Go Local Sandbach - Edition 1 2026 : simplebooklet.com

4Sandbach' Heritage 8Katy meets... TTL Building & Maintenance 12-13St. Michael & All Angels Ringing Team 16Days Out & Meals Out walks in 2026 20-21Man About Town 24Katy meets... Fires of Holmes Chapel, a new chapter in 2026 28The Social Collective 2026 30-32Quick 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 Our First Edition of 2026As we turn the page on a brand-new year, I want to begin by expressing my sincere thanks to everyone who has been part of our journey throughout 2025. Whether you are a loyal reader, a local business, a community group, or someone who picked up our magazine for the rst time last year, your support has helped shape every issue we created. It’s your stories, your achievements, and your contributions that make our magazine a true reection of the communities we serve.The past year brought moments of challenge, celebration, and change, but through it all, we witnessed a remarkable sense of resilience and connection. From local events and new business openings to the inspiring people who make a dierence every day, 2025 gave us so many reasons to feel proud of where we live and the spirit that binds us together.Now, as we step condently into 2026, we do so with excitement and optimism. This year promises fresh opportunities, new voices, and inspiring ideas, and we look forward to continuing to showcase the very best of our community. We have plans to feature more local stories, expand our editorial themes, and collaborate with even more contributors, because this magazine is, at its heart, a celebration of you.Thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to a year lled with progress, positivity and connection. We can’t wait to share the journey with you.Wishing you all a happy, healthy and inspiring start to 2026.

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6Saturday 24th January 2026Paul Janes (grand piano)Mozart, Ireland, Debussy andPoulenc ‘Histoire de Babar’ with Joy Naylor Saturday 21st February 2026The Concert RoyalMusic for a Georgian Drawing RoomSaturday 21st March 2026Before They Become Famous XIXMore students from the Junior RNCM Saturday 25th April 2026Laurence Perkins (bassoon) &Yoshiko Endo (piano)Resonances: Elgar, Albeniz, Bernsteinand much more with a digital ‘Soundscape’Admission £12THIRTY-SIXSEASONTelephone Roger Evans 01606 834471Middlewich and District Concerts Societywww.madcs.org.ukTickets available on ParentPay forparents/carers. Members of the public can purchase ticketsdirectly from the school, main reception. Sandbach High School and Sixth Form College presents3rd-5th February 2026at 6pmAdults:£8 Concessions: £6Request a free brochurewww.ahminstallations.co.uk01270 895132“The ﬁnished bathroom is wonderful,” Mrs Childs, Trustpilot, September 2025Our qualied and friendly team can create a tailored solution for you.Struggling to bathe?We can help 9 Specialists in accessible bathing. 9 FREE home visit and quotation. 9 Full design and installation service. 9 VAT FREE for those with a long-term illness or disability. 9 Tailored solutions for arthritis, mobility issues and chronic pain. 9 ‘Bath out, shower in’ service in as little as two days. 9 Walk-in baths, wetrooms, bidets and toilet lifters also available.£1000 OFF!Quote MERRY1000Offer ends - 20th Dec. 2024.(T&Cs apply, see website)Helping people regain independence since 1999

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7Saturday 24th January 2026Paul Janes (grand piano)Mozart, Ireland, Debussy andPoulenc ‘Histoire de Babar’ with Joy Naylor Saturday 21st February 2026The Concert RoyalMusic for a Georgian Drawing RoomSaturday 21st March 2026Before They Become Famous XIXMore students from the Junior RNCM Saturday 25th April 2026Laurence Perkins (bassoon) &Yoshiko Endo (piano)Resonances: Elgar, Albeniz, Bernsteinand much more with a digital ‘Soundscape’Admission £12THIRTY-SIXSEASONTelephone Roger Evans 01606 834471Middlewich and District Concerts Societywww.madcs.org.ukTickets available on ParentPay forparents/carers. Members of the public can purchase ticketsdirectly from the school, main reception. Sandbach High School and Sixth Form College presents3rd-5th February 2026at 6pmAdults:£8 Concessions: £6Request a free brochurewww.ahminstallations.co.uk01270 895132“The ﬁnished bathroom is wonderful,” Mrs Childs, Trustpilot, September 2025Our qualied and friendly team can create a tailored solution for you.Struggling to bathe?We can help 9 Specialists in accessible bathing. 9 FREE home visit and quotation. 9 Full design and installation service. 9 VAT FREE for those with a long-term illness or disability. 9 Tailored solutions for arthritis, mobility issues and chronic pain. 9 ‘Bath out, shower in’ service in as little as two days. 9 Walk-in baths, wetrooms, bidets and toilet lifters also available.£1000 OFF!Quote MERRY1000Offer ends - 20th Dec. 2024.(T&Cs apply, see website)Helping people regain independence since 1999

