Go Local Sandbach - Edition 7 2025 : simplebooklet.com

4From the bar, with Rich 8Man About Town 12The Brereton Bears are back 18Middlewich's New Plant Swap 22Stretch your legs at Alderley Park 26Sandbach's Heritage 30Big Rigs in miniature at Victoria Hall Middlewich 32Days Out & Meals Out reviews 36Quick Reference 38Welcome & ContentsContact Go Local SandbachKaty O’Regankaty@archpublications.comDavid Crawforddavid@archpublications.comFor all enquires & bookingsCall or Whatsapp 01477 518 252Visit archpublications.comArch Publications Charity Partner 2025, visit www.www.dscheshire.org.ukRemember to tell our amazing local businesses, you found them in Go Local.Business InsightsScan to Listen & Subscribearchpublications.com/podcastWelcome to the July Edition.As I write this, my son is coming to the end of his GCSEs and the excitement is building in our house as he and my husband prepare for their long-awaited adventure to Japan. They’ve been planning this trip for months and are now putting the nal touches in place. Over the course of two weeks, they’ll be travelling across the country, soaking up the culture and visiting as many places as possible. It promises to be the trip of a lifetime, and I can’t wait to hear all about it when they return.Meanwhile, I’ll be staying at home, holding the fort with our lovely dogs, and of course, keeping everything running smoothly with the magazine!It’s been a busy few weeks on the work front too. Alongside my ear wax removal business, Cheshire Ears, I’ve been relaunching our Arch Publications Business Insights podcast. I’m thrilled to say the rst new episode is now live, featuring an interview with Police and Crime Commissioner Dan Price. He’s a fascinating guest with plenty of insight to share, and I really enjoyed our conversation.If you’re a small business owner, run a community group, or simply have a great story to tell, we’d love to hear from you. We’re always looking for interesting guests to feature on the podcast. You can nd the Arch Publications Business Insights podcast wherever you normally listen, just pop the name into your favourite app and have a listen.Enjoy this month’s magazine, it's full of inspiring stories, local highlights, and useful features. Thank you for being part of our wonderful community.

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As summer sunshine warms our high street and garden benches, few things are more refreshing than an ice-cold drink. But amid the familiar oerings of iced lattes and smoothies, like me you may have noticed a colourful, curious alternative gaining popularity among the younger generations: bubble tea.Also known as boba tea, this vibrant drink may seem novel, a bit of a daft fad even, but it carries with it a rich cultural history and a journey spanning continents. Its roots lie in Taiwan, where, in the 1980s, two competing tea shops sparked a beverage revolution.The story begins in Taichung, Taiwan, where traditional tea culture had long been an everyday pleasure. In 1983, a local tea shop owner named Lin Hsiu Hui, experimenting with drinks during a sta meeting, poured tapioca balls (typically used in Asian desserts) into iced black tea. The chewy pearls, or “boba”, added a novel texture to the drink. Customers were intrigued, and delighted.Meanwhile, across town, another tea shop called Hanlin Tea Room claimed to have created a similar concoction, using white tapioca balls. Whether by coincidence or competitive inspiration, both versions became hits with young From the bar, with Rich...Rich, The Beer Emporium Bottle BankTaiwanese. The drink spread rapidly, and by the 1990s, bubble tea had evolved into a whole category of beverage. Nowadays you can enjoy bubble teas with everything from fruit-infused teas to creamy milk-based blends, with or without the addition of spirits and liqueurs, often shaken with ice and always served with those unmistakable fat straws.Bubble tea’s global rise began in earnest in the early 2000s, rst captivating neighbouring Asian countries, then communities across the United States, Australia, and eventually here in Europe. Its appearance with little bubbles sat at the bottom of translucent cups made it a darling of Instagram. Yet beyond the visuals, its true appeal lies in the surprising harmony of textures: the creamy, fragrant tea, the cold refreshment, and the chewy contrast of the tapioca or the hit of concentrated fruit juice from the avoured balls.In the UK, bubble tea began as a niche oering in London’s Chinatown and university towns, catering mostly to Asian students and adventurous foodies. But in the last decade, it has found wider appeal. Today, you’ll nd bubble tea kiosks in all over the place, in shopping centres and high streets up and down the country. As always, we’ve put our own little spin on things with British variations including classic Earl Grey milk tea with boba, or summer-friendly fruit teas avoured with peach, mango or passionfruit bubbles.For those unfamiliar, the drink may seem more novelty than nourishment. But consider this: at its heart, bubble tea is a celebration of tea culture, something that has been a deeply rooted tradition in both Britain and Taiwan. Much like a good cuppa, it can be customised to taste, enjoyed in solitude or shared with friends, and is as much about ritual as refreshment.So next time you nd yourself thirsty on a warm British afternoon, wandering past a the bar, or a stall adorned with pastel cups and oversized straws, why not tantalise your taste buds and order a jasmine green tea with lychee popping pearls, or a strawberry daquiri and mango bubbles, or a even just classic brown sugar milk tea. You may just nd that, like millions around the world, you’re charmed by a drink that invites both tradition and playfulness in every sip.Until next time, see you at the bar!

