sign in sign up
<<
Home , Bowstones, Rainow

No.27The Summer 2014 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

Your Update on Council Activities

Update on installation of Defibrillators Annual General Meeting

We have at last installed the cabinet (thanks to Peter The AGM was held on Tuesday 20th May this year for Nixon) for the second defibrillator and have placed the the election of Chairman, Vice Chairman and Working machine and its equipment (purchased by the Parish Groups and Representatives. Councillors John Cantrell Council, including paediatric pads!) at the Church Gate. and Alan Brett were re-elected as Chairman and Vice It is not yet connected to the electricity supply at the Chairman respectively for a second year in office. back of the gate but, that should not alter its Membership of the Working Groups is shown on the effectiveness until cooler times. Council Website. In the meantime the Robin Hood is under new KRIV Steering Group management and the new publican, Diane Thomson, is happy to continue hosting the defibrillator, which is Since July 2010 the steering group, originally chaired by still behind the bar. We have identified a likely site for Graham Barrow and now chaired by Ken Butler, the cabinet location, with power supply, for the continues to ensure the maintenance of the features that defibrillator's external home in the near future. The new have been restored through the management of a staff at the pub and landlady would welcome further maintenance budget held by Groundwork . The briefing in defibrillator use and we have a growing work needed is done to very high standards by the KRIV number of people, who missed the initial event, who volunteers who have gone from strength to strength and would like another workshop on emergency response who are becoming more financially independent. The procedures (see the article later in this magazine). plan for this maintenance budget was that it would last Meanwhile BT has until June 2015, so one year to go, and through careful agreed in principle management it is likely that the funds will stretch beyond for the telephone this period. Over the next year the steering group, the box on Mount KRIV volunteers and Groundwork Cheshire will decide Pleasant to be how best to use the funding that remains, to allow the used for the third on-going maintenance of the works so that the defibrillator community and visitors can continue to enjoy and installation and will discover this beautiful and historically significant area. pay for its electricity For more information please go to www.kriv.org.uk supply for the first 7 years. We will Co-opted Councillor move forward in We are pleased to announce that Nathan Gabbott has the next few days been elected as a Co-opted Councillor. We wish him all to install the the best. Cabinet and Defibrillator pack. Parking

Community Pride Competition The Council would ask all residents to show consideration We need lots of HELP! We would ask that everyone when parking and ensure that they do not obstruct the plays their part by taking responsibility for the area footpath or driveways. Please also leave sufficient access outside their house. Please help by picking up litter on for wheelchairs, prams and parents with small children. the main road or strimming the verges. Where The Council would also ask residents to be careful of their responsible can residents please cut back any speed, driving on Round Meadow and Millers Meadow. overhanging hedges Thank you for your continued help in this matter. on footpaths and to give Civic Service the full width of the footpaths to pedestrians. The Parish Council invites you to their Civic Service to Can you HELP with: be held at Holy Trinity Church, Rainow on Sunday 28th Co-ordinating, keeping September with the service commencing at 10.00 am. public areas tidy, You are also welcome to join the Parish Councillors weeding, planting and afterwards in a procession to the school hall and join litter picking etc? them for light refreshments. We would also like to TIME Limited? Don't recognise the contributions of a resident to the worry we will work community at this year's Civic Service. So if you have around whatever you any suggestions please contact the Clerk. can offer. Parish Maps and Walks Booklet Please contact the The map is an excellent guide to all the footpaths and Clerk on Tel 01625 public rights of way in the area. The walks booklet 850532 or email:

arish Council News includes 9 varied walks for the area. The maps cost £1 [email protected]. and walks booklet £2. If you would like a copy then Councillor Carole Harvey and her husband John play their part please contact Cllr Richard Balment.

2 P Cover photo by Trevor Perry is taken from the path near the old Rising Sun looking towards the village

Rainow 2014/15 Precept Every year the Parish Council gets its funds from Cheshire Welcome to 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 2013 – 31st March 2014. R Year Ending Year Ending March 2013 March 2014 Balance Brought Forward £9,623 £10,866 The Annual Precept £10,000 £10,000 Raven Andrew Renshaw Memorial Walk Total Other Income £5,212 £4,157 11.30 am - Sunday 12th October Staff Costs £3,789 £4,699 Loan interest/capital Andrew made a substantial contribution to Rainow repayments - - as a Parish Councillor, contributor to the Raven and Total Other Payments £10,180 £9,899 as a sheep and poultry farmer. He was always very interested in Rainow and its history and on several Balances Carried Forward £10,866 £10,425 occasions made Big Low, the hill overlooking Rainow, available for Cub and Scout group Total Cash £10,866 £10,425 adventures. As a Raven editor he once suggested a Total Assets £98,812 £10,032 community walk over Big Low. Unfortunately he was Total Borrowing - - unable to complete this due to ill health. However, Claudine has kindly allowed access to Big Low for Explanation on the financial statement: the purpose of this Raven community walk. The 3.5 mile walk starts and finishes on Smithy Lane at the The total assets have decreased significantly due to the rear of the Robin Hood and takes in Big Low, recommendation of the External Auditor that the value of all Rainowlow and side. The route will be fixed assets recorded in the register are measured at cost value or given a proxy cost if the purchase cost is unknown. clearly marked and full details will be included in the Assets are therefore included in the accounts at their historical next Raven at the end of September. cost or given a £1 value. There is no entry fee but the Raven editors suggest Income – Map sales decreased by £111. Income from the Raven increased by £382.85. contributions could be made on the day to the East Expenses – there was an increase in map sales spend of Cheshire Hospice, Claudine's nominated charity. £1826.78 for printing of the new Walks booklet. There was a slight decrease in the costs of producing Raven newsletter. Your Parish Councillors Editorial Team for this issue: John Cantrell (Chairman) 422107 Ian Brammer Sheila Brammer [email protected] Jim Kennelly Bob Langstaff Alan Brett (Vice Chairman) 576108 Louise Leigh Jane Mellings [email protected] Raph Murray Rosie Daniels Richard Balment 573625 [email protected] Ken Butler 433168 Design by Mel Wilcox (01625 576182) [email protected] Geoff Cooper 574878 [email protected] Sue Frith 573802 Future Meetings and Dates for your diary [email protected] Parish Council Meetings 8.00 pm Nathan Gabbott 576655 Carole Harvey 573576 15th July 16th September [email protected] 21st October 18th November Mary Marsh 573508 16th December [email protected] Civic Service - Sunday 28th September 2014 Pat Mellish 574523 Tree Lighting and Carol Service - usually held on the [email protected] Alan Taylor 575544 first Sunday in December. [email protected] Clerk: Sarah Giller 850532 If you have any issues that need raising, contact the Clerk, [email protected] any member of the Parish Council or just turn up at one of Councillor: our meetings. Hilda Gaddum 01260 252456

3

Remembering Rainow Broadband Update the First World War June 2014 he organisers of this autumn's The good news…. week-long Rainow First World War Commemoration Exhibition would like As many of you will have noticed, BT Openreach have recently been busy to thank those who have already given carrying out a major rewire of the telephone cabinet next to the Institute. T This should enable BT to increase the number of Superfast Broadband us access to cuttings, anecdotes photographs letter and possessions relating connections to the cabinet next to the Robin Hood within the next few weeks. to the men of Rainow and the surrounding BT have also announced that Rainow residents connected to the area who served in the Great War. exchange should also be able to get Superfast Broadband connections later this year. Personal items such as this add a very special dimension to an exhibition and if any And the bad news readers of “The Raven” have any relatives Unfortunately, based on current levels of demand, BT have decided it is not who served in the First World War or know commercially viable to extend Superfast Broadband to other Rainow of any such families who may have moved residents in the more outlying parts of the village. To improve the likelihood away from the area we would be very of improved broadband access in these parts of the village it is important that grateful to hear from you. as many residents as possible register their interest with BT http://www.productsandservices.bt.com/products/broadband/infinity If you would like to help please contact: Registering your interest with BT does not commit you to buy your Bob Langstaff (01625 573761): even- broadband from BT, it simply provides BT with information on areas of unmet [email protected]) or any member of the need so that they can decide which areas should be upgraded next. Raven editorial team.

