The Stafford Directory - November 2025 by shoutlocalmedia

NOVEMBER 2025

Advertising enquiries

Lisa Cuthbert - Sales Manager

Tel: 01785 318704

Email: info@thestafforddirectory.co.uk

Kate Hood - Sales Associate

Tel: 01785 318704

Email: info@thestafforddirectory.co.uk

James Martin’s Ultimate Jacket Potato

Editorial enquiries

Jennifer Dellicompagni - Editor

Tel: 01785 318704

Email: info@thestafforddirectory.co.uk

The December edition of The Stafford Directory will be distributed during December to 10,000 homes and businesses in selected areas of Stafford.

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.

Stafford Lions Charity Murder Mystery Night

Cloudy2Clear Windows

A Festive Tale Awaits at Lichfield Cathedral

A Gruesome Glimpse into Staffordshire’s Past Real Food, Real Support & Real Results with Slimming World!

Celtic Christmas UK Tour Comes to Staffordshire!

Enhance Your Natural Beauty with True Form Permanent Makeup

Littleton Arms

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity

Sudoku puzzle

Gatehouse Panto is the perfect family night out! Recipe of the month

Crossword puzzle

8 10 16 26

with Dourish and Day

Charity Murder Mystery Night

Stafford Lions

It was murder mystery night, for the second time, at Stafford Rangers on Friday 10th October.

The Plot:

Rupert Bray-Deleigh, a wealthy land owner, was found stabbed to death in the kitchen of the manor and Chief Detective Bill requested assistance from the audience in exposing the killer.

Six suspects (willing volunteers, I think!), were questioned (rather intensively) by more than 100 would be sleuths during two sessions of interrogation. It was so intense the ‘juries’ needed a food and drink break at half time to build up their reserves of energy for what was to come.

After the final session the ‘juries’ made their selection whilst the suspects were detained in another room.

When the culprit was eventually named one table had successfully nominated the guilty party and the motivation for such an act.

That table won a set of lottery tickets so here’s hoping luck was on their side, twice.

Proceeds from the evening went to local charities and to contribute to the Stafford Rangers less abled visitor access provisions.

Thanks again to Stafford Rangers for the use of the facilities and to Sugar & Spice for providing the food. And thanks to the ‘juries’ who paid for the opportunity to work all evening on a baffling case.

And finally, to Detective Bill (Lion Bill Dowthwaite), who wrote the script, rounded up the suspects and conducted the investigation.

PS – The lawyer did it (there’s a surprise!)

Who are Stafford Lions?

Stafford Lions are a group of local men and women who dedicate some of their spare time to helping charities, vulnerable groups and individuals in and around Stafford. Help us support our nominated charities!

Cloudy2Clear, A Local Service,

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

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”.

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 Festive Tale Awaits: The Robin’s Reward at Lichfield Cathedral

This December, Lichfield Cathedral invites you to step into a world of wonder, warmth, and festive joy with its brand-new Christmas light show: The Robin’s Reward. From Monday 15 to Sunday 21 December, the Cathedral Close will be transformed into a glowing winter spectacle, brought to life by the acclaimed animation team, Illuminos.

Known for their breathtaking visual storytelling, Illuminos returns to Lichfield with a heartwarming new tale. The Robin’s Reward follows the journey of one little robin (a symbol of hope and kindness) through a dazzling display of light and sound. As projections dance across the iconic West Front of the Cathedral, visitors will be immersed in a story that celebrates the spirit of giving and the joy of the season.

Inside the Cathedral, guests are invited to pause, reflect, and soak in the peaceful beauty of the season, and enjoy beloved Christmas carols from guest choirs. It’s a moment to reconnect with tradition, with loved ones, and with the deeper meaning of Christmas.

The experience also includes after-hours access to the ever-popular Christmas Tree Festival, the Cathedral Gift Shop, and the Crib, making it a perfect festive outing for families, friends, and visitors of all ages. Whether you’re seeking a festive evening with children or a quiet, contemplative stroll through

twinkling lights, The Robin’s Reward offers something for everyone.

Visitors are encouraged to allow around an hour to enjoy the full experience. And for those who prefer a gentler atmosphere, Relaxed Sessions are available from Monday 15 to Wednesday 17 December at 17:15, featuring the two outdoor light shows with reduced volume and limited numbers - ideal for anyone who would benefit from a more supportive environment.

Tickets are priced to suit a range of budgets:

• Monday 15 - Wednesday 17 December: £11.50 per adult, £8 per child (2-16), £35 for a family ticket (2 adults & 2 children), and under 2s go free.

• Thursday 18 - Sunday 21 December: £14 per adult, £11 per child, £48 for a family ticket, with under 2s still free.

Tickets available from the cathedral website: www. lichfield-cathedral.org/lightshow

All proceeds support the ongoing work and upkeep of Lichfield Cathedral.

