The December edition of The Penkridge Advertiser will be distributed during December to 5,500 homes and businesses in areas of Penkridge and surrounding villages.
If you wish to place an advert or editorial feature, please ensure copy is submitted to us no later than 10/11/2025.
Please note: All information was correct at time of printing but may be subject to changes.
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At The Bank of Wellbeing, we specialise in different areas of wellbeing, offering patients the opportunity to book privately for services.
We go beyond conventional pharmacy services to provide a unique and personalised healthcare experience. Nestled in the heart of Penkridge, we pride ourselves on being more than just a local private clinic; we are your partners in health and wellbeing.
Please see our website for further info on any of our services see thebankofwellbeing.co.uk or visit us at Crown Bridge, Penkridge, Stafford ST19 5AA. We are open MondayFriday 9:00am - 5:30pm & Saturdays 9:00am - 1:00pm.
Don’t forget to keep up to date with our latest news and offers on our social media pages: @thebankofwellbeing
At The Bank of Wellbeing, we specialise in different areas of wellbeing, offering patients the opportunity to book privately for services.
We go beyond conventional pharmacy services to provide a unique and personalised healthcare experience. Nestled in the heart of Penkridge, we pride ourselves on being more than just a local private clinic; we are your partners in health and wellbeing.
Please see our website for further information on any of our services: www.thebankofwellbeing.co.uk Telephone: 01785 561616 | Email: hello@thebankofwellbeing.co.uk
We are open Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:30pm & Saturdays 9:00am - 1:00pm
As a leading domestic glass replacement company for more than 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows are the leading name in the industry. There is no need for you to risk your windows by using the dreaded double glazing cowboy down the street. You can join over 336,000 happy customers and replace your glass ethically and affordably. If you have a failed glass unit, it may not provide you with the protection you need or be as energy-efficient as it once was. Take a minute to check your home to see if any double glazing has failed? Taking action now can prevent future financial problems.
As a leading domestic glass replacement company for more than 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows are the leading name in the industry. There is no need for you to risk your windows by using the dreaded double glazing cowboy down the street. You can join over 336,000 happy customers and replace your glass ethically and affordably. If you have a failed glass unit, it may not provide you with the protection you need or be as energy-efficient as it once was. Take a minute to check your home to see if any double glazing has failed? Taking action now can prevent future financial problems.
When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Brian Stanley it became clear that these values have been held dear for a
When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Brian Stanley it became clear that these values have been held dear for a
number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money.
number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money.
The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. Brian commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.
The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. Brian commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.
For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www.cloudy2clear.co.uk.
For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www. cloudy2clear.co.uk.
Janet Beard
A new chapter for Stafford That Little Bookshop Opens Its Doors
Stafford’s new independent bookshop opened its doors on Saturday 30th August to a queue of people eager to see the transformation of what was once a hairdressers into a nostalgic trip down memory lane. That Little Bookshop, owned and run by local book lover Cassie, has been lovingly renovated over 12 weeks to create a cosy, welcoming haven for readers of all ages.
The business first appeared in 2024 as a small pop-up inside Dunelm, where Cassie quickly gained a loyal following thanks to her friendly approach and thoughtful selection of titles. Now, her dream of creating a permanent home has become a reality.
Independent bookshops have always been more than just a place to buy books – they’re places of discovery, conversation, and community. In a world where so much is done online, there’s something unique about stepping into a shop, browsing the shelves, and picking up a book you didn’t know you needed.
Visit That Little Bookshop at 2 Tipping Street, Stafford, ST16 2LL.
Open Tuesday to Friday 10am-5pm Saturday, 10am – 6pm. www.thatlittlebookshop.co.uk
It’s an experience that simply can’t be replicated on a screen.
With Cassie’s carefully curated selection, inviting atmosphere, and passion for storytelling,
That Little Bookshop is set to become a much-loved fixture in Stafford. A place where readers can discover new favourites, connect with others, and even enjoy creative workshops, starting with a calligraphy session on 25th October (see the Facebook page for details).
Visit That Little Bookshop at 2 Tipping Street, Stafford, ST16 2LL. Open Tuesday to Friday 10am - 5pm and Saturday, 10am – 6pm.
Penkridge WI had an interesting talk from Analiza Jones on the subject of “Handmade bags from The Philippines” at our October meeting. Analiza began by describing The Philippines, a country made up of over 7 000 islands, only 2 000 of which are inhabited.
We learnt about their crops and how they are utilised, in particular. the abaca plant which was primarily used to make rope (also called Manilla hemp). This was extremely popular with the USA Navy as it is resistant to salt water! Unfortunately, they started to grow it in South America which really hit the Philippines badly.
