Leek Life July/August 2019

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JULY/AUGUST 2019 £2 WHERE SOLD

Life

WIN

ets To 2 Tick n The ’O Puttin Buxton t A Ritz se a Hou r e p O

Sailing through the summer of 2019 Reviews and previews of community events

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CONTENTS

July /August

2019

Editor’s Letter .............................................6 Home-Start Staffordshire Moorlands ........7 Inspirational Lad ........................................8 Leek & Buxton College ..............................10 Churnet View Middle School.....................11 Dyer’s Den Competition............................12 Nicholson Gallery......................................13 Work Club .................................................14 The Beatrice Charity..................................15 Leek Rotary Club.......................................16 Leek Textile History ..................................17 Stage Directions ........................................18

Leek Town Council....................................19 What’s On .................................................20 Summer Events.........................................24 Leek Markets ............................................28 Leek Town Crier .......................................30 Tales from the past....................................31 Book Author..............................................32 Councillor Donation .................................33 Quiz Corner...............................................34 Reflections Coaching ................................35 Health & Ftiness .......................................36 Leek Twinning ..........................................37 Rudyard Flower Club................................38 Gardening .................................................39 Chatsworth Flower Show .........................40 Financial Matters......................................42 Women’s Institute ....................................44 Campaign for Real Ale ..............................45 Review of Events.......................................46 Motoring ...................................................50

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Rain does not dampen community spirit

W

Belinda Hargreaves Contents Editor life@timesandecho.co.uk Holly Keates Tracey Redfern Design & Production Thomas Brian General Manager tom@timesandecho.co.uk Mobile: 07855 242693 Jane Walters Advertising Sales jane@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

Did you know that you can read Leek Life online?

Visit timesechoandlife.co.uk

Find us on Facebook search for Leek Life Magazine 6 Leek Life July/August 2019

hat a shame about all the wet weather we have been having this Summer – especially as one of the town's main summer events had to be cancelled – that of the Party in the Park in Brough Park.

I can only imagine it must have been a very difficult decision for the Leek Town Council's Events Committee to call a halt to the family extravaganza – which, once again, was to include a 100 foot slide in our lovely Brough Park.

I know full well how much hard work goes into organising these events – and for it to be cancelled due to the weather is so disheartening for both the organisers and also the many families who were looking forward to such community fun.

In saying that, the volunteer team which organises the Leek Carnival – which has recently been incorporated into the Party in the Park – still soldiered on and held a smaller gala version of the carnival at the Haregate Community Centre – well done to you guys!

Hopefully the wet weather will subside for the rest of our packed programme of summer events.

We have the 200 plus year old tradition of Leek Club Day, as well as the agricultural extravaganza of the Leek Show, to name but a few.

Check out our round-up of summer events to come, as well as our comprehensive what's on guide with even more events for all the family to enjoy.

Yet again, I am pleased to highlight that we have some inspirational stories in this edition of the Leek Life Magazine.

We have a feature about a young boy who is in remission of cancer and is full of smiles and loves to both sing and dance; and then we have a lovely lady who has retired at the grand age of 84 after an amazing 45 years as a lunch-time supervisor at a Leek school.

And, as I always like to mention - as they are very much valued – we have many Leek folk who take the time to submit columns and features for inclusion in this magazine.

Our magazine is of course all about life in Leek, and so what better way to celebrate that than have features written by Leek people themselves. And we have an ever-growing portfolio of wonderful contributors! Thank you to all of you!

If you have a story to tell about your life in Leek, please do get in touch with me at life@timesandecho.co.uk.

Until next time – take care!

Belinda

Front cover photo by Brett Trafford Photography www.bretttrafford.com

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HOME-START STAFFORDSHIRE MOORLANDS

VOLUNTEER AND FUNDING APPEAL BY SUPPORT CHARITY

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Moorlands charity is calling for new volunteers to sign up and help support families with young children through their challenging times.

Last year, 38 people volunteered for HomeStart Staffordshire Moorlands, meaning the charity was able to support 77 families across the district.

The Leek-based charity, which was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service last year, is part of a network of 200 Home-Starts across the UK who together have over 13,500 home-visiting volunteers supporting 27,000 families and 56,000 children each year.

Louise Walker, Senior Organiser at Home-Start Staffordshire Moorlands said: “Volunteers can make a real difference to the lives of families with young children.

“By being a listening ear, giving some practical help and offering friendship, volunteers can really help.

“The peer support from another parent can provide families some reassurance that they are

not alone and helping hands in a very practical way.”

Home-Start Staffordshire Moorlands is also appealing for people to consider 'Regular Giving' to the charity.

A monthly donation of £5 would enable HomeStart to provide heat and light at the office for a day each month; providing a warm and welcoming sanctuary for families in crisis to talk in confidence, for groups of parents and children to meet and for children accessing therapeutic counselling work. A donation of £10 would provide an hour a month of a family support worker’s time helping a family to be re-housed from temporary accommodation or applying for funding for essential furniture and white goods.

These are just some examples of the kinds of things Home-Start routinely do, but which cost money.

To find out how you can volunteer for HomeStart Staffordshire Moorlands, or support the charity in other ways, email Info@homestartsm.org.uk / call 01538 387231 or visit their website at www.homestartsm.org.uk.

RETIREMENT

Four and a half decades of service at same school

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lunchtime supervisor at a Leek school has retired after 45 years at the same school.

Ann Chadwick, who lives in Leek, began at Woodcroft First School in November 1973 as a supervisory assistant, when her daughters Sarah and Rachael were pupils at the Wallbridge Drive school.

She has recently retired from her role at the age of 84.

Ann said: “I enjoyed many years with the children at Woodcroft.

“Obviously children have changed over the years - some are not as well disciplined as they used to be but then again I have always said that discipline stems from the home – and nowadays teachers have to be careful. It's a funny old world

really.”

As well as supervising in the school's lunch hall, Ann also, several years ago, started up a Games Club at the school which included old fashioned board games.

She said: “I will greatly miss the children at Woodcroft.

“It was really good doing an hour a day. It got me out and about and able to have a chat.

“Over the years I have heard some sad tales from children, but there was lots of happy times too.

“It's a shame it has had to finish.”

Ann, who is a grandmother of five and a great-grandmother of one, is aiming to spend more time with family in her retirement and also continue to visit a local care home which she does regularly, chatting to the home's residents.

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INSPIRATIONAL LAD

Lucas loves singing and dancing

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Leek lad, who is in remission of cancer, has been on stage with a famous singer and actor.

Seven-year-old Lucas Tatton, who lives in Leek, recently performed, as part of the Rays of Sunshine choir, at the Royal Albert Hall alongside Alfie Boe. Lucas was diagnosed with a Wilms Tumour in January 2016 and relapsed in September 2016, but thankfully he is now two years in remission.

Lucas said of being in relapse of cancer: “I feel happy about beating the illness. Not a lot of people do.

“I am very grateful to all the nurses and doctors who helped me to beat it.

“I have the best mum and dad who look after me. They kept me entertained to keep my mind off the treatment.

“I feel alive – my heart pumps a lot better.”

His mum Kate said: “He has been amazing through his treatment.

“I can't believe how well

8 Leek Life July/August 2019

he's been.

“Nothing bothered him at all.

“He was always smiling and brave through his treatment.”

Lucas was chosen to be a part of the Rays of Sunshine Choir for a year after the charity granted him a wish last year, which was to meet his singing hero Olly Murs.

Lucas said of meeting Olly: “He was lovely and we had a dance together.”

Lucas has appeared with the Rays of Sunshine choir on a number of occasions and has more to do during his year of being part of the singing group of 12.

He said: “It's exciting being a part of the choir.

“I did feel a bit nervous about performing with Alfie Boe but once I got singing I was okay.

“Alfie was kind and made us feel welcome on stage.”

Katie added: “Lucas had a fantastic day at the Royal Albert Hall.

“The charity, Rays of Sunshine are a fantastic charity and Alfie Boe is a lovely man.

“Lucas enjoyed every minute of the day and liked it when Alfie gave him a high five.”

Lucas, his mum, and dad Dave went to Disney Land last year after fund-raising through a number of events to be able to make the dream trip. They also received kind donations from people including £400 from Leek Town Crier Bill Lomas.

Lucas, who attends All Saints First School, enjoys maths and he also attends Leek School of Dance where he is learning Street and Disco dancing.

When asked if he likes singing or dancing best, he said: “That's a difficult question because I like both as much as each other.”

Lucas is an honorary member of the North Staffordshire Storm Troopers, and his other hobbies include collecting Lego and playing computer games.

As for aspirations for the future Lucas said that he would like to be a teacher when he grows up.

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LEEK & BUXTON COLLEGE

Student’s work is

'Out of this World'

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uxton & Leek College hosted its annual Hair & Beauty Show recently in front of a packed audience at Buxton’s Devonshire Dome.

Hair, make-up and nail art designs that the students displayed included futuristic, eco, extra-terrestrial and nature inspired looks, among many more creations.

More than 100 creative Hair & Beauty Course students competed in a number of categories and went through a process of researching their theme, creating mood boards and bringing their looks to life, live at the event in front of judges from across the industry and the public.

Len Tildsley, Buxton & Leek College Principal, said at the event: “Here we are at the fifth combined Buxton & Leek College Hair & Beauty show and the talent on display today surpasses anything we have seen before.

“There is some fantastic work from Level One to Level Three Course students and it never ceases to amaze me the way some of these students, who have been with us only a matter of months can get to this level of professionalisms so quickly – it’s a real tribute to staff and the families that support them.”

Many of the judges were former Buxton & Leek College students who have gone on to make a success in the hair and beauty industries.

Karen Wardley, Curriculum Leader for Hairdressing & Beauty thanked the judges, together with the models, students and staff for their hard work and commented the day was all about “smiling.”

10 Leek Life July/August 2019

The category winners and the prizes awarded, were as follows: L1 Hair & Beauty - Category: Fantasy. W inner: Jessie Bradley, from Leek, aged 16. Prize: £40 of Dermalogica Products.

L2 Beauty - Category: The circus. Winner: Aimee Gibson from Stoke-on-Trent, aged 20.

Prize: £50 of Ellison’s Vouchers.

L2 Beauty: Category: Magical Mythical.

Winner: Isobel Day from Endon, aged 16. Prize: £50 of Ellison’s vouchers.

L2 Hair VRQ: Category: Special Occasion.

Winner: Lucie Rennie from Cheadle, aged 33.

Prize: Straighteners.

L2 Hair Technical: Category: Through the Ages. Winner: Ellie Mason, aged 21 years, of Dove Holes. Prize: Hairdryer.

