Totally Stockport Magazine Issue 19

Issue 19 FREE

SPRING INTO STOCKPORT! STOCKPORT REGENERATION UPDATES STOCKPORT COLLEGE EXPANSION STOCKPORT KRAZY RACES SHOPPING

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WHAT’S NEW

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WHAT’S ON

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NEWS

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FOOD & DRINK

Welcome Welcome to our spring issue of Totally Stockport’s magazine, packed with news of what’s happening in the town centre and news of everything that you can look forward to over the coming weeks.

4-5

All the info on Stockport’s regeneration

Paul Bowe talks about South City Studios

Fashion

10-11

Stepping out for the Summer

News

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Including all the new openings

The Stockport Music Story

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Following a £25m redevelopment project, it was a privilege to attend the opening of Stockport College’s new facility featuring a dedicated business centre and a warm welcome via the smart new entrance into the Lyme Building. The development is part of the college’s ambition to provide an educational centre of excellence in the town. Learn more inside.

A guide to the town’s musical history

Your Town Centre

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A town centre map of what’s where!

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News

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Nine pages of Stockport updates, including:

Stockport College

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We take a look at the college’s new expansion

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Save the dates!

Don’t miss Krazy Races and Stockport Moves!

It’s been a tough few months for all of us but we can look forward to free, fun entertainment in the town centre: the craziest, wackiest and zaniest of events, Krazy Races is coming to Stockport on Sunday May 28th – where 40 teams of soap box racers, reminiscent of old school go-karters, will navigate hills, twists, chicanes and U-turns in a bid to take the chequered flag. Take your eyes off the track and you may see a flypast by one of only two remaining Lancaster bombers still taking to the skies. This year’s Frogtastic Invention Trail is certain to bring wide smiles to faces of all ages - discover who invented the hamburger, the Zip, the wheel and lots more while tracking down all the giant frogs; get active at Stockport Moves and show your support on Armed Forces Day – check out the details on pages 24 & 25.

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What’s On A listing for the next three months

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Food & Drink Directory A guide to eating and drinking in Stockport

Get In Touch If you have a story, news or an event in Stockport Town Centre why not drop us a line? www.totallystockport.co.uk paul.taylor@totallystockport.co.uk Tel: 0161 537 9382

Another edition packed with news, we hope you enjoy reading Totally Stockport’s magazine and would like to wish all our readers a lovely spring – see you in the summer Compiled and edited by Helen White | Designed by Paul Day

Interview

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Our town centre is buzzing - as towns and cities throughout the UK are planning to reinvent themselves, Stockport has been ranked by the Sunday Times as already one of the best places to live in the UK (page 27) and one of seven Best Places to Live in the Northwest! And that’s ahead of all the exciting developments either in planning or already taking shape (pages 4 & 5). Do you know what Leona Lewis, Sam Smith, Jonny Marr and loads more global superstars have in common? They have all discovered Stockport’s South City Studios – world class rehearsal and recording studios right here in Stockport – more on pages 8 & 9.

Recently we’ve seen exciting businesses coming to Stockport: IKEA’s new plan and order store; Glitch, a totally immersive, interactive gaming bar has opened on Prince’s Street and popular bar BASK has teamed up with The Kitchen to serve great food. Treat yourself to some ‘me time’ - visit Harmionize Your Soul in Merseyway and learn the art of wellbeing.

News

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@totallysk

Totally-Stockport

News

New homes will create new, vibrant More new residential schemes, set to open more opportunities for people to live, work, shop and play in Stockport town centre, have been given the green light or are already underway.

At a time when towns and cities throughout the UK are planning to reinvent themselves to attract users back to the High Street and main centres, Stockport is attracting *national media attention, being recognised as a trailblazer, by adapting and forging ahead with ambitious plans to create a sustainable town centre, fit for present and future generations to enjoy.

Multi-generational community living, and amenities will transform the former St Thomas’ Hospital An historic building being saved is the former St Thomas’ Hospital. Originally built in 1841, the Grade II listed building will be repurposed to create a multi-generational town centre neighbourhood.

St Thomas’ Gardens will include 67 affordable new homes and an exemplar, intermediate care facility The Academy of Living Well - integrating health and social care.

The Academy of Living Well will support those transitioning between the hospital and the home.

Knightsbridge Developers, Amstone Ventures, are to build more than 500 new homes, a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom flats as well as three-bedroom family town houses, on the site of the former Sainsbury’s store in the heart of the town centre.

The £100m scheme will open the riverside for pedestrian access to the river Goyt and create a new public space.

Underground parking facilities at the store will be repurposed to provide parking for residents via a new access road to avoid increasing traffic through the town centre itself.

Stockport has been hailed as one of the best places to live in the UK and one of seven Best Places to Live in the Northwest, according to the annual Sunday Times ‘Best Places to Live’ guide.

Read more on page 27

King Street West Great Places Housing Group are bringing forward a development of 73 rent-to-buy apartments on King Street West in Stockport’s Town Centre West regeneration district. An existing car wash site and van depot between King Street West and Bann Street and Gradwell Street will be demolished and replaced with the four-storey apartment block.

The one- and two-bedroom flats would be made available via the government-backed ‘Rent to Buy’ programme, which sees tenants given the option to save towards a deposit to purchase their home by reducing the rent for five years. The proposals are being supported with funding from Homes England and seeks to compliment other proposed developments in the area by adding high-quality affordable homes to the mix.

The £16.4 million development forms part of the Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation’s (MDC) Town Centre West regeneration area, which looks to form a new gateway in the town centre with 3,500 homes and more than 1 million sq ft of commercial space.

Great Places’ scheme sits in Stockport MDC’s proposed Brinksway sustainability-focused neighbourhood that will take advantage of excellent nearby transport links at Stockport Railway Station and bus interchange (due to complete in 2024).

News

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boost urban living and town centre communities

Another major housing scheme underway is the regeneration of Weir Mill: Capital&Centric’s £60m transformation of the town’s historic Weir Mill is creating a new vibrant neighbourhood. More than 250 design-led apartments are being created across the restored listed Victorian mill buildings and two neighbouring new-build blocks. From lush new greenery and outdoor hangouts to a mix of indie bars, restaurants and shops, Weir Mill has been designed to be a stand-out destination for Stockport Town Centre West, with a buzzing new public space on the banks of the Mersey.

Weavers Square will form the heart of Weir Mill – sitting under Stockport’s iconic vaiduact, Weavers Square will house street markets, parties and pop-ups

New apartments are being developed alongside a new transport interchange The distinct oval outline of Stockport town centre’s new Transport Interchange is taking shape to provide better, cleaner transport, a town centre park and new homes all in one place. Alongside a new bus station, a two-acre park and 196 high quality residential apartments will connect with a new walking and cycling bridge linking with Stockport’s train station at Stockport Exchange.

To be completed by Spring 2024, the new Interchange will further boost Stockport’s position as one of the best-connected town centres in the North-west.

As well as the new transport interchange and 196 apartments, the 130-acre site will include new leisure amenities and workspace.

Stockport 8 Stockport 8 will deliver one of the largest town centre regeneration projects in the UK. The eight-acre site will create a new digitally capable, walkable neighbourhood with initially more than 1,000 new homes. Early-stage plans also include retail, leisure, and office space.

Stockport 8 incorporates three sites in Stockport’s Station Quarter and Brinksway neighbourhoods Sitting alongside both the town’s historic viaduct and the new Transport Interchange. Stockport 8 is an important part of the town’s masterplan: to see Stockport become the most sustainable, liveable town centre in the region.

Exceptional dresses, for beautiful brides at exceptional prices S

pringtime brings sunnier, warmer days and a burst of colour after the grey of winter - pink blossom, yellow daffodils, a whole rainbow of tulips – and the perfect time for thoughts to turn to weddings as we reveal another of Stockport’s hidden gems.

Tucked away from the main shopping centre on the historic Underbanks area you will find a charity shop like no other in Stockport. As well as selling a lovely range of gifts, collector’s items, fashion and accessories on the ground floor, the real gem can be found upstairs where you will find the Bridal Boutique an astounding collection of bridal ware and accessories. While around 20% of the amazing dresses are pre-loved, 80% are brand

new gowns donated from bridal shops. Many of the gowns would have originally been on sale for upwards of £1,500; at St Ann’s most of the dresses are capped at just £595. Brides can purchase a dress for a fraction of the original price and still be assured of dressing like a princess on their big day – perfect if you want to spread the budget to add special finishing touches to make the day even more special.

Complimented by an array of accessories, St Ann’s is the perfect place to begin your pre- wedding celebrations. Call in to the shop at 33, Great Underbank where Julia and her team will be happy to help you or find out more at www.sah.org.uk

Coronation Street’s costume department kindly donated 10 dresses worn in past episodes of Coronation Street.

This dress was worn by Eva Price played by Catherine Tyldesley at her wedding to Aidan Connor played by Shane Ward.

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Stockport receives a safety boost and recognition for creating ‘Safer Streets’ N

ot only has Stockport received central government funding to make users of the town centre feel protected, but it has also retained its Purple Flag accreditation in recognition of its ever-evolving, safer evening and night-time entertainment.

The Home Office’s Safer Streets Fund was introduced across the UK to help towns tackle issues that blight communities. It aims to prevent crime, combat anti-social behaviour and support victims. Stockport was awarded £430,000, part of a £2.4 million grant to Greater Manchester boroughs, to tackle anti-social behaviour and make streets safer for residents in the town centre. It also went to help residents in Brinnington.

New CCTV cameras extend coverage of Stockport town centre Last year, a survey of residents and businesses concluded that more than two-thirds of respondents were in support of improving CCTV coverage in the town centre. Part of the Safer Streets grant funding has been spent on 10 new CCTV cameras placed in strategic locations to help strengthen and link in with the current security system operated by Stockport Homes.

Cllr Helen Foster-Grime, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, was joined by GMP's Chief Superintendent John Webster at the CCTV Monitoring & Control Room in the town centre.

GMP’s Chief Superintendent John Webster said: "These cameras will assist the police in the detection and prevention of anti-social behaviour and crime and support our aim to ensure Stockport continues to be a safe and enjoyable place to live and work.

“In addition, they will also enable us to proactively respond to prevent situations developing.

“This project has shown what can be achieved when all key partners work together.”

The grant funding has also enabled the town centre to recruit a dedicated Retail Crime Reduction Champion

David Cretney, (pictured below) appointed to the newly created position of Retail Crime Reduction Champion for Stockport town centre, has extensive experience in the area and a drive to work with Stockport Council, Totally Stockport and the Police in supporting businesses to tackle retail crime and making everyone in the town centre feel safe and secure.

