Understanding Macular Generation and Cataractsthe early signs and surgical treatments
Monday 30th June, 11am - 12.30pm
Meet Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon Dr Sajjad Mahmood who will explain how to recognise the early signs of these two age-related eye conditions.
Long Stone Manor, Wilmslow
Dementia sing-a-long
Third Wednesday of each month, 11am - 12 noon
Sing well-known songs in a fun and friendly setting and enjoy the benefits it brings to cognitive function, mood and well-being. Meet other carers and people living with dementia over a cuppa and home-baked treats. Trusted to care.
Cranford Grange, Mobberley
Long Stone Manor, Wilmslow
High quality care in Cheshire
At Care UK’s Cranford Grange care home and Long Stone Manor in Cheshire, we’ll support you to continue living your life the way you choose while delivering award-winning care in a place you can call home.
Our highly trained teams are experts in providing high quality care from residential and dementia care, to short term care. Whilst at Cranford Grange we also provide nursing care.
A lifestyle tailored to you
At our homes our teams are passionate about supporting you to enjoy a fulfilling life. We’ll learn all about your interests and preferences so we can create a fully personalised lifestyle plan that you’ll enjoy whether it’s gardening, cheese and wine socials or playing chess.
Everything under one roof
Cranford Grange and Long Stone Manor offer luxurious facilities, including a coffee shop, hair and beauty salon, cinema and lovely gardens.
Our chef-led kitchen teams are passionate about providing high-quality food using fresh, local produce, and there’s always a choice of nutritious and delicious dishes at every meal.
Trust us to care
At Care UK, we’ve been delivering highquality, person-centred care for over 40 years. We pride ourselves on the transparency of our care quality and fee information – ensuring you can trust us to care from that very first step of your journey into care.
To find out more about Cranford Grange and Long Stone Manor, please call 0330 162 551 .
Long Stone Manor 107-109 Manchester Road, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 2JH 0330 162 551
Welcome
The sun graces Knutsford with its golden light this morning as we embark on a leisurely stroll through this picturesque village. How truly fortunate we are to be nestled within the splendour of the Golden Triangle, where scenic beauty lies just beyond our doorstep. It’s a joy to embrace the fresh air and take in our idyllic surroundings.
Back at home, the outdoors is abuzz with activity. The garden flourishes under the expert guidance of Wilmslow Garden Centre, while Smarter Home 4U performs remarkable transformations with their elegant decking solutions. Our driveways have never looked more inviting, thanks to the fine craftsmanship of Pavetar, and Graham the Gardener is, as ever, contentedly ‘pottering’—a delightful scene of garden tranquillity. Carolyn Flowerdew is hard at work, expertly navigating the world of premium property to help you discover your dream home. Meanwhile, our cherished local tradespeople continue to provide exceptional service and carefully sourced products, supporting our community with dedication and pride.
This edition features a compelling must-read with Sue Murphy, who shares her inspiring journey of purpose, passion, and prosperity. Cybersecurity expert Mark Faulkner also offers timely insight into the increasingly vital world of digital protection—a topic many of us are only just beginning to appreciate. In our schools, joy and achievement abound. Wilmslow Prep is brimming with pride as students celebrate their successes. Just down the road, we wander through the charmingly eccentric and thoroughly wonderful village of Alderley Edge. Along the way, we stop to meet the passionate proprietors behind our favourite local shops. We are especially thrilled to announce the launch of a brand new BNI networking referral group at The Merlin, meeting every Wednesday morning—an exciting initiative set to empower and uplift our cherished local businesses.
Further afield, I take to the skies with the ever-knowledgeable Simon Bollington, our go-to travel connoisseur, who curates an unforgettable escape to Morocco. There, we indulge in the heady delights of aromatic, spiced confections before returning to the familiar comfort of the Golden Triangle—where we can finally relax, put our feet up, and, of course, Enjoy a Good Read! Until next time, Warmest wishes, Jacqui and the Cheshire Golden Triangle Team
To contribute, feature, or advertise, contact: cheshire@localareamagazines.co.uk or please call
Local Area Ltd has been publishing magazines since 2021, and is still an independent, family run business. Every issue we publish reflects our passion for the areas we serve, and with deep local roots, we’re dedicated to nurturing the unique character of our communities. I hope you enjoy our latest issue!
Jacqui Founder and Editor
@localareamagazines
Cheshire’s Golden Triangle Local Magazine is published by Local Area Ltd, a company registered in England & Wales number 13415030. Registered office: Markham House, 20 Broad Street, Wokingham, RG40 1AH.
All copyright of images/content remains that of its contributors. Every effort has been made to gain permission to publish copyright material. However, where efforts have been exhausted, we have published based on ‘Fair Use’ to comment factual based material whereby its use is not central or plays a significant part in the entire publication but to act as an aid for historical and educational purposes only. This publication is offered as a limited print run. The publisher, Local Area Magazines, makes every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct. However, it cannot take responsibility for any effects from errors or omissions. Local Area Ltd accepts all advertisements in good faith but is unable to accept any responsibility or liability for any of the services or products provided by advertisers and encourages consumers to make checks before hiring/buying services, such as a vetted service provided by Trading Standards’ ‘Buy with Confidence’ scheme.
The Intrigue of Marrakesh
by Jacqui Priestley
Nestled on the edge of the Sahara and framed by the majestic Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh is a city that really hums with an energy unlike any other. A place of contrasts and contradictions, it seduces the senses and the soul. Known as the “Red City” for the blushtoned ramparts that encircle its ancient medina, Marrakesh is a living tapestry of tradition and transformation, a place where centuries-old customs and cutting-edge creativity exist side by side.
Stepping into Marrakesh is like walking into a dream — one that teeters between the real and the surreal. The sun casts an amber glow on terracotta walls, while the air is thick with the scent of orange blossom, spices, and wood smoke. At the heart of the city is the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose labyrinthine alleys twist and turn in a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, and aromas.
To explore the medina is to surrender to a kind of beautiful chaos. Donkeys clatter past laden with goods. Snake charmers perform in dusty squares. Traders call out in Arabic, French, and English, their stalls brimming with handwoven carpets, silver teapots, brass lanterns, and pyramids of cumin, saffron, and turmeric. Every corner reveals a new wonder — a hidden riad with a tranquil courtyard, a tiled fountain glistening in the sun, or a centuries-old mosque echoing the call to prayer.
Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s beating heart, is perhaps its most iconic site. By day, it’s a sprawling market square with juice stalls, henna artists, and herbalists offering ancient remedies. But as night falls, it transforms. Smoke curls up from countless food vendors grilling lamb kebabs, steaming bowls of harira soup bubble on open flames, and the rhythmic beat of Gnawa drums fills the air. It’s intoxicating, overwhelming — a sensory experience that lingers long after you leave.
Marrakesh is not only a city of the senses, but also of the spirit. Its history runs deep, with tales of Berber dynasties, sultans, scholars, and traders woven into every stone and alleyway. Founded in 1062 by the Almoravids, it became a powerful imperial capital, influencing art, architecture, and learning across the Islamic world. That grandeur still resonates today in its magnificent palaces and mosques.
“It’s intoxicating...a sensory experience that lingers long after you leave.”
One such marvel is the Bahia Palace, a 19th-century masterpiece of Islamic and Moroccan architecture. With its intricately carved cedar ceilings, painted tiles, and sun-dappled courtyards, it evokes a time of opulence and elegance. Not far off lies the Koutoubia Mosque, its towering minaret a symbol of Marrakesh’s skyline, visible from miles around and resonating with quiet authority.
