Stone & Eccleshall Life Dec/Jan 2018

Stone

AN MER D H RY AP CH PY RIS N E TM W AS YE AR !

& Eccleshall DEC/JAN 2018-19

WIN

Life

A 2019 STONE CALENDER BY LOCAL ARTIST EMMA JOUSTRA

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EDITOR’S LETTER From festive fun to inspirational stories

Belinda Hargreaves Contents Editor life@timesandecho.co.uk Amy Podmore & Tracey Redfern Design & Production Jane Walters Advertising Manager Tel: 07817 128582 jane@timesandecho.co.uk Tom Brian Advertising Sales Tel: 07855 242693 tom@timesandecho.co.uk Times, Echo & Life Publications 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 1BD Tel: 01538 752214 www.timesechoandlife.co.uk life@timesandecho.co.uk Facebook - Search for Stone and Eccleshall Life

'Tis the season to be jolly.... and there's certainly lots to be jolly about with what's happening in Stone & Eccleshall this festive season.

And it's already started in Stone with the annual illuminating event which took place in November and saw hundreds of families enjoy the celebrations – check out our pictures from the event.

Also be sure to take a look at our What's On Guide for details about a multitude of Yuletide fun from Christmas Fairs, Tree Festivals, Pantomimes, festive shopping events, and much much more.

Yet again we have some inspirational stories about people within our community here in the Stone & Eccleshall Life Magazine.

We have been chatting to Emma Joustra who creates the most colourful paintings of people's homes and families, along with creative artwork focusing on her home-town of Stone itself.

We also feature youngster Jocelyn James who has been 'rubbing shoulders' with some big stars of the television and music industries, plus we have a lovely story about Mary Leigh who has lost weight, despite having a medical condition which she originally thought would stop her from being able to.

We hope you enjoy reading all the stories and features in this magazine, and if you have a story to tell about life in Stone or Eccleshall, please do get in touch with us.

But for now, it's a pleasure to say Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all – from everyone at the Stone & Eccleshall Life Cover photo courtesy of Magazine.

Noel Bennett Until next time – take care!

Belinda

noelbennettphotography.co.uk, 01785 813888

DEC/JAN 2018-19 5

Dec 2018/ Jan 2019

Editor’s Letter.......................................................5

Stone Advent Calender.........................................8

Camra Good Beer Guide.......................................8

Art Workshop......................................................10 Gallery @ 12........................................................10

Emma Joustra local art creations........................11 Weight Watchers.................................................13

Stone food and drink......................................16-17

Bear .....................................................................18

Taste of Staffordshire good food awards............20 World of Wedgwood..........................................21

Womens Institute......................................... 22-23

Whats on in Dec/Jan................................... .24-25

Lets get quizzical.................................................28

CONTENTS Remembrance.....................................................29

Stage Directory...................................................30

Stone child star....................................................31

Gardening...........................................................32

Community champion........................................34

Local author........................................................35

Lymestone brewery ............................................36

Sandon & District village fete.............................37

Trefoil guild.........................................................37

Stone lights event................................................38

Volunteer appeal.................................................38

Staffordshire enterprise programme..................39

Westbridge park.................................................40

Country land and business association ..............41

Investment matters.............................................43

Motoring.............................................................44

Motoring.............................................................46

Stafford Fireplaces & Stoves

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Tel: 01785 211 554 • www.staffordfireplaces.co.uk Open Monday-Saturday 9.30am-5pm, closed Sundays, open in evening by appointment

DEC/JAN 2018-19 7

STONE ADVENT CALENDAR CELEBRATIONS

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Carols are the theme for this year's advent windows

or the ninth year running a giant community advent calendar is being unveiled day by day in Stone shop windows from December 1 until December 24.

The Stone Advent Windows is organised by Christ Church Stone and this year's theme has a musical one.

Co-organiser Helen Bowes said: “This year we are focusing on Christmas Carols so check out all the amazing creations over the month.

“We thank all those who are hosting or who have created each window.”

All windows will be opened at 11am each day, and the decorated windows will remain on display over the Christmas period until January 2, 2019.

There will also be a special Advent Calendar Carol-Singing Walk on Monday, December 24 which will start from the Lock Keeper’s Cottage on Stafford Street at 9.30am.

Helen added: “Come and join us as we sing

our way through the calendar and up the High Street.

“At 11am we will arrive at Christ Church in time for the opening of the final window after which mince pies and other refreshments will be served in Christ Church centre.”

For further information go online to www.christchurchstone.org

CAMRA GOOD BEER GUIDE Pubs are recognised in national guide

Top pubs from the Stone & Eccleshall area have been listed in a national guide.

The 46th edition of the Good Beer Guide, published by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), features 17 new breweries across the West Midlands region and 95 new pub entries.

Locally, in Stone, Lymestone Brewery's The Borehole, Titanic Brewery's Royal Exchange, and The Swan are listed in this 2019 edition, along with The Brushmakers Arms in Oulton.

Lymestone Brewery in Stone is also listed in the brewery section of the guide.

Across in Stafford, the pubs listed include: The Bird in Hand, Floodgate Ale House, The Greyhound, King's Arms, Olde Rose & Crown, Picture House, and The Sun. The Good Beer Guide 2019 is compiled through independent judgement and recommendations, and every pub which appears has been visited regularly by CAMRA members.

CAMRA is a proudly independent organisation and as such all entries in the guide are free – there are no hidden costs associated with appearing.

8 Dec/Jan 2018-19

ART WORKSHOPS ART

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Getting arty with Chrissie

Stone artist is enhancing the workshops she offers with a little help from fellow artists.

Chrissie Bennett is a pastel artist, living in Stone with her husband Noel, an award winning photographer.

Chrissie Bennett Also an art tutor, Chrissie has been teaching drawing and pastel painting to small groups for six years. As the popularity of her workshops, which she holds in her home studio, have grown, Chrissie is now also offering larger sessions at Stone Station’s Community Rooms.

The debut creative event in October saw Sandra Orme, a nationally recognised pastel artist who specialises in sky and seascapes, attend and help with the session.

Chrissie said: “With Sandra's approach to painting being bolder perhaps than mine, my students were a little daunted at first, but following Sandra's clear instructions and demonstrations, they quickly relaxed and

GALLERY @ 12

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thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the day's workshop.

“The final results were proof enough of this with some excellent results.”

Since having such positive feedback from this event, Chrissie is now planning a series of similar workshops where she intends to invite other guest artists to demonstrate or hold specialist workshops.

The next event will be early in 2019 with David Brammeld RA,PS leading a Tree Workshop.

In the meantime, Chrissie's regular weekly classes will begin again on January 16 and 17, 2019, and an exhibition of her students' artwork will be held at Stone's library throughout February.

For anyone wishing to try their hand at soft pastel drawing or painting, Chrissie will be running a Taster Day on Saturday, January 19.

For more details about her work, classes or workshops, contact Chrissie on 07813 578094 or at chrissiebennett@gmail.com. Alternatively check out her website: www.christinabennettartist.co.uk or follow her at www.facebook.com/ChristinaBennett.Art/

Colourful exhibition showcasing talents collective of creatives are currently hosting an exhibition at a museum.

Gallery @ 12 – the Staffordshire Artists Cooperative which is based at 12 High Street in Eccleshall is currently exhibiting at the Brampton Museum in Newcastle-under-Lyme.

The collective of artists and makers are using the exhibition space to showcase work by a total of 16 members.

Entitled 'The Staffordshire Artists Cooperative Exhibition', it will run until January 5.

Gallery @ 12 in Eccleshall is the showcase gallery of a group of artists and makers who live or work in West Staffordshire or surrounding areas. The gallery display is changed regularly 10 Dec/Jan 2018-19

and paintings, ceramics, glass, jewellery, textiles, sculpture and turned woodwork are always on show. There is also a range of greeting cards available, made by the artists and a picture framing service is also offered.

