Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, Issue 105

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Uttoxeter
& Cheadle
Uttoxeter
& Cheadle
Lavella Beauty & Aesthetics
7 Cross Street, Cheadle, Staffordshire ST10 1NP
01538 754681 • www.lavella.co.uk
Issue 105
Celebrating
Two years of
15% off
any treatment in July
with Charlotte

3
Let The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice take your business to 13,000 local homes. To advertise, call 01538 751629 or 07733 466 970.
I
’m afraid I was correct in last month’s article
that there could be a new Covid variant
hitting our country again to postpone the
June 21st re-opening of our lives…
However, I am now as confident as I can be
that most Coronavirus restrictions will be lifted
on July 19th and the vaccination programme will
have given us all a lifeline out of this nightmare.
As I see it, the biggest debate at the moment
is whether children should receive the vaccine so
transmission in schools and families can be
alleviated – I believe this call should be totally
made by our brilliant medical bodies – and
definitely not by politicians…
It seems to me that ‘normal’ life is slowly
improving for many of us - going out for a pint
and a meal was so routine years ago but now it
has the feeling of being a luxury we have so badly
missed.
Personally, going down to my beloved
Oldfields Club in Uttoxeter is a journey I look
forward to so much – to chat to everyone and get
back to talking our usual claptrap – we always put
the world to rights before this pandemic – and
we will continue to do so from now on…
However, we must all watch out for those
people though who are still staying at home for
whatever reasons – I have said in the past we will
see the huge impact on the mental health of our
nation for many years to come.
We have all been forced to stay indoors –
many people on their own with no family or
friends to contact – so now is the time we have
to look out for them and also, this must be the
time the Government must address the dire
situation of our Social Services in this country –
for too long Social Services has been drained and
squeezed over many years and this must be
stopped…
The next Voice is out from September 15th
and I truly believe we will all be in a better place
then…
I hope you enjoy reading this issue of The
Voice colour magazine.
Nigel Titterton
Editor & Publisher
Dear Reader,
Publisher and Editor: Nigel Titterton
The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice is published by Community Voice
Publications Ltd
Telephone 01538 751629 e-mail uttoxetervoice@hotmail.co.uk
The views expressed in this publication are those of our contributors and are not
necessarily those of the publishers, nor indeed their responsibility.
All Rights Reserved.
Copyright Community Voice Publications Ltd.
Designed and Produced by noel@sergeantdesign.com
HOW TO GET IN TOUCH
The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice is wholly independent and
is published at 3 Spode Close, Cheadle, Staffs ST10 1DT
13,000 copies are distributed free to homes and
businesses in Uttoxeter, Cheadle, Rocester, Denstone,
Bramshall, Stramshall, Alton, Oakamoor, Tean, Lower
Tean, Checkley, Leigh, Church Leigh, Crakemarsh,
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Lavella Beauty & Aesthetics, is a
certificated Environ Skincare
salon located on Cross Street,
Cheadle. Come visit us, and
indulge in an array of beauty
treatments from Gel Polish
application, to relaxing Massage
and Fakebake Spray Tans
We offer Environ Facials, along
with a variety of skincare ranges
for home use such as; Skin
Geek, CliniCare, Environ
Skincare, The Advanced
Nutrition Programme
supplements and Jane Iredale
mineral makeup.
Being a result driven salon, we
thrive on providing a large
variety of quality treatments using as many UK or award-winning brands
as possible including the products mentioned above, along with Lynton
Lasers, CND Shellac, Nouveau Lashes, HD Brows, HD BrowSculpt, Elim
Pedicures, Evo gel by Bio sculpture and Wax:One warm and hot wax.
From the Aesthetic side of Lavella, we offer advanced treatments in the
way of award-winning Lynton Laser Hair Removal and Cosmetic
Tattooing. Additionally, we partner with Aesthetic Practitioners and Body
Sculpting Clinics for specialist treatment with in the salon such as Fat
Freezing, Dermal Fillers and Profhilo
Our highly trained, certificated and experienced therapists are here to
provide the perfect treatments to meet your individual needs from in
salon, to your home care.
For further information and salon updates please follow us on social
media:
Lavella, Beauty & Aesthetics
lavella.beauty_aesthetics
Celebrate our 2nd
birthday of beautifying
our clients, treat yourself
on your next appointment
15% off
with Charlotte
Treatments Including in the offer:
All Environ and Relaxing Facials (excluding
Microneedling), Lash Lifts, Brow Lamination,
all Manicure & Pedicures, all Massage treatments
and Waxing (including female intimate Hot Wax)
T&Cs apply.
Only available with Charlotte, Tuesday to
Fridays only Cut this advert out to redeem offer,
not valid with any other offer.

4 If you are responding to an advertisement in The Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, please let the advertiser know. Thank you for your support.

5
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& Cheadle
Issue 105
Celebrating
Two years of
15% off
with Charlotte
Uttoxeter
& Cheadle
Uttoxeter
& Cheadle
Book your advert for
the next September
15th Voice magazine
NOW!
We are now open 7 days a
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Our opening hours are
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Specialising in Teas, Italian Piacetto
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Welcoming families, ramblers, cyclists,
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Lots of outside seating available
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S
pooky, funny new children’s novel Rules for
Vampires is flying in soon! Due for release
on the 16th September 2021, the book is up
for preorder from Waterstones, Amazon and
other bookstores. The recent cover reveal
showcases vibrant art from award-winning
illustrator Sara Ogilvie, who has previously
worked with acclaimed authors such as Julia
Donaldson.
The book was snapped up by publisher
Simon and Schuster in the summer of 2020
after a tense bidding period, negotiated by
agent Caroline Walsh of David Higham
Associates in London. Since then, interest in
Rules for Vampires continues to spiral, with
translations now upcoming in Italy, France,
Russia and Spain.
Written by Uttoxeter author Alex
Foulkes, Rules for Vampires follows the
adventures of Leo the Vampire, who is
plunged into a quest to fight an evil ghost
after a hunt gone wrong on her one
hundred and eleventh birthnight. The
creepy cast of characters includes a talking
spider, a mad scientist, an enchanted suit
of armour and a telekinetic vampire baby – an ensemble sure to capture the imagination of
children and grown-ups alike. It is suitable for everyone from the ages of 9 to 999.
Author Alex is a close friend of Oldfields Hall Middle School, having worked as an
Inclusion Support Assistant and School Librarian for six years.
She says, “It’s my absolute pleasure to dedicate my debut novel to Oldfields. I have always
loved to write and I’ve worked on a lot of projects, but Vampires feels special in that I wrote
it with the children of our school community in mind.
“I’m hoping to visit lots to do writing workshops and reading activities. The library is
where I’m most comfortable, and our school libraries and public library in Uttoxeter are
second to none. You couldn’t ask for better spaces to promote creativity, curiosity and love
of reading. I hope that kids in all our schools enjoy reading Rules for Vampires when it launches in
September, because I very much enjoyed writing it.”
Alex then turns into a bat and flies away, so we cannot reach her for further comment.
A literary future for ex-Oldfields teacher

7

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Black and Beautiful
H
ello. My name is Cleo and I need to find
a new home. I was born on 1st August
2013 and had to wait for several months
before anyone offered me a home. I think the
reason for that was that I am a black cat and not
many people want to give a home to a black cat.
I have been happy in my home for several years
but things in the household have now changed.
My Mum and Dad have done everything they
can to make me happy and I am grateful but I
want things to go back to how they were. Sadly
that is not possible so I’m asking if you could
offer me a home. I need a single Mum or Dad,
or a quiet Mum and Dad. A garden is on my
wish list as is a home which is away from busy traffic and one where there are no
other cats or dogs. I really don’t want to share my new home with young children as
I find them a worry. Please can you help me?
If so you can ring 01335 390369 or 01889 564045 and ask for Cleo. I’m
looking forward to your call.
H
ello. My name is Magic and I’m an
absolutely gorgeous black Tom cat. I
think I was born in February 2016, so
I’m still a young lad with all my life in front of
me. I’ve had a wonderful home since December
2016 and I’ve been really happy, but
unfortunately the lady who looked after me can
no longer do so and I have had to go back into
care to look for a new home. I didn’t know where
to start until I thought of contacting The Voice.
I hope there is someone reading about me
who will be able to offer me a home as I’m so sad
at the moment. I want to find a home in the
country as I like to go outside and need to be
somewhere safe and away from busy traffic. I am very affectionate and will need
someone who will give me lots of cuddles. I have lots of love to give and look forward
to hearing from anyone who would like to welcome me into their family.
Please ring 01335 390369 or 01889 564045 and ask for Magic.
Join us at The Vestry for a breath of fresh air! New fresh salon with a new
attitude. We are looking for established local stylists who may be already
working locally but looking for a better deal and improved income.
Our team are friendly, cheerful and supportive, resulting in a calm and
happy workplace!
We offer our stylists a range of options to benefit you, your clients and
your bank balance, including 50% Commission, Chair Rental or Employed
Contract.
We understand it can seem daunting to make a change, especially
after the last years challenges but life is about challenge and progression,
and we believe our salon offers you and your clients more than any other
salon in the area and we guarantee you will increase your income too.
The salon itself has a fresh and luxurious, yet modern design covering
over 100m2 with a total of 13 stations in the main salon, Private VIP room,
tanning room, two beauty rooms.
Our front of house team are highly trained to welcome our guests and
ensure they feel at home as well as ensure clients rebook before leaving.
Vestry invites its clients to enjoy our contemporary design combined
with customer focused service to deliver a friendly and professional
environment for both clients and staff alike using the very latest in
technology as well as premium salon only products.
Our salon offers guests more too, including premium BEAR coffee and
drinks counter, free Wi-Fi, free digital magazines, massaging recliner
backwash chairs and FREE PARKING!
Whether you are currently working ‘mobile’, in another salon as an
employed or self-employed member, we'd love to hear from you.
In return we offer a non-catty, very friendly and relaxed atmosphere,
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www.vestryuttoxeter.com • info@vestryuttoxeter.com • 01889 44 11 44
Springfield Road, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire ST14 8JZ