A Winning Scarecrow for 2014? A few thoughts from a previous winner

his year's Scarecrow Fortnight is almost upon us, and still no decision from The Director of Operations (her indoors) as to what we're going to do. Anyway, no time to lose, so I've started to gather together some of the things I'll need. I'm Tsure many of you will have your own favourite materials and methods, but here's what's on my list. First the skeleton. I've used wood (19mm x 32mm battens at £8 for a pack of 8, code 100807, from the Hulley Road DIY emporium), simply nailed together. A good alternative I've had some success with in the past is plastic waste pipe for sinks, with push-on fittings. Makes a versatile skeleton that can be configured into almost any shape, but remember to put a small screw into each joint once you're happy with the shape so that everything stays put. Quite inexpensive from the same supplier, and easily re-shaped year after year. (Please note that I have no connection with the aforementioned W++++s). Straw is the traditional scarecrow stuffing of course, but I prefer bubblewrap. It's light in weight, fairly cheap, and non-absorbent - important since your scarecrow will be standing outside for 2 weeks during a Rainow Summer. Papier mache is good for the face, hands etc., but to stop it going soggy in the rain I like to give mine a few coats of cheap, oil-based gloss paint. Good luck The Director of Operations has just appeared with a decision as to what I'm doing for with yourow! scarecr this year's effort. Can't possibly reveal what, but I'm off to the shed to make a start. Carole Harvey Telemarketing

Lulu’s Luscious New Business Development C O N F E C T I O N S Appointment Setting

Celebration Cakes & Biscuits for all Occasions Telephone Marketing Weddings N Birthdays N Anniversaries Telephone : 01625 572377 22 Millers Meadow, Rainow, Macclesfield 01625 573576 [email protected] 4

The Community Bus by Ken Butler Rainow Church SaturdayFête 19th July 2014 at Hough Hole Farm, Sugar Lane Theme: 'Down on the Farm' Procession starting from Hawkins Lane at 1.00 pm **More Floats Needed** Opening Ceremony at 2.00 pm Scarecrow Fortnight

Teas in Church Centre 13th-27th July

At last we have our bus!! N Samba Band N Scottish Piper t’s a 10 seater plus driver with two wheel chair positions including all the K erridge Climb necessary safety fittings and rear wheel chair lift. Those that pass that way will N see that HX06BWK is parked in the corner of the Church Car Park in a specially N Fancy Dress marked out bay. We have to thank the Church Parochial Council for their N Fun Dog Show generosity in allowing us to use this space. N Teas & Refreshments I ˆ We have many things to organise and the Community Travel Group are meeting to N Grand Prize Draw resolve a whole series of issues concerning the organisation and operation of the N Tombola scheme. N BBQ Home Produce We have in mind a regular service into and out of Macclesfield on Friday, Saturday N and Sunday when the normal services aren’t running. We also want to make the N Coconut Shy bus available for the various community groups within the village and so will be N Granellis Ice Creams seeking input from these on how they would want to use the bus. The bus will N Lucky Dip become a true servant of the community and as such a wonderful asset for us all. N Second Hand Toy Stall To make this work we need a pool of volunteer drivers and people to help with the N Book Stall running and administration of the scheme. Necessary training will be provided and N Children’s Sand Area procedures will be put in place to enable safe and efficient usage of the vehicle. N Bouncy Castle Our insurance and operating permits allow any driver over 25 and under 70 to drive N Tug of War providing they have a full licence with a D1 category on it. Nearly all licences and many other stalls and games. obtained before 1997 will have this on. We need people to help with this scheme either as drivers or with the administration so please put your name forward if you think you can help. Feteˆ proceeds to:- N MacMillan Cancer Support N Church Equipment We will be having an ‘open day’ to show the bus to the community on Saturday 5th July between 12 and 4pm N Youth Organisations on the Robin Hood car park. of the Village N Rainow Older With enough volunteers we can keep individual efforts to a reasonable level and Peoples Welfare allow greater flexibility in the operation of the scheme. If you think you can help please contact Any Questions ring:- Alan Brett (576108) John & Hazel Cantrell: Ian Brammer (426059) 01625 422107 or Ken Butler (433168) Steve Rathbone: 01625 572013

5

Out of School – Summer Term by Mark Bertinshaw, Headteacher

t seems barely last week that I was writing the piece for the spring copy of the IRaven. The time in school really flies by in the summer term. Sporting success The finals of the girls' football took place recently. It was an excellent event. The girls had already won through to the finals by virtue of their success at the Puss Bank tournament. In the matches they were outstanding, winning through against Whirley team to the final match against Upton Priory. We could not have asked for any more effort as they narrowly lost 1 - 0 in the final. My congratulations go to the girls for a magnificent effort. Other major successes this term have included the fantastic performance of the Street dance club, coming third out of seventeen other schools, including a number of high schools, in the recent competition at Fallibroome High School. Not to be outdone, a team of year 3 pupils entered a gymnastics competition at High School. They brought home a great trophy for us to keep, as well as sweeping the board in the individual events. Earlier this term the cricket team played in the local tournament at Macclesfield cricket club. Playing on a proper flat and well cut wicket is always a great experience and, despite the mixed fortunes in terms of results, an excellent and very sporting occasion was enjoyed by all. Other non-sporting events The Year 5 and 6 pupils walked over to recently to take part in the Bollington Festival World War One workshop to find out more about the life of the servicemen and soldiers. This is part of the commemoration of the war at school and many of the classes are exploring and remembering the events this term. A number of other children made it through to the finals of the UK schools chess championships at Cheadle Hulme School. There they faced some of the best players in the area. You can see a photograph of the final attendees with their certificates on the school website. The junior pupils who play a musical instrument in school took part in a Musical Showcase shortly before half term. Individual musicians, all the year 5 pupils and the school orchestra gave an excellent and well received performance. The year 5 pupils are looking forward to an amazing opportunity to play alongside the Halle Orchestra at the Bridgewater Hall shortly. Year 5 and 6 residential visit This year we went to the Nightingale Conference Centre at Great Hucklow in for our residential visit. The main activities were provided by a local outdoor pursuits company, Moorland Adventure and they created a superb, challenging, educational and fun outdoor activity week. Throughout the week the children were able to canoe, kayak, climb, hike, pothole and work together to problem solve. I was quite looking forward to an opportunity to abseil, until I saw the distance of the drop from the Monsall Trail bridge…sadly backing out is not an option when most of the children have already successfully completed their abseil! The rest of this term will be busy with sports' day, the year 5 and 6 plays, the school barbecue as well as the final leavers' assembly. Hopefully the sun will shine on us for these events.