For a deeper understanding of the city’s artistic soul, the Majorelle Garden offers a tranquil contrast to the medina’s bustle. Designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, the garden is a verdant haven of exotic plants, cobalt blue walls, and serene lily ponds. Here, modernity and nature blend in perfect harmony — a fitting metaphor for the city itself.
Marrakesh is also a city of craftsmanship. Nowhere is this more evident than in the souks, those winding market streets that form the commercial backbone of the medina. Each souk has its speciality, from leather to spices to metalwork. Watching a master artisan hammer out a filigree lantern or dye a skein of wool is a reminder of the city’s traditions, skills passed down through generations, still alive and thriving.
Beyond the city walls, the palm groves and desert landscapes offer a taste of the wider Moroccan landscape. A short drive takes you into the Agafay Desert, where you can ride camels over wind-carved dunes, dine under the stars in Berber tents, and experience the stillness of the desert night. The Atlas Mountains, too, are within easy reach, their snow-capped peaks and hidden valleys providing both adventure and respite.
But perhaps what lingers most about Marrakesh is its paradoxes — a city both ancient and avantgarde. While the medina holds the past close, the Gueliz district points to the future. Here, chic cafés, contemporary galleries, and boutiques reflect a modern Moroccan identity — cosmopolitan, stylish, and deeply rooted in heritage.
This duality can also be found in the city’s accommodation. Many travellers opt to stay in riads — traditional Moroccan houses turned guesthouses, typically with central courtyards and
rooftop terraces. Within their walls, the noise of the medina melts away, replaced by the sound of trickling fountains and birdsong. The hospitality is heartfelt, the mint tea endless, and the mood quietly luxurious.
Food, too, tells a story. Moroccan cuisine is a celebration of flavour and history, blending Berber, Arab, and Andalusian influences. In Marrakesh, you can feast on tagines rich with preserved lemon and olives, savour couscous flavoured with seven spices, or sip sweet mint tea poured with theatrical flair. And with the rise of innovative chefs and new-wave restaurants, traditional dishes are being reimagined in daring, delicious ways.
To visit Marrakesh is to be swept into a whirlwind — a place that demands you to slow down even as it rushes past in a blur of colour and sound. It’s a city that doesn’t just offer sights, but feelings. Moments of awe, laughter, confusion, and connection. It invites curiosity and rewards those who seek beyond the obvious.
In the end, the true intrigue of Marrakesh lies not in its monuments or markets, but in its alchemy — the way it weaves together old and new, chaos and calm, spectacle and intimacy. It’s a city that surprises and seduces, a place where stories are not only told but lived.
And long after you’ve left its rose-tinted walls and sunlit alleys behind, Marrakesh stays with you — in the scent of spices, the flash of colour, and the lingering sense that somewhere, just beyond the next corner, something magical is waiting to be discovered.
My travel experience in Marrakesh was kindly booked by Simon Bollington, Travel Counsellor, who looked after every aspect of my holiday, from booking flights to choosing the most amazing accommodation in a Riad just around the corner from the Bahia Palace, which was outstanding!
Moroccan Food
Beyond the Tagine
by Samantha Priestley
Moroccan cuisine is often synonymous with tagine, the iconic slow-cooked stew named after the conical clay pot it’s cooked in. While tagines are a staple of Moroccan dining, the country’s culinary landscape offers far more depth, variety, and vibrancy than this single dish suggests.
At the heart of Moroccan food lies a rich fusion of Berber, Arab, Andalusian, and French influences, brought together through centuries of cultural exchange. The result is a cuisine that balances bold spices, delicate herbs, and a symphony of textures.
A quintessential Moroccan meal might begin with an array of salads – both raw and cooked – such as zaalouk (smoky aubergine and tomato) or taktouka (a piquant mix of roasted peppers and tomatoes). These appetisers are served with fresh khobz, a round, crusty bread used to scoop and savour each bite.
Couscous, another pillar of Moroccan cooking, is traditionally served on Fridays, often topped with slow-braised meats and seven types of vegetables. Light and fluffy, it acts as the perfect canvas for the aromatic sauces that accompany it.
Street food also plays a major role in everyday Moroccan eating. Vendors sell b’stilla (a flaky pastry filled with spiced pigeon or chicken, dusted with icing sugar and cinnamon), sardine sandwiches, and harira, a hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and lamb –particularly popular during Ramadan.
Sweet and savoury often intertwine in Moroccan cooking. Prunes, apricots, almonds, and honey feature prominently in dishes like mrouzia, a festive lamb dish, or in desserts such as chebakia, a sesame-studded pastry soaked in honey.
Spices are key: cumin, cinnamon, saffron, and Ras el Hanout (a complex blend of up to 30 spices) are used to create depth and warmth. Yet Moroccan food isn’t typically hot – rather, it’s fragrant and comforting.
To finish, expect sweet mint tea, poured theatrically from a height, and often served with small pastries. Moroccan food, then, is not just about nourishment, but about hospitality, ritual, and a sensory journey well worth taking – far beyond the humble tagine.
Chargrilled Moroccan Chicken with Roast Carrot & Chickpea Salad
This vibrant dish brings bold Moroccan flavours to your table with minimal fuss. Tender, spice-marinated chicken breasts are chargrilled to perfection and served alongside a warm salad of roasted carrots and chickpeas, infused with cumin and fresh herbs. It’s a wholesome, flavour-packed meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple, ideal for a fuss-free midweek dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch.
Ingredients (serves 2)
For the chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon
Salt and pepper
For the salad:
2 large carrots, peeled and cut into batons
1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper
A handful of fresh coriander or parsley
Optional: a few salad leaves or rocket
Method
Step 1
In a bowl, mix the spices, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Leave to marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge).
Step 2
Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Toss the carrot batons and chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, salt and pepper. Spread on a baking tray and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly golden.
Step 3
Heat a griddle pan or frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and lightly charred. Rest for a few minutes, then slice.
Step 4
In a bowl or on a plate, mix the roasted carrots and chickpeas with chopped herbs and salad leaves, if using. Top with the spiced, chargrilled chicken.
This recipe is inspired by traditional Moroccan grilled chicken and the warm vegetable salads often served alongside it.
The spices used, like cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon, are common in Moroccan cooking and give the dish its rich, earthy flavour. Roasted carrots and chickpeas are also typical ingredients in Moroccan meals, making this a simple but tasty take on those classic flavours. It’s an easy way to bring a taste of Morocco to your kitchen without needing any special ingredients.
The Spotlight On:
Angela
Highton of The Edible Group
by Jacqui Priestley
Angela Highton is the Founder of The Edible Group, a multi-approach food consultancy focused on raising food standards and education. A qualified nutritionist with extensive industry experience, she helps hospitality businesses cater for guests with complex dietary needs, offering practical, no-nonsense advice. She also empowers people to make healthier food choices; because good food is about more than just taste.
Who and what is The Edible Group?
The Edible Group is a team of passionate professionals who genuinely want to make a difference — in hospitality, classrooms, and communities. Under our umbrella sit three dedicated sectors, each with a clear individual focus. Edible Info is tailored to support the hospitality sector. Energised Earth focuses on sustainability. Edible Education is all about empowering children, families, and wider communities to make informed food choices.
Your mission states ‘serving trust in food’ what does that mean, exactly?
Trust in food goes beyond taste and presentation. It’s about knowing where your food comes from, how it’s been handled, and whether it’s safe — especially for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. For us, ‘serving trust’ means ensuring transparency in food practices, championing education, and supporting businesses in delivering food that people can genuinely feel good about eating.
