the stafford directory december 2013

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FREE

2 The Stafford Directory | 01785 318619

• Statutory Accounts

• Personal Tax

• Corporate Tax

• Management Accounts

• Book Keeping

• Payroll

• Statutory Company Audits

• CIS

• VAT

DSN Accountants LimitedTop Corner Offices 1 & 2Market Street, PenkridgeStaffordshire

Tel: 01785 716658 Mobile: 07826 840147Email: [email protected] w w w . d s n a . c o . u k

DSN AccountantsYour Local Accountancy Firm

DSN Accountants Limited isa firm based in Staffordshireand offers a full range ofaccounts, taxation andbusiness advisory andsupport services to a widerange of businesses andindividuals.

DSN Accountants is anestablished Accountancy firmin the Staffordshire area servingclients throughout Staffordshireand the West Midlands.Drawing on the years ofexperience gained with topaccountancy firms we offer thecomplete range of audit,accounting and taxationservices for solo traders to smalland medium sized businesses.

DSN Accountants offers theknowledge, expertise and

service of the larger firms butwith a more personal service atmuch lower rates.

DSN Accountants are a smallfriendly firm that can offer thequality services of the largerfirms at just a fraction of thecost.

• Services• Statutory Accounts• Statutory Company Audits• Company and Personal

Tax Planning• Management Accounts• Bookkeeping• Tax Returns• CIS Returns• VAT• Payroll• Business Start-up’s

With a portfolio of clients inthe local community that spans

many industries and sectorssuch as, manufacturing, retail,investment and construction,we pride ourselves in offering aservice that is specific to yourindividual needs.

At DSN Accountants weconsider all clients equal andoffer the same prompt, efficientand quality service to all ourclients whether they be a localbuilder or plumber right up tothe larger limited companieswe service.

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3December 2013

Stafford Railway Building Society is doing its bitto help first time buyers get on the propertyladder.

The Society operates in a simple andstraightforward way. It aims to offer mortgage andsavings products that are easy to understand andgimmick free.

At Stafford Railway Building Society we knowhow important buying your own home is andwhat a struggle it can be to get your first foot onthe property ladder. That’s why our mortgage nowoffers two additional options to help you achieveyour housing dreams.

If you have a friend or family member with amortgage free property, an existing mortgage withthe Society or cash in an account with theSociety, we could lend up to 95 % of the value ofthe property you want to buy with our guarantormortgage option.

The Society also offers a 90% mortgage option,the perfect answer for people who are strugglingto to take out a mortgage. The guarantee, in thiscase, is provided by way of a higher lendingcharge.

With competitive rates, the Society’s mortgageoptions could be the solution for Staffordhome-hunters.Susan Whiting, chief executive of StaffordRailway Building Society, said: “We are keen tohelp people in Stafford and beyond realise theirproperty dreams and are happy to talk throughthe guarantor and 90 per cent mortgage optionsto find a solution for you.”

For more information, contact Emma, Sue, Nicolaor Adrian at our branch at 4 Market Square,Stafford or call 01785 223212.

* Terms and conditions apply and your home may be repossessedif you do not keep up with repayments on your mortgage.

The Answer To Your Housing Needs

A helping hand forfirst- time buyers

At Stafford Railway Building Society, we help lots offirst-time buyers get on the housing ladder with ourstraightforward, gimmick-free mortgage that iscompetitively priced, has no hidden charges andcomes with loads of friendly, expert advice.

Our flexible approach means that, whether you havea sizeable deposit or are looking for a higher loan-to-value ratio, we should have a mortgage to suit you.

To find out more about a mortgage from StaffordRailway Building Society, call 01785 223212, [email protected] or visitwww.srbs.co.uk

StandardVariable Rate

(SVR)

Overall costfor

comparison

Loan to Value(LTV)

3.49% 3.60%*Up to 95%(5% deposit)with appropriate

guaranteesAPR

3.99% 4.10%* Up to 90%(10% deposit)with Higher

Lending Charge

APR

• no arrangement fees.• no early repayment charges.• make over-payments at any time.• pre-arrange a payment holiday.• no tie-in periods.

*APR’s vary with individual circumstances. If you request a written illustration itwill include a personalised APR. YOUR HOMEMAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DONOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ONYOUR MORTGAGE.

Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Register Number 206063.

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TheStaffordDirectory

We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in The Stafford Directory magazine, and whilst every careis taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibilty for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing ofan advert. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted onthe understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Any reproduction of any material is forbidden withoutthe written consent of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibilty for views expressed by contributors, or the accuracyof claims made by advertisers.

Don’t forget to recycle this magazine!

January’s issue of The Stafford Directory will be distributed during thefirst week of January to 10,000 homes and businesses in selectedareas of Stafford.If you wish to place an advert or editorial feature, please ensure copyis submitted to us no later than 10/12/2013.

Contents...DSN Accountants 2Stafford Railway Building Society 3Vision of Beauty Salon 6Full of Festive Cheer - Christmas style for your home 8Christmas Postal Dates 9Get into the festive spirit at the Winter Wonderfarm 11Festive Season begins with Dickins favourite at Gatehouse Theatre 12Katharine House Hospice: Winter Walk Gathers Pace 14Steve Bricknell Antiques Restorer 16A Date For Your Diary: Number One Events Post-Christmas Antiques Fair 17Record amount of Shoe Boxes for Christmas Appeal at BWH 18A Walk In The Park For Your Festive Wants & Needs 20Red Box: The Web Page 22MAG Group Home Services 23Recipe of the month 24What’s On? 26-27Tantra Flow Yoga 28Puzzle Page 30Burton Manor Primary School Christmas Poster Competition 33Kid’s Puzzle Page 34Stafford Girls Gain Top Award 35Puzzle solutions 36Useful numbers 36Index of Advertisers 38

The Stafford Directory welcomes contributions from localvoluntary groups, charities and sports teams.

So if you have news of an event, or other information that youwant to share, we’ll help spread the word by promoting the great

work that you do.To find out more about our FREE support to good causes then

call us now on 01785 318619 or email us [email protected].

Hello Readers,

Welcome to our December edition ofThe Stafford Directory. With Christmasjust around the corner, we have includedlots of Christmas products and servicesbeing offered locally, perfect to help youprepare for the festive season.

Thank you to those that entered lastmonth’s competition to win tickets to seeSleeping Beauty at The Grand Theatrein Wolverhampton. The correct answerwas Coronation Street. Well done toD.Ashley, who has won 2 tickets. Keepan eye out for more competitions in ourfuture editions!

Thank you for your continued supportthroughout 2013 and we wish you aMerry Christmas and a Happy New Yearfrom all at The Stafford Directory.

For all advertising enquiries, contact:Lisa Cuthbert - Sales ManagerTel: 01785 318619Email: [email protected]

If you wish to submit a story orlocal event, contact:Carole Chambers - EditorTel: 01785 318619Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @staffsdirectoryFacebook: The Stafford Directory

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5December 2013

AWARD-WINNINGLANDSCAPE SPECIALISTSCreating beautiful, bespoke outdoor living spaces

• Hard Landscapes • Bricklaying

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• Stone Walling • Landscape Construction

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We are a local company working with local suppliers

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For more details please call us or visit us online...Tel: 01785 281138 or Mobile: 07814 463 617

Email: [email protected]

GROUNDWORKS

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VISION OF BEAUTYHair and Beauty Salon

The partyseason isofficiallyhere andthatmeans it’stime to

get ready to look gorgeous for every one of thosefestive parties on your social calendar.

