insideIssue 54 December 2014 - January 2015

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Inside Poynton is produced by Inside Magazines Ltd. We cannot be held responsible for views expressed by contributors or any advert content, including errors or omissions, or endorse companies, products or services that appear in this magazine. We endeavour to ensure that all local information given in this magazine is accurate, but we cannot always guarantee this.

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Tel: 01625 879611email: info@insidemagazines.co.uk www.insidemagazines.co.ukCopy deadline for the next issue:

Monday 12 January

Co-Editors

Garth Aspinall

Claire Hawker

Most of us will be looking forward to Christmas, and so we should!

Yet our front cover picture invokes feelings of a different kind. In the years leading up to 2014, there seems to have been a growing appreciation of the sacrifice made by so many young people a hundred years ago and a growing realisation of just how fortunate we are today.

But life is fragile. As we watch the televised news, we see countries ravaged by war and disease. And if we really open our eyes, we will see hardship and sadness much closer to home.

Christmas and New Year is a good time to show our gratitude and to bring a little extra joy to those within our community. It’s a time to be generous, to create special memories, to re-assess our priorities, to be positive and to make new choices for the year ahead.

We wish you lots of happiness during the festive season. We hope you create lots of great memories. We hope you choose wisely and that your most important wishes come true during 2015.

Thank you for reading and supporting this magazine. A guide to selected events in East Cheshire during December & January

Inside Guide

Compiled by Claire Hawkere: claire@insidemagazines.co.uk

TUESDAY 2 DECEMBERPoynton Christmas Fest. Get the festive season off to a great start with the traditional evening on Park Lane which will be closed to traffic from 7pm to 9pm. THURSDAY 4 DECEMBER

Poynton Morning Townswomen’s Guild Coffee Morning. Everyone is welcome to drop in for a coffee and biscuit. £1 including coffee.Civic Hall, Poynton 10am – 12 noonTHURSDAY 4 DECEMBERChristmas Musical Fantasia arranged by Inner Wheel and Rotary, supporting Home-Start. Performers: The Macclesfield Male Voice Choir, Delia Corrie, Adrian Ramsden, Peter Blackthorn-Jones Tickets: £5 Details from Adrian Ramsden 01625 668767St. Michael`s Church, Macclesfield 7.30pm

FRIDAY 5 DECEMBERSimply Cinema presents FROZEN SING-A-LONG (U). For the first time in forever you’re invited to a special sing-a-long screening of FROZEN. Get ready to sing and ‘let it go’! Come dressed in your Royal Finery! Doors open 5.30pm for themed drinks and snacks, screening at 6pm. Tickets: Adults £7; Child £6. To book call in to Simply Books, phone 0161 439 1436 or email events@simplybooks.infoCentrepoint, Bramhall Methodist Church 5.30pm SATURDAY 6 DECEMBER

A Celebration of Dvorak & Christmas Music with Phoenix Opera Chorus and soloists. Tickets: adults £8 under 12s £4. Call 01565 733230 or email: phoenixartsgroup@yahoo.co.uk Trinity Methodist Church, Bramhall Lane, Davenport 7.30pmSATURDAY 6 DECEMBERNorthern Chamber Orchestra - King’s School Choir / Nicholas Ward, violin: Christmas ClassicsMacclesfield Heritage Centre 7.30pm

SATURDAY 6 DECEMBERPoynton Ceilidhs: All Blacked Up, caller Baz Parkes. Traditional dancing to live music, experience not necessary! Tickets £8 on the door, cash only, u16s £4. Advance tickets from www.poyntonceilidh.co.uk Doors open 7.45, bar till 11pmPoynton Community Centre, Park Lane 8pm to 11.30pm

SATURDAY 6 DECEMBERCarols and Brass by Candlelight. See In Touch for more details. St George’s Church, Stockport 7pmSATURDAY 6 DECEMBERThe Wilmslow Symphony Orchestra will perform a festive programme including Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite and Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, with free entry to accompanied children under 12. Tickets £12, Conc. £10, Under 18’s £2 www.wilmsloworchestra.co.ukWilmslow Leisure Centre 7.45pmSAT 6 & 7 DECEMBERScale Modelling Exhibition. Many static exhibits and demonstrations, full trade support, many scale societies and model club stands. Free parking, full disabled access, refreshments. Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sunday 10am - 4.30pm Adults £5.50 14-18yrs £3.50 Uniform ID UK Forces & Service Personnel £4. Family (2 adults + 3 U/18s) £15 www.themodelshow.co.ukPoynton Leisure Centre, Yew Tree Lane, PoyntonSAT 6 TO SAT 13 DECEMBER NOISES OFF by Michael Frayn. To book online: www.

stockportgarrick.co.uk Tickets £9.50 (£8 concession) Telephone orderline: 0161 477 7779. Tickets available in person from the Stockport Plaza box office. Tickets £9.50 (£8 concession) Garrick Theatre, Exchange Street, Wellington Road South, Stockport SUNDAY 7 DECEMBER

Holly Wreath Workshop. Join Cheshire East Rangers and have a go at making a holly wreath to decorate your front door this Christmas time! Booking and payment in advance is essential. Cost £20. Book online via Eventbrite. Information: 01625 265093 Tegg’s Nose Country Park Visitor Centre, MacclesfieldMON 8 TO SAT 13 DECEMBERPoynton Players present Gaslight (a classic Victorian

thriller) by Patrick HamiltonTicket Prices - Monday only £7.50. Tuesday to Saturday £8. Tickets can be booked online, full details www.poyntonplayers.co.uk or by phone (0333 666 3366 Mon-Fri 9am to 7pm. Sat 9am to 5pm) Poynton Theatre, George’s Road West, Poynton

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insidemagazines

Welcome to the latest issue of

Cover photo: Over by Christmas by Ann Aspinall.

Issue 54 - December 2014/January 2015

p o y n t o nContentsBest Front Cover 4

Local Buzz 7

The Book Group Recommends 11

it’s Behind You 12

Luis, Pride of Poynton 15

In Touch 19

Christmas Tree Collection 26

Open Hands 29

The Walk 32

Kate’s Dad’s Column 34

Crossword 37

Just 4 Kids 41

Children’s Activities 42

NCO Christmas Classics 45

Social Media 49

Sudoku 51

inside Guide 55

Puzzle Solutions 58

Useful Numbers 61

Classified Index 62

We are delighted to tell you that Inside Magazines received a much coveted award at a recent conference of Independent Magazine Publishers.

About 100 different businesses attended the conference which was held in early October and welcomed delegates from as far afield as Australia. Short-listed in two categories, Best Editorial and Best Front Cover, we were voted Highly Commended Winner for Best Front Cover 2014. Whoopee!

The judging panel commented:

‘We love the mix of imagery and typography on this cover. A very strong simple font and design over a full bleed image is a winner. The colours change to complement the images nicely. Good use of local photography. Looks more like a magazine that could sit on a magazine stand than any of the others and would be easy to identify amongst others. This front cover has excellent local pictures that again will motivate the reader to open as well as keep the magazine’.

As this was our first ever entry in the competition, you can imagine how pleased we are. And to be one of the eight short-listed candidates for Best Editorial also gave us a great deal of pleasure. To be highly ranked in these two important areas was fantastic.

Our Philosophy

Our cover has always been graced by a full page photo. Living in a lovely part of the country, we made a conscious decision in 2006 to reflect this beauty as often as possible. It is arguably the hallmark of our magazine.

The Challenge

Over nine years we have had to source some 250 quality images and the task is rarely straightforward. Adverse English weather is probably enemy number one. We often hope to depict a seasonal landscape, but unfortunately, we have to go to press before the actual season has arrived! There are two significant design constraints – firstly, the need for a portrait orientation (as dictated by the A5 format) and secondly, placement of the text which must not obscure an important part of the image. Sometimes, images that seem wonderful in the shooting, turn out to be useless, given the above constraints.

Can you rise to the challenge?

We love to receive contributions from readers, but sadly we do receive lovely pictures, only to find that they cannot be used for the reasons given above. If you have taken pictures that you feel would be of interest, do send them to us. If you have taken a large size picture at a high resolution, there is always the chance that we can crop the picture to size.

Just imagine – if you’re lucky and we’re lucky, we could both be winners next year.

Inside Magazines Wins ‘Best Front Cover’ AWArd

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A ChrisTMAs FesT AMonG The BesT!

Now in its 8th year, Poynton’s annual Christmas Fest, which takes place on Tuesday 2 December, has become a firm fixture in the village’s social diary, and this year’s event promises to be even bigger than the last. It will be officially opened at 7pm by Poynton’s GBBO Finalist, Luis Troyano.

Poynton’s restaurants and cafes will be tempting revellers with their Christmas fare, and more shops than ever will have late night opening. There will be carol singing, and street entertainment by professional musicians, Poynton High School students, choirs and other performers, and an ice sculpture, which proved very popular last year. A number of local voluntary organisations will also have stalls. The fireworks display, midway through the celebration, is always a stunning highlight, and will feature again at this year’s Fest for all the family to enjoy.

