FREE Circulated throughout North Staffordshire, South Cheshire & The Staffordshire Moorlands THE GENUINE ROOFING SPECIALISTS STOKE 01782 621636 LEEK 01538 373898 CREWE 01270 250052 STAFFORD 01785 227712 So confident are we in the quality of our workmanship, you need not pay for our service UNTIL A MONTH AFTER THE WORK IS COMPLETED ROOFING & ROOF REPAIRS TILING & RE-SLATING FLAT ROOFS PROBLEM CHIMNEYS UPVC GUTTERING & CLADDING A.D. Booth & Sons Ltd From the past… MEMBERS OF LEADING ASSOCIATIONS HQ: 22a Nash Street, Newcastle, Staffs ST5 6DR • AAAAAA AD BOOTH [email protected]www.adboothroofing.co.uk BUILDING ROOFING Doing it in the ‘70s… Still doing it today! • Fast, friendly professional service from one of our local depots …for your future FREE ADVICE & ESTIMATES RING THE EXPERTS SAVE £££’s Nov 2011 All The Fun Of The Fair David Essex page 4
Transcript
FREE
Circulated throughout North Staffordshire, South Cheshire & The Staffordshire Moorlands
IT’S time to get your money ready - and take a ride!
Following a record-breaking West End season at The Garrick Theatre (where it was nominated for ‘Best New West End Musical 2010’ by What’s On Stage’ David Essex and ‘Boogie Nights’ creator, Jon Conway invite you to a rollercoaster ride of musical at Hanley’s Regent Theatre.
‘All The Fun Of The Fair’ is underscored by by a helter-skelter of the star’s hits, such as ‘Winter’s Tale’, ‘Hold Me Close’, ‘Gonna Make You A Star’, ‘Me And My Girl - Nightclubbing’, ‘Silver Dream Machine’ and ‘Rock On’.
In the show (inspired by David’s album of that name), he plays fun fair owner, Levi Lee, recently widowed and father of a rebellious, teenaged son.
‘Like father, like son’ they will take you for a ride!
Danger and mysticism lurk in the future, as predicted by the gypsy fortune-teller who is in love with Levi.
Dodgems and motorbikes, crafty cons and candy-floss, fairground bosses and fights, along with romance and rock ‘n’ roll, mean that you sure to enjoy the ride, but, beware, all is not always fun at the fair!
‘It’s a great night-out’, enthused radio legend, Simon Bates, whilst The Daily Telegraph declared: ‘Genuinely
touching....well worth a spin’.
‘All The Fun Of The Fair’ runs from Tuesday, November 1st, to Saturday, November 5th, at 7.30pm, with a 2.30pm matinee performance on Saturday.
Tickets, priced at £15-£30 (with premium seats up to £35), are available from the Box Office on 0844 871 7649 or online at www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke;
for group-bookings, call 0844 871 7619 (fees apply).
4
Roll on up and enjoy a ‘rollercoaster ride’ with ‘main attraction’, David Essex!!
5
Welcome to our November Issue
IN THIS EDITION. . . .
WHAT’S ON in November ...........6-11
The Fitzherbert Arms at Swynnerton .............12
Pub Talk ........................13
Catchems Corner, Meir ...............................16
CCH Vehicle Training Services ........................36
Leisure Classified..........38
Commendations reassure us that we are getting it right!!
IT is always a double-delight when praise from an advertiser is received, adding to the ultra-positive ‘feed-back’ which we have received from the first, two issues of our ‘new-look’ Leisure Gazette!
As we all know, self-praise counts for nothing, but a glowing commendation from a business urges us to go ‘that extra mile’ for both advertisers AND readers.
So, we were very pleased to receive the following response from Karen, owner of Shear Genius Salon, on Oulton Road, Stone.
“Thank you for a fantastic advertisement: I loved it,” enthused Karen, whose business was appearing at the Signal 1 and Signal 2 Autumn Bridal Fayre, held at the Stoke-on-Trent Moat House Hotel, Etruria, on Sunday, October 16th.
“I am not attending the wedding show in February, 2012, but will be doing so in October, 2012; so, I would love to advertise in your magazine next year. Thank you.”
As the six pages from 6 to 11 show, Leisure Gazette is maintaining its commitment to clubland throughout North Staffordshire and South Cheshire by providing a unique, invaluable guide to entertainment available in venues throughout North Staffordshire and South Cheshire, showing readers what can be enjoyed each and every month of the year.
Accordingly, it was very pleasant to hear Keith Harvey (Vice-President of Baddeley Green Workingmen’s Club and a man long-committed to offering club members and their guests only the highest standards of live entertainment) saying how much he enjoyed and appreciated our monthly ‘’WHAT’S ON’ section, lauding it as “very good”.
To benefit from a full month’s subscription to Leisure Gazette, all clubs have to do is contribute £33 per month for a quarter-page advertisement, telling readers about just what you have to offer in terms of entertainment and leisure facilities.
If you turn to page 13, you will see our newest section, entitled ‘PUB TALK’, which we hope will do for pubs what ‘’WHAT’S ON’ is, obviously, doing for local clubland.
Accordingly, we’re keen to hear from all pub licensees about what you are doing; so, tell us about your venue’s forthcoming events (such as charity, sporting competitions and presentations etc.), entertainment, and new beers and menus.
CONTACT US:Leisure Gazette
Second Floor, Lombard House, 3 Bucknall New Road, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent. ST1 2BATel: 01782 204392 Email: [email protected]
6
‘TOSSING and Turning’, ‘Funny How Love Can Be’ and ‘That’s Why I’m Crying’
- just three of the hits of a band which first tasted pop-chart success during the mid-1960s.
Since then, The Ivy League has gone from strength to strength, and readers can see why by booking tickets to see (and hear) the trio of musicians at Baddeley Green Workingmen’s Club on Friday, December 2nd!
The line-up features Jon Brennan (bass guitar & vocals), Dave Buckley (drums & vocals) and Mike Brice (guitar & vocals).
