SK Local Magazine Autumn 2021 Edition

SKLOCAL AUTUMN 2021

M èA èG èA èZ èI èN èE

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FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

quizzes, Helping you to enjoysocial life afternoons & reminiscences.

- Our homeMinibus is YOUR home - various outings, theatre etc.

Bankfield House is • • Visiting entertainers. care home. Situate • P. A.T. dog visits.

Bankfield House isen-suite an independent, privately owned • Premium shower rooms.

Visiti care home.

Situated in a quiet corner of Woodley.

• Single & twin rooms.

Activ • 3 lounges.

• 2 dining rooms. quizz • Large conservatory.

• Landscaped gardens.

• Raised gardens for residents participation.Minib • Ponds and Barbecue.

Visiti • Mouth-watering meals prepared by our P. A.T own expert chef.

B Helping you to enjoy life - Our home is YOUR home Prem Bankfield House Care Home, Bankfield Road, Woodley, Stockport, Cheshire SK6 1RQ. Tel: 0161 406 6468. e-mail:admin@bankfieldcare.co.uk Singl 3 loun 2 dini Large Lands Raise Ponds Bankfield House Care Home, Bankfield Road, Woodley, Stockport, Cheshire SK6 1RQ. Tel: 0161 406 6468 Mout ankfield House is an independent privately owned care home situated in a quiet corner of Woodley, in the tranquillity of its own attractive landscape gardens consisting of a pond, barbeque and pergola.

Our ethos is to assist our Residents in continuing to live their lives as independently as their specific needs determine by providing holistic care and support conducive to those needs.

We offer dedicated care, providing each individual Resident with security, Dignity and peace of mind in a homely family environment.

Our extensive person-centred activities itinerary is coordinated by our full-time member of staff five days per week.

Activities take place within the care home and in the community through Start Point Coffee Shop, Communiversity, local Churches, Nursery Schools and allotments.

You will also find us on our Facebook page ‘Bankfield Bells Bows’ (which has been invaluable during COVID19) for Families and Friends to connect with their loved ones and interact, remotely in their individual activity.

During the summer months Bankfield House Residents are able to enjoy our gardens, planting herbs and tomatoes etc in the raised garden beds.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

We also hold our annual barbecue, together with bring & buys and raffles to raise money for our resident’s fund, to help purchase theatre tickets and entrance fees on their outings.

• High dependency residential care • Permanent, Short Term, Respite and Day Care • Organised activities by our full time Activities Coordinator • Minibus outings – Theatre, Canal Boat Trips etc • Links to the local community through Start Point Coffee Shop, Communiversity and churches.

• CCTV within the home and grounds.

• Accommodates 30 residents.

• Located in private grounds with landscape gardens, pergola, stone barbeque and pond.

• Hairdresser, chiropodist, ophthalmic and dental services, church services • Resident/Relative Meetings WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU!

Beddard Roofing Ltd Quality Comes As Standard

SPECIALIST ROOFING CONTRACTORS IN STOCKPORT AND THE NORTH WEST Established over 20 years ago, Beddard Roofing Ltd provides an extensive range of professional and efficient roofing services to a diverse range of clients.

When it comes to finding roofers, Stockport based Beddard Roofing Ltd ought to be your company of choice. We have a huge selection of roofing materials to hand, so no matter what your needs are we can help.

TILE, SLATE, AND STONE ROOFING FLAT ROOFING REPAIRS FASCIAS | LOFT CONvERSIONS FLAT TO PITCH CONvERSIONS PLASTIC GuTTERING AND DOWNSPOuTS CHImNEy STACK REPAIRS AND REmOvALS mAINTENANCE PACKAGES Get in touch with our team

T: 0161 427 6338 E: info@beddardroofing.co.uk

SKLOCAL AUTUMN 2021

F èE èA èT èU èR èE èS

Welcome to the Autumn 2021 issue of SK Local.

The world seems to be trying to return to normal, although it is a new normal with so many still working from home and other post pandemic effects such as interruptions to the supply chain of so many goods. Therefore, it makes even more sense to shop locally where you can.

If you would like SK Local to help publicise your club or other organisation’s activities, please get in touch with us at our new email address to submit items for inclusion in our reading sections editor.sklocal@gmail.com.

Stay safe and see you in the New Year.

Thanks for reading this.