6

Colourful Spring for the

Friends of Rainow School

Logo competition The Friends of Rainow School are proud iPads to be using their new logo this spring, The FRS has supported Rainow School in the purchase of lots of new IT equipment this designed by Anna Mellings. Anna won a year, including Apple iPads. Deputy Headteacher and Computing and IT subject leader competition organised by the Rainow Jonathan Norris explains how technology is enhancing teaching and learning in school. School Council (elected class 'We like to have a mix of technologies (desktop, laptop, tablet) to give the children a representatives from each year group) and broad and balanced experience of what is, and will be, a way of life for them. Many of Class 4 teacher Mr Gratton. All pupils our children now come to school with some experience of tablet technology, so when in were invited to design a new logo which September I witnessed some of our youngest Reception children attempting to swipe would be used on FRS newsletters, the screens of our laptops, I decided it was definitely the right time to invest. stationery, publicity and their webpage at www.rainowpri.cheshire.sch.uk/page/ The ease, speed of use, reliability and accessibiltiy of the iPads has been very friends-of-rainow/. impressive. The teaching staff are making excellent use of the AV tools (camera etc.) and is able to project the iPad screen onto the Whiteboards in each classroom. And the The competition attracted over one iPads are not being used solely in IT teaching; they're permeating all areas of the hundred entries, and after drawing up a curriculum. Here are some examples; shortlist of nine, the School Council N The reception children have used the Brushes APP to design beautiful artwork. handed the responsibility of judging over to former FRS chairman Andy Wild. N Year 3's have used the PicCollage APP to enhance and present their knowledge 'I was delighted to be asked' said Andy, and understanding of Plant Life in science. who judged the artwork anonymously N Year 4's have used the Aurasma APP to add some augmented reality to their (names and ages of the children were topic work. removed); 'all the entries were really good N Year 5's have used Morfo, an animation APP to bring to life historical figures during but I chose the winner because of the their Victorian topic, as well as a rapping APP called Autorap to help them bright colours, the play on words with remember times tables. They've also used a brilliant APP called Coach My Video Rainow/Rainbow and because it will look which lets you analyse performance (sports or otherwise) frame by frame; using it great reproduced as a letterhead.' to breakdown and improve their dance and gymnastic performances. The results were announced to the This is really just the beginning of what this technology can bring to the educational children during a whole school assembly setting. As teachers become more confident, we hope to invest more so that the on May 12th. Six runners up - Ella children are able to use tablet technology with real purpose. I've already seen our Chrimes, William Cooper, Jonathan children take this technology to the next level; making their own suggestions about Kelsall, Charlie Beswick, Ruben Rogers which APP to use, and when and why! And that's the key - to empower our youngsters and Caleb Rogers - received a with the resources to drive learning forward - they will add the creativity naturally.' Macclesfied pen and sweets, whilst the higher placed entrants (3rd Beatrix Haigh and 2nd Elizabeth Batheram) and overall FRS Spring Raffle winner Anna were also rewarded with a Grateful thanks to the twenty four local businesses that donated prizes to the raffle special discover Macclesfield Treasure (listed below). Lucky winners now have opportunities for massages, meals out and Hunt pack. At the same assembly School much more. The raffle raised £520 and the FRS is extremely grateful to everyone Council members Edie Barstow, Hannah donating and to Michelle French who works so hard to organise and co-ordinate the Cummings and William James activity. demonstrated some new playground A Shufflebotham and Son N Cheshire Soaps N ColourServe Woodcare Ltd equipment, funded by the FRS, to the rest N Granelli's N Hair by Gary N John Brierley Builders N JWC Fitness N Macc of the school. The equipment, which Diving Club N Majestic Wine Macclesfield N Moorland Adventure N Nixons Farm includes space hoppers, french skipping Shop N Partylite N Plush Valeting Rainow Primary School N Red Willow Brewery ropes and a new sort of pogo stick was N Rustic Coffee co. N Sally and Andrew Stringer N Silk Town Fryer N Sue Grimes chosen by the School Council members N Ticket Exchange N The Fine Bedding Company N Three Crowns Public House themselves. N Those Closest Designs N Viceroy Indian Restaurant

7

Fire and Firearms for the Cubs! by Akela Sue Grimes

e started the term by following up our visit to Macclesfield Fire Station by being the first pack in the District to gain the new Fire Safety Badge. The Cubs Wproduced some very impressive fire escape plans for their homes. As usual in the Summer we try to be outside every week, however we were foiled quite early on and had to cancel our 'cooking by the stream night' and instead got thoroughly wet at the Swimming Pool. The Cubs worked very hard and all got one of the various stages of the Swimming Badge. It rained again when we went to the Golf Driving Range at Adlington but we were under cover and were able to hit hundreds of balls, though I don't think Tiger Woods need worry just yet! Beavers The Cubs were very excited by the visit from the Police Tactical Firearms Unit. The car they came in was amazing for June 2014! the quantity of assault rifles, pistols and pump action shot- guns, all loaded and ready for action, which it carried. They by Karen Roberts also had stingers for stopping cars, stun grenades, baton rounds (rubber bullets) and Pepper spray. When they wear all he summer term has been very busy and lots of fun for the Beavers. Our first evening after the Easter break coincided Twith St. George's Day, which became the theme for that week, with the Beavers learning about what the day meant and also making their own dragons. The following week, we had a visit from Ann Lewis who talked to the colony about the Quakers; the Beavers took part in some role-playing activities, with the aim to encourage cooperation. We have had a few adventurous weeks since then starting with our walk around Macclesfield Forest and Ridgegate reservoir. The Beavers enjoyed following the trail and searching for the things on their 'I-Spy' sheets. There were a few tired legs towards the end but we finished the evening by investing Archie and Finlay B back at the rangers' hut. Our next meeting was at the Buxton Mountain Rescue Station at Dove Holes where Peter Parker talked to the group and showed us some of the equipment. The Beavers learnt some basic first aid with them placing one another in the recovery position. The highlight of the evening for many of us was when our volunteer casualty (Finlay P) was carried out of the station on a stretcher; the Beavers (aided by several adults) had to turn the stretcher over with the casualty strapped to it to show how you would deal with someone who was feeling sick. Our visit was part of our Safety badge and so to complete the badge, the following week we looked at various aspects of safety, including water, road and around the home. After half term our plan was to make some sailing boats and float them down the stream, but bad weather led us to move the session inside. We had model boats of all shapes and sizes and floated them across our makeshift stream (a paddling pool) with the aid of some wind (an electric fan). More recently we spent the evening making cookies, which I'm told were very yummy. Our plans for the rest of the term include a visit to Pets at Home, as well as preparations for the village feteˆ and scarecrow fortnight.