Hair Apprenticeship Category: Eco warrior/Upcycle. Winner: Eve Birds, aged 18, from Youlgreave. Prize: new scissors.

L3 Hair: Category: avant-garde. Winner: Kim Newton, aged 18, from Earl Sterndale Moor.

Prize: scissors.

L2 Barbering: Category: barbering free style tattoo. Winner: Tom James, 34 years, from Stoke on Trent. Prize: £85 of Reuzel.

L3 Barbering: Category: Avant-garde.

Winner: Paulina Stobierska, aged 19, from Buxton. Prize: new clippers.

L3 Nail Tech: Category: Magical Mythical.

Winner: Lindsay Oulsham, aged 45, from Ilam.

Prize: £100 worth of nail products.

For more information about Hair & Beauty courses at Leek & Buxton College, visit the website: www.blc.ac.uk/subject-areas/hairbeauty-therapy/

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CHURNET VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL

Students build aviary thanks to DIY volunteering project

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hurnet View Middle School in Leek has added a brand new aviary to their grounds thanks to a programme between home improvement retailer Wickes, and social enterprise Volunteer It Yourself.

A total of 53 pupils from Year Eight spent two days working together with DIY mentors to create the new aviary, which is set to be placed in the school grounds.

The project came about as teachers wanted to create a nature haven for students to use for outdoor learning during science class in a previously-unused area of the school grounds.

Through this programme, the students were taught carpentry skills, which they are set to continue to use in their education.

This project was supported by the Wickes store in Tunstall, by donating all the tools and materials required, together with covering the cost of professional tradespeople to act as mentors on the ground.

Karl Rawlinson, store manager of Wickes Tunstall, said: “It's been great to work on this exciting project with these pupils and help them create an interesting and educational piece, as well as teaching them invaluable skills for the future.”

Mr Karim, SMSC co-ordinator at the school, said: “We are really grateful to have had expert help in creating this aviary which will have pride of place in the school grounds.

“It's also been fantastic to have seen our students develop their carpentry skills.”

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DYER'S DEN COMPETITION

Outdoor educators scoop Moorlands business prize

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brand-new competition for start-up entrepreneurs in the Staffordshire Moorlands has been won by a new business providing outdoor educational experiences for nursery children.

The annual Dyer’s Den competition, which launched earlier this year, rewards a deserving business or entrepreneur with a prize worth £5,000 in cash and business services.

The 2019 winners are Flying High Outdoor Nursery, a business which has been set up by child minders Kirsty Nelson and Debbie Wood.

Its aim is to introduce pre-school children to the outdoors through play-based activities through the Forest School model.

Forest Schools are nature-based communities where trained practitioners provide learner led exploration and discovery, nurturing meaningful experiences for positive lifelong impacts.

Debbie said: “We provide a safe environment where the children are able to use the environment to discover new experiences and to develop self-esteem and confidence.

“Flying High Nursery will be setting up as a forest school nursery at RSPB Coombes Valley Nature Reserve on a trial basis.

“If it goes well, we will apply for planning permission for a permanent forest school 12 Leek Life July/August 2019

nursery.”

Dyer’s Den is the idea of Jed Eatough, director of Leek based LSGK Accountants Ltd and is supported by partners Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, Staffordshire Moorlands Chamber of Commerce, Tinsdills Solicitors and Yellow Circle Web Solutions.

The prize was made up of £750 in cash, mentoring, legal help and advice, membership of the Chamber of Commerce and a social media support campaign. There was also a £250 cash prize for the runner up.

The cash element of the prizes were provided

by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce.

The 2019 runner up was Leek based cake and confectionery business, Scrumbles.

Jed Eatough said: “Staffordshire Moorlands has a great reputation for entrepreneurship and business support.

“We had some fantastic entries and it was a tough decision to come up with a winner.

“However, Kirsty and Debbie’s enthusiasm and robust business model helped them to emerge as winners.

“I’m really grateful to the partner organisations who have supported Dyer’s Den in year one and I’m already looking forward to next year’s competition.”

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NICHOLSON MUSEUM & GALLERY

AWARD-WINNING PHOTOGRAPHS TO TAKE PRIDE OF PLACE AT EXHIBITION

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photograph, which was used to commemorate a national anniversary, is set to be displayed in a Leek gallery this year.

The Dragon and the Flame, which will be displayed at the forthcoming exhibition 'Call of the Wild' at the Nicholson Museum & Gallery in Leek, was chosen as the winner to commemorate the National Parks 70th anniversary earlier this year.

Around the theme of a ‘Moment in time’, this competition marked 70 years since the 1949 Act of Parliament that began the family of National Parks in the UK, and today includes beloved landscapes such as the Peak District, Brecon Beacons and Loch Lomond.

Photographer Kieran Metcalfe, who captured 'The Dragon and the Flame' is a landscape photographer from Manchester.

A freelance graphic designer by trade, Kieran states that photography provides not just a creative outlet, but more importantly an excuse to go and sit on a hill to unwind from the pressures and stresses of self-employment.

He added: “But even when things are easier, nothing quite beats getting outside and watching the sun rise over a rocky edge or iconic hill, and capturing that moment with a camera is a real joy.

“Having the rugged beauty of the Peak District close is a real blessing.”

Kieran’s work will be showcased, alongside other multi-award winning photographs, at the Nicholson Museum & Gallery in Stockwell Street, Leek from September 14 through to November 2.

Meanwhile, the Nicholson Museum & Gallery is currently playing host to an exhibition entitled 'David & Friends'.

The exhibition of works by award-winning Staffordshire artists David Hunt, Jonathan Walker, John Broadhurst, Anita Hill, photographer Chris Hunt, and sculptures, Rachael Talbot and Carl Longworth is running until September 7.

David, whose work is inspired by his powerful reactions to the changing moods of the rugged Staffordshire Moorlands landscapes, is joined by friends who together with daring use of light, colour, texture and form bring an exciting dimension to this exhibition.

The gallery is open Monday to Saturday between 10am and 4pm.

For further information about what's on at the Nicholson Museum and Gallery, go to www.facebook.com/nicholsonmuseum

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WORK CLUB

Volunteers are vital at work club

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Staffordshire Moorlands organisation, which supports job-seekers, celebrated this year's national Volunteers Week by recognising their much-valued volunteers.

Over the past eight years Louise Harley from Your Housing Group has helped hundreds of people across the district to get into training or employment, and she could not have done it without the support of her team of volunteers.

During the work clubs, which are run in Leek, Biddulph and Cheadle, Louise and her team of volunteers help people with all aspects of job searches and applying for jobs including CV’s, interview preparation and online application.

In Leek, Louise is joined every Wednesday by a team of four volunteers: Joan Goodwin, Jen Hulme, Mena Llloyd and Kevin Sproston.

Kevin is the newest member of the volunteer team at the work club having volunteered for one year now. He helps with the setting up of the work club, getting out tables, chairs and getting the room ready. He said: “I love to help and be part of the local community. I enjoy volunteering as I like being busy.”

Joan is the longest serving volunteer, by one month, having been at the work club since

14 Leek Life July/August 2019

September 2013. She said that she loves to help people, and meet new people. She finds people very interesting and “loves to help them to find jobs”.

Jen has volunteered at Leek work club since Oct 2013. She said: “I love getting out and meeting new people, helping, sharing advice and supporting people with IT.” Mena started to volunteer in June 2014. She said: “I love meeting new people getting out of the house and sharing my IT knowledge to help people to become more IT aware.”

Louise said of the team: “Volunteers are vital to this fantastic service we offer.

“They help out with all activities from setting up the room, making tea and coffee, washing up to helping people out on the computer, photocopying.

“They are amazing, and I couldn’t do it without them.

“Speaking to them I think they get back as much as they put in.

“Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and be part of your local community.”

The Leek Work Club is held at Haregate Community Centre in Queens Drive from midday until 2pm every Wednesday, and all job seekers are welcome to attend.

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THE BEATRICE CHARITY

Royal recognition for Moorlands charity

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Moorlands charity is set to be presented with a prestigious award for it's volunteer services.

The Beatrice Charity, in its 41st year, is to receive the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

The charity operates a narrow boat on the Caldon Canal, mainly taking children with special needs on adventures in the Staffordshire Moorlands – and also, out of term, it can be used by other groups, including those that benefit from its disabled facilities.

Although the Beatrice is based in Cheddleton, it serves the whole of North Staffordshire and in 2018 it made 141 trips, with 1,443 passengers including 705 children from over a dozen schools including Meadows and Springfield in Leek.

The award recognises the work of Beatrice volunteers over the years and it reflects the esteem with which the charity is held by both schools and local people.

Chairman of the Beatrice Charity, Derek Hilyer, said: “We are delighted to receive the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service, one of only four such awards in Staffordshire this year.

“The charity has been serving children from North Staffordshire special needs schools for over 40 years by taking them for trips on our narrow boat, the Beatrice.

“The current boat is the third of that name, the first being launched by Princess Anne in

1978.

“We regard the award as a great honour for our entirely volunteer crew and committee, and it also recognises how important it is that children from schools like the Meadows and Springfield, in Leek, have the opportunity to get into beautiful country, to enjoy boating and working the locks, and to learn about the natural world around us.

“The headteacher of one of the schools we serve has said that “we are very pleased to hear that you have been awarded the Queen's Award and sincerely think it is well deserved. Our students and staff cherish our time with you out on the canal and find our visits not only educational but good for the soul.”

The current Beatrice was launched in 1999 but over the past five years has been almost completely refurbished, apart from the hull and the superstructure: it has had a new Lottery funded engine, a new lift thanks to a heritage donation from a closing-down charity, plus a new kitchen, bathroom, floor, central heating, seating and toilet; making the boat now ready for another 20 years service.

Later this year the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire will formally present the charity with a certificate signed by the Queen and a domed glass crystal in recognition of them gaining the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

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LEEK ROTARY CLUB

Thousands turned out for annual auto-extravaganza

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eek Rotary members began their summer activities with the annual Auto Extravaganza at Heakley Hall Farm in Norton Green on Saturday, May 18.

Since the move of this event to the present site it has evolved into a varied country day out for the friends and family of enthusiasts for vintage vehicles.

A crowd of about 2,000 folk enjoyed the fine weather to view the 244 vehicles on display which included veteran cars, vans and lorries together with tractors and stationary engines.

Trade stands offered the chance to buy autojumble, tools, outdoor clothing and plenty of treats to eat, all within a six acre site with plenty of parking.

This year the Rotarians organised a fun dog show which drew 100 entries in classes for young handler, best sausage catcher and prettiest bitch.

