Newcastle Life Issue 26

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Life Overco challen ming ge our ‘ne s in w norma l’ SE E PAG E 24

LOCKDOWN? NO PROBLEM! Newcastle Scouts find plenty to do while staying safe at home

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Choose a caring community

It has never been more important to choose the right care se ng, and Belong Newcastle-under-Lyme provides high quality support in a safe environment, with robust infec on preven on and control measures in place. Our range of services means we can support you as your needs change: l

24-hour care in small scale households

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Expert nursing and demen a care

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Stylish one or two bedroom independent living apartments

To nd out more about how we are suppor ng older people at this me please call us on 01782 986300 or email enquiries@belong.org.uk.

BELONG NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME Lower Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Sta ordshire ST5 2RS

Your life, your pace, your way.

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I SS U E 2 6 Editors Letter ..................................6

Staffordshire County Council .....20

A Firefighter’s Story .......................8

Newcastle Scouts ........................22

Keele University ...........................10

Businesses in Lockdown.............24

RJS Solicitors................................11

Marvellous Postponed ................28

Friends of Lyme Brook ................12

Staffordshire Growth Hub ..........30

Gardening ....................................14

Derek Tamea ................................32

Moths of West Midlands.............15

Quiz Corner ..................................33

Armed Forces Charity .................16

Motoring .......................................34

Leading the County at GCSE and A Level

Call Now for Tours and Taster Days nuls.org.uk | 01782 631197

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It’s great to be back!

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Laura Campbell Contents Editor laura@timesandecho.co.uk Holly Keates Tracey Redfern Design & Production Thomas Brian General Manager tom@timesandecho.co.uk Mobile: 07855 252693 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

ell, it’s safe to say that things have changed a little bit since I sat down to pen the editor’s note for the last issue – back at the start of March! Who would have thought that 2020 would bring with it a devastating global pandemic? The world looks very different now than it did then. In issue 25 I wrote about an ‘active spring,’ looking forward to ‘the days getting longer, colours getting brighter, and moods lifting.’ Well the days got longer and the weather certainly got brighter, but our moods and our hopes for a ‘spring fresh start’ didn’t quite go the way any of us had thought, thanks to the shocking arrival of Covid-19 to the UK. I’ve been nervous about writing this letter, because this awful virus has affected every single one of us in some way or another. I know that some of you will be reading this having sadly lost loved ones or being poorly yourself – please know that you are not alone and the community of Newcastle is there for you, please reach out if you are finding things hard. Some of you will have struggled with work, your businesses, your family life and the ‘new normal’ that was so suddenly thrust upon us all – well done for getting this far, taking things one day at a time is all we can do. And some of you will have been working tirelessly for us all, whether it be the frontline NHS, in our supermarkets, delivering our packages or on our streets, keeping us all safe, fed, watered and clean – thank you, thank you, thank you.

As lockdown relaxes and we take steps towards a new way of living, we hope that Issue 26 offers you a small slice of normality.

Please do send me your stories of lockdown – I continue to be inspired, motivated and heart-warmed by all of you and looking forward, I hope that this magazine can continue to share your positive, can-do attitudes and strong community spirit, providing support and comfort to us all in the months to come.

Take care everyone and stay safe,

CONTACTS Samaritans – 116 123, jo@samaritans.org Mind – www.mind.org.uk NHS – 111 (dial 999 in an emergency) www.gov.uk – information for businesses during Covid-19

Thank you to all of you who have been in touch with your stories and events for Issue 26. Remember, Newcastle Life is YOUR magazine and we want to hear from you! Perhaps you have a story to tell or a photo to share; maybe you’d like to promote your event or your talent; or you may have exciting snippets of local history to interest our readers! Simply get in touch by emailing laura@timesandecho.co.uk

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a firefighter’s story

A FIREFIGHTER’S STORY

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former Newcastleunder-Lyme firefighter trainee has hung up his boots for the final time, 42 years to the day since he joined.

Now serving as a Community Safety Officer, Mick Warrilow finished work as a firefighter for the final time on Friday 10th July. During that time, Mick has juggled firefighting with work as a Magistrate and within the Air Cadets.

Speaking of his farewell, the 66-year-old revealed how a Christmas party in London led him into a career in firefighting.

“Originally, I got into firefighting whilst I was in the Navy. We didn’t have too much

training but if you’re at sea and there’s a fire – you’re going to have to put it out! However, it was in 1977 – during a national fire service strike – that I got my first real opportunity to experience the life of a firefighter.

“I headed up to London from the naval base at Portsmouth and was really thrown into the deep end in covering for those on strike. We had limited knowledge but attended a number of incidents during that time. Thankfully, a few members of the London Fire Service would turn up to each of these incidents and guide us through them – explaining things to keep us safe.

“After it was all over, we held

a Christmas party for them as a thank you and during that I ended up getting a real insight into what a career within the fire service could look like – something I hadn’t really thought of.

“Having previously been rejected by Hampshire Police for being too short, I decided to apply to Staffordshire Fire and Rescue and was accepted. I went through the interview process and started on July 10 1978 at Newcastle Fire Station for training. I sometimes imagine what my life would be like if I’d been half an inch taller!

“Once my training was over, I was then posted to Hanley Red Watch and stayed there for 28

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a firefighter’s story and a half years. I wasn’t particularly interested in promotion so I perfected my trade – becoming a driver, a breathing apparatus wearer, a hydraulic platform operator, a turn table ladder operator and then latterly an instructor and examiner in these fields. It was a tremendous learning experience.