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12With printing deadlines for this magazine being roughly one month before publication, I’m currently penning this article on the last day of May, and what a month it has been. Aside from both of my sons celebrating their birthdays, the climax of the football season (although, bearing in mind which team we support, the less said about that the better) and the excellent news that my teeth have passed their MOT and I don’t need to revisit the dentist for another 12 months, the highlight of May for me has been the weather.Ok, we’ve suered a few downpours, which is to be expected living in the UK, but overall Sandbach has been basking in glorious sunshine since April. Indeed, the weather has been so nice, the nation was again treated to that favoured phrase of journalists: ‘the warmest since records began.’ I’m not entirely clear when someone (presumably very important) announced “ok, chaps, Man About TownByGreg Hallrecords have now begun” but it seems every winter is now the coldest or wettest, and every summer the warmest (or wettest) on record.Anyway, I digress. My point is, we are usually treated to far nicer weather between April and June than we are across the supposedly summer months of July and August, but I’ve – perhaps naively – got a good feeling this year. And, if July does follow May’s lead (again, due to printing deadlines, I’m conscious June could have been a colossal disappointment), Sandbach has plenty of options for a hot summer’s day.We have beautiful areas for a walking, both around town and on the outskirts, or for those who prefer their fresh air to be a little brisker, you could go running or cycling instead. For serious runners, the Sandbach 10k will be taking place around picturesque Bradwall on Sunday 27th July, while keen cyclists can also enjoy donning their nest lycra for a ride along our country lanes or one of the 11,000 cycle paths dotted around CW11.Fans of al fresco dining (note: this means eating in the open air, not taking all your clothes o) can enjoy a meal at one of the ne eateries oering outdoor seating, or for solely liquid refreshment there are a plethora of delightful beer gardens to choose from within a stone’s throw of one another. Not that I advocate getting drunk and throwing stones, mind.For those who enjoy a round of golf, we have excellent courses in Sandbach itself and neighbouring Malkins Bank, or there are several parks to simply lounge around and watch the world go by.We’re lucky enough to live in a beautiful town, let’s make the most of it!

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18The Brereton Bears are returning in full furry force for summer 2025, bringing with them a beloved blend of whimsy, creativity and community spirit. The village of Brereton will once again come alive with bear-themed displays as the 12th Brereton Bear Festival takes place from 10 July to 31 August, transforming quiet lanes and tidy gardens into a trail of delight for visitors of all ages.Inspired by the legend of Lord Brereton and the bear, this charming festival dates back to 2004 and most recently took place in 2023. As the story goes, William Brereton killed his valet in a t of temper after being interrupted at his meal. His punishment? A ght with a bear. Granted three days by the king to devise a solution, Brereton famously fashioned a muzzle and subdued the bear — a feat that earned the muzzled bear its place on the Brereton family crest.The Brereton Bears Are Back!The 12th Brereton Bear Festival takes place from 10 July to 31 AugustThis historical tale now fuels a modern-day tradition that’s a joyful mix of craft, competition and community fundraising. Much like a scarecrow festival — but with a distinctly ursine twist — the Brereton Bear Festival sees residents create bear-themed displays in their gardens, windows, trees, or even rooftops. Bears can be made of any material, on any theme, and range from simple to spectacular. From handcrafted creations to elaborately dressed shop-bought teddies, anything goes — so long as your bear’s name and number are clearly visible from the road for eager Bear Hunters.Hunters, both on foot and by car, search high and low to spot as many bears as possible, with a prize for the most bears found. Meanwhile, Bear Makers compete for four coveted trophies:Best Crafted BearBest Dressed Shop-bought TeddyMost Humorous BearFavourite BearEntry is just £7 per bear, and forms will be available in the ocial programme, on sale soon. If you’d love to join in but have nowhere to display your creation, the organisers will happily nd a spot for your bear to shine.The festival is more than just fun — it raises valuable funds for the church and local community. Volunteers are always welcome, especially for the much-loved refreshments in the church, where home-baked cakes and cuddly companions go hand in paw.Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the village, you’re warmly invited to get involved. Find out more and follow updates on Facebook at Brereton Bear Festival — and let the bear hunting begin!