Also, for the younger visitors, there was a fun fair with quad bikes, flying saucers and coconut shy together with a 'meet the farm animals' display.

The ninepin bowling was won by a nine yearold who scored 28 in four balls beating all the adults.

The event was organised to raise funds for the pre-school unit at Horton Lodge Special School 16 Leek Life July/August 2019

which has been helped by the Rotary Club for the past three years.

Support was gratefully received from many friends of Rotary and Manifold Show, Cheddleton Church, Brown Edge Village Hall, Leek Air Cadets and Leek Young Farmers all of which made it a truly community event.

During the last calendar year Leek Rotary has raised, and helped others to raise, over £42,000 which is destined mainly to support local charities within the Moorlands together with national charities that are particularly active locally.

The world-wide End Polio Now campaign also benefited through a rally to Halifax which was particularly well supported by local businesses.

Future events include with attendance at Leek Show, along with Brough Park Leisure Centre, for health checks. Come along and talk to us. Then it’s into Christmas planning with the Tree of Light in Getliffe’s Yard and the Santa Sleigh.

If you feel that you can give something back to the local community and enjoy the company of enthusiast citizens then come along and meet us any Monday night at the Lake Hotel Rudyard, Bank Holidays excepted.

Bruce Daniel – Leek Rotary Club

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LEEK TEXTILE HISTORY

A tale of post-war recycling and enterprise

H

ere we have an interesting story from the Leek textile industry during the 1939-45 Second World War, kindly shared by Leek resident Alan Mathews.

In November 1940, the city of Coventry was destroyed in an air raid by the Germans in what was to become known as The Blitz.

As a result, most of the industry was obliterated including the Narrow Fabric Weaving Industry.

Apart from a range of webbings, they also produced a narrow tape made from a 100 per cent silk (nylon was not available at this time) and was used to join the segments of parachutes and also ran around the perimeter and became known as ‘periphery’ tape.

The non-availability of this commodity caused concern in military circles and the search was on to find a replacement as a matter of urgency.

A Leek company, AJ Worthington and Co (AJW), was already a major supplier

of parachute cord to the Ministry of Defence and the question of producing a tape for the parachutes was put to them.

At this time, due to Government restrictions of production and materials of the normal type were severely reduced and transferred in war production leaving certain types of machinery lying idle.

The managing director for AJW asked the section head that was affected to see if a product could be produced on the ‘crochet’ knitting ‘looms’ that would fit the bill.

After a short while a product was produced which was strong and flexible fll and submitted to the Ministry or Defence for testing.

The product was approved and production commenced with shifts running around the clock.

AJW patented this product and other companies around the UK were allowed to produce this product under license until the end of the war.

At this time Government

contracts were cancelled and the production plants were able to resume their normal production of fancy components for the clothing and soft furnishing trades, to name a few.

In the months that followed ‘British Rail’ was making regular deliveries to Portland Mills in Queens Street of unused tape in the same form as they had been dispatched earlier, large bails.

Not knowing the reasons for this the section head, who was rapidly running out of storage space approached the managing director for an explanation, who replied that he knew what he was doing and obtained the surplus stocks at a good price.

AJW had a dye-house on site and were instructed to dye the tape into primary colours; ie: bright red, bright yellow, emerald green, royal blue, black and bleached white.

This tape being a knitted structure could be unwoven from one end and they engaged six women sitting on stools in a circle to un-rove the tape by hand and recover the threads.

Once these threads had been collected, they were wound onto small cardboard cards (of say 25 yards) and then sold on as 100 per cent pure silk embroidery threads, which at that time were not available.

Former director at AJ Worthington and Co: Alan Mathews

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Stage directions

**

by Richard Lane

WIN 2 TICKETS TO PUTTIN’ON THE RITZ AT BUXTON OPERA HOUSE

J

ourney back to a time of glitz and glamour in this West End show, Puttin’ on the Ritz.

Welcome to Puttin’ on the Ritz, the spectacular stage production that features the most famous songs of the Golden Age of Hollywood live on stage.

This dazzling production features spectacular singers

and wonderful dancers direct from London’s West End, together with breathtaking costumes and stunning musical arrangements.

Let us take you back in time, to an era when Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly were the Kings of the silver screen.

Enjoy the classic songs of George Gershwin, Irvin Berlin and Cole Porter such as Top

Hat, Anything Goes, Night and Day, I’ve got Rhythm and of course Puttin’ on the Ritz.

Puttin’ on the Ritz is here at Friday 9 – Saturday 10 August. Tickets are priced at £25-£29.Discounts are available. To buy tickets contact Buxton Opera House Box Office, Tel: 01298 72190 or visit: www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

To win 2x tickets for Puttin’ On The Ritz on Friday 9 August at 7.30pm, just answer the following question. (Circle your choice.)

WHO WAS FRED ASTAIRE’S REGULAR DANCE PARTNER? A.

MARGOT FONTEYN

B. DARCY BUSSELL

C. GINGER ROGERS

Name.............................................................. Address..................................................................................................................... .........................................................................................................................Daytime phone no.................................................

Please send your entry to Leek Life Magazine, 18 Tape St, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST10 1BD. Entries to be received by Tuesday July 30th.

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LEEK TOWN COUNCIL

Sue takes on the civic chains for town

A

new town council has been elected recently and there's a new mayor too.

Councillor Sue Coleman is the new Mayor of Leek, while the deputy mayor is councillor Stephen Wales.

They were both elected into their civic roles by fellow members of the council during the recent Annual Meeting of the town – the first meeting of the new council as elected at the May elections.

Sue said after accepting the civic chains: “I would like to thank everyone very much for voting for me. I hope to a good job in promoting Leek.”

Outgoing Mayor Roy Tomkinson said at the same meeting: “I had a fantastic year as Mayor.

Both my wife Pat and I really enjoyed the fantastic experience.”

Leek Town Council, which is made up of 12 members, is responsible for: the Nicholson War Memorial; the town's allotment sites; Ball Haye Green Recreation Ground; the town's summer flower displays; street furniture; and various events throughout the year including the Leek Lights Switch On Event.

To find out more about the council go online to www.leektowncouncil.gov.uk.

JEANETTE CORBISHLEY DANCE STUDIO

Exam success for dancing youngsters

D

ancers from the Jeanette Corbishley Dance Studio in Leek are celebrating exam success once again.

Students of the school recently participated in examinations with the BBO Dance examining board with some students receiving the new commendation 'Distinction Star' grade.

The studio, which is situated within Cross Mill in Cross Street, Leek, was established in 2002 by principle Jeanette Corbishley and has enjoyed 100 per cent exam success from the onset.

Jeanette was asked to train as an examiner by BBO Dance in 2016 following continued success in examinations at the studio and Jeanette became fully qualified in 2018.

She said: “I am so proud of each and every one of my students on their fantastic examination results.

“They have worked so hard throughout their classes and this has been reflected in the wonderful

marks they have been awarded.”

All students taking an examinations received a Merit, Distinction or Distinction Star.

It's the first year that Distinction star has been added to the BBO Dance marking scheme and is reserved for exceptional work.

Students receiving the top accolade were Rouxi Yu and Holly Dale for pre primary ballet; Asia Nayler for grade 1 ballet and; Lucy Hancock and Rie Knowles for grade 5 Jazz.

For information about joining classes at the Jeanette Corbishley dance studio, find the studios on Facebook or call Jeanette on 07940 422441.

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WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON July & August

Do you have an event taking place during September and October which you would like to see promoted in our next edition of the Leek Life Magazine? Email details to life@timesandecho.co.uk PLEASE NOTE – all of the above events are subject to change. Please check with venues for up to date information.

Jul uly

Art Exhibition At Nicholson Museum and Gallery, Stockwell Street, Leek. 'David and Friends' running until September 7. Details: www.facebook.com/nicholsonmuseum.

Thursday July 4

Friday July 5

Funhouse Comedy Club Doors open at 7.30pm for 8.30pm start at The Foxlowe Arts Centre. Admission £10.

Real Ale Trail Running until July 7 at Churnet Valley Railway. Details: www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk Saturday July 13

Sunday July 7 Doctor Plots Lesser Known Leek 10.45am-2pm in Leek town centre. To include arts and craft workshops, kids story telling, street theatre, dressing up, plus see the Giant Sir Gawain and The Green Knight and join in on a parade (at 2pm) with them. Free event. Details: www.doctorplots.co.uk

Leek Club Day 1.30pm in Leek's Market Place. Details: www.leekclubday.org Sunday July 14

Music in the Park 2pm-4pm at the bandstand in Brough Park, Leek.

Wilkstonbury 3pm at the Wilkes Head, St Edward With the Bill Bailey Jazz Band.

Street, Leek. Free event but by ticket only from the Hosted by the Friends of Brough pub. With lots of live music into the evening Park. including On Parole, Pluto is a Planet, Dead Beat Damsels, Vertigo Fish, Snake Oil Remedy, Wilson and Lorenz, and John Carnes.

Saturday July 27

Wednesday July 31 Book Signing 11am-1pm at the Foxlowe Arts Centre. Michael Fisher with his latest book 'Out of the Noise'

20 Leek Life July/August 2019

Leek & District Agricultural Show At Birchall Playing Fields, Leek. Details: www.leekshow.org.uk Social Dance 8pm at Swythamley and Heaton Centre.

With Cliff Rowlands. Licensed bar. £6 admission which includes refreshments. Details: 01260 227681.

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WHAT’S ON

Au A ugust

Friday, August 2 Rudyard Flower Festival at Rudyard Methodist Church. Running until August 6 with a theme of 'Memories are made of this.'

Saturday August 3 Third Quadrant 7.45pm at the Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek. An Inventive Progressive Rock act with Support from High Spy. Tickets and details: www.foxloweartscentre.org.uk.

Sunday August 4 Wilkstock 3pm at the Wilkes Head, St Edward Street, Leek.

Free event but by ticket only from the pub. With lots of live music into the evening.

Wednesday August 7 Evening Talk at Trinity Church, Derby Street, Leek. With Professor Mazin Qumsiyeh from the university of Bethlehem. Hosted jointly by Trinity Church and Leek’s Branch of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign.

Saturday August 10 Mind Body and Wellness Event 10.30am-4pm at the Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek. Details: www.foxloweartscentre.org.uk Cheddleton Carnival Midday at Ashcombe Cricket Club, Cheddleton.

Sunday August 11

Manifold Valley Show at The Music in the Park 2pm-4pm at the Arbour, Ilam Moor. Details: bandstand in Brough Park, Leek. With Dominic www.manifoldshow.co.uk.

