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Ramsbottom and Rawtenstall A Summer Day Out...

Summer Essentials!

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CONTENTS: JULY/AUG 2026

INTHISISSUE YOURREGULARFEATURES Summer Essentials

JLife Meets…

R and R

Author and Screenwriter Jeremy The Manchester Open exhibition Viva Mexico!

Dyson talks Jewish influence, features 420 artists showcasing As World Cup fever is taking the the power of friendship, and the their work in celebration of world by storm, we check out supernatural. Page 29.

Mexico's vibrant and eclectic host Greater Manchester’s creative talent. Page 52.

Find out about Foundation for cities for a holiday destination.

Jewish Heritage and its exciting Page 16.

Snap Happy new initiative from Chief Executive, For World Photography Day Michael Mail MBE. Page 82.

Curtain Up (19th August), we consult with 50 years in, the Royal Exchange Theatre remains one of the most Rob Clayton on how to create Hola Manchester!

Manchester Day is the city’s distinctive and beloved stages in pictures with heart and soul.

Page 58. biggest and most beloved annual the country and it's celebrating celebration that’s back on 26th with a landmark season of bold A Weight Lifted July and this year, it comes with a productions. Page 27.

Hannah Gerson and Suzanne distinctly Catalan flavour. Page 9.

Benjamin from Paperweight WINNERS! explain how the charity is providing Congratulations to Norman Taylor who won a premium mop system compassionate support to help from Bona and Brian Stephen Airley and Devora Jackson who each people overcome life's toughest won a copy of Simon Michael’s brand-new book, The French Vendetta. challenges. Page 79.

Get your garden ready for hosting this summer with some tips from industry experts and soak up the sun in one of our city’s amazing beer gardens. Starts page 40.

Tucked into the Irwell Valley, Ramsbottom and Rawtenstall are a pair of charming market towns perfect for a summer day out.

Starts page 42.

Coming of Age

Reminisce with photos of the celebrations we’ve shared over the past year and find out the key to nailing a speech as well as the top tipples you should be serving up at the party. Starts page 60.

WIN, WIN, WIN!

Win two Corten steel planters worth £192 from London Stone to spruce up your garden. Page 39.

PUBLISHER Elliot Landy

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Craig Shaw / Richard Shawcross

EDITOR

Ellie Tyson

WRITER

Brendan Campbell

DIGITAL MARKETING Tracey Cleminson

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alex Mandel Paul Fertig Rob Clayton Photography Sitara Bartle Davies Tanya Duman Photography Tracy Kerr Zoe Hawker Photography

CONTRIBUTORS

Adeola Adelakun Alastair Armer Andrea James Carl Austin-Behan Carl Peters Clarissa Corfe Evelyn Adesina Hannah Gerson Jane Oakshott Jeremy Dyson Joseph Gitler Joyce Khan Laura Rich

Magdalena Gierasinska Marc Levy Michael Mail MBE Mosh Latifi Murray Patt Rabbi AY Goldman Rabbi Benjy Rickman Rabbi Doniel Stern Rob Clayton Ronke Jane Adelakun Sara Radivan Steve Sutherland Suzanne Benjamin

PUBLISHED BY: JLIFE LTD. UNIT 7, GEMINI PARK, SHEEPSCAR WAY, LEEDS LS7 3JB. TEL: 0845 052 2911 EMAIL: JLIFE@NUTSFORPRINT.CO.UK WEBSITE: WWW.JLIFEMAGAZINE.CO.UK

July / August 2026

The Big Chill

Med With Love

The former head of a Manchester Cold water immersion, ice baths, For a home that feels like a holiday yeshiva came to understand cryotherapy chambers – a treatment year-round, Mediterraneanthe life-changing power of truly once confined to elite sports inspired décor is the way to go listening to someone in despair – recovery has gone mainstream. this summer! Page 36.

Joyce Khan learns more. Page 11. Page 14.

Art Heaven

PUBLISHER'SNOTE It’s hot, hot, hot, at time of writing – probably back to normal by the time you read this, but it was nice while it lasted! Our July summer essentials feature includes a day out in the beautiful Irwell Valley, getting your garden ready with some expert tips, a chance to win some London Stone planters, and a look at some local beer gardens. Alternatively, why not cool down with some cold therapy?

/JLifeMagazine

Aside from all the amazing community events and interviews, the Royal Exchange celebrates 50 years, and we preview Manchester Day with a Catalan twist! If it’s some colour you need, check out some Mexican travel hotspots and Mediterraneaninspired décor.

As always, your new JLife is packed full of great content for you to enjoy, and don’t forget to send in your free Yom Tov greetings for the next edition!

@JLifeMagazine PICK UP YOUR COPY OF JLIFE AT:

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Asda (Pilsworth, Radcliffe); Bonds Newsagents; Brackmans; Celia’s Kitchen; Dunham Forest Golf Club; Heathlands; JS; Let’s Fress Deli; Lulu’s Kitchen Cheadle; Maccabi Centre; Menorah Synagogue (Sharston); Morrisons Whitefield; One Stop (Bury); Sainsbury’s (Altrincham, Cheadle Hulme, Heaton Park; Sainsbury’s Local (Hale, Prestwich); State Fayre Crumpsall, Whitefield and Hale; Tesco (East Didsbury, Prestwich, Cheetham Hill); Didsbury, Hale, Cheadle Hulme, Wilmslow); Tesco Extra (Altrincham, Bury, Handforth); Total Fitness; United Co-op (Altrincham, Unsworth); Village Opticians; Whitefield Golf Club.

Printing PMG Print Management Copyright JLife Manchester. Any reproduction of content whole or part strictly forbidden without written consent by the editor. JLife Manchester is a commercial publication and is not the official voice of the Jewish community.

Editorial policies & magazine layouts are purely at the publisher’s discretion & no debate will be entered in to.

5

NEWS IN BRIEF

Belong Shines Spotlight

For Dementia Action Week in May, Belong Morris Feinmann placed the spotlight on the thousands of unpaid carers – family, friends, and even neighbours – who are providing hours of care each week for loved ones at home, often with little or no support for themselves.

There are 1.8 million people providing some form of care for people with dementia in England, unpaid carers are spending four working days per week providing care, and one third are providing more than 100 hours weekly.

Belong, the dementia specialist which primarily caters for the Jewish community, is encouraging people to explore and engage with support options available locally, specifically those that offer them a helping hand either through advice and signposting or offering respite and the chance for social interaction.

Raphi’s New Appointment

Raphi Bloom has been appointed as a new trustee of the Jewish Leadership Council (JLC) on behalf of the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester (JRC).

He will succeed Chair, Mark Adlestone OBE, who is stepping down from the JLC after completing an outstanding nine-year term.

Commenting on his appointment, Raphi Bloom said: “I am truly delighted to be joining the JLC as a trustee on behalf of the JRC. At such a challenging and defining time for our community, I am proud to play my part in supporting and helping to lead with clarity, resilience, and unity. It is both an honour and a responsibility I take deeply seriously, and I feel especially privileged to be following in the footsteps of the peerless Mark Adlestone, whose leadership has set such an inspiring standard.”

Reflecting on his time as a JLC trustee, Mark said: “It has been my privilege to serve as a trustee for the past nine years, initially under the leadership of Jonathan Goldstein and latterly Keith Black. As the sole representative outside London, I would like to think I brought a northern perspective to the table in my role as chair of the JRC. During that time, we have faced generationally challenging issues on behalf of the entire Jewish community. I believe we have been successful in speaking truth to power, resulting in real and positive action.”

Running On

A survivor of the Yom Kippur terrorist attack at Heaton Park Synagogue completed a half-marathon at the Great Manchester Run, just months after being shot.

Yoni Finlay was raising money for The Friendship Circle, which supports Jewish children and adults with physical and learning disabilities.

Yoni, who was hit by a police bullet while barricading the doors to the shul on 2nd October had participated in running events before the terrorist attack: “I wanted to prove to myself that I could still do it as well as making money for The Friendship Circle, to which I owe a lot.”

Also running for The Friendship Circle in the 10K run were Yudit and Dovi Rosenberg and Nesanel Jaffe. Altogether, they raised £2,550.

6

New High Master Following Dr Martin Boulton’s decision to retire at the end of the next academic year, from September 2027, Dr Richard Brookes will join Manchester Grammar School (MGS) as the new High Master.

Richard began his teaching career at Whitgift School and then became the Head of Chemistry at King Edward’s School in Birmingham. From there, he moved to Tonbridge School as Director of Teaching and Learning and in 2015 became the Senior Deputy Head at City of London School. After a period as Acting Head, he took up the role of Head at the Queen Elizabeth Grammar School in Wakefield in 2021. He is currently the Executive Head of the Foundation for the three Wakefield Schools.

Richard says: “It is an honour to be appointed as High Master of MGS and I am thrilled to be joining its community; a community marked out by its commitment to scholarship, kindness, and service. The assisted place I received as a pupil enabled me to benefit from a transformative independent education, and I look forward to working closely with staff and friends of MGS to extend those opportunities, and more, to boys at MGS. My family and I look forward to meeting the boys, staff, and the wider Old Mancunian community very soon.”

Law Society Appointment Jeff Lewis from Cheshire is set to become the first Jewish president of the Law Society in 50 years. He’ll take office in October, first as vice-president before becoming president in 2028.

Jeff said: “I look forward to being a strong voice for solicitors, encouraging young people to enter the profession and build their careers. This is an important time in the sector and the Law Society’s work in promoting the profession and serving the public is vital.”

Jeff has been on several Law Society advisory committees such as the Membership and Communications Committee and the Civil Justice Committee. He has also been a member of various Manchester Courts Users’ Committees and has represented Manchester on the Law Society council since 2016.

A member of South Manchester Synagogue, Bowdon, Jeff is an avid runner and recently took part in the Great Manchester Run half-marathon.

Ofsted Success Bury and Whitefield Jewish Primary School has excelled under Ofsted’s new inspection framework. It was awarded a ‘Strong’ for early years, attendance and behaviour, and inclusion and met the required standard in every other category.

Peter Ross, Co-Chair of Governors, said: “On behalf of my Co-Chair Rabbi Avrohom Jaffe, Head Teacher Melanie Kobak, all governors, and staff, I am absolutely delighted to share the outcome of our Ofsted inspection. As we celebrate over 40 years of our school and remain open for 2026/27 applications from prospective new parents, we proudly celebrate a highly deserved and official endorsement of the high quality of education, learning, and pastoral care that the school provides.

“This inspection places Bury and Whitefield Jewish Primary School among the strongestperforming schools in Bury under the new inspection framework. While Ofsted no longer awards overall grades, the profile of judgements achieved is one that very few schools nationally have secured under the new report card system. In many parts of the country, schools with a report card profile like ours would sit comfortably among the highestperforming schools. We are immensely proud that inspectors recognised the strength of our provision, our inclusive culture, the opportunities available to our children, and the dedication of our staff team. The report celebrates so much of what makes our school special.” jlifemagazine.co.uk

See more photos on pages 12, 34, 56, 66 and 73

PHOTOS

ALL PHOTOS: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

MAZEL TOV TO NADINE AND ALEX WHO WERE RECENTLY MARRIED!

THEIR SPECIAL DAY WAS HELD AT THE EDWARDIAN HOTEL.

IT WAS A PROUD DAY FOR PARENTS GILLIAN AND STUART LANDES AND RICHARD AND LOUISE KINGSLEY AS WELL AS GRANDPARENTS GERALDINE AND SIDNEY.

GUESTS INCLUDING ONES FROM AMERICA, HOLLAND, AND SWITZERLAND JOINED TO CELEBRATE THE HAPPY COUPLE!

THE CELEBRATIONS CONTINUED INTO THE EARLY HOURS OF THE MORNING.

EVERYONE HAD A BLAST!

July / August 2026

7

OUR COMMUNITY Two in One

Being both proudly Jewish and proudly British isn’t a balancing act between two competing identities, but the coming together of two traditions that have shaped who we are and how we contribute to society.

That sense of dual identity was at the heart of a recent Jewish Culture Month event celebrating Jewish contributions to Manchester. Bringing together family and friends of JRC Chair Mark Adlestone, Sir Sidney Hamburger, and Sir Howard Bernstein, the evening was a celebration of the community that has helped build the city we call home.

Jewish success in Britain has always been about service, responsibility, and giving back. Jewish families arrived in Manchester seeking opportunity and security. They worked hard, established businesses, supported charities, built institutions, and helped drive economic growth, contributing not only to the prosperity of the Jewish community, but to the success of the wider city and nation.

Mark Adlestone has long asserted that British values such as democracy, respect

for the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and responsibility towards others are not abstract concepts, but the foundations upon which successful communities are built. It’s striking how closely these values align with Jewish teachings and how the same ideals are deeply rooted in our tradition.

We believe that strong communal identities can coexist with national identity, and Mark has consistently argued that people can maintain their faith, culture, and traditions while actively contributing to the common good.

At a time when discourse often focuses on division, it is important to tell a different story. The Jewish experience in Britain demonstrates that our history is one of participation, partnership, and progress.

The event was a reminder of what’s possible when communities embrace both their heritage and their national identity.

This duality isn’t a challenge to be managed; it is a strength to be celebrated and one of the clearest examples of how shared values can unite diverse communities.

Jewishmanchester.org

With Marc Levy, Chief Executive of the Jewish Representative Council

Cultural Celebration The inaugural Jewish Culture Month, a project of the Board of Deputies of British Jews (BoD) was a tremendous success, with more than 150 events taking place all over the country.

In Manchester I joined a walking tour of Jewish central Manchester, attended a textile art workshop at the Whitworth Art Museum, and indulged in online humour and ‘how to be Jewish again’ with Gillian Fischer. We welcomed civic leaders to our home for a Friday night dinner, and we explained about Kiddush, hand-washing, hamotzi, and some Shabbat laws before the guests enjoyed their dinner. I also attended an event that celebrated Manchester's rich history and vibrant cultural identity exploring the Jewish contribution to the making of Manchester at the Central Library.

We are now collecting feedback so we can reflect, improve, and start planning for Jewish Culture Month 2027. The call for evidence has been sent out for the Commission on Disability Inclusion in the Jewish Community, which will examine the barriers faced by disabled Jews across the

8

UK and set out practical, evidence-based recommendations for change.

The BoD’s honorary officers and professional staff team continue to lead the Jewish community in confronting the challenges and maximising the opportunities before us by focusing on the BoD’s five main priorities which are to fight antisemitism, stand up for peace and security in Israel and the Middle East, defend our religious freedoms, make our community more united, inclusive, and outward looking, and to celebrate our faith, heritage, and culture as British Jews.

The BoD thanks all those who pay the communal contribution with their synagogue membership. This greatly assists the BoD to protect and advocate for the whole UK Jewish community.

Bod.org.uk

With Sara Radivan, Deputy and Community Engagement Manager at the Board of Deputies of British Jews

jlifemagazine.co.uk

MANCHESTER DAY

Hola Manchester!

ALL PHOTOS: MARK WAUGH PHOTOGRAPHY.

Manchester Day, the city’s biggest and most beloved annual celebration, is back on 26th July – and this year, it comes with a distinctly Catalan flavour.

Manchester Day has long been an event that brings the whole city together in a blaze of colour, music, and community spirit. But this year promises something genuinely new. For the first time in the event’s history, international performers will be joining the festivities as artists and performers from Barcelona make the trip to Manchester to take part in the celebrations.

The Catalan connection isn’t random.

Last September, Manchester took on the prestigious role of Guest City at Barcelona’s iconic La Mercè festival – a six-day cultural spectacular that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and showcases the very best of Catalan arts, music, and tradition. Manchester artists were invited to perform on the world stage, with carnival arts specialists Global Grooves among those who took part, presenting a striking collaboration that celebrated the shared industrial heritage of the two cities.

Now Barcelona is returning the favour, bringing its own performers to the streets and squares of central Manchester.

The much-loved Mini Manchester Day Parade will make a welcome return and this year it comes with a decidedly bookish twist. Taking inspiration from the current year-long national celebration of books and reading, the parade will weave literary themes through its music, dance, and spectacle, giving the whole event a creative,

storytelling dimension.

Outdoor arts organisation Walk the Plank, one of the UK’s most respected names in large-scale community arts, is working with groups across the city in the run-up to the day to shape what promises to be a parade full of colour, community energy, and Catalan vibes. Walk the Plank is collaborating with Xtrax Arts to bring together an impressive lineup of UK and Spanish outdoor arts companies whose performances and walkabout shows will fill the city centre throughout the day.

In another first, Manchester Day is switching from its traditional Saturday slot to Sunday, great news for all the community.

Whether that means a more leisurely morning before heading into the city, it feels appropriate for an event that invites you to slow down, look around, and enjoy everything Manchester has to offer.

Councillor Pat Karney, Chair of Manchester Day, is already brimming with excitement and enthusiasm: “We could literally write a book on how fantastic our city is and how utterly awesome and amazing Mancunians are. Everyone knows we never do things by halves in Manchester, and with our friends from Barcelona also joining us for this year’s festivities, it’s going to be Manchester Barcelona Day all the way.”

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EXTRA-ORDINARY PEOPLE

The former head of a Manchester yeshiva came to understand the life-changing power of truly listening to someone in despair – Joyce Khan learns more.

Rabbi AY Goldman, known as AY, is the Manchester-born-and-raised co-founder of The Helpline, a charity he started with his childhood friend Shaya Halpern, which offers an anonymous service for anyone in the Jewish community who is struggling.

Two shocking suicides of local young people exposed the need in a close-knit, largely observant community for a trusted, confidential place where troubled youngsters could be listened to but not judged.

That same principle reflects the work of Kevin Briggs, the retired California highway patrol man known as ‘The Guardian of the Golden Gate Bridge’. During years of patrolling the bridge, he brought hundreds of suicidal people back from the brink through ‘listening to understand’ – deep, empathetic listening without judgment or interruption which creates trust and opens a connection with the speaker.

This approach allows the person in pain to feel heard and valued. By responding with empathy, the listener helps to reduce the sense of isolation, making space for hope to emerge.

July / August 2026

Helping Hands

The Helpline volunteers are taught active listening – responding in a way that demonstrates understanding – whether by paraphrasing, reflecting what they have heard, or asking clarifying questions. As AY explains: “If people feel alone with their problem, there’s a danger of them spiraling downwards. Our volunteers learn how to be with someone in their moment of pain without trying to solve it. It’s an underestimated skill, and it can change lives.”

AY has worked extensively in ‘non-mainstream’ yeshivah settings, setting up his own – first in Israel and later in Manchester – for students with challenging behaviour who couldn’t cope in a standard framework. He offered them vocational training alongside religious study and many alumni have gone on to successful work as electricians, plumbers, and builders.

As head of yeshivah, AY gained substantial experience in supporting students who had suffered traumatic or abusive childhoods, which lay behind their difficult behaviour.

Today he’s regarded as an expert in working with disengaged children and their families and is regularly asked to speak in the UK and beyond.

The deaths that shook the community galvanized AY and Shaya into setting up The Helpline with 17 trained volunteers for eight hours a week. It’s grown into a 24/7 service, with volunteers in the UK, the United States, and Europe fielding 4,500 calls monthly and serving communities around the world including in New York, Gibraltar,

Boca Raton, and Belgium. Many callers are living with the aftermath of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts.

Anonymity is key so callers’ numbers can’t be seen or traced, and every shift is overseen by a supervisor.

Although the service was established with young people in mind, a surprising level of need surfaced among older adults. The largest group of callers is in the 25 to 45 age group.

Calls spiked during the pandemic and again following the Heaton Park synagogue attack and stabbings in Golders Green. The phone line is now augmented by text and WhatsApp services and offers face-to-face support from trained therapists at its Salford premises.

Recruitment of volunteers has involved a personal approach, AY explains how he would identify a potential volunteer by observing people in ordinary conversation to see: “whether someone is listening with the reply already formed on their lips – indicating that they’re not really listening to what the other person is saying – or listening to understand.” The Helpline’s work is built on the quiet skill of listening carefully enough for someone in distress to feel, perhaps for the first time, that they don’t have to struggle alone.

For 24/7 support, phone 0330 127 3333 or send an SMS or WhatsApp message to 07479 273 333. If you’re interested in becoming a Helpline volunteer, call 0303 040 2222.

11

PHOTOS

See more photos on pages 7, 34, 56, 66 and 73

KING DAVID PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS RECENTLY ATTENDED ETGAR, AN INTER-SCHOOL QUIZ COMPETITION.

THE SCHOOL ALSO HELD A SPECIAL YOM YERUSHALAYIM ASSEMBLY WITH LOTS OF SINGING AND CELEBRATION.

YEAR 5 PUPILS TOOK PART IN A VALUE AUCTION WITH THEIR FAMILIES, LEARNING ABOUT WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE THING IN THEIR LIVES.

YEAR 1 PARENTS JOINED THEIR CHILDREN FOR A CRAFT EVENT WHERE THEY MADE THEIR OWN KOTEL OUT OF CLAY.

THE JNF ‘CARAVAN’ – A TEAM OF EXPERIENCED SHLICHIM FROM ISRAEL WHO VISIT SCHOOLS AROUND THE WORLD AND RUN ISRAEL EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS – RAN SESSIONS ACROSS THE SCHOOL.

TESCO IN CHEETHAM HILL SENT PUPILS APPLES FOR SHAVUOT!

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13

WELLBEING

The Big Chill

Cold therapy – or cryotherapy, from the Greek for ‘cold’ – is the application of extreme cold to the body to achieve a therapeutic effect. In its simplest form, you’ll probably have already used it any time you’ve pressed a bag of frozen peas against a sprained ankle.

Professional cold therapy takes that idea quite a bit further. Whole-body cryotherapy involves standing in a chamber cooled to between -110°C and -140°C for two to four minutes.

Localised cryotherapy targets specific areas, such as a troublesome joint or muscle group, with a directed stream of cold air. Cold water immersion, the fastestgrowing version among home users, involves plunging into a bath or outdoor tub at temperatures that would make most people wince.