As Retail Crime Reduction Champion, David’s role is to engage with retailers and hospitality businesses to listen to concerns about retail security and to offer support and guidance to drive improvements.

David is also providing training and support for businesses to benefit from initiatives that help reduce crime including:

Stockport retains prestigious Purple Flag accreditation

DISC: A crime reporting platform. This system is in place for retailers, businesses, security teams and the police to record incidents; information is used to build an intelligence picture of the area allowing areas of risk to be identified and risk reduction methods to be implemented.

It’s also a great way for users to keep up to date with what’s going on in the Stockport area from events to updates on the latest Initiatives.

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StoreNet Radios: The StoreNet Radio scheme is funded by Totally Stockport for their levy payers and through the Safer Streets Scheme so there is no cost to users in the town centre. This network of 150 handheld radios connects businesses with security teams and the town centre-based Policing Team to communicate and coordinate incidents as they happen with a coordinated and supportive approach to tackling criminal or antisocial acts.

Over the past few years, the town centre has successfully welcomed many new businesses to help enhance the night-time offer including The Spinn Off, Bistro Marc at Winters, BASK, Yellowhammer and the new bowling and leisure offer at The Light Cinema.

Crime Reduction Reviews: David is supporting businesses with carrying out crime reduction reviews Safer Streets Stockport is funded via Safer Streets funding from central Government – the Home Office – to help tackle anti-social behaviour and retail crime and make streets safer for residents in the town centre.

tockport has retained its Purple Flag status in recognition of the town centre’s evening and night-time economy.

Areas of the UK awarded the Purple Flag are recognised for providing a vibrant and diverse mix of dining, entertainment and culture whilst also promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and local residents. Purple Flag aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm to 5am.

Stockport was particularly recognised for the atmospheric and popular use of the Produce Hall as a night-time venue, the large-scale investment and major infrastructure projects to improve the area, and a desire to work with partners, including the police, to improve the former image of Stockport while bringing a high-quality offer to all aspects of the town.

Chair of Totally Stockport, Mike Lamont, explained: “One of the BID’s main priorities is to support all businesses so they can thrive within the town centre. Our growing and diverse hospitality and retail offering is positioning Stockport as an ideal after-dark destination. Purple flag accreditation gives both the businesses and visitors confidence that Stockport offers a great choice in entertainment and leisure within a recognised safe environment.”

Purple Flag accredited areas have all reported a consistent increase in footfall and a decrease in crime within the evening and night-time economy. The Purple Flag programme is managed by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM), which works alongside a partnership of key stakeholder groups backed by Government, police and businesses.

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South City

Interview

Stockport is well known for its hidden gems, but we are about to uncover one of its biggest and shiniest, where Detroit meets Stockport!

Located in Bredbury, is a world-class pre-production and recording facility providing high quality studios for the creative industry. South City Studios boast the finest PAs, backline and modular staging, encompassed in highly specified rooms. And it’s attracting worldrenowned bands.

We caught up with South City Studios’ creator Paul Bowe to hear more.

Tell us about the Studio and its rehearsal facilities South City Studios are a fully equipped rehearsal and studio space in Bredbury. We have rooms for song and lyric writing and all the gear you would want to bring it to life. We have drums, guitars, amps, mics – you name it we have it and if we don’t have it, we can get it.

We’re based at both Pear Mill and at Welkin Mill, a 5-minute walk where we have just launched a full stage for tour rehearsals. This is really exciting, there’s nothing like it in the area.

Pear Mill is for bands and soloists to come and write in sound-proofed rooms; we also have a state-of-the-art recording studio and ‘live’ room for bands to use. Some quite amazing stuff in there .. oh and we also have a bar. Preconceptions are it’s expensive, but we charge around £10 an hour for some of our rooms as I want to keep it accessible for everyone. Something I really believe in.

Welkin Mill is a very exciting part of the development.

When bands go on tour, they may play big arenas and venues with little space to rehearse before and run through stage management and technicals. We have created a fantastic space for this to happen. It’s crazy. We are attracting bands and artists from all over the world - some big names have passed through our doors and some exciting ones coming to Stockport past and future include Johnny Marr, Leona Lewis, Sam Smith, Anthrax to Skid Row, Loyle Carner, Midge Ure, Clutch and Everthing Everything. We have loads of others in the pipeline as word is getting out in the music world.

Our team have a load of music industry experience so anyone out there starting out or looking for the next step – drop us a line.

What’s the music scene like in Stockport and what talent are you seeing coming through?

You can’t not think of Strawberry Studios when talking about Stockport and its music heritage. We are built on solid history and it’s a great time to be a band and musician in Stockport. It’s a really great community. We often find bands go off to the Underbanks for a night out as the vibe down there is really cool and the live music scene is growing.

I really encourage our clients to play as much live music as possible as it really helps nurture their sound and stage presence. One thing we also help and offer, if people need it, is a bit of expertise and support from me and the team.

We are always on hand in the studio to answer questions and just help where we can. I’m always telling them to get out and play live as much as you can.

Back to the Stockport vibe – yes, some really interesting sounds coming out. Obviously Blossoms put us on the map but other people like Fuzzy Sun are creating a great sound. We are seeing and hearing some really interesting stuff coming through the studio which is great for that Stockport sound. I’ve noticed the sound style getting a little heavier and I’m hearing more of a rock drum sound. I love the rock sound – it’s what I grew up on.

Where did it all start and what or who inspired you growing up?

I was born in Stockport and moved around a bit as a kid.

Moved to Leeds when I was young and came back to do my GCSE’s. I have always been surrounded with different genres of music and I think that’s important to get a good, rounded feel for music.

My Dad was a massive music fan with a huge vinyl collection and my uncle was very much into the metal side and he was a lot younger than my mum. My Dad put on Leonard Skynyrd, Bowie, Supertramp and lots of 70’s and I’d sit there with vinyl literally staring at it, fascinated. I’m so lucky to have had that exposure at such a young age then my uncle would put on Iron Maiden and I love the heaviest stuff on it. Rainbow and Van Halen really struck a chord with me. That’s what made me want a guitar. Me and my brother talk about this all the time because it’s very strange for eight, nine, and ten-year-olds to be listening to Bowie and Fleetwood Mac but that’s what we grew up with.

Inspired by all that music I got my first red acoustic guitar and remember then listening to Eruption - Eddie Van Halen do this tapping thing – it was amazing it was like something out of space. I was like, how can a human do that on a guitar?

I never saw guitar practice as chore or homework. Just something I liked to do. I love writing music. I get a great

sense of satisfaction when a chord sequence works, and you create a good song structure. But one thing I will admit – I can’t sing.

In terms of schools and encouraging kids in Stockport, are facilities like this accessible to kids who’ve got aspiration?

Peripatetic teaching still exists in schools so you can still have a guitar teacher and a drum teacher but you can only generally go for 20 minutes, probably once a week, if private lessons are a bit out of the question. As the prices go up, how do you value that lesson against the YouTube lesson for free? If we’re at £30 an hour now you need to get value for money for that and is that accessible for most people? Schools’ peripatetic I think is key, I think it has to stay.

Stockport Music Service has always been amazing; they are sending in everybody from vocal coaches to classically trained musicians, and operatic music, learning notation and learning the fundamentals of music - that still remains. And then bringing in a rock school element so there is a contemporary side there. Pop grades of rock and roll means getting somebody at six or seven into playing a stringed instrument or singing; I don’t think it’s in bad condition but don’t forget the world of Instagram and YouTube lessons is just phenomenal, now there’s nothing you can’t learn, there’s nothing you can’t find to learn so it’s down to the individual to sit there in front of a laptop and commit to it. That said, I learn the best when I’m sat with somebody going through the mechanics of something, but that’s personal to me. It’s probably never been a better time for kids to go on YouTube and write stuff, do their own publishing, and find their own kind of style and market themselves.

Advice to a younger Paul Bowe or anyone looking to be creative with music?

Don’t rush – take your time. Don’t try and speed through stuff. Learn the basics and listen, watch, and pick up a wide range of styles. Go to live gigs and don’t’ be afraid to try instruments and find your own style. Keep practicing, get a good regular time slot in your diary to do your practicing. Practice. Practice. Practice.

One other really important part is networking. Get out there and meet fellow music makers. Meet managers, promoters and if you can, get into record labels. I remember

Studios taking bags of CD’s down to London and literally knocking on doors. I used to spend days in Camden in London just trying to get my CD on someone’s desk. I’d go to conventions to meet people in the record industry. Rejection is part of the game, but something will come of it and you will meet someone who can open doors or give you a nugget of advice. Johnny Marr works with me on the studio project as a consultant. He has been invaluable and is there to sound out and knock ideas around with. If you had asked me a few years ago if I’d be working with Johnny, I’d have laughed. These things happen but only if you are in the right place at the right time.

What would be your Desert Island disc?

Wow – that’s a tough one. It has to be Led Zeppelin, probably. There’s a lot of bands and songs that I could choose however looking at Led Zeppelin’s back catalogue, they were heavy in the 60s and 70s and they were a game changer. They were smooth, they were cool and when Jimmy Page was playing, I just fell in love with the Gibson Les Paul. So, a Zeppelin album for sure and probably would be the Physical Graffiti album because it’s a double and there’s more tunes on it and it’s very diverse in styles.

Johnny Marr works with me on the studio project as a consultant. He has been invaluable and is there to sound out and knock ideas around with.

What’s your ambition for the studio facilities?

World class. I mean that. That’s my aspiration and my vision. Stockport has a backbone of music, culture and talent. I want South City Studios to be on the global map for recording and rehearsal space. We are so close to Manchester Airport, excellent rail links from London and a motorway close by. We have such a nurturing team here and we are happy to speak to established artists and their management and also to up and coming talent who need some direction. Everyone has to start somewhere; we want to ensure everyone gets access to the highest quality space and facilities.

Interview

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News

S Stockport Market crowned Best Small Indoor Market, 2023

tockport market is celebrating after being named Britain’s best small indoor market at the Great British Market Awards 2023.

Held at a ceremony in Birmingham and organised by the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA), the Great British Market Awards are recognised by market operators as the national awards for markets and are the biggest in the market industry, celebrating excellence in retail and wholesale markets across the UK. After a panel of industry experts had examined the many applications, Stockport Market walked away with the top gong at the prestigious industry awards, fending off stiff competition from other markets.