'Chuck Berry' Cooper. Hosted by the Friends of Brough Park.

Saturday August 17 Leek Allotments Show 1.30pm at St Paul's Community Centre, Novi Lane, Leek.

Sunday August 18

Westwood High School Reunion 7pm at the Roebuck, Derby Street, Leek. For those who started at the school in September 1977. Details: dave@swarbrook.co.uk.

Music in the Park 10am-midday at the bandstand in Brough Park, Leek. With Rick Ford, The Loop, as part of Leek Half Marathon. Hosted by the Friends of Brough Park.

Friday August 23 Spirits of the Railway Running until August 26 at Churnet Valley Railway.

Details: www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON

Reg egular Events Acoustic Sessions: Every Monday evening at The Wilkes Head, St Edward Street, Leek.

Borderland Voices Workshops Bank House, St Edward Street. Every Monday: Patchwork Group – 10.30am-12.30pm. Every Tuesday: Creative Writing – 10.30am-12.30pm. Creative Space – 1.30pm-3.30pm. 01538 528708. www.borderlandvoices.org.uk

Couch to 5K Fitness Event at Brough Park, Leek. Every Saturday. For beginners and athletes of all ages to walk, jog or run their way to better health and fitness. Choose from 800m, 1.5k, 2.2k, 3.6k and 5k. Annual fee: £3. Plus on Wednesdays: training session at 6pm. Details: 'Brough Park Running Club' page on Facebook.

Charity Car Boot Every Sunday morning in the car park of Sainsbury's in Leek. In aid of Animal charities.

Craft Club 10.45am-11.45am at Leek Library, Stockwell Street, Leek. Every Saturday. For ages three years and over with grown up. 50p per child.

Foxlowe Films 7.45pm at The Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek. Every Tuesday. Admission £5. Details and full film programme: www.foxloweartscentre.org.uk.

Haregate in Action Cash Bingo at the Hare & Gate pub. Eyes down at 8.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Large Car Boot Sale 8am-1.30pm every Sunday at the Cattle Market, off Junction Road, Leek With indoor and outdoor pitches. Details: 07967 100297.

Leek Breastfeeding Group Every Thursday afternoon from 12.30pm until 3pm at Home-Start, Earl Street, Leek. Details: Find 'Leek Breastfeeding group' on Facebook.

Leek Morris Every Friday at 7.30pm at the 2nd Leek Scout Hall, Clerk Bank, Leek.

Potential dancers and musicians are welcome.

Details: www.leekmorris.com

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WHAT’S ON Live Music: Every Saturday evening at The Cock Inn, Derby Street, Leek. Plus most Saturday evenings at The Roebuck, Derby Street, Leek. Plus every Sunday at 5pm at The Fountain Inn, Fountain Street, Leek.

Pub Quiz at around 8.30pm at The Earl Grey, Ashbourne Road, Leek.

Every Wednesday.

Open Mic Events: Every Sunday at 2pm at Beyond The Pale, Ashbourne Road, Leek. Plus every second Friday at 8pm at The Roebuck, Derby Street, Leek.

TinyTalk and Baby Signing Every Monday at The Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek. 10am-11am: Toddler Talk.

11.15am-12.15am: Baby Sign. Details: www.facebook.com/TinyTalkHighPea kandLeek

Qigong Classes Twice monthly classes in the Rainbow Room from 10am-11.30am. ÂŁ10 per class. Details: www.threetreasureqigong.co.uk or 07989 986672.

Vintage and Craft Market 7am-3pm in the Market Place in Leek every Saturday. Plus in the Indoor Trestle Market on Fridays from 9am until 4pm. Details: 07919 521794.

Totally Locally Sunday Supplement 10.30am-3pm in Leek town centre. Every first Sunday of the month. Award-winning food and artisan market with more than 80 stalls. Plus Leek's many independent shops, boutiques, cafes, restaurants and pubs will be open for the day.

Yoga Classes Every Friday at 9.30am-10.45am at the Foxlowe Arts Centre. For all levels.

Wildlings Every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at The Roaches, near Leek. A play group with a twist hosted by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.

Details: www.facebook.com/swtactivities

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SUMMER EVENTS

A whole lot of summer events going on Here we take a more in-depth look at some of this summer's events which are still yet to take place in our area.....

Leek Club Day – Saturday, July 13 Leek Club Day, which has a history going back more than 200 years, is a celebration to which all are welcome.

Run by local churches, the event,

Leek & District Agricultural Show – Saturday, July 27 The Leek Show has been held annually at Birchall Playing Fields for more than 55 years.

It is a family show run by a dedicated team of volunteers who try to ensure that there is plenty for everyone to see and do on the day, with cattle and sheep competitions including categories for rare breeds and junior handling classes, as well as classes for goats, working horses, show horses and ponies, poultry and pets.

Horticulture, flower design and Women's Institute creations are also on display, together with the popular craft marquees where both professional and local crafters display their wares and demonstrate their skills.

There is always a host of entertainment and attractions in the main ring and around the show ground, including many trade stands and marquees hosted by community groups and organisations from throughout the local area.

24 Leek Life July/August 2019

which is also known as Walking Round Day, starts in Leek’s Market Place at 1.30pm with Moorlands Praise leading the festivities with lively songs as people begin to gather.

At 2.20pm the churches, schools and organisations parade into the Market Place, most led by a band for a lively open air service.

It is always a festive occasion, with balloons and banners, songs, actions, flowers and always plenty of music.

Each year, a different church has the honour of leading and this year it is the turn of Trinity Methodist/United Reformed Church, which has chosen as a theme – ‘Walking the Way’.

At around 3pm the procession begins, a onemile parade around the town, back to the Market Place where the churches disperse for tea and more fun.

For more information about Leek Club Day, g online to www.leekclubday.org. go

Leek Show chairman Alan Pickering said: “Main ring entertainment this year is set to include the Stannage International Stunt team, the Welsh Axemen, and the dog and ducks display.

“I think this year's show is going to be bigger than ever as there are lots of entries and trade stands.”

For further information go online to: www.leekshow.org.uk

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SUMMER EVENTS Manifold Valley Show – Saturday, August 10 Preparations are well ahead for this year’s Manifold Valley Show which takes place at the Arbour, Ilam Moor.

This year the show celebrates it’s 40th Anniversary with a full range of activities to entertain those interested in farm animals, horses, pets, poultry, vintage tractors and terrier racing.

From humble beginnings at Hulme End the show has grown to be part of the Moorlands calendar with visitors from afar drawn by its reputation as a “real old fashioned show.”

With more than 100 trade stands displaying rural products, crafts, local beer and meats, there is plenty of chance to support local traders.

Last year more than 6,000 people took advantage of a chance to meet up with old friends and watch the main ring displays of heavy horses, carriage driving, sheep dog handling, vintage tractors, gun-dog working

Leek Allotments Show – Saturday, August 17 Every year the Leek Allotment Holders and Gardeners Association organises a show at which anyone can display their produce – and there’s a special category for novice exhibitors.

There are also sections for Floral Art, Domestic Crafts and Photographs.

and show jumping.

Competitions include classes for cattle, sheep, poultry, heavy horses, light horses, pets, handicrafts, produce and a fun dog show.

There are plenty of food outlets to suit all tastes as well as a bar, or you could take your own picnic to enjoy.

For further information go online to www.manifoldshow.co.uk.

A new show schedule has just been produced and are available from Julie Taylor at Leek Town Council in Stockwell Street or from Kirstie Benefer at kirstiebenefer@hotmail.co.uk.

This year’s show, which starts at 1.30pm, will take place at St Paul’s Community Centre, Novi Lane in Leek.

There will be refreshments, a raffle and an auction of produce.

The show is supported by Leek Town Council along with residents and businesses.

To encourage young people to start growing, t association is funding starter packs for local the s schools and going out to talk to pupils about the b best ways to plant and look after their v vegetables.

The association is also, this year, s supporting the town’s Twinning Committee in o organising a Pumpkin Festival in November and h met with schools to distribute packs of has pumpkin p and sunflower seeds for the children to o grow and exhibit at the show and festival.

The Leek Allotment Holders and Gardeners A Association meets every second Wednesday of th he month at 7.30pm in the Churchill Room of th he Blue Mugge, Osborne Street. Everyone is weelcome.

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LEEK MARKETS

Town's weekly charter considered the distance you could walk with your goods to sell to market and return home in one day. Although with modern transport the distance a trader can travel is significantly further than six and two thirds miles, the royal market charters still provide protection from rival markets being established within this distance.

Transcript of Leek’s Market Charter: John by the grace of God, King of England, Lord of Ireland, Duke of Normandy and of Aquitaine, Count of Anjou.

Know that we have conceded and by this charter confirmed to our dear and loyal Ranulf rom 1199-1516 Royal grants Earl of Chester and his heirs, that they should of markets and fairs were generally have a market every Wednesday at their manor of recorded in charters. Leek’s market charter was granted in 1207 by King John. Leek, and that they should have an annual fair beginning on the third day before the feast of St Historically only town’s holding a market Edward and lasting for the seven days following, charter could be referred to as a ‘market town’.

The Domesday Book of 1086 lists 50 markets in so that however the market and fair are not to the damage of any neighbouring markets or fairs.

England. Some 2,000 new markets were And we wish and firmly enjoin that the said established between 1200 and 1349.

The charter granted certain rights to local lords; Earl and his heirs shall have and hold the same market and fair well and in peace, freely and the right to take tolls and also afforded the town quietly, wholly and honourably, with all its some protection from rival markets. When a liberties and free customs belonging to the said market charter was granted for specific market days, a nearby rival market could not open on the market and fair.

Witnesses Saer de Quincy, Earl of Winchester, same days within a radius of six and two William de Braose, Walter de Lacy, Peter de thirds miles.

Pratell, Roger de Cressy, William de Cantilupe, Why six and two thirds miles? It was

F

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LEEK MARKETS

er market dates back to 13th century William FitzAlan, Walter Clifford, Robert de Valle.

Given through the hand of Henry, Archdeacon of Wells, at Malmesbury 23 November in the 9th year of our reign [23rd November 1207] In the current era Leek’s Charter Market is still going strong, and the envy of many towns.

Held every Wednesday throughout Leek’s town centre with over 30 stalls selling a wide range of products: fresh fruit and vegetables, jams and chutneys, street food stalls for food on the go, seasonal garden and potted plants, a great choice of clothing for ladies, men and children,

nightwear, handmade shoes, handbags and holdalls including Italian leather handbags, purses, wallets and scarves, costume jewellery, vintage jewellery and collectables.