Springfield Road, Uttoxeter, ST14 8JZ
9

Take a drive out to one of the area’s most beautiful
‘olde worlde’ country inns and restaurants -
and savour a truly delicious experience!
Enjoy wonderful views overlooking Croxden Abbey
and the surrounding countryside.
Open every day, 12-10pm
Pensioners Specials
Monday to Saturday 12-2pm
Main Meal £5.75, 3 Courses £11.00
Sunday Lunches served all day
Take your pick from Beef,Turkey,
Lamb or Chicken
Traditional Cask Ales - Marston’s Pedigree,
Rev. James & Hobgoblin plus guests
Heated smoking area
Mid-Week Evening Specials
Accommodation in superb Log Cabins with
Hot Tubs available. B&B and Self Catering.
See website for further details.
Enjoy a great meal atThe Raddle -
The Perfect Country Inn & Restaurant
Quarry Bank, Hollington, near Alton Towers
Telephone: 01889 507278
www.logcabin.co.uk
U
ttoxeter Lions’ Den is a fun event and provides a great opportunity for people
to promote their scheme or share their project with others. It provides funds
to support local good causes and people most in need. It is open to local
charities, groups and individuals. All we ask is that bids have a strong civic or welfare
component.
There are no specific application criteria. Those wishing to bid, please make the
application before 30th July 2021.
The Support Request form is available to download at the website
www.uttoxeterlions.co.uk Successful applicants will be invited to attend the Lions’
Den
Send any requests for further information or completed forms to email
lionsden@uttoxeterlions.co.uk
Uttoxeter Lions’
Den roars

G
irlguiding has three active units in Rocester.
We empower girls to be their best and face the
challenges of growing up today through
adventure, friendship and fun. We offer a safe,
welcoming girl-only space for girls and young women
to try new things, help other people and discover their
passions and talents. All while having fun with a ready-
made group of friends! We’re dedicated to girls leading
the way – they choose the activities, challenges and
events that inspire them, and our volunteers support
them to make it happen.
Rainbows are age 5 -7
Brownies age 7 – 10
Guides age 10 – 14
14 – 18 year olds may join Uttoxeter Division
Rangers or become a Young Leader with one of our
units.
We’re also recruiting new adult volunteers and need
your support. We want to share how brilliant guiding
is, so we can keep more units open and benefit even
more girls. Girlguiding also looks good on your CV
showing teamwork and leadership as well as gaining
first aid and safeguarding skills; all this whilst having
good FUN!
Contacts:
• 1st Rocester Rainbows
Tracy Cope - Meet at Church
• 1st Rocester Brownies
Di Charman - Meet at Village Hall
• 1st Rocester Guides
Rachael Kilford - Meet at Church
For further information or to register your daughter
or volunteer please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk or
www.girlguidingstaffordshire.org.uk.
Abbots Bromley Rainbows
The Rainbows in Abbots Bromley have been busy
putting their wildflower garden in place, doing their bit
for the best kept village competition.
As you can see by the photographs below, they got
their hands dirty whilst having fun!
Come and view our fantastic new
Lighting and Electrical display
Anything electrical or lighting - we can supply it!
Delivery Service available covering Staffordshire & Derbyshire
Free Deliveries • Competitive Prices
Opening Times: 7:00 - 5:00 Monday to Friday • 8:30 - 12:00 Saturday • Sundays - Closed
Tel: 01889 565999 • Email: sales@townelectrical.com
Unit 2 Matkat Park, Dovefields, Derby Road, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire ST14 8GA
Girlguiding in Rocester
by Tracey Chamberlain

13

Call us now on 01889 591241
Unit 5, North View Farm, Alton Road, Denstone, Nr Uttoxeter, Staffordshire ST14 5DH
www.taylormademachinery.com • parts@taylormadelandscape.co.uk
The area’s leading Stihl
dealer for repairs,
warranty, sales and service
The country’s biggest Castel-
Garden dealer for repairs,
warranty, sales and service
• Domestic and commercial garden/turf/construction
machinery serviced and repaired.
• Non contact collection and delivery if required for all
your garden machinery.
• Experts in commercial and domestic robotic mower
installation (free site surveys)
• We will beat any local quote on new Stihl machinery
• Fast turn around
• In-house experts in commercial machinery, we can also
service and repair on site if required!
• Professional and friendly advice on all things garden
machinery related.
A
public consultation for
a new school in
Uttoxeter was launched
recently. Members of the local
community were invited to
have their say on council-
approved plans for a circa £5
million new first school on
Bramshall Meadows housing
estate in Bramshall.
Bramshall Meadows First
School, on Ivinson Way, will be
led by Uttoxeter Learning
Trust, which includes eight
successful schools that are
Ofsted graded ‘good’ or
‘outstanding’.
The new one-storey first
school includes places for 150 pupils age 4 to 9,
and nursery age children, and is due to open in
September 2022.
The project is being developed as part of a
wider plan to expand first school provision in
response to an increased demand for places
generated from new housing. The new school is
being funded by a Section 106 contribution and
Staffordshire County Council.
Sarah Clark, Chief Executive Officer,
Uttoxeter Learning Trust, said: “We are delighted
to grow our successful family of schools and
further support the local community. We strive
to provide inspiring education for children and
young people that supports them to reach their
full potential and become well rounded,
successful citizens, and would
urge the public to have their say
on this exciting new first
school.”
County Councillor Jonathan
Price, Cabinet Member for
Education, said: “New housing
brings with it an increased
demand for school places, so we
have to plan carefully to ensure
schools can cope with current
and future demand. This
proposed new school will offer
places for 150 children and
ensure families in the area
continue to have a choice over
their children’s education.”
The consultation process
included the launch of an online survey. To find
out more, please visit www.bramshallmeadows.
org.uk/about/consultation/.
The statutory consultation will inform
stakeholders and the local community about the
school and support recruitment of pupils for
September 2022.
Uttoxeter Learning Trust will look to build on
the feedback and suggestions they receive in the
development of policies for the new school.
Construction is anticipated to start on the site
in June 2021. Plans for the school were approved
by Staffordshire County Council in January 2019.
Pictured: Sarah Clark, Chief Executive Officer,
Uttoxeter Learning Trust.
Public consultation on new
circa £5 million Uttoxeter
first school launches

T
he 22nd May is famous for many things such as
the day the Yorkshire Ripper Peter Sutcliffe was
found guilty of murdering 13 women and
attempting to murder 7 others in 1981. The day that
students occupied Tiananmen Square in Beijing in
1989. The day that Winston Churchill resigned from
office in 1945 and the day a 13 year old boy named
Jordan Romero climbed Mount Everest in 2010.
Now to add to that list that it was the day that local
policeman Rich Lymer lost his infamous locks, having
spent seven years growing to support three amazing
cancer charities, Katherine House Hospice, Strongmen
and Mummy Star, by having them shaved off.
Rich commented: “A little later than the scheduled
1.30pm start time, a small socially distanced crowd
gathered at Bramshall Parish Hall and all feasted their
eyes as family friend and barber who has tended to my
hair for the last five years set about the nervous task of
snipping at my quarterly divided locks. Once the long
locks were removed he then set about using a shaver
set to grade zero to remove the left over hair. Handing
each section of hair that he snipped to me to dry my
eyes of tears, and then eventually the hair was gone.
The event was attended by local food and drink
vendors who sold out of their products given the
success of the day and also a candle stall reported
having one of their busiest days of trading. During the
day a total of £913.42 was made by cash donations on
the day, children’s activities, food sales and donations
made by the stall vendors. Add to this a figure of
£1,106.70 made by a tombola held on the day meaning
that £2,020.12 was raised on the day.
Prior to the event I had received £5,500 in online
donations to my JustGiving page which since having
my hair shaved has now gone up to £5,605 and a total
of £410 in pre event cash donations. The combined
total of the event and donations means an amazing
£8,035.12 has been raised which when split between
the three charities will mean around £2678.37 per
charity. Considering my initial target was only £600
and I now have achieved over four and a half times that
value for each charity is just amazing.
The success of my fundraising is not down to my
efforts alone but down to the generosity of friends,
family, colleagues and even people who have never met
me before. Through donations, social media shares or
just kindness in attending my event to support me has
meant I have achieved this amazing figure. I must also
highlight and thank other local residents who helped
me to organise the day, the kind people and businesses
who donated raffle prizes and my family friend Richard
Johnson who captured the day through photographs. I
must thank Sam Johnson for allowing himself to be
thrown into the limelight when he set to the task of
cutting my hair whilst being watched by people in
person and over the realms of social media.
The biggest thanks has to go to my family who have
had to support me whilst I have organised and
arranged this event. They’ve had to tolerate the stresses
and strains I’ve been under whilst coping with me
holding down a stressful job, working long hours and
spending time away from them organising all this.
I still have two unique gifts that were donated to me
that I will be auctioning separately. I have retained
these due to their uniqueness and hope to raise even
more money for the chosen charities. My JustGiving
page remains open until all funds have been received
and all donated items have been sold.
As a final note I would like to say how proud I am
of my achievements but the greater sense of pride
comes from being given the opportunity to raise funds
to help support these charities and to to support those
who need it. It truly has been an honour to do this for
you and working with you has been an amazing
experience” concluded Rich.
Thanks, Rich Lymer
Photos by Richard Johnson
And so the hair has gone...

