RAVEN EDITORIAL GROUP - Cllr Andrew Footpaths to Give the Full Width of the Footpaths to Renshaw, Cllr Ken Butler, Ian Brammer, Sheila Pedestrians

TheNo.23 Summer 2013 aven RThe quarterly magazine for the whole of Rainow

G Village News G Social Events G Parish Council News G Clubs & Societies G School & Church G

Your Update on Council Activities

Annual General Meeting Responsible Dog Ownership

The AGM was held on Tuesday 21st May this year The Parish Council continues to receive complaints for the election of Chairman, Vice Chairman and about dog mess. Please don't allow your dog to Working Groups and Representatives. foul footpaths and fields. Better to dispose of your bags of excrement in the bin provided near the Cllr John Cantrell was nominated as Chairman, Robin Hood or in your own bin, rather than with Cllr Alan Brett agreeing to stand as Vice throwing them into fields or pushing them into Chairman. drystone walls. Please, please, please clear up after your dog and keep Rainow a pleasant place The following Working Groups were agreed by the to live. meeting:

PLANNING GROUP – All Council Members Parking TRANSPORT GROUP – All Council Members The Council would ask that all residents show PROJECTS GROUP – All Council Members consideration when parking and ensure that they FOOTPATH GROUP – Cllr Alan Taylor do not obstruct the footpath or driveways. Please (Chairman), Cllr Alan Brett, Cllr Ken Butler, leave sufficient access for wheelchairs, prams and Cllr John Cantrell, Cllr Andrew Renshaw and parents with small children. The Council would also Vivienne Law. ask residents to be careful of their speed when driving on Round Meadow and Millers Meadow. JUBILEE PLAYGROUND INSPECTION GROUP Thank you for your continued help in this matter. - Cllrs Mary Marsh, Pat Mellish and Alan Taylor. PARISH PLAN WORKING GROUP - Cllr Alan Hedge Cutting Brett (Chairman), Cllr Geoff Cooper, Cllr Pat Mellish, Cllr Richard Balment and Ian Brammer We ask that, where it is their responsibility, residents please cut back any overhanging hedges on RAVEN EDITORIAL GROUP - Cllr Andrew footpaths to give the full width of the footpaths to Renshaw, Cllr Ken Butler, Ian Brammer, Sheila pedestrians. Brammer, Rosie Daniels, Bob Langstaff, Louise Leigh, Jane Mellings and Raph Murray Civic Service RAVEN ADVERTISING and INVOICING – Cllrs Ken Butler, Carole Harvey, Pat Mellish and The Parish Council invites you to their Civic Service the Clerk to be held at Holy Trinity Church, Rainow on Sunday 29th September with the service commencing at CHESHIRE ASSOCIATION (ChALC) AREA 10.00 am. You are also welcome to join the Parish MEETING REPRESENTATIVE - Cllr Ken Butler Councillors afterwards in a procession to the school LOCAL AREA PARTNERSHIP MEETINGS (LAP) hall and join them for light refreshments. - Cllr Ken Butler We are also hoping to recognise the contributions of AMG HIGHWAYS SUB-GROUP - Cllr Ken Butler some members of the public to the community at this KRIV - Cllr Ken Butler year's Civic Service. WEBSITE EDITORS - Cllr Pat Mellish We look forward to meeting you. (Chairman), Cllr Ken Butler and Jim Crowther. BROADBAND GROUP - Cllr Pat Mellish, Parish Maps Cllr Geoff Cooper, Graham Mellish, Raph Murray, This is an excellent guide to all the footpaths and John Allen and Richard Stocker public rights of way in the area. If you would like a BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION (BKVC) - copy, please contact Cllr Richard Balment. Copies £1. Cllrs John Cantrell, Sue Frith and Carole Harvey. SPEED INDICATOR DEVICE - Cllrs Ken Butler The Pleasance and Trinity Gardens and Andrew Renshaw The gardens are looking fantastic at the moment. MAP SALES - Cllr Richard Balment We would like to thank all the unsung heroes of the WI for their hard work in Trinity Garden. Co-opted Councillor

We are very sad to announce that Cllr Vivienne Law has decided to resign due to her work commitments. We would like to thank her for her efforts and contributions to Rainow over the years in particular on the Footpath Group. If you are interested in becoming a co-opted Councillor then please look out for the advertisements on the notice board and website arish Council News during the next few months or contact the Clerk now to register your interest. The WI volunteers get down to it in Trinity Gardens!

2 P Cover Photo: Mike Tyldesley

Advertising in the Raven The Council is seeking advertisers to ensure the continuation Welcome to of the Raven. If you are interested in advertising then please contact Cllr Carole Harvey for more details.

Rainow 2013/14 Precept

Every year the Parish Council gets its funds from Cheshire East Council who, in turn, get their funds from your Council tax. This year we have asked for £10,000 which reflects the budgeted expenditure for the coming year. Below is the un-audited financial statement for 1st April 2012 The - 31st March 2014. aven ike most newspapersR and magazines the Year Ending Year Ending March 2012 March 2013 Raven boasts a Readers Letters & emails Balance Brought section. Well, it would if we got any letters and Forward 13,970 9,623 Lemails! That's why we don't have the Annual Precept 10,000 10,000 “Reader's Forum” we thought we would need. This is more than a pity. It means the Raven can't Total Other Income 4,102 5,212 perform one of its most important tasks – finding Staff Costs 3,789 3,789 out what people in Rainow really think about their village and the way it's run. Total Other Payments 14,660 10,180 Back in 2006 when the Parish Plan appeared, Balances Carried Forward 9,623 10,866 we all found out a great deal about what Rainow people wanted through the publication of the Total Cash 9,623 10,866 results of the parish-wide questionnaire. The Total Assets 96,812 98,812 survey based on that questionnaire continues to be a main source of information and the support for Community Bus Scheme some Parish Council actions. The trial bus service described in this issue managed to get funding A trial is being arranged (see the separate article in this using the survey results, for example. But that magazine). survey is now seven years old and inevitably is becoming out of date. Today there is a real need to update the Parish Your Parish Councillors Plan survey. One of the best ways to tell the Council and other people about your views on the John Cantrell (Chairman) 422107 village - what has been done, what has not been [email protected] done, what should be done – is to tell them through Alan Brett (Vice Chairman) 576108 the pages of the Raven. [email protected] Richard Balment 573625 So don't hold back - let Rainow know what you [email protected] think. Send us an email – or if you aren't a Ken Butler 433168 computer user – get a friend to send one for you to [email protected] [email protected] Geoff Cooper 574878 [email protected] Sue Frith 573802 [email protected] Future Meetings and Dates for your diary Carole Harvey 573576 [email protected] 16th July 2013 – Parish Council Meeting 8.00 pm Civic Service – Sunday 29th September 2013 Mary Marsh 573508 [email protected] If you have any issues to raise, then you can either Pat Mellish 574523 contact the Clerk, any member of the Parish Council or [email protected] just turn up at one of our meetings. Andrew Renshaw 574977 [email protected] Alan Taylor 575544 Editorial Team for this issue: [email protected] Ian Brammer Sheila Brammer Clerk: Sarah Giller 850532 Bob Langstaff Louise Leigh [email protected] Jane Mellings Raph Murray Cheshire East Councillor: Andrew Renshaw Rosie Daniels Hilda Gaddum 01260 252456 Design by Mel Wilcox (01625 576182)

Rainow Church The Kerridge Climb Fête – 100 times Saturday 20th July 2013 higher at Hough Hole Farm, Sugar Lane than Theme: 'Music' Procession starting from Everest Hawkins Lane at 1.20 pm **More Floats Needed** Opening Ceremony at 2.00 pm Mount Everest north face from Ronguk monastery in Tibet. Scarecrow Photo by Carsten Nebel published on Wikipedia by Raph Murray Fortnight es it's true - with at least 40 runners climbing 300 ft the combined ascent of all runners every year is more than 12,000 feet which is 600 feet higher than the climb from Everest Base Camp to the summit. And Teas in Church Centre as the Kerridge Climb has been run for more than 100 years (see 13th-28th July Y separate Rainow Flower Show report) the total height climbed by all Kerridge Climbers over the years is more than 100 times higher than Everest. N Over Alderley Band There is, however, a little more oxygen available to the Rainow runners! N Kerridge Climb This year is no exception. After last year's record entry of 70 runners it will be N Fancy Dress interesting to see whether this will be surpassed in 2013. Among the local N Fun Dog Show runners the main contenders for the first male and first female could be Dave and Rachael Lawrance. As both are better known for their long distance N Teas & Refreshments exploits in the Lake District, the Kerridge Climb represents little more than a Nˆ Grand Prize Draw sprint, however it will be interesting to see if they can achieve a family N Tombola double. In recent years the first runner overall award has been won by N BBQ England International Fell Runners Simon Bailey and Jack Ross, so if both were to compete the sight of these two runners hurtling down the side of N Home Produce Kerridge matching stride for stride would definitely be a highlight of the race. N Coconut Shy However, as they both take less than 10 minutes to complete the 1 mile N Ice Creams distance it would be important to watch this race closely. N Lucky Dip In addition to the overall N Second Hand Toy Stall winner (Jubilee Trophy), Book Stall 1st Local (Oldfield Trophy) N and 1st Local Lady (Spearing N Children’s Train Trophy), other awards and N Bouncy Castle trophies to be decided are: N Tug of War 1st Veteran (Forbes Trophy), 1st Lady (WI Trophy) and and many other stalls and games. awards for 1st Junior boy and girl (under 16 years) and Fete proceeds to:- 1st Boy and Girl (age 8 - 11 N British Heart Foundation years). N Church Equipment This year, for the first time, the race will be run under the rules of the Fell N Youth Organisations Running Association (FRA). This means that you will need to allow more time before the race to complete an entry form. Also the minimum age for all of the Village runners will be 8 years. The Kerridge Climb is, of course, held as part of the N Rainow Older Rainow Feteˆ at 3.20 pm on Sat 20th July 2013. The entry fee (in addition to Peoples Welfare the Feteˆ entry) is £2 (£1 for 8-11 year old) and junior entries (under 18 years) Any Questions ring:- will require signed parental consent. The organisers would be interested to hear from anyone with any information John Cantrell: about the history of the Kerridge Climb. This includes information on previous 01625 422107 winners, photographs, trophies, routes, results, etc. William Warrington: 01625 425579 If you have any information please contact Raph Murray on 01625 573729. Pam Armitt: 01625 573433 4