For the home there are stalls with a huge choice of rugs, carpets, ceramics, kitchen accessories and other household products.

Extra seasonal stalls add to the market variety from time to time so it always pays to have a mooch around the market and see what you’ll find.

You can often bag a bargain and seasoned market customers know that the prices are always competitive.

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LEEK TOWN CRIER

Cut glass bell in appreciation of services

T

he great town of Leek has another mayor, councillor Susan Coleman who was elected by the town councillors with a new deputy mayor, councillor Stephen Wales.

I have had the honour to have served with five mayors so far in my tenure of Leek Town Crier.

Having attended the Annual General Meeting of the town council recently, as part of my civic role as town crier, I received a cut glass bell in appreciation of my services to the town of Leek.

It was presented to me by the outgoing mayor Roy Tomkinson.

It's things like this that tell me that I am doing a pretty good job as town crier.

I recently took part in a national competition of town criers in Macclesfield in which I won the cup for Best Ambassador.

This was a great attribute to the town of Leek of which I am justly proud.

We now have virtually a new town council so new ideas for the town will be thought through and implemented for the people of Leek and more events could take place. Let's wait and see.

I'm sure that we won't be disappointed.

We have many great community events coming up this summer.

The chairman of Leek show wants me to be more of the show than just walking around like visiting the main sponsors tent and more.

Also I'm opening Ipstones Show on August 30 and doing some judging.

So, let's all look forward again to a town that pulls together and that makes Leek the top town - the Queen of the Moorlands.

Bill Lomas – Leek Town Crier

Seascape by Brenda Pascall The sun sheds gold upon the sea, The seabirds cry, so wild and free; Where wind-whipped waves roll slowly in, And ocean music will begin.

When seashells scatter on the beach, All nature seems within your reach; You can go out and explore, The bounty of the ocean floor.

Sea-washed pebbles and dead fish lie,

Staring with unseeing eye; Where ships may seem to wander near to hand, Yet sailing far from any land.

They plough the everlasting blue, Day by day the whole year through.

And time is lost on distant shores, Where memories are laid in stone.

A happy song of yesterday, Now all our dreams are faraway.

Picture by Belinda Hargreaves

30 Leek Life July/August 2019

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TALES FROM THE PAST

Goolff on the Golf thhe Dole le-Lee e eek ek in n the thhe 1920s

By Bill Cawley

“

It is sometimes in wholly unexpected quarters that one comes across hotbeds of golf- places where a real enthusiasm for the game seems to be part of daily life and to buzz in the ear like wireless atmospherics.

“For instance, a friend was telling me of such a discovery in the little town of Leek in Staffordshire.

“Leek has two courses. One belongs to Leek Golf Club. Its design is essentially modern.

With its big boldly marked bunkers, cut out of gentle slopes that disclose to view the full measure of the danger, it has a touch of the expert links architecture work.

“The other course at Westwood is given over to the artisans. It was provided by the firms who

constitute the backbone of Leek’s commercial prosperity.

“I don’t know whether it is because of the golf, or in spite of the golf, but is in anyw yway w the fact, so I am told that Leek claims to be the most prosperous town in the country, with virtually no industrial trouble and practically no one on the dole.”

So wrote Harry Vardon in a Scottish newspaper in 1927.

Vardon was one of the great British golfers of the early 20th century winning the British Open six times and also triumphing in the United States. He perfected the Vardon grip, one of the popular holds in golf and had a pivotal role in popularising the sport in America.

He also had a role in developing the Ryder Cup competition. In 2000 he was voted the 13th greatest golfer of all time.

Golf began its growth in popularity at the end of the 19th century. The development of the railway system and the increase of leisure time for the middle classes lead to many people taking up the sport.

The first English Golf club was established in Devon in 1864 and by the outbreak of the First World War there were over 1,000 courses.

The fact that a small town like Leek could have two courses and continues so to do is proof of its enduring popularity.

Vardon, also makes an appearance in a PG Wodehouse story the “Clicking of Cuthbert” in a unlikely celebrity game when, with the Soviet writer Nastikoff, he is involved in a golfing four some with Lenin and Trotsky although the round is disrupted when someone from the crowd tries to shoot Lenin.

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BOOK AUTHOR

Post-war childhood memories in new book

A

Leek author has published his latest book which is all about his post-war childhood in the Staffordshire Moorlands town.

Walking around the Staffordshire Moorlands town of Leek, you may hear the unusual al saying i ‘Leek – out of the noise’.

Tucked away in between hills, this quaint market town is the setting of thiis nostalgia steeped memoir that returns the reader to walk the gas-lit streets of Michael Fisher’s post-World War II childhood.

The narrative covers Michael’s early world, from his engineer father’s self-crafted toys to the ‘December Disaster’ when the Christmas tree caught fire. and Amusing tales of seaside holidays a family antics are woven with the bustling ay Fair Fair’ and market days of the 50s, the annual ‘May street parties and special events, such as those to mark the Queen’s coronation in 1953.

Behind the warm stories of childhood is Michael’s uneasy adolescent relationship with his

father, from which he retreated into the welcome arms of a favourite aunt.

Michael was raised in Leek and is still living within Staffordshire. He is a widely recognised authority on the art and architecture of the English Gothic G hi Revi R ival.

His previous p books include: Staffo ordshire and the Gothic Revival, Alton n Towers – Past and Present, Gotthic For Ever and Guarding the Pug gin Flame.

Michael is a history graduate, a forrmer research scholar and a Fellow of the t Society of Antiquaries of Lon ndon. He is a contributor to several heriitage-related publications such as Coun ntry Life and was an historical adviser to the Time Team.

Ordaiined to the Anglican priesthood in 1979, Michaeel is now retired from parochial con ministry but continues to serve as an honorary assistant priest in the Lichfield diocese.

Michael will be hosting a book signing event at the Foxlowe Arts Centre in Leek on Wednesday, July 31 from 11am until 1pm.

WESTWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

Friends set to re-unite after 42 years

A

group of Staffordshire Moorlands schoolfriends are looking forward to getting together again – more than four decades since they first met.

The friends, who all started at, what was then, Westwood High School in Leek in September 1977 are planning a school re-union at the Roebuck in Derby Street, Leek on

32 Leek Life July/August 2019

Saturday, August 17 starting at 7pm.

Event organiser, Dave Swarbrook, said: “We’d recently had a couple of very small catch-ups organised through social media so when I heard that one former pupil, now in Australia, would be back in the UK for a few weeks, this seemed like the perfect excuse for something more ambitious.

“I approached The Roebuck

landlord, Nick Bradstreet, and he was very happy to help out with a suitable venue.

“It will be a very informal event and I’m hoping to arrange some music from the era to add to the night.

“We’ve already managed to re-connect almost 100 former pupils on our Facebook group, so I’m hopeful for a great turn out.”

Any pupils who started Westwood High School in September 1977, and any teachers who taught the classes through to 1982, are all very welcome to attend this free event.

For further information search Facebook for ‘Westwood High Reunion 77-82” or email dave@swarbrook.co.uk.

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COUNCILLOR DONATION

Life-saving defib at popular tourist spot

A

remote part of the Staffordshire Moorlands, not far from Leek, is now home to a lifesaving piece of equipment - thanks to a community leader.

A defibrillator has been located in Dovedale following a donation from the Staffordshire Moorlands District Council

Chairman’s Charity fund, which was made by Councillor Ben Emery.

The defib, a device used to help restart the heart of someone in cardiac arrest, is in a secure cabinet on the outside wall of the toilet block on Dovedale car park.

It can be opened by anyone in an emergency, with a code

provided by 999 operators.

In addition to the defib, an emergency phone has also been donated which gives a direct line through to the emergency services by the push of one button.

Councillor Ben Emery met with community first responders Sally Stickland and Jon Lane recently to view the facility his donation helped to provide and find out more about the voluntary work of Community First Responders (CFRs).

Cllr Emery said: “It was my honour to serve the Staffordshire Moorlands for the year 2017-18 as chairman of the district council, and it’s been a pleasure to raise funds to enable a possible lifesaving piece of technology which will give everyone, including the lesser able visitors, peace of mind.”

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QUIZ CORNER

Let’s get quizzical

COMPILED BY PAUL STEELE

1.Which Chinese technology company did Google pull update support for in May 2019?

2. In the nursery rhyme there was a crooked man, what did the crooked man find on a crooked stile?

3. Western grey, eastern grey and red are all species of what animal?

4. What is Mons Meg, which can be seen in Edinburgh Castle?

5. Which country won the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest?

6. Which actress plays Captain Marvel in the new film of that name?

7. In the world of rock and roll, how is Richard Penniman better known?

8. Which US state has 21 official languages?

9. Who played the part of the Genie in the 2019 live-action version of the Disney film 'Aladdin'?

10. Which actor played Ben in Butterflies and Lionel in As Time Goes By?

A Wales Quiz for their National Eisteddfod of Wales 1. What is the name of the island off the north-west coast of Wales covering 720 square kilometres?

2.The second Severn crossing bridge carries which motorway into Wales?

3. A statue of Lewis Carroll's White Rabbit stands at which North Wales Resort?

4. How many counties in Wales begin with the letter P? 5. What is the Welsh national anthem known as in English?

6. Which Welsh city is the smallest city in the United Kingdom?

7. At which castle was Prince Charles made Prince of Wales?

8. What was the name of the Welsh mining village where a slag heap collapsed onto a school in 1966, killing over 100 children?

9. Which Welsh town was the setting for the TV series, 'The Prisoner'?

10. Which TV show is returning to screens this Christmas starring Welsh actress Ruth Jones as Nessa?

General Knowledge Answers: 1. Huawei; 2. A Crooked Sixpence; 3. Kangaroo; 4. A Cannon; 5. The Netherlands; 6. Brie Larson; 7. Little Richards; 8. Alaska; 9. Will Smith; 10. Geoffrey Palmer; Wales Answers: 1.

Anglesey; 2. M4; 3. Llandudno; 4. Two - Pembrokeshire and Powys; 5. 'Land of My Fathers'; 6. St David's; 7.

Caernafon; 8. Aberfan; 9. Portmerion; 10. 'Gavin & Stacey'

34 Leek Life July/August 2019

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

General knowledge quiz

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REFLECTIONS COACHING

Swift Watching

- A Lesson in taking time out

I

frequently talk about goals because it is important for self-fulfilment, to have something to aspire to or to create a purpose in life.

I set myself about six goals in January, two have probably fallen by the wayside, no longer part of a master plan, two are works in progress and two I have achieved.