Perry Ford was the only original member to keep the band together through the late-’60s, which is when Dave joined to add his unique falsetto voice and keep the sound alive and original.
Dave and Jon ensured that The Ivy League continued through the ‘70s and beyond (with Perry’s blessing) at a time when most bands of the ‘60s had faded away, and they have created one of the best cabaret acts in the country.
They starred at all the top venues of the time (The Night Out, Birmingham; Talk of the Town, London; Batley and Wakefield Variety Clubs; and The Bailey Circuit), winning numerous awards, such as Club Mirror ‘Comedy Vocal Group’ of the year.
What they do is not a ‘tribute’ but a genuine continuation over the last forty years without break!
Having worked with The Ivy League on several occasions during the ‘60s and ‘70s, Mike Brice joined on a permanent basis in 1990.
The showband’s unique falsetto vocal sound, blended with superb harmonies, reproduce those hit-songs, with its repertoire also featuring some old and new favourites, all of which are brought
together with some hysterical, zany comedy-routines.
Tickets for The Ivy League’s concert on Friday, December 2nd, are priced at £6, and they are available from the Leek New Road venue on (01782) 541246 or by telephoning Ant Munday on (01782) 570603/07743-876421 or emailing [email protected]
Readers can also contact Vice-President, Keith Harvey on 07710-420632 and visit the club’s website:
www.baddeleygreenclub.com
‘60s’ hit-songs, PLUS hysterical, zany comedy-routines!!
Premier-quality organ & keyboard artists
READERS can enjoy virtuoso playing by the best professional artists in concert at Wolstanton Workingmen’s Club.It’s all thanks to the North Staffs. Organ and Keyboard Club, which stages its regular performance nights on the first Thursday of each month at the High Street venue.On the third Thursday of the month, the club holds an open night during which the home players take their own instruments and, regardless of age or ability, are given the opportunity to play for fellow members.Concert admission is £4 for non-members and £3 for members.For further information, telephone Tony Lawton on (01782) 858907.
7
Advertise your Club, Pub, or Entertainment Agency, in this magazine
Telephone
01782 204392
Sat 5th - Cool Wave Sat 12th - Krys Sat 19th - Free Fall Sat 26th - Cool Memory
FRIDAY NOVEMBER 18TH ELVIS & NEIL DIAMOND TRIBUTE SHOW
TICKETS £4.00 AVAILABLE FROM THE CLUB
www.baddeleygreenclub.com
NOVEMBER ENTERTAINMENT
we bid a friendly WELCOME toassociates and vistors to the hospitable
WOLSTANTON WMClive entertainment every saturday
NOVEMBERSat 5th Michael Brookes(one of the Midlands Top Vocalists)
LAST FRIDAY OF EACH MONTHSHOWCASE NIGHT (TICKET ONLY)
Sat 1st- Girls in MotionSat 8th- Marie KellySat 15th- Robbie BensonSat 22th- Stevie B VaunSat 29th - Mick Taylor
Friday 28th SPECIAL PARTY NIGHT‘SEASIDE RENDEZVOUS’
Providing top quality bands, duos, solos to all top club & pub venues throughout Stoke-on-Trent, South Cheshire & North Staffordshire.
Long established professional agency
Sat 5th- Krayz
Sun 6th- Amanda
Sat 12th- Halcyon Nights
Sun 13th- Ronnie King
Sat 19th- El-Diva
Sun 20th- Jane George
Sat 26th- The Task
Sun 27th- Trev Moray
QUALITY LIVEENTERTAINMENT
EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY EVENINGSSUPPLIED BY SUPREME ARTIST MANAGEMENT
9
A CHEQUE for a record-breaking £3,700 was presented to a representative of the Douglas Macmillan Hospice, Blurton, by Port Vale footballer, Adam Yates (pictured), on behalf of Pittshill Victory Club.
The Stoke-on-Trent club realised the monies for the cherished charitable cause by selling football cards, bar donation-boxes and by holding a grand raffle.
Organiser, Mandy Roberts, thanked all the local businesses and club members who had donated prizes and to Adam Yates for giving up his time to present the cheque to Mike Firth, of the hospice.
Each year, the St. Michael’s Road venue runs a raffle in aid of different charities, such as Children in Need and the County Air Ambulance, but 2011’s total-figure has
smashed all, previous records.Explained
Pittshill Victory Club Secretary, Dan Capewell: “I believe that this was down to the affection in which the Dougie Mac is held by members.
“Many of them have had friends or relatives who have spent time at the hospice, so they know first-hand the wonderful care which it provides,” added Dan, who is also local Branch Secretary of the Club and Institute Union.
Club hosts Sportsman’s DinnerBADDELEY Green Workingmen’s Club is staging a Sportsman’s Dinner on Friday, November 25th.
The evening features Dave Bassett, plus brilliant comedian, Jed Stone.
Tickets for the event are priced at £25, and they are available from the Leek New Road venue on (01782) 541246 or by telephoning Ant Munday on (01782) 570603/07743-876421 or emailing [email protected]
You can also contact Vice-President, Keith Harvey on 07710-420632 and visit the club’s website: www.baddeleygreenclub.com
Record-breaking cheque handed over by footballer, Adam
Sat 5th ------ FrantikSun 6th ----- SayelhorneSat 12th ---- Steve MillerSun 13th ---- Natalie KnightSat 19th ---- D.V.8Sun20th ---- C.J. GibsonSat 26th ---- Andrew PashleySun 27th ---- Kath Morris
Friday 18th Show Night with Blackpools Ventriloquist Mike Denett & Chick plus awesome entertainer Micheal Brookes
Tickets £ 3.00 Available at the ClubTuesday 29th Nov .An Evening of Clairvoyance with Linda
Bennett plus Guests .Tickets Available at the Club .All Proceeds going to the British Heart Foundation
12
The Plough InnCelebrate Christmas with us
Food Served Monday-Friday12 noon - 22.00
Crewe Road Alsager01270 882085
Becki, Kelly, Rachel, ''Wesley'', Jo (christmas champion), Simon (chef), Danial (kitchen manager)
Tel: 01782 796467SWYNNERTON, NR. STONE
All New MenuWednesday-Friday Lunch
Senior Citizens Special2 Courses £4.75
Tuesday Free Quiz nightEvery other Sunday - Accoustic Night
(ring for details)
Lunch2 Main Course for £10
TRADITIONAL SUNDAY LUNCH1 course £5.952 courses £7.953 courses £9.95
The Fitzherbert Arms
THE FITZHERBERT ARMS
YOU are assured of genuine, home-cooked food, when you pay a visit to this famous, Staffordshire hostelry! Local residents, Julie Clarke and Ann-Marie Wells and their partners, re-opened The Fitzherbert Arms, in the village of Swynnerton, near Stone, on Friday, July 8th, 2011, following a refurbishment, funded by proprietor, Enterprise Inns. Prior to the quartet's take-over, the popular, landmark venue had been closed for seven months, after its tenants left and it was the victim of a flood. The pub, which boasts three bed-and-breakfast rooms, serves food at lunchtimes (Wednesday to Sunday) and dinnertime (Wednesday to Saturday). "I've lived here for four years, and we were fed up of seeing the pub empty, so we decided to take it on for the village," said Ann-Marie Wells, who is also a part-time paramedic.