Summer is a-coming-in: Surrender to your Feteˆ Rainow Village Feteˆ - A survivor's guide by Jim Kennelly

illage fetes;ˆ redolent of rural idyll, a breath of Merrie how modest their efforts were, they were still better than their England. Moving to Rainow, we soon encountered the dad's. delights and challenges of the village fete.ˆ During our Our top priority at the Fete,ˆ however, was the children's Vpre-Rainow urban existence there was not much call for costume event. At our first Rainow Feteˆ we entered the Strip the Willow in the old Kent road or Maypole Dancing costume parade; good try, but no coconut. We didn't realise down Peckham Rye. Our main community activity had been to what high production values were expected in Rainow. Children speculate on which of our neighbours had been immortalised of alleged friends swept the board. Failure can be endured, but as photofits on last night's Crimewatch. the success of your friends can be unbearable. The Feteˆ raises money for good causes, there is enthusiastic We adopted the US Pentagon approach to costume design; participation by the whole community and in some years, the avoid subtlety; size does matter, the louder, prouder and bigger sun shines. A win-win-score draw situation then. There is the better. It won't necessarily secure the top spot, but the something for everyone, whether entertainment, physical shock and awe effect on judges seeing the time, expense and competitions (such as the Kerridge climb), or opportunities to materials expended on surrounding a smallish child with a mini display your creative and culinary skills. In particular, it is an Rio carnival float, practically guaranteed a podium finish. So, occasion to renew and extend friendships and emerge fully indeed there are some benefits to having no social life as I updated on the village gossip. toiled through the hours normally reserved for nightmares to There are children's competitions; my daughter had a finish the costumes on time. fondness for the “Garden on a Plate” and fetched up her The completion became an annual drug; no idea was too Lilliputian Edens over several years. My son was addicted to outlandish for the next fete.ˆ I would be told that I needed to the coconut shy, spending time, pocket money and effort to make a sailing yacht/helicopter/elephant etc. for the parade, so ping one of the hairy monsters from their cups. He then faced it was back to rummaging skips at work to secure the required the irony of the trophy coconut - when you have won it what to industrial sizes and quantities of cardboard and plastic. do with it? Not having power tools handy, they would Costumes were only completed hours before the parade, so repeatedly bounce the steel-hard nut onto the flags of the there was no check of manoeuvrability, durability or wearability. school playground. Once broached, they found the arid One year my daughter was afflicted by an allergic reaction to coconut flesh contaminated with pulverised shell and tonsil- an exotic fruit on the morning of the fete.ˆ Fortunately her tangling fibres completely unpalatable. Apparently, coconut costume included her cycling helmet, so it was only a few shrapnel, would found around the school for days afterwards. minutes work to rig a tinted plastic visor so her bloated, livid Village fetesˆ identified baking as a competitive sport decades face would not spook the judges. When the feteˆ coincided with before the BBC. Rainow, in a progressive move, extended the the 50th anniversary of VE day, I saddled my 8 year old son competition beyond the usual suspects with a men-only scone within a facsimile of a surrendering German U-boat. The craft bake-off. I used to work in a lab - I can comply with a protocol – was much longer than him, with half a bag of building sand in I mean, recipe, so I entered. The scones emerged from the the bow for balance. He was wriggling in discomfort under the oven; warm, aromatic with a creamy gold voluptuousness, weight, but I reassured him that the structure was supported by hinting at sensual pleasures to come. One lady, a doyen of the wide webbing straps, so his shoulders would only bruise, not baking arts, appraised my efforts and opined that these bleed during the parade. After weeks of work, no complaints beauties were clearly red rosette standard – and my mother would be countenanced; it's Showtime – get out there! I would wouldn't lie to me would she? The judges were approaching follow at a discrete distance with tape, string and scissors to the same conclusion until these come-thither globes were make running repairs on the untried structures; meanwhile breached by a judge's knife and haemorrhaged an oozing clod praying that rain would hold off; whatever they were, those of uncooked dough. My only relief was that my wounded costumes were not weatherproof. scones were not mocked by the whole village, only by about All the effort is worth it when the children run back and say half the population before we discreetly disposed of them. “Look Daddy, I've got a certificate and I've won a whole pound!” Again challenging gender stereotypes, the Feteˆ initiated a Nowadays, Scarecrow Fortnight has sequestered a significant female tug of war competition and my wife entered with her portion of the craft skills in the village. Scarecrows present friends. I don't recall them progressing far, but they had the additional challenges to design the body that goes inside the best team name, raising the rope as “Ladies on the Pull”. costume. The resulting scarecrow needs an all-weather shelf I found the Kerridge Climb easy, relaxing and pleasurable – life of two weeks, compared with 2 hours for the fancy dress. mainly because my race position was outside the refreshment On the plus side, I don't expect that any scarecrow complains tent nursing a cup of tea while I watched. Years passed, how- “I'm too hot, this is too heavy, I look stupid, my friends will laugh ever, and my children reached the qualifying age for the climb. at me…” Encountering ranks of these eerie, static mannequins I had no objection to their entry, but my wife insisted they would around the village at night sometimes gives me the willies. not run alone: “YOU are going too”. Unfortunately my pre-race Maybe there is a reduction in attempted burglaries during the preparation was perfunctory. During the first half of the race my fortnight with these man-shapes (scarecrims?) on guard? heart made an escape attempt by tunnelling out of my chest; So get down to the Fete,ˆ you will support charities, cement I feared that I might die – then during the second half I feared I your place in the community and be a hero to your children. It might not. I survived as the children's wheezing chaperone and is your Feteˆ – surrender to it. they have cherished certificates that confirm that, no matter

Out of School er by Mark Bertinshaw, Headteacher

Tytherington High School Maths Challenge Success I recently had the pleasure of taking a team of four year 6 pupils to the Tytherington High School mathematics challenge. This is a major competition for all primary schools in the area. The Rainow School children were amazing and won this demanding contest by some margin, indeed some of the other schools were astonished with our pupils' computational skills, speed and knowledge. I am r Summ Peach pleased to say that our children were modest in their victory, but fully deserved their outstanding success.. Fo & Raspberry Sports Day We held a brilliant sports day recently, taking advantage of the sunny weather. Ingredients Cake A great day was enjoyed by all and it was an extremely competitive event, especially 2 Eggs the parents' races! For the children, there 4 oz Soft butter/margarine was a combination of traditional races as 4 oz Caster sugar 1/2 tsp Vanilla essence well as new events which ensured that 2 oz Ground almonds everyone was involved. The refreshments 3 oz Self raising flour and strawberries and cream, supplied by 2 Just ripe peaches, skinned and chopped the Friends of Rainow School, were very Handful of raspberries welcome. 1. Heat the oven to 170 degrees Conway Visit The Year 3 and 4 pupils recently enjoyed a (gas mark 3) Line the base of an 8 short residential visit to Conway in Wales inch tin with parchment as part of their topic on Water and Coasts. 2. Beat eggs, butter, sugar and essence, The children were a pleasure to take and then fold in the almonds and flour took part in a range of exciting and competitive challenges on the beach. The 3. Spread half the mixture in the tin, then highlight for many was a tour around scatter peaches and raspberries over; Conway Castle, though the sea lion show spoon the rest of the mixture over at the Sea Life centre was also extremely 4. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes impressive. 5. Serve warm or cold with cream, crème Bags to School We greatly appreciated the additional fraiche or Greek yoghurt and extra support that we received from residents in raspberries. the village who gave so generously to our Bags to School recycled clothing collection. In total over the two recent collections, we have raised an Ideal for that fête tea party! astonishing £700 for our school funds as well as recycling old and unwanted clothing. Many thanks. Future Events We are looking forward to a busy time over the next few weeks when we welcome two Kenyan visitors from Mutiume School, our partner school in Africa. Zach Wilcox We are also planning our end of year play, which this year is the Wizard of Oz, Gardening & Maintenance as well as eagerly anticipating a pupil residential visit to Lakeside YMCA outdoor pursuit centre in the Lake District. The Friends of Rainow School are looking G Weekly Garden Maintenance forward to seeing many old and new friends at the annual hog roast and school G Dry Stone Walling barbecue (see separate Friends’ article in this Raven). G Tree Felling G Hedge Cutting G Gutter Clearing Rainow NSPCC Events & Replacement The Open Wardrobe event in May raised £702 and we thank everyone who G Flag Laying donated clothes and supported us. Our forthcoming events include: N Salmon & Strawberry Sparkle Lunch – Tuesday 2nd July @ Lower G Fencing House Farm, Smithy Lane, Rainow, contact Lulu Holland 572377, Lyn McCarthy 427896, Sue Frith 573802, Tickets £12 N Cookery Demonstration – Wednesday 25th September @ Higher Hurdsfield Sunday School, contact Lyn McCarthy 427896, Sue 01625 576182 Frith 573802. Tickets £7.50 to include wine & cheese and biscuits Mob : 07758 249587 N Punch & Mince Pies – Tuesday 3rd December @ Higher Hurdsfield 58 Sugar Lane, Rainow Sunday School, contact Sue Frith 573802 and Lyn McCarthy 427896 6