I’ve lost almost two stones in weight in just five months (a goal I had given myself 18 months to complete) and feel so much better for it, and in June learned that not only had I passed my art degree, but landed a distinction.

Of course, neither just happened, I worked hard to achieve both. The degree involved everything else being put on hold for almost two months, whilst I worked hard on my submissions, waking early. Hard work really does pay off.

This personal achievement came with some costs. There were times when I was up at 5am because I could not sleep. I sat for hours at the weekends with my laptop when I could have been enjoying the garden or walking the dogs. I have

lost focus on developing my art business because I have been pre-occupied with creating an installation piece as my final degree submission and I have failed in marketing my business effectively. Achievement is a fantastic feeling but it can affect other areas of your life without proper planning.

So now is the time to take stock. It can be hard to stop, pause or even breathe once the momentum is running. I am still waking early but I have no essays to write and sometimes feel at a loss of how to fill my time - so what now?

Now is very definitely the time to stop, take stock and think about what next. Maybe it is time to revisit my other goals, consider new ones and plan my next steps. Maybe that will be returning to study and completing my BA. Maybe it will be taking the time to develop my craft and throw my energy into creating art or cultivate creative freedom programs to help others.

Maybe it is time to take a couple of weeks out just for me. To learn to breathe and relax again, to re-energise and take time to celebrate my successes. It is time for me to get my life back into balance. In the meantime, I may just open a bottle of bubbly.

I took ten minutes out this morning, pausing on my dog walk to watch the swifts on the Caldon Canal. Like me in the last few weeks, they never seem to stop, constantly on the wing, yet they find time to raise their families and prepare for migration later in the year, staying in the UK for a short time only and making the most of the summer.

Creative Freedom is a fabulous way of focusing on your goals, whatever they may be. Whatever the goal you wish to achieve then contact me today on 07714 216388 to claim your free taster session.

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Leek Life July/August 2019 35

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

Emotional hunger is a dietary demon

By JP Body Transformation Coach

D

o you ever find yourself raiding the cupboards or fridge in search of your next fix of fulfilment? Do you ever get insatiable cravings that leave you ridden of any form of self control?

If so then I believe I can help you with this latest article that focuses on a major factor for anyone who is trying to make improvements to their waistline this summer.

Emotional hunger, also known as boredom eating, is one of the biggest problems I face with my clients as their Body Transformation Coach.

Its something I will always sympathise with as I too have suffered with this dietary demon.

Luckily I have found that with a little self awareness and guidance we can brake this behaviour and make even bigger steps along our fitness and health journeys.

To understand emotional hunger we first have to understand why we would potentially succumb to it. Emotional hunger has absolutely nothing to do with any actual physical hunger.

When our body is struggling to cope with a lack of food it will not send specific cravings for chocolate cake or pizza and this is were the problem lies. Emotional hunger is more of an action of the soul than the body.

Over time we have unknowingly made strong associations with food and comfort and

36 Leek Life July/August 2019

when we think about it, its very easy to see why.

Food has been present at all of our birthday parties, festive events and celebrations. We have been rewarded with it from childhood and spent time enjoying it with our loved ones. This isn’t a problem until we start to blur the lines.

In a bout of emotional hunger we would very rarely reach for the kale and avocado’s.

Emotional hunger sends urges for cake, chocolate, pies, oatcakes, crisps and anything else that is packed full of calories yet devoid of any nutrition. This is because you are trying to fulfil for soul and not your stomach.

Thankfully our souls can be nourished in other ways that may even lead to burning calories rather than consuming then. Ultimately we have to find better ways to fulfil ourselves.

Be hungry for life rather than baked goods. We will never find happiness at the back of a fridge or cupboard.

So the next time you feel the need to nourish the soul, don't start in the kitchen. Look for alternatives. Make plans to see family or friends, read a book, go for a walk, anything you like.

In time you will find that there are far more tasty and enjoyable ways to fill your days.

JP - Body Transformation Coach

Leek Life July August 2019.qxp_Leek Life 20/06/2019 15:52 Page 37

LEEK TWINNING

Wonderful sights, sounds and tastes of Este

L

eek is twinned with the Italian town of Este. Here is the latest report from the Leek Twinning committee, following their visit to Este's Fiori 2019.

April saw us travelling to Este yet again. This time 22 of us spent a week in Italy in what was a very busy trip to take part in the Flower Festival.

The festival, which flowed around the castle, was a wonderful experience for sight, sound and taste. Four of our party took the opportunity to spend three nights in Venice and five others went to discover the delights of Verona.

For those of us who spent the whole time in Este life was busy with Este Twinning association organising an evening of opera in the beautiful library in the Piazza Maggiore, which was essentially a compilation of

various classical pieces, with four internationally renowned artists from South Korea, America and Italy.

We were then treated to a reception where Prosecco and Pannetone, beautifully delicate cakes and strawberries were served, where we were joined by the artists. The Este team arranged trips to Ferrara, the castle was a very interesting venue and Padova, where in the evening we visited the Scrovegni Chapel.

Two members generously gave up half a day of their time to visit schools and enable the children to practice their English.

The Leek Mayor, Roy Tomkinson and his wife Pat, had enjoyed their last trip to Este so much that they joined us again on this trip.

There was a walk to visit the Bryron Villa, Villa Benvenuti and the Vill del Principe with a Venetian

meal, that amounted to a banquet. Exquisite.

On our last night, we were invited to Emanuela and Ivano’s house in the hills outside Este, where they had their own little vineyard and olive grove.

It was interesting to see the wine making process and taste the excellent red wine made by Ivano. We were treated to lovely home made Italian food, produced by the ladies (and gents) in Este, whilst drinking good wine and sitting in the most beautiful surroundings. A truly memorable night was had by all. The hosts were charming and we would like to thank them all, from the bottom of our hearts.

We really do have a challenge on our hands to reciprocate such a wonderful experience for our Italian friends when they visit us in Leek in November.

Long Live Twinning!

Leek Life July/August 2019 37

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RUDYARD FLOWER CLUB

Get creative with flower arranging duo 'CaSu'

D

o you like flowers?

Would you like to learn how to arrange them in a variety of ways for your own pleasure?

Then why not pop along to the Rudyard Flower Club.

The creative club is run by friends Carol Alcock and Suzanne Sheldon who are both keen flower arrangers and are known as ‘CaSu’ when they demonstrate for fund raising events, charities and flower clubs.

The duo offer help and advice to those who would like to know more about the techniques of flower arranging.

Rudyard Flower Club meet on the first Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm at Rudyard Methodist Church in Lake Road, Rudyard.

38 Leek Life July/August 2019

The cost is £4 per session which includes a drink and biscuits Suzanne said: “There are more than 20 budding arrangers currently attending and there is plenty of room for others to join the club.”

Carol added: “It doesn’t matter if you are a complete beginner or if you are a little more advanced – everyone is welcome to come and have fun.”

The duo demonstrate what the group will be having a go at the following month and also advise what flowers and foliage to take along.

The flower club can open up other opportunities for those that are interested.

This year the team will be making arrangements for

display in the flower festival at Rudyard Methodist Church running from Friday, August 2 until Tuesday, August 6. The theme is ‘Memories are made of This’ focussing on childhood memories and the group will be working on memories from a day at the seaside.

Carol and Suzanne also organise the ‘Flower Design’ marquee at Leek Show and it is encouraging to note that several members of the club are entering Leek Show for the first time this year. Suzanne also organises the floral art section of Leek Allotments annual show.

If you would like to know more about Rudyard Flower Club, contact Suzanne on 07518 074185 or at suzsheldon@btinternet.com.

Leek Life July August 2019.qxp_Leek Life 20/06/2019 15:52 Page 39

GARDENING

Hardy sages for the flower garden

L

Part Two

ast time I wrote about the hardiest ornamental sages that come from Europe. This time it’s the turn of their more exotic looking cousins from Central and South America. Many of these are also hardy in our winters but you need to take some care in selecting varieties as there are also lots of tender ones that need to be taken indoors in winter.

The hardy types have become a mainstay of my garden because they bloom for so long and attract lots of bees.

Among the toughest is Salvia macrophylla which forms a woody, upright shrub about two feet (60cm) tall and has wrinkly leaves and brightly coloured flowers from June through to October. The best of these is Pink Blush with masses of vivid pink flowers that just won’t be ignored.

Salvia microphylla is equally as tough and is known as Blackcurrant Sage – just rub a leaf and smell to discover why. These grow to a more domed, eventually sprawling shrub about two feet (60cm) tall. There are lots of lovely colours available. Hot Lips has red-lipped, white flowers in summer. One of my favourites is Trelissick Creamy Yellow with her paleyellow flowers that have a hint of warm pink at their necks.

New to the garden are the “Wishes” series.

The large, tubular flowers and arching stems make them ideal for a sheltered spot at the front of the border. Three colours are widely available – Wendy’s Wish (deep pink); Love

and Wishes (purple) and Ember’s Wish (deep orange).

All these types need some sun and will survive the winter in a well-drained soil. I also mound some old compost over the crowns of the plants in winter. If you have a wet soil in winter, then they make ideal plants for patio pots but remember to keep the pots somewhere out of heavy frost in winter. All are best pruned back in spring to a nice shape to stop them getting too leggy.

I’ve only scratched the surface of the wonderful world of ornamental sages there are literally thousands of species and varieties out there waiting for a home in your garden.

Janet & I run Special Perennials, website www.specialperennials.com we will be at Sugnall Walled Garden in Eccleshall on Sunday, July 7, fair and garden £1; Carsington Water, near Ashbourne on Saturday, August 10, free entry to fair; Abbeywood Gardens in Delamere on Sunday, August 18, fair and gardens £3; and at the Dorothy Clive Garden on Sunday, August 25 and Monday, August 26, gardens and fair £4.

For full details of these and other Plant Hunters’ Fairs please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk. We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect.

Martin Blow

Leek Life July/August 2019 39

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CHATSWORTH FLOWER SHOW

Four awards for

Wedgwood’s creative garden

W

edgwood’s 260th anniversary Chatsworth show garden has made Royal Horticultural Society history as the first show garden to secure the highest number of accolades that can be achieved in all four award categories.

The Wedgwood Garden was announced as the public’s favourite at RHS Chatsworth Flower Show recently, after it had already won the RHS Gold Medal, Best in Show and Best Construction Award.

Designed by horticulturalist and RHS Ambassador, Jamie Butterworth, the garden was inspired by RHS founder John Wedgwood’s vision of using the power of horticulture and plants to connect people and unite communities.

The haul of all four accolades is a first for any designer at an RHS show, and is all the more remarkable as the garden is Jamie’s first

40 Leek Life July/August 2019

garden design at 24-years-old.