“Things have changed massively in the last 40 years or so and one that has taught me so much. I’ve worked within a range of different policies and procedures, whilst tackling the challenges that come with new kit and appliances. I initially retired in 2008 after my 30 years of service but I was invited back and started doing more community work – helping set up a risk reduction team and being a big part in the recruitment of a retained section at Hanley.

“Unfortunately, a few years later I chose to retire again after my wife was diagnosed with terminal cancer. She fought it and is still in remission today.

However, I was invited back as a Community Safety Officer and that’s now a role I’ve been doing ever since. I’ve worked with the

homeless and helped set up the Rough Sleepers Actions Group with local partners and councils. In 2015, I was nominated for a medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list and I was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the community.

“I’m taking retirement now as my wife needs more support and care and unfortunately my daughter has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer so my retirement has come at the right time to support my family further.

“There’s obviously ups and downs, good and bad times in all jobs, no matter what you do.

For me personally, it’s all been good. The good times really, really outweigh the bad times and what I take from it is the friendship, companionship and the camaraderie of the fire service. The close working together to get a problem solved within the community is something I won’t forget. It’s a difficult time at the moment but we’ll get to where we want to be if we work together because everybody’s important – everybody.

“The support I’ve also

Photo credit:www.staff ffordshirefire.gov.uk f

received during the more difficult times has also been second to none and I’m really grateful for that.

“The fire service is a truly unique place to work as well. If you think about the role of the firefighter – we always work in twos - two of you go into a fire, two of you man the hydraulic equipment at a road traffic collision. It’s a buddy system so you can build the trust and confidence in each other – it’s important to know someone has your back and you always get that here.

“I would advise a 17-year-old Mick Warrilow to listen, learn and don’t be afraid to ask questions. I’d just tell him to go for it and let him know there’s a lot of good, but challenging, times ahead. If anyone is reading this and they’re interested in a career in the fire service then I’d say do it – you’re onto a winner if you end up getting half the pleasure that I’ve had in my 42 years. It’s a fantastic family environment, there’s a lot of support and help and so many opportunities for people to learn new skills. It’s a tremendous job – one for a lifetime.”

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KEELE UNIVERSITY

New hopes for COVID vaccine to come out of Keele

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vaccine to combat COVID-19 is set to be manufactured at Keele University, following an agreement between Cobra Biologics and AstraZeneca UK. Cobra, which has two facilities on the University’s Science and Innovation Park, has signed a supply agreement with the global pharmaceutical giant to manufacture one of several vaccines currently being trialled in the UK. The production agreement is part of a programme with the University of Oxford to ensure broad and equitable supply of the vaccine throughout the world, at no profit during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The agreement is a further development of Cobra’s announcement in March, where it confirmed that it was working as part of a consortium with the Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, and others, to rapidly develop, scale-up and produce a vaccine against COVID-19.

Cobra, along with other consortium members, is providing large-scale manufacturing capacity for the vaccine, with first deliveries to begin in the UK in September 2020.

Peter Coleman, Chief Executive at Cobra Biologics, said: “I am extremely proud of the contribution made by the Cobra team alongside our consortium partners and, despite the current restrictive requirements in place, the progress being made with

“

I am delighted that the University is able to support these two pivotal activities in the fight against COVID-19.

demanding timelines is outstanding.

“Cobra’s considerable expertise in GMP viral vector scale up and manufacture will be critical to a successful manufacturing campaign. The agreement with AstraZeneca comes at an opportune time for us as we bring three additional viral vector suites online as part of our ongoing advanced therapies expansion programme.”

Keele University has also announced that it has joined a key national programme to evaluate new diagnostic tests for the coronavirus which will help determine how many people have been infected with the Covid-19 virus.

The University is supporting the second part of the REACT-2 programme, led by Imperial College London, which will see the new tests trialled in a temporary testing centre on the Keele campus.

The study will help evaluate novel ways of detecting Covid19 antigens and antibodies and assess how well these tests can be adapted to a home testing environment without assistance from a healthcare professional.

Professor Pauline Walsh, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Executive Dean for the University's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences,

”

said: “I am delighted that Keele can support this really important work. We have seen the impact of Covid-19 through our partnership working with local health and social care organisations. This study will provide crucial data to influence the future management of the disease.”

Professor Mark Ormerod, Keele University Deputy ViceChancellor and Provost, added: “I am delighted that the University is able to support these two pivotal activities in the fight against COVID-19.

Not only are we working with Imperial College to evaluate tests that will ultimately guide the Government’s planning for testing on a national scale, but a potentially game-changing vaccine against the virus is also set to be manufactured at Keele by one of our longest-serving tenants.

“These programmes have the potential to significantly influence the future management of the virus both in the UK and across the world, and I am proud that Keele and its partners are able to contribute to this global fight.”

For more information on what Keele University is doing as part of the national effort to tackle COVID-19, visit keele.ac.uk/coronavirus/respon se.

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RJS SOLICITORS

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JS Solicitors in Trentham, Stoke on Trent are delighted to welcome the newest member of its team, Laura Lambert who joined the firm on 4th May 2020 as the new Head of Family department. The wealth and depth of her experience in family matters will strengthen the private client team. Laura joins Richard Scholes and David Carson in expanding the firms services for the individual.

