talkabout issue 4 spring 2012

Are you excited about the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee? WINCAP are!That’s why they are holding the Big Jubilee Lunch, to take place on Saturday 2nd June between 1pm-5pm. Street parties are being planned to take place in two locations: Wharton Library, Willow Square and The Edge, Cheviot Square. This is a great way for local residents to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee with good food and good company at both ends of the town!There will be plenty of fun day activities, continued onpage 11......

Residents from West Winsford are rapidly joining the GGO project and signing up as GGO-Getters working in the community to improve the areas where they live! After last years successful event, GGO are running their second annual fun day in the same location next to the BMX Track on Mount Pleasant Drive! There will be information stands offering a range of services available on the day, as well as fun activities.

Please see page 11 for more details....

Winsford’s Free Community Newspaper Issue Four Spring 2012

ROLL UP, ROLL UP... for the greatest show on earth!! Winsford is celebrating the London 2012 Olympics with two days of circus fun and festivities on 21st & 22nd July. Winsford Festival committee are running a one-off event called ‘Winsford 5 Ring Circus’, and volunteer organisers are planning 5 different performances each day in the Big Top which has been hired from Netherlands National Circus.Each ring from the Olympic logo will represent a different performance, including: Sports, Performing Arts, Circus Performers, Music and Dance. One of the organisers, Steve Smith says: “It is really important for us to involve local Winsford groups, clubs and performers in this event, as well as hiring acts from outside Winsford.”Please see page 11 for more details .......

It certainly is, and there is plenty going on!

Different organisations and members of the

community have been working hard all winter to

organise a range of events for you all to enjoy!

So come along and support these fun

days, festivals and competitions

in your community!

Steve WestBusiness Liaison

Steve ThurstonCartoonist

Lianne MorrisonReporter

Meet The Team...Letter FromThe Editor

Hello Talkabout! Readers!!

Thank you for picking up our FOURTH edition of Talkabout!. Wow, a whole 12 months have passed since our very first issue, and what a fab year it’s been! But now as Spring brings in this new year (have you noticed all the grass, flowers and bugs creeping into this issue?!) we look ahead at what’s to come!

This year Winsford is hosting so many fantastic events that we have had to cram them all into this one issue! From the 5 Ring Circus, to the Queen’s Jubilee, it’s all going on this season! (No wonder the Talkabout! Team are dressed to party!) Keep reading for more information about these events!!

Now, we love to hear from you all! If you think we have missed an event out, or you think we need to include a story, then please let us know!! This is YOUR community newspaper! As well as loving to hear what everyone is up to, we would love to add a few new volunteers to our team. From photographers to reporters, illustrators to event reviewers, if you have a spare few hours I’m sure we could find you something to do!

Finally, we want to give a huge thanks to those who have sent us kind, encouraging words! You really do brighten up our day at Talkabout! HQ. We had this brilliant email from Lauren Robinson to say: ‘Talkabout! is awesome! You even got my Nan on a photo, and my drama club! When is issue 4 coming out? Can’t wait!’ So thank you, Lauren!

Well, I can’t hang around here all day, there is so much to do for the Summer Issue!! Thank you again for reading Talkabout! and I hope you enjoy our Spring Celebration Issue!!

Tuesday King Editor

In our Summer Issue: E-Act Academy students (Megan Martin, Amy Lea, Jennifer Done, Chloe Simpson, Chloe Harding, Lucy Clarke and Chloe Jefferies) in conjunction with WINCAP, will be interviewing their teachers and head teacher about the plans for their new school building; as part of their ‘Personal Best’ six week course.

Nicola Chen Reporter

Socialites Unite!

If you enjoy meeting new people and discovering new friends, then you’ll love

C & D’s Social Scene, a new social group that is open to everyone aged 16+ with disabilities or learning difficulties. (If you are aged 16-18 then a parental consent form will be required.)

There will be a range of activities,

including: arts and crafts, table tennis, football, a pool table and other sporting games. Other activity ideas are more than welcome.

Supported by Wharton’s local Councillor Brian Clarke, the official opening of C & D’s Social Scene will be Saturday 14th

April 10am to 3pm and will continue every Saturday at the same time.

The social group will be held at Greville

Drive Youth Centre, Wharton, Winsford

CW7 3EP. If you’re interested, or for more information, contact Chris on 07570822348 or Denise on 07917685535 or email [email protected].

C and D’s Volunteers- Sue Wilkinson, Arron Kettle, Denise Hewitt, and Vanda Tench.

Lee Stafford

Visits Mid

CheshireCollege

A celebrity h a i r d r e s s e r travelled from London to inspire up-and- coming h a i r d r e s s i n g students in Winsford. Lee Stafford spent the day at the college’s Tranquility Salons at the Winsford Campus. He has been involved in the hairdressing industry for over twenty years and has salons in London and Essex, as well as the North of England.Lee spends a lot of time away from his salons touring the UK, giving public demonstrations and promoting c o m p e t i t i o n work. He explains, “Taking part in c o m p e t i t i o n s is where my success began.

I really enjoy sharing my experience, skills and techniques, particularly with enthusiastic students. The students and staff at Mid Cheshire College were lovely and made me very welcome. I would like to continue working with the college in the future.”Students across both Hartford and Winsford campuses volunteered to be models. These include art and design students, Steph Lawson and Alex Davies from Northwich. They said, “We were very lucky to be selected. It’s been a fantastic experience to have our hair re-styled by someone like Lee.” Lee and his assistant spent all day working on the models, colouring and cutting, preparing them for the final show. Students, their families and local salon owners attended the grand catwalk finale, which was held at the Winsford Campus. Emma Massey, Hairdressing Tutor and organiser of the event was thrilled with how successful the whole experience had been.