Gallery@ 12 by Noel Bennett

Emma Joustra local art creations

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ART

All things Stone in calendar by artist HE HOME-TOWN of an artist is some of the focus for her colourful creations.

Emma Joustra has been drawing family homes for the last ten years.

Her pictures include the people and loved ones that go with the house, so every commission tells a family's story.

Emma said: “My house portraits are as personal as I can make them. I aim to capture a moment in time, including hobbies, interests, pets and the everyday things people have in their lives.

“I also draw workplace portraits, such as restaurants, pubs, offices, hospitals and factories. All the personnel and details that make a business special are incorporated within the drawing.

“My pictures often become a talking point, and stand out from photographs when used to advertise in print and online publications.”

In addition, Emma draws maps of towns highlighting local culture, iconic features and places of historical interest – including of her hometown of Stone.

Also every Photos by Daniel Moore year, she produces a calendar entitled “There's No Place Like Stone” which features many images of the Staffordshire town.

Emma's pictures are all sketched, inked, then coloured with a digital pen.

She further explained: “I developed my style using skills I picked up art directing during a brief spell in advertising, bringing ideas to life with marker pens and drawing story boards.

“I also spent a year making etchings. I have moved from one of the most traditional art processes to embracing twenty-first century art

technology.”

Born in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Emma has lived and worked in Stone for the past 18 years.

She said of her favourite creation: “My very first drawing was of Granvilles drawn back in 2007. It is my favourite as this was the one which got me noticed.

“Also I have particularly enjoyed creating large format pieces for The Royal Stoke and County Hospital Renal Units and The Haywood Hospital main entrance.”

Emma's clients come from all walks of life including personal, corporate, public bodies and even the occasional celebrity. She has images licensed as jigsaws with WHSmith and Jumbo, and fine china mugs made by Staffordshire based Dunoon Ceramics.

She also sells her creations at a number of community events including at the annual Stone Food & Drink Festival.

As for her aspirations for the future, Emma said: “I would like to build up my online sales, and create more generic work to get me further afield.

“I would also like to keep busy drawing houses and businesses, and to have more work nationwide such as my WHSmith jigsaws and Dunoon mugs.”

To have a closer look at Emma's work, go online to www.itsacolourfullife.com.

Emma is giving away one of her 2019 Stone calenders to one Stone & Eccleshall Life Magazine reader. To be in with a chance of winning the calender, just answer this question: What is the title of Emma Joustra's 2019 calender for Stone?

Email your answer, along with your name, postal address and telephone number, to life@timesandecho.co.uk by 5pm on Friday, December 21. Alternatively post your entry to 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Staffordshire.

ST10 1BD.

Dec/Jan 2018-19 11

HEALTH

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WEIGHT WATCHERS

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HEALTH

Mary sheds the weight despite medical issues

Stone woman has lost almost two stone in weight after joining a Weight Watcher's class.

Sixty-two year old Mary Leigh, who lives in Walton, Stone, began attending the Walton Community Centre sessions at the weight of 12 stone seven pounds, and is now a trim ten stone ten pounds.

Last winter Mary had been unhappy that her size 16 clothes were getting tight for her. She said: “I was putting jeans on that were tight and then giving me that ring of fat over the top of my jeans.

“I do kidney dialysis three times a week for four hours each day which affect my potassium levels which means that there are items of food that I cannot eat such as tomatoes, bananas, strawberries yogurt to name a few. With this I never thought about joining a slimming group.”

However, in March this year Mary's good friend Sharon encouraged her to try weight watchers at Walton Community Centre.

Mary said about the first meeting she attended: “We walked into laughing which was a good relaxing start, filled forms in and then met Nicky, the Wellness Coach of Weight Watchers.

“She very kindly explained how Weight Watchers worked and she was understanding of my condition.”

Mary soon learned that kidney dialysis is not an obstacle when dieting. She said: “Yes a lot of the foods associated with dieting contain potassium phosphate.

The hospital monitor my levels by blood tests and if levels are too high it will affect what bit of life there is left in my kidneys.

“So alternative foods must be part of my weekly planning for healthy eating.

“The best weight loss information comes BEFORE from chatting to members, learning

and using the Weight Watchers app, and planning your week ahead.”

To gain extra points on the Weight Watchers programme, there is an activity button on the app.

Mary said: “This is a great help. My best friend Sharon and I have walked lots this summer, and gained a good night out at the weekend and still lost weight.”

Mary admits that she has had ups and downs since March with her dialysis treatment. She said: “Sometimes after coming off the dialysis machine I feel very sick, can't eat or drink, therefore my weekly plan has to be rearranged to allow all my weekly points to be eaten.

“With Sharon and Nicky’s support and understanding I have done it, and got to my target weight losing 25 lbs.

“This may not seem a lot of weight to lose but in clothes terms I have gone from a tight size 16 to happy fitting size 12 and I am healthy.

“I have made some lovely new friends at Weight Watchers along the way. So with a little selfmotivation and the help of a very good Weight Watchers team your goals can be reached, even if you have a medical condition.”

weight loss AFTER

13 Dec/Jan 2018-19

Dec/Jan 2018-19 15

STONE FOOD & DRINK Annual culinary festival delights many visitors

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he 2018 Stone Food & Drink Festival has been hailed as a resounding success.

The downpour of rain on the first day of the annual festival did little to dampen spirits at Staffordshire’s biggest gastronomic gathering earlier this month, as crowds gathered on Westbridge Park for the 2018 Stone Food & Drink Festival.

Marking its 14th year the event drew crowds of some 17,000 over the three days.

Highlights included live cookery demonstrations from top local chefs in the Willmott Dixon Demonstration Kitchen; talks and tastings sessions with passionate producers; culinary master-classes, family fun and great live music.

Visitors also got to fulfil their shopaholic tendencies with more than 100 stalls in attendance selling everything from artisan cheese, pies, breads and sweet treats through to kitchen ware and global street food.

The beer, gin, wine and prosecco bars proved as popular as ever, with the festival

16 Dec/Jan 2018-19

having a real ‘party’ feel that saw the space in front of the Tinsley Garner live music stage transformed into a dance floor several times over the weekend.

Festival Chairman, Richard Stevens said: “Once again, what a weekend we had.

“The Friday was the busiest to date, but the deluge on Saturday morning always meant that we weren’t going to beat last year’s record attendance.

K FESTIVAL

“Once the sun came out on Saturday afternoon, however, the atmosphere was fantastic.

“Sunday’s blue skies made the rather chilly temperatures bearable and the site was bustling.

“We had some very happy traders – several of whom sold out of stock early on Saturday and Sunday – and we can’t wait to do it all

FOOD & DRINK

again next year.”

All profits from the event, which is a notfor-profit Community Interest Company run entirely by volunteers, is set to be ploughed straight back into next year’s festival which is scheduled to take place on October 4, 5 and 6, 2019.

To find out more, visit www.stonefooddrink.org.uk

Dec/Jan 2018-19 17

FOOD & DRINK

Annual culinary festival delights many visitors

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n innovative, independent, local coffee house is now breathing new life into Stone High Street.

Midlands-based BEAR opened its doors in Stone in November at the former HSBC building.

Confidently branding itself as #notanothercoffeeshop, the store promises to redefine the cafe-bar experience in Stone.

Founded in 2014 by entrepreneurs Craig Bunting and Michael Thorley, BEAR first found bricks and mortar at the site of a once iconic retail store at the top of Uttoxeter High Street, opening to the public for the first time in January, 2016.

They have since expanded to a former bank building in Derby’s beautiful Cathedral Quarter which opened its doors in December 2017, and BEAR have been serving beautifully

18 Dec/Jan 2018-19

crafted coffee, cocktails and fresh seasonal food ever since.