"We wanted to do this for the village, so we've tried to make it warm, friendly and comfortable, with no airs and graces." A three-day Game Food Fair (featuring locally-sourced produce) is planned for November, and a new Autumn Fayre Menu is being offered. The venue's Christmas Fayre Menu is available from Thursday, December 1st, with a four-course repast costing just £18, while the arrival of Santa Claus himself on Christmas Eve will be celebrated with mulled wine. The pub is open for drinks on Christmas Day from 12 noon to 2.30pm, whilst a three-course meal, priced at £23.95 (bookings only), is offered at 1pm. And, to round off 2011, usher in the New Year via wining and dining with the pub's fine buffet until 1am! For all bookings, simply telephone (01782) 796467 or email: [email protected]
Festive fun at 'The Fitz'!!
Ye Old Manor Inne
Tues, Wed, Thurs & Sat 7.30-10pmRump, Serloin, Rib Eye plus T Bone*
*(to order)
cooked to your liking at the tableand served with
Chips or Jacket, Onion Rings or SaladBookings preferred for ‘Steak on the Stone’Grill Menu also available
The Best Mixed Grill in the PotteriesNow Taking Bookings for Christmas Day Lunch
Manor St, Fenton 01782 763693
Brand new STEAK on the stone
13
Arrowing success
ABOUT £500 was raised by a 24-hour darts marathon held at The Bulls Head, in Hanley.Ten darts-players competed around the clock at the Lower Bryan Street pub, realising the monies in aid of a new children’s centre at the University Hospital of North Staffordshire.‘Mine hosts’, Jim and Pauline McMurdo, served drinks, even through the ‘wee, small hours’, and food was provided free-of-charge by Angel Delights, of Werrington.Additionally, a raffle was held, with prizes including a trip for two to Blackpool and a signed football from Stoke City FC.“I really want to thank all the companies which helped make this event a success and everyone who took part,” said organiser, Paul Barker, of Hanley, explaining that the darts marathon was just one of several events planned for the charity, Stoke City Little Heroes.
Red Lion nights
THE Red Lion at Checkley, near Tean, is the venue for an open mic/acoustic night each Wednesday, starting at 8pm.Admission is free, and more information is offered on (01538) 722003.
Folk Club
SANDBACH Folk Club meets on Tuesdays in The Market Tavern, commencing at 7.45pm.For further information, telephone Winston Baldwin on 07815-721923.
White Star nights
LOVERS of the acoustic guitar should head for The White Star at Stoke-upon-Trent.For, the Kingsway pub features popular acoustic nights each Wednesday night, starting at 9pm.Admission is free, and further details are obtainable on 07817-208152.
Acoustic sessions, too!
FOLK and acoustic sessions take place on the first Saturday of each month at The Bull’s Head, Marchington, near Uttoxeter, from 8.45pm.Admission is free, and everyone is welcomed to attend.More details are available by telephoning (01283) 820358
Bob & Steve entertainJOIN Bob Williams and Steve Massey for their open mic sessions at The Sneyd Arms Hotel, Tower Square, Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent, each Monday.The open mic sessions commence at 9.15pm, and there is no entry-charge.
Friday nightsTHE Blacksmith’s Arms at Alton hosts an open mic evening every Friday, commencing at 9pm.Admission is free, and you can obtain full details on (01889) 563123.
All the way from Transylvania
Club’s buffet bash at Chesterton
LOVERS of musical diversity should encircle the date, Friday, November 25th, in their diary!
For, Newcastle’s New Vic Theatre is hosting a concert by the Kalotaszeg Trio, led by brilliant Gypsy violinist
and singer, Tcha Limberger, one of the most important figures in the folk music of the Carpathian Basin.
He is joined by the most highly-regarded rhythm section of modern times: Berki Viktor on double bass and Toni Rudi on
Brac (a Balkan, stringed instrument).The trio will be playing passionate,
moving, thrilling music from the Kalotaszeg region of Transylvania.
Hungarian, Romanian and Gypsy music intermingle in this ancient and intensely local tradition which is one of the most distinctive and beautiful in the whole of Eastern Europe.
“This music is little-known,” says Tcha Limberger. “I will play it as it is meant to be played.
“It follows the lives of many, from baptism to the grave.
“It celebrates their communal existence, and brings people together in the community of Kalotaszeg.”
Tickets for the concert (which commences at 7.30pm) are priced at £13.50 and £15.50 (with concessions and Under-16s Go Free), and are available from the New Vic Box Office on (01782) 717962 or via [email protected]
14
AS usual, Holditch Miners’ Welfare Club, at Chesterton, is hosting the latest ‘Clubnites’ of the North Staffs. Accordion Club in November.
However, this month’s event will NOT be held on the third Tuesday of the month, but (unusually) the fourth - November 22nd- when it will be welcoming the previously-cancelled visit from Stockport Accordion Club’s Band and Orchestra, starting at 7.45pm.