The Victorian Market Hall was praised by the judges for: ‘Having a positive atmosphere with an excellent and exciting variance of stalls with traders and management working as a cohesive unit. The nomination confirms that Christmas 2022 witnessed the market looking its very best with huge community support and pride.’

They also recognised that the market ‘has embraced and made change for the present and long-term benefit of the market itself and its community.’

The market is much loved by local people and visitors alike and is an important part of Stockport’s history.

Recent investment in Market Place and the surrounding Underbanks area has attracted new, independent

businesses. The indoor market hall is fully occupied and home to over 30 traders selling a huge variety of products, whether it’s a piece of original artwork from Kate O’Brien, fresh products from Wally’s Fruit and Veg or artisan cakes and bread from Sticky Fingers, the market has something for everyone.

Standing in Stockport’s Market Place, the market has a rich and colourful history which dates back to the Saxons. The stunning, Grade 2 listed ‘Glass Umbrella’ roof constructed of timber, iron and glass was erected in 1861, with the surrounding Market Place then home to dungeons, stocks, a whipping post and pillory.

Donna Tuxford, Market Manager, said: “I know the traders are thrilled to have won such an important award. Our traders have operated through some tough times the last couple of years but were always there with a welcome and a familiar face for our many loyal customers. It’s a privilege to operate from such a beautiful, historic building and hopefully this award will encourage more people to pay us a visit and experience that huge Stockport Market welcome, which we’re known for.”

To find out more about Stockport Market, visit: www.stockportindoormarket.com The market is open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 9am to 4.30pm and can be found at Market Place, Stockport, SK1 1ES.

170 new electric buses provide a green route into Stockport

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tockport’s ambition to be carbon neutral by 2038 has taken a ride nearer as Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and bus operator Stagecoach have confirmed that an order has been placed for 170 new electric buses to serve routes in and around Stockport from 2024.

Local bus operator Stagecoach’s £37.2 million investment has been match-funded by £35.7 million from Greater Manchester’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) fund and a local contribution of £12.5 million.

All of the new electric buses will be fully accessible, with wheelchair bays, hearing induction loops, audio and visual announcement systems and anti-slip flooring.

Welcoming the order for the new electric buses,

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, said: “I am also delighted to announce that by working closely with Stagecoach we will have another 170 brilliant new buses running on our network from next year, with a brand new, world-class electric bus depot.

“This is very much the start of our journey that will ultimately deliver a greener, integrated and more inclusive transport system that will transform how people travel around our city-region.”

Stockport, along with Tameside, Trafford and parts of Salford and Manchester, will see franchised bus services rolled-out by the end of 2024, giving TfGM and local leaders greater powers over fares, bus routes and service frequencies across Greater Manchester.

Plans for former BHS store sees new frontage housing four smaller units

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lans for the refurbishment of the former BHS store in Stockport town centre have taken a step forward after Robertson Construction’s appointment to complete the project.

Stockport Council purchased the store in 2019 as part of its investment in its £1 billion regeneration plans for the town centre.

Proposals for the store will see the large site split into four smaller units – two at street level, one on the first floor, and one basement unit. A new modern frontage will also be added to the building in Merseyway, while the wall art on the side of the site will be retained.

Bringing the BHS store back into use is a part of Stockport Council’s long-term regeneration plans for Merseyway and the wider town centre. Work is underway to repurpose several units in the shopping centre for new uses, including the development of the Stockroom library, community and education centre and the delivery of a new hub for start-ups and small businesses, the Merseyway Innovation Centre.

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Stockport Council launches Robinsons welcome new Greenspace Volunteer Awards foal: Hillgate Frederic

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tockport Council has opened nominations for new awards in the borough to recognise the volunteers and community groups taking care of Stockport’s green spaces.

The awards aim to raise awareness and celebrate the work and commitment of Stockport’s many dedicated ‘Friends of’ and volunteers who help make the borough’s parks, greenspaces and cemeteries welcoming places for visitors and residents. Tasks undertaken by volunteers and friends of groups complement routine and grounds maintenance work carried out by the Councils contractors, Totally Local Company.

Nominations are now open in the following categories: • Think Stockport Greenspace – working with ambition award, innovation award • Fair and Inclusive – equality and accessibility award, health and wellbeing award • Volunteer of the Year – achieving as a team/friends of group award, individual award, rising star award • Environment award The closing date for entries is 31 May 2023 The shortlist for each award will be announced by 30 June, with winners announced in July.

Entries open for the 2023 Stockport Business Awards Now in its 12th year, entries for this year’s Stockport Business Awards are now open.

This year’s categories are: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Business of the Year up to £1m Business of the Year £1-5m Business of the Year over £5m Most Promising Young Business Employer of the Year Family Business of the Year Best Not-for-Profit Organisation The CSR Award Best Inhouse Marketing Team/Individual of the Year Best Creative/Design Agency The Innovation Award The Taste of Stockport Award The Stockport Award

Businesses can now head to the Stockport Business Awards website to submit their entries online. Entries will close at 5pm on Friday 2nd June.

Sponsorship opportunities are also still available. If you would like to know more about the available packages, please email contact Georgia Hilton at main sponsors, Clarke Nicklin.

The Stockport Business Awards will take place on Thursday 5th October 2023 at Edgeley Park.

This year, the event will raise funds for homelessness charity, EGG.

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ne of the UK’s oldest, most established family of independent brewers, Robinsons, have welcomed their sixth foal, Hillgate Frederic, to their family of Shires.

Born at 12:50am on Thursday 30th March, the birth follows the announcement in 2018 of the launch of Robinsons very own Shire Breeding Programme.

Helen Preece, Head Horseperson at Robinsons, commented: “On behalf of myself and the company, we are extremely pleased to be preserving and promoting the Shire Horse breed and are so happy with our newest foal. Both mother (Dolly) and foal are doing fine.

Hillgate Frederic is foal to Dolly, a 14-year-old registered Shire mare (pictured below with foal); the sire is the bay stallion Daresbrook Sir Alfred, owned by Mr J Worthington of Alderley Edge.

John Robinson, Retail Operations Manager at Robinsons Brewery and President of the Shire Horse Society said: “Robinsons was built on the backbone of the Shire horse 184 years ago. Before the arrival of the internal combustion engine, Robinsons’ Shires were in the main brewery yard working every day to deliver traditionally brewed ales to local inns and hostelries. However, their primary use was inter-brewery work: moving bottles and cases between Unicorn and Hempshaw Brook Breweries in the 1950’s. The Shires also moved cinders, spent hops and wastepaper from the main yard."

Hillgate Frederic is named after Frederic Robinson who, in 1859, took over the Unicorn pub on Hillgate from his father William and bought a warehouse to the rear so brewing capacity could be expanded.

Industrials REIT move into Stockport Exchange I

ndustrials REIT is the latest business move in to 2 Stockport Exchange, the North West’s most accessible business location.

The UK multi-let industrial property company will join a stable of high-profile businesses at 2 Stockport Exchange, including global chemical company BASF, O’Neill Patient and musicMagpie.

The new HQ will house the company’s 32 strong team based in Stockport, as well as act as a regional hub for the broader business.

The £145m Stockport Exchange development forms part of Stockport’s Town Centre West £500m regeneration masterplan, being delivered by Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC), alongside it’s public and private partners. With work on the Transport Interchange now well underway, as well as improvements to Merseyway and plans for a new Innovation Centre recently announced, confidence in the town remains high, with high street names like IKEA, who have just opened in the town centre, also giving their endorsement.

Contractor, Galliford Try, are currently on site with the latest phase of regeneration which will bring forward a further 64,500 sq ft Grade A office building and a 399-space multi-storey tenant car park with 24 EV charging points and solar panels.

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New Openings

Glitch Games Bar opens on Prince’s Street

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Former pop-up opens its first store in Stockport

elcome to Harmonize Your Soul, a new independent ethical store and wellness hub providing a space for the community to create, learn, share, connect and heal. Filled with a variety of products from crystals and jewellery to skincare and ethical organic clothing, the new store in Merseyway brings a unique offering to the town centre.

we had to take a permanent space in the centre. I started manifesting and here we are!”

The Pop-Up Stockport facility allows small businesses to host their own shop from 1-6 weeks. The store has hosted 37 pop-ups since its initial opening.

People of all ages can learn new skills on manifesting, crystals, DIY crafts and wellbeing; herbalist appointments are available along with a sound bath, reiki, tarot reading sessions and many other treatments.

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litch is one of the latest innovative bars to join Stockport’s growing leisure landscape.

Glitch’s unique offering – a totally immersive, interactive gaming bar - serves great tasting beer & cocktails to lovers of retro games and to modern gamers. Owner Joe describes his latest venture as a “hit of nostalgia, an interactive museum for vintage arcade lovers.”

Monet Samuels, Harmonize Your Soul owner said: “When I took part in the pop-up shop scheme, I wasn’t sure how Stockport would react to our offering, however once we set up, the love and interest we received was so overwhelming! We had so many messages from clients on social media sharing how much they had gained from the little time we spent in the store, so from this we knew

“Brilliant. Drinks are fab. Arcade games take me back to my childhood and the console selection is brilliant. May be spending many a Saturday in here” (Facebook)

The Kitchen is open at BASK B

ASK, the popular bar and live music venue in Stockport Exchange, has teamed up with The Kitchen to add a great selection of food to their menu of entertainment.

From Monday through to Saturday, The Kitchen at BASK will be open from 8am until 3pm, serving high quality food, amazing cakes and bakes, and lots of vegan options - to eat in or takeaway.

New Flower & Art Shop opens in town centre

Pick up a tasty breakfast barm, or how about one of their award-winning, handmade, freshly baked pies and pastries from Ate Days A Week. Fancy a lighter bite? Opt for sourdough bread, olives or a houmous pot with herb oil. The Caesar salad is great too. And to finish? Mrs Boon proudly presents a freshly-made, daily selection of bakes and cakes – vegan options too!

IKEA brings new Plan and Order store to Stockport

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wedish furniture giant, IKEA has opened a new Plan & Order Point store in Stockport town centre’s Merseyway Shopping Centre.

Customers can access IKEA’s design and planning expertise and browse and order from the retailer’s kitchen and bedroom ranges.

Despite being smaller than a standard IKEA store, there is a selection of different kitchens to browse including all its kitchen fronts, worktops and a variety of appliances from the wider range. There’s also a dedicated bedroom space with doors, interior organisers, and knobs and handles to help customers build their dream storage solution. Customers can book an appointment, free of charge, to start their design journey with one of IKEA’s planning specialists or use the handy in-store self-service tools to design their own solution.