Exactly 11 months to the day after BEAR launched their second store to the eagerlyawaiting Derby public, they officially opened their doors to the already very welcoming community of Stone.

BEAR hopes to quickly become a cornerstone business on the High Street and connect with the local community in as many ways as possible. It differentiates itself from the rest of the market through its inviting atmosphere - getting to know each of its customers, ensuring all staff love what they do and deliver a mix of speciality coffee, simple and honest food, cocktails and craft beer.

BEAR is working to expand throughout the Midlands and beyond, with plans to open up to 30 stores nationwide over the next five years.

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Slater’s Craft Village, Stone Road, Baldwins Gate, Newcastle under Lyme, ST5 5ED Dec/Jan 2018-19 19

TASTE OF STAFFORDSHIRE GOOD FOOD AWARDS DINING

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Runner up recognition for eateries

number of eateries in the Stone and Stafford area have come runner ups at a county-wide awards ceremony.

The Enjoy Staffordshire Taste of Staffordshire Good Food Awards celebrate the best places to eat in Staffordshire, and reveal which are the real crème-de-la-crème.

There were 10 winners in total for the 2018 awards with the special ceremony taking place

at Uttoxeter Racecourse.

The World of Wedgwood was a runner up in the Afternoon Tea of the Year category, whle The Red Lion in Bradley, near Stafford was a runner-up in the Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year category. For the Independent Restaurant of the Year, The Orangery Restaurant at the Moat House in Acton Trussell came as a runner up,

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DINIING DINIING

WORLD OF WEDGWOOD

Michelin starred dinner raises a mouth-watering £50,000 An evening of fine dining has raised an incredible £50,000 for the children and young people who use the care services of The Donna Louise Hospice.

And the evening was hosted at the lovely tourist spot of World of Wedgwood in Barlaston.

More than 130 guests were completely wowed as Stoke-born, Michelin-starred chefs, Niall Keating and Simon Hulstone hosted an evening of exceptional food, held in the stunning setting of the World of Wedgwood.

Guests enjoyed five delicious courses, carefully prepared by teams from the chefs’ own restaurants, and expertly paired with fine wines provided by Old School Wines, Tittensor.

The event was organised by Michelin, whose employees chose The Donna Louise as the Stoke site’s charity of the year. Following a visit to the hospice, the Michelin team felt moved to do something really special to raise money for the children and young people.

Simon Fuller, Chief Executive of The Donna Louise, said: “As one of our corporate supporters, Michelin expressed an interest in supporting us with a fundraising event.

“We never dreamed it would be something of this nature and we’ve been absolutely blown away by this exceptional event which saw two Michelin-starred chefs come together to create a unique culinary experience at the inspiring World of Wedgwood.”

Dec/Jan 2018-19 21

THE WOMEN'S INSITUTE The Women's Institute (WI), which was formed in 1915 and is now the largest voluntary women's organisation in the UK, plays a unique role in providing women with educational opportunities and the chance to build new skills, to take part in a wide variety of activities and to campaign on issues that matter to them and their communities.

Here we take a look at what's been going on at local WI's and see that they are “not just jam and Jerusalem�.

Is your WI group in the Stone, Eccleshall and surrounding villages area? Would you like your group to be featured in our WI pages? Email Belinda at life@timesandecho.co.uk.

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Barlaston Herons WI

here was certainly a buzz of excitement around the ladies at our September meeting as we had two canine visitors. The two speakers, both called Alison, had brought Elmo and Farley along with them and everyone had a chance to fuss the dogs whilst the speakers gave such interesting information. Farley used to be a working guide dog and is now retired but helps to keep Alison company who runs the 'My Guide' charity which volunteers to support people and their families affected by vision impairment. This support can be guiding people, giving guide dogs free running time or supporting in the processes before having a guide dog. They are a life saving service and are definitely on the lookout for new volunteers as demand is high.

Alison has Elmo as her guide dog and she gave such an honest and open account of her journey to having a guide dog. She discussed that Elmo has changed her life and before having him she was scared to leave the house for many years. She highlighted the training both human and dog needed but it is amazing what they can do together.

It was a touching and uplifting evening and the ladies had a chance to ask a wide range of questions. Both the dogs and their owners were an inspiration.

22 Dec/Jan 2018-19

The business part of the meeting followed homemade cake and refreshments.

Who was the murderer? That was the question that kept everyone preoccupied during the Barlaston Herons WI murder mystery evening in October. The scene was set in 1900 Paris and a murder of a famous chocolate manufacturer. Many of the ladies dressed up to add a touch of authenticity to the event. A number of members took on a part and acted out three scenes to unravel the murder story. There were amazing costumes, lots of chocolate to share and some fantastic acting. The audience took notes and looked at evidence throughout the scenes and enjoyed a lively debate of 'whodunnit.' It certainly kept everyone intrigued until the very end.

The ladies enjoyed a home-made cake and refreshments before the business part of the meeting. There are many upcoming events including theatre trips, walks, meals and crafts.

New members are always welcome. Please visit www.barlastonheronswi.webs.com for more information.

F

Barlaston Afternoon WI

or one of our recent Barlaston Afternoon WI meetings, Alan Rawlings joined us to teach Basket Weaving. He is working with Oak Tree Farm and has helpers learning these skills.

A new building has been renovated for a workshop. We certainly enjoyed making items and have a wreath ring ready

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Stone WI

or our October meeting our speaker was Simon Hodgkindon who lives locally. I thought about calling the talk 'Calling all birds' but wondered how well that would be received. His talk was about birds mainly locally but with some reference to parts of the British Isles and how we can help. Printed sheets showed an array of feet and beaks, and we discovered how each type has evolved to suit food, habitat and environment. He also brought some large photographs of birds to help us identify them.

Colour and display techniques were discussed as were how the man-made tearing down of bushes, hedgerows and administration of pesticides and slug pellets have all had their effects on bird populations. And that's without the mention of the word 'plastics'. No doubt the very hot summer with little rain will have had a devastation on

for Christmas decorating.

Oaktree Farm specialises in a very good value tea room.

They also have speakers and recently they had ‘An Evening With Mr Wedgwood’ by Gaye BlakeRoberts.

Our group co-hosted an Attic Table Top Sale on November 3 which included

jewellery, cakes, tombola and much more. Plus members have been knitting lots of poppies for Remembrance and attended the service at the Village Green on November 11.

The next meeting of the Barlaston Afternoon WI will be the Christmas Lunch at the Tollgate Hotel on December 12.

our birds. It certainly gave us the inspiration to think of our actions and reactions to our diverse world.

Did you know that doctors have an ABC? This is what we discovered at our November meeting. Two ladies, who are Fire Service Volunteers, came to explain and show us what first aid to administer as a result of an accident or incident requiring immediate first aid. The aim of any helper is to keep the patient alive, reduce any suffering where possible and try to prevent deterioration of the patient's condition.

The first important response is to cry for help as loudly as possible, and then follow a set of instructions using the DRS ABC. Those members who wished to participate did a role play, practising on dummies which the ladies brought with them were helped immensely by them.

We were encouraged to ask questions etc as the ladies gave

their illustrated talk and demonstration. We were all shown what to do and how.

There was much discussion over tea & biscuits, and it was good to welcome two more ladies to our Wednesday afternoon meetings.

Our next meeting on Wednesday, December 5 is our Christmas party.

I would like to extend very warm wishes for a very happy and healthy Christmas and New Year, not just to WI members but to anyone reading my ramblings.

We meet every first Wednesday of the month at the Christchurch Centre in Stone.

New member are welcome and they will receive a warm welcome, make new friends and have a cup of tea & a biscuit or piece of cake.