Poynton’s churches will be on hand to provide entertainment, sell festive goods and celebrate Christmas with music and community singing. Poynton Round Table will be bringing Santa’s sleigh, so Father Christmas will be in attendance throughout. So come along in your hundreds and get with the festive spirit!

CusToMer exCellenCe shorTlisT

Poynton In Business and Poynton Town Council are delighted to announce the shortlisted businesses for the 2014 Poynton Awards for Customer Excellence. The awards, which are co-sponsored by the Town Council and INSIDE Poynton magazine, have generated more nominations than ever before and over 30 Poynton businesses were nominated. This in itself shows the fantastic levels of interest and customer service being demonstrated right across the village.

The winners will be announced at the Poynton In Business Annual Dinner to be held at the Davenport Golf Club on 4 December. The shortlisted finalists, selected by an independent panel, and in alphabetical order, are:

Retail/Eateries

■ The Curiosity Shop, Park Lane.

■ The Farmers Arms, Park Lane.

■ Tom Yam Thai Restaurant, Fountain Place.

Service Providers

■ Able Living Care Services, Park Lane.

■ Manners Pimblett Solicitors, Fountain Place.

■ Serisabelle Holistic & Beauty Therapy, Park Lane.

Business-to-Business

■ Arrow Business Systems.

■ Primary Websites.

■ Typo-Graphics.

Business – Other

■ Anson Engine Museum.

■ Canalside Bed & Breakfast.

■ Cantata Music Education

As well as these sector awards there are also awards for the overall Business of the Year and the Poynton Employee of the Year.

Local Buzz

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Local BuzzoVer BY ChrisTMAs

If you were at the Community Centre on 12 September, or Poynton Station on 28 September, you would have found yourself stepping back to 1914 and the outbreak of the First World War.

Over By Christmas was a poignant and moving reminder in words and song of the horrors of those early days of the war when everyone thought, before the grim reality kicked in, that it really would all be over by Christmas. Presented by Theatre in the Quarter from Chester, with the chorus of townspeople supplied by Cantata Choirs, the 25-minute piece took the audience from the gung-ho attitude of the early days to the sudden and awful realisation that this costly conflict would continue for a very long time. The Poynton men who lost their lives were remembered in a roll of honour, along with the community’s part in supporting the war effort, including Barlow Fold’s time as an auxiliary hospital.

The crowds on 28 September were so extensive that an additional performance was inserted to allow everyone to participate as fully as possible before the cast departed by train to perform at Macclesfield. In all, the commemoration was performed 43 times to around 20,000 people at (or close to) 23 railway stations across Cheshire & Manchester.

Glyn Derbyshire waved the Poynton contingent off at the station for the mid-Cheshire part of the tour, and then joined the group later the same day wearing his full battle dress. Glyn’s beautifully kept station formed a perfect backdrop for the send-off.

PoYnTon sPrinGBoArd – A MusiCAl exTrAVAGAnZA!

If you were around Poynton at the end of September, you couldn’t fail to notice the musical buzz in the village. There were brass & concert bands playing at the Sidney Jackson Ford Stage

near Mates, Jemmers dancing, the Samba drum band beating out their distinctive rhythms, and eight dedicated Springboard volunteers whizzing up and down Park Lane in their hi-viz jackets!

We are blessed with a vast array of musical talent, amateur and professional, and Springboard proved to be a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together over one weekend to give the people of Poynton a musical feast. Virtually everyone (that’s almost 600 performers at 16 venues) was from Poynton or belonged to Poynton-based groups - and there aren’t many small towns in Britain which could boast that!

The Springboard team is indebted to the many sponsors of the event and all the helpers. We are grateful for all the feedback we’ve received following this ‘testing of the waters’. While this was nearly all enthusiastic and positive there were one or two teething problems, as there always are at inaugural events, but the issues have been noted and if/when Springboard happens again, it will be even better…

Last but by no means least, Springboard raised a magnificent sum for Springboard’s and our Town Mayor’s charity, the National Eczema Society. Thank you to the people of Poynton for your loyal support – you never fail!

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The Book Group RecommendsWe were well aware of the story-telling ability of JK Rowling from her Harry Potter series and wondered whether she could transfer this to Cuckoo’s Calling published under her pseudonym Robert Galbraith. This is a classic detective story taking its time as its protagonist systematically investigates the supposed suicide of Lula – a supermodel. Cormoran Strike, the one-legged illegitimate son of a rock star, military policeman turned private eye, is not doing well in his new career. The Afghanistan veteran has finally broken up with his long-term on-off lover and is sleeping on a camp bed in the back of the office. He conceals these facts from Robin, his new temp, who has recently become engaged and is fascinated by the work. Hired by Lula’s brother who does not believe his sister took her own life, Strike investigates the world of the celebrity – that of rappers and actors, designers and lawyers, paparazzi and phone tappers. The plot is tightly woven with tantalising references to the file of death threats he has received.

When first published sales were slow and it was only the revelation of its more famous author that made it a best seller – testament to how difficult it is for a new author to break through. But we feel this is a good story in its own right, not just of an investigation, but also of friendship and the development of a relationship. The characters are very well drawn and we can envisage their continuation in further novels. We will definitely

read the next one – even those of us who are not generally aficionados of the genre. This has to be a recommendation.

The Bible tells us little about the life of Jesus Christ’s mother. In The Testament of Mary – a novella of just over 100 pages, Colm Toibin fills in the gaps.

After the crucifixion, when all those about him came under suspicion, Mary was spirited away by “the Beloved Disciple” whom we may assume is John – the author of the fourth gospel. Mary is living alone in a small house in Ephesus. Now, some years later he has returned with another man to question her, presumably to help in the writing of his account. What they want is someone pliable and on-side. Instead she tells her story in a voice that is both tender and filled with rage. She reveals the estrangement she feels as her son sheds his boyhood identity and becomes frightening and distant. The ambivalence bordering on dislike she feels for his followers describing them as misfits “ fools twitchers, malcontents”

Toibin takes the familiar stories from the Bible making them subtly disturbing – the wedding feast at Cana, the raising of Lazarus. He doesn’t challenge Jesus’s miracles but does present them as disquieting as much as glorious. As post –Enlightenment readers we can think about comas and the danger of premature burial in a culture where people are buried on the same day they die. Toibin elegantly allows the space both for doubt and for belief.

Toibin is a wonderful writer - rendering a shadowy historical figure fully human. This story stays with you long after you have finished reading. We cannot recommend it highly enough.

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If you’re at the Panto this Christmas, and you want to find someone to blame for Widow Twankey, badly re-written pop songs, and a theatre crammed with, hysterical children joyously yelling their heads off, blame the Greeks – because they invented Panto. The very word ‘pantomime’ comes from the Greek word which means ‘imitator of all’, and the ancients would entertain with stories performed by multi-talented actors, who would tell tales well larded with comedy, tragedy and sex. When the English got hold of Pantomime in the Middle Ages, we turned it into a piece of knockabout festive theatre, known as a Mummers Play, in which local people would perform a well-worn tale (often about death and resurrection), with much audience participation and friendly heckling. Even today, Alderley Edge has its own unique Mummers Play, containing stock characters such as a Moor, St George, a Doctor of Physick, and a strange, whirling equine creature (played by an actor) which has more than a whiff of the Pantomime Horse about it.

An Italian makeover

In the 17th century, Pantomime was given a grandiose makeover by the Italians, by which

time Pantomime-like performances were often known throughout Europe as ‘Masques’, and their definition conformed to today’s core Panto values of entertainment, laughter, audience involvement – and plenty of good sing-along tunes. Italian Panto was influenced by commedia dell’arte, a form of theatre in which professional artists travelled from town to town telling improvised comic stories, all of which had fixed clown characters, young lovers, Arlecchino and Colombina, the father of Colombina (Pantalone), and Pantalone’s servants, Pulcinella and Pierrot, one being crafty and the other being stupid.

An English takeover

These characters made their way into equivalent English entertainments, from which our own English Harlequinade developed, depicting the eloping lovers Harlequin and Columbine, pursued by the girl’s father, Pantaloon, and his comic servants Clown and Pierrot. By the 18th century, Harlequin was the central figure and romantic lead – and the basic plot of the harlequinade remained essentially the same for more than 150 years. Eventually, Pantomime’s stories embraced European fairy tales, classic English literature and nursery rhymes, and the Pantomime as we know it today began to take shape. At Christmas

by John Wallace

It’s Behind you!

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performances, children would attend so as to witness the comedy and silliness of the highlight of the show, the harlequinade chase scene; it was fast-paced, and often contained spectacular magic, slapstick comedy, dancing and acrobatics.