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8On the 17 January 1976 the Sandbach Leisure Centre was opened. It was not the rst of its kind that goes back to the 1800’s when the Brook Silk Mill built c1850 had a large rectangular area of water called “The Pool” which was originally built to supply large quantities of water for the production of silk. As part of the site there was a boathouse to the west of the pool suggesting it was used as a Leisure facility. A map from 1849 shows the Brook Mill pool on the west side of the High Street bridge seeping via the Ford into Dingle Lake which was a lot larger than it is today and extended to the roadway by Church Street and it also had a boathouse. An entry in a directory of 1857 has the following information about the Dingle Lake building in Bath Street which was owned by John Brookshouse, “There are baths in the town consisting of a hot, cold, shower and plunge – the latter of such a size as to allow of swimming – and there is a re station.” The site also had an indoor swimming pool and Dance Hall. In 1891 the site was owned by Mr Walter Lea who built the articial lake with the island we now see on this site. On the 27 May 1901(Whit Week) Dingle Lake opened to the public in Sandbach with a “Grand Swimming Gala”. Mr Lea also had a boating-shed, dance hall which was also used as a cinema and open air swimming-bath on the site with these facilities continuing for about 30 years. In 1910 the lake froze over and was used as a skating rink.The popularity of the leisure centre dwindled in the 1940’s and by the 1950’s the site was converted into a shing lake with willow beds used to produce material for making hampers. Sandbach’s Heritageby Stewart GreenBy the late 1890’s Schools were by now taking exercise seriously and facilities were installed in Sandbach School by headmaster Mr G. H. Heslop who had an open air swimming bath erected in the grounds. He also added a Gymnasium and a playing eld before he left in 1898. In 1969 the lido type pool at the school was demolished and a new Sports Hall and Swimming Pool were added to the Sandbach School complex on the same site. On the 17 January 1976 a joint venture between the Congleton Borough Council and the Secondary Modern School lead to the building of a Leisure Centre one of 22 built between 1972 and 1979 by CCC and Borough councils. For Sandbach the Cheshire County Council (Education budget) put in £104 thousand (30%) and £242 thousand (70%) came from Congleton Borough Council. Work started in 1974-5 with construction on a new swimming pool, sports hall, squash courts and an observation gallery which was used for parties and gatherings as well as a classroom during term time. With construction nearing its conclusion one of the workmen who was from Scotland and knew how to play the bagpipes decided to go onto the roof of the building and played the bagpipes for the school children to enjoy. Instead of being told o for his stunt he played them so well that he was invited to play at the school’s assembly for the pupils. In 2018 the gym and the spin studio were redeveloped at a cost of half a million pounds. In 2014 the charity Everybody Health and Leisure took over the operating of the Leisure Centre and various other facilities within Cheshire East. With new opening times it seems the joint use facilities with the school seems to have been stopped. However the School Curriculum quotes the school having access to a Sports Hall (6 Badminton courts in size) an Astro turf pitch (The old hockey eld), hard court areas consisting of 4 netball or tennis courts, a 400 meter grass running track, 6 Rounder’s pitches and a 2 lane long jump pit. In 2024 a brand new gym was opened with modern equipment.

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12rooms, decking and bespoke garden spaces. They worked everywhere from Norfolk to London, even featuring on television once, a job Dom still laughs about. Over time he found himself drawn more to kitchens and interior work, appreciating the creativity and, as he joked, “the benet of being indoors in winter.” He went on to build a successful joinery and kitchen-tting business of his own, earning places on three separate Howdens recommended tter lists. TTL rst brought him in for joinery on a barn conversion, and one job quickly led to more. Before long Dom was juggling TTL’s projects alongside his own, until a particularly busy Christmas tipped the balance. TTL needed four kitchens installed urgently, and after he delivered them all, the directors approached him with a proposal: join the company full time as a director and shareholder.After years of self-employment, Dom never imagined working within another company, but the role oered something he badly needed: balance. With his eldest son playing football in Birmingham several nights a week and matches all over the country at weekends, juggling family life, site work, pricing and paperwork had become overwhelming. “TTL gave me a bit of a reset,” he told me. “I’m still hands-on, still doing what I enjoy, but now I’ve got support behind me.”That support is impressive. Thanks to their connection with A Lench Building Contractors, TTL has the stability and resources of a larger organisation while keeping the warm, personal feel of a local builder. Their dedicated buyer, Kev, uses his decades of merchant experience to secure the best possible prices, getting multiple quotes for every substantial item. Their estimator, Terry, turns drawings and site notes into clear, realistic budgets, a level of organisation that gives customers condence from the very start.TTL also brought their own joinery workshop into the main oce space. “We can make bespoke storage, wardrobes and one-o units in-house,” Dom explained. “It keeps quality high and gives us more control over timings.” Their team handles groundwork, bricklaying, roong, joinery and site clearance themselves, supported by trusted subcontractors for electrics, plumbing and plastering. It’s a setup that allows them to work eciently, smoothly and with impressive consistency, the kind of professionalism that makes customers feel they’re in safe hands.Your home is the biggest purchase you’ll ever make. It’s where routines settle, families grow and memories take shape, so when you decide to extend, convert or redesign that space, choosing the right team matters. You want people who understand how important your home is to you, not just technically, but emotionally too. That’s exactly why I recently caught up with TTL Building & Maintenance, part of the wider Lench Building Group, to learn how they help homeowners turn ideas into reality.You might have already seen their vans bobbing around town, as they’ve just completed a couple of large projects within our community, images of which are included on this page.During my visit, I met Dom, one of TTL’s directors, whose route into the company is as genuine and grounded as they come. Dom started straight from school in the joinery trade, learning the craft from his dad, who travelled the country building high-end outdoor Katy meets... TTL Building & Maintenanceby Katy O’ReganWhat stood out most was their approach to the customer journey. Whether you arrive with full architectural drawings or just an idea and a Pinterest board, TTL make the process feel accessible. If drawings are already in place, Dom visits the property to walk the space, take photographs, understand any restrictions and gather insight into what the homeowner really wants. These details then feed into the quoting process, which typically turns around within a couple of weeks.If you don’t yet have drawings, TTL have excellent architectural contacts who can visit your home, discuss your ideas, create sketches and help you understand what’s possible within your budget. If planning permission or structural calculations are required, they coordinate those elements too, guiding the homeowner through every step.Clients are encouraged to visit TTL’s oces, something Dom says makes a huge dierence. “People like knowing exactly who they’re dealing with. They can pop in, chat through ideas, make changes and speak to someone face-to-face. It reassures them that we’re established, accountable and here whenever they need us.”This clarity extends to timescales. TTL won’t rush a job just to squeeze in another, and they won’t oer unrealistic promises to win a project. Their schedule depends on the type of work and which team is best suited to it, and with multiple skilled groups within the business, they can often start kitchens or joinery-led projects sooner than larger builds. But they’re always upfront.Dom also acknowledges that not every homeowner arrives with a crystal-clear vision. “Some people know exactly what they want. Others can’t picture it until the walls come down. That’s ne, our job is to help them understand the space and guide them to a result they’ll love.”What becomes clear throughout is the strength of TTL’s partnership with A Lench Building Contractors. Together, they combine the expertise, resources and reliability of a larger company with the personal care and accountability homeowners value. It’s a powerful balance, one that gives families peace of mind throughout the entire process.And at the end of it all, once the nal snag is completed and the dust has settled, your new space becomes the setting for future routines, family moments and memories, built with skill, honesty and plenty of heart.