Pam Farnsworth

Dec/Jan 2018-19 23

What’s on in

DEC/JAN

SATURDAY DECEMBER 1 Christmas Tree Festiva l In the Holy Trinity Church , Eccleshall. Also on Sunday .

Trees decorated by local groups and businesses.

Christmas Fair 10am-4pm at Sandon Hall. Also on Sunday. With treats, stalls and a visit from Santa. Tickets £4 (free for under 16s).

Fulford Village Hall Christmas Fair 1pm in Fulford Village Hall.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 5 rs s at Forty Thieve Stone Revelle ba and the Ba ing i Al nn o: Ru nt e.

The Pa l in Ston Michael's Hal inee at at M ay rd 7.30pm at St tu Sa ber 8. Plus a concessions) until Decem 2 (£10 for £1 s et ck ntre in Ti 2.30pm. d Colour Ce m Home an tickets: fro e d bl an la ai av reet. Details St h ig H s Stone' ellers.org.uk. www.stonerev

24 Dec/Jan 2018-19

ich ent coming up wh Do you have an ev r ou in ed ur see feat you would like to to ils ta de l ai Em What's On pages? o.co.uk life@timesandech

ange. are subject to ch the above events ation. orm inf te Please note that -da -to the venue for up Please check with

FRIDAY DECEMBER 7 Village Walk 11am meeting at the Village Green in Fulford.

Late-night Shopping Evening In Eccleshall.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 8 Street Market ay.

8am-4pm in Eccleshall. Also on Sund

SUNDAY DECEMBER 9 urch in Concert St Wulfad Ch Civic Carols Michael and St at m 0p .3 3pm-4 Stone.

Christmas Concert 7pm at Fulford Village Hal l. With Fulford Community Choir.

BER 12 WEDNESDAY DECEM Christmas Night Market 4pm-9pm in Stone High Street.

BER 13 THURSDAY DECEM Eccleshall Community Cinema 8pm at The Royal Oak, Eccleshall. With 'Lady Bird'.

Details: www.eccleshallcommunitycinema.co.uk

BER 15 SATURDAY DECEM

BER 22 SATURDAY DECEM Christmas Farmers Market 9am-3pm in Stone's High Street.

The Rat Pack Boys Doors open at 7p m for 8pm start at Eccleshall Community Centre.

A seven-piece band presents ‘Legends of Swing ’ - a show is a trib ute to the halcyon days of Sw ing with songs by Sin atra, Dean Martin, Tony Benn ett, Michael Buble and more.

Tickets are £15 each and availab le from www.ratpackboys.co. uk

s Market Craft & Collectable High Street. 's ne Sto 9am-3pm in

t Carol Concer s Christmas y’ et ch ci ea So 0 al £1 Stone Chor Stone. Tickets rist Church in ants 7.30pm at Ch available at Pl s et ck r 16s). Ti gh Street. Or Hi in (free for unde ur lo Co rg.uk Home and .stonechoral.o Jewellers plus . Details: www 78 38 88 9 88 call 01

SUNDAY DECEMBER 16 Christmas Carol Service in Fulford.

6pm at St Nicholas' Church

Eccleshall ratpack

SUNDAY JANUARY 6 rd.

Village Walk Green in Fulfo at the Village g tin ee m 11am

Dec/Jan 2018-19 25

SUNDAY JANUARY 20 Stone Choral Society s from the last Afternoon singing of classic pop song e. Details: Ston in ol Scho 60 years at Manor Hill First g.uk ral.or echo .ston www

Activities at Stone Library Baby Bounce and Rhyme on Mondays during term time from 10.30am-11am; Reading Cafe every third Tuesday at 10.30am-midday; Creative Writing Group every 4th Tuesday at 10.30am-midday; Knit and Natter or Crochet and Chatter every Wednesday from 10.30am-midday; Lego Cub Stay and Play every Saturday at 10am-11am; as well as bookable IT Buddy Sessions.

Aston Marina, Stone place at this Stone Lots of different events take slots at No. 26. Details: venue including live music ents/ or 01785 819702 k/ev co.u ina. www.astonmar

THURSDAY JANUARY 24 nema mmuunity Ci e Eccleshall Co eshall. With Th cl Ec yal Oak in 8pm at The Ro ails: Bookshop. Det nema.co.uk lcommunityci al sh le www.ecc

REGULAR EVENTS Artisan Workshops Various dates at The Artisan Boutique, 4 Radford Street, Stone. Workshops include needlecraft, design-a-mug, and wind-chime making. Details: www.theartisanboutique.co.uk or 'Artisan Boutique' on Facebook.

26 Dec/Jan 2018-19

Children's Art Sessions 10am-midday at Bar laston Village Hall. Eve ry Saturday. Hosted by arti st Rose Snead. For ages six and over. Cost ÂŁ10 per child. Details: 07910 886 031 or creative_faces@btint ernet.com

Eccleshall Hand Bellringers Every Monday (during term time) at 7.30pm at Holy Trinity Church Rooms in Eccleshall. Details: www.ehbr.co.uk or 01785 859950.

Eccleshall Sing ers 7.30pm-9.30p m at the Metho dist Church, St Road, Eccleshall one . Every Tuesday.

Ne welcome. Deta ils: www.ecclesh w members allsingers.org.

& Music Bar, Stone Granvilles Brasserie es.st for details of vill ran w.g Check out ww forthcoming gigs

opping Late Night Sh re. Every first one town cent St in m Until 8p g times of in os Cl e month.

Thursday of th . ops may vary individual sh

World of Wedgwood, Barlaston Lots of different events and activities at this Barlaston tourist spot including markets and workshops. Details: 01782 282986 or www.worldofwedgwood.com

Stone Chrysanthemum and Dahlia Society Garden Club Club Meetings every second Thursday of the month at 7.45pm at Christ Church Centre, Christ Church Way in Stone. Details: www.stonecanddgardenclub.org or 01785 812097

Stone Farmers Markets Every first Saturday of the month in Stone town centre. Details: www.stonefarmersmarket.co.uk

Stone & District Stroke Club pm at the Every Wednesday from 10.30am-2.30 , Stone.

Road r xete Utto in Club et Crick e Little Stok le gent zes, quiz es, gam Cost is ÂŁ7 and includes: course hot meal, twoits, biscu and e coffe , cises exer ticket and transport (in the Stone area), a raffle subs. Details: 01785 603707.

World of Wedgwood

World of W e

Tiny Toes Ballet in Stone on Friday At the Walton Community Hall munity Hall in Com ich Basw the mornings plus at ils: Deta s.

Stafford on Saturday morning uk t.co. balle www.tinytoes

dgwood

subject to e above events are Please note that th up-tofor e nu ve e th th eck wi change. Please ch date information. ich you would ent coming up wh Do you have an ev pages? Email On s at' Wh in our like to see featured k esandecho.co.u details to life@tim

Dec/Jan 2018-19 27

QUIZ CORNER

Let’s get quizzical COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

General knowledge quiz 1. Which toy giant was founded by Ole Kirk Christiansen?

2. Where in Stoke-on-Trent have the Weeping Willow ceramic poppy display been on show?

3. What is the name of the green toy dinosaur in the 1995 Disney film 'Toy Story'?

5. Which tennis player was given a code violation for coaching, incurred a point penalty for racquet smashing and was docked a game for verbal abuse at the US Open?

6. Who plays the part of Mary Poppins in the 2018 film 'Mary Poppins Returns'?

7. What rank was Prince Harry when he left the army?

8. On which lake in Africa did the MV Nyerere capsize killing over 200 people in 2018?

9. Who were the puppets from Zog who were on the Big Breakfast?

10. Which golfer won his first tournament in 1,876 days when he won the Tour Championship in September this year?

A quiz for Christmas 1. The 2008 film 'Four Christmases' starred Reese Witherspoon and which actor?