The familiar modern Panto

These days, Pantomime story-lines and scripts usually make no direct reference to Christmas, and are almost always based on traditional children’s stories, such as Cinderella, Aladdin, Dick Whittington and Jack and the Beanstalk. The leading male (the ‘Principal Boy’) is often played by a young woman in tight-fitting male garments that make her female charms even more evident, plus other stock characters include the pantomime dame, usually played by a man in drag, plus there is almost always a pantomime horse, a good fairy – and plenty of spectacle provided by an all-star cast. Depending on how big and opulent the production is, you might be lucky enough to see genuine acting talent on stage (the Shakespearian actor Ian McKellen was Widow Twankey in a memorable 2004 production of Aladdin), though provincial Pantos are more likely to be a rather dubious parade of minor soap stars, semi-forgotten comedians, reality show celebrities – and jobbing actors desperate for any paying gig that will see them through the Christmas period.

Nevertheless, Pantomime is a thoroughly British tradition, it’s harmless, hearty and adored by children of all ages; and it shows every sign of going on (and on, and on) for the forseeable future - oh yes it is! (your turn…)

Local resident Luis Troyano put Poynton well and truly on the map when he reached the final of BBC1s Great British Bake Off (GBBO) and modelled his final showstopper on one of the gateways to our lovely village. I caught up with Luis, back in his day job at Forever Creative in Cheadle where he filled me in on the background to his whole Bake Off experience.

What made you apply in the first place?

I applied just because I fancied doing something different. I had thought about applying the year before but I downloaded the form and it’s massive! I decided I wouldn’t stand a chance at that point because they look for experience in every discipline of baking so I parked the idea for a year. By next time, with another year of baking behind me, a friend persuaded me to have a go. The Bake Off doesn’t just want cake makers but people who do the broader spectrum of baking and some of those other areas, such as bread, are more my thing.

Is there a secret being selected?

I don’t think there is one, other than having a breadth of knowledge. They aren’t looking for ‘characters’ in the way shows like Britain’s Got Talent and The Apprentice are. But you do need to demonstrate you can you bake in front of cameras, with unfamiliar equipment and in an alien environment. The tent looks quite serene when you watch on TV but it’s absolute chaos

with cameramen, interviewers, everyone has cameras on them all the time, it’s bedlam. It’s funny really!

What was the hardest thing about the experience?

The toughest thing is the transition from baking at home to baking in the tent. Also, I think people assume you’ve practised things about 30 times but it’s not like that at all. The schedule is really tough. Everyone who’s selected has to do the signature bakes and showstoppers for weeks 1 to 9, no matter how far you get – that’s done and developed before you even get there. There wouldn’t be time to recipe develop in that schedule. I think it was Frances from last year who said the further you get the tougher it is, it becomes like an endurance test because you’re so tired. It’s really gruelling as the weeks go on. The technical challenge in the final was by far the toughest thing for me. My heart sank when they announced it!

And you got to the final!

I never expected to get further than week 5. My wife was keen for me to get to the week where I did The Cage. Once I was past that I just kept going – and suddenly I was at the Final. It was surreal to get to the final but my money was always on Nancy to win – she was consistently

by Claire Hawkere: claire@insidemagazines.co.uk

Luis, pride of poynton

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great and after each day when we sampled each others baking I was drawn to hers every time! Another great thing was how well all the contestants got on with each other, which I wasn’t expecting at all. The true competition is against the judges, not against the other bakers.

How did you come up with the Poynton idea?

When you get to the final you’ve only got just over a week to develop your signature and showstopper. When we were told what they were I hadn’t heard of either - I had to Google them! I knew I wanted to do something about where I live (I wanted one last push for the North!) and sitting in traffic on my way home from work I saw the ‘gateway’ and thought ‘I’ll make that.’ There was no more pre- thought than that and I literally had about four days before I was going filming.

Even on the day I was adjusting the design! The arch at the top was just a strip of pastry when I tried it at home. On the day I decided to do something fancier and as I had a load of choux paste prepared I came up with the idea of profiteroles stuck together with sugar. And that’s the thing they showed most on the final!

It was great to pay homage to Poynton! I was always a supporter of the village revitalisation – I know it was a pain living through all those roadworks but Poynton is a much better place for it. The whole area has benefitted so much from that year or so of pain!

Do you get recognised now?

All the time! I didn’t apply because I wanted to be on TV – I applied because I wanted to bake in that tent. The reality hits you after – there was a six week gap after we’d finished filming and you go back to your normal life and then you start to see the adverts for it and you think oh that’s me! It’s so strange now – everywhere I go I get stared at. Nobody expected the Bake Off to be as huge as it was – nobody expected 14 million people to tune into the final. People come and talk to me all the time. It makes me feel good that I’ve made other people feel good about where they live.

What’s the future?

If you want a career change there’s easier ways to do it than applying for the Bake Off! For me it broke the routine a bit – it’s given me the opportunity to do interesting things as well as my day job. I’m having fun now with the spin-offs so it’s ticked the boxes for me. I’ve got loads of bookings for food shows and the like, I’ve done some writing, I’m doing some teaching at a school called Seasoned next year. It’s opened up lots of avenues – I’m on one of the demo stages at the Good Food Show in London in a couple of weeks time and that’s surreal to me – I’m usually the guy sitting in the audience watching! That’s beyond my wildest dreams..

…Paul & Mary?

Paul is the loveliest guy you could ever meet and he’s got this kind of villain persona – he’s not like that at all! He always has time for you. Mary Berry is Mary Berry – everything you think she is, she is in real life, there’s no hidden agenda there. And I really like the way they kept everything completely impartial. How you see it on TV is exactly how it is – they talk to you, judge you and that’s that – there was never any favouritism, hats off to them for that.

As far as an experience goes, I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone – fill the form out, because you never know!

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A BusY FirsT seAson For MArY sunleY 2

Community boat Mary Sunley 2, built to replace the 32 year old original Mary Sunley, went into full service from her mooring at Higher Poynton in March of this year. During the months from March to October, due to the hard work of volunteers, she has completed over 100 canal trips, and carried approximately 1000 passengers, predominantly from local care homes, sheltered accommodation and live at home residents.

This local friendly charity, as well as providing a service for those in the community who may be disabled, elderly or using wheelchairs has provided 14 trips for various birthday celebrations, for wedding anniversaries and for local church groups.

A campaign to recruit more volunteers to crew the boat proved very successful, and there are now 50 names on the Trust’s crew list. Three volunteers have recently been awarded the Certificate of Community Boat Management and

are now active skippers, raising the total number of skippers to 10. Volunteers are also very active on the social side, raising funds and awareness in local communities.

CArols And BrAss BY CAndleliGhT

St George’s Singers and Bradshaw Hall Primary School Choir are delighted to be sharing the stage for a third Christmas together at St George’s Church, Buxton Road, Stockport on 6 December. Carols and Brass by Candlelight is a now a firm favourite with its mix of Christmas carols and songs traditional and modern from the choirs (and audience!) and the warm rich sound of the award winning Vernon Building Society (Poynton) Brass Band. There’s no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than an evening of seasonal music amid twinkling candles, glittering Christmas trees and the aroma of mulled wine. Together with mountains of mince pies it will be a treat for the senses and the family friendly start time of 7pm should mean that children, parents and grandparents can all enjoy it together.

Tickets can be obtained by phone, email or via the website from the Ticket secretary who can also arrange group discounts. Phone 01633 764012, email tickets@st-georges-singers.org.uk,

website www.st-georges-singers.org.uk

AnnuAl sinGinG dAY

If you would like to experience singing with St George’s Singers, their annual Singing Day at St George’s Poynton on 17 January 1 2015 features Mozart Coronation Mass and Haydn Te Deum. All are welcome to come and join a massed choir of around 200 to learn and then perform with superb soloists under the baton of the choir’s brilliant conductor Neil Taylor. As usual delicious refreshments (home-made soups, sandwiches and cakes) will be available in the church hall throughout the day. The last three Singing Days have been a sell out so please book early to secure your place.

Contact Gillian Banks on 01925 213949 or email gillian.m.banks@gmail.com.

In Touchyour Community noticeboard

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In touChheAlThY PoYnTon

A Health Forum, recently held in the Civic Hall, was attended by several hundred people. The event, organised by patients and staff of Priorslegh and McIlvride medical practices and the Local Authority offered advice and support on health and fitness issues.

Over 25 organisations were represented, including Open Hands, Action on Hearing Loss, St Paul’s Baby and Toddler Group, MacMillan Nurses, Age UK, Arthritis Research and Poynton Midwives. Advice was also available on reflexology, parent support, Nordic walking, chiropody, physiotherapy, visual impairment and hypnopsychotherapy.

The Mayor of Poynton, Ms Rebecca Horsman spent the morning at the event and was impressed by what she saw and heard: “This year’s Health Forum clearly built on the success of last year’s inaugural event,” she said. “There was a real buzz about the place as many of our residents received expert advice on many diverse areas relating to their health and wellbeing. The organisers and professional representatives are to be congratulated on a job well done, that I am sure has been of real benefit to our community.”

