Rochdale Style Magazine - spring/summer 2024

SPRING/SUMMER 2024 issue 72

ROCHDALE

FREE

Rochdale's

happy news

magazine OPENS AT CHAMPNESS HALL THIS SPRING!

WHAT'S ON ACROSS THE BOROUGH

Celebrating 20 years of Rochdale Style Magazine

ROCHDALE TOWN CENTRE FOOD, DRINK & LIVE MUSIC GUIDE

INSIDE ROCHDALE TOWN HALL 'OUR GRACIE' & HER LOVE FOR ROCHDALE FEEL GOOD FAMILY EVENTS RETURN

NEWS - RETAIL - EVENTS - THE ARTS - HISTORY - FOOD - COMMUNITY

s be dr oo m

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HIDDEN HERITAGE STORIES

contents

Discover more about the fascinating history of our amazing town centre buildings & plac

The Old Clock Face Hotel, Lord Street & Toad Lane

spring/summer 2024 - issue 72

4

8

12

28 In 1898 the Crown Brewing Company of Bury bought the pub for £6000. At this time the hotel offered its customers a bar, parlour, tap room and smoke room, plus a billiard room, two commercial rooms and numerous bedrooms.

Poet Edwin Waugh, famous for his tales and poems written in Lancashire Dialect was born

36

41

in a back to back cottage on the site of the Ol Clock Face on January 29, 1817, so it is fitting the Edwin Waugh Dialect Society met at the pub for many years.

The pub closed its doors on September 9, 197 and demolished to make way for the Exchange Shopping Centre.

48 47

46

2

WELCOME A message from Style’s Editor

18

WHERE WE GOING MUMMY? Junior parkruns across the borough

41

ROYAL ACHIEVEMENT Hopwood Hall visit Buckingham Palace

3

WHAT'S OCCURRIN'?

Black Dyke band town hall concerts

19

FAMILY DAYS OUT Exploring Rochdale Town Hall

41

BURNHAM'S BIG VISIT Mayor meets top apprentices

4

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Champness Hall welcomes Disney musical

23-24

WHAT'S ON IN THE ARTS Art, music, theatre & poetry

46

FESTIVAL OF IDEAS Review of popular new event

7

20 YEARS OF HAPPY NEWS Celebrating 20 years of Rochdale Style

26

COMMUNITY Local care company goes the extra mile

47

PEREGRINE FALCONS Rochdale's feathered friends return

8-9

ROCHDALE TOWN CENTRE Food, drink & live music guide

28-29

HIDDEN HERITAGE Rochdale Town Centre history

47

MUSLIM HIKERS Exploring Rochdale beauty spots

12-14

OUR GRACIE Her love for Rochdale

32-33

GOOD FOOD & DRINK GUIDE Discover local pubs, bars & eateries

48

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Spring/summer events

16-17

STREET EAT Food & drink festival returns

36-37

IN THE FRAME Rochdale Town Hall

the style team...

Jackie Meredith Photography

Emma Fitton Beauty

Matt Parkinson Sport

Steve Cooke The Arts

Colin Meredith Distribution

Ruth Parkinson Editor & Director ruth@rochdalestyle.com Sebastian Lassandro Guest Writer & Gracie Fields Biographer

Richard Lysons History

Kath Meredith Distribution

Catherine Aspinall Leisure

Lucy Fieldhouse Community

Cover: Belle (Emma Konnanov) from RMTC's production of Beauty & the Beast Photographer: Jackie Meredith

TO CONTACT STYLE CALL: 07776 434 526 OR EMAIL: info@rochdalestyle.com All rights reserved. The contents of this magazine are protected and may not be reproduced without written permission. The editor does not accept liability for statements made or opinions expressed in this publication.

While every care is taken to ensure information is correct at time of print, details are subject to change and the editor takes no responsibility for omissions or errors.

Rochdale Style | 1

welcome...

Dear Readers,

Welcome to our spring/summer edition, This issue is packed with happy news, events and inspirational stories from across the borough.

We're excited to have Belle (Emma Konnanov) on our cover, from Rochdale Musical Theatre Company's latest production of Beauty & the Beast, The Broadway Musical.

Spring has sprung by Phill Connell

We're proud to sponsor this fantastic musical which will be staged at the iconic Champness Hall from 10th-18th May... get your seats booked for what is set to be another unforgettable show.

Gracie Fields biographer and archivist, Sebastian Lassandro, shares a 3-page feature on Rochdale's favourite daughter, focusing on her love for the town.

Rochdale mum, Catherine Aspinall, explores the town hall with her family and shares details of junior parkruns across the borough.

Lambing by Mick Brierley

Lucy Fieldhouse discovers the hidden heritage stories in Rochdale Town Centre, while Steve Cooke focuses on art, music and theatre in his latest What's On guide.

There's so much happening across the borough this spring and summer, from artisan markets and food festivals, to music festivals, fun days and family events. Find out all the details in this edition!

We also bring you a guide to food, drink and live music in Rochdale Town Centre plus details of the upcoming Street Eat festival.

Thank you to the photographers from Rochdale & District Camera Club who captured some beautiful images of Rochdale Town Hall.

Rochdale Borough Festival of Ideas coincided with the re-opening of our magnificent town hall in early March

To share pictures and stories just message us on Facebook or Instagram or email features@rochdalestyle.com.

I hope you enjoy this edition!

Ruth Parkinson Editor E: ruth@rochdalestyle.com @rochdalestyle @rochdalestyle @rochdalestyle

Rochdale's happy news magazine - celebrating 20 years of publishing

SUMMER 2021

FREE SPRING/

issue 61

SUE EY

CORON ATION

STREET' S

DEVAN What's On in The Arts LIFE AFTER

LOCKDOWN:

H MENTAL HEALT

GUIDE

Goo d Food & Drink Guide

Rochdale's happy news mag azin e

RHODES WINNER TOM MASTERCHEF AL RECIPES SIMPLE SEASON DAYS OUT LOCAL FAMILY

NEWS - RETAI

2 | Rochdale Style

L - FOOD

- CULTU RE

- WELL NESS

- EVEN TS

- COMM UNITY

REOPENING OF ROCHDALE TOWN HALL MARKED WITH BLACK DYKE BAND CONCERTS Not only did the Black Dyke Mills Band fill the air in the celebratory procession at the opening of Rochdale Town Hall in 1871, but its successors, the current champion band of Great Britain 2023, performed at a pair of concerts to celebrate the reopening of the renovated Town Hall.

With the Great Hall ceilings cleaned and gleaming, the angelic buttresses and soaring rafters, the hundreds of people in the capacity audience were under no doubt that with world class brass, Rochdale is open for business.

The massive power of the Black Dyke Band is undeniable. It is a constellation of stars, with an admirable policy to highlight its many excellent soloists contained within.

Professor Nicholas Childs proved to be a highly skilled conductor and compere. The band’s interpretations of Walton’s Crown Imperial and von Suppe’s Poet and Peasant Overture were magnificent. As indeed was the cornet solo of Richard Marshall followed by the rest of the section in Binge’s Carillon.

The solo flugel horn of Stephanie Binns and euphonium of Adam Bokaris in The Armed Man suite by Jenkins again showed first-class individual merits, before the band was joined by organist Darius Battiwalla once more in Boellmann’s Toccata from Suite Gothique.

However, the band proved itself even greater than the sum of its parts with Elgar’s Nimrod - its soaring climaxes and magical dying away that must be the signature sound of a champion band.

The finale was in full Last Night of the Proms tradition, with audience participation complete with flags, in Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance March No1; rounding off a triumphant night for the musicians, audience, and of course the splendid Town Hall itself.

Dr Joe Dawson

The second half began with a world premiere, commissioned by the council, of a work by Iain Farrington, entitled The New Pioneers. More excellent soloists included Siobhan Bates on tenor horn, a stunning Air Varie on Rule Britannia by Adam Bokaris, and a dazzling xylophone solo by Gareth Hand.

Rochdale Style | 3

BEAUTY AND THE

BEAST THE BROADWAY MUSICAL

Excitement is building for the highly anticipated 'Beauty and the Beast, The Broadway Musical', as Rochdale Musical Theatre Company (RMTC) bring the much-loved disney classic to Rochdale Town Centre this spring!

The company are set to transform the iconic Champness Hall into an enchanted castle - complete with dancing plates, a singing teapot and a squabbling clock and candelabra - for nine spectacular performances, from 10th-18th May. With a talented cast, captivating dance numbers, spectacular costumes and a 10-piece orchestra, this production definitely isn't one to be missed!

Based on the Academy Awardwinning animated feature, the stage version includes all of the beloved songs such as "Be Our Guest", "Belle" and "Beauty & the Beast" by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Mr Menken and Tim Rice.

Beauty and the Beast, The Broadway Musical runs from 10th - 18th May 2024 at Champness Hall, Drake St, Rochdale.

Tickets £16, available at:

rochdalemtc.co.uk Enquiries: 01706 643543

4 | Rochdale Style

Photographer: Jackie Meredith (JMSportPix) Dress designed & made by Philippa Jepson Venue: Rochdale Town Hall

Style Magazine are sponsoring the production, alongside local companies Quirky Catering and Storage World, and recently arranged a photoshoot at Rochdale Town Hall.

Style Editor, Ruth Parkinson said: "We're excited to be sponsoring this fantastic RMTC production that will bring thousands of theatre-goers to the heart of Rochdale.

"With the recent reopening of Rochdale Town Hall we couldn't have asked for a more perfect location for a Disney photoshoot. It's a magnificent building that the town is so lucky to have.

"Thank you to the town hall team for their support and to Emma for appearing on our front cover, looking every bit the Disney princess!"

Talented local performer, Emma Konnanov, explains why the role of Belle is a dream come true: "Beauty and the Beast was the first show I saw live as a child and since then Belle has been my dream role.

Growing up I would constantly dress up as Belle any opportunity I could get and I can’t believe that so many years later I get to again but in my own custom dress! I can’t thank Rochdale MTC's Wardrobe Manager Philippa Jepsen enough for the hours of work she has put into it. I never want to take it off!

"It has been such an incredible experience getting to see all the characters come to life through our extremely talented cast and ensemble

during rehearsals and I can’t wait for everyone to see this enchanting show."

Another well known face on the local amateur theatre circuit is Liam Dodd, who will be stepping into the role of the Beast for the second time. Liam explained:

Directed by Seb Lassandro, with musical direction by Chris Addington and choreography by Nikki Cooke of Legacy Dance Academy, the production will truly showcase the incredible talent we have locally.