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rooms, decking and bespoke garden spaces. They worked everywhere from Norfolk to London, even featuring on television once, a job Dom still laughs about. Over time he found himself drawn more to kitchens and interior work, appreciating the creativity and, as he joked, “the benet of being indoors in winter.” He went on to build a successful joinery and kitchen-tting business of his own, earning places on three separate Howdens recommended tter lists. TTL rst brought him in for joinery on a barn conversion, and one job quickly led to more. Before long Dom was juggling TTL’s projects alongside his own, until a particularly busy Christmas tipped the balance. TTL needed four kitchens installed urgently, and after he delivered them all, the directors approached him with a proposal: join the company full time as a director and shareholder.After years of self-employment, Dom never imagined working within another company, but the role oered something he badly needed: balance. With his eldest son playing football in Birmingham several nights a week and matches all over the country at weekends, juggling family life, site work, pricing and paperwork had become overwhelming. “TTL gave me a bit of a reset,” he told me. “I’m still hands-on, still doing what I enjoy, but now I’ve got support behind me.”That support is impressive. Thanks to their connection with A Lench Building Contractors, TTL has the stability and resources of a larger organisation while keeping the warm, personal feel of a local builder. Their dedicated buyer, Kev, uses his decades of merchant experience to secure the best possible prices, getting multiple quotes for every substantial item. Their estimator, Terry, turns drawings and site notes into clear, realistic budgets, a level of organisation that gives customers condence from the very start.TTL also brought their own joinery workshop into the main oce space. “We can make bespoke storage, wardrobes and one-o units in-house,” Dom explained. “It keeps quality high and gives us more control over timings.” Their team handles groundwork, bricklaying, roong, joinery and site clearance themselves, supported by trusted subcontractors for electrics, plumbing and plastering. It’s a setup that allows them to work eciently, smoothly and with impressive consistency, the kind of professionalism that makes customers feel they’re in safe hands.Your home is the biggest purchase you’ll ever make. It’s where routines settle, families grow and memories take shape, so when you decide to extend, convert or redesign that space, choosing the right team matters. You want people who understand how important your home is to you, not just technically, but emotionally too. That’s exactly why I recently caught up with TTL Building & Maintenance, part of the wider Lench Building Group, to learn how they help homeowners turn ideas into reality.You might have already seen their vans bobbing around town, as they’ve just completed a couple of large projects within our community, images of which are included on this page.During my visit, I met Dom, one of TTL’s directors, whose route into the company is as genuine and grounded as they come. Dom started straight from school in the joinery trade, learning the craft from his dad, who travelled the country building high-end outdoor Katy meets... TTL Building & Maintenanceby Katy O’ReganWhat stood out most was their approach to the customer journey. Whether you arrive with full architectural drawings or just an idea and a Pinterest board, TTL make the process feel accessible. If drawings are already in place, Dom visits the property to walk the space, take photographs, understand any restrictions and gather insight into what the homeowner really wants. These details then feed into the quoting process, which typically turns around within a couple of weeks.If you don’t yet have drawings, TTL have excellent architectural contacts who can visit your home, discuss your ideas, create sketches and help you understand what’s possible within your budget. If planning permission or structural calculations are required, they coordinate those elements too, guiding the homeowner through every step.Clients are encouraged to visit TTL’s oces, something Dom says makes a huge dierence. “People like knowing exactly who they’re dealing with. They can pop in, chat through ideas, make changes and speak to someone face-to-face. It reassures them that we’re established, accountable and here whenever they need us.”This clarity extends to timescales. TTL won’t rush a job just to squeeze in another, and they won’t oer unrealistic promises to win a project. Their schedule depends on the type of work and which team is best suited to it, and with multiple skilled groups within the business, they can often start kitchens or joinery-led projects sooner than larger builds. But they’re always upfront.Dom also acknowledges that not every homeowner arrives with a crystal-clear vision. “Some people know exactly what they want. Others can’t picture it until the walls come down. That’s ne, our job is to help them understand the space and guide them to a result they’ll love.”What becomes clear throughout is the strength of TTL’s partnership with A Lench Building Contractors. Together, they combine the expertise, resources and reliability of a larger company with the personal care and accountability homeowners value. It’s a powerful balance, one that gives families peace of mind throughout the entire process.And at the end of it all, once the nal snag is completed and the dust has settled, your new space becomes the setting for future routines, family moments and memories, built with skill, honesty and plenty of heart.

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15WE REMOVE ANYTHING...Furniture, appliances, pianos,sofas, beds, wardrobes, DIY wasteand all rubbish removedWE CLEAR-OUT ANYWHERE...Homes, oces, shops, garages,gardens, los etcwww.monsterjunk.comPROTECTION SOLUTIONSJANUSJANUSProfessional Manned Guarding & Rapid Alarm Response ServicesPROTECT WHATMATTERS MOSTKEYHOLDING• Securekeyholding&collection• Immediateattendanceatyourpremises• Assetprotection&riskmitigation• AordableforyourhomeTAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SECURITY TODAY!0161 706 0857info@janusprotectionsolutions.comPeace of mind from only £25 per montht’s&c’s applyAls 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 832874Suite 11 • The Old Fuel Depot • Twemlow Lane • Twemlow • Cheshire • CW4 8GJ01270 765888 • accounts@brucemarshall.co.uk • www.brucemarshall.co.ukCall us today for afree consultationCompanyAccountsSelf-AssessmentPayrollBusinessStart-upsVAT