PoYnTon CoMMuniTY TrAnsPorT

Earlier this year Poynton Town Council were given two used minibuses by Cheshire East Council that were surplus to their requirements. The ten and eight-seater vehicles also came with a three year funding package, generously provided by Cheshire East, to enable the Town Council to

operate a not for profit community transport scheme.

Cheshire East and Town Councillor Jos Saunders is very keen to get these minibuses out on the road, and well used by the community. Commenting on the scheme she said “We put forward a strong business case to get these vehicles, and now that we have them, with funding, we need to make sure that our various community groups and organisations take full advantage of them”.

The two minibuses are available for daily, weekend or weekly hire at competitive rates. Membership of the scheme is required for a modest annual fee, and for more information on availability, terms and conditions and hire rates you are invited to call John Laverick, the Town Council’s Community Transport Administrator, on T. 01625 872238, M. 07906 857318 or e-mail commtrans@poyntontowncouncil.gov.uk.

The Town Council would also like to attract volunteer drivers, who need to be between the ages of 25 to 70, in good health and with a clean licence. If anyone is interested please contact John.

reAdinG For PleAsure

A Reading for Pleasure class has been meeting in Poynton for over 20 years. It began as a class where members could read and discuss the Classic books they had always meant to read, but never got round to. Twenty-odd years on the group is still going strong, but meets now in the home of one of its members. We read and study a wide range of texts both Classic and modern.

Much more than a Reading Group, we spend five sessions looking in depth at elements such as character, theme, language, symbolism and historical significance. Discussion and investigative activities take place both in whole class and smaller groups. Apart from reading the text, there is no homework, revision, research or study required. There are no tests. Classes are led by a CTLLS qualified teacher who also has a BA and an MA in English Literature.

MP David Rutley, Mayor Ms Rebecca Horsman and Councillor Jos Saunders

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In touChThere are currently a couple of spaces available for new learners beginning after Christmas. Classes cost £5 per session, plus learners are expected to provide their own copy of the text, although of course this can be borrowed from the library. The group meets on Mondays at 2pm.

For more information, or to enrol, please call 879823.

BrAin inJurY surViVor oPens ChAriTY shoP

A retired university lecturer from Poynton, who fought to rebuild his life after sustaining not one but two near-fatal brain injuries, has officially opened a new charity shop on Park Lane.

Michael Harnor, 70, was given the honour of cutting the ribbon at the launch of the new Park Lane shop, run by Headway - the brain injury association. Joining Michael at the opening ceremony was the Mayor of Poynton, Councillor Rebecca Horsman, who came along to show her support for the charity, which is dedicated to improving life after brain injury.

In 1980, Michael suffered a brain haemorrhage that left him with a severe brain injury. He spent more than a month in hospital and, even when he was finally well enough to return to his job as a lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University, he struggled with basic tasks he once took for granted, such as reading and writing. It was only after a second incident, when Michael sustained further damage to his brain, that he discovered Headway, which supports individuals and their families who have been affected by brain injury.

Carol Tennet, Head of Retail at Headway, said: “We are very grateful to everyone who has made it possible for us to open this new shop. We rely heavily upon the support of the public to make our shops a success. So, if you want to clear out your clutter or perhaps donate some of your time to volunteering in the shop, you would be more than welcome. In doing so, you’ll be helping us continue to improve life after brain injury.”

Visit the shop or call Carol Tennet on 07917 713971 for further information.

FATher ChrisTMAs CoMes To PoYnTon

Poynton Round Table will be bringing Santa back to Poynton and touring him around the streets so he can meet all the children of Poynton. He begins his tour on Monday 1 December and will be out every evening (except Saturday - his day of rest) until Thursday 18 December.

Full details can be found on www.poyntonroundtable.co.uk/santa

Merry Christmas from Santa and all at Poynton Round Table

The Model shoW

A Scale Modelling Exhibition will be held on 6 & 7 December at Poynton Leisure Centre. Working model railways in 2mm to O gauges. Many static exhibits and demonstrations, full trade support, many scale societies and model club stands There will be free parking, full disabled access and refreshments available. Times and ticket prices as follows:

Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sunday 10am - 4.30pm. Adults £5.50 14-18yrs £3.50

Uniform ID UK Forces & Service Personnel £4 Family (2 adults + 3 U18s) £15

Adult accompanied under 14’s free (maximum 2 per adult)

£3 after 3pm (per person Sat & Sun & U14’s remain free)

See UK model press or visit web page at www.themodelshow.co.uk

21

In touChTAkinG The PurPle

Chris Joe Beard, well-known around these parts for his creative talents in music and art, is still pushing the boundaries at the age of 69, in more ways than one.

On one front, he has recently gone to press with Taking the Purple - an autobiographical account of his old band The Purple Gang. This band rose to fame (well, almost) in Swinging London, during the early hippy era and 1967 Summer of Love. It is a colourful and humorous book that captures the ethos of those times and includes many a tale of back-stage dressing room antics.

It tells of young men living in a van in and around Chelsea – men who met and played with legends. It also tells about their infamous record ‘Granny Takes A Trip’ which got them banned by the BBC and caused all sorts of damage to their prospects. (Nevertheless, the record was described by John Peel in 1968 as ‘one of the all-time great records’ and even today, this record is out on at least 12 compilations). The book describes how, in 2004 the band was re-formed

and included former Poynton Mayor, Gabor Bartos on drums. A visit to Hungary knocked Britney Spears off the Radio Erd/Budapest No.1 spot! Chapters of the book include photos of Poynton and talk about the legendary Poynton Folk Centre. For Kindle fans, it is available on Amazon.

Chris has just signed a music publishing contract with Carthage Music in London and the legendary USA folk rock music record producer, writer and TV music pundit Joe Boyd. Joe was an early front man for The Purple Gang and producer of that infamous record!

Chris is now running a music club at Poynton Legion called Music Nights (last Friday of the month). If you receive your magazine in time pop along to Poynton Legion on Friday, 28 November and experience ‘Legends of The Edge’. This is a folk rock/gothic affair that tells of the stories, lives, loves and myths of old Radnor, as the Edge of Alderley was once known. On the night, Chris will be taking orders for his new Legends of The Edge CD and any book orders.

Want to help a family member onto the property ladder?

”

Vernon Building Society’s Family Assist mortgage allows a family member to use their savings to help a relative buy a home without giving away their funds for good.

Research carried out by the Council of Mortgage Lenders has shown that around 64% of first time buyers have assistance from family members when buying their first home, with the average deposit for a buyer in the North West being over £16,000.

Such support often comes in the form of a gifted deposit however this can be problematic as the helper can’t rely on their money being returned should they need it in future.

Recognising this, local lender Vernon Building Society has developed their Family Assist mortgage which allows a first time buyer to borrow up to 100% of a property’s purchase price, provided that a relative is able to deposit savings with the Society equivalent to 20% of the purchase price for a minimum of 4 years.

The savings are kept in an account in the helper’s name separate to the mortgage and are returned to the relative after 4 years provided that all mortgage payments have been maintained satisfactorily. Instead of earning interest, the

savings are offset against the mortgage balance which means that they proportionally reduce the amount of interest charged to the borrower. This results in a more rapid reduction in the balanced owed creating valuable equity for the borrower.

The Vernon’s Head of Sales and Marketing, Ian Keeling, said: “By linking a relative’s savings to the mortgage we are able to offer a lower interest rate than typical first time buyer mortgages, and therefore lower mortgage payments, which would only usually be accessible to those with a large deposit. It differs from a traditional ‘guarantor’ mortgage as the helping relative is putting a maximum of 20% of the property value at risk rather than being responsible for the entire loan if the borrower is unable to keep up with their payments.”

The Family Assist Mortgage is exclusively available to homebuyers within a 25 mile radius of Stockport. With qualified mortgage advisers at each of its local branches in Stockport, Edgeley, Hazel Grove, Marple, Bramhall, Poynton and Reddish, Vernon Building Society offers a friendly and personal approach to those looking to purchase a property.

For more information about the Family Assist Mortgage or to find your nearest branch visit www.thevernon.co.uk or contact the Vernon on 0161 429 6262.

“

25

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The East Cheshire Hospice Christmas Tree Collection started as a small collection locally in Prestbury and Macclesfield. Now 15 years on from those solid beginnings, it has spread to include all areas of East Cheshire including Macclesfield, Wilmslow, Bollington, Poynton and Prestbury. In fact anywhere in the postcode areas of CW12, SK9-12 and WA16.

It is a simple idea. A household books in for a collection of their tree which is taken away for recycling. In return they make a donation (suggested minimum of £4/tree) to our local East Cheshire Hospice. On the first weekend after Twelfth Night a fleet of vans and volunteers sally forth to collect the trees. They bring them back to a central depot where an industrial sized

mulching operation reduces the trees into pulp ready for composting.