The farmers now had to diversify to find other ways to use their crop of abaca and they began to produce handbags. She had brought handbags with her and after hearing how they were made, involving a lot of people in the various processes, we were
able to buy the bags as well. We enjoyed Analiza’s fascinating and entertaining talk, and it was great to be able to purchase a lovely handmade bag as well.
At the end of September Penkridge WI also entered 3 teams in the annual Staffordshire WI Skittles competition which was help at Rolleston this year. This was great fun and all who attended really enjoyed it. We even managed to improve our position from last year, coming 3rd, 4th and 8th. Hopefully we can do even better next year!
Our next meeting is on November 3rd when our talk will be on “Life as a Tudor Housewife” by Val Campbell.
Pictured is speaker Analiza Jones with Penkridge WI President Vicky Atkins.
A Gruesome Glimpse into Staffordshire’s Past – Sold at Auction
A printed list charting over a century of executions in Stafford provided a chilling highlight at a recent Cuttlestones auction, where it and other execution-related ephemera in the lot sold for £170 to a local bidder from Uttoxeter. Spanning from 1793 through to 1907, the document offered a fascinating – if macabre – insight into the town’s criminal history and changing attitudes to justice.
The first entry dated from 1793, recording the executions of Betley and Ellis of Biddulph for the murder of Mr Ward of Yarlet. At the other end of the spectrum, the list closed in 1907 with two executions – J.A. Shufflebottom and J. Jones – for crimes that were not detailed.
Crimes and punishments
The register served as a stark reminder of how broad the definition of a capital crime once was. Alongside the many murder convictions, it recorded hangings for rape, forgery, highway robbery, house breaking, and even horse and sheep stealing. For modern eyes, the sheer range of offences carrying the ultimate penalty was a sobering thought.
Gruesome tales
The document did more than list names – it also preserved snippets of grim folklore. In 1812 William Booth, convicted of forgery, slipped and fell as he was hung. In 1816, the scaffold itself collapsed during the execution of murderer Ann Statham – one of the few women listed – making hers the last hanging to take place on top of The Lodge. Two years later, burglars Joseph Dace and Samuel Hames sang a hymn on the drop before meeting their fate. And in 1866 the rope slipped during William Collier’s execution for murder, marking the last time
a hanging took place outside Stafford Gaol.
The most infamous entry
Perhaps the most notorious figure in the list was Dr William Palmer of Rugeley – better known as “The Prince of Poisoners”. Convicted in 1856 for the strychnine murder of his friend John Cook, Palmer was suspected of having killed several others, including members of his own family, for financial gain. His trial caused a sensation, with Charles Dickens branding him “the greatest villain that ever stood in the Old Bailey”. Palmer’s execution at Stafford was one of the most infamous of the Victorian age.
A macabre look back
Believed to be a tourism piece dating back to the mid-20th century, the list was part of a lot that included other ephemera related to executions; providing an interesting glimpse into our judicial past. It unsurprisingly created quite a storm on local social media groups ahead of the auction; ultimately being secured by a bidder from Uttoxeter for £170, ensuring that this interesting piece of Staffordshire history has remained close to home.
Cuttlestones is now inviting consignments for future specialist sales. To find out what your antiques or collectables could be worth, send images via WhatsApp to 07949 603872, email valuations@cuttlestones.co.uk, or call 01785 714905 to arrange a free, no-obligation valuation.
Celtic Christmas UK Tour Comes to Staffordshire!
The 2025 Celtic Christmas UK tour comes to Gatehouse Theatre in Stafford on Saturday 6th December. Following a London sell-out in 2024, the Christmas touring show, now in its 10th year, will be staged in Stafford for the first time this year.
As the name suggests, the audience can expect a Celtic twist on traditional Christmas favourites. The show promises to enchant and thoroughly entertain as Celtic rooted musicians perform the Christmas songs beloved of generations by candlelight.
Musical Director and accordionist Aine McLoughlin joins A Celtic Christmas this season. Recent theatre credits include Cabaret for the Kit Kat club at the Playhouse Theatre, London. On stage Aine will be joined by Jennie Jacob’s who recently covered and performed all three Dynamos in the West End production of Mamma Mia and Classical Brit award nominee Wendy Carr.
Completing the band is violinist Josh Newman and guitarist Tom Palmer.
The programme includes cherished carols such as Joy to the World and the Holly and the Ivy. This is Christmas music entwined with ancient festive folk tunes.
Expect moments of foot tapping fun contrasting with powerful vocal performances of ethereal beauty. Appropriate for each and every generation.
Producer Caitlin Downie explains, ‘When I first set out to create a Celtic Christmas in 2015, I wanted to give audiences a “Christmas starts here” show with true Christmas spirit at its core. We started on a village hall scale and we have built on our success each year. I am delighted that we’re able to perform in Stafford this year for the first time.’