Director, Seb Lassandro, commented:

"It’s been 13 years since I first performed in Beauty and the Beast and I’m thrilled to be a part of the magic once again. With an unbelievably talented cast, Rochdale MTC are ready to bring Disney to Champness Hall. I have no doubt our audiences are going to be captivated from start to finish and I can’t wait for them to see this beauty of a show."

"What a treat our audiences are in for!

With such an incredible and talented cast, this 'tale as old as time' will be sure to delight young and old. With recognisable songs and the magic of Disney, it’s such a treat that Rochdale Musical Theatre Company are able to present this very special show - and it’s been an absolute thrill for me to direct. I’m in no doubt that this show is one not to be missed!"

The company's 2024 production follows their hugely successful, award-winning productions of Legally Blonde, The Producers and Grease.

Tickets are selling fast for this spectacular production... book now to experience the magic of Disney, right here in Rochdale!

(Below: The cast and creative team of Beauty & the Beast)

Rochdale Style | 5

R och d al e T own Hall

150 YEARS IN THE MAKING

NOW

OPEN

Step inside and experience the magic of Rochdale Town Hall for the first time ever.

rochdaletownhall.co.uk

ROCHDAL E T OW N H A L L

6 | Rochdale Style

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF ROCHDALE STYLE (& 20 YEARS OF HAPPY NEWS!)

This year marks twenty years of our family-run publication, Rochdale Style Magazine. It all began in 2004 when a group of Rochdale people decided to make a magazine for Rochdale people, with the aim to spread some positivity about our incredible town.

We LOVE Rochdale - it’s wonderful people, community, businesses, and beautiful countryside - and we hope that comes across in every page.

(Left) Issue 1, 2004 (Right) Issue 72, 2024 We'd like to say a huge thank you to the hundreds of local businesses and organisations that have supported us over the years and helped us to keep publishing positive news, even throughout a pandemic!

FREE

WINTER 2022-23 issue 67

Rochdale's

ROCHDALE ACTRESS

happy news

VICTORIA EKANOYE

magazine

COST OF LIVING:

LOOKING AFTER YOUR

MENTAL HEALTH

Thank you to everyone who has contributed stories and photographs over the years; from heartwarming tales of community spirit and inspiring success stories of Rochdale people, to delving into our borough's history and looking ahead as our town continuously evolves, we've loved sharing it all with you.

STREET EAT RETURNS FOR CHRISTMAS

SHOP & DINE LOCAL THIS FESTIVE SEASON

WINTER DAYS OUT & NEW YEAR WALKS

KATYA JONES JOINS MIDDLETON PANTO CHRISTMAS CHARITY APPEALS OUR BEAUTIFUL BOROUGH

NEWS - RETAIL - EVENTS - COMMUNITY - FOOD - CULTURE - WELLNESS

Some of our favourite interviews over the years have included Lisa Stansfield, Keira Walsh, Professor Brian Cox, Sue Devaney, Brian Mcfadden, Anna Friel, Dan Rhodes, all Rochdale born 'n' bred or strongly associated with the borough.

Finally, thank you to YOU, our amazing readers, for your continuous support and for choosing positive news over negative. After twenty years of writing about our borough, we can honestly say, there is so much to be proud of. And there's nowhere quite like Rochdale!

Ruth, Colin & the Style team Rochdale Style | 7

The Baum

Bombay Brew

YOUR GUIDE TO

FOOD, DRINK & LIVE MUSIC IN ROCHDALE TOWN CENTRE

Rochdale Town Centre is firmly establishing itself as the go-to destination for any occasion; a romantic date night, music-filled night out, sunday lunch with the family, a work meeting over brunch... the list is endless!

Paul Ambrose, Rochdale BID Manager, commented: "It's a very exciting time for the town centre with our food and drink scene continuing to thrive and expand, plus the reopening of our magnificent town hall and the huge new town hall square.

"From wine bars to historic pubs; Indian street food to Italian cuisine; afternoon tea to delicious sunday lunches, the town centre hospitality offer is unbeatable.

"I'd encourage everyone to try out a few (if not all!) of these venues over the coming spring and summer; with so much variety you're guaranteed to find your new favourite eatery, drinking spot or even your new favourite live music act... right here on your doorstep."

Bombay Brew

8 | Rochdale Style

The Flying Horse

The latest additions to the town centre, real ale micropub, Our Gracie's, and home-from-home cafe bar Pionero Lounge are both proving incredibly popular with locals and visitors from further afield. Even our four-legged friends are impressed as both venues are dog-friendly!

The newly-improved Baillie Street Quarter is home to cocktail and live music venue, Treehouse Bar and Little Acorn Restaurant, a cosy family run restaurant with a delicious menu, as well as mouthwatering cakes and an unbeatable bottomless brunch!

Just around the corner, off a delightful cobbled street are two perfect date night destinations, authentic Spanish Tapas La Mancha and rustic wine bar Vicolo Del Vino. La Mancha offers delicious sharing plates in a relaxed atmosphere, while Vicolo's combines traditional Italian food with an array of specialist wine, beer and gin, plus regular live music and open mic nights.

Mike Howarth, owner of Vicolo Del Vino and micropub The Pint Pot commented on the burgeoning hospitality scene: "We love being part of the town centre hospitality family and supporting both well-established and new businesses.

The Baum

Empire

The Flying Horse Hotel

Empire

"The hospitality scene is going from strength to strength and there really is something for everybody, from fine wine and classic ambience in a cellar bar to a fantastic line up of tribute bands for a great night out over at The Empire."

Vinesteins on The Walk, offer draught beer, cocktails and delicious food, plus popular events such as wine tasting, pasta making and bread making. They also offer chilled acoustic nights with their resident guitarist, Kayne Taylor.

The Empire on Packer Street has welcomed millions of people from Rochdale and much further afield, due to it's jam-packed calendar of live music.

On Drake Street, you will find micro pub D ‘Ale House, offering locally sourced, quality craft ale, alongside regular intimate music nights.

Alan Ford, General Manager at the Empire commented:

Hogarths offer a wide drinks menu and a large outdoor terrace. Courtyard (previously Yates) is a great place for a drink, with plenty of screens to watch live sports, while The Regal Moon is a popular venue serving food all day.

"It's a place for people who appreciate live music and enjoy the hospitality experience... We strive to create a welcoming environment where music lovers can come together to enjoy performances and socialise. Our venue hosts live tribute bands every Friday and Saturday throughout the year, providing entertainment for all tastes.

We also support emerging artists by hosting original live music events for those starting their own bands and writing their own songs. Our goal is to nurture talent and provide a platform for both established and up-and-coming musicians."

The award winning Flying Horse Hotel also offer a full diary of live music acts, featuring local bands and musicians, plus comedy and quiz nights, alongside their huge range of real ales and delicious homemade dishes.

The Flyer's sister pub, The Baum on the historic Toad Lane boasts an enviable beer selection, modern British menu and a delightful beer garden.

Street food and craft beer emporium Bombay Brew has a new menu of reinvented Indian classics that taste as incredible as they look, alongside a fantastic beer selection and exciting cocktail list.

Vinesteins

Pionero Lounge

Rochdale Riverside is home to a popular selection of eateries including Tribez Steak & Grill and Nandos; and no lunch or dinner date would be complete without a trip to the delectable Heavenly Desserts.

Late night bars and clubs include Malibu, Trinity and Kokos.

Hoochi Koochi offers a great calendar of music nights including live DJ sets, mixed genre 80's classics, Ska, Motown and Indie, plus The Sunday Soul Club.

Other fantastic venues for a spot of lunch include Bean Cafe, Pudding Paradise, Cafe Grand Abaco, Russells Cafe, M&S Cafe, Costa (within Next & at The Exchange Shopping Centre), Dunkin’ Donuts and San Remo.

@rochdaletowncentre

Pionero Lounge

@RochdaleTown

@rochdaletowncentre

Vicolo Del Vino

Rochdale Style | 9

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WHO CAN HAVE DENTAL IMPLANTS? Anyone over the age of 18 is eligible for dental implant treatment to restore their smile, provided they are in good general and dental health and have adequate remaining jawbone. Even where bone loss has occurred we have procedures which can help rebuild it.

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Dental Implantologist Rochdale Style | 11

'OUR GRACIE' & H E R LO V E F O R R O C H DA L E Much has been written over the years about Dame Gracie Fields – the Rochdale Mill girl who went on to become the world’s highest paid film star of the 1930s; highest paid concert star of the 1940s and radio star of the 1950s. She appeared in ten Royal Command Performances, was conferred a CBE in 1938 and a DBE in 1979 and whose professional career lasted over an incomparable sixty years.

In this article, Sebastian Lassandro – her biographer and archivist, gives us a little snapshot of what her home town, Rochdale, meant to 'Our Gracie'.

Photo: Gracie's visit to Rochdale in 1978

When interviewed in 1956, Gracie Fields explained: "To me, Rochdale means 'first'. In Rochdale I first opened my eyes. In Rochdale I first cried, first laughed, heard birds sing for the first time. I sang, too, for the first time in my life. I was even spanked for the first time in Rochdale.

And in Rochdale I wore my first pair of clogs. My first, and almost only, schooling took place in Rochdale at the Parish Church School. My first tram ride around the town, my first swimming lesson in the baths, and, when very young, slipping into the ship canal along with the other children for an extra swim during the hot summer days. My first job was an errand girl for a confectioner’s shop [...] my first song on a stage was sung at the Old Circus, where now stands the Hippodrome.

"My work since then has meant travelling the world over to great places and small, but ‘home’ to me always means Rochdale and its gradely folk. My memories are ever sweet and homely. I see all Rochdale’s lovely parks and gardens, the beautiful walks all so near - Healey Dell, Hollingworth Lake, and all the rest. On my travels, too, I am reminded so often all over the world of home whenever I see the machinery and products of Rochdale proudly stamped with the names of her great manufacturers."

For Gracie, the town really was home. She felt she belonged here and often joked she would move back to the town "if only it was by the seaside!" On more than one of her many return visits to the town, Gracie exclaimed that although she didn’t have a house in Rochdale she could go to any front door and be offered a cup of tea or a bed for the night, which she knew was absolutely true. Whenever she visited, crowds of thousands turned up to cheer their favourite daughter in the Town Hall square and to offer a civic welcome to the Freeman of the Borough – which she was awarded in 1937 and explained was the "proudest day of my life because it comes from my own home and my own folk."

12 | Rochdale Style

Gracie outside Rochdale Town Hall

Her humble beginnings instilled in Gracie a sense of nostalgia for her hometown, which she was to keep for the remainder of her life in creating and maintaining the persona of a Lancashire mill girl, unchanged by fame and fortune. She was one of and all for the people - summed up by the intensely personal pronoun which was afforded to her, recognisable all the world over, simply: "Our Gracie".

