes Mendelssohn Piano Concerto no.1, Mozart Haffner Symphony and Sibelius Karelia Suite.

Tickets online at www.aeorchestra.org.uk or at the door.

Adults £8, Children £1 Alderley Edge Methodist Church SK9 7DU at 7.30pm

Sunday 17 May Birdwatching for beginners. An opportunity to see and hear spring time birds in the Wilmslow area. Expertise not required! Booking online in advance in essential! http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/birdwatching-forbeginners-tickets-15054258693 For information call 01625 383700 Lindow Common SSSI car park, Racecourse Road, Wilmslow 9am to 11am

Wednesday 20 May Wilmslow Guild Flower Guild A Grand Day Out Alison Cooper North West Area DemonstratorVisitors are most welcome but are limited to two visits per Guild year at £5 (special events extra). Contact, Linda Cocker on 0161 440 0704, see also our listing at NAFAS Cheshire www.nafascheshire.org.uk. Held at Wilmslow Guild, Bourne Street, Wilmslow 1.45pm

Wednesday 20 May Chifundo Fashion Show at Wilmslow United Reformed Church. ‘Chifundo’ is a new charity that helps to empower and educate girls and women in Malawi by funding them to study so that they can better support their families. Illustrated talk, supper, fashion show and sale of products and clothing. Tickets £5 and from church office 10am-12noon or call Trudy 01625 520109.

Proceeds will go to this charity. Wilmslow United Reformed Church, Chapel Lane 7pm

Wednesday 20 May Wednesday 15 April

54

Tuesday 26 May Drop-in Crafts, learn to write your name like an Ancient Egyptian and create your own bookmark to take home. £2 per child. West Park Museum, Prestbury Road, Macclesfield. 2-4pm

Wednesday 27 May Drop-in Experiments – be amazed by science and have a go at different experiments. Suitable for ages 5+ costs £2.

Silk Museum, Park lane, Macclesfield 10am-12noon

Wednesday 27 May Drop-in crafts – use pictures and words to make your own exciting story or poem based on the Museum’s collection. Suitable for all ages, costs £2 The Old Sunday School, Roe Street, Macclesfield 1.303.30pm

Wednesday 27 May Craft and Chatter. A get together for crafters of all kinds, card making, quilting, collage, embroidery, sewing etc. Bring your own project and enjoy good crafting company with a cuppa.Contact Chrissie 0161 439 8262 for further details. £2 Dean Row Chapel Hall, Adlington Road, SK9 2BX 2pm to 4pm

Wednesday 27 May Wimslow U3A: “My Life at Granada TV” by Judy Popley.

A charge of £1 is made per meeting after initial joining fee. All are welcome.

URC schoolrooms, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow 2.30pm

Thursday 28 and Friday 29 May Children’s Craft Club Salt Magic Painting –creating texture and sparkle! Suitable for ages 6-11 costs £6.50.

Booking is essential, call 01625 613210. The Silk Museum, Park Lane, Macclesfield 10am-12noon

Sunday 31 May

Alderley Edge Lunchtime Concert by kind permission of the Royal Northern College of Music

Balsam Blitz Two. Help with the battle against the alien weeds! No experience needed. Long sleeves/trousers, stout footwear and gloves required. Leaders: Bollin Valley Partnership Ranger Emma Houghton and Friends of The Carrs. Information: 01625 374790

www.rncm.ac.uk. Light lunch from 12 noon, performance 1pm. Alderley Edge Methodist Church

Meet at Parish Hall Car Park, Cliff Road, Wilmslow 2pm to 4pm.

DELIVERY PEOPLE REQUIRED To deliver in Wilmslow and Alderley Edge If interested please email jenny@insidemagazines.co.uk or call 01625 879611

Light & Shade Award-winning pianist, Ian Fountain, will perform one of Mozart’s great Piano Concertos at Macclesfield Heritage Centre on Saturday 18 April.