The physiological effect in all cases is fairly similar – exposure to extreme cold causes blood vessels to constrict, reduces inflammation and nerve activity, and triggers the body’s recovery systems. When the cold is removed and the body warms back up, fresh oxygenated blood rushes back to the affected areas.

Cold therapy’s credentials for sports recovery and treatment of acute injuries are well-established. It’s a core part of the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation) recommended by physiotherapists and sports medicine

Cold water immersion, ice baths, cryotherapy chambers – a treatment once confined to elite sports recovery has gone mainstream.

practitioners for soft tissue injuries, and there is solid clinical evidence for its effectiveness in reducing post-exercise inflammation and pain, particularly around joints and tendons.

Broader claims like significant weight loss, treatment of chronic conditions, and skin rejuvenation are more contested.

The Advertising Standards Authority has ruled against clinics making insufficiently evidenced claims for cryotherapy, and it’s worth taking headline promises with a pinch of salt. That said, many regular users report benefits that go beyond the physical effects such as a heightened sense of alertness, improved mood, and a mental clarity that some describe as almost meditative. Sub-zero temperatures apparently have a way of concentrating the mind.

Contrast therapy – alternating between cold immersion and heat treatments such as infrared sauna – is also increasingly popular, and the combination is thought to amplify the benefits of each by placing increased demand on the body’s circulatory system.

You should always consult your GP before starting any new therapy, particularly if you have cardiovascular conditions or other conditions that affect circulation or temperature regulation.

Where to try it The CryoLab

This recovery-focused clinic in Whitefield offers a whole-body chamber at -125°C, spot cryotherapy, red light therapy, massage, and facials. Less than five minutes from junction 17 of the M60, and a short walk from Besses o’ th’ Barn Metrolink station.

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15

Viva Mexico!

As World Cup fever takes the world by storm, we check out Mexico's vibrant and eclectic host cities for a holiday destination.

This year's FIFA World Cup is on until 19th July, and matches are being held in 16 host cities across Canada, the US, and Mexico – where games will take place in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.

Mexico is the connecting puzzle piece between the USA and Central America – it borders four different American states in the north, and snakes all the way down to Belize and Guatemala in the south. It’s a popular holiday spot for winter sun-seekers in December and January, and party animals flock here for the spring break peak in March, but with the sun beaming down throughout the year, there’s never a bad time to visit.

From the buzz of Mexico City to Guadalajara’s rich cultural heritage and Monterrey’s modern skyline set among dramatic mountains, each destination offers far more than just football. Expect vibrant street food scenes and colourful neighbourhoods that spill out from the stadiums into every corner of these cities.

Mexico City

Formerly the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlan, Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico – CDMX) was founded in 1325 and constructed in the Valley of Mexico over ancient Lake Texcoco. Today, it’s an important political, cultural, educational, and financial centre that’s the most populous city in North America.

Zócalo, the square with a giant Mexican flag flying at its centre and lined with various sites such as the Palacio Nacional, is the city’s beating heart. Stroll in Bosque de Chapultepec, the city’s largest park with terraces, lakes, food stalls, and its unique ahuehuete cypress trees which were once planted by the Aztecs – some of these trees are over 600 years old!

The Nidje Israel Synagogue is the first Ashkenazi synagogue and community centre (for Eastern European Jews) in Mexico. It belongs to the Ashkenazi Kehilá, which was founded in 1922. It was inaugurated in 1941 and became the centre of community life for Yiddish speakers for more than 20 years, hosting numerous weddings, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, dances, and both Jewish and family celebrations until the Jewish community relocated to other neighbourhoods 16

such as Hipódromo, Condesa, and Álamos, marking a new phase in community life.

After a period of neglect and solitude, the synagogue was rescued through a respectful and loving restoration, reviving it from 2010 as the Historic Synagogue – a space open to the general public that offers a variety of cultural events for the education and enjoyment of its visitors.

Just north of the CDMX’s city centre lies Teotihuacán, an awe-inspiring ancient city filled with towering stone pyramids that’s well worth the day trip. In its prime, the ancient city was dominated by soaring pyramids and palaces and adorned with colourful frescoes, home to a highly developed society with complex religious and funerary rituals. Yet little is known about the people who founded Teotihuacán in the 1st century BC.

TRAVEL

Guadalajara

For a more authentic Mexican experience than what you might receive on the coasts and a slightly less intense holiday, head to Guadalajara. The capital and largest city in Jalisco is known for its mariachi bands, nearby tequila distilleries, jaw-dropping architecture, and colourful nightlife.

Mariachi music celebrates the struggles, sadness, joys, and love of the Mexican people. Generally considered to have originated in the state of Jalisco around Guadalajara, this music has become the soundtrack of important events and celebrations for Mexicans everywhere.

UNESCO recognised this traditional musical form as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity in 2011, but it dates back several centuries. Mariachi is the sound of the fiesta, and listening to it evokes the joy of spending time with friends, eating, drinking, and celebrating. There’s no better place to experience this than where it all began!

Jump onboard the Tequila Express, the most iconic tourist train in Jalisco, and enjoy a scenic ride from Guadalajara to the agave landscape which was recognised by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site.

More than just a train ride, this experience immerses you in Mexican culture, music, folklore, and of course, tequila.

Monterrey

The third largest city in Mexico, Monterrey is home to a unique blend of modern architecture and skyscrapers set against a backdrop of a mountain range. It’s a commercial and industrial powerhouse, with many of the country’s most important companies being headquartered here.

The city’s main square, Plaza Makro, is one of the largest in the world, but it was created in the 1980s with efficiency in mind; people here don’t stroll around admiring July / August 2026

the buildings – they are probably late for their next business appointment!

Barrio Antiguo means ‘old neighbourhood’, and east of the plaza, you’ll find an area of town where you can wander around and look at the old world of the city.

This area is trendy and fashionable which is represented in its plethora of chic cafes, art galleries, and antique shops. It’s also becoming a major nightlife spot, especially at the weekends.

There are several museums in the city, including the famous Museum of Contemporary Art and a glass museum which includes a glassware art gallery and a shop that sells beautiful fine glass creations.

The cathedral and buildings centred around the main plaza are an excellent example of modern colonial architecture blending in with the old world.

Within an hour of the city, you’ll find some stunning ecological attractions too, including caves, waterfalls and, of course, the majestic and famous Sierra Madre mountain range where the climate is ideal for taking part in a variety of outdoor sports and activities. These surrounding areas have a lot to offer visitors wanting to see some of Mexico’s stunning northern deserts and mountains. Attractions include the Garcia Caves, Horse Tail waterfalls, Rodrigo Gómez dam, and gorgeous views from Chipinque on the Sierra Madre mountains.

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

FED FOCUSED Take a look at what’s been going on at our social care charity The Fed in the last few weeks.

Manchester recently brought together leading cultural and civic partners for a powerful evening marking the launch of 'The Nuremberg Women: The Trial That Brought the Nazis to Justice' by acclaimed Author, Natalie Livingstone.

The May event was a joint initiative between The Fed’s My Voice project, Imperial War Museum North, the Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Manchester, and The Jewish News. Guests

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heard from Natalie Livingstone in conversation with Dr Toby Simpson OBE, exploring the untold stories of the women who played a critical role in shaping how the world understood justice in the aftermath of the Holocaust.

The discussion highlighted the courage and determination of five extraordinary women whose contributions to the Nuremberg Trials helped bring the horrors of genocide to light and ensured the voices of survivors were heard.

The annual Farm Day welcomed more than 400 people. Guests of all ages enjoyed a wide range of activities, including donkey rides, face painting, hands-on craft sessions, and more. The ever-popular petting zoo

proved a highlight, featuring alpacas, sheep, chickens, rabbits, a goat, and even reptiles!

Six amazing volunteers successfully completed the National Three Peaks 24-Hour Challenge in an impressive 23 hours and 57 minutes! The group – Richard, Simon, Steven, Daniel, Benji, and Raphi – covered all three of the UK’s highest peaks, raising over £18,000 for The Fed’s My Voice project. Their achievement included 1,997 metres climbed and 36.44 kilometres walked, and while most people rested overnight, the team ascended Scafell Pike in darkness before travelling overnight to Snowdon for their final climb.

A powerful evening of reflection, resilience, and hope took place in June as Eliya Cohen, who survived 505 days in Hamas captivity, addressed a joint event hosted

by Magen David Adom UK (MDA) and The Fed Young Patrons.

jlifemagazine.co.uk

Eliya shared his harrowing story of survival, recounting how he and his fiancée, Ziv Abud, fled the attack on the Nova music festival on October 7th. Hiding in a shelter, the couple covered themselves with the bodies of those murdered around them in order to stay alive. Eliya was later discovered and taken hostage into Gaza. A devoted Manchester United fan, Eliya was also treated to a private tour of the club’s stadium and museum earlier in the day. He was presented with a personalised Manchester United shirt bearing his name and the number 18, symbolising Chai – life.

Meanwhile The Fed and MDA UK hosted Lord David Wolfson KC, Shadow Attorney General, for a compelling in conversation event at Bowdon Synagogue. Articulate and humorous, deeply knowledgeable, and widely regarded as one of the UK Jewish community’s most compelling voices, Lord Wolfson led a wide-ranging discussion spanning leadership, the UK political landscape, and the growing challenges facing Jewish life today.

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COMING UP

MEDIA

PREVIEW

Check out our top picks of the best upcoming releases over the next couple of months!

FILM

Moana | In cinemas from 10th July

RADIO & TV

BBC Proms | 17th July to 12th September

The BBC Proms returns this month, presenting eight weeks of world-class music from an array of leading orchestras, conductors, and soloists from across the UK and around the world. Every Prom will be broadcast on Radio 3 and BBC Sounds and 24 programmes will be broadcast on BBC television and iPlayer. The season marks a plethora of anniversaries and centenaries, including those of composers John Coltrane, Morton Feldman, Edmund Thornton Jenkins, Betsy Jolas, György Kurtág, and Steve Reich, as well as a concert dedicated to the centenary of jazz icon Miles Davis.

TV In Disney’s live-action reimagining of the beloved Oscarnominated animated adventure, Moana (Catherine Laga’aia) answers the ocean’s call and, for the first time, voyages beyond the reef of her island of Motunui with the infamous demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) on an unforgettable journey to restore prosperity to her people. A great option for a day trip to the cinema to keep the kids entertained this summer holiday!

FILM

Ted Lasso | Apple TV | 5th August

The Odyssey | In cinemas from 17th July The fourth season of the world-renowned Ted Lasso will hit our screens at the beginning of August. This series marks the return of the well-loved favourites including Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein, Juno Temple, and Jeremy Swift, alongside plenty of new additions. In series four, Ted returns to Richmond to take on his biggest challenge yet: coaching a second division women’s football team. Throughout the episodes, Ted and the team learn to leap before they look, taking chances they never thought they would.

Perhaps one of the most highly-anticipated films of the year, you can finally immerse yourself in the world of The Odyssey from 17th July. Christopher Nolan’s take on Homer’s timeless epic sees Matt Damon as the Greek warrior struggling to return home after the Trojan War. The story details his encounters with variously mythological and recognisable individuals including Polyphemus, the Sirens, and Circe. The Odyssey is said to date from the 8th century BC and is one of the oldest and most influential works of art in the history of mankind. And the supporting cast of Charlize Theron, Zendaya, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, and Robert Pattinson is just as legendary!

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BOOK

After Belsen: Christian Encounters with Holocaust Survivors | Robert Thompson | 15th July

This book reveals the deeply personal ways in which British and American Christians responded to and were affected by survivors of the Holocaust in the years immediately following the liberation of concentration camps. Using neglected archives, private correspondence with British and American Christians, and interviews with their families, Robert Thompson pieces together stories that complicate the idea of Christian silence. jlifemagazine.co.uk

ADVICE

Better Together A recent merger of associations heralds a new era in a ‘landmark moment’ for Jewish housing.

Two long-established Jewish housing associations in the North West have merged in a ‘landmark moment’ to form a single regional provider managing 310 homes. Manchester Jewish Housing Association (MJHA) and Liverpool Jewish Housing Association (LJHA) have joined forces to create the North West Jewish Housing Association (NWJHA).

The NWJHA’s portfolio comprises sheltered, supported, affordable, and general needs accommodation for single people, couples, families, and older people, as well as the Hillel House student property in Liverpool.

The new organisation will be led by Chairman Phil Geller and Chief Executive David Mintz, who previously held the same positions at MJHA. Regulatory approval for the merger, including the go-ahead from the Financial Conduct Authority, was granted in June.

Phil Geller said: “This merger is a landmark moment for Jewish housing in the North West, bringing together decades of

experience, shared values, and a commitment to community. The newly-expanded organisation is uniquely placed to strengthen and enhance services for existing residents and create new opportunities for further generations, while safeguarding the legacy of both associations.

“For residents and stakeholders, the message is clear: the high-quality, personalised services that people have come to expect will remain at the heart of everything we do. Existing commitments continue unchanged, with our experienced team staying focused on delivering safe, wellmanaged homes and excellent support. At the same time, we are looking to the future with ambition. Demand for high-quality Jewish housing continues to grow, and we are actively seeking opportunities to expand.

“We are keen to hear from landowners, developers, agents, local authorities, and community organisations who may be aware of sites, buildings, or partnership opportunities that could help us deliver

much-needed homes and services.

“Whether through redevelopment, acquisition, or collaborative ventures, NWJHA is committed to investing in the future of Jewish housing, creating new support frameworks and homes to strengthen communities in the North West.”

Alan Tinger, former Chairman of LJHA, said: “LJHA has a proud history and an important legacy. This merger ensures that legacy is protected and carried forward within a stronger regional organisation. While our community has changed over the years, the provision of housing that reflects the values and needs of Jewish residents remains as important as ever. We have great confidence that the values and purpose which guided us for many years will continue under the North West Jewish Housing Association banner.”

North West Jewish Housing Association

Incorporating Manchester & Liverpool Jewish Housing Associations

Sheltered Housing Independent Living Apartments Available For Rent Gan Eden, Stanley Road, Broughton Park, Salford

Sample photographs show recently let, refurbished apartments as an example.

Actual availability differs from time to time. Please enquire for current availability.

To enquire, or to discuss your housing needs, in confidence, contact : 0161 740 0001 or hello@nwjha.org.uk nwjha.org.uk 22

jlifemagazine.co.uk

GETTING GOING

Fledgling charity The Neurokinetics Club is enhancing the lives of people living with neurological conditions.

MARK SAMBERG (SEATED) WITH ANDREW SAIPE (RIGHT) AND COFFEE MORNING GUEST SPEAKER, IVAN LEWIS.

Launched in May 2023, The Neurokinetics Club offers tailored exercise and a supportive community for people living with a diagnosis such as MS, Parkinson’s disease, or stroke.

Specially qualified trainers lead regular exercise groups at Manchester Maccabi, helped by volunteers who support participants.

While members exercise, a coffee and peer support group takes place for their care partners, with social activities also part and parcel of the charity’s offering.

Self-confessed ‘couch-potato’ Mark Samberg, 70, had never shown any interest in exercise, but since joining the club rarely misses the twice-weekly group. Diagnosed with MS, he struggles with his mobility.

He spoke about the social and physical benefits of the club at a fundraising and awareness coffee morning in early May, which netted over £2,000.

CEO Andrew Saipe said: “The money will cover the cost of over 20 sessions that consist of people doing exercises to improve their ability to carry out everyday tasks like climbing stairs or holding a cup of tea.

“We work on balance, hand-eye coordination, and dexterity through a range of activities such as boxing, catching and throwing drills, or kicking balls, plus word and number games to help support cognitive function.”

Mark’s wife, Val, benefits from meeting other members’ partners at the carers’ group: “We go upstairs for a coffee and can scream, shout, or laugh. We’re all in the same boat and it’s amazing.”

Also in May, club members made their voices heard at a focus group as part of an NHS engagement project which aims to improve people’s experiences of healthcare services. They shared their observations on accessing information about their conditions, arranging medical appointments, and the quality of follow-up.

At the beginning of June, Andrew gave a presentation to the Bury branch of Parkinson’s UK, emphasising the benefits

FIRST VISIT

Israeli Embassy representatives were recently in Manchester for an inaugural visit.

RABBI KATH VARDI, MARC LEVY, CATHY KNOWLES, DANIELA GRUDSKY, EFRAT PERRI, MARISSA GOLDSTONE (SHA’AREI SHALOM), RABBI CHARLEY BAGINSKY, AND ERIC LANGER (MANCHESTER REFORM SYNAGOGUE).

Menorah Synagogue hosted a visit from the Israeli Embassy recently. Daniela Grudsky (Chargé d’Affaires) and Efrat Perri (Director of Public Diplomacy) were the first embassy staff to visit to a Manchester Progressive synagogue.

July / August 2026

The three Manchester Progressive synagogues (Menorah, Sha’arei Shalom, and Manchester Reform Synagogue), together with Rabbi Charley Baginsky (Co-Lead, The Movement for Progressive Judaism) and Marc Levy (Jewish

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

of consistent regular group exercise. He also noted that while there are many places people can go to exercise, a group specifically tailored to the needs of people with neurological conditions that focuses on the right exercises to help them with their needs is invaluable.

ANDREW AND THE BURY BRANCH OF PARKINSONS'S UK.

As well as encouraging new members, the club is actively seeking volunteers to support people during the sessions.

Contact Andrew on 07917 778 370 or email info@neurokineticsclub.org.uk Representative Council of Manchester) explored the current situation in the Middle East with their guests, its impact on Progressive communities in the UK, and the importance of listening to different voices from Israel and the UK Jewish communities.

Cathy Knowles, Menorah Chair said, “It was very useful for each of the three Manchester Progressive synagogues to share how the situation in the Middle East has affected their communities.”

Rabbi Kath Vardi added:

This was a very welcome and constructive meeting.

"Over the last year our synagogue has really appreciated hearing different voices from Israel, so we better understand and explore their perspectives.”

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FASHION

Life’s a Beach!

Make sure you’re holiday-ready with our picks of some of the best beachwear on the market.

Orla Kiely swimsuit | £60 | Regatta.com

Supportive, smooth, and comfortable, the swimming costume from the Regatta x Orla Kiely collaboration is perfect for your days at the beach and pool. The non-wired padded cups and fully lined material keep you comfy, and the signature Orla Kiely prints bring the style. It’s available in multiple fun prints, including orange tropical and a range of aesthetically pleasing flowery numbers.

Printed beach shirt and shorts | from £8 | Primark.com

Bring a burst of tropical colour to your wardrobe with this vibrant printed beach co-ord.

Crafted from soft, breathable 100% cotton, the relaxed-fit shirt features a classic buttonthrough front and curved hems for a laid-back look that can be quickly slipped on over swimwear. Paired with matching beach shorts, designed with a comfortable relaxed fit and an elasticated waistband, this easy-to-wear set is ideal for beach days or poolside lounging. Wear together for a coordinated statement or mix and match with your holiday favourites – there’s even the option to buy the matching swimming costume for ultimate coordination!

Fishing charm flip flops | £19.99 | Newlook.com

Flip flops are the ultimate grab-and-go footwear for the beach, offering an unbeatable combination of comfort and practicality while keeping your feet free from grains getting trapped in every nook and cranny. They can sometimes be a little boring and unremarkable, but this pair from New Look elevates the simple style with the addition of sea life charms to add a fun, coastal-inspired touch.

Geo-printed shirt and swim shorts set | £40 | Boohooman.com

This geo printed set is ideal for the man who wants to look put-together without overthinking it. The matching shirt and swim short combo does the hard work for you – just throw it on and you're ready to go! Wear the shirt fully buttoned and tucked for a sharper take or leave it open and relaxed over a plain white t-shirt for that effortless holiday-ready vibe. The swim shorts keep things practical and stylish in equal measure, making this set a solid choice for beach days. Whether you're heading to a summer festival, garden party, or jetting off somewhere warm, this set delivers a cohesive, trendled look with minimal effort.

Pure cotton embroidered baseball cap | £16 | Marksandspencer.com

Accessories are a great way to add a pop of colour to an outfit without overdoing it, giving your look a bit of personality in an easy, effortless way. Top off your summer style with this pure cotton baseball cap, designed to be lightweight and breathable for warmweather comfort. It features an adjustable fastening for the perfect fit and is finished with a fun embroidered slogan, ‘call me old fashioned’ – ideal for whisky lovers or anyone who likes a playful twist on a classic cap.

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jlifemagazine.co.uk

ADVICE

DENTISTRY In Safe Hands Alastair Armer qualified from the University of Manchester in 2002 before embarking on a 20-year career as a Dental Officer with the British Army. During that time, he travelled across the world providing dental care to military personnel and their families, where his philosophy always remained the same: treat every patient with kindness, respect, and the same level of care he would want for his own family.

Alastair’s spent thousands of hours undertaking advanced postgraduate training in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Highlight awards include a Diploma in Restorative Dentistry from the Royal College of Surgeons of England and a master’s degree with distinction. He’s also a clinical tutor with the University of Manchester, helping to train the next generation of dentists, and previously served as an examiner for the Royal College of Surgeons.

This advanced training enables Alastair to provide solutions for more complex dental problems, with particular interest in

July / August 2026

worn teeth, bite problems, and root canal treatment. With an artistic eye and attention to detail, he enjoys helping patients restore confidence in their smiles through treatments such as orthodontic aligners, whitening, composite bonding, and veneers.

Alastair's approach focuses on preserving healthy tooth structure wherever possible while creating natural-looking, long-lasting results.

Patients often comment on Alastair's friendly, welcoming manner and his ability to put them at ease. He understands that many people feel anxious about visiting the dentist and uses humour alongside clear explanations to help create a relaxed, judgement-free environment.

The trust he builds extends beyond his patients too, with many members of the dental team choosing Alastair to provide treatment for themselves and their families.

He considers the confidence his colleagues place in him as one of the greatest compliments he can receive as a clinician.

