On Our Doorstep AugSep23

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On Our DOORSTEP SALFORD • ISSUE 84 • AUG/SEP23

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Contents

Editor’s Note...

We have two great months ahead of us...

What’s On 28

August is the time when you can take a deep breath, have a break from the school routine, enjoy quality time with the kids and head off on your summer holidays.

Even at home, it’s a chance to spend more time outdoors, explore new places, go to food and music festivals, eat what you like and just enjoy life! Everyone’s more relaxed and there are no expectations other than to make the most of this summer month.

With many outdoor spaces, events and festivals in our local area, you don’t have to go far to have a great time!

Then September is like a new beginning.

The kids go back to school and you can reset, re-establish your goals for the rest of the year, get on with all the things you’ve put off over the summer and get back to healthy eating!

Health & Fitness

6 8

10 12 14 24 34

32

Competition

St Ann’s Hospice

33

Proud to care for our community in Salford

Salford Age UK

Living well with dementia

Barton Belles

Join a local ladies community choir

Salford Foodbank

Support the autumn Harvest collection

Local History

Find out about the Bridgewater Halfpenny

Allotment News

A bumper harvest at the Macmillan plot

Seasonal Recipe

Try your hand at a Courgette Frittata 4 ON OUR DOORSTEP

Enjoy these two fabulous months!

Susie Editor

On Our Doorstep is published by Zig Zag Ventures, an independent publisher. The contents of this magazine may not be reprinted or reproduced without the express permission of the Publisher. Views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the Publisher.

Front Cover Image: Designed by Freepik

Next issue...

October-November 2023 Copy Deadline: 8th September

Contact us...

All enquiries

Susie: 07967 978831

E: sales@onourdoorstep.co.uk

www.onourdoorstep.co.uk

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Local Charity

PROUD TO CARE FOR OUR COMMUNITY IN SALFORD St Ann’s Hospice has been caring for the people of Salford and beyond for more than 50 years. We are proud to be part of this strong community.

At the beginning of the Summer we were delighted to be awarded the Excellence Award and Large Business of the Year at the Salford Business Awards.

Rachel McMillan, Chief Executive of St Ann’s Hospice, said: “Being part of the community in Salford is so important to us and we are committed to caring for the people who live here with care and compassion.

It is a privilege to be part of these awards with the other amazing businesses in Salford.”

The Summer also saw St Ann’s team up with the Salford Red Devils for a brilliant takeover day at their

match against local rivals, Leigh Leopards. It was a day full of fun for families and spectators and we are so grateful to everyone for donating to the hospice on the day.

It was just the latest way that the Salford Red Devils team has supported the hospice and we look forward to working together again very soon.

We rely on the kindness and generosity of our community every day to raise the vital funds we need to keep St Ann’s Hospice running. We need to raise £20,000 a day to keep our doors open and continue our important work caring for people with life limiting illnesses and their families.

Find out how you can help at www.sah.org.uk/get-involved

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Local Charity

LIVING WELL WITH DEMENTIA IN SALFORD There’s a lot to think about when you find out you are living with dementia. But you are not alone and Age UK Salford can help you access the right information and support.

In Salford, over 2,000 people are living with dementia and Age UK Salford provide a personalised and holistic approach for those living with dementia and family caregivers. We advise on all aspects of care from health and wellbeing to finances, social activities and planning for the future.

Caring for a loved one can be challenging, therefore, we offer 1-2-1 support for family caregivers. We also offer fun and sociable buddy clubs, which run twice a week for those living with dementia, offering five hours respite for caregivers.

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If you or a family member has received a recent diagnosis from the memory clinic or are experiencing memory-loss symptoms and aren’t sure where to seek help, contact us for advice.

Tel: 0161 728 2001 Email: dssadmin@ageuksalford.org.uk Visit: www.ageuk.org.uk/salford Buddy Clubs We have places available at the Dementia Buddy Clubs which run Wednesdays and Fridays at Chandos Sports and Social Club. Enjoy a range of fun and sociable activities to help improve health and wellbeing. The clubs are supported by specialist dementia workers and lunch, activities and refreshments are included in the daily rate of £35 per day.

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Providing Care For Life’s Journey SureCare Salford & Manchester aims to provide care, assistance and support in ways that have positive outcomes for all of our clients, whilst promoting and encouraging their active participation.

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Our Community

“I would but I can't sing” Barton Belles is full of ladies who have said that to themselves, they have come along to give it a try and have become hooked.

We have a great repertoire of music you can try which includes some musical theatre, pop and traditional pieces.

Our choir is all about singing, fun, community, friendships, feeling great at the end of a rehearsal, and for some, a life-changing experience. Our group rehearsals are a blend of beautiful A-Capella and piano accompaniment pieces.

We recently performed at the “We Invented the Weekend” festival at Salford Quays and have a number events planned, including the Eccles Festival.

You may have heard said “a choir is a blend of voice” and this is absolutely true, we all sing together.

Barton Belles Community Choir is based in Eccles at: The Barton Hub, Enfield Close, Cawdor Street, Eccles, M30 0GB. We meet every Wednesday, 7pm-9pm during term time.

Don’t worry if you are unsure of whether you are an Alto or a Soprano. Any new person can come and sit in any section and then make a decision which one is best for them with the help and guidance of our wonderful Musical Director.

We’re a friendly mixed age group, happy to welcome new ladies for two taster sessions. If you would like more information, or to join us at a rehearsal, get in touch via bartonbelleschoir@outlook.com, or visit our Facebook page @bartonbellesladieschoir.

