staffs gazette dec
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december 11 staffsgazetteTRANSCRIPT
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Circulated throughout North Staffordshire, South Cheshire & The Staffordshire Moorlands
Dec 2011
Aladdin
Joe Swash
page 4
2
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Huggies DayNursery
Learning togetherstep by step
www.huggiesdaynursery.co.uk
Free places Available Holiday Club Now Available
HUGGIES DAY NURSERYOld Hall Drive, Bradwell,
Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffs ST5 8RQ 01782 799440
HUGGIES AT STOKE NORTHCHILDREN’S CENTREBishop Road, Chell Heath,
Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs ST6 6QW01782 818464
Both nurseries are purpose built
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
also available at GREAT prices
For a friendly service call
01782 331771www.themobiletrader.com
email: [email protected]
260 - 262 Uttoxeter Road, Longton, S.O.T. ST3 5QL(Opposite Longton Fire Station)
Box Office 08443 57 57 91www.queenstheatreburslem.com
17th - 31st December 2011
Queens Theatre Production Society
All tickets £10 Family of 4 £35Burslemueens Theatre Jemma
Kearns as
CinderellaDarren Cyplesas
Michael Jackson
Dance Tribute
Phil Soloas
Baron “Bublé” Hardup
Deano The DameAnd
Side Kick Kerry Rileyas
The ‘Orrible Pair
3
YOU are promised a pantomime to remember, when Hanley’s Regent Theatre presents its latest festive entertainment!
For more than ten years, the Piccadilly venue’s pantos have become a ‘must’ (thanks to sensational songs, sparkling sets, hilarious comedy and lots of audience-participation), and, in Joe Swash, it has a brand-new star, as he leads a stellar cast in that perennial family-favourite, ‘Aladdin’.
29-years-old Joe shot to fame in 2003, playing the part of Mickey Miller in ‘Eastenders’, and, in 2008, he was crowned ‘King of the Jungle’, when he won ITV1’s ‘I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!’
He now presents the ITV2 spin-off show, ‘I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here Now!’, and has also hosted the ‘British Soap Awards’ on ITV2 for the third time running.
Earlier this year, Joe took part in BBC1’s ‘Let’s Dance for Comic Relief’ with Caroline Flack, where the dup performed ‘My Humps’ by The Black Eyed Peas.
“I’m really excited about coming to Stoke-on-Trent this Christmas: I’ve heard great things about the City and the
warm reception audiences give at The Regent,” said Joe who made his panto debut in ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ at the Bristol Hippodrome in 2008.
“We’re going to have some fun
with the panto this year, and I look forward to meeting everyone soon.”
‘Aladdin’ also heralds the introduction of a new producer, the Liverpool-
based company, Pele Productions Ltd.: the husband-and-wife team of Jim and Viv Wells have been producing top musicals and pantomimes for the past, twelve years.
Joe Swash is accompanied by Tara Wells (no stranger to panto, having previously starred in Pele’s productions of ‘Dick Whittington’ and ‘Robin Hood’) as the beautiful Princess Yasmin, while
Nicholas Mai joins the cast in his panto debut in the malignant form of the evil sorcerer, Abanazer, with Jamie Greer playing the ultimate ‘dame’, Widow Twanky, and Adam Webber as Copper Pong.
Will our eponymous hero win the heart of the fair princess? Can he defeat the villain? Will ‘The Genie of the Lamp’ grant all his wishes?
THERE’S ONLY ONE WAY TO FIND OUT!‘Aladdin’ runs at The Regent Theatre
from Thursday, December 15th, until Sunday, January 15th, 2012, and tickets are available from the Box Office on 0844 871 7649 or book online at www.atgtickets.com/stoke
4
‘Your Wish Is Granted,’ Says New Star, Joe Swash!
5
Welcome to our December Issue
IN THIS EDITION. . . .
WHAT’S ON in November ...........6-12
Gynway Hotel ..............13
The Red Lion at Sutton ..................14-15
The Fitzherbert Arms at Swynnerton .............16
Pub Talk ........................17
Ideal Christmas Gifts ..........................20-23
C.G. Supplies ...............24
Winter Motoring ......34-38
Expert Car Inspections ...................35
Leisure Classified..........38
A.D. Booth & Sons Ltd ........................40
Why we think that ALL clubs should take advantage of our unique, special offer
ANYONE visiting Baddeley Green Workingmen’s Club on the evening of Friday, November 18th, could not fail to have been convinced of the unique position that clubland in North Staffordshire and South Cheshire offers in terms of presenting premier-class, live entertainment at ultra-affordable prices.
For, that night saw the City of Stoke-on-Trent venue featuring a superb Elvis and Neil Diamond Tribute Show, which had the members of a ‘full-house’ audience literally ‘rocking in the aisles’, providing everyone with a terrific night-out!
One of the main sections of our ‘new-look’ Leisure Gazette is its ‘WHAT’S ON’, in which this publication continues our commitment to local clubland by providing a UNIQUE and INVALUABLE guide to entertainment available in the area’s venues.
This shows readers what can be enjoyed each and every month of the year.
The Gazette has, indeed, been produced with clubs in mind, because we realise and appreciate just how much pressure this area’s licensed trade venues are being put under by the Government, thanks to excessive legislation and ever-increasing costs.
The ‘WHAT’S ON ‘ section is there for clubs to take advantage of, with Club Secretaries and Management Committees having the opportunity to parade their clubs’ attractions and facilities at minimal cost.
We have been assured that it attracts people to visit clubs and enjoy what they have to offer, bringing increased business and revenue, and promoting them via word-of-mouth recommendation.
For a full month’s subscription to Leisure Gazette, all clubs have to do is contribute £33 per month for a quarter-page advertisement.
As you can see (on pages 6-12), many clubs ARE taking advantage of our offer, but, equally, others are NOT!
We genuinely think that these clubs are missing out!