This promises to be a great night, with a buffet-supper available.
(The reason for the week’s delay is that members of each of the clubs will be attending the Accordions International 2011 at Seacroft, clashing with the third Tuesday).
Admission to the Members’ Night (which features a ‘playalong’, musical circle and individual playing) costs £2 for members (£3 for members’ guests), including a free raffle-ticket.
Located on London Road, Holditch Club will also be the venue for the club’s Christmas Party on Tuesday, December 20th.
Popular entertainer, Tony Marchell
(who specialises in occasions, weddings, parties etc., with a programme including games, comedy, singing and dancing) will be the guest at the party.
The North Staffs. Accordion Club welcomes all accordion enthusiasts (both playing and non-playing) to its ‘Clubnites’ on the third Tuesday of each month, and it is also the venue for a band-practice each Tuesday (with the exception, naturally, of the third) and a beginners/improvers’ class every Monday at 7.30pm.
Readers can contact NSAC by telephoning (01782) 823668 or emailing [email protected]; you can also visit the website: www.northstaffsaccordionclub.co.uk
Stone singers soughtSTONE Male Voice Choir invites new members to join it.No auditions are required, and rehearsals take place at Bromfield Court, Stone, on Wednesdays, starting at 7.30pm.Further information is available by telephoning (01785) 604032.
15
Chris's PhotographyServices
Visit us at: 56A King Street, NewcastleTel: 07854323765
Professional Photography
Also available for Prom photography.Wedding packages from £425 includes
CD and wedding album.Open: 10am–5pm Mon–Sat
Special o�er for studioportraits from £15
TakingBookings for
Winter Breaks
Legendary band-leader at NewcastleWEDNESDAY, November 23rd, offers readers the chance to hear Europe’s traditional jazz and blues band in Newcastle!
The legendary Chris Barber (a band-leader for 62 years and a veteran of 10,000 concerts and thousands of recordings) and his ten-piece band plays his favourite music at the New
Vic Theatre, Stoneyfields, Basford.
This includes the sounds of his roots in the New Orleans-style; the early music of Duke Ellington and Sidney Bechet; Bob Crosby and the blues of Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee.
There’s soul, too, plus the soulful blues of Miles Davis - and, then’ it’s probably back to ‘When the Saints’!
The Big Chris Barber Band combines all these ingredients into an evening of exciting, moving jazz and blues.
Tickets for the concert (which starts at 7.30pm) are priced at £14, £17.50 and £19.50 (under-16s Go Free), and are available from the New Vic Box Office on (01782) 717962 or via [email protected]
16
CATCHEMS CORNER
Nikki and the Team offer a warm welcome
Serving Traditional AlesBanks, Pedigree and Regular Guest Ales
Showing the latest SportsESPN, Sky Sports & At The Races
OPENING TIMESMON 3pm - 10pm
TUES & WED 3pm-11pmTHURS 3pm - 10pm
FRI & SAT 12 noon - 12 MidnightSUN 12 noon - 11pm
Uttoxeter Road, Meir01782 499172
ENTERTAINMENTCOMING SOON
CAMRA accolade for Nikki & her teamTHE City of Stoke-on-Trent’s most strikingly-
named hostelry has received a just reward, having been voted ‘Pub of the Month November 2011’ by the Potteries Branch of CAMRA.
This accolade is just the latest, personal triumph for landlady, Nikki (who has been in-charge of Catchems Corner, Meir, for only twenty months), whilst the local branch of the Campaign for Real Ale also praised the work of “her wonderful bar-staff”, June, Stacey and Steve!
For, Nikki and her team have previously won the Cask Marque Mark of Excellence, in addition to garnering runner-up status in ‘Marston’s Pub of the Year (Midlands Region) 2010’.
Naturally, Nikki is no newcomer to the area’s licensed trade, having earlier run The Weston Coyney Arms, after learning her trade at The Duke of Wellington, in Fenton.
One of the Marston’s chain of pubs, Catchems Corner offers ‘real ale’ aficionados Marston’s Pedigree (ABV: 4.5%) and Banks’s Bitter (ABV: 3.8%) as its standard brews, wonderfully complemented by a trio of rotating ‘guest beers’ (supplied by Brakspear, Jennings, Ringwood and Wychwood breweries).
However, you don’t have to be a lover of
traditional, cask-conditioned beers to enjoy the warm, friendly welcome at the pub, as non-imbibers can sample tea, hot-chocolate and an excellent choice of coffee (including cappuccino and espresso).
So, why the strange name? Well, the authoritative explanation is that, in the days when people had to prevent cattle running onto Meir Aerodrome (now Meir Park housing estate), as the site of the pub was the last point at which the errant bovines could be caught, the urgent cries of “Catch ‘Em” would often be heard (a behaviour depicted on the external pub-sign)!
Open from 3pm-11pm (Monday-Thursday), 12 noon-12 midnight (Friday & Saturday) and 12 noon-11pm (Sunday), the pub boasts two crib and skittles teams, and Nikki is looking to start a darts one, whilst a brace of TVs show Sky Sports, ESPN, Euro Sport and the Racing Channel.
Located on Uttoxeter Road (A50), opposite Tesco, in Meir, Catchems Corner has raised almost £1,000 for the Help the Heroes Appeal, and the Beatrice charity for local, disadvantaged children has also benefited substantially.
Nikki and her team will be presented with their award on Tuesday, November 1st, at (approximately) 8pm.
17
IdealChristmasGifts
MOORVILLE HALL HOTEL
NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR Christmas Parties
New Year’s Eve Party Disco & Buffet
Tickets £24 per Head
celebrate the festive season
Tel 01782 302326
Christmas Fayre
4 courses £16.95 per headavailable throughout
November & DecemberExcluding Christmas and
Boxing day
THE RADDLE INNQuarry Bank,
Hollington, nr Tean ST10 HQ
01889 507278
WHEN it comes to wining-and-dining, Christmas is the time of the year, when you just HAVE to get it right!