Past visitors have called the Cathedral’s light shows “mesmerising, magical and sparkly” and “the obvious night out” for the festive season. Holly, George & Deb summed it up perfectly: “Get into the Christmas spirit.”

So wrap up warm, gather your loved ones, and come discover The Robin’s Reward - a celebration of light, love, and the little things that make Christmas truly special.

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.

on:

WhatsApp 07949 603872, email office@cuttlestones.co.uk or Call 01785 714905 to book your appointment

Cuttlestones Ltd, Pinfold Lane, Penkridge, Staffordshire ST19 5AP www.cuttlestones.co.uk

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.

Real Food, Real Support & Real Results!

Stafford Slimming Worlds Groups Celebrate Septembers Results

1,860lbs lost, that’s over 132 stone between all the members! Stafford’s Slimming World consultants wanted to share Septembers results - and show what is truly possible with the right support, and weekly commitment to group.

Slimming World’s programme is built on a deep understanding of how people with a weight problem feel, coupled with a healthy eating plan based on the science of energy density and satiety – a powerful combination. Our members achieve their weight loss dreams and transform their lives with motivating support to improve their self-esteem and overcome feelings of guilt about their weight. For more than 50 years, this understanding has been developed and refined in line with the latest research on nutrition, physical activity and the psychology of behaviour change.

Our groups offer members support, commitment and accountability – a powerful combination that helps boost happiness, self-esteem and slimming success! It’s a fresh new group experience that’s all about building knowledge, sharing food inspiration and getting the support to build lasting healthy habits... oh, and celebrating every achievement together, of course! It’s where you’ll top up your motivation with people who really get it, build your commitment to lose weight in the week ahead (no matter what’s coming up!) and – most importantly of all – have a great hour that literally flies by!

Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan is a flexible, hungerbusting way to eat real food that fits in with every taste,

lifestyle, family and budget – so it’s easy to stick to and even easier to enjoy. Based on tasty, healthy foods that everyone will love, Food Optimising helps slimmer’s cut calories without counting them, and get real results that last.

The stroke of genius that makes Food Optimising so easy and so effective is Free Food – healthy, satisfying food you can enjoy in unlimited amounts whenever you’re hungry. Eat the dishes you love – favourites like spag bol, curry, Sunday roast, Burgers and chips – and still lose weight. It’s food the whole family can enjoy together, so you’ll be taking care of their health as well as your own.

And get the support to start building in movement and moving more each week - Body Magic, our unique physical activity programme, will help you develop a healthy active lifestyle which supports your weight loss and – once you reach your dream weight – helps you maintain it for life!

With the end of the year nearing - we are now focusing on how we would love to end the year - lighter & healthier of course! Research shows that finding your ‘why’ and setting your sights high helps you lose more weight, so if we have got you thinking about how you would like to end the year - come and join us so we can support you to make this goal a reality!

World

Slimming World

Sandra Bunn

Hancox

Nicky Walchester

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.

*WE’RE BACK!*

Antique & Collectors Fair

November 13th & 14th

Antique

Antique & Collectors Fair

AS SEEN ON

Up to 300 Stands in 3 Halls

*WE’RE BACK!*

HUNT

Under 14 - FREE

ADMISSION

STAFFORD SHOWGROUND

Subject to any Covid regulations in place at the time

STAFFORD SHOWGROUND

A range of Furniture, Art, Silver, Glass, Porcelain, Jewellery, Toys, Books, Retro and Modern Collectables FREE Parking, Catering, Disabled Friendly, Dogs Welcome

2021 DATES

*WE’RE BACK!*

November 13th & 14th

2021 DATES

Up to 300 Stands in 3 Halls

AS SEEN ON BARGAIN HUNT ADMISSION

1st Day 8.30-10am-£4.00 Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

November 13th & 14th

Everyone over 14 - £3.00 Under 14 - FREE 1st Day 8.30-10am-£4.00 Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

Subject to any Covid regulations in place at the time

Subject to any Covid regulations in place at the time Up to 300 Stands in 3 Halls

A range of Furniture, Art, Silver, Glass, Porcelain, Jewellery, Toys, Books, Retro and Modern Collectables

www.numberoneevents.com Office: 01785 66 02 36 | Mob: 07775 48 44 55 2021 DATES

Prestwood Centre, Weston Road A518, Stafford, ST18 OBD 5 mins J14 M6 | P.O. BOX 3190, Stafford, ST16 9LF

www.numberoneevents.com

A range of Furniture, Art, Silver, Glass, Porcelain, Jewellery, Toys, Books, Retro and Modern Collectables