Friends of Rainow School Fun Fundraising and RAINOW he many and varied activites of the Friends of Rainow School raised a record SCARECROW FORTNIGHT breaking £7,900 for the school coffers between September 2011 and July 2012, Saturday 13th July - Sunday 28th July 2013 Tso the Friends are hoping for a similarly high total as this academic year draws Theme: to a close. Music The Church Centre opens at 12.00 The final fundraising opportunity of the year is the annual Summer Hog Roast and noon Saturday 13th July for Scarecrow Barbeque. This year it'll be held on Saturday 6th July, from 4.00 pm, in the school Teas and so it would be good if your grounds. The event has a Coronation theme, complete with crown making activites, Scarecrow was up and ready to receive and prizes for the best dressed king, queen, prince and princess! Activities will visitors by this time. include the ever popular duck race, worm charming, welly wanging and sand sculpting, whilst a well stocked bar and dessert table will perfectly complement the Prizes BBQ and Hog Roast. And as if that wasn't enough, punters will also be entertained Best Scarecrow £50 Best Traditional Scarecrow £25 by band Ginger and 3 Ninjas. Tickets are £4.00 and £2.50 for adults and children Most Humorous Scarecrow £25 respectively and this is not an event exclusively for school families, so do come 10 Highly Commended Prizes £10 along and join in the fun. It's always a wonderfully social occasion for both the Winning Youth Organisation £25 children and adults, a real chance for everyone to let their hair down. Please contact Liz Lawson The big FRS events of the year, like the Christmas fair and the Summer Hog Roast on 573632 to enter are the big headline grabbers, but there are smaller activities that go on throughout the year, often requiring no less hard work by the organisers. In March for instance, or for further information. Craig Roberts organised the ever popular Chilli and Quiz night which raised a very If you would like your scarecrow number respectable £480. Meanwhile on the last afternoon of every half term parents and to appear on the Scarecrow map children from a designated class bake and sell a selection of cakes, waffles and please register your scarecrow with Liz by 6.00 pm on Thursday 11th July 2013. After that time map treats. Thanks to everyone's hard work these sales are raising around £1,000 per amendments will not be able to be made but year; that's about 12% of the annual fundraising total! Anyone from the village is you will still be eligible to enter your scarecrow. welcome to come along to the sales, so if you're ever near school and in need of sustenance on the last afternoon of a half term do pop down. Be warned though that the queue for a freshly baked waffle is often very long indeed! The Bag 2 School collections are also proving to be a valuable contributor to the pot of funds too. Each term school-families have the opportunity to donate any unwanted, good condition textiles to a collection from school. The most recent collection raised £330 and the FRS is really grateful to 'non-school' families from around the village who are also making a contribution; it certainly is proving a regular easy opportunity for a good clear out! For information about the next one, please keep an eye on the village notice boards. Here are just a few ways that Rainow School has been spending the valuable funds raised by the FRS activities this year:

£3000 towards the new classroom (this was featured in Raven 22 - Spring 2013); £500 towards the alteration of the school front entrance to improve safety; £200 towards the teddies for the new reception children and the year 6 leavers gifts; £250 towards outdoor picnic benches requested by the pupil-led school council; £195 for a visiting theatre company performances; £100 towards new sports equipment including rounders posts.

A Blooming Good Result! by Jane Warren he grand plant sale in May turned out to be a big success, raising nearly £600 for Rainow Church – a fantastic result. We had over a hundred people Tcoming in during the event, which was held at the Church Centre. People came to buy plants and seedlings from the huge selection available (the photo shows a small part of the display) and also enjoyed their selections from a lovely array of home baked cakes. A raffle made £100, with the main prize being a lovely summer planter very kindly donated by Chris from Prestbury Garden Centre.

ark nights and dark dawns are long gone, and our fun Dwith it. The 2Legs are no longer bumping into every- thing as we escort them round the village. Dark is not light, but we can still see, and smell, a gatepost. Then again it does mean they stop to chat to each other now, which means we hounds get to say a Paws proper hellosniffo. And what a winter it was! No snow 4 for months and then a month's snow in a weekend. Whoo hoo - Thought no waiting for them to open the gate, simply trotted across the top of it. Mind you, none of the 2Legs - by Muppet seemed to relish the high winds and new sensations. Don't understand 2Legs sometimes.

It's that funny time soon, when all the walks are on the day, which would slow me down and level the playing field if pavements. Good for smells, but it's all on a lead. Like being a they'd ever let us compete in the fell run. That's our domain that pup again. Still, we stop and sniff a lot, whilst they all stop and hill is, bang out of order – sheep or no sheep. stare at something called a Scare Crow. What's scary about a Instead, they make us parade round in a circle like proper Crow I ask? No one ever answers mind. And it always seems to charlies. Its like that blinkin’ obedience class nonsense again. end in the Robin. Nothing scary about a Robin either! I always try to start a revolution against it, but the others don't Which brings me onto my fellow boys of the village, and one in listen to my barks. Unlike my 2Legs! They do not appreciate my particular. Shadow. How or rather hooowww, does he do that voice. thing? The 2Legs all love it in the Robin they do. All Fitz and I are Final thought from me – it might be summer but even on the interested in is the Frazzles he gets from his 2Legs. Now THAT longest day, my 2Legs still can't seem to find the Lamp & is what we call a trick. Candle. I've heard anyone can get served in there; Frazzles Dog Fest soon, down in Silver Moss' field. Bits of spilled burger that is. and crumbly WI scones. Yummee. Loads of scoobie snacks that Carole Harvey Telemarketing

New Business Development

Appointment Setting

Telephone Marketing

22 Millers Meadow, Rainow, Macclesfield 01625 573576 [email protected]

Computer & I.T. Solutions for home or office Commonside Farm Ecton Avenue, Buxton Road, Macclesfield SK10 1RB Contact Liam on: Contact STUART [email protected] 07762 825537 or 01625 578070 [email protected] 01625 669750 or 07770315443

Raven Book Reviews More choices from some of Rainow’s book club members Sue Townsend The Woman Who Went to Bed for a Year

The mere title of this book immediately provokes a variety of responses; the enticing notion of retiring to bed for a year and escaping the bewildering, exasperating and tedious array of responsibilities appealing instantly to a large proportion of readers. That was certainly the initial response of our book club, with many of us wryly sniggering and commenting “Oh how lovely that would be!” However, forget empty nest syndrome or the fairly universal but usually temporary feelings of being insufficiently cherished, unappreciated and taken for granted, the title character in this book (the humorously named Eva Beaver) withdraws suddenly and radically from the entire fabric and structure of her previously ordinary life, deciding to remain exclusively in her bed to think. As she tells her bemused husband, Brian: “I haven't used my brain for so long the poor thing is huddled in a corner waiting to be fed.” It becomes quickly apparent that Eva envisages a fundamental and drastic rethink of her entire life, rapidly dismantling the familiar and imprisoning domestic structures which have comprised the fabric of her life whilst engaging in a reappraisal of the past 50 years which have brought her to this point. This process involves not only an interrogation of her own beliefs, assumptions and perceptions, but also a gradual paring down of all the material trappings of life which have ensnared her. Predictably, there is fierce opposition from her husband and asocial twin children (named rather unnervingly, Brian and Brianne), mathematical prodigies recently despatched to University, who are all affronted and bewildered by her apparent rejection of them and her refusal to continue with the routine tasks which have held their family together. A state of chaos ensues, accompanied by a teeming cast of characters, all organised around the central inviolable principle – Eva will not leave her bed, come what may. She becomes a kind of messiah figure to the needy masses who assemble outside her bedroom window and in the midst of attempting to examine the basis of her own life, is compelled to dispense consolation and comfort to others. There are numerous opportunities for comic humour to prevail in this novel, the sense of the pathos and absurdity of life will be familiar to those old enough to remember the Adrian Mole diaries, also by Townsend. Comic touches are dissipated by lingering moments of bleakness, which becomes steadily more uncomfortable to read as Eva descends into an obvious mental breakdown. Reactions to this book were varied in our book club discussion; we were uncertain whether we liked Eva, whether her rather melodramatic behaviour was understandable, whether we were sympathetic towards her. The quirky and perverse tone that characterises Towsend's writing style begins to grate and exasperate after a while, feeling somewhat incompatible with the dark subject matter and the barely plaus ble narrative. Overall, although thought-provoking, funny in parts, poignant and even fascinating, ultimately it doesn't quite deliver.