CONTENTS In The Garden: Plants For Free............ 10 Word Search: Halloween.................... 14 Recipe: Sweet & Sour Venison Roast...... 18 Kids Fun: Back to School Bogglers......... 20 Cara’s Thoughts: Happiness................ 24 Travel: Belgium............................... 26 Index of Advertisers......................... 33 Local Contact Information: (Pharmacies, Schools, Utilities etc)....... 34 Puzzle Answers............................... 34 Cover image by Sara Lewin Photography: 07909 201 686 or find her on Facebook

WINE | LOCAL ALES | CHEESE | SPECIALITY INGREDIENTS

HAMPERS | FOODIE GIFTS | TAKEAWAY FOOD & DRINKS

22-24 Town Street, Marple Bridge, SK6 5AA 0161 484 5380 22-24 Town St., Marple Bridge, SK6 5AA enquiries@dutsons.co.uk www.dutsons.co.uk 0161 484 5380 enquiries@dutsons.co.uk enquiries@dutsons.co.uk www.dutsons.co.uk

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FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

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Keep This Advert Safe – You Might Not Require Me Today YOU COULD ONE DAY!

e † re rg e f s ar Cha e y 3 ice v r Se

Independent, low maintenance living Discover an inspiring lifestyle With less to worry about, enjoy more time embracing the things you love. Dine with family and friends in our table service restaurant*, pamper yourself in our hairdressing salon* and therapy suite*, entertain family and friends, or take a stroll through the beautiful landscaped gardens.

Spacious 1 & 2

Your time to flourish Find companionship, social occasions and a range of activities on your doorstep to dip into whenever the mood takes you. And, when you want to spend some quiet time, enjoy the privacy of your own beautifully spacious apartment.

Peaceful landscaped

Carefree retirement living With Autumn upon us, the endless list of jobs to be done can appear daunting. Let us take care of the gardening, window cleaning and external maintenance, leaving you time to relax more and worry less.

Book a private tour or request a brochure

Call 0161 509 8635 • Visit adlington.co.uk The Folds, School Brow, Romiley, SK6 3FL *Additional charges apply. †3 years’ free Ser vice and Well - being Charge for new reser vations on selected apar tments at The Folds before 31st October, 2021. See website for details.

bedroom apar tments for sale Patios or balconies to most apar tments gardens On - site parking

Private appointments Monday to Saturday 10am - 5pm.

Flowers and friendship

The Autumn months can fill gardeners with both joy and dread. On the one hand, it’s the perfect time to enjoy planting bulbs, bedding plants, and sowing vegetable seeds. On the other hand, it’s a time for cutting back, sweeping up leaves, clearing gutters and painting fences.

For homeowners at Adlington Retirement Living communities, it’s a time to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Joan and husband Bill recently moved into their new Adlington apartment. Joan, a keen gardener, comments: “We don’t have any worries. I have an apartment with a lovely garden in front of it which the gardener comes and manages but I can put my little cyclamen bulbs in. When our friends are still digging away and the weeds are still growing, we’ve got our Josh who comes and takes up all the weeds or blows the leaves away. That’s brilliant!”

Margaret, who is a member of the gardening club, said: “I have always enjoyed gardening, but my previous garden became too much for me. Now I have a small plot on the raised beds which I can manage easily. This gives me an interest, some exercise and gets me outside meeting other like-minded people, and of course we enjoy the end product such as peas, carrots, potatoes and beetroot.”

Come and see for yourself Apartment tours are now available at The Folds in Romiley, our marketing suite is open open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm and we would be delighted to show you round.

Call 0161 509 8635 or visit adlington.co.uk to request a brochure or book a tour.

Hi! I’m Sara Lewin, “The friend with the camera” that’s me! In my element behind a lens, watching life go by, capturing magical moments Simply put, I have always been hugely passionate about capturing the joy of life through photography and live by the notion that great snapshots stop moments running away forever.

I am based in Marple Bridge and offer unique family, event and commercial photography.

After several years working in marketing arrived the natural pause in my career that came with raising young children, which also allowed time for me to truly contemplate what I wanted to do with my time. I found recording my children’s adventures reignited my passion for photography and this, together with invaluable support from family and friends, encouraged the launch of my photography business in May 2020. I can now help others to save and savour their own special memories and moments.

The majority of my work is held outdoors, one of my favourite places to be! I relish the opportunity to bring the natural surroundings in to my images and feel my clients, especially children and pets, are more at ease in that environment, making for candid images. My love for the outdoors and being a keen runner, in particular, has aided my business greatly. In fact, it is often on runs and walks with my family that I discover some of the best, untouched locations for my photo sessions!

Autumn is my absolute favourite season for photography! The vast array of colour makes for such wonderful images. We are so lucky to be surrounded locally by such fantastic scenery.

I am currently offering Autumn and Winter Family and Pet photo sessions, which will run at various points across the seasons. I also offer gift vouchers for use all year round and these can be perfect for birthdays, Christmas, leaving gifts, christenings and so much more. Please see my Facebook page for the details of my session packages and prices.

Time passes, moments and memories fade but a photograph never forgets. I would love to help you savour a few of those precious moments. @saralewinphoto

07909 201 686 saralewinphotography@gmail.com

saralewin photography

BEFORE

AFTER

Domestic & Commercial Softwash & Jetwash Exterior Cleaning We can CLEAN & RESTORE The following:

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BEFORE

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• BRICK & BLOCK PAVING • FENCING & DECKING • TARMAC & CONCRETE • CANOPIES & SHELTERS • PLASTIC, WOOD & METAL STONE • NATURAL & INDIAN STONE

Contact us for a FREE no obligation quotation Kevin 07831 115770 LETS GET SOCIAL, YOU CAN FOLLOW US AT:

Andy 07534 353915 cheshireproclean

cheshire_ proclean

To be in SKLOCAL - Jayne Cross 07968 983 129 / jayne.sklocal@gmail.com

9 9

SKLOCAL AUTUMN 2021

I èN T èH èE G èA èR èD èE èN

Photo: © Elena Elisseeva | Dreamstime.com

PLANTS FOR FREE

C

uttings are a quick way to produce new plants and most species can be reproduced in this manner. Now is the best time to take cuttings of half-hardy perennials, herbs, lavender, alpines, roses, pelargoniums, fuchsias and even some houseplants.