Tickets are available via https://caitlindownie.com/a-celtic-christmas https://www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk/whatsonevent/a-celtic-christmas/
For more information please contact Caitlin Downie cmldownie@gmail.com or call 07851 913753.
Your new local Nissan main dealer
Celebrating 100 years with dealerships across Staffordshire, Shropshire & North Wales, W R Davies are delighted to now cover Cannock, Rugeley, Cheslyn Hay, Penkridge, Heath Hays and all of the surrounding local village communities.
Introduction James Martin’s Ultimate Jacket Potato
Baked potatoes are having a bit of a moment, and James Martin’s take on the classic winter warmer is probably the only spud recipe you’ll ever need.
Method
1. Preheat your oven to a hot 200°C/180°C Fan/gas mark 6 to ensure your jacket potatoes get that essential crispy skin. Rub the potatoes with olive oil, then pierce them with a fork before placing them on a baking tray sprinkled with sea salt.
Cook the potatoes on the top shelf of the oven until they’re tender and the skin is crisp, which should take about an hour. Once done, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool enough to handle.
2. While waiting, heat a frying pan to medium-hot, add butter, shallot, and garlic, and cook for two to three minutes. Then, toss in the leeks and cook for another couple of minutes before pouring in the white wine and reducing the liquid by half.
3. Pour in the cream and let it simmer for three to four minutes or until it thickens. Season it with salt and black pepper to your preference. Then, quarter the potatoes and arrange them in an ovenproof dish. Drizzle the leek sauce over the potatoes and scatter the taleggio pieces on top.
4. Heat a frying pan until it’s hot, then add the bacon and fry until it turns golden brown and crispy. Roughly chop the cooked bacon and sprinkle it over the cheese. Finally, put the dish in the oven and bake for 10 minutes or until it’s golden brown and bubbling.
Ingredients
Serves 4
• 4 large baking potatoes
• 1tbsp olive oil
• 25g butter
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, finely sliced
• 2 leeks, sliced lengthways, then across into slices
• 75ml white wine
• 300ml double cream
• 150g taleggio cheese, roughly chopped
• Eight slices of streaky bacon
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Credit: BBC
Whiston, Penkridge, Staffordshire, ST19 5QH
Tel: 01785 716200 www.swanwhiston.co.uk
Cannock and District Ladies Probus Club Left and Right Probus Story, Follows Birthday Bingo Fun
Visitors were welcomed to share the afternoon of Birthday Celebrations. First “Happy Birthday” was sung to individual members, who are celebrating their own birthdays. Celebrating the Cannock and District Ladies Probus Club’s 32nd birthday, the founder members cut the delicious Birthday cake before lunch then, ‘party games’ provided entertainment.
Proceedings were started by Chairman Anne, who became the ‘Bingo Caller,’ for the afternoon. For, following the numbers being called, unique ‘phrases’ were read to confirm each number and unlike early days of bingo, these phrases had to be politically correct hence, provided amusement. The next game included a Probus ‘Left and Right Story,’ a version of pass the parcel but at the end of which, everyone receives a gift that they are left holding. Following a delicious meal, Birthday cake was shared which had been ceremoniously cut, by Founder Chairman Mrs Del Johnson. Each member and guest were also given a personal gift of a pen, from the Club.
During the Meeting a member shared with ladies, following a spate of scams in Cannock, there was a need to obtain an RFID pouch, to protect credit cards. The offender simply walks
past someone with a handbag and are able to obtain details which enables them to access information and bank accounts, without people being aware.
Meeting closed with Chairmans Raffle and Pauls Prize. Chairman Anne gave her Thought for the Day; Embrace kindness by being a rainbow in someone’s cloud, remember that challenges strengthen you, and aim for progress, not perfection in your daily efforts. Retired or Semi-Retired, professional or business ladies meet 1st Thurs each month at Chase Golf Club, 12 noon, for a meal, fellowship and Speakers with outings and other activities. New members are welcome: Annual membership is only £16 and two course lunch £22.
Further information contact: Membership Secretary, Barbara on 01889 882 166 or Chairman Anne 01922 418 037. Speaker on 6th Nov is Kath Reynolds - To Have and To Hold but members are encouraged to bring their wedding photos for display.