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16If you want to try something new and love music why not have a go at hand bell ringing? You do not have to be a musician or to have any musical knowledge to experience the thrill of making music with hand bells since the music is marked up to make it easy to follow. However, it helps if you can count to four, six, and occasionally even up to nine! Sometimes this proves more challenging than you might expect and practices are always punctuated by peals of laughter!We all know about tower bells, tolling out across the countryside. Not so many of us are acquainted with their smaller, older cousins, the hand bells. In fact hand bells have been around for a very long time and certainly existed during the Roman Empire. However, St. Michael and All Angels Ringing TeamJoin us on Tuesday evenings in Middlewichit was not until they had moved into the church that they became associated with music making, perhaps as a simple accompaniment to chants or for practising change ringing. By the 19th century tune ringing was well established and that is what we do.The ability to play tunes is the main advantage of hand bell ringing since it is well nigh impossible with the big bells. Paradoxically, the St. Michael and All Angels Ringing Team (SMAART) was formed as a result of a demonstration in 1999 by George Bailey, a tower bell ringer and the choir master at St. Michael and All Angels Church, Middlewich, to the local Mothers’ Union. This provoked interest amongst the members, resulting in a team being formed. SMAART has developed steadily and, over the past 25 years, has given performances in all sorts of venues. In that time we have built up an extensive repertoire of music - classical, folk, musicals, hymns, carols, etc. As well as the hand bells we also use hand chimes and belleplates, which are much lighter instruments.We are seeking to welcome new members to our friendly and enthusiastic team to share our love of hand bell ringing. Although it is always a pleasure to make music there are other benets to activities such as this. It is very much a team activity since we all rely on each other. It is excellent for developing hand, ear and eye co-ordination and it provides an inclusive social experience suitable for all ages. So why not have a go? We practise on Tuesday evenings in Middlewich. If you are interested in nding out more about us or joining us please contact David Hawkes on 01606 832148 or Chris Overton on 07722 195807.

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19THE MILK SHACK@ HALTON FARMSMade with Le at Halt Fms xscan meto find usfresh raw & pasteurised milk, buer, milkshakes, cheeses, local produce, coffee, merchandise & much more...chance ha farm, chance ha lane, cw1212 44tl. open every day from 4.304.30am until 99pm H & DSATELLITE AND AERIALS01270 417 6100775 696 2878TV Aerial/Freesat/SatelliteInstalls & RepairsTV System Fault Finding &DiagnosisTV System Set UPAdditional SocketsLOCAL, FRIENDLY & RELIABLE SERVICEFOR A FREE NO OBLIGATIONQUOTE, CALL DAVE & HELENwww.hdaerials.co.ukRightio Plumbing &HeatingCOMPETITIVE RATES01270 417 4747 Days a week | 7am - 7pm | All diagnostic work chargable | National Coverage, Local EngineersOUR SERVICESBoiler BreakdownsRadiators & PipesTanks & CylindersBoiler ServicingToilets & TapsLeaks & BurstsShowers Clearing BlockagesPipework ReplacementGas Safe CertifiedFast ResponseAll Work GuaranteedFlexible Appointment Times65092112 Month OAP DiscountExcludes blockagesSpeak to ustoday!1-2 HourEmergencyResponsetime!Guarantee on labour!We work in Sandbach,Sandbach Heath,Elworth, Wheelockand all surroundingareas. great drinksknowledgeable staff100% independent10 keg lines, 6 cask ales, internaonal bole and cra can selecon.The best lager in town!THE FOUR PRIESTS, SANDBACH8 Welles St, Sandbach, Cheshire CW11 1GTOpen 7 dayswww.fourpriests.co.ukfantasticcompanywonderfulconversation Trying something lighter thisJanuary?We’ve gotgreat options.Here’s to a great 2026, Sandbach.Thanks for supporng local.