8

s for the Cubs! From Soup to Samba by Akela Sue Grimes Their body armour in dangerous situations it weighs 22 kilo- – Guides Dec - June grams! They also showed us how their Taser guns worked. All very impressive. The parents present were more amused by me getting into trouble by taking photos - I had to delete them all! We went to Danebridge Fisheries at and had a lovely evening catching Rainbow trout, then we barbecued them, they were delicious. Every Cub caught one and most ate them or took them home to eat later. Hopefully we will be able to cook outside by the stream later this term as there is a new Backwoods Cooking Badge to gain. As in other years we are going to split into smaller groups to try Abseiling, Orienteering, Sailing and Windsurfing, I will have to report how it went in the uring the winter/spring term, which was not only very next issue. With many thanks to Charlotte, Stacey, Barbara, short this year but also exceptionally rainy, the Guides Vicky, Helena and Young Leader Ellie whose help each week generally choose activities towards their 'Go For It!' is invaluable and makes running the meetings so much easier. Dchallenges. Guides are expected to plan their four week Our Duke of Edinburgh helpers are also very good at the programme, choosing their activities from a range of moment.There are 32 Cubs, all keen and enthusiastic and options, linked to their chosen 'Go For It!, making sure they are make the time given worthwhile and rewarding. experiencing a variety of activities - craft, food, art, challenges etc. over the four weeks. They then have to organise and deliver the activity themselves. This year the Guides have done well, only needing us to help out on a few occasions. There have been, among others, decorated cakes, tie-dying, smoothies, popcorn and films, video making, mobile phone pouch making and analysing where each taste is sensed on the tongue. In between all of that, we celebrated Chinese New Year with, of course, food and horoscopes, and a very tricky chopstick challenge, the Winter Olympics (which included a newspaper snowball fight) and St. George's Day with an English tea with the Guides making cucumber sandwiches and baking their own scones. The term ended with us rolling eggs down a hill… in the dark! We admit there is a slight (more than slight) weighting towards food based activities at the moment…. I can't think why! From the Guiders point of view, it is the one time Guides are relatively quiet….. Also linked with food, once again the Guides were responsible for providing the teas for the Rainow 5 Run. A full turn out of Guides to serve, bringing lots of delicious home-made cakes Rainow Pre-School and biscuits, meant that the exhausted runners were more than satisfied. A Guide taster evening led to two Brownies flying up to seeks Chairperson Guides the following week, with, hopefully, some more to join later in the year. On a (finally) dry Wednesday night, we also Rainow Pre-School (registered charity 1043182) continues went out and set trails for the others to follow. to provide excellent childcare for children aged 2-5 years at As a reward for all their hard work, last week we made Samba the heart of our community. Our Pre-School is well music! John and Sally brought their Samba band instruments organised, with excellent management of all childcare and taught us how to play. John also told us a little about the aspects by our professional, reliable staff. From September history of Samba. We all had a go at a variety of samba 2014 we need a new Chairperson to join the committee of instruments - drums of all sizes, tambors, gogo bells, shakers trustees. The Chairperson does not need to be a parent of a etc., with John teaching us the various child attending Pre-School, just someone with an interest in rhythms. The challenge was to keep to your our activities who supports our aims. This is a lovely way to own. The concentration on everyone's faces be involved in supporting the was amazing to see - apparently for some it youngest members of our helps to hold your tongue between your community and their families. teeth. The big drums were VERY heavy and If you would like to know more also tricky to hook and unhook. By the end please contact us by email of the session, we were making a great ([email protected]) or noise, as some readers may have heard if phone (01625 574069, weekdays you happened to be passing the Institute. 9.30am-12 noon). We look forward We may not all have been completely in to hearing from you time with each other, but that didn't spoil the enjoyment …. or the sound.

9

Simple skills save lives, HarropRainow Fold Farm Tel: 01625 560085 anyone can do it! he Parish Council and North Somewhere very special... West Ambulance (NWAS) A Quintessentially English Experience, Tinitiative to deploy 3 defibrillators Delightful Award Winning in the village is progressing well. 5 Star Guest Farmhouse and One is already at the Robin Hood, Self-catering Cottage Accommodation another at the Church gate and soon set in 20 acres with breathtaking a third at the Mount Pleasant Phone Box. All will be accessible 24h per views over the Cheshire Plain. day, every day and we are one of We offer ’Cupcakes Galore’ - only a few communities in the North hands on cookery courses as well as a West so well supported in this way. ‘Cornucopia of Canapés’ - hands on Canapé courses along with To raise awareness of this facility and to increase the capacity of Rainow Cookery Demonstrations with Lunch or residents to respond to emergency Dinner using the finest local ingredients situations we held a very well led by our own Cordon Bleu trained Chef. attended workshop at the Institute in Day & Residential Art Courses early May. Nick Blair the NWAS with our Resident Professional Artist. Community Resuscitation Officer and our local Paramedic, Hannah, Gift Vouchers available and Corporate and combined audiovisual instruction and Group Bookings welcome. practical hands on opportunity to try www.harropfoldfarm.co.uk newly acquired skills. We learned www.michaelmooreart.co.uk about how to respond to serious www.leahspantry.co.uk bleeding, a choking event and a collapsed person. The importance of head and chin tilt to assist clear airways in a recovery position were demonstrated and practiced with the manikins brought along for our use. In the absence of normal breathing or failure of any response to arousal attempts, for a collapsed person, it was stressed that we should shout for help and ensure a 999 call. This is also the important time to start Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) - 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. We all had the opportunity to try these skills with the Zach Wilcox manikins and learned how at this Gardening & Maintenance stage, if required, we would employ the defibrillator. The very clear G Weekly Garden Maintenance spoken instructions from the device ensure ease of use and that it will G Dry Stone Walling only give a potentially life-saving G Tree Felling shock to a person who will benefit G Hedge Cutting from it. G Gutter Clearing More than 20 residents attended the & Replacement evening and there was a follow up session with the pre-school group the G Flag Laying next day with the infant manikins that G Fencing was equally well received. Increasing awareness in our community of how to respond in an emergency improves our resilience. As a result of 01625 576182 the interest shown by many who could not attend the first workshop, Mob : 07758 249587 YOUR LOCAL SERVICE we will run another in the near future. 58 Sugar Lane, Rainow 10

Creating a Dream Bacon &Avocado Kedgeree

Ingredients (Serves 4) 6 oz (175g) Long grain rice 3 Spring onions, chopped 3/4 Pint (450ml) Chicken stock 2 Hard-boiled eggs, chopped 1 Ripe but firm Avocado 4 tbsp Single cream 11/2 oz (40g) Butter Parsley - 1 - 2 tbsp. 4 Rashers lean smoked bacon, Salt & pepper roughly chopped ecipe of the Month

1. Put the rice into a pan with the stock and add salt if R necessary. Bring to the boil and stir once. Cover and simmer for 15 mins until stock is absorbed and rice is tender 2. Halve, stone and scoop out the avocado flesh and chop roughly 3. Heat the butter in a large frying pan over moderate heat and fry the bacon and spring onions for 3-5 minutes, allowing the fat to run from the bacon 4. Reduce heat slightly and add the avocado. Fry for 1 minute. 5. Finally add the cooked rice to the pan with the eggs, cream, parsley and salt & pepper. Stir gently over a low heat until the kedgeree is piping hot; serve immediately with triangles of toast Contributed by Eilean Kilcoyne Rainow artist Claire de Ruiter explains her contribution to the Bollington Festival

was commissioned by the Science group of Bollington Festival to produce a small installation at Bollington Library. The remit Enjoy some of Iwas 50 years of biomedical discoveries. I advertised for people's stories and received a diverse mix from hip the best restaurant replacements to chemotherapy. I also held three workshops at the library leading up to the festival where people could come food in Cheshire. along and tell their story along with making an origami crane. Whilst researching the different discoveries I found that although ... gene therapy is being developed, there is still a long way to go Locally sourced ingredients to find a cure for conditions such as cystic fibrosis. This links with the orgami cranes in that in Japan there is a tradition that if 1000 cooked in contemporary style cranes are created, then a wish/dream may be realised. The public made their cranes towards the wish that gene therapy will by Scott Oliver and served in a progress to finding cures. stunning setting. Whilst on display the installation evolved with more stories and cranes being added. Why not try our fabulous Hope that all makes sense. Sunday Dinner?