You need very little equipment; sharp scissors, cutters or secateurs, some pots and compost. You can buy special compost from your garden centre or use a fresh mix of multi-purpose compost and grit or sharp sand. Many people use rooting powder to help protect the cut stem from disease and fungal infection.

As a rule, taking stem cuttings from most plants uses the following technique.

Select healthy shoots with no flowers, fruit or seedheads from this year’s growth. Cut the stem from the plant just above a leaf joint and then prepare a 7 to 10cm cutting by making a straight cut below a leaf joint (this is where the new roots originate).

Remove all leaves except for two or three at the top to allow for photosynthesis. Dip the rooting end into hormone powder and gently tap off any excess.

Push each stalk into a pot full of damp compost, making sure the leaf joint is fully covered with soil. The compost should be kept just slightly moist to encourage roots to grow in search of water. Put the pot in a warm place away from direct sunlight.

To conserve moisture, place a clear plastic bag over the pot, ensuring it doesn’t touch the plants by fabricating a frame out of wire or thin sticks. If this isn’t practical, spray your cuttings regularly to increase humidity without making the compost too wet thus encouraging rot.

10

In around a month, once your new plants have rooted and begun to grow, remove the plastic bag and gradually harden them off to accustom them to reduced humidity. Pot them up into larger pots and allow them to establish a strong root system before moving them into the garden.

Roses are even simpler to propagate.

Take a 30cm long stem, prepare as before, remove the soft growing tip just above a leaf joint and bury half the stem’s length directly into your garden. Some people create a special ‘nursery’ area of their garden for this as it will take about a year for the new rose to develop.

Collecting seeds was a favourite ‘job’ of many as a child, whether mother wanted them or not! Collecting poppy seeds, emptying the ‘pepper pot’ seedheads into a hand and then scattering them all over the garden. This random method works well and results in many poppies in the garden.

Seeds can be harvested and stored to either sow next year or pass on to fellow gardeners. All you need is a pair of scissors, envelopes, a pen for labelling and some space to sort and dry them.

Always collect your seeds when the weather is dry. Snip the matured seedheads off and pop them into paper bags or envelopes, label, and leave them in a dry, airy place for a few days to dry out. Once they are fully dried you can rummage through the seed pods to separate the individual seeds – sheets of newspaper and a toothpick are useful for this job. Store the seeds in clearly labelled envelopes placed in an airtight container and keep somewhere cool and dry. The main thing is not to allow the seeds to become damp.

These successful and economical methods of propagating plants are very effective as you only need one specimen to start with and can very soon have many more.

FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

U

ARBOR IC

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With over 20 years experience in the arboricultural industry Find

us on R Felling: Sectional Felling, Delicate Lowering R Rigging Specialist Tree Craning R Tree Craning R Crown: Reductions, Balancing, Thinning, Lifting R Stump Grinding R Tree Planting R Hedge Work

www.treetopsofcheshire.co.uk

Call: 07895 608 377 or 0161 485 7808 We work both domestically and commercially.

Our workforce is fully insured and qualified.

Treetops of Cheshire - Spring 21.indd 1

11/04/2021 20:24:03

GET YOUR GARDEN READY FOR THE AUTUMN!

To be in SKLOCAL - Jayne Cross 07968 983 129 / jayne.sklocal@gmail.com

11 11

Moor | AdverToriAl

| AdverToriAl | AdverToriAl MoorMoor At AtThe TheStair StairShop, Shop,we we At The Stair Shop, we believe believe that thatwell-designed well-designed At The Stair Shop, we believe well-designed At that The Stair Shop, we stairs stairscan can change change the thelook look believe that well-designed stairs can change the look believe that well-designed of ofyour your house, house, giving giving aa stairs can change theititlook ofstairs your house, giving it a can change the look totally totally new dimension. dimension. of yournew house, giving it a totally new dimension. of your house, giving it a At The Stair Shop, we At The Stair Shop, we And And because because we we offer offer totally new dimension.

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Ifcreate it’ssomething staircase you’re looking for, The S into thea stairs of your dreams. contemporary wood andstyles glass styles into the stairs of your dreams. contemporary wood and glass can create something very special, just for you. office@stairshop.co.uk office@stairshop.co.uk can create something very special, just office@stairshop.co.uk office@stairshop.co.uk Chamart ChamartHouse, House,Haigh HaighAvenue, Avenue, Chamart House, Haigh Avenue, Whitehill Whitehill Industrial Industrial Estate, Estate, Chamart House, Haigh Avenue, If it’s a staircase you’re looking The Stair Shop 0161 477or8077 or 0161 477 8067 Whitehill Industrial Estate, If it’s a staircase you’re looking for, Thefor, Stair Shop 0161 477 8077 0161 477 8067 Reddish, Reddish,SK4 SK4 1NU 1NU Estate, Whitehill Industrial can create something very special, just for you.