Gillian Flynn Gone Girl

This intricately crafted, dark and menacing tale is highly deserving of being a contender for 'Thriller of the Year'. The premise of the novel is that Nick Dunne, a former journalist, has been accused of murdering his wife, Amy, on the morning of their fifth wedding anniversary. From page one when Nick announces, "I used to be a writer… back when people read things on paper, back when anyone cared about what I thought" and introduces his utter bewilderment and yet, fascination, with the inner workings of his wife's mind, the reader is enthralled, primed for the convolutions and juxtapositions of the slowly unfurling plot. The first chapter illustrates how many different ways there are to dissemble and this remains a dominant theme of the book. Like many a less clever unreliable narrator, Nick likes lies of omission. The genius of this novel rests in its structure; the co-narrative and its latent contradictions are what lie at the core of the story's searingly intelligent and ultimately disconcerting progression. The perspectives constantly shift; our initial loyalty is to Nick who, although evasive, does not seem like the cold-blooded killer he is portrayed to be in the media. However, we then hear from Amy via the epistolary narrative device – the words within her diary. She writes about the early days of their relationship. "Tra and la! I am smiling a big adopted-orphan smile as I write this… I met a boy!" she says. And then later: "He promised to take care of me, and yet I feel afraid." Although thoroughly captivating, at times the complexity and depth that has gone into the characters, especially Amy, is chilling and disquieting. A chess board is almost required to map out the various machinations of their relationship, which plays out in a toxic yet mesmerising display of subterfuge and deception. Amy – a perfectionist, at times perversely self-serving and yet adored to pathological extremes by some of those who have associated with her. She is either adorable or strange enough to stage a treasure hunt for each wedding anniversary. One measure of the diabolical finesse of the narrative is the Rorschach test made out of each of Amy's written clues. The reader has many opportunities to examine them before the book is over. Then there are the troubling aspects of Nick's character - he used Amy's money to finance the bar he runs but resents her for that. He has also taken a teaching job but still fumes about being fired by a magazine in New York. Although his temper does rage at times, he has a charming and disarming smile at others. He also has secrets that do not involve Amy – all of which details confer upon this book the level of discreet malice and mercurial layers which combine to form the psychological drama it is.Flynn, an exceptionally good writer, plays her readers with finesse and delicacy. She wields her unreliable narrators to stunning effect, perplexing, perturbing and entrancing in turn, the reader does not know who or what to believe and so the desire to race to the thrilling and sinister denouement of the book is heightened. Ultimately it is the intense and shadowy journey into the psyches of two troubled and flawed characters which is so unnerving and perhaps thought-provoking. In a nutshell, this is a book that resonates powerfully as it asks the unknowable question - how well can one person really know another?

Raven's A Satisfied ? The ? Customer ? ? Rainow Village ? by John Williams ?? Quiz 2013 ?? y now most of you will be aware that super- ? Bfast broadband has arrived in certain areas Reaching? the parts other quizzes cannot?? reach of Rainow but you might not be aware of all ? the hard work of a small group of Rainow by Raph Murray residents and of how Rainow was successful. ell it has been decided! The Raven editorial team, the Rainow Some months ago the group was approached Ravers, represented by Ian and Sheila Brammer, Louise Leigh and by Cheshire East Council and BritishTelecom Mel Wilcox, were crowned Rainow Quiz Champions for 2013 at the to ask if anyone would give a small talk at a W Robin Hood on Sunday 21st April. The Ravers proved to have the presentation by Cheshire East and BT on best overall knowledge of obvious, curious and obscure facts about Rainow Superfast broadband and tell the story of combined with awareness of who's who in the world outside Rainow. After Rainow's success in certain areas of the establishing an early lead with questions on Rainow people and places, parish. No one from the group was available on they maintained this through subsequent rounds on Rainow places and the date so Graham Mellish, one of the group, people. While some quizzes might seek the name of Charles Darwin's ship suggested that I, as a very satisfied customer, on his voyage of exploration, The Rainow Quiz asked where in Rainow one speak at the presentation. I agreed, asking my of the crew of this ship lived*. Just to ensure that the winning team knew wife Ann to come with me for moral support. something of the world beyond the Rainow Parish Boundary there was also The meeting was at Oulton Park, Cheshire on a picture round that involved identifying well-known faces from the world of 2nd June and on our arrival we were treated as music and film. “special”. We were met by Andrew Arditti, the The runners-up, a team of KRIV volunteers, including John Stagg, the Connecting Cheshire Partership Community Mayor of Rainow, failed to overtake the Ravers despite the best efforts of Engagement Officer and various Council Chief the Quizmaster, Bob Langstaff, whose questions included: who is the Executives from Cheshire East Council, Mayor of Rainow and how did former Mayors proceed through the village? Warrington and Halton Council and Cheshire West and Chester and the Managing Director Overall there were eight teams competing, including teams representing of BT and other BT executives and the WI, some of the established quiz teams in the village and a few new photographed on the race track on the start faces. Bob's questions and accompanying Dingbat puzzles ensured there and finish line. were lots of laughs and maintained a competitive challenge to the final round. An additional bonus was the £60 raised for the East Cheshire We then went into the presentation and were Hospice. asked by a number of people from other Parish Councils, “are you the people from Rainow and For those of you who missed how did you get Superfast fibre optic and what out, here is a selection of the did you do?” questions posed on the night: Of course, to then start my talk after the BT 1. What is the dedication name Managing Director had spoken for some time, I of Jenkin Chapel. Is it had to confess that I had nothing to do with all a) St. Joseph; b) St. James, the hard work put in by the Rainow Group, or c) St. John? which by the way was supported by the Parish 2. Which well-known Council and our MP, David Rutley. But I told the broadcaster lived in Rainow presentation that I was a user and very until his death in 1994? satisfied customer. I told them that I had smart 3. The building to the right of TV and download speeds were fabulous. Rainow church, now two When I told them my internet speed had houses, carries a memorial increased from half a megabite per second to tablet. To whom? up to sixty five, there was an audible gasp of 4. What is the name of the surprise from the hundred or so in the public garden at the top of audience, as they were only getting up to a Chapel Lane? fiftieth of that speed. During the presentation it 5. What is the name of the Alan Garner novel based in Rainow? became apparent that so many places in the (Answers below). County, small villages like Rainow, could be waiting a long time before they get any increase in speed, some realising it may never For anyone wishing to have a fun night out and test their knowledge of a broad be achievable in their rural area. We were then range of subjects there is a regular fun quiz at 8.30 pm in the Robin Hood Pub treated to a very pleasant lunch. every Sunday evening. This is hosted by Phil Moss and includes a bingo interlude and finishes with a prize card game. We came away feeling very privileged and had a great deal of respect and gratitude for the *The name of Charles Darwin's ship was HMS Beagle and the home of the work done on our behalf by the “Rainow Rainow crew member was at Mount Pleasant. And the quiz answers are: Group”. 1. c) St. John 2. Brian Redhead 3. William Parks, Vicar of Rainow 4. The Pleasance 5. “Thursbitch” A delighted fast speed broadband user

IT Buddy Rainow comes to HarropRainow Fold Farm by Raph Murray Tel: 01625 560085 ave you ever wondered how you could use the internet to keep in touch with family and friends, send and receive photos of new arrivals and Somewhere very special... family celebrations, catch up on that TV programme you missed, ordered A Quintessentially English Experience, your weekly shop without trudging to the shops, checked out the latest H Delightful Award Winning information on any topic of interest to you, paid your bills without a trip to the bank, arranged the best deal for a few days in the sun or even just checked 5 Star Guest Farmhouse and when Cheshire East Council will empty your bins? If the answer to any of these Self catering Cottage Accommodation questions is yes and you are a bit uncertain how to do this using the internet set in 20 acres with breathtaking then your very own Rainow IT Buddy may be able to help. The IT Buddy views over the Cheshire Plain. sessions will be provided by John Allen of Hough Hole Cottages on Tuesday We offer ’Cupcakes Galore’ afternoons in the Robin Hood Pub. These sessions are intended for anyone who would like to learn how to make best use of a computer and the internet. hands on cookery courses as well as a John will help you on a one-to-one basis, possibly in a one-off session or over ‘Cornucopia of Canapés’ the course of several sessions using you own or John's laptop. The emphasis is hands on Canapé courses along with on giving you practical advice and guidance, such as: how to set-up an email Cookery Demonstrations with Lunch or account, how to "Skype", how to attach photos to an email and deal with general Dinner using the finest local ingredients enquiries about using the internet, etc. The sessions are free to all, however a led by our own Cordon Bleu trained Chef. donation to Age UK (Cheshire East) would be appreciated. Day & Residential Art Courses John will also be the speaker for the Rainow WI at the Robin Hood on Sunday with our Resident Professional Artist. 28th July between 6.30 pm and 8.00 pm. His talk will be about the internet: its benefits, people's fears and concerns and how to protect yourself and your Gift Vouchers available and Corporate and privacy on the internet. Group Bookings welcome. If you have any questions or would like to book an IT Buddy session at the www.harropfoldfarm.co.uk John Robin Hood Pub on a Tuesday afternoon, please contact by phone www.michaelmooreart.co.uk 01625 572523, 07879 831851 or via email: [email protected] www.leahspantry.co.uk