The family team advises on a wide range of matters including divorce, financial settlements, separation from an unmarried partner, nuptial agreements and arrangements for children.

If you want to buy, sell, or re-mortgage a property Richard Scholes will provide the expert assistance you need to navigate the complicated legal processes involved. David Carson can draft your Will to make sure your loved ones get the full benefit of their inheritance and advise on how

to structure your estate in the best way to protect your wealth for the future, and minimise tax. This can include business succession planning to help you hand over control of your business interests.

The private client team work very closely with other teams in the firm. This means our private clients have access to the best advice on family law, property, trusts and estates, corporate, commercial, employment issues and dispute resolution.

With a reputation built on experience and a team of specialised private client lawyers, RJS FOR YOU provides a comprehensive service that is solution focused and bespoke to your needs.

WEBSITE: www.rjssolicitors.com EMAIL: lauralambert@rjssolicitors.com ADDRESS: G4-G5, Trentham Business Quarter, Bellringer Rd, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 8GB (Free Parking) PHONE: 01782 646320

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friends of lyme brook

FRIENDS OF LYME BROOK S

LYME VALLEY PARKWAY IN SPRING

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much-loved urban oasis is set to bloom again after a residents group received £6,000 from the Severn Trent Community Fund, sowing the first seeds of change for the local area.

The Friends of Lyme Brook will use the funds to establish a wildflower meadow close to the bank of the Brook near the central car park.

Sally Aldridge is the Chair of Friends of Lyme Brook. She commented: “We plan to use traditional methods such as hand scything to encourage wild flowers to grow in this area bringing a real sense of countryside back into this urban heartland.

“This is a long-term project, but we hope it will encourage a wider variety of insects that will support more bird life as well as make the area much more attractive.”

The scheme will complement the wild flower meadow higher up the valley near the children’s playground that was “strewn” by the

Friends last year as part of the Staffordshire Wildlife Sunrise Project.

Jade Gough, Community Fund Officer at Severn Trent added: “We’re really passionate about the environment, so we’re really pleased that our funding can support the creation of the wild flower meadow, and turn it into a place that the local community, and its wildlife will be able to enjoy for years to come.”

The grant application was enthusiastically supported by Newcastle Borough Council Council’s Community Development Office.

Activities were put on hold due to Covid-19, but monthly testing of the water quality in the Brook has now restarted.

This occurs the first Saturday of each month at 10am near the central car park. On a scale of 1 (bad) – 10 (good) the Brook is around a 6 and has improved over recent years. Members of the public are welcome to come and see what the group are doing and talk to the team

(whilst observing Covid-19 guidelines and restrictions).

The meadow creation has been delayed by Covid-19, but the group are planning the first stage to begin in September.

This will be followed up by an open day next year.

Friends of Lyme Brook also conduct litter picking, including removal of shopping trolleys from the Brook and the removal of Himalayan balsam.

More information regarding the Friend’s activities can be found on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/gro ups/646462645543567/?ref=b ookmarks and can be contacted at Friendso ofLymeBrook@gmail.cco mFriend ds of Lyme Brook sow the seeds of change A mu uch-loved urban oasis is set to blo oom again after a residents group received £6,000 from the Severn Trent Commun nity Fund, sowing the first seed ds of change for the local areea.

The Friends of Lyme Brook will use the funds to establish a wildflow wer meadow close to the bank of the Brook near the central car park.

Sally Aldridge is the Chair of Friends of Lyme Brook. She commen nted: “We plan to use tradition nal methods such as hand scyything t to encourage wild flow wers to grow in this area bringing g a real sense of countrysside back into this urban heeartland.

“Thiss is a long-term project, but we hope it will encourage a wider va ariety of insects that will support more bird life as well as make thee area much more attractivve.”

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friends of lyme brook

O

E SEEDS OF The scheme will complement the wild flower meadow higher up the valley near the children’s playground that was “strewn” by the Friends last year as part of the Staffordshire Wildlife Sunrise Project.

Jade Gough, Community Fund Officer at Severn Trent added: “We’re really passionate about the environment, so we’re really pleased that our funding can support the creation of the wild flower meadow, and turn it into a place that the local community, and its wildlife will be able to enjoy for years to come.”

The grant application was enthusiastically supported byy Newcastle Borough Council Council’s Community Development Office.

Activities were put on hold d due to Covid-19, but monthly testing of the water quality in the Brook has now restarted.

This occurs the first Saturdayy of

N E

each month at 10am near the WILD FLOWERS central car park. On a scale of 1 IN THE PARKWAY (bad) – 10 (good) the Brook is around a 6 and has improved over recent years. Members of the public are welcome to come and see what the group are doing and talk to the team (whilst observing Covid-19 guidelines and restrictions).

The meadow creation has been delayed by Covid-19, but the group are planning the first stage to begin in September.

This will be followed up by an open day next year.

Friends of Lyme Brook also conduct litter picking, including removal of shopping trolleys from the Brook and the removal of Himalayan balsam.

More information regarding the Friend’s activities can be found on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/gro ups/646462645543567/?ref=b ookmarks and can be contacted at FriendsofLymeBrook@gmail.co m

WILD FLOWERS IN THE PARKWAY

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gardening

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ellflowers, known properly as Campanulas are an amazingly varied family of plants. Nearly all have bellshaped flowers, but they come in all sizes of plants from creeping carpeters for the rockery to stately giants for the back of the border. Some are woody-based clump-formers others are frankly invasive thugs but with careful choice there’s a bellflower for most gardens.