After 15 years of Collections over 42,000 trees have been collected and our Hospice has received a net sum in excess of £480,000. From a database of over 250 volunteers, the Collection uses over 120 men, women and teenagers on each day to achieve this.

Registrations can be made at www.echtrees.org.uk up until 5pm on Thursday 8 January 2015. As every pound on the trees goes to the work of the Hospice with no deductions for the costs of running this operation, we do ask everyone to be as generous as they can!

The Christmas Tree Collection is run by volunteers in aid of:

the eAst Cheshire hospiCe ChristmAs tree ColleCtion

Open HandsA Journey 1986-2014 It has been over 28 years since I took on the role of Administrator at Open Hands and I would like to give you a very brief outline of our journey. The changes that have evolved since we began in 1981, as a good neighbour schem,e have made quite a difference to the part we play in the life of the community. In those days our requests were mainly for shopping, odd jobs, gardening, visiting and just a few journeys to hospital. We also had a carers group; a support group for depression; a bi-monthly caring agencies lunch; we started You &Yours Counselling Service before it became independent and we worked closely with the High School to organise volunteers for gardening. All this was done without funding and our few drivers relied on donations from passengers.

We also ran our coffee shop /drop in centre which was very busy and much appreciated by those who needed company and someone to chat to. This was the original aim of Open Hands and a response to the need for a listening ear, sparked by a sad article in our local paper. In those days we also needed the income from this to run the office and could not have survived without this support. Unfortunately over the years our customer numbers have decreased considerably but we still offer coffee on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. Changes in Community Care meant that we had to consider new challenges and increasing workload. We finally received funding from Joint Finance (NHS and Social Services) in 1991 and became a registered charity. This gave us more opportunities for future growth and recognition. We had by this time developed our transport service for which requests are steadily increasing.

This brings us to the present day and we are still here. Open Hands continues to flourish and grow. All this is due to the volunteers, who

generously give their time to deliver a very much needed and valued service. Our drivers receive high praise for their care and attention to our clients and many close relationships are formed. The drivers find the work very rewarding and in doing this they are also giving something back to the community. Needless to say we are always happy to welcome new volunteers; both drivers and to help in the office. Our office ladies answer the phone to requests for transport and then finds a driver. At least two or three days notice is required. We also have a new website www.open-hands.org.uk which gives you all the information you need.

So finally, after 28 years and much soul searching, I have decided to hand over the reins and take on the role of a volunteer once more. It has been a privilege working in this environment with so many selfless and lovely people for so long. I would find it impossible not to be involved in some way, so I’m not saying goodbye but leaving my role in the capable hands of my successor, Adelle Johnson. She had been working alongside me for three months and took over in October. Like me, she is also a Poynton girl, which is a real help - knowing people and places. I am sure she will find the work as rewarding as I have and I wish her good luck and a happy and successful future with Open Hands.

by Eileen Lambert 29

Route: A6 from Hazel Grove towards Buxton; left on A623 towards Chesterfield; 2 miles past the turn for Tideswell, turn right on to the B6465 through Wardlow for Monsal Head. Turn right in front of the hotel and right down a steep hill. In half a mile park on the left in a lay by parking area beyond some cottages.

Walk: 7 miles with two short but fairly steep hills and one steep descent. Use White Peak OS Map 24.

Walk back from the lay by and turn right between the cottages. Go up the hill and join the Monsal Trail. Before the viaduct a path takes you left and then right under the viaduct. This famous viaduct, first criticised by John Ruskin for “ruining the valley”, now carries the newly restored Monsal Trail instead of the old steam railway between Bakewell and Buxton. Opened within the last few years, it is popular with both walkers and cyclists, taking you through a series of tunnels, and past open views of our walk and beyond.

Passing under the viaduct, the path goes through

a gate out on to the grassy path along Monsal Dale. You follow the long river path until you eventually reach the A6. High up on the left of the Dale is the site of Fin Cop, the only known Iron Age fort on the limestone in Derbyshire with a natural defence above the Wye. Going up steps and across this busy A6 road into White Lodge Car Park, you will find benches, picnic tables and toilets.

From the car park, opposite the picnic bench, you take the pathway up through the trees and out into open fields. At a finger post for Taddington, turn right and slowly climb along a twisting path through limestone outcrops. This soon levels out, crosses one stone stile and then takes you gradually up through a wooded dry valley. Look out for the next wooden stile as the path turns sharp left and then leads you up right along a stony path towards Taddington Field Farm. Go through the small gate by the farm, reaching a small road. At the T junction turn right towards Taddington Village, a quiet spot above the A6 by-pass. As you enter the village, take the road to the right and right again down to the A6.

the Walk - Monsal Dale and Miller’s Dale

by Barry WilsonMarple District Rambling Club 32

Cross carefully over this fast section and go straight ahead for the farm gate. This track goes up for a short while before opening out into a level field. Follow the track round to the left and then turn right at the first wall. Keeping this crumbly wall on your left enter a narrow path down to the steep sided High Dale. At the bottom, turn left and follow the clear path through this secluded and perfectly V shaped dry dale. Keep the stone wall to your right and go along this path to the far end of this wall. Turn sharp right past the wall and climb up the grassy path leading to a gateway on to a wide farm track at the top of this hill. (183723)

Going left along the track for about 75 yards, you then climb over the stone stile on the right and on to a level field. The path keeps to the left of the wall reaching a wooden stile in the corner. Climb over and then turn right past former lead raking hollows. If it is windy, these can provide a sheltered picnic stop or, for even better views, go beyond the hollows and as you begin to go

downhill, a series of rock outcrops on the slope give a great view point over Miller’s Dale.

Below you can see the hillside chimney which took the smoke away from Litton Mill’s steam engines, keeping the deep valley site smoke free. The limestone outcrops punctuate the landscape

to the east, and the church of Tideswell, “the Cathedral village of the Peak District”, is visible over to the north-west.

Go over the stile beneath this spot and head steeply downhill to a bridge over the Monsal Trail or former rail track. Go down the steps before the bridge and then diagonally across the trail to the right, where the path drops down over the river into Litton Mill. Turn right and pass though the road by the converted Mill until you join the river path. This secluded section along the river is delightful and eventually opens out along a potentially muddy, and occasionally flooded section where you can observe a variety of water birds. Look out for trout in the river as you approach the amazing Water-cum -Jolly Dale with its remarkable limestone cliffs, a favourite rock climbing spot. The dammed mill pond beneath the crags, viewed from the footbridge over the weir, affords stunning reflections of this spot. It is where Julia Bradbury, on her Railway Trails series, interviewed her father for the BBC programme.

Leaving this spot over the footbridge by the weir, climb up the path and out on to a narrow pathway towards the Monsal Trail. The views of Cresswell Mill and the Wye Valley are stunning. Turn left along the Trail and follow it as far as the old station platform. At the end of the station platform turn right and walk down under the bridge, arriving back at the starting point. Drive back up to the Hotel and enjoy the special views over the viaduct and Monsal Dale or the bar and restaurant in the stables, or have an ice cream or afternoon tea nearby. Enjoy the walk!

The walk was contributed by the Marple District Rambling Club. They organise over 30 walks of all levels and distances every month, going out on Thursdays and Sundays. To see copies of their progamme, visit www.marple-uk.com/rambling

To join the Club, please contact either Barry Wilson, 0161 439 1225, or Deirdre Nolan, 0161 427 7794.

33

Hi, here I am with another update on parenthood and the adventures of Kate.

Latest news is that she has enrolled at Complutense University of Madrid to study Political Science – in Spanish of course because, as regular readers will know, Kate doesn’t do things by halves.

She’s sharing a flat with a French girl in the centre of the city with views overlooking Plaza Major, one of the main tourist attractions in the bustling city that is Madrid. From a parent’s point of view, I can think of worse places to visit and I have seen much worse accommodation than the one Kate’s sharing.

And talking of visiting Madrid, I would just like to give a thumbs up to Ryanair for helping us out with this. They may have strict rules on what you can take on board but my word, they can be cheap. In January, two of us will travel over for Kate’s birthday for the princely sum of £75.84 return! Not bad huh?

Kate’s loving life in Spain and her language skills are blossoming. She’s not sure how the course will work out so she’s making back-up plans by applying to university in England for next year. As for us, we’re getting used to it being ‘just us’ again – it can be great, honest! But there’s something still a little strange about emptying the dishwasher when everything’s in pairs, rather than in threes and fours. And there’s still something odd about waking in the night and knowing that only our room is occupied.

The good news is that Kate’s coming home for three weeks at Christmas – and whilst she may have a certain wanderlust, she does acknowledge that Poynton will remain her home for some time to come.