Save the date - Wednesday 15th September
Open Event
National Teaching School
National Maths Hub
Specialist Science, Mathematics and Computing College
Painsley Catholic College
• Outstanding 2020 GCSE results: 97% of English GCSE grades at a standard pass or above (4-9); 89 % of Maths
GCSE grades at a standard pass or above (4-9); 70% of students achieved a strong pass in both Maths and
English (5-9)
• A Christian community with a caring, secure and disciplined environment.
• Consistently outstanding academic results
• A wide range of extra-curricular activities.
• High standards in Sport, Music and Drama.
• An outstanding Sixth Form.
• Painsley has the honour of being a Teaching School Hub, which is a prestigious recognition of the outstanding education provided at the College.
• Painsley is one of only 35 schools in the whole country to be awarded Maths Hub status. This is in recognition of our excellence in Maths.
• Recently appointed as one of just 22 schools to become a Behaviour Hub.
For further information, please contact the College.
Station Road, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST10 1LH
Web: www.painsley.co.uk
You are warmly invited to an event with one of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent’s top performing state secondary
schools. Although we are not able to confirm whether this year’s open event will be in person or
online, please make a note of the date and we will let you know the arrangements as soon as we can. However
we proceed, you will still have the opportunity to meet the Principal, key staff and find out more about our College
and our excellent facilities.

19

Eric Coleman, former Uttoxeter
Racecourse Parade Ring Manger,
celebrates his 100th Birthday
I
n the early 1980s on selling his Manchester
grocery shop, Eric and his wife Jessie moved to
Uttoxeter with their two Cavalier King Charles
Spaniels. They walked the dogs round the inside of
the course and soon got to know David McAllister.
Eric always carried a plastic bag and picked up litter.
This led to him clearing the Raceday litter and so
began a long association with the Racecourse. He
also had a job as a Postman, spending as long talking
to the locals as delivering post; he loved to chat and
made many friends!
Jane Gerard-Pearse, Racecourse Commercial
Manager about 30 years ago - when Eric was a young
man in his 70’s! - remembers:
“I was credited with persuading David McAllister
(my boss and General Manager) to order a new litter
sweeper, so Eric was a happy man. We have had a friendship ever since. He got on
well with everyone because he was friendly and chatty, but he loved the Racecourse
to be tidy so was aligned in his thinking with my father, Sir Stanley”
On leaving school he worked building the Ironbridge power station and would
go on the River Severn from his lodgings in a coracle. In the war, Eric served in the
RAF as an engineer on Spitfires. He had close encounters with the Japanese and
served in Africa, Burma and India; his stories are stuff of legend with his well-
deserved medals and other memorabilia never far away!
Jessie died some 20 years ago so the Racecourse became an increasing part of
Eric’s life; he commented:
“I have seen much change, met some wonderful people, made friends and
watched the course go from strength to strength especially when Stan Clarke took
over; no wonder he was knighted”
Eric managed the parade ring for many years and kept it all flowing smoothly,
looking tidy with all roses dead-headed and he loved meeting all of the Officials,
Owners and Trainers.
He loved driving and even in his 90’s had a car. He was sad to give that up but
has since moved on to speeding around Uttoxeter on his mobility scooter.
All at Uttoxeter are proud to call Eric their friend and congratulate him on
reaching 100 years, whilst still being able to have a laugh and a good old natter.

23
F
rancesco Group’s beginnings
were modest, when founder
Francesco Dellicompagni
started his hair journey in a Morris
Minor in 1969.
Over the next few decades,
Francesco and his brother Peter
Dellicompagni built Francesco
Group up to eight salons and by
the 1980s they began franchising,
this allowed the business to benefit
from the built-in talent pool they
had nurtured; equipping their
Stylists with the tools and the
talent to be successful business
owners in their own right.
Today, 37 salons bear the
Francesco Group name, now with
Pete’s daughter Anya and
Francesco’s children Mia & Ben at
the helm.
These close family ties have
ensured that the business is run
like an extended family and each
Franchisee is welcomed as a new
member. In 1988 Francesco Group
Uttoxeter opened its doors, becoming a new branch on
the #FGFamily tree.
For the last few years, Francesco Group Uttoxeter
has been run by experienced Salon Director Paula
Parkes. Paula began her hair industry career as a
Business Development Manager for Francesco Group
Head Office, supporting FG salons with any assistance
they may need. Working in this environment gave Paula
the desire to own her own salon and in 2012 Paula took
ownership of Francesco Group Uttoxeter, later even
training as a Stylist herself so she could get on the salon
floor and fully support her team!
The family values instilled by Francesco and Pete
and the passion for education that Paula has displayed
with her desire to train as a hairdresser later on in her
career journey, permeates the business at every level;
Paula sees the other members of
her team as her extended family
and during lockdown she has
invested heavily in their
education, to guarantee that they
come back to the salon more
equipped with unique skills than
ever before. They are ready to
create the hair of your dreams!
Paula also used lockdown to
make the salon more eco friendly;
purchasing new lighting systems,
eco backwashes that reduce water
usage by 390 litres per backwash
per day and refining the salons’
recycling system, ensuring that
there is minimal waste. Francesco
Group Uttoxeter also stocks vegan
hair care ranges, so you are able to
easily have a completely vegan and
eco-friendly salon experience!
In addition to stringent
cleaning and safety procedures,
Francesco Group Uttoxeter has
socially distanced sections where
Stylists can maintain your safety
without it infringing on your salon experience. They do
everything they can to keep your salon experience more
comfortable than clinical, whilst still ensuring that you
feel completely safe during your time in the salon.
Get booked in at Uttoxeter’s best kept secret,
Francesco Group Uttoxeter! Contact the salon on 01889
568708 to get booked in!
Francesco Group Uttoxeter
back stronger than ever

Let’s upcycle
Help the planet one project at a time
by Allison Maryon
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
I
will apologise in advance. I am on my soap box
with this article, preaching about my pet hate
plastic carrier bags. We will make a ‘No Sew T
Shirt Bag’ but before we get into that I would like to
give you details of an initiative called MORSBAGS. A
group called Staffordshire Stitchers was created a few
years ago, making Morsbags alongside our social
sewing group.
A Morsbag is a handmade, tote style shopping bag
made from recycled material. Old curtains, duvet
covers, tablecloths etc. It is a positive way to reduce the
hideous number of plastic bags being used and to keep
textile waste out of landfill. They are then given away
for free.
There are free patterns (including a wheelchair
option) for making the bags available on the Morsbag
website.
• Fact: Globally, over 1 million plastic bags are
consumed per minute
• Gut Wrenching Fact: Marine wildlife mistakes
plastic bags for food and dies
• Happy Fact: Making morsbags will help, with
immediate effect
Plastic bags in water are serial killers. They are
ingested by marine wildlife, as plastic bags are often
mistaken for jellyfish. The dolphin, whale, turtle or bird
dies by suffocation or starvation and decomposes
around the bag. The bag floats off, ready for its next
victim.
No one knows how long these treacherous bags take
to biodegrade. Humans have only been using them for
40(ish) years but they are already covering the planet.
Plastic bags photodegrade (break down into smaller
and smaller plastic bits) and the pieces infiltrate every
part of the food chain, for marine wildlife and then
inevitably humans !
A young female minke whale was washed up in
Normandy, France, on April 6th 2002. The contents of
her stomach were :
2 x English supermarket bags
7 x various coloured dustbin bag bits
7 x transparent plastic bags
1 x food packaging wrapper
Factoids at a glance:
• Over 500 billion plastic bags are used worldwide
each year
• Retailers and governments are struggling to make
a difference through taxes and bans - consumers
need to take this into their own hands
• According to MSN, the production of plastic bags
creates enough solid waste per year to fill the
Empire State Building two and a half times.
• In some parts of the ocean there are six pounds of
plastic for every pound of plankton.
Now for your make…
You will need: An old T shirt and a pair of scissors.
Yes that’s it.
1. Lay the T shirt flat. Cut away both sleeves from the
top shoulder seam to the underarm seam.
2. Cut around the neckline sweeping the curve down
to the same level as the underarm seam you have
cut in step 1.
3. Cut up 2 inches from the bottom hem at Ω inch
intervals.
4. Decide whether you would like the fringing left by
the knotting process to be inside or outside of the
bag. If outside, you will knot on the outside. If you
would prefer not to see the fringing, turn the T shirt
inside out to knot.
5. Take a piece of cut fringing from the front and one
from opposite on the back and knot twice.
6. Carry on knotting along the full width of the T shirt
base. If you have knotted the inside, turn through
to the right side.
7. Cut 4 pieces 6 inches x ½ inch from the fabric you
cut away in step 2. Tie around each of the handle
bases (this is decorative and can be left out if
wanted).
This is a great project to get children involved in.
They can make their own PE bags and spread the word
that they are saving the oceans - one bag at a time.
Steps 1,2 & 3 Finished T Shirt Bag Morsbags
N
igel and Janet Lowe officially opened the new goal posts at
the Stramshall Playing Fields, Stramshall on a cold and wet
morning last week.
Mr and Mrs Lowe had kindly made a donation to Uttoxeter
Rural Parish Council in order that the goal posts could be
reinstated, after the old ones had served their time.
Nigel said, “It is a pleasure to support a local playing field and
my wife and I are thrilled that we have been able to make a
contribution to replacing this equipment. My family provided the
original goal posts many years ago and it is nice to be carrying on
a family tradition for the residents of the Parish”.
Nigel and Janet Lowe were joined by Uttoxeter Rural Parish
Councillors, Cllr Philip Smith (Chairman), Cllr Tom Ollerenshaw
and Cllr David Oulsnam for the official opening.
Cllr Philip Smith added, “The Parish Council are delighted to
have collaborated with Mr and Mrs Lowe of Lowe Engineering,
Bramshall, to replace the old goal posts. The Councillors would
like to thank both Nigel and Janet for their generous donation, it
has ensured the success of the project for the children of the Parish”
Janet Lowe, Nigel Lowe, Cllr Ollerenshaw, Cllr Oulsnam, Cllr Smith
Play resumes in Stramshall