Readers may want to book a table for just a few people (friends and intimate members of the family), or you could require something along on the lines of a banquet!
However, the size of the party is irrelevant to the main point: you must think about what you and your guests want, and, then, choose your venue carefully.
Of course, one of the best guides to picking the perfect eating-place for your personal requirements is word-of-mouth recommendation from friends, relatives and/or work-colleagues.
If you know someone’s own tastes
when it comes to the culinary arts, and he or she has a good report about a catering establishment (it may be a pub, restaurant or hotel).
Obviously, another factor is cost: the vast majority of catering venues have to employ additional staff during the festive season, so you must expect to pay more more than usual for your meals and service (especially on the ‘big ones’, such as Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day!).
Accordingly, you must budget sensibly for the lunch or dinner; obtaining full menu or menus, and costing it thoroughly - even including the tip, if you are properly satisfied with the standards of cuisine and service from the venue’s staff.
How to choose the ideal festive venue
continued on page 19
18
The Plough InnCelebrate Christmas with us
Food Served Monday-Friday12 noon - 22.00
Crewe Road Alsager01270 882085
Becki, Kelly, Rachel, ''Wesley'', Jo (christmas champion), Simon (chef), Danial (kitchen manager)
Book Your Party With Me:
MAD ANGEParties are free to Hold!
Or hold a ladies night with ‘male’ entertainment and
28th Nov - 23rd Dec 12-2pm(Mon to Sat Evening Available)(for 8 or more, call for details)
2 course £8.25 • 3 courses £10.754 courses £12.75
19
IdealChristmasGifts
Of course, everyone likes to be generous at Yuletide - after all, the owners, management and staff are working, whilst you and your dining companions are having a cracking time, feasting and quaffing in fine style!
The vast majority of pubs, restaurants and hotels will have published their ‘Christmas Fayre’ menus; so, their is no excuse for delaying in making your choice immediately, in order to avoid (in the time-honoured phrase) “disappointment”!
Fully aware of the notorious (and ongoing) economic crisis, numerous venues have adjusted their festive bill prices to accommodate everyone’s pocket.
How to choose the ideal festive venue
INNOVATIVE Telecoms Solutions
in association with Marra’s Mobiles
• Specialists in new & used phones• Part exchange welcome
• Full phone unlocking service while u wait•Repairs, Sim Cards and Accessories
DON’T be late - for a magical, new production from the team at the New Victoria Theatre, Newcastle, which created last Christmas’s spectacular ‘Peter Pan’!
In ‘Alice in Wonderland’, join young Alice Liddell, as she journeys through a strange and enchanted, new world.
Meet the perpetually-tardy White Rabbit; take tea with the Mad Hatter; search for the Cheshire Cat; hide from a VERY bad-tempered Red Queen - this whimsical wonderland just gets ‘curiouser and curiouser’!
This brilliantly-staged, classic story continues the New Vic’s unrivalled reputation for celebration each year.
Author, Lewis Carroll (1832-1998) was born Charles Lutwidge Dodgson in Daresbury, Hatton, Cheshire, and enjoyed a multi-faceted career as an author, mathematician and logician (teaching at his alma mater, Christ Church, Oxford), Anglican deacon and photographer.
His fond relationship with Alice, one of the three children a new Dean at Christ Church, Henry Liddell, and his wife, Lorina, inspired him to write ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’, published in 1865.
“A wonderful box of theatrical tricks....bursting with invention,” enthused The Guardian about the New Vic’s acclaimed version of C.S. Lewis’s ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’.
‘Alice in Wonderland’ runs from Saturday, November 19th, until Saturday, January 21st, 2012, with tickets priced at £11.50-£19.50, with group-discounts of
£2 for ten or more theatregoers and £2 concessions.
SAVE UP TO £18 WITH THE NEW VIC’S ‘FAMILY OF FOUR’ TICKET!
Tickets are available from the New Vic Box Office on (01782) 717962 or at [email protected]
The greatest children’s story of all!!
Christmas Extravaganza
ALICE Lidell inspired the writing of Carroll’s classic.
A SELF-PORTRAIT by the enthusiastic photographer.
21
• Colour specialists • Perming• Hair for special occasions • Highly qualified stylists
HairFOR A RELAXED FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE
NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARYTel: 01782 534287
1881 Leek Road, Milton, S-O-T ST2 7AQ
By Lynn Gamble
IdealChristmasGifts
Equally, they are aware that, in spite of people’s increasing, culinary sophistication, many diners require traditional main dishes, such as roast turkey or roast beef (served, naturally, with ‘all the trimmings’), plus fish and vegetarian options, rather than more adventurous recipes of a Continental, South Asian or Oriental persuasion.
Additionally, if you are not a lover of ‘fine wines’, these venues offer a comprehensive choice of ‘real ales’ and ‘keg’ brews, such as bitters, lagers, ciders and stouts, to suit all tastes.
Whether it’s a three-course luncheon or a five-course dinner, readers are faced with a terrific choice of festive fare in 2011!
continued from page 19
22
23
“AT Elle Louise Bridal, we believe that every bride deserves to look and feel amazing on her special day, and we take pride in helping make each bride’s dreams come true!”
That’s the credo of this beautiful shop which has been nominated to enter the 2012 Wedding Industry Awards for both bridal dress retailer and best menswear supplier in the West Midlands region.
Located just outside Newcastle-under-Lyme town centre at prestigious Berkeley Court, Elle Louise Bridal offers a spacious, comfortable and friendly environment, within which you are able to find and choose (in calm, ultra-relaxed fashion) the dress that is simply right for you.
Featuring fantastic quality and choice local to you, the shop offers a lovely selection of wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, prom gowns and more, all in a choice of styles and colours, and also a full range of shoes and accessories, wonderfully complemented by a comprehensive alteration-service at very competitive rates.
This fabulous selection of shoes (providing both style and comfort for your special day) now offers over thirty, different styles of shoes in stock for you and your bridesmaids for your ‘Big Day’ - and they can even be dyed to match your outfit!
For, the shop’s present collection by Pure & Precious has been augmented by gorgeous, new shoes by Rainbow and Else.