Jamie said: “I’m completely over the moon. Creating my first show garden for such a prestigious company has been a real privilege, and to mark such a special anniversary with four top honours is just incredible.”

Christian Bachler, Wedgwood Senior Vice President, added: “Our 260th anniversary garden showcases the deep connections between Wedgwood and the Royal Horticultural Society.

“As the founder of the Royal Horticultural Society, John Wedgwood set in motion what was to become one of Britain’s greatest institutions.

“His legacy is celebrated in this garden and his passion and enthusiasm to connect people through horticulture is clearly as relevant and popular today as ever.”

Leek Life July August 2019.qxp_Leek Life 20/06/2019 16:01 Page 41

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Leek Life July August 2019.qxp_Leek Life 20/06/2019 15:52 Page 42

FINANCIAL MATTERS

Do your numbers add up?

Tax-efficient ways to fund the next generation

I

t’s natural we may want to give younger members of our family a financial start in life, especially when we hear about some students graduating with eye-watering levels of debt. If you are able to help your children or grandchildren without risking running out of money yourself, it’s important that you do so effectively.

The most obvious way is by funding university tuition fees and maintenance costs. By funding a student’s three-year course upfront, parents or grandparents can prevent the student from taking on a 30year debt and the interest costs associated with that. Two taxefficient ways to do this are: INDIVIDUAL SAVINGS ACCOUNT (ISA) When the child or grandchild is still very young, if the investment is allowed to grow, it could build up into a sizeable sum. The money can then be given to the grandchild as an adult. The capital could be enough to cover tuition fees, and possibly board and lodging as well. If the ISA is a Junior ISA, set up in the child’s name, any gains will not incur Capital Gains Tax, and they will not be considered part of the parents’ or grandparents’ estate for Inheritance Tax purposes.

Nevertheless, the child will automatically gain access to the money when they turn 18 and can choose what to do with it. If the ISA stays in the parents’ or 42 Leek Life July/August 2019

grandparents’ names, however, the parents or the grandparents would be able to decide how the money from the ISA is used, but it would be considered part of their estate for Inheritance Tax purposes for seven years after it has been gifted to the adult child or grandchild.

INVESTMENT ACCOUNT For tax reasons, this approach may be best suited to grandparents. Grandparents can set up a designated account for a grandchild and invest a capital sum in it. The grandchild’s initials are put in the designation box when the account is set up, creating a bare trust. A bare trust, also sometimes known as a ‘simple trust,’ is one where the beneficiary (the person who benefits from the trust) has an immediate and absolute right to both the trust capital and the income received by the trust from that capital. HM Revenue & Customs will view income and gains from the investment as being attributed to the minor, who will have their own Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax allowance, so there will be no tax implications for the grandparents. Any money invested in this way leaves the grandparents’ estate seven years after it has been gifted. At 18, the grandchild is legally entitled to the money, however, and can use it however they see fit – which may not necessarily be for education. Many parents and grandparents want to set up

their children or grandchildren to enjoy a secure financial future, yet paying down student debt is not necessarily the best option if they have a spare capital sum to invest. They could also consider helping their children or grandchildren to save towards a house deposit or start a pension for them so that they have security in later life.

INFORMATION IS BASED ON OUR CURRENT UNDERSTANDING OF TAXATION LEGISLATION AND REGULATIONS. ANY LEVELS AND BASES OF, AND RELIEFS FROM, TAXATION ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. TAX TREATMENT IS BASED ON INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE IN THE FUTURE. ALTHOUGH ENDEAVOURS HAVE BEEN MADE TO PROVIDE ACCURATE AND TIMELY INFORMATION, WE CANNOT GUARANTEE THAT SUCH INFORMATION IS ACCURATE AS OF THE DATE IT IS RECEIVED OR THAT IT WILL CONTINUE TO BE ACCURATE IN THE FUTURE. NO INDIVIDUAL OR COMPANY SHOULD ACT UPON SUCH INFORMATION WITHOUT RECEIVING APPROPRIATE PROFESSIONAL ADVICE AFTER A THOROUGH REVIEW OF THEIR PARTICULAR SITUATION. WE CANNOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY LOSS AS A RESULT OF ACTS OR OMISSIONS.

Leek Life July August 2019.qxp_Leek Life 20/06/2019 16:02 Page 43

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THE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE

Woodcroft (Leek) WI We met in May for our annual meeting. This year we had two resolutions to discuss before our delegate Sheila was sent off to Bournemouth for the national AGM. The first was very pertinent to this area decrying the decline in local bus services and the second 'Don't fear the Smear' was a reminder of what a voice for influence the WI can have.

Anne was re-elected as president and Sharon was a

welcome addition to the committee. Sharon was also the very delighted recipient of the Chris Mould Trophy awarded for most points gained in the monthly competitions.

We had a lovely walk, beginning at Cressbrook mill and passing by the delightfully named Water-cum Jolly through Millers Dale, which involved rather steep 'offroading' to avoid a field of bullocks, and on to Litton Mill, returning to Cressbrook for a picnic lunch.

Members of the craft group were busily preparing their entries for Leek Show and both book clubs and coffee club met as usual.

Our 'show the love' pebbles

are beginning to be discovered and are appearing on our facebook page, no news yet of the one we left in Millers Dale.

There are lots of things to look forward to in the coming months. We have a mystery trip in July and a guided walk at Haddon Hall, then in August some of us are off to Southport flower show.

County are already preparing for the autumn and members have signed up for the council meeting in October and market's day in November.

Our June meeting at St. Luke's church rooms saw Derek Hilyer talking about the Beatrice charity. Visitors are always very welcome to our meetings.

STAFFORDSHIRE MOORLANDS OPEN ART EXHIBITION

Picture perfect for creative winners

A

n annual creative competition in the Moorlands saw a record breaking amount of entries this year.

More than 90 artists submitted work and more than 200 exhibits were displayed at the Staffordshire Moorlands Open Art Exhibition which ran at the Nicholson Gallery in Leek.

The exhibition culminated in a prize-giving ceremony to celebrate their achievements.

This year’s winners, chosen by a panel of people working professionally in arts and culture as well as one voted for by the public, were: •2D category – Carole Cluer for Self. The runners-up prize went to Gill Stokes for Against the Storm.

•3D category – Cliff Beardmore’s A Pile of Piglets 44 Leek Life July/August 2019

took first prize with Faces by Marie McGowan-Griffin taking second place.

•Photography – David Travis won the first prize for Let Me Help You With That with second spot going to Barn

Owl by Patricia Bradshaw.

•Public Vote – Self by Carole Cluer – her second award for this exhibition.

•Best in Show – went to Jackie White for Out of the Woods.

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CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

'Leek - A Beer Festival Everyday’

H

ere we have a new column, especially written for Leek Life Magazine readers, by the chairman of the Staffordshire Moorlands branch of CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) – Steve Barton.

The thriving Leek pub scene is really going from strength to strength.

Such a diverse choice of different types of pubs, bars and eateries cater for every conceivable taste, style and price range.

Being chair of the local Campaign for Real Ale branch (or CAMRA for short) I am obviously a fan of real cask conditioned ale.

Leek has an abundance of pubs that serve quality real ale with most having a range of different types of cask ale on sale.

The great thing for us local folk is that most of these places are so close together you can truly experience a massive choice of different types and styles of beer on sale, as much as any medium size CAMRA run beer festival can offer.

Leek has been known as ‘The Queen of the Moorlands’ for years but now is quite justifiably is known by CAMRA members both locally and from further afield as ‘Leek, A Beer Festival Everyday’.

This fact is sometimes overlooked by locals who have a great range of well-run pubs and bars to choose from every single day of the year.

It is only when you visit other areas (and some not very far away) that you can easily gnise just how see the contrast and recog fantastic the Leek pub scene reeally is.

In a snapshot survey condu ucted by local members last year, no less than n 84 different real ales from a staggering arra ay of 44 breweries were found to be on sale in Leek pubs in a single two hour perio od on a Saturday afternoon.

Most city centres with the same square footage of Leek would strugglee to match that figure.

If you combine this with thee vibrant local live music scene with many pu ubs and bars hosting regular live music, plu us the fantastic range of food outlets (some of which are

licensed and serve real ale too), undoubtedly makes Leek ‘THE’ place to go, whatever your preferred taste or style in beer, food and music.

Steve Barton – chairman of Staffordshire Moorlands CAMRA.

Leek Life July/August 2019 45

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REVIEW OF EVENTS

Lots of fun at community extravaganzas Here we take a look at just some of the amazing community events which have already taken place this summer......

Scooter Fest Yet again the whole of Leek town centre was awash with scooters that had traveled from all over the country to make the Leek Scooter Fest possibly the biggest one-day scooter event in the country.

Organiser Steph Knott said: “After a week of weather forecast’s which promised rain, once again we were lucky, not red hot, but dry.

“The set up was pretty much the same as in previous years with around 40 stalls all doing good business, and a Ridden Custom Show that was really well represented with some of the most originally built scooters you could wish to see.

“The artwork, engineering, and engraving on these machines has to be seen to be believed.

“Once again thanks must go to Terry Potts for another set of beautiful individually made trophies.”

The band providing the music for this year's

Endon Well Dressing

46 Leek Life July/August 2019

event was the John Barks Trio, and Dj Mike Coburn also spun the decs.

Steph added: “Special thanks musst go to Les Critchlow who runs the entertainment side d of things for us, and came to the rescue when we lost powerr, Pete Lymer for the d catering, Dave and Darren on the ice rse tthe Jesters for all their cream, and of course hard work and dedication.

“We would like to thank all who attended and bought raffle tickets, made a donation, or supported in any way.

“Scooter-Fest is a free event and runs from year to year, and the event will only continue the following year if enough funds are raised in the present year, so special thanks must go to the few businesses in town, and one or two from out of town, that make donations.”

This year's annual tradition of the Endon Well Dressing has been hailed as a success – despite rain on it's third day.

Organiser Sylvia Jones said: “The weekend went well until the rain came on Monday.

“There were two new items which were well received.

“There was a children's art competition with entries from all Endon schools which were festooned round the craft marquee.

“The Park Regeneration Scheme put on a 5K race on Sunday which was enjoyed by club and “fun” runners alike.

“We also had a Dance and Song Show put on by local groups.

“We hope these new items will go forward to next year to create added interest to the festival.

“An enjoyable time was had by all.”

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REVIEW OF EVENTS

Leek Arts Festival Live music from a multitude of genres, spoken word, visual art, drama, floral art and even a guided walk looking at a key part of Leek’s textile heritage, all featured in this year's Leek Arts Festival.