So, you’ll need to head to a salon that uses only thebest products, boasts a great selection of servicesand employs a highly trained team of therapists,who are committed to providing excellentcustomer care.

Fortunately Stafford’snewest beauty salon -Vision of Beauty - hasgot it all, asManager KerriFarrington explains:

“Since opening at thebeginning ofNovember we’veworked really hard to

create a fantastic setting for our clients, not onlywith our well-designed shabby-chic interior, butwith the quality of service that we offer.”

Clients can enjoy all of their essential beautyservices in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

“We have designed the salon to be perfect forchilling-out, so that our customers can fully relaxwhile being totally pampered.”

Offering a full range of essential beauty services,Vision of Beauty takes care of everything you’llneed to look fabulous over the Christmas partyseason and beyond.

“We do spray tanning, waxing, tinting, threading,manicures, pedicures, eyelash extensions andsemi permanent make-up (micro-pigmentation).

We only use top brands - like OPI and SiennaX - to ensure fantastic results.”

And that’s not all:

“We specialise in hair extensions. We use the bestquality, ethically sourced, 100% Remy human hair,so that we can create the most natural lookingfinish for our clients.”

Providing instant texture, volume, style and length- without the need for chemicals or patch-testing -hair extensions are the fast way to a celebrity lookthis Christmas.

“Whether you fancy a change of style, or havealways longed for long hair, extensions are boundto make you look and feel amazing.”

Setting the salon apart from the competition, Kerrihas paid close attention to those little things thatmake a big difference for her clients. “We prideourselves on excellent customer service andcomplete satisfaction”.

The team at Vision of Beauty are keen to getinvolved with their community and are alwayshappy to help a good cause, that’s why they’ll beholding a special fund-raising evening on Tuesday28th December for local girl, Megan Stokes.

“We want to raise as much money as possible for14 year old Megan, who is in need of a speciallydesigned bathroom at her home due to herdisability.”

“Please help us by booking in to have your nailspainted by Brad Pearmain, who is a Men’s Healthfitness model and Calvin Klein winner.”

Check out Vision of Beauty’s Facebook page‘Vision of Beauty Salon’ . To book in for yourChristmas treatments call 01785 747496 or visitthe salon at 19 Greyfriars, Stafford, ST16 2SA.A warm welcome awaits you at Vision of Beauty.

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7December 2013

LET, SI

MILAR

PROP

ERTIE

S REQ

UIRED We are the only Specialist Letting Agent

in Penkridge.

We do the training to minimise your risk.

Bespoke packages arranged to suitindividual needs.

Regular updated internetadvertising.

Tel: 01785 716800www.trafalgarproperties.co.uk

3 Farm Cottages, Market Street, Penkridge, Staffordshire, ST19 5DH

LANDLORDS

4 Week BabyMassageCourse

Landywood Children’s CentreMonday Morning Classes

Penkridge Children’s CentreMonday Afternoon Classes

Wombourne Children’s CentreTuesday Morning ClassesSilkmore Children’s CentreTuesday Afternoon Classes

Featherstone Children’s CentreWednesday Afternoon Classes

Towels and oils supplied.Includes handouts and discussion topics.

Please contact Karen for more information orbookings.

Tel: 07814 599 216Email: [email protected]

Groups are kept small so booking early is advisable.

MOT - SERVICE - REPAIRS -DIAGNOSTICS - AIR CONDITIONING -

MODERN & CLASSIC CAR RESTORATION- RALLY PREPARATION SERVICES

Tel: 01785 715777 or 01785 712878Mob: 07831 121384

Email: [email protected]: www.rkmotorservicesltd.co.uk

Units 1 & 2 Stoney Lane, Dunston Heath,Stafford, ST18 9AQ

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Embracing everything that is wonderful about the season means filling your homewith delightful decorations that blend effortlessly with your current interior style -but that add essential Christmas magic.

If you love a traditional theme, then choose trimmings in rich hues of red and green- highlighted with glistening gold. Eclectic and vintage pieces produce an individualfeel that works well to create a lived-in-look that’s perfect for period properties andreminiscent of Christmas’ past.

For the modern home, select simple and stylised decorations to establish a fresh andunderstated theme. Use contemporary colours of blue, silver and white to keep thingsup-to-date and thoroughly stylish; the result, a light, bright andsublime seasonal style.

Full Of Festive Cheer- Christmas style for your home

by Helen Taylor

‘Looking Glass’ by Lineaat House of Fraser

White Iridescent Crystal Tree,£150

Tree Decorations,from £3

Lace Wrapping Paper,£5 per roll

All Linea at House of Fraser

‘Woodland Charm’ byLinea at House of Fraser

Pre-Lit Tree, £230Tree Decorations, from £3

Stag Cushion, £25Large Grey Lantern, £35

Small Cream Stag Lantern, £353DWooden Tree, £20

Snowflake Fairy Light Garland, £30Pine ConeWreath, £20


Decorations byLinea at House of Fraser

Bell Jar, £25Pearl Baubles, £12 (set of 16)Bird Tealight Holder, £8

Birdcage Tealight Holder, £20Glitter Berry Wreath, £30Mistletoe Garland, £6


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9December 2013

Christmas Postal DatesChristmas Postal Dates

LASTRECOMMENDEDPOSTING DATES

SERVICE

INTERNATIONAL AIRMAIL

Wed 4th DecAsia, Far East (includingJapan), New Zealand

Thurs 5th Dec Australia

Fri 6th DecAfrica, Caribbean, Central

& South America, Middle

East

Mon 9th Dec Cyprus, Eastern Europe

Tues 10th DecCanada, France, Greece,

Poland

Fri 13th Dec USA

Sat 14th DecWestern Europe(excluding France,Greece, Poland)

LASTRECOMMENDEDPOSTING DATES

SERVICE

UK

Wed 18th DecSecond Class &Royal Mail SignedFor™

Fri 20th DecFirst Class & RoyalMail Signed For™

Mon 23rd DecRoyal MailSpecial DeliveryGuaranteed™

LastPost

ASHCROFT FLOORING SERVICES

Specialist in all types of soft floor coverings (carpets, vinyl's and Karndean).

Varying budgets catered for.Free no obligation quotation

and advisory service.Samples brought to your door

for design and colour comparisons.Wet rooms complete service available.

Over 10 years experience.Insurance work undertaken.

Call us today on: 07850 479 407Email. [email protected]

Ashcroft, Meadow Lane, Acton Trussell, Staffordshire, ST17 0RU

Great Prices - Great Quality - Great Home Service

FREE quotation for Carpets, Karndean and Vinyl's.Commercial and domestic work under taken.

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Treeway Fencing LtdUnit 9, Cannock Wood Ind Estate, Cannock, Wood

Street, Hazelslade, Hednesford. 4ft-40ft available until 21/12/13. Numerous vareties to choose from.

A selection of Holly Wreaths & Christmas Tree Stands available. Ample fl oodlit parking. Open from

Mon - Sat 8am - 6pm, Sun 9am - 5pm.01543 425893.Call Steve 07831 822760.

Call Ken 07801 050203.

WMWheat & Son Nursery520 Chester Road, Little Aston, Alridge,

WS9 0PU. All sizes & types available. Selection of Tree Stands available.

Ample fl oodlit parking. Open until 22/12/13. Mon - Sat 9:30am-4:30pm, Sun 10am-4pm.

Call Jack 07860 109975Office 01543 425893

CHRISTMASATKenway Christmas Trees

OPEN until 22nd December.Monday - Saturday, 8am-6pm, Sunday 9am - 5pm.

Call for further details & directions. www.acornjoinerystafford.co.uk

Call Jon Lockley

T: 01785 710 845M: 07881 537 136

As quality bespoke joiners, we make a wide rangeof tailor made items, from doors, windows, andstaircases to kitchens and bathroom furniture.

All of our builds are produced in our dedicatedworkshop by skilled craftsmen using woods fromsustainable sources. We ensure that every detailof your design is carried through from concept to

completion.

Bingley Hall, County Showground,Stafford ST18 0BD

Friday, Saturday, Sunday

13th/14th/15th December*

*PLEASE NOTE DATE CHANGE

Up to 400 standsOpening Times 10am-5pm each day

Admission £5 adults, £3 concessionsEarly trade Friday 8.30am - admission £7/person

STAFFORDBINGLEY HALL

Quality Antiques Fairs

SupportingSupportingAll enquiriesTelephone. 01274 588505www.antiquesfairs.com

Supporting

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11December 2013

WINTER

Open: 11am - 4pm ( last admission )

Sat & Sun from 30th Nov - 22nd Dec PLUS Mon 23rd DecADMISSION*: £5 per child, including meeting Santa!* Please note additional charge applies for photos, pony rides, trailer ride & some other activities

Info & tickets at www.lowerdraytonfarm.co.uk or call 07817 691352

Lower Drayton Farm • Lower Drayton Lane • Penkridge • Stafford ST19 5RE

Santa’s Grotto l

Photo with Santa l

Winter woodland walk l

Festive farm trailer ride l

Mulled wine & mince pies l

Winter woodland walkWinter woodland walkWinter woodland walk

Meet the animals l

Adventure play areas l

Seasonal activities l

Pony rides l

Refreshments l

A Penkridge farm will be helping families kick start their seasonal celebrationsthis year as it transforms into a ‘Winter Wonderfarm’ during December.

At Lower Drayton Farm, children will get the chance to visit FatherChristmas in his grotto to tell him what they really want under the tree thisyear and take home a small gift. Depending on the weather, pony rides willbe on offer but there will also be a host of ‘indoor’ seasonal craft activities– including a drawing competition and face painting – to keep youngstersentertained, as well as the adventure playground to explore.The farm’s friendly animals – including donkeys, sheep, pigs, ponies, goats,ducks, chickens and rabbits – will be looking cute in their winter ‘woollies’ andfarmer Ray will give an insight on to what’s going on around the farm in thewinter months during a special seasonal farm trailer ride.

To round off their visit, children will have the chance to post their Christmas list in the ‘North Pole’ postbox to get a reply from Father Christmas himself, and a photographer will be on hand to capture memoriesof the visit. Meanwhile, seasonal treats - including non-alcoholic mulled wine or spiced apple ‘punch’ andmince pies for the grown-ups - will be available from the snack bar.

The ‘Winter Wonderfarm’ at Lower Drayton Farm will be from 10am – 4pm open every Sat & Sunthroughout December and on Mon, 23rd December. Entry is £5 per child including Father Christmas visit(please note photos, refreshments, some activities, pony and trailer rides additional cost).To pre-book tickets for fast track entry visit www.lowerdraytonfarm.co.uk

Get into the festive spirit at the ‘WinterWonderfarm’

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Festive Season begins with Dickens favourite

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre kicks off its festiveseason with A Christmas Carol – As told byJacob Marley (deceased) on Friday 13thDecember for two nights at the MET Studio.

Adapted and performed by multi award-winning actor/writer, James Hyland, thismuch-loved show portrays Charles Dickens’classic tale from the perspective of Scrooge’sdeceased business partner, Jacob Marley. Hailedas “a forcefully compelling masterpiece” (TheManx Independent) and the “definitive tellingof A Christmas Carol” (Redditch Standard), theproduction has been universally acclaimed bycritics and audiences alike, winning BestPerformer in Theatre (Fringe Report Awards2012) and a nomination for The LondonTheatre Award (London Awards for Art andPerformance 2012) as well as OfficialRecognition from Her Majesty The Queen,received at Buckingham Palace.

James Hyland began his career by winning theGuardian International Student Drama Awardat the Edinburgh Festival, and went on toperform with theatre groups such as the RoyalShakespeare Company, winning eight moreawards for his performances on stage andscreen. Under the mantle of his production

company, Brother Wolf, James has written,produced and acted in several projects that havegained universal acclaim.

Most recently, James was awarded Best Male Act(The Solo International Festival 2013) followingthe sell-out World Premiere of Strange Case ofDr Jekyll and Mr Hyde at Harrogate Theatre inJuly. James will also be performing A StrangeCase of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde at The METStudio on Friday 10th and Saturday 11thJanuary 2014.

Tickets for A Christmas Carol – As Told ByJacob Marley (deceased) and The Strange Caseof Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde are just £13 / £11concessions, or theatre lovers can purchasetickets for both shows and pay just £20.

Tickets can be booked by calling the box officeon 01785 254653 or by visitingwww.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk.

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13December 2013

MARK BAILEYPLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER

• All aspects of gas fitting & plumbing work covered.• Full gas central heating installations & upgrades.• Complete bathroom packages.• 25+ years experience.• Free estimates.• All work guaranteed.

FINANCE AVAILABLE ON FULLCENTRAL HEATING, BATHROOMS

& BOILER UPGRADES

Landline: 01902 790468Mob: 07976 706337

Stafford Office: 01785 319012

Thinking of upgrading or changing your kitchen or bathroom?

3 Lichf ie ld Road, Sta f ford, ST17 4JX (Opposite Apol lo Cinema)

Tel: 01785 226256 Mob: 07891 191481 www.intowninteriors.co.uk

We are open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm and Saturday 9am - 4pm.

- We offer a wide range of exclusive products & solutions at affordable prices.

- Solutions to suit all budgets.

- We offer customers a free quote & ‘CAD’ Design service with no obligation to buy.

- All orders made specifically for your home.

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Nurses at Katharine House Hospice areencouraging supporters to join the popularannual Sponsored Winter Walk which 150people have already registered for. The walkwill once again be taking part on MilfordCommon on Sunday 8th December from10am.

Last year over 600 people took part in theseasonal stroll which each December seesexperienced walkers, families and even theirdogs – taking in a fresh and frosty 4.5 milecircuit of Milford Common to help raise fundsfor the Hospice.

Event fundraiser James Lunney said “theWinter Walk has become a very popularannual event – giving local people theopportunity to enjoy a leisurely pre-Christmaswork-out – whilst helping a vital local charitynear Christmas. The hospice stays open 24hrsa day over Christmas with the wonderfulnurses working around the clock”.

Registrations are now being taken for thewalk. Prices have been held at £10 perperson to take part (including acommemorative badge, soup and a roll).Children walk for free. On the dayregistrations are £15 for adults and £2 forchildren.

James says “we have kept the registration feeat the same price as previous years, but wereally want to encourage people to gainsponsorship from family, friends andcolleagues to raise additional funds for theHospice. Every year it costs £2.7m to provideour free care services, events like the WinterWalk really help towards this huge figure”

“Over the last two years Lacey has takenpart in the ‘Winter Walk’ and has raised over£700, all in her own time. As a result Laceyreceived the Cannock Councils YouthEndeavour Award. Lacey is taking apart againthis year and hopes to beat last year’s total ofover £400.” It’s remarkable what Lacey hasdone for the hospice at such a young age andwe are truly grateful for all Lacey’s efforts.

The Winter Walk has again been sponsoredby AF Systems, carpet and pressure cleaning- whose kind support enables the Hospice toensure every penny raised goes towards thecare of local people.

Katharine House Hospice provides free careand support for adults and their familiesacross Mid-Staffordshire coping with aprogressive illness. It relies upon thegenerosity of the local community to helpgenerate 75% of funds needed to run its rangeof vital services.

For further information about this and otherevents contact James on 01785 270808 [email protected] or book online atthe Hospice website www.khhospice.org.uk

Winter Walk Gathers Pace

From Left: Dean Stevens (Lacey’s Father), Lacey Stevens, Andy Foster (Eventsponsors AF Sytems).

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15December 2013

The perfect venue in the most elegant ofsurroundings ideally suited for your party,

special or intimate occasion.

Tandoori Balti Restaurant & Takeaway

Award Winning Bangladeshi Cuisine

Tel:01785 222858www.spiceislandstafford.co.uk

108-110 Wolverhampton Road, Stafford, ST17 4AH

SPECIAL OFFER!(Sun-Tues)

BUY ONE GET ONE FREEDining in offer, applies to

main meals only

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK(Including Bank Holidays)

Sunday-Thursday 5.30pm– 12.00amFriday-Saturday 5.30pm—12.30am

The ultimate quality and service

Bring your own alcoholic drinks

FREEHome Delivery

Minimum Order £10.00CHRISTMASORDERS

NOW BEINGTAKEN!

SD December 2013.indd 15 25/11/2013 15:11


Steve Bricknell, is one of a dwindling number of craftsmenspecialising in antique furniture restoration and traditionalfrench polishing.

He started antique furniture restoration as a hobby - huntingbargains in antique shops and fairs, then ‘doing them up’ tofurnish his first two homes during the 1970’s.

In 1983, Steve set up in business encouraged by a retiringStafford antique furniture restorer, Stan Wagg, who referred hisfirst few customers. Now 30 years on, Steve has an establishedfamily run business that has continued to grow throughrecommendation.

Steve carries all of his work out in his workshops and is assistedfull time by his wife Trish and 20 year old son, Stuart when heis back from university during the holiday periods. Over theyears, they have built up a good stock of restoration materials,including a variety of woods, veneers and fittings essentials formatching up in repairing antiques.

To ensure that pieces continue to be handed down thegenerations, Steve realises the importance of patience andpaying attention to every detail.

Restoration work means that no two jobs are ever the same.Steve’s most memorable restoration piece to date has been aGeorgian Longcase (Grandfather) Clock, that was once ownedby William Palmer ‘The Poisoner’ from Rugeley. The clock wasprivately owned by a Midlands couple and was on loan to theAncient High House in Stafford for their ‘Palmer’ Exhibition.Having been knocked over causing quite a lot of damage to thecase, Steve was asked to restore it to it’s original condition. Thecouple were delighted with the results when it had finally beenrestored.

Steve Bricknell30 years experience in

Antique & ModernFurniture Restoration

&

Sympathetic restoration • traditional MethodsTables French polished • Clock cases restoredFurniture repairs - loose joints - drawer runners

Woodworm treatment • Desk leathersRevival of dull & tired furniture

Tel: STAFFORD (01785) 247304A business established in 1983 & built on recommendation

STEVE BRICKNELLLocal Antiques Furniture Restoration

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17December 2013

28th and 29th December

R A G S

De-clutter your home in return forcash!

Bring us your unwanted items and inreturn receive up to £1.50 per kilo!

We accept:CleanWearable Clothing (all ages and sizes),Paired Shoes (sandals, trainers, pumps),

Matching Bed Linen, Curtains,Towels, Bags, Belts,Books & Small Electrical Items.

Open Monday - Friday (9am - 5pm)

& Saturday (9am - 4pm)

*We cannot accept soiled, damp or stained clothes, odd shoes, towels, pillows,duvets, blankets, throws, bathroom mats, rugs, uniform, work wear, hard

toys or furniture.

Unit 10, Boscomoor Industrial Estate,Penkridge, ST19 5QY

Tel: 01785 712974 or 07903 818192

Visit our wesbite: www.tagsandrags.co.uk

Date for the Diary:Number One Events

Post-ChristmasAntiques Fair

Beginning to think of life after Christmas?Christmas present money burning a hole in yourpocket? Then don’t forget to pay a visit to theNumber One Events Christmas/New Year Antiquesand Collectables Fair at the County Showground onSaturday and Sunday, 28 and 29 December. With upto 300 stands on display throughout the threeinter-connecting halls of the Showground’sPrestwood Centre, there will be a wealth of items tobrowse amongst at prices to suit all pockets, rangingfrom top quality silver, jewellery, clocks andceramics through to more collectable items such asfootball ephemera, postcards and kitchenalia, withplenty in between. Surely a far more enjoyable wayof working off that extra helping of Christmas pudthan jogging round the block or pounding thetreadmill!

SD December 2013.indd 17 25/11/2013 14:59


Pupils and their families at Blessed William Catholic High School have shown amazinggenerosity this year with overwhelming support for Operation Christmas Child, throughSamaritan’s Purse.

Students have put together more than 160 of their own special shoe boxes to go to needychildren in deprived areas. The special Christmas gift boxes include small toys andeducational supplies including books and pens, hygiene items such as toothbrushes andsoap and other gift items including clothing or accessories.

“Our school has supported this cause for the past five years,” commented MissWhitehouse who co-ordinates the project, “but this year, we have raised more boxes thanever before. I’d really like to thank our students and their families for their generosity andsupport in making this year such a success.”

Over the past 22 years, Operation Christmas Child has delivered 94 million shoeboxes toneedy children in over 100 countries.

Record amount of Shoe Boxes for ChristmasAppeal

SD December 2013.indd 18 25/11/2013 11:31

19December 2013

SD December 2013.indd 19 25/11/2013 11:31


Stafford Road, Newport,

Shropshire, TF10 9BY

Scan mefor the latestnews and offers

facebook.com/mereparkgardencentretwitter.com/mereparkgc

A WALK IN THE PARK FOR YOUR FESTIVEWANTS & NEEDS...

Christmas has come early for Mere Park GardenCentre in Newport! With less than 6 weeks to gountil the big day, Mere Park Garden Centre (justoff the A41) has been transformed into a winterwonderland. Offering everything you couldpossibly want and more for the festive period.

The centres festive sales area is now open! Thewinter wonderland showcases a number ofenchanting displays, each including the productsavailable atMere Park to give you the perfect ideaof how to decorate your home this Christmas.

Manager Pam Shaw said “One of the displays ischic red and white which is laid out like a sittingroom.”

“We also have a sparkling white area which is setout like a dining room.”

“Then there is the maple wood section withautumn colours, and a heavenly blue area with awinter theme.”

“We want to give people ideas and inspirationabout how their own homes could look.”

For Mrs Shaw and her team at Mere Park,Christmas started months ago. She explained“We go over to Holland in January each year tobuy for the following Christmas.”

“All of the plans for this year have been drawn upsince about February. All of the areas anddisplays are designed by the staff.”

Father Christmas’Grotto is all ready for hisarrival on 23rd November. You can see Santaarrive at 1pm and the Grotto will be open from1:30pm-5pm. The Grotto will also be open everyweekend leading upto Christmas from11am-5pm on Saturdays and 10:30m-4:30pm onSundays. For a full itinerary of events throughoutDecember see below.

There are a large selection of Christmas treesavailable as well as Christmas lunch to get you inthe festive spirit. Christmas lunch will beavailable from 2nd December.

FREE local bus service available Monday toSaturday, 9:30am-5pm and all day SundayduringMere Park Garden Centre’s opening hours.