Rich people sent Gracie roses, poor people knitted her tea-cosies – and Gracie treated them all the same. She was able to rub shoulders at palaces and hotels, going "proper posh" and living the high life in Hollywood and in Capri, but she was equally at home singing in a tea room, opening a church fete or even on a set of ladders singing to workers on a building site. In an article in 1939, the film critic C. A. Lejeune described Gracie, "As much a part of English life as tea and football pools, our green hedged fields, and the Nelson Column" – and that is absolutely true.

Gracie’s down-to-earth songs often conveyed a sense of nostalgia for the industrial environment in which she grew up, such as 'Clogs and Shawl' and 'Lancashire Blues', and she generally always performed her comedy songs with her native Rochdalian accent and dialect. Even well into later life, her comedic performances were done with that unmistakable Northern accent.

Many of Gracie’s Rochdalian fans were not happy, however, when in 1931 her recording of what was the first ever song about football committed to disc, "Pass! Shoot! Goal!", she is distinctly heard cheering on Oldham Athletic, and not Rochdale! Nevertheless, in interviews and in private, Gracie fondly remembered the "quietness of the cobbled streets" as a wonderful memory of her childhood and the "tiniest, smelliest, dingiest little fish shop in the North of England", which she was born above.

(continued...)

At the pinnacle of her career in 1939, Gracie underwent life-saving cervical cancer surgery, given only a 25% survival rate. The public sent in over half a million cards, telegrams and letters to her hospital ward and Parliament closed their session early when it was announced she was going to broadcast her 'thanks' on the air. Much was the appeal, draw and love that the public had for Britain’s first superstar.

Throughout her career, her songs (originally issued on 78rpms) often featured a 'serious' song on one side and a 'comedy number' on the other. It’s these numbers that often feature direct references to Rochdale, such as the famous 'The Rochdale Hounds', which describes a comedic hunting outing based on the real Rochdale Hunt, and a parodic line in 'There’s A Lovely Lake in London', in which she extolls the virtues of Hollingworth Lake as a "gradeley place for courtin' at the right time of the year!"

Prophetically, her recording 'In A Little Lancashire Town' describes how "they’ve mucked up me Lancashire home", with "chromium everywhere and neon lights an all", and "where the rubbish pit once used to be, they’ve bunged up a statue to me"!

Rochdale Style | 13

(...continued)

Previously a barber’s shop, her paternal grandmother, Sarah Stansfield, installed chip fryers to the property at 9 Molesworth Street, in whose upstairs room Grace Stansfield was born on January 9th 1898. She was christened a few weeks later, on February 2, at St Chad’s Church the same church where her parents were married less than five months previously. Gracie recalled in later life that this is where her musical career began, "with a good smart top C from my cradle. They tell me it was a striking note, a compelling note that brought me what I wanted".

The Stansfield family would regularly 'move oop' in the world and lived in various properties around Rochdale, every time that Gracie’s father Fred (a mechanic) got a pay rise. She remembered, "My mother was so bad she used to forget to tell my father where she’d gone. He’d arrive home and find nobody there - everybody else had moved!" The Stansfields, during their years of "movin' oop", are known to have lived in Hughtrede Street (1901); at 10 Baron Street (1902-1910); 45 Kenion Street (in 1911); 16 Watmough Street (1914); and they are also known to have spent time on Lyland Street, off Milnrow Road in the time between censuses. It is highly likely that the everflitting family spent time in other properties whose details have been lost to time.

Gracie remembered in later life that: "Sometimes in summer Dad took us on a penny tram ride from Rochdale to Hollingworth Lake. He lifted us on a high wall to sit and eat our sandwiches and share a bottle of lemonade. I’ve seen a bit of the world since those days, but I’ve never tasted champagne better than lukewarm fizzy lemonade that we passed from hand to hand, with sticky little earnest fingers marking the next share, looking out at the beautiful lake stretching out in front of us. It was Heaven!"

When Gracie became a 'star' she never forgot Rochdale – and the town never forget their favourite daughter.

Throughout her life, she regularly gave her time and money to various local charities, free concerts, visits and would patronise many charitable events – in public and in private. As thanks for all her efforts, in 1938 the people of Rochdale clubbed together over 15,000 shillings to commission a painting by Sir James Gunn – which Gracie gave back to the people of the town to be proudly displayed forever. Perhaps it might again find a permanent home in the newly refurbished Town Hall?

Gracie Fields truly was Rochdale and the world’s 'First Lady of Song', the greatest female British artist ever to grace the Variety stage and someone who always explained, "I am never so happy as when I am telling people how proud I am of Rochdale, and of its gradely folk."

Sebastian Lassandro 14 | Rochdale Style

Photographer: Jefferson

Gracie’s main return visits to Rochdale: 1915: ‘Yes, I Think So!’ revue, week at the Rochdale Hippodrome.

(November 30th) 1922: ‘Mr Tower of London’ revue, week at Rochdale Hippodrome.

(24th July) 1924: Return visit of ‘Mr Tower of London’, week at Rochdale Hippodrome. (March 26th) 1927: ‘By Request’ revue, week at Rochdale Hippodrome. (April 5th) 1928: Opening ceremony of the Rialto Cinema. (August 18th) 1931: ‘Gracie Comes Whoam’ week of charity events and concerts.

(January 26th) 1931: Guest at Rochdale Amateur Operatic Society’s ‘Katinka.’

(November) 1932: Appointed Life Governor of Rochdale Hospital.

1933: ‘Gracie’s Back Again’ week of charity events and concerts.

(February 27th) 1934 ‘Hello, Here I Am Again!’ week of charity events and concerts.

(December 3rd) 1935: Opens St Chad’s Church Bazaar on a day trip. (October 19th) 1937: Freedom of the Borough of Rochdale ceremony. (May 19th) 1938: One-off afternoon concert at the Hippodrome. (February 6th) 1938: Concert at Regal Cinema and presentation of James Gunn portrait.

(November 6th) 1941: Town Hall and factory concerts at start of UK War Tour. (12th July) 1943: Town Hall and factory concerts at start of UK War Tour.

(13th August) 1947: ‘Our Gracie’s Working Party’ BBC concert from Champness Hall.

(23rd July) 1949: Concert at the ABC Regal Cinema. (24th April) 1954: Harold Fielding UK Concert Tour at the Hippodrome.

(22nd October) and laid the foundation stone of the new Rochdale Observer offices on Drake Street (23rd October) 1954: Day trip to see the burned out shell of Rochdale Hippodrome.

(November 24th) 1956: Rochdale Centenary charity week at the Hippodrome.

(29th October) 1957: Attended Police charity ball and presented trophies at the event.

(November) 1963: Opened Rochdale Infirmary’s new outpatient department.

(29th October) 1970: Opened the Vitool Factory on Molesworth Street. (28th October) 1978: The opening the Gracie Fields Theatre and visit to the Wheatsheaf Shopping Centre and exhibition.

Rochdale's Will Lady celebrates three fantastic years in business with over 100 five star reviews For the past three years, Fiona Daly, has been on a mission to simplify the process of making a Will and Lasting Powers of Attorney for local people and families, ensuring that more people in Rochdale have these important legal documents in place to protect their family's future.

Style: Congratulations on three years in business! What have you most enjoyed about the past three years?

Fiona: Thank you! It’s gone so quickly. I’m absolutely delighted as to how far Wills & Wishes Legal has come over the last three years. I’ve really enjoyed meeting so many lovely people in and around Rochdale, advising them and preparing their documents. Before I started my business I worked all day in an office, now I love getting out and about and chatting Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney over a brew in people’s homes. The support and feedback that I’ve received from Rochdale has been amazing.

You’ve received over 100 five star Google reviews which is an incredible achievement! Why do you think Wills & Wishes is so highly rated by clients?

I’m so proud of my Google five star reviews. I love it when my mobile pings with a notification of a new review. I think it’s down to the relationship I have with my clients and my friendly, jargon free, straightforward way of making Wills and Lasting Power of Attorney. I give full advice and guidance including telling my clients about the different types of Wills and giving them the options that are specific to their needs and wishes. People are surprised when I tell them that there’s not just one type of Will. Unfortunately, there’s little information for people out there about this. I have vast knowledge and expertise as I was a solicitor for 20 years before setting up Wills & Wishes Legal and I’m a member of the Society of Will Writers which gives clients the comfort of knowing that they’re in safe hands.

What sets Wills & Wishes apart from other Will and LPA providers?

I’m local, having lived in Rochdale all my life. I provide home visits as standard not as an optional chargeable extra and my appointments are at times to suit my clients. I don’t just offer appointments for the usual 9-5 office hours. I offer a full at home service from start to finish providing advice on the documents, preparing them and then returning for a second home visit to sign the documents. I aim to provide a quick and efficient service from the first meeting to the signing appointment. I also go the extra mile always trying to be as helpful as possible.

What are your ambitions for the next three years?

I've got two main things I want to focus on. Firstly, I want to continue to make a difference in and around Rochdale by raising the awareness of the importance not only of making Wills but Lasting Powers of Attorney too. There are still less people with Lasting Powers of Attorney than Wills and it's such a powerful and useful document to have. Secondly, I’d like to encourage people to check their Will to make sure it reflects their current wishes. I review lots of Wills that don’t for one reason or another and it's important to ensure it's updated.

If you’d like a chat with Fiona about Wills or Lasting Powers of Attorney please call 07799 213 721.

GOOGLE 5 STAR CLIENT REVIEW...

"My wife and I had been putting off preparing a Will for several years.

Legal jargon and solicitors putting us off. Eventually we were given Fiona's name at Wills And Wishes. Fiona visited our home on two occasions. It was as simple as could be. Fiona was professional, to the point, put us at ease, and now having made our Wills we are so more relaxed and certain about the future. Great service."- Alan and Christine

Call Fiona on 07799 213 721 fiona@willsandwisheslegal.co.uk www.willsandwisheslegal.co.uk Rochdale Style | 15

STREET EAT RETURNS

TO ROCHDALE TOWN HALL SQUARE THIS JUNE! Following on from the huge success of last year’s ‘Street Eat’, the exciting, free event returns on Saturday 15 June 2024, 11am - 7pm to the newly re-opened Town Hall Square.

Paul Ambrose, Rochdale's Business Improvement District Manager, commented: "The idea for the event is simple, in that local food and drink businesses set up stalls around the Town Hall Square and showcase what they have to offer.

"Tasty food from local restaurant chefs will be on the menu, with dozens of mouth-watering dishes to try.

"The annual event attracts regular customers, local residents and visitors and portrays the town in a positive light which increases the chances of those attending wanting to return to the town again."