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13 13

SKLOCAL AUTUMN 2021

W èO èR èD S èE èA èR èC èH

Halloween Wordsearch: Find all the Halloween words in the grid and find out something you should be very scared of on the 31st October.

Afraid Bat Black Cat Broomstick Cauldron Cloak Cobweb Coffin Curse Dracula Fear Fright Ghost Grave Hag Haunted Lantern Pumpkin

Scream Skeleton Skull Spell Spider Spooky Toad Treat Trick Vampire Witch

Solution - Page 34

Private and Commercial Scaffolding Services - Est. 2005 Based at Compstall Mill, Andrew Street, Compstall

Call: 07504 619 281 14

FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

Luxury self-catering accommodation and SPA for a peaceful retreat away from busy lives

Fully Equipped Cottages with WIFI | Beauty Room & SPA Welcome Pack Included | Horse Riding Lessons/Hacks Perfect for family & friends visiting Marple www.magpiecottages.co.uk

Tel: 07718 341 193

To be in SKLOCAL - Jayne Cross 07968 983 129 / jayne.sklocal@gmail.com

15 15

experience

MARTIN QUINN Plumbing

(Est. 1983)

. QUALITY . LOCAL . . FRIENDLY . SAFE . . OUTDOOR . ARTISAN .

BRAMHALL Christmas Markets

6 November, 4 December Saturdays 10am-3pm

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T PRICES

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MARPLE BRIDGE Christmas Market Saturday

27 November 10am-2pm

Windsor Castle, 1 Glossop Rd, SK

6 5EQ

workerbeemarkets.wordpress.com Coming Soon: Worker Bee Artisan Awards sponsored by Snapes Estate Agents

CARPETS & FLOORING

BY JPG

SK Local - Martin Quinn - Jan 2020.indd 1

19/01/2020 11:31:19

New HIGH LANE 10 years Showroom - Opens experience www.jpgflooring.com Monday 11th October

QUALITY “I’m very FLOORING excited to AT GREAT PRICES open the doors of our new shop,VINYL after the • LUXURY TILES of work that’s • amount LAMINATE gone into making it • CARPETS look great!

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Showroom: Redmoor Mill,inBuxton Rd,New Mills, SK22Cross 3JT 07968 983 129 / jayne.sklocal@gmail.com To be SKLOCAL - Jayne (Appointment only - Call or email to book)

K 16 16

Family run business established in 1976

Tel: 0161 427 5813 Email: info@northcheshireforestry.com Web: www.northcheshireforestry.com

SKLOCAL AUTUMN 2021

R èEèC èI èP èE Pumpkin Shortbread Sweet and Sour Venison Roast 1. Melt fat in pan and brown the venison all over.

2. Put all the other ingredients into a saucepan and boil for 10 minutes, stirring so that they don’t burn.

1.5kg (3lb) Haunch, Saddle or Shoulder of Venison A little fat for browning the meat 60g (2oz) butter 150ml (¼ pt) slightly diluted Tomato Purée 1 dsp Brown sugar 1 tsp Salt and Ground Pepper 2 Tbsp Vinegar 2 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce 1 tsp French mustard Pinch Mixed Spice 1 Sliced orange 1 Medium onion thinly sliced

3. Place the meat into an open roasting tin and pour the sauce over the top.

4. Cover the meat and cook in a medium oven, 180°C, Gas mark 4, or 350°F. Baste your roast frequently and turn your meat occasionally.

5. Your finished joint will have a thoroughly sticky brown coating.

6. Serve with your choice of vegetable accompaniments and bread.

NIXONS FAR M S H O P

ESTABLISHED 1930

The best beef, lamb and pork since 1930!

Nixons has everything you need, from a single chop to a banquet for guests.

Why not visit our tea room? With 3 play areas there’s lots for the little ones!

Keep checking our website for regular special offers.

• Beef • Lamb NOW TAKING • Poultry CHRISTMAS • Burgers ORDERS • Sausages • Fish £15 • Pies DEPOSIT • Produce • Pet Food

NIXONS FARM SHOP 0161-437-4801 Outwood Farm, Bolshaw Road, Heald Green,Cheadle, Cheshire SK8 3PS www.nixonsfarmshop.co.uk / email: julieegglestone@googlemail.com 18

FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

THE DEVONSHIRE ARMS Mellor

Lynn, Sam and the Team extend a warm welcome back to The Devonshire Arms at Mellor.

We are now fully open, offering a full menu.

Sunday Lunch is back and available all day - £12.95.

Booking Advisable.We look forward to seeing you again soon.

Jazz nights return - 3rd Wednesday of each month.