Penny Lane 22 High Street, Bollington Holiday Cottages 01625 575058 N Two charming 18th-century stone cottages, Pets oliveratbollingtongreen.com oliver recently refurbished to a high standard. and children at Bollington green Long and shorts breaks available all year round. N welcome Our food speaks for itself For more information call: 01625 410735 www.pennylaneholidaycottages.co.uk 11

rench by Chief Bunny Michelle F

here have been times when ticket sales have been slow, a year when the toilet almost blew away, and another when we almost did not have Tany chocolate, but the years have seen Rainow Pre-School’s Easter Bunny Hunt grow into a beautiful, bouncing success. It was eight years ago that I first donned the Chief Bunny suit (honest) but more importantly it was the year the event moved to Snipe House Farm. Suddenly, our children had a playground to match their imaginations. And room to run off all that sugar. Since then we have raised £5,000, given away a lot of eggs and experienced every kind of weather, but what I remember most of all are the smiles. Selling tickets has not been a problem recently. This year’s event was the last for me and Snipe House Farm. All good things must come to an end. Here are some highs and lows.

2009:The sunniest Bunny Hunt;it was hot in that suit!

2012:A bumper year, raising enough money to refurbish the institute’s “Quiet Room”, quite a result when even Cadbury’s World had run out of eggs.We eventually had to settle for 160 bags of Mini Eggs. I don’t think the kids minded.

2013:The Mayor of Rainow hops by for the first time, which was good of him considering the weather — we almost lost the Portaloo at one point.

2014:A new record, £1,237 raised!

It has been a pleasure to have been Chief Bunny during this time, but the success of the event has been down to all those families who came along every year and supported it, so a huge thank you to you all. An extra special thank you to Gill Armstrong and Andrea Ash for all their help over the years and for allowing us to use their farm. The pre-school’s committee is already looking for a new venue and somebody else to wear the bunny suit, so if anybody fancies either role, just let us know. You will not regret it.

12

I would just like to add a postscript to

Michelle French’s article.

I don’t think people fully appreciate the work done by Michelle over the last 8 years of the Bunny Hunt at Snipe House Farm. She“ has been the lynch pin behind the organising and “ running of the Bunny Hunt, regardless of being pregnant at some of them. She needs to be given an enormous thank you from the Pre-school, and this year the school, for all the money raised. She is leaving some very big shoes to fill!

Host at Snipe House Farm, Gill Armstrong Run, Rabbit, Run!

13

Rainow Cyclist wins National Race by Raph Murray

arry Shackleton is one Rainow cyclist who will be following the Tour with particular interest. In 2013 Harry won Hfirst place in a number of junior road races but perhaps his best result was in winning the National Junior Tom Simpson Memorial Race. Harry's own description of his performance gives a flavour of how this was achieved;

'For most of the race I stayed in the bunch and just focused on eating and drinking - I get cramps quite easily - and then on the last lap, with about two miles to go I broke away with another rider and we stayed together until the final climb. I was just a little stronger on the final climb - and after 60 miles it hurts. Half way up the climb I looked back and I knew they weren't gaining on me fast enough, I knew I had enough in the bag.’ Harry in action

Harry was both surprised and delighted to win this prestigious course in mechanical engineering whilst maintaining a level of national championship road cycling race but in view of the fitness that will allow him to regain his competitive form later in the training required, more than six bike rides a week, this victory was season once he gets back to full training. Having already built up a well deserved reward for hard work and commitment combined his own bike, Harry's choice of degree subject will also allow him with excellent tactical awareness. Harry is a member of the Team to further develop his interest and expertise in the technology of Wallis Cycle Racing Team. This is the same team as Jack cycling. Based on some of the times Harry has posted on the Bowyer (featured in the Raven, No15, Summer 2011). Although fitness logging website Strava, regaining full competitive fitness Jack has decided to cut back on his cycling to concentrate on his shouldn't take long. This site allows users to compare times over HND training and work as a pharmaceutical plant maintenance specific sections of bike rides using GPS data and review of this engineer, he has been a very useful training partner for Harry over shows that Harry is the undoubted King of the Rainow Mountains the past few years as they have accompanied each other in and fastest cyclist over some of the toughest climbs around. training rides around Rainow. Harry has also eased back on his These include, Jenkin Chapel to Pym Chair, the Goyt Valley, the cycling this year in order to focus on his A levels. In Harry's case Leather's Smithy to the top of Macc Forest and the climb up Coal this means restricting himself to just three rather than six rides per Pit Lane. Although there may be fewer race victories for Harry in week. He still thinks nothing of a cycle trip to Buxton, Tideswell, 2014 his commitment to both cycle training and academic studies Edale, Chapel-en-le-Frith, Goyt Valley, Cat & Fiddle and back to should lay the foundation for success in whichever route he Rainow. Harry's aim is to get the grades he needs for a university chooses. We wish him well. 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

14

News from the Lamp and Candle Hello All, here they'll be planning yet another expedition to find I am writing this issue's article in Macclesfield Library as I am the “Lamp & Candle”. keeping a distance between myself and the landlady at the Now Phil the (now former) present time due to a misunderstanding. This is not my fault, landlord at the Robin Hood altogether. raised the bar (please note the clever pun, befitting a senior It began when I was looking at the books on the second shelf in correspondent) by introducing some proper ales and getting the Best Room. Imagine my surprise when, sandwiched the pub in the Good Beer Guide. Let's hope the standard between “Best Practices in Horse-hoeing” and “Mulready's continues to improve under the new management and that the Seed Catalogue (1952)” I came across a book entitled “The Rainow drinkers stay firmly wedged between Stocks Lane and Husband's Secret”! I quickly realised that this was one of the Smithy Lane and don't come searching around here. I shall be books reviewed in the last issue of “The Raven”. Now, my calling in person and in cognito to see for myself! opinion on the female-only book clubs of Rainow are well-documented but I swallowed my pride and gave the book And talking of decent drinking, you couldn't do better than to the landlady (who is desperate to join the Rainow W.I.) read David Hasler’s forthcoming article which will appear in telling her that she would be able to read it, discuss the review the next issue of this august journal where he recounts the with the ladies of the village and get what is called an 'in' to virtues, the successes and the future of local beer drinking. He the Womens' Institute. has it spot on - the message is USE YOUR PUB! The Lamp and Candle is not a Free House, but fifteen shillings will get I glanced through the book myself - a soppy tale about a you a pint of the best AND a pickled egg! young lady called Gwendoline Pennington-Finch who did a lot of riding around Buckinghamshire in a carriage, embroidering I don't know what's going on at the ex-Rising Sun. They're cushions and singing in a cathedral choir. Her husband, Roger either working on it as if there's no tomorrow or there's had a terrible secret. He had joined a Morris Dancing troupe no-one to be seen for days on end. They also seem to be without telling his wife and was deceiving Gwendoline into building a large observatory on the back. thinking that he was visiting several sick relatives when in fact he was dancing Green Garland and Stripping the Willow up I still have no information on its future use but the rumours the High Streets of several South Bucks towns and villages. about a UKIP headquarters still persist in the Snug. I may as well make it plain now - UKIP won't be welcome here, but The landlady loved the book and spent almost a whole day then neither will anybody else. Riley across the field says we smiling. But that was as good as it got. When she returned should all be more tolerant so I reminded him in no uncertain from the village the following evening she threw the book at me terms that there is no bias in my establishment. Miserable - literally - and told me she had never felt more ashamed in all Bickerdike is from Yorkshire for a start, and from what I've her life. I re-read the review in “The Raven”. It promised 'an heard of these UKIP types they'd think anyone coming to emotional and gripping read', 'explosive secrets' and Rainow from a place with a name like Chapel-en-le-Frith 'psychological suspense'. Now I know that Morris Dancing can would be coming in from deepest France! be stirring at times but it made me think that something might be wrong, especially as the novel in the review was set in Things are definitely not what they used to be. I've been Sydney and not Aylesbury. When I checked the book from the sitting in this library writing this article for the last hour and best room again I realised my mistake. It was written in 1897 a half and it's like a madhouse! There's a man in the chair by Hildegard Denby. I suppose I should have guessed by the behind me swearing something awful because he can't thread moth-eaten leather cover that it was the wrong book, but I'm up some roll of film into a large machine that lets him see old sure you will agree that it was an easy mistake to make. newspapers. And as for the poor librarians! They spend years learning their trade and getting certificates only to be asked if If you ask me this is the trouble with all-women book clubs they've got change for the photocopy machine or where the and modern writers - fancy picking such a stupid Victorian nearest sandwich shop is. sounding title like “The Husband's Secret” for a book written in 2013! Suffice to say that the landlady and I had words - Anyway, that's all for now. Have a good summer, enjoy the but I didn't get to use mine. Fête and don't forget to SUPPORT YOUR PUB (but not mine). Even worse than this, though, was news that the Robin Hood has changed hands again! My nerves are shredded. The Robin regulars will be getting jittery again and as the light nights are The Landlord.