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Eccles Art Trail

21 July – 30 September 2023 Eccles Town Centre Look out for street art, paintings, photography and pop up exhibitions all created by local artists and Eccles residents.

Find out more at visitsalford.info/EcclesArtTrail #WeLiveHereEccles

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Local Charity

SUPPORT SALFORD FOODBANK THIS HARVEST

The recent cost of living increases has seen our local Salford community needing to use the Foodbank services more and more. Our foodbank parcels include 3 days worth of nutritionally balanced food; we cater for special diets, plus offer essential toiletries and sanitary items, baby items and pet food when required.

We have welfare officers at most of our Foodbank centres to talk about money worries. Each month we are helping around 1,600 people.

We are so grateful to everyone in Salford for their continued support in donating food, money and their time to allow us to continue our service.

PLEASE SUPPORT SALFORD FOODBANK THIS HARVEST Harvest is traditionally a time of year when local communities hold a festival of thanksgiving, celebrating the harvest and food grown on the land. More recently it is a time when schools, Award-Winning Electrical Company for Greater Manchester

churches and other community groups come together to donate food to people facing hunger and poverty in their local community.

We expect the number of people needing support from Salford Foodbank to remain high throughout Autumn and increase going into Winter. If you can, please support us by making a Harvest donation perhaps through your children’s school, your church, or donating at our supermarket collection points. Or would you consider arranging your own harvest event? Every item given is packed into a food parcel to distribute to those in need.

Contact us for our harvest resources including posters and shopping lists.

Tel: 0161 637 2120 Email: info@salford.foodbank.org.uk Visit: https://salford.foodbank.org.uk/

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Local History

Bridgewater Halfpenny T

he coin alongside is an example of a Conder token. Conder coins (also known as provincial tokens) were produced in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and were privately minted by business owners, partly due to the lack of small denomination coinage in circulation. The government made little effort to stop the practice and thousands of designs were produced. Conder tokens are named after James Conder who was an early collector and cataloguer of the tokens.

The 10g copper coin pictured shows a man carrying a load on his back, with the lettering “Manchester Halfpenny 1793”. The reverse bears the words “Success to Navigation” and a coat of arms. The coat of arms clearly shows the Bridgewater coat of arms with the lion rampant, crested by a crown. The ‘navigation’ refers to the Bridgewater Canal. There is also an inscription around the edge with different types produced. This presumably prevented Salford Histories Festival takes place at Fletcher Hall in Swinton, Saturday 28th October, 10am-4pm.

There will be numerous stalls from heritage groups, talks, a vintage bus and various displays. Entry is free. For details go to the Salford Local History Forum website www.salfordforum.uk The latest Salford Link magazine is now available.

Costing £3.50, the 28 page full colour magazine celebrates Salford’s fantastic story. Articles include 14 ON OUR DOORSTEP

‘clipping’ - the taking of a small amount of metal off the edge of hand-struck coins to be melted and sold or used to make new coins.

Does anyone know anything further about these coins? Who produced them and where were they used? In later years the private production of such coins was clamped down upon as it could be used by unscrupulous employers to force workers to use their shops (this is known as the ‘truck system’).

Private token coinage was banned in 1817 and the truck system came to an end (supposedly) with the Truck Act of 1831.

Thanks to Mark Charnley for supplying information for this article. Other sources include Wikipedia.

If you are interested in local history you will be very welcome at Eccles & District History Society whose meetings resume on 13th September. www.edhs.chessck.co.uk Whiteacre School, Sir John Seerey-Lester, Cycling Through Salford’s Past, Worsley Court House and much more. Copies can be purchased from Salford Libraries, Salford Museum, Ordsall Hall and via the Salford Local History Forum website.

Written by Paul Hassall Eccles & District History Society WWW.ONOURDOORSTEP.CO.UK

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Local Business

Conveyancing Explained

Moving house can be a very anxious and stressful time especially when you don’t fully understand the process and know what comes next. Here we aim to explain the Conveyancing process in 6 steps, which will hopefully make it seem less daunting and more exciting.

1) Offer is accepted

Once you’ve had an offer accepted on a house you are buying/selling, this is when you contact us for a quotation and to instruct. Then you give the estate agent our details.

2) Searches and enquiries

We will ask you to provide money on account for searches (on a purchase property), full ID documents which will be verified by our team, and signed client care letter which will be emailed to you once you instruct us. Once the draft and legal paperwork is received from the seller’s solicitor we will apply for searches, report to you on the documents, and raise enquiries with the seller’s solicitor. As the search results arrive with us you will receive an email in respect of each result. We aim to drip feed you information throughout the transaction rather than overwhelm you with everything at once.

3) Signing the Contract

We will ask you to sign the contract and send us your deposit funds once all enquiries have been answered, search results received, mortgage offer received (if applicable) and once you are happy with everything. The contract can now be signed.

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4) Exchange

On exchange of contracts we will call you to check we have your authority to exchange and your agreement to the proposed completion date. Once every solicitor in the chain has their clients’ authority and agreement to a date then the solicitors exchange on the telephone; they do not need anything further from you. Once we have exchanged contracts we will advise you to insure the purchase property, book removals etc. We will request your mortgage funds (if applicable) and any help to buy ISA money.

5) Completion

We will arrange to transfer the funds to the seller’s solicitor (if you are selling as well as buying then we have to wait until funds are received on your sale first) and when these have been received they will notify the estate agent who will then hand over the keys to you and you can move in!