HEART OF SIAM
Exquisite THAI Restaurant
Heart of Siam, 11-17 Queen Street, Uttoxeter ST14 8HJ
Call 01889 566288
www.heartofsiamuttoxeter.co.uk
heartofsiamthai@gmail.com
Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 5.00pm - 10.00pm, Sunday Closed
Come and enjoy the best
Thai food in Uttoxeter!
HHHHH Rated
Call 01889 566288 to Book Your Table Now!!

A
hugely successful local business is celebrating
50 years of service to the local community
which is a spectacular achievement in today’s
modern times. In June 1971, Len Woodward decided
to start a self-employed business, using the spare
bedroom in his Lower Tean home as an office…..
Determined to succeed, Len had the support of his
wife, Margaret, and he set off on his journey of creating
his business.
Fifty years later, Len is still providing the personal
service that was the keystone of making his business
grow into the success that it is today.
Now, at the ripe old age of 78, Len is still the main
man, overseeing all departments at L. G. Woodward in
Balance Street, Uttoxeter. The business now includes 3
sections – electrical contracting, The Appliance Centre
and Gifts Galore.
The electrical contracting side of the business has
gained large installations contracts and among his
many clients were the likes of Alton Towers, Trentham
Gardens, JCB, Elkes and numerous private customers.
In 1980 the business became a Limited Company
and the premises in Balance Street were purchased.
The retail side of the business has developed with a
lighting and giftware showroom along with electrical
appliances and these sections trade under the titles of
Gifts Galore and The Appliance Centre.
L. G. Woodward Ltd is truly a family firm with a
total of six members of staff being in the family – The
contracts manager is Anthony Fuller (son-in-law),
electrical technician Ryan Saunders (grandson-in-law),
accounts manager Clare (daughter), retail manager
Kala (daughter), company secretary Margaret (wife)
with Len holding the Managing Director position.
Len and his staff wish to sincerely thank all of the
many clients, both old and new, for their support over
50 years.
Here’s to the continuing success of L. G. Woodward
Ltd – a local business you can trust…
L.G. Woodward, 50 years serving the community

27
YE A RS
Service to the
Local Community
8-10 Balance St, Uttoxeter ST14 8JE
Contact us: 01889 562758 / 01889 564637
www.woodwardelectricians.co.uk • lgwoodwardltd@aol.com
Open : Mon - Fri 8:00 am - 5:00 pm • Saturday 8:00 am - 12:30 pm • Sunday Closed
Domestic and Industrial
Call-Outs for Breakdowns
Landlords Certificates
N.I.C.E.I.C. Approved
All makes of Washing Machines,
Tumble Dryers, Cookers, Ovens,
Hobs, Freezers, Dishwashers
and many small
Domestic Appliances.
Installation and disposal of
items can be arranged.
Many unique ideas for
presents along with a
Decorative Lighting
Showroom. Stockists of
Gisela Graham, Powder,
Coachouse and many other
individual manufacturers.
THE APPLIANCE CENTRE
AT LG WOODWARD LTD
Gifts Galore
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

29
We are looking for a caring, proactive, passionate,
and ambitious
with a valid PIN, to support us in creating the best person-
centred environment for our residents at our friendly and
established Residential and Nursing Home in Uttoxeter.
Full time nights - 37.5 Hours per week, working weekends
on rota.
Salary based on £17.00 an hour, Nursing PIN paid after
qualifying service, DBS paid, generous pension scheme, paid
breaks and further training.
AboutYou
As an experienced qualified nursing professional, who shows the
most up-to-date knowledge of clinical practices, you will be
able to demonstrate excellent leadership and communication
skills, be keen in developing yourself and others and able to
build good close relationships with residents and their families.
You will be driven and determined to deliver continuous
improvement, with an enthusiastic approach and the ability to
be highly responsive under pressure. It is also important that you
share our same family care values, be a team player and
committed to ensure the very best of care is delivered to our
wonderful residents.
Please contact for more information
Tel: 01889 562628 • Email: Stacey@kirk-house.co.uk
Kirk House Nursing Home, Uttoxeter ST14 8JE
Registered General Nurse (RGN)
This Uttoxeter bar brings a fresh, new drinking experience to the historic
market town. The Post Bar & Lounge is an independent bar & venue,
situated on the High Street, with Uttoxeter’s very first rooftop terrace,
serving cocktails, spirits, beers & ales.
Opening Hours: Monday: Closed. Tuesday - Friday: Open from 17:00.
Saturday - Sunday: Open from 14:00.
(Opening hours will vary depending on local events including Race
Meetings, Makers Market Saturdays and Bank Holidays)
Walk-ins welcome but if you’d like a guaranteed table please get in
touch. Function & meeting space also available, please get in touch for
further details.
Phone: 01889 564453
Email: info@thepostuttoxeter.co.uk
@thepostuttoxeter @thepost_uttoxeter
A NEW EXPERIENCE

Utilising the latest paint technology and skills, we can repair damage at roughly half
the cost a conventional Bodyshop would charge.
Pop in for an estimate, no need to book - or WhatsApp the images through!
SMART Repairs
(Small Medium Area Repair Technology)
Derby Road, Uttoxeter Staffs ST14 8EG • T: 01889 563448 • W: www.angusmackinnon.co.uk
Whats App: 07496 099695 or email your images to bodyshop@angusmackinnon.co.uk
All paintwork, chips and
scratches rectified
Alloy wheels, curb damage
refurbished
Bumper scuffs and
scrapes re-finished
Car park dents
removed
J
im Holmes first moved to Stramshall in 1960,
taking over as licensee of the Hare & Hounds,
with his family, wife Olive and four daughters.
The village pub was very quiet, and he needed to
find more of an income, taking on various different
jobs i.e. delivering, grave digging and driving.
In 1961 he brought a Chimney Sweeping
business and built up a successful career, in 1987 his
son-in-law Allen Bostock took over the business and
ran it successfully for 35years. Now Allen’s retired,
Jims granddaughter and Allen’s niece, Emma Hutton
has qualified as a Chimney Sweep and is a member
of The National Association of Chimney Sweeps.
Emma, whose father was a local man Colin
Morfitt has taken on the ongoing business from her
uncle Allen and is carrying on the family tradition.
Emma is married to a local electrican, Kevin
Hutton and they have 3 sons.
Emma Hutton Chimney Sweeps offers
Traditional Brush and Rods, Power Sweeping,
CCTV Inspections and more. They are a friendly
family run business that is honest, efficient &
very clean.
They would like to thank all their customers
for the support over the years. Emma looks
forward to continuing with the business and its
loyal customers for many more years to come.
We would also like to reassure all customers
old and new that we are adhering to strict Covid
safe policies in these difficult times.
3 Generations of Chimney Sweeps