All enjoy a sunny or partially shaded spot but on the whole, they don’t like wet soils so improve drainage with plenty of compost and grit in claggy soils. Nearly all will rebloom if the first crop of flower stems are removed as soon as the flowers are finished.

The Dalmatian bellflower (Campanula portenschlagiana) is well known for clothing rockeries and even drystone walls with its small leaves and violet-blue flowers. This one is a spreader and should be avoided in the flower border. The tussock bellflower (C.carpatica) is a better choice for the rockery or front of the border as it forms low mounds and has upward facing bells in shades of blue and also white and is better behaved.

One of the best varieties for the middle of the border is Campanula “Sarastro”, a fairly recent introduction that has masses of dangling purple bells on 2ft / 60cm tall stems. We grow this one on a dry sandy bank, but it also tolerates a little shade.

Similar, but more dainty is “Kent Belle”. Both look as good in bud as they do in flower. Another similar variety, “Crystal” has palest purple flowers opening from translucent purple buds looking much like Lalique glass – very beautiful.

Another winning, but spreading variety is “Elizabeth” with taller, branching stems festooned with white bells heavily spotted and marked in soft pink. Campanula punctata, the spotted harebell, is

similar but this species spreads more freely and isn’t suitable for small spaces. We love the variety “Wedding Bells” which has creamy white, double “hose-in-hose” bells spotted with pale pink.

The peach-leaved bellflower (C. persicifolia) spreads reasonably quickly to form large carpets of long, narrow leaves and bears 2-3ft / 60-90cm tall spires of white or blue flowers, particularly beautiful in the variety “Chettle Charm” where the white flower petals are edged in the palest blue.

Less spreading, but of similar height are the broadleaved bellflower (C. latiflora) and the Olympic bellflower (C. latiloba). These are upright plants with large bells in blues, pinks, and whites.

We particularly like the pale violet of “Hidcote Amethyst”.

Taller, more bushy and with smaller but more numerous flowers is the milky bellflower (C.lactiflora). When grown from seed the flowers are in a range of pale colours including blue, white, and pink but there are stronger colours available.

“Pritchard’s Blue” is a good deep blue and “Loddon Anna” is bluish pink.

The giant of bellflowers is Campanula pyramidalis which grows to 5ft / 150cm tall but is not long-lived and treated as a biennial.

Ones to avoid: C.rapunculoides (rampant spreader) and C.trachelium (“Bats in the Belfry”) which is a prolific seeder, but there’s plenty of others to choose that will definitely ring your bell!

Martin Blow Janet & I run a small nursery called Special Perennials. During the current crisis we plan to operate a click and collect plant sales service.

Please see our website www.specialperennials.com for details of plants available. Sorry but no casual callers.

We also organise Plant Hunters’ Fairs, specialist plant fairs at wonderful locations throughout the season. This year we had planned plant fairs during August at Capesthorne Hall, Macclesfield (SK11 9JY), Abbeywood Gardens Delamere (CW8 2HS) and at the Dorothy Clive Garden (TF9 4EU) and during September at Weston Park (TF11 8LE). At the time of writing this we are not sure if they will be cancelled so please keep up to date with all our latest plant fair information by visiting www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk

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moths of the west midlands

MOTHS OF THE WEST MIDLANDS

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new book celebrating the beauty and diversity of moths in the West Midlands area has been published during lockdown. It’s the first book ever produced covering over 600 of the larger moths in the West Midlands area as well as over 200 smaller moths.

Created by members of the West Midlands branch of Butterfly Conservation, the UK’s leading wildlife charity dedicated to protecting butterflies and moths, the book is based on thousands of records submitted by moth enthusiasts from the area over the last 20 years. While some moths are shown to have declined over this period there have been exciting and colourful species like the Hornet Clearwing moth and the exotic sounding Clifden Nonpareil, which have become more common.

Ideal for anyone with an interest in moths, but also for complete beginners, joint editor, Ian Duncan said: “This book will be a perfect complement to the hugely successful companion volume The Butterflies of the West Midlands. It will appeal to wildlife enthusiasts of all levels but particularly to beginners keen to learn and understand more about these fascinating insects.”

HORNET MOTH CREDIT: GARRY BARLOW, BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION

“All moths are beautifully illustrated with photos taken mainly by local photographers with information on when and where they are seen. The book also includes advice about how to attract and spot moths in your own garden”.

“Some of the very special and unusual moths in the region are highlighted, together with details of some of the hotspots for moths.”

In Staffordshire, Cannock Chase is one of only two English sites for the rare Welsh Clearwing which as a caterpillar lives under the bark of Birch trees. Other important sites include the Staffordshire Moorlands and Chartley Moss near Stafford.

All profits from the sale of the book will help conserve moths and butterflies in the West Midlands. The book can be ordered online at Naturebureau.co.uk/bookshop.

Butterfly Conservation’s West Midlands branch covers the counties of Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Worcestershire plus Birmingham and the Black Country and was the very first regional branch to be established in 1979. It works in partnership with many other organisations to help conserve the region’s butterflies and moths and has a growing and active membership (www.westmidlands-butterflies.org.uk)

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armed forces charity

Armed Forces charity support

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local charity set up to support people linked to the armed forces has continued to provide food and welfare checks to the most vulnerable, thanks to the generous support of the local community.