Are food allergies a real consideration for the hospitality trade, or is it just a fad?
It’s far from a fad. In fact, it’s one of the most pressing responsibilities for the industry today. Everyone involved in preparing, cooking and serving food
has a legal responsibility to ensure food being served is safe for individuals to eat. Around 2 million people in the UK alone live with diagnosed food allergies, and countless others are managing intolerances or dietary needs. A mistake isn’t just bad PR — it can be life-threatening. We help businesses not just comply with regulations, but go beyond them, fostering environments where all customers can dine with confidence.
Do you offer your services only to international restaurant chains, or also to small local cafés?
We work with both — and everyone in between. While the core principles remain the same, we tailor our approach depending on the individual business. A local café might need help developing a simple allergen protocol or sustainable waste strategy, while a large chain might require scalable training programmes, or full operational audits. One size doesn’t fit all.
Isn’t Edible Education about avoiding processed foods, hasn’t this been done before?
That’s part of it, yes — but education is more than just knowing what’s “good” or “bad.” We’re about engaging, hands-on learning that builds life skills, confidence, and curiosity around food. From teaching kids how to read food labels and cook basic
meals, to helping them make better food choices. We are making education digestible (literally) and relevant. It’s about empowerment.
Can you tell me more about the part of your business that’s focused on energy and costs?
The kitchen is one of the most energy-intensive parts of any hospitality business, and we believe sustainability and profitability should go together. This is where Energised Earth comes into its power - We conduct energy and carbon audits, and help businesses reduce waste — food and otherwise. Small changes can lead to big savings, both financially and environmentally. It’s not just good for the planet; it’s good for the bottom line.
How many local businesses in Cheshire’s Golden Triangle could you realistically help?
Cheshire’s Golden Triangle is a hub of high-end hospitality, wellness-focused and discerning clientele — so the demand for quality, transparency, and
sustainability is high. Whether it’s helping restaurants perfect allergen management or supporting schools and community initiatives, we see potential to support dozens of businesses across the region. Our approach is personal, so we’re perfectly positioned to make a real impact locally.
What does the future hold for The Edible Group?
We’re incredibly excited about what’s ahead. Our vision is to become the go-to name for food trust across the UK and globally. We’re expanding our services, such as conducting Mystery Shopping, and deepening our work in education. The future is all about collaboration, innovation, and keeping people at the heart of everything we do. After all, food is universal — and so is the need to trust it.
It has been fascinating to learn more about this very interesting area of hospitality and the challenges it faces, and I am sure we will learn more in the not-toodistant future. We wish you all the very best.
An All-Round Education
Choosing the right school for your child has to be one of the most important decisions a parent makes. Located in the heart of Wilmslow, Wilmslow Preparatory School is a small, inclusive school where each pupil, from ages three to eleven, is nurtured as an individual and encouraged and inspired to achieve their very best, inside and outside the classroom.
Small class sizes (fewer than 20 pupils) allow us to track each pupil’s progress in detail and tailor that child’s teaching accordingly; whether that be stretching them or providing additional support.
There are many things that make our school extra special – the warm welcome, family atmosphere and the fantastic attitude of everyone who works here, pupils and staff!
These attributes underpin our excellent academic teaching and, of course, a vibrant and well-rounded programme of sport and the arts, as well as a wide variety of extracurricular activities; all delivered by an experienced and supportive staff team.
Happy Pupils, Happy Families
The end result is happy pupils and happy families, you couldn’t really ask for more. Pupils leave us as capable and self-fulfilled individuals, with a love of learning and a strong moral purpose, having experienced the very best possible start to their young lives.
The WPS Pathway – Leading to excellent results
Development of the whole child is our goal, achieved through our unique educational programme, the WPS Pathway, which sets out a clear academic programme and results in the best possible outcomes for each child. Our curriculum ensures that each child fulfils his/her individual potential, achieving excellent academic standards.
This year we celebrated another set of successful senior school applications from our Prep 6 pupils. Seventeen pupils received 34 offers from a wide
range of Manchester Consortium schools including Manchester Grammar School, Manchester High School for Girls, Stockport Grammar, Withington Girls School and King’s Macclesfield.
A further 5 passes were achieved at the Trafford schools including Altrincham Boys, Altrincham Girls, Loreto, Urmston and St Ambrose making this one of Wilmslow Prep’s most successful years to date.
Arts Council Recognition
WPS has recently achieved the Silver Artsmark award from Arts Council England. This is the culmination of a two-year project to embed arts, culture and creativity across the whole curriculum.
By meeting the required demanding standards, we have demonstrated that every pupil has access to a diverse cultural education and ongoing opportunities to explore and develop their own creativity.
“Pupils leave us as capable and selffulfilled individuals, with a love of learning and a strong moral
purpose.”
Well-rounded Pupils
We place emphasis on the arts, sports and charitable work, and provide opportunities for children to be involved in a wide range of exciting and creative opportunities. Within our superb pastoral care, pupils feel safe to challenge themselves and each other, ensuring that every child recognises their individuality and their own self-worth.
Families are welcome to visit the school at any time or attend our Open Days, the next of which is on Wednesday, June 11th from 10am to 12 noon.
To register for this or to find out more about Wilmslow Prep School, please call 01625 524246, email admissions@wilmslowprep. co.uk or visit www.wilmslowprep.co.uk
Why Being a Little Mad Might Be the Best Thing You Ever Do
From Freud to Dalí to Depp, history shows us that those who dare to be different make the biggest difference. Rewired for Men is helping men do the same by redefining what it means to be MAD: Making A Difference.
Many people throughout history have been accused of being mad. Not because they were dangerous or broken, but because they were different, a little off the wall, a little too much for the world around them. I am sure you can think of a few. Perhaps you even know them personally. Or maybe, if you are honest, you have found yourself carrying that label at some point in your life.
When I think about it, a few individuals stand out clearly.
The first is Sigmund Freud. Freud was never exactly the poster boy for normality. To many of his peers, he seemed eccentric, even bordering on crazy. His obsession with dreams, hidden desires, and the unseen forces driving human behaviour made him a mystery, a man wandering far beyond the accepted edges of science.
The second is Salvador Dalí. Dalí never cared for fitting in. To most people, he looked like a man who had completely lost the plot. With his wild eyes, twisting moustache, and a mind that seemed to live somewhere between dream and madness, he blurred the line between genius and insanity.
Finally, Johnny Depp comes to mind. Depp never fitted the mould. To many people, he seemed strange, unpredictable, and a little too comfortable living in the skin of misfits and outcasts. He carried a kind of madness that made you wonder if the man behind the characters was even real.
I believe all three of these men were, in their own way, MAD. But at Rewired for Men, we see MAD differently. To us, it stands for Making A Difference.
Freud cracked open the mind itself. Before him, people wore masks even to themselves. After him, there was a language for the things we hide. He showed that emotions,
trauma, desire, and fear were not weaknesses to be buried but powerful forces that shape who we are.
Dalí tore apart the idea that art had to follow rules. His paintings twisted reality into something raw and unsettling. He showed that imagination was not a luxury but a necessity. Dalí made it possible for dreamers and misfits to embrace the parts of themselves that never fitted neatly inside the lines. Depp carried that same spirit into film. Every broken character he played, every outsider he gave life to, was a reminder that being different could be powerful. That not fitting the mould could be its own kind of strength.
