ISSUE 113
JA SON MANFORD The Man Behind The Mask
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CONC IERGE Send a gift to someone extra special this Easter
Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine
Jason Ma Manfo nforrd: The Man Behi Behind The Ma Mask C l a re S t o b a r t c a u g h t u p w i t h the talented performer to talk stand-up, The Masked Singer and his fitness journey
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As a former pupil of what is now Chorlton High School, you made a name for yourself in a band before you had even finished your GCSEs. What is your favourite childhood tale? I bet you have a few! I joined a band at school with friends Simon and Neil who I’m still best friends with now. For our 40th our wives got together and booked us a recording studio and we put our old songs on an album. I wouldn’t release it, but it’s nice to have as a keepsake. I was quite a good kid really, I wasn’t necessarily academic but I tried really hard. I did all the plays and musicals at school but never got the star part. I was an orphan in Annie and I was third person on the right in Bugsy Malone. I never actually had a character or a name, I was always just happy to be involved. We had one holiday our whole childhood, which was Butlins in Pwllheli. My Mum and Dad said, “Right, we’re going to Butlins for a week” and I couldn’t believe it. We got there in our little chalet and we asked if we could have some money for the fair and the swimming pool and my mum said, “It’s allinclusive, everything is free!” So we went on the rollercoaster, got off and queued up again about 20 times! We literally were able to do whatever we wanted. 22
PHOTOGRAPY: KAT HANNON
local lad with award-winning talent, I have the pleasure of sitting down with the one and only Jason Manford. Born and raised in Greater Manchester, Jason was inspired by other local talent such as Peter Kay. Jason found himself drawn to the comedy scene, first performing at Buzz Comedy Club in Chorlton before bursting onto our screens in 2007 as a captain on 8 out of 10 Cats after the role of Jack on Ideal. As a friend and Padel partner, join me in learning more about the legend and man behind the mask.
One morning we got a knock at the chalet door and security asked if three lads were staying here. My dad stood there in his boxers like, “What? Yeah, yeah, my 3 lads are here why?”. There were reports of shoplifting and theft of sweets from the shop. Straight to our defence, he said, “It wouldn’t be my lads, they are good kids”. He shut the door and as he turned around, all 3 of us were sat there with a massive pick ‘n’ mix in shock saying, “You said everything was free!” It went full circle. Years later I was doing a charity gig for the Lord Mayors Fund which was set up to help families from lower incomes get uniforms for their kids and take them on holiday. When I told my Mum she said, “That’s the charity that sent us to Butlins when you were little” and I had randomly ended up helping them. You’ve gone on to become the proud father of six, including twins! I am sure you have your hands full, how do you fit it all in? Sometimes when people look at your schedule and say you’ve got 6 kids, they think I must be doing it all
IMAGES : BBC
sat in the corner with your Five Guys if everyone around you is eating a salad. I prefer a class or training with someone as I struggle by myself, so I normally call Dave.
What are your favourite spots in and around Cheshire? CPASE obviously, and Gails in Wilmslow. We go into Knutsford and occasionally Alderley Edge. I don’t go out an awful lot as by the time we are done with the kids, there isn’t time. Sometimes, I have big plans, but I end up brushing my teeth at the same time as the kids and drop off while I’m reading them their stories. Exercise is so important, even with a hectic schedule. Prioritising it is beneficial both physically and mentally. As a valued member of CPASE, what does your typical workout consist of? Sometimes I can be working out 4 or even 5 times a week, whether it’s working out in the gym, Padel or 5-a-side, but other times I can’t get here for ages or the job that I am doing is physical. When I did the Wizard of Oz, that was super physical. During a panto, you’re up dancing and get your 10,000 steps in easily. In the theatre world, you’re surrounded by fit and healthy people. They look after themselves. They have the same respect for their bodies as Olympians and by osmosis, I look after myself too. You can’t be
What is your favourite part of working out? Mine is the endorphin rush. I’m still waiting for that! Maybe I’m not working out hard enough? I’ve got an athlete’s heart though, or so I’ve been told. I have such a low heart rate so it feels like I have to work twice as hard to get it to the right bpm and it recovers really quickly. Whilst I have got an athlete’s heart, what’s surrounding it isn’t quite as fit, which is the problem. I’m not a competitive person, but I do like competing with
PHOTOGRAPY: KAT HANNON
by myself! We work as a family. It might not be a traditional one, but you have to work together to get everybody through it emotionally, spiritually and quite literally, physically. My parents help whenever they can, my Uncle Stephen, our cleaner and other family members have become our support network because it is the only way you can do it.
After training, we know you utilise some of the unique facilities at CPASE. Do you find that having regular Cryo sessions helps? I love a Cryo, I even have an ice bath at home now because I love the cold so much. I stay in it for as long as I can manage and then jump straight in the hot tub which is great for circulation.
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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine
W her he r ei n T i meless Elega nc nce Meet s Moder Mode r n S oph ist i cat ion F avourbrook’s Menswear Collection is a true testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to refined menswear, luxurious fabrics, and unparalleled craftsmanship. This collection seamlessly merges classic formalwear with contemporary sartorial elements, resulting in a collection that exudes sophistication and flair.
Texture and Tactility Reign Supreme Embracing the essence of the season, Favourbrook introduces an array of captivating textures and tactile sensations that redefine formal menswear. The collection boasts an exquisite selection of new fabrics and hues within the velvet and corduroy categories, offering a refreshing twist for the discerning gentleman seeking a touch of uniqueness in his suits and tailored separates, as well as waistcoats. Elevated Eveningwear: Where Artistry Meets Style Elevating the art of eveningwear, Favourbrook’s
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iconic dinner jackets take centre stage with a variety of silk grosgrain lapel styles, while bold floral patterns and embroidery details pay homage to the meticulous artistry that defines the brand’s eveningwear creations. This collection is also one of Favourbrook’s most distinguished and complete velvet collections to date, highlighting this sumptuous fabric’s excellence as an eveningwear fabric throughout an array of dinner jacket configurations.
Morning Dress Redefined Favourbrook brings a fresh perspective to morning dress, focusing on mid-weight wool yarns and recycled cashmere. This collection offers an array of morning coat options, including an exquisite dark grey morning suit crafted from a striking herringbone fabric. Embracing the allure of tartan, Favourbrook introduces captivating plaid fabrics, elevating trousers and waistcoats to new heights. favourbrook.com
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
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Fortn ortnu um & Mas aso on
CONCIERGE Whether you want to reward a client, welcome a new one; reward your employees or send a gift to someone extra special, Fortnum’s Concierge will manage everything
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or more than 300 years, Fortnum & Mason has held a reputation for delivering the finest service to its customers around the world. Today, from its home in Piccadilly to its other outposts in London and Hong Kong, Fortnum’s Concierge Service calls on three centuries of experience to give bespoke and personalised orders and for friends, family, clients, employees and beyond a joyful Fortnum’s experience, from wherever you are in the world. Every year, Fortnum’s deliver thousands of joy giving gifts, and with the huge demand and celebratory occasions, Fortnum’s dedicated Concierge service is always at your call. Whether you want to reward a client, welcome a new one; reward your employees or send a gift to someone extra special, your dedicated account manager will manage everything from product suggestions to personalisation to delivery, to make your selection a simple process. Our favourites this month include…
Shop Wickers for Every Adventure As the Home of the Hamper for more than 300 years, we know a thing or two about how to create the perfect Parcel of Joy. Always filled to the brim with handpicked and delicious things from our famous Food Halls, Confectionery Counters and beyond. All that’s left is to choose your adventure... 54
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink
Easter Treats There’s no need to rely on the Easter Bunny when we’ve gathered everything you need right here! Hunt through our eggcellent range of chocolate Easter eggs – from handcrafted works of edible art to colossal chocolatey beasts and sweetfilled delights. Milk, dark and white chocolate lovers rejoice, we’ve got a truly delectable selection to enjoy, from praline-filled treats to hand-crafted chocolate Easter eggs brimming with nuts.
Gifts for Wine Lovers Our Wine Experts are at your service. Whether you’re searching for a memorable gift or a special selection for a landmark event, Fortnum’s wine experts will find the perfect bottles from the exceptional assortment in our Piccadilly cellars. Talk to our Concierge team today to get started.
If you would like to get in touch, simply email us at concierge@fortnumandmason.com or call on +44 (0)20 7465 8668. We will be happy to tell you more. 55
Home from Home
Kathryn Otto and Family Enjoyed a Break at Delamere Lake Sailing & Holiday Park Our Experience Delamere Lake Sailing & Holiday Park is a truly unique destination that offers tranquillity for those wanting to escape from it all and unwind but also offers adventure and excitement through the Wild Shore watersports and aquapark that is on-site offering various activities for children and adults. We enjoyed many hours in the water on the assault course whilst the older members of the family watched on from the viewing balcony with a hot drink in hand.
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The lodges are all situated around a lake that instantly makes you relax, even the children in our party spoke more softly, which is a first. Our lodge was large with three good standard bedrooms and two bathrooms, a large living/kitchen area and a wrap-around decked area with a hot tub where we spent most of our time. Delamere Lake Sailing & Holiday
Park really does have it all, enough on offer for those wanting to just stay in their lodge but the location is perfect for those who want to explore. Hollie’s farm shop is close by and we enjoyed a fabulous meal at The Fish Pool Inn. Chester is also only a 20 minute drive, which is great for shopping and offers even more restaurants and bars. We visited with our family with
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ages ranging from 14 to 80, and everyone enjoyed themselves and could see the benefits of purchasing a lodge themselves. This park really does have something for everyone.
Location Situated in Cheshire’s largest area of woodland set around the stunning 120-acre lake, Delamere Lake Sailing & Holiday Park is a natural haven of peacefulness and wildlife. The beautifully appointed lodges feature every comfort you could need for a break away, whatever the weather. With private sun decks and outdoor hot tubs, this park is a haven of comfort and relaxation. Delamere is a quiet and peaceful park, ideal for anyone seeking to relax and immerse themselves in nature with gorgeous views of a sparkling lake. Or for the more adventurous at heart, the park is located close to a multitude of
action-packed activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Activities For those who love the outdoors, you have everything you could want right outside your front door, onsite kayaking, paddle boarding, nonmotorised sailing, and open water swimming. Next door is the fantastic Wild Shore – a water-based adventure hub, offering several unique, dynamic and adrenaline-charged outdoor activities. Whether you want to give wakeboarding a try, take on their floating Aqua Park obstacle course or challenge yourself to Aqua Chimp the floating ropes course – there’s something for all ages and abilities.
Nearby Attractions Moments away from Delamere are county parks and nature reserves
perfect for nature walks such as Delamere Forest. There are also local history and heritage sites such as castles, museums, and galleries, alongside attractions such as Frodsham Golf Course and Go Ape and plenty of local pubs to enjoy food and drink. You can holiday here, it’s open all year, or purchase a holiday home and visit whenever you like. Holiday homes start at £159,995. haulfrynholiday.co.uk/delamere
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