IKEA’s Plan & Order store is open Monday to Saturday from 9am – 6pm and from 11am – 5pm on Sunday. Appointments to consult with one of IKEA’s interior designers must be made in advance via their website – www.ikea.com

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arden of Iris, a new flower, art and gift shop has opened on Little Underbank in Stockport. Open Thursday to Saturday, from 10am to 4pm, Garden of Iris sells a range of fresh and dried flowers plus a selection

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The Stockport Music Story

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id you know that The Jimi Hendrix Experience played twice in Stockport, Elton John did a gig at Stockport College and David Bowie slept on Edgeley Station after missing the train following a concert in Heaton Chapel?

All these stories and many more are documented in Stockport’s very own Music Map which features over 200 amazing illustrations by local artist Emily Flanagan.

The map is part of an exciting cultural project ‘The Stockport Music Story’ being delivered by Seven Miles Out, the organisational team behind Stockport’s award-winning monthly food festival Foodie Friday.

The project which documents Stockport’s musical history from the 1960’s to the present day, is attracting hundreds of cultural tourists into the town through the monthly Stockport Music Map Walking Tours which have been selling out since the launch in December.

Tour guide John Barratt takes visitors to significant musical landmarks such as Strawberry Recording Studios and its forerunner Inter-City Studios and the sites of legendary Stockport clubs The Manor Lounge, The Tabernacle and The Sinking Ship.

“I’ve always been a massive music fan of all types of music from northern soul to David Bowie,” says John.

“I’ve been fascinated by Stockport’s musical legacy, ever since my older brother drove me past Strawberry Studios in the mid-1970’s to show me where 10cc recorded. We were on our way to Edgeley Park to watch a County match. As we passed Strawberry my brother pointed across at a white building opposite and said casually ‘and that’s where Jimi Hendrix played’. I remember thinking ‘wow, Jimi Hendrix played in Stockport!’ It was mind-blowing!

I couldn’t believe it! From that moment on I was obsessed with finding out everything I could about Stockport’s musical history.”

During the mid 1980’s John worked at Strawberry Recording Studios managing bands alongside Ric Dixon, one of the partners in Strawberry who had also co-managed 10cc. He then went on to manage the record producer Pete Waterman’s PWL North studios at The Church on Deansgate in Manchester where he worked with artists as diverse as N-Trance and Mark E Smith of The Fall.

The idea for the Stockport Music Map and Walking Tours started over lockdown when John and his wife Rosemary were thinking of ways of attracting people back into the town centre to support the new independent shops and bars that had opened. They approached artist Emily Flanagan whose illustrative work can be seen on street murals and shop windows on the Underbanks.

“We approached Emily because we love her distinctive playful style,” says John. “She has drawn everyone from The Beatles to Blossoms for the map. It just kept getting bigger and bigger because we kept finding out more information that we wanted to include! Now that the map is complete we’re working on a book that will tell much more of the detail behind the stories.”

Doing the research for the map, John has met some of Stockport’s incredible musical luminaries who have been guests on the tours such as Pete Maclaine and

Dee Christopholus, the singer with Wimple Winch, the resident band at The Sinking Ship who supported The Jimi Hendrix Experience.

“Dee has an amazing story to tell,” says John. “He booked Jimi Hendrix to play in Stockport and went out with him in Manchester after the gig as Jimi waited for his train back to London. Dee and his band mate Larry lived above The Sinking Ship in Royal Oak Yard. He was lucky to escape with his life when the club caught fire and burned down in April 1967. We invited Dee back to Stockport to share his memories and he met friends he’d not seen for fifty years.”

The next Music Map tour on Saturday 29th April will include as guests, the five Stockport teenagers from Mile End School who in 1970, booked David Bowie to play at the Poco A Poco club, Heaton Chapel, which is now the site of the Hinds Head pub.

Each music tour starts at a different Stockport Old Town venue and has included Syndikat, Angel Inn and The Red Bull on Middle Hillgate, a favourite watering hole of musicians who were recording at Strawberry Studios in the 1970's including Paul McCartney, Neil Sedaka and 10cc who used to go here regularly for a curry. Tickets for the tours can be booked through Skiddle.

To celebrate the music recorded at Strawberry Studios and associated with the town, John and Rosemary are organising ‘The Stockport Music Story’ concert at The Plaza on Thursday 14th September featuring local artists including Clint Boon of Inspiral Carpets, Fuzzy Sun, Pete Maclaine and The Tall Faces.

The Stockport Music Map is exhibited in Stockport Museum in the Market Place and prints are on sale at the museum shop and at The Warren.

“For me, the music map is all about giving credit to Stockport and the people who’ve made a difference in the town,” concludes John. “Local businessmen like Peter Tattersall who started Strawberry Studios with musicians Eric Stewart and Graham Gouldman, and Joe Moss, who owned Crazy Face Jeans and was the original manager of The Smiths, deserve recognition for the important contribution they've made not only to the British musical landscape but right across the world.”

The Stockport Music Story is supported by Arts Council England Lottery Grants

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Spring into the new season with the latest fashion lines at SS3 Boutique S

ituated on Ardern Walk, part of Merseyway Shopping Centre, SS3 Boutique’s spring window is certain to catch your eye. Displaying a palette of softer pastel colours and an array of vibrant greens and oranges, this delightful shop selling a mix of women’s fashion and accessories has something for absolutely anyone!

We spoke to owner Shafiq Anwar who explained why being a part of the High Street matters to her and, most importantly, to her customers.

“Since 2015, when we opened up our first ever boutique, this journey has been nothing but a blessing for us. We have learnt and grown along the way.

“SS3 Boutique holds a vision to keep the High Street fashion alive and to also cater for women of all shapes and sizes, because we feel that all women deserve to feel good and look good. Our one-size clothing allows customers to buy confidently which we love as style has no limits. One size fits all for sure!

“Year in year out, we passionately handpick out our seasonal collections, so that we can bring uniqueness and quirkiness to our customers. We love seeing our customers rocking the unique styles we sell, it definitely makes them stand out of the crowd! We must admit we do follow trends but with a special twist.

“Meeting such amazing customers from day one, we have created amazing bonds with them, some have become like family! With joy we can say that they keep their full trust in our collections throughout the year.

We highly value our customers, and we love getting feedback from them as it enables us to understand our customers’ needs more.

“For our spring collection, we have chosen to go with the bright happy pastel shades. The collection includes light and airy linen outfits, designs with many different types of cuts and styles to keep our customers looking trendy!

“We also have a collection of accessories such as necklaces, belts and sunglasses to allow our customers to dress up and slay this season (and other seasons too). This collection can also be potential holidays outfits too!

“We are excited for the next few collections this year.

We can confidently say our highly valued customers will be looking trendy this year too!

“We appreciate all our customers and want to thank them for all the love and support we have received.

This journey has been extremely rewarding and we are grateful.”

Facebook: SS3 Boutique Insta: SS3_Boutique2816 TikTok: SS3Boutiquestockport

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£25m Stockport College campus: the latest addition to the town’s regeneration programme S

tockport College officially opened its campus redevelopment programme on 24th March, which follows another recent achievement where the college received a rating of ‘GOOD’ from Ofsted. The events are clear evidence of the strides being made by Stockport College as part of its ambition to raise the profile and uptake of technical education in the town and ensuring the college’s offer meets the skills needs of employers across the borough.

The Mayor of Stockport, David Wilson, was joined by the Principal and CEO of Stockport College, James Scott, and other dignitaries to cut the ribbon and celebrate the completion of the £25m project which has seen the construction of two new buildings, the Lyme Building and a £7m Arts & Creative Media Centre, as well as the refurbishment of existing facilities.

The campus now boasts industry standard facilities for professional studies including accounting, computing, counselling, education, and training; the creative industries including art, media, hair, beauty and nails; as well as the construction trades including bricklaying, and carpentry and joinery.

Greater Manchester Combined Authority, in conjunction with the Greater Manchester Business Board, were proud to support the College’s vision for redevelopment and contributed a £16m grant towards the redevelopment costs through the Local Growth Fund programme, which was further supplemented by funding from the Department for Education as well as the college itself.

Central to the design phase of the project was listening to local employers as part of the college’s ongoing commitment to developing a responsive offer that can meet the immediate skills and employment needs of specific sectors within Stockport. As a result, the new campus features a dedicated business centre, revised course listings, and a dedicated Employer Partnerships Team as part of its plan to provide a clearer offer for employers around core business skills, including leadership and management training.

Tracey Wood, who heads up the college’s adult skills and employer team, said: “The need for businesses to develop leadership skills, digital skills and more sustainable practices has never been more important and here at Stockport College, local businesses will have access to a range of new training and upskilling development opportunities, including short courses and apprenticeships.

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“We have invested in an Employer Partnerships Team to work specifically with businesses, no matter the size, to provide advice, support and how to attract, increase and sustain their workforces and talent pipelines, utilising the various funding available.”

The redevelopment project is a key part of the college’s ambition to raise the profile and uptake of technical education in Stockport and ensuring the college’s offer meets the skills needs of employers across the borough. The college offers part and full time technical education and courses for people of all ages, including Higher Education courses delivered by the college’s University Centre.

James Scott, Principal and CEO, said: “There is an increasing national and regional focus on skills and technical education through new opportunities such as T Levels and Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs). The new college estate represents our ongoing commitment to meeting the skills priorities of our local area providing stu-

dents with the best possible educational experience, and ensuring access to the resources they need to succeed.”

The Mayor of Stockport, David Wilson, said: “The project investment over the last few years has been significant and I am confident that Stockport College will be a strong asset to the local community. It is the latest addition to the continued regeneration of the town centre and will be a pipeline for the talented workforce our local businesses need to address the skills gaps and job vacancies they continue to grapple with.”

With the project completed Stockport College is ideally placed to meet the wider ambitions of the borough and region which includes being an important player in the recent skills devolution deal signed by Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham alongside Levelling Up Minister Dehenna Davison, and the ten local council Leaders. The deal, which was signed on 21st March, signals a landmark deeper

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devolution deal for Greater Manchester, marking a seismic shift in power, funding, and responsibility from Whitehall to the region.

The new campus is a major success story for Stockport and is a testament to the college’s commitment to providing high quality education and training to its students.