6) Registration

We will register the property in your name at the Land Registry after Completion when final documents have been received. Once completed (this can take a couple of months) we will send confirmation and any other relevant documents to you.

If Widdows Pilling can assist with your Conveyancing needs, please get in touch with us: Telephone: 0161 790 1825 Email: enquiries@widdows-pilling.co.uk

Widdows Pilling LLP

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LOFT CONVERSIONS Home Improvement

by Emma Russell

you start your project to avoid running into legal and safety issues later.

Check your budget. Loft conversions can be expensive; make sure you have a clear budget in mind and work closely with your contractor to ensure that you stay within your fiscal parameters.

Always add a little percentage for a contingency, in case of any unexpected costs.

Loft conversions are an excellent way to add more living space to your home without moving house.

The process requires careful planning to ensure that any adaptations are functional and safe. You should consult professionals who will confirm that your designs adhere to building codes and make sure that your project is successful.

Here are some points to consider...

Maximise your space. It’s worth thinking about ways you can use every available inch to create a better area that works well for you. You could consider built-in furniture, areas or objects with multi-functional use or creative storage solutions.

Have a look at how other people have utilised their space and collect some ideas about what would work for you.

Think about access once the project is complete.

This may mean adding a staircase which will take up significant space below. Look at your access needs and how it will impact the layout of your home.

What kind of space do you want? Is it a spare room, a study, or a place to store things? Whatever the function, this extra square footage will provide an additional area in your home which is probably your most valuable asset. Therefore, it’s worth employing a professional for the next step. Consulting an experienced architect or structural engineer is essential. Loft conversions are complex projects that require specialised knowledge and skills. It’s important to hire a reputable contractor to ensure that the work is done safely and to a high standard.

You need these experts to achieve the space you want and to advise you on the feasibility of any initial ideas you have. Professional will give you the best guidance on design and construction practices.

This initial outlay may not be cheap, but it could save you an awful lot of money in the long term.

During the planning stage, think about the amount of ventilation and airflow and also consider lighting.

You need to allow for cables and electrical supply.

Loft spaces can be difficult to access, so make allowances for these essential utilities.

Research the requirements for local building codes; loft conversions typically require permits and must adhere to the guidelines. This must be done before

Loft conversions are worthwhile projects that require a lot of thought. Always hire professionals to complete the construction.

20 ON OUR DOORSTEP

Loft conversions can be prone to heat loss in the winter and overheating in the summer, so it’s crucial to make sure your insulation is a well-considered part of the construction process. This will make your new living space much more comfortable all year round and you’ll save energy.

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Local Business

Business Coaching:

How is the year going for you?

by Derick Barrett In August and September, many people consider resetting their course, either ‘get back to’ or even start to build some new habits.

It’s a time when I ask my business clients two open questions:1) How is the year going so far for you?

2) What would you like to achieve by the year end?

SIGNIFICANT AREAS Career / Business

I usually have an idea of the answer to question 1 – I have been coaching them for months and tracking their results with the support of our New Level Results (www.newlevelresults.co.uk) award winning software. However, I like to give clients the space and time to think about the questions afresh for themselves.

I would also invite you to take a little time out, reflect on your journey through the year to date and where you would like to get to by the year-end.

Take a simple survey. It will take only a few minutes.

Score yourself on a scale of 1 to 10 on the important areas of your life - ‘1’ being very unfulfilled and ‘10’ being totally fulfilled in this area.

I have added in a number of suggested headings and left two ‘other’ if you wish to include other areas that are significant for you.

There is no total score, as we are all different and we have different priorities.

Now go back and revisit the different areas and ask where you would like to be by the end of the year.

Some scores may remain the same. However, you may wish to improve the score on some areas of your life.

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I always suggest to my clients to pick only two or three areas as we humans struggle with change at the best of times and improving your scores will usually require some change.

CURRENT SCORE 1 to 10

DESIRED SCORE 1 to 10

Health

Money

Partner / Romance Mental Wellness Friends & Family Other 1 Other 2

For most business owners, they know the ‘What’ they want to improve. However, the ‘How’ and committing the energy to changing in order to achieve the desired outcome can be a struggle.

This is where a good business coach comes in, to support the business owner to make the changes and hold them accountable for achieving their desired result.

Remember as Socrates reputedly said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.”

If you would like to know more about business coaching, and to set up a free Discovery Session, contact Derick Barrett: Email: derick.j.barrett@gmail.com

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Our Community

A BUMPER SUMMER

by Geoff Hamilton, Macmillan Cancer Support allotment volunteer and Acting Chairman of Tindall Street Allotment Group

cabin is also being levelled and again will improve the environment and access for everyone.

Just like the summer of 2022, this year has had us

all chewing our nails about what to expect next from climate change. We plotted as usual and nothing turned out as planned - all our crops were better than we could have wished for with no failures for a change! Even our newly planted strawberries were prolific and eagerly devoured at our Coronation Celebration along with rhubarb cordial, rhubarb gin, a variety of cakes and rhubarb crumble muffins. Our rhubarb has been spectacular and produced a bumper crop. We had a generous donation to our Summer Open Day and Coronation Celebration from ForHousing and the event was so successful that our raffle for Macmillan Cancer Support raised £185 from donated gifts.

There is always action at Tindall Street, sometimes less welcome than others. Following a spate of theft and vandalism, the committee is considering whether to reinstate the wildlife pond; the frogs we rescued have been re-homed elsewhere and are thriving, so repairing is still under review.