15

Commonwealth Games Joy for Seonaid

Contact Liam on:

07762 825537 or 01625 578070 [email protected]

he Raven is delighted to report that Seonaid Thompson (nee Murray) of Rainow has secured a place on the Scottish Team for the Triathlon event at the Commonwealth TGames in Glasgow this July. Seonaid will participate in the team relay event on Saturday 26th July in Strathclyde Park.The innovative team format of this event consists of two men and two women, with each athlete completing a super-sprint triathlon event comprising a 250m swim in open water, 6 kilometre cycle and 1600m run. Seonaid, a former Scottish and Cheshire 800m champion on the track, took up triathlon after some persuasion from husband Jamie and in her first year won the prestigious British Triathlon Super Series (2012). More recently Seonaid has moved up a level performing to a high standard in the European Triathlon Union series of events in Slovakia, Turkey and Portugal to impress the Scottish selectors. Coached by Jack Maitland in Leeds as part of a squad that includes the Olympic medallist Brownlee brothers, Seonaid said: "I am absolutely over the moon to be picked for the Scottish team. I have competed for Scotland before at 800m on the track, but it is a dream come true to be able to compete in the Commonwealth Games." Seonaid started running with Rainow School cross country running club before joining Macclesfield Harriers. Also a former Satellite swimmer and Rainow Kerridge Climb winner, Seonaid came to Rainow with mum Barbara and dad Raph as a baby and grew up in the village with her three younger brothers, all attending If you would like Rainow and Tytherington High Schools. Seonaid went on to complete her BSc at Durham to advertise in and PhD in Cancer Research in Liverpool, before taking time out of her career to concentrate on triathlon. Seonaid's family are all keen athletes, her mum Barbara, a former The Raven Scottish international athlete, still coaches and competes with Macc Harriers. Seonaid's please call Carole brothers are all very proud of their sister and the whole family will be there to support her on 01625 573576 in Glasgow. The at Rainow

Ꮳ Robin Hood Traditional country pub on the Sundays lunch served 12 - 4 pm. cusp of the beautiful . Ꮳ Bed and Breakfast in our 4 Come and sample our selection of en suite bedrooms.

Ꮳ real ales. Homemade food, locally sourced, Beer gardens to the side and rear available Tuesday to Saturday with views to Kerridge Ridge. 12 - 2.30 pm and 5.30 - 8.30 pm. Give us a call or see our website: www.robinhoodrainow.co.uk Tel: 01625 574060 16

Tour de Rainow by Raph Murray

n the 4th and 5th July the first two stages of the world's biggest cycle race, the Tour de France, will be contested Oacross the Yorkshire moors and dales. Part of the attraction for starting the race in Yorkshire is of course the challenging terrain and glorious scenery. For fans of the Tour there is even an opportunity to see the race as it passes within 20 miles of Rainow at the Woodhead Reservoir near Glossop. This should be quite a spectacle as around 150 cyclists stream past at more than 40 km/h on the descent from Holme Moss en route to Sheffield. We can't all be Tour de France cyclists but for those of you who would like to get a flavour of the Tour experience in terrain that is just as challenging and scenic as the hills of Yorkshire, here is a suggested Tour de Rainow. However, anyone thinking of doing the Tour de Rainow should be aware there are more than a few climbs on this route.

After the start at the top of Round Meadow and the dip over the to Tower Hill there is a fairly level section along Hawkins Lane before the sharp right turn at Kerridge End on to Lidgetts Lane. Although this first climb of the day is steep it is quite short and, once at the top, cyclists are rewarded with superb views over what seems like the whole of Cheshire and beyond. After an exhilarating descent of Windmill Lane to Kerridge there is a chance to recover on the road to before the second climb of the day. This is the 3 km climb known as 'the Brickworks' on Bakestonedale Road. Although it's a long climb the gradient does ease off at several points and cyclists are rewarded with excellent views towards Eccles Pike and the Kinder plateau. After negotiating the hairpin bend on the descent of the B5470 the next climb is from to Pym Chair. Another long climb but at least it's not as steep as the climb to Pym Chair from Jenkin Chapel. From Pym Chair there is another chance to recover on the descent to Errwood Reservoir and one of the few level sections of this tour along the banks of the reservoir. An added bonus is that on Sundays and Bank Holidays from the start of May until the end of September this section of the route is closed to motor vehicles between 10.30 am and 5.30 pm. Although this is the longest climb of the day you will be so busy admiring the scenery that you won't notice the climb. In altitude terms the high point of the tour is the Cat & Fiddle. Unfortunately it also involves a 1 km section on the A537 before the descent to the Stanley Arms and the climb to Standing Stone at the top of Macclesfield Forest. As the next section involves a 16% descent on a narrow road some care will be requiredparticularly in wet conditions. If you've followed the tour this far, you should be familiar with the pattern, ie, a hard climb followed by a long descent. This section is no different; there is a long descent through the forest and past Trentabank to Langley. This leads you to the final climb of the day, the narrow and twisting Coal Pit Lane. The roadside signs announce Quiet Lane. They should of course state Quite Steep Lane. However once you've reached Calrofold Lane and rejoined the B5470 at Cesterbridge it feels like you're just about finished your tour of Rainow. With just under 40 km in distance and about 900 m of climb it is of course much shorter, and for most of us, much slower than the tour professionals, but challenging enough to give us an appreciation of what it might be like to ride four or five times the distance at twice the speed. Our one consolation is that we get to appreciate the views.