CONTACT US:Leisure Gazette
Second Floor, Lombard House, 3 Bucknall New Road, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent. ST1 2BATel: 01782 204392 Email: [email protected]
6
READERS with a passion for soul music will discover their ‘soul-partners’ if you visit Baddeley Green Workingmen’s Club on Friday, December 9th!
Soul Devotion, will be bringing its acclaimed act to the Stoke-on-Trent venue as a special Christmas Party for members and their guests.
Formed early in 2005 as a ‘sister act’ to the hugely-successful Commitments Too, Soul Devotion explores the band’s ever-growing abilities and passion for soul music, Soul Devotion brings a high-energy, ‘feel-good vibe’ which never fails to entertain.
The band is fronted by four, stunning female vocalists, exuding that sultry style and glamour that you would expect from classic soul bands of the ‘60s and ‘70s.
There are no funny wigs, silly costumes or backing-tracks; instead, you will enjoy an
entertaining package of dance-routines, audience-participation and a band which simply loves playing that sweet soul music with a funky twist and a hint of Motown magic in its own, inimitable style.
Soul Devotion comprises Andy Turner, Billie Dee Williams, Dave Manifold, Hannah Shaw, Jen Widgery, Jo Goodwin, Jo-anne Snape, Lisa Knapper, Mike Davies and Peter Farr.
Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, Aretha Franklin and Tina Turner (to name but four) all get the Soul Devotion treatment in an experience which should, truly, not
be missed!
Tickets are priced at just £5, and are available from Baddeley Green WMC on (01782) 541246 or by telephoning Ant Munday on (01782) 570603/07743-876421 or by emailing [email protected]
An unmissable, soulful experience!
7
Advertise your Club, Pub, or Entertainment Agency, in this magazine
Telephone
01782 204392
Sat 3rd - Back Water Sat 10th - Robbie Benson Sat 17th - Man-Maid Sat 24th - Trevor Moray Mon 26th - Nathan John Sat 31st - DISCO
FRIDAY DEC 2ND - IVY LEAGUE - TICKETS £6FRIDAY DEC 9TH - SOUL DEVOTIONS - TICKETS £5
FRIDAY DEC 16TH - OASISH - TICKETS £6
www.baddeleygreenclub.com
DECEMBER ENTERTAINMENT
‘Xmas Eve’
‘Boxing Day’
‘New Years Eve’
DECEMBER
&
Sat 3. DANNY ST JAMES
Sat 10. JOHN DEVEREUX
Sat 17. BRIAN BRODIE
Sat 24. MICK TAYLOR
Mon 26. ELVIS TRIBUTE
Sat 31. LIZA
‘Xmas Eve’
‘Boxing Day’
‘New Years Eve’
8
DECEMBER
GAMES ROOMSPOOL TABLE, DARTS, CRIB
FREE FUNCTION ROOM FOR HIRE(RECENTLY REFURBISHED)
189 WERRINGTON ROADWERRINGTON, ST2 9AL
01782 214306
BINGO EVERY SAT NIGHT& SUN LUNCH
LAST FRIDAY OF EACH MONTHSHOWCASE NIGHT (TICKET ONLY)
Sat 3rd- JaySat 10th- Debbie MarxSat 17th- Gary WellsSat 24th- RoxanneSat 31st - Girls on Film
Friday 28th SPECIAL PARTY NIGHT‘SEASIDE RENDEZVOUS’
‘Xmas Eve’‘New Years Eve’
SUPREME ARTIST MANAGEMENT
PROFESSIONAL ENTERTAINMENT AGENCY
20 years experience Providing top class entertainment
For your venue
For the very best in entertainmentand service call:
01782 863678 / 07877 721991
Sat 3rd- Cameleonz
Sun 4th- Kyle Tomas
Sat 10th- Intrique
Sun 11th- Sheila Diamond
Sat 17th- Twilight
Sun 18th- Robbie Benson
Sat 24th- Furnace Rd
Mon 26th- El-Diva
Sat 31st- Hi-De�nition
QUALITY LIVEENTERTAINMENT
EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY EVENINGSSUPPLIED BY SUPREME ARTIST MANAGEMENT
‘Xmas Eve’
‘Boxing Day’
‘New Years Eve’
9
THE evening of Thursday, November 4th, saw Wolstanton Workingmen’s Club play host to a performance by Staffordshire-born television organist, Jean Martyn.
in June, 60-years-old Jean has been invited to Buckingham Palace and performed in venues, such as Wembley Arena as part of the show’s tour and has a myriad of concerts lined up between now and Christmas, 2011.
Wolstanton WMC was packed for her performance as one of the North Staffs. Organ and Keyboard Club’s regular evenings at the High Street venue.
The grandmother-of-two, whose son, Scott, lives in Clayton, Newcastle-under-Lyme, is now aiming to perform in West End theatres, at the Royal Albert Hall or in the USA.
She moves effortlessly between grand piano, electronic keyboards, mighty 1930s’ Wurlitzers and Compton cinema organs, and her angle of music is vast, extending from classical to jazz and modern dance, from great West End musicals to rock ‘n’ roll (including Jerry Lee Lewis’s ‘Great Balls of Fire’).
A former schoolteacher, Jean has been performing for 31 years (one of her first ‘gigs’ was at The Leopard Hotel, Burslem), and has raised more than £40,000 for charity through her music-making.
Jean, who hails from Brewood, agreed to switch on Cannock’s Christmas Lights on Friday, November 18th (she studied for her O-levels at Cannock Technology College).
Commented Wolstanton WMC Secretary, Malcolm Wild: “Jean only had a few minutes to demonstrate her ability on the programme, and it was done to suit
the mass audience, but she entertained us with all different genres of music.
“We hoped her reputation from the programme would draw more people in and the place was certainly very busy.”
Said Yvonne Rushton, from Lightoaks: “We saw a different side to Jean on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’, but I thought she was still very good.
“She did very well and showed the organ club in a very good way.”
TV organist, Jean, showed star-status at Wolstanton WMC
we bid a friendly WELCOME toassociates and vistors to the hospitable
WOLSTANTON WMClive entertainment every saturday
DECEMBERSat 3rd Caution
(Award Winning Female Duo)
Sat 10th Eddie Brown(Knockout Soul Entertainer)
Sat 17th Vice Versa(Knockout Male Due pls drummer)
Sat 24th Paul Marx(Top Vocalist back by popular demand)
Sat 31st Secret Party(Fantastic Duo - Welcome Back)
EXCELLENT GAMES ROOM FACILITIESSnooker - Darts - Crib - Indoor Bowls
Function Room AvailableFor Hire01782 616 736
Chetwynd House, High Street, Wolstanton
‘Xmas Eve’
‘New Years Eve’
10
DECEMBERSat 3rd - C.K.2
Sun 4th - CaponeSat 10th - UnforgetableSun 11th - Dave Allen
Sat 17th - Rogue LeaderSun 18th - Fireworx
Sat 24th - Dance NationMon 26th - G StarSat 31st - Slither
‘Xmas Eve’
‘Boxing Day’
‘New Years Eve’
Providing top quality bands, duos, solos to all top club & pub venues throughout Stoke-on-Trent, South Cheshire & North Staffordshire.
Long established professional agency
GAMING-MACHINE VICTORY FORTHERE has been another boost for clubs, with
the news that the CIU’s recommended gaming machine supplier, Dransfields, has triumphed in its latest battle with the Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
Because the law changed three times, the most recent tribunal examined tax on lottery-machines over four periods, and ruled against
HMRC on three of them.
Dransfields has been involved in a long-running dispute with HMRC, concerning automated lottery-machines (known as Category B3A gaming-machines), stretching back over four year and involving two, separate tax tribunals.
The first of these confirmed that HMRC
was wrong and that Dransfields was correct in stating that the income from the machines was exempt from VAT as the proceeds of a lottery.
The second tribunal was over Licence Duty on Category B3A gaming-machines, and was complicated by the fact that the law had changed three times in the three years.
The tribunal ruled that no AMLD was required on Period 1 (July 10th, 2003-July 18th, 2006), Period 2 (July 19th, 2006-October 31st, 2006) and Period 4 (July 21st, 2009 onwards), whilst it WAS required for Period 3 (November 1st, 2006-July 20th, 2009).
The tribunal judge criticised HMRC in writing, and clearly wanted to decide in the taxpayer’s favour on Period 3 as well.
On this, he found for HMRC with “....with considerable reluctance, as it seems....to be an unfair and capricious interpretation” and averred that he considered it to be a drafting-error in law which he was unable to correct.
In practice, what this means is that any
11
DECEMBER
Sat 3rd- The Fall GuysSun 4th- Velvet Souls
Sat 10th- Strange DaysSun 11th- Pete Berry
Sat 17th- AngelzSun 18th- Harlem Nights
Sat 24th- FrantikMon 26th- Chris Rossi
Sat 31st- Memory Lane
‘Xmas Eve’
‘Boxing Day’
‘New Years Eve’
DECEMBER
128 Greasley Road, Abbey Hulton ST2 8HZTel: 07716 711731
Sat 3rd ------ PremonitionSun 4th ----- Sue CSat 10th ---- Lauren PorterSun 11th ---- Alan NewtonSat 17th ---- Cool MemorySun18th ----Tuesday MooreSat 24th ---- Karl CooperSun 25th ---- Craig LindseyMon 26th --- Louise ClaireSat 31st ----- Storm Disco
COMING UPFriday Jan 20th MADONNA NIGHT plus male vocalist JAY
tickets £3 available at the club
‘Xmas Eve’
‘Boxing Day’
‘Xmas Day’
‘New Years Eve’
CLUBS AT LATEST TAx TRIBUNALclub which did not have a licence between November 1st, 2006, and July 20th, 2009, may be required to purchase a Default Licence, Dransfields’ understanding is that a club can only be assessed from August, 2008, to July, 2009.
Commented the company’s Managing Director, Chris Haley: “This is a good result for clubs, and shows that we were correct in our interpretation of the VAT Act and the Betting and Gaming Duties Act, and that HMRC just got it wrong.
“The complexity of the law and the fact that the definitions of machines were changed three times made it extremely difficult for any taxpayer to keep abreast of legislation and stay on the right side of the law.
“Dransfields has always been determined to protect clubs from threatened, retrospective taxation on these machines and it is an enormous relief to clubs to know that this threat has now been lifted.
“Those clubs that were supplied with a B3A
by Dransfields were licensed with effect from September 1st, 2007, and we are assisting our customers in dealing with any liability, prior to that.
“Those clubs that had a B3A machine between November 1st, 2006, and July 20th, 2009 and did not pay licence duty may be required to do so, but we think only from August, 2008.
“After four years of battling with HMRC, the end-result is that we are back where we started and that is with B3A machine exempt from VAT and with no licence duty payable.
“Any club that has not yet reclaimed the VAT paid on its B3A machine-income should do so as soon as possible.”
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DECEMBER
TELEPHONE:(01782) 614297
Sat 3rd- Robbie BensonSat 10th- Kyle TomasSat 17th- MidnightSat 24th - Laughing LegendsSat 26th - AimeeSat 31st - El-Diva
‘Xmas Eve’
‘Boxing Day’
‘New Years Eve’
TELEPHONE:(01782) 624573
DECEMBER
invite you to pay us a visit toshare all our excellent facilities
sat 3rd LENNY LEEsun 4th TERRY JAYsat 10th SID ST JOHNsun 11th KATH MORRISsat 17th DARREN COLLINGSsun 18th EL-DIVAsat 24th GIRLS ON FILMsun 26th SARAH DEEsat 31st TWILIGHT
‘Xmas Eve’
‘Boxing Day’
‘New Years Eve’
DECEMBER
Calvary Crescent,Bentilee,ST2 OAQ, 01782 314490
BAR ,SMALL LOUNGE, LARGE LOUNGE GAMES ROOM WITH INDOOR GAMES DOMINOES, CRIB AND POOL
CONCERT ROOM WITH TOP CLASS ENTERTAINMENT FROM APPLEYARD ENTERTAINMENTS EVERY SAT & SUN NIGHTS PLUS BINGO
LARGE SCREEN TV, LARGE CAR PARK ,COACHES WELCOME BY APPOINTMENT
A Warm Welcome Awaits You At Berryhill W.M.C.
Beers by Coors, Excellent Facilities.
Sat 3rd ---- Jan CSun 4th ---- Sam BaileySat 10th ---- Steve BlackSun 11th ---- Christopher JamesSat 17th ---- MidnightSun 18th ---- Craig LindsaySat 24th ---- DarrenMon 26th---- AmandaSat 31st ---- Amee Lesti
‘Xmas Eve’‘Boxing Day’
‘New Years Eve’
13
IN addition to a host of varying, colourful entertainment attractions, January, 2012, offers the now-legendary ‘Pigeon Weekend’.Yes, the resort’s Winter Gardens is, once again, the venue for the British Homing World Pigeon Show, which will, indubitably, attract ‘flocks’ of pigeon-fanciers and fellow enthusiasts of the avian family , Columbidae, as they ‘swoop’ on Blackpool.
The event takes place on Saturday, January 21st, and Sunday, January 22nd, with doors opening at 9am on both days
and closing at 5pm on Saturday and 3.30pm on Sunday.
All the usual Royal Pigeon Racing Association favourites will be there; show classes, with around 2,000 pigeons on display, about 180 trade-stands selling all you will need for your pigeons, and back again for 2012 is the Blackpool Fancy and Flying Championships show in the Spanish Hall.
The Winter Gardens are located on Church Street in Blackpool’s town centre, and can be contacted on (01253) 625252/0844 856 1111 or via email: [email protected] Readers can also visit the website: www.blackpoollive.com
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
FOR A GREAT WINTER BREAK & PIGEON WEEKENDGive us a Call
DON’T FORGET (COO) THE LEGENDARY NEW YEAR ‘PIGEON WEEkEND’!!
CAMRA accolade for Trish & Mark (not forgetting Great Dane, ‘Bert’!)
“YOU can be sure of a warm welcome and some good ‘Craic’ at The Lion!”
That’s the hearty recommendation from Phil Vickers, Committee Member of the Heart of Staffordshire Branch of CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), which voted The Red Lion its ‘Pub of the Month’ for November, 2011.
Tucked away in the hamlet of Sutton, near Newport, in Shropshire, The Red Lion is an historic “gem of a country pub”, featuring a stone-flagged floor and a small, separate dining-room, with real fires burning brightly during the Winter months and a delightful, raised, lawned outside-area, located just a few steps away from the hostelry’s front-door.
‘Real ale’ aficionados will be delighted to learn that ‘mine hosts’, Mark and Trish Hesbrook, keep a trio of cask-conditioned beers (Banks’s Bitter, plus two others) on-tap at all times.
However, lovers of good food should also know that Mark’s culinary fare is certainly worth searching out: he changes the menu every few days, although locally-sourced pork is usually included throughout.
Discerning diners will also need to leave plenty of room for the pub’s home-made
desserts; additionally, Mark is more than happy to cater for vegetarians and coeliacs.
Food is available from 12 noon to 2pm and between 6.30pm and 9.30pm (Tuesday-Saturday), with Sunday luncheon being served from 12 noon to 2.30pm.
The Red Lion is both very child- and dog-friendly - and this is no surprise, since the main attraction is the resident pub-dog, ‘Bert’, a Great Dane, which is, of course, much larger than most children, and can be steadfastly be
relied upon to offer all guests a tail-wagging
welcome!The pub has its own website (www.
redlionisgreat.org), and Mark also features on Facebook and Twitter (he tends to
tweet events such as ‘home-made Staffordshire faggots today’!).
Located just outside Newport on the A519 Eccleshall Road, The Red Lion’s buildings date back to the 17th century, and it is open from 12 noon to 3pm (with the exception of Monday) and every evening from 6pm ‘until finish’.
And the final words go to Phil Vickers, who avers: “We strongly suggest it to be a worthwhile effort to seek out this excellent pub!”
14
TROPHY-TIME! Pictured (l-r) are Trish and Mark Hesbrook; CAMRA Branch Chairman, Neil Butler; and bar-staff, Hannah Bulkeley-Jones and
Tom Dixon. The presentation of the trophy and certificate was made on Thursday, November 3rd.
ALWAYS a warm welcome from canine-in-residence, ‘Bert’.
15
The Red Lionat Sutton
Offering a Warm Welcome
Traditional English Pub
Homecooked food
Sample our Guest Ales, Lager, Wines & Spirits
Real Open FireWe Cater for Private Parties, Weddings, Christenings,
Birthdays, Anniversaries etc.
Open from 12-2pm & 6pm - 9.30pm Tuesday-SaturdaySunday lunch 12 - 3.30pm
The Red LionSutton, Newport, Shropshire
01952 811048www.theredlionisgreat.org
16
Ye Old Manor Inne
Tues, Wed, Thurs & Sat 7.30-10pmRump, Sirloin, 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
XMAS EVE & NEW YEARS EVE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
The Best Mixed Grill in the PotteriesNOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR CORPORATE PARTIES
& CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH
Manor St, Fenton 01782 763693
Brand new STEAK on the stone
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
READERS are assured of genuine, home-cooked food, when you visit 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.On Boxing Day, 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'!!
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
17
Help for Heroes eventA CHARITY Night held at The Old House at Home, Hartshill, raised £765 in aid of Help for Heroes.Cash to support servicemen and women, who have been wounded during martial conflicts, was raised through donations, a raffle and a quiz, plus an auction that featured a signed Robbie Williams photograph donated by the star’s father, Pete Conway.“Thanks go to those who supported the night and to ‘Elvis’ performer, Mark O’Leary’ licensees, Dave Bell and Rita Porter; and Pete Conway.“All the proceeds from the evening have gone to Help for Heroes.”
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.
Tuesday night folk clubTHE Market Tavern plays host to the weekly meetings of Sandbach Folk Club each Tuesday, starting at 7.45pm.If you would like further information, telephone Winston Baldwin on 07815-721923.
Wednesday night sessionsAN open mic/acoustic night is held at The Red Lion at Checkley, near Tean, every Wednesday.It’s an 8pm start, with free admission, and further details are available on (01538) 722003.
‘Spirited’ revamp at BradwellMONDAY, November 21st, saw the re-opening of landmark Newcastle Borough pub, The Britannia at Bradwell, following the completion of a £100,000 refubishment-project.The Bradwell Lane venue has been transformed into a John Barras one, the revamp fitting it with a new bar, furniture and kitchen-equipment, in addition to being redecorated.“We see the investment as a new beginning for the pub,” explained pub general manager, Jack Brierley.“It’s an opportunity to become a community hub, where families and friends can enjoy good food, drink and entertainment.“However, the most important ingredient of making The Britannia a success will be giving our guests a great experience.”The John Barras brand is part of the Spirit Pub Company, and is described as a ‘home-from-home where communities can gather to have fun.’
Blacksmith’s BuskersA BUSKERS’ Night is hosted by The Blacksmith’s Arms, Birch Cross, Marchington, each Thursday.
Open Mic NightsTREADERS can enjoy an open mic night with Bob and Steve at The Coach and Horses, on Old Court Street, Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent, each Monday.The sessions run from 9.15pm until 12 midnight; everyone is welcomed to attend.
18
Joy and Mark welcome you to
The Post Office Vaults
Serving a range of good beers including guest ales• Carling £2.55 from 10-4pm every day• Wine by the glass • Alcopops • Sky TV
Tel: 01782 8110273, MARKET PLACE, BURSLEM
OPEN ALL DAY EVERY DAY
SMOKING SEATING AREA WITH TV
over Xmas & New Year
TheBlack Horse
SUTTON STREETCHESTERTON
01782 561313
Festive Lunch MenuPrior Booking Only
StartersHomemade Soup
Prawn CocktailGarlic or Garlic Cheese Bread
Main CourseRoast TurkeyRoast Beef
Broccoli & Cauliflower GratinStuffed Mushrooms
Served with Roast Potatoes, Seasonal Veg Chipolata & Bacon Roll
DessertSweet Board
Christmas PuddingCheese & CrackersMince Pies, Coffee
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
wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas from Neil & Pam
Open 12 noon - 12midnightChristmas Eve - Orange Bicycle Disco 60’s & 70’s
Open New Years Eve & New Years Day
An invaluable guide for all ‘real ale’ aficionados!
IT is regarded as the best, independent guide to Britain’s beers - and it is now available from high street booksellers.
Priced at £15.99, the ‘Good Beer Guide 2012’ is published by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), the members of which organisation are solely responsible for judging the beers.
Commented Regional Director, Gary Timmins: “It is fantastic that we have nine, new breweries in the region which just goes to show that real ale brewing is an expanding industry, even during the current, economic crisis.
“We, in the West Midlands, home of British beer brewing, should be very proud of it and support it as much as we can.”
19
ON Friday, December 16th, Baddeley Green WMC is playing host to Europe’s leading tribute band to legendary, Manchester group, Oasis!
Since forming in 2004, Oasish has quickly become the most-sought-after tribute band in this country, because, not only does it feature members that have played the bigger stages with names, such as Robbie Williams, Pete Townsend (of The Who), Bryan Adams, Chesney Hawkes, Nik Kershaw and Jason Donovan.
Boasting a back-line which matches the same amps that Oasis use, Oasish also plays the same instruments; indeed, the ‘Noel’ uses either a Sunburst Gibson Les Paul, Cherry Red Gibson ES335 or the Union Jack Epiphone Supernova (the signature-guitar that Noel helped design, after appearing with one at the Maine Road show in Manchester during the the mid-’90s.
Also, these days, ‘Liam’ will be seen wearing the exact-same Pretty Green Parka that Liam Gallagher wore on the band’s final tour, before it, sadly, split in August, 2009.
It is this attention to detail which sets Oasish apart from all the other Oasis tributes out there (the ‘attitude’, the swagger and the on-stage banter in-between songs); so, as a result, readers will have to pinch yourselves
to check that you haven’t slipped back a decade and are watching the Oasis of old all over again!
Such is the demand for Oasish, it is now the ONLY band ever to have played at the now-world-famous Glastonbudget Tribute Band Festival EVERY YEAR that it has been running.
As one happy spectator said: “Oasish was far more entertaining than the real thing on the two occasions when I have seen them: if they were ever on the same bill at the same time, I would watch Oasish every time!”
Tickets cost only £6, and are available from the Leek New Road club on (01782) 541246 or by telephoning Ant Munday on (01782) 570603/07743-876421 or via emailing [email protected]
‘What’s The Story?’ Ask Oasish!!
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20
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ChristeningsBirthdays
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email [email protected]
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Phone01782 396456 / 07787893258
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21
Santa Specials 2011 Sat 3rd & Sun 4th December Sat 10th & Sun 11th December And every day from Sat 17th until Christmas Eve 24th December
Llangollen Railway The Station, Abbey Road, Llangollen, LL20 8SN
www.llangollen-railway.co.uk 01978 860 979
All aboard for Santa’s Christmas Specials. Santa makes a special visit each Christmas to the Llangollen Railway. Your decorated steam train will transport you in style from Llangollen Station to Lapland. Santa will give each boy and girl a special gift on the journey & the adults onboard receive a Mince Pie & a tipple from Santa’s Little Helpers.
Pre booking essential Book online at www.llangollen-railway.co.uk or call 01978 860979 £2.50 booking fee applies to telephone and office bookings.
Tickets £14
under 1s FREE
IdealChristmasGifts
Make her feel special (and appreciated)!!
WHETHER they are mums or grandmums, women deserve Christmas gifts for so many reasons!
The lady of the house should be appreciated, and this is possible only with genuine love and care, as well as marking the importance of this annual festivity.
So, make Sunday, December 25th, truly memorable by
presenting her with the most unique and cherished gift.
This may not be expensive, but it should mirror genuine love and affection which makes the gift invaluable.
Interests and hobbies should be given premier priority when shopping for the perfect gift-item.
Make her feel young again by presenting gifts which really do mirror her interest.
One idea would be to continued on page 23
22
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IdealChristmasGiftscontinued from page 21
help her get rid of everyday stress-and-strain via a relaxing massage or refreshing beauty-treatment.
Gift certificate vouchers can be purchased from numerous places, such as shopping malls, beauty and hair salons and restaurants.
Other gift-ideas include, for example, jewellery and accessories, or, alternatively, why not focus on personal interests, like photography, sketching or home-furnishing?
A bottle of perfume or a sleek handbag also make good presents, but ensure that the fragrance is not too strong and the bag is classy but also practical.
At H&F Lift Truck we go to great lengths to ensureall our customers are 100% happy with the service wedeliver and the products we sell. Being in business forover 35 years is testimony to this.
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24
ACCLAIMED, local choral group, the Barbara Walton Singers, is presenting a spectacular evening of carols and readings in a candlelit church in December.
‘Christmas by Candlelight’ takes place at St. James the Less Church, on Uttoxeter Road, Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, on Wednesday, December 21st, starting at 8pm.
The conductor is David Burrowes and the organist will be Michael Lambert.
The church is warm and comfortable, with access for wheelchair-users and secure parking located close-by.
Seasonal refreshments will be
available after the concert.
Tickets, priced at £7 (reserved), £5 (unreserved) and £2 (young students), are available on (01889) 502377 or from A Major Music Supplies, Newcastle-under-Lyme, on (01782) 634634.
You can also book online on www.barbara-walton-singers.org.uk or via email: [email protected] or at the door on the night.
‘Christmas by Candelight’ in Longton
25
ON-LINE @
www.staffsgazette.co.ukAt The click of A Button You Can View
What’s On In the Local Pub & Club Scene
Read All The Latest Leisure & Pub-Talk News
See all the Forth Coming Local Theater Events and Productions
Note Down when Signal 1 & 2 Will Be Holding their 2012 Bridal Fayre Exhibitions
View Our Latest Motoring-Pet-Holiday, and Classified FeaturesAnd Much Much More
All At The Touch Of A button
You Can Now View Your
26
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Peakstones Rock Brewing CompanyBREWERS OF FINE TRADITIONAL ALES
Peakstones wishes all their customers a Merry Christmas
and a Happy New Year.
Visit us at our Market StallCheadle on
Tuesday / Friday / Saturday
Contact David Edwards
www.peakstonesrockbreweryalton.co.ukEmail: [email protected]
Just Jeff’s
500 Washerwall LaneWerrington
Tel: 01782 302663www.bj-photography.com
Jeff & Girlswish all our customers
a Merry Christmas
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Mens Hair Monday 3-8pm
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for xmas
Betley Village StoreCONVENIENCE STORE
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Post Office services
We also sell wines, spirits,cigarettes, newspapers
We also offer our customers the convenience of paying by card with
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Merry Christmas fromKarren, Paul, Sue & Lucas
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SEASON’S GREETINGS TO ALL
27
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We supply the unusual & unique –Come in and see our huge range of fittings
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 8.00-5.30 Sat 8.30-1.00
Electrical Trade Supplies137 Liverpool Road, Newcastle, Staffordshire ST5 9HD
Tel: 01782 661750 Fax: 01782 [email protected]
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Merry Christmas from all at Roosters
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Web: www.stableinteriors.co.uk
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Tel: 01270 820479 Fax: 01270 829077
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SEASON’S GREETINGS TO ALL
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CUSTOMERS FROM THESE BUSINESSES
SCRUPLESUnisex Hair & Beauty Salon
Thanking all my clients for all their support over the
last 12 months and wishing all a Happy Christmas and
looking forward to a New Year
Call Christine to book your appointment
01782 836781
23 Moorland Road, Burslem
Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas.
Committed to helping businesses survive and thrive
Specialist advice for pubs and clubsHelping you to meet those deadlines
Understanding your needsOut of hours appointments
Why not get in touch today ?
Business ConsultantsVictoria House, 8 Richmond Terrace
Stoke-on-Trent , Staffordshire ST1 4ND e-mail: [email protected]
www.regency.uk.netTel: +44(0)1782 286334Fax: +44(0)1782 201003
REGENCY Chartered Management Accountants
Locally produced award winning real ales & cider.
If you wish to find out more about Slater’s Ales
www.slatersales.co.uk or call 01785 257976
please view our website
SCOTT’SBARBER SHOP
Open:Mon-Thurs 9.00am-6pm
Fri 9.00am-7.00pmSat 8.00am-5.00pm
the gaffTues/Weds/Thurs 9.30am-6pm
Fri 9.30am-7.00pmSat 8.30am-4.00pm
(next to Goodee's Chippy, opposite Sainsbuys)
01782 616222the gaff
56 Liverpool Road, Newcastle ST5 2AR
29 HIGH STREET, BIDDULPH01782 513355
30
IT’S the ultimate ‘60s’ Christmas party - oh yes, it is!
Celebrate twelve years of the ‘Uncle Eric Phenomenom’ with the ultimate Christmas festivity in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
For, the New Vic Theatre is presenting ‘Uncle Eric’s Christmas Carol’, in which the eponymous character is, once again, showing his total lack of acting-talent, as he murders Charles Dickens’s world-famous ghost story, ‘A Christmas Carol’!
Yes, Ericnezer Scrooge runs the meanest music shop in town, assisted by the unpaid Dave Crotchet and his housekeeper, Mrs. Madge.
One Christmas Eve, after a visit to the trendy Bar Humbug (geddit?), Ericnezer spends the night alone.
Suddenly, he is awoken by the sound of ghostly moans and....well, you know the rest.
But, readers have never heard the story quite like this!
A great script, deep moral issues, startling drama - Uncle Eric’s Dickensian Christmas tale has none of these.
However, it’s a great laugh, a fantastic night-out and there is also a myriad of great ‘60s’ hits shoe-horned into the the evening.
As Eric says: “This is culture with a capital ‘K’.”
What started out twelve years ago as a one-night event has fast become a North Staffordshire tradition,
attracting record-breaking audiences.
David Graham Productions’ cast of actors and musicians guarantees a night of nostalgia, humour and non-stop fun!
‘Uncle Eric’s Christmas Carol’ runs from Thursday, December 1st, until Friday, December 16th, at 7.30pm.
Tickets, priced at £14.50 (Monday & Tuesday), £16.50, £18.00 and £19.50 (Wednesday-
Saturday).
There’s £2 off for groups for ten or more (Wednesday-Saturday, top two-price bands only), plus a FREE bottle of champagne for each group of ten or more!
Tickets can be booked by calling the New Vic’s Box Office on (01782) 717962 or online at www.newvictheatre.org.uk
Money off and FREE champagne for groups!
31
‘THE Jolly Man in the Red Suit’, Father Christmas himself, will be arriving at Tatton Park, in Cheshire, during a magical Lantern Parade on Friday, December 9th.
Children and families are encouraged to light his arrival at Tatton and welcome the merry marvel for the beginning of his stay at the historic estate’s farm this Yuletide.
Santa Claus will process along a lantern-lit walk to the stableyard, where star guests (the farm’s reindeer, ‘Prancer’ and ‘Dancer’) will be waiting in anticipation.
Children will also be able to post a Christmas ‘wish-list’, and families can enjoy festive tunes from a choir and band and indulge in some festive shopping.
The event is also an opportunity to ‘give a little back’ by donating any unwanted toys to Royal Manachester Children’s hospital charity, where they find a very welcome home.
‘St. Nick’ will be arriving just in the nick of time, as he starts three weekends at the farm on Saturday, December 10th.
At the farm, younger visitors will be able to meet Father Christmas and his elves in his grotto and receive a special Christmas gift.
Lots of other festive activities (including a storyteller weaving winter magic with seasonal tales; Aunty Mary keeping warm in the cottage and waiting for Christmas callers; and the ever-popular ‘live nativity’, featuring adorable animals from the farm) will be taking place.
Youngsters can learn how to light Santa’s way in a FREE, lantern-making workshop in the main stableyard barn-room on Sunday, December 4th.
During the weekends of December 10th/11th and 17th/18th, children can also take part in FREE, festive hat-making sessions in the barn-room (entry-charge applies for both these even ts).
Said Events Manager, Bridget Roberts: “Christmas at Tatton Park is always a truly magical time of year, and our new lantern parade is guaranteed to start off the season with an enchanting evening of sparkle and shimmer!
“We are hoping lots of families and friends will welcome Father Christmas and help us celebrate the start of this special season, a truly wonderful time for all ages.”
The Lantern Parade takes place from 6pm to 9pm on Friday, December 9th, with free entry to Tatton Park and to the event.
Lantern-making workshops happen on Sunday, December 4th (12 noon-4pm), with free workshop admission and an
entry-charge of £5 per car.‘12 Days of Christmas’ hat-making
sessions take place on weekends of December 10th/11th and 17th/18th (12 noon-4pm); a free event, with an entry-charge of £5 per car.
‘Father Christmas at the Farm’ takes place on the weekends of December 10th/11th, 17th/18th and on December 24th (12 noon-4pm [last entry 3pm]), with prices (applying to National Trust members) at £5 (adults) and £4 (children).
All paying children receive a free gift from Father Christmas.
The Farm will also be open from Mondays, December 26th, to January 2nd, for non-Father Christmas activities, such as donkey-grooming and painting a picture.
Lighten up - (Father) Christmas is just around the corner!
32
ACCLAIMED Ceramic City Choir is presenting a production of Handel’s ‘Messiah’ on Saturday, December 10th.
Conducted by its musical director, Oliver Neal Parker, and with Ian Riddle as Organist, the choir will perform what is surely the most famous work by 18th century composer, George Frideric Handel (1685-1759), in company with Orchestra da Camera.
The choir was founded in 1942, largely as a result of encouragement from the distinguished conductor, Sir Malcolm Sargent.
Specialising in performing major choral works, the choir has been privileged to perform with renowned conductors, professional orchestras and top vocal soloists.
Distinguished guest conductors during the last twenty years have included Sir Charles Groves, Sir Edward Heath, Owain Arwel Hughes,
Donald Hunt, Richard Hickox, Paul Spicer, Ian Tracey, Sir David Wilcocks, Matthew Willis, John Rutter and Karl Jenkins.
In 2008, the choir appointed Oliver Neal Parker as its conductor, and has enjoyed a renewed vitality and a boost to the membership.
The superb Victoria Hall, in Hanley’s Cultural Quarter, is the principal concert venue of North Staffordshire’s largest choral society (boasting over 120 singers).
Tickets for the concert on Saturday, December 10th, starting at 7.30pm, are priced at £15, £12 and £10 (£5 for students), and are available from the Box Office on 0844 871 7649 (booking-fee applies) and Stoke-on-Trent Festival Office at Music Mania on (01782) 206000; online at www.ambassadortickets.com; or on the door on the night of the concert.
The Choir is also staging a Family Christmas Concert at Stoke Minster on Wednesday, December 21st, commencing at 7.30pm.
You can also visit the website: www.ceramiccitychoir.org.uk
A CelebrAtory MAsterpieCe
COMPOSER, George Frideric Handel, in a portrait by Thomas Hudson (dated 1749).
33
A MAGICAL, new production of ‘Alice in Wonderland’ has given the children’s classic a lavish, new lease of life this Christmas, as Newcastle’s New Vic Theatre celebrates a landmark ‘birthday’!
Adapted for the stage and directed by New Vic Artistic Director, Theresa Heskins, to mark the award-winning theatre-in-the-round’s 25th anniversary, this spectacular show is brimming with theatrical trickery and illusions galore, and, additionally, presents an Alice who hails from Stoke-on-Trent.
Promising that this year’s New Vic Christmas production is ‘something very special’, Theresa Heskins said: “I don’t think we have ever put on something which is quite so full of exciting things on the stage; every minute there is something to look at.”
This brilliantly-staged show follows two, record-breaking Christmases at the New Vic, following last year’s ‘Peter Pan’ and 2009’s ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’, both of which ‘went down a storm’ with audiences and critics alike.
“For the last couple of years, our Christmas productions have been
described as being some of the best in the country,” she added.
“I have been asked for ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’ script from the likes of Los Angeles, Singapore and Canada, as well as Chichester and Somerset over here.
“Across the world, people are talking about the Christmas shows we do here at the New Vic.”
A cast of twelve features New Vic favourite, Michael Hugo, as the Mad Hatter, Hannah Edwards playing the eponymous Alice, Charlotte Palmer (the White Queen) and Devon Black as the Red Queen.
The creative team includes the talents of award-winning television and film composer, James Atherton; TMA Award-winning Daniella Beattie (‘Best Lighting Design 2009’) and director and dramatist, Theresa
Heskins.‘Alice in Wonderland’ runs 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 (you can also save up to £18 with the New Vic’s ‘Family of Four’ ticket at £58!).
Tickets are available from the New Vic Box Office on (01782) 717962 or online at www.newvictheatre.org.uk
“Curiouser And Curiouser....”
MERCURIAL! Audience-favourite, Michael Hugo, is in his element as the Mad Hatter.
Photo: Andy Billington.
34
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DRIVERS are urged to be on your guard and remain security-conscious at all times when parking (be it in a town centre, when shopping or in your own home).Police in Cheshire and
Staffordshire report that there are still a number of thefts from vehicles being reported where the thief has simply opened an unlocked door and snatched valuable items from inside.They stress that, by locking
your vehicle and removing any valuable items from inside, readers are significantly reducing
the chances of it being targeted.Here are a few sensible tips on
how to secure your vehicle:- * Ensure that your vehicle is
locked and secure when it is unattended (even for a few seconds). * Always activate the alarm
and/or steering-lock. * Remove any valuable items (such as mobile ‘phones,
laptops and cash) from the vehicle: do not be tempted to hide valuable items in the glove-box or under seats.
Winter Motoring
As Christmas approaches, don’t give car-thieves an easy ride!!
continued on page 37
36
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* Remember to remove your ‘sat nav’ and the fascia of car- stereos.
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* Park in well-lit areas where there are a lot of people around.
* Report any suspicious activity to police immediately.
These important security-messages apply to your vehicle at all times - whether it is parked up at home or you are ‘out and about’.It is particularly important at this
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continued from page 35
Winter Motoring
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THE success-story that is this City family business was further enhanced on Monday, November 7th, when it celebrated its centenary in appropriate style!On that date, Moores Metals expanded by opening a new, four-acre site (located close to the A500 on Chemical Lane, Longport), which handles all ferrous and non-ferrous metals, waste and recylables.Ultra-modern in construction, fully-concreted and secure, with many operations taking place under-cover, the steel-processing area includes a container-tilt which will enable it to export scrap-metal to the Far East, making Moores Metals the only scrap-metal company in the area to with the ability to export directly.Moorway Stainless is a new venture, which buys stainless-steel and nickel-alloys from industry and other metal merchants, and its position (adjacent to the D-road and M6 motorway) makes it an ideal location to buy material from all over the country.The scrap stainless-steel market is currently dominated by two, German multi-nationals, and Moorway Stainless will match their prices throughout Great Britain.On the date that the new site (one of the few facilities with a radiation-scanner to test for radio-active materials) opened, the Burnham Street, Fenton, one closed; however, the specialist, non-ferrous yard at Hartshill remains open for business as usual. Founded in 1911, Moores Metals (which has been recycling since before it became fashionable) has, like other other businesses,
‘felt the pinch’ during the recession.However, a strong management team and an ethos of quality service has strengthened its business during the down-turn, and is now poised for further growth!
moores metals -
Best Prices On All Metal
IRON, STEEL & METAL MERCHANTS
Cash Buyers of All Scrap Metal
Factory Clearance
Fully Licensed
50 Tonne Weighbridge
NON-FERROUS YARDTEL: 01782 890813
530 Hartshill RoadStoke-on-Trent
STEEL YARDTEL: 01782 616578
Chemical LaneBurslem
moores metals
Stainless! New venture celebrates centenary
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LOFT LADDERS, LIGHTS& SWITCH PLUS 50-1000SQ FT OF FLOORING from as littleas £279 which INCLUDESour loft storage pack beingfitted by our installers inless than a day.
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