Spokesman Phil Edmeades said: “A huge amount of effort by a tiny group of volunteers goes into planning and organising the festival each year and then, when it all finally gets under way, it seems to go past in the blink of an eye.

“This year we started at the end of April and ran through to the middle of June with a total of 37 events.

“That’s a massive achievement for a small place like Leek and I think everyonee who played any part in this year’s festivall - whether as an event organiser, a volunteer supporter or an audience member who simply came along to enjoyy what was on offer - can feel really proud of their town.

“Of those 37 events no fewer than 17 were on offer free of charge – another huge achievement in the current economic climate.”

Highlights of this year's programme included The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican, a one-day ska festival, Fairport Convention, Leek Choral Society, Tom Robinson, Dean Friedman, the Birmingham Conservatoire Folk Ensemble, spoken

Leek Carnival Unfortunately, due to the wet weather we have been having this summer, the community extravaganza of Leek's Party in the Park had to be cancelled for 2019.

The event, which is organised by the Leek Town Council Events Committee, was set to

word from the Three Lancaster Poets and an evening of sheer musical magic from Irish folk superstar Cara Dillon.

Phil added: “It’s worth noting that none of this would be possible without the people and organisations who help to fund the festival each year including SMDC, Leek Town Council, Leek Town Lands Trust, KWA, Tinsdills Solicitors and the Three Horse Shoes inn. We are very grateful for their continued support.

“We’d also like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to the trustees and volunteers at The Foxlowe Arts Centre whose patience and understanding we stretch to the limit each year.”

include a 100 foot water slide in Brough Park and much more family fun.

However, Leek Carnival Gala Day – which is now part of the annual event – did continue but as a smaller affair taking place at Haregate Community Centre.

Special guest at this year's carnival was television and film star Warwick Davies who crowned the new Leek Carnival Queen Poppy Knight.

Leek Life July/August 2019 47

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REVIEW OF EVENTS

Staffordshire County Show The Staffordshire County Show reached record heights this year with the highest number of entries in sheep and cattle competitions in recent history.

With almost 800 entries to exhibit sheep, almost 300 cattle and increased numbers in horses, dogs and goat entries, organisers say it’s one of the most successful shows yet.

And around 500 people travelled from as far as New Zealand, Norway, Germany, France, Wales and Scotland to enter the sheep shearing competition - making it the biggest ever at Stafford.

Around 65,000 visitors attended the two day half term show and organisers said it was a huge success.

Crowds were wowed by the breath-stopping aerial stunts of the Bolddog Lings motorcycle stunt team and scurry drivers lead their equestrian charges around the main ring in high-speed races.

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The show also included an antiques fair, food hall, craft hall and trade stands as well as donkey rides, falconry, ferret roadshow, fly casting demonstrations and farriers competition.

The show, sponsored by South Staffordshire College and South Staffordshire Water, takes place every May half term at the Showground on Weston Road and plans are already well underway for next year’s event.

S ALL AREA D E R COVE

07710 213929 | 01538 384488 plwhittaker@plwhittaker-taxation.co.uk P L Whittaker Taxation & Accountancy

48 Leek Life July/August 2019

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MOTORING

HONDA CR-V WINS THE TITLE OF ‘BEST CAR LAUNCHED IN THE LAST YEAR’ IN AUTO TRADER NEW CAR AWARDS 2019

T

he latest-generation Honda CR-V continues to prove its credentials as the world’s most popular1 SUV, winning the title of ‘Best Car Launched Last Year’ in the influential Auto Trader New Car Awards.

The Auto Trader New Car Awards collated feedback from a survey of more than 60,000 car owners. The CR-V was ranked highest by real owners for comfort and cost of servicing, thanks to the option of a 5 year service plan for £599 (inc. VAT) on all brand new Honda models. High scores for durability and safety reflect the models recent 5-star Euro NCAP rating and comprehensive suite of Honda Sensing™ active safety technologies as standard.

Beating off competition from some big names, Honda CR-V owners were impressed by the quality of the interior, with its sleek design and contemporary, sophisticated trim. The in-car features and accessories were also cited, as the CR-V offers enhanced intuitive operation and full, seamless smartphone integration via both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

A spacious cabin with an increase of 50mm between the first- and second-row of seats, and class-leading forward visibility, also helped the CR-V to be ranked highly for comfort and quality.

Erin Baker, Auto Trader’s Editorial Director, said: “The Honda CR-V has won best car launched in the last year because of the quality of its interior and the features and accessories that

50 Leek Life July/August 2019

come with the car. Owners were impressed with the amount of space, seat position and visibility and it ranked top in areas including comfort, cost of servicing and repairs, durability and how safe it feels to drive.”

Phil Webb, Head of Car at Honda UK, commented; “The Auto Trader New Car Awards are a real stamp of approval from people that live with the car day-in, day-out, and we’re proud that the CR-V marks itself out as a true consumer champion. In the incredibly competitive SUV marketplace, this award is another reason for the new CR-V to stand out from its rivals. A big thank you to everyone who responded to the survey.”

The CR-V’s winning combination of comfort, convenience, connectivity is coupled with sophisticated technologies such as Honda’s Hybrid Performance system intelligent MultiMode Drive technology (i-MMD).Comprising two electric motors, an Atkinson-cycle petrol engine and an innovative fixed-gear transmission, the CR-V Hybrid plays a key role in Honda’s objective to achieve 100% electrification of its model line-up by 2025.

The new Honda CR-V is available from £25,995.00 OTR (inc. VAT) for the 1.5 VTEC Turbo S 2WD Manual, and £29,105 OTR (inc.

VAT) for the 2.0 i-MMD Hybrid S 2WD. To find out more about the Honda CR-V, visit https://www.honda.co.uk/cars.html

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MOTORING

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MOTORING

To advertise your business call Thomas on 01538 752214 or 07855 242693or email:

tom@timesandecho.co.uk

We specialise in all aspects of Land Rovers and 4x4’s and our knowledgable team are always on hand to offer expert advice.

adrian wilson

RUDYARD LAKE

g a r a g e

THE ORIGINAL INDEPENDENT RENAULT SPECIALIST trust the best

Adrian Wilson Garage

pr No og w ra do Pe Ren mm ing C uge au ing key itr o lt, fo oe t & r n

salisbu ury street, Leek, stafford dshire st13 3 5ee telephon ne: 01538 399255

www.adrian-wilson.co.uk

If you’re looking for a new car or 4x4 then Rudyard Lake Garage should be your first stop. We can buy or part exchange your current vehicle and help you get into your new car quickly without hassle.

We provide excellent after care and we can service and MOT your vehicle when required.

We also offer an extensive diagnostic and repair service should your vehicle need that expert touch to get it running smoothly again. We also offer a Free Collection and Courtesy Car service. If you require any further info then please feel free to give us a call.

Telephone: 01538 306254

Rudyard Lake Garage, Station Road, Rudyard, Near Leek, Staffordshire

www.rudyardlakegarage.co.uk

Leek Life July August 2019.qxp_Leek Life 20/06/2019 16:07 Page 53

DRIVE FOR LESS IN ECO FRIENDLY FIATS

ONLY £99 DEPOSIT £99 PER MONTH £30 PER YEAR ROAD TAX AT BS MARSON IN NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME, WE TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN BEING ABLE TO OFFER OUR CUSTOMERS NOTHING BUT THE VERY BEST SERVICE Whether you’re shopping for a new or used Fiat Vehicle or taking advantage of the expertise of our after sales team, we aim to offer you the same warm welcome and friendly advice that makes your visit worthwhile. Drive for less with our eco-friendly Fiats - more than 80 used vehicles are in stock.

Road tax is only £30pa and the low insurance group comes with five star safety. Not only do Fiats look great but the Fiat 500 has very low fuel consumption and in turn emits as estimated 30% less CO2 emissions. BS Marson will give you up to £2,000 part exchange for your old car so that you can drive away an eco-friendly Fiat today.

£99 £99 DEPOSIT

At BS Marson, we are celebrating 60 years of service. We are one of the country’s largest established Fiat dealers, having held the franchise since 1969.

One client described us as “brilliant, a lovely dealership, friendly, approachable, a nice experience and good prices, plus, free delivery to your door.

BS Marson have been going for years because they know what to do when it comes to selling cars and looking after you” FINANCE EXAMPLE FIAT 500 1.2 POP 2014 PANDA 1.2 POP 2015

PER MONTH PER As a potential Fiat customer or a satisfied owner, you will always find exactly what you need when you contact us.

Visit our website at www.bsmarson.co.uk/about-us or call one of our departments to speak directly to a sales, parts or servicing specialist on 01782 622141

SALES PRICE

PLUS DEPOSIT

PER MONTH

£4,995

£99

£99

BALANCE WITH LOW APR INTEREST

£5,994

7.8%

B.S.MARSON&SONS

N1 O

DEALERR FOOR SALESS AND SERVICE ON STAFFORDSHIRE AND CHESHIRE

Please view our website for further details

www.bsmarson.co.uk

Open Mon-Sat 9am-7pm Sun 11am-5pm

PA

4%

DEALER PARTNER Winners of Masters of Distinction Award For After Sales Service

TEL: 01782 622141 KEELE ROAD, NEWCASTLE A525, ST5 2HN

YOURS NO FINAL FREE AT PAYMENT END

Leek Life July August 2019.qxp_Leek Life 20/06/2019 16:07 Page 54

Leek Life July August 2019.qxp_Leek Life 20/06/2019 16:08 Page 55

LEEK LIFE CLASSIFIED

• Fully qualified & experienced tree surgeon • All aspects of tree & hedge work undertaken • Fully insured • Free advice & no obligation quotes • Chainsaw training & assessments Tel: 01538 421607 Mob: 07812 598909

Email: totaltreesolutions@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.totaltreesolutions.co.uk

ELECTRICAL SERVICES Block paving and groundwork specialists • Decorative paving • Natural stone • Flagging • Fencing • Kerbing • Wrought iron • Gates • Garden walls CALL DARREN ON: 01538 420371 or 07538 490259 info@holland.co.uk • www.dwholland.co.uk

Leek Electrical

Domestic & SP Commercial CLREAINNG Cleaning DEEP CLEAN

Specialising in holiday homes and big events

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Graham Bagshaw PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER • City & Guilds apprroved vice • Installation & serv The Nook, Butterton, Leek, Staffs, ST13 7SP

T: 01538 304518 M: 07841 708861

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE?

Call Thomas Brian on 01538 752214 or 07855 242693, or email tom@times andecho.co.uk

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