Access to the college’s full range of courses can be found at stockport.ac.uk and businesses looking to discuss training and skills can contact employers@tcg.ac.uk or tracey. wood@tcg.ac.uk

The Light Stockport: Let us be the host

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rom birthday parties for all ages to private hire and business meetings, make the most of our unique spaces and let our friendly team host the perfect event for you. Looking for the ultimate cinema experience? We have 12 state-of-the-art screens all with super luxurious seats ranging from 42 seats to 177. All of our screens are capable of showing both the latest and greatest films, presentations, and home videos and are available for both kids parties, corporate hire and block ticket bookings.

Bowling, Darts, Karaoke and great food.

Our spaces create the ideal environment to host your event - we have everything from a boutique bowling alley, interactive darts, karaoke and even a retro games arcade. Whatever your event – we are able to create a memorable experience at The Light Stockport.

After your competitive exertions, why not wind down in our diner - home to 3 street food style vendors serving up only the best handmade pizzas and mouth-watering burgers. Our chefs will work with you to create a tailor-made, fun and stress free experience.

Calling on Schools….

Whether you’re after an educational and curriculum-linked visit or a celebratory reward, The Light offers a range of cinema and leisure activities which can be tailor-made to your requirements.

Help your students stay fit and active with some competitive fun bowling and we also offer exclusive school screenings and have a wide range of current film releases or Christmas classics for you to choose from to reward and inspire your students.

Dementia friendly screenings - Carers free

At our dementia-friendly screenings there are no adverts or trailers and the lighting will be slightly raised throughout the film. Although these screenings are particularly designed to be accessible for people with dementia, they are open to the general public too.

Please note that pastoral care is not provided at these events. A friend, family member or carer must also attend.

Autism-friendly screenings

We show regular screenings for our guests with autism and their friends to come along and enjoy. To make the screenings more comfortable, the sound is turned down and the lights are only dimmed, not turned off. Guests are welcome to move seats. You are also welcome to bring your own food. Autism-friendly screenings are also ideal for youngsters who prefer a more relaxed experience and for adults with learning disabilities.

Films to look out for: The Little Mermaid (below) Transformers- The Rise of the Beast The Greatest Showman – A Sing-Long

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Merseyway Shopping Centre launch giant Giving Box to help local charities during the cost-of-living crisis M

erseyway Shopping Centre has launched a GIANT Giving Box to help raise funds for four Stockport charities.

for Merseyway’s support and really appreciate being selected as a charity for this campaign.”

Located in the undercover mall, the Giving Box will enable shoppers to donate funds using contactless payments to local food banks, community groups and charities, helping to support less fortunate families during the cost-of-living crisis.

Timothy Harper from Feeding the Community Stockport said “With over 100 volunteers across Stockport, we deliver free hot meals to those most in need within our town. Our charity relies entirely on donations, so any money raised through this great initiative will be spent solely on ingredients for the meals we provide and will help to ensure we can continue to run this much needed service.”

1.8m x 1.8m in size and shaped like a giant present, the Giving Box will help fund a variety of local projects, which were identified in collaboration with Stockport’s charity infrastructure organisation Sector3.

The campaigns selected include providing food packages with Feeding the Community Stockport, supporting the homeless with The Wellspring, helping those living in poverty with Chelwood Foodbank Plus and helping to provide young people with opportunities with the Ebony and Ivory Community Organisation.

Centre Manager, Victoria Nichol said “Merseyway is dedicated to supporting the people of Stockport and for 2023, it seems only right to focus on the current issues of the cost-of-living crisis, and to help those most in need in our community. We urge all our customers who are able to donate to help us fund four amazing organisations that support so many people across our town.”

Alex Knight from The Wellspring Stockport said “The Wellspring is a resource centre based in Stockport supporting those who are homeless and at risk of homelessness.

Funds donated via the Giving Box will enable us to continue to provide vital services such as food provision, shower facilities and professional 1-1 support, enabling individuals to reach their full potential within the local community. We’re really grateful

Aba Graham from Ebony and Ivory Community Organisation said “We give young people the tools they need to develop their aspirational pathways and change their lives for the better. All funds raised for our organisation via the Giving Box will help us to continue providing these vital services in our community.”

Linzie Hogan at Chelwood Foodbank Plus said “Here at Chelwood Foodbank Plus, we have recently collaborated with UK charity, Zarach, to help tackle child bed poverty in Stockport. Due to this campaign, the funds raised from the Giving Box will be put towards purchasing a bigger and newer van, so we can deliver beds and bed bundles to those most in need in in our community. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support.”

For further updates on events at Merseyway, keep an eye on their social channels: @merseyway.

Don’t miss an exciting line-up of events at Merseyway this summer!

April 29th & 30th

will showcase a stunning crown crest and Union Jack in red, white, and blue.

Build history at Merseyway and celebrate the King’s Coronation this April by taking part in a variety of fun activities at the centre!

Providing entertainment before the Bank Holiday weekend, children of all ages can also enjoy an exclusive craft session from 11am - 3pm on Saturday 29th, where they can make their very own crown souvenirs, ready to take home as a decoration for the King’s Coronation.

King’s Coronation Celebrations

Visitors can help to create a stunning mosaic in honour of the King’s Coronation, which

June 17th

July

Father’s Day Celebrations

Merseybay

Bring the children to Merseyway to create something special for Father’s Day! Taking place from 11am – 3pm, children can take part in a FREE craft session and make their very own wooden trophy, ready to present to Dad or a fatherly figure.

Be prepared to celebrate this summer as the popular outdoor beach, Merseybay, returns to Stockport! Merseyway will be bringing all kinds of beach fun to the centre including fun fair rides and more!

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SAVE THE

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Stockport Moves St Peter’s Square Sunday 2nd July, 10am - 3pm Bringing the joy of movement to everyone

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tockport Moves is a day packed with free, fun-filled activities, so come along and get involved:

Cross the finish line at the Stockport Mile — run, walk or jog your way to a medal. Sign up for this free event today at: stockportmoves.niftyentries.com/Stockport-Mile The mile is accessible to all, including wheelchairs, adapted trikes and buggies.

Watch heart-stopping, half-pipe stunt displays by the Extreme Mountain Bike Show.

Join in with free gentle exercise and fitness sessions.

Score the fastest goal or try one of our many bikes on a traffic-free route.

Cheer on some of Greater Manchester’s fastest runners as they race around the town: a first for Stockport that will be a great spectacle.

Play games, blend a smoothie, visit the stalls in the buzzing event village and much more.

Stockport’s Giant Frogs Re-inventing themselves for summer 2023

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ollowing the awesome success of Stockport’s Giant Leap Frog Art Trail in 2019 and the Gigantic Leap Frog Art Trail in 2021, the Stockport Frogs are back for 2023!

Created by the team at Totally Stockport, the town centre’s Business Improvement District, this summer a brand-new trail of ‘Frogtastic Invention’ frogs will be hopping onto their giant cogs across the town centre, creating an educational, vibrant and fun FREE outdoor art trail for everyone to enjoy over the summer holidays.

Local artists are busy bringing the giant frogs to life – pop in and watch them at work in the frog factory, located in the former USC unit on Ardern Walk in Merseyway Shopping Centre. By the magical strokes of the artists brush you will soon be able to learn where the first hamburger was made and who invented the computer. Do you know who flew the first aeroplane or how the vaccine came about? You can find out about these and many more fascinating inventions when you visit the Frogtastic Inventions Giant Art Trail from 22nd July to 29th September.

There’ll be a mini-frog trail too – come down and see how many you can spot in shop windows around the town centre. They’ll be a chance for some lucky explorers to win their very own frog! You’ll be able to plan your day to perfection by downloading a map from the Totally Stockport website or you can just pop down to the town centre and pick up a map from Merseyway and bars and shops across the town centre.

Local businesses can join in too!

Stockport’s previous frog art trails have attracted thousands and thousands of people both locally and from across UK. This July to September, residents and visitors of all ages and backgrounds, from businesses, schools and community groups will be descending on the town to discover the ingenious frogs and their amazing inventions.

This unique Art Trail will shine the spotlight on Stockport, a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to be promoted, advertise to new audiences, engage and interact with your teams with team building events / games and support local charities. Have your brand exposed to up to 337,000 weekly visitors over the summer as well as creating the perfect opportunity for team building exercises for just £312 per week!

The Sponsor pack is available to download from the website: www.totallystockport.co.uk Find out more at frogs23@totallystockport.co.uk or call 0161 537 9382.

DATES! Krazy Races Starting in St Peter’s Square Sunday 28th May

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tockport is set to get a little wackier next month as Krazy Races comes to town on Sunday 28th May. Krazy Races is a free to attend soapbox derby event, aiming to bring all manner of races, wild and zany to towns & cities across the U.K and beyond while raising thousands for local charities.

Totally Stockport’s Krazy races is the first event of its kind to be held in the town, a nod towards the classic pram races of the past. The race route will be through St Peter’s Square, down into Mersey square past the iconic Plaza building, where racers will have to navigate a sharp right toward Stockport’s famous Air Raid Shelters. The event route will be made up of chicanes, obstacles and more with racers expected to be cheered on by thousands of visitors.

amazing headline charity ‘When you Wish Upon A Star’.

“We have the teams, now we need the amazing people of Stockport to come out in force on Sunday 28th May to cheer on your favourites!”

The team at Totally Stockport are excited to be hosting Krazy Races and added: “Town centre-based events have been attracting increasing numbers of visitors over the past few years. Krazy Races could be a record breaker for a one-day event. We’re sure seeing all the Krazy and quirky soap boxes lined up in St Peter’s Square’s ‘pit lanes’ will be a huge crowd-puller in itself, and that’s before the crazy, Krazy racers set off in chase of the chequered flag!”

Danny Scoffin, Head of Marketing for Krazy Races said: “We have been blown away by the incredible enthusiasm the people of Stockport have shown for this event, our social media has gone ‘KRAZY’ and we are over the moon to have already recruited 40, fantastic Krazy teams.

If this wasn’t enough, the Krazy Race is set to get even bigger because the event has been chosen to be part of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flyover, meaning a Lancaster bomber - one of two remaining from an original 7,377 - will be passing over head during the day!

“We can’t run our Free to attend events without the support of amazing local businesses who make it possible. We would like to put on record our thanks to headline sponsors Totally Stockport, our Pit area sponsors OCU group, Novanta and of course our

information on the event and all the teams can be found on The Krazy Races website: www.krazyraces.co.uk

Armed Forces Day Starting in St Peter’s Square Saturday 24th June, 10.30am A day of celebration in Stockport town centre

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rmed Forces Day is a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets.