This year’s event will return to its original home next to Rochdale Town Hall, adjacent to the River Roch, utilising the huge, new paved area.

Organised by Rochdale Town centre Business Improvement District (BID) and supported by Rochdale Borough Council, there will be an array of stalls from the town’s thriving food and drink establishments, as well as free entertainment, as you bask in the relaxed ambience of al fresco dining!

There will be activities and rides for children, a bar for the adults and a music stage serving up hours of fun for all ages.

Traders will include Bombay Brew, Vicolo Del Vino, The Flying Horse, The Baum, Vinesteins, D’Ale House, Bank Top Farm, Tree House Bar and many more.

For more on the line-up visit www.rochdalebid.co.uk or rochdale.gov.uk/events and search #StreetEatRoch on social media.

16 | Rochdale Style

#StreetEatRoch

Fadrmiesseion

Street Saturday 15 June 11am - 7pm

Rochdale Town Hall Square

FOOD & DRINK STALLS • BAR • family entertainment • LIVE MUSIC Great local food, entertainment and good times! rochdalebid.co.uk

Catherine Aspinall, a local mum of two lively children and an equally energetic pug, shares her top family day out ideas. With a love for exploring and the outdoors, Catherine and her family are always out and about, having fun adventures in Rochdale & the North West. Follow on Facebook & Instagram @wherewegoingmummy

JUNIOR PARKRUN • Milnrow Memorial Park junior parkrun starts near the bowling green in Milnrow Memorial Park (with a car park available right in front at OL16 4JF) • Queen’s Park junior parkrun starts near the fountain in Queen’s Park (with a car park across the road at OL10 4UY) • Falinge Park junior parkrun will start near the Vintage Worx building (with parking available on surrounding streets, OL12 6JE)

Junior parkrun is a friendly, free 2K run for children aged 4-14, held every Sunday morning at 9am. Junior parkruns take place all over the country, with the Borough of Rochdale already having two well-established events in both Milnrow and Heywood. However, Sunday 7th April will see a third event begin in Falinge Park. We are so lucky to have such great choices close by!

Being partial to a bit of Saturday 5k parkrunning (get yourself over to Watergrove at 9am for a hardcore workout!), I was initially worried that taking my kids along to junior parkrun was simply just fuelling my own addiction…

How wrong was I! The girl may mostly be too lazy to actually run, but she does enjoy donning a hi-vis vest and volunteering, but the boy absolutely LOVES it! I’m not sure if it’s the trying to beat his times each week, seeing his new friends or being awarded wristbands for his achievements, but he now even owns specific ‘running trainers’ and is working towards his ’50 wristband’ which represents an ultra-marathon!

18 | Rochdale Style

If you so desire you can run alongside your child(ren) if you want some exercise (or if you simply need to drag them up the hills… I speak from experience), but the events are so well marshalled that someone is always on hand in case of any slips or falls and no-one can get lost. This means you can happily just watch from the sidelines or get involved with time-keeping or token sorting.

Now this obviously does not constitute a ‘day out’, as, depending on how speedy your children are, it could be over in like 10 minutes! However, once they have finished the run they are clearly going to spend time playing in the playgrounds, kicking a football around the open spaces and scooting along the paths, rather than going home for a well-earned rest.

Junior parkrun is such a good way to get fit and have fun, but before attending please sign up for your free barcode at www.parkrun.org.uk/register and make sure to bring this along with you, either printed or on a phone or watch. This ensures you get sent an official position and time.

Check out www.parkrun.org.uk/events/juniorevents for more information and keep an eye on each events’ social media pages, as any cancellations will be communicated there.

ROCHDALE TOWN HALL • The Esplanade, Rochdale, OL16 1AZ • We would park at the Rochdale Riverside multi-storey (OL16 1BE) for ease, but there are also car parks on Church Lane (OL16 1NY) • The Town Hall is open daily between 10am-4pm • Entrance to the Town Hall is FREE, but you can book a paid guided tour • The venue is accessible to prams and to wheelchairs • The restaurant is due to open in May

We were so excited to visit Rochdale’s latest tourist attraction - the very impressive, newly refurbished Town Hall! We have ogled the outside of the building numerous times, such as when visiting the fabulous Ignite Fire Festival and completing the Rochdale Fun Run, but have obviously never got to see inside.

However, we were still unsure about how this outing would go down with the kids and entered with trepidation… would they just run wild and be loud, feral and annoying?!

Well, no… once inside they were simply stunned, and were absolutely wowed by The Exchange with its huge staircase and beautiful stained-glass.

Of course, Gothic architecture was not going to capture their attention for long, but not to worry, as whilst exploring all the rooms and exhibitions we discovered that they could build a miniature version of the Town Hall, do brass rubbing, complete stained-glass window puzzles, actually dress up as the Mayor and even do Bollywood dancing.

We were really impressed with how well the kids were catered for, with lots of little interactive features and audio stations for them to listen to rather than having to read a lot of detailed information. They were very amused by the special toilet in the old Council Chamber (we are still very much in a toilet humour stage) and were equally as horrified by stories of the fire which destroyed the spire in 1883.

The kids loved it so much that we even went for a second visit the very next day!

It’s such a great addition to the town and something we should be proud of. It's beautiful, the history of it is really interesting and it will not cost you a penny to pay it a visit.

The Town Hall is also set to host a lot of events for families and children going forward and we will be keeping our eyes peeled for those. I’ve heard whispers of theatre shows, an immersive, inflatable art installation and even a Family Rave!! Visit rochdaletownhall.co.uk for more details.

Rochdale Style | 19

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A magical family day out ✶ Fun activities ✶ performances ✶ music ✶ sports ✶ shows ROCHDALE, Broadfield Park, Tuesday 30 July MIDDLETON, Limefield Playing Fields, Wednesday 31 July LITTLEBOROUGH, Hare Hill Park, Thursday 1 August HEYWOOD, Queen’s Park, Friday 2 August

rochdale.gov.uk/familypicnic

Rochdale Style | 21

What's On in the Arts I am Rochdale born and bred and proud of our rich heritage – especially in the creative arts. A heritage that includes the global superstar, Gracie Fields, born Grace Stansfield in humble circumstances in our town; the singing powerhouse that is Lisa Stansfield; Steve Cooke and Corrie star Sue Devaney, who has Arts Columnist All Across The Arts toured in Mamma Mia, worked on Dinner Ladies with Victoria Wood and crashed many an ambulance on Casualty – not bad for a local lass! This is just a small sample of our elite level heritage.

Saturday 17 August Scott Brothers Duo

What I am even more proud of is the current plethora of active organisations providing opportunities for people of all ages, across our diverse communities to get together to both enjoy creativity and to be creative such as:

Refreshments available from 11.30am. The concerts begin at 12 Noon and last about 50 minutes - all welcome. Chiara Lordi and Alicia Cadwgn £6 / Scott Brothers £10 pay on the door. St Chad's Parish Church, Church Stile / Sparrow Hill, Rochdale, OL16 1FF. Further information contact 01706 639162 or visit: rochdaleparishchurches.org.uk

• M6 Theatre - m6theatre.co.uk • Skylight Circus Arts - skylightcircusarts.com • Curtain Theatre - curtaintheatrerochdale.uk • Rochdale Artists - rochdaleartists.com • EBOR Studios and Gallery Frank - eborstudio.co.uk • Cartwheel Arts - cartwheelarts.org.uk • Rochdale Musical Theatre Company - rochdalemtc.co.uk • Breaking Barriers - breakingbarriersrochdale.co.uk

Brothers Jonathan and Tom perform internationally in instrumental combinations which cover the entire keyboard spectrum.

Their online performance videos have totalled over 70 million views, making them some of the most watched in the world.

SATURDAY 13 APRIL OPEN STUDIO AT EBOR

Check them out... there will be something for you!

An opportunity to take a look inside a vibrant artist studio and meet the professional artists that make up the Ebor community. 12-4 pm at Ebor Studio and Gallery Frank William Street, Littleborough OL15 8JP

Recommended over the coming spring and summer...

POETS ON TAP

LUNCHTIME MUSIC AT ST CHAD'S

Poets on Tap have had a tumultuous time with the closing of their base, The Medicine Tap and of course the sad passing of mainstay and much-lamented Robin Parker.

Saturday 13 April Chiara Lordi [piano] Chiara Lordi is 22 years old and started playing the piano at the age of 6. She was a student at the City of Edinburgh Music School and since 2020 has been studying at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM).

Saturday 15 June Alicia Cadwgn [Soprano] and Philip O’Connor [accompanist] Since leaving the RNCM, Philip has performed throughout Europe with companies such as the Bergen National Opera, Opera Ballet Vlaanderen and the Dutch National Opera. Alicia Cadwgan is a New Zealand soprano based in Manchester. She graduated from The Royal Northern College of Music in 2021 with a Master of Music and Advanced Postgraduate Diploma with Distinction.

22 | Rochdale Style

However, under the guidance of Eileen Earnshaw and Michael Higgins they are now operating from the upstairs room in the Flying Horse.

So, on the second Sunday of every month we can enjoy their eclectic mix of poetry, folk song and music.

Michael Higgins informs me that Poets on Tap 'welcome any writers, singers and musicians at each session. All are welcome and anything that's legal goes'.

WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL - SATURDAY 20 APRIL IOLANTHE Rochdale Phoenix Opera Society presents four performances of Gilbert and Sullivan's 'Iolanthe' at St Aidan's, 10 Manchester Rd, Rochdale, OL11 3EL. Tickets adults £14, children £7 available at: ticketsource.co.uk/ rochdale-phoenix-operasociety or call Penny on 01706 344773.

WEDNESDAY 22 MAY - FRIDAY 28 JUNE ELEVATION BY BREAKING BARRIERS Rochdale lies below us. We can see its people, its culture, and its history, all intertwined in a rich tapestry of community.

We are on top of the world!

SUNDAY 2 JUNE - FRIDAY 12 JULY CULTURE CO-OP IS BRINGING OPEN EYE GALLERY’S HOME EXHIBITION TO ROCHDALE The Home exhibition brings together diverse projects from 17 Ukrainian artists who offer distinct ways of seeing and thinking about Ukraine, reflecting on both its history and its contemporary visual culture. Crucially, underlying the selection of work, is the question ‘what does home mean when your country is threatened by invasion?’

SUMMER FUN FROM THE ROYAL EXCHANGE THEATRE IN ROCHDALE THIS AUGUST THE DEN, a fun a flexible pop-up theatre, arrives in Rochdale for a two-week arts festival!

Filled with loads of shows, workshops, arts & crafts, music, dance, food, face-painting, exhibitions, and performances, and with free tickets available for all activities, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Created with a group of incredible local Ambassadors and local partners, the Royal Exchange has co-created this festival-extravaganza especially for the people of Rochdale.