17

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

18

Raven Book Reviews More choices from some of Rainow’s book club members Kate Atkinson Life After Life A review by Laura Rogers

What is 'Life After Life' about? That's one of the first questions I had to ask myself on settling down to read Kate Atkinson's 'dazzling' novel - the adjective borrowed from a review in The Guardian surely tells us something! After what seems an incongruous opening chapter in which there appears to be an attempted assassination of the Fuhrer himself, we move on to a seemingly more ordinary story chronicling the life and times of the Todd family. On the surface, it starts easily enough with the birth of Ursula Todd during a snowstorm in in 1910. Unfortunately, we soon learn that baby Ursula dies before she takes her first breath. And then the novel re-starts; only this time baby Ursula lives to tell the tale. So, from the outset, it's clear that this author is playing with structure, pulling the rug from under her readers' feet, unsettling them and posing questions like the one that popped into my head at the start. Capturing a slice of English middle-class life from pre-World War I right up to the end of the last century, Atkinson excels in the production of this parallel-universe/déjà-vu-ish concoction which still manages to perfectly reflect twentieth century social mores and concerns. We laugh and cry along with her perfectly realised characters (I loved Izzy ... and Teddy ... and Ursula!) all the while puzzling such existential questions as 'would I do it all again?' and 'would I do things differently?' One thing was certain: Atkinson's latest novel was a clear hit with our book club. Whilst our views are often split, we were almost unanimous in agreeing that this was one of our best reads of 2014 - so far. In keeping with the circular theme of the novel, I know I'll certainly be re-reading it, full as it is of 'warmth and wit'. Read it - and read it again - you won't be disappointed.

Graeme Simsion The Rosie Project

This affectionate and humorous depiction of a middle-aged man's search for love is not a typical romantic comedy, as the protagonist of “The Rosie Project” has undiagnosed Asperger's Syndrome. Despite being fit, attractive, wealthy and intelligent, Don Tillman, Professor of Genetics, has experienced substantial interpersonal difficulties, the reasons for which become clear through the style of his narrative, which although endearing and amusing, reveals an approach to the dating paradigm which is direct, logical, rigid and obsessive. As he discovers, this yields limited success in terms of coming across a suitable partner and he therefore develops the Wife Project, which involves the use of a rigorous, 16-page questionnaire designed to find the perfect woman by systematically eliminating all non-suitable partners (the vegans, the smokers, the mathematically illiterate, the religious, etc, etc). However, Don finds that life and love do not adhere to scientifically devised protocols, when Rosie penetrates his previously highly organised life and although failing on every one of his criteria, nevertheless proves a compelling and ultimately illogical match. Thrown together in a series of adventures and comic set-pieces which demystifies some facets of Autistic behaviour, including Don's superhuman ability to memorise correct procedures and the social faux pas which reveal his approach to emotion is predicated on science and reason. Profound and potentially dark themes are worn lightly by this book, which combines sublime character precision and sentimental but gratifying genre fulfilment. Whilst some readers may find the notion that embracing the emotional and irrational is the key to happiness simplistic and sentimental, “The Rosie Project” straddles the two spheres in what is fundamentally a warm-hearted and extremely funny depiction of a character whose rigidly scheduled and dispassionate view of the social world is extremely engaging.

Diane Chamberlain Necessary Lies

This thought-provoking book provides a stimulating insight into the Eugenics Programme - a practice initiated in 1907 in the US, dedicated to 'weeding out' unfit members of society through the sterilisation of 'feeble-minded', unstable, promiscuous, epileptic and otherwise racially or socially inferior individuals. In “Necessary Lies”, a human face is applied to the implementation and aftermath of the programme and the controversy is analysed with naked simplicity. It is 1960 and newly-married Jane Forrester commences her new job as a social worker for the Department of Public Welfare with naive enthusiasm. Despite warnings from her colleagues about the importance of maintaining objectivity and distance from her clients, Jane finds this position increasingly difficult to adopt - becoming entangled with the lives of a particular family, who are targeted for sterilisation. The real power of this novel lies in its exposure of the bureaucracy and deception which was practiced, perhaps most sickeningly in cases where women were sterilised without their consent or knowledge. Some of the narrative borders upon the contrived and over-played, however the author successfully illustrates the complexities of the issues and the frustrations experienced by those fighting against the dehumanising withdrawal of the ability to procreate. In its stomach-flipping climax, we see Jane's attempts to 'rescue' her client being ultimately fulfilled in unexpected and satisfying ways.

19

Miss Rainow 1983 Remembered by Louise Leigh

(l-r) Brenda Beard, Sonja Baxter, Wendy Taylor, Susan Margerson

ne of the highlights of the Youth Club's annual fundraising weekend was the Miss Rainow Youth Club contest. There were two keenly contested events, one for the junior and one Ofor the senior club. The winning girls had the honour of representing the Youth Club for the following year and had pride of place on the club's float in the village fête parade. In the best pageant tradition, each Miss Rainow Youth Club was crowned with a tiara, adorned with a sash and presented with a bouquet of flowers. Each year a local dignitary would be enlisted to compère the event and in 1983 Vic Barlow did the honours. The Raven contacted Vic to remind him of this step on the road to fame and fortune and he recalled the times with affection:

“Well, what can I say! Judging by my dodgy appearance I must have been selling Spearing's pies to Mexico during that period. I spent most of the Eighties either in the institute or the Rising Sun and I don't remember much of either. I did love doing all those local events. We had a great community spirit and a lot of fun. This must be the only picture of any event I ever attended that didn't have Nick Winterton getting in the frame. Great times and lovely girls.”

Another Successful year for Rainow NSPCC uring the financial year 2013-2014 Rainow NSPCC raised £4226.23, so a BIG THANKYOU to everyone who supported our fundraising events for this last year. The Drecent Fashion show, supported by Delia Metcalfe Ladies Fashion and Clarins John Lewis, raised £2021.00. This was too late to be included in this financial year, so it will be carried forward to next year; if this amount had been included, a total of £6247.23 would have been raised. The next Fashion Show is on Wednesday 22nd at the Hunting Lodge. Tickets will be available at the end of July from Sue Frith or Lyn McCarthy. New ideas and members to our committee always welcome, so if you feel you have some time to spare or have some fundraising ideas please contact Sue Frith 573802, [email protected] or Lyn McCarthy 427896 [email protected].

20

English Tuition Individual support at Wellington Road, Bollington SK10 5JR KS2, KS3 and GCSE G G For jazz For comedy including Year 6 SATs G For chamber music preparation. G For professional & amateur theatre productions I am an experienced G For talks English teacher with G For art exhibitions BA Hons. in English from G For poetry readings Durham Univ and PGCE. G For rehearsal space G For classes G For hire Contact Katy James on For more information visit our website: 01625 576390 www.bollingtonartscentre.org.uk katy.davidjames@btinter or ring 573863 net.com

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, , 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 2014 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, Rainow Tel: 01625 872154 THE COACH DEPOT N SNAPE ROAD N MACCLESFIELD Tel: 573320 21

What’s On in Rainow and Bollington JULY 2014 5 - 13 See website Bollington Well-dressing Festival Five sites in Bollington – for details see www.bollingtonwelldressing.co.uk

5 & 6 Sat 11.00-4.30 pm Open Garden in aid of St. Michael's Church, Cesterbridge House, Sun 1.00-4.30 pm Macclesfield “Raising the Roof Fund” Rainow & 14 gardens Contact Sheila Brammer 01625 426059 in Macclesfield

5 12 - 4.00 pm Rainow ‘Community Bus’ Open Day Robin Hood car park

12 - 27 Daily RAINOW SCARECROW FORTNIGHT Throughout Rainow (Theme – “Down on the Farm” – Refreshments at Church Centre 12 - 8 pm except Feteˆ day 13 8.00 pm Second Sunday Folk Club Arts Centre, Bollington