There are many ways for people, communities and organisations across the country to show their support and get involved.

In Stockport, celebrations are from 10am to 4pm include a parade and march for serving regulars, reservists, veterans and cadets from St. Peters Square along to Market Place. There will be a static display of military and vintage vehicles, interactive activities for all the family along with live music and entertainment on the stage – something for everyone.

Please make any current or ex service personnel you know aware of the parade.

It’s really easy to get involved in Armed Forces Day, you can…

• Salute Our Armed Forces • Stay in touch – Sign up to receive the Armed Forces newsletter • Get involved online – Join us on Facebook and Twitter • Fly your own Armed Forces Day flag, bunting or hand-wavers. Search ‘Armed Forces Day Flag’ online • Attend an event – join us in St Peter’s Square and watch the parade • Invite - any current or ex-service personnel you know along to the event • Visit the Armed Forces website to find out more: www.armedforcesday.org.uk

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New Look, New Home for the Old Town General Store T

he Old Town General Store – an independent lifestyle store in the heart of Stockport Old Town and a fixture on the Underbanks area of Stockport for over two years, has a new look and a new home.

Now located on Great Underbank, the new store continues to cater for men and women with a distinctive taste in modern apparel, but with an extended range, stocking customer’s favourite brands including – A.B.C.L., Armor Lux, Cotopaxi, Grammicci, Lolly’s Laundry, Norr and much more.

As well as offering high-end fashion labels, the ‘new’ Old Town General Store is the perfect one-stop store for a great range of accessories and gifts.

Worried, anxious? Don’t suffer alone, Open the Door W

ith the cost-of-living still very high and the impact of Covid still fresh in our minds, many people are suffering, feeling anxious, worried or stressed; but there is no need for any one of us to feel alone or isolated. In Stockport we have access to people who can help us – we just need to visit Open Door on Prince’s Street.

Open Door was established as Making Space in 1982 and is proud to be an early pioneer of the quality health and social care services found in the UK today. Established in Warrington by David Lyne, a former development officer with the National Schizophrenia Fellowship, the organisation was driven by a determination to improve the lives of people with mental health conditions, and their Carers. In 1991, Making Space became Open Door.

What can Open Door do for you?

Open Door provides a safe haven for immediate crisis management and emotional support, structured guided self-help and IAPT approved computerised CBT programmes, taking a person-centred approach to hearing your needs and creating an action plan.

There is no wrong door; Open Door is always open to anyone who needs them. By offering an environment where they work collaboratively to understand your strengths and

build on your resilience, they explore what you need and what you want and how to get there. Open Door can ensure the right support is available at the right time!

Accessing Open Door You do not need a referral into Open Door, and you can contact us directly. You can also ask another professional involved in your care to make a referral on your behalf should you prefer. You do not need to have a formal mental health diagnosis to access our support.

Open Door is available for all Stockport residents aged 18+.

Commissioned by NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care as part of the crisis pathway, Open Door opened in 2020 as an essential service. The fully trained staff can offer you support via telephone, video calling and face to face at Open Door in the town centre. Their 24/7 helpline provides

emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Calling the helpline on 0800 138 7276 can bring a sense of relief and safety in knowing that you are not alone. Open Door can also provide more information about other local services available to you.

Open Door Stockport is located at 72-74 Prince’s Street, Stockport and is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 5.30pm, Saturday & Sunday between 12 noon and 5pm.

To find out more or to book an appointment please email: opendoorstockport@makingspace.co.uk Over the past 30 years, Open Door has grown from a small group, focused solely on mental health, with around 100 members and a £25,000 turnover, to a large multi-million-pound organisation, with over 1,000 employees and volunteers delivering innovative, personalised services across the whole spectrum of health and social care.

With an elite network of residential and nursing homes, supported housing and extra care services, independent hospitals, services that support people in their own home, and services out in the community, Open Door promotes social and community inclusion.

News

Stockport ranks among UK’s ‘Best Places to Live’

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tockport has been hailed as one of the best places to live in the UK and one of seven Best Places to Live in the Northwest, according to the annual Sunday Times ‘Best Places to Live’ guide.

The Sunday Times’ expert judges visited each of the locations to assess factors - from schools to transport, broadband speeds to culture, as well as access to green spaces and the health of the high street stating that “Stockport’s appeal, whatever your background or budget, lies in its abundance of property, parks, nurseries and outstanding schools.”

The annual list praised Stockport among 72 towns and cities across Great Britain and Northern Ireland for its abundance of green spaces, high quality housing, and fast broadband speeds. Thanks to the council’s ambitious £1 billion regeneration plan of investment, the town’s ranking recognises its upward trajectory as a destination.

Early phase developments at Stockport Exchange have been brought to fruition along with one of the first projects in a quest to provide more options for town centre living. The Mailbox – a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments - reached capacity soon after completion. The new Transport Interchange, further phases at Stockport Exchange and urban living at Weir Mill are all currently being developed.

In their profile, the paper described the town as “turning itself from a standard former mill town into a funky, family-friendly alternative to Manchester’s Northern Quarter.”

The town’s leisure options including the Light Cinema, town centre cocktail bar, Cherry Jam, and independent food and drink businesses at Stockport Market and throughout the borough were singled out as highlights for residents and users of the town centre to take advantage of.

Sophia Barrese (pictured right), who owns vintage clothing store, Top of the Town in the historic Underbanks area of the town, told The Times “Stockport has always had its own bones and character”. She went on to add that it’s been frustrating to be in Manchester’s shadow but conclude “that’s definitely changing now.”

Alongside Stockport and top destination, Liverpool, five other towns and cities in the North-west were also included in the Best Places to Live 2023 Guide: Ancoats and Sale in Greater Manchester, Tarporley in Cheshire, Rawtenstall in Lancashire, and Penrith in Cumbria.

Sponsored by Halifax, which provided average house prices for each location, the Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide, is now in its 11th year.

The Sussex market town of Wadhurst was secured the UK’s overall top-spot in the list.

Petersgate Tap is Pub of the Year

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tockport’s Petersgate Tap has poured a double winner at this year’s CAMRA awards!

The popular bar has won the coveted title of Pub of the Year and scooped up Cider Pub of the Year for the 5th year in a row. The awards are presented by Stockport CAMRA who selected the winner from hundreds of bars and pubs across Stockport and South Manchester.

Alan Gent, who opened The Petersgate Tap in 2016 said: “We have won Cider Pub of the Year for the last five years but this is the first time we’ve been eligible to win overall Pub of the Year. It’s the first time that the double has been done in the history of the branch and means the number of awards we have won since we opened in 2016 is 20”

Stockport Gin distilling an award for North-West Family Business

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usband and wife, Paul & Cheryl Sharrock’s family business, Stockport Gin, has been announced as a finalist for the People’s Choice category at the North-West Family Business Awards 2023.

Paul & Cheryl launched Stockport Gin on 22nd March 2019, at first distilling from their garage at home.

Now, all gin is made at their distillery on St Petersgate in Stockport Town Centre – they are both involved in every part of the process. They use a 100l stainless steel column still to produce their range of gins and then each bottle is filled and labelled by them before being checked and sent out all over the UK. Writing on Stockport Gin’s Facebook page, the couple from Compstall said: “We have been told that we beat strong competition with a record number of family businesses entering the awards from across the North-West region.

The awards will be held at The Concorde Conference Centre, near Manchester Airport, on Friday 19th May 2023.

“It is now down to a public vote, as well as a site-visit from the judges. Please vote for us on the North-West Family Business Award’s website.”

From their shop & distillery in Stockport, visitors can choose from a full range of gins for purchase as well as glassware, gift sets and bespoke hampers.

You can also book distillery tours and look out for details of their ‘Afternoon G & Tea’ events - the next one is on Sunday 21st May. Check their Facebook page for opening times and availability. Or visit their online shop: www.stockport-gin.com

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What’s On Every Wednesday 10am - 12pm

Stockport County Community Trust social wellbeing drop in

Edgeley Park A weekly drop in on Wednesday mornings.

Socialise with friendly staff and volunteers, make new friends, swap stories and reminisce! Enjoy the refreshments, play bingo and take part in quizzes, as well as take a ground tour.

If you’re living with long term health and mental health conditions, experiencing loneliness, living with physical and learning disabilities, complex needs or dementia, you can come along and take part in stress relieving activities like gentle yoga, relaxation and body movement, and art therapy delivered by professional therapists.

Phone the Trust on 0161 266 2700.

Edgeley Park, Hardcastle Road SK3 9DD Every Wednesday 11:00am - 11:30am

Central Library Storytime

Stockport Central Library A wonderful opportunity for children and their parents or carers to meet together on a weekly basis to share stories and rhymes in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Suitable for pre-school children.

Stockport Central Library, SK1 3RS Every Friday 10am - 4pm

Gardening session at The Landing

The Landing is a community growing space, based on the roof car park at the Merseyway Shopping Centre. It was designed and built by Where The Light Gets In and Manchester Urban Diggers, and provides produce for the restaurant as well as the local community.

Volunteer sessions take place every Friday, where you can learn the basics of organic growing principles and get involved in tending the garden. It is an oasis for re-connecting with nature, learning, growing and socialising in an unexpected space! Friday sessions are free, and all volunteers also get a free lunch cooked by the chef at Where The Light Gets In. To join as a volunteer, text Manchester Urban Diggers’ Mike on 07538 860 488 The Landing, Merseyway Shopping Centre, Great Underbank SK1 1PD Fri 5th May 10:30am -12:30pm

Disability Stockport Poetry Club

Disability Stockport This is a new group which involves read-

ing and discussing poetry. Each month, there will be a different topic of what the poetry should be inspired by, for example, love. We will do our own writing within this time and share this with the group for discussion.

Hot drinks and cake will be provided. The aim is to get creative and have the opportunity to meet other people.

Disability Stockport, 23 High Street, Stockport, SK1 1EG Fri 5th May 10:30am -12:30pm

Stitch Pots

Hat Works Join Kath Walls, in the Gallery Cafe to create a stitched pot, over 2 weekly sessions.

This course is part of the Affordable Arts Series.

Kath will guide you through stitching techniques to create a keepsake pot, in which to store your change, jewellery, pens, brushes, whatever you choose!

You will be enrolled onto both sessions automatically, so make sure that you are able to attend both dates before booking. £10 Every Friday 2pm-3:30pm

Stockport Mind Choir

St Peter’s Parish Church Joining the Stockport Mind Choir can increase your confidence, be a lot of fun and help you to meet other Stockport locals.