They were called crazy. They were misunderstood by those who preferred the safety of the predictable. But from where we stand, they made the world wider, deeper, and more alive. Not by becoming like everyone else, but by daring to stay unapologetically themselves.
At Rewired for Men, we carry that same belief. Society is quick to put labels on men, depression, anxiety, trauma, as if the label becomes the man. We do not see the label. We see the man underneath. The man who is not crazy, not broken, not lost. The man who is ready to make a real difference. Rewired for Men is not just for men who are struggling. It is for every man who knows there is more to life than just surviving. It is for the man who wants more freedom, more clarity, more energy. It is for the man who wants to lead with strength, reconnect with himself, and stop living by the expectations of others. It is for the man who knows that real power comes from within.
MAD: Making A Difference
This is what we believe in at Rewrired for Men.
If you are ready to find out how Rewired for Men can help you create real and lasting change, book a virtual coffee and let us have a real conversation about what is possible.
Services
Renergised:
A 10 hour transformative programme for men 30+ ready to break free from limiting beliefs and ingrained patterns.
Building on the Rewired process, it combines psychoeducation, NLP, mindfulness, and resilience building to help you tackle self doubt, pressure and emotional struggles. This isn’t therapy, it’s a practical, results-driven journey to reconnect with your inner strength and navigate life with clarity and balance.
Includes:
x6 90 minute sessions
x1 60 minute session
Take the first step toward meaningful change. Sign up for Re-energised today and unlock the life you’ve been seeking.
A 4 hour immersive experience for men 30+ Designed for those seeking clarity, emotional balance, and renewed purpose.
Uncover and release hidden stories and limiting beliefs without revisiting the past.
Through a powerful process of dismantling old patterns and emotional triggers, you’ll regain control, boost energy, and move forward with confidence.
Includes:
x2 90 minute sessions
x1 60 minute session
Respark:
Break free from one story that’s been holding you back, whether it’s self-doubt, feeling “never enough,” or needing to prove your worth.
In just one session, shift limiting beliefs, release emotional triggers, and reconnect with your inner strength without digging into the past.
Book your Respark session today and ignite the transformation you’ve been waiting for.
Includes:
One 90 minute session. One powerful change.
“Joel is a leader in his field. His groundbreaking work is life changing and as it becomes more widely recognised will definitely start to change the face of workplace and individual mental health management.”
William Pretsell, Forefront Coaching - Manchester
ENCHANTING GLASS DESIGNS
CREATING INTERIOR ART
by Gayle Sharples
Based in the beautiful Berkshire countryside and working all over the UK, Gayle creates stunning, one-of-a-kind glass installations that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design to transform everyday spaces into works of art. Her portfolio includes exquisite fireplace ornaments, striking stained glass windows, elegant bespoke glass jewellery, and refined homewares such as handcrafted kitchen splashbacks. Each piece is thoughtfully designed and entirely unique, capturing the personality and style of the individual client.
With a passion for detail and an eye for beauty, Gayle’s creations from Enchanting Glass Designs bring a timeless elegance and bespoke charm to any setting.
To schedule a complimentary consultation contact Gayle on 07887 241785 or gayle@enchanting-glass-designs.co.uk
Unit 5 Holme Grange Craft Village Heathlands Road, Wokingham RG40 3AW www.enchanting-glass-designs.co.uk
A Magical Day Wandering Through Alderley Edge
If you ever dreamt of stepping into a storybook village — where ancient magic lives just around the corner and vibrant village life bubbles along every street — then let me take you on a walk through Alderley Edge, Cheshire’s crown jewel of wonder and style.
Our Adventure Begins The Edge Itself
Our journey starts high above the village, at The Edge — the dramatic sandstone escarpment that gave Alderley Edge its name. As you wander through the whispering woods, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient legends: brave knights, mysterious wizards, and hidden treasures said to slumber beneath the mossy rocks.
↑ The sandstone escarpment, image courtesy of The National Trust
Take a moment to marvel at the sweeping views across Cheshire Plain — on a clear day, you can even spot the Welsh mountains in the distance! And if you listen carefully… who knows what magical secrets the trees might reveal?
↑ Alderley Edge’s beautiful paths from photographer Mike Green
Down the Hill and Into the Heartbeat of the Village
After breathing in the wild beauty of nature, it’s time to descend into the lively embrace of London Road, the bustling heart of Alderley Edge. This isn’t just any village street — it’s a catwalk of chic boutiques, artisan cafés, and glamorous eateries.
First stop? Tuula. This Scandinavian-inspired boutique instantly lifts your spirits with a pop of vibrant colours and expertly curated fashion. It’s like walking into a rainbow that somehow also whispers sophistication. Whether you’re searching for a statement piece or an everyday classic, Tuula feels less like shopping and more like discovering a hidden treasure.
Not far along, fashionistas in the know make a beeline for Daniel Footwear — a haven where designer labels and exclusive collections promise that perfect finishing touch. Shoes, handbags, and accessories here aren’t just stylish — they’re conversation starters.
Turning onto George Street, you’ll find a place where gentlemen’s fashion meets timeless craftsmanship: Harris and Howard Bespoke Tailors. Steeped in the art of British tailoring, they create garments so refined that simply trying one on might make you stand a little taller (and attract a few admiring glances).
And for those who prefer running shoes to brogues, the charming Running Bear store is a must-visit. It’s a genuine treasure trove, offering expert advice and over 200 types of running shoes. Whether you’re a marathon veteran or just planning a scenic jog around The Edge, Running Bear makes sure your feet are in very safe, stylish hands.
Need some inspiration for your home too? Pop into David Timperley Interiors, where imagination runs wild. Here, dream kitchens, luxurious bathrooms, and stunning dressing rooms are crafted with meticulous detail, bringing your Pinterest boards to dazzling life.
Sharp Suits, Speedy Shoes, and Stylish Spaces
Coffee Break or Champagne Toast? Why Not Both!
Strolling along, the smell of fresh coffee beckons from the many artisan coffee shops spilling onto the pavements. Or perhaps it’s time for something a little stronger? The chic bars and stylish restaurants like Victors invite you to slow down, sip a cocktail under trailing wisteria, and watch the world go by. There’s something wonderfully infectious about the vibe here: a mix of glamour and genuine warmth that welcomes visitors like old friends.
Wizards, Wonders, and Whispers of the Past
No tour of Alderley Edge is complete without a peek at its most magical hideaway: Wizards Thatch. Practically hidden by a lush secret garden, this 400-year-old hotel feels like stepping straight into a fairy tale. The suites — Camelot, Merlin, and The Wizardry — are brimming with character, history, and luxury, a living homage to the legends that surround the village.
↓ The Camelot Suite
↓ The Merlin Suite
↓ The Wizardry Suite
Heart and Heritage
Traditional Tastes of Alderley
The village might exude chic sophistication, but it also holds tightly to its traditional roots. Locals cherish the Village Butchers, where Lee and John offer premium meats with a side of friendly advice. Need the perfect cut for your Sunday roast? You’re in the best hands.
And don’t even think about leaving without visiting G. Wienholt Bakery, where the ladies have been creating handmade pies, cakes, and pâtisseries since 1950. Walking in here is like stepping back in time — a deliciously sweet time.
Where Work Meets Play
Opposite the train station, the innovative One London Road co-working space is buzzing with entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you’re a freelancer, a startup owner, or just someone who likes their coffee with a side of Wi-Fi, this is the perfect spot to work, meet, and create.