Rainow Got There First! Rainow Flower Show and Sports 1911 2,000 spectators and £8,000 prize money by Raph Murray ncredible as it may appear, by the time of the first Chelsea Flower show in 1913, the Rainow Flower Show and Sports had already been run Ievery year for eleven years. The Macclesfield Courier and Herald of Sat 9th September 1911 provided a full report on the tenth annual Rainow Flower Show and Sports. With more than 300 entries in both the flower show and sports and more than 2,000 spectators on the showground next to Tower Hill this show must have been quite a spectacle. While many of the entries in the flower show were local the sports attracted competitors from athletics clubs as far afield as Liverpool, Widnes, Castleton, Barrow, Rochdale as well as Rainow, Bollington and Macclesfield. Part of the attraction is likely to have been the £80 prize fund (equivalent to £8,000 at 2013 values) including prizes such as a 'smoking cabinet' for second place in the half mile handicap race. Although the flower show and most of the sports have long since been discontinued, in particular the potato picking race, the Rainow Feteˆ continues to showcase some of the horticultural expertise of Rainow gardeners and, of course, the Kerridge Climb and Tug of War are still keenly contested more than 100 years later (see separate Kerridge Climb preview). Indeed the hill climbing competition provided the most exciting finish of the afternoon with George Walker of Rainow just being overhauled on the final sprint round the field by A Moffatt of North Staffordshire Harriers. In the Tug of War the prize for the winning team of J Anderson was six butter dishes, while the losing team of J Bullock had to make do with six cases of spoons. Another tradition maintained to this day is the music and dancing after the show. In the 1911 report there is no mention of an award for baking or children's fancy dress; there were, however, prizes for the best potatoes, tomatoes, eggs, butter and cheese. YOUR LOCAL SERVICE 11

Stellar Venue for Hot Vestry

by Rosie Daniels Snow Gate he story of Hot Vestry, Rainow’s own Ian Brammer Experimental Indie Rock band, has been This composition uses the strong graphic lines of the gate and its shadow to one of success since their formation in “ create interest with the very straight lines being rippled in the snowy shadows. T2009. In only four years, they have risen ” from gigs at the (prestigious) Robin Hood Inn and (slightly less prestigious) Tytherington Butterbur Leaf High School to numerous events across the Manchester area. In April last year, they Frank HB supported New Order at the Manchester Apollo “An excellent — twice, consecutively.They have been praised abstract detail widely as a revival of integral Indie Rock; and good Manchester Evening News described them as, natural colour. “Four teenagers deadly intent on showing up This makes the viewer British indie-pop’s recent complacency,” and they look at were crowned ‘Best Teen Band in and around something as Manchester’ by Halcyon Days Magazine. With the frequency of adjectives such as enigmatic, simple as a leaf esoteric and energetic in relation to their music, in a new light.” and my own memory of their performances at Tytherington High School, it is not difficult to see why they have won such laurels. On 7th July they are set to perform at Jodrell Bank alongside New Order and Johnny Marr. Last year’s concert at Jodrell Bank has been hailed as one of the best Indie music events of the year, so it is hoped that this event will bring Hot Vestry recognition throughout the Manchester area and beyond.

Steel and Rain Robert Langstaff

“Excellent control of tone in this abstract shot which makes you look at each and every raindrop”

Thick Cut Jules Cox Storm Tree Nigel Campbell “Amazing colour and detail in this home- studio shot.The black and white background “The darkening clouds and strong angles of the branches give a strong sense of really help to bring this image to life.” motion to this landscape.” rainow photographic group

The photographs on this page are a small selection of recent work by members of Rainow Photographic Group. The Group meets every month to review photos, look at techniques and discuss problems. Meetings are informal gatherings of local photographers who want to improve their abilities and members range from beginners to the comparatively knowledgeable. Comments on the photos here are by Nigel Campbell who has the experience to judge our efforts. If you would like to develop your skills, look at the website: www. rainowphotogroup.wordpress.com and come along to a meeting.

Rainow Sunset Forest Floor Mike Tyldesley David Catlow The angle of the beams of sunlight “What makes this image is the fiery sunset “ reflected in the windows in sharp contrast compliment the fallen tree in this to the muted tones of the church and image.The high contrast enhances the strong shapes. surrounding landscape at dusk.” ”

Reading,Writing, Religion – and Ructions Bob Langstaff continues a series of articles on the turbulent development of education and religion in Rainow

that more than a hundred and sixty children attended the Methodist Sunday School, at the same time noting that “The Wesleyans have had the place of the established church here for many years. A National School is the only means by which the rising generation at least can be brought up members of our church.” In practical terms, all that the established church had to offer in competition were the remnants of an old and failing ad-hoc schooling arrangement based on a few devaluing and inadequate bequests supplemented by donations from the dwindling Anglican congregation. There was an Anglican school in Rainow in 1778, though its origins are obscure. James Orme, the schoolmaster, was teaching about fifty pupils each year. Money for this seems to have come largely from bequests, originally for nine poor children, Part Three: Wesleyans Rule, O.K.? expanding to an average of between 40 or 50. A small fee from the parents (children's pence) would help to supple- ollowing the building of Mellor's Methodist chapel ment the small annual fee paid to the schoolmaster, which on Blaze Hill, the Wesleyans gradually increased became inadequate as the value of the original bequest their presence in Rainow. 26 years later they built diminished. There is no mention of a schoolhouse – the a much larger chapel which still stands on children were possibly taught at the home of the school- FChapel Brow above the Robin Hood Inn. From master. The curriculum included instruction in the principles their new platform they gradually became a of religion, and the children were expected to attend church. powerful force in the village. At about the same time as In an attempt to stem the tide of Methodist influence over the new chapel was built, the Wesleyans took over and the young of the village, the Vicar, by the early 1840's was improved the tiny village school room (originally non- instructing a class in the Anglican doctrine after the Sunday denominational) that was later to become the embryo service. This was an ineffective gesture. Many parents did village Institute. not take their children to church on Sunday, either because they had already converted to Methodism, or at least saw better educational opportunities there, or because the Another twenty years on and the hold of the Wesleyan Vicar's class did not learn to read and write. Rainow did not Methodists on the hearts and minds of such villagers as have a church at this time. Services and classes were held were inclined, or could be persuaded to religion, was almost in the mouldering and dangerously decrepit Chapel-of-Ease, complete. Their now well-established chapel had plenty of which stood at the top of what is now Chapel Lane, on the local support and the Sunday School they had founded in area covered by the 'Pleasance' public garden and the first what is now Rainow Institute was flourishing. Sunday two houses in the lane. The mother-church, where all rites classes were popular and instruction was free. With their of passage had to be celebrated, was in Prestbury, not far pragmatic approach to religious crusading the children were away to a 21st century mind, but a long way off in those taught Methodist doctrine as well as being taught how to distant days. read and, to a lesser extent, how to write. The attendance roll grew steadily and it is evident that the Church of In the next issue, Part Four will describe the attempts of the England was losing much of its congregation to this Church of England to counter the overwhelming influence of vigorous movement. In 1844 the Vicar of Rainow estimated the Wesleyans. ELBeedesigns BLINDS G CURTAINS G INTERIORS Rainow Cattery G ROLLERS G VERTICALS G VENETIANS G WOODS G Established over 30 years G G G G G 07860 106901 ROMANS PLEATED SHUTTERS PERFECT FIT 01625 572654 ‘A home from home for cats’ G CURTAINS & ACCESSORIES Centrally heated accommodation TEL: MOB: Lynne Eardley 12 Charter Road, Bollington. SK10 5NU with a radiator in every pen Climate controlled environment LA BOBINE We can take cats on medication Savignac de Duras, France Open all year round Contact: Mary Marsh on N Sleeps 12 01625 573508 Tel: 01625 575129 N Swimming Pool Old Post Office Cottages, 1 [email protected] N 1 /2 hrs from Bordeaux Church Lane, Rainow, Macclesfield, The Old Hall, Sugar Lane, Rainow, SK10 5UJ [email protected] Cheshire SK10 5XE