Volunteers Support FamiliesA rewarding role awaits volunteers who are being recruited to work with children and families across Cheshire West.

Family support charity ‘Home-Start West Cheshire’ has teamed up with the Council’s Children’s Centres to offer people the opportunity to become Activity Volunteers.

After training, volunteers spend a few hours a week giving practical support in group sessions, as well as helping parents to join in with their children with various play activities. The role is vital to improve families’ wellbeing and helping them to overcome any challenges that they may be facing. The activity sessions are held at Children’s Centres in the Winsford and Northwich areas.

Home-Start also recruit and train parent volunteers to spend a few hours a week with families to help them cope with the challenges of parenting young children by offering practical help and friendship.

To find out more about volunteering with ‘Home-Start West Cheshire’, email: [email protected], or call: 01606 782888.

Free Debt Advice in Winsford

We want to help you to relieve the stress that we know comes from being in debt. We know that this causes all sorts of problems in people’s lives, including relationship breakdown and depression. We also know from our clients that many try to sort the problem out for themselves and wait for anything up to 18 months before they ask for help, by which time the problem has often become a whole lot worse!

We recognise that it places a lot of emotional strain on families and relationships when trying to get out of debt; we provide free support and work with you to help achieve this. Our main aim is to help you to become debt free, whatever your circumstances, and whatever your levels of debt. In the first 2 months of 2012, 150 of our clients across our UK network have become DEBT FREE, two of whom are clients of the Winsford CAP Centre.

Christians Against Poverty (CAP) was founded by John Kirkby with a £10 donation in 1996. Having experienced something of the pain and suffering of poverty himself, he wanted to help people out who, for whatever reason, found themselves in this situation.

Although we have a Christian ethos, we look to help anyone regardless of faith, age, gender, race, disability or sexual orientation. As Martin Lewis, money savings expert, says on his website, www.moneysavingexpert.com/free -debt-help,

“Our faith is the reason why we do this.”

If you would like help to manage your finances better, we run budgeting courses in Winsford throughout the year which includes advice on how to increase income and cut costs. These are run over three sessions in an informal atmosphere by trained volunteers.

If you would like more information on the course, or to register, please visit the website www.capmoney.org or call 01606 861860 (Mon to Thu 9am-1pm).

For more information, please visit the website www.capdebthelp.org

LOVE Vintage?Are you an admirer of all things vintage, whether it’s a retro print scarf, a bygone trinket, or a first edition manual? Then you may be interested in the

tabletop sale planned by Over United Reformed Church. The fundraising event is to be held during early May Bank Holiday, Monday 7th at 2pm.

Items on sale will include handmade and pre-loved goods. Refreshments made on the day are available so please pop along. You may just find something to treasure and of course a bargain or two!

If you would like to hire your own table the fee is £8. All enquiries are to be made by calling 01606 593537 and asking for Joan.

Winsford Community Learning - Course Programme April - July 2012

Are you looking at updating your skills? Do you want to build your confidence and self esteem?

Our First Steps provision is FREE!

The Learning Junction

Verdin Centre, High Street, Winsford

CW7 2AN 01606 288908

The Edge

Cheviot Square Winsford

CW7 1QS 01606 551 766

Wharton Library Willow Square

Winsford CW7 3HP

01606 271572

Job Centre Plus

High Street Winsford CW7 2AH

0845 604 3719

Over Children’s Centre

Cheviot Sq Winsford

CW7 1QS 01606 815696

Course Day/Time Start Date Location Duration

*Work Club Thursday 9.30am – 12noon Every Thursday

Learning Junction On Going

*Work Club Thursday 1pm – 3pm Every Thursday The Edge On Going

*Work Club Monday 1pm – 3pm Every Monday

Wharton Library On Going

*English & Maths with Learn Direct Monday 9 – 5 Every

Monday Learning Junction On Going

*Online Basics Thursday 1pm – 4pm Every Thursday

Learning Junction On Going

*ITQ Accredited Workshop Tuesday 9am – 1pm Friday 9am – 12noon 3rd April Learning

Junction On Going

Fun with Practical Cooking Tuesday 1.30 – 3.15 24th April Over Hall Primary School

4 weeks

Ready, Steady, Work Tuesday 1.30 – 3.30 8th May Learning Junction 6 Weeks

Adult Learner’s Week 12th – 18th May

Contact The Learning Junction, Wharton Library and The Edge for details of FREE activities in your area!

Workability Wednesday 10 - 3 6th June Learning Junction 6 Weeks

Reception Skills & Duties Monday 12.30 – 2.30 11th June The Edge 6 Weeks

I’m a survivor get me out of here! Team Building Event

Tuesday 10-3 12th June Delamere Forest

Free transport

1 day outdoor activity

Microsoft Office Applications Call for details TBC Learning Junction 6 Weeks

Word Processing Skills Call for details TBC Learning Junction 4 Weeks

Employability Workshops – see reverse Tuesdays 1.30 – 3.30 Call for start

details Learning Junction

4 x Individual workshops

Assess Your Skills Call to book an appointment to check your English & Maths levels and IT skills

The Neuromuscular Centre in Winsford provides physiotherapy for

people with Muscular Dystrophy as well as digital graphic design and IT training. The Centre also runs a

commercially successful design and print social enterprise that was awarded runner up at the DSC social change awards in

the category of ‘every day impact long term enterprises’.Design and Print has been running for over twenty years and

employs fifteen people with Muscular Dystrophy. Not only does the enterprise provide supported employment for talented designers

with Muscular Dystrophy but it also contributes to the running costs of the charity.