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Donate Today!www.echospice.org.uk/bed-appealEast Cheshire Hospice needs your help to raise £95,648 to buy essential new beds01625 433 477 “These specialist beds are more than justequipment - they’re what allow us to give ourpatients the comfort, dignity, andcompassionate care they truly deserve.”Carly & Caroline, East Cheshire Hospice NursesFind out more about why it's more than just a bedAls on th arm...GINGER AND PICKLES CAFE, H. DAVIDSON BUTCHERS - Quality meat, FIELD SMITHS - Premium country clothing, FOUR OAKS DIRECT - Quality plants at great prices, FRAME - Picture framing studio, CHESHIRE WARDROBE BOUTIQUE - Affordable fashion for women of all ages, TASCHE KEYS NAILS & BEAUTY - Beauty salon, INGLEDEW THERAPY - Hypnotherapy, therapy, and practical coaching, KAT’S STUDIO - Reformer Pilates, CHESHIRE CLAY STUDIO - Art, craft, and pottery, LIV FOR REHAB - Sports therapy.Feshl picked just  you...Everything you would expect from our farm shop including a wide range of home-grown seasonal veg and local suppliers such as Chatwins pies and cakes; and Jo’s cakes.Plus gifts and flowers.Shanty Farm, Byley CW10 9NG01606 832874The Brereton Bears are returning in full furry force for summer 2025, bringing with them a beloved blend of whimsy, creativity and community spirit. The village of Brereton will once again come alive with bear-themed displays as the 12th Brereton Bear Festival takes place from 10 July to 31 August, transforming quiet lanes and tidy gardens into a trail of delight for visitors of all ages.Inspired by the legend of Lord Brereton and the bear, this charming festival dates back to 2004 and most recently took place in 2023. As the story goes, William Brereton killed his valet in a t of temper after being interrupted at his meal. His punishment? A ght with a bear. Granted three days by the king to devise a solution, Brereton famously fashioned a muzzle and subdued the bear — a feat that earned the muzzled bear its place on the Brereton family crest.The Brereton Bears Are Back!The 12th Brereton Bear Festival takes place from 10 July to 31 AugustThis historical tale now fuels a modern-day tradition that’s a joyful mix of craft, competition and community fundraising. Much like a scarecrow festival — but with a distinctly ursine twist — the Brereton Bear Festival sees residents create bear-themed displays in their gardens, windows, trees, or even rooftops. Bears can be made of any material, on any theme, and range from simple to spectacular. From handcrafted creations to elaborately dressed shop-bought teddies, anything goes — so long as your bear’s name and number are clearly visible from the road for eager Bear Hunters.Hunters, both on foot and by car, search high and low to spot as many bears as possible, with a prize for the most bears found. Meanwhile, Bear Makers compete for four coveted trophies:Best Crafted BearBest Dressed Shop-bought TeddyMost Humorous BearFavourite BearEntry is just £7 per bear, and forms will be available in the ocial programme, on sale soon. If you’d love to join in but have nowhere to display your creation, the organisers will happily nd a spot for your bear to shine.The festival is more than just fun — it raises valuable funds for the church and local community. Volunteers are always welcome, especially for the much-loved refreshments in the church, where home-baked cakes and cuddly companions go hand in paw.Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the village, you’re warmly invited to get involved. Find out more and follow updates on Facebook at Brereton Bear Festival — and let the bear hunting begin!

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Quick and easy cataract surgery is available at the new Cheshire and Merseyside Surgical Centre, at the Victoria Inﬁrmary, Northwich.You can have your surgery at our cataract centre of excellence completed within three weeks, treated and cared for by NHS eye care specialists.For a clearer future, speak to your optician about a referral.Because seeing well means living well.All eye surgical procedures carry a level of risk including not obtaining the desired outcome through to varying levels of visual loss. Your surgeon will discuss the risks and beneﬁts including ones speciﬁc to your circumstances at the time of your preoperative consultation.Reclaim your life after cataracts Cataracts can cloud your world, but we can help you see clearly again.New NHS surgical centre opens in NorthwichThe Cheshire and Merseyside Surgical Centre, part of the Victoria Inrmary in Northwich, has welcomed its rst patients. The centre boasts two advanced operating theatres, one dedicated to cataract surgery and the other functioning as a multi-specialty theatre accommodating orthopaedics, ENT, dermatology, general surgery, and pain management.There is also an ophthalmic treatment room, recovery area and consulting rooms.The centre will treat around 12,000 patients each year, including a large number of ‘high volume low complexity’ patients from across the region who require less complex operations and procedures.This will help reduce waiting times for patients, with an immediate focus on those who have the longest waits for treatment.MCHFT received £23m of funding from NHS England, via NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board, to create the state-of-the-art facility. Cataract centre of excellenceThe surgical centre will also become a cataract centre of excellence, and a regional hub for outstanding cataract care. This will mean fewer people waiting for cataract surgery, with referral to treatment in three weeks or less, as well as improved patient care.Patients attending for cataract surgery will be treated by surgeons from both Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (MCHFT) and the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust as part of the surgical hub collaboration.Patients will appear on a joint regional waiting list, which will be the rst of its kind in Cheshire and Merseyside.