Venue to be announced soon - find out more at royalexchange.co.uk. Watch this space!

Elevation is an immersive journey along the scenic route of Blackstone Edge, using binaural sound, which creates an “audio 3D effect”, to tell tales of those who walked this land before us, and encouraging audiences to take a moment to listen deeply to the sounds of Rochdale in the distance.

Created and delivered by Rochdale-based production company, Breaking Barriers, Elevation is an invitation to embark upon a creative guided tour across the flatlands of Blackstone Edge, whilst listening to the mother of the moorlands on a pair of headphones. Although you’ll be listening individually, you’ll experience the journey as a collective together.

WEDNESDAY 25 SEPTEMBER SPRINGHILL HOSPICE COMEDY FUNDRAISER

Go on a pilgrimage along the ancient path, as we make our way through timeless landscapes and stories from the Romans to the Radical Rochdalians.

Raise a smile, raise money whilst having a laugh! Doors from 7pm, show starts at 8pm. Tickets £10 available from whatsoccurrinrochdale.co.uk.

Performance days each week: Wed, Thurs, Fri Special performances at sunrise and sunset will be delivered on Saturday 25 May and Saturday 1 June. This is a free event, and all are welcome. You can book your free tickets at eventbrite.com (search Elevation, Rochdale).

Five headlining comedians come together at Milnrow Cricket Club for a special comedy night in aid of Springhill Hospice.

Featuring Howard Walker, Tony Burgess, Jenny Hart, Dawn Bailey and Dave Twentyman.

Steve Cooke - All Across The Arts Celebrating creative arts and artists. www.allacrossthearts.com Rochdale Style | 23

24 | Rochdale Style

Rochdale Style | 25

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Bluebird Care Rochdale goes the extra mile CELEBRATING JOAN'S SPECIAL DAY One of Bluebird Care Rochdale's lovely customers, Joan had a particularly fabulous birthday (but we cannot reveal a She's like a lady's age can we?). The team went the extra mile to make bag gold. it a specialof day.

Joint Owner, Beryl Keogh commented: "We're more than just caregivers, we're companions on a mission to combat loneliness. Because for us, every moment spent together is a chance to brighten someone’s day."

If you or somebody you love is looking for some companionship contact the team today on 01706 436294.

SPOTLIGHT ON DEMENTIA SUPPORT COMING SOON! Keep an eye on Bluebird Care Rochdale's Facebook page for the latest updates.

Have you ever thought about a career in care?

Joint owner, John Keogh, commented: "Our customers are very important to us and we loved arranging this treat for Joan's big day. We are grateful to Robert for coming in the van and that Susie's were able to deliver an ice cream... with a flake in it!"

We wonder if that is significant?

Happy Birthday Joan!

Bluebird Care Rochdale is always looking for kind, compassionate, reliable, dedicated individuals to join its amazing team. In return, the company offer full training, a friendly, supportive working environment and an extremely fulfilling role making a difference to people's lives.

"What an amazing opportunity this has been for me. With the support I have had from my colleagues and training provider, my confidence has soared and I can see that there is great opportunity in the sector for those who want a growing career. The customers are at the centre of what we all do and I try very hard to keep our field team appraised of why and how we are doing things so they can try to understand the complexities of co-ordination" - Amie

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Meet Allan, a Bluebird Care previously worked in care delivery I wanted Rochdale care whocare service, you can remain at hometosurrounded With ourassistant well-trusted support thoseby that go out and see our loved ones cherished and beloved pets and still enjoy your home, garden takes one of their customers and and this opportunity allows this community. and makes me appreciate much more what is customers on social adventures, involved in such a business. I have been supported which have recently You may be in included a situation where you need an extra pair of hands to apprenticeship help with with my and been given advice daily chores, or you may have complex needs that requireand more dedicated The Trackside in Bury, leisurely coaching about how to achieve my goals. My confidence has care. We build our care packages around you andsteadily your grown individual as I have been give some real autonomy in developing walks around needs scenic which spots meanslike that you and your family can rest assured you’ll practices and procedures. Roll on year 2!" - Lauren Hollingworth receiveLake careand andcozy support exactly as you need. Our care ranges from a 30-minute daily visit through to full Live-in care. evenings baking or solving For more information about joining the team contact Bluebird jigsaw More puzzles.

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Bluebird Care Rochdale Bluebird Care Rochdale 01706 436 294 01706 436 294 bluebirdcare.co.uk/rochdale bluebirdcare.co.uk/rochdale rochdale@bluebirdcare.co.uk rochdale@bluebirdcare.co.uk

Rochdale Style | 27

DISCOVER ROCHDALE TOWN CENTRE'S HIDDEN HERITAGE STORIES

If you’re wandering around the Baillie Street Quarter in Rochdale Town Centre you may have noticed a new addition to the artwork lined streets.

Rochdale Town Centre Business Improvement District (Rochdale BID) revealed an outdoor gallery ‘Hidden Heritage Stories’ in early February.

Hidden Heritage Stories features 21 individual panels that share stories about key buildings throughout Rochdale Town Centre’s history.

From tales about the Fire Engine Station and Broadfield Park to stories of the river’s historical medieval bridge and Circus of Varieties, visitors and residents can discover more about the Town Centre’s fascinating buildings and landmarks.

Style caught up with Rochdale BID Manager, Paul Ambrose, to find out all about the project: Style: Where did the idea for the Hidden Heritage Stories originate?

Paul: Through the initial lockdown period the BID introduced ‘Hidden Heritage Stories’ which was delivered through our social media channels.

The idea was simple, it told the story about particular historic buildings and places within the town centre.

28 | Rochdale Style

With dozens of stories to be told the obvious next step for this project was to evolve it into an outdoor gallery so that local people and visitors can learn more about the history that’s all around them.

I have been involved in the transformation of the town centre for over 20 years and in this time you get to know about the stories behind some of the buildings and spaces.

Perhaps one of my favourite stories is Theatre Street which was located on what is currently the location of the police station.

This long forgotten street was connected to The Esplanade via a footbridge over the River Roch and beyond it lied the Town Hall.

Theatre Street was home to the County Police Station, Rochdale’s Theatre Royal and a cattle market. On 22nd October 1954 Gracie Fields performed at Rochdale's Theatre Royal for a charity gala and sadly 4 weeks later the building was destroyed by fire.

What was your favourite part of the project?

I suppose my favourite part of the project has been seeing locals and visitors to the town centre stopping to take a look at the heritage panels.

Also, all the panels lie within the Baillie Street Quarter which has a unique and distinctive sense of place, and in order to help define the identity of this area a series of small scale, yet important, interventions undertaken by the BID are ongoing.

The improvements include: installing festoon lights and art work, cleaning street cabinets; installing hanging baskets and planters; jet washing and painting doorways; removing disused signs; and relocating commercial bins to a less prominent location.

Hidden Heritage Stories is the latest improvement to this much-loved area of the town centre.

What do you hope the public will take from the Hidden Heritage stories?

The town centre has a fascinating history and the BID is happy to celebrate it with a series of heritage panels. Each story provides a glimpse into the past for Rochdale’s growing number of visitors, while also showing those who live here how much we’ve got to be proud of.

I hope the outdoor gallery brings a little joy to people, whether they are living or working here, or just passing through.

Lucy Fieldhouse

Discover more about the fascinating history of our amazing town centre buildings & places

Discover more about the fascinating history of our amazing town centre buildings & places

The Old Clock Face Hotel, Lord Street & Toad Lane

Fire Engine Station, Alfred Street

In 1898 the Crown Brewing Company of Bury bought the pub for £6000. At this time the hotel offered its customers a bar, parlour, tap room and smoke room, plus a billiard room, two commercial rooms and numerous bedrooms.

Poet Edwin Waugh, famous for his tales and poems written in Lancashire Dialect was born

in a back to back cottage on the site of the Old Clock Face on January 29, 1817, so it is fitting the Edwin Waugh Dialect Society met at the pub for many years.

The pub closed its doors on September 9, 1973 and demolished to make way for the Exchange Shopping Centre.

The fire engine station on Alfred Street opened on the 8th June 1893, the construction of it having been overseen by Police Chief Constable Wilkinson, as the fire service in Rochdale was then part of the police service. The building cost £4,000 which included the site and it was located along Alfred Street which ran between Baillie Street and Smith Street.

The station included a house for the superintendent and nine fireman’s dwellings, and a four-stalled stable at the back of the

engine-house.

A new fire station was built on Maclure Road in 1933 and the Alfred Street station consequently shut. During WW2 it was used the Traffic and Licenses Department of the council, and later the Traffic and Patrol Department, it is marked as a police station on the 1959 Ordnance Survey map. It was finally demolished in August 1975 to make way for the development of the Black Box and the bus station.

HIDDEN HERITAGE STORIES

Discover more about the fascinating history of our amazing town centre buildings & places

HIDDEN HERITAGE STORIES

Discover more about the fascinating history of our amazing town centre buildings & places

HIDDEN HERITAGE STORIES

Discover more about the fascinating history of our amazing town centre buildings & places

Empire Hall, Town Hall Square The Stocks, St. Chads Churchyard

The County Police Court House & Offices, Theatre Street

Rochdale Local History

The County Police Court House & Offices, Theatre Street was opened on May 12th 1897 and cost £8,000.

Theatre Street was connected to The Esplanade via a footbridge over the River Roch and beyond it lied the Town Hall which housed the Borough Police Station.

Fronting the police station was as cattle market (latterly used by travelling fairgrounds) while along Theatre Street was Rochdale’s Theatre Royal. On 22nd October 1954 Gracie Fields performed at Rochdale's Theatre Royal for a charity gala and sadly 4 weeks later the building was destroyed by fire.

The Stocks or Pillory in Rochdale is believed to have been originally located at the open River Roch at South Parade and The Butts. It was a device made of a stone framework, with holes in beams of oak for securing the head and hands. They were formerly used for

punishment by public humiliation and often further physical abuse.

The Stocks were last used in Rochdale in 1822 and later relocated to St. Chads churchyard in July 1891.

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Permanent Eyebrows are a form of tattooing that deposits pigment into the upper levels of the skin giving the illusion of eyebrow hairs.

Perfect for those who have over plucked their eyebrows, lost them due to illness or just simply want to save time in the mornings.

Lucy offers 4 different brow options • Microblading • Powder Brow • Microblading with Shading • I also offer cover up of old eyebrow pigment To see which is the best option for you and discuss the treatment in detail, call to book your free, no obligation consultation with Lucy today! Lucy is highly experienced with over 150 treatments under her belt and is trained to the highest level. Your treatment is carried out in a private, fully insured and licensed salon which has passed a full inspection from Rochdale Council.