Outside of dentistry, Alastair enjoys

Meet Alastair Armer, Dental Surgeon at Love Teeth Dental Practice photography, mountaineering, DIY projects, and following Formula One. He’s also a volunteer leader with his local Scout group and loves spending time with his wife and two children. A fun fact: he owns a full-size Stormtrooper costume!!

To learn more about Alastair's approach to patient care and view examples of his work, visit Tooth.org.uk

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Free Holocaust Education

Holocaust Centre North (HCN) is proud to announce it is now able to offer its outstanding and unique learning programme completely free for all students in Years 5 and above. This also now makes the Centre the only Holocaust education centre in the UK offering a learning programme for free.

This offer of free education for primary and secondary students is available to schools and colleges for the academic year 2026/27 with thanks to the Association of Jewish Refugees and the additional generosity of other individual donors.

Hannah Randall, Head of Learning at HCN, commented: “This is the first time we have been able to make our learning programme fully accessible to all schools and colleges, which means that more students will be able to engage with our unique and proven learning programme. This is a proud moment for me and the centre, as we know the power that good Holocaust education can have to challenge stereotypes and build students’ sense of citizenship in their communities. By embedding Holocaust education within the local community of the North of England, we can help students create meaningful connections to local history whilst challenging all forms of prejudice and discrimination.”

Creatives at Edinburgh Fringe

If you’re heading up to Edinburgh for the Fringe Festival this August, be sure to check out the shows of these two Jewish creatives!

Written by and starring Abigail Weinstock, GIRAFFE is a semiautobiographical comedy that explores masking, misdiagnosis, and the consequences of spending 30 years believing there's something wrong with you. Drawing on her own experiences as a gay, Jewish, late-diagnosed autistic woman, Weinstock tells a story that is as funny as it is moving. Catch it at Pleasance Courtyard from 5th to 31st August.

Boyfriends are armchairs. Lovers are lampshades. And breakups into broken chairs. Blending spoken word, comedy, clowning, documentary, and oral history, Emily Weitzman captures a surprising meditation on the impermanence of modern dating and the lingering permanence of the objects we surround ourselves with in Furniture Boys. What begins as pure playful absurdity evolves into a layered exploration of love, loss, and identities shaped by showrooms and memories. Head to Underbelly from 5th to 30th August to see it in action.

16 Bridges Trek

20 trekkers from The Fed walked 25km and crossed 16 iconic London bridges from Putney to Tower Bridge in May, raising £10,000 for the charity’s life-transforming services.

Luckily, the rain held off, meaning there was great camaraderie and everyone got to see London from a different perspective.

The Fed would like to thank everyone who took part and sponsored the trekkers as well as Mountaineerin Ltd who led the group so well!

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Summer at MJM

There’s a packed programme of family-friendly activities at MJM, including toddler takeover sessions, arts and crafts workshops, guided walking tours, drop-in activities, and baking sessions Also, until 11th September, MJM presents a new temporary exhibition: ‘Through a Queer Lens: Stories of LGBTQ+ Jews’, a display of powerful photographic portraits and personal stories originally developed by Jewish Museum London.

In bringing these national stories to MJM, the team have expanded the exhibition through a local lens – telling new stories featuring LGBTQ+ Jewish people with connections to Manchester and inviting new contributions to be part of the display through the exhibition period.

See the full programme and book at Manchesterjewishmuseum.com

MJSL Sportsman Reunion Dinner

On 1st November at Village Hotel in Bury, Manchester Jewish Soccer League (MJSL) is hhosting another reunion in association with Chai Cancer Care.

Following the success of last year’s dinner where over £11,000 was raised and distributed to four local charities, Mike Rashman and his committee Eddie Lewis, Les Blackstone, and David Nivern are reuniting one last time to do it again.

To all the sportsmen who played, managed, coached, or just watched MJSL football, cricket, tennis, or table tennis, please come together to raise money for three local charities! There will be a three-course meal, bar, auction, and top-class entertainment from Comedian Mick Miller, as well as some special surprises.

For further details and to reserve your place, please contact Mike on 07710 226 350 or mdrashman@hotmail.com

Hale Graduates

13 girls recently graduated from the inaugural My Jewish Self (MJS) Bat Mitzvah programme at Hale Synagogue.

Developed by Mike Jackson and run by Michelle Sallon and Vicky Jackson, the programme encouraged girls to explore their Jewish identity through themes of belong, believe, and become. Throughout the year, the girls took part in a wide range of experiences designed to help them connect with Judaism, their community, and each other.

Activities including exploring the stories of influential Jewish women, creating personal Jewish journals, discussing what it means to be Jewish today, and giving back to the community, as well as participating in a Shabbaton weekend.

During the graduation ceremony, they shared reflections on their experiences.

Preparations are already underway for the next MJS programme.

Anne Frank Trust Reaches 137k

According to new research by the University of Kent, the Anne Frank Trust UK reached more thank 137,000 young people across 272 schools during the last academic year.

The findings were unveiled at a parliamentary reception in the House of Commons in June where MPs, Holocaust survivors, community leaders, and supporters gathered for the launch of the charity’s latest impact report ‘Challenging Prejudice, Changing Attitudes’.

The independent evaluation – based on responses from more than 4,500 young people – found that 89.9% of participants improved their understanding of antisemitism after taking part in the trust’s programmes, while 89.3% reported a better understanding of prejudice. More than four in five increased their confidence to challenge prejudice, and 90.2% developed more positive attitudes towards at least one social group. jlifemagazine.co.uk

VENUE SPOTLIGHT

Curtain Up! 50 years in, the Royal Exchange Theatre remains one of the most distinctive and beloved stages in the country, and it's celebrating with a landmark season of bold productions.

The Royal Exchange Theatre sits at the centre of St Ann's Square, tucked inside a great Victorian trading hall. It's a gleaming seven-sided steel module that some have described as looking like a spaceship and it’s an apt description, as this unique theatre really is out of this world!

The building has a remarkable story. A Royal Exchange has stood on or near this site since 1729, serving as the commercial centre of 'Cottonopolis' – the hub where Manchester's merchants, manufacturers, and financiers met to do business. The current Exchange was completed in 1874, its Great Hall stretching 206 ft. long beneath a glass dome 120 ft. high, becoming the largest commercial room in the world. Queen Victoria had already lent it her name in 1851, when she gave the building her royal seal of approval following an official visit.

The Exchange survived two world wars, a

bomb in 1940 that destroyed half the building, and ultimately outlasted the cotton trade that had made its name. By the end of 1968, membership had dwindled to an all-time low and the industrial world had moved on. The doors closed for trading and the building was sold.

The space wasn’t to remain dormant for long. A loose collective of theatre-makers – many of them alumni of the Old Vic Theatre School in London – had spent years dreaming of a permanent home for bold, challenging drama in the city. A temporary 'tent' structure set up inside the Exchange in 1973 for a three-week run set the ball rolling and on 15th September 1976, the Royal Exchange Theatre officially opened its doors, launched

by Laurence Olivier with a production of Sheridan's The Rivals. Tom Courtenay, Patricia Routledge, and James Maxwell were among the cast.

The design of the theatre is an astounding feat of imagination and engineering. Suspended from the Exchange's existing pillars – the floor couldn't bear its weight – the seven-sided, 700-seat module ensures no audience member is more than 10 metres from the stage.

Since then, the venue has earned a reputation as one of the great British theatre companies. Productions have featured Helen Mirren, Michael Sheen, Brian Cox, and Maxine Peake. Directors including Nick Hytner, Marianne Elliott, and Phyllida Lloyd have all worked on its stage. It’s premiered new plays,

supported the Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting since 2005, and built deep roots in the communities of Greater Manchester through its Young Company, Elders Company, and Local Exchange outreach programmes.

Now, under new Artistic Director Selina Cartmell, the Royal Exchange is marking its 50th birthday with A Homecoming – productions that salute the past while signalling an ambitious new direction.

Coming up there’s Fun Home, running from 3rd July to 1st August, which brings the Tony Award-winning musical to the North for the first time. Based on Alison Bechdel's graphic novel, it's a powerfully personal story of family, grief, and queer joy, told through soaring songs.

The autumn brings King Lear (2nd October to 15th November), with David Threlfall returning to the Exchange after 27 years to play Shakespeare's great tragic king in a reimagining adapted and directed by Matthew Dunster.

Selina herself will direct the Christmas production: Sondheim's A Little Night Music, running from 5th December to 30th January 2027 – a swooning, bittersweet fairy tale for adults, complete with Send in the Clowns. The season continues into 2027 with the world premiere of Shooters (12th February to 13th March), a propulsive debut by Bruntwood Prize winner Tolu Okanlawon.

With much of its exhilarating 50th anniversary programme still to enjoy, we salute one of Manchester’s cultural gems!

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HOLIDAY FUN

Summer Fun From a free festival to giant sandpits and summer trails, here’s our pick of the best family-friendly events in and around Manchester this summer.

Summer of Play | Dunham Massey | 23rd July to 28th August

National Trust’s Dunham Massey hosts a programme of themed drop-in activities throughout the summer holidays. Wordy Wednesdays invite families to celebrate reading and poetry at the pop-up book nook, add to the summer word tree, or write a nature-inspired poem. Arty Thursdays bring drop-in art workshops hosted by Our Kids Social. Fancy Dress Fridays let imaginations run wild – come in your own costume or borrow one from the Play Hub, with costume parades at 11am, 12pm, 1.30pm, and 2.30pm.

Nationaltrust.org.uk

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Trail | Tatton Park | 23rd July to 7th September

Inspired by Michael Rosen’s classic, Wild in Art and Walker Books have created a colourful trail of 10 beautifully painted bears across the gardens and farm. Eight bears are hidden in the garden, each carrying a letter to collect and help solve the summer clue.

Tattonpark.org.uk

The Princess Proms | The Bridgewater Hall | 26th July

A family concert with Enchanted Voices singing the magical music from Frozen, Wicked, Moana, Kpop Demon Hunters, Taylor Swift, Wizard of Oz, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Anastasia, Pocahontas, and more.

Bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Mission: Mad Hatter | Z-arts | until 29th July

Step into Wonderland for an interactive adventure. The Mad Hatter’s tea party guests have disappeared, and it’s up to you to find them. Working in teams, you’ll follow clues, solve puzzles, and explore the space using a digital tablet. Part scavenger hunt, part escape room, and part game, it’s a fast-paced challenge where you race against time. Designed for ages nine and over, this is a fun, imaginative experience for children and their grown-ups to enjoy together.

Z-arts.org

Little HOME | HOME | 1st and 2nd August

HOME’s free annual family festival returns for a packed weekend of performances, film screenings, craft workshops, and outdoor activities. Highlights include carnival beats from Batala Manchester, circus skills with Spectacular Skylight Circus Arts, family dance sessions with Afrocats, and craft sessions with Phoebe Foxtrot. The Chill Zone returns with board games, drawing, and fidget toys.

Homemcr.org

Bubble Planet | Depot Mayfield | until 26th August

This fully interactive experience features 10 thematic environments and virtual reality. Voyage through fantastical, pastel landscapes designed to appeal to all five senses. Dive into an underwater world and visit dwellers beneath the sea, take a dip into an ocean of living balloons, feel miniaturised in a huge bath pit, and let yourself be carried away by the continuous illusions of the infinity room.

Bubble-planet.com

Giant Sandpit | The Great Northern | until 31st August

The Great Northern Warehouse’s iconic amphitheatre has reopened its newly redesigned playhouse and ever-popular giant sandpit for the summer. With 50 tonnes of sand, wooden logs to sit on, and buckets and spades to borrow, it’s a perfect free drop-in for families in the city centre.

Thegreatnorthern.com 28

jlifemagazine.co.uk

ARTS INTERVIEW

Beyond Belief Author and Screenwriter Jeremy Dyson talks Jewish influence, the power of friendship, and the supernatural.

Jeremy Dyson has had a varied and highly successful career as an author and screenwriter. He is perhaps best known as a member of the League of Gentlemen, as well as for the cult-favourite stage show and film Ghost Stories. His latest project, The Psychic, created in collaboration with Andy Nyman, has recently completed a successful world premiere run at York Theatre Royal.

Jeremy spent the first half of his life in Leeds, and his upbringing has profoundly impacted his work. His writing often explores themes of the supernatural and scepticism, reflecting on the Jewish tradition of inquiry that’s infused with a distinctive sense of wit: “Neither me or Andy are observant, but we were both raised in semi-Orthodox households where we kept Shabbos and all the high holidays which was incredibly formative. It was a very spiritual environment which touched us, shaped who we are, and ultimately finds its way into our work. We’re both steeped in the values we were raised in, so we have a conscious approach to questioning and commentary from both sides to explore all aspects of what we’re writing about.

“The Jewish voice is one of dark irony. Both my parents had a sense of humour, and we had Jewish comedy records around – How to be a Jewish Mother and You Don’t Have to be Jewish were played again and again when I was growing up. Then I discovered Mel Brooks, Woody Allen, and English writers like Jack Rosenthal which all fuelled my sense of humour.”

Although the show isn’t a Jewish play and focuses on the showman community – those who are born into travelling fairgrounds – Jeremy believes there are parallels of a small minority existing within a large minority, right down to having their own language.

Having formed a dear friendship over 40 years ago after meeting at Chai summer camp July / August 2026

in 1981, Jeremy and Andy’s relationship is the rocket fuel that powers their collaborative efforts. Ghost Stories followed four male characters, something they consciously avoided when creating The Psychic: “Jewish families are often very matriarchal and mine and Andy’s certainly were, we spent all our lives observing powerful women, so we wanted to make the lead a strong woman.”

The play follows Sheila Gold, a popular TV psychic who loses a high-profile court case, which brands her a charlatan. When a wealthy couple ask Sheila to conduct a séance to attempt to make contact with their late child, Sheila senses an opportunity to bleed them for money. What follows makes her question everything she’s ever believed and leads her on a journey into the darkest corners of her life. This subject matter was something that greatly intrigued the creative duo: “Andy has done years of work with Derren Brown where he was often looking at the world of fake psychics or those that profess to have psychic powers.

There’s also a tradition of magicians exposing that world which goes all the way back to Houdini – we’re fascinated by how people will use fakery to simulate talking to the dead which obviously has a lot of dramatic possibilities.”

Manipulation and grief are two themes that are prevalent in The Psychic, so Jeremy felt it was important to keep the show emotionally grounded despite some of its thriller elements: “The thing that surprises the most is the emotional content, but it comes

with the territory when you’re looking at loss.

It’s inherently deeply emotional, especially when you’re exploring the distrust in psychics and their willingness to exploit grief.”

Looking ahead, Jeremy hopes to be involved in more theatre work: “I feel really lucky to have had so many opportunities to do different things, but I really love theatre and working with a live audience who don’t lie when it comes to their opinions! They have no agenda so it’s a very pure form of feedback which makes it very exciting.

“Of course, I love doing things for television when I get the opportunity but, in this industry, it’s a case of putting your stuff out there and seeing what happens next. One of my favourite proverbs is ‘man plans, God laughs’ which is an excellent summary of a career in the creative arts!”

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PROMOTION

Companionship

The Summer Gift of As routines change over the summer months, Home Instead Bury and Prestwich is helping older That was adults stay connected certainly true for Ruth. At and independent 84, Ruth had through the power of always been at the heart of companionship and her family and community. personalised care.

As summer arrives and diaries begin to fill with holidays, family gatherings, and community events, it’s often seen as a season of connection. Children finish school, grandchildren come to visit, and many of us look forward to spending more time with the people we care about. But for some older adults, summer can bring a very different experience.

When routines change and neighbours head away on holiday, the regular interactions many older people rely on can quietly disappear. A weekly coffee morning pauses for the summer. A neighbour who usually pops in is abroad. Family members become busier. And while everyone else seems to be making plans, some older adults can find themselves spending more time alone than ever.

Loneliness is not always obvious.

It doesn’t announce itself loudly. Often, it appears gradually, hidden behind phrases like ‘I’m fine’ or ‘don’t worry about me’. Yet we know that social connection plays a vital role in our wellbeing as we age. Feeling seen, valued, and included can have a profound impact on both physical and mental health.

July / August 2026

The change wasn’t dramatic overnight. In many ways, it was something much more meaningful.

Ruth felt connected again.

Stories like Ruth’s remind us that ageing well is about far more than managing health conditions or maintaining independence. It’s about belonging. It’s about having people to talk to, places to go, and Someone who rarely missed an opportunity reasons to look forward to tomorrow. to host friends for tea, she was known for her As families gather throughout the warmth and hospitality. But after a short summer months, perhaps it’s also an stay in hospital earlier this year, she found opportunity to check in on the older people herself feeling less confident about going out in our lives.

A phone call, an invitation for alone. lunch, or simply spending an hour together Initially, she assumed it was something can make more difference than we realise. she would simply ‘get over’. Yet as the weeks passed, she began declining invitations and spending more time at home. Her daughter noticed that their phone calls were becoming shorter and that Ruth seemed less like herself.

Wanting to help her maintain her independence, the family arranged support from Home Instead. When Care Professional Michelle first visited, the focus was practical.

A little support around the home, help with shopping, and reassurance when attending appointments. But as trust developed, something more important began to happen.

Because while support with daily tasks can be Michelle encouraged Ruth to reconnect invaluable, companionship is often just as with activities she had always enjoyed. important.

After all, some of life’s most meaningful Together they attended a local community moments aren’t found in grand gestures. event. They spoke about old recipes, family They’re found in shared conversations, traditions, and favourite books. Before familiar faces, and knowing that someone long, Ruth was once again meeting friends cares enough to ask how you are. And that regularly and looking forward to each week sense of connection never goes out of season. rather than simply getting through it.

Homeinstead.co.uk 31

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FEATURE

Foodie Heaven From restored Victorian market buildings to industrial-chic railway depots, these multi-vendor spaces bring together some of the city’s best independent traders under one roof, making it easier than ever to satisfy the diverse tastes of large groups. For those wanting to graze, explore, and eat well, here are some spots well worth checking out.

Society

Society has quickly established itself as one of Manchester’s most dynamic social spaces. Five independently owned kitchens cover a varied spread of cuisines: the towering burgers of Slap & Pickle, pan-Asian cooking from Manzoku Street Food, authentic Neapolitan-style pizza at Noi Quattro, Korean street food from Yoki Social Table, and Mexican flavours from El Piloto.

The drinks are just as tempting with a cocktail bar alongside a specialist taproom run by craft brewery Vocation. The space opens at noon every day and can accommodate up to 350 guests across nooks, banquettes, and long communal tables, with the atmosphere shifting through the day from a relaxed lunch destination to a buzzing evening venue with a rotating programme of DJs curated by Manchester party stalwarts Contrast.

Societymanchester.com

The rise of the food hall has taken the Manchester’s eating-out scene to another level.

Altrincham Market House

Altrincham has been a market town since 1290, and its market remains central to the town’s recent regeneration. The covered market building functions as part restaurant, part market, and part town square, hosting regional food producers, vintage fashion and furniture, and contemporary craft on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Market House’s food offering boasts a lineup of esteemed independent operators. Honest Crust turns out wood-fired pizzas that many consider among the best in the nation. Tender Cow serves rare breed flat iron steak and chips. Great North Pie Co. has built a loyal following for its multiaward-winning pies. Reserve Wines, the wine bar and shop founded by BBC Food & Drink’s Kate Goodman, offers a thoughtfully curated selection. Jack in the Box handles craft beer, Market House Coffee serves Atkinsons of Lancaster, and chocolatier Sam Joseph tops it all off with handmade confectionery.

Visitaltrincham.com

Mackie Mayor

Built in 1858, this Grade II listed building was once part of the Smithfield Market complex and is believed to be the largest market site in Britain at the turn of the 20th century. It served as a fresh produce market for over 100 years before closing in the 1970s.

Market Operations – the team behind Altrincham Market House – revived it in 2017, carefully restoring the derelict building. The result is one of Manchester’s most atmospheric dining spaces: an impressive iron-and-glass interior honours the building’s industrial heritage while providing a home for a mouthwatering selection of food traders. Options include Mexican street food from Pico’s, Taiko Ramen, Mumma’s Fried Chicken, and Chilli B’s Thai street food with a twist. Awardwinning brewery Blackjack takes care of your craft beer and cider needs. A great place to nosh and imbibe, this one’s worth visiting for the space alone.

Mackie-mayor.co.uk

Freight Island

Set within Depot Mayfield, tucked behind Piccadilly station, Freight Island is one of the most ambitious food, drink, and entertainment destinations in the North. Historic industrial architecture frames a space that hosts top DJs, live sport, and a rotating cast of food vendors.

The strong current lineup features BRASA with its modern Brazilian open-fire cooking serving up smoky picanha steak, dry-aged prime ribs, and house-made charcuterie designed for sharing; Nell’s Pizza delivers its acclaimed 22-inch thin-and-crispy pies; Ornella’s Little Kitchen offers Sicilian-rooted pasta; Mia’s Arepas serves Venezuelan street food while FUKU brings bold Asian fusion to the mix. For dessert, Oh My Cheesecake handles the sweet finish with signature cheesecakes on a stick.

Escapetofreightisland.com July / August 2026

PHOTO: TRACY KERR

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PHOTOS

See more photos on pages 7, 12, 56, 66 and 73

PHOTO: ZOE HAWKER PHOTOGRAPHY

JIM WHITLEY, STEVE MCMANAMAN, GRAEME WARNER, COLIN MURDOCK, AND SIMON JONES AT THE ALL-STAR PARENTS VS STAFF FOOTBALL MATCH AT MGS WHICH RAISED OVER £5,000 FOR MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT.

THE PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS ARE THE REIGNING CHAMPIONS OF KING DAVID PARENTS’ GUILD’S ANNUAL QUIZ AND WERE AMONG THE 80 PARTICIPANTS THAT HELPED TO RAISE OVER £800 FOR THE SCHOOL!