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22The Canalside Plant Swap Shop on Booth Lane opened three weeks ago and has quickly become popular with local gardeners. We spoke to founder Lindsey Davies about how it all started.How did the idea for a plant swap shop come about?“I’d been giving away cuttings and plants through Facebook gifting sites for ages. Then someone asked if they could gift me a plant in return – that was the little spark. From that moment to opening day was just three days! I sourced a hut, set up the Facebook page, advertised, and we were open.”Three days from idea to opening – how did you feel on that rst day?“I launched the Facebook page on Tuesday and opened on Friday. I’d taken a holiday from work to be there and meet the rst visitors. From their initial feedback, I was quietly hopeful this little spark of an idea just might work!”The concept is beautifully simple – bring a plant, swap a plant. How’s it working in practice?“It really does run itself now. People have been incredibly generous – there were lovely donations before we even opened. I keep an eye out to ensure everything’s labelled and healthy, and there’s always a good variety available across our indoor plants, outdoor plants, seeds, and the new propagation station.”You’ve had some generous donations to help get started. Tell us about the variety.“The variety has been incredible – we’ve had everything from hazelnut and oak trees to strawberries, beans, tomatoes, peppers, white fox aloe, oxalis, cacti, spider plants, Chinese money plants, pothos, dianthus, geum, Solomon’s seal, Middlewich’s New Plant Swap ShopBy Canalside Plant Swap Shop on Booth Lane even teasel! People have also donated pots and compost to help keep everything going, which has been wonderful. If a plant needs a little TLC when it comes in, I’ll try to sort it so everything going out is healthy.”What’s been most rewarding about meeting the community through the shop?“I’ve met some lovely people when I’m tidying the stands. There’s one lady who loves hostas just as much as me – we had a brilliant chat! Another was thrilled to nally swap for a plant she’d wanted for ages.”Have you noticed the shop bringing the community together in unexpected ways?“Absolutely. The swap shop seems to be bringing people together in ways I hadn’t anticipated. We’ve already grown from one stand to two on my driveway, and we’re very much in the early stages of what it could evolve into.”How are you planning to adapt as the seasons change?“Opening hours will likely be shorter, but maybe we can open more days to compensate. It’ll depend on what the community wants, and we’ll trial dierent times during our rst year. The plants coming through will naturally change with the seasons too.”What’s the dream for this place?“Honestly? Just keeping the community happy. If people keep swapping and meeting each other, that’s job done. We’re only just getting started.”The Canalside Plant Swap Shop is open Friday-Sunday, 8am-8pm at 142 Booth Lane, Middlewich, CW10 0EF. Check facebook.com/Canalsideplantswapshop for what’s available.

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The need for foster carers is increasing as more children enter the system but this is matched in reality to a falling number of carers. The actual gures saw a decrease in carers by 1045 in 2019 whilst additional children needing support rose by 5690, a massive shortfall. With this in mind we would love people who are considering fostering to come along and explore the possibility of making that a reality.Recruiting additional carers not only allows children to nd homes, but also allows foster carers presently caring to take regular respite and breaks.Foster carers come from a diverse set of backgrounds, as do the children in care. Diversity, race, religion or sexuality has no impact on your fostering application. We need to match children to families that can meet their individual needs. There is no such thing as a typical foster career! Children need to be placed where they can feel comfortable and accepted, a place they can call home. Children are placed with carers either by local authorities or fostering agencies, it diers from adoption as the desire is always to keep families together and the long-term aim is to bring them back together.Fostering comes with a nancial package to support you to care for each child taken into your home. It’s a tax-free allowance and is considerable, some people make a full-time career from fostering due to the development training which Parallel Parents oer to their foster carers.All children in foster care have a permanent social worker and foster carers are also allocated an agency social worker to support them, so you are never on your own in the process. It’s not as scary as people might think. Have you ever considered fostering a child, or children? Maybe there is something that is putting you o? Could this be a lack of information about the role in general?

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26Stretch Your Legs at Alderley Park.Hello everyone, I hope you have had a good month and been making the most of the longer days. Isn’t it lovely! I thought I’d write about a location that some of you may not realise exists. If you’re looking for somewhere a bit dierent to get your steps in, with a pub stop included if you like, look no further than Alderley Park in Cheshire. You might know it as the former home of AstraZeneca, but these days it’s so much more. Now owned by Bruntwood SciTech, the park has blossomed into a beautiful woodland, combining wildlife, science and a thriving community. And what’s more there are some fab public walking trails many people don’t even know are there.Stretch Your Legs at Alderley ParkBy Hilary Mines, Founder of trundl, The Walking for Charity App Start Your Walk at Mereside Car ParkIf you’re new to the park then start your walk from the Mereside Car Park because it’s easy to nd via the sign posts for the “north entrance” of the park and the car park is huge so you won’t struggle to park. Even better, parking is free for the rst two hours. Plenty of time for a decent walk and a stop o at the pub on the other side of the site. After that, at the last check it was £1 per hour to park.Something for everyone.The walking routes here are as long or as short as you like. Most of the trails are easy to follow but if you search your walking apps, or online, you’ll nd walking routes to follow and the park oers maps also to check your routes. The paths spread out through the woodland and the lovely Radnor Mere anks many of the paths. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just after a gentle wander, there’s a route that will suit I am sure. The paths are well maintained and clearly marked, so no getting lost, unless you want to, of course!Pop to the pubFeeling peckish after your stroll or during? The Churchill Tree pub is a fab place to recharge with delicious food and drink. You can start your walks from this side of the park too, just follow for parking at The Glass House multi story as an option but this is chargeable.History of the parkAlderley Park was once a grand private estate. Then it became a major science site for AstraZeneca which is what most people know the park for. It is now a thriving campus for innovation, businesses and wellbeing. The paths are all open to the public now even though many people still assume it’s o-limits. It’s not! These paths are for everyone, and they’re a brilliant way to explore a side of Cheshire that’s not as well known as it should be.