News from the Lamp and Candle Things have been fairly quiet at the old inn, which is just you a pint from any jug on how we like it. Thank heavens the winter has finally gone – the shelf and an extra shilling glad to see the back of that one! At the height of the cold something special from the spell I read a government warning that said anyone cellar. Who needs politicians? travelling in icy conditions should take a shovel, blankets, I see Mrs Thatcher has extra clothing, a 24-hour supply of food, rock salt, a torch been summoned to the with spare batteries, a tow rope, first aid kit and a set of great Cabinet Room in the sky – another one who never jump leads. I looked a right idiot on the bus to Macclesfield! came in here to find out what life was like north of Watford Anyway, now things are relatively quiet I can get down to Gap. Anyway, may the Iron Lady rust in peace. (Note the some proper investigative journalism as befits a publication political satire here – a sure sign of good journalism!). like the Raven. In this issue I shall be tackling Television, Last weekend the missus and I visited our daughter in Politics and New Technology. Poynton. I don't much like going there on account of her People sometimes ask me if we miss a television, living in husband, who is technology freak – always looking down his isolation here at the 'Lamp& Candle'. Well, the landlady and nose at those who don't have an Apple this or a Blackberry I occasionally watch a bit of telly at her sister's house in that or an Orange the other. He sees me as fair game because Bollington. Now some programmes are alright. There's this I'm not, as he says, “tech-savvy”. So we're sat in his lounge “Country File” of a Sunday evening which has some and I say to him “pass me the newspaper, son” and he gives interesting bits in it but the programme jumps about like a me that look and says – “So uncool – nobody reads flea in a jam jar. One minute you're watching sheep being newspapers these days! Here, you can borrow my i-Pad.” lambed in Cheshire and the next you're in some helicopter in Well, was I impressed? – that fly didn't know what hit it! the Scottish Highlands, then ditching in the Fens, then back It'll be Rainow Fête before long, one of my favourite times of to Cheshire for some more lambing. And they keep repeating the year, with the usual familiar events, the Kerridge Climb themselves! – telling you what you're watching every five and the Tug o' War and rummaging through the book stall. I minutes, like you're about six years old! Some of the hope we get another Mayor as good as this last one. I've seen programmes we didn't understand at all. It was “Celebrity him out and about on his Mayoring duties more than any this” and “Celebrity that”. The trouble is we don't know of other, which can only be good for the village. I recently went any celebrities except the Mayor of Rainow and him down along to the Easter Bunny Hunt at Snipe House Farm, just the road as was Chancellor and who we couldn't see for dust to do a little reportage for the “Raven” and who was there to once the scandal of the tax on pasties hit the news. Then we open it – Mayor John Stagg! I have recently been accused by watched that University Challenge programme – I forget the a Mrs H. of Prestbury of being rude and opinionated and presenter's name but he has a face like a lurcher sucking a 'hiding behind a cloak of anonymity', so whilst I was at the lemon and he's very rude to students who are obviously Bunny Hunt I decided to have my photograph taken with cleverer than he is. Didn't think much of that either! The the Mayor. I will be asking the editor of the missus particularly liked the Antiques Roadshow, which “Raven” to publish it. A copy has already confirmed to her that the Lamp & Candle is an Aladdin's gone up in the best room, Cave! I nearly swallowed my Hob-Nob when I saw what a replacing the picture of set of flying ducks fetched. We have three sets flying up the Sir Malcolm Cambell. walls of various rooms at the Lamp, and as soon as we got Talking of rummaging home she made me put a lock on the display cabinet in the through the bookstall at Best Room. She's now fearful that some programme like the Fête, I have “Bargain Hunt” or “Flog It” will come snooping around. I commissioned all the lads think that all things considered you can keep your television from the 'Lamp' to visit sets. There's nothing better than standing around the bar or the book stall and choose sitting by the fire of a cold winter's night with the lamp three books each in order turned down and the candle snuffed out, swapping ghost to form Rainow's first stories with the rest of the lads. Mind you when Ginger Dave All-Male Book Club! began telling us his tale about how they finally found the If the ladies can do it “Titanic” and how spooky it was that the swimming pool then so can we! I shall was still full, I must admit I could have done with a television be reporting on what set. was chosen in the next And talking of the Chancellor, I see he knocked a penny off a issue. pint of beer in the budget! So if you go to a pub and drink Have a good summer. 299 pints, the 300th will be on George! No wonder he stayed away from the Lamp & Candle, where 85 new pence will get The Landlord.

Spring Rainow Cubs Summer 2013 Scouts by Akela Sue Grimes and Baloo Michelle Renshaw with theThe Leaders e finished off the Spring Term with a by visit to a giant Scalextric layout in Marple s usual it has been a hectic Half Wwhere there was some very impressive Term! The highlight was the Tatton steering and quite a lot of crashes; great Adventure camp. Over this week- fun but disappointingly not time for the Leaders end about one thousand cubs and to have a go. As usual our last meeting had A Chocolate as its theme when a vast quantity scouts (including a sizeable contingent from Rainow) took part in was consumed. various activities, such as log sawing, fire We started the term with a hike down the lighting, shelter building, paint balling, Gritstone Trail from Teggs Nose to Rainow so whistle making, branding and circus skills! the new Cubs gained their Hiker Badge One The Chief Scout, Bear Grylls, was present straight away. The next two weeks we spent by and there were various entertainments in the stream making bivouacs (shelters made the main arena. All the scouts had a highly from natural materials) and then lighting fires enjoyable but exhausting time! and cooking our tea. We are so lucky being able to do these things I feel every child should We have continued working towards the do; a big thank you to Billy and Diane Moss for main areas required for the various allowing us to use their land so generously. The Challenge Badges which go towards the Cubs learnt the Countryside Code and now put Chief Scouts Gold Award. This Half Term it into practise each time we go out. we have been concentrating on the For the following week Prestbury Nursery kindly Fitness Challenge. Over a four week gave us a large quantity of plants at a reduced price and each Cub was able to plant period each scout engaged in a a container full of bedding plants to take home. They also made Grass Heads, programme of personal fitness (press ups, wormeries and had a Nature themed treasure hunt. leg jerks etc) keeping a record to show The wet week fortunately coincided with Alex from Circusology coming to teach them improvement. All scouts did improve! This circus skills. I think some of the Cubs impressed him with their juggling, balancing culminated in a debate about the important and cycling skills. It was really good fun as he got all the Leaders and parent helpers topics of alcohol, drugs and smoking. Very having a go as well. thoughtful comments were forthcoming. For the last meeting of half term we went by coach to the Dry Ski Slope at Stoke, An extremely interesting evening was I am not sure which they liked best, the skiing or tubing, but I was impressed by how spent being told by one of our dads all they all kept trying until they could ski down the slope without sitting down! about the work of Shelterbox. This charity We entered a team of six in the District Handicraft Competition and won one of the goes into areas affected by natural sections, fittingly the theme was snow as some teams couldn't make it because of disasters and conflict, delivering their the weather. “magic” boxes which contain all the At the moment we have split into three groups essentials for survival (tents, solar lights of eleven to benefit from learning how to Scuba etc.) The scouts had many questions and dive, paddle a canoe and shoot in smaller found the whole organisation fascinating. groups. They learn much more this way than We were delighted to welcome a new waiting round for over 30 to have a go. Thank leader, Phil. He is a serving policeman and you to New Horizons Dive Centre for their has both skills and enthusiasm to bring to endless patience, Pete Parker for the canoeing the group. It is great to have him “on and Tim Grimes and Andrew Renshaw for the board”! We are very pleased to have shooting. Steve back after his sabbatical and would Unfortunately we haven't been camping so like to thank Mick who has done terrific much this year but a group of Cubs and work in his absence. Leaders have just been on a PGL Activity For the first time in many months we are weekend – abseiling, canoeing, going on a currently full! However, we are very happy giant swing and a trapeze, plus more. to put anyone interested on the waiting list. The big event of the District was an Adventure Day at Tatton Park culminating in a visit by Bear Grylls (our Chief Scout). We had to catch a coach very early in the morning along with lots of other excited Cubs. On arriving we were sent on a trail looking for various things until we finished at the Scout Campsite by the Lulu’s Luscious lake. We found our Scouts who were camping for the weekend and had our packed C O N F E C T I O N S lunch with them. After lunch there were various activities, we went on the Fairground and then down to the Lake for boating. We then joined everyone in the main ring and were right at the front; there were African dancers, music acts etc to watch. Eventually Bear arrived by helicopter and did a whistle-stop tour round the crowds Celebration Cakes & Biscuits for all Occasions before flying off. We then joined the Scouts for tea before returning home. Weddings N Birthdays N Anniversaries We are planning to be outside for the rest of the term and can only hope for good Telephone : 01625 572377 weather, not that the Cubs seem to notice!!