THE ANNUAL RAMSBOTTOM DUCK RACE HELPED TO RAISE OVER £10,000 FOR LOCAL CHARITIES!

COUNCILLOR HEATHER FLETCHER COMPLETED HER TERM AS MAYOR OF SALFORD IN MAY, WITH A SUCCESSFUL YEAR RAISING £36,000 FOR HER CHARITY FUND.

MENORAH SYNAGOGUE’S OUTREACH TEAM RECENTLY ORGANISED A COLLECTION FOR THE WELLSPRING WHICH SUPPORTS THE HOMELESS IN STOCKPORT.

34

MEMBERS OF THE NICKY ENJOYED A BOAT TRIP ALONG THE CANAL FROM MARPLE TO HIGHER POYNTON AND BACK.

jlifemagazine.co.uk

EVENTS

Pride

and Joy

After Manchester Pride’s collapse last year, a community-led coalition has rebuilt the city’s biggest celebration from the ground up.

Carl Austin-Behan explains how.

When Manchester Pride went into voluntary liquidation last November, owing millions of pounds and leaving artists and suppliers unpaid, many worried that the city’s biggest LGBTQ+ celebration was finished for good.

Instead, six village venues, a handful of local volunteers, and a great deal of unpaid graft have brought it back from the brink – rebranded as Manchester Village Pride, taking place from the 28th to 31st August.

Former Lord Mayor and longtime Pride ambassador Carl Austin-Behan was among those who met with Manchester City Council Leader Bev Craig in the days after the liquidation. The council was prepared to support a parade and a vigil – but the village itself risked being left to its own devices.

So, Carl, alongside venue owners and independent operators, approached the Village Licensed Business Association with the idea to bring the parade, the vigil, and the village party together under one community interest company.

July / August 2026

The council approved the plan at the end of January, with CityCo and Marketing Manchester signing on to support delivery.

Venues across the village pooled funds for a loan, raising a starting pot of £120,000. Ticket sales are already running ahead of where they’d normally be at this stage.

Carl is candid about why the old model failed. Manchester Pride’s wage bill averaged £800,000 a year, while the event’s move from the village to Mayfield Depot – chasing an ultimately unsuccessful Euro Pride 2027 bid – left people paying to stand inside a warehouse on a hot August weekend: “It goes against the grain for a lot of people.”

This year’s lineup across the Gaydio Dance Arena, the main stage, and the community stage in Sackville Gardens has cost less in total than last year’s single headline act: “We meet on a weekly basis around the board. We challenge each other – is that the best price we can get? Have we spoken to somebody else?

– rather than just being handed a chequebook.”

The volunteers steering Manchester Village Pride between them run venues including Eagle, Cruz, and New York New York, and Carl credits his own years of council and community contacts – built up since becoming the city’s first openly gay Lord Mayor in 2016 – with smoothing conversations with the council and Greater Manchester Police: “I’ve got most of the people we need to connect with in my phone. It’s made it a lot easier than trying to find out who these people are.”

Carl urges anyone planning to attend to buy tickets and wristbands early: “The more people buy tickets early on, the better the event will be,” highlighting that money in the bank as the surest way to pay artists and crew fairly – the organisers have signed a new charter with Equity to guarantee it. Tickets and wristbands are available via Skiddle and the Manchester Village Pride website.

He’s also using the platform to flag a cause closer to home: the financial recognition scheme for LGBT veterans dismissed or discharged under the pre-2000 ban on gay personnel serving in the armed forces. This has particular personal resonance for Carl as he was discharged from the RAF in 1997 due to his sexuality. He has since been active with the charity Fighting With Pride advocating for people affected by the ban.

Under the scheme, veterans can claim up to £50,000, with a further £20,000 available for those impacted more broadly – but the scheme closes in December: “It’s not so different to the Post Office scandal – people took their own lives, families were ripped apart – and now there’s recognition out there and compensation available but a lot of people affected by the ban still don’t know about it.” Anyone affected can contact the charity Fighting With Pride or the MOD’s restorative team directly.

For now, though, the focus is on Manchester Village Pride – rebuilt, as Carl says: “by the community, for the community.”

Manchestervillagepride.org | Fightingwithpride.org.uk

HOMESTYLE

3 2 5

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MED WITH LOVE 4

For a home that feels like a holiday year-round, Mediterranean-inspired décor is the way to go this summer!

Inspired by the unhurried rhythm of coastal living, Mediterranean décor draws together sun-bleached blues, soft whites, and warm terracotta shades to create a palette that feels both fresh and effortlessly chic. Paired with bold prints and natural materials, these hues bring warmth and character into the home to create a relaxed, sun-soaked aesthetic even when the British weather has other plans.

1. Claudia wavy footed bowl | £130 | Rebeccaudall.com

Hand-crafted in a family-owned Italian atelier with a longstanding heritage and a reputation for craftsmanship, this bowl is designed with a contemporary yet classic elegance in a lovely terracotta shade. Perfect for use as a fruit bowl, serving bowl – cake, pastries, and nibbles would all look fantastic! – or just as a decorative piece around the home.

2. Set of three Mediterranean kitchen prints | £147 | Beachhouseart.co.uk

This curated set of kitchen prints brings a fresh, sun-soaked coastal feel to your home. Painted by hand in the company’s studio, each artwork is inspired by traditional Mediterranean tiles and the simple pleasures of seaside living, food, and shared spaces. The soft blue tile backgrounds create cohesion across the set, while the vibrant subjects add warmth, colour, and character without feeling overly decorative. They’re also available to buy separately so you can mix and match as you please!

3. Cushion cover | £15 | Furn.com

Bring a taste of the Med to your garden with this vibrant outdoor cushion. Water-resistant, it’s designed to handle a bit of unpredictable weather, so you don't have to dash outside at the first sign of a drizzle. Packed with delicious illustrations of sardines, olives, and citrus fruits, this cushion adds a splash of flavour and colour to your space.

4. Linen blend bedding | from £119 | Pigletinbed.com

When you’ve ditched your warm duvet for something a little lighter, switching up your bedspread to linen is ideal as it’s naturally temperature regulating. The signature linen blend bundle from Piglet in Bed is available to be customised to whatever your style and can include a duvet cover, pillowcases, sheets, and extras! Made from the highest-quality fibres, the breathable fabric combines the effortless look of linen with the softness of cotton and is free from harmful chemicals and dyes.

5. Buon Appetito collection | from £12.50 | Oliverbonas.com

Inspired by the colours and patterns of a Mediterranean summer, Oliver Bonas’ new range captures a sense of laidback luxury and playful holiday energy. From the lemon-adorned tableware to a festival of fresh produce and floral features across textiles and glassware, it’s a feast of juicy design details. Colourful embossed fruit and tulip motifs feature on the vases and glassware ranges, including an exclusive design for a cocktail punch jug and matching tumblers. Orange spritz goblets and limoncello shot glasses join the collection ready for standout summer sipping.

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jlifemagazine.co.uk

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COMPETITION

Stone Love Win two Corten steel planters worth £192 from London Stone to spruce up your summer garden.

Nothing says summer like a flowery display in stylish planters, and we have just the thing to help you bring that to life. London Stone is offering two Corten steel tapered cylindrical planters to create a striking display. Just right for a bit of lobelia dripping over the sides, while height could be added with an elegant hebe or salvia. They’re the ideal addition to a patio corner to make it stand out and look vibrant.

London Stone is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of landscaping materials and has a network of showrooms across the country, giving customers the chance to see natural stone and porcelain paving, decking, cladding, clay pavers, and more in displays that give a real idea of how they’ll look when installed.

Our prize includes two Corten steel planters, one larger, measuring 400mm diameter across the top and 500mm high, and a smaller companion, 300mm diameter and 400mm

July / August 2026

high. Free delivery is also included.

Made exclusively for London Stone, the high-quality planters are supplied partweathered and will go on to develop a rich patina that protects the surface, making them low-maintenance, frost-proof planters that will last for years. The pair retails at a combined price of £192 and you can find more about them, and the other shapes and sizes in the London Stone collection, on the website.

There’s a London Stone Manchester showroom in Altrincham, conveniently located on the A56, just minutes from Junction 7 on the M56. With experienced staff on hand to advise if needed, free refreshments, and Wi-Fi, the showroom offers a relaxed atmosphere in which to peruse its quality wares, and the team looks forward to welcoming you.

Londonstone.co.uk

COMPETITION For your chance to win a pair of Corten steel tapered cylindrical planters worth £192 from London Stone, simply answer the following question...

In what area of Manchester is the London Stone showroom?

Enter online at Jlifemagazine.co.uk/ competitions-manchester or by post to JLife Ltd, Unit 7, Gemini Business Park, Sheepscar Way, Leeds, LS7 3JB. Please ensure your entry includes your full name, address, daytime telephone number, and email address. The winners will be randomly selected on the closing date: 31st July 2026.

Terms and conditions apply: One entry per person. By entering the competition online, you will automatically be entered in JLife Magazine’s and London Stone’s databases to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will also be added to the databases. Publisher’s decision is final.

39

SUMMER ESSENTIALS

Manchester is home to plenty of beer gardens that are perfect for soaking up the sun this International Beer Day. Since 2008, International Beer Day has been held annually on the first Friday of August as a global celebration of the tipple that takes place in pubs, breweries, and backyards all over the world. This year’s edition is taking place on 7th August and gives beer lovers the chance to appreciate the drink itself, the craft and traditions behind it, and the communities build around it.

The day is built on three core principles: to gather with friends and enjoy the taste and history of beer, to celebrate the people who brew and serve it – from master brewers to bar staff, and to unite the world through beer, bringing different cultures together through a mutual love of the golden nectar.

So, why not honour one of the world’s favourite tipples by taking a trip to one of the many fantastic beer gardens the city and its surrounding areas have to offer?

Eagle & Child | Ramsbottom

Eagle & Child takes the classic pub to the next level. Its ever-evolving menu covering hearty lunches, light bites, al fresco dining, and Sunday roasts accompanies the drinks perfectly.

The outdoor space is a real draw, with a fully stocked outside bar serving an excellent selection of cask ales and draught beers, so there's no need to leave your seat to top up your drink. Hungry visitors can tuck into hand-stretched sourdough pizzas that are freshly cooked to order in the open kitchen, making the beer garden the perfect place to catch some rays on a long summer afternoon or evening.

Eagle-and-child.com

Track Taproom | City Centre

The area surrounding Manchester Piccadilly station has become a hotbed for microbreweries and tap rooms. What was once a forgotten corner of the city’s old industrial centre, and more latterly something of a no man’s land, has evolved into a go-to for any fan of exceptional pints made with love, care, and fine ingredients.

Track Brewing Co. may not have the most polished outdoor space, but what its beer garden lacks in glamour, it more than makes up for with atmosphere. This suntrap spot is the perfect place to settle in with one of the brewery’s expertly crafted beers, all brewed on-site.

Trackbrewing.co

The Woodthorpe | Prestwich

Once the family home of Sir Edward Holt in the late 1800s, The Woodthorpe is a flagship Holts venue that combines original period features with a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit for locals and Joseph Holt aficionados. With a heated outdoor terrace and a spacious beer garden, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fresh air whatever the weather with a cold, crisp pint.

Located just a few miles from the Holts brewery, the pub ensures an exceptional pint every time whether you prefer a cask ale or award-winning lager. You can expect Holts Bitter and Two Hoots as the two regular beers as well as an ever-changing range showcasing some of the best local and international tipples.

On Instagram @thewoodthorpe 40

Enjoy the sun at The Woodthorpe Versatile event space in the Sir Edward Holt function suite for up to 100 guests Beautifully furnished en-suite bedrooms Award Winning Ales and Lagers Complimentary car park and WIFI facilities

thewoodthorpe@joseph-holt.com

0161 795 0032 jlifemagazine.co.uk

Host with the Most

LAURA RICH

Displays at Barker and Stonehouse, shares the tasks you should prioritise when looking to refresh your garden furniture ahead of al fresco dining season.

I would always suggest thinking about how your layout supports different moments throughout the day. A small bistro set can work beautifully for morning coffee, while a larger arrangement can be positioned for entertaining later. Getting that balance right early makes the space much easier to use.

There’s a growing appetite for statement pieces that feel almost sculptural in the garden. Twisted forms, generous proportions,

Action stations

Laura Rich, Creative Product Lead at Furniturebox, explains how simple garden preparation tasks can go a long way…

Decluttering your space is one of those arduous tasks we may be tempted to procrastinate doing, but it's crucial to improve the aesthetic and functionality. It doesn’t have to be totally void of contents; a garden can look lived-in, but removing fallen leaves, recycling unused or broken plant pots, trimming overgrown hedges, and clearing pathways is a great way to drastically improve your space.

Cleaning outdoor furniture is an underrated step, but you (thankfully) don’t need to break the bank to clean it effectively, you actually only need a few household items to get it looking spick and span. Start by sweeping them off then hoover any remaining bits of debris. Olive oil is a handy yet underestimated cleaning tool. Just a teaspoon and a soft cloth can be a cheap, quick, and easy way to protect your rattan garden furniture from the elements. And don’t forget the power of white vinegar!

Many of us don’t have the luxury of a large garden, so making your spaces multifunctional is a great way to utilise what’s available, especially in urban gardens. Opting for furniture that is multi-purpose, like modular sofas that can be moved around to suit you and your guests, allows for flexibility.

Furniturebox.co.uk

Set the scene

Magdalena Gierasinska, Head of Product and July / August 2026

MAGDALENA GIERASINSKA

and more architectural details can really elevate an outdoor setting. At the same time, space-saving designs remain important.

Smaller bistro sets and compact furniture continue to perform well because they make balconies and smaller gardens feel usable without overwhelming them.

Comfort is absolutely essential when it’s your turn to host. Supportive seating, generous proportions, and well-made cushions are what turn a good-looking set into a space people will genuinely enjoy spending time in. I would also say it’s important not to overlook the smaller details. Thoughtful accessories, well-chosen table styling, and subtle layering can make a space feel finished without overwhelming it.

Barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

It’s time to start getting your garden ready for hosting this summer!

Find out how with some tips and tricks from industry experts. table settings, it’s worth doing a quick sweep of your garden for anything that might cause problems on the day. Check for wasp nests in sheds, fences, and roof overhangs in June before they grow large. A small nest treated early is straightforward to deal with but leave it until August and you could have several thousand wasps a few metres from your guests.

Outdoor dining is the biggest attractor of wasps, flies, and ants in summer. Keep food covered until ready to serve, use lids on drinks, and clear plates promptly. A small dish of diluted jam placed at the far end of the garden draws wasps away from the table.

Fresh herbs are one of the best dualpurpose additions to an outdoor table. Potted basil, mint, and lavender look beautiful as centrepieces and the scent actively deters insects. It’s a completely natural solution that costs very little and looks intentional rather than defensive.

As the sun goes down, mosquitoes and midges become the main issue, particularly in gardens near water or long grass. Citronella candles help and look great as part of the decor. A fan pointing gently across the seating area is one of the most underrated tricks as insects struggle to fly in a light breeze. Keep the lawn mown short and clear any standing water from pots and saucers beforehand.

Ants tend to appear around patio areas and food prep zones in summer. Sprinkle ground cinnamon or chalk powder along the edges of patio slabs and around table legs before guests arrive. It creates an invisible barrier that ants will not cross and leaves no trace for your guests to notice.

Ecocare-management.com

Pesky pests

Once you’ve got the aesthetics sorted, Mosh Latifi, Co-Owner of EcoCare Pest Management, is here to help you keep pests at bay!

Before you think about fairy lights and 41

R and R EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY | RAWTENSTALL

Tucked into the Irwell Valley on the edge of Greater Manchester, Ramsbottom and Rawtenstall are a pair of charming market towns guaranteed to tempt you back.

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS

Two market towns just minutes from North Manchester offer the ideal day out for families, shoppers, and leisure visitors alike, both set in beautiful open moorland, scenic walking trails, and sweeping valley viewpoints.

You could be forgiven for not having Ramsbottom – or Rammy, as it's affectionately known – high on your radar.

Nestled between the moorland and the River Irwell, it's the kind of place that tends to be discovered rather than publicised.

But those who make the trip never regret it.

The town has built one of the most enticing independent food and drink scenes in Greater Manchester, paired with a genuine community spirit, year-round events, and great countryside on the doorstep.

History lovers will feel right at home in Ramsbottom, a town whose roots stretch 42

back to the Industrial Revolution. During the 19th century, it thrived as a bustling centre of industry, with prominent cotton mills like the Ramsbottom Paper Mill and the Grant Brothers Mill powering its economy. These mills didn’t just provide employment - they helped shape the town itself, inspiring the rows of terraced houses built for workers, many of which still stand today. While the mills have long since ceased operation, their legacy lives on in the town’s architecture and the stories passed down through generations.

The East Lancashire Railway runs steam and diesel trains through Ramsbottom and on to Rawtenstall, Nuttall Park has riverside walks, a play area, and a bandstand, while Holcombe Hill and Peel Tower reward the short climb with panoramic moorland views.

No visit to either town would be complete without experiencing the railway. Its heritage steam trains remain one of the area’s most iconic attractions, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s industrial past.

It also boasts a packed schedule of family events throughout the summer including popular character experiences featuring Peppa Pig, Thomas the Tank Engine, and other themed activities.

Rawtenstall‘s unique combination of cafés, restaurants, heritage attractions, community events, and stunning surrounding Pennine scenery. Whether you’re looking for a family day out, a weekend stroll, great food and drink, or unique independent shopping, the town offers something for all ages and interests.

BANK STREET | RAWTENSTALL

At the heart of Rawtenstall is Bank Street, a cobbled stretch lined with family-run cafes, artisan bakeries, vintage shops, relaxed bars, and restaurants. Just around the corner sits Mr Fitzpatrick’s Temperance Bar, proudly holding the title of Britain’s last temperance bar.

A short stroll from the centre leads to Whitaker Park, home to The Whitaker Museum. Recently refurbished and free to enter, the museum presents local heritage alongside touring exhibitions and events.

The park is home to a mix of facilities, including tennis courts, scenic dog-walking routes, modern play areas for children, and welcoming community yoga sessions designed for all ages and abilities.

The heart of the town is Rawtenstall Market, supported and cared for by Rossendale Borough Council. It’s currently jlifemagazine.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Summer Events

Family Friday Night Bites | Ramsbottom Civic Hall | 7th August

This family-friendly evening event brings together a great selection of delicious street food stalls and offer a relaxed atmosphere with live entertainment, a licensed bar, charity stalls, kiddie crafts, and a face painter.

Bands on the Bandstand | Nuttall Park, Ramsbottom | 2nd August

This free community event provides great live music in one of Ramsbottom’s most picturesque settings.

Always well attended by families and visitors.

Northern Soul and Motown Night St Mary's Chambers, Rawtenstall 25th July

ST PAUL'S CHURCH | RAMSBOTTOM

trading from a temporary home in the town square while the 120-year-old Market Hall undergoes refurbishment, with a return to its original home planned for 2027.

Rawtenstall celebrates its unique character and embraces its own identity, combining culture, community, and countryside to offer a destination for all ages, occasions, and interests.

Visitramsbottom.co.uk Rossendale.gov.uk | The Visit Ramsbottom website is GMCA/ Government-funded via Bury Council.

Get your dancing shoes ready for a night of Motown classics and Northern Soul, with a touch of ska and mod thrown in for good measure. Expect an electric atmosphere and a packed dancefloor powered by timeless vinyl floor-fillers.

Early Years in Summer | The Whitaker Museum, Rawtenstall | 5th to 19th August

These play-based sessions are designed specifically for parents, grandparents, and carers to enjoy time with their little ones. The Early Years team provide everything you need to allow your child to lead you on a multi-sensory journey of play.

BRIDGE STREET | RAMSBOTTOM

Rotary Car Boot Sale | Station Road Carpark, next to East Lancashire Railway | every Sunday throughout July and August

Find bargains at this popular car boot which regularly attracts visitors from across the region, with proceeds supporting local charities and community projects.

Ramsbottom Makers Market | Civic Hall | 30th August YOGA IN WHITAKER PARK NUTTALL PARK | RAMSBOTTOM

MR FITZPATRICKS TEMPERANCE BAR | RAWTENSTALL

A vibrant market showcasing a range of independent makers, artists, food producers, and small businesses.

Ramsbottom Cricket Club Festival 2026 26th September Entertainment, street food, a fairground, fireworks, fully licensed pubs and bars, and some of the UK’s best tribute bands, proceeds go towards supporting the cricket club.

Day Out with Thomas: Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll | East Lancashire Railway | 18th to 19th July

Hop onboard a train ride with Thomas, watch the exciting live shows, join in the Thomas and Friends character hunt, have fun with garden games and keep the beat going at the Music Corner packed with music-inspired fun, plus much more!

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PROMOTION

Yards Ahead Tucked into the Rossendale hills, destination visit Waterfoot Yard is a unique café, gift shop, and community space with nearly two centuries of history behind it and a bright future ahead.

Bridge End House has been part of Waterfoot’s story since the 1840s. Built as a Georgian sandstone family home on Bacup Road, it later served as the town’s public library and council offices. Disha and Neil wanted to bring it back to life as somewhere the community could come together to use and enjoy.

The ground floor seats around 35 covers and serves fresh, homemade food at honest prices – from a proper breakfast to a smash burger or just a coffee and cake, with everything made on-site. The building itself is part of the draw. Regulars say you notice it the moment you walk in – the Georgian stonework, the high ceilings, and the sense that this place has always mattered to the people around it. Work from local artists adorns the walls, while alongside the café sits a thoughtfully stocked gift shop, The

Curated Collection, with around 70% of its products sourced from independent local makers on a concession model. That means every purchase goes directly to a local creator – among them soap makers, printers, textile artists, and ceramic makers, many of them based in Rossendale. Disha’s own home fragrance brand, Maison Botanique, specialising in hand-crafted wax melts and scented products made with real care, is stocked exclusively at the Yard and has become one of the shop’s most popular draws.