Removal of decaying timber, replaced by more resilient reclaimed concrete flags, has made a big improvement to the community area and the site is now more accessible, safer and looks much better.

The committee were donated new kitchen units and worktops which was most welcome since the old ones had been very badly damaged by water, from a burst pipe over winter.

Several Ash and Sycamore trees from the site have been removed and greatly improved access and visibility. A very untidy area next to the community 24 ON OUR DOORSTEP

The Plotters made an unfortunate mistake in their plant recognition this summer - we’d been eagerly waiting for our plum tree to show signs of fruit but got an unexpected surprise when it bore a lovely crop of cherries!

A much more successful venture was our ‘lunchbox’ cucumber growing. We had a donation of large plant pots from a local business which were ideal for growing the vines. The result was fantastic and salads were immediately improved with the addition of our own fruits.

When we inherited our derelict cement mixer, the rest of the Plotters said I had actually “lost the plot”, but I am pleased to say that the Nasturtiums and Marigolds we planted have thrived and recycling has now become a pastime - everything can be reused, in some form and take on a new life.

Winter and spring caused us to plot a lot and we pruned our fig tree and grapevine with some misgivings. There is a good crop of fruit on both with big figs, which we hope will mature despite the red ants, and volumes of grapes - our first ever bunches!

Salford Allotment Federation’s chairman, Don Booth, resigned after many years of service and a new committee with a new chairman and constitution are in place. Also, in hand is the experimental Beechfield remediation project in Swinton, where several plots have been planted to try and regenerate the old allotment site and release a larger area for growing. Salford Council is collaborating in this project, along with the CVS and the team including Salford, Brunel and Liege Universities and Tea.com, monitoring and overseeing husbandry issues on site.

Blackleach allotments featured in a BBC documentary - keep watching for RHS involvement!

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Local Business

Personal Finance:

6 Steps to Financial Freedom

from your Local Financial Adviser For many people, the new wealth is freedom. Be that time, location or financial freedom: it doesn’t always mean having millions in the bank, it’s just having enough to live the life you want. I am sharing six of my favourite tips on how to get there.

Have a Financial Plan

A clear plan and budget can help you to speed up reaching your financial goals. When you become more conscious of your spending, it’s amazing what you can achieve. Having a plan isn’t about depriving yourself, it’s about living with a little discipline to avoid a life of deprivation. My job is to help you figure out how to live the life you want.

Build Good Habits

How we think about money can have a huge impact on how we manage it. Many of our money habits are subconscious. Building good financial habits isn’t necessarily about the things you’re doing but more the person you’re becoming. You don’t need a wealthy background to create wealth.

Have an Opportunity Fund

Life throws up surprises. An opportunity fund is 3-6 months worth of expenditure in cash savings which you can rely upon if needed. Emergencies do happen, so having this fund allows you to deal with them. Spending money on emergencies isn’t fun but it is better to have it than need it.

you protect what matters the most.

Pensions

Contributing to a pension is one of the most effective forms of savings. Not only do you receive valuable tax benefits but if you are employed, you receive extra contributions from your employer. If you own a Limited Company, pension contributions are an allowable business expense and can reduce your corporation tax bill.

Start Investing

Investing should be for your long term savings and you can start small at any point in your life. The power of time & compound interest can be so impactful. Investing is one of the best ways to build wealth. It is my job to ensure that you are choosing the right investments for you whilst investing in the most tax efficient way.

Make sure you are on the right path to achieve financial freedom.

Hannah Whiteley DipPFS Financial Adviser E: hannah.whiteley@sjpp.co.uk T: 07521 154377

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OOD AugSep23.qxp_Issue 84 12/07/2023 12:08 Page 28

WHAT’S ON August & September COMMUNITY EVENTS

COFFEE & CHAT Roe Green Church Hall Kettle’s on! Call & have a cuppa, cakes, biscuits and some home-bakes too!

Stay for an hour or maybe two after your walk or a play in the park.Come rain or shine, everyone welcome. ❤ Roe Green.

Mondays, 10am-12pm Donations welcome www.roegreenchurch.co.uk LEARN TO PLAY MAHJONG Swinton Gateway Learn to play the fun Chinese game of Mahjong. A free 2hr weekly group.

All levels welcome! Don't miss out on this chance to learn a new game, socialise with fellow community members and keep your mind active!

Mondays, 11am-1pm FREE (booking required) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2) GAMES AND FRIENDSHIP Beesley Green Community Centre Afternoon of activities including board games and light refreshments.

Games include Scrabble, dominoes, draughts, chess and more. Ongoing.

Mondays, 1-3pm FREE (booking required) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2) JUST FOR FUN Roe Green Methodist Church An intergenerational group run by Home Instead Salford. Spend time in a cosy, fun environment where people from all generations can connect. Fun activities for people of all ages, from toddlers to pensioners.

2nd & last Thursday each month 1.00 - 3.00pm FREE Tel: 0161 870 3861 E:salford.worsley@homeinstead.co.uk

28 ON OUR DOORSTEP

BREW AND A CHAT Come along and share a hot drink and socialise. Find out about free activities and groups in your area.

The Vine Community Hub, M6 8EJ Thursdays, 9.30-11am Elmwood Church, M6 8AG Fridays, 10am-11.30am Parr Fold Park, Walkden Thursdays, 3- 4pm Fridays, 11am-12pm FREE (drop-in) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2) FOOD BANK COLLECTION Lightoaks Park Drop off food bank donations at the Tea’osk for Friends of Lightoaks Park to distribute to local foodbanks.