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20Brereton Heath Local Nature ReserveAn easy circular walk perfect for young cyclists and scooter users. A Christmas Elf Hunt runs until 4 January, starting near the visitor centre. Feed the ducks and visit The Little Cow Shed nearby. Pram friendly.Parking: CW12 4SU, 1–3 hours £2.80.Lymm Railway Line (Altrincham to Lymm)Part of the Transpennine Trail. A long, wide, well-surfaced route along an old railway line with no trac, ideal for families. Multiple stopping points for food, including The Dunham Barn, Dunham Massey Ice Cream, The Rope & Anchor, and Dunham Apple Barn.Parking: Transpennine Trail car park, WA14 5RF.Westport LakeA at 1-mile circular walk suitable for all ages, with a playground and a café overlooking the water.Parking: ST6 4RZ, 3 hours £1.50.The Wizard Walk, Alderley EdgeA network of routes oering something new on each visit. Options include the Miners Ramble to an old mine, the Donkey Trek into the valley, and the Wizard Wonder leading to the iconic viewpoint over the Cheshire Plain. There is also a wooden assault course for children and a well-loved tearoom.Parking: SK10 4UB (free for National Trust members).Chester WallsWalk the full 2.9km circuit of Britain’s oldest, longest and most complete city walls for outstanding views and a glimpse into 2,000 years of history. A playground and green space lie just below the Water Tower. Plenty of cafés are accessible from the walls.Parking: Watergate Street Car Park, CH1 4JH.White NancyA scenic circular trail taking you up Kerridge Ridge to White Nancy, commemorating the Battle of Waterloo. The ridge oers wonderful Cheshire views, a trig point further along, and a pretty riverside waterfall on the descent.Parking: Lord Street, Bollington, SK10 5BN.The Cloud, CongletonA short but rewarding climb from Timbersbrook Car Park, including 136 steps and further ascent up Bosley Hill. Stunning views from the summit and a trig point reward little legs.Parking: Timberbrook picnic area, CW12 3PP.Millennium Walkway, New MillsA dramatic 160m walkway suspended above the gorge where the river meets a large weir, connecting New Mills, The Torrs and Riverside Park. Other routes include Sett Valley Trail and The Torrs. High Lea Park oers a great play area, and the town has plenty of cafés and pubs for lunch.Parking: Torr Top Street car park, SK22 4BS.Rudyard LakeA 7.5km circular walk around Rudyard Lake with features including a boathouse, a railway line and an old castle-style building. A pushchair-friendly 5km option follows the railway side of the lake.Parking: Visitor Centre, ST13 8XB (4 hours £2, all day £3) or free at the North Car Park and the station.Tittesworth WaterAn 8km circular reservoir walk with woodland, steps, dam-side sections and a large playground. A lovely café is located at the visitor area.Parking: ST13 8SW, £5.50 for 2–4 hours.Salt Line and Borrow Pit MeadowsA 3km disused railway line forming a at, well-surfaced trail suitable for scooters, bikes and pushchairs. Picnic tables are dotted along the route.Parking: Sandbach, CW11 4YB.Dunham Massey (National Trust)Enjoy the wide parkland and the seasonal “Winter Walk with Speechly the Pineapple” trail, running until 8 March and perfect for younger families.Parking: Free for National Trust members.Tatton Park (National Trust)Park in Knutsford and walk in, or drive into Tatton to explore the sweeping parkland and gardens.Parking: £8, with 10% o for pre-booking.New Year Walks in CheshireThere’s nothing better than getting outdoors over after the festive season, shaking o the cobwebs with a refreshing New Year’s walk. Cheshire has so many beautiful spots to explore, and it’s the perfect way to stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and enjoy time with family and friends.Here are some of my favourites.Teggs NoseA brilliant 4km walk with far-reaching views. From the visitor centre, head up past the old quarry and equipment display. At Teggs Nose summit, enjoy panoramic views across Maccleseld Forest before descending to the reservoir and dam. Continue across the stepping stones and return to the car park for a well-earned stop at The Nose Coee.Parking: SK11 0AP, up to 3 hours £2.80.Marbury Country ParkStroll along the mere with views across to Great Budworth’s church, or explore the arboretum and community orchard. The excellent play area makes this perfect for families. Pram friendly.Parking: £1.50 for 3 hours.Delamere ForestChoose from a range of routes, including the climb to Old Pale Hill for a tougher walk or the Grualo Trail for younger walkers. The circuit around Blakemere Moss is ideal for new cyclists or scooter users due to its wide, at paths. Visitor centre café and paid parking available.Free parking: Yeld Lane, CW6 0TB, and Gresty’s Waste, CW6 0SP.Lud’s Church and The Hanging StoneAn 8km walk best tackled in dry conditions. This striking corner of the Roaches blends the atmospheric, moss-covered chasm of Lud’s Church with the exposed gritstone of the Hanging Stone, oering sweeping views across the Cheshire Plain.Parking: Danebridge, Wincle, SK11 0QE.The Whitegate WayOnce a rail link for Cheshire’s salt industry, this at 10km trail from Winsford to Cuddington is perfect for cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users. Mid-way you’ll nd the main access point with a large free car park, toilets and the Station House Café. Pram friendly.Parking: CW7 2QE.Shakerley Mere, near Holmes ChapelA gentle 1.5km loop around the mere through woodland, with picnic tables beneath birch and oak trees. At weekends, enjoy drinks and cake from Crumbs Coee Company.Parking: CW8 9LB.River Weaver CircularA at, well-maintained 7km riverbank walk in Northwich, suitable for pushchairs, bikes and scooters. The hard-surfaced path is popular with both walkers and runners.Parking: Free at Yarwood Close, CW8 1ET.Biddulph Grange Country ParkSet beside the National Trust garden, this beautiful 73-acre park oers woodland, meadows, a lake, caves and waterfalls. Well-constructed paths oer several routes, and The Hideaway Café is open Sat–Sun 10–4pm, Mon–Tues 10–3pm.Parking: Free at ST8 7SB.Lymm DamA short, 1.5km family-friendly circuit in a picturesque village setting. The walk is pushchair accessible and there is often a coee van on the dam, with cafés nearby in Lymm village.Parking: WA13 0AP (free).Styal WoodsPart of the Styal Estate linked to Quarry Bank Mill. From the Quarry Bank car park, follow the path to Styal Workers’ Village and continue through woodland along the River Bollin. The walk currently stops at Giants Castle Bridge due to closure. National Trust café available.Parking: Quarry Bank car park (free).ShutlingsloeA rewarding 5.5km there-and-back walk for families wanting a challenge. Follow wide forest paths before ascending the stone slab path up the 506-metre peak for impressive views and a summit trig point.Parking: Trentabank car park, SK11 0NS.Astbury Mere Country ParkA former sand quarry oering a gentle 1.5km circular path around the lake. Ideal for scooters and bikes. GG’s Coee Hub serves drinks, ice cream and cakes beside the car park (closed 22–26 & 31 Dec, 1 Jan). Pram friendly.Parking: CW12 4FP, 60p for up to 2 hours.Days Out & Meals Out walks in 2026Jenny,Days Out and Meals Out ReviewsYou can nd more reviews at daysoutandmealsout.com, or Facebook & Instagram, search ‘Days Out and Meals Out’