The Tri Services and Veteran Support Centre are a little known Charity in Newcastleunder-Lyme, based in Veterans House in Hassell Street. Covering Staffordshire and South Cheshire, the charity aims to provide support and guidance to individuals and families of those serving or have served in the armed services in the transition from service to civilian life.

Since the COVID- 19 pandemic started life has changed for us all, and many veterans and families unfortunately found themselves locked down with no one to help them with shopping and day to day activities. Many of these had no means to buy food either, so a veterans Foodbank was formed in partnership with SSAFA, the armed forces charity.

Kathy Munslow is the Divisional Secretary of SSAFA, and covers the Stafford, Newcastle-

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armed forces charity

orts do e s throu h oc do under-Lyme and Maer areas. She explained: “Currently we are supplying in excess of 40 food parcels per month. We have a small dedicated team who are sourcing food from donations from the public and purchasing food from local supermarkets. We have also extended our food sourcing network through Wendy Cotterill and Rich Stephenson-Evans, who are the Tesco Community Champions in South Cheshire and North Staffs.

“This has meant we can now enhance our offering to the needy and vulnerable. In the last month we have seen a significant increase in demand for the food parcels. Some of this increase is through more of the SSAFA cases coming online, the others have come from furloughed individuals who are trying to make ends meet. Some have had benefits stopped or delayed.

“Fortunately we own a minibus that we use to collect and deliver our food and when delivering parcels we also carry out welfare checks, talking to people through their kitchen windows and leaving them with a small parcel of ‘treats’ to enjoy with a brew.

“There are many veterans and families in our area that need support and we will continue to reach out and help where we can.”

For more information about SSAFA, you can visit the website www.veteransupportcentre.org or call 01782 713963

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n

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staffordshire county council

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ORE THAN 2,000 emergency food parcels have been delivered to vulnerable residents during the current pandemic by a local

authority.

Staffordshire County Council has been buying bulk consignments of non-perishable staples and volunteers have been repackaging them for individual delivery to homes across the county.

Recipients are those unable to leave home and who do not have anyone able to help them.

Once they have received a parcel they are put in touch with a local charity or support group so that the problem doesn’t arise again.

Alan White, Deputy Leader of Staffordshire County Council and Cabinet member for Health, Care and Wellbeing, said: “We know from what people are telling us that these deliveries are making all the difference.

“People have been contacting us because they’re running out of food and have no-one to turn to and they’re desperate.

“These deliveries have allowed them to stay

at home, isolate and reduce the risk of them catching the infection.”

The parcels contain basic items such as tinned vegetables, meat, fish and fruit, baked beans, tea and coffee, rice, pasta, cereals, porridge and toilet rolls, as well as sugar, pasta and long-life milk.

The packing is being done by volunteers including Staffordshire County Council staff transferred from other departments and catering teams from school meals provider Chartwells.

Cllr White added: “This supply operation was put together in a matter of days when lockdown first began with the capability to help thousands of people if necessary.

“The volunteers staffing it have been fantastic, but so too have the residents of Staffordshire, helping neighbours and friends wherever possible and I would like to thank them all.”

If someone is isolating and has no-one to turn to they can contact the county council on 0300 111 8050.

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open house

SALES | LETTINGS | INVESTMENTS MORTGAGES | AUCTIONS CONVEYANCING

We're OPEN & its time to CELEBRATE! Be part of our OFFICE LAUNCH, our ďŹ rst 10 HOMES will receive our special offer, to SELL your property for just

ÂŁ795 NO SALE NO FEE

Open House Newcastle under Lyme is operated by the CV group of businesses which incorporates CV Recruitment and CV Estates, having over 30 years of customer service experience, including fifteen years building a successful Recruitment Agency.

As Directors Charlotte Owen and Vikki Yarwood, took a leap of faith twelve months ago and commenced on a new and exciting journey in the property industry.

After Vikki and Charlotte both moved house themselves and, having not experiencing the standard of service they like to deliver, especially at a stressful time, they realised the need for a fresh approach to selling and buying property. Open House Newcastle Under Lyme was established in March 2019 and has already helped a number of homeowners sell their home quickly and stress-free, and for the best price possible!

Vikki

Charlotte

Charlotte and Vikki are extremely proud of what Open House Newcastle Under Lyme have achieved so far and hope to grow the business substantially in 2020.

They are looking to help residents of Newcastle Under Lyme who may need help selling or buying a new home, landlords, or people who need mortgages and conveyancing services. If you need support with anything property related, Open House Newcastle Under Lyme have everything under one roof!

They provide a first class customer experience through their personal approach to estate agency, providing a tailor made service to both sales and lettings customers.

As a team, they pride themselves on being dedicated estate agency specialists who always look to provide the best solution for their customers.

Charlotte and Vikki offer a seamless and knowledgeable service through their supportive and efficient approach. The team are contactable 24 hours a day 7 days a week and work hard to ensure the customer experience is a pleasurable one.

Understanding the importance of communication and will keep you up to date through every milestone from the initial valuation right the way through to completion.

Open House Newcastle under Lyme would like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU to everyone that have supported them on their journey so far. If you have plans to move this year, get in touch now for some free and impartial advice!