Waterfoot Yard runs a growing events programme throughout the year, including a monthly outdoor mini market showcasing local producers and makers, yoga brunches, quizzes, and more. The team sees the space as part of the fabric of Waterfoot, and everything they do reflects that.

The venue is also one of very few cafés in the area with a full Changing Places accessibility facility on-site, meaning anyone with complex needs or a disability can visit with confidence.

Open Wednesday to Monday, dogfriendly, and with free parking nearby, Waterfoot Yard is well worth the short journey from Manchester. The Rossendale Valley is beautiful, the hills are walkable, and Bridge End House – nearly two centuries old and still a community focal point – is worth seeing in itself.

On Instagram @waterfootyard jlifemagazine.co.uk

TRADITIONAL SWEETS & GIFTS OF RAMSBOTTOM Traditional Sweets -catering for all dietary requirements, Sugar free, Vegan & Halal.

Children’s toys, local area souvenirs, tarot cards and wax burners.

Balloons for all occasions and budgets. We have numbers, shapes & characters for most occasions in a wide range of colours.

Your local Charlie Bear & Steiff Bear stockist with new bears arriving monthly.

28 BRIDGE STREET, RAMSBOTTOM LANCS, BL0 9AQ ramsbottomsweetshop@outlook.com

07938 700 765

Traditional Sweets & Gifts of Ramsbottom Sweetshopramsbottom Sweets_giftsoframsbottom E Etsy.com/shop/ramsbottomsweetshop

Nestled in the heart of Rossendale, a hidden gem worth the journey

SHOUT ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS

Bi monthly magazine and website Targeting Manchester and Leeds Jewish communities

Café and curated gift shop, and a community events venue all under one roof.

Community News, Events and Lifestyle

Serving fresh local produce, coffee, artisan bakes, brunch and lunch and stocking artwork and gifts.

30,000 combined distribution

0845 052 2911

www.jlifemagazine.co.uk July / August 2026

Open Wednesday to Monday Bridge End House, Bacup Road, Waterfoot, Rossendale, BB4 7AW

waterfootyard | 07849 409580 yardwaterfoot@gmail.com 45

PROMOTION

A Cut Above The Fire Pit in Rawtenstall is more than a meal, it’s an experience!

Rawtenstall is being increasingly recognised for its independent food and drink scene, and The Fire Pit has firmly established itself as one of the town’s most recognisable dining destinations. Sitting prominently at Station House on New Hall Hey Road adjacent to the East Lancashire Railway, the restaurant has built its reputation around a simple but effecting promise: delivering an experience that goes far beyond the plate.

Part of what sets The Fire Pit apart is that, despite its growing reputation and multiple locations, it remains a family-run business at heart. The family’s involvement extends across almost every aspect of the operation, from the owner regularly working on the restaurant floor serving drinks and food to his mother preparing and butchering meat in-house.

His father oversees food and drink deliveries across the Rawtenstall site and sister venues, while several younger family members also play an active role in the day-to-day running of the restaurant. This hands-on approach creates a genuine sense of care that customers continue to appreciate.

The venue’s concept is centred on bold flavours, premium grilled meats, and a lively atmosphere. While many restaurants can claim to serve good steak, few have made the theatrical ‘steak on the stone’ experience such a defining feature of their identity. Diners are invited to finish cooking their steak on a sizzling hot stone at the table, creating a level of interaction that transforms a meal into an occasion. It’s this combination of theatre and

quality that continues to attract visitors from across Rossendale and beyond.

The menu reflects a modern grill house philosophy; signature steaks sit alongside stacked burgers, hanging kebabs, and a growing range of vegetarian options. The restaurant has also embraced contemporary dining trends with bottomless brunches starting at £38 per person, a lunch menu where you can enjoy two courses for £24, and a date night option with three courses for £33 along with carefully curated cocktail menus that have become popular with both couples and groups getting together to celebrate special occasions.

What stands out most about The Fire Pit is its ability to cater to different audiences without losing its identity. Families are welcomed with dedicated menus and

generous portions, while weekend evenings create a more vibrant atmosphere that’s suited to social gatherings and celebrations. For many local diners, it has become a go-to venue for birthdays, anniversaries, and milestone events.

Customer feedback consistently highlights the quality of the food, particularly the steaks, burgers, and signature grill dishes. Many guests praise the generous portions, friendly staff, and memorable dining experience.

Perhaps the restaurant’s greatest success lies in understanding what modern customers want. Dining today is no longer just about eating; it’s about atmosphere, presentation, social connection, and memorable experiences. The Fire Pit has built its brand precisely around these principles, combining quality food with a sense of occasion that encourages guests to return.

As Rawtenstall continues to evolve as a destination for food lovers, the restaurant remains one of the town’s flagship venues.

It’s a venue that understands its customers, embraces theatre without sacrificing substance, and continues to play an important role in the local hospitality landscape.

Whether you’re visiting for a perfectly cooked 10 oz fillet steak, a cocktail with friends, or a special celebration, The Fire Pit delivers something increasingly valuable in today’s dining scene: an experience that’s worth talking about.

Thefirepitrestaurant.co.uk/locations/ rawtenstall

Here at the Firepit we aim to serve you an experience you will never forget. Everything from the tenderest of steaks, ribs and juicy burgers right through to our great vegetarian options.

There’s a great kids menu, delicious desserts, drinks and cocktails.

Book now to WIN a chance for a free visit for a family of 4!

Book one of our Firepit special menus - find out more online.

Lunch Menu

2 courses for £24 Date Night

3 courses for £33 Bottomless Brunch

from £38

Whatever you are celebrating, come to the place for families and friends in the heart of Rawtenstall. All allergies catered.

Ready for a Firepit Experience? Book Now. OPEN DAILY Mon - Thu 12-10pm Fri - Sat 12-11pm Sunday 12-9pm

FREE PRIVATE EVENT SPACE SUITABLE FOR, WEDDINGS, BIRTHDAYS, BABY SHOWERS AND MUCH MORE.

01706 260676 thefirepitrestaurant.co.uk

Station House, New Hall Hey Rd, Rawtenstall, BB4 6AJ

Open for Business Traditional Sweets & Gifts of Ramsbottom

Offering a delightful range of traditional sweets, gifts, and party essentials, Traditional Sweets & Gifts of Ramsbottom is located on Bridge Street.

You'll find a huge selection of children’s toys and sweets including sugar-free and vegan options. Get celebration-ready with the shop’s extensive range of balloons, including numbers, shapes, and well-loved characters in a variety of colours.

The shop is also proud to be the local stockist of Charlie Bears and Steiff Bears, with new arrivals landing monthly. The latest collections are available to be shopped in-store, ideal for keen collectors or those looking for a thoughtful gift.

You’ll also find a tempting selection of Falshaw’s Farm ice cream, wax melts and burners, books, local souvenirs and prints, and much more – a true treasure trove!

On Instagram @sweetshopramsbottom | ramsbottomsweetshop@outlook

Caravaggio Interiors and Gifts

Since opening the showroom doors of Caravaggio Bespoke Interiors in 2016, the company has gone from strength to strength due to the help and support of all the team’s lovely customers over the years.

From starting as just a designer wallpaper, paint, and fabric supplier, Caravaggio has now got it all under one roof. This includes being a supplier of any type of lighting or piece of furniture, the making and fitting of any style of window blind, curtain, and pelmets, the making of scatter cushions and bed throws in any style and fabric of your choice, a re-upholstery service, bespoke rugs, gift shop, candles, diffusers, and much more!

Visit the showroom on Bolton Street – Monday to Saturday 10.30am to 4pm – to browse through the vast amount of catalogues and sample books while enjoying some light refreshments or call to arrange a free home consultation.

0170 682 2323 | Caravaggiointeriors.co.uk PEEL TOWER - HOLCOMBE HILL

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RAMSBOTTOM

jlifemagazine.co.uk

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Summer Special

Get out and about this summer and check out some of the best upcoming events!

An Evening with Dave Rich | South Manchester venue 12th July

As Director of Policy at the Community Security Trust (CST), Dave has spent many years researching, analysing, and responding to antisemitism in all its forms. He is widely recognised as one of the foremost thinkers on the subject, regularly advising policymakers, contributing to national debates, and helping shape understanding of contemporary antisemitism in Britain and beyond. In conversation with Raphi Bloom, Dave will discuss the current challenges facing the Jewish community, the evolving nature of antisemitism, and what lies ahead.

To register, email office@jewishmanchester.org

The Brit Fest | Ashley Hall Showground 2nd to 5th July

Enjoy this four-day celebration of British music at Ashley Hall Showground in Altrincham that has a lineup spanning the 1980s and 1990s with ABC, Holly Johnson, Happy Mondays, Wet Wet Wet, Peter Hook & The Light, and more. It’s family-friendly and promises fun for all, with camping and glamping available on-site, plenty of tempting food and drink vendors, wellness and fitness opportunities, workshops and talks, and even a fire-walking experience!

Thebritfest.co.uk

Klezmer Tune Club and KlezJam | Manchester Jewish Museum | 5th July

Klezmer Tune Club brings together musicians of any level, background, or instrument to explore tunes from the rich klezmer tradition. Richard Fay and Daniel Mawson will take you on a musical journey through klezmer’s fascinating history and work with you on a new musical piece. Don’t worry if you haven’t been to the previous sessions, each meeting involves learning a new tune. Then, after lunch the KlezJam is an open klezmer folk session where you can come to play music, have a brew, and socialise with a very casual and inclusive feel: a folk session for all folk!

Manchesterjewishmuseum.com

The Jury Experience | The Stoller Hall | 24th July

You’ve been called for jury duty. Step into a thrilling courtroom drama where the audience is the jury. Listen to testimonies, analyse evidence, and ultimately decide… guilty or not guilty? In this live theatre courtroom drama, you decide the final verdict and your votes steer the story. In this edition, superstar Lana Tonneit’s $20 million necklace is gone. Now her ex-driver is on trial for the theft. But is there more to the story? Dissect witness testimonies, unpack evidence, and weigh every argument to reach the final conclusion.

Thejuryexperience.com July / August 2026

Heaton Park Food Festival | 1st and 2nd August

Celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, Heaton Park Food and Drink Festival is a family-friendly celebration of international influence and local talent expressed through international food, independent drinks, live music, arts, and charity. Sample street food, artisan produce, and drinks from independent bars, alongside live cookery demonstrations from top regional chefs. Enjoy performances from musicians, plus entertainment including magicians, comedians, and children's activities. A dedicated wellbeing area features yoga talks and healthy living experiences, while the artisan market showcases gourmet treats from leading UK producers. The event also continues its partnership with Manchester Mind, raising funds and awareness for local mental health charities through donations and festival activities.

Heatonparkfoodfestival.com/about

Live from Wythenshawe Park | 21st to 30th August

August at Wythenshawe Park features a run of major outdoor concerts across the bank holiday weekend. The Cure will open on 21st August (sold out), Lewis Capaldi follows on 22nd August, and Pulp – fresh from their first studio album in 24 years and playing only a handful of dates this year – headline on 28th August. The Courteeners play 29th August and The Prodigy close the weekend on 30th August. All shows run from 4pm to 11pm.

Livefromwythenshawepark.co.uk 49

new openings

New in Town

There are plenty of new food and drink spots to visit this summer!

Sister Moon | City Centre | Coming soon

Perched on the 14th floor of the recently opened Treehouse Hotel, Sister Moon is a new restaurant from acclaimed Chef Sam Grainger. With a focus on bold and punchy flavours, the menu will be a vibrant fusion of South East Asian-inspired dishes shaped by Sam’s love of the flavours and open-fire cooking. His approach is rooted in simplicity and impact, letting smoke, spice, and time draw out depth and character in every dish. Warm and atmospheric, it'll be a place for easy lunches, lively dinners, and evenings that unfold around the table.

Treehousehotels.com/manchester/sistermoon

The Counter | City Centre | September

Chef Andrew Sheridan is at the helm of this new restaurant which is due to open in September just off John Dalton Street. The concept will move away from the traditional format of starters, main courses, and desserts, and instead focus on dishes designed to share. A full-scale rotisserie and a dedicated meat and fish dry-ageing cabinets will be introduced, and the menu will focus heavily on specials cooked over the fire. A chef’s counter dining option will also be available, seating up to eight guests directly at the pass. Outside, a 20-cover terrace will add another layer of atmosphere for pre- or post-dinner drinks.

On Instagram @restaurantcounter

The Nest | City Centre | Open now

Also atop Treehouse Hotel is The Nest, a rooftop bar curated

by Luke Cowdrey and Justin Crawford, the hospitality duo behind some of Manchester’s best-loved venues including Freight Island and The Refuge. Blending a laid-back atmosphere with stylish interiors, The Nest offers panoramic views across the city skyline, making it the perfect setting to watch the sunset or enjoy Manchester after dark. Whether you're catching up with friends over cocktails, celebrating a special occasion, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, the rooftop bar is designed for long evenings and lively conversation.

Treehousehotels.com/manchester/nest

Wolfie’s Bar | Ramsbottom | 2nd July

Rammy’s newest drinks destination comes in the form of Wolfie’s Bar on Square Street, where expertly crafted cocktails, premium beers, and live entertainment come together to create a welcoming atmosphere for every occasion. There’s an impressive menu of signature serves alongside a carefully selected range of wines and spirits – we think the venue is set to become a local favourite. Regular dart nights, live music performances, and private events with free room hire mean there’s always something happening, whether you’re popping in for a relaxed afternoon drink or looking for a lively night out.

On Instagram @wolfiesbar 50

Joe & the Juice | Sunlight House and Oxford Road Coming soon

You might have noticed Joe & the Juice popping up all over the city, with locations now including Cross Street, Manchester Airport T2, the Trafford Centre, and Mosley Street. And now, the brand is furthering its Manchester takeover with two new locations at Sunlight House and Oxford Road later this summer. The new locations will each bring the brand’s signature Scandinavian aesthetic and open-counter layout where customers can enjoy the freshly prepared menu of delicious juices, speciality coffee, protein shakes, and Scandistyle sandwiches made using its signature rye flatbread.

Joejuice.com jlifemagazine.co.uk

Urgent Care Centre At The Alexandra Hospital Located within a fully equipped private hospital, our Urgent Care Centre offers a calm, relaxed environment, with a wide range of medical services available for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.  Walk-in service  No appointment needed

Open 7 days a week from 8am – 8pm Last appointment at 7:30pm

To find out more, please scan the QR code or call 01615 165 982

FOR LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCIES PLEASE VISIT YOUR NEAREST A&E DEPARTMENT. 37089 0125 MKT ADT / 06.2026

FEATURE

The Manchester Open exhibition celebrates Greater Manchester's creative talent by showcasing the work of 420 artists until 6th September.

Open Season

Manchester Open is back! Taking place every two years, this much-anticipated free exhibition draws thousands of visitors from Greater Manchester and beyond.

The HOME Gallery walls will be filled with artworks, carefully selected from over 1,500 submissions.

Now in its fourth iteration, the exhibition is open to all and welcomes entries from people of any level of experience, including established professionals, students, graduates, new and emerging talent, enthusiastic amateurs, and first-time artists from four years old to nearly 80. Categories include ceramics, digital/moving image, drawing, print, painting, photography, sculpture/installation, and textiles, ensuring a rich variety of art to explore.

The selection panel of eight judges includes practicing artists, community members, and contemporary art professionals, all of whom were struck by the quality and breadth of this year’s submissions.

Clarissa Corfe, Creative Producer of Visual Art at HOME, said: “This event brings together artists and creatives from all 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester, some professional and others just starting their 52

creative journeys. Work in all the visual art mediums has been selected anonymously by a dedicated team of judges with different areas of expertise. Many works reveal something of the relationship we have with ourselves, family, community, and the natural world, demonstrated through layers of nuance, imagination, wit, and resonance.”

Adeola Adelakun and Ronke Jane Adelakun, Co-Founders, Black Creative Trailblazers, have joined the judging panel for the first time: “Being invited to serve as judges on behalf of the community was a profound honour and one we didn’t take lightly. We were moved by the breadth, boldness, and depth of the work submitted.

For Black Creative Trailblazers, being part of this process matters deeply. Our founding belief is that the talent was never missing, only the infrastructure. Having a seat at the table as community curators is exactly the kind of infrastructure shift that changes what gets celebrated, who gets visibility, and what the creative landscape of Manchester looks like for the next generation.”

Evelyn Adesina is a volunteer at HOME and relished the opportunity to participate in the panel: “The selection process was both inspiring and engaging, and audiences can expect a rich range of visual storytelling with real depth and diversity. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to connect with both the work and the artists. I’m looking

forward to learning more about the stories behind the work, as well as experiencing the range of voices and perspectives brought together in this shared space."

HOME will once again be working with Castlefield Gallery on the selection of the 2026 Manchester Open Awards. Three artists will be awarded with artist development packages managed by HOME and Castlefield Gallery. There will also be one HOME Award for an artist’s solo exhibition in the Granada Foundation Galleries focusing on developing new work.

This year also sees the launch of The Kate Vokes People’s Choice Award, in honour of the local philanthropist and business leader’s contribution to the Manchester Open, HOME, and the arts and culture sector in Manchester. As the only award voted for by the people of Greater Manchester, the People’s Choice Award reflects Kate’s values by widening participation in the arts.

Alongside the recognition afforded by this high-profile award, the winner will receive £2,000.

The Manchester Open 2026 is supported by the Oglesby Charitable Trust, the Brian Mercer Trust, Manchester City Council, Arts Council England, and Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

Homemcr.org jlifemagazine.co.uk

Pack It In! When it comes to sustainability and eco-friendly living, we’ve got a big plastic problem. Globally, less than 10% of plastic is ever recycled. Rather than disappearing, it breaks down into smaller and smaller pieces – ending up in landfill, in our streets and green spaces, and in our rivers and oceans. A plastic water bottle can take over 400 years to break down. The UK gets through 2.5 billion disposable coffee cups every year, and only 1% are recycled – many contain a plastic lining that makes them hard to process.

With more than 170 million participants in 190 countries, Plastic Free July is based around the simple but powerful idea that when many people make small changes, it adds up to a big difference. The goal isn’t to remove plastic from our lives entirely, but to change the way we use it. Choosing to refuse single-use plastics in July often leads to discovering great alternatives that can become new habits for good. How will you rise to the challenge?

SUSTAINABILITY

Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps millions of people reduce plastic waste through simple, everyday choices.

Where to start

Not sure what to change? The Plastic Free July website is packed with ideas for individuals, families, workplaces, and schools. Some of the most popular swaps include: • Carrying a reusable bag, coffee cup, and water bottle – the three biggest everyday offenders • Buying loose produce and visiting the deli counter with your own containers rather than buying pre-packaged • Switching to shampoo bars and soap bars instead of plastic-bottled products • Choosing unwrapped bread from a bakery rather than plastic-wrapped loaves • Downloading the Refill app to find free water top-up points across Manchester You can take the Pesky Plastics Quiz to identify where your biggest impact could be and make your pledge at Plasticfreejuly.org

Refill and zero-waste shops near you

Greater Manchester has a growing network of independent refill stores where you can bring your own containers and buy only what you need. Here are six worth knowing about.

C g p p w p t

The Good Life | Stockport

A waste-free mini-market selling food and household products from bulk bins and dispensers, with click-and-collect available.

Thegoodlifeheatons.com

Village Greens | Prestwich

A community-owned cooperative with loose produce from hoppers and a full range of refillable liquids. The team weighs your container before you fill it.

Village-greens-coop.co.uk

Plentiful Plastic Free Shop | Ramsbottom

Specialising in plastic-free personal grooming – hair, dental, and skincare – plus reusable bags and eco-friendly kitchen utensils. Also available online.

Plentifulwholefoods.co.uk

Lentils and Lather | West Didsbury

A predominantly vegan zero-waste store covering pasta, rice, snacks, cereals, teas, and coffees alongside personal care and household cleaning products.

Lentilsandlather.co.uk

Bernie’s Grocery Store | Heaton Moor and Altrincham

An eco-minded independent with two locations, stocking responsibly sourced fruit and veg, craft drinks, and fresh bakery goods.

On Facebook @berniesgrocerystore July / August 2026

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Unlock Higher Returns from Your Property Switch to short-term rentals and maximise your income.

City SuperHost is Manchester’s leading family-run Airbnb management company, helping landlords earn more from their properties with fully managed, short-term letting.

From professional listings and dynamic pricing to guest communication, cleaning, and compliance — we take care of everything. You enjoy higher returns, with none of the day-to-day hassle.

Curious what your property could earn?

Get a free, no-obligation income assessment and discover your property’s true potential with City SuperHost.

Citysuperhost.com 07394 137754 180 Ashley Road, Hale WA15 9SF

Scan here for your FREE property valuation

NOW OPEN ON ASHLEY ROAD, HALE Beautiful things for the considered home.

Hakim & Co brings luxury homeware and furniture, curated by interior designer Steph Hakim.

Timeless pieces, chosen with a designer’s eye.

180 Ashley Road, Hale WA15 9SF Hakimandco.com

By Steph Hakim of Cheshire Property Studio

PROMOTION

Matt & Steph

Matt Smith and Steph Hakim are a Manchester husband-and-wife team who have turned a shared passion for property into a growing family of businesses, designed to help people get more from their spaces.

When Matt and Steph found themselves with a What sets it apart in a crowded market is spare apartment, they listed it on Airbnb, made how it prioritises human connection. When a few tweaks to get it guest-ready, and a week you call, you get Matt or Steph, not a call centre later welcomed their first visitors. From that or a franchisee. Fees start at a straightforward first five-star review in 2017, they have never 15% plus VAT, with no lock-in contracts and looked back. Nearly a decade on, the couple run only a 30-day notice period. Owners keep three businesses from their shared office on full visibility throughout, with a private app Hale’s high street. showing their calendar, live earnings, and the option to book the property for their own stays. For those who want genuinely hands-off income without handing control to a faceless corporation, City Superhost offers everything you could hope for.