The penultimate concert in NCO’s current Macclesfield Heritage Centre season sees multiaward-winning, and very much in-demand, British pianist and recording artist, Ian Fountain, perform Mozart’s hauntingly dark and enigmatic Piano Concerto in C minor, K491. In 1989 Ian Fountain became the youngest winner of the Arthur Rubinstein Piano Masters Competition in Tel Aviv at the age of 19 and he now performs extensively throughout the UK and Europe, the USA and the Far East. He is revered for giving technically impeccable and beautifully nuanced performances. The theme of the concert is ‘Light and Shade’ and the programme also includes wonderful music from Beethoven, Rossini and Sibelius.

In NCO’s Light and Shade concert, he will be performing one of Mozart’s most unusual piano concertos. It is the only one he wrote in the key of C and one of only two he composed in the ‘minor’ (which gives it a darker, more melancholic ‘personality’). Mozart was known for writing his music quickly and seemingly effortlessly, but this work took up more of his time and energy when he wrote it in 1786. He even insisted on giving its first performance in Vienna - his last major appearance as a soloist! Beethoven, who also explored the ‘darker side’ in many of his compositions, appreciated the special qualities of this particular Mozart work. In contrast, for the Light and Shade concert, the NCO is performing an unusually cheerful piece by Beethoven - his playful masterpiece, Symphony no 8 in F.

The NCO Macclesfield concert season is supported by Manchester Metropolitan University, Faculty of Education. Light and Shade with Ian Fountain is the penultimate concert in the current Heritage Centre season. The finale concert on Saturday 9 May features NCO’s very own soloists in a popular programme of muchloved chamber works by Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and Weber.

Tickets for the Light and Shade concert at Macclesfield Heritage Centre on Saturday 18 April, 7.30pm, are available from the NCO Box Office: 0161 247 2220, Macclesfield Visitor Information Centre: 01625 378123; Congleton Tourist Information Centre: 01260 271095; the Silk Museum Shop, Heritage Centre and ON THE DOOR. They are priced: £16/£13, £7 students, 18s & under FREE. More details at www.ncorch.co.uk

Jonathan Thackeray, NCO General Manager said: “Ian Fountain is the second truly world-class pianist we have had the privilege of working with in our current Macclesfield season. Last month we were joined by Stephen Hough and now Ian is to perform Mozart’s magnificently intense Piano Concerto in C minor K491.”

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Crossword Solution

Sudoku Solution

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Useful Numbers Alderley Edge Churches Methodist Church

Local Government 01625 873407/583337

Methodist Church Office

01625 586713

E. Cheshire Council Info Services

St Mary’s Church with Birtles

01625 585440

Neighbourhood Wardens

St Philip’s Church (Vicarage)

01625 583249

Police (non-emergency)

St Philip’s Parish Office St Pius X Church

01625 581477 01625 582386

Wilmslow Churches

0300 1235500

Macclesfield Borough 01625 504791

(non-emergency)