Everyone over 14 - £3.00 Under 14 - FREE

Office: 01785 66 02 36 | Mob: 07775 48 44 55

FREE Parking, Catering, Disabled Friendly, Dogs Welcome

Parking, Catering, Disabled Friendly, Dogs Welcome

1st Day 8.30-10am-£4.00 Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

Everyone over 14 - £3.00 Under 14 - FREE 1st Day 8.30-10am-£4.00

10am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

Prestwood Centre, Weston Road A518, Stafford, ST18 OBD 5 mins J14 M6 | P.O. BOX 3190, Stafford, ST16 9LF

www.numberoneevents.com Office: 01785 66 02 36 | Mob: 07775 48 44 55

Prestwood Centre, Weston Road A518, Stafford, ST18 OBD 5 mins J14 M6 | P.O. BOX 3190, Stafford, ST16 9LF

01785 66 02 36 | Mob: 07775 48

Enhance Your Natural Beauty with True Form Permanent Makeup

Nestled within The Hairshop on Eastgate Street in Stafford, True Form Permanent Makeup is the home of beautifully natural results designed to enhance, not transform.

Founded by Jude, a 35 year old former delivery manager who took the leap to follow her passion for beauty, True Form began with brow wax and tints in April 2025 and has since grown into a trusted name for permanent brows and lip blush treatments across Staffordshire.

Trained by industry-leading academies Tracie Giles London and Jessica Ruth SPMU, Jude offers Permanent Brows (Hairstroke, Ombre or Combination - no microblading), Permanent Lip Blush, and Brow Wax & Tint. Every treatment includes an in-depth consultation, aftercare kit, and a complimentary topup 4–6 weeks later to perfect your results.

Her philosophy is simple: to subtly enhance what’s already there, helping women, particularly those over 40 whose brows have naturally thinned - feel confident and effortlessly put-together every day.

Using ultrafine tattooing techniques that are gentler and longer lasting than microblading, Jude creates results that look soft, natural and beautifully bespoke to each client.

Qualified, insured, and council-licensed, Jude maintains the highest standards of hygiene, pigment quality, and precision. Her private treatment room has a cosy, vintage feel to help clients relax, and with over 20 five-star Google reviews, it’s clear her clients love both the results and the experience.

Gift Cards are available from November, the perfect Christmas treat! To book your free consultation or find out more, visit linktr.ee/trueformpmu or call 07874 423566. Find True Form at The Hairshop, 5 Eastgate Street, Stafford ST16 2NQ (Customer parking is available).

Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday with flexible appointments on request.

Home

“I would not hesitate to recommend Concept Claim Solutions to anybody and I am so very grateful to them for taking the stress off my shoulders throughout this whole process.”

One call. One team.

Our full support.

As FCA-approved loss assessors, we represent your best interests.

We don’t think you should have to compromise when it comes to your home We work on your behalf and strive to ensure your home insurance claim reflects the true cost of repairs and supports the quality and consistency we would want for our own home.

stress?

“I’m sure if I’d tried to handle this without their expertise, I would have spent a lot of time and money trying to get everything sorted.”

New Menu for Picture-Perfect Pub!

Quintessential pub, The Red Lion in Bradley has a brand-new menu, inspired by the collective of new talent in the kitchen. Working with the finest ingredients and seasonal flavours, diners are in for a real treat.

Braised Beef Brisket & Stilton Croquette and delicious Tandoori Chicken Lollipops are just two of the generous starters that sit alongside more traditional dishes such as the Black Pudding Scotch Egg, whilst new deep-filled sandwiches take you from New York Deli Ciabatta to a wholesome Staffordshire Ham & Cheddar Toastie, perfect for those swinging by for a quick, but filling, lunchtime bite.

Building a reputation for incredible burgers the lineup is infused with mouthwatering flavours from Korea, India and Morocco but it is The Holy Cow, that the team think will by most popular - two handmade patties loaded with rich beef brisket, horseradish aioli, rocket, crispy onion, and cheese. Packed-full of quality M.Mottershead meat, a bumper Mixed Grill requires guests to bring an appetite, whilst classic cut steaks and eye-watering Butchers Block, which is more than enough for two to share, will be added to with guesting special cuts for meat lovers.

Homemade pies that promise to ‘knock the spots of those found in other pubs’ as well as interesting flavours from across the globe switch the mains up a level and are interspersed with popular pub classics, offered with a twist, such as the Vodka Battered Haddock and hand cut twice cooked chips.

Katie McPhilimey, Associate Marketing Director added; “We’re very excited by what the new talent will be serving up on this menu, from the Salt & Pepper Duck Breast with trendy Udon noodles to the Rump Steak Pappardelle with wild mushroom, parmesan, confit garlic cream, Dolcelatte and truffle oil, the menu carefully balances creativity with great flavour combinations in generous dishes that we know will delight. The Butcher’s Block is something else, it must be seen, and tasted, to be believed!”