Current clients include Hope House Children’s Hospice, The NHS, BAM Nuttall, Roberts Bakery, Sirus Automotive Limited, Cheshire

Constabulary, The English Cricket Board and Knowsley Housing Trust and, of course, the Neuromuscular Centre.

If you would like more information about the Centre or the print department, check out the website

www.nmcentre.com

Left: Dame Suzi Leather presented Emily Swinerd, Community Fundraiser, and Linda Owen, Head of Support for Business Care Assistant.

Neuromuscular Centre

‘Design and Print’

Jumble Sale Raises £200 for Community

Fun DayA JUMBLE sale has raised £200 towards the funding of a community fun day in summer.The sale was held on Saturday 25th February at The Edge, Cheviot Square, and was arranged by members of GGO, who are organising the fun day in June. GGO is run by residents from West Winsford with support from local organisations, including Weaver Vale Housing Trust, Muir Group Housing Association, WINCAP and Cheshire West and Chester Council. “We had brilliant support for the jumble sale and would like to say a big thank you to everyone who donated goods and who came along on the day,” said Georgia Winstanley, Neighbourhood Development Officer at Weaver Vale Housing Trust. “The jumble sale was great fun and this money will really help us to put on another brilliant fun day following last year’s success,” said Beverley Price, Community Engagement Officer with Muir Group Housing Association. To find out more or to get involved, search for GGO on Facebook.

Northwich Anglers Association Spring Events

We’ll help you keep your weight loss resolution

Join the 12 week challenge today!

SECOND PRIZE £200* THIRD PRIZE £100*Weekly weigh+measureWeight loss coachingFun and friendships

Nutrition educationSupport and communityWeekly prizes+rewards

* prizes based on 30 participants, classes limited to 40

New group starting 16th April 2012 6:30pm-Mondays at St Chads Church Hall, Gladstone St, Winsford, CW7 4AB

Only £39 for the full 12 weeks!

Call Carol, Joy or Heidi on 01270 522518 or text DIET NOW to 80011

Wellness Challenge

BIGGEST LOSER WINS £300*

Coach Carol Sinfield said: “The classes are about educating people on what to eat, live healthily, and be able to pass this education on to their families too. The beauty of the classes is that everyone who attends really supports each other. The sessions have a great community spirit and friendships are made.

Taster Days

A series of ‘taster days’ will be run during the first half of the summer term. These will be aimed at children (school years 3 - 8) and will provide basic guidance on safety at the waterside, setting up to fish with a whip, choice of bait, handling, unhooking and returning fish. There will be a morning (10am-12pm) and afternoon (1pm-3pm) session on each day.

Sun. 6th May - Wyvern House Pool, WinsfordSun. 13th May - Dane Valley Fisheries, NorthwichSun. 20th May - Wyvern House PoolSun. 27th May - Dane Valley Fisheries

Progression Coaching

Following on from the taster days, new members will be offered the opportunity to attend up to 6 further sessions aimed at developing their basic angling skills. The first four sessions will focus on basic coarse fishing technique, with the last two giving attendees an introduction to more specialized baits and methods used in carp fishing.The sessions will run from 3pm-5pm.Sun. 10th June - Wyvern House Pool, WinsfordSun. 17th June - Dane Valley Fisheries, NorthwichSun. 24th June - Wyvern House PoolSun. 1st July - Dane Valley FisheriesSun. 8th July - The Ocean, WinsfordSun. 15th July - Eyres Pit, Northwich

Dads & Lads matches

There will be a series of six ‘Dads & Lads’ matches. Each match will be fished from 6pm-9pm. The dates and venues are as follows:

Weds. 20th June - River Weaver, National Length, WinsfordWeds. 4th July - Trent & Mersey Canal, Whatcroft (meet at Big Billinge car park)Weds. 18th July - River Weaver, The Boats section, Kingsmead, Northwich

Northwich Anglers Association are running various events this year, from taster days to Dads and Lads Fishing! ALL events must be pre-booked and parents must remain with their children throughout. Bait and tackle will be provided, and attendees will need to wear suitable clothing and footwear.

If you’re interested in getting involved then please contact Andy Clegg at [email protected] for more information.

Upstairs at Winsford Library.

Every Wednesday 1:30pm-4:30pm.

Call us now on 01625 614 250 to make an appointment or just drop in to see us.

Legal aid may be available.

Personal Injury • Medical Negligence • Wills, Probate and Tax Services

Who can you turn to when the medical profession has let you down?

T: 01625 614250 • F: 01625 614252 • E: [email protected] Park Lane • Macclesfield • Cheshire SK11 8AD

www.jobling-gowler.co.uk www.facebook.com/JoblingGowler

Free Legal Advice by Medical Negligence Specialists

Queen Elizabeth II Fields

Challenge! Winsford Town Council has nominated Over and Wharton R e c r e a t i o n a l Grounds as ‘Queen Elizabeth II Fields’ which offers them greater protection from development and a better opportunity to attract funding!

Both sites have now been posted on the QE2 Fields Challenge website: w w w. q e 2 f i e l d s .com, and we would like everyone from Winsford to vote to help their local field! Simply log on, type in a Winsford postcode, and it will show the Council’s n o m i n a t i o n s ! To show your support for the Over and Wharton R e c r e a t i o n a l Grounds, just click on the ‘Like This’ button!