31
Book your Advert Now for
the next September 15th
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Give us a call on 01538 751629 or
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Field Funeral Services |37a High Street | Tean
Stoke on Trent | Staffordshire | ST10 4DY
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fieldfuneralservice@hotmail.co.uk
T
he refreshed Uttoxeter Masterplan is a
regeneration document that sits outside of the
planning policy framework, instead serving the
purpose of identifying opportunities and aspirations for
the future regeneration of the town. As such, the
Masterplan does not seek to provide any permissions for
development, but to instead ascertain the regeneration
priorities for the town in the future.
As part of this, the Masterplan establishes the
current baseline economic performance of the town and
wider possible interventions, presenting four priority
areas for focussed regeneration:
1) The Maltings Shopping Centre
2) The Trinity Centre
3) The Wheatsheaf
4) The Quarry
There are possible interventions identified for each
of the priority areas, however, these are high level
suggested options proposed by the report authors prior
to undertaking further consultation with residents and
visitors of the town, which will shortly be launched by
the Council.
Speaking about the consultation Deputy Leader for
Regeneration and Planning Policy, Councillor George
Allen said: “In February this year, I made a promise to
the Council and the residents of Uttoxeter that the next
round of consultation for the Masterplan would be
brought forward as soon as COVID-19 restrictions
would enable us to conduct a hybrid approach to
consultation, involving both physical and virtual
engagement.
Although there may be a slight delay to the easing
of restrictions, I am pleased to now confirm that the
consultation will be launched later this month and will
enable residents, businesses and visitors of Uttoxeter to
inform the proposals for the four priority sites identified
by the Masterplan, in order to contribute their ideas for
these areas that are in need of regeneration.”
The consultation will commence at the end of
June/beginning of July with stakeholder workshop
events held with community groups in Uttoxeter, which
will be held both virtually and in person.
At the same time, details of the public consultation
will be published with online and physical media,
including presentation boards, posters, leaflets, and
questionnaires. These will be located in key locations in
the town, such as the Maltings Car Park, and linked with
important events such as the Makers Market. Physical
consultation events will take place in the town, with the
overall programme running until September 2021.
Feedback will be provided to stakeholder groups
and the public in September, with the responses
informing the proposals and final options for the four
priority areas in the Masterplan.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Duncan
Goodfellow, added: “In order to ensure that residents of
Uttoxeter, and the wider Borough, are kept informed of
the Council’s work on the Uttoxeter Masterplan
Consultation, we will be creating a mailing list through
which residents will be able to receive emails about the
consultation over the course of the summer. If you
would like to subscribe to this list, please email your
name, address and contact details to:
enterprise.team@eaststaffsbc.gov.uk”.
East Staffordshire Borough Council
launches next phase of consultation
on Uttoxeter Masterplan
Church Street, Uttoxeter ST14 8AA
Tel 01889 564216
tyreways@uttoxeter.ndo.co.uk
Uttoxeter’s Premier
Tyre Centre
Right service
Right advice
Right choice
Right price
• Tyres
• Exhausts
• Batteries
• Brakes and
Shock Service
• Agricultural Tyres
• Wheel Alignment

Down on the Farm
by Angela Sargent
“For he led us, he said, to a joyous land,
Joining the town and just at hand,
Where waters gushed and fruit trees grew,
And flowers put forth a fairer hue,”
Robert Browning
J
uly brings with it the shearing of ewes and rams, if
not already done and spraying of lambs to keep flies
away. Although our adult sheep are wormed only
when necessary (to try to keep product resistance at
bay), it is important the young lambs are treated
regularly- they haven’t the immunity older sheep have
and can be badly affected or even die. Some farms dip
all their sheep, but a special license is needed and our
old dipping bath was concreted over many years ago.
Although mobile dips and staff can be hired.
Silage making is taking up a lot of time for livestock
farmers and for arable ones, the end is nearly in sight
for this years’ corn crops as they begin to ripen in the
summer sun- a long period of settled weather is
appreciated by all!
Hay making is usually carried out now but needs a
long fine spell to dry the mown grass, allow it to be
turned a couple of days and then to be rowed up, baled
and moved under cover- bad luck if you suffer from
hayfever (as hubby does).
Here we grow corn to feed our livestock, as we try
to keep input costs down, but other farmers prefer to
buy in feed as its easier make sure there is a more
complete nutrition available. Mixes can be tested and
supplements obtained if necessary.
Harvest also brings its own worries- is the corn
store cleaned and vermin proof (particularly for milling
grain), is the grain dry enough (too dry and there are
deductions /too damp and there are also deductions),
is the machinery serviced and working properly, are
staff on standby?
Harvest is also a dusty, grubby job and usually
means long hours- please take care when in the vicinity
of mechanical equipment- its so easy for accidents to
happen, through tiredness, through desire to get the
job done and through inexperience.
Lots of umbrelliferous plants (umbrella-like)
abound, such as Cow parsley, Fools parsley, Wild
carrot, Angelica and the poisonous Hemlock
(identifiable by the purple spots on the stem)- all found
on wasteland, field boundaries and hedgerows –
probably buzzing with numerous insects such as
Hoverflies and Orange-tip butterflies as they are a good
source of pollen.
We’ve seen many hares around the farm and several
leverets and they are a joy to watch as they zigzag away-
even the dogs don’t bother chasing as they know they’d
never catch one (not that we’d let them!).
Ginny’s Community Corner
by Ginny Gibson of Uttoxeter
W
hen we moved to Uttoxeter, we didn’t know
anyone, I was working from home, so not
much opportunity to meeting anyone, so I
volunteered in the Scope Charity Shop on Uttoxeter High
Street, only for one afternoon a week, but it made a huge
difference to my life and I think I was of help too. So, do
you want to volunteer in the community that you live in?
If so, Staffordshire County Council has an area on its
website called “Do It” and it has an amazing area of
opportunities for volunteering www.staffordshire.
gov.uk/Community/Volunteer/Do-It-Staffordshire.
aspx
The website states, “The Doing Our Bit initiative aims
to encourage all residents of Staffordshire to think about
what one thing they can do to help themselves, their
families and their local communities. Staffordshire
County Council and Support Staffordshire have worked
together to create a digital solution, to improve your
volunteering experience. We have joined forces with the
popular ‘Do It’, volunteering platform to create a
Staffordshire only area of the website.”
The main website then links to another web page -
doit.life/doitstaffordshire where you have to create an
account, with a profile of yourself, then click on the search
button and a range of places appear that need your help.
If you want help setting up your profile as an organisation
or as a volunteer, you can contact Support Staffordshire
on 0300 777 1207 or via info@supportstaffordshire.
org.uk
After I created an account, I clicked on some of the
roles on offer and thought you might like to see the
results:
Cherry Orchard Gardening Services or COGS are
looking for Garden Buddies, they are a Burntwood based
charity that helps adults gain new skills, experience and
confidence to help them become employed. Our charity
is user led so our members have the final decision in how
we operate. This membership mainly has learning
disabilities, however anyone can join if they feel it would
benefit them. Volunteer’s who feel they can support
individuals with unique learning styles to realise their
potential through work and discussion, while giving them
the choice of how to grow. Where: Burntwood Memorial
Community Centre, domestic gardens, Public open
spaces. When: Mon to Friday, 8:30am to 3pm.
CHAT (carers help and talk) line was also looking for
home based volunteers. The service hopes to be friends
of the many Staffordshire Carers. They run CHAT line
which gives registered carers the opportunity to chat with
volunteers. The carer may have a problem they need
support with, they may need someone to listen to them
or they may just want to chat about Coronation Street!
CHAT operate 2 versions: Incoming calls - This is when
you are given a dedicated hour (or hours!) each week
where calls from Carers to the CHAT Line will be
diverted to your phone for you to offer a listening ear
during your allocated hours. Outgoing calls – This is
where we match you with a Carer who would like to
receive weekly calls, for you to check in on them every
week for a catch up and friendly chat. All volunteering
takes place from the comfort of your own home and there
will be no costs to you. We have a system that ensure that
the Carer will not know your number and you will not
know theirs either.
Beanstalk Reading are looking for volunteers to work
on a 1-1 basis with children, (the same child each week).
Talking, reading and playing games to improve
confidence and self esteem. Various locations - usually
local primary schools or community rooms throughout
Staffordshire.
Farm Fresh Foods in Barton Under Needwood, want
to introduce every adult and child to the benefits of
healthy and great tasting food. Getting children excited
about eating more healthily is one of their primary
objectives. They do this by distributing food through
local schools, it means they can educate the school
children and their parents about the virtues of freshly
grown, healthy food. They are looking for volunteer Food
Distribution Drivers to help ensure that the weekly
distribution of fresh food bags to schools are done
successfully. The duties include Help to package up the
fresh food at the farm ready to take to schools. Assist with
the loading of the vans. Attend one of the schools in one
of the loaded vans (either as a passenger or driver), on
arrival at the school, assist with setting up the fresh food
in a market style on the tables provided. Help to pack the
bags with fresh fruit and vegetable. Engage with the
families that collect the food. Return all empty packaging
and left over food to the farm. The volunteer role will be
for between 4 to 5 hours a week during term-time only
on a Friday afternoon.
The Do IT website also liaises with Staffordshire
Volunteer Centres who are the NCVO nationally
accredited volunteering support service that works with
over 1,000 voluntary, community and non for profit
groups and organisations across the county and wider
area, to offer you the opportunity to engage with a wide
variety of volunteering opportunities. Most of the roles
can be arranged via the Do IT website but if you want to
book a one to one appointment with a dedicated Social
Action Officer then please call 0300 777 1207 and they
will be happy to help.
However, if you want to look up the opportunities
that are within Staffordshire County Council itself then
visit www.staffordshire.gov.uk/Community/
Volunteer/PeopleHelpingPeople.aspx
For instance, the Stafford Library wants volunteers to
pass on IT Skills to users of the ‘People’s Network’, on a
one to one basis within a Library. Plus assisting with IT
on a 1:1 basis in order to help work club members/ users
of the ‘People’s Network’/job seekers search for jobs on
line, complete online application forms etc. There is an
opportunity to achieve an accreditation after completing
the training and 30 volunteer hours. But there are other
opportunities, so email: volunteerinyour library@
staffordshire.gov.uk
Or if you would prefer outdoors volunteering, then
the Rural Access Volunteer pages states, “opportunities
are available to work in the countryside in a variety of
roles and rural locations across the county. This is an
excellent chance to gain experience in the industry and
ideal for those wishing to contribute to the up keep of the
county’s country parks and rights of way.” and the page
also highlights “Activities and tasks volunteers can get
involved in include: Installing and repairing gates, stiles,
foot-bridges, fences and steps. Clearing footpaths and
vegetation. Heathland and estate management. Installing
signposts and way markers. Other environmental and
conservation work. And general country park duties such
as patrolling, litter picking and helping with events.” To
find out more call Steve Holford on 01543 425758, or
email: steve.holford@ staffordshire.gov.uk
There are so many opportunities available, so why not
be part of the community and volunteer today. It helped
me greatly to feel like I belonged and I met some
wonderful people too.