Finding Your Place in the Magic
Fall so deeply in love with Alderley Edge that you want to stay forever? You wouldn’t be the first! Jackson-Stops, the village’s expert estate agents, are ready to guide you through buying, renting, or selling property in this dreamy corner of Cheshire.
The Magic of Alderley Edge Awaits
So whether you come for the countryside, the chic shopping, the fine dining, or simply to wander the woodland paths and imagine ancient wizards at work, Alderley Edge wraps you up in its spell.
One visit is all it takes — but you’ll be planning your return before you’ve even left.
The 24/7 Business Assistant You Never Knew You Needed
In today’s fast-paced business world, AI isn’t just for tech giants any more. Recent research shows that nearly 40% of UK small businesses are now leveraging AI to grow their operations, a remarkable jump from just 20% in 2024. But what does this mean for your business?
From Missed Opportunities to Increased Revenue
Picture this: It’s 8pm, and a potential customer is enquiring about your services. While you’re relaxing, AI is working. Modern AI systems can handle customer enquiries, qualify leads, and even schedule appointments - all while maintaining a natural, human-like conversation. Fuscia’s AIpowered voice solutions can transform missed calls into qualified leads, ensuring no opportunity slips through the cracks.
The Real Impact Is On Your Bottom Line
The numbers speak for themselves. According to recent studies, adopting AI could boost small business productivity by up to 133%. However, it’s not just about efficiency - it’s about transformation. UK businesses using AI in their marketing operations report significant improvements in customer engagement and response times.
Getting Started: It’s Simpler Than You Think
While the concept of AI might seem daunting, implementation doesn’t have to be. Start small with these key areas:
• Automated customer response systems
• Lead qualification and follow-up
• Social media management and content creation
• Calendar scheduling and appointment booking
Common Challenges and Solutions
Many business owners worry about the complexity of AI adoption. The top barriers include lack of expertise (35%) and uncertainty about costs (30%). However, Fuscia’s AI solutions are designed specifically for small business needs.
The Future is Already Here
As we move through 2025, AI isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity for competitive businesses. By automating routine tasks, you’re free to focus on what matters most: growing your business and serving your customers better.
STRONGER TOGETHER:
BNI BOOSTS ALDERLEY EDGE BUSINESS
BNI (Business Network International) referral networking is coming to Alderley Edge with a mission to strengthen the local business community by fostering trusted relationships among professionals. Through structured weekly meetings, members share referrals, support each other’s growth, and enhance local economic activity. BNI promotes collaboration over competition, helping small businesses gain visibility and credibility. As members refer clients within the group, it creates a reliable network of services for residents. BNI also encourages professional development, accountability, and community engagement.
The result is a more interconnected, thriving local economy where businesses grow through word-of-mouth and mutual support, directly benefiting our Alderley Edge community.
Join BNI Director Consultant, Jacqui Priestley, editor and publisher of Local Area magazines and our very own ‘Cheshire’s Golden Triangle’ magazine at the premier visitor information day.
Venue: The Merlin, Alderley Edge
Date: Wednesday 25th June Time: 7am to 8.30am followed by breakfast Price: £20 payable by PayPal
Places are limited to 40 so book early at: localareamagazines.co.uk/bni-prestige
With guest speakers: Scott Bell, Prestige & Country Homes & Laura Corrigan, Mackenzie Jones Solicitors
BNI PRESTIGE @ ALDERLEY EDGE DonandoAccipimus By Giving, We Receive!
Proactive Cyber Security
by Mark Faulkner, Director of Penken Technology
Law firms and businesses in Cheshire’s Golden Triangle shoulder significant responsibilities. Not only must they navigate complex legal, regulatory, and operational challenges, but they also handle large volumes of highly sensitive and personally identifiable information on a daily basis.
It’s little surprise, then, that the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) advised law firms that “it may be better to ask when, not if, you will be targeted by online criminals.” The same holds true for businesses across all sectors—cyber threats are now a matter of when, not if.
Therefore, organisations of all kinds need to be adequately prepared to defend against online risks. One of the most effective ways to do so is by gaining Cyber Essentials certification, which offers numerous benefits—particularly for firms and businesses dealing with sensitive data.
What is Cyber Essentials?
Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed certification developed to help organisations protect themselves—and their clients—from common cyber threats. To become certified, an organisation must implement key cybersecurity measures and pass a self-assessment and technical audit process.
You can find more about the Cyber Essentials scheme on the NCSC website:
www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberessentials/overview
Why Law Firms and Businesses Should Be Cyber Essentials Certified
They Are Lucrative Targets
Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting law firms and businesses alike due to the sensitive nature of the data they manage. Whether it’s legal documentation, financial records, or customer information, the stakes are high.
This makes them prime candidates for ransomware attacks, data breaches, or extortion attempts—all of which can carry serious financial, reputational, and legal consequences.
For example, the Law Society Gazette reported a 77% increase in successful
cyber-attacks on UK law firms in a single year—a stark reminder of the growing threat.
Cyber Essentials helps to mitigate this risk by requiring organisations to adopt crucial security controls, significantly strengthening their cybersecurity posture.
It’s a Recognisable Trust Signal
Cyber Essentials is a publicly visible certification. Accredited organisations can promote their status across websites, email signatures, and marketing materials. They are also listed on the IASME website (www.iasme.co.uk), providing verifiable proof of their certification.
In today’s environment—where trust, compliance, and professionalism are critical—Cyber Essentials acts as a valuable “trust mark”, signalling to clients, partners, and suppliers that your organisation takes cybersecurity seriously.
It’s an Opportunity to Re-evaluate Your IT Practices
Pursuing Cyber Essentials certification is more than a checkbox exercise—it encourages a broader review of your organisation’s security approach. Many cyber incidents originate from overlooked vulnerabilities, such as outdated equipment or poorly secured user credentials.
Cyber Essentials prompts organisations to catalogue and secure their IT assets, enforce password hygiene, and adopt sensible cyber policies—all of which contribute to long-term resilience. In fact, the certification process often presents an ideal opportunity for an IT spring clean.
The Benefits Far Outweigh the Costs
Yes, aligning your systems and processes to meet the Cyber Essentials standard may incur costs. However, these are far outweighed by the benefits: reduced cyber risk, enhanced operational security, modernised IT practices, and a credible public trust signal. Whether you’re a law firm entrusted with confidential client matters, or a business looking to build stronger client and supplier relationships, Cyber Essentials is a strong case for proactive cybersecurity.
Don’t Hesitate to Protect Your Business
With a focus on law firms, professional services, and manufacturers, we’ve built strong relationships with our clients. Whether you need emergency IT support, managed productivity solutions, or a trusted partner for your cybersecurity needs, Penken Technology is here to ensure your business runs smoothly and securely. We’re always ready to help, offering the support you need to thrive in an ever-changing digital world.
↑ Mark Faulkner runs a friendly, no-nonsense company that delivers IT support and cybersecurity services to SMEs across the North West and beyond
“Mark’s been looking after me and my IT for a few years now and nothing is ever too much trouble. Available at the drop of a hat and always there to ensure business continuity. Also provides me and the team a wealth of cyber security knowledge and training. Couldn’t recommend Penken highly enough.”
- Andrew Massey
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Find
Living the Dream
by Jacqui Priestley Sue Murphy’s Life of
Purpose, Passion, and
Plenty
When you meet Sue Murphy, you instantly sense a life filled with passion and purpose. Nestled on her idyllic farm, Sue juggles her role as a local entrepreneur, a trusted Utility Warehouse representative, and a devoted caretaker to a host of rescued animals and birds. Her story is not just one of career change—it’s about following your heart and creating a life you love.
Simplifying Lives, One Bill at a Time
Sue’s work with Utility Warehouse (UW) is all about making life easier—and more affordable—for families navigating today’s rising costs.
“With the uncertainty we’ve all been living through, household bills have soared—energy, water, council tax, broadband, and even car tax have all crept up,” she explains.
“But there is hope! Through UW, I help families make significant savings by bundling services like energy, mobile, and broadband into one simple, streamlined bill. Imagine just one account number, one password, one direct debit—life admin made easy. Plus, our
cashback card helps customers save even more every time they shop.”
↑ Sue Murphy is partnered with Utility Warehouse, helping families save money on their home services
In a world of rising expenses, Sue’s practical, thoughtful approach to money-saving solutions is more valuable than ever.
From Neonatal Intensive Care to Intensive Care for Animals
Sue’s path to entrepreneurship wasn’t traditional. For 24 years, she worked as a nurse and midwife, specialising in neonatal intensive care—a career she describes with deep affection.
“I loved my nursing career, but everything changed when I discovered horses in my late thirties,” she says with a smile. “I realised I had two full-time passions, and something had to give. So, at 42, I retired from nursing to pursue my dream of living on a farm surrounded by animals.”
↑ Sue is a true advocate for animal welfare, and here are some of her beloved rescue animals
Over the past 27 years, Sue and her husband have opened their hearts and home to a stunning variety of rescues—horses, chickens, pigs, goats, ducks, turkeys, dogs, and cats.
“My poor husband, who worked offshore, never quite knew what new family members he’d find when he returned!” she laughs.
Their land is also home to barn owls, little owls, and kestrels, thanks to a collaboration with the Barn Owl Conservation Trust. Watching chicks fledge and even hand-feeding orphaned chicks has become part of their farm life.
The Power of Connection
Networking has played a key role in Sue’s success with Utility Warehouse. She is a proud member of three business networking groups.
“Networking has been incredible for my personal growth and professional journey,” she shares. “It’s all about supporting others, building relationships, and helping each other thrive. Watching new business owners grow and succeed has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.”
Sue embodies the spirit of collaboration—something that shines through every aspect of her work and life.
Dreams for the Future
Looking ahead, Sue plans to continue helping families save with UW—something she can envision doing well into her golden years. “I adore the company’s ethos and community. It’s something I can always do part-time while continuing my work on the farm.”
Next on her personal wishlist? “I would love to rescue some donkeys and alpacas,” she beams. Longerterm, Sue dreams of working with international charities to combat animal cruelty—particularly for elephants, lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, and pangolins who suffer in captivity.
“If I can even slightly improve their lives, it will mean the world to me,” she says with heartfelt conviction.
Life’s Simple Pleasures
Despite her busy life, Sue finds moments to unwind.
“Arthritis and a knee replacement have sidelined my riding days, but I still adore caring for my animals,” she shares.
Recently, she has discovered a new passion: sewing. “I’m learning to make patchwork quilts—under supervision, of course!” she laughs.Twice a month, she joins sewing classes where creativity meets camaraderie.
Sue also enjoys pottering in her garden, even if, as she admits, “green fingers aren’t exactly my forte.”
Living Proof That Dreams Are Worth Chasing
Sue’s story is a beautiful reminder that life’s greatest adventures often begin when we dare to follow our passions.
“Walking away from a successful career was daunting, but nearly three decades later, I have no regrets. We are living the dream—happier than we’ve ever been, caring for families, saving them money, and giving animals the forever homes they deserve.”
Now that’s a life well lived.
A Wild Day Out
Meet the Majestic Residents of Gauntlet Birds of Prey
by Jacqui Priestley, accompanied by Abrianna
Gauntlet Birds of Prey in Knutsford - Where a trip to the park is a noisy, thrilling affair where you’ll rub shoulders (sometimes literally) with their much loved feathered family. When you enter the park, you will be instantly transported around the world with birds from every continent; well, except Antarctica!
Meet Owls, Eagles, Vultures, Falcons, Hawks and more unusual species like the Marabou Stork or Red-legged Seriema. Spend the day, enjoying their magnificent flying demonstrations, vulture talk and the meet and greet session. Whether you’re young, old or just crazy about wildlife, as we are! At Gauntlet Birds of Prey, there’s something for everyone!
Established in 1996, the park is home to over 180 birds from 50 different species – it’s the largest collection in the North West of England. It is also one of only a handful of birds of prey parks in the UK to be a member of BIAZA (The British & Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums).
Their main goal is to raise awareness of birds of prey, how they live, hunt and feed. At Gauntlet, you will meet a wide range of birds from Eagles,
Hawks and Falcons, to Vultures, Kites and Owls. The park is also home to more unusual species like Caracaras, Seriemas, Storks and Pelicans. We inform visitors of the plight of some of the species here at the park through our Flying Demonstrations (where you get to see and hear all about the birds), the ‘Vulture Restaurant Talk’ and ‘Meet and Greet’ sessions.
The Gauntlet team say: “Conservation and education is extremely important to us, it’s why we started the park in the first place. Since we opened our doors we have educated 1000s of children on the importance of these birds, their habitats and conservation.
We do this through educational presentations to schools visiting the park, and also through the work of our educational team. The team visit schools and youth groups across Cheshire and Manchester, taking some of Gauntlet’s residents with them. Throughout the year Gauntlet also works hard to raise funds for its charity partner ‘Gauntlet Conservation Trust’ which supports conservation projects in the UK and abroad.”
Let’s meet the birds - here are the Eagles. There are around 60 species of eagle on the planet. Most of them can be found in Africa, Europe and Asia. Only 14 species can be found elsewhere, two in North America, nine in Central and South America and three in Australia. Gauntlet Birds of Prey is home to nine species of eagles, from the Bald Eagle of North America to the African Tawny Eagle from sub-Saharan Africa and India. Our eagles all have their own individual personalities and keep us entertained with their funny ways.
↑ Bald Eagle
↑ White-Tailed Sea Eagle
↑ African Fish Eagle
↑ African Tawny Eagle
↑ Black-Chested Buzzard Eagle
↑ Golden Eagle
Here are the Owls - Across the world there are over 200 different species of owls, from the tiny Pygmy Owl to the statuesque European Eagle Owl. They are generally considered to be nocturnal hunters, however they are actually quite capable diurnal hunters, with some species even preferring to hunt during the day. Gauntlet is home to 13 different species of Owl, plus a very special hybrid owl (a cross between a Malaysian Wood Owl and a Great Grey Owl). These silent hunters can be seen during daily demonstrations.
In the next issue we meet the vultures, falcons and kites of Gauntlet, and in the meantime have a look at their website: gauntletbirdsofprey.co.uk
↑ Great Grey Owl
↑ Great Horned Owl
↑ Milky Eagle Owl
↑ Chaco Owl
Cheshire-Based Tradespeople
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Don’t miss out, sign up today at www.tradys.co – places are limited.
Unlocking Luxury
Carolyn Flowerdew on Navigating Cheshire’s Golden Triangle Property Market
by Jacqui Priestley
What makes Cheshire’s Golden Triangle such a magnet for luxury property buyers, and how has demand evolved over the last few years?
This area has long been special and sought after. That’s down to a rare combination. First, the enviable location – nestled in lush countryside yet just a short drive to the airport. There are superb road links, which happily don’t encroach into the peaceand-quiet one iota.