101

Post Offices Alderley Edge Post Office

01625 599655

Methodist Church, Wilmslow

01625 528892

Handforth Post Office

01625 522946

St Ann’s C of E Church

01625 520309

Wilmslow Post Office

01625 524036

St Bartholomew’s Parish Church

01625 520309

St Chad’s Handforth

01625 532145

St John’s Lindow

01625 583251

St Mary’s Methodist Handforth

01625 528892

St Teresa’s RC Church

01625 523384

St Benedict’s RC Church

01625 522776

Wilmslow United Reformed Church

01625 532600

Quaker Meeting House

07974 997798

Dean Row Unitarian Chapel

01625 403509

Doctors/Medical Centres Alderley Edge Medical Practice

01625 584545

Wilmslow Health Centre

08432 909209

Handforth Health Centre

01625 529421

Kenmore Medical Centre

01625 532244

Hulme Hall Medical Group

0161 426 5844

Fire Service (non-emergency) Wilmslow Fire Station

01625 524066

Hospitals Macclesfield Hospital NHS Direct Primary Care Out of Hours Centre

01625 421000 0845 4647 01625 502999

Leisure Centres

Alderley Edge Schools Alderley Edge Pre-School Playgroup

01625 599300

The Ryleys School

01625 583241

Alderley Edge Primary School

01625 383262

Nether Alderley Primary School

01625 583282

Mottram St Andrew Primary

01625 829035

Alderley Edge School for Girls

01625 583028

Wilmslow Schools Ashdene Primary

01625 383232

Dean Oaks Primary

01625 383333

Gorsey Bank Primary

01625 383020

Lacey Green Primary

01625 525157

Lindow Primary

01625 582555

Pownall Hall School

01625 523141

St Anne’s Fulshaw

01625 523536

St Benedicts Catholic Primary

01625 520207

Styal Primary

01625 383253

Wilmslow Grange Primary

01625 526566

Wilmslow High School

01625 526191

Wilmslow Preparatory School

01625 524246

Travel Bus Information

0300 125 5020 option 4

Wilmslow Leisure Centre

01625 533789

Train Information

0845 748 4950

Macclesfield Leisure Centre

01625 615602

Manchester Airport

0161 489 3000

Libraries

Utilities

Alderley Edge Library

01625 374030

Electricity – Power Loss

Macclesfield Library

01625 615602

Gas – Emergency

Wilmslow Library

01625 374060

Water Mains

0845 746 2200

Environment Agency Floodline

0845 988 1188

0800 195 4141 0800 111 999

61

Classified Index AUDIO VISUAL F Maddocks

BATHROOMS

Splash Bathrooms

BICYCLE MAINTENANCE Velo-Tech Cheshire

BUILDERS

S.P. Lee & Co Whitehall Builders Ltd

CAR REPAIRS

Scratches & Scrapes

CARE HOMES & SERVICES

Alice Chilton In-Home Care Services Home Instead Senior Care

CARPETS

Bubblitex

CATERING

Pizza Principles

CLEANING

Queeny Cleaners Wild About Cleaning

COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY Amaranth

COMPUTER & INTERNET PC Doctor

CURTAINS

The Curtain Emporium

DECORATORS

L & L Limited L.M. Wilkinson Painting & Decorating Steve White

DELICATESSENS

The Cheshire Smokehouse

DENTISTS

Trinity House Dental Care

DRAINAGE

Pure Clean Drainage Solutions

EDUCATION

Lady Barn House School

ELECTRICIANS F Maddocks G.P.Green Ltd

ESTATE & LETTING AGENTS Mosley Jarman

GARAGE DOORS

Carrington Doors

62

GARDEN DESIGN & LANDSCAPING 49

Creative Gardens & Driveways

GARDEN ROOMS 46

Swift Organisation

HOLIDAYS 39 26 56 46

Go Cruise

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE House Matters UK F.T.W Services JS Services

HOTELS

Park House B & B 31, 44 29 5

KITCHENS

Matt Finish Poynton Pine Simplicity Granite

LAWN CARE 31

Lawnkeeper Ltd Greenthumb

31 60

LIFE COACH Choose U

LOFT LADDERS 43

More Than Loft Ladders

MOBILITY 59

Ability Matters

PET CARE 55

Pampered Cats Tilly’s Choice

60 42 55

PLUMBING & HEATING

ASM Gas, Heating, Plumbing G.P.Green Ltd

PUBS & RESTAURANTS 15

The Farmers Arms Tom Yam

27

SECURITY

56 38 58 9 Back Cover 42

Eurosafes Falcon Security WM. Bradley & Co.

SOLICITORS

Slater & Gordon

TREE SERVICES

Swift Tree & Arboricultural Services Ltd

WINDOW CLEANERS

Cavendish Window Cleaning

WINDOW & CONSERVATORY REPAIRS The Window Repair Centre Window Geeks

46 6 29

31 60 42 30 42 36 22 Inside Front 41 23 55 50 55 47 26 9 21 10 45 49 17 35 46 58 Inside Back 59