Sun 9th August, 10am-4pm Sun 10th September, 10am-4pm FREE Facebook: lightoakspark CAR BOOT SALE Buile Hill Park Join Buile Hill Mansion Association for their monthly car boot sale. Pick up some bargains and enjoy getting out in the fresh air. Located near the Pavillion. Cafe open for refreshments.

Sun 13th August Sun 17th September 10.30am - 1.30pm FREE entry Tel: 07436 868340 FB: FriendsOfBuileHillParkFOBHP PATRICROFT CARNIVAL Patricroft Conservative Club The Biggest FREE to attend Festival Salford has ever seen! Celebrate 125 years of Patricroft Conservative Club with a weekend packed with events.

Enjoy a carnival parade, dog show, funfair rides, circus acts, live music and entertainment, game stalls, information and charity stalls.

Raising money for Dementia UK! Fri 18th to Sun 20th August Fri & Sat: 10am-10pm Sun: 10am-8pm FREE entry Facebook: PatricroftCarnival

WORLSEY LIVE FAMILY FESTIVAL Roe Green Cricket Club A fantastic line up of music and family entertainment. Hosted by Mike Toolan, headlined by award winning dance act Phats & Small, enjoy live bands and many tribute acts. This year’s theme is Pirates & Princesses - dress up for a chance to win a prize for the best dressed adult & child. Captain Dan Tastic will be entertaining you with his festival set of fun and magic!

Sun 27th August 12.30 - 8.45pm Adult £24.99, Child £14.99 www.worsley.live SUMMER FAMILY FUN DAY Pendlebury Social Club A family fun day to raise money for Harpers Army. Enjoy trampolines, fair rides, bouncy castle, inflatable slide, bingo, games and much more!

Fri 1st September, 1-7pm FREE entry Facebook: PendleburyClub WORSLEY TOWNSWOMENS GUILD Worsley Court House Join us for a talk by Danny Morrell: Poetry in Motion. Visitors welcome.

Refreshments included.

Mon 4th September, 7.30pm £2.50 Anne Adams: 0161 728 6783 ECCLES DISTRICT HISTORY SOCIETY Alexandra House, Eccles, M30 7HB Join us for a talk by Dr Paul Salveson: The Strange Case of Forgotten Lancashire. Non-members welcome.

Wed 13th September, 7.30pm Membership £22.00, Visitors £4.00 www.edhs.chessck.co.uk ECCLES DISTRICT HISTORY SOCIETY Alexandra House, Eccles, M30 7HB “A park for the people - Buile Hill and the public park movement.” A history walk taking in Seedley, Buile Hill and Hart Hill with Beryl Patten.

Wed 27th September, 12-3pm Membership £22.00, Visitors £4.00 www.edhs.chessck.co.uk

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HEALTH & FITNESS GET ON YOUR BIKE! Come along and enjoy cycling your way to fitness. Sessions suitable for beginners and those returning to cycling. Bikes and helmets available.

Blackleach Country Park Mondays, 10am-12pm Buile Hill Park (Pavillion) Mondays, 11am-12pm Cleavley’s Track, Eccles, M30 8HY Fridays, 10am-12pm FREE (booking required) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2) IRWELL VALLEY WALKS Clifton Country Park Join us for these more challenging walks to Blackleach Country Park, Hurst Wood, Ringley Woods, Queensmere Dam, Radcliffe and more. You need to be fit enough to walk at least 5 miles, 2 - 2hrs 30mins.

Bring water, a snack and dress for the weather. Meet at Visitor Centre.

Tuesdays, 10.00am start FREE (booking required) Email: rangers@salford.gov.uk WALK FOR WELLNESS Social walks at a leisurely pace. Get moving, enjoy the outdoors and meet new people. Wear suitable footwear and bring some water.

Light Oaks Park, Claremont Tuesday 10-11am Peel Park, Little Hulton Tuesday 1.30-3.00pm Duke’s Drive, Monton Thursday 10.30-11.30am Parr Fold Park, Walkden Thursday 1.30- 3.00pm Clifton Country Park Saturday 1-2pm FREE (booking required) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2) KEEPING WELL Boothstown Community Centre Come along, learn how to improve confidence, motivation and manage stress. Ongoing sessions.

Tuesdays 1.00 - 2.00pm FREE (booking required) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2)

What’s On BE WELL WEEKLY WALKS St. John's Church, Mosley Common Weekly walks to get active, meet new people and to enjoy the great outdoors. Wear suitable footwear and bring some water.

Thursdays 10.30 - 11.30am FREE Tracy Morris: 07943 840259 Facebook: GetActiveOutdoors ANYONE FOR TENNIS Winton Bowling and Tennis Club.

Grange Road, Winton, M30 8JW Have a go at tennis in a relaxed and friendly environment. Beginners welcome. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a drink. Ongoing.

Fridays 1.00 - 3.00pm FREE (booking required) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2) OUTDOOR GYM Victoria Park, Swinton Take part in some gentle exercise whilst socialising with others. Learn how to use the equipment and improve your health and wellbeing.

Runs to 30th September.

Saturdays 2.30 - 4.00pm FREE (booking required) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2) RED PEPPER Victoria Park, Swinton A FREE and exciting, 1 hour, 5 week family orientated programme to learn about nutrition and healthy lifestyles with fun physical activities for children to enjoy.