14 7.30 pm Rainow WI Rainow Institute “The Women Who Made Manchester” – Ann Beswick

15 7.30 pm Mothers Union Service Rainow Church followed by Scarecrow Teas

16 7.30 pm Mothers Union Deanery Coffee Evening Henbury Church Hall followed by Scarecrow Teas

19 2.00 pm RAINOW CHURCH FETE Hough Hole Farm, Opening Theme “Down on the Farm” Sugar Lane, Rainow s On Ceremony Procession starts fron Hawkins Lane 1.20 pm Contacts: John & Hazel Cantrell 01625 422107 Steve Rathbone 01625 572013

19 7.30 pm Bonanza Evening Feteˆ Festivities Fête Marquee, till late DJ, Food & Drink, Live Music from Cover Up Sugar Lane, Rainow Tickets £7 (£8 on the night) children free. Tickets from Sue 01625 410735 or Stacey 07540 875804

AUGUST 2014 11 Rainow WI Trip to Chester Chester 18 7.30 pm Mothers Union Deanery Festival St James Church, & Mary Sumner Celebration

19 7.30 pm Mothers Union Coffee Evening Rainow Church Centre

SEPTEMBER 2014 6 2 - 4.00 pm Bollington Horticultural Society Annual Show Bollington Civic Hall 8 7.30 pm Rainow WI Rainow Institute Macclesfields Street Angels

14 8.00 pm Second Sunday Folk Club Arts Centre, Bollington

16 7.30 pm Mothers Union Rainow Church Centre – Talk by Rev Gary Bowness

20 8.00 pm Bollington Chamber Concerts Arts Centre, Bollington – The Cavaleri Quartet. Tickets £15 Contact 01625 576402

28 10.00 am Rainow Civic Service Rainow Church Everyone warmly invited

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. 22 What’

Disley to Rainow on the by Straggler

By Bowstones Gate

On this page the southern section of the walk is described; the start of the he Gritstone Trail is a 35 mile longer walk and the northern section appears on the next page. long distance footpath from (If completing the route in two sections, right turn to descend a partly flagged to Kidsgrove. A catch bus to Charleshead and rejoin path (R35) to three kissing gates and Tprevious Raven walk traced walk at Brink Farm on Bakestonedale steps down. Note the Victorian feature the section from Rainow to Teggs Nose. Lane). waterfall resurrected by KRIV on your right. Cross an idyllic pack horse bridge This rather longer section can be done ake the footpath (PS5) just beyond to join the tarmac lane (R39). Turn left. as a single non-stop walk or as two Brink Farm. Choose left at first Before reaching the Millennium Stone separate walks by using the Tpath junction and then follow and Ingersley Waterfall - worth a detour Gritstone marker posts below the after heavy rain or when partially Charleshead bus stop at the mid point. quarry, across open fields and through frozen - take the steep ascending lane There are also two short cuts that can derelict walls to meet a kissing gate on the right to (R41; R43; significantly reduce the distance. and tarmac drive. Just a few metres B58). (A shortcut 'home is possible via further on, at the cattle grid, turn left waterfall, flagged path (R39), Hough Throughout the walk follow the yellow and follow the wall and signs (R28) to Hole and Sugar Lane). arrows incorporating a boot print. yet another kissing gate, skirting a pond. Descend via two more gates to a Just after second cattle grid take the cute hump back stone bridge. Climb up new KRIV stepped path to White the hill to emerge onto Hedgerow. Turn Nancy - sadly, not shown on OS or right to the junction with Spuley Lane - Parish Paths map. Emerge on to the remember the Cheshire Hunt and summit ridge and turn right. Follow Country Café? ridge paths (R90; B46) south to eventually arrive at a dual carriage Turn left onto Spuley Lane and rejoice footpath and path junction - before and at reaching Rainow again. Currently no below the trig point and summit. Cross border controls. Continue on Spuley the stone step stile and follow the Lane to Orme's Smithy. Cross the wooden Gritstone Trail finger post half staggered cross-roads into Oakenbank left and downhill (R48). The route Lane. As the lane turns sharp left, crosses path R43 to a metal 5 bar cross the wall stile to descend, then gate. Join path R46 through a coppice, ascend, stone steps (R40) over the over stream and into Cow Lane pass- stream at Lima Clough and then follow ing en route the 1789 mill ruin. Make the 'trod' footpath. At the impressive your your way gently uphill to finish on ngersley Hall The paved path by I stiles alongside Savio House make a the B5470 near Tower Hill.

23

he Gritstone Trail is a 35 mile long distance footpath from Disley to Rainow on the Gritstone Trail Disley to Kidsgrove. A Tprevious Raven walk traced the section from Rainow to Teggs Nose. This rather longer section can be done as a single non-stop walk or as two separate walks by using the Charleshead bus stop at the mid point. There are also two short cuts that can significantly reduce the distance. Throughout the walk follow the yellow arrows incorporating a boot print.

Walk 22 - Pastures New

Distance: 14km (8.7m) Well signed. 4 short but Conditions: by steep climbs Straggler Maps: Gritstone Trail Walkers Guide On this page the northern section of the walk is described; the southern (from www.cheshireeast.gov.uk) section appears on the previous page. Rainow, Bollington & Disley Parish atch bus 60 and get off at open moorland, where deer herds Paths (from Town Hall) Fountains Square, Disley (toilets, often graze. Continue uphill on Visas: Not currently required Cshops, pub etc). Walk up Red obvious track (LH44) to the ladder stile FP Nos: D:Disley. LH:Lyme Lane to the left of Ram's Head, at Bowstones. Handley. PS:Pott Shrigley. then, 20m beyond the bend, turn left into Green Lane (at St. Mary's Church Turn right at P&NFS sign No 181 to B:Bollington. R:Rainow sign). Continue on a tarmac, and then Charleshead. Pass through three metal hard core, lane until an unlikely red gates, with a bench on the left and trig telephone box is spotted. At the point far to the right before reaching stile/gate, the lane narrows to a path Sponds Hill summit and viewpoint... (D28) with views to The Cage in Lyme At the panorama plate at the viewpoint, Park (this is where Mary, Queen of pause to work out the various scenic Scots, was incarcerated in the points shown and then descend sixteenth century). Cross two streams, gradually to Bakestonedale Lane (the turn right (D19) onto a lane and then continuation of the walk is on the by-pass the fragile Bollinhurst Bridge previous page of this issue). (LH28). (*At the hill top, on the left, there is a possible short cut to If you are completing the walk in two Bowstones (LH29; D51) cutting out all stages, turn left and walk down the of the section, but you tarmac, watching out for traffic and go yme Park would miss an interesting walk). to the main road (B5470) where the The Cage in L bus stop to Rainow is on the opposite Enter Lyme Park via East Lodge and side of the road. Make sure you time follow the tarmac drive past The Cage, your arrival at the bus stop to give Lyme Hall and its car park. yourself plenty of time because the Here there is a café (open buses are not very frequent! 11.00 am-4.00 pm), information kiosk FP* refers to footpath numbers and toilets behind on Parish Paths Maps Mr Darcy's Lake. Take the left fork beyond the car park at the finger post and walk uphill through gateway. Keep the dry-stone wall and trees to the left. Enter Knightslow Woods via a second Lyme Hall

(National T metal gate, to walk gently uphill to a

rust) seven bar gate and thence onto the ᒇ

24