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21Brereton Heath Local Nature ReserveAn easy circular walk perfect for young cyclists and scooter users. A Christmas Elf Hunt runs until 4 January, starting near the visitor centre. Feed the ducks and visit The Little Cow Shed nearby. Pram friendly.Parking: CW12 4SU, 1–3 hours £2.80.Lymm Railway Line (Altrincham to Lymm)Part of the Transpennine Trail. A long, wide, well-surfaced route along an old railway line with no trac, ideal for families. Multiple stopping points for food, including The Dunham Barn, Dunham Massey Ice Cream, The Rope & Anchor, and Dunham Apple Barn.Parking: Transpennine Trail car park, WA14 5RF.Westport LakeA at 1-mile circular walk suitable for all ages, with a playground and a café overlooking the water.Parking: ST6 4RZ, 3 hours £1.50.The Wizard Walk, Alderley EdgeA network of routes oering something new on each visit. Options include the Miners Ramble to an old mine, the Donkey Trek into the valley, and the Wizard Wonder leading to the iconic viewpoint over the Cheshire Plain. There is also a wooden assault course for children and a well-loved tearoom.Parking: SK10 4UB (free for National Trust members).Chester WallsWalk the full 2.9km circuit of Britain’s oldest, longest and most complete city walls for outstanding views and a glimpse into 2,000 years of history. A playground and green space lie just below the Water Tower. Plenty of cafés are accessible from the walls.Parking: Watergate Street Car Park, CH1 4JH.White NancyA scenic circular trail taking you up Kerridge Ridge to White Nancy, commemorating the Battle of Waterloo. The ridge oers wonderful Cheshire views, a trig point further along, and a pretty riverside waterfall on the descent.Parking: Lord Street, Bollington, SK10 5BN.The Cloud, CongletonA short but rewarding climb from Timbersbrook Car Park, including 136 steps and further ascent up Bosley Hill. Stunning views from the summit and a trig point reward little legs.Parking: Timberbrook picnic area, CW12 3PP.Millennium Walkway, New MillsA dramatic 160m walkway suspended above the gorge where the river meets a large weir, connecting New Mills, The Torrs and Riverside Park. Other routes include Sett Valley Trail and The Torrs. High Lea Park oers a great play area, and the town has plenty of cafés and pubs for lunch.Parking: Torr Top Street car park, SK22 4BS.Rudyard LakeA 7.5km circular walk around Rudyard Lake with features including a boathouse, a railway line and an old castle-style building. A pushchair-friendly 5km option follows the railway side of the lake.Parking: Visitor Centre, ST13 8XB (4 hours £2, all day £3) or free at the North Car Park and the station.Tittesworth WaterAn 8km circular reservoir walk with woodland, steps, dam-side sections and a large playground. A lovely café is located at the visitor area.Parking: ST13 8SW, £5.50 for 2–4 hours.Salt Line and Borrow Pit MeadowsA 3km disused railway line forming a at, well-surfaced trail suitable for scooters, bikes and pushchairs. Picnic tables are dotted along the route.Parking: Sandbach, CW11 4YB.Dunham Massey (National Trust)Enjoy the wide parkland and the seasonal “Winter Walk with Speechly the Pineapple” trail, running until 8 March and perfect for younger families.Parking: Free for National Trust members.Tatton Park (National Trust)Park in Knutsford and walk in, or drive into Tatton to explore the sweeping parkland and gardens.Parking: £8, with 10% o for pre-booking.New Year Walks in CheshireThere’s nothing better than getting outdoors over after the festive season, shaking o the cobwebs with a refreshing New Year’s walk. Cheshire has so many beautiful spots to explore, and it’s the perfect way to stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and enjoy time with family and friends.Here are some of my favourites.Teggs NoseA brilliant 4km walk with far-reaching views. From the visitor centre, head up past the old quarry and equipment display. At Teggs Nose summit, enjoy panoramic views across Maccleseld Forest before descending to the reservoir and dam. Continue across the stepping stones and return to the car park for a well-earned stop at The Nose Coee.Parking: SK11 0AP, up to 3 hours £2.80.Marbury Country ParkStroll along the mere with views across to Great Budworth’s church, or explore the arboretum and community orchard. The excellent play area makes this perfect for families. Pram friendly.Parking: £1.50 for 3 hours.Delamere ForestChoose from a range of routes, including the climb to Old Pale Hill for a tougher walk or the Grualo Trail for younger walkers. The circuit around Blakemere Moss is ideal for new cyclists or scooter users due to its wide, at paths. Visitor centre café and paid parking available.Free parking: Yeld Lane, CW6 0TB, and Gresty’s Waste, CW6 0SP.Lud’s Church and The Hanging StoneAn 8km walk best tackled in dry conditions. This striking corner of the Roaches blends the atmospheric, moss-covered chasm of Lud’s Church with the exposed gritstone of the Hanging Stone, oering sweeping views across the Cheshire Plain.Parking: Danebridge, Wincle, SK11 0QE.The Whitegate WayOnce a rail link for Cheshire’s salt industry, this at 10km trail from Winsford to Cuddington is perfect for cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users. Mid-way you’ll nd the main access point with a large free car park, toilets and the Station House Café. Pram friendly.Parking: CW7 2QE.Shakerley Mere, near Holmes ChapelA gentle 1.5km loop around the mere through woodland, with picnic tables beneath birch and oak trees. At weekends, enjoy drinks and cake from Crumbs Coee Company.Parking: CW8 9LB.River Weaver CircularA at, well-maintained 7km riverbank walk in Northwich, suitable for pushchairs, bikes and scooters. The hard-surfaced path is popular with both walkers and runners.Parking: Free at Yarwood Close, CW8 1ET.Biddulph Grange Country ParkSet beside the National Trust garden, this beautiful 73-acre park oers woodland, meadows, a lake, caves and waterfalls. Well-constructed paths oer several routes, and The Hideaway Café is open Sat–Sun 10–4pm, Mon–Tues 10–3pm.Parking: Free at ST8 7SB.Lymm DamA short, 1.5km family-friendly circuit in a picturesque village setting. The walk is pushchair accessible and there is often a coee van on the dam, with cafés nearby in Lymm village.Parking: WA13 0AP (free).Styal WoodsPart of the Styal Estate linked to Quarry Bank Mill. From the Quarry Bank car park, follow the path to Styal Workers’ Village and continue through woodland along the River Bollin. The walk currently stops at Giants Castle Bridge due to closure. National Trust café available.Parking: Quarry Bank car park (free).ShutlingsloeA rewarding 5.5km there-and-back walk for families wanting a challenge. Follow wide forest paths before ascending the stone slab path up the 506-metre peak for impressive views and a summit trig point.Parking: Trentabank car park, SK11 0NS.Astbury Mere Country ParkA former sand quarry oering a gentle 1.5km circular path around the lake. Ideal for scooters and bikes. GG’s Coee Hub serves drinks, ice cream and cakes beside the car park (closed 22–26 & 31 Dec, 1 Jan). Pram friendly.Parking: CW12 4FP, 60p for up to 2 hours.Days Out & Meals Out walks in 2026Jenny,Days Out and Meals Out ReviewsYou can nd more reviews at daysoutandmealsout.com, or Facebook & Instagram, search ‘Days Out and Meals Out’