Sundays 2.30 - 3.30pm FREE (booking required) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2) KERSAL DALE TO KERSAL WETLANDS WALK Kersal Dale Guided nature walk. Join naturalist Dave Winnard from Discover the Wild to look at plants & wildlife around Kersal Wetlands. Meet at the end of South Radford Street.

Fri 4th & 11th August 10.00am - 12.00pm FREE (booking required) Email: rangers@salford.gov.uk

PLEASE MENTION ON OUR DOORSTEP WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

WORSLEY WOODS SUNRISE WALK Beesley Green entrance Join the ranger for an early walk and take in the tranquillity of the woods at dawn. Walk may involve steps and uneven ground.

Mon 7th August 5.30am - 7.00am FREE (booking required) Email: rangers@salford.gov.uk BAT WALK Kersal Dale Join the Ranger for a guided walk and see a number of different bat species. Use a Bat Detector. Meet at the end of South Radford Street Bring a torch. Walk may involve steps and uneven ground.

Mon 14th August 8.15pm - 9.30pm FREE (donations welcome) Email: rangers@salford.gov.uk WALKIES AT BRIDGEWATER RHS Garden Bridgewater Bring your dog and enjoy a stroll around the gardens with your fourlegged friend. Two dogs per person.

Dogs must be kept on a lead.

Booking required.

Mon 14th August, 4-7pm Tue 29th August, 4-7pm Mon 11th September, 4-7pm Mon 25th September, 4-7pm Member: FREE Non-member: Half price entry Tel: 0161 503 6100 www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater DUKES DRIVE WILDLIFE WALK Dukes Drive Country Park Join naturalist Dave Winnard from Discover the Wild for a wildlife guided walk. Meet in the car park.

Sat 19th August 10.00am - 12.00pm FREE (booking required) Email: rangers@salford.gov.uk WORSLEY WOODS STROLL TO DUKES DRIVE Beesley Green entrance Join the Rangers for a morning stroll from Worsley to Monton. Walk may involve steps and uneven ground.

Sat 30th September 10.30am - 12.30pm FREE (booking required) Email: rangers@salford.gov.uk ON OUR DOORSTEP 29

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What’s On

KIDS ACTIVITIES Salford Libraries For parents/carers - bring your baby or toddler (0-4yrs) to a storytime session. Term time only. Please book.

Winton Library Mondays, 10.30-11.30am Tel: 0161 921 2180 Boothstown Library Tuesdays, 10-11am Tel: 0161 799 6549 Walkden Library Tuesdays 9.30-10.30am | 10.45-11.45am Tel: 0161 607 6639 Eccles Library Thursdays, 10.30-11.30am Tel: 0161 607 8237 Height Library Thursdays, 10.30-11.30am Tel: 0161 921 2240 Worsley Village Library Thursdays, 2-3pm Tel: 0161 794 8750 Swinton Library Fridays 9.45-10.45am | 11am-12pm Tel: 0161 793 3736 FREE (booking required) Facebook: SalfordLibraries BUGGY WALKS Join fellow mums for a social walk with your child. A leisurely buggy walk around local greenspace.

Wear suitable shoes. Ongoing.

Lightoaks Park (Tea’osk) Wednesdays, 9.30-10.30am Beesley Green Community Centre Wednesdays, 10.30-11.30am FREE (booking required) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2) DODGEBALL SESSIONS The Den, Walkden M28 3AD Take part in some fast paced fun at our dodgeball session at The Den! Located at Walkden Town Centre.

Tuesdays 6-8 years: 4.00-4.45pm 9-11 years: 5.00-6.00pm FREE (booking essential) Email: chloe.pearson@scll.co.uk www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk 30 ON OUR DOORSTEP

TINY TOTS RAMBLE Clifton Country Park An hour’s slow ramble for parents and carer with small children. Enjoy the outdoors and make new friends.

Arrive 10.15am and wear suitable footwear and clothing.

Fridays, 10.30am FREE (no booking required) Email: rangers@salford.gov.uk YOUTH CLUB The Den, Walkden M28 3AD Join in a range of fun activities incl football, cricket, dodgeball, table tennis, air hockey, table football, pool, console games, arts & crafts.

Fridays 8-11 years: 5.00-6.30pm 12-19 years: 6.45-8.15pm 50p (booking essential) www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk CRAFTY FAMILIES The Lowry Drop in at The Lookout anytime from 11am to 1pm. Join our artist for a different creative activity each week inspired by our exhibitions and shows. Please book a ticket for each person attending. For under 11’s.

Saturdays, 11am-1pm FREE (booking required) www.thelowry.com STORY SEEKERS IWM North, The Quays, M17 1TZ Family activity. Discover real objects and find moving stories from people who braved shark-infested waters to ingenious nurses and those who built machines of conflict. A great way for families to learn together about the global impact of conflict from the World War II to today.

Suitable for children 7yrs+ Saturdays & Sundays, 10am-5pm FREE (drop in) www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-north SALFORD JUNIOR PARKRUN Buile Hill Park Free weekly timed 2k parkrun for 4-14 year olds. Open to all, have fun, join in whatever your pace! Register before event and bring a printed barcode. Volunteers always needed!

Sundays, 9.00am FREE www.parkrun.org.uk/salford-juniors

FINE ART WORKSHOPS FOR KIDS Roe Green Church Hall, M28 2RN Want to grow your child's Art Skills?

Our workshops ignite creativity, giving space for expression and confidence building. Learn new techniques, including printmaking, sculpture, textiles, drawing and painting. Using famous artists for inspiration, producing sketchbooks alongside our final pieces.