Client Review - "I have gone from having absolutely no eyebrows and having to spend time everyday pencilling them in, to being able to get up and not think about them at all, it has completely changed my face, saved me lots of time and I absolutely love them. Thank you Lucy, true professional!"

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30 | Rochdale Style

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Rochdale Style |57 31

the good food & drink guide Discover the best pubs, restaurants and cafes in the local area...

THE FLYING HORSE

A traditional pub residing next to Rochdale’s stunning gothic town hall.

The home of homemade food, champions of real ale and housing some of the best staff in the business, The Flyer really is the people’s pub. Chef Bowe and his team are turning out dish after dish of pub classics and incredible grills including their outstanding 2 for £12 offer. With a huge range of real ales and countless awards to their name, its Rochdale’s best pub for a reason. Open: Mon-Thurs 11.30-11 / Fri 11.30 -1am / Sat 10-1am / Sun 10-10.

Food: Mon-Fri 11.30-8 / Sat 10-8 / Sun 10-7 37 Packer Street, Rochdale 01706 646412 Facebook/Instagram @flyerrochdale www.theflyinghorsehotel.co.uk

The street food and craft beer emporium continues to go from strength to strength, with a spanking new menu of revamped and reinvented Indian classics alongside a fantastic beer line out and a dreamy new cocktail list.

They serve beautiful small dishes which are made to be shared alongside their take on traditional curries, with many vegan/ vegetarian/gluten free dishes. Open: Thurs 5 - 11 / Fri & Sat 12 - 12 / Sun 1:30-10.

1 Drake St, Rochdale, OL16 1RE 01706 869502 Facebook / Instagram @BombayBrewRochdale www.bombaybrew.co.uk

THE GRAPES AT BAMFORD

SUBURB CAFE

Hailed by customers as the "best breakfast they’ve ever had", owner Michael Plant attributes Suburb’s superior offering to quality of local ingredients used throughout suburb’s crafted menu. Michael and the team have established suburb as a safe and comfortable place for you to start the day right, catch up over coffee and homemade cakes or enjoy authentic, regional savoury dishes. Check out Suburb’s Facebook and Instagram pages for the contemporary evening menu and curated wine list.

573 Bury Road Rochdale, OL11 4DQ 01706 551717 www.suburbcafe.co.uk

THE RED LION INN

Located in Whitworth’s iconic cobbled square The Red Lion is a one stop shop for locals, beer lovers, dog walkers, ramblers & families looking for quality homemade food in a comfortable surrounding. Pub classics, fantastic fresh seafood and great Sunday lunches alongside great real ales and wines all served up by Jack and his friendly team, What’s not to love? Open: Mon - Wed 4 - 11, Thurs 12 - 11 / Friday 12 - 12 / Sat 10 12 / Sun 10 - 10. Food: Thurs 5 - 8 / Fri 5 - 9 / Sat 12 - 9 / Sun 12 - 7.

Whitworth Square, Whitworth, OL12 8PY 01706 861441 Facebook @catinthesquare www.catinthesquare.co.uk 32 | Rochdale Style

BOMBAY BREW

The Grapes at Bamford is a wonderfully warm, cosy pub with a great all-day suntrap of a garden.

The menu is varied, from the best Cheese & Onion Pie in the business, to great steaks, and some seriously special Specials. Their Sunday Lunch is legendary. The Grapes' drinks range is wide and varied with award winning wines, around 50 gins, a good range of premium beers and Robinsons cask ales and a great cocktail menu.

Service is second to none - there's always a genuine warm welcome from staff who love to look after people!

Norden Road, Bamford, OL11 5PN 01706 649895 E: nicola.grapes@gmail.com

THE BAUM

The newly reinvented Baum in Rochdale’s historic Toad Lane always turns heads with it’s enviable beer selection but now boasts a modern British menu which promise to widen the appeal of this already award winning pub. Exceptional food and an iconic walled beer garden.

Open: Mon - Sat 12-11/ Sun 12-9 Food served: Mon - Thurs 12-8 / Fri & Sat 12-9 / Sun 12-6 33-37 Toad Lane, Rochdale 01706 352 186 Facebook/Instagram @BaumRochdale www.thebaum.co.uk

THE PINT POT

Situated above Vicolo Del Vino, on Baillie Street, this quirky, relaxed micro pub offers rotating cask ales, a fantastic range of bottled beers, as well as wines and spirits.

Large whisky range with our journey to a wee dram. Plus a delicious Ploughman's lunch! Italian food can also be ordered and delivered to the Pint Pot from downstairs at Vicolo Del Vino. Open Weds-Sun. Check Facebook for the latest opening times.

8 Baillie Street, Rochdale, OL16 1JG 07870 155951

HARE ON THE HILL

Littleborough’s best kept secret, the petit Hare makes up for in charm what it lacks in size. With a fantastic range of craft & cask ales alongside their iconic small plates menu and homemade pizzas it’s a community pub on a micro scale.

Open: Mon 3 - 11 / Tues to Sat 12 - 11 / Sun 12 - 9. Food served 12 - 8 Tues - Sun. 132 Hare Hill Road, Littleborough, OL15 9HL 01706 538523 Facebook/Instagram @beerbreadpork www.beerbreadpork.pub

ROSE ‘N’ BOWL

Owned by Lords Caterers, Lancashire’s leading outside caterers (est 1934), the Rose ‘N’ Bowl has been serving bar meals and their famous carvery for over 25 years.

With the private bowling green (available for booking) panoramic views and heated decking, it’s Rossendale’s popular all-yearround venue with regular entertainment and also home to the World Gravy Wrestling Championship.

Call to find out about specials and early evening deals, or keep updated by finding them on Facebook. Currently closed Mon & Tues. Weds: 5.30-8.30 carvery / bar snacks til 7. Thurs & Fri: 5-8 carvery / 12-2 bar snacks Sat: 5-8 carvery / 12-8 bar snacks.

Sunday breakfast: 10-12 / Sunday carvery 12.30-6 / Bar snacks until 7.

Newchurch Rd, Stacksteads, 0L13 0UG 01706 879555

VICOLO DEL VINO

Located on the narrow alley, between The Butts and Baillie Street, Vicolo Del Vino (Alley of Wine in Italian) is Rochdale's hidden gem.

Offering live music Friday, Saturday, Sunday, open mic night Thursday and a vast array of specialised drinks including a list of 80 wines, gins, rums, draught beer and more.

The food on offer compliments the atmospheric candle lit cellar perfectly with an offering of meat and cheese boards, hand stretched pizzas plus a number sides and nibbles making it a relaxing way to enjoy your evening.

Why not try their infamous Pizza Thursday - two pizzas, a side and a bottle of wine for only £25 or bi-monthly wine tastings.

Open from Thursday to Sunday, food served from 5pm (3pm Saturdays).

Check out the Facebook page for all of their events.

HOP & VINE

Set in the heart of Norden village, this cosy wine bar offers cask ale, fine wine, artisan spirits and casual dining in a relaxed atmosphere. The menu includes delicious small English plates, Antipasti and hot baguettes, freshly prepared to order.

Open Weds-Sun Brunch menu 12-4 WedsSat. Follow them on Facebook for the latest menus and opening times.

To recommend a local hospitality venue for the Good Food & Drink Guide please email: features@rochdalestyle.com

796a Edenfield Rd, Rochdale, OL12 7RB hop4vine@gmail.com 01706 759858

Cellar of 8-10 Baillie Street, Rochdale, OL16 1JG 07870 155951 vicolosltd@gmail.com

Bespoke fish stall providing the very best quality hand-picked fresh fish and seafood For enquiries or to make an order please contact Dan

NORDEN VILLAGE WEDNESDAY 8.30am - 1pm

THE OXFORD PUB FRIDAY 1pm - 1.30pm

LITTLEBOROUGH

BASIL'S, WHITWORTH FRIDAY 1.45pm - 2.15pm

(outside the Wheatsheaf)

FRIDAY 8.30am - 12pm

DOOR TO DOOR DELIVERIES AVAILABLE EVERY WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY

Rochdale Style | 33

Our Rochdale and Bury showrooms are open 6 days a week, so pop down and see our exclusive and affordable selections of bathroom tiles, showers, furniture, suites and accessories of high street quality and service at internet prices.

We’re a family run business and we pride ourselves on delivering superb customer service. Over the years we’ve built a local reputation for being honest, reliable and helpful, not to mention the beautiful bathrooms that we design and install.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS 88-90 Whitworth Road Rochdale OL12 0JJ T: 01706 525926 4 Moorgate Bury BL9 7AF T: 0161 761 5926 www.borobathrooms.co.uk 34 | Rochdale Style

TAKING CARE OF YOUR FEET THIS SPRING OUR TEAM OF PODIATRISTS Welcoming you to our Rochdale based clinic.

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01706 377480 WWW.AAAPESTCONTROLSERVICES.CO.UK Rochdale Style | 35

ROCHDALE TOWN HALL In The Frame

Opening Day by Phill Connell

Stained glass windows by Liz Anker

Welcome to Rochdale by Mike Rathbone Photographs taken by Rochdale & District Camera Club who meet every Tuesday at Syke Methodist Church and Community Base, 8-10pm. If you want to capture moments for better memories, or to learn what your camera can do, just go along to any meeting or get in touch via their Facebook page or website at rochdalecameraclub.org.uk.

You don’t need a fancy camera, as long you love taking photos!

Heron in Healey Dell by David Greenwood

36 | Rochdale Style

Window detail by Colin Hubbard Hidden figure by Mick Brierley

(Above) Roof montage (Below) Window montage by Colin Hubbard

Town Hall spiral by Colin Hubbard

Rochdale Style | 37

WEDDING FORMAL WEAR FOR MEN AND BOYS - Comprehensive hire ranges - Individual attention and professional advice - Fully inclusive packages starting from £79

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THE SUIT SPECIALISTS SINCE 1959

SUITS TO BUY - All tailored for a perfect fit, in store, free of charge - Large selection of styles, colours and sizes - Made to measure service available

794 Edenfield Rd Norden OL12 7RB 01706 649264 mail@hopestores.co.uk

38 | Rochdale Style

AWARD WINNING BEAUTY CENTRE & SPA

SPRING PAMPER PACKAGE Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage Express PAYOT Facial Foot Soak, Scrub and Polish Only £49.99 per person

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Open: Tues 9am-5pm / Wed 10am-7pm / Thurs 10am-7pm / Fri 9am-6pm / Sat 9am-4pm / Sun & Mon Closed

Book your appointment today call 01706 868898

Rochdale Style | 39

HOPWOOD HALL COLLEGE

OPEN EVENT Thursday 18th April 4.30pm - 6.30pm AT MIDDLETON AND ROCHDALE CAMPUSES

Register at hopwood.ac.uk

Hopwood Hall College & University Centre

Hopwood Hall College & University Centre

Hopwood Hall College & University Centre

Hopwood Hall College

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8 JUNE 2024 11am-3pm

Hopwood Hall College & University Centre

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THE QUEEN PRESENTS HOPWOOD HALL COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY CENTRE WITH PRESTIGIOUS AWARD AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE Rochdale has been given the royal seal of approval after Hopwood Hall College and University Centre picked up the prestigious Queen’s Anniversary Prize.