Cheshire Property Studio

Luxury interior design Steph has always had a natural feel for design.

Based in the same Hale office, the studio is City Superhost an award-nominated interior design practice Short-stay property management working with homeowners, developers, and One of Greater Manchester's first dedicated landlords on projects from full residential short-stay specialists, City Superhost now refurbishments to new-build specifications. manages dozens of homes, with more than 7,400 Its guiding principle is that a space should feel guest reviews and a 4.8-star average from as distinctive as the people who live in it. thousands of visitors welcomed from around Rather than chasing trends, every project is the world. This year brings a milestone the couple approached through close collaboration and are especially proud of – over £10 million meticulous attention to detail, with a commitment in bookings generated for the owners whose to getting things right from the start. homes they manage. Guests can book any of these homes directly at Stay.citysuperhost.com and save around 15% on the major booking sites.

For landlords and second-home owners, the company handles everything: listing management across Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo, Expedia, and more; dynamic pricing to maximise nightly rates; round-the-clock guest communications; careful vetting of every Behind the studio sits a team of experienced reservation, with signed rental agreements designers and project coordinators, supported and deposits taken; and professional cleaning by a trusted network of contractors, artisans, between every stay. and suppliers, all personally curated by Steph.

July / August 2026

For those wanting guidance before committing to a full project, the studio also offers an online interior design consultancy.

Hakim & Co

Homeware and furniture The newest strand of the family, Hakim & Co is the natural extension of Steph's eye for design: a luxury homeware and furniture brand created for the considered home, located on Ashley Road.

The collection runs from bespoke, madeto-order cushions and curtains made up in the fabric and dimensions of your choosing to statement lamps, occasional chairs, dinnerware, and beautifully made small gifts.

Many pieces can be tailored or commissioned, so what you take home is made for your space and yours alone. It is the same craftsmanship that runs through Steph's interiors, distilled into pieces to live with every day or to give to someone who deserves something special.

The bigger picture Together, City Superhost, Cheshire Property Studio, and Hakim & Co show what an independent, family-run enterprise can be: built on real experience, honest pricing, and a steadfast commitment to quality. Whether you are a homeowner looking to make your property work harder, a developer in need of a design partner, or simply curious about what comes next, Matt and Steph are worth getting to know.

Citysuperhost.com for landlords Stay.citysuperhost.com to book direct.

Cheshirepropertystudio.com On Instagram @cheshirepropertystudio and @hakimandco 55

See more photos on pages 7, 12, 34, 66 and 73

PHOTOS

PHOTO: PAUL FERTIG

MEMBERS OF MENORAH REFORM, HALE, AND BOWDON SYNAGOGUES AND MEMBERS OF OTHER FAITHS ATTENDED ALTRINCHAM INTERFAITH GROUP’S ANNUAL TEA.

MAJOR GRANT PEAKALL, A FORMER OFFICER OF THE ROYAL REGIMENT OF FUSILIERS, LAID A WREATH IN MEMORY OF THE OFFICERS OF THE ZION MULE CORPS AT THE REGIMENT’S ANNUAL GALLIPOLI DAY PARADE AND SERVICE IN BURY.

MENORAH SYNAGOGUE RECENTLY HELD A TEA PARTY FOR NEW MEMBERS TO MEET EACH OTHER, THE RABBI, AND KEY VOLUNTEERS TO STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY TIES.

VICE PRESIDENT OF THE NICKY, RONNIE LEVENE, ENJOYED A MEMORABLE DAY OUT AT A BUCKINGHAM PALACE’S ROYAL GARDEN PARTY ALONGSIDE HIS WIFE ROSALIND. RONNIE WAS NOMINATED BY THE GREATER MANCHESTER LIEUTENANCY FOR HIS DEDICATION TO THE COMMUNITY.

MEMBERS OF THE LEAGUE OF JEWISH WOMEN JOINED CHARLES GAFFIN AND HIS WIFE RAISELLE AS HE PRESENTED HOMEMADE SCRUB BAGS TO THE MND DEPARTMENT AT SALFORD ROYAL HOSPITAL.

BOTH PHOTOS: SITARA BARTLE DAVIES, THE MANCHESTER GRAMMAR SCHOOL

THE FINAL DAY OF HALF TERM AT THE MANCHESTER GRAMMAR SCHOOL SAW THE JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORTS DAY TAKE PLACE.

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ALL PUPILS IN YEARS 3 TO 6 PARTICIPATED IN FIVE EVENTS, APPROACHING EACH WITH ENTHUSIASM, DETERMINATION, AND EXCELLENT SCHOOL SPIRIT!

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TOP TABLE

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Manchester Maccabi has had its most successful table tennis season in history and celebrated with a special guest!

STUART LANDES, LINDSEY THORNTON, AND SHELDON LEE.

At Manchester Maccabi, the annual table tennis presentation and finals night was held in May. This was the culmination of the most successful season in Maccabi’s history, with over 60 spectators attending the evening.

The A team won the McDonald Division One Trophy in a close final against Little Lever. The B team won the Sponsors Cup and came runners up in the Poytress Trophy. E team reached the final of the Pressman Trophy but narrowly lost out.

The semis and finals were also played for the Edward Fremman Trophy, named in honour of someone who has done so much for Manchester Jewish table tennis.

Maureen Freeman presented the beautiful new trophy to winners Peter Cantor and Anthony Rowlands who beat Robert and Scarlett Clayton in a closely contested final match.

Notable awards on the night were given to Sheldon Lee (Player of the Year), Scarlett Clayton (Joe Landes – Bury Young Player of the Year), Max Briststone (Most Improved Player), and Marc Sheldon (Jeff Ingber Trophy).

Recent England international Lindsey Thornton helped to present the awards as well as demonstrating skills and coaching exercises with 10-year-old prospect Josh Davies. Also in attendance was Howard Sherrington – a guest of honour who was the original founder of the Manchester Jewish table tennis league which, at its height, had two strong divisions.

Finally, a challenge match was played between Maccabi A’s (Monty Super and Daniel Olsberg) and top local league players Gregg Lee and Daven Argyle, with Monty and Daniel winning 3-1.

TREBLE WINNERS

Manchester United Jewish Supporters Club (MUJSC) won the treble at the inaugural Jewish Manchester derby.

PHOTO: ALEX MANDEL

MUJSC and Blue Star OSC – Manchester City’s Official Jewish Supporters Club – brought football and community together in a historic derby event in North Manchester.

The one-of-a-kind occasion in June saw supporters from across the community come together for a packed programme of football, including a men’s 11-a-side fixture, men’s masters match, and a women’s match, alongside Rabbi Walker and former United Midfielder, Sammy McIlroy.

July / August 2026

HOWARD SHERRINGTON PRESENTING THE JEFF INGBER TROPHY TO MARC SHELDON.

MUJSC Co-Founders Joseph Eskenazy and Dan Delew said: “Seeing so many people from across the Manchester Jewish community come together through football was incredibly special. The atmosphere throughout the afternoon was fantastic, and we’re proud to have created an event that celebrated community through the game we all love, while also raising important funds for two brilliant charities.”

Blue Star OSC Co-Founder, Jack Isaacs, commented: “This was a truly memorable occasion and a brilliant example of football bringing people together beyond club rivalries.

To see supporters from both sides enjoying the day and supporting great causes in the heart of Manchester’s Jewish community made the event a huge success.”

In the men’s 11-a-side fixture, United were victorious with a score of 11-4. The women’s fixture saw a United women come out on top with a 3-2 victory, while the men’s masters clash ended 6-3 to the Jewish Red Devils.

The event raised over £1,100 for the Manchester United Foundation and City in the Community, supporting both organisations’ ongoing work empowering young people and PHOTO: ALEX MANDEL strengthening communities through football.

Designed to celebrate Jewish identity within football, the event highlighted the growing presence and impact of Jewish supporters’ groups in the game, while showcasing how football can unite communities across rivalries through a shared passion.

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FEATURE

Snap Happy This World Photography Day (19th August), we consult an expert on how to create pictures with heart and soul.

Photography is more accessible than ever, with most smartphones coming with hi-spec cameras as standard. But capturing truly special photos is often more about intuition and feeling than tech and gadgetry.

Rob Clayton is a Manchester-based wedding photographer specialising in natural, documentary-style photography. His work focuses on capturing genuine moments and human connection, creating photographs that tell the story of a day as it really happened.

Rob’s work is proudly featured in JLife regularly!

Stop asking people to smile The moment someone notices a camera, their instinct is often to stop what they're doing and pose. While there's nothing wrong with a traditional smiling-at-the-camera photograph, the images that tend to have the most lasting value are often the unguarded ones.

Instead of directing people, try stepping back and letting moments unfold naturally.

A laugh between friends, a reassuring hand on a shoulder, or a child's reaction to something exciting will usually tell a much stronger story than a posed portrait.

Anticipate rather than react Many memorable moments happen in a fraction of a second. Instead of waiting for something to happen and then reaching for your camera, try observing what's unfolding around you. If you see children playing, a couple sharing a conversation, or family members greeting one another, keep your camera ready. Anticipating a moment often means you'll capture the emotion as it happens rather than a few seconds too late.

Look for connections So much of photography is about people. But rather than focusing solely on individuals, pay attention to the relationships between them.

A glance between a couple, grandparents playing with grandchildren, or friends sharing a joke can reveal far more about a moment than a perfectly composed portrait. The strongest photographs often capture how people feel about one another rather than simply what they look like.

Focus on emotion, not perfection A photograph doesn't need to be flawless to be valuable. Sometimes the images that become family favourites are slightly imperfect but full of feeling. Years from now, people are unlikely to remember whether a photograph was perfectly sharp or expertly composed.

What they'll remember is how it made them feel and the memories it brings back.

The most meaningful photographs aren't necessarily the most technically impressive.

They're the ones that preserve moments, Use natural light whenever possible relationships, and emotions that would Good light doesn't have to be dramatic. In fact, otherwise be lost to time. some of the most Robclaytonphotography.co.uk flattering and atmospheric photographs are taken using simple natural light.

It's easy to assume that taking a great Position people near photograph is all about having the latest a window indoors or camera or mastering complex settings. head outside during However, the photographs people end the early morning up caring the most about are rarely the or evening when the technically perfect ones. They're the images sunlight is softer and that capture real emotion and those moments more flattering. Harsh that can never be repeated. midday sun can create Whether you're photographing your strong shadows, while children, a family gathering, or simply softer light tends to everyday life, here are Rob’s five tips to create produce more naturalimages with more meaning. looking images.

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FEATURE

Time for Tea

Afternoon Tea Week Runs from 10th to 16th August, and few traditions give us as good an excuse to sit down, take it easy, and eat cake!

The tradition of afternoon tea dates back to 1840, when Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, took to asking for a tray of tea, bread, butter, and cake to be brought to her room at around four o’clock, as she felt the long gap between lunch and the fashionably late eight o’clock dinner was excessive.

Her friends agreed and came to join her in the ritual. What began as a private habit became a fashionable social occasion, and by the 1880s, upper-class women were changing into long gowns and gloves to take tea in the drawing room. Henry James once opined: “There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.” Today, the tradition lives on, though with somewhat less formality.

Afternoon tea is typically an occasional indulgence – a treat, a celebration, or simply a good reason to spend time with people you like. The quintessential classic spread hasn’t changed much over the years – finger sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, and a tier of small cakes and pastries, all served with a pot of tea. Try one of our local recs and enjoy it in style!

Slattery | Whitefield

A North Manchester institution, Slattery has been devoted to chocolate and patisserie since 1976.

The Masons Dining Room on the first floor of the family’s three-storey Whitefield HQ serves afternoon tea alongside breakfast and lunch, and the kitchen’s skill with confectionary and pastries translates perfectly to everything you’d hope for: finger sandwiches, impossibly light scones, and a selection of homemade cakes. One is advised to book in advance – weekends in particular fill up weeks ahead.

Slattery.co.uk

Victors | Hale

Victors does afternoon tea with a bit of flair. Served under the restaurant’s iconic wisteria on Ashley Road in the heart of Hale Village, the spread includes handmade finger sandwiches, brioche buns, scones with jam and clotted cream, lemon cheesecake, and caramel choux lollipops, all with unlimited tea. Classic and vegetarian options are available. During Afternoon Tea Week, Victors typically runs exclusive offers – check their website for this year’s deals.

Victors.co.uk

Oddfellows on the Park | Cheadle

Set within Bruntwood Hall, a Victorian mansion in the heart of Bruntwood Park in Cheadle, Oddfellows on the Park offers one of the most atmospheric settings for afternoon tea in Greater Manchester. The Galloping Major restaurant – the original ballroom, with its period ceiling and woodwork intact – looks directly over the parkland, with a terrace for fine-weather days. The menu uses local and seasonal produce, changing with the seasons. A genuinely special occasion venue.

Oddfellowsonthepark.com

Heaton Park Lakeside Dining Domes | Prestwich

For something a bit different, Heaton Park’s lakeside dining domes offer afternoon tea in private, glazed pods perched at the water’s edge, with views across the lake to the Grade I listed Heaton Hall beyond. Each dome seats up to six and is air-conditioned for summer comfort. The menu has a distinctive Manchester character – a Heaton Scotch egg and homemade sage and onion sausage roll sit alongside the traditional sweet tiers – and vegan and children’s options are also available.

Heatonparkcafes.com July / August 2026

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BAR

H A V Z T I M T & BA

PERFECT PRESENTS

Stuck for what to gift at an upcoming Bar or Bat Mitzvah?

We’ve got you covered!

GIRLS Under £50 Medicube pink collagen gel mask | £26 | Lookfantastic.com

Any teenage girl who spends even a little bit of time scrolling through TikTok will appreciate a gift tied to the latest viral craze in the beauty world. Right now, few products are generating as much buzz as the Medicube collagen face mask which has quickly risen to cult status and is praised for delivering spa-like results from the comfort of your own home. The gel-infused sheet is saturated with PDRN, a powerful component celebrated for its ability to support skin regeneration, helping the complexion appear plumper and smoother. Complementing this is low-molecular collagen, which penetrates more effectively to enhance the skin’s elasticity and suppleness, creating that coveted ‘bouncy’ look.

Under £100 Amazon Kindle | £90 | Johnlewis.com

For the Bat Mitzvah girl who always has her nose in a book, a Kindle makes for a thoughtful and practical gift that she’ll reach for every day. This version of the e-reader is its lightest and most compact model yet and is designed with both convenience and comfort in mind. One of the standout features is its glare-free display which mimics the look of real paper and allows for reading in any light. With an impressive battery life of up to six weeks on a single charge, she won’t have to worry about constantly plugging it in, and the generous 16 GB of storage means it can hold thousands of books, magazines, and comics. This matcha green shade is one of the hottest colours on trend at the moment.

Thoughtful, useful, and effortlessly cool – we can’t think of a better gift!

Over £100 Three-piece crystal jewellery set | £150 | Jewellerywithlove.com

A thoughtful keepsake like jewellery makes for a meaningful Bat Mitzvah gift that can be treasured not just now, but for many years to come. It’s the kind of present that carries both sentiment and style, marking an important milestone in a way that feels truly special. Jewellery With Love offers a three-piece set that adds an extra layer of individuality as each piece can be embossed with a birthstone of your choice. The set includes a pair of earrings and a matching necklace and bracelet, all crafted from rhodium-plated sterling silver. Each set arrives in an LED gift box that creates a magical unboxing experience where the moment she opens it and it lights up, so will she!

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BOYS Under £50 JBL Go 4 Bluetooth speaker | £39.99 | Uk.jbl.com

Celebrate this milestone with a gift that brings the energy wherever the day leads. The JBL Go 4 ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker is small enough to slip into a pocket, but powerful enough to fill any space with clear, bold JBL Pro Sound and punchy bass. Its vibrant colours let you pick a style that fits his personality, while the durable, waterproof, and dustproof design means it’s ready for any adventures ahead. With up to seven hours of playtime, the music keeps going long after the candles are blown out. For even bigger moments, pair two speakers for stereo sound or connect with other JBL Auracast-enabled speakers to turn any gathering into a full-on celebration.

Under £100 Nike Air Max 95 x LEGO set | £89.99 | Lego.com

For the Bar Mitzvah boy who has a passion for fashion, especially when it comes to standout trainers, this gift is bound to impress! Combining creativity with iconic design, this LEGO set pays homage to the legendary Nike trainer, staying true to its signature aesthetic. The model features a sleek blend of muted black and light graphite tones, perfectly contrasted by striking pops of neon yellow. Beyond its stylish appearance, this set offers an engaging and interactive build. It includes a sturdy display stand, a bold bubble logo detail, and a fully customisable minifigure, complete with its own miniature pair of Air Max 95-inspired trainers. Thoughtful design elements make this more than just a display piece; a cleverly concealed drawer is tucked into the base, providing a handy spot to store trinkets.

Over £100 Custom wristwatch | £113 | Zazzle.co.uk

Mark this once-in-a-lifetime milestone with a gift that blends tradition with everyday style. This watch is inspired by classic diver and military designs, giving it a timeless look that can grow with him for years to come. Built from durable stainless steel with an adjustable bezel and water resistance up to 91.4 metres, it’s made for both special occasions and everyday adventures. What makes it especially meaningful is the personal touch. The watch face can be customised with a name, Bar Mitzvah date, and a symbolic design – like the Star of David – turning it into more than just an accessory. It becomes a lasting reminder of his special day and the exciting journey ahead.

July / August 2026

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BAR & BAT MITZVAH

Coming of Bever-Age

Carl Peters of Alibi Event Bars has some great ideas for how to reinvent classic cocktails for the over-18s at a Bar or Bat Mitzvah party.

Spicy Passion

For those who like a drink with a kick. Add a couple of whole, fresh jalapeno peppers to a bottle of tequila and leave it for at least a few days to infuse.

Pour 40ml of the tequila with 20ml of Triple Sec (orange liqueur) into a cocktail shaker.

Squeeze in the juice of half a lime and a good drizzle of sugar syrup and add to this 25ml of passion fruit puree. Shake well with ice and strain into a coupe glass that has a Tajin (chili and lime salt) rim – trust us, don't skip this bit!

Sweet, sour, salty, and strong; there’s nothing this drink doesn't have! The perfect serve to get the party started.

Flat White Martini

You’ve seen plenty of espresso martinis, but this one’s becoming increasingly popular at our events as a late-night accompaniment to dessert. If you prefer a flat white to a double espresso, this is for you!

Add to a shaker a shot of vodka, a shot of Baileys or panther milk (dairy-free cream liqueur), 50ml of espresso, and 20ml of sugar syrup. Shake hard to achieve the beautiful, velvety flat-white texture. Pour into an espresso glass and garnish with a few coffee beans.

Posh Vimto

Any true Northerner should have a bottle of Vimto in the cupboard and this cocktail’s a great twist on the beloved Bramble cocktail.

Take a healthy measure of gin (50ml or thereabouts) and add it to 25ml of lemon juice and 10ml of sugar syrup. Shake this together, strain into a tall glass over ice, and top with soda water. Then (this is where the magic happens…) slowly drizzle 10ml of Vimto over the top of the drink. Garnish with a blackberry and a sprig of mint.

Rum Old Fashioned

A new way to fashion an old drink! First, take a cube of brown sugar in the bottom of a glass and douse it with Angostura aromatic bitters. Crush the sugar cube and add in some orange peel. At this point, add to the glass 50ml of a quality dark rum; think Diplomatico, Zacapa, or Flor De Cama and stir in three ice cubes for a minute. Keep stirring! Now add a few more ice cubes to fill the glass and stir some more. It may feel time consuming but keep the faith – this is what makes the drink taste great!

Watermelon Boba Cooler (mocktail)

Very simple but effective. Take a tall glass filled with ice and add watermelon juice with a splash of lemonade and a generous squeeze of lime. The garnish is everything here; a small wedge of watermelon and watermelon flavoured boba balls, which the youngsters absolutely love!

Alibieventbars.com | On Instagram @alibieventbars 62

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BOOK BY 31ST AUGUST AND ENJOY £5 OFF EACH TICKET WITH PROMO CODE 50FF

EAT DRINK & BE MERRY DELTA HOTELS BY MARRIOTT MANCHESTER AIRPORT FESTIVE PACKAGES PARTY NIGHTS SCAN TO BOOK

PROFESSIONAL BAR SERVICES FOR EVERY OCCASION

WEDDINGS BAR & BAT MITZVAHS CORPORATE EVENTS CELEBRATIONS

ALIBI EVENT BARS C O N TA C T @ A L I B I E V E N T B A R S . C O M W W W. A L I B I E V E N T B A R S . C O M

July / August 2026

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H A V Z T I M AB R & BAT

MAZEL TOV!

Take a look back at the Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations we’ve featured over the last year as part of our special feature!

PHOTO: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

SHMULI COHEN CELEBRATED HIS BAR MITZVAH AT HEATHLANDS AND BEIS MENACHEM.

SIBLINGS MOLLY AND JOEY LEVY CELEBRATED THEIR B’NEI MITZVAH AT VERMILLION!

PHOTO: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

SOPHIA NEMITY HAD HER BAT MITZVAH AT CHABAD LUBAVITCH.

STENECOURT SYNAGOGUE HOSTED BENJY TABOR’S BAR MITZVAH.

ARIELLE CRAMMER’S FESTIVITIES WERE HELD AT ALIBI IN ALTRINCHAM!

PHOTO: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

TOLI HASLETON WAS CALLED UP AT SHRUBBERIES SHUL…

… AS WAS JASMINE LEVINE.

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PHOTO: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

MOTTI BINSTOCK, SON OF RABBI YISROEL AND REBBETZIN LEANNE OF HALE SHUL, CELEBRATED HIS BAR MITZVAH.

SHLOIME RABINOWITZ WAS CALLED UP AT YOUNG LUBAVITCH.

PHOTO: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

JOSHUA JAOUI ENJOYED HIS CELEBRATIONS AT HALE SEPHARDI SHUL.