For further information please see our website or Facebook page - Devonshire Arms Mellor.

307 Longhurst Lane, Mellor, SK6 5PP. 0161 427 2563.

Opening Times: Monday-Saturday: 12.00pm-11.00pm, Sunday: 12.00pm-10.30pm www.devonshirearmsmellor.co.uk / E-mail:devonshirearms@inglenookinns.co.uk

Baker & Ferns BUILDING

SERVICES

All Aspects of Brickwork & Building Work Extensions (with plans drawn) Renovations Knock-Throughs Garden Walls Patios & Paving

SK Local - Devonshire Arms - Spring 2021.indd 1

23/09/2021 16:06:13

Contact us to discuss your requirements Tom: 07955 650 856 or Jon: 07920 145 878 56 Barrack Hill, Romiley, SK6 3BA

To be in SKLOCAL - Jayne Cross 07968 983 129 / jayne.sklocal@gmail.com

19 19

SKL LOCAL

AUTUMN 2021

Answers Page 34

GEEstar Glass Ltd “A family run business” • U-PVC windows • Composite Doors • Conservatories • Bi-Fold Doors • Gutters • Facias and Soffits

Call for a free no obligation quotation on Telephone: 0161 430 5302 Mobile: 07854 274459 13 Westfield Drive, Woodley, Stockport SK6 1LD

The Treehouse Before & After School Club Hollins Wood Childcare, Marple Bridge Open 7.15am – 6pm Quality care for primary aged children Breakfast and snacks provided Drop off & pick up from Mellor, Ludworth and St Mary’s Holiday Club also available during school holidays OFSTED registered enquiries@hollinswoodchildcare.co.uk 0161 449 8800 To be in SKLOCAL - Jayne Cross 07968 983 129 / jayne.sklocal@gmail.com

21 21

CUNDIFF’S

A family in glass for over a century

COMPOSITE DOORS Traditional & contemporary designs

’S

entury

OORS

Windows ● Bi-folding doors ● Conservatories

330 3007 0161 430 3824 Unit 2 Alma Works, Cavendish Street, Ashton-under-Lyne OL6 7QL

GMC Home Solutions Ltd A friendly, award winning local company covering all of Stockport We offer a wide range of home maintenance and improvement solutions.

From small repairs and replacement of glass units to full house extensions, and everything in between.

● ● ● ● ● ●

Resin driveways & landscaping Extensions Full house refurbishments refurbishment Flat Roofs & Re-roofs Conservatory roof replacement Windows, doors & patio doors in upvc, aluminium & timber ● Replacement of failed, sealed window units ● Kitchens, bedrooms & bathrooms

All work is carried out by fully experienced and approved tradespeople.

All contracts are completely project managed and inspected.

Guarantee included.

Please contact us on 0161 818 6988 or directly on 07989 470 234 IF YOU’RE THINKING ABOUT TREES TALK TO LAKESIDE TREE CARE We offer tree services such as: Tree Felling/Removal Stump Grinding/Removal Tree Reductions Hedge work Commercial site work & projects FREE ADVICE AND NONOBLIGATIONAL QUOTATIONS

GMC Home Solutions Mar 21.indd 1

Call Nathan on Mob 07725 887 630

22/03/2021 16:06:15

Landline 0161 879 4387 Email: nsherratt@lakesidetreecare.co.uk www.treecarestockport.co.uk Marple, Stockport

To be in SKLOCAL - Jayne Cross 07968 983 129 / jayne.sklocal@gmail.com

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SKLOCAL AUTUMN 2021

CèAèRèAè'S TèHèOèUèGèHèTèS

HAPPINESS

Cara Jasmine Bradley is a creative writer, published author and active blogger. Here she shares her own personal sources of brightness to deal with life’s tougher moments Happiness: what does it mean to you?

Everybody’s perception of happiness is totally different, and it changes constantly depending on different stages in our lives.

For example, when I was 11, delirious utopia would have been ultimately defined by a Woolworth’s Pick ‘n’ Mix and possibly a new Furby.

When I hit my teens, one of the only things that had the ability to snap me out of my trademark, sparkly-lipped pout was Edin Dzeko, who I was convinced I was going to marry...

While living abroad in my early 20’s, my taste in bliss started to mature, and I relished in simply spending my siestas chasing the waves up and down the beach, marvelling at the indescribable freedom it blessed me with.

It’s no secret, because of the pandemic, that we have all been deprived of our freedom and many of the things that mean the most to us, from family members to annual vacations. In the face of much melancholy, we have all had to make an extra effort to grab passing wisps of happiness and treasure them.

One benefit of this, I believe, is that we have truly learned the sacred art of appreciating the little things.

It’s within our human nature to always look forward to the ‘next big thing’ on our agendas, be it the easing of lockdown, the purchasing of a new car, and even the arrival of the impending summer holidays as a child.

Sure, those bigger things have the ability to make us smile, but why should happiness be reserved for Christmas, that holiday in Mexico, and our huge night out in town with friends?