Programme of EventsDecember 2013Sunday 1st December

Tony & Tinkerbelle Magic Show 1-4pm

Saturday 7th DecemberPeter Bishop - Organist 1-4pm

Sunday 8th DecemberThe Dalen Singers 2-4pm

Saturday 14th DecemberJulie’s Magical Experience & Balloon Modelling 1-4pm

Sunday 15th DecemberTelfordaires Barbershop Chorus 2-4pm

Saturday 21st DecemberFace Painting 1-4pm

Sunday 22nd DecemberJamboree Jazz Band 1-4pm

SD December 2013.indd 20 25/11/2013 11:31

21December 2013

Stafford Road, Newport,

Shropshire, TF10 9BY

Scan mefor the latestnews and offers

facebook.com/mereparkgardencentretwitter.com/mereparkgc

MERE PARKGARDEN CENTRE & RESTAURANT

OUTDOOR STORELEISURE & CAMPING

OUTDOORSTOREAT

tel: 01952 812795Opening Times

Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm Sun 10:30am-4pmOpening Times

Mon-Sat 9am-5:30pm Sun 10:30am-4:30pm tel: 01952 813500

Breakfast with Santa£4.99

9am-11am

Saturday 30th November, Saturday7th, 14th and 21st December

Children’s Breakfastand Treat.

Must be accompanied by an adult dining.

Books Hampers Lights Scents House Plants Gift Vouchers Silk Flowers Puzzles & GamesBooks Hampers Lights Scents House Plants Gift Vouchers Silk Flowers Puzzles & Games Festive Fayre Candles Poinsettias Christmas Trees Decorations Plus ManyMore

A Christmas Wonderland

SD December 2013.indd 21 25/11/2013 11:31


TREE AND HEDGE WORK

01785 713040 / 07885 971553

Domestic and CommercialGrounds Maintenance

Free quotationsChris JonesQualified and Insured

A.S.JSecurity & Electrical

Alarms - C.C.T.V - Servicing Installations &Repairs - Rewires Full & Part - Extra Sockets -

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RewiRes New Builds exteNsioNssockets lights coNsumeR uNitsgaRages sheds kitcheNstestiNg & iNspectioN BathRooms

Call Matt on 07791 677 647or email [email protected]

no jobtoo bigortoo small

THEWEB PAGEEachmonth, local web design company, The Red Box, bring you tips and ideas for your online business/website.

This month: Content is king

Getting the words right on your website isn’t as easy as it looks… and spending time staring at the screen wonderingwhere to start can waste valuable time you could be spending on sales and marketing.

If you rely on the Internet for the bulk of your business then you’ll want the big search engines such as Google, Yahoo! andBing to show your website in the first page of their search results. This is where the words on your website really matter. It’scalled Search Engine Optimisation (SEO).

You can spend a fortune on ads on the Internet, but at the end of the day, every web developer knows that Google – andthe rest – put well-written websites at the top of their search results because they know that’s what users like. Searchengines can only useWORDS to find your website on the Internet. They scan for quality content and rank it higher in searchresults.

One of our tops tips is to have one key phrase per page on your site. Don’t put all of your services on one page, for example.Have them as separate pages with different titles and key phrases. This way you widen the scope of searches your site willmatch.

Try to avoid generic phrases like ‘business cleaning services’ – you’ll be competing against thousands of alreadyestablished national and international similar services. If you offer a specific service and want local or regional businessonly, say so, and include your area covered.

Most importantly, test your search phrases. Type into search engines what your clients would say if they were looking foryour type of service. This way you know what phrases to target.

If you’d like expert advice on your website key phrases, content and Search Engine Optimization call The Red Box on :01785 248101.

www.the-red-box.co.uk

SD December 2013.indd 22 25/11/2013 11:31

23December 2013

Home ServicesProvided By Local People In South Staffordshire

To book your FREE consultation to discuss your requirements call:

01785 711088 / 01785 712351

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That time of year again already! We can hardlybelieve it’s come around so quickly – but don’t worrythere’s still time to get those last minute jobs sorted.

Whether you’ve got family coming to visit and youwant to make sure the house and garden is in tip-topshape, the pesky falling leaves are playing havoc withyour guttering, or if your fence has given in to thewindy weather and it’s finally time to replace thoseold panels, it’s time to give us a call! Our friendlyteam are on hand to pop out for a visit to see whatwe can do to best solve your problem.

We’ve put together a few helpful hints to help youstay safe over Christmas and New Year, and wouldlike to wish all of our customers a very merryChristmas, and we look forward to seeing you allagain in 2014.

M.A.G’s Top Tips!Follow our simple tips on Security and FireSafety to help protect your home thisChristmas

• Keep candles away from clothes, aerosols andchildren, and never leave candles unattended.

• When buying clothes and toys check the labels formaterials, and stick to those that are fire retardant.

• Be careful with your Christmas lights, and anyother electronic decorations. Overloaded socketsare a hazard!

• Make sure doors and windows are locked, andconsider additional security lighting, alarm systemsand CCTV to protect your home and its contents.

• Check your smoke alarm, and the alarms of anyfamily and neighbours, especially those who mayhave difficulty checking it for themselves.

Merry Christmasfrom the M.A.G

Team!

Home Services

SD December 2013.indd 23 25/11/2013 11:31


GingerChristmasPuddingsMakes 6 Ready in 1 hour 30 minutes

These fruity mini pudsflavoured with stemginger are much lighterthan a traditional richChristmas pudding anddon’t need to be madeweeks in advance.

Ingredients:• 175g butter, softened, plusextra for greasing

• 175g self-raising flour• � tsp baking powder• 175g light muscovado sugar• 1 tsp each ground mixedspice and ground ginger

• 3 large eggs• 100g dried mixed fruit• 50g glace cherries, chopped• 50g stem ginger, finelychopped

• 4 tbsp stem ginger syrup• Softly whipped cream orbrandy butter, to serve

Preheat the oven to 190C/375F/Gas Mark5. Butter six small pudding basins (eachabout 200ml capacity) and line the baseswith circles of baking parchment.

Place the butter, flour, baking powder,sugar, spices and eggs in a large mixingbowl and beat together with an electricmixer for 1-2 minutes until pale andcreamy. Fold in the dried mixed fruit andtwo-thirds of the cherries and stem ginger.

Divide the mixture evenly between theprepared pudding basins then cover eachbasin with a circle of greased and pleatedbaking parchment and secure with string.Cover each basin with pleated foil.

Stand the basins in a roasting tin and pourin enough boiling water to come halfwayup the sides of the basins. Bake for 45-50minutes, or until risen, firm to the touchand a skewer inserted into a puddingcomes out clean.

Leave the puddings to stand for 10minutes then turn out onto serving plates.Mix the remaining cherries and ginger withthe stem ginger syrup and spoon over thepuddings. Serve with cream or brandybutter.

TipFor a boozy flavour, gently heatthe stem ginger syrup with 1-2tbsp of rum or brandy then pourover the hot puds just beforeserving.

Recipe of the month

SD December 2013.indd 24 25/11/2013 11:31

25December 2013

M& HKitchen & Bedroom Design

Stafford's Longest Established Kitchen Studio 1982

Home FarmMain RoadMilfordStafford

ST17 0UW01785 664288

www.mhkitchens-stafford.co.uk

SD December 2013.indd 25 25/11/2013 11:31


What’s On

MondaysBoys Street Dance ClassesEvery Monday at Dunston Village HallAges 7-10, 4.45pm-5.15pm. £3.50.Ages 11+, 5.15pm-6pm.£4 each. Various styles covered such as Hip Hop, StreetDance and Break Dance. Teachers are UKA GTPD qualifiedand fully CRB checked & first aid trained. For more info callKaty on 07584 030520.

TuesdaysDene Dance School’s Ladies Street Dance ClassesEvery Tuesday, 6.15pm-7.00pmat Dunston Village HallGo back to basics and learn one of the most popular stylesof dance. Have fun with your friends whilst getting fit. Newmembers welcome. £4 each. Contact Katy for more informa-tion on 07584 030 520.

Belly Dance ClassesTuesday evenings, 8.30pm-9.30pm atCastle Church Hall, Newport Road, StaffordFor information on this class, contact Shirley on 01785664289.

Baby Massage Drop In CourseTuesdays, 9.30am-10.30am/10.45am-11.45amat Holmcroft North End Community Centre, StaffordA session of baby massage & multi sensory experience. £2per child, fee payable per session. No need to book just dropinto any session.

Little Stars Stay & PlayTuesdays, 2pm-3pmat Holmcroft North End Community CentreLots of stories, ryhmes & singing activites. After seeing yourhealth visitor why not stay and join in the fun. Clinic startsat 1.30pm

Peter’s Pals Toddler GroupTuesdays 10am-12pmat Stafford Sports College, Rising BrookFor more info please call 01785 240 641.

Yoga ClassesTuesdays 6:30pm-8pmat Arthur Findley Centre (96a Stone Rad, Stafford). For moreinformation contact Brian Horne on 07891191481 or onfacebooke, www.facebook.com/tantraflowyoga

WednesdaysKonnektiv Drama GroupEvery Wednesday, 6.30pm-9pmat Staffordshire Performing Arts, Stafford.A theatre & arts for health group. Information on the groupcan be found on the website Konnektiv.co.uk or its blog Kon-nektive.blogspot.co.uk . For more information contact NickyBarron on 07832 133844 or Mervyn Price on 01785 604917.

Brocton ToddlersWednesdays 10am-11.30amat Brocton Village Hall.A chance for the ‘under fives’ and their carers to meet forfriendship, toys, snacks and songs. No need to book, justturn up. £2.50pp - extra children 50p each. For more infoemail: [email protected]

Belly Dance Classes

Wednesday evenings, 8.30pm-9.30pmat Little Haywood Village Hall.For info on this class, contact Shirley on 01785 664289.

BERKSWICH WI.Meet on the first Wednesday of each month at 7.15.p.mat The Village Hall, Walton on the Hill.Interesting speakers & activities. A thriving craft group whomeet fortnightly. Why not come along to one of our meetingsand see if it is for you. Visitors will be made very welcome.Please ring Secretary Shirley Benn on 01785 603646 for moredetails or try the website www.berkswichwi.btck.co.uk.

ThursdaysAT Health Pilates/YogaThursdays 10am-11amat Walton Village Hall, Walton on the Hill.Combined with tai chi and yoga to improve corestability and flexibility, relieve aches and pains and give a re-laxing workout. £4 per class.

Stafford Folk Dance ClubThursday evenings, 8pm-10.15pmat Walton Village Hall, Stafford.We are a friendly club & always welcome new people.Classes are run throughout July however are not onduring August. Come along! For further information call01785 661076.

Peter’s Pals Toddler GroupTuesdays 1pm-3pmat Stafford Sports College, Rising Brook. For more info pleasecall 01785 240 641.

FridaysSnack and ChatFriday mornings, 10am-11.30amat Holmcroft North End Community Centre, StaffordMums, Dads, Nans, Grandads and carers welcome!Come along & play, there is always an exciting range ofactivities for children 0-7 years. Free refreshments.

Pilates & Yoga Class with MelFridays, 6pm-7pm at Berkswich Parish HallCombined Yoga and Pilates to improve core stability,flexibility and relieve aches/pains. A workout for the mind &body that incorporates relaxation and meditationtechniques. For more info contact Mel: 07968 755609 Pleasebring your own mat. £4.00 per class. 16 & under £2.00.

Stafford and Mid-Staffs Archaeological Society MeetingsFridays (Once a montt) 7:30pm-9:30pm from Sept-Aprilat St Bertelin’s Church, Holmcroft Road, StaffordCurrently roughly 50 members that meet once a month on a Fridayevening. See website for current programme dates. New memberswelcome. Annual subscription fees apply and visitors are alsowelcome at a charge of £2 per meeting. Programme consistschiefly of lectures on local archaeological topics. Members mayalso take part in archaeological digs when available, such as therecent dig at the Messines Ridge model, Cannock Chase. Forfurther information please see http://www.fcet.staffs.ac.uk/jdw1/samsas/ or contact Anne Mooney, 41 Fernwood, NurseryGardens, Stafford, ST16 1NN.

SD December 2013.indd 26 25/11/2013 11:31

27December 2013

What’s On

DecemberThe Shugborough Christmas Fair and CandlelitMansion HouseSunday 1st December at Shugborough Estate10am-4pm. A family fair with a wide range of arts, craft,food and gift stalls for Christmas. Organised by OakleighFairs who also produce the Shugborough Country Show.The magnificent Mansion House will re-open especiallyoffering visitors a glimpse of how the Victoriansdecorated their grand houses for Christmas. Filled withfresh flowers, foliage, trees and lit by the light ofhundreds of candles with the piece de resistance beingthe magnificent candlelit 300-year-old chandelier. TheShugborough Candlelit Mansion House will open from11am-4pm. £8 adults (in advance) or £9 on the day,£6.50 concessions (in advance) or £7.50 on the day.Under 12 free. Free parking.

St Mary’s Chistmas Tree Festival4th - 9th December in St Mary’s Church, StaffordFollowing the huge success of last year’s Christmas TreeFestival, this year’s festival will be held over six days,between Wednesday 4th December and Monday 9thDecember 2013. Last year was the largest festival yetwith 70 decorated trees on display in the churchattracting 6500 visitors. The festival will again be run inconjunction with Stafford Borough Council and StaffordTown Centre Partnership as part of the town’s Christmasfestivities.

An evening of Candles, Crackers and Carolswith choir ‘One Accord’Saturday 7th December at Brocton Village Hall7pm for 7:30pm start. Bar, Meal and Raffle. £12 a ticket.Tickets available from Brocton Post Office and mustbe purchased prior to the event. For more info contactDerek on 01785 664147 or Chris on 01785 665466.

A Period Christmas at the Ancient High House7th December 201310am - 4pm. You will have the chance meet costumedcharacters and learn about Christmas in the Tudor,Stuart Georgian and Victorian periods. Stir a traditionalpudding, sing carols and meet Father Christmas. Freemince pies and hot fruit punch. There will also bechildren’s craft workshops and family entertainment.

Visit the Snowglobe at the Guildhall Shopping Centre7th December 2013For a fabulous Christmas family photo, a special gift orjust for fun, visit the Snowglobe at the GuildhallShopping Centre on Saturday 7th December. Everyoneknows what a snowglobe is! It’s the festive snow sceneencapsulated within a plastic ball - shake it and the snowswirls around! Now imagine this on a giant scale. Climbinside the ball, complete with swirling snow and haveyour photograph taken. Up to 6 people fit into the ballat one time. Great fun, really unusual and something notto be missed.

Blessed William Howard School’s Christmas ConcertMonday 9th December at Blessed William HowardHigh School7:15pm. Open to the public. Christmas concert withmince pies and mulled wine. Tickets are £5 adults or £3concessions and may be purchased in advance from theschool or on the day.

Tinseltastic Dance ShowTuesday 10th December at Blessed William HowardSchool.7pm. Open to the public. Tickets are £3 and may bepurchased in advance from the school or on the day.

Bead Creative EveningWednesday 11th December at Blessed WilliamHoward High School7pm. Open to the public. Make your own jewellery.

Cantemus Chamber Choir Christmas ConcertSat 14th December in St. Mary’s Church Stafford7:30pm start. With guest musicians from StaffordGrammar School. Start your Christmas the traditionalway, with well-known carols. This event is suitable forthe whole family. Tickets from ‘Mews Music’, Stafford, orchoir members. £5 each adult, accompaniedschoolchildren free. Special offer of ‘buy two, get onefree’ on advance tickets

Cantemus sing carols to help raise money for‘Katharine House’24th December outside St Chad’s Church, Stafford11 am – 12 noon. As a break from your last-minuteshopping, pause to listen to old favourites, and make adonation to ‘Katharine House’.

SD December 2013.indd 27 25/11/2013 15:54


Tantra Flow Yoga

Brian Horne has beenpractising various types ofyoga for the past 10 years andhasrecently travelled to Indiato study Tantra Yoga. Briansays “Yoga is a science, not asport or a game. Tantra yogaby its nature never promotesegotism. In this system bothTantra and yoga are combinedaccording to the ancient Kaulatradition through asanas (pos-tures) that gently challengeand condition you.

Unlike the yoga found incontemporary yoga schools,Tantra yoga is not based onmere physicality. I do not see

a yogi as a set of muscles andbones which need to be pulledinto android-like positions. Iteach asanas from a timelesstantric formula based on asubtle energy system.

The asana series I am teach-ing is known as the Tri doshaseries and is unique withinthe world of yoga. In moderntimes,especially in the westernworld, where the science ofyoga has been reduced tomerely aphysical asana-workout, itsoriginal, wholesome effect onthe person has been lost. TheTri dosha series combinespranayama (breath control)bandhas (muscle contractors),metaphysics and medication.For a person to be wholesomeand happy, the mind, bodyand soul must all be inharmonious coordination. Bychoosing relaxation overtension, freeing your mindrather than fixing it, andallowing air to flow gently andfreely in and out of your bodyyou will feel more connected

with the essence of your life.For me, it was really new in thebeginning to ‘let go’ and relaxin the asanas but you candefinitely feel the effects of it.It is only when we are truly re-laxed that we are actually ableto beefficient and ergonomic. I no-ticed that I was able to han-dle stress much better andthat my body was becomingstronger, not by pushing moreand more, but by relaxing and‘letting go’ and allowing mywhole self to relax and thusharmonise itself.

Brian’s Tantra yoga classesare held on Tuesday’s from6:30pm-8pm at the ArthurFindlay Centre (96A StoneRoad, Stafford). For more in-formation contact Brian on07891 191 481 or on facebookby going to,www.facebook.com/tantraflowyogaOwn mat essential, all abilitieswelcome.

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SD December 2013.indd 28 25/11/2013 11:31

29December 2013

IMPROVING HOMESIMPROVING HOMESIMPROVING HOMES --- IMPROVINGIMPROVINGIMPROVING LIVESLIVESLIVESHANDYPERSON SERVICEHANDYPERSON SERVICEHANDYPERSON SERVICEFast & Friendly local handyperson service

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SD December 2013.indd 29 25/11/2013 11:31


For puzzle solutions see page 36

Puzzle Page

Christmas Wordfit

easy

hard

SD December 2013.indd 30 25/11/2013 11:31

31December 2013

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SD December 2013.indd 31 25/11/2013 13:14


Morecare at HomeMaking life better

Morecare at Home are looking for motivated, flexible anddedicated people who will work as part of a team to providepersonal care for individuals with a variety of needs withintheir own homes in Stafford and surrounding areas.

Experience is advantageous although not essential as a fullinduction programme and on-going training is provided. Your own transport is essential.

We offer excellent rates of pay, mileage allowance, paid holidays, excellent training opportunitiesand full support from a friendly team.

We have various shifts including early mornings, evenings and weekends. Various other hoursare available.

For more details and to request an application form, please call,HelenWillmore on 01543 683422

Morecare at HomeMaking life better

Morecare Ltd has been providing high quality residential and nursing care at the Old Vicarage andVicarage Court Nursing Homes since 1992.Morecare at Home delivers this same highstandard of care to individuals who are not fully independent in their everyday lives, in thecomfort of their own homes throughout Staffordshire.

Morecare at Home offer a full range of services including:• All aspects of personal care & assistance.• Companionship & sitting service.• Sleep-in or waking night service.• Prescription collection.• Home from hospital care.• Housework, shopping & laundry service.

Telephone: 01543 [email protected] www.morecareathome.co.uk

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SD December 2013.indd 32 25/11/2013 11:31

33December 2013

Burton Manor Primary School’s PTA

held a Christmas Poster Competition

this year.

The aim of the poster was to advertise

the Christmas Fayre being held at the

school. Children were asked to decorate

their posters over the half term holiday.

There were many fantastic

entries. The winning poster, shown to

the left, was created by a child in

reception. Well Done!

PILLATONGardenCentre & Tea Room

Christmas Decorations Now in Stock!Baubles & Decorations available

Come & visit Santa

on 14th & 15th December Telephone: 01785 713873

[email protected]

www.pillatongardencentre.co.uk

Pillaton Garden Centre (off the B5012),Pillaton, Staffordshire, ST19 5RZ

SD December 2013.indd 33 25/11/2013 11:32


Kid’s Page

SD December 2013.indd 34 25/11/2013 11:32

35December 2013

1st Berkswich Guides Lucy Kendall, Amy Noonand Emily Milan all aged 14 of Stafford havesuccessfully achieved the highest award a Guidecan gain - The Baden Powell Challenge Award.

The girls have been Guides since they were 10and have been working towards the Award overthe past two years. They have had to undertaketen challenges from five different zonesincluding sports evenings, party planning,gaining the cooks badge and also using IT skillsto produce resources for their unit. Once theyhad completed their ten challenges Amy & Emilyjoined other girls from all over Staffordshirein their final challenge, a weekend in Hopwaswhich included taking part in ‘The Race for Life’at Sutton Coldfield. Lucy’s weekend took her toWaddow Hall in Clitheroe where she met withgirls from across the UK.

The girls were presented with their awards byDistrict Commissioner Kim Waldron and GuideLeader Hilary Wilde. Kim commented on howhard the girls had worked and the detail that

they had put into their folders. Each girl waspresented with a certificate and badge, also asigned card showing some of the activities theyhad completed in the four years they had beenwith the unit. Hilary said“We are so proud of theirachievements and they have all been very valuedmembers of our unit”.

The girls told us of the fun they had during theirweekends and their favourite activities overall.All the girls are now working towards the Dukeof Edinburgh Award which involves volunteeringwith local Girlguiding units.

Despite the many groups held in Stafford this isnot enough for the many girls who want to jointhe Rainbows in StaffordGirlguidingDivision andare currentlywaiting on the Join us lists. So as notto disappoint all these young girls, GirlguidingStafford needs adults to volunteer to help runRainbow, Brownie and Guide units locally.

To find out more visithttps://www.girlguiding.org.uk/get_involved.aspx

Stafford Girls Gain Top Award

SD December 2013.indd 35 25/11/2013 11:32


useful numbersUSEFUL NUMBERS

Emergency ServicesPolice station (Non-emergencys) 101National Gas Emergency 0800 111999National Grid Electrical Emergency 0800 404090Severn Trent Water Emergency 0800 7834444Flood line 0845 9881188

Health/Medical CareStafford General Hospital 01785 257731North Staffordshire Hospital 01782 715444Cannock Hospital 01543 572757New Cross Hospital 01902 307999NHS Direct 0845 4647Rowley Hall Hospital 01785 223203Rising Brook Surgery 01785 251134Mill Bank Surgery 01785 258348Wolverhampton Road Surgery 01785 258161

CouncilsSouth Staffordshire Council 01902 696000Staffordshire County Council 0300 1118000Stafford Borough Council 01785 619000

Village Halls/LibrariesStafford Library 01785 278585Baswich Library 01785 663355Rising Brook Library 01785 242155Holmcroft Library 01785 253 908Walton Village Hall 0845 748 4950Derrington Village Hall 01785 242175

TravelTravel Line 087120022 33National Rail Enquiries 08457484950National Express 08717 818178Stafford Railway Station 0845 748 4950

SchoolsWalton High School 01785 356300Stafford Grammar School 01785 249752Weston Road High School 01785 356700Rising Brook High School 01785 258383

King Edward VI High School 01785 258546Sir Graham Balfour School 01785 223490Stafford Grammar School 01785 249752Weston Road Academy 01785 356700Yarlet School 01785 286568Chase Grammar School 01543 501800St. Anne’s Catholic Primary School 01785 663128Barnfields Primary School 01785 356356Leasowes Primary School 01785 356365Stafford College 01785 223800Staffordshire Music Centre 01785 335852Blessed William Howard Catholic High School

01785 244236

Help LinesSamaritans (UK) 08457909090Samaritans (Stafford) 01785 243333Child Line 0800 1111RSPCA 0300 1234555Citizen’s Advice Bureau 01785 258673Jobseeker Direct 0800 100 900NSPCC 0808 800 5000Age UK 0800 169 6565Rethink Mental Illness 0300 5000 927Young Minds 0808 802 5544Runaway Helpline 116 000Alcoholics Anonymous 0845 769 7555Victim Support 0845 30 30 900FRANK 0800 77 66 00Crimestoppers Charity (Non-Emergency) 0800 555 111

Places of WorshipSt Anne’s Church, Weeping Cross 01785 661012St Mary’s Church 01785 258511The Parish of Berkswich 01785 251057Stafford Baptist Church 01785 256714Trinity Church, Stafford 01785 223327The Evangelical Church 01785 254331Rising Brook Baptist Church 01785 214750Berkswich Parish, Walton On The Hill 01785 253111

Word Ladder SolutionHere is an example solution:

FALL,pall,pawl,pawn,dawn,DOWN

Puzzle SolutionsAs seen on page 30

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37December 2013

WINGSUK AIrport trANSferS

GOING ON HOLIDAY?Exclusive transport. No sharing.

Built on reliability.Book your Airport Transport now.

Let the professionals take care of you.Save on fuel/parking/asking family/friends

to turn out at unsocialable hours.Your holiday starts when we pick you up at

your door.Private and friendly, 24 hour service.

All UK Airports and Seaports catered for.

For quotations phone Ken on:

01785 716666 or07770 807408

or [email protected]

All Natural Gas, Oil & LPG work undertakenUpgrades to Existing Systems

Servicing/Breakdowns and PowerflushingLandlord Safety Certificates

Renewable Energy InstallationsDry and Wet Solid Fuel Systems

20+ years Experience

Office: 01785 716874Mobile: 07968 922482

Web: www.kcortinheating.comEmail: [email protected], Wolverhampton Road, Penkridge

groomingMARVELLOUS

• Bathing • Clipping • Grooming • De-tangling • Nail Clipping

NOWOPEN

For all enquiries call Jo 07815 539430 or Fay 07775 570791Coppice House (Buxtons),Teddersley Coppice, Stafford, ST19 5RP

Special Christmas OfferBOOK NOW!

£5OFF for small breeds£10 OFF for large breeds

J & DP Decorating and Building MaintenanceInterior and Exterior Decorating, Carpentry, Tiling, UPVC Facia and Guttering, Kitchen and Bathroom Fitting and Glazing.Guaranteed quality. Professional workmanship. Free estimates.Call 01785 241516John: 07966 402 778Danny: 07816 950 225

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index of advertisersINDEX OF ADVERTISERSAccountantsDSN Accountants 2

AntiquesBowmans Antiques 10Number One Events 17Steve Bricknell Antique Restorer 16

Beauty, Hair & HealthLoving Hands 7Vision of Beauy 1

Cleaning/LaunderersAF Systems 37

FinanceStafford Railway Building Society 3Utility Warehouse 31

Home ImprovementAcorn Joinery Services Ltd 10Intown Interiors 13J & DP Decorating 37M.A.G Group 23M & H Kitchen Design 25Penk Fencing 10Stafford Tile Centre 29

I.T ServicesThe Red Box 22

Landscaping/Garden CentresM.Bissell 38Mere Park Garden Centre 21Pillaton Garden Centre 33Right Outside 5Willowbrook 22

Motor ServicesRandles Motor Group 19RK Motors 7

Seasonal, Leisure & OccasionsKenway Christmas Trees 10Kenway Christmas Trees 10Lancyl Gardens 22Lower Drayton Farm 11Tags and Rags 17

PlumbingD’s Plumbing 28Mark Bailey 13Plumbgas 31

Property Maintenance & SecurityAJG Property Maintenance 39Ashcroft Flooring 9ASJ Security 22Help 2 Hand 29K Cortin Heating Solutions 37Matt Gardner Electrician 22Trafalgar Properties 7Supra Key Lock 29

Pet ServicesGrooming Marvellous 37Penkridge Cattery 31

Residential and Nursing CareDisabled Aids 15More Care at Home 32

Restaurants/PubsThe Bridge House 25Spice Island 15

Travel ServicesWings Airport Transfers 37

Will Writing ServicesGoodwills 31

TheStaffordDirectory

ADVERTISE HERE FROM JUST£30 PER MONTH

For more information call us on01785 318 619

M. BissellTrees and Hedges

All Tree & Hedge Work Undertaken

Full Public Liability & N.P.T.CQualified

For a FREE quotation and advice call:

01785 824410 / 07968 421434

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39December 2013AJG Property Maintenance & Servicing Ltd AJG Property

A.J.Gexcellence at an affordable price - Local and friendly business

CARPENTRY - ELECTRICAL - PLASTERING - ROOFING, FASCIA & GUTTERING -

PAINTING & DECORATING - GARDENING & LANDSCAPING

Household

Improvements, Alterations, refurbishments

Kitchen & Bathrooms

Central Heating

Boilers Installed, Maintained and replaced

Windows, Doors & Conservatories

tel: 01785 715001email: [email protected]

Website: www.ajgpropertymaintenance.com

A.J.G property Maintenance & Servicing Ltd, Unit 5, Boscomoor Lane, penkridge,Stafford, St19 5QY

find us on facebook: AJG property Maintenance & Servicing Ltd follow us on twitter: AJGproperty

BEFORE AFTER

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MANUFACTURERS OF HIGH PERFORMANCEUPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES

We pride ourselves on our highquality products at affordable prices.

All of our products meet the BritishStandard requirements and aremanufactured to a high efficiencyperformance.

• UPVC WINDOWS & DOORS

• CONSERVATORIES

• PATIO DOORS

• BI-FOLDING DOORS

• STAINED GLASS

• COMPOSITE DOORS

• BEVELLED GLASS

Tel. 01785 212 227Fax. 01785 226 474www.eswindows.co.ukAuction House | Verulam Road | Stafford | ST16 3EA

We also supply replacementglass units for misted units.

Energy Saving Windows Ltd

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the stafford directory december 2013

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