Then, there’s the social scene. With restaurants, cafés and coffee shops catering to all tastes, stylish cocktail bars, atmospheric brasseries, quirky micro pubs, and characterful traditional inns.
Social life means more than nights out, of course. Throughout the area we have countless golf and cricket clubs, rugby and football, gyms and wellness centres, livery yards, and all manner of social and sporting groups.
To top it off, we have some of the best schools around. Renowned public schools perform consistently highly, and the state schools regularly outshine those in other parts of the country.
Since the uncertainty of 2020, there’s been a distinct shift towards a demand for space and community, ideally rural yet with access to business and cultural hubs. The Golden Triangle offers all this, with bells on.
What are the biggest mistakes buyers make when searching for a home in this exclusive market?
Just as “location, location, location” is everything, so should be “research, research, research.” Ascertain what you NEED and what you WANT, then decide which are deal-breakers and what can be compromised. Lack of research, coupled with lack of time to view properties, can be disastrous. That’s why buying agents and property finders are invaluable.
We do ALL the legwork, we know the area insideout and back-to-front, so once we have your wish list, must-haves, and specifications, we’re off to a tremendous head start. You save time, stressand ultimately money. Going it alone and trying to organise remotely is a minefield. Getting it wrong can be an expensive mistake that no-one wants to make.
How do you uncover hidden or off-market properties that never hit the open market?
This all comes down to that crucial local knowledge and network. Property finders build their reputation and foster relationships with others in the industry. This means I’ll find out about properties where perhaps a swift or discreet sale is required. My network of estate agents ensures my clients can be the first to hear when the perfect property is about to become available.
Plus, I’m perfectly happy to visit or mail homes and roads that my clients express their interest in. It’s not just what I know – it’s who I know (and the work I put in).
What trends are you seeing in the types of properties people are looking for — and what features are becoming must-haves?
Oh, how long is a piece of string?! We’ve seen a significant demand for lifestyle gyms and wellness spaces. The outdoor living area is always a big draw, and outdoor kitchens are increasing in popularity.
Eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and sustainable features are always a big plus with car charging points almost essential, along with ample, secure, off-road parking. Security features rank highly, along with smart home technology.
Fittings and finishes must always be high-end and high-quality, and everyone’s looking for an impressive, open kitchen with separate wellequipped utility. Boot rooms and dog washes are becoming more commonplace, and a dedicated office or workspace is pretty much a necessity.
The epoch is a future-proof home with space for multi-generational living – and a business space. No pressure!
Can you share a memorable success story — or a particularly tricky search — that captures the unique challenges of working in this market?
I recently helped a family move to the area from London. They knew exactly what they wanted, but had absolutely no idea where to start, or the time to start. Ofsted reports only tell you so much about schools, and you need real insider knowledge about individual areas.
Initially, they didn’t view anything that didn’t seem ideal. I showed them properties they hadn’t considered, told them everything about the area and the schools, and found the perfect property. All this whilst saving them a lot of time and stress had they done it alone.
Happy Pottering
by Graham, the Golden Triangle Gardener
Picture this: you, a cuppa in hand, mooching around a garden that practically looks after itself while dishing up herbs, berries and a cosy home for lady-birds and hedgehogs. That’s the whole spirit of permaculture—working with nature, not bossing it about. Let me walk you through how to make it happen…
First things first, have a good nosey. Honestly, the best homework you’ll ever get is to sit on the patio and watch. Where does the sun blaze all afternoon? Which corner turns into a mini-lake after a downpour? Does the wind come roaring down the side passage like a freight train? Jot these nuggets in a scruffy notebook or on the back of an envelope—future you will be grateful when plants end up exactly where they want to be.
Rain is basically liquid gold, so catch every drop you can. Stick a water butt under the downpipe; even a cheap plastic one does the trick. If your patch slopes, drag a spade through the turf to carve shallow, level channels—swales, if you want to sound fancy—that slow water and let it soak in instead of legging it down the drain. Mulch everything with whatever you’ve got to hand (grass clippings, shredded leaves, half-finished compost), and droughts suddenly feel far less scary.
Now, about soil: feed it like you’d feed a sourdough starter—little and often, with good stuff. Lay cardboard straight over stubborn lawn, tip veggie peelings and autumn leaves on top, then finish with straw or wood chips. Worms will pull it all underground while you’re watching the telly, turning it into dark, crumbly magic. No back-breaking digging, no pricey fertiliser—just lazy lasagne gardening.
“...about soil: feed it like you’d feed a sourdough starter - little and often, with good stuff.”
Every element in a permaculture plot should moonlight. Think bean teepees: they give you dinner, toss dappled shade onto lettuce underneath, and
double as a climbing frame for ladybirds hunting aphids. A small pond is even cheekier—it stores rainwater, cools the air, mirrors sunlight onto neighbouring beds, and invites frogs to patrol for slugs. If something can’t multitask, ask it politely to up its game or find a replacement that can.
Instead of neat military rows, let plants buddy up. The classic trio is sweetcorn for height, climbing beans for free nitrogen, and sprawling squash to blanket weeds and keep the soil moist—like a living mulch. You can riff on that anywhere: stick garlic near roses as a natural pest bouncer, tuck
nasturtiums beneath fruit trees to lure caterpillars away, or pair strawberries with chives for a fragrant, edible ground-cover. While we’re stacking benefits, perennials are the ultimate lowmaintenance mates. Raspberries, rhubarb, walking onions, herbs—plant them once, and they’ll turn up year after year like faithful pub regulars. Slot annual veg into the gaps for quick harvests, but lean on the perennials for the heavy lifting.
Permaculture also borrows a trick from forests by using all available layers. A dwarf apple tree forms the canopy; currants sit happily in its partial shade; calendula splashes colour at knee height; strawberries sprawl as a soft carpet; and maybe a kiwi vine scrambles up a pergola beside it all. Same footprint, five different harvests, and wildlife galore.
Speaking of wildlife, invite the pest patrol rather than reaching for sprays. Plant pollen-rich flowers—marigolds, alyssum, dill—so hoverflies and lacewings swing by for a snack and stick around to munch aphids. A scruffy log pile in the corner becomes a beetle B&B, and a shallow birdbath draws in feathered slug-busters.
“...don’t try to landscape Wembley Stadium in a weekend.”
Paths deserve love too. Keep beds no wider than an arm’s reach and shape them like keyholes or pizza slices radiating from a central “hub”. Woodchip or clover paths soak up rain instead of turning into puddles, and you’ll never have to clamber over courgettes in your Sunday best.
Finally, don’t try to landscape Wembley Stadium in a weekend. Start with one modest bed, see what thrives, tweak what doesn’t, and expand bit by bit. Swap surplus seedlings with neighbours, share a jar of homemade jam, have a chat at the gate— community is the real secret fertiliser that makes everything grow better.
Do all that and you’ll soon have a garden that hums, buzzes and blooms while you kick back with another brew, marvelling at how little work you’re doing for such a grand payoff.
Happy pottering!
Dan Lancaster // Architect
“Smarter Home 4U were excellent from beginning to end. The job was to improve our lounge; it was a messy, dusty business but they covered everywhere with protective sheeting.
They were clean and tidy, friendly, and hard working. I was up against a deadline and they helped ensure the date was achieved. They kept me informed at every stage, and went the ‘extra mile’ to do a good job. I have no hesitation in recommending them.”
Smarter Home 4U have transformed countless properties across Greater Manchester and Cheshire. From those odd jobs around the house to fullscale extensions and restorations, we draw on over 30 years’ experience to deliver the highest standard of workmanship every time.