Happiness needn’t be something that we wish the seemingly ordinary hours away in favour of.

What if we really took the time to fill those long hours in-between the greater events with lots of little bits of additional happiness?

During lockdown, I devised a ‘happiness journal,’ whereby I wrote a lengthy list of all of the small things that made me feel content and grateful.

I made it my mission to ensure that at least one 24

of my happy factors made an appearance every day, no matter how diminutive.

It really helped to put things into perspective and soothe my worries on the days that anorexia rampaged through my mind.

With life now returning to normal, I still find the time to flick through the pages when I’m feeling low to see if I can incorporate as many slices of happiness into my days as possible.

Since starting my ‘happiness journal,’ I have found that my entire mindset has altered, even on the most testing of days.

Looking for the joy amongst the seemingly ordinary blur of life’s lulls has the rich ability to improve your wellbeing. It also has a clever way of subtly encouraging us to slow down and really take a good look around us. We should all strive to collect as many of life’s unassumingly beautiful moments that often go unnoticed.

My Top 10 Little Staples of Happiness: • Getting cosy on the sofa, watching Harry Potter, while it pours down outside • Lighting my scented candles and oil burners • Buying my favourite chocolate bar as a treat (Got to be a Boost!)

• Listening to upbeat songs as loudly as my speakers will allow and crazily dancing around my living room (The song that never fails to make me grin my socks off? Dancing in the Moonlight

by Toploader) • Stroking dogs • Wearing my favourite outfit to work • Filling my house with fresh flowers from the garden • Making pizzas from scratch with my husband • Laughing (and cringing!) with my girls over old high school and college memories • A good heart to heart with my Mum Have a go at writing your own! The most elating realisation in this exercise is that once you get started, you will find that you get inadvertently swept up in a new-found gratitude for the modest bursts of elation that make up the wonderful spectrum of our lives. #Read more of Cara’s writing at: carajasminebradley.com

FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

ESTATE AGENCY, DONE DIFFERENTLY Selling homes in Marple Bridge, Marple and the surrounding areas.

SCAN FOR INSTANT VALUATION ESTIMATE

With a personal and friendly approach, Nikki can offer expertise, support and guidance throughout your home moving journey.

Call Nikki today on 07770 976137 to arrange a free consultation and market appraisal of your property.

After almost 20 years working in the property industry, I established my own estate agency in 2021 to offer an independent alternative to high street and online agencies, providing a much more personalised experience when selling your house.

I know that selling their home is both a big and emotional decision. By understanding your own needs, I can use my expertise at every step of the process. My clients know they are truly valued, and are not just a number. What’s more, this level of service costs no more than selling with a high street agent. As the business owner I’m personally invested and will do all I can to help achieve a successful sale.

Great marketing is absolutely key to selling a property and every listing needs professional standard photographs, a video tour and a clear floor plan, all of which I provide. Having this information upfront not only draws a buyer’s attention, it also attracts only people actually interested in your type of property.

As part of the global network of independent agents operating under the eXp brand, my listings are featured on the major portals including Rightmove and Zoopla as well as my own website.

Here are some of my best pieces of advice for selling your house effectively: + Put your house on the market before you find your next property. + Understand that it can take on average 12 - 16 weeks from when an offer is accepted to moving day. + Get three separate agent valuations before putting your house on the market. + Think carefully, don’t just choose the agent that offers the highest valuation, you should ensure the valuation is realistic. Ask for evidence of other local properties selling for similar prices. + Remember the agent acts for you, the seller, and wants to get you the best price possible. + When things get stressful, speak to your agent and solicitor so they can put you in the picture. + Be kind to your agent - we’re pretty nice people, we can offer great advice and we want to help to get you moved!

Get in touch with Nikki today on 07770 976137 to arrange a free consultation and market appraisal of your property.

SKLOCAL

T èR èA èV èE èL

AUTUMN 2021

Belgium. It’s one of our closest countries and well known. However, instead of the usual places such as Brussels, Bruges and Ostend here are a few less well known locations.

Waterloo

Y

Photo: 123217355 © Milosk50 | Dreamstime.com

es, Waterloo, the place where Napoleon was defeated in the famous battle. Thanks to Abba a lot more of us know the basic story

Today, the countryside where the battle once roared is a rural landscape of agricultural fields. An artificial hill rises up from the surrounding flatlands with a memorial lion sculpture atop the summit to commemorate the day when Napoleon’s army was finally stopped.

From the top, there are excellent views across the countryside. Also at the top are very good explanation and interpretation boards, and the height helps you to appreciate the events that occurred on the battlefields below. There is also a fascinating underground museum that opened in 2015. For anyone interested in the history of Belgium and of greater Europe, Waterloo remains an important stop on the itinerary.

Meuse Valley This valley, south of Brussels, is one of the best places to get a feel for Belgium’s rural heartland.

The Meuse River offers Belgium’s most scenic river trip opportunities, with dense forest countryside interspersed with hilltop craggy castle and fortress ruins, and little waterfront towns backed by limestone cliffs.