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22The U14 footballers were victorious at the 7 a-side SouthCheshire tournament. A tough tournament with back to backquick fire games and strong opposition. The team work andresilience of all players was fantastic with outstanding footballplayed throughout, especially with multiple players steppingup and playing out of position. Our U14 A team did not lose asingle match and were crowned overall winners. Sporting round up at SandbachHigh School and Sixth Form College Our Junior (Year 7 & 8) and Inter (Year 9 & 10) teams had verystrong performances at the English schools cross-country cup,representing the school excellently, doing their team and theschool proud. Lots of fantastic solo performances but a specialmention to Year 9 Jemima on an amazing first place in the interscategory race. A fantastic achievement especially due to racingagainst a significant number of students in the year above. Our U13 and U15 cricketers competing at the county cricketfinals. A fantastic day of superb cricket with over 100 girlscompeting for their schools. The School are incredibly proud ofboth teams and their success, however a special mention tothe U15s who were crowned overall county champions. Anoutstanding team effort and finish to the cricket season!Our Year 10 and 11 athletics team competed at theNorth West Regional Invitation athletics event inOctober, at the prestigious event at the ManchesterRegional arena which is by invitation only for the mostsuccessful athletics schools in the North West. Welldone to all athletes in their events with an array ofstand out performances.Special mention for Isla Bwho won Gold achieving a long jump PB of 5.19m!England rugby selection for TWO of our Year 12 TASS college students,Lola & Megan who have been selected for the England RugbyRegional player development group. They were part of Sandbach HighSchool first U16 rugby during their time in school. Now dual careerathletes in college, both play club rugby as well as U18 college rugbyfor Sale Sharks Northwest colleges program. Holly (year 10) hasbeen nominated forthe Cheshire FA YoungVolunteer of the Yearaward. Year 9 students Leoni & Izzy andYear 8 student Flossy have beenselected for Cheshire SchoolsFA county squad. The footballersfeatured in their recent fixturewith a 3-1 win over ManchesterCounty schools. Naomi a TASS dual careerathlete (Yr13) has beennamed as the County golfcaptain for Cheshire girls.Naomi has shown outstandingcommitment to her dualcareer in golf as well asCollege whilst studying forher A Levels. Talented goalkeeperLila (Year 7)has beenselected torepresent Cheshirecounty hockey as U13keeper. Holly hasplayedfootball forschool at allage groupsand continuesto do amazingwork for thecommunitywith hergrassrootsclub.

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23Innovative graphic design and professional printing that delivers in more ways than one! We can help you stand out from the crowd, while you help to make Cheshire a better place for people with muscular dystrophy. From business stationery to banners, newsletters to annual reports, calendars to website design, children’s books, wedding stationery, and much more, we’ve got you covered. Work with us to support local charity, NeuroMuscular Centre.GraphicDesign+PrintManagementPart of The NeuroMuscular Centrealison-evans@nmcentre.comnmcdesignandprint.com01606 863 464@NMCDesignPrint AFTERWe specialise in restoring & cleaning your patio and driveways. We can bring your outside spaces back to life at a FRACTION of the cost of replacing! AFTERBRERETONDRIVEWAYSContact David for any advice or a quote:07568948383 / 01477 760705 orwww.BreretonDriveways.co.ukAFTERBEFOREBEFOREBEFOREThe U14 footballers were victorious at the 7 a-side SouthCheshire tournament. A tough tournament with back to backquick fire games and strong opposition. The team work andresilience of all players was fantastic with outstanding footballplayed throughout, especially with multiple players steppingup and playing out of position. Our U14 A team did not lose asingle match and were crowned overall winners. Sporting round up at SandbachHigh School and Sixth Form College Our Junior (Year 7 & 8) and Inter (Year 9 & 10) teams had verystrong performances at the English schools cross-country cup,representing the school excellently, doing their team and theschool proud. Lots of fantastic solo performances but a specialmention to Year 9 Jemima on an amazing first place in the interscategory race. A fantastic achievement especially due to racingagainst a significant number of students in the year above. Our U13 and U15 cricketers competing at the county cricketfinals. A fantastic day of superb cricket with over 100 girlscompeting for their schools. The School are incredibly proud ofboth teams and their success, however a special mention tothe U15s who were crowned overall county champions. Anoutstanding team effort and finish to the cricket season!Our Year 10 and 11 athletics team competed at theNorth West Regional Invitation athletics event inOctober, at the prestigious event at the ManchesterRegional arena which is by invitation only for the mostsuccessful athletics schools in the North West. Welldone to all athletes in their events with an array ofstand out performances.Special mention for Isla Bwho won Gold achieving a long jump PB of 5.19m!England rugby selection for TWO of our Year 12 TASS college students,Lola & Megan who have been selected for the England RugbyRegional player development group. They were part of Sandbach HighSchool first U16 rugby during their time in school. Now dual careerathletes in college, both play club rugby as well as U18 college rugbyfor Sale Sharks Northwest colleges program. Holly (year 10) hasbeen nominated forthe Cheshire FA YoungVolunteer of the Yearaward. Year 9 students Leoni & Izzy andYear 8 student Flossy have beenselected for Cheshire SchoolsFA county squad. The footballersfeatured in their recent fixturewith a 3-1 win over ManchesterCounty schools. Naomi a TASS dual careerathlete (Yr13) has beennamed as the County golfcaptain for Cheshire girls.Naomi has shown outstandingcommitment to her dualcareer in golf as well asCollege whilst studying forher A Levels. Talented goalkeeperLila (Year 7)has beenselected torepresent Cheshirecounty hockey as U13keeper. Holly hasplayedfootball forschool at allage groupsand continuesto do amazingwork for thecommunitywith hergrassrootsclub.