Kate’s Dad’s Column

by Barrie Hawker34

Quick Crossword

Across9 Motion sickness (7) 10 Query (7)11 Trouble (7)12 Army squad (7) 13 Winners (9)15 Also known as (5)16 Smiled contemptuously (7) 19 Car pilots (7)20 Italian lawn bowling (5)21 Categories (9)25 The joined continents of Europe and Asia (7)26 Exposes (7)28 Duo (7)29 Correction to a printed mistake (7)

Down1 Micro______ = something very small (6) 2 The circle of colour around a nipple (6) 3 The lowest timber in a structure (4)4 Elbows pointed outwards (6)5 Threw away (8)6 Greenish blue (10)7 A black flavoured candy (8)8 Mesmerism (8)14 Approval to do something (10) 16 Branches of knowledge (8)17 Snails (8)18 Diverged (8)22 Ship’s steering mechanism (6) 23 Inborn (6)24 Big Bird’s street (6)27 City in Italy (4)

Solution on page 58. 37

At Amaranth, we are delighted to announce that we have recently been awarded the North West Natural Lifestyle Retailer of the Year. The judges praised us for the depth of knowledge within our team, our innovative products, and the quality and range of services we have to offer.

If you are not yet familiar with our Bramhall shop and treatment rooms, we specialise in natural health, beauty, nutrition and wellbeing. We stock leading natural skincare from Dr Hauschka, Weleda, Green People, Pai, NEOM, Caudalie and REN along with nutrition supplements and

superfoods. We provide aromatherapy, massage, acupuncture, organic body treatments and facials from our luxury treatment rooms.

As December is fast approaching, why not pop in, enjoy a herbal tea with us and Christmas gift shop in your local village. From luxury organic gifts to pampering stocking fillers, here’s a selection of our customers’ favourites.

Natural Lifestyle Store and Treatment Rooms 19 Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall Tel: 0161 439 9856

If you can’t decide, how about an AMARANTH GIFT VOUCHER to spend on a product or treatment?

We would like to wish all of our customers a very Happy Christmas and thank you for your continued support.

It’s Christmashealth & Wellbeing

by Joanne Hill www.amaranth-wellbeing.com

NEOM Organics Perfect Nights Sleep Gift Set £29.95

REN Grab & Go Kit Everything you need for a week away £28

Caudalie Vine Body Set Loved by everybody £22

Caudalie Elixir Gift Handbag size of this cult product £11.99

Burts Bees Lip Balm Set The essential stocking filler £6.99

Defiant Beauty Hand Set A unique range for people undergoing treatment for Cancer £23.50

Pai Head to Toe Indulgence for even the most sensitive skin £20

38

JUST 4 KIDSAnswers: elves, christmas eve, tinsel, snowflake, turkey, present

Extra letter word: sleigh

41

Things to do with pre-school kids

Compiled by Jenny Rileye: jenny@insidemagazines.co.uk

MondaySt. Paul’s Catholic Pre-School 9-3pmOpen Monday – Friday Term Time only. Marley Road, Poynton. A caring and stimulating environment, open to all. Please call ahead from more information – 01625 858222

Playaway 9.30-11.30amPoynton Baptist Church. Contact 01625 859036

TuesdayWacky Woods 10am-12pmStyperson Quarry Wood, Brookledge Lane, Adlington.

Come and have fun in the woods with your pre-schooler; even young babies can appreciate the joys of nature. Lots of sensory play activities to enjoy with your children in guided sessions.

£5 per child and that includes pancakes or crumpets on the campfire.

Contact 01625 573086.

Story Time 11amTerm time only. Hazel Grove Library. Stories, rhymes and songs followed by some colouring.

Contact 0161 217 6009.

WednesdayPre-School Dance 2-2.30pmTerm time only. St Martin’s Church Hall, Shrigley Road North, Higher Poynton. All children welcome from age 18 months. Contact 07903 727763 or email missstephanie1@hotmail.co.uk

ThursdayParent & Toddler Group 9.30-11.30am Term time only, Poynton Methodist Church.

For more information contact the church office on 01625 871592

Rhyme Time 10.30amPoynton Library. No booking necessary and no charge. All babies and toddlers welcome with parents/carers.

Contact 01625 374818.

Stay & Play 1.15-2.45pm Term time only, Poynton Children’s Centre, Clumber Road.

Contact 01625 383090 or email poyntonchildrenscentreadmin@cheshireeast.gov.uk

FridayBaby Sensory 11am, 12.30pm and 2pmThe Woodford Scout and Guide Headquarters, Moor Lane, Woodford. A learning and development program for parents and babies.

To book, call Becky on 07503547083 or email eastcheshire@babysensory.co.uk

Worth Parent & Toddler Group 1.30-3pmTerm time only. Worth Primary School, Birch Road. Toddler group for all pre-school age children and their parents/carers.

Contact us on 01625 875900 or admin@worth.cheshire.sch.uk for more information.

saTurdayBaby Ballet & Tap 9-10amThe Hockley Centre, Park Lane. Step Ahead School of Dance, contact Natalie on 07799 614260 for further details.

Who Let the Dads Out? Between 9am & 11am Second Saturday of the month during term time, St. Martin’s Church Hall, Higher Poynton (near the Boars Head Pub).

A dads and toddler group for dads, granddads or male carers and their pre-school children.

£2.50 per family which includes a bacon butty & coffee for the dads, and toast & juice for the children.

Contacts Julie Briggs on 07769 938269, or email julie@briggs.me.uk

Poynton Children’s Activities

If you run a local activity for young children and would like to be included on this page please email jenny@insidemagazines.co.uk

42

The Northern Chamber Orchestra (NCO) will be getting the festive season off to a melodious start with its Christmas Classics concert at Macclesfield Heritage Centre on Saturday 6 December at 7.30pm, featuring choral favourites and carols sung by Macclesfield’s King’s School Choir. The concert will offer up a delectable ‘smorgasbord’ of musical treats - from enchanting ballet music, and lively folk dances, to an all-time favourite English masterpiece, Holst’s St Paul’s Suite, and an English world premiere of Cheshire composer, Anthony Gilbert’s brand-new work, Triptych.

The following week, on Thursday 11 December at 8pm, the NCO presents its ever-popular Traditional Christmas Classics at Tatton concert which takes place in the Tenants’ Hall. The programme includes a dazzling, ‘champagne-cocktail’ of popular classics, festive favourites, carols and seasonal choral works.

The NCO Christmas concerts will give the members of King’s School Choir and Weaverham High School Chamber Choir an opportunity to work with a professional orchestra and to perform for a big and appreciative audience in historic and lovely settings at Macclesfield’s 200 year-old Heritage Centre and Tatton’s neo-classical mansion.

Tickets from NCO Box Office: 0161 247 2220 and from Macclesfield Visitor Centre: 01625 378123. Tickets for Christmas Classics at Macclesfield Heritage Centre £16 auditorium/£13 balcony, £7 students and 18s and under free.

Traditional Christmas Classics at Tatton £20, £12 for 18s and under.

ChristmAs ClAssiCs

Whilst the majority of us will be looking forward to celebrating the festive season with our family and friends, there are many in our community who will be alone. A recent survey suggests nearly half a million people

aged over 75 will spend Christmas Day on their own. Unfortunately loneliness isn’t unique to Christmas time and it’s on the increase. According to Age UK and The Campaign to end Loneliness, one in 10 report to having contact

with family, friends and neighbours only once a month.

On a positive note, awareness is growing about the impact of loneliness, especially on the elderly and you don’t have to look too hard to find details of local support groups and activities promoting social inclusion. These can be hugely beneficial.

We too can play our part by simply making time to engage with a family member or neighbour who, we know in the back of our minds, might be lonely. Typically, such people might not be as mobile as they once were. Alternatively, they might have lost a loved one and for them, life has suddenly become more solitary. The positive impact of social engagement on our health and wellbeing is well documented, and by giving a small amount of time each week we can make a big difference in our local community and not just at Christmas time!

Karen Perry, Founder alice chilton www.alicechilton.com

Caring Beyond Christmas

Nothing is permanent, except change. So said Greek Philosopher Heraclitus over 2,500 years ago. And nowhere is change more unstoppable than in the world of digital media.

With the advent of the internet it was widely assumed that the writing was on the wall for printed media such as our magazines. But then, along came social media, which changed the way we communicate again. It is a great tool for community magazines like ours to build relationships and engage with the local community.

We have been dabbling with it – we have a Facebook page and a Twitter account and have recently been learning about how we could use these to better effect. But to do that we need to know more about you, our lovely readers!

The fact that our magazines go to every home in the area means that we don’t know exactly who’s reading them and how many of you are also

using social media. What do you use? Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Snapchat? We would love to know so that we can engage with you easily - even if it’s a few weeks until our next issue is published!

If you are internet savvy, please take part in our online survey which will take just a couple of minutes to complete and we will report back next issue.

Visit www.survey-me.com/ take-a-survey/UK-IMAG-003 or scan the QR code above.