Head to either the towns of Namur or Dinant to plan your river trip. Both these small centres act as gateways to this region.

The Meuse Valley is also home to a host of hiking and cycling trails for travellers who want to add some physical activity into their holiday.

Semois Valley A nature-lover’s delight, the Semois Valley provides a needed dose of lush countryside after all that historic rambling through Belgium’s cities and towns.

Here, in the southern corner of the country, the winding Semois River cuts through farmland overlooked by gently undulating forest-clad hills. It’s Belgium’s prime hiking territory and a good place for riverboat trips following the sinuous curves of the river.

Villages such as Membre, Laforet, and Alle offer good accommodation options, from mid-range guesthouses to camping within the region.

To see the valley at its prettiest come in spring when the wildflowers bloom.

GE Garage Doors is a family run business with more than 30 years experience specialising in the installation of new garage doors, entrance doors, garage door automation and garage door servicing.

DOORS AUTOMATION REPAIRS TEL: 0161 426 0099 www.GEdoors.co.uk

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FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

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Make your will in the comfort of your own home or come to our office.

Why not book your appointment today and be one step closer to peace of mind.

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0161-791-1350 | info@harrattslegalservices.co.uk | www.harrattslegalservices.co.uk 27

FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

Counselling & Psychological Therapy Support

TRAUMA SPECIALIST Rehabilitation and Mental Health care 07786 196 734

MARPLE BRIDGE ROOFING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE • • • • • • • • • •

STONE - SLATE - TILES LEAD WORK FLAT ROOFS PITCH ROOF CONVERSIONS FASCIAS GUTTERING VELUX WINDOWS SUPPLIED AND FITTED LOFT CONVERSIONS CHIMNEY WORK GENERAL REPAIRS

T : 0161 612 7979 M : 07769 950 598

MARPLEBRIDGEROOFING@GMAIL.COM 43 Compstall Road, Marple Bridge, SK6 5HG

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FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

Northwest & Cheshire Prestigious Developments & Private Commissions

Providing the highest quality for all building projects.

From new build houses to all aspects of landscaping including driveways, patios and drainage.

Whatever your project size Birchvale Construction are the perfect choice.

email us:birchvaleconstruction@gmail.com

Call: 07792 667 407

dd 1

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FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

Memories Funerals We are a friendly, independent, family run Funeral Director with over 10 years experience serving all areas of Stockport and Greater Manchester. We believe that saying goodbye to a loved one should not be a financial burden, but we also believe that the quality and dignity of service should not be compromised.

We offer a range of choices Our typical cost for a traditional style cremation service with a limousine is : £2656.00 Our typical cost for a traditional motorbike cremation service is: £2806.00

Our typical cost for a traditional horse drawn cremation service is: £3531.00

Offerton 221 Hall Street Offerton SK1 4JG

Call us on 0161 302 9753 Romiley Or visit: 25 Compstall Road www.memoriesfuneralservice.com Romiley SK6 4BT info@memoriesfuneralservice.com

John Lewis

FOR ALL OF YOUR PLUMBING & HEATING SUPPLIES

Taps & Basinware, Plumbing, Bathrooms, Radiators, Boilers

Tel: 0161 449 9215 Fax: 0161 426 0158 John Lewis Plumbing and Heating Supplies Ltd Unit 15, Chadkirk Business Park, Vale Road, Romiley, SK6 3NE Open: Mon - Thu 7am - 5:30pm, Fri 5pm, Sat 8am - 1pm

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FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

SKLOCAL D èI èR èE èC èT èO èR èY AUTUMN 2021

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Childcare: Treehouse Out of School Club..... 21 Clothing, Crafts & Gifts: Assemblee.................................... 30 Worker Bee Markets.................... 16 Estate Agent: Nikki Davies................................ 25 Firewood & Fuel: Glossop Firewood........................ 32 Food, Produce & Pubs: The Devonshire Arms.................. 19 Dutsons Delicatessen......................4 Nixons Farm Shop....................... 18 The Spring Gardens......................15 Funeral Services: Brian Sharples & Son Ltd............ 35 Memories Funerals....................... 31 Garden Services: Bankswood Treecare.................... 13 Lakeside Tree Care...................... 23 North Cheshire Forestry............... 17 Steve James Gardener.................. 11 Treetops of Cheshire.................... 11 Health & Beauty: April Pascale Mobile Beauty....... 16 Mode Rehabilitation..................... 28 Trauma Counselling & Therapy... 29 Home & Property Services: Baker & Ferns Building Svce...... 19 Beddard Roofing Ltd ..................... 3 Birchvale Construction................ 30 Cheshire Pro Clean........................ 9

Home & Property Services: Cont’d Cundiff’s Composite Doors ......... 22 GE Garage Doors......................... 26 GEEstar Glass Ltd........................ 21 GMC Home Solutions Ltd........... 23 John Lewis Plumbing Supplies.... 32 JPG Flooring................................ 16 Marple Bridge Fixit........................ 9 Marple Bridge Roofing................ 29 Martin Quinn Plumbing............... 16 Quality Cleaning Services.............. 5 The Stair Shop.............................. 12 TC Gutter Clean .......................... 13