33
Call Emily on 01782 415649
or 07946 603936
We are operating by phone delivering
free to the door, we can also do
vouchers for birthday presents
throughout the year
QUALITY BEDS, ALWAYS LOW PRICES
FREE Local Delivery on Saturdays
Opening hours
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday,
Friday and Saturday
9:30am till 4pm
Thursday and Sunday closed

CARLTON UPHOLSTERY
RE-UPHOLSTERY & REPAIRS • EST 1979
Three-Piece Suites • Odd Chairs & Sofas
Headboards • Bedroom Furniture • Re-Springing
Replacement Seat • Foam Cushions/Fibre
Repairs to Upholstery
Antique Restoration also Undertaken
For a FREE Estimate call Carlton Upholstery on
01538 756274 or 07976 794811
Carlton Upholstery, 1 Rawle Close, Rectory Fields,
Cheadle, Staffs ST10 1UX
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hotmail.co.uk
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I
t was a very enjoyable and exciting book signing
day at Heath House Farm, Forsbrook for Susan
‘Nanny Sue…
The Restaurant/Tea Room and Garden Centre were
very busy and Cheadle author Sue commented: “I
attended the day before with my Mum, we had lunch
and then just before it closed, we set up the table etc.in
preparation for the exciting day.
“Mum was absolutely thrilled to see my books on
display at a ‘real venue’; especially as Heath House
Farm is a local family run business. In the book ‘Jack,
The Pirate with a Secret’ there is a page with a
dedication to my Mum and family and also my ‘Late
Dad’ who was a natural storyteller and a true
inspiration to us all. There is also a dedication to my
four Grand Children too.
“The day itself was busy and any children who
attended received a gift bag with a few goodies inside!
One young man wore his Pirate Eye patch as a disguise!
I signed a few books and shared further
information with people who attended who asked
about my book.
“I would like to say a huge Thank You to Sue
Doherty, the proprietor, who has given me the
opportunity to showcase my books and is stocking my
books in the delightful Gift Shop at Heath House Farm.
I would also like to thank Leighanne and Lesley who
made me feel very welcome and also created the
display within the Gift Shop. It was a good day and
hopefully further exciting days will soon follow.”
Nanny Sue Mum at Heath House
Local Author Susan Brunt holds book-
signing event at Heath House Farm

36 If you are responding to an advertisement in The Uttoxeter Cheadle Voice, please let the advertiser know. Thank you for your support.
ian.north@zerodrytime.com

37
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D
uring the first week of the last and, hopefully,
final lockdown, the deaths were announced of
four well known people. I did not know any of
them personally, having never met three of them and I
had only very briefly (very briefly indeed) met the
fourth. Yet each had made some sort of impact on my
life. These were John Dawes, Helen McCrory, Shirley
Williams and the Duke of Edinburgh.
Growing up as I did in South Wales with two older,
rugby mad brothers it was inevitable that I too would
grow to love this sport. By some strange process of
osmosis, I developed an enthusiasm for the game and
particularly for the team who represented Wales during
the glory years of the 1970s. I cannot resist adding here
that the recent performance of my home nation
brought back wonderful memories!
During my teenage years my bedroom wall was
covered with posters of my favourite singers and bands
but, in pride of place, hung my huge poster of Barry
John. But it was not this legend’s name that was held in
the highest esteem in my home. It was that of John
Dawes, his leadership on the field being as celebrated
as his skill. When I heard of his death at the age of 80,
I felt nostalgic for that wonderful era of Welsh rugby.
Shirley Williams was a very dominant figure in my
youth as she was one of the few female politicians. I was
always fascinated by Mrs. Williams and her forthright
manner, but I thought that she was also very human
and willing to show that changing one’s opinion is not
a form of weakness. This was proved by being one of
the founders of the SDP and this alone reinforced to
me that women (to misquote Beyoncé) really could
rule the country if not the world. Again, I felt great
nostalgia for my younger self when her death, at 90, was
announced. Helen McCrory’s death at 52 did not make
me nostalgic for the past but very sad about the future.
At this age, this wonderful actress should have had
years left in which to further delight us with her talent.
Mrs. Damien Lewis played a big part in my love of
modern culture. She was a scary and unforgettable
Narcissa Malfoy, mother of the odious Draco, in the last
three film adaptations of the Harry Potter books. Helen
McCrory was an equally scary and unforgettable Polly
Gray, aunt to the charismatic gangster Thomas Shelby,
in the marvellous ‘Peaky Blinders’. My admiration of
her was further increased when I read that, in her final
days, she urged her husband, the equally talented
Damien Lewis, to find love again. You have probably
worked out that yes, I have met the Duke of Edinburgh.
Many years ago, I was teaching in Sutton Coldfield
and was involved in the D of E Award in my school.
Prince Philip arrived by helicopter, which landed on
the playing field, and proceeded to meet the youngsters
working to achieve either Bronze, Silver or Gold and
many of the staff guiding them through. The duke
came across to a group of girls planning their Silver
walking expedition. He began by asking if this was the
group who would be walking together. One answered
‘Yes, Sir’ (as they had been instructed to do) then he
looked up at me, took a double take and said... ‘Not
you!’ I was only 24 but obviously couldn’t pass for 15!
He continued to speak to each young woman and
seemed generally interested in the route being
prepared. Then off he went to speak to another group,
maybe about to say the same things but this was not
the impression that he left myself and five 15-year-olds.
My parents were born within months of the former
Philip of Greece and were unashamedly monarchists.
Philip may not have been born destined to walk a few
steps behind his wife or to show what seemed like
genuine interest in teenagers, but he accomplished both
with selflessness and charm. Attributes that can be
applied to the other well-known names who left us
during the same week. Until next month...
My Monthly Musings
by Cecily Cowans of Cheadle
Apple and Cinnamon
Frangipane Tarts
T
hese little tarts are a firm
favourite with all my family.
They are very easy to make,
and make a great dessert served
with vanilla ice cream or creme
fraiche.
So you will need:-
400g sweet shortcrust pastry flour
for dusting
For the frangipane filling -
100g unsalted butter
100g golden caster sugar
2 large free range eggs
100g ground almonds
few drops of almond essence
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
125g chopped apple
4 tbsp flaked almonds
Icing sugar for dusting
Grease 6 x individual loose
bottomed fluted tart tins (or you
could make one 20cm tart). Roll
out your pastry thinly on a dusted
floured surface. Arrange five of
your tins on the pastry and cut out
a little larger that the tins. Reroll
the pastry to make your sixth tart.
Press the pastry into the tins and
up the sides, trimming the pastry a
little above the top of the tins. Prick
the bases with a fork and chill for
approx. 15 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 190˚C. Line
the pastry cases with greaseproof
paper and fill with baking beans.
Bake for approx. 10 mins, then
carefully remove the greaseproof
paper and cook the empty tarts for
approx. 5 mins until the pastry is
just beginning to brown around the
edges.
To make the frangipane filling,
beat together the butter and sugar
until light and fluffy. Gradually
beat in the eggs and stir in the
ground almonds, chopped apples
and cinnamon. Divide the mixture
between the tart cases, then
sprinkle with the flaked almonds.
Bake at 180˚C for approx. 20 mins
until golden.
Leave the tarts to cool for 10
minutes or until ready to serve
then remove from the tart tins and
dust with icing sugar.
These can be served hot or
cold. I prefer them served hot with
either a generous portion of vanilla
ice cream or creme fraiche.
Karen’s Cake Corner
by Karen Hill

See how
The Voice
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your
business
Give us a call on
01538 751629
or 07733 466 970
or Email:
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hotmail.co.uk
Advert prices start
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can hit over
13,000 homes
39
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Cheadle
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E: enquire@donaldcope.com
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ARE YOU FED UP WITH
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You can also read The Voice at www.uttoxeterandcheadlevoice.co.uk