2. On which day do families traditionally exchange gifts in Norway?

3. In the song 'Here Comes Santa Claus' what is the name of the lane?

4. Which 2018 film stars Keira Knightley as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Mackenzie Foy as Clara?

5. What is the name of the Grinch's dog in the Dr. Suess book 'How The Grinch Stole Christmas'?

6. Which line follows 'Silent night, holy night'?

7. In 'The Twelve Days of Christmas' what did my true love send to me on the third day?

8. Who was crowned King of England on Christmas Day 1066?

9. Which Christmas song was originally copyrighted with the name 'One Horse Open Sleigh'?

10. On what date is the Feast of St. Stephen?

General Knowledge Answers: 1. Lego; 2. Middleport Pottery; 3. Rex; 4. Bodyguard; 5. Serena Williams; 6. Emily Blunt; 7. Captain; 8. Lake Victoria; 9. Zig and Zag; 10. Tiger Woods. Christmas Answers: 1. Vince Vaughan; 2.

Christmas Eve; 3. Santa Claus Lane; 4. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms; 5. Max; 6. All is calm, all is bright; 7.

Three French Hens; 8. William the Conqueror; 9. Jingle Bells; 10. 26th December (Boxing Day).Â

28 Dec/Jan 2018-19

Quizzes compiled by Paul Steele - email: pnsteele@aol.com - Paul's 'Which One?' quiz game is available on Amazon.

4. In which 2018 BBC series did Keeley Hawes play Home Secretary Julia Montague?

Remembrance

V

Communities remember the fallen 100 years on

illages, towns and cities across the nation have been remembering those who gave their lives during the First World War – 100 years ago.

The communities of Stone, Eccleshall and surrounding villages have been playing their part in those centenary commemorations.

In Eccleshall the Remembrance Day Service began at Holy Trinity Church and then moved to the war memorial where wreathes were laid by representatives of the community’s many and varied organisations.

Prior to this Remembrance event, there was an Armistice Concert staged on Saturday, November 10. Duncan Honeybourne, the worldrenowned organist and pianist presented a new programme of work, Shadows of the Great War at Holy Trinity Church. The concert was arranged by the Trinity Men’s Fellowship on the Eve of the Armistice and was a free concert which was well attended and enjoyed by the audience.

In Fulford, a Remembrance day commemoration took place at the Shoulder of Mutton Pub where a group of villagers gathered to take part in a two minute silence. There was also a shower of poppy petals and some readings honouring the dead of two World Wars.

Fulford remembrance

Meanwhile in Stone, the Annual Remembrance Parade took place, together with Services of Remembrance at the War Memorial in Granville Square and later at the Parish Church of St. Michael and St. Wulfad. This included the laying of wreaths and a two minutes silence.

In the evening, further commemorative events took place at St Michael & St Wulfad’s Church in Stone. At 6.55pm the Last Post was sounded and at 7pm the Town Mayor pressed the button to light a beacon at the top of the Church tower.

Then at 7.05pm the Church Bell Ringers rang the bells in celebration of the end of the First World War; one of a thousand churches and cathedrals which rang out the bells to commemorate the peace.

John Wheeldon poppy day service Nov 2018 Dec/Jan 2018-19 29

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

GATEHOUSE ANNOUNCES CAST OF FORTHCOMING ROCK ‘N’ ROLL PANTO! CAST...

Following the box office smash hit that was Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, the production team at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre are pleased to announce the casts list for this season’s show, Dick Whittington The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto.

The show will be the seventh consecutive rock ‘n’ roll panto at the Gatehouse Theatre since its return in 2012. This hilarious version of the traditional tale provides a rock ‘n’ rolling rollercoaster of an adventure story, as Dick Whittington and his trusty friend Tabby the cat dance and sing their way through London in search of fame, fortune, and Rock ‘n’ Roll, while attempting to outwit the evil King Rat and catch the eye of beautiful Alice.

The result is a fast, furious and funny feast of festive entertainment, designed to delight all the family, with a talented cast of actor/musicians serving up a wealth of rock and soul classic songs, including Uptown Girl; Band of Gold; Ain’t No Mountain High Enough; Walking on Sunshine and many, many more.

This year Stafford Gatehouse Theatre welcomes back Director Rob Salmon, Production Designer Deborah Mingham, Choreographer Verity Bray, and the Music Director of Stafford Festival Shakespeare’s Macbeth, David Hewson. Joining them will be a host of new (and one or two old) faces, comprising the cast of Dick Whittington…

Max Runham Dick Whittington Laura Sillett Alice Peter Manchester Sarah the cook (The Dame) Guy Freeman Billy Bungalow

Tomas Wolstenholme King Rat Jofre Alsina Alderman Fitzwarre Patrick Burbridge Rat Smallpox Mike Slader Rat Scurvey Lana Walker Fairy Bow Bells - Scrofula

Tickets can be booked by calling the box office on 01785 619080 or by visitingwww.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk

CiCi Howells Tabby the Cat

JOCELYN TAKES TO THE STAGE WITH SUPERSTARS Young girl from Stone has been rubbing shoulders with superstars.

J

ocelyn James, an 11-year-old from Stone, recently performed at the SeriousFun Children’s Network Gala, alongside famous actors and singers including Orlando Bloom, Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, Boy George and Natalie Pinkham.

The gala was organised to celebrate the work of SeriousFun Children’s Network – a global community of charities that provide free camps and programmes for seriously ill children, set up

by Hollywood legend and philanthropist, Paul Newman.

Jocelyn sang on stage at the event as one of the six performers representing Over The Wall, the UK charity member of SeriousFun Children’s Network.

Having been diagnosed with leukaemia at the age of eight, Jocelyn previously attended Over The Wall’s residential health challenge camp, and was delighted to represent the charity by singing at the celebratory gala.

Stone girl Jocelyn James

Picture by Mike Marsland

Stone girl Jocelyn James is sat to the left of Orlando Bloom.

Picture by Mike Marsland She said: “Over The Wall camp is a place where you can just be yourself, let your emotions and feelings out, have lots of fun, forget about the horrible stuff and the bad times and make new friends.

“And as for the performance, I loved every minute of it. It was truly amazing.”

The annual event took place at the Round House in London and drew a crowd of more than 400 people. The evening was filled with songs, performances, celebrity guest appearances, as well as a silent auction which raised funds for Over The Wall.

Jocelyn’s mum, Nicola James said: “After attending Over The Wall’s camp, Jocelyn absolutely shone. She made friends with three other campers and they are now frequently in touch. It made her realise that other children who may look perfectly ‘normal’ can struggle too, as losing her hair was really upsetting for Joss.”

Television presenter and Formula One pitlane reporter Natalie Pinkham hosted the event, before the campers closed the ceremony.

Dec/Jan 2018-19 31

ASTERS: STARS OF THE AUTUMN GARDEN

GARDENING

I

f one flower embodies the joy of the autumn garden then it must be the Aster, or Michaelmas Daisy to give it its common name.

These brilliant bloomers come in a vast array of heights from low mounds for the front of the border to stately, towering giants for the back and in colours including violet, blue, crimson, pink and white. To cap it all there are even asters that bloom in spring!

The biggest range of colours and heights comes from the New York asters including low growing ones like the Red Robin, through to 5ft giants. These are the most prone to mildew and good growing conditions are essential. This includes: compost-rich, moist soil and a good dose of fertiliser in the spring. The clumps should be divided regularly in spring and the small sections should be planted around 9-12in / 2230cm apart to ensure good air circulation. Cut the stems down after flowering and clear away dead leaves and mulch in late winter.

The Heather-leaved Aster (Aster ericoides) has tiny leaves like a heather but grows into a 3ft / 90cm tall bushy plant and is covered with masses of tiny flowers in autumn. This one also needs good growing conditions.

The New England asters like the tall pink Connie and the equally tall purple Helen Picton are generally free of problems and tolerate drier soils.