For more information, please call our friendly team on 01782 480266 or email cvestates@localagent.co.uk

01782 480266

cvestates@localagent.co.uk

4 Merrial Street, Newcastle, ST52AD

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:01 Page 22

newcastle scouts

LOCKDOWN? N

Newcastle Scouts find plenty to

F

TOASTING MARSHMALLOWS

SLEEPING IN A TENT

rom virtual marshmallow toasting, to camping at home, youngsters across Newcastle have not let lockdown stop them enjoying all sorts of traditional (and not so traditional) scouting fun!

Although they have not been able to meet up in person since March, like much of the country during COVID-19 Scout Groups across the borough have moved as much of their activities as possible online. Beavers, Cubs and Scouts have held virtual video meetings and even completed badges and challenges.

In the true spirit of scouting, youngsters have camped in their gardens, toasted marshmallows and sung campfire songs.

They’ve explored where they live, baked cakes, made lava lamps, thanked the NHS & key workers, painted stones, taken part in escape rooms and even completed at home bug hunts and scavenger hunts.

Sadly the much anticipated Gang Show, Castle Capers, was not able to take place because of the outbreak, but members of the production team put together a video for the cast and crew and the team are hoping to stage the show again in 2022.

The annual St. George’s Day parade in the town centre also couldn’t take place, so instead celebrations moved online - and included the Scout’s Promise Renewal.

District Commissioner Vera Bloor has been thrilled to see everyone come together and carry on. She told Newcastle Life magazine: “I'd like to pay tribute to the amazing volunteers who have helped our young people stay active and resilient during this very difficult period. Volunteers have also sewed scrubs and headbands for heroes, delivered meals, and created a phone network to support older volunteers or those shielding. Many of our volunteers are also key workers and have managed to still give some time to scouting too, truly incredible!

“We've had lots of positive comments from the community and parents, telling us this has made a real difference to our young people,

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:02 Page 23

newcastle scouts

? NO

O L

to do w le stay n sa e at o e making them smile, and often proved the only way of them "seeing" friends.”

Some scout groups have enjoyed hikes, with children planning the routes themselves, packing their own rucksacks and setting off for quality time hiking with their parents.

Vera continued: “On top of all that we have done a 2.6 challenge. I ran 26k and did exercise circuits in the garden, others have trampolined, laid garden slabs, and walked 26k. This will help to support groups that are struggling financially as a result of the lockdown. If anyone wants to support us, our just giving page is here: https://www.justgiving.com/newcast ledistrictscounts “We hope to return to face to face scouting very soon, once we are given permission by The Scout Association. But, we have lots of work to do, preparing risk assessments and activities that are compliant with social distancing, and not to mention how many gallons of hand sanitiser we will need!”

ZOOM CALL

ZOOM CALL

CAMP FIRE CAKE

RECYCLED MATERIAL CHALLENGE

SCOUT LEGO

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:02 Page 24

businesses in lockdown

Overcoming challenges

A

s lockdown fades into a memory we’d all rather forget, and we start to look towards enjoying ‘a new normal’ way of life, we wanted

to take the opportunity to reflect on how the townsfolk of Newcastle have coped with Covid-19. We speak to two local residents, whose hard work and dedication to both

Francesco and Cassie Alfano are a husband and wife team who returned to Cassie’s hometown in February 2013 to start up Amore Italian Restaurant and Café, in the centre of Newcastle.

Like many families across the country, Covid19 presented the pair with some new challenges – in particular keeping two young children – and an ambitious chef - entertained during a global pandemic.

Cassie, whose son Luigi is 6 and daughter Luna 8 months, spoke to Newcastle Life magazine about her family’s experiences. She said: “Luna was 8 months old when we went into lockdown and I think it was wonderful that we had more time to spend with her, she rolled, crawled, stood unaided and has started to take steps on her own. If we had remained open like normal she would have spent most of her time strapped to me in the wrap so I could work!

“Trying to get Luigi to do his school work packs whilst having a young baby who had started to move and get herself into mischief was difficult. Along with an ambitious and driven husband chef who couldn't ‘chef’, occasionally tensions ran high. At least we were blessed with stunning weather so we were able to get in the garden!

“We set up our family YouTube channel years ago, but didn't have any time to actually get anything on it - so lockdown gave us chance to finally do this. We decided to take a break on take outs just after the lockdown began, so Francesco has had time to practice and study his breadmaking and also share his recipes online, giving masterclasses and encouraging people to create in their own homes. I'm a singer so it gives me an outlet to share that too, there’s a maths game video with Luigi (we have more planned as he loves maths) and also some family fun – so there's something for everyone.

their business and their families saw them through the worst part of the pandemic, keeping their trade going, customers smiling and families happy.

“Our son loves rainbows so we definitely had some of those and he got involved with making scarecrows. Ours was a Luigi character...then the headmaster challenged us to do Yoshi too so we did!!

“We've opened back up again now but closed for 6 weeks. We're now back, offering take outs via collection and delivery. It's a shame to not be using all our local crockery which we love, but are so pleased that people are once again enjoying our artisan cuisine. Now we're back open we're doing a take-out DIY Pizza making kit and the masterclass instruction is on our YouTube channel.