It was Queen Camilla who did the honours when she presented the award during a special ceremony held at Buckingham Palace.

Hopwood – which has campuses in Middleton and Rochdale – earned the accolade in recognition of its amazing results in widening participation for 16-18 year olds from marginalised communities.

In particular, it was celebrated for its success in embedding a pioneering trauma-informed framework across its campuses.

Thankfully the public won’t have to wait long to experience this award-winning college for themselves. Hopwood will be throwing open its doors for an ‘Access All Areas’ Open Event from 4:30pm – 6.30pm on Thursday 18th April 2024.

Those in attendance can look forward to seeing state of the art facilities, as well as hearing from the expert tutors who are skilled at bringing out the best in every student.

Her Majesty was joined by the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester as she welcomed college staff to the platform at the royal residence.

These team members then proudly accepted the accolade, which instantly became the jewel in the crown of Hopwood Hall College.

The Queen’s Anniversary Prize is the highest honour that can be bestowed upon a further education college and is awarded biennially to only a select number of institutions across the nation.

Visitors will be able to explore the full range of courses on offer, which for school leavers includes the game-changing T-Levels and other vocational study options.

In addition, there is plenty in store for adult learners who are looking to gain new skills and boost their career prospects – including pathways at the college’s thriving University Centre.

Just a few months later, Hopwood will once again welcome visitors when it holds its popular Community Fun Day. Last year’s event was attended by almost 2,000 people and this year’s event promises to be just as exciting when it takes place on Saturday 8 June 2024.

BURNHAM’S BIG VISIT With so much going on at Hopwood Hall College and University Centre, of course it was time for another visit from the Mayor of Greater Manchester.

The mayor even had the opportunity to meet with pipeline inspector apprentices who work for IACS and are receiving their apprenticeship training at Hopwood Hall.

Andy Burnham made a beeline for the college’s new Green Skills and Utilities Hub where students are gaining the most cutting edge skills around hydrogen, wind turbines, renewable energy and other emerging industries.

These individuals are on a training salary of £28,000 and are believed to be amongst the highest paid Level 3 apprentices in the country – so it was a very valuable experience for Andy to be able to hear how much they’re enjoying their time at the college.

Rochdale Style | 41

ROCHDALE GHOST WALKS Group bookings available on any night of the week (minimum of 8 people).

Just £7.50 per person

Starting from The Baum, 33-37 Toad Lane,

Join us through the narrow passages & hidden alleyways as we delve into Rochdale’s murderous past!

Rochdale, OL12 0NU Ghost Walk suitable for adults, children and wheelchair users.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

THE ONLY PROFESSIONAL GHOST WALK IN ROCHDALE - ESTABLISHED 2010 FOR BOOKINGS & AVAILABILITY CALL COLIN ON 07774 152 620

Step into the world of Funky Floral Design, your local family-run florist with a rich 17-year legacy.

We are a contemporary florist specialising in unique floral designs, tailored to any budget.

We are now offering nationwide delivery of our stunning designs.

2 Roefield, Rooley Moor Road, Rochdale, OL12 7BG www.funkyfloraldesign.co.uk 42 | Rochdale Style

|

01706 521252

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

GOLD&SILVERROADSHOW

FOR 2 DAYS SUNDAY & MONDAY & 7th 2024 OCTOBER10.30am 10.30 am to -4.00 pm TUES 9thONLY APRIL & TUES 21st6thMAY 4pm Jewellery and Coin Roadshow

A very lucky couple called at one of our recent roadshow events with a couple of old gold chains and a silver charm bracelet and a bag of old silver sh coins. We paid them over £1600.00 just for the coins alone . They turned out to be pre 1947 silver coins that were normal currency a few years ago and are now highly collected.

The whole process of Valua on is free of charge and very private, so you have nothing to lose and a lot to gain.

Things that you should look for and bring to our roadshows are absolutely anything that looks like ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE jewellery, whether it is yellow gold, silver or pla num.

What Do You Have Wa ng to be Discovered

Many people are totally unaware of the value of unusual and old items that they own and are just hidden away in drawers around the house. Dealers are now paying record high prices for old jewellery and gold and silver objects and collectables. Most unusual gold and silver items are no longer fashionable but there are ll collectors who we deal with that will pay record high prices for your old gold and silver jewellery, and items. Wristwatches and old fashioned pocket watches can surprise you with their values and you will be amazed by the amount that is currently being offered for such items.

What DoNOW Youin your Have Wa ng to beand Get looking old drawers, cupboards, Discovered jewellery boxes. Look in the c and the cellar, even Many people totally item unaware of the value of unusual old broken or are squashed of jewellery and silver and old itemsand thatworth they own and are just hidden are valuable having appraised at theseaway free in drawers around theInvestments house. Dealers are nowons paying record are having roadshows.

Bullion & Acqui high for oldat: jewellery andGRANGE gold andHOTEL, silver objects suchprices a roadshow NORTON MANCHESTER and collectables.

Most unusual gold and items are hotel.

ROAD, ROCHDALE, OL11 2XZ. With freesilver parking at the Welonger will befashionable there frombut 10.30 amare to 4.00 pm. no there ll collectors who we deal that willapay prices for on service andyour theyold Will They willwith be offering freerecord valua high gold jewellery, and items.

Wristwatches and makeand yousilver an instant CASH offer to buy your old jewellery, old surprise goldfashioned and silverpocket or anywatches old silvercan or coins thatyou youwith maytheir values have. and you will be amazed by the amount that is currently being offered for such items.

Get looking NOW in your old drawers, cupboards, and jewellery boxes. Look in the c and the cellar, even old broken or squashed item of jewellery and silver Krugerrand, Maples are valuable and worth having appraised at these free and Sovereigns areInvestments & Acqui ons are having roadshows.

Bullion urgently wanted at: for NORTON GRANGE HOTEL, MANCHESTER such a roadshow top prices.

ROAD, ROCHDALE, OL11 2XZ. With free parking at the hotel.

We will be there from 10.30 am to 4.00 pm.

They be offering a freeINTEREST valua on service and they Will OF will PARTICULAR make you an instant CASH offer to buy your old jewellery, Gold and Silver cigarette cases, gold and silver or any old silver or coins that you may Vesta Cases, thimbles, Candle have. cks, trays and all things silver are needed.Pocket watches in gold and silver and all wristwatches by: Rolex, er, Omega, Longine, IWC are cularly collected Krugerrand, Maples and Sovereigns are urgently wanted for top prices.

GOLD&SILVERROADSHOW

We asked them for their permission to pass on this story to help other people realise what they may be ng on and they were only too pleased to allow us to let everyone know that they might be si ng on a goldmine and not even know it!

Any old sh or foreign coins. Any old wrist watches or pocket watches. All chains, bracelets, rings and bangles broken or not and in any condi on. If you think it is a diamond ring, bring it along and we will confirm it to be genuine. If you have an old trophy or tankard or any silver coloured items, let us value them for you.

FOR 2 DAYS ONLY SUNDAY & MONDAY 6th & 7th OCTOBER 10.30 am to 4.00 pm The whole&process of Valua on is free of Wanted charge and very Coins Medals Urgently private, you have to lose and acan lot to Old warso medals andnothing old Masonic medals begain. very ALike very lucky couplewho called onedream of ourof recent roadshow most people, canatonly winning the Things that you should look for and bring to our events chains and a silver charm ery, aoflotold ofgold normal households have a pools orwith thea couple roadshows are absolutely anything that looks like bracelet and a bag silver sh silver coins.jewellery, We paid hidden treasure of of oldold gold jewellery, jewellery, whether it is yellow gold, silver or pla num. them over £1600.00 justand forold theobjets coins alone teapots, trophies, trays d’art. . They turned out be get prea1947 thatour were normal Whytonot free silver valua coins on from expert at currency sh or foreign coins. Any old wrist watches or aour fewroadshow years agoat: and are nowGRANGE highly collected.

NORTON HOTEL, MANCHESTER Any old ROAD, ROCHDALE, OL11 2XZ. With free parking at the hotel. pocket watches. All chains, bracelets, rings and bangles broken or not and in any condi on. If you think it is a asked their permission to pass on this story We will bethem therefor from 10.30 am to 16.00 pm. diamond ring, bring it along and we will confirm it to be to helpisother people realise what they mayyou be a one ng on There no queing and our expert will give genuine. If you have an old trophy or tankard or any silver on they were only tooof pleased to allow us to let oneand appraisal of the value your treasured possessions coloured items, let us value them for you. everyone theythere mightare beno si prying ng oneyes, a goldmine in a privateknow area,that where and not even know it!evolve. watching the process Coins & Medals Urgently Wanted If you like the valua on our expert will make you the Old war medals and old Masonic medals can be very Like canyou only winning samemost offerpeople, in cashwho which candream acceptofor declinethe at no valuable. You will be surprised to hear that we have pools the ery, a lot of normal households have a cost tooryourself. paid THOUSANDS of pounds for certain war medals and hidden treasure of old gold jewellery, silver jewellery, even the General Service Medal group is worth bringing teapots, trophies, trays and old objets d’art. especially if you have the original box and le ers to Why not get a free valua on from our expert at our roadshow at: NORTON GRANGE HOTEL, MANCHESTER accompany them. Also of great interest are old military ROAD, ROCHDALE, OL11 2XZ. With free parking at the hotel. uniforms, tunics, hats and any army, navy or RAF field gear.

We will be there from 10.30 am to 16.00 pm.

There are rarely any queues at our events and we can There is no queing and our expert will give you a one on normally end to every caller within a few minutes. one appraisal of the value of your treasured possessions We will give you a free valua on which we back up with a in a private area, where there are no prying eyes, cash offer, there and then. watching the process evolve.

If you like the valua on our expert will make you the You can accept or decline our offer, so come along and same offer in cash which you can accept or decline at no valuable. willoffer be surprised we have see what You we can for yourto oldhear goldthat or silver jewellery, cost to yourself. paid of pounds for certain war medals and coinsTHOUSANDS and collectables. even the General Service Medal group is worth bringing especially if you have the original box and le ers to accompany them. Also of great interest are old military uniforms, tunics, hats and any army, navy or RAF field gear.