32 Dec/Jan 2018-19

Earlier to flower and always healthy in our garden is the 2ft 6in / 75cm, Monch with his large purple flowers from late July into October.

Asters aren’t just good for us to enjoy, they also provide a wonderful nectar source for butterflies like the Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell that continue to feed well into October. To see a tall plant of Aster Daybreak (“Octendgloren” to give her the proper Dutch name) covered with butterflies on a sunny October day is such a thrilling sight.

Asters look great planted with autumn flowering grasses or low growing Ice Plants (Sedums) or even planted on mass for a dazzling display of colour.

Oh, and that spring-flowering one? It’s the Alpine Aster and you can grow this little plant from seed – look out for Aster alpinus.

Martin Blow

Janet and I run Special Perennials, our website www.specialperennials.com is full of colour photos and growing tips. We sell by mail order and at Plant Hunters’ Fairs only throughout the season. Please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk. Dates for your diary 2019: We will be at the Plant Hunters’ Fair at Alderford Lake in Whitchurch on Sunday, March 17; Sugnall Walled Garden, near Eccleshall on Saturday, March 23 and at Consall Hall Gardens in Wetley Rocks on Sunday, April 14. We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect.

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Dec/Jan 2018-19 33

COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Clean up champion asks others to wake up and smell the coffee

A

clean-up campaign council to expand her own prosecuted around 200 people aimed at businesses has local clean up scheme. over the last year for littering. inspired one Eccleshall Councillor Frank Finlay, More information on the shop owner to go a step further Cabinet Member for campaign can be found at in a bid to tidy her area.

Environment and Health, said: www.staffordbc.gov.uk/keepitc Stafford Borough Council “Lesa is a great example of lean has visited Stafford, Stone and those who take immense pride Litter picking Eccleshall asking businesses to in their community and are sign a pledge as part of its determined to keep it looking #keepitclean campaign. And attractive. around 100 businesses and “I am glad she was inspired organisations have committed by our litter pledge day in to helping do their bit for the Eccleshall and I hope her environment. efforts are recognised by the However, Lesa Le-Monnier, residents and businesses in the owner of The Artisan Coffee town and encourage them to Shop in Eccleshall, has gone do their bit to #keepitclean.” the extra mile to clean up her Lesa has now taken delivery l of ciahie town. Following the pledge day of ten litter pickers, a dozen p s r pairs of gloves foand in Eccleshall earlier this year, evests sitvis b Lesa asked for litter picking from the borough council. e w r borough outhe equipment The council has fined or it from

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34 Dec/Jan 2018-19

LOCAL AUTHOR

FUNDRAISING

A

Debut thriller for engineer author n engineer has had his first thriller novel published.

Steven Bosworth, who lives in Fulford, came up with his book's main character more than 20 years ago, but only set about writing his debut novel in 2010.

The engineering manager first put pen to paper while he was working for JCB and on secondment in India for three years.

He said: “I have not written a book before but I have had an image of my main character, Dean Nash, in my mind for years and years.

“It wasn't until when I was working for JCB, and went on secondment to India in 2010, when I started to write a number of notes about the character and a story about him.

“I then realised that it was getting too much for notes and so I transferred them to computer.

“It was at a time in my life when I found I had an opportunity to do it.

“Initially I wasn't going to get it published but a few people read what I had written and suggested that I should go for publication.”

Over the next eight years, Steven spent around three years in total in writing and reediting his first novel 'The Betrayal' – which is the first in a thriller trilogy – before the book was published by London-based Austin Macauley.

The Betrayal tells the story of Dean Nash who feels that something is missing from his life and, one day, is invited to a night club, and, suddenly, everything changes after meeting the owner, Nick Burns.

Nash is involved in a robbery masterminded

by Burns and soon begins to grasp every opportunity, following instructions from his new mentor. Their actions quickly fall under investigation by a government agency headed by Jon Wagstaff. Nash not only has the fear of Wagstaff around every corner, but soon enters into a journey of self-awareness over a past he knows nothing about.....

Steven uses some of his own life experiences and emotions when writing.

Brought up in Trentham, he moved to Fulford 20 years ago. Steven is still working as an engineer, currently as a consultant contractor for Bentley Motors, as he continues to write the final two novels of his Dean Nash trilogy.

“

He said:

“I am about 70 per cent through the second novel, and 30 per cent through the third.

“My engineer role involves a lot of international travel, so I have a lot of time to be able to share my life experiences and get them into a story.

“I have tailored some of my own experiences of highs and lows throughout life, into my stories.”

”

Steven's novel is available to purchase via Amazon Prime at the price of £12.99 for paperback, or £3.50 for a Kindle version.

He will also be holding a book signing event as part of the Fulford Village Hall Christmas Fete on Saturday, December 1.

Dec/Jan 2018-19 35

LYMESTONE BREWERY

FUNDRAISING

A

Take a tour and help raise cash for charity

brewery in Stone is pulling out all the stops to raise cash for charity.Lymestone Brewery is hosting special fund-raising monthly tours of their Mount Road venue which sees chosen charities benefit from some of the proceeds of the tour bookings.

The tours are an excellent opportunity for local groups, charities and organisations to raise funds and also enjoy a great night out.

Lymestone is a family-run brewery run by Ian and Viv Bradford.

Viv said: “Due to the popularity of our charity fundraisers in 2018 we have decided to extend them into 2019.

“We have bookings for most of the year now and we hope to generate some additional support to increase the fund raising.”

The tours are a great way to learn about brewing, sample Lymetstone's beers, and check

out the brewery. Each tour takes around two hours and always starts with a beer from the bar.

The dates for the 2019 monthly brewery tours are: January 18, February 15, March 15, April 12, May 17, June 21, July 19, August 16, September 20, October 18, November 15, and December 6.

Further dates may be added subject to demand.

The Lymestone team are on the look out for local charities and projects to support through their fund-raising. Viv said: “So far we have six charities who have come forward and have now signed up to be our charity of the month.

“We now have June to December months to choose charities to support during those months.”

Each charity will receive 33 per cent on tour bookings (subject to terms and conditions).

Interested parties can apply to be Lymestone Brewery's Charity of the Month by contacting the brewery at brad@lymestonebrewery.co.uk stating your preferred month for more details.

To keep up to date on the brewery's fundraising efforts, visit the venue's Facebook page.

CHRISTMAS IS COMING...

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & EVENING MEALS

So don't forget that you can get all your Christmas beers here at the Lymestone Brewery and at any of our 2 pubs

• The Lymestone Vaults, Newcastle • The Borehole, Stone We stock all of our beer in bottles, which can be purchased individually, as a 3 bottle gift pack or as a case of 12 bottles Your party beers can also be purchased in 9 pint, 18 pint and 36 pint bag in boxes! (pre-order is required) We now have our Stray Cat Strut lager in bottle and stock a small range of bottled ciders too.

Please contact the brewery to place your order for collection

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY FOR ORDERS OVER £50 Unit 2 Mount Road Industrial Estate, Mount Road, Stone, ST15 8LL

Tel: 01785 813581 36 Dec/Jan 2018-19

Tapas Real Ales Dog friendly bar Special occasions catered for

6 Kibblestone Road, Oulton, Stone, Staffordshire ST15 8UW • 01785 817580 www.thewheatsheafstone.co.uk info@thewheatsheafstone.co.uk Opening hours: Mon & Tues closed, Wed-Fri 10am-2.30pm & 5pm-10pm, Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-6pm

SANDON AND DISTRICT VILLAGE FETE

FUNDRAISING

P

Charities benefit from family annual event roceeds from an annual community event have been donated to charity.

The Sandon and District Village Fete, which took place in August, certainly celebrated the 1940’s in style making a massive £4,000 to give away to charity.