“One of our customers (before lockdown) said “it feels like we're at home” which is one of the best compliments we could receive. We are a family who care about the food and the experience for each and every one of our customers, we want everyone to feel as comfortable in our “Amore” as we do in the home of our ‘mammas.’”

YouTube: Amore Italian Restaurant Twitter: @amorenewcastle www.amoreitalian.co.uk

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:02 Page 25

businesses in lockdown

ges in our ‘new normal’

Sharon Whittlestone is the owner of Newcastle Pet Supplies, who, as a key business, kept our furry friends fed and watered throughout the pandemic.

She spoke to Newcastle Life magazine about the challenges she experienced during covid19. She explained: “Unfortunately I had to make a difficult decision to close the shop to the public at the end of March and furlough my three staff members, because members of the public were not adhering to social distancing and the shop is quite small. I had to put the wellbeing of my staff, their families and other customers first.

“As we sold Pet Foods we were classed as a key business so I knew I had to do something and quickly - as I did not want to see family pets doing without.

“We started off by increasing our delivery service to local residents to three

times a week and we reduced the minimum order spend to just £10. Our local deliveries quadrupled within the first few weeks of lockdown so this also meant myself and my husband having to fulfil these deliveries.

“I added over 1000 products to the website so those who shopped online had more choice, and it was not just pet foods and treats! We also added lots of pet accessories and wild bird foods as I know a lot of our regular customers loved feeding the wild birds and it came at a crucial time when wild birds were nesting and feeding their young.

“I also introduced Click and Collect Service twice a week at the shop door for those people who still were able to get out.

“At first supplies were an issue as people panic bought, a bit like ‘the toilet roll saga’ but with pet food! But I continued to source products for customers, which included

having to travel up to Preston in the early hours as our regular wholesalers were struggling to keep up with the demand.

I must admit most days I was working at least 12 hours a day, including Sundays, and with the majority of the time on my own.

“Life got a little easier when we reopened the doors again at the end of May and customers have now got used to queuing and keeping their social distance - and that includes our four legged customers too! I’m also pleased to welcome back two members of staff. We shall continue to do our free local delivery service on Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays as I know some people are still not comfortable about going out at present and we are still doing Click & Collect for any customers who wish to preorder.” www.newcastlepets.co.uk

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:04 Page 26

Do you have a photo to share with us of Newcastle?

Would you like to see your photo on the front cover?

Why not send in your photos and we will feature them in the magazine.

Simply email laura@timesandecho.co.uk

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:05 Page 27

26

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Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:05 Page 28

marvellous postponed

A

CITY theatre has announced that it has postponed the production of a play focusing on a local hero.

Marvellous, a brand new play based on the life of local hero, Neil ‘Nello’ Baldwin, was due to take to the stage in the New Vic Theatre’s newly refurbished auditorium in September.

However, due to the uncertainty around when theatres will be able to reopen to the public for performances, the team at the theatre-in-theround has taken the decision to reschedule the production to a later date and now hopes to stage this inspiring show in April 2021.

Theresa Heskins, New Vic Artistic Director said: “A New Vic production like Marvellous takes months of planning, and many people are involved in its creation.

“From our in house team to freelance actors and creatives, and of course Neil himself, it’s a huge endeavour – and much of the work happens before we even start rehearsals.

“Without having certainty as to when we will be able to reopen the New Vic for performances, we have taken the decision to reschedule the production so that we can ensure that when we bring Neil Baldwin’s fantastic story to life on stage, we can do it with confidence, and for the audiences we promised it to.

“We will just have to wait a little bit longer to be able to share this show with them.”

The New Vic Theatre still plans to reopen to the public when government guidelines allow and hopes to welcome audiences back for a range of concerts and other shows later in the year.

The New Vic Box Office team are in the process of contacting all customers who had booked for Marvellous to talk through their options. Customers do not need to call the theatre.

For further updates on the New Vic’s forthcoming programme, visit newvictheatre.org.uk.

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:06 Page 29

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Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:06 Page 30

StaffordShire growth hub

NEWCASTLE AND KIDSGROVE IN FOCUS FOR #SHOPSAFELYINSTAFFS FILMS

A

new video focusing on high streets in Newcastle and Kidsgrove has been released online to help boost the local economy.

Businesses across the towns showcased innovative measures to en nsure the safety of staff and customers, while shop ppers shared how they were able to #ShopSafelyiinStaffs.

The project is part of a drive by Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub, workin ng in partnership with local authorities including Newcastle-u under-Lyme Borough Council, to support residen nts returning to their high streeets as the Governm ment lockdown eases.

The film is one of five featuring retailers and sho oppers from 11 towns including Newcastlee and Kid dsgrove, as well as Lichfield, Burntwood, Stone, Stafford, Eccleshall, Leek, Cheadle, Bid ddulph and Tamworth.

The Newcastle and Kidssgrove video can be seen n at https://bit.ly/2Oweefwg Nicola Kent, Growth Hub Manager,, said: “We are now in a transition period as lockdo own resttrictions ease.

“Businesses acrross Newcastle and Kidsgrove have taken steps to o ensure their staff and customers are safee and welcoming shoppers back, with a range of protective measures and protocols in place, as well as new w business models, such as click/call and co ollect.

“To boost confidence and sup pport the local

economy, we are now encouraging those businesses which have taken such steps to highlight what they have to offer and demonstrate how we can all #ShopSafelyInStaffs.

“Staffordshire is an amazing county and it’s really important that we support the businesses on our doorstep and keep it local.”