IN OCTOBER, STENECOURT SYNAGOGUE WAS THE VENUE FOR YISHAI MAMAN’S BAR MITZVAH.

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

AT HIS HOME IN PRESTWICH, JESSE BARSKY CELEBRATED HIS SPECIAL DAY.

DOV HABER HAD HIS BAR MITZVAH AT HOLY LAW SYNAGOGUE…

PHOTO: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

…WHICH ALSO HOSTED ZEVI NEWMAN’S CALL UP IN AUGUST.

LUBAVITCH HOSTED ELI MYERSON’S CELEBRATIONS.

July / August 2026

ITA BRUCK HAD HER BAT MITZVAH, FEATURING CATERING FROM HER FATHER YAACOV BRUCK, OWNER OF CRAFT CATERERS.

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PHOTOS

See more photos on pages 7, 12, 34, 56 and 73

ALL PHOTOS: ALEX MANDEL

MAX LAITHWAITE WAS CALLED UP AT WHITEFIELD SHUL IN JUNE.

FRIENDS AND FAMILY TRAVELLED FROM LONDON, ESSEX, AND BRISTOL TO CELEBRATE!

PARENTS TRESSA AND MARK, ALONG WITH SIBLINGS LILLIE, TALIA, AND RAPHI ENJOYED THE SIMCHA.

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IT WAS A PROUD DAY FOR PARENTS AIMEE AND ALAN.

ALSO CELEBRATING RECENTLY WAS MAX COHEN.

A FUN-FILLED PARTY WAS HELD AT PIKE FOLD GOLF CLUB.

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Terribly Terrific Teens

BAR & BAT M

ITZVAH

Rabbi Doniel Stern on cherishing our children, seeing the greatness in our gorgeous girls, and believing in our beautiful boys.

How often do we hear the statement “teens today are so much more difficult than they used to be”? They really do seem more selfcentred, demanding, and chutzpadik.

However, working closely with our youth exposes a totally different perspective. The average adult has no idea of the pressures they content with – social, academic, spiritual, and relationship hurdles, exacerbated multiple times by social media.

One fantastic teenager I’m close with found himself battling, like every teen, with the drive to view inappropriate material.

He knew that it was detrimental, yet educational challenges repeatedly left him feeling down and desperate for an easy lift.

He overcame many times but inevitably, he did fall. Repeatedly.

One morning he came in, a storm brewing all over his face. He told me that he had plucked up the courage to ask someone he trusted to help him overcome. The response felt like a violent slap – he was told to simply control himself.

BUILDING COMMUNITIES OF SUPPORT

I winced at the insensitivity, kept silent, and then suggested that he share his broken heart with Hashem. The next day, he related that he had been in shul alone, stood by the ark, and whispered: “I’m trying valiantly to control the most powerful craving, yet when seeking to improve, I have been made to feel like an immature baby,” he cried from the depths of his shattered heart. The months passed, and this phenomenal guy has developed into an unbelievable champion.

Rabbi Moshe Sofer (leading Orthodox European rabbi, 1762 to 1839) writes that it’s true that teens today aren’t like they used to be. They are so much greater – than us parents too. The fact that our youth are constantly being bombarded with such challenges is clearly indicative of the superhuman spiritual potential they possess. To find the strength and courage to resist the tides of teenage hood, to control the urges of our generation, an enormous dose of Jewish chutzpah is required.

It’s a momentous occasion when our children turn Bar and Bat Mitzvah, and we need to celebrate in style. However, when the festivities are used as an excuse to indulge in pleasures that aren’t exactly kosher, we are giving over the message that as a teen, you can enjoy whatever pleasures you desire – instant gratification.

In a world full of instant purchases, on-demand streaming, and food delivery within minutes, the ability to delay gratification can feel outdated. But research consistently shows that the ability to delay pressure is a powerful predictor of longterm success, emotional wellbeing, and overall health. It isn’t just about willpower.

Scan here to find out more

YOU ARE NOT THE ONLY ONE

Developing this skill can make a significant difference in one’s personal, professional, and emotional life.

As parents, we must genuinely believe in our children’s inherent greatness by simply observing the fights they are facing in the ring of their youth. Yes, enjoy the Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations. However, the greatest gift you can give to your teen at the end of that beautiful day is to approach them as they fall asleep. While gently caressing their hand, whisper to them that you acknowledge the challenges they do and will encounter into their transition into adulthood and beyond. Tell them that your love for them will be regardless of the outcome, yet you truly believe that they have the strength to overcome the immense hurdles they face. When they feel you mean it, it will develop their incredible ability to delay gratification, leading them onto a stunning life ahead.

Camp Simcha’s UK-wide ‘Communities of Support’ bring together Jewish parents of children with:

• Allergies • Epilepsy • Crohn’s & colitis • Type 1 diabetes (JDigest@Camp Simcha) • Or parents with babies • Eating disorders born prematurely Connecting parents via information evenings, moderated WhatsApp groups & informal meet ups (all confidential). You don’t have to be an existing Camp Simcha family to join.

Register your interest or find out more: www.communities.campsimcha.org.uk Charity Registered No. 1180646

H A V Z T I M T A BAR & B

STAND UP, SPEAK UP Voice Coach Jane Oakshott explains how those prepping for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah speech can conquer their nerves and find their voice.

Jane Oakshott is a Leeds-based voice coach whose clients range from hospital CEOs to newly appointed civil servants. She arrived at voice coaching through a colourful route which included a degree in French and Drama, a career running festivals, and directing large-scale mystery plays.

"I've always been interested in words and in voice," she says. "Even as a child, I used to listen to Shakespeare because the words were so beautiful. I firmly believe that if you speak as though you really mean it, then success is there because the words take over."

A Bar and Bat Mitzvah speech presents its own challenges: "I think it must be one of the most difficult things ever." As Jane explains, most speeches allow the speaker a degree of detachment – discussing sales figures, a new product, or a subject they've mastered – whereas the Bar or Bat Mitzvah speech is an intensely personal experience: "The subject is yours to choose. It's not as if you're talking about something outside yourself. And at 13 or so, a sense of your own importance is very often the last thing you feel." For many young people the main issue is confidence, which Jane views not as a prerequisite for speaking well but rather as an outcome.

The foundation of Jane's approach is practical: "Voice isn't just about your throat!"

Too young for cancer.

Not too you ng for

Chai.

Breathing, posture, and pace are inseparable from psychological hang-ups about public speaking and teenagers can start from a disadvantage: "Very often their posture is appalling because they spend so much of their time crouched over their phones. The first thing to do is help them realise how good they feel when they get rid of the round shoulders and craned neck, and how much extra oxygen that gives them."

Jane has a simple stretch exercise she calls ‘the eagle’ which gives a balanced and effective speaking position – head level, arms free, and lungs with room to work: "If you stand up straight, your hands aren’t in the way – and if you're still worried about what to do with them, hold your script. There is nothing wrong with reading a speech, only if you read it badly."

For the nervous speaker, pace can be particularly tricky to master. Jane’s preferred instruction isn’t ‘slow down’, but the more positive ‘take your time’. It’s a subtle but important distinction – the energy of speed can be redirected into clear pronunciation instead of being wasted in rushed and often inaudible sentences.

Jane emphasises the importance of tone, citing the adage: "People may forget what you said, but they always remember how you

made them feel." If you get the tone of voice right, that's where persuasion comes.

So, what’s the key to nailing the right tone?

"If you tell yourself a Bar Mitzvah is a solemn occasion, you could end up sounding really pompous. The thing is to be yourself. Say how you feel about it. Mean it!" This is especially true where the audience is made up of people who know and love the speaker, it’s not a performance for strangers. It needs to be an expression of the person giving it.

Asked how she might work with a nervous 13-year-old with a speech to prepare, Jane is clear that: "the process mustn't be one-sizefits-all because everyone's different." One useful early step might be asking the young person to stand and talk on a random subject for two minutes: "How someone reacts when they're put on the spot is very likely what they'll do when they're in front of an audience.

From that two-minute talk, you can identify what's working well and what's most likely to trip them up. From there on it's a bit like organic gardening – encourage what's already flourishing, prune gently, and add the guiding support of technique. In building capability, you build lasting confidence."

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PROMOTION

Picture Perfect

Sharon, from Hale Barns, won the Memory Makers competition in the March/ April issue winning a prize of £150 of printed gifts from Share Your Story in Altrincham.

Sharon had entered the competition she was keen to capture her See how our competition because daughter's wedding so the happy memories winner turned precious from the day could be displayed and by friends and family for years memories into a lifelong enjoyed to come. She was really interested in keepsake with the help multiple items and discussed photobooks and various framing options with the of creative retailer hub, expert team who provided her with lots of inspiration and ideas.

Share Your Story.

In the end, she chose the Montage The winner of a recent competition in JLife, Collage Frame and worked with the team at Share Your Story to design the collage, Sharon Buchalter, has been delighted with after which the bespoke item was sent off the results of her prize.

to be produced. A week later, Sharon went to collect the frame from the store, and she could not have been more delighted with both the service received and high quality of the collage and frame.

She found the process easy, saying: “I am not great with uploading and sorting photos myself, so I was a bit nervous at first as I didn’t know how I was going to get it all sorted, but I need not have had any concerns.

The Share Your Story team made it so easy from start to finish and were so lovely to deal with.”

Sharon said that the frame has gone down well with friends and family, saying: “Everyone has been so enthusiastic and thought the 12 pictures showcased exactly how fabulous the wedding was. One friend said you can feel the atmosphere from the photos.”

Sharon’s story is a great example of a customer journey. The team loves spending the time to get to know them so that they can help them capture and preserve the moments that matter the most and transform everyday memories into keepsakes that can be cherished for a lifetime.

Pop in to see how the team can help you at Share Your Story on 85 George Street in Altrincham or check us out online!

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BEAUTY

With previous years’ summer manicure trends defined by extravagant colours and prints, this season is all about softer accents and minimalism.

d e l i a N It !

With the beauty industry increasingly shifting its focus from aesthetics alone to overall health and wellbeing, nailcare is following suit. While previous trends celebrated maximalist 3D embellishments, bright and bold colours, and eccentric nail art, the spotlight is now on nurturing natural nails from the inside out. Strong nails, well-maintained cuticles, and treatments that promote long-term strength are becoming the ultimate beauty statement. The result is a move towards manicures that look effortlessly polished while supporting the health of natural nails, proving that understated elegance can be just as impactful as elaborate designs.

Achieving healthier nails doesn't require an extensive routine, but consistency is key.

Keeping them clean and neatly filed helps prevent snags and breakages and treating your nailcare like your skincare is a good rule of thumb. Prioritise hydration by regularly applying cuticle oil and hand cream to keep the surrounding skin hydrated and support healthy nail growth. Experts also recommend applying SPF on the hands daily to prevent discolouration and premature ageing.

Wearing gloves when cleaning or washing up can protect nails from harsh chemicals and excess moisture, both of which can weaken them over time. Also, taking breaks from gel or acrylic manicures gives natural nails a chance to recover, helping them stay strong and ready for whatever trend comes next.

So, what are the minimalist trends taking the industry by storm?

French tips

The ever-popular French tip is a timeless technique that never goes out of style, making it the epitome of elegant minimalist nails. Loved for its clean lines and understated sophistication, the classic combination of a natural-looking base with crisp white tips complements every outfit and occasion. While the traditional design remains a firm favourite, modern variations featuring pastel-coloured tips or subtle finishes ensure the French manicure continues to evolve while retaining its effortlessly chic appeal.

Soft glaze

Move over chrome manicures, soft glaze nails are here to stay! Instead of embracing a bold chrome or glitter finish, this trend offers a delicate, pearlescent sheen that catches the light with a refined, almost glass-like glow. The result is a polished, iridescent manicure that feels sophisticated rather than statement-making. Perfect for those who love the shine of chrome nails but prefer a more understated look, soft glaze nails add just the right amount of shimmer.

Butter yellow

You might be tired of seeing and hearing about the latest colour trend but there's a reason it’s become so popular. This soft, creamy shade strikes the perfect balance between neutral and colourful, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants to embrace a touch of colour without opting for anything too bold. Fresh and understated butter yellow adds warmth to any manicure and works beautifully across the seasons, proving that subtle shades can make just as much of a statement as brighter hues.

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FOOT & ANKLE

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71

LEARNING TOGETHER

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

The Friendship Circle expanded its school outreach and launched the ‘Complete the Circle’ campaign.

The Friendship Circle is proud to highlight the continued success and growth of its Disability Education in Schools Programme, alongside the launch of its wider Complete the Circle crowdfunding campaign.

Working in partnership with local schools, the charity currently delivers its impactful four-part disability education programme in eight primary schools.

This long-standing initiative gives pupils meaningful opportunities to learn about inclusion, acceptance, and disability awareness while also connecting directly with individuals with disabilities to better understand their experiences.

As part of the Complete the Circle campaign, the charity has also hosted ‘friendship days’ across a number of

participating schools. One such event took place at Broughton Jewish Primary School, where pupils and staff came together for a dedicated day of activities focused on kindness, empathy, and inclusion.

The Complete the Circle campaign is the charity’s main fundraising drive, with all proceeds going directly towards supporting people with disabilities in the Manchester Jewish community. Through its wide range of programmes, it helps members build friendships, develop confidence, and feel a true sense of belonging.

Esty Bruck, Director of Services, said: “We are incredibly proud of the relationships we’ve built with schools like Broughton Jewish and the impact our education programme continues to have.

By reaching young people early, we are helping to shape a more inclusive and understanding society.”

NEW HEIGHTS

The Friendship Circle also held a ‘Snowdon at Night’ challenge to raise vital funds!

Among the climbers was Ari Craimer, who has raised more than £10,000 for the charity over the past four years. This year alone, Ari has raised £2,900 through the Snowdon climb and by taking on the London Marathon in April. Ari said: “As much as I have to put in a lot of time and effort in training, it’s still nothing compared to the hours and hours the volunteers put into making The Friendship Circle such a vital and worthwhile charity.”

Friendshipcircle.co.uk More than 50 determined supporters recently took on an extraordinary overnight challenge, climbing Snowdon in complete darkness. Setting off at 12:30am – equipped with head torches, thermals, and waterproofs – participants braved the elements and rugged terrain to complete the demanding 10-mile round climb, reaching the summit and returning by the early hours of the morning. At the finish, climbers were rewarded with well-earned breakfast boxes – a welcome treat after a challenging night!

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Taking the challenge to extreme levels, Stephen Johnson and Sam Myers pushed their limits by completing the iconic National Three Peaks Challenge, scaling Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and finally reuniting the with wider group to climb Snowdon, all within an incredible 24 hours. They raised an amazing £35,000.

The Snowdon at Night climb formed part of the charity’s Complete the Circle crowdfunding campaign, which has raised over £450,000, smashing its target and reaching approximately two thirds of the annual budget.

Fundraising Director Mimi Lyons, who also took part in the climb, said: “We are overwhelmed by the dedication and generosity shown by everyone involved.

From those who climbed through the night to those who donated, every contribution has helped us reach this remarkable milestone.

We are incredibly grateful to our community for making this possible.” jlifemagazine.co.uk

See more photos on pages 7, 12, 34, 56 and 66

PHOTOS

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

MAZEL TOV TO SAMANTHA EKINS AND RICKY DANIELS WHO RECENTLY TIED THE KNOT!

THE SPECIAL DAY WAS HELD AT THE PICTURESQUE WHARFEDALE GRANGE.

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

LOVED ONES JOINED THE HAPPY COUPLE TO CELEBRATE.

THE VILLAGE ALSO RECENTLY HOSTED ITS ANNUAL SEASIDE-THEMED LUNCH.

July / August 2026

HEATHLANDS VILLAGE CELEBRATED INTERNATIONAL DANCE AND MOVEMENT DAYS!

AND AS PART OF ITS WELLBEING PROGRAMME FOR RESIDENTS, WELCOMED SOME NEW FLUFFY ARRIVALS!

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BUSINESS NEWS Manchester Ranks First

Asset finance lender Anglo Scottish has revealed the locations to rival London for employability and quality of life – and Manchester is ranked number one!

Researchers analysed 10 of the UK's biggest cities across four key metrics: active job listings, median salaries, employment rates, and monthly living costs, combining them into an overall score to reveal the definitive top 10 alternatives to the capital for job hunters who are tired of the London grind.

With 6,002 active job listings and a median salary of £39,000, Manchester offers a genuinely compelling package for career-driven professionals.

Rent also averages £1,423 per month, saving workers £830 every month compared to London. Technology was found to be the city's dominant hiring sector, cementing Manchester's reputation as the UK's foremost alternative tech hub.

Carl Johnson, Sales Director at Anglo Scottish, commented on the findings: “In financial services especially, the assumption that you need to be in London to build a serious career is being challenged every day. We're seeing genuine investment in regional cities, with businesses recognising that the talent, infrastructure, and commercial opportunity outside the capital is stronger than it's ever been. For professionals weighing up their options, the gap between London and the rest is narrowing fast – and depending on your personal circumstance, the numbers can already favour making the move.”

Airport Hotel Approved

The National Licensing Authority in the Planning Administration has approved the issue of a building permit for a hotel at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport as part of a project promoted by the Israel Airports Authority.

The hotel will be built next to Terminal 3, above the hold baggage screening (HBS) building planned for the east side of the terminal. The hotel will have eight floors and will be built towards the end of the decade, after the HBS structure.

The Planning Administration explained that the planning of the project made efficient use of the land and facilitated optimal integration into the site since the HBS building is planned to be mostly underground, with just one floor above ground level. The hotel will have 32,000 square meters of space, in accordance with the planning relaxation that was approved.

The planning ensures that the new building will integrate into its environment without significant impact on the landscape.

UoM and BNY Collaboration

Global financial services company, BNY, and The University of Manchester (UoM) have launched the ‘Future of Work Alliance’, a fiveyear, £5 million initiative focused on advancing how human-led digital transformation can be integrated responsibly into large, data-intensive organisations in the AI era.

The initiative, enabled by UoM’s innovation arm – Unit M – will be delivered through the Alliance Manchester Business School and will focus on designing, testing, and scaling new models for the responsible use and application of AI. Centred in Manchester, the Future of Work Alliance will use real operational challenges to connect academic research with day-to-day business needs. The work is intended to provide hands-on, real-world problem solving that accelerates innovation and capability building, informing how to scale AI responsibly over time. In parallel, executive, and professional education programmes will support leadership, governance, and change management skills needed for human-led AI adoption.

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ANS Group Launches Apprenticeship

ANS Group, the Manchester-based digital and cloud service provider, has launched a new apprenticeship with a focus on training for a career in DevOps. The group said the apprenticeship will teach young people about provision cloud infrastructure, how to script and code, and work as part of an agile team.

CEO of ANS Group, Paul Shannon, said: “DevOps skills are in extremely high demand and recruiting specifically for this skillset can be extremely challenging. We are also proud to play out part in plugging the digital skills gap. We recognise it’s not just the responsibility of education providers to encourage and instil these skills in young people.

“As a business, we have an obligation to inspire and develop the next generation of digital experts, and we couldn’t be in a better position to do so. It has recently been reported that Greater Manchester’s digital sector will require as least 22,000 additional roles by 2035 in order to sustain itself so it’s absolutely vital we support and encourage people to pursue roles in technology.”

Defence Exports Report

Israeli defence exports reached a record $19.2 billion in 2025, rising nearly 30% year-on-year and more than doubling in five years as governments around the world increased spending on missile defence and military technology.

The report released in June by the Israel Ministry of Defence showed strong international demand for missile defence systems, surveillance technologies, and other combat-proven military equipment. More than half of all export agreements signed during the year were worth over $100 million each, while government-to-government deals reached a record $10 billion, accounting for 53% of total sales.

Defence Minister Israel Katz said: “There is a clear and unmistakable thread connecting the IDF’s battlefield achievements across all fronts, the extraordinary capabilities of Israel’s defence industries, and the success of Israeli defence exports around the world. The fact that Israel continues to break defence export records even during a third year of war speaks to the tremendous respect and confidence the global community has placed in Israel’s defence establishment."

Israeli Startups Raise $8.6 Billion

School Talk

Benyamin Katzav of Mozzarella spoke with the boys of Jewish Day School about professionalism, life challenges, and being a Jewish businessman in Manchester.

Israeli startups raised approximately $8.6 billion during the first half of 2026, a 45% increase from roughly $6 billion during the same period last year, according to a new report published by Poalim Tech and Dealigence.

The report found that while overall investment volumes rose significantly, the number of funding rounds declined by about 35%, suggesting that a larger share of available capital is being directed toward a smaller group of companies.

Cybersecurity remained one of the strongestperforming sectors, attracting a substantial portion of overall investment activity. According to the report, capital invested in cybersecurity companies more than doubled compared to the first half of 2025.

The report also points to a growing concentration of investment around experienced entrepreneurs.

The share of funding rounds raised by serial founders increased from 34% in 2025 to 39% in the first half of 2026, reflecting investor preference for founders with established track records. jlifemagazine.co.uk

Business Online

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FINANCE

ADVICE

Caution Required

2026: The year AI scams became harder to spot From content creation and customer service to administration, AI is helping companies work more efficiently than ever before.

However, business owners should also be cognisant of the risks emerging alongside it.

A significant challenge is that AI is making scams more convincing. Fraudulent emails, fake invoices, deepfake videos, and phishing attempts are no longer full of spelling mistakes and obvious warning signs. AI can generate professional-looking messages in seconds, mimicking the tone, style, and branding of trusted organisations.

Beware of HMRC impersonation scams We’re seeing increasingly sophisticated scams claiming to be from HMRC, Companies House, banks, and software providers. These emails often create a sense of urgency, suggesting immediate action is required to avoid penalties, account restrictions, or missed payments.

Before clicking links, downloading attachments, or entering information, take a step back and verify the source independently. If an email claims to be from HMRC, visit the official website or speak to your accountant before acting.