A new selection of stunning hair-accessories and jewellery (featuring
beautiful floral and vintage-inspired pieces) from the bridal selection collection by Charlotte Balbier and Amanda Wyatt are stunning pieces, with each one creating the perfect ‘finishing-touch’ to your wedding outfit.
The impressive range of beautiful-quality gowns for the bride, bridesmaid and flower girls come from such premier designers as Amanda Wyatt, Madeline Gardner MGNY, Dessy, Alfred Sung and Mark Lesley.
Elle Louise Bridal also boasts a terrific range of veils, plus a myriad of gorgeous accessories and bridal jewellery - all to complete each client’s ‘dream’ bridal outfit.
Visitors to the Newcastle shop will also discover a pleasing collection of hand-made Fascinators and handbags, hand-crafted with the highest-quality ostrich-feathers and available in a wide choice of colours: the perfect way to accessorise your bridal, prom, mother-of-the-bride or bridesmaid outfits.
Its men’s formal hire collection from award-winning Cameron Ross Formal Hire helps you to dress your whole bridal party to match your individual theme.
As a result, all the men in your bridal party will be looking stylish and feeling confident on such an important day.
Chosen from only the best designers, its new season collection of prom gowns (by Mori Lee, Froxy by Romance, Dessy and Amanda Wyatt) ensures that there is a dress to suit every girl’s dream, ensuring that you are the ‘Belle of the Ball’!
Finding your pErFEcT wEdding drEss
24
CHRIS MILLERPlumbing and Heating
07939442698
Gynway Hotel
205 Dickson Road, Blackpool01253 314747
www.gynwayblackpool.com
The Gynway is a friendly, family-run hotel where a warm welcome awaits you. Adjacent to the seafront, the Gynway offers:
• Guest lounge• Range of Breakfasts• Colour TVs all rooms• Tea/coffee making facilities
All settings have been givena “good” standard by Ofsted
01782 273285382-384 WERRINGTON ROAD
01782 274519130 ETRURIA VALE ROAD
01782 533 699“Out of School” contact
RoundaboutPrivate
Day Nurseries
25
YOU’VE seen him on television; now, you can see him ‘in the flesh’ at Ball Green Workingmen’s Club soon!
Yes, Shane Haigh is taking time out from sunny Spain to present his lively ‘Mister Sister Show’ at the Stoke-on-Trent venue on Friday, November 18th.
Now recognised as Tenerife’s premier ‘drag’ entertainer, Shane’s show is a class act with a fantastic reputation (not to be confused with trashy, ‘back-street’ cabaret!).
He is no stranger to demanding audiences, holding their attention with a combination of hilarious comedy and charm.
‘Mister Sister’ promises an evening of music, laughter and dazzling glamour with lightning-quick costume-changes.
“I was so impressed when I saw him in Tenerife, and, knowing that he had also ‘gone down a storm’ at a special party for the cast of ‘Eastenders’,” explained Ball Green WMC’s Concert Secretary, Chris Chadwick.
Tickets for the ‘Mister Sister Show’ show (starting at 7pm) at Ball Green WMC are priced at £5 and are available from the Wilding Road club on (01782) 545541 or by telephoning Chris Chadwick on 07795-802830.
Readers can also visit the club’s website: www.bgwmc.co.uk
Premier Tenerife performer, Shane, to visit City club
Silverdale fund-raiser
EPILEPSY Action is holding a fund-raising evening at Silverdale Workingmen’s Club on Sunday, October 30th.Members and guests are invited to make a £1 donation, and a raffle will also be staged.Further details are available by telephoning (01782) 627415.
Open all year round. Est 40 yearsYour pet cared for by pet lovers
Heated kennels. Dogs walked dailyin the beautiful Cheshire countryside
Open: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-4pm,Sundays & Bank Hols 9am-12noon
To view - no appointment necessary within opening hours
VACCINATED PETS ONLYSuppliers of ‘Royal canine’ premium, dog and cat food
Pets For Life...Pets are sentient creatures - they are NOT festive ‘gifts’!!
continued on page 29
OUR advertisers in this issue’s feature are hoping that EVERYONE ‘gets the message’ in 2011!Let’s face it, you can purchase practically anything as a Yuletide gift these days, so there is, accordingly, NO excuse whatsoever for you to give an animal (be it a puppy, kitten, hamster, guinea-pig or parrot) as a fleeting, Christmas ‘present’ to be (very possibly/almost inevitably) discarded just a few days or, perhaps, weeks later.Quite simply, pets are sentient creatures and not ‘presents’ to be discarded after this year’s festive season in January, 2012.As anybody, who has taken steps to ensure that their pet is kept safe, protecting them against
the potentially-terrifying, violent explosions and alarmingly-bright flares associated with ‘Bonfire Night’ (Saturday, November 5th), having a pet is a real task for a conscientious human-being.(And, of course, remember that numerous idiots [not all of them youthful] will continue to let fireworks off at all hours of the day and night long after this gruesome celebration [especially during Christmas and New Year’s Eve])!Leisure Gazette urges readers not to purchase puppies, kittens or any creatures (large and small alike) as presents at Christmastime in a ‘spur-of-the-moment’ mood; however, this applies not only to the country’s increasingly-appalling ‘festive season’, but for every month of the year!