A family run business since 2013, we carry out all types of home improvements, inside and out, whether you’re a homeowner wanting to give your property a makeover, or landlord seeking a quick, cost-effective fix for a tenant.
No task is too big or small for Smarter Home 4U. Whether you’re putting up shelves or planning major refurbishment works, we combine our hands-on knowledge with an honest, hard-working approach to deliver the best solutions for our clients.
Roses in Bloom
by Margaret Turner, Wilmslow Garden Centre
Having had a fabulous sunny spring season, our gardens are bursting with colour but as we move outdoors to enjoy special times with family and friends to socialise and play, I’d like to focus on our traditional old favourite garden plant that brings us glorious displays of colourful blooms and scent year-on-year.
Amongst the hot, bright summer hanging baskets, containers and fabulous borders, we find the exquisite and beautiful rose. ROSE Rosacea : Seem to have been with us forever, a symbol of beauty, romance and source of perfume, we absolutely love them.
Roses are suitable for a range of garden uses, as specimen plants or standards, a shrub, as hedges, climbers to decorate pergolas and arbours and miniature roses suitable for rock gardens. We also love to cut the flowers to bring into our homes to appreciate their beauty and fragrance, give to loved ones or wrap as bouquets for weddings or celebrations.
Wilmslow garden centre celebrates our beloved rose every year by holding their very own rose festival. At the start of summer, it’s the ideal time to purchase your new addition to the garden.
As David Austin stockists, you will find the plant area bursting with amazing new and old varieties. Whichever, you decide to plant, I’m sure you will absolutely love your new statement garden plant for many years to come.
ROSE FESTIVAL: 6th - 30th June
GROW TOGETHER: 28th June
A session with our team of experts focusing on Rose types, colour, scent, companion planting, rose health.
Visit: www.klondyke.co.uk to learn more
↑ Salis Marner
↑ The Lark Ascending ↑ Desdemona
↑ Gabriel Oak
↓ Nye Bevan
SmarterHome 4U offers high-quality garden decking designed to transform your outdoor space into a relaxing summer retreat. Whether you want a quiet reading nook, an entertaining area, or a family barbecue spot, our custom installations combine comfort with style.
We use durable, weather-resistant materials that enhance your garden and stand up to the British climate. Our team works with you to create a design that suits your garden’s size, shape, and aesthetic. From classic timber to low-maintenance composite options, we offer solutions to suit all tastes and budgets. Our installations are efficient, tidy, and minimally disruptive.
Create the perfect space to unwind, host, or soak up the sun with SmarterHome 4U decking—tailored to your lifestyle.
Beautiful decking, built around you.
Contact us now to see how we can help start your decking transformation.
Roses may be the queens of the garden, but even royalty needs good company—and who better than a band of charming, fragrant herbs?
Together, they create a delightful and functional planting party, blending beauty with purpose. Lavender is a natural first guest at this garden gathering. With its silvery foliage and soft purple spires, it dances beautifully alongside roses, while its sweet scent keeps aphids at bay.
Next comes sage, the wise old herb, bringing textured leaves and dusky flowers that not only look great but help deter pests and keep the garden breathing easy.
Creeping in close to the soil is thyme, the quiet achiever. It’s a perfect groundcover that tickles your ankles with fragrance and gently guards the base of rose bushes from weeds and moisture loss.
Then there’s oregano, a sprawling free spirit that spills joyfully between rose stems, inviting bees and butterflies in for a visit with its tiny nectar-rich blooms. Not far behind are chives, bursting into little purple pompoms that look like
mini fireworks next to a rose’s romantic curves—they do double duty by helping fend off black spot and aphids.
Chamomile floats in like a garden fairy, with delicate daisy-like blooms and soft ferny leaves, quietly whispering health and happiness to nearby plants. It’s long been said that chamomile improves the well-being and fragrance of its neighbours—roses
included. And let’s not forget curly parsley, with its cheerful green tufts that add freshness and form. It may look mild, but parsley attracts hoverflies and helpful garden wasps that love to feast on aphids.
Planting herbs with roses isn’t just practical—it turns your flower beds into a living sensory experience. Together, these fragrant allies support each other, attracting pollinators, warding off pests, and delighting anyone who brushes by.
The key is to give everyone enough room to grow, let the sun shine in, and maybe leave a little thyme (pun intended) for a seat in the shade where you can enjoy the view. After all, in this blooming herb-and-rose friendship, everyone brings something to the party.
A Midsummer’s Walk Around Knutsford
by Jacqui Priestley
There’s something about midsummer that makes you believe you’re in a Jane Austen novel – or, at the very least, a BBC adaptation involving bonnets, breeches, and the faint smell of sun cream. And what better place to unleash your inner romantic hero (or slightly lost rambler) than the charming town of Knutsford, in Cheshire’s Golden Triangle?
Our noble expedition begins at WA16 0PA, outside the grand gates of Tatton Park. The morning sun is shining with an optimism typically reserved for Eurovision, and there’s a definite whiff of wildflowers, mingled with the faintest aroma of someone’s picnic leftovers. Courageously, we stride into Tatton’s leafy embrace like hikers who’ve read one too many National Trust brochures.
Tatton Park is not your average patch of grass. It’s 1,000 acres of deer-studded splendour, complete with a mansion that makes Downton Abbey look like a semi-detached in Croydon. We tiptoe past a few bemused deer who stare at us like we’ve interrupted their yoga session.
“...what better place to unleash your romantic hero than the charming town of Knutsford, in Cheshire’s Golden Triangle?”
There’s also a lake that glitters in the sun, and for a brief moment, you consider skinny-dipping – before remembering that a) it’s full of swans and b) you’re British.
Having conquered Tatton without so much as breaking into a wheeze (alright, maybe a small one), we head down Knutsford’s King Street – the kind of road where every other shop sells artisan bread, gin, or both. It’s also lined with historic buildings, quirky boutiques, and that one café that insists its sourdough is “life-changing.” (It’s bread,..... Calm down.)
We stop for a well-earned coffee at a place with exposed brickwork and staff who look like they own poetry podcasts. The coffee is good. The oat milk was a risk. But we soldier on, fuelled by caffeine and a packet of emergency bourbons.
Next, we amble up to Princess Street, known locally as the place where parking is impossible, but the cakes are divine. Here, you can admire the Gaskell Memorial Tower, which was built to honour Elizabeth Gaskell – author, local legend, and all-round queen of 19thcentury drama. Knutsford was the inspiration for Cranford, so keep your eyes peeled for any genteel ladies in bonnets, though they’re more likely to be retired accountants in Joules wellies these days.
After some window shopping (and actual shopping – curse those charming tea towels), we detour into The Moor, a pretty green space
that says, “Yes, I am ideal for picnics and impromptu Instagram photo shoots.” It’s full of families, dogs living their best lives, and one gentleman who seems to be feeding squirrels from his hand, like some kind of nutty Disney prince.
Feeling pastoral, poetic, and slightly peckish again, we make our way to one of Knutsford’s many pubs for a classic pub lunch. There’s ale. There are pies. There’s a minor debate about whether sticky toffee pudding counts as one of your five a day. (It does, if you believe hard enough.)
As the sun begins its slow descent and the golden hour wraps Knutsford in a flattering Instagram filter, we saunter back toward our starting point, shoes muddier, hearts fuller, and one sock mysteriously damp. Such is the magic of a midsummer walk – especially in a town that mixes literary charm, country air, and just the right amount of village gossip.
Knutsford, you saucy little slice of Cheshire. We’ll be back.