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30With such a diverse amount of musical and acting talent in Sandbach it is surprising it took so long before it had its own festival. There had been various other carnivals and events that included music from the May Day Festivals to the Foden Works sports and social days.Sometime in March or April 1969 the town held a Sandbach Arts Festival and in April 1970 the newly formed Sandbach and District Art Association held an arts festival. According to the Secretary of the Society Pat Jeers the group had set itself a budget of £400 and had just broken even.It wasn’t until March 1990 that it had another independent festival “The Sandbach Festival” which was organised by the Bandersnatch Theatre Company and was centred on Sandbach Library with other venues being involved. The rst event was a talk on Victorian Costume Dressing by Lesley Edwards at the Library on the 1 March. The 5 March had the ocial opening of the festival at 11am followed at 1.30pm by Bandersnatch doing a workshop at St John’s School in Sandbach Heath. The event on the 6th took the group to Elworth Hall School and the Leonard Cheshire Home followed on the 7th by Oey Road School enjoying a workshop and a trip to the library to work on a collage. Knotty Ash, Liverpool born Berlie Doherty a children’s author visited the Secondary Schools on Crewe Road and Middlewich Road to hold creative writing workshops on a historical theme.The following days were lled with more trips to old people’s homes and primary schools, a strolling theatre show round the town, Children’s Workshops, talks and on the 10 March 1990 a shadow puppet workshop and performance in the Library. There was also a Ghost Trail round the town and the lm ‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade’ was shown. Sandbach’s Heritageby Stewart GreenThe three and a bit week festival included a ‘Glimpse of Sandbach History’ exhibition and ‘2010 A Sandbach Odyssey’ by local schools and had possibly the rst gathering of various local organisations in a coee morning to nd out about what was in the area an event that would later become ‘Sandbach Today’ which was run by the Sandbach Partnership starting in 1997.Sandbach has since the 1800’s a good amount of Amateur Dramatic Societies one of which in the 1990’s was Balcony Arts. Formed in 1991 with ten people involved in an pantomime they decided to do something dierent and in May 1992 held their rst “Sandbach Arts Festival”. Their arts festival ran over 3 days and had Tom Robinson as its headlining act with Manchester Camerata and comedian Dave Gorman. A total of ve festivals were held by the group with event number two between the 30 April and the 2 May 1993 with Lindisfarne and the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. Lindisfarne nearly didn’t appear as they were delayed on a ight back from the Far East, their equipment was lost for a time on the M6 and only just made it in time while the LPO had their own problems as a recording earlier in the day resulted in their equipment blowing up before they went to the studio and had to rearrange another venue to record a theme tune and when they got to Sandbach the autist had forgotten his trousers and a replacement pair was loaned by Tim Bramwell (Optician)The success of the rst two meant that more well know acts could be booked and between the 27April and the 1 May 1994 Labi Sire, Jools Holland and His Big Band, The Halle Ensemble. Dave Gorman (2nd visit of the Comedian) and Humphrey Lyttleton (Trumpet Player and BBC Radio Presenter) all appeared along with local groups an art exhibition and workshops. The Town Hall, Market Tavern, Library, High School, Rumours, The Crown, The Swan and St Mary’s Church were all lled with music over the week Between the 22 April and the 7 May 1995 the Searchers, Hue and Cry, Christine Collister, Frank Sidebottom, Jeremy Hardy (Comedian), Hattie Hayridge (Comedian / Red Dwarf), Linda Smith (Comedienne) and on a third visit Dave Gorman (Comedian).25 April to the 5 May 1996 and the 5th and the nal Sandbach Arts Festival featuring The Manfreds, Fairport Convention (Acoustic), Mark Lamarr (Comedian / TV Presenter), Nigel Planer (Young Ones), George Melly with John Chilton’s Feetwalmers, John Shuttleworth, Snowy White (Singer), Circle Sensible and Westgate Brass. Between the 22 June and the 13 July 1996 Sandbach School decided to hold its own “Sandbach School Festival” to not only show o the schools talent but also to bring in big names with legendary folk comedian Vin Garbut and singer Alan Price.It would be another seventeen years before a proper Music Festival appeared in the town in the form of the ‘Fake Festival’ at the Rugby Club (Later to become the Rock n pop festival). In the interim music appeared in various places in the town including the Transport Festival, Christmas Markets, celebrations of events like VE Day and in 2022 the Sandbach Pride festival.