Members of the fete committee recently met with representatives of their three chosen charities: Midlands Air Ambulance, Sandon War Memorial Trust and Staffordshire Wildlife Rescue Centre; to hand over the donations.

Sandon Fete Committee member Margaret Read said: “Steve McTigue (aka Sir Winston Churchill) kindly gave his time to attend our social evening recently to present the cheques to the charities and the horticultural trophies to those who won them.

“Many thanks to everyone who contributed in any way, from helping, organising, donating, sitting on committees to coming to the fete to enjoy a good old-fashioned village day out.”

To keep up-to-date on plans for next year's

fete, go online to www.sandonvillagefete.btck.co.uk.

Sandon fete cash - Steve McTigue presenting the cheques to Simon Shelley for the Trustees of Sandon War Memorial, Alan and Sue Hill of Midlands Air Ambulance plus Abi, Dawn and Kate for the British Wildlife Rescue Centre. Also officers of the Fete Working Committee, Margaret Read, Simon Shelley and Julie Charlton.

TREFOIL GUILD

T

Brew up raises cash for charity he Eccleshall Trefoil Guild has donated more than £200 to a national charity.

The group raised the cash at a recent Coffee Morning they held at the Methodist Church School.

The event not only offered visitors teas and

coffees but also a range of home-made cakes.

A spokesman said: “We would like to thank everyone who came to our coffee morning which was very enjoyable.”

The guild raised a total of £259 which they have now donated to the Breast Cancer Care charity.

Dec/Jan 2018-19 37

STONE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS EVENT

T

he festive season has begun in the town of Stone.

Thursday, November 15, saw this year's Stone Christmas Lights Switch-On extravaganza take place.

Organised by Stone Town Council, the focus for the annual switch-on of the town’s Christmas lights this year was again on young people.

Youngsters not only be compèred the event, provided the entertainment, but they also helped to turn on the actual festive lights.

The festive family event was compèred by Samantha Lloyd, and young musician Dominique Simone also took to the stage to entertain the crowds.

The festive atmosphere was further enhanced when the Stone Combined Schools Choir performed a collection of Christmas favourites.

Compere Samantha Lloyd then switched to a musical role and gave a performance to take the evening up to the main event – the turning on of the lights which took place at 7pm.

The lights were switched on by the winner of the Town Council’s Christmas Card design competition for schools, supported by the Town Mayor and, of course, Father Christmas.

Warwicks Funfair set up in the Market Square and down the High Street, a number of town centre shops opened, and there was food stalls, trade stalls, and charity stalls with all manner of things to buy and win.

VOLUNTEER APPEAL

A

Community spirited invited to become volunteer buddies n appeal is being made for volunteers to help enhance the community.

Support Staffordshire has recently appointed Robert O’Leary as a Community Navigator as part of a 12 month trial of a social prescribing scheme.

The service will be focussed upon a cluster of GP surgeries in Stone and Eccleshall, and to further enhance the scheme Support Staffordshire are looking to recruit Volunteer Community Buddies.

Within a social prescribing appointment the navigator listens to the patient’s current circumstances, interests, challenges and opportunities; with a focus upon community, family, personal assets and interests, and social circumstances; rather than clinical needs.

Based upon what they learn, they will draw up 38 Dec/Jan 2018-19

a social prescription, incorporating advice, contact information, signposting and the establishment of relationships with wider community providers, offering the right mix of engagement and activities for the patient.

Volunteer Buddies are being sought to help patient’s, who may be lonely or socially isolated, giving greater access to community activities across Stone and Eccleshall.

Support Staffordshire are looking for community spirited individuals with a positive outlook and an empathetic nature who have a few hours to spare each week.

To find out more or for an informal chat about the role contact Robert O’Leary on 07496 759712 or email RobertOLeary@supportstaffordshire.org.uk

STAFFORDSHIRE RURAL ENTERPRISE PROGRAMME

A

Business on the up for farm couple

farming couple have bounced back from financial ruin with a thriving new food production business.

Linda Young and Peter Read have launched a bakery selling premium quality meat-based baked produce through the business of The Wissage Bakehouse Ltd which is now operating at Little Aston Farm near Stafford.

Linda and Peter obtained support from the Staffordshire Rural Enterprise Programme, which is funded by the European Regional Development Fund for their new business. They received a grant of £21,000.

They converted several redundant outbuildings at their farm and launched The Wissage Bakehouse, selling premium quality meat pies locally – including a range of flavoured pork pies and oven-ready pies.

Peter said: “After finding ourselves in the situation of having to sell a large proportion of our land, the farm was no longer sustainable.

“We had a great idea for a new business, but the support from the county council in successfully applying for a Rural Enterprise Programme grant helped us turn it into a reality.”

The Rural Enterprise Programme grants are available to help businesses across Staffordshire to develop under-utilised or redundant commercial premises or construct new workspaces.

The minimum amount of grant available is £10,000, and can be used towards the cost of building improvement works, helping to increase productivity and create new job opportunities.

The total project fund for Staffordshire is £5million and the scheme ends in June 2019.

To find out more about the programme email rep@staffordshire.gov.uk or call 01785 277400.

Linda Young and Peter Read from The Wissage Bakehouse Ltd

Dec/Jan 2018-19 39

WESTBRIDGE PARK

Plans looking 'wheely' good for town park

Y

oung people in Stone will be helping to design a new skate park as part of a major development in the town.

The move follows a consultation on transforming the town’s popular Westbridge Park with a range of new facilities for children and families.

Around 90 percent of people who responded to the latest consultation this summer rated the plans for the park as either 'good' or 'excellent'.

Residents, businesses and organisations had the opportunity to have their say on proposals for toddler and junior play areas, picnic site, and a multi-use games area - as well as the wheeled sports facility. And areas around the site have been highlighted to ensure key events can continue on the park.

A number of recommendations have been put forward following the consultation including holding workshops with local teenagers and young people to get their help in the design for the new skate park, and for Stafford Borough Council to consider including outdoor gym equipment as part of the masterplan.

The results of the consultation are now available online at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/westbridgeparkconsultati on. The report also highlights using the ideas for play equipment that local schoolchildren put forward during the consultation workshops.

Westbridge Park is already seeing huge investment with a new multi-million pound leisure centre, including 25-metre, six lane swimming pool, alongside gym and fitness studios to replace the outdated building currently on site. The new leisure centre is due to open in 40 Dec/Jan 2018-19

spring 2019.

Cabinet Member for Leisure at the council, Mike Smith, said: “I’m pleased people took the time to have their say on the ideas and proposals for the park. As you will see from the report, their feedback is helping towards the finalising of the masterplan.

“Our goal is to deliver a park that local residents – especially our younger people – can enjoy and be proud of. And to do this we will be working with local people on specific sections of the park such as the wheeled specific sports facility.”

COUNTRY LAND AND BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

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Advisory role for Helen

n Eccleshall woman has become a regional adviser for farmers.

The CLA, which represents farmers, landowners and rural businesses, has appointed Helen Dale as the new CLA Midlands Rural Adviser based in regional office in Woodseaves.

Helen joins the CLA from Staffordshire Wildlife Trust where she gained over 20 years’ experience dealing with a wide range of land management and environmental issues.

CLA Midlands regional director Mark Riches said: “I am delighted to welcome Helen to the Midlands Team. She brings wide-ranging experience in land management and rural business that will prove invaluable as we

negotiate Brexit, the Agriculture Bill and environmental factors that will all affect the way we farm and do business in the future.”

Speaking about her appointment, Helen said: “I am really excited to be joining the CLA at such a crucial time for landowners and the rural sector.

“Having previously worked in the conservation sector I fully appreciate the role that farmers and landowners play in shaping our landscape and protecting wildlife.

“I passionately believe that we can produce high welfare, high quality food whilst also ensuring a countryside that is rich in wildlife.”