PILLATONLUXURY HOTEL FOR CATS
Established Over 40 YearsRecommended by Local Vets
Heated Pens with RunsFully Licensed & Qualified Staff
Inspection WelcomeTel: 01785 712275
Pillaton, Penkridge ST19 5RZ
Wolstanton Hardware & Pet Supplies
Key CuttingPet Supplies
Garden SuppliesPainting & Decorating
Calor Gas Agent
91 High Street, Wolstanton01782 627115
THE MEADOWSANIMAL FEEDS
CAT & DOG FOODCOMPLETE DOG FOOD
from £7.99 15 kilosEQUESTRIAN CLOTHING
FOR HORSE & RIDER
THE MEADOWS CATTERYFOR EXCELLENT HOLIDAY RATES
BREEDERS OF BRITISHSHORT HAIRED CATS
LARGE SPACIOUS RUNSVACCINATED CATS ONLY
Tel: 01782 784586HIGH STREET, NEWCHAPEL
HORSE & RABBIT FEEDS
atHOVERINGHAM DRIVEEATON PARK ST2 9PS
PLEASE TELEPHONE FOR AN APPOINTMENT
01782214683
Late nightopening
Mon/ Thurs
Friendly, affordable, modern health carefor all your pets
28
29
Animals should only be purchased as pets after the cost of their up-keep, good health and status within the family have been FULLY thought out!It’s an indubitable fact that the main priority for pet-loving readers is clearly providing your favourite creature with a long, healthy life?!Statistics show that, of Britain’s 24.6 million households, approximately 50% own a pet.Pet-owning households often have more than one dog or cat, needless to say.Readers, who wish to be genuinely-responsible pet-owners, need to consider cogently numerous points.Think carefully before getting a pet and learn about its special requirements; then, ensure that he or she is sociable and well-trained.Provide a nutrituous, well-balanced diet and suitable housing and bedding.Clean up after your pet and worm it regularly; also, protect against disease (your vet can provide you with advice).
Prevent unwanted litters and neuter your pet when appropriate.Groom your pet regularly; also, control it, ensuring that it is properly identified.Take out pet-insurance for dogs, cats and horses to cover against unexected veterinary fees and ‘third-party liability’.
Pets are sentient creatures - they are NOT festive ‘gifts’!!continued from page 27
Also• Servicing & Repairs• General Maintenance• Air Conditioning• LPG Conversions• Clutches
31
THE Good Garage Scheme was formed, on account of the need for effective self-regulation of independent workshops and MoT centres.
As a result of this move, motoring readers can use its website - www.goodgaragescheme.com - to find a trustworthy garage in your area.
The scheme was launched in 2008, because there was a general view that the motor trade did not offer value-for-money and was not to be trusted.
The Good Garage Scheme insists that its members (which number over 3,000) adhere to a strict Code of Conduct and offer a 50-point Industry Standard Service.
This, coupled with a customer-feedback system means that customers enjoy peace-of-mind, when choosing an independent
garage. Garages which join the
scheme:-* Adhere to a strict Code of
Conduct and pledge to have their customers’ best interests at heart
* Must agree what work needs doing with their customers before it is carried out
* Work to an industry-standard checklist
* Must supply each customer with a feedback card, allowing him or her to give their views on service directly to the Good Garage Scheme, which operates a stringent complaints procedure.
* Are subject to regular ‘mystery’ shopper-style audits and face expulsion, if they break the Code of Conduct.
The initiative has gone from strength-to-strength, with member garages carrying out an average 67,666 services a month, generating over 10,000 feedback-cards from consumer per month, allowing the garages a valuable insight into their performances, as seen through the eyes of the customer.
The Good Garage Scheme takes a strong line with its members and has removed 700 garages from the scheme.
What guarantees do readers have?
Help is at hand, since, if you feel that you need additional
All members adhere to a strict Code of Conduct
continued on page 33
32
Specialist in all joinery work
LYTTON STREETStoke-on-Trent, ST4 2AG
TEL: 01782 847121
LYTTON ST VEHICLESERVICES
• Mechanical & Bodywork Services
• Servicing All Makes & Models
• MOT’s by Appointment
• Welding & MOT Repairs
• Classic Restoration
Registered Member
CARCRAFTTEST CENTRECARCRAFTTEST CENTRE
Highest quality of products & services on the market today. Specialists in car servicing and class 4, 5 & 7 M.O.T. testing, clutch,
diagnostic, 4 wheel alignment, air conditioning, recovery, tyres and any general car work, all at prices you can
afford.
staff are here to answer any questions you may have about our company or our
services.please call us on 01782 269542
or visit www.carcrafttestcentre.co.uk/88-90 Cannon Place, Hanley,
explanation of what went on during your car’s service, the organisation has a formal complaints procedure, if you feel that things need to be taken further.
The Good Garage Scheme monitors customer-feedback and receives as many as 10,000-plus customer-feedback cards per month.
These provide extremely-valuable testimonials from customers, as well as highlighting any concerns which they have will be taken up
directly by GGS with the garages involved.
The feedbacks are posted on the GGS website to help motorists choose a suitable Good Garage.
Additionally, the Good Garage Scheme offers to liaise with motorists who may have issues with member garages, so that problems are resolved.
continued from page 31
34
CALLING all you book-lovers out there!
If you’re looking for something to do during November and December, here’s a strong suggestion - Buxton Book Fairs 2011.
Set in 23 acres of beautiful parkland, the Pavilion Gardens in the famous Derbyshire spa town of Buxton is the venue for Buxton Book Fairs on Sundays, November 20th and December 18th - and it’s all thanks to event organisers, Jane and Ian Millington!
For, bibliophile readers are assured of immense satisfaction, when visiting the Pavilion Gardens’ Octagon Hall, which plays host to their popular events.
Up to eighty dealers from Staffordshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Lancashire, Yorkshire, Warwickshire, Derbyshire and Wales exhibit, and the result is a lovely day out for everyone.
“At all of our fairs, you will find for sale a wide range of books - antiquarian, general second-hand and out-of-print, hardbacks and paperbacks, plus maps and, usually,
some postcards and ephemera,” explained Jane, of Milton, in Stoke-on-Trent.
“The subject-matter is extremely varied, and includes children’s books, military history, transport, topography, literature, natural history, gardening and cookery, art and illustrated, travel and exploration, local history and much more.”
The book-prices cover the entire gamut (from ‘pocket-money’ rates to ‘serious money’ for antiquarian collectors) - something to suit all pockets.
Readers can obtain further information about Buxton Book Fairs (open from 10am to 4pm) by telephoning Jane Milllington on (01782) 542258.
“If readers leave a message on my answerphone, I shall get back to them as soon as possible,” she said.
BUxTON EVENTS ARE WELL WORTH A VISIT FOR EVERY BOOK-LOVING READER!!