The choir takes place on the ground floor and there are no stairs. Hot drinks and biscuits are provided as well.The choir is free of charge, but a small donation is suggested, to help cover costs.

Call 0161 475 6229 to sign up to the group.

St Peter’s Parish Church, St Petersgate, SK1 1NZ Sat 6th May 10am - 3pm

Rare Finds flea market

Middle Hillgate A monthly flea market, held on the last Saturday of every month featuring second-hand furniture, vintage décor, homeware, fashion and more.

Wed 10th May 7pm - 9pm

Stockport LGBT+ PLUS: Big Monthly Social

Cafe SQ Social event with a quiz, drinks and chat.

Every second Wednesday of the month Cafe SQ, St Petersgate

Thu 11th May 6:00pm - 8:30pm

Screen printed wooden jewellery

Hat Works You’ll learn how to screen print your own geometric design onto pre-cut wooden beads. You’ll then sand and finish the beads and chose how they’re strung. If you have time, you can also make a pair of matching earrings. The class is led by Arc Associate Artist Wendy Roby, from Stockport art studio Roby Workshop.

All materials will be provided but wear clothes you don’t mind getting messy or bring an apron. Wendy’s exhibition at Arc, “Halftone, Second Half”, will be open to view before the workshop. £35 Fri 12th May 10am -12pm

Menopause in mind: peer support group

Windmill Coffee Shop Are you menopausal, perimenopausal, or just don’t know yet?

Come along to connect with other women, talk openly and confidentially and get information and support.

Behind the cafe counter.

For more info call 0161 804 4416 or email communityhub@pureinnovations.co.uk.

Windmill Coffee Shop, Stockport Homes, Cornerstone Building, SK1 3NQ Free Fri 12th May 7:15pm - 11:30pm

Discos for Grown Ups

Stockport Town Hall Get glittered up for a fun and fab night of dancing with people your own age.

It’s going to be a boogie night to remember! There will be plenty of seating and a proper sprung dance floor! Boogie the night away to all your favourite 70s, 80s and 90s disco, soul and feel good pop hits you love. www.discosforgrownups.com £15 for early bird tickets Sat 13th May 10:00am - 1:00pm

Organ concert and coffee morning

St Peter’s Church Organ concert featuring organists Adam Parrish and Kieran Eastwood-Mulvaney.

Come and go as you please.

Tea or coffee and a cake £2 St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Square Sat 13th May 10am - 4pm

Stockport Makers Market Stockport Market Place

The Stockport Makers Market is back on the second Saturday of every month for a selection of the North West’s finest food, drink, art, design and vintage.

Featuring specially selected specialists, who source, grow, rear, bake, make, and create the products they sell. This makes sure their goods are unique, original and designed to inspire.

Sat 13th May 10:30am - 12:30pm

Create at Staircase: macrame

Staircase House Join artist Caroline Coates at our monthly craft workshops. Fun and relaxed sessions with a different craft each time.

In May we’re being inspired by the 1970s with a macrame workshop! You’ll learn simple macrame knots and make your own retro macrame pot hanger.

All materials and pot provided Booking is essential.

Adults aged 16 and over only. £15 Sat 13th May 7:30pm - 9:30pm

Stockport Symphony Orchestra Concert: Classical Genius

Stockport Town Hall Stockport Symphony Orchestra plays: • Mozart Overture to Don Giovanni • Bach Concerto for Oboe and Violin • Bach Brandenburg Concerto No 4 • Beethoven Symphony No 3 “Eroica” Conducted by Maca Barbosa and Matteo Dal Masso. £5 to £15. Free for accompanied children under 16 years old.

Sun 14th May 10:00am - 12:30pm

Stockport Race for Life - Volunteer!

Woodbank Memorial Park The Race for Life events couldn’t happen without volunteers. Whatever time and skills you have to share, they’ve got a great role for you.

Help set up and run the race, support our participants around the course or hand out medals at the finish line.

If you’re interested, please sign up on the Cancer Research UK website.

Woodbank Memorial Park, Turncroft Lane, Offerton, Stockport, SK1 4JR Thu 18th May 10:00am - 4:00pm

Dementia Awareness Day

Stockport Town Hall Join Healthwatch and other organisations at Stockport Town Hall to find out more about Dementia and what support is avail-

What’s On

29

All the big events in and around the centre of Stockport over the coming months. Keep up-to-date with what’s going on at www.totallystockport.co.uk

able throughout Stockport.

The event will include stalls from organisations, charities, community and the voluntary sector across Stockport that support Dementia. You can see what’s available for you and your loved ones.

Enjoy talks from guest speakers and meet other people living with dementia and their carers.

Free tea and coffee are available throughout the day as well as light bites. www.healthwatchstockport.co.uk.

Free Sun 21st May 10am - 4pm

Stockport Vinyl Record Fair

Stockport Masonic Guildhall Traders have vinyl records, CDs and books, there is catering on site and the bar will be open. Parking is just £1169 Wellington Road South, SK1 3UA £5 from 9am. £1 after 10am Tue 23rd May 11:00am - 1:00pm

Crochet, knit and craft

Stockport Central Library Bring along your knitting, crochet or craft to this free drop-in.

Join our casual gathering and meet fellow makers, have a brew, and a chat.

From expert to beginner. Everyone is welcome.

Free Fri 26th May 6pm - 9pm

Foodie Friday

Market Place An evening of street food, craft ales and live music at Stockport Market from 6-9pm on the last Friday of every month.

Sat 27th May 11:00am - 3:00pm

Arc Saturday art club

Hat Works A family day out for art and craft lovers. If you’re looking for things to do in Stockport at weekends then look no further. More than just cutting and sticking, there are

activities that build new skills and use specialist or uncommon materials and techniques that you might not be able to achieve at home.

No need to book. A charitable donation of £3 from those who can afford it is suggested via cash or card in the centre or at any time via Justgiving.

Sun 28th May 11:00am - 3:00pm

Krazy Races

Starting - St Peter’s Square Krazy Races is a free to attend soapbox derby event, aiming to bring all manner of races, wild and zany to towns & cities across the U.K and beyond while raising thousands for local charities. see page 25 for more info Thu 1st June 10:30am - 12:00pm

Crochet for kids: worry worm workshop

Hat Works A fun half term workshop to make your own crochet worry worm and raise money for the charity. Materials will be provided.

Suitable for children aged 8 to 16. Young people aged 14 and under must have an adult with them, either supporting them or nearby in The Gallery Cafe. Refreshments will be available to buy. £5

All equipment and materials required will be provided. Additional silver will be available to purchase for larger designs.

Once you have completed this course, you’ll be eligible to rent a bench to work independently, as well as attending more advanced classes.

Epok, 75 Wellington Road South, SK1 3RU £193.36

Sat 17th June 10:30am - 12:30pm

Fri 9th June 7.45pm

Wed 21st June 10:00am - 12:00pm

Go West + Cutting Crew

Stockport Plaza 80’s legends Go West return with a live band playing their classic hits including; We Close our Eyes, Don’t Look Down, Call Me, Goodbye Girl, King of Wishful Thinking, Faithful.

Plus support Cutting Crew: I just Died in your arms, I’ve been in love before.

Sat 10th June 10am - 4pm

Staircase House A step-by-step introduction to lino printing.

You’ll create some beautiful and original prints. All materials are provided. Booking is essential and this event is for those aged 16 years old and over only. £15

Carers support with Stockport Mind

Quaker Meeting House, Do you care for a partner, relative, or friend who is experiencing emotional distress or has a mental health condition?

This event gives you an opportunity to meet other mental health carers. The group is held twice a month, once online and once in person.

For more information, including how to join the group call 0161 475 6229 Quaker Meeting House, 2 Cooper Street, SK1 3DW Wed 21st June 5:00pm - 6:30pm

Fostering and supported lodgings information session drop in

Quaker Meeting House, Come along and meet local foster carers, the fostering team and the supported lodgings team. You can find out more about fostering local children and young people in care in Stockport and how to join our supported lodgings scheme.

Quaker Meeting House, 2 Cooper Street, SK1 3DW

Fri 2nd June 7:45pm

Outside the Box Comedy Club

Garrick Theatre MC Maff Brown, Phil Ellis, Simon Lomas plus mystery guest £12

Friday 23rd June at 7.30pm

The Very Best of Tommy Cooper Just Like That!

Mon 5th June 11:00am - 1:00pm

Six week introduction to silversmithing

Epok Learn the fundamental skills of silversmithing in this in-depth, six week course.

You’ll learn the skills needed to design and fabricate your own jewellery: sawing, forming, drilling, soldering, finishing

Create at Staircase: Lino printing

Stockport Makers Market As 13th May

Stockport Plaza This hilarious one-man show written by Daniel Taylor focuses on Tommy Cooper’s legendary comedy act, recapturing his trademark mayhem and misfiring magic.

The hour-and-a-half show includes many of Cooper’s beloved one-liners, dazzling wordplay and celebrated tricks, including

Key contact details The Hat Works

Wellington Mill Wellington Road South Stockport SK3 0EU 0161 474 2399

The Plaza

Mersey Square Stockport SK1 1SP 0161 477 7779

Stockport Central Library

Wellington Road South Stockport SK1 3RS

Air Raid Shelters 61 Chestergate Stockport SK1 1NE 0161 474 1940

Stockport Museum Staircase House 30 Market Place Stockport SK1 1ES 0161 474 4444

Google

What’s On Glass/Bottle, Dappy Duck, Spot the Dog and Jar/Spoon.

The Production has the blessing of the Tommy Cooper Estate.

Sat 24th June

Armed forces Day

Starting from St. Peters Square See page 25 for more details Sat 24th June 7:30pm - 9:30pm

Stockport Symphony Orchestra Concert: Rachmaninov 2

Stockport Town Hall The final concert of Stockport Symphony Orchestra’s season brings the ever popular and beautiful 2nd piano concerto by Rachmaninov. With soloist Giulia Cantaldo.

The concert will also include Glinka Overture Russlan and Ludmilla and Sibelius Symphony No 2.

Conducted by Robert Guy. £5 to £15. Free for accompanied children under 16 years old.