Tuesdays 4.15-5.15pm, 5-8 year olds 5.30-6.30pm, 9+ year olds £12 per workshop (booking is for a half-term block of approx 6 weeks)

Eira: 07727 072580 info@art-table.co.uk www.art-table.co.uk SUMMER HOLIDAYS 2023 Ordsall Hall and Salford Museum & Art Gallery Join us for a fun-filled programme of family activities this summer!

From bug hunts to learning about the Tudors, arts and crafts to tours, object handling to science sessions, let your imagination run wild!

Running throughout August, we can’t wait to see you! Visit our websites for the full programmes.

Monday to Fridays (August) 10.30am - 11.00am start FREE to £3.00 (booking required) www.ordsallhall.com/whats-on www.salfordmuseum.com/whats-on SUMMER HOLIDAY FUN RHS Garden Bridgewater Aardman presents: Lloyd of the Flies The Grand Bug & Pest Hotel Hunt.

Help Lloyd the housefly and friends reach their holiday destination. Have fun on the Grand Bug & Pest Hotel Hunt trail, enjoy stories, animal encounters, model making & more.

Visit website to book activities.

Daily to 3rd September 10.00am - 6.00pm Normal admission applies www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater CONTACT US ON 07967 978831

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SPECIAL EVENTS

ECHO EVENTS Eccles Town Hall Visit our beautifully refurbished ballroom, balcony and stage which provide the perfect setting for an array of events including: • Musical Concerts • Theatrical & Choral Productions • Dances • Art Exhibitions • Community events and more...

We have a programme of monthly events which you can find out more about on our wesbite and Facebook page.

E: enquiries.echo@ecclestownhall.org www.ecclestownhall.org Facebook: EcclesTownHall TECH AND TEA ONLINE Online If you need digital support or have a question about technology, this is the session for you. You will need a device and internet connection to join. Meetings are held on Zoom.

Thursdays, 11am-12pm Facebook: agefriendlysalford PAINTING BY NUMBERS Boothstown Community Centre Relaxing sessions drawing, painting, decoration and painting by numbers.

Children's kits also available.

All levels welcome!

Sundays to end of September 12.30 - 2.00pm FREE (booking required) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2) PAKISTANI COOKING Boothstown Community Centre A fun new way to cook. Learn to cook Pakistani food. Sign up to our 5 week sessions and share your new skills with friends and family.

Sundays to 24th September 2.45 - 4.00pm FREE (booking required) Tel: 0800 952 1000 (option2)

WORSLEY WOODS CONSERVATION Worsley Woods Join the ranger in some woodland management. Meet by the play area off Sefton Drive.

Sat 5th August Sat 2nd September 10.30am - 12.30pm FREE (booking required) Email: rangers@salford.gov.uk CACTUS WORLD LIVE RHS Garden Bridgewater A full weekend filled with cacti and succulent information and family activities. Try pot painting, chat with experts and listen to talks on how to care for your plants at home. Buy some unusual cacti and succulents from some of the UK’s best nurseries.

Sat 19th - Sun 20th August 10.00am - 6.00pm (last entry 5pm) Normal admission applies Tel: 0161 503 6100 www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater BOLTON FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL Bolton Town Centre The North West’s biggest and best food festival. Fun for all the family, packed with food and drink, cookery demos, markets and brilliant live music and entertainment.

Fri 25th to Mon 28th August 9.00am - 5.00pm FREE entry www.boltonfoodanddrinkfestival.com CRAFT AND GIFT FAIR Swinton Square Held every fourth Saturday of each month. Browse the range of talented artisan crafters, handmade gifts, home bakers and much more.

Sat 26th August, 10am-4pm Sat 23rd September, 10am-4pm www.spgeventsnw.co.uk MAKERS MARKET Quayside MediaCityUK Join us on the last weekend of every month for an abundance of the North West's finest makers, bakers and creators. Expect an array of art, craft, food, drink, coffee, music and street food. A great family day out!

Sat 26th to Sun 27th August Sat 23rd to Sun 24th September Sat 10am-5pm | Sun11am-5pm www.quaysidemediacityuk.co.uk

MONTON BUSINESS GROUP: NETWORKING MEETINGS Monton / Worsley Monton Business Group delivers exciting monthly events with meetings taking place at a different venue in Monton / Worsley on the last Friday of every month. Each meeting includes breakfast and we only have one business per sector to maximise your growth opportunity. Please register on our website to attend our next networking meeting.

Fri 29th September 9.15 - 11.30am £18.00 per meeting www.MontonBusinessGroup.com SALFORD AND MANCHESTER

BY NIGHT Salford Museum & Art Gallery Local artist Andrew Alan Matthews presents his collection of cityscapes of views across Salford Quays and Manchester City Centre. His brand, philosophy and aim in life is to promote positivity through art.

Located in The Park Gallery, open weekends and school holidays only.

Sat 2nd September to Sun 11th February 2024 FREE www.salfordmuseum.com Tel: 0161 778 0800 TYLDESLEY MAKERS MARKET Market Square, Tyldesley Monthly event showcasing and supporting local micro businesses and home makers who are either starting out or don't have a shop.

Bread, cheese, preserves, jewellery, gifts and much more...

Sat 2nd September Sat 7th October 10.00am - 3.00pm FB: TyldesleyTownCommunityEvents

IMPORTANT NOTICE Details are correct at the time of publishing. However, please check event dates and times with the venue in case of any changes.