35
AS the days become shorter and darker, the Good Garage Scheme (www.goodgaragescheme.com) recommends that you carry out a few safety-checks and offers advice to help you prepare for the quintessential task of Autumn Driving.
CLEAN YOUR WINDSCREENDazzle from low sun is inevitable at this time of year: accordingly, ensure that your windscreen is clean, both inside and out, to help you see clearly.Be aware of other drivers who
may be caught out by ‘dazzle’.
CHECK YOUR WINDSCREEN-WIPERSAlso, check your windscreen-wipers; if you are in doubt and feel that they need re-wiring, visit your nearest Good Garage Scheme member for apposite advice.
Cars, HGV & PSV Inspection SpecialistsOver 39 Years Experience
Expert Car Inspections are part of CCH Vehicle & Training Services
Expert Car Inspections
• Pre Purchase Car Inspections from £80.00• Insurance Category C + D Inspection Reports from £80.00• Full Engineers Report on all Vehicles from £100.00
CoveringCars,
MotorCaravans,
GoodsVehicles &Mini Buses
Don't Risk Buying a Faulty Vehicle, have it Professionally Inspected by" Expert Car Inspections".
For more details visit our web site www.expertcarinspections.co.uk
YOUR LOCAL MOT TESTING CENTREALL MAKES AND MODELSINC CATALYSTS & DIESELS
PBS Car Centre is a family run business that as been trading for over 20 years. We specialise in
Air Conditioning & Engine Management problems. Using the latest equipment, we are able to
diagnose and estimate the cost of any repairs needed inclusive of
parts and labour.This means that, in addition to
first class mechanics and a well-equipped workshop, at PBS Car Centre we can offer you the widest possible selection of top
quality parts - all at highly competitive prices.
www.pbscarcentre.co.uk01782 575438
07930 532 57037
CHECK YOUR WINDSCREEN WASHER-FLUIDA smear across your windscreen will make visibility poor.The Good Garage Scheme recommends that you top up your windscreen washer-fluid regularly and especially before setting out on a long journey.
ARE YOUR LIGHT-BULBS WORKING?It is also important for other motorists to see you! Check your light-bulbs weekly.
Ask a friend or neighbour to help you with this and let others know if you spot a missing ‘bulb on their car - they may not be aware of it!
continued from page 35
Winter Motoring
38
Classi�ed Classi�ed Classi�edC.C.T.V.
SUPPLIED AND FITTED
WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON PRICEQUALITY GUARANTEED
CALL: 07727 876 889
MINI DIGGERFOR HIRE
WITH OR WITHOUT OPERATORRING FOR DETAILS
07584 933 744
ToAdvertise
Tel:01782 204392
H BURTONBUILDING SERVICES
All building work carried outNo Job Too Small
Call Harry for more details01782 313180 / 07935 967435
NINE people from Newcastle-under-Lyme are hoping to get their hands on the Olympic Torch as part of a national campaign.
They are waiting to discover if they will be offered a place as one of the 8,000 torchbearers needed for when the flame tours the country, before heading to the Olympic Games in London.
Newcastle Borough Council, which administers the borough’s Sports Council, put the group forward.
The group will find out whether or not they have been offered a place as an Olympic Torchbearer during the week beginning Monday, December 5th.
The nine hopefuls are:-1) Joshua Scibetta, a teenage runner
from Clayton who took part in the Aviva English School Championships last year, only twelve months after beginning competitive running.
2) Wendy Swift, who joined a running club near her Westbury Park home, originally just to keep fit, but the 40-year-old is now racing competitively and notching up personal-best-times.
3) Roland Hulse plays a role within eight branches of Staffordshire Ladsandads, and the Talke Pits resident has been recognised for his sports administration activities.
4) Ben Cotton, a 17-year-old cricketer from Clayton, who has competed for Staffordshire at every age-group from Under-10 to Under-17, and is now at Derbyshire Cricket Academy.
5) Peter Grocott, an administrator, who does a huge amount of work in his Chesterton Community and won the ‘Administrator of the Year’ Award earlier this year.
6) Aimee Howard, a 13-year-old from Poolfields is already a double world champion at kickboxing and has accumulated more than 30 trophies.
7) Adam Jones: the 14-year-old Silverdale sprinter was Staffordshire 100-metres champion last year and undefeated in Heart of England 100-metres competition.
8 and 9) Emma and Wayne Minton: tireless supporters of football in Kidsgrove, the couple are involved with Ladsandads, Athletico Kidsgrove FC and the Kidsgrove Soccer Festival.
Hopefuls bid to carry Olympic torch
39
6-8 PLEASANT STREETBLACKPOOL FY2 9TE
Tel: 01253 621008www.holmsdalehotel-blackpool.com
Qualityaccommodation inrelaxing, informalsurroundings withall rooms havingen-suite facilities,and there is alift to all floors
• Adults only (no children under 12)
• No smoking
• Special diets catered for
• Excellent location
Christmas Special24th-28th
Four Night PackageIncluding All Meals & Entertainment
MILTON TEST CENTRE
Tel: 01782 537800 / 534530
SERVICING • OVERHAULS • REPAIRS
John L. Smith Autos Ltd.135 Baddeley Green Lane, Milton, Stoke-on-Trent
AFTER HOURS 535413
MOT TESTING £35.00FREE RE-TEST
REPAIRS & SERVICING OUR SPECIALITY
Newcastle I.D.L. Centre Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire
In 26 hours you could improve your reading and spelling age
by 10 months or more!
Contact: Julie Hancock 01782 632444 Also available : Maths & English
SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS
A warm welcome awaits you in BurslemLeave your child with our qualified friendly staff
GORDON DAY CARE NURSERY LTD
MOORLAND ROAD, BURSLEM ST6 1EB
TEL: 01782 838568 / 819844
• OFSTED Registered• 0 to 4 years
• Healthy eatingIndividual needs catered for
Full & part time day careBefore & after school care
R.W. FENCING• Fencing supplied & fitted• Concrete or wooden posts• Gates made to measure• Concrete garden ornaments