In the meantime, like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/insidemags and feel free to share your community events and activities

Follow us on Twitter @insidemagazines to receive regular updates, reminders about what’s on, and a whole host of interesting content!

Social Media - help us to engage with you.

SudokuHow to play SudokuFill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

You don’t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone.

Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.

Solution on page 58.

A guide to selected events in East Cheshire during December & January

Inside Guide

Compiled by Claire Hawkere: claire@insidemagazines.co.uk

TuesdAY 2 deCeMBerPoynton Christmas Fest. Get the festive season off to a great start with the traditional evening on Park Lane which will be closed to traffic from 7pm to 9pm.

ThursdAY 4 deCeMBerPoynton Morning Townswomen’s Guild Coffee Morning. Everyone is welcome to drop in for a coffee and biscuit. £1 including coffee.

Civic Hall, Poynton 10am – 12 noon

ThursdAY 4 deCeMBerChristmas Musical Fantasia arranged by Inner Wheel and Rotary, supporting Home-Start. Performers: The Macclesfield Male Voice Choir, Delia Corrie, Adrian Ramsden, Peter Blackthorn-Jones Tickets: £5 Details from Adrian Ramsden 01625 668767

St. Michael`s Church, Macclesfield 7.30pm

FridAY 5 deCeMBerSimply Cinema presents FROZEN SING-A-LONG (U). For the first time in forever you’re invited to a special sing-a-long screening of FROZEN. Get ready to sing and ‘let it go’! Come dressed in your Royal Finery! Doors open 5.30pm for themed drinks and snacks, screening at 6pm. Tickets: Adults £7; Child £6. To book call in to Simply Books, phone 0161 439 1436 or email events@simplybooks.info

Centrepoint, Bramhall Methodist Church 5.30pm

sATurdAY 6 deCeMBerA Celebration of Dvorak & Christmas Music with Phoenix Opera Chorus and soloists. Tickets: adults £8 under 12s £4. Call 01565 733230 or email: phoenixartsgroup@yahoo.co.uk Trinity Methodist Church, Bramhall Lane, Davenport 7.30pm

sATurdAY 6 deCeMBerNorthern Chamber Orchestra - King’s School Choir / Nicholas Ward, violin: Christmas Classics

Macclesfield Heritage Centre 7.30pm

sATurdAY 6 deCeMBerPoynton Ceilidhs: All Blacked Up, caller Baz Parkes. Traditional dancing to live music, experience not necessary! Tickets £8 on the door, cash only, u16s £4. Advance tickets from www.poyntonceilidh.co.uk Doors open 7.45, bar till 11pm

Poynton Community Centre, Park Lane 8pm to 11.30pm

sATurdAY 6 deCeMBerCarols and Brass by Candlelight. See In Touch for more details. St George’s Church, Stockport 7pm

sATurdAY 6 deCeMBerThe Wilmslow Symphony Orchestra will perform a festive programme including Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite and Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, with free entry to accompanied children under 12. Tickets £12, Conc. £10, Under 18’s £2 www.wilmsloworchestra.co.uk

Wilmslow Leisure Centre 7.45pm

sAT 6 & 7 deCeMBerScale Modelling Exhibition. Many static exhibits and demonstrations, full trade support, many scale societies and model club stands. Free parking, full disabled access, refreshments. Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sunday 10am - 4.30pm Adults £5.50 14-18yrs £3.50 Uniform ID UK Forces & Service Personnel £4. Family (2 adults + 3 U/18s) £15 www.themodelshow.co.uk

Poynton Leisure Centre, Yew Tree Lane, Poynton

sAT 6 To sAT 13 deCeMBer NOISES OFF by Michael Frayn. To book online: www.stockportgarrick.co.uk Tickets £9.50 (£8 concession) Telephone orderline: 0161 477 7779. Tickets available in person from the Stockport Plaza box office. Tickets £9.50 (£8 concession) Garrick Theatre, Exchange Street, Wellington Road South, Stockport

sundAY 7 deCeMBerHolly Wreath Workshop. Join Cheshire East Rangers and have a go at making a holly wreath to decorate your front door this Christmas time! Booking and payment in advance is essential. Cost £20. Book online via Eventbrite. Information: 01625 265093 Tegg’s Nose Country Park Visitor Centre, Macclesfield

Mon 8 To sAT 13 deCeMBerPoynton Players present Gaslight (a classic Victorian thriller) by Patrick Hamilton

Ticket Prices - Monday only £7.50. Tuesday to Saturday £8. Tickets can be booked online, full details www.poyntonplayers.co.uk or by phone (0333 666 3366 Mon-Fri 9am to 7pm. Sat 9am to 5pm)

Poynton Theatre, George’s Road West, Poynton

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TuesdAY 9 deCeMBerEast Cheshire Assoc. of National Trust Lecture – ‘In the Bleak Mid-Winter.’ Speaker: Brian Hallworth.

St Michael’s Church Hall, St Michaels Avenue, Bramhall 2pm

ThursdAY 11 deCeMBerWorth Probus Club. Members’ Annual Quiz. Please contact Peter Owen on 01625 871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details.

Community Centre, Park Lane, 2pm

ThursdAY 11 deCeMBerPoynton Morning Townswomen’s Guild Members Christmas Lunch.

ThursdAY 11 deCeMBerPoynton Home Gardeners Club. Hot Pot Supper (tickets from Elaine on 01625 871603)plus a demonstration by Laura of “Green Fingers”, Park Lane, Poynton and a chance to make your own Christmas wreath. For more information call 01625 877865 or visit www.poyntongardenclub.co.uk

Royal British Legion Club, St. George’s Road West, Poynton 7.30pm

FridAY 12 deCeMBerSimply Cinema presents MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET (U). Join us for our special Christmas screening of this seasonal favourite – a heart-warming, tear-jerker! Doors open at 6.30pm for seasonal refreshments and Green & Blacks ices creams! Screening at 7pm. Tickets £7. To book call in to Simply Books, phone 0161 439 1436 or email events@simplybooks.info

Centrepoint, Bramhall Methodist Church 7pm

FridAY 12 deCeMBerSt Ann’s Hospice Choir ‘Christmas is Coming’ Music and carols for all to join in. St Ann’s Hospice Festival Choir with Anna-Clare Monk, soprano, Corus Brass Ensemble, Jeffrey Makinson, organ, Christopher Ellis, piano, John Pomphrey, conductor, Sue Nicholls, presenter. Tickets £20 - £27 from box office or Tel: 0161 907 9000 Concessions available. Children half price.

The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester 7.30pm

sundAY 14 deCeMBerFamily Christmas Concert with Poynton Royal British Legion Concert Band and Just Sing choir. Free mulled wine and mince pies. Adults £7.50, u16s accompanied by adult, free. Tickets from email prbl.band@ntlworld.com or Tel: 01625 876865 Poynton Civic Hall 2pm

sundAY 14 deCeMBerCheshire A Cappella presents a Christmas Variety Show with guest quartets Reckless and Tagline. Tickets £10, £6 under 12s from 01625 251569 or email sing@cheshireacappella.org Woodford Community Centre, Woodford. Doors open 7pm for 7.30pm

TuesdAY 16 deCeMBerPoynton U3A Christmas Party. Entrance £1 including refreshments. For more information contact enquiries@poyntonu3a.org.uk Main Hall, Poynton Civic Centre 2pm to 4pm

ThursdAY 18 deCeMBerMart Rodger Manchester Jazz Poynton British Legion, Georges Rd West, Poynton 8pm

FridAY 19 deCeMBer‘Classics at Christmas’ Concert with ‘Epiphany’. Featuring Violinist Caroline Pether including music by Bach, Strauss and a Christmas Selection. Tickets £15, £10 (conc), £35 family (2 adults/2 children) Available at the door or in advance from 01625 858802

St Georges’ Church, Poynton 7.30pm

sATurdAY 20 deCeMBerJoin in our festive craft club and make your own Christmas wreath and decorations. £6.50 for the crafts, £4.50 to meet Father Christmas and £10 for both activities.

Old Sunday School, Roe Street, Macclesfield 10am-12noon/12.30-3.30pm

sundAY 21 deCeMBerCandlelit Carol Service with mulled wine 5pm Candlelit Carol Service with mulled wine 7pm

St George’s Church, Poynton

WednesdAY 24 deCeMBerCrib Service (pre-school style) 3pm, Crib Service (school-age style) 4.30pm, Carol singing with Brass 11pm, Midnight Communion 11.30pm St George’s Church, Poynton

Tues 6 To sAT 10 JAnuArYCHYPS (Cheshire youth pantomime society) presents Robin Hood with a cast and live band made up of some of the most talented 11 – 19 year olds in Cheshire. Evening performances plus a Saturday matinee. Tickets start from £8 with family and group bookings available. Ticket Line 07910 187 583 or visitwww.chypspanto.co.uk Woodford Centre, Woodford

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ThursdAY 8 JAnuArYWorth Probus Club. Dale Arm-Riding will speak to us on ‘Handwriting pens past and future’. Please contact Peter Owen on 01625871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details.