ON OUR DOORSTEP 31

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Improving Gut Health Health & Fitness:

Gut health refers to the state of the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the stomach, small intestine and large intestine as well as the multitude of microorganisms that live in the gut. Trillions of these microorganisms make up the gut ‘microbiome’, a combination of bacteria, fungi and viruses which play a critical role in digestive health and wellbeing.

The gut microbiome helps break down food and aids the absorption of nutrients. Research suggests that maintaining a healthy gut is important for a number of reasons.

INFLAMMATION AND IMMUNITY

Any imbalance in the gut microbiome can lead to chronic inflammation, which is linked to a number of health problems. This is known as microbial dysbiosis and it has been directly linked to colitis and inflammatory bowel diseases. Dysbiosis in the gut can also spur autoimmune diseases such as type one diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. In short, a healthy gut can help protect against infections and illnesses.

MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING

There is a growing body of evidence that links gut health to mental health and well-being. The connection between the gut and the brain is considered extremely important, and their correlation is often referred to as the gut-brain axis.

Factors that can influence gut health include diet, stress, medication and environmental toxins.

Avoiding processed foods and sugar, eating a diet rich in fibre, staying hydrated and managing stress are all recommended strategies for promoting gut health. Keeping your gut healthy may have a positive impact on your general health and well-being.

Here are some key ideas that may help improve your gut health:Eat a healthy balanced diet with plenty of whole 32 ON OUR DOORSTEP

grains, fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich in fibre and full of vitamins. Add foods that are high in prebiotics, onions, garlic, leeks, and asparagus, all feed the good bacteria in your gut.

Hydration is vital, drinking a lot of water helps to flush out toxins and support a healthy digestive system.

Keep stress to a minimum. Chronic stress will disrupt your gut microbiome and lead to digestive problems. Try different ways to manage stress, yoga, meditation and deep breathing are popular.

Regular exercise can keep your digestive system moving and functioning properly. This is essential to promote good gut health.

Sleep is vital for overall health. Your digestive system continues to function even when you sleep, but it’s not processing food or drink, the gut uses this time to repair and rebuild tissue. Try to get between 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

Avoid antibiotics unless absolutely necessary, as they can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your gut.

Only use them when prescribed by your doctor.

Consider using probiotics, or fermented foods as these contain beneficial bacteria can help restore the balance of your gut microbiome.

Always check for accreditation before you talk to a doctor, a registered dietician, or a nutritionist, to get some qualified advice about how to improve your digestion and gut health.

OOD AugSep23.qxp_Issue 84 12/07/2023 12:08 Page 33

BRUNCH WIN! BOTTOMLESS AT EDISON MONTON Enter to win Bottomless Brunch for 4 people!

Edison's brunch includes any meal off the main menu, plus unlimited alcoholic/soft drinks for a 90-minute period. Alcohol options for brunch: Corona, Budweiser, Red Stripe, Aperol Spritz, Prosecco & Mimosas.

EDISON BAR, MONTON Discover a hidden gem in Monton! Indulge in a selection of breakfast and lunch delights, accompanied by a vibrant ambiance and outstanding service.

Savour our delicious fluffy pancakes or perfect Chicken Club Sandwich.

Thursdays are extra special with live music performances by talented local artists, delivering acoustic hits across all genres.

Plus, if you're seeking an unforgettable night out, ascend to the Tiki Monkey bar upstairs, where tropical cocktails and an electric atmosphere await.

Join us for an extraordinary experience!

www.edisonbar.co.uk | 261 Monton Rd, Monton, M30 9LF Enter now! Email your Name, Address & Telephone number to:

competitions@onourdoorstep.co.uk (subject: “Edison”) DEADLINE: FRIDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER 2023

WWW.ONOURDOORSTEP.CO.UK

ON OUR DOORSTEP 33

OOD AugSep23.qxp_Issue 84 12/07/2023 12:08 Page 34

Recipe Feature

Courgette Frittata

Method Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C Fan) Gas mark 4.

Heat the olive oil in an ovenproof pan if you have one, or an ordinary frying pan if not, over a medium heat and add the onion, garlic and courgettes. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until lightly brown.

Courgettes are plentiful now so use some in this super easy brunch recipe.

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

In a separate bowl beat the eggs and season well with salt and pepper. This dish does benefit from being well seasoned.

Preparation time:15 mins Cooking time: 25 mins Serves: 8

If your pan is ovenproof, pour the egg mixture over the cooked vegetables then crumble the cheese over the top. If you don't have a pan that can be placed directly in the oven, transfer the vegetables to a casserole dish then pour the eggs and crumbled cheese over.

Ingredients

• 2 courgettes sliced • 1 red onion diced • 1 garlic clove finely chopped • 6 medium or large eggs • 3 ripe tomatoes • 1tbsp olive oil • Salt and black pepper to season • 50g crumbled feta (or your favourite cheese)

34 ON OUR DOORSTEP

Bake for about 25 minutes until the frittata is set in the middle and slightly golden on top. Take care not to overcook it, or it will become rubbery in texture. It should look puffy, golden, and have a slight wobble when you move the pan.

Let it cool for 5 minutes then slice into 8 pieces. The cooled frittata will keep in an airtight container for a couple of days. Eat it cold or reheat in the microwave on a low setting for 30 seconds.

Note: This is a very adaptable recipe. You can use any cooked vegetables and cheese combination.

PLEASE MENTION ON OUR DOORSTEP WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

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