Outside of work, much of Helen’s spare time is taken up with running a smallholding near Eccleshall with husband Andy, and developing an artisan charcuterie business, selling their produce direct to customers at farmers’ markets.

Dec/Jan 2018-19 41

Give your investments a New Year review W

ith the dawn of the New Year approaching, it is usually a time for quiet reflection – not least to ensure your finances are in good shape after the demands made on them by the festive season.

Nobody begrudges spending money on family and friends over the festive period, but it is important also to consider one’s own long-term future; so thinking about how your investments are currently structured is a good idea.

The first consideration is, of course, whether you are saving enough overall to ensure a secure future. But this cannot be achieved in isolation from a review of your personal lifetime goals, as how will you know what is ‘enough’? So this needs to be put into the context of an overall plan.

Overview The first issue to consider is whether you have adequate money to provide for short-term needs – including the unexpected. Ideally this should be placed so it is easily accessible without penalty and no ‘hidden’ charges.

Looking towards the longer term, to cover such things as special holidays, wedding costs, school fees and, of course, retirement, involves additional considerations, such as the need to balance potential risk with possible reward and the tax efficiency of different classes of investments.

Balance The importance of adopting a diverse asset allocation strategy within investments cannot be overemphasised because this gives you the opportunity to ‘spread your risk’. Of course, you

INVESTMENT MATTERS

miss out on the upside potential of having picked the best performing asset class, but it also protects you from only having picked the worst!

One of the most important things to remember with investments is that the variations directly resulting from the different performance of each asset class will automatically result in the balance of investments changing.

For example, if Far East shares rise by 15% and UK shares fall by 10% over the year, then the proportion of the portfolio held in the Far East will also increase relative to the UK. Whilst you could argue this is good, there is always a chance that the performance will reverse in future and then holding a higher than intended proportion of Far Eastern shares could reduce the overall performance of the portfolio.

This makes it important to consult your financial planner in order to review the balance of your investment portfolio and also to consider whether plans put in place in the past are still appropriate.

It is important always to seek independent financial advice before making any decision regarding your finances. For further information, please contact us.

Stuart D Bryant is a fee-based Certified Financial Planner, specialising in personal lifestyle planning and investment planning.

SDB Strategic Planners Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Tel: (01782) 712233

NOTHING CONTAINED IN THE ARTICLE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS GIVING INDIVIDUAL FINANCIAL ADVICE. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS ARTICLE IS BASED ON OUR CURRENT UNDERSTANDING OF LEGISLATION, WHICH CAN BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. THE VALUE OF INVESTMENTS CAN GO DOWN AS WELL AS UP; YOU MAY GET BACK LESS THAN YOU INVEST.

Dec/Jan 2018-19 43

MOTORISTS TURN THEIR BACK TO THE FUTURE

Classic cars driving experience bookings surge over the last year - up 20 per cent - and show no signs of slowing down

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Decline in new car sales despite modern motors bristling with amazing technology

Back to basics…motorists yearning for a return to golden era of motoring believes trackdays.co.uk

decline in new car sales, despite modern motors brimming with state-of-the-art technology, contrasts to more-and-more motorists booking classic car driving experiences as drivers yearn to get back to basics advises www.trackdays.co.uk

And while some new cars can have as many as 50 buttons on the steering wheel and dashboard, it is bookings for classic cars as old as 40 years or more, and with basic controls, that are burgeoning as exasperated drivers have had enough of modern technology which is hampering the driving experience.

Indeed, 2018 looks set to be deeply worrying for sales of new cars, with last September in particular being disastrous as it was the worst September for 10 years, with the allure of stateof-the art motoring not even tempting drivers to part with their cash.

Even more recently, October figures show a decline of almost 3 per cent compared to the same month in 2017.

Yet figures released by www.trackdays.co.uk show a marked increase in classic car driving experience bookings at places such as Heyford Park of around 10 per cent over the last four years, which has surged to nearly 20 per cent in the previous 12 months and shows no signs of slowing down. The most popular classic booked to drive is a Jaguar E-Type.

Dan Jones, operations manager at www.trackdays.co.uk, said: “New cars boast

44 Dec/Jan 2018-19

state-of-the-art technology and are more akin to being computers on wheels.

“However, many people find all the buttons and touch-screen technology confusing and distracting, plus it takes away from the pure driving experience which can only come through driving a classic car.”

Meanwhile, the actual prices of some classic cars are now fetching astronomical prices compared to their modern equivalents

Fast Fords from the 1980s and 1990s in particular continue to demand high prices.

Only recently a 1990 Ford Sierra Sapphire Cosworth 4x4 fetched a world-record price at auction, being sold for more than £50,000.

Compare this to a modern equivalent, the Focus RS, with all the latest gizmos and gadgets, which is available for just over £30,000.

Dan added: “It would appear that motorists are turning their backs to the future. Getting behind the wheel of a classic car can provide a driving experience in its purest form, allowing the car to do the talking rather than relying on modern technology.”

For more information about TrackDays, which also offers a huge variety of driving experiences, as well as classic car driving experiences including a Jaguar E-Type, Ford MK1 Escort, AC Cobra and Austin-Healey 3000, visit www.trackdays.co.uk

WINTER TYRES WHEN DRIVING ABROAD MOTORING

YouGov poll commissioned by The Motor Ombudsman showed that nearly 90% of car owners are unaware in which countries in Continental Europe winter tyres are mandatory 72% didn’t know that winter tyres are most effective in temperatures below seven degrees Centigrade

Encouragingly, over 60% of motorists are familiar with the benefits of having winter tyres fitted to their car in cold weather, and a similar proportion (61%) are au fait with how they differ from a regular summer equivalent

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t a time when many motorists look to make plans to drive abroad for the Christmas break and the start of the ski season, a YouGov survey commissioned by The Motor Ombudsman, has found that 87 per cent of car owners in Great Britain are unaware in which countries in continental Europe winter tyres are mandatory once they cross the channel.

The latest research of over 1,400 car owners in Great Britain comes as part of the automotive dispute resolution’s provider’s newly-launched campaign to increase consumer knowledge of winter tyres, and to highlight the importance of having them fitted at one of the thousands of reputable businesses in the UK which are accredited to its Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)-approved Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair.

Although winter car tyres are not a legal requirement during the onset of snowy and cold weather that sometimes sweeps the UK, they are in several countries on the continent, including those located in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe.

In addition, the laws differ as to which time of the year they are compulsory, and whether they are mandatory for only driving in wintry conditions.

However, the study revealed that only around 1 in 10 (13 per cent) people know that they would need to change their car tyres to be legally compliant at their destination, with male drivers 46 Dec/Jan 2018-19

(14 per cent), the 18 to 24s (29 per cent), and those living in London (18 per cent) the most up to speed regarding the rules.

Furthermore, of the individuals surveyed, less than a third (28 per cent) stated that a winter tyre is most effective in temperatures below seven degrees. Those in the 35 to 44 age bracket (33 per cent) were the most well-versed when it comes to being familiar with this key benefit, with the least knowledgeable being motorists in their late teens (over 18) and early 20s (78 per cent of the age group).

Encouragingly however, around six in ten car owners are au fait about the advantages of winter tyres when the mercury dips, whilst a similar proportion (61 per cent) are able to identify how they vary from summer equivalents.

Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman and managing director of The Motor Ombudsman, said: “The research paints an interesting and contrasting picture of the nation’s familiarity of winter tyres.

“On the one hand, they are knowledgeable about the merits that winter tyres offer in more challenging conditions, but on the other, there is significantly less understanding of what the laws are when heading abroad.

“This therefore reinforces the need for car owners, before they set off on their journey this winter, to spend time doing research and to make sure that they are prepared to avoid falling foul of the law, which ultimately compromises safety.”