Look out for the New Year 2022 Issue

SKLOCAL NEW YEAR 2022

M èA èG èA èZ èI èN èE

Photography Services: Sara Lewin Photography................ 8 Printing Services: DXG Printers............................... 33 Retirement Properties: Adlington Retirement Living.. 6 & 7 Scaffolding Services: Manchester Scaffolding................14

Image By

Self-Catering Accommodation: Magpie Cottages...........................15

FOR THE BEST IN BUSINESS, LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE SK Local Covers From Summer 2020.indd 12

Senior & Vulnerable Care: Bankfield House..............................2 Skip Hire: MD Waste Management Ltd.... Back

27/09/2021 22:54:46

To be in SKLOCAL:

Jayne 07968 983 129 jayne.sklocal@gmail.com

Solicitors: Harratts Legal Services................ 27 Taxi Services: ASAPPcars................................... 27

ctrl Print. Sorted. Beautifully. dxgmedia.com 0161 330 8500 adrian@dxgmedia.com

Disclaimer: No responsibility is accepted by SK Local for any loss incurred or complaint arising from the use of a business or service appearing in this publication. Any claim of legitimacy or award declared by any individual or business has been accepted in good faith and has not been substantiated. Users of any service appearing in this publication are advised to completely satisfy themselves as to the authenticity and abilities of the service provider.

To be in SKLOCAL - Jayne Cross 07968 983 129 / jayne.sklocal@gmail.com

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SKLOCAL D èI èR èE èC èT èO èR èY AUTUMN 2021

LOCAL Information Emergency Emergency ................................................................999 Emergency from any mobile phone ....................... 112 Police non emergency...............................................101 Electricity Power Cut ..............................................105 enwl.co.uk Gas Leaks ................................................. 0800-111-999 Water Leaks (United Utilities)................0800-330-033 unitedutilities.com Samritans Stockport .........................................116 123 samaritans.org/branches/stockport

Education All Saints Primary, Marple.................. .0161-427-3008 marpleschool.org.uk Aquinas 6th Form ................................ . 0161-483-3237 aquinas.ac.uk Brabyns Preparatory School ............... . 0161-427-2395 brabynsprepschool.co.uk Marple 6th Form .................................. . 0161-484-6600 marple.cmcnet.ac.uk

Medical NHS ........................................................................... 111 nhs.co.uk Stepping Hill Hospital ..........................0161-483-1010 Hazel Grove, SK2 7JE stockport.nhs.uk Doctors Chadsfield...............................................0161-426-9388 chadsfieldmedicalpractice.co.uk Guywood ................................................0161-426-5242 Both at Romiley Health Centre, SK6 4QR Marple Bridge .......................................0161-427-2049 marplebridgesurgery.nhs.uk Marple Cottage ..................................... 0161-426-0011 marplecottage.co.uk Marple Medical .....................................0161-983-5375 marplemedicalpractice.nhs.uk

Greave, Primary.................................... .0161-430-6318 greave.stockport.sch.uk Harrytown Catholic High .................... . 0161-420-5277 harrytownschool.org Ludworth Primary, M Bridge ............. . 0161-427-1446 ludworth.org.uk Marple Hall Secondary ........................ . 0161-427-7966 marplehall.stockport.sch.uk Mellor Primary ..................................... .0161-427-1052 mellor.stockport.sch.uk Romiley Primary .................................. . 0161-430-3101 romileyprimary.com Rose Hill Primary, Marple .................. .0161-427-9168 rosehill.stockport.sch.uk

Late Opening Pharmacy Medichem, Woodley ............................. 0161-406-6060 Woodley Precinct, SK6 1RJ Mon - Sat: 8am - 11:30pm. Sun: 10am-5:30pm

St. Christopher’s Primary, Romiley.... .0161-430-4473 st-christophers.stockport.sch.uk St. Mary’s Primary, Marple Bridge.... .0161-427-7498 st-marys-marplebridge.stockport.sch.uk Werneth High, Romiley........................ 0161-494-1222

Local Services Stockport MB Council ......................... 0161-480-4949 Stockport.gov.uk

wernethschool.com

Kids Fun Page Answers

Bogglers Maths Answers: Travel Local Public Transport Journeys ....... 0871-200-2233 tfgm.com National Journey Planning ....................traveline.info Manchester Airport.............................. 0800-042-0213 manchesterairport.co.uk Live Road Traffic Reports ........................... theaa.com

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38 55

Riddle: A Horse

Word Search Solution: Things that go bump in the night

To be in SKLOCAL - Jayne Cross 07968 983 129 / jayne.sklocal@gmail.com

2 Yard Skip 2 Yard Skip £90 +++VAT VAT £100 VAT £90

4 Yard Skip 4 Yard Skip

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8 Yard Skip 8 Yard Skip

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Looking After After Your Your Tomorrow Tomorrow Looking 0161 523 523 0122 0122 0161

10 Yard Skip 10 Yard Skip

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