Jewellery and Coin Roadshow

We will buy your

WANTEDNOW

WANTEDNOW

GOLD&SILVER for CASH OF PARTICULAR INTEREST There are rarely any queues at our events and we can normally end to every caller within a few minutes.

Gold and Silver cigarette cases, Simply your unwanted gold jewellery even if it’s which weus back up with a We will give you a free valua onbring Vesta Cases, thimbles, Candle cash offer, there andbroken then. or has no hallmark and willallbuy from cks, we trays and thingsit silver are you, at: needed.Pocket watches in gold You can accept or decline our offer, so come along and and silver and all wristwatches by: see what we can offer for your old gold or silver jewellery, Rolex, er, Omega, Longine, coins and collectables.

IWC are cularly collected

NORTON GRANGE HOTEL MANCHESTER ROAD, ROCHDALE, OL11 2XZ. With free parking at the hotel

We will buy your

GOLD&SILVER for CASH WANTEDFORCASH

least 10 ALL PRE-1947 SILVER COINS AND ALL Atmes face FORIEGN SILVER WANTED Simply bring us yourCOINS unwanted gold jewelleryvalue even if it’s

broken or has no hallmark and we will buy it from you, at:

NORTON GRANGE HOTEL MANCHESTER ROAD, ROCHDALE, OL11 2XZ. With free parking at the hotel GOLD COINS IN ANY CONDITION FOR CASH Sovereigns, Krugerrands, Maples

Dental Gold, Gold Teeth, Old Bracelets & Bangles & Pendants

Silver Trays, Silver Teapots, WANTEDFORCASH Silver Cigar e Cases, silver

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Knives & Forks and Trophies At least 10 ALL PRE-1947 SILVER COINS AND ALL Brokenmes or any face Any Silver Items, Chain on chains co FORIEGN SILVER COINS WANTED value in 9ct

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Rochdale Style | 43 Broken or any on chains in 9ct

•

Art gallery and gift shop

•

Original paintings

• • • • • •

Large selection of cards Handmade Jewellery Glassware Candles

Local Crafts

Gift Vouchers Available

l Art Gallery and Gift Shop l Large Selection of Cards l Original Paintings l Handmade Jewellery l Glassware l Candles l Local Crafts l Gift Vouchers Available

Telephone 01706 354076 Number Ten Art Gallery, 10 Baillie Street, Rochdale OL16 1JG Open Tues-Sat 10-5 or by appointment - call 01706 354076 Number Ten Gallery, 10 Baillie Street, Rochdale, OL16 1JG 44 | Rochdale Style

19

We can cater for any type of celebration!

We can cater for any type of celebration!

We can cater for any type of celebration!

We can cater for any type of celebration!

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Rochdale Style | 45

BIG IDEAS COME TO LIFE AT ROCHDALE'S NEW FESTIVAL Imagination, creativity and discoveries were celebrated during a busy week of inspirational events accompanying the reopening of Rochdale Town Hall at the first Rochdale Borough Festival of Ideas.

Over 20 free family-friendly events took place, including eyecatching visual arts, live music, theatre performances, games, thought-provoking talks, dance and interactive installations.

The festival opened with a dramatic and colourful light show at Rochdale Town Hall attended by over 1,000 visitors. The illuminating performances were set to a new soundtrack by Daniel Mawson and a spoken word piece by Jenny Berry combining Rochdale’s past achievements and famous names with aspirations for the future.

In a celebration of young people’s ideas, the festival worked with 1,850 school children to generate 10,000 brilliant ideas, which was displayed as part of a giant sculpture.

The festival saw a world premiere of a stunning outdoor installation - ‘The Living Dress,’ a large-scale naturally-dyed, handmade dress worn by a five-metre high sculpture.

Fluid Motion Theatre presented their ‘Take Ten’ performance installation around the idea of mental wellbeing; inviting guests to relax and take a moment on colourful swing chairs, guided by a soothing soundtrack.

Power Up – was a fast-paced and popular event where visitors tried out an exciting range of ESports games at Middleton Arena in partnership with Hopwood Hall College.

Number One Riverside hosted ‘Theatre Electric; an immersive virtual reality experience which took players on a journey into another world using cutting-edge technology.

Move Manchester presented ‘Zugzwang’ at Rochdale Town Hall – their dynamic dance performance set on a giant chess board, commissioned and supported by M6 Theatre.

The Nigeria Community Association hosted African Fashion Week at the town hall on International Women's Day, showcasing a range of styles from Africa and beyond. The event drew a big audience as models walked the runway in stunning garments to a live DJ set.

The event closing this year's festival was ‘Speakers' Corner’ at the new Pionero Lounge with guests including Mohammed Rahman from Rochdale Science Initiative, Asma Begum from Soul Sisters: Empowering People, Anne Cleary from Rochdale Empire and Steve Cooke from All Across the Arts along with live music from folk singer/songwriter Kirsty Almeida.

Rochdale Borough Festival of Ideas was staged by the council, produced by Outdoor Places Unusual Spaces Ltd and supported by The Culture Co-op.

46 | Rochdale Style

ROCHDALE'S FEATHERED FRIENDS By popular demand, the live Peregrine Falcon webcam is back, live streaming Rochdale's feathered friends from the magnificently restored Grade 1 listed Rochdale Town Hall.

Peregrine falcons have been nesting outside the clock tower at Rochdale Town Hall since 2008 and have returned to the clock tower following a temporary relocation during the restoration work on the Town Hall.

Peregrine falcons are the world's fastest living creatures, reaching speeds of up to 240mph! It's estimated that there are up to 1500 breeding pairs across the UK. The countdown to egg laying and chick hatching begins!

Watch on the webcam at: rochdaletownhall.co.uk/falcons

BORO BEES Founded by Mark Harris and Sharon Alfrey in August 2023, Boro Bees is a new project on Blackstone Edge.

Mark who owns AAA Pest Control in Littleborough has safely relocated many bee nests over the years but has always held the dream of becoming a beekeeper and developing a bee garden for all to enjoy.

Mark commented: "The end goal of project is for the community of Littleborough to benefit by coming to visit and learn about Honey bees.

We will look to hold open days with beekeepers and environmental experts. We also plan to sell the honey our bees produce that is surplus to their requirements and donate any profit to local charities.

"There is a lot of work still to do to transform the land and we welcome any volunteers to come and get involved".

Follow Boro Bees on Facebook for the latest updates.

MUSLIM HIKERS EXPLORE THE BOROUGH'S BEAUTY SPOTS Muslim Hikers, the largest community in the world for Muslims interested in the outdoors, recently held a breathtaking hike through some of the borough’s beauty spots around Littleborough, exploring Hollingworth Lake, Rishworth Moor, Blackstone Edge and The Pennine Way. Founder Haroon Mota commented: "Our recent hike was a testament to the incredible natural beauty that Rochdale has to offer, and I'm thrilled that our participants had the opportunity to experience it firsthand.

"It was truly a memorable journey filled with camaraderie, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature. We would like to thank Rochdale Borough Council and Rochdale Borough Festival of Ideas for partnering with us to make this possible. We have hiking events all across the country taking place every month. Anyone can get involved regardless of faith or background."

Join the mailing list and sign up to events at: muslimhikers.com

Rochdale Style | 47

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY - spring/summer 2024 Photo: Last year's Feel Good Family Picnic

SAT 13 APRIL RIVERSIDE ARTISAN MARKET Rochdale Riverside 10am - 4pm The successful Riverside Artisan Market returns on the second Saturday of every month, offering a diverse array of unique handmade goods and quality artisan products. Further dates: 11 May, 8 June, 13 July, 10 August SAT 4 & SUN 5 MAY COLOURSCAPE Town Hall Square 11am - 4pm Over the May Bank Holiday weekend, the Town Hall Square will be filled with a huge labyrinth of colour and light! Each day there will be different programmes of music and performances.

SUN 5 MAY ROCHDALE SCIENCE EXTRAVAGANZA Rochdale Town Hall 11am - 4pm An unforgettable day of discovery, inspiration and fun, through a unique fusion of art and science.

Further details: rochdalescience.co.uk FRI 10 - SAT 18 MAY BEAUTY & THE BEAST Champness Hall Various performance times Rochdale Musical Theatre Company bring the much-loved disney musical to the heart of Rochdale. Tickets £16, available at: rochdalemtc.co.uk

48 | Rochdale Style

SAT 8 JUNE COMMUNITY FUN DAY 11am - 3pm Free fun for all the family at Hopwood Hall College's Middleton Campus, Rochdale Road, M24 6XH. Last year's event which attracted over 2000 visitors included activities such as face painting, sports tournaments, samba dancing, virtual reality demonstrations and tours of its renowned animal enclosures.

Further details of this year's event can be found at: hopwood.ac.uk SAT 15 JUNE STREET EAT Town Hall Square 11am - 7pm Featuring stalls from the town’s thriving food and drink establishments, as well as free entertainment, as you bask in the relaxed ambience of al fresco dining!

Further details: rochdalebid.co.uk SAT 22 JUNE HEYWOOD 1940S DAY Heywood - various locations 10am - 5pm A popular annual event which includes an armed forces parade (leaving Tower Street at 1pm), afternoon dance, 1940s entertainment (infront of St Lukes from 1pm), vintage carousel, charity stalls, armoured and vintage vehicles, live music and air raid shelter (at Tilly's Tea Room) and lots more.

Further details: facebook.com/ heywood1940sday

SAT 22 JUNE LITTLE GLASTONBORO Littleborough Cricket Club 1pm - 10pm A music festival based in Littleborough, featuring up-andcoming artists, top tribute acts and community groups, plus a kids zone and food village. Further details and tickets: whatsoccurrinrochdale.co.uk TUES 30 JULY Broadfield Park, Rochdale WEDS 31 JULY Limefield Playing Fields, Middleton THURS 1 AUGUST Hare Hill Park, Littleborough FRI 2 AUGUST Queen's Park, Heywood FEEL GOOD FAMILY PICNICS Free events for families featuring fun activities, performances, music, sports and shows for children of all ages and visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic. To coincide with the Summer Olympics in Paris, the theme will be the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect. Further details: rochdale.gov.uk/familypicnic SAT 10 AUGUST FEEL GOOD FESTIVAL Town Hall Square 12.30pm - 3am The popular festival returns for another showcase of top class entertainment, food and culture. The festival will include live music across indoor venues, the main stage against the backdrop of the town hall and a food and drink village. Tickets £15 available at: rochdale.gov.uk/feelgoodfestival

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