Preserving the Past for the Future!Winsford Historical Society has been running since 1966, and is a community organised by locals for locals, interested in delving into the mines of Winsford’s past.The club programme starts every September and meets up at Winsford Library approximately eight times per year. Membership is available at £10 per person or £15 per couple, however if you wanted to pop along to a specific evening you can obtain guest entry for just £3.There are a variety of discussion topics surrounding the history of Winsford, plus the occasional invited speaker. Two events are planned: 2nd April, Paul Hurley is joining the group to chat about his book ‘Winsford Now and Then’.14th May, AGM and general discussion no doubt involving a snippet or two from the archives. Both events start at 7:30pm and are held in the Meeting Room of the library.There are more details to all who offer interest, or even expertise, on their website which can be found at www.winsfordhistorysociety.co.uk

AN EASIER WAY FOR WINSFORD RESIDENTS TO

ACCESS SERVICES

A new Customer Access Terminal (CAT) has been installed at both Wharton and Winsford libraries for all residents to use. This brand new, exciting digital information point provides a range of services and contacts, including:

These terminals are available during library opening hours and are free to use! It allows residents to contact the Council with any issues they have, and it’s easy to use.

If you like to speak to someone face to face, there is also the option of using the built in video-phone where you can see the person you are speaking to over the phone.

The built in camera also enables disabled residents applying for, or renewing, their blue badge to have their photo taken and complete the application form there.

Additionally there is a scanner, printer and electronic signature strip on the desktop to enable residents to

complete forms much more easily.

These machines will be replaced with a more up to date machine during April, so contact your nearest

library for more information and availability. Winsford Library: 01606 552065 Wharton Library: 01606 271572

!• Concessionary!Travel!(such!as!bus!passes)!• Housing!Solutions!• Council!Tax!• Schools!• Planning!• Streetscene!(issues!around!litter!etc.)!• Parking!• Blue!Badge!(for!disabled!drivers/!passengers)!• Highways!• Environment!• Housing!Benefits!

‘Summer of a Lifetime’ is aimed at young p e o p l e in year 11 who have just completed t h e i r G . C . S . E s and are up

for a challenge over the summer. It will be one of the most motivational and rewarding experiences in a young person’s life. ‘Summer of a Lifetime’ allows the opportunity to gain confidence, develop skills, meet new people, make a difference to their local community, be challenged and have fun!‘Summer of a Lifetime’ is part of the National Citizen Service Programme and is a once in a lifetime opportunity. The National Citizen Service Programme is a Big Society initiative, supporting young people from all backgrounds to work together, take on new challenges, have fun and engage in their communities, making lifelong friends along the way. ‘Summer of a Lifetime’ will take place in July and August and runs for 4 weeks.Are you in Year 11? Up for challenging yourself beyond your wildest dreams? Visit www.vinspired.com/summerofalifetime or alternatively call 0151 357 1971.

GLEBE GREEN GETS READY!

Over £1.6 million was secured from the Community Energy Saving Programme (CESP) by Warmer Heating Contractors who are working together with Muir Group Housing to change Glebe Green’s image.All homes are set to be insulated and receive external make overs by October 2012.The programme of work starts soon so look out for your information pack coming through your doors soon!!Warmer Heating have created a special post of Resident Liaison Officer, who will be a local person employed for the duration of thework and who will act as a first point of contact for residents. The new insulation and cladding will mean that homes will be more efficient and less costly to heat.

Family Fun DayGGO will be holding it s̒ second annual

FAMILY FUN DAY event!Come along , get involved and have some FUN!

Saturday 16th June 201212noon to 3pm

Next to the BMX Track / Opposite old Woodford Lodge School

When?

InflatablesLive broadcast from Silk FM!

MusicAssault Course Comepetition(get in touch to register your team now!)

Give AwaysLoads of free activities

Where?

To find out more contact us on 075871 35713 or check out our Facebook page!

Continued from front page... Local groups performing in the dance ring are ‘Darnhall Dancers’ and ‘Red Dance Academy’ and there’s also a local Magician

performing tricks throughout the weekend. If you would like to participate in any of the performance rings, please contact Steve on 07786 554441.After performances of sport, dance, performing arts and circus acts, each day will end with a 2 hour music show, with ‘Take That’ tribute on the Saturday night and ‘Jessie J’ and ‘Adele’ tributes on the Sunday night.These events are always so much fun to be involved in so if you would like to get involved and volunteer helping to organise and run this event, please get in touch with Mark or Rachel at WINCAP on 01606 551766 or email [email protected] out for the next big feature in the Summer issue of Talkabout! or visit www.winsfordtownfestival.com for further information!

Continued from front page....Free activities available on the day include: bouncy castles, Jubilee style arts & crafts and other fun games for all the family. Residents must register to take part in the lunch by Monday 7th May and children under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult.So if you fancy being a part of the Queen’s Jubilee and want to celebrate in style, call 01606551766or email Jill at [email protected] more information go to www.thebiglunch.com. If you would like to volunteer to help on the day, contact Mark or Rachel on 01606 551766 or email [email protected]

Fringe Festival!The Fringe Festival is back! Join the

community in celebrating music, comedy and drama over 3 fun packed days! Starting Friday 1st June and finishing on Sunday 3rd on various sites. See below for event details.

Friday 1st June 7-11pm Local Band Night on Marina Island

Saturday 2nd June 2-8 pm Mixed Live music, drama and comedy

over 4 stages plus artwork, shops and displays.

8pm till late- Music from Eve Folk Roots

Sunday 3rd June Late night music concert at Debees.

Late night acoustic session held at the Red Lion.

Information Supplied by Fringe Festival Committee, correct at time of publishing

SPRING / SUMMER EVENTS 2012

What’s On Guide... Find out what’s happening in

your area!