The Growth Hub acts as a focal point for businesses in the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership area, driving strong, sustainable business growth and offering co-ordinated programmes, networks and groups alongside signposting to specialist information, advice and services.

Nicola added: “We have a dedicated Covid-19 section on the Growth Hub website, which summarises the issues that businesses need to consider and provides up-to-date info ormation and advice to help companies plan theeir processes throughout the ea asing of lockdown and beyond.

“We also have a dedicateed team of Growth Hub Advisors, who can sup pport businesses during this time.”

The Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub offers a wealth of support and resourrces for businesses online at www.stokestaffsgrowthhub.co.uk as well as offering a newslettter and business helpline: 0300 111 8002 2.

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:07 Page 31

Large click n collect warehouse free parking & no crowds open 6 days www.HylandsElectrical.co.uk

Hylands are a local family firm established in 1938 Members of the European wide buying group Euronics our prices are keen & we will look to price match if not Renowned for great service Hylands have huge warehouse stocks right here in Fenton ample free parking for collection or speedy delivery Check out what a local firm can offer *NOTE: FREE delivery on most sales over ÂŁ199 within 25 miles For collection some items may be at our branches in Longton or Stone we will advise you once an order has been placed

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:08 Page 32

derek tamea

T

hese photos were sent in by Derek Tamea, a keen photographer for over 40 years. For some years, having Staffordshire as his home, Derek has produced an annual photographic

exhibition, always around a particular theme, including at least three at the ancient High House, all depicting people who live, work or are involved in Stafford and Staffordshire.

METAL SNOWDROPS ON THE CLAYTON ROAD ROUNDABOUT

TREES IN SUNSHINE

Do you have a photo to share with us of Newcastle?

Would you like to see your photo on the front cover?

Why not send in your photos and we will feature them in the magazine. Simply email laura@timesandecho.co.uk

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

SNAP HAPPY IN NEWCASTLE

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

Look Back at Lockdown Answers: 1. Joe Wicks; 2. Chris Whitty or Patrick Vallance; 3. Matt Hancock; 4.

Nightingale Hospital; 5. Thursday; 6. 80%; 7. World Health Organisation; 8. Save Lives; 9. Monday; 10. Windsor Castle; 11. ÂŁ45 (Came into effect on April 1); 12. Captain Tom Moore; 13. Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies; 14. Prince Charles; 15. You'll Never Walk Alone; 16. Marcus Rashford; 17. Iceland; 18. Barnard Castle; 19. Matt Hancock, Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab; 20. Priti Patel

quiz corner Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:08 Page 33

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:08 Page 34

motoring

KEEP COOL WITH THESE TOP SUMMER DRIVING TIPS

A

lthough your travel plans may have changed slightly in 2020, now is as good a time as any to ensure your vehicle is in good condition over the summer months – especially if you’re relying on your car to get you to your destination rather than a plane this year.

We’ve compiled a list of tips below to make sure your holiday is a breeze from the moment you leave your door.

Plan ahead Before you head out, it’s important to carry out the essential checks on your vehicle to prevent the risk of a breakdown while on your journey.

Although it’s not a legal requirement, checking the air conditioning system is working is definitely a good idea, especially if you are in the car with your family for hours at a time. All you need to do is to turn your fans on full and your temperature to the lowest setting and check for cold air. If this isn’t working, you may need to check the refrigerant and get your engine regassed.

Another top tip is to check all bulbs, including brake lights, headlights and indicators, as working lights are a legal requirement. Working windscreen wipers are also a legal requirement – it may be summer, but we wouldn’t recommend relying on the Great British weather, and even if we are blessed with sunny skies, a clean windscreen can help protect from unwanted glare.

Punctures are a common cause of breakdowns, and high temperatures increase the

risk of a blowout. This means motorists should also be sure to check tyre tread and pressure in advance. The law requires a tread depth of 1.6mm, and a simple way to check this is to take a 20 pence piece and place it in between the tyre.

If you experience any of these issues and you’re unsure how to resolve it yourself, make sure to book into your local garage before beginning your journey.

Stock up on the essentials • Although planning ahead can reduce the risk of a breakdown, nothing is guaranteed, so it’s important that you have the right gear on hand if things don’t go to plan.

• Make sure you have the below items in your vehicle so you’re prepared if any mishaps do occur: • A warning triangle, which should be placed 45 metres away from your car • A high-visibility vests so that oncoming traffic can see you in advance • A torch and spare batteries • A first-aid kit • Water, non-perishable food and medicine • A mobile phone charger • Sunglasses to protect against glare • A warm jacket just so you don’t get caught in the cold.

• The www.autoadvisor.co.uk website so that you can find a garage if in need.

Stay alert There will inevitably be more cars on the road as lockdown begins to ease and people opt to travel domestically. Make sure you plan your route to avoid peak travel times.

More children will also be out playing in residential areas, and commercial vehicles may experience blind spots when on the motorway, so it’s important to be extra vigilant at all times.

Remember, we’re uploading basic car maintenance tips to help you ensure your vehicle is ready to drive at any time. Check out our blog page for the latest videos and advice here.

For more information: https://www.autoadvisor.co.uk/summerdriving-tips/

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:10 Page 35

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

Newcastle Life Issue 26.qxp_Newcastle Life 17/07/2020 13:12 Page 36