C
headle’s Community Library is now open again for book browsing and PC
use, but remains on reduced opening hours until more volunteers can be
recruited.
There is an excellent core of existing volunteers, who managed to keep a foyer
service running throughout the last lockdown. However due to the pandemic, several
volunteers were forced to temporally step down and are still unable to return, as
they’re either still shielding, or have extra family responsibilities.
Over 800 people already volunteer in libraries across Staffordshire, with 22 of
those libraries being managed by volunteer groups. People of all ages volunteer for
many different reasons, examples include: Making new friends, developing new skills
and giving back to the community.
Volunteering can be incredibly rewarding - helping a number of people to combat
mental health problems and prepare them to re-enter the workplace. Older people
who have retired, find that volunteering is a way to stay active while doing something
they consider meaningful.
Cheadle Library volunteer Diane Platt, on her experience: “Two years after taking
redundancy, my family began to worry that I’d lost my ‘spark’. I had started to feel in
a bit of a rut, with some weeks barely leaving the house. Now my confidence has
returned, I have learned new skills and met wonderful new people. All this because
I became a volunteer at Cheadle library who made me feel so welcome.”
The group would like to hear from anyone able to spare a few hours a week. They
can be contacted by e-mail (cheadlelibraryvolunteers@gmail.com), or an application
form can be collected from the library. More information about the library and
services can be found on the library website (cheadlecommunitylibrary.org.uk).
V is for Volunteering at Cheadle Library
My love of Life, Lorries and Coaches
by John Willmore, of Cheadle
So continuing from the last part of my story in The
Voice…
A
fter a while, the skills I had used with my father
working on lorries started to show as when
breakdowns occurred on the vehicles I was
allowed to help to repair the vehicles at the Coal
Screens N.C.B. site.
The lorries had a hard life, often having to climb
high coal stockpiles. The lorries were often over-
loaded.
To illustrate, the Bedford S Type RJU 259 sheared
it’s rear axle which turned the lorry on it’s side.
John Clowes and Mick Slater were in the vehicle at
the time, making a very swift exit – both of them
playing Supermen flying through the air, hoping that
the turning-over lorry would not crush them -
thankfully, it did not!
I was allowed to help Derrick Shenton to change the
broken axle. Remember, I mentioned Derrick in my
first book. Mick Forrester also worked for Mr Glen
Shenton who worked on the lorry with us.
This lorry mentioned was not out of my charge – I
now had a long-nosed long wheel based Dodge Kew,
the type with Airflow type cab fitted – PJB 259 – some
will remember this lorry as it was green with black
mudguards and Horsleys written on the doors. This
was the business as it had a Leyland Comet Engine
fitted.
The RJU 259, the Bedford with Perkins R6 fitted,
was difficult to start on cold mornings so it had to be
towed to start it using ether in the intake to help it fire
but it was still reluctant to start with new driver Trevor
from Wales quipping I did not tow him fast enough!!
Picture the scene, a frosty morning in winter just
breaking daylight in 1965. All the other drivers
standing around to watch the show! I had told them
that Trevor was going to be towed at speed he never
knew could be done around a coal stockpile on a 15ft
chain!!
So, after hooking up the dodge the show started –
towing slowly at first but building up speed, blue smoke
coming out of the Bedford as it tried to start – we went
faster and faster and then more blue smoke coming out
until we were catching the smoke up, making it difficult
to see where we were going……
The signal to be given on the towed lorry was a
peep on the horn as it started. This Trevor did but I was
having so much fun going at speed, towing Trevor, that
I thought to give him more, so I went round the
stockpile again….
After stopping near the crowd of drivers, I got out
of my lorry shouting to Trevor ‘Was that fast enough
for you?’ What he said cannot be printed here – no
health and safety rules in those days…

41
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Can you identify the faces and locations?
See Page 50 for some of the names to the faces.
The good old days
URGENTLY
REQUIRED
If you have any photos that you think
may be of interest to our readers of this
page please feel free to drop them in to
Lavins printers in High Street, Uttoxeter
who will scan them while you wait and
let you have them straight back or email
them in jpg format to them at:
lavinprinters@btconnect.com
Please describe the people or event
featured and approx year when the
picture was taken along with your name
and location so that we can give you the
recognition for supplying them.
Thank you.
1
2
3

4
5
Photo Credits - 1, 2 3: The Voice. 4 5: Mick Grindey.
43

Owd Grandad Piggott
Go to the new website
www.owdgrandadpiggott.co.uk
and download tracks from the original
Owd Grandad Piggott LP record which
was recorded live by Alan Povey in The
George and Dragon pub in Longton in
1977 and sold over 6,000 copies in
North Staffordshire inside 6 months.
Povey’s People
by Radio Stoke’s Owd Grandad Piggott
G
randma Piggott had
made an appointment
to see the doctor. She
limped painfully into the
surgery one morning and
doctor Fletcher studied her
speculatively as she took a seat
opposite him. As she did so, the
doctor couldn’t help but notice
the ugly bruise below her right
eye.
‘Ah want some more of
them pills for me arthritis’, she
said.
‘What’s wrong with your
leg?’
‘Eh ?, Oh nowt… ah’ve just
hurt it bumpin’ inter the door’,
she replied.
‘And your eye?’
‘Walked into somethin’,
‘Something like a fist?’
‘Eh?… oh no. There was a
piece o’ wood stickin’ out of the broken door frame and
I walked into it’. Doctor Fletcher gave her a prescription
for the pills and as she left, he said ‘By the way, will you
tell your husband to make an appointment as soon as
possible… He’s overdue for a medicine review and a
routine health check.’ She said she would and Grandma
Piggott went home to deliver the message. Doctor
Fletcher’s eyes glittered.
‘Right you bloody old bandit!’, he said
to himself and gleefully began to plan
Owd Grandad Piggott’s forthcoming
health check. Owd Grandad Piggott duly
made an appointment at the surgery and
on the appointed day was in a light frame
of mind as he entered the practice.
‘Hello doctor Fletcher’, he said
pleasantly.
‘Hello Mr Piggott - How very nice to
see you….how have you been keeping?’
‘Grand as owt!’ came the reply.
‘Okay - Just take your shirt off and lie
on the couch’. Owd Grandad Piggott did
as he was bidden and the doctor
proceeded to run his stethoscope over
him.
‘Just turn over’, the doctor eventually
said. As the stethoscope ran over his
back, doctor Fletcher suddenly paused
and a puzzled frown came over his face,
Owd Grandad Piggott looked at him
warily…
‘Whats up?’ The doctor’s expression changed from
one of puzzlement to one of deep concern.
‘What’s wrong?’ he gasped, a note of panic in his
voice.
‘Are you sure you feel alright Mr Piggott?’
‘Eh? Ar- ah think so! Way, what’s up??’
‘There are some worrying grumbling noises
emanating from the area of your liver… Do you drink?’
The doctor knew by repute that that was the most
stupid question that you could ask Owd Grandad
Piggott.
‘Just tell me what’s up!’ snapped Owd Grandad
Piggott.
‘You might have cirrhosis of the liver Mr Piggott.
He straightened up and spoke briskly
‘ Bend over the couch and drop your trousers!’
‘Eh… what??’ He opened a drawer in his desk and
withdrew a hypodermic syringe that resembled a
bicycle pump with a knitting needle stuck in the end of
it. Owd Grandad Piggott nearly swallowed his teeth.
‘What at goin’ do with that?’
‘I’m going to flush your kidneys’
‘They bloody atner!’ gabbled Owd Grandad Piggott
panic stricken.
‘They touch may with that an’ ar’ll ‘ave the law on
thee!’
‘If I don’t do it, you’ll be dead by weekend’ said the
doctor and proceeded to fill the syringe with an evil
looking black liquid and held it up to the light
squeezing a drop out of the end with undisguised glee.
He plunged the needle into the exposed withers up to
the maker’s name creating a yell that was heard all over
Longton and generated a sudden rapid exodus from the
waiting room.
‘Right’, said the doctor, ‘Come back tomorrow for
the follow up jab’.
‘Whaaaat??’
Owd Grandad Piggott didn’t return the next day for
his follow up jab. Aware of the doctor’s comments on
his drinking, he stayed out of the pub for the next
fortnight but came to the conclusion that having a pint
was worth the risk of contracting cirrhosis of the liver.
Each month Radio Stoke’s Owd Grandad Piggott (Alan Povey) will write a unique insight into our local life and its
many characters. His infectious, humorous slant on people provides a different and unusual mix which hopefully
will bring a warm smile to the faces of our readers.
This month: Doctor Fletcher
Owd grandad
Piggott duly
made an
appointment at
the surgery and
on the appointed
day was in a light
frame of mind as
he entered the
practice.
Froghall Wharf, Foxt Road,
Churnet Valley, ST10 2HJ
Beautiful new
Water Huts at
Hetty’s…

45
T
ears and cheers were in abundance at Oldfields
Sports Club when Uttoxeter Rugby Club
honoured three former members who have
sadly passed away during the last 12 months…..
A Memorial Match took place to pay tributes to
former co-founder Les Humphries, past Chairman and
player Glynne Wilson and star player Richard Oldham
with families of the three legends in attendance.
Past and present Uttoxeter Rugby Club players put
on an entertaining match which was followed by
emotional Presentations of beautiful Bouquets to
Sandra Humphries, Lesley Wilson and Douglas
Oldham.
The day proved to be a fitting tribute to Les, Glynne
and Richard and Uttoxeter Rugby Club are proud to
have honoured their former members…
Pictured below are Lesley Wilson, Sandra Humphries
and Douglas Oldham who were presented with
wonderful Bouquets by Uttoxeter Rugby Club after the
match.
The beautiful bouquets were created by Laura at
Varnish Sprigs, Cheadle High Street, 0750 6577 897.
Uttoxeter Rugby Club Memorial
Match for Les, Glynne and Richard
Uttoxeter Rugby Club were crowned champions of Midlands 3 West (North) last year!
We now need your valued advertising board sponsorship for the 2021/2022 season…
Your £500 advertising board showing your company logo will be mounted around our pitch
at Oldﬁelds Club, Uttoxeter, for a whole year!!
We are now competing in the higher Midlands 2 West (North) this season so we respectfully
ask for your sponsorship now!!
CALLING ALL LOCAL BUSINESSES!!!
Phone President
Paul Bain on
07976 461775
or Chairman
Nigel Titterton on
07733 466 970