What’s On? When? Cost Contact Info

Livewires Youth Club For 6-11 year olds

Every Tuesday (term time)

4-5.30pmFREE

Mark Baker01606 551766

Changes Youth ClubFor 12-17 year olds

Every Wednesday (term time)

7-9pmFREE Jill McQuaid

01606 551766

IT Drop inSupport for all ages learning

computer skills

Every Friday1-3pm FREE Alex

01606 551766

Purpledge Art groupArt group for over 40’s

Every Thursday 1-3pm FREE

Mark Baker01606 551766

[email protected]

BandedgeMusic group for people/

bands to learn how to play instruments

Every Monday (term time) (under 18’s)

7-9pm

Every Thursday (term

time) (over 18’s) 7-9pm

FREE

Jill McQuaid – 01606 551766

[email protected]

Weaver Vale Housing Trust drop in

Residents drop in to talk about housing problems

Every Thursday 10.30-12.30

Direct phone line available at all times

FREE Weaver Vale Reception01606 813300

Job ClubUpdate your CV, job search and

interview techniques

Every Thursday 1-3pm FREE Main Reception

01606 551766

Cheshire Gypsy & Travellers Voice Drop In

Information for Gypsy and Travellers

All day WednesdayCall for other appointment FREE Sian Smith –

07570 136766

Spotlight Young Actors Drama Group for 10-18 years

Every Friday 5.30-7.00pm

£4 per week Laura 07886 [email protected]

Vale Royal JuniorsMusical theatre group for 10-18

year olds to perform 2 large scale productions a year

Thursdays 7-9pm

Jenny 01606 [email protected]

The Edge, Cheviot Square, CW7 1QS


Drop in for informal fun, support and

advice

Thursdays9.30-11.30am FREE 01606 271953

Parenting Programme Every Monday FREECall to book 01606 271953

Young Parents Every Tuesday1-3pm FREE 01606 271953

Messy Talk Every MondayCall for times FREE 01606 271953

Adult Learning Every Friday morningCall for times FREE 01606 271953

Over Children’s Centre, Ludlow Close, CW7 1LX

Wharton Children’s Centre, Bradbury Road, CW7 3HN


CherubsBreastfeeding Mums Group

Every Wednesday 2-3.30pm FREE

Jane Wilkinson 07500027599 /

01606 275802


advice

Every Tuesday1.30-3pm FREE 01606 275802

Messy Talk Every Monday FREECall to book 01606 275802

Childminder Drop In Every Wednesday9.30-11.30am FREE 01606 275802

Adult LearningEvery Thursday

morningCall for times

FREE 01606 275802

Greenfield’s Children’s Centre, Whitby’s Lane, CW7 2LZ



advice

Every Wednesday9.30-11.30am FREE 01606 271910

Jo Jingles Every Thursday1.00-1.45pm FREE 01606 271910


your area!


Library LadybirdsFor pre-school children

Can accommodate 15-25 children with adult carers

Every Monday and Tuesday

9.15am-11.15amFREE

Neil CorbinWharton.library@

cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk01606 271572

Changing Lives In Cheshire

Basic Computing Skills

Every Tuesday10am-12 noon

&5.30-6.30pm

FREENeil Corbin

[email protected]

01606 271572

Slimming WorldLose Weight Programme

Every Thursday9-11am

1st week £9.95then £4.95 thereafter

Contact for Info on personal weight plans

Marsha Hayes 01606 559889

Down Syndrome Support Group

1 Friday every monthContact library for dates FREE



ZumbaDance Fitness

Every Monday 7.00-7.45pm

£4 per class OR£18 for 6 weeks

Tracey07587 187203

Celebrity WorkoutToning & Fitness Class

Every Monday8.00-8.45pm

£4 per class OR£18 for 6 weeks

Tracey07587 187203

10CCCoffee & a Chat Social Group

Every Monday10am-12noon FREE



Silver CircleGentle exercise to music for all

ages

Every Thursday3-4pm FREE



Football FogiesFootball Prediction League

Every Thursday11am-12noon FREE



Wharton LadiesTuesday Club

Most Tuesdays1.45-3.30pm

Contact library for datesFREE



Work ClubUpdate your CV, job search and

interview techniques

Every Monday1-3pm FREE



Wharton Library, Willow Square, CW7 3HP

Winsford Library, High Street, CW7 2AS


RhymetimeUnder 5 year olds (parents to

stay with children)

Every Monday10.30-11am FREE

01606 552065Winsford.library@

cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

CrochetBeginners onwards

Every Friday11am-1pm

FREE(Must bring own materials)



Reading GroupEvery 4th Thursday of the

month5.45-6.45pm

FREEClaire

01606 [email protected]

Tai ChiFor adults over 16

Tuesdays 6.00-7.00pm Charges Apply



Yoga with KateDrop In

Tuesdays 7.30-9pm

Wednesdays 10-11.30am

Thursdays 7.30-9pm

£7.00 Kate07872 969278

ScrabbleOpen to all members of U3A

(or enquire on the day)

Every Friday2.00-4.00pm FREE



English Conversation Classes

(Tutor-led informal conversation)

Every other Thursday5.30-6.30pm FREE



Winsford Local History Society

First Thursday and 3rd Tuesday of every month

9.30am-12.30pmSee Page 21



Cheshire DanceCreative Movers

(for 4-8 year olds)

Mondays (term time)4.30-5.30pm £3 per session 01606 861770

Cheshire DanceJunior Performance Group

(for 8-11 year olds)

Wednesdays (term time)4.30-5.30pm £20 per term 01606 861770

Cheshire DanceDance for all

Thursday (term time)5.00-6.00pm £3 per session 01606 861770

Zumba Every Monday11.30-12.30 Charges Apply



Zumba Every Wednesday7.15-9pm Charges Apply Tracey King

01606 593183

Zumba Every Saturday10.30-11.30am Charges Apply




your area!