CROSS WORD PUZZLE
ACROSS
1. Flashing light often used in clubs (6)
5. Shaped like a cube (5)
7. Yellow flowering weed (9)
10. Spot (4)
11. Boast about oneself (4)
12. Shockingly bad (9)
16. Words that sound alike at the end (5)
17. Aggressive move (6)
DOWN
1. Tiny grains on a beach (4)
2. Foundation (4)
3. Short for automobile (4)
4. Performing in a play (6)
6. Money received regularly (6)
8. Rental agreement (5)
9. Not wide (6)
10. Place that sells bread and cakes (6)
13. Played for fun (4)
14. Manner of walking (4)
15. Went down under water (4)
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395,000
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Nestled in a sought-after cul-de-sac in Penkridge Village, this modern four-bedroom detached family home combines contemporary design with everyday functionality. The spacious hallway leads to a separate living room and dining room, ideal for entertaining or relaxing. Alongside a stylish breakfast kitchen and handy utility room. A guest WC completes the ground floor. Upstairs, four well-proportioned bedrooms include a master with en suite, plus a modern family bathroom serving the rest. Externally, the property features a garage, driveway parking for multiple vehicles, and a generous corner plot with a pleasant rear garden, perfect for family life and outdoor enjoyment. Ideally positioned close to local amenities, schools, and transport links, this well-maintained home offers a harmonious blend of countryside tranquillity and modern convenience. A superb opportunity for families seeking space, comfort, and a great location in one of Penkridge’s most desirable spots.
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(Next
Gatehouse panto is the perfect family night out
It’s THAT time again – oh yes it is! The fantastic family pantomime SLEEPING BEAUTY opens at the Gatehouse Theatre on Friday, December 5. BBC Radio WM presenter and CBBC legend Mark Rhodes returns as Hilarious Harry, while award-winning Dame David Phipps Davis is back by popular demand as Nurse Nora Knickerbocker.
Super Samantha Spragg is also returning as wicked Carabosse in the age-old story of a princess cursed by an evil fairy to fall into a deep sleep after pricking her finger on a spindle on her 16th birthday.
More than 9,000 tickets have already been sold in advance and the show is on course to break last year’s record of 18,800 people coming along.
‘It’s been incredibly busy,’ says Marketing Manager Keith Harrison, ‘We started planning for SLEEPING BEAUTY almost as soon as Jack and the Beanstalk ended in January and we knew we’d have to extend the run to accommodate the number of people coming to see this year’s production.’
Written by TV stalwart Eric Potts, who scripted dozens of award-winning patomimes, the story is a laugh-aminute romp with something for everyone, young and old.
‘We keep things simple in Stafford,’ Keith added, ‘It’s a brilliant traditional family pantomime with jokes galore for young and old. In the past few years, we’ve seen audiences increase by around 25 per cent and we’ve also been lucky to secure a great leading man in Mark and also David, who is probably the best Dame in the business.’
With SLEEPING BEAUTY Family Ticket discounts, VIP packages and food and drink offers galore, the Gatehouse is enjoying a bumper year with audiences flocking to the Eastgate Street venue.
‘It’s been a great 12 months and panto season is the busiest time of the year, so we’re getting ready to see 2025 out with a right laugh – it’s the only way to do it!’
The fun starts on December 5 and runs to January 4. Book now for a family festive treat on 01785 619080 or gatehousetheatre.co.uk
Property of the Month Property of the Month
School Lane, Dunston £875,000
DOUBLE GARAGE
SURROUNDED BY COUNTRYSIDE – FAR REACHING VIEWS
THREE RECEPTION ROOMS
A LARGE OPEN PLAN KITCHEN & FAMILY ROOM
ENERGY EFFICIENT AIR SOURCE HEATING
FOUR BEDROOMS
EN-SUITE BATHROOM AND SUN TERRACE
POSITION ON A HUGE PLOT IN PRIVATE GROUNDS
Located in the picturesque and tranquil surroundings of Dunston, in the heart of the Staffordshire countryside. Beautifully appointed throughout, the property opens with an inviting entrance hall that leads into a spacious lounge, complete with a feature multi-fuel burner – ideal for cosy evenings and into the heart of the home: a large open-plan kitchen, dining, and family room.
The dining area boasts a second multi-fuel burner, while the bespoke kitchen features high-quality quartz worktops, integrated appliances, and elegant cabinetry. The family area is bathed in natural light from a large picture window, patio doors, and bi-fold doors that open directly onto the expansive garden – bringing the outdoors in and creating a perfect space for entertaining or relaxing. The ground floor further benefits from a versatile study, which has the potential to be a fifth bedroom, a stylish shower room, and a well-equipped utility/boot room – perfect for busy family life. Upstairs, the property offers a contemporary family bathroom and four generously proportioned bedrooms. The primary bedroom has an en-suite which is a true retreat, featuring a luxurious en-suite shower room and bi-fold doors that open onto a private sun terrace, providing far-reaching views across the rolling Staffordshire countryside. Externally, the grounds are equally impressive and include a large gravel driveway with ample parking, a double garage, and a substantial garden that backs directly onto open fields – offering privacy, space, and uninterrupted rural vistas.
EPC rating: D Tenure: Freehold Council Tax Band: D
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