I have played for Stafford Cricket Club for 5 separate
decades and at the age of 50 I was back as the leading
wicket taker in Stafford’s First team last season. With
819 League wickets only Greg Willott and Dan
Colclough have more wickets in the history of the
North Staffordshire and South Cheshire League. This
season will be my 36th season in a row playing first or
second team cricket.
B
ecoming a club cricket captain gives you the
ultimate power. You pick the team, you can bat
where you want and when you fancy a bowl you
can bring yourself on. I was 22 when I first became
captain of our Sunday 2nd XI. I soon realised the power
was overrated. At the beginning of the week you would
have a balanced 11 but as the week went on, you would
find your best players getting poached by the first team.
Other players had clearly not told their wives they were
playing Saturday and Sunday and of fear of divorce had
to drop out. Come Saturday night you would be
scratching around asking of anyone would fill in. With
few takers, you then had to play the long game of
buying the younger players beer, until eventually they
were drunk enough to agree to
play. Acceptance often came
with riders such as taken them
for a curry, picking them up
from their house and taking
them for a sausage and egg
McMuffin on the way to the
match.
In my first season we
tended to have 5 Senior players,
4 Juniors and 2 random
friends, who didn’t play cricket
but fancied a day out. For away
trips we needed players with
cars and this sometimes this
proved difficult. Getting 5
players and 5 kit bags into a
Ford Fiesta was interesting to
say the least. One player turned
up with a new works transit
van and was immediately made
vice -captain. The other drivers
were also guaranteed to bat
high up the order and bowl. I
needed them to play every
week so we could actually get
to the matches.
Sunday league cricket was
also tough because it was
limited overs and you had to
use 5 bowlers. I would often
look at my team and think, we
only have 3 bowlers, this could
be interesting. I would then
have to cajole non-bowlers into
giving it a go, hoping they
would get it somewhere near
the cut strip. One of our
batsman said he had not
bowled for 25 years after a
shoulder problem. I replied,
“Should be healed by now, you
are on next over.” On one
occasion after several late dropouts, we were left with
only 8 players to play an away game. This was before
Sat nav’s and mobile phones so when we turned up at
the ground, we said another car was on the way and
must have got lost. To make matters worse we lost the
toss and they batted first. Having just 6 fielders against
a good side was hard work. The umpire told me not to
worry the rest of the team will be here soon. I looked
back at him and said, “Must be having car trouble.”
Chasing 350 we were 56 all out. That season we made
not have been very good, or won many matches, but
we had many a laugh. Some of the non-cricketers
started to take it seriously and are still playing today.
Captaining Saturday cricket was more serious, we
ran 4 Saturday teams, so for me being second team
captain you were high in the food chain for getting
players. If I ever got a drop out, I would ring the third
team captain Dan and take one of his players. Inevitably
he would try and suggest I would take one of his worst
players.
Dan a school Teacher by trade would give an
eloquent speech how the player in question had
“untapped potential and could be knocking on the door
of the first team next season.” Looking at that players
stats, I would see he had a top score of 8, his untapped
potential clearly a long way in the future. “I would
decline of course and take his best player. I would have
the same argument with the first team captain. The
fourth team captain should have had the worst of it, but
he never answered his phone to Dan and would refuse
to give up any of his players. At our Friday night catch
up’s, Dan would be panicking still short of a couple of
players. He had tried all known cricketers and then
would be on to his mates in the Hockey club, where he
was the first team goalkeeper.
Some weeks we had more
hockey players in the team, than
actual cricketers. Dan’s
commitment to getting players
was commendable. He lost his key
bowler one week as he was
moving to a new house. Short of
players he borrowed a van, got up
at the crack of dawn and helped
the player move all his stuff. They
finished just in time to get to the
game.
The player to create the biggest
stir back in 2003, was no other
than Boom Boom himself, Shahid
Afridi. The former Pakistan
captain is undoubtedly the most
popular cricketer to put on the
Green and Gold in the last 20
years and possibly ever. His T20
world cup winning heroics have
made him a legend in Pakistan. In
2003 he turned up as substitute
professional for Little Stoke cricket
club, situated in Stone. Now this
created great interest to the
English based Pakistan fans,
including the owners of my local
kebab shop. I ended up in there
the Friday before Afridi’s debut for
Little Stoke. I told the owner
Abdul that Boom Boom was
coming to town and playing in our
league. The whole shop stopped,
and they all got very excited. I told
Abdul I would get him a signed
photo, as my friend Nick was
playing for Little Stoke. Abdul
gave me the biggest smile and as I
came to pay for my Kebab, he said
“On me my friend.” Now the next
day in the game against Longton
Shahid Afridi scored just 13 and took no wickets.
Apparently, the ground was full of taxi’s that all
disappeared once Afridi was out. The man who got him
out was a Teaching assistant called Dave Edwards. I had
forgotten all about the signed photo for the local Kebab
shop and now it was too late.
I had two options avoid the Kebab shop, or
somehow procure a Shahid Afridi picture. Now the
Kebab shop did the best Chicken Tikka in town, so I
needed to be back in their good books. My friend who
was a local printer got me a professional looking
picture of Afridi. Mohammed Ahmed from our fourth
team did a very passable forgery of Afridi’s signature,
he added in a few words of Urdu for maximum impact.
When I gave it to Abdul he nearly cried and couldn’t
thank me enough. My Chicken Tikka kebab was
bursting at the seams and of course I didn’t have to pay.
The next time I went into the shop, the Afridi picture
was in a frame proudly mounted on the wall. For a
good five years after that I could jump any queue, just
with a shout of “Boom Boom.”
Now Afridi only had a one match deal with Little
Stoke and the next week he was sub-Pro again this time
for Leek cricket club, the opposition were amazingly
Longton again. This time the Afridi fan club were
treated to a swashbuckling 81. Part-time spinner and
local school Teacher Richard Harvey thought taking
pace off the ball was the order of the day. In his first
over he went for 5 sixes from the first 5 balls, the sixth
ball was a full toss, but luckily Afridi missed it. Dave
Edwards finally got Afridi out for the second week in a
row. In his 9 games in the league that season, he scored
440 runs at an average of 62 with a top score of 105, he
also got 14 wickets. The next season Afridi returned to
Little Stoke for two games and broke the league record
for the quickest hundred against Stone Cricket club. His
100 took just 50 balls and 45 minutes. The Little Stoke
ground backs on to a housing estate and someone had
to stand outside the ground to retrieve the ball.
Another famous Pakistan player to grace Little
Stoke was Mushtaq Ahmed, he was part of the 1992
World cup winning team and had played 50 tests and
144 one day internationals. In 2002 however he was in
the international wilderness and couldn’t even get a
contract in county cricket. His only option was to find
a club side and his eventual destination was Little Stoke.
Now for some overseas pros they can be accused of
going through the motions and just taking the money.
This was not the case for Mushy, he wanted to be the
standout player in the league, and he soon proved that
he was.
In the 2002 season, he got over 100 wickets and 500
runs. I had the pleasure in facing him and as I came to
the wicket, I remember walking down to our skipper
Richard Waterhouse and asking for advice. “Well, he is
spinning it miles, but also watch out for the Googly and
the top spinner.” I decided just to play forward and
hope for the best, his leg spinner fizzed and missed my
bat by about 3 foot, his top spinner hit me square on
the glove and I managed to kick away his googly. I had
faced him for two overs, and it had not hit my bat once.
Richard Waterhouse, nicknamed Pies for his love of
them, came down to me at the end of the over. We
looked at the scoreboard, we still needed 50 to win with
4 wickets left. Pies smiled at me and said “bloody good
isn’t he, I am going to try to smash him” I looked at Pies
and thought he was mad; I didn’t think he was going to
have much joy with one of the world’s great leg
spinners. The next over he hit Mushtaq for two massive
sixes over the club house, this started an incredible
assault that had everyone off their feet and out of the
bar. I continued to kick and punch the ball when I was
facing, but Pies farmed the strike perfectly. We won the
game with 6 overs to spare and Richard “Pies”
Waterhouse was 46 not out.
It was a phenomenal innings against a world class
bowler, a man who had bowled to some of the greats
in the game, but he had no answer to a fat postman
from Stafford. Sadly Richard Waterhouse died
suddenly at just 39 years old, tragically young for a very
good cricketer, but we still talk of him often and the
Little Stoke innings is always mentioned. This was
actually one of the few games Little Stoke lost that
season, as they romped home to win the title with 3
games to spare. The following season Mushy was
signed by Sussex and he was the County
Tales of a Club Cricketer
by Sean Billy Connolly
Shahid Afridi,
the former
Pakistan captain
is undoubtedly
the most
popular
cricketer to put
on the Green
and Gold in the
last 20 years and
possibly ever…

Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, Issue 105

Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, Issue 105

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Uttoxeter & Cheadle Voice, Issue 105