Legs Eleven for Beavers! Guides take Karen Roberts by to the Stage by Jill Hasler and Helen Archibald uides have had a really busy time since our last report! Most of the Spring term was taken up with Gplanning and rehearsing our variety show, which featured several dances, some singing, some musicians, a 'surprise' item as well as our comperes for the evening. Helen and I did nothing other than encourage and advise (only when asked, we wouldn't have dared otherwise!) The Guides sorted outfits, music, choreography, n the last edition of the Raven, we heard what a great time Charlie Beswick had had scripts – and the Guides who did not as a Beaver. Now that Charlie and some of his friends have moved on to Cubs, the want to go on stage did all the back stage IBeavers have been able to welcome three new members, who are all looking organising, music etc. We were uncertain forward to having just as much fun in their time with the colony. And if this term's whether we would want to share it with activities are anything to go by, I don't think they will be disappointed. As a group, they others, but a final rehearsal just before have produced some very creative work for their Imagination badge, including the Easter holidays convinced us all, so designing their own tents and making models. They have also been working towards we had a lovely evening with friends and their Outdoor Challenge badge, which involved pitching tents, setting and following family just after Easter, enjoying the girls' trails across the fields, as well as learning how to pack their own rucksacks and performance. We have some very discussing the Country Code. The Beavers will be trying to spend more time outside talented Guides! Not only were we this term (if the weather is kind), with a Fitness Challenge planned and, hopefully, a impressed by their commitment and short walk or some Rounders. organisation, we loved the way they all worked together, across the ages and As always the Beavers produce a scarecrow for the Church Feteˆ and so some of their friendship groups. The finale (the time has been spent making Beavers legs (yes, you did read that correctly). The Macarena with all the cast on stage) was photo shows the Beavers with their legs. All will become clear when you see the 'interestingly' costumed. When people scarecrow! ask Helen and me at our different places Finally, and very sadly, there will be a changing of the guard at Beavers soon. After 11 of work just exactly what we do on a years as Willow, Angela Barlow will be hanging up her necker in October. Suzanne Wednesday night, sometimes it's a little Tobin will be taking on this role and we hope she will enjoy her new challenge. Also, difficult to explain………. 1 Jo Rathbone, our assistant Beaver Leader will be leaving at the end of July, after 5 /2 We played rounders on one of the few years of service. So from all of the Beavers, past and present, thank you very much nice evenings, and have completed a Angela and Jo for all your effort and hard work and welcome to Suzanne. treasure trail and some natural artwork, but we also, as usual, provided the teas (and some runners and some enthusiastic cheerers) for the annual Rainow 5. They all worked very hard that RAINOWAINO UBS CUBS - L ASE- PLEASE HELP HELP night, and were pleased that several After over 20 years I feel it is time to let someone younger run up and down the hills runners told them they actually only came after the Cubs as they are leaving me far behind! Therefore I am pleased to say that for the refreshments. Many runners now Charlotte Burdock (my daughter) is taking over as Akela while I am taking a back seat come early to reserve their cakes – they and concentrating on the planning, organisation and paperwork. Sadly, Michelle has are worried that the first home will snaffle decided to step down as well now that both her sons are in Scouts. all the best ones! SO in order to continue, Cubs needs at least one preferably two permanent As a reward for all their hard work, we Leaders to enable it to carry on. (male or female). Charlotte needs to know that ended the term with an evening at Blaze someone will always be there with her who knows what to do. She has started her Farm, painting mugs, plates or pots. training so it would be nice if someone could step forward sooner rather than later Caroline is unwaveringly patient, amidst to learn together. With me doing the background work it would be just for the hour all the stress of Guides being artistic. and half each week, but every week. At the moment there are 33 Cubs and Two girls also made their Guide promise a waiting list so there is no possibility of only one person running it. that evening, slightly hampered by the ice Please step forward as I would hate to see the Pack close, over the years cream (especially the one I was holding!) I have met some wonderful people and experienced so much and had Now we're hoping for some outdoor a lot of fun and laughs. It is wonderful seeing the children try something evenings, and especially for the Guide be it gorge jumping, scuba diving, going on stage, stroking a snake (or Fabfest, which was cancelled last year whatever) that they didn't think they could and achieving it, that's the reward. due to the awful weather. Six are down to go this year – so fingers crossed! Do phone if you want more details or to talk about it. (Sue Grimes 01625 572751) Charlotte is aiming to start in September 17

Enjoy some of Rainow’s Summer the best restaurant Bonanza

food in Cheshire. Evening Fête Festivities ... The Marquee, Sugar Lane Locally sourced ingredients Saturday 20th July 2013 cooked in contemporary style 7.30 pm till late by Scott Oliver and served in a All Welcome Live Music from stunning setting. Why not try our fabulous The Cover Up DJ, Food and Drink Sunday Dinner? Tickets available NOW Ticket Price: £5 (under 12yrs free) For more information contact Sue 01625 410735 Stacey 07540 875804 22 High Street, Bollington 01625 575058 oliveratbollingtongreen.com oliver at Bollington green Our food speaks for itself

Kerridge End Holiday Cottages Rainow's Only 5 Star Gold Self Catering Holiday Cottages Cheshire's Only Green Tourism Gold Award Winning Cottages N The Hayloft sleeps 6 N The Coach House sleeps 4 N The Stables sleeps 2 For details of each cottage see: www.kerridgeendholidaycottages.co.uk Email : [email protected] Tel : 01625 424220

Winners of North West Tourism for All Award 2009

Tim Robinson Unit 3 Riverside Works Forge Road Whaley Bridge Derbyshire SK23 7HY

Riverside Engineering Classic Car Servicing and Repair Tel/Fax: 01663 719641 Modern car servicing & diagnostics also available

Community Bus Service Trial n the last issue of the Raven it was announced that the Parish Plan Implementation Group had won a substantial grant from Cheshire East Council to set up a community Ibus service to run outside the regular service bus hours. The PPIG set up a public meeting to discuss how such a service should operate and gained some useful ideas from the small number of local people who attended. The group decided it would be best to run a short trial to gauge the demand and find out what practical problems might come up. It was decided to run the trial over the Barnaby weekend (21st - 23rd June) as this was a time when Rainow residents might like to visit some of the many Barnaby events in Macclesfield. A trial timetable and route was selected and a seven seat vehicle hired for the trial. Members of the team get together to plan the trial. Volunteer drivers were found and Councillors Ken Butler and Alan Brett agreed to handle the organisation and For a regular service to run successfully, a team of volunteer administration for the trial. The details of the trial service drivers and administrators will be needed. If you would like to were then circulated to most households with the Barnaby put yourself forward (and a standard driving licence is all you publicity leaflets and were publicised on village notice need), you should email the Raven boards. ([email protected]) As this issue of the Raven went to press just before the trial or contact Ken Butler or was run, the results are not available but will appear in the Alan Brett on the email next issue. By then the PPIG will have been able to review addresses or phone what happened and reach a decision about whether a numbers shown on regular community bus service will be viable and how it page 3. Without these should be run. If the trial proves a success then it is hoped volunteers it will not to start a regular weekend service from September. be possible to run the service.

Macclesfield's stages HMS Pinafore at the Gawsworth Hall garden theatre (6th and 7th July) where former and current Rainow residents will feature both on and off-stage arole Mullineux and Jane Mellings will be performing amongst the 15-strong chorus of “Sisters, Cousins and Aunts” in this very nautically flavoured comic Cromp of Gi bert and Sullivan. It promises to be another spectacular summer treat, staged by, amongst others, Rainow's Anna Riordan (Production Design) and former Rainovian Claire Sutton (Company Manager). A further resident, Jan Leicester, is one of the costumiers helping to clothe the cast in a colourful array of 50s inspired attire, whilst Oliver Riordan was drafted in to model for the pre-production publicity photoshoot! (see right where he's pictured alongside Andrea Tweedle who will play Josephine and Director Alastair McCall). The opera will feature experienced soloists who have previously worked with companies including English National Opera, Opera North,and the Royal Northern College of Music, together with the Silk Opera Orchestra. This will be Silk Opera's eleventh production to date, their www.silkopera.com third outing at Gawsworth, and the first under the directorial Book online: www.gawsworthhall.com helm of Alastair McCall whose memorable performances as Scarpia in Puccini's Tosca, Pooh-Bah in The Mikado and The Box Office: 01260 223456 Pirate King in Pirates of Penzance have played a significant Tickets: £19.50 (no children under 6), includes free entry role in the establishment of Silk Opera as a credible, to the Hall grounds from 2.00 pm. Bring a picnic. innovative and contemporary opera company. Performances start - 7.30 pm Saturday, 6.30 pm - Sunday

he 6th RAINOW ART We are delighted to welcome new exhibitors of all ages, and if EXHIBITION will be held in you have not exhibited before, please don't feel daunted. It is Calling the Church Centre on Friday good to see your work displayed in a different setting and visitors all T8th November (7.00 – to previous exhibitions have been impressed by the range of 10.00 pm), Saturday 9th expertise on show. To accommodate the maximum number of Rainow November (11.00 – 4.00 pm) and artists, each exhibitor will be limited to six paintings. A hanging Sunday 10th November fee of £1 per item and a 10% commission fee will be payable on Artists! (Remembrance Sunday) 12.00 any sales. Adèle will need to know how many paintings/works of noon to 4.00 pm. Admission will be art to expect so that they can be displayed appropriately and so free. This popular event is held every 18 months to celebrate the that we can produce a catalogue. You may wish to exh bit but not work of local people, both amateur and professional. If you would sell any work and these items can be displayed as NFS (Not for like to take part, please contact Adèle Langstaff, 70 Millers Sale), but you will still need to pay the hanging fee of £1.00 for Meadow (573761 or email [email protected]) for a form. each painting. Christmas will not be far away and this would be The exhibition is a truly local affair, open to people who live and an ideal opportunity to buy a work of art. There will also be a sale work in Rainow, or who are associated with the Parish. of Greeting cards by participating artists and this year there will Commission from paintings and cards and all profits from be the addition of unframed paintings and prints for sale, so hanging fees, refreshments and catalogues will go toward measure up any spare frames you have at all and find yourself a Church Funds. Tea, coffee, cakes and wine will be available. bargain!