A GIANT JUbileeGIANTS are a big part of Chester’s history and date back to the late 1400’s, when Chester began creating giants to ward off evil spirits in every town and city. Now they create huge figures of famous people, and parade them around the city centre to celebrate special events! WINCAP (Winsford Community Action Project) wants to be a part of this spectacular tradition for the Queens Diamond Jubilee, and they need people to help with our Giant Queen Elizabeth II! The Giant will be part of a parade through Chester on 4th June, where you can come and watch all 60 Queens go through the streets of Chester!

Would your community group or organization like to help get involved with our ‘Chester GIANT’? Whether you specialize in decorating, or if fund-raising is your forte’, everyone is welcome to take part. It will be a day to remember! It is on a first come, first serve basis, so it’s best to contact as early as possible to avoid being disappointed.So if you feel that you or your group would like to take part then please contact Carol Halpin on e-mail: [email protected] or telephone: 01606 551766.For more information on the Giants, visit www.thegiants.org.uk.

If you are a small community

or voluntary organisation...

...who has never been in touch with Winsford Community Action Project Ltd (WINCAP) then you really are missing out! With a range of FREE and LOW COST services, WINCAP aims to help groups to help themselves!

In the current climate we know how difficult it can be to attract new funding for all those projects you know are essential and benefit your community; WINCAP can help!

Do you recruit volunteers with the skills and attitudes you need to make your project a success? Do you train your volunteers with accredited qualifications in Health & Safety, Food Hygiene or First Aid at Work (to name just a few)? Do you routinely screen your volunteers with a CRB? If not, then you need to speak to WINCAP!

WINCAP can offer low cost training; (including Fire Marshall, First Aid at Work, Food Hygiene).

Visit www.wincap.co.uk or (01606) 551766 for further information.

ISSUE 01

February 2012

If you are interested in getting involved in GGO or would like to find out more, contact 07587135713 or search for GGO on Facebook.

GGO is being run by residents from the three estates with support from Weaver Vale Housing Trust, Muir Group, WINCAP, Cheshire West and Chester Council. Last summer our “GGO Getters” - members of the community that are working to deliver a community action plan, consulted with over 450 adults and young people to find out what there main priorities are for improving where they live So far the “GGO Getters” have been actively involved in the project and volunteering opportunities are available for those who want to gain experience, skills and qualifications.

Charlotte (above): Has successfully gained employment as a Tenant Liaison Officer with contractor Jackson & Jackson. She said “Getting involved in GGO has given me a new level of confidence. I would never had applied for this post without the support and encouragement from the GGO Team”

Jonathan (Left): GGO is supporting Jonathan to complete a level 2 football coaching qualification so that he can deliver junior coaching sessions in the area.

GGO is the estates of Greenfield's Park, Glebe Green and Over in West Winsford working together to bring about positive change to their neighbourhood.

“Most people, young or old, have a Facebook page these days so I thought it would be a great way to let people know what’s going on in their areas and how they can get involved,” said Charlotte, of Greenfield's. “This group gives people the chance to put ideas forward about what you want to see happening and actually help to make those changes.” “Our new Facebook page is a great way of spreading the message and encouraging others to get involved.

GGO Getters Go Online

Charlotte Burkhill, a GGO Getter, set up the Facebook page to spread the word about what they are doing in communities across West Winsford.

Volunteer now!

I have worked in the voluntary sector since I left the Armed Forces in 1984. It all started

with helping 2nd Wharton Scout Group for just one night. After 12 years however I found my Scouting career had come to a natural end. That’s when I got involved with Winsford United FC, having been a supporter for many years I decided it was time I got off my behind and do something to help. I have been at the club now for around 16 years.

Two years ago I was made redundant and found that once I had sent off all my

job applications, been to interviews and completed whatever courses the Job Centre could throw at me I still had plenty of time on my hands. I mean, you can only watch Homes under the Hammer so many times! My first thought was to go into a place I had passed just about every day- the local CAB office. I volunteered my services their as a Gateway Assessor and once I finished my training I was involved in training others.

Although I enjoyed my time there, it wasn’t really what I wanted to do, so when

the opportunity to work as a Community Learning Champion came up I grabbed it. This has given me the opportunity to do

what I love most, that is to work with other people and assist them in gaining and using new skills; as part of this I now assist in the running of a computer course. The students on the course can gain a qualification called ITQ at either level 1 or 2, which is replacing the Claits and ECDL qualifications. What I gain is the satisfaction of seeing others enjoying the opportunity to learn.

This course and many others like it are available from the Learning Junction,

situated in the Verdin Exchange in Winsford town centre. Most of the courses are free to anyone on unemployment benefits. Some of the courses available are literacy, numeracy, even confidence building sessions. They can last from a couple of hours to a few months depending on what you want to do. So if you are at a loose end, why not come and see what we can offer you at the Learning Junction.

If you have skills to offer and think you can help other people then

we would also like to hear from you.

If you require any more information just call into the Verdin

Exchange or call Alison on 01606 288908.

Steve Wright

Calling all thespians!

Moulton Drama Group is seeking new members to join their ever-growing society of theatrics. Just five minutes down the road, it’s ideal for all the budding stars out there. The group performs three full-length plays every year, and organizes trips to both amateur and professional theatres. The group’s next production Lark Rise will be early June, followed by the autumn production, Blood Brothers. Everyone over the age of sixteen is welcome to join and the annual subscription fee is only £20. The Moulton Drama Group meet every Tuesday in the Village Hall at 7.30pm, so if you are interested in joining, or for more information please contact Shelia Hetherington, Secretary, email: [email protected].