Traditional roasts and an incredible Sharing Roast Platter transform Sundays and like the rest of the menus that The Red Lion will be serving, they will bring friends, family, and colleagues together for a great dining experience to the backdrop of a beautiful country pub!

To compliment the exciting new menu The Red Lion will also be launching a magical Dining Pod in their grounds that can be booked for parties of up to eight.

Visit their website for more information www.theredlionbradley.co.uk or follow them on Instagram @redlionbradley

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity Celebrated as an Outstanding Workplace for Third Time

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity is proud to announce that it has once again been recognised with the Outstanding Workplace Award by leading management consultancy People Insight, following an exceptional 93% employee engagement score in its latest annual Staff Survey.

Lifesaving Lottery & Save

• “Working for an organisation which cares about patients and employees alike.”

• “The positive shared culture of the organisation where everyone is aiming to achieve the best for patients.”

This marks the third time the charity has received this prestigious accolade, having previously won in 2022 and 2024. The result places Midlands Air Ambulance Charity firmly in the top quartile for employee engagement, reflecting its ongoing commitment to fostering a workplace culture where people feel empowered, supported, and proud to contribute.

The Outstanding Workplace Award celebrates organisations that excel in motivating and engaging their teams, creating environments where individuals feel valued, connected, and aligned with a shared mission.

Hanna Sebright, Chief Executive Officer at Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, commented: “We are thrilled to be recognised once again as an Outstanding Workplace. This award is a testament to the passion and dedication of our team, and to the culture we’ve built together - one that puts people and purpose at the heart of everything we do.”

• “Being surrounded by a positive workforce, all driven to do what is best for the organisation.”

0 0 0 0 3 Sign up now 8 8 8 6

When asked “What is the best thing about working for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity?”, staff shared heartfelt reflections:

• “Being one big happy family - teamwork every time. You see our helicopter or critical care car and think I made that mission possible and helped save a life today. So rewarding.”

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity continues to lead by example in the third sector, demonstrating that a strong internal culture is key to delivering life-saving services across the region.

For more information about Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, visit midlandsairambulance.com and follow the organisation on social media.

Sudoku PUZZLE

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through to 9, with no repetition. That’s all there is to it! You solve the puzzle with reasoning logic– there’s no maths involved and no adding up.

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

James Martin’s Ultimate Jacket Potato

Introduction

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

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)

Festive MENU

Lunch: two course £18 three courses £22

Dinner: two courses £25 three courses £30

Available from Thursday 20th of November until Saturday 20th December.

The bistro is open for lunch & dinner 23rd, 24th and 27th through to New Years Eve. Seasonal market menu.

New Years Eve three courses £35 served 6-8pm. Bistro will close at 10pm.

starters

Spiced parsnip soup with warm focaccia V GFr

Chicken liver pate served with focaccia crostini and orange and cranberry compote GFr

Mushroom and thyme arancini with tomato salsa vegan

Mackerel pate, Pea salad, beetroot puree, savoury biscuits Gfr

Breaded brie marmalade compote v

mains

Roast turkey, roast potatoes pigs in blankets, stuffing and gravy £2 supplement Gfr

Mushroom, thyme and nut roast, red wine jus v

Pork loin steak crushed new potatoes green peppercorn sauce Gf

Winter vegetable strudel crushed new potatoes red wine jus Vegan

Pan fried seabass fillet crushed new potatoes lemon and caper butter Gf

Venison and Red wine cottage pie topped with sauté potatoes Gf

All served with seasonal vegetables.

desserts

Apple, sultana and cinnamon crumble with vanilla custard Gf

Christmas pudding with Brandy sauce

Coconut panna cotta with candied walnuts and cranberries vegan Gf

Black forest American style pancakes with wine poached cherries chocolate ice-cream and white chocolate sauce v

Hartington Stilton and mature cheddar savoury biscuits and cranberry and orange compote £2 supplement.

Two hour sittings. Reservations. We don’t take deposits. We ask our customers to book tables and keep us informed of any changes to numbers.

Cardamine Parade, Stafford, ST16 1DR

390,000

FREEHOLD

Leading the Parade on Cardamine Parade – This stylish detached family home offers modern living, flexible space, and a garden perfect for play or entertaining. Set on a sought-after development, it features a welcoming hallway with sleek storage, a generous lounge with a contemporary electric fireplace, and French doors opening to the rear garden. The modern kitchen diner includes integrated appliances, ample storage, and access to the garden, garage, and driveway. A guest WC completes the ground floor. Upstairs are four bedrooms and a family bathroom; the principal bedroom benefits from an en suite, with two further doubles and a versatile fourth room ideal as an office or nursery. The landscaped garden includes a lawn, patio, and play area, plus side access to the garage and driveway with parking for three cars and an EV charge point.