Think carefully before uploading data Many AI platforms require users to upload documents, spreadsheets, or business information to generate responses.

Business owners should think carefully before uploading confidential information, data, financial records, or commercially sensitive material.

Understanding where your data goes, how it’s retained, and who has access to it is hugely important. Anonymise information wherever possible and avoid sharing anything that could create a confidentiality issue.

AI is a tool – not a substitute for judgement AI can be extremely persuasive, even when it’s wrong – confidently presenting inaccurate facts, outdated regulations, or misleading conclusions. Important decisions should always be verified using trusted sources.

Stay curious, but stay cautious Used properly, AI can supercharge your business but should be approached with care. People who benefit most are those who combine the speed of technology with common sense, professional advice, and good judgement.

Murray Patt of Hale-based accountants Alexander Knight & Co explains why business owners should embrace AI, but be aware of the risks.

AI can be a remarkable assistant, just remember that responsibility still sits with the person using it.

Speak directly to Murray Patt about Alexander Knight & Co becoming your new accountants on 0161 980 8788 or email murray@alexanderknightaccountants.co.uk

LAW

Witness the Fitness

Northern England is arguably the regulatory capital of the United Kingdom, with all FtP hearings for the UK’s 350,000 licensed doctors taking place at the General Medical Council (GMC) in Manchester and all FtP hearings for England’s 105,000 registered social workers taking place at Social Work England in Sheffield.

At Keystone Law, we specialise in representing professionals at FtP proceedings before their regulatory bodies. Our experience includes successfully defending doctors before the GMC, dentists before the General Dental Council, paramedics and other allied health professionals before the Health & Care Professions Council, pharmacists before the General Pharmaceutical Council and PSNI, teachers before the Teaching Regulation Agency, veterinary surgeons before the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, and architects before the Architects Registration Board.

We have also represented many student professionals in university FtP investigations.

July / August 2026

Although not something that’s part of everyday parlance, FtP in fact touches upon many areas of every professional’s public and private life. By way of one example, since the 7th November attacks of 2023, we have represented many professionals accused of Islamophobia or antisemitism. Data shows that complaints to the GMC about antisemitism rose from seven in 2022 to 302 in 2023 and complaints to the GMC about Islamophobia went up from four in 2022 to 46 in 2023.

To date, we have a 100% record of success in defending FtP freedom of speech cases based on allegations of Islamophobia or antisemitism. The starting position is that, under the Human Rights Act, everyone has the right to freedom of expression. A person’s rights under Article 10 specifically include the right to express opinions that offend, shock, or disturb others. Everyone also has the right to respect for their private and family life, home, and correspondence.

As can be seen from this example, FtP

Andrea James, Partner at Keystone Law, discusses the finer points of fitness to practise (FtP). extends far beyond a professional’s (or student’s) ability to simply do their job!

If you would like advice on any fitness to practise or healthcare regulatory matter, please contact Andrea James at andrea. james@keystonelaw.co.uk or view her profile at Keystonelaw.com/lawyers/andrea-james

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BUSINESS INTERVIEW

Waste Not, Want Not

Joseph Gitler is on a mission to end food insecurity in Israel through the charity Leket.

According to a report published by Leket in 2024, approximately 1.5 million people (485,000 households) in Israel suffer from food insecurity – limited or uncertain access to adequate and nutritious food. The charity’s sole focus is rescuing healthy, surplus food and delivering it to those in need through partner nonprofit organisations to put an end to food insecurity.

Growing up in Manhattan, Joseph Gitler had been exposed to poverty his whole life, which continued when he made aliyah with his family: “In New York, people knock on your door asking for charity. When I moved to Israel and at the height of the intifada, the same thing was happening, but it was the middle class who were out of jobs because their industry had suddenly dried up. Unfortunately, we’ve seen this multiple times since throughout COVID and multiple wars and it’s the hospitality and tourism industry that’s been hit the hardest where its workers often fall into a place that’s hard to get out of.

“Israel can feel like the land of plenty but with that comes a lot of waste. As a country, we import a very small amount of produce so you’re never too far away from where it grows and once you start paying attention to how much food waste there is, you can’t ignore it.”

In 2003, Joseph created Table to Table (now Leket) where he began rescuing meals from catering halls and corporate cafeterias out of his car: “I quickly realised I was onto something and recruited some volunteers. One thing led to another, and we had our first refrigerated van with our first employees, started to raise money, and it just grew from there.

“The key from the beginning was that we were going to work directly with agencies that take care of the poor rather than feeding them directly, except for in emergency situations.

We’ve had quite a few of those over the last 78

few years, so we shifted focus to making sure those such as the elderly and housebound were looked after.”

Leket is a non-denominational charity which works with all communities equally: “We’re Israel’s secular food bank and we have 350-plus partners across the country ranging from after-school clubs to homeless shelters and serve over 400,000 Israelis every week – I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished but there’s lots more to do.”

The charity focuses on rescuing surplus food which is slightly different to the traditional food bank model, something which Joseph

It’s not just about filling bellies; as a country, we have enough highquality food to feed people properly.

cancellations, and overproduction, so it’s often as good as what you buy in the store.”

The charity also emphasises nutrition: “In the food bank world, there’s a feeling that they were guilty of being the dumping grounds for big food companies. Israel already had an established food distribution system when we started but I wanted to fill the gaps where nobody was dealing with cooked meals, produce, and chilled goods. It’s not just about filling bellies; as a country, we have enough high-quality food to feed people properly.

Solving poverty as a whole is bigger than anyone, but in the West, Israel included, food insecurity can be solved by food rescue.”

Joseph reflects on what keeps him motivated in an industry that can be quite challenging: “What really keeps me going is new projects and initiatives. I really wish that so many of them weren’t based on emergency situations – we’ve probably had 20 special initiatives since October 7th – but I love these projects we’ve done that are making an impact.”

Leket.org

expected to be a topic of conversation when he first started: “There’s been very little pushback as the world has definitely changed; people are more aware of food waste and its impact on the environment. Me and many others are firm believers that if you make too much food on Shabbat, you eat leftovers – it doesn’t matter who you are or how much money you have!

“Some of the concerns I’ve heard are more about quality, but we get a lot more grade A and B produce than people might think. A lot of what goes to waste isn’t just ugly fruits and vegetables, it’s because of price, order jlifemagazine.co.uk

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

A Weight Lifted Hannah Gerson and Suzanne Benjamin from Paperweight explain how the charity is providing compassionate support to help people overcome life's toughest challenges.

SUZANNE BENJAMIN

Paperweight is a UK-wide Jewish charity offering free and practical personalised support to people in crisis. Since 2011, it has helped those overwhelmed by debt, family breakdown, bereavement, redundancy, mental health, homelessness, and many other life-changing challenges.

One of the biggest challenges those that reach out to Paperweight experience is rooted in bureaucracy, as Regional Director of the Manchester branch, Hannah Gerson, explains: “In many of life’s most challenging moments when you’re already extremely stressed, you can be slapped with a 40page form or have to deal with long and complicated systems. We’re there to bring a little bit of order and calm to help people navigate their way out of that crisis, cut through the red tape, and give them a clear plan.”

“We have different caseworkers with different skill sets – retired GPs, solicitors, accountants, and more – who can help with not just filling out forms but also working out what benefits people might be entitled to. We also have a family law section, not to replace their solicitor, but to give them some support and guidance – we’re kind of like the Jewish Citizens Advice Bureau!” explains Suzanne Benjamin, Leeds Coordinator.

July / August 2026

The charity also has a Tap into Tech project which helps to reduce the significant technology gap that exists in society: “Whether the gap is because of age or lifestyle, particularly in the more religious communities that don’t have tech at their fingertips, Tap into Tech offers in-person sessions where participants will receive one-to-one support and sessions on things like accessing online banking, government Gateway accounts, and shopping safely online,” says Hannah.

Paperweight recently opened its Manchester office on Kings Road in Prestwich. Despite the stigma often associated with accepting charity, Hannah stresses the importance of confidentiality and anonymity at the organisation: “We’re a very giving religion but when it comes to accepting help, people can often feel embarrassed. The new office is obviously in a prominent Jewish area, so we have a discreet entrance at the back of the property as client experience is so important to us.

“I think it’s a strength to accept help and reach out. I want to make it as normal as going to the GP for a health problem or going to the mechanic when your car is making a funny noise. We can all be guilty of ‘ostrich syndrome’ (burying our heads in the sand and hoping it goes away) but we’re here to help break down huge problems into bite-sized pieces and find a way through it.”

In the past five months, the Manchester branch has welcomed 235 visitors, with issues ranging from those resolved through a quick 10-minute conversation with a volunteer to more complex cases requiring ongoing support. The branch also works closely with professional referral partners, including The Fed, local shuls, food banks, and other community organisations to ensure people can access the help they need through a variety of trusted pathways and receive the most appropriate support for their individual circumstances.

It isn’t just the elderly and vulnerable adults that Paperweight helps. NextGen is a new, completely free initiative designed

HANNAH GERSON

to support students and young adults aged 18 to 25, as Hannah explains: “This is a three-pronged approach to the student community. The first is promoting our work to students and letting them know they can call out dedicated helpline if they have things going on. Paper Mate is the intergenerational aspect of the initiative where we train students to be a bit like one of our caseworkers. The third thing is our life-ready courses which focus on three topics designed to help students with problems they weren’t taught in school – financial resilience, housing and tenancy basics, and employment.”

Whether supporting someone through a benefits application, helping people get on top of debts, providing informal legal guidance, or simply just offering a listening ear at a time of crisis, Paperweight's mission is the same: to ensure no one has to face life's challenges alone. By combining professional expertise with compassion and practical guidance, the charity is empowering people to regain control and move forward with hope.

Paperweight.org.uk | 0330 174 4300

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Small But Mighty Once one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets, Curaçao is now rightfully stepping into the spotlight following the FIFA World Cup with its postcard-worthy beaches and incredible architecture.

With a population of approximately 160,000 and a land mass smaller than the Isle of Man, Curaçao recently surpassed Iceland as the smallest nation to reach a FIFA World Cup. This achievement has certainly got people talking and has put this tiny Dutch Caribbean island firmly on the global map. Beyond football, Curaçao is one of the Caribbean’s most compelling destinations; pastel-coloured Willemstad, UNESCOlisted architecture, and crystal-clear bays meet a laid-back culture that feels worlds away from its size.

Taking a southern position in the Caribbean Sea, the island is around 40 miles north of the Venezuelan coast. Along with Bonaire, it makes up one third of the trio known as the ABC islands. The Netherlands ruled over these islands for more than three centuries, leaving them with a combination of Caribbean and Dutch influences.

It’s most noticeable in Willemstad – the island’s capital and colonial old town – where buildings look as if they’ve been

plucked from a canal side in Amsterdam and given a tropical lick of paint.

Willemstad became listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 and is worth a visit just to admire the buildings alone.

The city’s development and architecture originate from the expansion of Europe in the 15th and 16th centuries – great parts of the historic townscape remain intact and recognisable to this day!

Willemstad’s four historic districts – Punda, Otrobanda, Pietermaai, and Scharloo – are bisected by the deepwater channel of St Anna Bay. What strikes most visitors are the pastel-coloured buildings that line the sunny streets. It’s thought that this practice began in the early 19th century after one governor claimed that the bright sunlight reflecting off the previously white lime-washed facades was giving him migraines. Apparently, he ordered the buildings to be painted in different colours, and the tradition continues to this day.

The island is home to a small, closeknit Sephardic and Ashkenazi community descended from Spanish and Portuguese Jews, which today numbers fewer than 350 people. While in Willemstad, the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue (also known as the Snoa) is a must-visit! Consecrated in 1732, it’s the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Americas. The shul is one of the island’s prime historical monuments with its unique architecture, ancient mahogany furniture, magnificent chandeliers, and gleaming silver and brass ornaments.

Also in Willemstad is the Jewish Museum where you can follow the early stories of Curaçao’s Jewish community – from the first arrivals in 1651 to the foundations of religious, social, and economic life. Discover how a small group of settlers shaped the island’s future and left a lasting legacy. Current exhibitions include exploring Jewish migration to the Caribbean and World War II history on the island through personal testimonies, family artefacts, and rare film clips. There’s also an exhibition about George Maduro, born in the capital and remembered as a symbol of courage. Learn how this Curaçaoan Jewish hero fought in the Dutch resistance and gave his life during the Nazi occupation of Europe.

Curaçao is home to over 35 of some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean so it delivers on plenty of options for fans of the sandy stuff.

You'll see lots of wildlife along the coast,

including flamingos, wild goats and pigs, iguanas, and many beautiful species of birds.

The shoreline that wraps around the island’s south coast is given special protection as part of the Curaçao Underwater Marine Park. The sea is at its clearest along this cut of coast, making it a hotspot for scuba divers and snorkellers.

Top dive spots include the Mushroom Forest, known for its unique coral formations, and Tugboat, a shallow wreck teeming with marine life. Divers can expect to see reef fish, sea turtles, moray eels, and jlifemagazine.co.uk

TRAVEL

even eagle rays. May to November is the recommended time to dive here, during the off-peak season, when you’ll find lower prices and fewer crowds. Nevertheless, conditions are good all year round, as unlike many other Caribbean islands, Curaçao lies safely outside the primary Atlantic hurricane belt.

If you needed an excuse to escape the British winter, January to March on the island is a world away from failed new year’s resolutions and cold, miserable weather… it’s carnival! What began in 1947 as a simple parade has grown into an elaborate two-month-long celebration, making it the longest carnival celebration in the Caribbean. At its core is the Tumba Festival, a four-day music competition where around 50 singers compete for the title of King or Queen of Tumba, a genre often referred to as ‘Curaçao blues’, driven by rhythmic drums, bold horn sections, and call-and-response vocals. Lyrical talent and uplifting messages are key to success. Alongside the festival, a series of parades brings the streets to life, with July / August 2026

participants showcasing dazzling, brightly coloured costumes throughout the season.

Foodies will be right at home here as there are a huge range of restaurants ranging from beach shacks selling delicious street food to fine dining establishments that showcase the best of the region’s rich culinary heritage. As it’s located off the coast of Venezuela and was once a Dutch colony, the island offers food that is the result of many years of influence – not only by Dutch colonisation, but from Creole, Spanish, French, Indonesian, and Portuguese settlements, among others.

Whether you come for the cultural heritage or the natural beauty, Curaçao proves it is far more than a small island in the Caribbean. From its pastel-hued capital and layered colonial history to its coral-fringed waters and lively festivals, there’s far more here than its size first suggests.

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INTERVIEW

Preserving the Past, Shaping the Future

Foundation for Jewish Heritage has an exciting new initiative for the UK’s historic synagogues.

Find out more with Chief Executive, Michael Mail MBE.

Born and raised in the Glasgow Jewish community, Michael Mail began his career with a Law degree at Strathclyde University before focusing on Jewish communal studies at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Brandeis University.

After working as a volunteer leader at ICOMOS (the International Council on Monuments and Sites), Michael realised there was no international organisations focused on preserving Jewish-built heritage, which led him to creating Foundation for Jewish Heritage: “At the beginning of the 20th century, nine out of 10 Jewish people lived in Europe, today it’s one out of 10. The demographic shift that came from migration, expulsion, and the Holocaust has meant that there’s an incredible legacy left behind, including synagogues that are no longer being used and are in danger.”

The Foundation’s mission is to ensure that important Jewish architectural sites, monuments, and places of cultural significance in danger are preserved and re-imagined for a sustainable future. In the beginning, the team worked with the Centre for Jewish Art at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem to map the 3,347 historic synagogues in Europe: “We rated each one according to their significance and condition to identify the ones most in danger – just under a quarter were deemed to be at risk, being in either poor or very bad condition.”

Education is an important facet of the Foundation, and the team are passionate about teaching about Jewish people, history, traditions, culture, and faith. In a climate where antisemitism is rising, Michael believes their work is more important than ever: “In creating understanding and empathy, we’re combatting ignorance and prejudice and there’s a certain power to these buildings.”

There are currently three UK-based historic synagogue projects: Sandys Row in London, Middle Street in Brighton, and Merthyr Tydfil in Wales. After conducting 82

a feasibility study at Sandys Row, the Foundation is testing the idea of creating a heritage centre on the legacy of the Jewish East End. The proposed Middle Street concept – which was the playground of the Anglo-Jewish aristocracy in the 19th century, with links to the Rothschilds, Sassoons, and Montefiores – is to transform the synagogue into a cultural and educational venue.

While mainly working with owners of the synagogues to restore them, the case of Merthyr Tydfil was different: “We bought the building in 2019 as nobody was working

locally on saving it. We want to turn the building into a Jewish heritage centre for Wales to tell a 260-year-old story.” For this, £1.7 million has been secured from the Welsh government, £350,000 from trusts and foundations, and £4 million has been applied for through the National Lottery – something Michael believes will be successful.

The Foundation’s latest initiative ‘Preserving Jewish Heritage, Promoting the Hidden Jewish Story’ will receive a potential

£1.4 million from the National Lottery over six years: “We want to ensure the long-term survival of historic synagogues across the UK. We’re going to work nationwide with those facing challenges by helping them with building preservation issues, educational and outreach work, governance, and sustainability. Those outside the biggest Jewish communities have witnessed their memberships shrink dramatically, reducing their capacities, so we want to help.

“We’ll also be creating a historic synagogues heritage route and help document and preserve artefacts and give out small grants to help with survey work or feasibility studies.”

“Our work is a race against time to preserve historic synagogues in danger. We want to ensure that they’re preserved and repurposed as necessary to ensure their longterm viability, being a place of education, and contributing to the strengthening of society,” expresses Michael on his hopes for the Foundation’s legacy. On the subject of a pretty impressive legacy, Michael received an MBE at the beginning of the year for services to heritage and charity: “Some people might see the work of the Foundation as niche, therefore gaining state recognition was really important – it was obviously also very nice for me personally!”

Foundationforjewishheritage.com jlifemagazine.co.uk

The

Last W ORD

ALL SMILES

COMMUNITY

A LOVE OF ISRAEL

Rabbi Benjy Rickman of Yeshurun Cheadle

UJIA Shaliach, Sahar Sazgar discusses a key aspect of his Synagogue on the world-changing Shlichut, fostering aand love Gatley of Israel in the next generation.

power of turning that frown upside down.

shaped my growing up process.

The people of Israel, beyond just land, make “For the Lord your During trips throughout Israel, getting to the country so special. From the aliyah stories of is bringing you to I write this during a G-d heatwave.

Mancunians Research has shown that the act of smiling push away sadness and despair. Smiling and know every mountain and every road, books the Ethiopian Jews through the Sudanese desert, a good land, a land spend most of the year sends signals to always the brain presenting countenance becomes andtoo stories and traditions, have been that trigger to thethe food and support provided atocheerful our soldiers withgrumbling brooks of water,that it’s integral part of myof life.

The understanding during the Tzuk Eitan Israel fountainsfor andblue depths, cold and gloomy, longing skies an and release endorphins and dopamine, anmilitary active operation. way of expressing joy outwardly. that Israel isnaturally my home always motivated me to is a country with good people thatwe must search for the thatsun emerge in valleys warmth. Yet, when the finally appears, reducing stress and boosting mood.

Heand alsowarm taught that enhance my knowledge of the unique country despite having many different opinions and and mountains” people complain that it’s too hot. They seem Jewish tradition offers a beautiful good points in everyone we meet – including that formed my identity. As the understanding occasional rows, have one thing in common: to (Devarim 7:7) caught in a perpetual Goldilocks moment teaching ona this an unexpected Greeting with ‘b’sever and– knowledge advances, strongfrom connection makesource.

Israel a better ourselves. place. One can compare someone the follows. vast disagreements to a typical Shabbos meal; this outlook. We a Shaliach nothing is ever quiteAsright.

Shammai, often remembered as more strict panim yafot’ reflects challenge remains: one seven people with eight different opinions.

That’s and affirm that that spends most ofsunnier his time with the those young who relishStill, In these times, a the and severe thanhow his does contemporary Hillel, acknowledge their worth educate young people who don’t live in Israel what makes our people and country so beautiful generation of the Jewish community, my primary little extra vitamin D are often seen smiling taught that we should: “greet everyone with they matter. to love Israel and have these passionate feelings and a home to so many people from different responsibility is to educate. The real challenge of more broadly at the world, the world panim meaning with a warm, Perhaps this is a kind of benign global towards the b’sever backgrounds. my Shlichut is the understanding that and my role Jewish state?

Someyafot” argue that We can definitely try to teach thethe factsworld truly needs, capable is notseems just to to educate unconditional love is achieved once you also smiletowards back.a certain formal pleasant expression. warming that around our countryof which, in myeven view, the will coldest and gloomiest of behaviour, but alsois toso enhance and promote accept the occasional negativities.

Smiling elementary to being human.

We can also turn to the Chasidic master melting advance ‘ahavat ha’aretz’. a particular feeling – ‘ahavat ha’aretz’, love of I have the privilege to educate the younger Babies begin to smile intentionally at Rebbe Nachman for guidance in making souls.

Together, we can warm the world with I wish all the Manchester Jewish community a country.

Jewish generation to love Israel. I do so by around sixone weeks oldthose and feelings when they this teaching reality.

He famously taught kindness, love. great and prosperoussmiles, year. I am extremelyand happy But how does educate and smile explaining the facts.

The fact athat Israel is not a and grateful to be part of this moreatspecifically, a lovehelp of Israel?

As a young young and still growing us, we can’t but smile in return. perfect country, thatit’sa person must use alland their strength to for the privilege Yeshurun.org.uk wonderful community. I look forward to starting Israeli, a ‘chanich’ in a youth movement and a learning. At the same time, the Jewish state has a New Year with more education and meaningful high school student who was extremely motivated accomplished so many achievements over that moments with the young generation about the before and during his army service, ‘ahavat last 71 years, a fact that shouldn’t be taken for thing I am most passionate about: Israel. ha’aretz’ had been an instrumental value that granted.

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