Without you it’s all rubbish

• Attend training sessions to extend your knowledge• Attend roadshows and events in your community• Help promote home composting and reducing food waste • Reduce waste and make a real difference

To get involved, call our project coordinator or apply online:

01270 686 094Cheshireeast.gov.uk/recyclingCheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/waste

Become a Waste Reduction Volunteer

RecyclableMaterialsThe new service will greatly expandthe number of materials collectedto include:

Currently householders have different waste andrecycling collections depending upon which formerdistrict council area they lived before the formation of Cheshire West and Chester.

In 2010, the Council went out to tender for a new waste collection contract for the whole of the Borough.In November 2011 this procurement process wascompleted, with May Gurney appointed as serviceprovider to deliver a new recycling and waste collectionservice to the borough’s residents.

May Gurney is a well established company with a great deal of experience of working with the publicsector. It holds 8% of the outsourced waste collection market in England and Wales and it delivers similar highperforming waste services for a number of other councilsacross the Country such as Somerset Waste Partnership,Bridgend County Borough Council and West OxfordshireDistrict Council.

May Gurney focus on helping councils to develop betterways of collection in order to maximise the amount ofvaluable recycling from household waste and reduce theamount going to landfill.

The new service will be based on a ‘kerbside-sort’ box system similar tothat already operating in Vale Royal and Ellesmere Port and Neston areas.The diagram on the next page compares the new system with the currentthree services operating across the Council.

The new fourteen year contract will start in April 2012 and will transformthe three existing collection arrangements into a single new service.

When will the changes take place?

The new waste collection service change will be rolledout over a twelve month period at the following times:

• June 2012 Vale Royal area

• August 2012 Ellesmere Port and Neston area

• November 2012 Chester area

What is the new service?

Cheshire West & Chester Council

Why change the service?

Putting Recycling First

The Council’s current recycling rate is 49%.Whist this is a great start the new collectionservice will raise this to at least 63% once fullyrolled out. Further waste prevention initiativescould help raise the rate to over 68%.

May Gurney’s new kerbside-sort system treatsrecyclable materials as a valuable resource.

Collecting recycling using boxes, rather thanwheeled bins, enables the collection crews to further sort the recyclable materials intoseparate compartments on the purpose builtrecycling vehicles.

For example, delicate materials such as paper are easily contaminated by food waste in cans or plastic packaging which is preventedif the materials are separated at the kerbside.

The kerbside sort system also allows a muchwider range of materials to be collected and recycled. As the system does not requirespecialised separation plant it is also more flexible, making it easier to add newmaterials for recycling when markets becomeavailable

By keeping the recyclable materials separaterather than compacting them together andthen separating them again mechanically in a large materials recycling plant,contamination and damage are minimised.

working in partnership

Waste type collected Current collection service New service

Dry recycling and kitchen food waste

Garden waste

Household domestic waste

Comparison of new Vale Royal single waste collection service with the current service

55 litres 55 litres 23 litres*35 litres

240 litres

240 litres

240 litres

Fortnightly

Fortnightly

Fortnightly

Weekly

Fortnightly

Fortnightly

180 litres

*For residents convenience a small kitchen waste caddy will also be provided free of charge

Recycling will be collectedevery week.

This will help to both maximiseparticipation and also ensureresidents have plenty of room tostore their recycling.

For those households who requiremore recycling capacity,additional boxes will be available.

Assisted Collections

If householders are physically unable to move their containers then they will be eligiblefor an assisted collection.

It will also be possible to purchase wheels ortrolleys to use with the recycling boxes and the Council is exploring the best way to make a system of purchasing these accessoriesavailable to residents.

What will happen to my old containers?

The existing brown bins, many of which are old, will be collected and sold for recyclinginto new products. The income from sale of the old bins will help offset the contract costs.

Food waste recycling

A new weekly recycling collection of kitchen waste will ensure we maximise the amount of waste we can recycle whilst also providinghouseholds with a weekly collection of‘smelly’ waste.

Households will be issued with a 23 litre food waste caddy to put out for collection. This will have a lockable lid to ensure it issecure. A small 7 litre kitchen caddy will also be provided for residents’ convenience.

Cooked and uncooked food, meat, fish,vegetables and other foodstuffs can berecycled. Similar schemes are used by manyother types of council with excellent results.

Remaining household waste

Waste that cannot be recycled through the new service will be collected fortnightly in a new 180 litre wheeled bin. There will be plenty of space in this wheeled bin as so much more of the waste will now be recycled as part of thenew service.

Contact Us. If you have any queries about the new waste collection service then please get in touch.

Email: [email protected], Tel: 0300 123 7 026 or Visit: cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/recyclefirst

Background

It’s been an up and down season for the Blues so far. We started in August last year with a series of great results which took us to the top of the North West Counties Football League Premier Division. However, November and December proved to be just the opposite with the team taking only 2 points from the 24 available. Since Christmas there has been another turn around and we look to be getting somewhere near the early season form. In recent weeks we hosted Northwich Vic’s in the Mid Cheshire Senior Cup. Although Vic’s went away with the win we did put up a decent show on the night.On February 21st we will be welcoming Stockport County to Barton Stadium in the Cheshire Senior Cup, another chance to pit ourselves against more illustrious opposition.Like everyone, we are struggling in the financial climate of the moment, however even more than finance we need people. If you wish to be involved in your local football club, whether you’re on the board of the club or painting a wall you will always be welcome, just contact any club official. Are you a football fan? When did you last go to a live game? It doesn’t matter if you say you really support Liverpool or Man Utd come to Barton Stadium and see live football. Enjoy a beer with real people, you never know you might enjoy yourself! See the club website for details of upcoming fixtures. Prices are: £6 for adults, £3 for concessions and only £1 for accompanied children.To contact the club call 01606558447 or call me, Steve Wright on 07792753387. Email [email protected] or see the Football Club website http://www.winsfordunitedfc.co.uk/index.php for more information

Winsford United Football Club

Mid Cheshire College give youngsters a brand new start!