Sat 24th June 10:30am - 3:30pm

Create at Staircase: mosaic in a day Staircase House Join artist Caroline Coates for a special full day workshop. This fun and relaxed

The following is a sample of some of the film showing at The Light over the next few month. Check their website for full listings and information on Autism-friendly screenings Akira - 35th Anniversary

Action, Animation, Drama Tue 9th May 8:15pm Neo-Tokyo, 2019. The city is being rebuilt post World War III. Kaneda and Tetsuo, two high school drop outs, stumble on a secret government project to develop new weapons - telekinetic humans. Tetsuo learns of the existence of his ‘peer’, Akira, the project’s most powerful subject, and determines to challenge him...

Eurovision 2023 - Grand Final Live

Sat 13th May 7:30pm For the first time ever, the Eurovision Song

All the big events in and around the centre of Stockport over the coming months.

Keep up-to-date with what’s going on at www.totallystockport.co.uk

session will provide step by step guidance to create your own upcycled mosaic from design though to grouting your final piece.

All materials will be provided.

There will be a lunch break so please feel free to bring some lunch with you.

Adults only, aged 16 and over. £30 Fri 30th June - 1st July

Youth Summer Show

Garrick Theatre Stockport Garrick Youth take to our Main Stage for the final time this season in their annual Summer Show! The perfect way for them to showcase their talents and show off all the skills they’ve learnt over the year. More info on the play they’ll be doing will be announced later.

Fri 30th June 6pm - 9pm

Foodie Friday

Market Place An evening of street food, craft ales and live music at Stockport Market from 6-9pm on the last Friday of every month.

Fri 7th July 10:30am - 12:30pm

Disability Stockport Poetry Club Disability Stockport

Contest Grand Final show will be broadcast live into cinemas across the UK, allowing fans to come together and be ‘united by music’ sharing in the incredible experience of celebrating the biggest, brightest, music party of the year on the big screen!

The Little Mermaid

Family , Fantasy, Musical from 26th May The story of Ariel, a beautiful and spirited young mermaid with a thirst for adventure.

The youngest of King Triton’s daughters and the most defiant, Ariel longs to find out more about the world beyond the sea and, while visiting the surface, falls for the dashing Prince Eric, but mermaids are forbidden to interact with humans.

Plan 75

Drama Mon 5th June 6:00pm Government program Plan 75 encourages senior citizens to be euthanized to remedy an aged society. An elderly woman whose means of survival are vanishing, a pragmatic Plan 75 salesman, and a Filipino labourer face choices of life and death.

This is a new group which involves reading and discussing poetry. Each month, there will be a different topic of what the poetry should be inspired by, for example, love.

We will do our own writing within this time and share this with the group for discussion.

Hot beverages and cake will be provided.

The aim is to get creative and have the opportunity to meet other people. isbah.hussain@disabilitystockport.org.uk 23 High Street, SK1 1EG

those aged 16+ only £13 Sat 15th July 7.00pm

Stockport Schools’ Brass Bands

As 13th May

Stockport Plaza Stockport Schools’ Brass Bands (SSBB) were formed in 1978 and to celebrate the 45th Anniversary past members of SSBB are reuniting, with some of the top brass players in Stockport and beyond coming together to play in the Reunion Band.

The evening will start with a performance from the current bands, with the finale of the evening being a massed band piece with over 100 players taking part.

Sat 15th July 10:30am - 12:30pm

Mon 17th July 10:30am - 12:30pm

Staircase House July’s craft is botanical illustration, inspired by the Stockport Museum collection.

Artist Caroline Coates will provide guidance and tips to improve your drawing.

This session is suitable for beginners and those wanting to further explore drawing.

All materials are provided.

Booking is essential and this event is for

Central Library (upstairs meeting room) Aiming to give anyone working to support mental health and wellbeing within Stockport an opportunity to meet, discuss and share our various events and initiatives and work to build partnerships with other organisations.

Refreshments available.

This is a drop-in event.

Sat 8th July 10am - 4pm

Stockport Makers Market

Create at Staircase: Botanical illustration

Transformers: Rise of the Beasts

Action, Adventure, Science Fiction from Friday 9th June Rise of the Beasts will take audiences on a ‘90s globetrotting adventure and introduce the Maximals, Predacons, and Terrorcons to the existing battle on Earth between Autobots and Decepticons.

Grease Sing-A-Long

Musical Sun 11th June 6:30pm for a 7:30pm start A special one-off sing-a-long charity

Mental heath practitioners networking session

screening of the 1978 classic Grease - in memory of Olivia Newton-John. Profits from the screening will go to the Olivia Newton-John Foundation. Wear pink and join us from 18:30 for plenty of fun

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny

Action, Adventure from 30th June Harrison Ford returns as the legendary hero archaeologist in the highly anticipated fifth installment of the franchise.

a TASTE of STOCKPORT

Food & Drink Directory PRODUCE HALL Marketplace Dome & Base

Stone-baked pizza perfection

Kambuja

Authentic Cambodian street food with great vegan & veggie options

Mama G’s

Caribbean soul food with tons of flava!

Uncommon Ground

Shakes, cakes & everything in-between.

La Capilla

Mexican food served street style

Spinn Off Underbanks

Craft beers, organic wines, locally sourced spirits and handmade pies

Petersgate Tap Petersgate Real Ale, Imperial Stouts, Real Cider, Local Gins and Bottle Shop

Pausa Cafe @ Dunelm St Mary’s Way

Where The Light Gets In Churchgate

Rosie’s Coffee House

Bask Stockport Exchange

The fine dining restaurant that put Stockport food on the culinary map

The Arden Arms Millgate

Hand pulled beers and hearty food

Cafe San Juan St Petersgate

Columbian food and fresh roast coffee

Rozafa St Petersgate

Family run greek restaurant

Coffee, Cakes & Kitchen

The Calverts Court St Petersgate Stockport’s Wetherspoons

Angel Inn Marketplace

local communty pub with a heart

The Edgerton St Petersgate

Local pub offering affordable hearty food and drinks

Caffè Nero Warren Street Coffee shop with a menu of light dishes & specially blended hot & cold drinks.

Inner Vision Great Underbank Coffee, Ink, Hair & Piercing in one place

Home to the famous Slopy Joe, Mac & Memphis burgers

Kaspas Peel Centre Dessert House serving sundaes, waffles, crepes, milkshakes, smoothies and more.

A wide range of beers, cider and cask ales

Project 53 Marketplace

Costa Merseyway & Peel Centre

Poco Mas

Tasty Tapas, prefect for sharing

Fat Louis

The Cocked Hat Churchgate The Light Redrock

Cinema and leisure space with pizza, burgers & more

Hot and cold food, cakes, brunch and kids’ meals.

Speakeasy HQ with live music, DJs, local and worldwide beers and outfoor seating

Bakers Vault Marketplace A real ale pub with regular live music and outdoor seating in the marketplace.

Queens Head Underbank Small local traditional pub

Dal Barista Underbank Italian Bistro and brunch Café Glitch Prince’s Street

A new type of bar set in an interactive museum for vintage arcade lovers

Notion Vernon Street

Self-styled dive bar serving a huge range of rum, whiskey/bourbon and cocktails

Plaza Cafe Mersey Square The home of afternoon teas and fine lunches since 1932. Licensed.

Hillgate Cakery Underbanks Vegan licensed cafe and bakery

Home of Stockport’s favourite tipple

Coffee Island Mersey Square A wide range of hot and cold food as well as hot drinks, frappes and milkshakes.

Cherry Jam Underbanks

Family run Italian restaurant

Themed bar with delicious cocktails, good times and afternoon teas!

Pizza Express Redrock

Insomnia @ Primark Merseyway

Aquila Nera Petersgate

The Good Rebel Underbank

Jungle Grill Princess Street

Craft Gin, Craft Beer and Pizzas

Chain outlet selling fair-trade coffee & hot chocolate, tea, sandwiches & pastries.

Grandads Prince’s Street Eat in or takeaway chip shop The Mekong Cat Underbanks

Authentic Southeast Asian Noodle House

Laco Underbanks

Coffee Shop serving delicious healthy food

Bistro Marc Underbanks

The largest coffee shop chain in the UK.

Cozy independent bar with hidden bar garden

Korean Barbeque

Pizza Express Redrock Pizza and Pasta restaurant chain

Holiday Inn Stockport Exchange

The Rectory Churchgate

Hotel offering quality breakfasts, lite bites and meals

A multi-roomed pub-restaurant attached to the Premier Inn

Berretto Lounge Redrock

McDonalds Merseyway

Our lounge is a home from home, offering delicious food and drink

Zizzi Redrock

Afiyet Redrock

Salty Towers Underbanks

Contemporary Mediterranean cuisine with a large, stand-alone bar.

Tim Hortons Peel Centre

Newly refurbished Fish & Chip Shop

Coffee, pastries & panini.

Rhode Island Underbanks

GDK Peel Centre

This Godless Place Underbanks

The Cafe Place Prince’s Street

Tiamos Underbanks

The Chestergate Chestergate Community pub serving great beer

Lovingly crafted coffee Shop Bar & Canteen offering tacos, grilled cheese. American burgers and more Continental sandwich deli

Stockport grill house offering steaks, burgers, grilled chicken and more!

Baekdu Wellington Street

French Bistro

Italian restaurant for pizza & calzone on wooden boards, plus traditional pastas

Stockport Gin St Petersgate

International German Kebab chain.

Cafe with inside and outside seating.

Burgers, snacks and drinks

Yellowhammer Underbanks Light bites and organic wines

Cafe SQ St Peter’s Square Relaxed atmosphere and quality coffee Enigma Petersgate

Family run social bar

SY2 Prince’s St

Japanese cafe with a huge range of teas

Swan With Two Necks Prince’s Street Traditonal Robbie’s pub with beer garden.

Nelson’s Tavern A6

Welcoming and friendly pub

Offering Indoor and outdoor seating

Porky’s Merseyway Merseyway

Quality sandwiches for over 27 years

Windmill Cafe Edward St Pure Innovations run cafe in Stockport Homes. Closed Wed, Sat and Sun. Asda Cafe Warren Street

Classic dishes for breakfast & lunch

Creams Café Prince’s Street

Chain outlet offering a huge range of desserts include vegan options

Othello’s Cafe Redrock

Cafe serving breakfast as well as hot and cold sandwiches and lunch specials.

Juice Time Bar Prince’s St

Fruit cocktails, crepes & waffles, milk shakes, fresh coffee and much more

Goodness Organic Foods Warren St Bakery grocers, and cafe, all in one

Coffee Block Merseyway A new, independent Coffee House serving cakes and toasted sandwiches Le Tentazioni Italiane Prince’s Street Italian family run restaurant, deli and takeaway