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31A1 Investigations BureauOver 35 Years of Trusted, Discreet Investigationsprofessional, reliable,& confidential.Why Choose Us? 35+ Years’ Experience Ex-Military & Police Ofﬁcers Fully Data Protected 24/7 AvailabilityAppeals - Wrongful Convictions & Miscarriages of JusticeTracing • Defence • Child Custody • Relationship ChecksProcess Serving • Surveillance • Evidence GatheringEmployment LawVisit our website for our full list of servicesa1investigations.co.ukor call your local ofﬁce 01270 212291DOMESTIC · COMMERCIAL · INDUSTRIAL REWIRES · NEW INSTALLSINSPECTION & TESTINGCCTV · SMART HOME INTEGRATIONFULLY INSUREDLocal family business oering consultation for indoor & outdoor electrical projects. Working with you every step of the process until completion.FULLY APPROVED ELECTRICIANFullyWiredCheshire07989 174875info@fully-wired.co.ukApprovedWe deliver Bidlea Dairy produce to your doorstep- Ready to order... 01260 212 404 -- fresh@cowtocup.co.uk -- www.cowtocup.co.uk - ﬁnd us on - Fresh Milk: Pints, Litres & Flavoured Juice: Orange & AppleBread, Buer & EggsFruit & Veg boxesWeekly Deliveries on Tuesday & FridayA1 Investigations BureauOver 35 Years of Trusted, Discreet Investigationprofessional, reliable,& confidential.Why Choose Us? 35+ Years’ Experience Ex-Military & Police Ofﬁcers Fully Data Protected 24/7 AvailabilityAppeals - Wrongful Convictions & Miscarriages of JusticeTracing • Defence • Child Custody • Relationship ChecksProcess Serving • Surveillance • Evidence GatheringEmployment LawVisit our website for our full list of servicesa1investigations.co.ukor call your local ofﬁce 01270 212291 listen now athaltonfarms.com/podcastTHE MILK SHACK@ HALTON FARMSscan meto find usat chance ha farm, chance ha lane, cw1212 44tlopen every day from 4.304.30am until 99pmfarm fresh pasteurised milk, buer, milkshakes, cheeses, local produce, coffee, merchandise & much more...With such a diverse amount of musical and acting talent in Sandbach it is surprising it took so long before it had its own festival. There had been various other carnivals and events that included music from the May Day Festivals to the Foden Works sports and social days.Sometime in March or April 1969 the town held a Sandbach Arts Festival and in April 1970 the newly formed Sandbach and District Art Association held an arts festival. According to the Secretary of the Society Pat Jeers the group had set itself a budget of £400 and had just broken even.It wasn’t until March 1990 that it had another independent festival “The Sandbach Festival” which was organised by the Bandersnatch Theatre Company and was centred on Sandbach Library with other venues being involved. The rst event was a talk on Victorian Costume Dressing by Lesley Edwards at the Library on the 1 March. The 5 March had the ocial opening of the festival at 11am followed at 1.30pm by Bandersnatch doing a workshop at St John’s School in Sandbach Heath. The event on the 6th took the group to Elworth Hall School and the Leonard Cheshire Home followed on the 7th by Oey Road School enjoying a workshop and a trip to the library to work on a collage. Knotty Ash, Liverpool born Berlie Doherty a children’s author visited the Secondary Schools on Crewe Road and Middlewich Road to hold creative writing workshops on a historical theme.The following days were lled with more trips to old people’s homes and primary schools, a strolling theatre show round the town, Children’s Workshops, talks and on the 10 March 1990 a shadow puppet workshop and performance in the Library. There was also a Ghost Trail round the town and the lm ‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade’ was shown. Sandbach’s Heritageby Stewart GreenThe three and a bit week festival included a ‘Glimpse of Sandbach History’ exhibition and ‘2010 A Sandbach Odyssey’ by local schools and had possibly the rst gathering of various local organisations in a coee morning to nd out about what was in the area an event that would later become ‘Sandbach Today’ which was run by the Sandbach Partnership starting in 1997.Sandbach has since the 1800’s a good amount of Amateur Dramatic Societies one of which in the 1990’s was Balcony Arts. Formed in 1991 with ten people involved in an pantomime they decided to do something dierent and in May 1992 held their rst “Sandbach Arts Festival”. Their arts festival ran over 3 days and had Tom Robinson as its headlining act with Manchester Camerata and comedian Dave Gorman. A total of ve festivals were held by the group with event number two between the 30 April and the 2 May 1993 with Lindisfarne and the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. Lindisfarne nearly didn’t appear as they were delayed on a ight back from the Far East, their equipment was lost for a time on the M6 and only just made it in time while the LPO had their own problems as a recording earlier in the day resulted in their equipment blowing up before they went to the studio and had to rearrange another venue to record a theme tune and when they got to Sandbach the autist had forgotten his trousers and a replacement pair was loaned by Tim Bramwell (Optician)The success of the rst two meant that more well know acts could be booked and between the 27April and the 1 May 1994 Labi Sire, Jools Holland and His Big Band, The Halle Ensemble. Dave Gorman (2nd visit of the Comedian) and Humphrey Lyttleton (Trumpet Player and BBC Radio Presenter) all appeared along with local groups an art exhibition and workshops. The Town Hall, Market Tavern, Library, High School, Rumours, The Crown, The Swan and St Mary’s Church were all lled with music over the week Between the 22 April and the 7 May 1995 the Searchers, Hue and Cry, Christine Collister, Frank Sidebottom, Jeremy Hardy (Comedian), Hattie Hayridge (Comedian / Red Dwarf), Linda Smith (Comedienne) and on a third visit Dave Gorman (Comedian).25 April to the 5 May 1996 and the 5th and the nal Sandbach Arts Festival featuring The Manfreds, Fairport Convention (Acoustic), Mark Lamarr (Comedian / TV Presenter), Nigel Planer (Young Ones), George Melly with John Chilton’s Feetwalmers, John Shuttleworth, Snowy White (Singer), Circle Sensible and Westgate Brass. Between the 22 June and the 13 July 1996 Sandbach School decided to hold its own “Sandbach School Festival” to not only show o the schools talent but also to bring in big names with legendary folk comedian Vin Garbut and singer Alan Price.It would be another seventeen years before a proper Music Festival appeared in the town in the form of the ‘Fake Festival’ at the Rugby Club (Later to become the Rock n pop festival). In the interim music appeared in various places in the town including the Transport Festival, Christmas Markets, celebrations of events like VE Day and in 2022 the Sandbach Pride festival.

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32Tucked away in a quiet hall in Middlewich, a remarkable miniature world is taking shape, complete with winding roadways, a working weighbridge, a petrol station, café, and even a builder’s yard. This isn’t a model railway, it’s Congleton RC Trucks, a thriving community of remote-controlled truck enthusiasts who bring the magic of the open road to life on a smaller scale.The club began in 2009 as a humble trial meeting at Madeley Village Hall, started by Duncan Thompson and a group of like-minded truck fans. As numbers grew and costs became a challenge, the group moved to a scout hut on Worrall Street in Congleton, where monthly meetings became a regular xture.By 2015, Duncan was ready to retire and announced he’d be stepping back Big Rigs in Miniature at Victoria BuildingBy Congleton RC Trucksfrom running the club. Around this time, the group sadly lost a valued member, Tony Millington. When Tony’s brothers visited to sell his collection, one of them, Leslie, unexpectedly caught the RC truck bug himself. Just a year later, Les and his wife Alison had taken over the running (and the catering!) of the club, breathing new life into the group.With Alison’s hospitality and Les’s dedication, the club quickly outgrew the scout hut. As the layout developed into a miniature industrial estate, complete with intricate details and moving parts, members began travelling from further aeld to take part. A larger venue was found in Middlewich, where the club continues to meet today, though the name Congleton RC Trucks proudly remains, following a vote to keep its roots.The club is a real team eort. Members have generously donated buildings, truck parts, and layout pieces over the years. There are even “learner trucks” for newcomers to try, making it a welcoming environment for beginners and seasoned hobbyists alike. The oor is carpeted to protect the trucks and help with traction, and every detail is considered, from dashboard lights to 3D-printed accessories.Most trucks start life as unpainted Tamiya kits, but it’s the personalisation that brings them to life. Owners can match their models to real-life vehicles, complete with custom graphics, programmed lighting, and sound modules that mimic the roar of a diesel engine. With all the optional extras, a fully nished truck can cost upwards of £1,500, but for many, it’s a labour of love.Whether you’re a curious visitor or a seasoned model builder, Congleton RC Trucks oers a warm welcome and a fantastic sense of community.Find them on Facebook: Congleton RC Trucks or contact Les Millington on 07855 667024 for more information.

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33R.S.C GARDEN R.S.C GARDEN MAINTENANCEMAINTENANCE• Lawn Cutting• Lawn Cutting• Hedge Cutting• Hedge Cutting• Leaf Clearing• Leaf Clearing• General Tidy-ups• General Tidy-upsFriendly,Friendly, Reliable, Reliable, Service. Service.07907 939 53607907 939 536rscgardening@gmail.comrscgardening@gmail.comWe deliver Bidlea Dairy produce to your doorstep- Ready to order... 01260 212 404 -- fresh@cowtocup.co.uk -- www.cowtocup.co.uk - ﬁnd us on - Fresh Milk: Pints, Litres & Flavoured Juice: Orange & AppleBread, Buer & EggsFruit & Veg boxesWeekly Deliveries on Tuesday & FridayDOMESTIC · COMMERCIAL · INDUSTRIAL REWIRES · NEW INSTALLSINSPECTION & TESTINGCCTV · SMART HOME INTEGRATIONFULLY INSUREDLocal family business oering consultation for indoor & outdoor electrical projects. Working with you every step of the process until completion.FULLY APPROVED ELECTRICIANFullyWiredCheshire07989 174875info@fully-wired.co.ukApprovedR.S.C GARDEN R.S.C GARDEN MAINTENANCEMAINTENANCE• Lawn Cutting• Lawn Cutting• Hedge Cutting• Hedge Cutting• Leaf Clearing• Leaf Clearing• General Tidy-ups• General Tidy-upsFriendly,Friendly, Reliable, Reliable, Service. Service.07907 939 53607907 939 536rscgardening@gmail.comrscgardening@gmail.comHave Your Windows Steamed Up?Replace just the failed glass unit!Contact us NOW!Looking to upgrade your existing windows and doors? UPVC, composite or aluminium.Get a FREEQuoteAll glazing backed by ourFinanceOptionsAvailableLatest ECO Friendly Technology Faulty locks, handles or hinges?Priority freephonewww.cloudy2clearwindows.co.ukLove Your Home - Protect Your Windows Save Money

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36Have you experienced the Supper Club at The Village Kitchen, Holmes Chapel yet? I’m an amazing culinary experience and one we are so lucky to have in our village. I have honestly just had one of the most extraordinary meals of my life. By day, The Village Kitchen, is a charming and welcoming café, but on one or two special evenings each month, it transforms into something truly magical: The Village Kitchen Supper Club.These exclusive nights oer a carefully curated four-course menu that showcases culinary creativity at its nest. Each dish is beautifully crafted, perfectly balanced, and bursting with avour, leaving your taste buds dancing and you eagerly anticipating the next bite.I was kindly invited to experience their May menu, and it’s safe to say it’s been one of my favourite invitations to date. I brought along my sister-in-law, we’d both been admired the photos from past supper clubs but had never quite made it. My advice? Book it. You won’t be disappointed, it’s an experience that’s absolutely worth every penny.Each course stood out in its own way, as a lovingly put together and presented dish. The suggested drink pairings for each course were spot on and really enhanced the overall experience, though there’s no pressure to stick to them. Whether you’re in the mood for a bottle of wine or one of their expertly crafted cocktails, you’re free to enjoy it your way. The whole evening felt like something truly special.What I absolutely loved about the Super Club is that, despite its high-end feel and top-quality food presented with elegance, it never came across as overly posh or stuy. The atmosphere Days Out & Meals Out reviewsJenny,Days Out and Meals Out Reviewswas warm and welcoming, with genuinely lovely sta who made the whole experience even more enjoyable. One of my favourite parts was being able to watch the chefs at work behind the counter — nothing hidden, just honest, skilful cooking in full view. It was a great reminder of the care and precision that goes into each dish, and it made the experience feel all the more special. We’re incredibly lucky to have a gem like this right here in our little village.It’s perfect for a special occasion, outstanding food paired with an intimate, welcoming setting. The only problem? You’ll nd yourself inventing excuses to celebrate just so you can come back every month. I literally walked out the door texting my husband a photo of June’s menu, raving about how incredible it was.During the day the Village kitchen, which is tucked away on Church Walk in Holmes Chapel, serves breakfasts, brunch, and lunches. Even in the day they take it to the next level with its delicious and beautifully crafted dishes. So what ever time of day you visit, you wont be disappointed.Check out their socials to nd the dates of their next Supper Club, and book quickly as they soon ll their seats. Open Monday to Saturday 8.30am until 4.00pmHolmes Chapel’s corner spot for light bites, brunch, burgers & more. All homemade, from local produce!Home of The Supper Club - monthly dinner eveningsChurch Walk, Holmes Chapelwww.facebook.com/TheVillageKitchenHCYou can nd more reviews at daysoutandmealsout.com, or Facebook & Instagram, search ‘Days Out and Meals Out’

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38Have you heard? We won GOLD again!Visit Us: 2 Hightown, Sandbach, CW11 1GALocal & Independent Since 1998Contact UsSandbach - 01270 766656www.cheshire-property.comHere at Cheshire Property, We have ofces in Sandbach and Congleton, but with a reach all through Cheshire, Staffordshire and Buxton, we can cover all of your Property Sales and Lettings needs.We may not be the largest Estate Agency in the area but, having won GOLD in the British Property Awards for 2 consecutive years, when it comes to our values and customer service, we’d like to think we’re at the top of the league!!!15% off sales fees for new sales instructions 15% off lettings costs on new tenancy set upsAccountingBruce Marshall & Co 2Aerials, Satellite, TV & InternetH&D Satellite & Aerial Services 14Blinds, Curtains & Soft FurnishingsBlinds 2000 35Buildings, Maintenance & DevelopmentCheshire Roong Contractors 10, 111st Step Driveways 6Prestige Roong Cheshire 28, 29Top Style UK Roong Specialists 16, 17Business ServicesA1 Investigations Bureau 31Leaet Team 24SC Digital 37Carpets & Flooring FittersUnlimited Carpets & Flooring 6CleaningCranmer's of Cheshire 6Community, Education, Classes & ClubsParallel Parents Fostering 23Crafts, Gifts & RetailChurchside Antiques 5ElectriciansFully Wired 31Estate Agents & PropertyCheshire Property Co 38EventsClonter 13Food & DrinkCow To Cup 33Halton Farms The Milk Shack 31Lowes Farm 19Furniture & Home DecorationsWebb House 1Garages, Sheds & Garden BuildingsGarolla 2GardeningBen Roberts Landscaping 14RSC 33Health & FitnessMid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust 21Kitchens, Bedrooms & BathroomsAhm Installations 27M6 Bed Warehouse 9PCM Sealants 5Transform Your Kitchen 3Legal & Financial ServicesJP Goldman 40LocksmithsLockforce Mid & South Cheshire 27Opticians & Hearing AidsCongleton Hearing Centre 15Plumbing, Heating & Boiler ServicesRightio 37Removal Services & Household ClearanceMonster Junk 27Residential Accommodation & CareHC-One Management 39Windows, Doors & ConservatoriesCheshire View 15Cloudy2Clear 33W 14All adverts are printed in good faith. Whilst all reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this magazine, the publishers also accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of statements and opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers, for any loss arising from non-publication of any advertisements for the contents of the advert the services provided by the advertisers or for any errors or omissions in either the editorials or the advertisement published.Quick ReferenceArch Publications Charity Partner 2025, visit www.www.dscheshire.org.uk

Go Local Sandbach - Edition 7 2025

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