Are you a young person aged 16-18, stuck in limbo with nothing to do? If yes, this could be the course for you! Mid Cheshire College are recruiting now for their ‘Enterprise Course’ which allows young people to re-engage and progress onto a course of their choice, or even employment. The course, based in the Winsford area, starts after the Easter half term and runs 3 days per week for 18 weeks. For those who are not fans of

classrooms, this is not all college based, as the team go out to work on many different projects.

One project the current team of students have been working very hard on is at The Edge community centre in Winsford where they have been painting their main

hall which is used by many community groups.

Kate Massey and Brian Cadwaller are among the staff running the programme which is designed to meet the needs of young people at their individual level. They offer a lot of support and encouragement to

ensure students can fully engage in the programme. Brian told us: “We work with many agencies, such as Neighbourhood Management teams, Cheshire West and Chester and community organisations to help

students ‘get their foot in the door’ and view different opportunities available to them.”

Mid Cheshire College are described as being the leading further education establishment for NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) students in the

Winsford area and most students have progressed onto vocational course such as: Plumbing, IT, Catering, Art &

Design and public Services.

One student, Amanda Doyle says: “The course has helped me increase my confidence and develop

communication skills, and I’m due to start an art course in September this year! It’s been a really enjoyable

experience and we’re like one big family!”

Another student, Stephen Lowndes added: “The course really helps. I left school at 15 with no GCSE’s but this

course has helped me sign up to a Public Services course at Mid-Cheshire College. Without the Enterprise

course I wouldn’t have had this opportunity and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone wanting to make a

fresh start – even if it’s to see what it’s like!”

If you want more information, or to

book onto the course, contact Amanda at

the Admissions Team on 01606 720503 or email awager@

midchesh.ac.uk

“I’d definitely recommend it to anyone wanting to make a fresh

start!” - Stephen Lowndes

Spring Carnival Wordsearch

M A E R C E C I C W S E C S J

T X S E K P O A L K Y A I E Y

Z U H P Q V R T N S A S R J T

D T O A R N B I C M D T C N D

M A X K I I R K O C I E U Y B

S C F V C D N S I V L R S T N

U C A F Y O S G H F O E Y R C

W L I Z O O N F F W H G N A W

S D Z P L D U K O U O G U P K

Q I I B M N I X A D T H S T E

F C A N D Y F L O S S W S E Z

S E M A G J L L S G T O M E R

X U Y O M O Q O Q O N I Y R K

A R V Y B S P M G G W W J T P

J U B I L E E G C O H D E S Z

BLOSSOM CANDYFLOSS CARNIVAL

CIRCUS DAFFODILS EASTEREGG FIZZYDRINKS FUNDAY GAMES

GGO HOLIDAYS ICECREAM ITSAKNOCKOUT JUBILEE OLYMPICS

SHOW SPRING STREETPARTY

BLOSSOMCIRCUS

FIZZY DRINKSGGO

ITS A KNOCKOUTSHOW

CANDYFLOSSDAFFODILS

FUN DAYHOLIDAYS

JUBILEESPRING

CARNIVALEASTER EGG

GAMESICE CREAMOLYMPICS

STREET PARTY

Would you like to become a Digital Champion in your community?FREE training and support is available if you are interested.The world of digital technology is changing all the time, including the way we access information and how we communicate with each other – such as the internet, email, social networking and mobile phones.If you want to make sure you are not left behind and that your community does not miss out on opportunities, then the Digital Champions programme is for you.If you want to find out more, call Alison Reid - 01606 288908 or email [email protected]

If you would like to: enter a story, buy advertising space,

volunteer for our team, or request an electronic version of Talkabout!

Then please contact us at [email protected] or

call 01606 551766

And now it’‛s over to our...

OH LOOK PHILIP, HERE’‛S ANOTHER ONE!!!

SOMEWHERE IN BUCKINGHAM PALACE...ONE CAN ONLY IMAGINE HOW HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN IS FEELING ON THIS 60TH YEAR OF HER REIGN ON

THE THRONE...

SHINE!GLIS

TEN!

DAZZLE!SPAR

KLE!

EXCITED EEK!TOSS!

GLEAM!

...BREAKING NEWS: WORLDS RICHEST MOUSE FUNDS CHEESE HUNT , CATS ARE SEETHING...

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© 2

012

Where in Winsford? Congratulations to Lauren Robinson (age 10) for guessing the last ‘Where in

Winsford?’ The correct answer was Carlisle Close! Do you know where in Winsford this

picture was taken?.......

If you think you know then get in touch! And you can

take the next picture for our Summer ‘Where in

Winsford!’

Famous Faces! We love to hear all about what Winsford locals enjoy doing, and look at this brilliant picture sent into us in

December....

Winsford PCSO Kevin McShane met local comedy star John Bishop in Chester!

Do you have any photos with a famous face? Send them in to us at [email protected].

talkabout issue 4 spring 2012

Documents

year winsford

ring circus

days of circus fun

outside winsford

west winsford

fun day activities

circus performers

fun days