The

Ꮳ Robin Hood Food Served: Mon - Sat 12 - 2.30 pm and 5.30 - 8.30 pm Penny Lane Sun - 12 - 6 pm Carvery Ꮳ Holiday Tues Night - Pie & a Pint £7.95 Ꮳ Thurs Night - Curry & Drink £7.95 Cottages Ꮳ Real Cask Ales Ꮳ 4 En Suite B&B Rooms N Two charming 18th-century stone cottages,

Ꮳ Pets A Warm Welcome recently refurbished to a high standard. and children Tel: 01625 574060 N Long and shorts breaks available all year round. welcome www.robinhoodrainow.co.uk For more information call: 01625 410735 www.pennylaneholidaycottages.co.uk 20

Common Barn Holiday Cottages

Wellington Road, Bollington SK10 5JR G For jazz G For comedy G For chamber music G For professional & amateur Self Catering Holiday Cottages and B&B in theatre productions the Peak District situated on a traditional G For talks working sheep farm, ideally located for G For art exhibitions exploring the magnificent scenery. We enjoy excellent open countryside with far-reaching G For poetry readings views over the Cheshire Plain. We have 5 G For rehearsal space B&B rooms, plus 2 self catering holiday cottages in tastefully converted stone barns. G For classes G For hire For more details please visit: For more information visit our website: www.bollingtonartscentre.org.uk www.commonbarnfarm.co.uk or ring 573863 or 01625 574878

David Band For a M. J. ROBERTS free quotation Window Cleaning Services Est. 1998 Ring Dave Professional Decorator G Windows cleaned inside and out on (01625) INTERIORS & EXTERIORS G Conservatory Roofs cleaned 429811 Call Michael for a free quote on: G Fascia boards and Soffits cleaned or Mobile: Macclesfield (01625) 431839 or 07932 868623 G Gutters repaired or renewed 07903 790046 References available References available 24 Conway Crescent, Hurdsfield, Macclesfield. SK10 2RU 35 Moorhill Road, Macclesfield, SK11 7TS

HEATING OIL BEST SERVICE AT COMPETITIVE PRICES

FARM & COMMERCIAL FUELS LOGS & HEAT LOGS É WIRRAL FUELS 01244 - 851200

DUNKIRK ESTATE, DUNKIRK, CHESTER, CHESHIRE CH1 6LZ

J. Kirk & Co Studio/Gallery@Kerridge End Approved Diploma Coal Merchant Cesterbridge Cottage Kerridge End Rainow Established in 1933 Top quality British Coal Telephone: 01625 612478 G Smokeless Fuel G Logs G Kindling G Bunkers Call Oliver on 01625 573131 www.janeosmond.net Hedgerow, Rainow SK10 5DA Your local doorstep ROY McCARTHY Delivery Service Coaches for every occasion N Milk 35 - 70 Seaters N Organic Milk FAMILY BUTCHERS Please call us for our 2013 brochure N Free Range Eggs Palmerston Street, N Orange Juice Bollington with details of our holiday tours Tel: 01625 572202 N Cream and day excursions 114 Wellington Road, Bollington W B Moss & Son Tel: Macclesfield (01625) 425060 Tel: 01625 573172 Hough Hole Farm www.roymccarthycoaches.co.uk 5 Fountain Place, Poynton Rainow Tel: 01625 872154 THE COACH DEPOT N SNAPE ROAD N MACCLESFIELD Tel: 573320 21

A Summer Evening Stroll by Waywiser

Looking towards Back-of-the-Crofts Farm

he British summer is living up to its immediately obvious and you need to Walk 18 : A Circular Walk reputation. In a word – unsettled! take care not to descend too soon. TBut there are still pleasant Continue ahead, traversing the hill-side evenings from time to time and this until you reach Lima Farm below you Map: Rainow Parish Paths and walk is designed to take advantage of on your left, After pausing to admire the OS 1:25,000 OL 24 The White Peak them whilst leaving time for a pint at distant views of the Cheshire plain and the Robin Hood. Of course if the look at one of Rainow's oldest farm Distance: 2.5 miles weather is inclement you'll have even buildings with its listed corn barn, cross 1 Time: 1 /2 hours more time for that pint….. the drive to the farm through the stiles Going: Good So, with your new Parish Paths map in and continue steeply downhill following Gentle climb, 75 metres your hand and having checked what is the line of trees until you can traverse Ascent: to the right onto a sometimes muddy Smithy Lane on the menu at the Robin Hood, walk Start: along Smithy Lane to the point where path leading down towards a metal Finish: Robin Hood the “Restricted Byway” (Rainow FP 34) gate (see photo). goes off to the left. Continue ahead up To your right lie the routes to the sinful Kiskhill Lane, staying on the cart track joys of Bollington but you should avoid as you pass Back-of-the-Crofts temptation and turn left onto FP 34 – farmhouse on your left, keeping an eye Oakenbank Lane. There are good open for local celebrities, and go to the views up to White Nancy and the track top of the hill. Now you are on Jumper leads gently uphill to pass the rear Lane which is Rainow path 29. Pass entrance to Savio House. Here you the house named Top o'the Stones and cross FP 35 which leads down to continue to the junction with the track Ingersley or up to Rainowlow. Ignore leading down left to Rainow Low the tempting kissing gate here and (attractive old houses, worth a detour); continue ahead for about another 300 after pausing to admire the glorious metres until you find another gate L views to your left, bear right along the leading to your left. If your tongue is ower Brook Farm – take the righ t fork! track and go to the end where you hanging out and you need to be quick meet the tarmac road, Blaze Hill, and to slake your thirst you can continue turn left. Take special care when joining until you rejoin Smithy Lane at Lower the road – there are always a few Brook Farm but otherwise turn left. doubting motorists who want to use Take the path (FP 91) and continue Blaze Hill to check if the Autocar's along the edge of the field, heading for 0-62 mph acceleration figures are Back-of-the-Crofts, the farmhouse and correct. barns visible ahead. When you reach Walk along the road for about 500 the farm, go through the farmyard, metres until you reach a pair of stiles admiring the horses usually stabled with an elderly footpath fingerpost here, and join the road opposite the pointing to the left. Ignore the left hand drive to Clarke House. Sometimes stile and take the path to the right (the there are fresh hen and duck eggs for one with the fingerpost by it) and which sale here! Turn right downhill and walk has a notice attached to the fence. The back along Smithy Lane before diving notice explains that in this section of into the Robin Hood for that well the walk the path (FP 36) becomes a earned pint, perhaps re-joining those Looking down to Path 34 at “Conservation walk” with open access thirstier souls who took the direttissima

Oakenbank Lane provided under a Countryside route along the bridle path. Stewardship Scheme. The path is not ᒇ

What’s On in Rainow and Bollington JULY 2013 2 - Rainow NSPCC Lower House Farm Salmon & Strawberry Sparkle Lunch Smithy Lane, Rainow Contact Lulu Holland 572377, Lyn McCarthy 427896, Sue Frith 573802, Tickets £12 6 from 4.00 pm Friends of Rainow School Hog Roast Rainow School 6 from 7.30 pm Calculated Risks & Friends present Rainow Institute “The Removal Men” (GAGS) Bar & food. Tickets £10 contact 01625 573678 6 & 7 Entry to grounds Silk Opera present Gawsworth Hall 2.00 pm “HMS Pinafore” garden theatre Performance Tickets £19.50 contact 01260 223456 or Sat 7.30 pm book online www.gawsworthhall.com. No children under 6. Sun 6.30 pm For more info: www.silkopera.com. Bring a picnic 6 - 14 see website Bollington Well-dressing Festival Five sites in Bollington - for details see www.bollingtonwelldressing.co.uk 8 7.30 pm Rainow WI Rainow Institute “The Samaritans in prison” - Linda Pyatt 13 - 28 Daily Rainow Scarecrow Fortnight Throughout Rainow (Theme - “Music”) Contact Liz Lawson 01625 573632 Refreshments at Church Centre 12 - 8 pm except Feteˆ day 16 7.30 pm Mothers Union Service Rainow Church followed by Scarecrows Teas 20 2.00 pm Rainow Church Feteˆ Hough Hole Farm

Opening Theme “Music”. Procession starts from Hawkins Lane Sugar Lane, Rainow s On Ceremony 1.20 pm. Contacts: William Warrington 01625 425579, Pam Armitt 01625 573433, John Cantrell 01625 422107 20 7.30 pm till late Summer Bonanza Evening Feteˆ Festivities Feteˆ Marquee DJ, Food & Drink, Live Music from the Cover-up Sugar Lane, Rainow £5 under 12s free. Tickets from Sue 01625 410735 or Stacey 075408 75804 26 & 27 Fri 6 -11.00 pm Bollington Beer Festival Arts Centre, Bollington Sat 12 -11.00 pm info: www.bollingtonfestival.org.uk

AUGUST 2013 14 Evening Rainow WI Stockport Trip to Robinson’s Brewery 20 7.30 pm Mothers Union Coffee Evening Rainow Church Centre

SEPTEMBER 2013 7 2.00 - 4.00 pm Bollington Horticultural Society Annual Show Bollington Civic Hall 7 8.00 pm Jazz at the Arts Centre Arts Centre, Bollington - Limehouse Jazz Band from Holland Tickets £9. 01625 574410 9 7.30 pm Rainow WI Rainow Institute The Pennine Dales - Ron Scholes 17 7.30 pm Mothers Union Rainow Church Centre - Travels through Eastern Germany - Ron Scholes 25 - Rainow NSPCC Higher Hurdsfield Cookery Demonstration Sunday School Contact Lyn McCarthy 427896, Sue Frith 573802 Tickets £7.50 to include wine & cheese and biscuits 28 8.00 pm Bollington Chamber Concert Arts Centre, Bollington - The Erringden Ensemble Tickets £15 Contact 01625 576402 or 01625 575287

29 10.00 am Rainow Civic Service Rainow Church

Everyone warmly invited ᒇ We have made this list as comprehensive as space permits & it is necessarily a selection of the events we know about. If you have anything planned that you would like us to list in the next issue, please call 01625 426059.

23 What’ QUALITY HOME AND CAR INSURANCE THAT’S RIGHT UP YOUR STREET

We have been a Which? Recommended Provider sixtimes in a row.

Call for a quote or pop in NFU Mutual O"ce, $ Maple Court, Davenport Street, Macclesﬁeld, Cheshire, SK$# $JE

Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited.