Nantwich Mayor selects VIPs to turn on Nantwich Christmas Lights

Following his search for guests of honour to turn on Nantwich’s Christmas lights, the Mayor of Nantwich, Councillor Arthur Moran has been inundated with nominations.
The Mayor received so many very worthy applications making it a very difficult decision to choose just a small selection, but after careful consideration he has selected five young VIPs to join him on the switch-on stage this year.
Those selected truly are inspirational having gone through more in their short lives than what many of us endure in a whole lifetime.
The Mayor commented: “I’m delighted that I have been able to offer a little joy to some of the town’s most deserving youngsters this year. I would like to thank all those who have nominated, it was such a difficult decision as each and every one was a worthy candidate.”
Preparations for the big night are now well under way. The Mayor and Christmas tree sponsor Applewood Independent’s Managing Director David Pritchard joined one of the VIPs, Cara Morris, in town for a test of some of the lights ahead of the event.
Cara will press the button with Lily-May Arden, Mason Taylor, Meghan Kewley and Georgy Capener.
Proceedings on Friday 15^th November will start at 12 noon when the mini-market sets up along Churchyardside with a selection of gifts and treats.
An array of entertainment will then follow on the stage in the town square from 4pm onwards, including a set from UK Bjorn.
A guest appearance will be made by Father Christmas, before the lights switch on and spectacular firework display from Blitz Fireworks around 7pm.

Local midwife to skydive for baby bereavement suite appeal

A midwife at a local hospital will skydive to raise money for a baby bereavement appeal.
Michelle McKay, Midwife at Crewe’s Leighton Hospital, will step out of her comfort zone on Friday 25 October to raise money for Mid Cheshire Hospital’s Charity’s ‘Lost Little Ones’ baby bereavement suite appeal.
Michelle is hoping to raise £1,250 for the appeal to aid those parents going through baby loss. She has chosen to skydive as it is ‘completely out of her comfort zone’, but admits it is nothing compared to what some parents go through.
The Lost Little Ones appeal will help MCH Charity provide the funds to create a dedicated suite and attached outside space on the labour ward at Leighton Hospital for people experiencing baby loss.
The suite will allow parents to stay together for a few hours or days with their baby in a comfortable, non-clinical environment to spend quiet time together away from the rest of the ward.
Michelle, from Haslington, Crewe said: “I am raising funds as I have witnessed the heartache of parents whose babies have been born sleeping. As a midwife the experience stays with us long after.
“I cannot imagine the pain experienced and want to help ease that in any way. My nephew was born sleeping in March this year. I can't explain how hard this has been for my brother and sister-in-law.”
Jenny Butters, Head of Midwifery at Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which manages Leighton Hospital, said: “I am really proud that Michelle is doing something extraordinary to raise funds for this worthy cause. We know how important it is for parents to spend precious time with their babies and we want to make the environment as comfortable as possible for them at this difficult time.
“I am really grateful to Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity, together with our staff, for supporting this amazing appeal and look forward to the coming months of fundraising and the realisation of the new bereavement suite.”
If you have been inspired by Michelle’s story you can donate to her Just Giving page here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/michelle-mckay3?utm_campaign=pfp-share&utm_content=Michelle-McKay3&utm_medium=fundraisingpage&utm_source=Facebook
The Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity is keen to share information about how local groups and organisations can be supported in their fundraising efforts by them. Contact Carole Salmon, Community Fundraiser, on 01270 273248 / 07467 687998 / carole.salmon@mcht.nhs.uk for further information.

Cheshire East seeks views on governance of town and parish councils

Residents are being asked to share their views on the governance arrangements for all town and parish councils in Cheshire East.

This survey, which went live today (28 October), will inform a review being undertaken across the borough by Cheshire East Council.

The council is responsible for the governance and electoral arrangements for the 186 town and parish council wards in 135 town and parish councils, which cover the whole borough. This community governance review (CGR) will include:

● Town and parish boundaries;

● Numbers of town and parish councillors;

● Grouping of parishes; and

● Warding.

As part of this process, the council wants people’s initial views on how they feel current governance arrangements for town and parishes are faring and whether there is a need for change – and why?

People are being urged to take part in a pre-consultation survey on the council’s website. It seeks to gather information, which will support the development of community governance proposals for formal consultation in 2020.

The overarching purpose of this review, which is in accordance with the Department of Communities and Local Government and Local Government Boundary Commission for England guidance, is to ensure that community governance arrangements ‘continue to reflect local identities and facilitate effective and convenient local government’.

Councillor Joy Bratherton, chairman of Cheshire East Council’s community governance review sub-committee, said: “As part of this review we need to hear people’s views on how effective current town and parish arrangements are at meeting local needs and any suggestions as to how this could be improved.

“The present arrangements predate the formation of Cheshire East and we are mindful that there has since been considerable change to the population, its distribution and to the borough’s settlements.

“The survey will feed into the overarching review, which offers the opportunity to ensure that the tier of parish governance is fit for purpose for the future. I would urge people to take part in this pre-consultation survey and share their views via the council website    at: https://surveys.cheshireeast.gov.uk/s/CGRPartOne/”

Paper copies of the survey can also be obtained from local libraries or Cheshire East Council’s customer service offices at Macclesfield Town Hall, The Municipal Buildings in Crewe and Westfields in Sandbach. The survey runs until 31 January 2020.

Government guidance advises that it is good practice to hold a review of town and parish governance every 10-15 years. The last was done before Cheshire East Council was created in 2009.

Cllr Bratherton, added: “Nothing is changing yet, as the review is a complex task and any changes proposed under the CGR would follow extensive public consultation – including with town and parish councils and other stakeholders. The aim is to complete the process well before the scheduled local elections in May 2023 – and there certainly won’t be change for change’s sake.”

The Cheshire East community governance review does not include the electoral arrangements for borough council or parliamentary seats. These would be the responsibility of Whitehall (the Local Government Boundary Commission and the Boundary Commission for England, respectively) and are not currently proposed.

For more information about CGR visit the council webpage at:

https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/council_and_democracy/community-governance/community-governance-reviews.aspx

Queens Park Crewe October 2019

The Return of Trance Classics’

Reporter Jonathan White
Legendary radio and club DJ Dave Pearce made a triumphant revisit to Studio Nantwich in Nantwich on Friday 18th October 2019 with a ‘The Return of Trance Classics’ gig.

Dave made his inaugural visit to the town and Studio Nantwich on Castle Street in June this year, when his concert was enjoyed by hundreds of fans.
The creator and original presenter of BBC Radio 1's Dance Anthems, Dave has been a driving force in the UK Dance scene for many years.
He has sold more than one million mix compilation albums in the UK with numerous top five UK chart positions.
Dave continues to tour the world playing his sets and has held residencies in Ibiza, Ministry Of Sound in London and BCM in Mallorca.
Dave’s set was packed full of the dance anthems including tracks from ATB, BT, Dario G, Faithless, Fatboy Slim, Moby, Sash!, Tiesto, Moloko, The Chemical Brothers, and William Orbit.
Local DJs Daz Bailey and Alan Woodhouse warmed up the crowd with floor-filling tracks prior to Dave Pearce’s performance.
Nigel Woodhouse, Director of Operations at Studio Nantwich said: “It was fantastic to welcome Dave Pearce back to Nantwich. He is by far one of the best DJs of the iconic decade of dance - the ‘90s. He was very keen to come back as he felt the people that attended his first show in June were so passionate about the music and was keen to entertain them all again. I was both a customer and a club operator in the ‘90s and I can say in my twenty-six-year career in this industry the ‘90s were without doubt a very special time for clubs and music. Nantwich is a fantastic town with so much going on for a town of its size. I am both proud and lucky to live here and be part of it.”
The 55-track compilation album ‘Dave Pearce Trance Anthems 2’ is out now via CD, download and streaming.
Dave Pearce’s free weekly one hour podcast ‘Delirium’ featuring the hottest EDM, Progressive and Trance is available to download and stream: http://www.davepearce.co.uk/podcast/
For further information relating to Studio Nantwich, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/StudioLiveNantwich/

Cheshire East residents will start to receive new bin collection calendars

Cheshire East residents are being reminded that their recycling and waste collection days may be changing from 4 November.

New collection schedule calendars will start to arrive from 21 October. 

These calendars have been posted to all households to give advance notice of the possible changes. These will detail a new collection schedule and the new time of 6.30am to have their bins ready for collection.

Most residents will be affected by the upcoming changes – however some may find their collection days remain the same. 

The alterations to collection days will allow Cheshire East Council, along with Ansa -Cheshire East Council’s arms-length environmental services company, to maximise the efficiency of their collections by using less vehicles over a working day. This will deliver best value to residents.

These changes are also in preparation for a new food waste recycling service, which will be introduced in January. Full details of this will be provided in the next few months.

The new collection calendar details key dates for residents to be aware of, these are:

· 4 November – changes to recycling and waste collections will take effect and bins need to be at their collection point from 6.30am;

· 23 December to 3 January – we have increased our garden waste bin winter collections to now only stop collecting between these dates;

· If your recycling or waste bin is due to be emptied on the Christmas and New Year bank holidays, please see your calendar as your collection days will change.

Councillor Brian Roberts, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for highways and waste, said: “The council is committed to improving the recycling and waste collection service for residents. These changes will allow our vehicle rounds to make our bin collections more efficient and prepare us for the new food waste service, which is being introduced in January.” 

Residents are reminded that they may be asked to place their bins out on new days from 6.30am and are encouraged to keep their new calendars safe, to remember the new dates for waste and recycling collections.

Information and reminders about the changes will feature on Cheshire East Council’s social media pages. Please follow @CheshireEastCouncil on Facebook and @CheshireEast on Twitter to keep up-to-date.

The new bin collection route information will display on the Cheshire East Council website, when they take effect from 4 November, at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/bins  Current collection routes and information will show until this date.

Black Tie Ball’

.Reporter Jonathan White
A fund-raising ‘Black Tie Ball’ takes place on Saturday 23rd November 2019 (7pm) at Nantwich Town Football Club (The Fairfax Suite), Waterlode, Nantwich.
Tickets are £15 per person (price includes food). Please purchase tickets in advance.
The night also includes a DJ, raffle and an auction.
The dress code is suits for gentlemen and smart clothing for ladies.
Proceeds will go to ‘Nantwich Town Wolves VIFC’ partially sighted football team, who play in a visually impaired league.
For further information and to book your tickets please email: acton107@hotmail.com
Event organiser, Craig Acton, said: “We hope that people will come along for a fun filled night with locally sourced entertainment and enjoy the company of local people out for a great night of laughs with a smidge of sophistication. The money raised will help Nantwich Town Wolves VIFC by contributing towards reimbursing travel to help players get to tournaments that they would otherwise struggle to attend. The money will also help with obtaining equipment and branding wear under the newly reformed Nantwich Town Wolves VIFC name.”
Nantwich Town Wolves VIFC give free pan-disability football training sessions every Monday (4-5pm) at Nantwich Town FC’s 3G pitch at Nantwich Town Football Club. The sessions are open to anyone aged 16 and over with a disability.

Firelink Enewsletter - October 2019

Firelink Enewsletter - October 2019

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Welcome to the October edition of the Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service e-Newsletter

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Bonfire night - list of bonfires in Cheshire

It's much safer to attend an organised community bonfire - so please attend an organised event this Bonfire Night.
Most injuries throughout the bonfire period occur as a result of people building their own bonfires, and setting off their own fireworks.
Find out more - Bonfire night - list of bonfires in Cheshire

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Cheshire Burn Awareness Week

We joined forces with organisations from across the country to urge people to stay safe as part of Cheshire Burn Awareness Week (14th-18th October). This week incorporated National Burn Awareness Day, which took place on 16th October.
During Cheshire Burn Awareness Week our staff were out raising awareness of the main causes of burns and scalds and showing people that the majority of accidents are avoidable.
Burns can cause physical and emotional scars to both young and elderly victims and a potential hazard such as a boiling kettle or a saucepan full of hot fat can also cause lasting damage to a person.
Find out more - Cheshire Burn Awareness Week

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Are you ready for winter?

Most incidents in the home can be prevented by using common sense and taking precautions.  Winter, particularly, can be a dangerous time with the higher than usual use of candles, electrical appliances and more hazardous roads.

Candle fire safety

With the days growing darker and winter setting in, a few candles scattered round the room can lend a warm glow to an evening. But with candle fires resulting in around 350 casualties each year, we would like you to take extra care with candles this winter - nearly 40% of all fires started by candles result in a death or injury.
Find out more - Candle fire safety

Get your chimney ready for the winter

With the colder, winter months looming, people will begin to start using open fires and their chimneys again.  In order to keep you and your family safe from fire, you need to take necessary steps such as ensuring your chimney is swept regularly, depending upon what fuel you burn and we would urge all householders to have a working smoke alarm in their home.
Find out more - Get your chimney ready for the winter

Is your car ready for winter?

Of all the seasons, winter requires the most care and preparation if you're to stay safe.  Please be prepared in case the bad weather strikes in your area of Cheshire.
In snow or icy conditions, it will take longer to stop - always drive at a speed appropriate for the conditions.
In winter it's even more important to check your vehicle is well maintained and serviced.
Find out more - Is your car ready for winter?

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Change your clocks and check your smoke alarms

Cheshire residents are being urged to check their smoke alarms as they prepare to turn the clocks back.
The clocks go back at 2.00am on Sunday 27 October and, as summer time officially ends, we're asking people to prepare for the autumn and winter by checking their smoke alarms.
Find out more - Change your clocks and check your smoke alarms

Message Sent By
Ashley Lawton (Cheshire Police / Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, Administrator, Corporate Communications)

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Queen tribute band

Reporter Jonathan White
Queen tribute band ‘QE2’ performed a fund-raising concert at Studio Nantwich on Castle Street in Nantwich on the evening of Friday 11th October 2019.
Five-piece band QE2 - lead vocals, bass/vocals, guitar/vocals, keyboard/vocals, drums - performed with love and admiration for Freddie Mercury and the musical legacy of Queen.
Songs covered included One Vision, Tie Your Mother Down, Seven Seas Of Rhye, Magic, Under Pressure, Save Me, Somebody to Love, Killer Queen, Now I’m Here, Fat Bottomed Girls, I Want It All, Don’t Stop Me Now, I Want To Break Free, Another One Bites The Dust, Bohemian Rhapsody, Hammer To Fall, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, Radio Ga Ga, We Will Rock You, Friends Will Be Friends, and We Are The Champions.
There was also an after-party downstairs in the Retro room.
Entry was by donation and the money raised will go to Macmillan Cancer Support.
Nigel Woodhouse, Director of Operations at Studio Nantwich, said: “The QE2 guys put on an incredible show. It was a pleasure to have them at our Studio Live venue and it was great to see them after their now legendary performance on Good Friday at The Bank Stage during the Nantwich Jazz Festival. For anybody that missed either show don’t worry as they are booked in for Good Friday 2020, full line up will be announced after Christmas.”
Events in the near future at Studio Nantwich:
-Wednesday 16th October (open from 7:30pm) - Lucy Spraggan + support, Words & Music Festival. Tickets available from https://wordsandmusicfestival.com/
-Friday 18th October (free entry before 11:30pm) – DJ Dave Pearce - ‘A Night of Trance Classics’.
-Friday 15th November (free entry before 11:30pm) – Boomin!
For further information relating to Studio Nantwich, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/StudioLiveNantwich/

Musical Extravaganza’

Reporter Jonathan White
A ‘Musical Extravaganza’ fund-raising concert took place on the evening of Thursday 10th October 2019 at Wistaston Memorial Hall & Community Centre, Church Lane, Wistaston.
The concert featured Crewe Concert Band conducted by their Musical Director, Adam Shilton.
Crewe Concert Band performed a variety of music including Army of the Nile (Kenneth J. Alford), Skyfall (arr by Jay Bocook), Grease! (Warren Casey and Jim Jacobs), A Tribute to Benny Goodman (arr by Richard Hayman), Misty (Erroll Garner), Titanic (James Horner), Candle in the Wind (Elton John and Bernie Taupin), Nimrod (Edward Elgar), Queen in Concert (arr by Jay Bocook), Barnard Castle (Goff Richards), The Magic Flute Overture (Mozart), Pirates of the Caribbean (Klaus Badelt), Jerusalem (C Hubert H. Parry), You Raise Me Up (Rolf Løvland), Fame (Michael Gore), One Moment in Time (arr Frank Bernaerts), Hymn to the Fallen (John Williams), The Blues Brothers Revue (arr by Jay Bocook) and You Can’t Stop the Beat (from Hairspray, Marc Shaiman).
The band played in its usual enthusiastic, energetic and professional manner to the appreciative audience.
Welcome refreshments were provided during the interval by Audrey Astbury and her team.
There was also an information stall, staffed by George Edge-Robinson, for advice about the numerous groups and societies that use Wistaston Memorial Hall throughout the year.
A raffle was organised by Glenys White and Helen Heath and raised £52.
This most memorable occasion was enjoyed by a responsive audience.
Money raised will be shared between the Wistaston Memorial Hall and Crewe Concert Band.
Wistaston Memorial Hall was built seventy years ago this year in memory of the sixteen men from Wistaston who lost their lives in the Second World War. The concert was part of the 70th Anniversary Celebration.
A member of the hall’s management committee commented, “The concert showed what good, live music can do to inspire the players and audience to enjoy and appreciate popular tunes together.”
Crewe Concert Band rehearse on Thursday evenings from 7:30pm - 9:30pm at Wistaston Memorial Hall, Church Lane, Crewe, CW2 8EZ. For further information please visit: http\://www.cwecb.co.uk/ or phone: 07933916212
Events in the near future at Wistaston Memorial Hall include:
-Tuesday 22nd October 2019 - Annual Hall Quiz.
-Sunday 10th November 2019 (3pm) - Service of Remembrance.
For further information please visit: https://www.facebook.com/wistastonmemorialhall/

Quiz night

Reporter Jonathan White, Wistaston
The annual Wistaston Memorial Hall ‘Quiz Night’ for the Fred Lorimer trophy takes place on Tuesday 22nd October 2019 (quizzing from 7:30pm) at Wistaston Memorial Hall, Church Lane, Wistaston, CW2 8ER.
Entry fee is £12 per table of four including light refreshments.
There will also be a raffle.
Proceeds will go to the Wistaston Memorial Hall.
For team tickets please phone 07795821678 or pay at the door.

Fireworks Display

Reporter Jonathan White, Wistaston
The Wistaston Community Council Fireworks Display takes place on Saturday 2nd November 2019 (6:30pm) at the Eric Swan Sports Ground/Brittles Pavilion (off Church Lane, behind Wistaston Church Lane Academy, CW2 8EZ).
6pm – Torchlight, Fancy Dress & Pumpkin Parade – Just enter on the night! (from Park Drive/Westfield Drive triangle, CW2 8EN).
6:15pm – Parade arrives at the Brittles.
6:20pm – Judging of Fancy Dress & Pumpkins.
6:30pm – Fireworks.
Entry is by donation – all profits go to local good causes.
For further information please visit https://www.facebook.com/wistaston/ or https://www.wistastoncommunity.co.uk/

Stunning artwork set to light up Cheshire East

A hugely-popular travelling light and sound installation is set to wow crowds in Cheshire East

Wave-Field, a world-famous interactive art installation in the form of illuminated music generating seesaws, is embarking on a tour of the north of England, from October to December.

Cheshire East will host it in Lyceum Square, in Crewe, from 21 November until 1 December. This is a free event that will be open from 3pm - 8pm on weekdays and 11am - 8pm on weekends.

The giant illuminated seesaws, originating from Canada, ‘encourage interpersonal relationships with strangers and consolidate existing relationships between friends and family’, according to creators Lateral Office and CS Design, and features futuristic soundscape by Mitchell Akiyama.

Wave-Field is intended as a playful installation that makes art accessible to all. Residents and visitors are encouraged to become active participants in the art. When motionless, the seesaws are dimly lit and emit a low sound, inviting passers-by to participate. When set in motion, the seesaws burst into sound and light, which becomes richer as more users partner up, encouraging interactions and ‘the development of relationships, new and old’.

Wave-Field will visit Crewe, thanks to support from Cheshire East Council, Arts Council England, Crewe Town Council and Quays Culture. The internationally renowned artwork will also be visiting Leeds, Blackpool and Salford Quays as part of the ‘Light up the North’ network. The installation will support the new Crewe cultural strategy, which identifies goals to compliment the regeneration of Crewe through culture and heritage, and aims to create an environment where inspiration, innovation and creativity lead the economic growth of the area.

Wave-Field supports the strategy’s aim of creating a confident and distinctive cultural offer in Crewe, as well as a strong creative and digital sector. Wave-Field’s tour to Crewe will coincide with Lumen, Crewe’s Night of Lights, organised by Crewe Town Council.

After its phenomenally successful launch last year, Lumen returns to Crewe on 29 November. Lumen includes striking contemporary light installations, building projection and live performances. Wave-Field will be a key attraction at Lumen.

Councillor Nick Mannion, Cheshire East Council cabinet member with responsibility for cultural economy, said: “This is excellent news for all Cheshire East residents and not just those in Crewe. Wave-Field, coinciding with Lumen, will be a very exciting time and draw visitors from all over to see Lyceum Square lit up in a magical and stunning way.

“The addition of these interactive, musical seesaws will allow both residents and visitors to interact with their children, friends, family or to engage with a stranger for a unique experience – bringing an art installation to life.”

Councillor Benn Minshall, Mayor of Crewe said: “We are currently seeing a number of projects being developed for Crewe – a new Cultural Strategy, a new Heritage Strategy and a Place Branding project – all of which are designed to create a fresh, multi-faceted perspective in terms of how people view the town.

“There is already a wide-ranging program of projects and events for local residents to get involved in, with the next one being Lumen, and to have the opportunity of hosting a project such as Wave-Field as a feature piece is fantastic news. Arts and culture are the ties which bind us all together. I would like to encourage everyone to come from as far and wide as possible to take part in what is sure to be a wonderful and interactive experience.”

Cheshire East residents will be given the opportunity to learn skills and expertise from the Canadian artists, and from Quays Culture’s team. More details will be issued soon.

Wave-Field is a strategic commission which supports Cheshire East’s SHIFT programme, which celebrates digital culture in Cheshire East. Visit www.shift-digital.co.uk for more details.

For more information on Cheshire East Council’s Cultural Strategy for Crewe visit   https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/pdf/business/major-regeneration-projects/crewe-regen/51440-crewe-cultural-strategy-doc-final.pdf

Tatton Park’s Business Support Team scoops Marketing Cheshire Award

The winners of the 15th Marketing Cheshire Annual Tourism Awards were announced at a glittering awards ceremony at The Mere Golf Resort & Spa in Knutsford on 3 October, hosted by TV presenter, Lucy Nicholls.

The Awards, attended by 300 guests recognise excellence and outstanding achievement by local businesses and individuals working in Cheshire’s visitor economy, now worth over £3.5 billion.

The Business Support Team at Tatton Park were up against a very strong category, including teams from five top hotels, the ChesterBoat tourist attraction, Hollies farm shop and another Dunham Massey heritage attraction, all competing for ‘Team of the Year’.

A unique organisation with unique people

Carole Mullineux, Tatton Park’s Business Development Manager, commented,

“Tatton Park’s Business Support Team are the unsung heroes whom enable Tatton Park to open its doors to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for around 800,000 visitors every year. They deliver behind the scenes business critical processes and systems, maintain buildings and machinery, provide admin support and customer service to visitors, staff and volunteers, all delivered with a smile - they just get on with the job, responding to a huge range of requests on a daily basis to help out wherever they can.”

INFORMATION BULLETIN

Overnight closures of A500 between A531/B5472 (Meremoor Moss) roundabout and M6 Junction 16

Overnight road closures will be in place from 9:30pm – 5:30am, seven days-a-week, from Monday 21 October until Friday 13 December, between A531/B5472 and M6 J16.

The eight-week closures are in place to enable Cheshire East Council’s contractors, Balfour Beatty to conduct a series of surveys in the area, which will inform the detailed design stage of the A500 dualling project.

The surveys include ground investigations, drainage, topographical and environmental surveys. The design team will be working with local landowners to minimise disruption during these activities.

Drivers are advised to plan ahead for their journey during this closure.

For more information about the scheme, please visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/a500dualling

Council backs National Adoption Week campaign

National Adoption Week 2019 takes place from 14 to 20 October and Cheshire East Council is supporting the campaign to find more loving parents for children that need a loving home.

Thousands more adoptive families are being urged to come forward during the week long campaign in an effort to provide homes for children across the Cheshire East area.

The council’s regional adoption agency, Adoption Counts, understands that adoption is life changing, and is there for the adopter, every step of the way. From the first phone call, the dedicated team are on hand to support and guide new adopters through the adoption process with compassion, honesty and respect.

Each adoption is as unique as the people being brought together, and the council is proud to encourage enquiries from a diverse section of the community, irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, disability, race or faith.

Adoption Counts are currently looking for adopters for children of all ages and they currently have a high number of children aged two and under who need families. They are also very keen to hear from people who will consider children aged four and above, sibling groups, children of a black, Asian and minority ethnic background as well as children with additional health needs.

Mark Palethorpe, Acting Executive Director of People at Cheshire East Council said:  “We’re so proud to be supporting this campaign, raising awareness about adoption and how life changing it can be.

“I urge anyone who is interested to contact our colleagues at Adoption Counts, who will give you with all the information and support you need on your journey to providing a loving, forever home for our most vulnerable children.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about becoming adopters in and around Cheshire East, Manchester, Salford, Stockport, and Trafford should contact Adoption Counts on 0300 123 2676 or visit www.adoptioncounts.org.uk.

Cheshire East Council staff survey points towards a brighter future

Cheshire East Council staff are more positive about the future of the authority and feel more engaged, valued and supported in their work – according to results from the latest staff survey.

More than 2000 staff took part in the council’s ‘Big Conversation’ employee engagement survey in July 2019.

Employee engagement rose by almost a quarter from 55 per cent in 2016 to 68 per cent according to the latest results.

Other encouraging results include 80 per cent of respondents saying that they enjoy their job, 76 per cent always want to deliver the best they can, 59 per cent feel proud to work for the council and 54 per cent feel valued and recognised for what they can offer.

Increasing numbers of staff (64 per cent) would also recommend the council as a good place to work.

As we would expect in any large organisation, there are some areas where we need to improve, for example only 33 per cent of staff think decisions are made at the right level and 29 per cent when changes are made across the council as a whole, they are usually for the better. 

Kath O'Dwyer acting chief executive said: “It is really encouraging that all the hard work and investment to improve the culture for both staff (and members) is paying real dividends.

“Our vision, values and employee deal have all helped ensure we maintain and more importantly retain a highly motivated, skilled and engaged workforce.”

Other question areas which performed highly:

● I am held accountable for my performance – 89 per cent

● I take a personal responsibility to seek out opportunities to learn and develop myself at work – 87 per cent

● My line manager listens to my views and opinions – 83 per cent

● I am clear about what is expected of me – 83 per cent

● My line manager recognises when I have done my job well – 81 per cent

Kath O’Dwyer added “This latest survey provides me, along with the senior leadership team with increasing evidence that the council’s workplace vision of having a shared purpose that staff are supported and well led, staff are treated fairly and valued and that we will succeed together is becoming a reality.

“As part of our transformation programme, we are already working to improve our decision making processes and how we both manage and communicate change and we are committed to improving in all the areas highlighted in the survey.

“Organisational and staff led action plans will be developed and acted upon in the coming months addressing the key issues identified, so we can all look forward to an even brighter future together.”

Cheshire East Council welcomes climate change campaign

Cheshire East Council has welcomed the climate change campaign issued by Friends of the Earth which enables people to see how climate-friendly their area is.

The online tool, which is driven by postcodes, scores councils across the country on a range of elements including emissions that come from housing and transport, as well as industrial and commercial emissions.

Cheshire East Council’s recommendations are to increasing the use of public transport, cycling, and walking, and improve home insulation and increase renewable energy.

Councillor Sam Corcoran, leader of Cheshire East Council said in response: “This tool gives a good snap shot of where we are currently. I believe that climate change is the greatest challenge facing our generation. We can tackle climate change and win – but it needs to be addressed on an international scale, a national scale, a local scale and an individual scale.

“Since being leader I have appointed Cllr Suzie Akers Smith as a cycling and walking champion and in May 2019, lead the council to recognise the environment and climate emergency declared by parliament.

“Cheshire East Council has set itself an ambitious target of being carbon neutral by 2025. However, the council recognises its only part of the carbon emissions across the borough of Cheshire East.

“We also want to work with our partners, communities, businesses and residents to help them reduce their carbon emissions.

“In my role as chair of the Cheshire and Warrington leaders’ board, we have committed to 10 pledges around climate change and, while they are equally ambitions, I believe they are important for future generations. 

“We have also launched the consultation of the environmental strategy and I urge everyone to have their say on it.”

Councillor Quentin Abel, Cheshire East Council’s climate change champion said: “The draft environmental strategy sets out six ambitious priority areas including being a carbon neutral council by 2025, increasing sustainable transport and travel and sensitive and sustainable development.

“We need your assistance though now, whether you use this online postcode tool or not, anyone who is concerned with the environment – and the challenges ahead – are welcome to have a say on whether we have the priority areas right for Cheshire East.

“We absolutely welcome ideas and enthusiasms from our communities – we are all in this together. These might include tree planting and other forms of carbon capture, local energy schemes, transport solutions, building design and energy capture.

“You have the opportunity to have your say in the consultation, which is now live. Please don’t miss out – if you have ideas, share them and be involved.”

The eight-week long environmental strategy consultation is now live until midnight on 24 November 2019. It can be accessed by visiting: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/consultations

‘Secrets Within Crumbling Castles’

Reporter Jonathan White
Local writer, Rosie Pugh, will be launching her memoir ‘Secrets Within Crumbling Castles’ at Nantwich Museum on Sunday 27th October 2019 (2-4pm). 
Rosie’s heart-rending story depicts her childhood in Ireland, being educated by nuns and her love of nature. It captures the hardship of an Irish family coming to England and records Rosie’s adult life in Nantwich including her determination to gain qualifications despite being diagnosed as dyslexic. The book is written with genuine warmth and passion, enabling the reader to become immersed in the author’s life.
Although Rosie left Nantwich for several years, she has now returned and is an active member of the Crewe and District Writer’s group as well as local poetry nights, Salt and Speakeasy. 
Rosie will be reading extracts from the book. She will be joined by local aspiring opera singer, Sinead D’Abreu Hayling. Sinead, an ex-pupil from Brine Leas School, will be signing a few songs from musical theatre.
The event is free including cake and refreshments. The readings will be followed by a book signing.
For further details please email: hekay1958@gmail.com

­The Sounds of the Sixties back by popular demand

The Revolvers consist of four young guys with an unrivalled, burning passion for the greatest music of all time….We are of course referring to the 60’s.

This superb group have played over 1500 concerts, worldwide, and continue to wow audiences with not only their incredible musical talents, but also with their unmatched authenticity.
From the meticulously sourced costumes that they wear to the vintage musical instruments that they use, the energy, enthusiasm and accuracy of these musicians will guarantee to get feet tapping and have you dancing in the aisles!
So come along to Nantwich Civic Hall on Friday 25^th October, as Sounds of the Sixties recreate all your favourite songs from artists such as Small Faces, The Kinks, The Beatles, The Who, Spencer Davis Group, The Rolling Stones and many more, it promises to be a night not to be missed!
Tickets are just £12 and available from Nantwich Civic Hall, by calling 01270 628633 or online at www.nantwichtowncouncil.gov.uk

Who will you nominate for Nantwich Christmas lights switch-on duties?

This year the Mayor of Nantwich, Councillor Arthur Moran is launching a search for worthy guests of honour to turn on Nantwich’s Christmas lights.
The festive season may seem quite a long way off, but planning for the annual event is almost complete.
Over the years there has been various line-ups to turn on the lights including celebrities. However, this year felt the Mayor felt the town’s own younger VIPs should get a chance to turn on the lights.
Do you know any worthy candidates? We would like you to send us your nominations by emailing ntc.marketing@nantwichtowncouncil.gov.uk or dropping them off at Nantwich Civic Hall. Nominations should include your name, address, contact number, the person you wish to nominate and why they deserve to turn on the town’s Christmas lights.
Nantwich Christmas Lights Switch On, full of festive cheer, always kicks off the celebrations and is a wonderful part of the seasonal calendar.
This year the event will take place on Friday 15th November and will include a mini-market selling a selection of gifts, treats and food from 12noon, and an array of entertainment, including a set from UK Bjorn, on the square from 4pm.
Proceedings will conclude with a guest appearance from Father Christmas, before the lights switch on and spectacular firework display from Blitz Fireworks around 7pm.
For full details on this years’ Nantwich lights switch on event visit www.nantwichtowncouncil.gov.uk

Streetmeat 25th Anniversary Edition’

Reporter Jonathan White
Local author Noel K Hannan will promote neo-noir cyberpunk graphic novel ‘Streetmeat 25th Anniversary Edition’ at the Nantwich Bookshop & Coffee Lounge, 46 High Street in the centre of Nantwich on Friday 18th October 2019 (doors open 6:30pm, talk starts at 7pm).
‘Streetmeat’, set in future Seattle, was originally published in 1994 in collaboration with Rik Rawling. This 25th Anniversary Edition features the original 2-book series, the spin-off title Solo, together with all-new artwork created specifically for this special edition. As part of Noel's talk there will be a viewing of his short animated film ‘Joint Operations Entity’. 
Noel K Hannan said: “It’s been 25 years now since Rik and I collaborated on Streetmeat, it remains the project we are best known for from that period, and we always felt it was unfinished business in some ways. It is the first of many republished and new work that we are planning under our new banner, RAWHEAD. As for fans who have read Streetmeat before, you’ll be getting a digitally enhanced edition with all the material from both books and SOLO, plus 20+ pages of brand new and stunning work from Rik.”
Denise Lawson from the Nantwich Bookshop & Coffee Lounge said: “We are really looking forward to hearing Noel talk about his book and the short video that will shown on the night too.”
Tickets are £7.50pp and include our delicious snacks and £2.50 discount upon book purchase on the night. There will also be a cash bar.
Other author events in the near future at the Nantwich Bookshop & Coffee Lounge:
-Friday 1st November, Co-Authors Eduardo Albert and Paul Gething will be visiting Nantwich to talk about their excellent book 'Warrior'. It is a classic book of British History, a landmark of popular archaeology, and a must read for anyone interested in the story of where we have come from.
-Friday 8th November, we are delighted to welcome Cheese Monger, Ned Palmer, (who was at the Nantwich Cheese Show recently) to the Bookshop.  He will be telling us about his book 'A Cheese Monger's History of the British Isles'.
-Friday 15th November, Local author Anne Draper will come and talk about her book 'Audlem Remembers'.  This book is an attempt to tell the stories of the 41 men from Audlem who lost their lives in WWI, and the sacrifice they made.
For further information please contact Nantwich Bookshop & Coffee Lounge via phone: 01270 611665, email: info@nantwichbookshop.co.uk , or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NantwichBookshopCoffeeshop/

Why, Why, Why?

Reporter Jonathan White
Sarah Briggs (Sustainability Project Officer, Keele University) will give a talk entitled ‘Why, Why, Why? Our Planet’s Problems and What We Can Do’ at Acton Church, on Monks Lane in Acton near Nantwich, on Wednesday 23rd October 2019 (7pm start).
Entrance is free, donations are gratefully received for refreshments.
Sarah Briggs said: “Our planet is facing significant challenges, from plastic polluting our oceans to climate change causing extreme weather events that are already affecting communities both locally and around the world. News stories about the destruction of our natural resources and impacts on people prompt us to ask 'Why?!'. But amidst the frustration, there are things we can all do to overcome the challenges we face. Through collaboration and cooperation, we can create a sustainable future - after all, we're all in it together”.

A ‘September Serenade’

Reporter Jonathan White
A ‘September Serenade’ fund-raising music concert took place on the evening of Thursday 26th September 2019 at St Mary’s Church in Acton, http://www.stmarysacton.com/
The concert featured soprano Jessica Thayer, accompanied by pianist Sally Birkett, who performed show-stopping hits from Puccini to Cole Porter.
Jessica Thayer was educated at Malbank School in Nantwich before embarking upon a music degree. Jessica returns to Italy in mid-October to resume her postgraduate studies.
Event organiser, Stephan Davies, said: “St Mary’s Church in Acton has a reputation for pulling together 'one humdinger of an event' and this was particularly true in the case of this musical evening. Classically trained soprano, Jessica Thayer, supported by her talented pianist Sally Birkett, performed a heart rendering sequence of beautiful arias and entertained over 200 music lovers. The audience was in raptures and spellbound by Jessica's beautiful singing and stunning performance. The audience did not hold back - the applause was resounding and executed with the utmost joy and appreciation. The concert reached its crescendo with a standing ovation. There was much feedback from the enthusiastic concert goers. One audience member described the evening as 'electrifying', whilst others stated that, 'it was an evening to be remembered - always'. The car parks in Acton village were full to overflowing and the atmosphere in the Church was buzzing with excitement.”
Funds raised from the concert will go towards essential repairs to the fabric of St Mary’s Church, Acton, which is a Grade 1 listed church.

Please support our ‘Lost Little Ones’

Please support our ‘Lost Little Ones’ baby bereavement suite appeal which will fund the refurbishment of a comfortable, non-clinical environment for people suffering baby loss at Leighton Hospital. Please visit mchcharity.org/lost-little-ones-baby-bereavement-suite/ to find out more
Please be aware the @mcht.nhs.uk email address is an accredited secure email address, and is used by the Trust instead of @nhs.net.
In order to transfer PID information between organisations a secure email connection is required and in order to achieve this standard, trusts are required to become accredited by NHS Digital, and submit evidence each year to remain secure email providers. Both MCHFT and Microsoft O365 as a platform have been accredited to the secure email standard for health and care and both have passed the required clinical safety elements (SCCI 0160 and SCC0129) and achieved the ISB1596/SCCI1596 accreditation.
A copy of this conformance statement is located on the NHS Digital website on the link below to evidence to other trusts that we are a secure provider https://digital.nhs.uk/nhsmail/secure-email-standard.
For further information please contact Secure.Email@mcht.nhs.uk, or the Information Governance Team at Information.Governance@mcht.nhs.uk
If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender and delete the e-mail and all attachments immediately. This e-mail (including any attachments) may contain confidential and/or privileged information. If you are not the intended recipient, any reliance on, use, disclosure, dissemination, distribution or copying of this e-mail or attachments is strictly prohibited. Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has checked for viruses but the contents of an attachment may still contain software viruses, which could damage your computer system. Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust does not accept liability for any damage you sustain as a result of a virus introduced by this e-mail or any attachment and you are advised to use up-to-date virus checking software. E-mail transmission cannot be guaranteed to be secure or error free.
This e-mail is not intended, nor should it be taken to create any legal relations, contractual or otherwise. Any views or opinions expressed within this e-mail or attachment are solely those of the sender, and do not necessarily represent those of Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, unless otherwise specifically stated. If verification is required, please request a hard copy version. Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is not bound by or liable for any opinion, contractor or offer to contract expressed in any e-mail.

World Alzheimer’s Day in Crewe

On Saturday September 21^st 2019 the Crewe Dementia Steering Group had organised an awareness and fund-raising event at Crewe Town Centre supported by the Town Council, Bentley Motors, Cheshire Dance and the Soroptomists. This event was part of the Dementia Steering Group’s on-going work to make Crewe a Dementia Friendly Town. The Steering Group members present provided information on the services and helpful contacts available in the area for people living with Dementia and their carers.

Over the last three years the Crewe Dementia Steering Group consisting of volunteers representing local businesses (Bentley Motors, Coop, Natwest etc), various care providers, the police and councils, the Lyceum, charities (Dementia UK, Alzheimer Society, Dementia Friends UK, MCHC) and third sector organisations working on life improvement technology for people living with Dementia, has organised a variety of events from a Dementia Summit at Bentley’s Legends over Valentine’s Tea Dance, Christmas afternoons, Information events, Dementia Friends sessions and worked closely with Cambridge University on a study project regarding Dementia.

This World Alzheimer’s Day the “Live Well Dance ladies” under the guidance of Shirley Brocklehurst from Cheshire Dance performed and were joined by the Mayor of Crewe Benn Minshall; they all deserved their applause and certainly helped to attract attention to the information stalls. Bentley Motors had provided lovely raffle prizes, the Mayor drew the winning tickets at the close of the event. All money donated went to the Mid Cheshire Hospital Charity Dementia appeal “Everybody knows Somebody”. Favoured by the last summer sunshine the volunteers managed to pass on valuable information to the interested public and showcase the brilliant Memory Boxes provided by Coop Funeralcare.

Going forward the Crewe Dementia Steering Group chaired by Daniela von der Fecht who is also the representative for Bentley Motors in the Dementia Action Alliance will link with the local DEEP group (=Dementia Engagement and Empowerment Project) to do even more focused work in maintaining the town’s status as Working towards Dementia friendly Crewe. Furthermore the cooperation will continue with “Safe and Found Online” under the leadership of John Henderson who will launch their new product in Crewe together with the local police at the beginning of 2020 and with Peter Speight from Smartgrid Technology Ltd. The group’s motto is “together we are stronger and will fight Dementia”.  Currently there are around 6000 people in Cheshire East registered as living with Dementia – the group’s aim is to make the lives of these people and their carers better through raising awareness, removing the still existing stigma, employing modern technology and continuing to give their love, time, understanding and empathy.

A heartfelt Thank You goes to all who made the event possible and joined on the day, particularly the Steering Group members Ceri Garratt (Dementia UK), Stuart Mackay (Coop), Carole Salmon (MCHC).

For further information and/or if you want to get involved in the work of the Crewe Dementia Steering Group, please feel free to contact Daniela von der Fecht on Daniela.VonDerFecht@bentley.co.uk or on 01270535340. <<

Local Google guide reaches highest level

A new level 10 Google local guide one of the very few to reach this level in the WORLD who reached this level taking photos and review of local firms and place. Over 7 million people have seen the photos as a lot of people now use Google maps to find local firms and places of interest and are guided by local guides reviews.

 So being on Google maps can produce more sales than other internet means. The best bet is its all FREE the local guide visit you takes photos for the maps and writes a review with the potential to increase business. It covers anything on Google maps Church, Charity, Sites ,parks ,community groups Use our contact editor form to book an visit for free now

Lockdown Your Online Accounts With 2Fa

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The easy way to keep hackers out of your online accounts.
Whether it’s your Amazon or Netflix account, the explosion in popularity of online apps and services means more and more of us need to remember a seemingly endless list of passwords. Sometimes that leads to shortcuts that are bad for our online security, such as using the same password for multiple accounts, or creating a simple password that can be guessed easily.
You should secure your important online accounts, such as your email, or any account that holds personal or financial details, with a password that’s strong and unique. For further protection we recommended enabling two-factor authentication (2FA). Accounts with 2FA enabled require you to verify your identity using your password (first factor), and a randomised code (second factor) that’s delivered to your smartphone. That way, if your password is stolen, fraudsters still need your phone. If your phone is stolen, they still need your password.
For instructions on how to enable 2FA on popular online services, visit www.telesign.com/turnon2fa
If you have been a victim of fraud or cyber crime, report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk

Message Sent By
Action Fraud (Action Fraud, Administrator, National)

Council warns of crackdown on developers who flout rules

Cheshire East Council is warning developers to stick to their promises when it comes to planning conditions – or face a crackdown to halt developments.

Councillor Toni Fox, the authority’s cabinet member for planning, said tough enforcement action will be taken if developers continue to flout agreements and treat planning conditions ‘as a tick-box exercise’.

Cheshire East remains one of the busiest planning authorities in the country and has been subject to a significant number of housing applications.

Planning permission is often granted ‘subject to conditions’, which enable the detail of the development to be agreed either before the work begins or by a set time within the construction process. These conditions can range from agreeing the colour of materials, through to technical matters involving contaminated land and drainage.

Central government policies and planning guidance have sought to minimise the use of conditions and specifically reduce the need for pre-commencement conditions, as much as possible, as they are often seen as a delay to development.

Cheshire East Council has embraced this approach and tries to strike a reasonable balance that seeks to minimise the number of conditions on applications and work flexibly to enable developments, particularly housing, to be delivered in a timely manner.

However, it has become increasingly apparent that developers are not allowing sufficient time for the necessary conditions to be carried out properly and that some developments are continuing without the necessary permissions.

This undermines the original planning permission, the potential safeguards to make the development acceptable (via conditions) and understandably causes residents to question the effectiveness of the planning process and the value of planning conditions.

Cllr Fox said: “Since becoming the portfolio holder for planning in May, I have been contacted on numerous occasions by residents about developments starting before all the details have been agreed. Officers work hard on getting the detail on conditions discharged but all too often they face an uphill battle as developers continue to build. 

“This has led to enforcement action and increasing disillusion among residents and our communities, who are coming to feel that the planning conditions imposed by the council are being disregarded by developers and are becoming tick-box exercises that mean little.

“The council wishes to work collaboratively with developers but it has to be within the bounds of the statutory processes. If not, then the system as a whole becomes undermined and trust from residents lost. 

“I am, therefore, working with the council’s acting head of planning to ensure that the appropriate priority is given to the discharge of conditions and openly advising developers that, if they do not get their appropriate permissions in place, then the council will seek to use its enforcement powers to stop construction.”

Cargo bicycle carries the load in Crewe

Reporter Jonathan White

ACTive Crewe Travel is a volunteer group, setup to promote walking and cycling in and around Crewe, who are based in St Paul's Centre, 42 Hightown, Crewe.
The group recently received a Christiania cargo bicycle, purchased by Ben Wye (ACTive Crewe Travel), Michael Barratt MBE (Development Impact Manager, Transport for London), and three London-based companies (Role Recruitment, Work & Wear Direct, Traffic Management London Ltd).
The cargo bicycle is a human-powered three-wheeled vehicle designed and constructed specifically for transporting bulky loads, with a cargo area mounted between the two front wheels.
The cargo bicycle is available for free loan to local groups and businesses who want to reduce their carbon footprint, improve air quality and save money by transporting material by bike instead of petrol or diesel vehicles.
Whilst installing new electricity cables across Crewe recently Cheshire-based Dutton Traffic Management Ltd worked closely with ACTive Crewe Travel to ensure that cyclists, prams, wheelchairs, scooters could still access the roads whilst the work was taken place, despite it being closed to other traffic. Dutton Traffic Management Ltd also kindly helped assemble a storage facility, purchased by Crewe Town Council, for ACTive Crewe Travel’s cargo bike.
A representative from ACTive Crewe said, “The cargo bicycle has already been used to deliver hot food and furniture to displaced residents after the fire at the Beechmere retirement complex. Goods can be taken door-to-door with no parking restrictions, so the cargo bicycle has proven itself quicker than a van for local multiple deliveries.”
For further information relating to ACTive Crewe Travel please visit https://www.facebook.com/ACTiveCreweTravel/ or http://www.creweact.org.uk/

‘Chatty Tables’ are the talk of the town!

Reporter Jonathan White

Denise & Steve Lawson, owners of the Nantwich Bookshop & Coffee Lounge, have setup 'Chatty Tables' in their shop on High Street in the centre of Nantwich.
Every week on a Tuesday and Thursday morning from 9am to 11am, tables 14 and 15 (ground floor, adjacent to the Barista station), are available for anyone to sit down and talk to other customers. It is hoped that the idea will be useful to anyone who is lonely and could benefit from a bit of company over a cup of tea or coffee.
The 'Chatty Tables' are part of the ‘Compassionate Community Nantwich’ initiative, to address any shortfall in social connectedness and its consequent negative implications for wellbeing and ill health.
The introduction of 'Chatty Tables' follows the 'Suspended Coffees' scheme Denise & Steve also introduced to their shop, where a customer buys a coffee (or any other hot drink) and pays for a second one - which can then be claimed by someone who cannot afford it themselves.
Denise Lawson, Nantwich Bookshop & Coffee Lounge, said: "We already encourage customers to share tables, so the chatty tables are just an extension of the hospitality we offer at the bookshop. We would love anyone in need of company, young or old to come and make new friends over a lovely hot or cold drink.”
For further information please contact Nantwich Bookshop & Coffee Lounge via phone: 01270 611665, email: info@nantwichbookshop.co.uk , or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NantwichBookshopCoffeeshop/

Civic Hall Fifty Plus Club celebrates 40 years

On Wednesday 25^th September, Nantwich Civic Hall’s Fifty Plus Club celebrated its 40^th anniversary.
From the start of the club until present day, it has been at the heart of the community providing a weekly hub for people to meet new friends and socialise.
To mark the special occasion, its 90+ members were treated to a free session with tea, cake, and each given a diary.
Club co-ordinator, Sue Brereton, welcomed everyone to the group and thanked them all for their support over the years.
Nantwich Mayor, Councillor Arthur Moran, alongside consort Councillor Carole Thomas joined the group to celebrate.
Greeting the group, the Mayor commented “They used to say life begins at 40, but now I think its 50! This is a great event where people can enjoy company and chat, I’m delighted on behalf of the Town Council that we host such an event.”
The weekly sessions offer local people the chance to chat, join in a game of table tennis or pool, exercise, swap books, but the group also organises holidays and trips out together.
For anyone interested in attending the Fifty Plus Club, it starts at 10am until 12noon every Wednesday and entry is just £2.

Firelink Enewsletter - September 2019

Firelink Enewsletter - September 2019

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Welcome to the September edition of the Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service e-Newsletter

Emotive video launched by the Service

Cheshire’s emergency services have released a powerful account of how a fatal collision affects not only the driver and their family, but everyone else subsequently involved.
The emotive video highlights the devastation collisions cause with emergency services staff speaking out about how responding to these incidents affect them personally.
Shockingly, 46 people lost their lives on Cheshire’s roads in 2018. That’s 46 families worlds brought crashing down and 46 times emergency services staff witnessed the subsequent tragedy unfold.
Find out more - Emotive video launched by the Service

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Annual report 2019

Cheshire Fire Authority has published its 2019 Annual Report. 
The Annual Report sets out how the Service has performed over the last 12 months, looks at some notable achievements and it also takes a look at what the future might hold for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Find out more - Annual report 2019

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Snowdon climb raises over £1,000 for charities

Lifesavers have raised more than £1,000 for charities by completing a mountainous challenge involving a former firefighter who is paralysed from the waist down following a freak accident at the gym.
A mixed team of Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) firefighters and International Search and Rescue Team (ISAR) members overcame tough weather conditions and a puncture to push Vicki Griffiths up the highest mountain in Wales on Friday 6 September.
Find out more - Snowdon climb raises over £1,000 for charities

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Charity Car Washes 2019

Firefighters with the help of fire cadets and volunteers, will be out with their buckets, sponges and soap to help raise as much money as they can for The Fire Fighters Charity.
Find out more - Charity Car Washes 2019

Message Sent By
Ashley Lawton (Cheshire Police / Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, Administrator, Corporate Communications)

Cheshire East school opens new wing to accommodate more special needs pupils

A Cheshire East school has celebrated the opening of a new £1m wing, which provides more classrooms for its special needs pupils.

The expansion has allowed Springfield School, in Crewe, to take on more pupils through the creation of five purpose-built classrooms, complemented by new dining facilities.

The pupils have named the block Spring-High which, in the main, provides classrooms for secondary-age pupils and which complements similar names for other parts of the school – Spring-Field for primary age pupils and Spring-Board for older children, which provides supported internships to prepare them for adulthood and work opportunities.  

Cheshire East Council helped to fund the extension, which enables the school to take on more pupils, with additional needs aged four to18. Funding also came from the school itself and developer funding via section 106 agreements.

Springfield School caters for children with profound, severe and moderate learning difficulties and is seen as an exemplar in special needs education, receiving four consecutive ‘outstanding’ ratings from Ofsted.

Councillor Dorothy Flude, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for children and families, said: “I attended the opening of the new wing of the school and I was extremely impressed with the facilities on offer to the older pupils.

“The classrooms are spacious, bright and airy and all the pupils were excited to have these wonderful purpose-built spaces. We were all able to tour the building and see for ourselves how much the pupils were enjoying and benefiting from the new facilities.

“Our commitment is to create more special educational places within Cheshire East, so that young people can be educated as near as possible to their local community. We have further plans to expand provision at Park Lane Special School, in Macclesfield, to ensure we create additional capacity across the borough.”

Lisa Hodgkison, headteacher at Springfield School, said: “Our pupils are delighted with the extra space this provides and they even have new school uniforms to celebrate. We now have much-needed extended accommodation and have been able to take on additional pupils.”

Seahorse Swimming Club

Neil Jones, a swimmer at Seahorse Swimming Club, is undertaking a challenging swim at Crewe’s Lifestyle Centre to raise funds for the Terrence Higgins Trust.

Neil, who has a learning disability, has set himself a target of swimming 10 miles which started in mid-July. His marathon swim takes place during his weekly swimming sessions at Seahorse.

Neil, aged 41 years was introduced to Seahorse SC (for people with disabilities) over 35 years ago by his late grandparents George and Margaret Jones who helped out behind the scenes at the Club.

The Terrence Higgins Trust campaigns and provides services relating to HIV and sexual health. In particular, the charity aims to end the transmission of HIV in the UK, to support and empower people living with HIV, to eradicate stigma and discrimination around HIV and to promote good sexual health (including safe sex). The Trust is generally considered the UK's leading HIV and AIDS charity and the largest in Europe.

“The Terrance Higgins Trust is quite close to Neil’s heart. He loves music and is a fan of the rock band ‘Queen’ and in particular, Freddie Mercury, who sadly died from AIDS-related pneumonia in 1991.

Neil enjoys a challenge and regularly competes for the Seahorse SC at regional and national level. He has put a great deal of effort into this swim and has been encouraged all the way by Seahorse volunteer Debbie Murray, who tick’s off each length of the pool he swims during his swimming sessions. He is hoping to complete his swim in the next few weeks.” – Gareth Roberts (Seahorse Secretary)

Anyone wishing to sponsor Neil can phone Gareth on 01270 629958 or visit Seahorse’s swimming sessions at the Lifestyle Centre on Thursday evenings.

Celebrate the wonderful Apple this weekend at Tatton Park!

Bob in to Tatton Park’s Gardens on Sunday October 6^th to celebrate, taste and learn more about delicious apples!

Tatton’s Gardens will be blossoming with apple tasting straight from our Orchards – including varieties you won’t find in the super market. Join in with apple craft activities and hands-on apple pressing demonstrations with local company Dunham Press Cider

Enjoy delicious apple inspired dishes in the Stables Restaurant and Gardener’s Cottage tea room using apples from the orchard, and produce from the Tatton estate. The Housekeepers Store will be stocking delicious locally sourced apple juice, ciders, cakes, sauces and more, while you’ll be able to buy hand-picked apples, fresh from the orchard from the Garden Shop.

Opening times and prices

The Gardens are open for high season (low season starts Oct 28) daily from 10am - 6pm (last entry 5pm).

Prices for single attraction entry: adult £7, child £5 (aged 4 to 15 years of age), family £19 (two adults and up to three children).

Totally Tatton Ticket (entry to three attractions: Mansion, Gardens and Farm): Adult £13, child (aged 4 to 15) £7, family (two adults and up to three children) £33.

National Trust members pay 50% entry to the Farm. Park vehicle entry charge of £7 per car applies to all.

Please visit our website www.tattonpark.org.uk or call 01625 374400 for more information.

For further information about this release contact:

Tatton Marketing

Tel: 01625 374410 / Email: tatton.marketing@cheshireeast.gov.uk

www.tattonpark.org.uk

Tatton Park is managed and financed by Cheshire East Council on behalf of the National Trust.

This impressive historic estate receives in the region of 800,000 visitors every year all of whom come to enjoy its Georgian mansion, Tudor Old Hall, award- winning gardens and 1930s rare breeds farm. The 1,000-acre deer park is home to red and fallow deer and the estate also boasts speciality shops, adventure playground, restaurant, Gardener’s Cottage tea room and year-round events programme.

Council wants your views on its green vision

Cheshire East Council has launched a consultation on its environmental strategy and is urging everyone to have their say on its priorities and vision for the future.

Six ambitious priority areas have been developed, following the council’s declaration of a climate change emergency. They are:

● Cheshire East will be a carbon neutral council by 2025;

● Waste and pollution will be reduced;

● Air quality will improve;

● Increase sustainable transport and travel;

● Sensitive and sustainable new development; and

● Protect and enhance our natural environment.

Councillor Sam Corcoran leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “I believe that climate change is the greatest challenge facing our generation. We can tackle climate change and win – but it needs to be addressed on an international scale, a national scale, a local scale and an individual scale.

“We know what we have to do as individuals – we have to cut down on our energy usage, use our cars less, cut down on traffic congestion, improve air quality, walk and cycle more – and that's good for our health, as well as being good for the planet.

“We have to eat less red meat – and that's good for our health too. We can change behaviours. We can change hearts and minds. Or we can carry on as we are and change the climate for the worse.

“Cheshire East Council has set itself an ambitious target of being carbon neutral by 2025. However, the council only accounts for one per cent of the carbon emissions across the borough of Cheshire East.

“We also want to work with our partners, communities, businesses and residents to help them reduce their carbon emissions

“Please comment on the strategy to let us know how we can help you reduce carbon emissions and tackle climate change. This will, in turn, help the council to improve and strengthen its environmental strategy and its commitment to meet the challenge of climate change.”

Councillor Quentin Abel, Cheshire East Council’s environmental champion, said: “Most of our younger people (of any age) are deeply concerned about climate change. This is our first attempt at setting aims for our area and communities.

“We need your assistance. We absolutely welcome ideas and enthusiasms from our communities –  we are all in this together. These might include tree planting and other forms of carbon capture, local energy schemes, transport solutions, building design and energy capture.

“You have the opportunity to have your say in the consultation, which is now live. Please don’t miss out – if you have ideas, share them and be involved.”

The eight-week long environmental strategy consultation is now live until midnight on 24 November 2019. It can be accessed by visiting: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/consultations