Community Centre, Park Lane, 2pm

ThursdAY 8 JAnuArYPoynton Home Gardeners Club. A short AGM will be followed by Poynton’s own David Warner, talking about “Garden Features - Weird and Wonderful!” For more information call 01625 877865 or visit www.poyntongardenclub.co.uk

Royal British Legion Club, St. George’s Road, Poynton 7.30 pm.

Fri 9 To sAT 17 JAnuArYBollington Festival Players presents Robin Hood & Babes in the Wood, a family pantomime by Alan P Frayn. Tickets: 07776 239613 or email bfptickets@hotmail.com Fri 9 January at 7.30pm, Sat 10 January at 2pm & 7.30pm, Sun 11 January at 2pm, Wed 14 to Fri 16 January at 7.30pm. Sat 17 January at 2pm

Bollington Arts Centre

WednesdAY 14 JAnuArYThe Friends of Silk Heritage presents: ‘A story of the collection.’ Ever wondered how and why Macclesfield came to have its Egyptian collection? The Honorary Curator of Egyptology at West Park Museum will lead this fascinating talk through the history of the West Park collection £4/£3

The Old Sunday School, Roe Street, Macclesfield SK11 6UT 7.30pm

WednesdAY 14 JAnuArYPoynton In Business - Presentation by the Poynton Neighbourhood Plan Group. For more information please visit the website at www.poyntoninbusiness.co.uk or contact: admin@poyntoninbusiness.co.uk

Tom Yam Thai Restaurant, Fountain Place, Poynton 5.30pm

WednesdAY 14 To sAT 17 JAnuArYApril in Paris by John Godber - a present-day comedy. A couple from Hull bicker about everything, but when one wins a trip to Paris, a glimmer of hope appears. To book online: www.stockportgarrick.co.uk Tickets £7.50 (£6.50 concession)Telephone orderline: 0161 477 7779. Tickets available in person from the Stockport Plaza box office.

Studio, Garrick Theatre, Exchange Street, Wellington Road South, Stockport SK3 0EJ

sATurdAY 17 JAnuArY Northern Chamber Orchestra - Jennifer Pike, violin: Sibelius Violin Concerto www.jenniferpike.com/

Macclesfield Heritage Centre 7.30pm

TuesdAY 20 JAnuArY Poynton Flower Club: Demonstration title Throw Nowt Owt with Arthur McDonald from Bury. Enquiries 01625 875158 Poynton Civic Hall 7.30pm

TuesdAY 20 JAnuArYPoynton U3A : Prof. Nigel Linge of Salford University will give a talk entitled `From Man on the Moon to Life in Cyberspace`. Entrance £1 including refreshments. For more information contact enquiries@poyntonu3a.org.uk Also Membership Renewal - the annual fee remains at £10, please remember to bring your current card.

Main Hall, Poynton Civic Centre 1.30pm to 4pm

ThursdAY 22 JAnuArYWorth Probus Club. Ann Metcalfe and Dan Roach will speak to us on ‘A pocket full of posies’. Please contact Peter Owen on 01625871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details.

Community Centre, Park Lane 2pm

sATurdAY 24 JAnuArYBollington Chamber Concert Laura van Der Heijden, cello and Tom Poster, piano. Tickets £15, concessions £7.50 from 01625 576402 or 574435 www.bollingtonartscentre.org.uk Bollington Arts Centre

sATurdAY 31 JAnuArYPoynton Ceilidhs: Time Bandits, caller Lisa Heywood. Traditional dancing to live music, experience not necessary! Tickets £8 on the door, cash only, u16s £4. Advance tickets from www.poyntonceilidh.co.uk Poynton Community Centre, Park Lane 8pm till 11.30pm.

Doors open 7.45, bar till 11.

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ChurChes

Lostock Christian Fellowship 01625 871644

Poynton Baptist Church 01625 859036

Poynton Christian Fellowship 01625 859170

St Paul’s RC Church 01625 872606

Poynton Methodist Church 01625 871592

Poynton Parish Church 01625 850524

(St Georges with St Martin’s)

denTisTs

London Road Dental Surgery 01625 850828

Park Lane Dental Practice 01625 874667

Chester Rd Dental Care 01625 876900

Phoenix Dental Practice 01625 875 074

doCTors

Priorslegh Medical Centre 08443 878744

McIlvride Medical Practice 01625 872134

Poynton Clinic 01625 875618

helPlines

Alcoholics Anonymous 0845 7697555

Childline 0800 1111

Crimestoppers 0800 555111

RSPCA 0300 1234999

Samaritans 0845 7909090

Citizens Advice Bureau 08444 111444

Directory Enquiries 118 500

hosPiTAls

Macclesfield District

General Hospital 01625 421000

Stepping Hill Hospital 0161 483 1010

NHS Direct 0845 4647

Open Hands Transport 01625 878589

leisure CenTre

Poynton 01625 876442

liBrArY

Poynton Library 01625 374818

loCAl GoVernMenT

MP’s Constituency Office 01625 422848

E. Cheshire Council Info Services 0300 123 5500

Poynton Town Council 01625 872238

PhArMACisTs

Co-op Pharmacy 01625 872214

L Rowland & Co 01625 873955

PoliCe sTATion

(non-emergency) 101

PosT oFFiCes

Poynton Post Office 01625 850262

sChools

Lostock Hall Primary School 01625 383838

Lower Park Primary School 01625 872560

St Paul’s RC Primary School 01625 383040

Vernon Primary School 01625 872556

Worth Primary School 01625 875900

Poynton High School 01625 871811

TrAVel

Bus Information 0161 228 7811

Train Information 0845 748 4950

uTiliTies

Electricity – Power Loss 0800 195 4141

Gas – Emergency 0800 111 999

Water Mains 0845 746 2200

Environment Agency Floodline 0845 988 1188

Useful Numbers

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ACCounTAnTsNolan James Chartered Accountants 5ArTElm Art 27Audio VisuAlF Maddocks 14BAThrooMsHazel Grove Bathroom Centre 59BookshoPsSimply Books 9BuildinG serViCesCheshire Roofline & Building Services 52Clark Construction 36CRL Design & Build 34Coppice Construction & Joinery 52S.P. Lee & Co 54BuildinG soCieTiesVernon Building Society 24CAre hoMesBorough Care 39CAre serViCesAlice Chilton In-Home Care 46Cheshire Home Care Solutions 17CArds & GiFTsLozziwoo 45CArPeT & uPholsTerY CleAninG Safeclean 44Zap-Clean 52ChildCAreBrook House Farm Preschool Centre 40Kidszone 43Children’s ACTiViTiesDizzy Rascals 22ChiroPrACTorsThe Back Pain Centre 9ChurChesPoynton Christian Fellowship Inside FrontCluBs & enTerTAinMenT VenuesBritish Legion 59CoMMuniTY MeAlsICare 28CoMPleMenTArY TherAPYAmaranth 38CoMPuTer & inTerneT Mike Knibb 26PC Doctor 48ConserVAToriesCRL Design & Build 34CreATiVe ArTs ClAssesPottery Classes 21Poynton Music School 18drAinAGePure Clean Drainage Solutions 36, 47eleCTriCiAnsF Maddocks 48esTATe AGenTsSnapes Inside BackFlorisTsGreen Earth Flowers 48

GArden BuildinGsSwift Organisation 35GArden desiGn & lAndsCAPinGCreative Gardens & Driveways 47GArden MAinTenAnCeGreenside Gardens 26K & J Home & Garden Maintenance 26 NRG Garden Services 34Robinson Garden Maintenance 58hAir & BeAuTYCarl Howard Hair 9Serenity 13Ted’s Barber Shop 6The Cut 22hoMe iMProVeMenT & ProPerTY MAinTenAnCeJ S Services 54K & J Home & Garden Maintenance 26Trevor Garner 58hosT FAMiliesHome to Home 6hYPnoTherAPY Annette Boden 51JoinerYKen Wood & Son 58 Trevor Garner 58kiTChensDream Doors 50Simplicity Granite 43loCksMiThsCrimeguard Security 54oVen CleAninGEcodazzle 52PAinTinG & deCorATinGDeano 26Kathy Shaw 58Spring Decorating 23Steve White 49PeT shoPsThe Pet Shop 10PhoToGrAPhYLozziwoo Too 45PhYsioTherAPYPark Lane Physiotherapy 39PluMBinG & heATinGDavid Hanson 36rooFinGPoynton Roofing 54seCuriTYCrimeguard Security 54soFT FurnishinGsKathy Shaw 58soliCiTors/leGAl serViCesManners Pimblett Back coverSlater & Gordon 31Tree serViCesSwift Tree & Arboricultural Services 47WindoW & ConserVATorY rePAirsThe Window Repair Centre 60Window Geeks 44

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