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24One-to-one tuition & workshopsFor children, young people & adultsBuild confidence, communication & presenceDevelop acting and public speaking skillsUse drama as a creative vehicle for personal growthAudition & drama school preparationLed by actress Suzanne Collins (Brookside & much more), with nearly 30 years’ experience in TV, film & theatre.Sessions in Holmes Chapel.Register now:www.suzannecollins.co.ukHelping performers of all ages shine on stage, on screen and in life.Happy New Year, fellow Sandbachians. I hope you all had a restful Christmas, surrounded by love, warmth, and Ferrero Rocher.It feels odd typing that prior to the end of November, when our Christmas decorations remain rmly nestled in the loft, and I have yet to succumb to that rst play of Shakin’ Stevens, but our printing deadlines dictate that I’m constantly a couple of months in advance. I’m quite the visionary, in that respect.Speaking of visionary, in recent years the world has seen an exponential – and, for me at least, somewhat concerning – increase in the use of Articial Intelligence. I say concerning, because I’ve watched ‘The Terminator’, so I know how badly this reliance on technology could end for the planet. James Cameron’s warning signs were there four decades ago, and it seems we’re all now looking the other way because we quite Man About TownByGreg Halllike it when a computer does things for us.That said, I’m just as guilty of reverting to AI if it means ticking a job o my seemingly never-ending list of things to do. So long as I use phrases like ‘please’, ‘thank you’ and ‘I beg you not to enslave us all’ when I ask ChatGPT for assistance (other imminent overlords are available), then I can carry on pretending like everything is ok.With that in mind, I’ll admit to using AI for this article. While I would never use it to write the whole thing (although, if I start running out of ideas as I enter my fourth year of contributing, I’ll accept it’s a risk) I asked ChatGPT to compile a list of suitable New Year’s Resolutions for the ne folk of Sandbach.Helpfully, humanity’s soon to be leader broke the resulting suggestions into four categories. In the rst, ‘Community and Local Life’, it recommended that I should visit the Makers Market every month, get involved with local clubs and groups (such as bowls, walking or music), volunteer at a local event, attend more performances, or support at least one new independent business each month. That’ll be me taking up vaping, then.Under ‘Health and Outdoors’, the suggestions are to walk a new footpath or countryside trail every Sunday, join a tness class or sports team, discover nearby beauty spots (such as Brereton Heath, Wheelock Rail Trail or Burslem) and have one ‘car-free day’ a week.Finally, under ‘Personal Growth’ we’re advised to learn a new skill or hobby, read more books or take a local class/course, while our ‘Wellbeing and Lifestyle’ can be boosted by dedicating one evening a week to self-care, decluttering our homes, or exploring more of Cheshire.Sounds good to me. And, yes, I was joking about Burslem.

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28As the New Year arrives, a moment often associated with renewal and fresh starts, the team at Fires of Holmes Chapel is celebrating an exciting new chapter in its long-standing story. After almost two decades serving the community, the well-respected family business formerly known as Stove Yard Cheshire has unveiled a refreshed identity and a new name that better reects its evolution, values and growing expertise.The name Fires of Holmes Chapel was chosen with intention. While the business has become known for its technical understanding of wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves, its oering has always reached beyond this. For many years, the team has also specialised in gas res, replaces and outdoor heating and cooking solutions, with electric res introduced more recently to broaden the choice available to customers. The word “res” recognises this wider range, a celebration of all the ways people bring warmth, atmosphere and comfort into their homes and gardens.From their established showroom in Holmes Chapel, the team continues to provide high-quality appliances supported by honest, expert-led guidance. The refreshed brand reinforces what customers have appreciated from the beginning: craftsmanship, compliance, technical expertise and an approachable, local service. Fires of Holmes Chapel remains committed to oering expert consultation over salesmanship, ensuring safety, suitability and clarity guide every recommendation.Importantly, the business works only with manufacturers who meet and Katy meets... Fires of Holmes Chapel, a new chapter in 2026ByKaty O’Reganoften exceed environmental legislation. This commitment ensures that customers benet from cleaner, more ecient technologies that align with modern standards and future regulations, an increasingly important consideration for responsible home heating.The business began in 2005, somewhat unexpectedly, when a spare stove purchased for a house renovation was advertised in a local paper and demand surged overnight. By 2008, a small hands-on showroom opened its doors, giving customers the chance to explore products in person. This tactile, supportive approach remains central to the customer experience today.Over the years, the company became an appointed dealer for leading brands including Esse, Dunsley, Charnwood, Stovax, Hwam and Wiking. Their technical reputation also grew, becoming early HETAS Approved Retailers and contributing to national standards through HETAS committees and the Stove Industry Alliance.In 2024, when long-standing sales manager Russell Clarke became sole owner, the showroom oering expanded further to include electric res, media walls and an extended selection of surrounds.Today, as Fires of Holmes Chapel, the vision is clearer than ever: Safety-rst guidance, expert consultation, local care and a curated product range built on craftsmanship and environmental responsibility.To support this, the website, resofholmeschapel.co.uk, now includes an easy online consultation booking system, allowing customers to schedule tailored advice at a time that suits them.A New Year, a rened identity, and a fresh chapter for a trusted local business.

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30centring plans around drinking.Enjoy Creative HobbiesWith fewer late nights, January is the perfect time to reconnect with hobbies you love or explore new ones. Creative writing, knitting, gardening, learning an instrument or even starting a small DIY project can be surprisingly rewarding. You don’t need to master a skill overnight, simply enjoying the process is part of the appeal.Explore and Photograph Sandbach and CheshireTake a fresh look at Sandbach and the wider Cheshire area. Wrap up warm, head out for a walk and challenge yourself to photograph the best sights along the way. From familiar streets and historic corners of Sandbach to Cheshire’s countryside and green spaces, using your smartphone to capture everyday moments can help you appreciate what’s on your doorstep.Release Your Inner ArtistJanuary is a great time to get creative. Pick up a pencil, paintbrush or sketchpad and practise drawing or painting, even something simple like a houseplant or your pet. Art doesn’t need to be perfect to be enjoyable; it’s about switching o and letting your creativity ow.Cook Up a StormPut your extra evenings to good use in the kitchen. Try new recipes, experiment with avours or plan a themed meal night. You could even explore alcohol-free cocktails or mocktails to add a bit of fun and air to your January evenings.Get Active and Move MoreStaying active can boost your mood and energy levels during the darker winter weeks. Gentle walks around Sandbach, countryside rambles across Cheshire, swimming, running or joining a local tness group are all great ways to move more. Even small changes, like committing to regular walks outdoors, can make a big dierence.Refresh How You SocialiseSocialising doesn’t have to revolve around alcohol. Board game nights, escape rooms, bowling, book clubs or hosting a dinner party are all brilliant ways to spend time with friends. You could even start a leaderboard for game nights or set a monthly book challenge to keep things interesting.Listen to, or Make, MusicSet aside an evening to really listen to music. Dig out old vinyl, rediscover favourite albums or create a playlist lled with songs that mean something to you. If you play an The Social Collective is a new monthly space in our magazines dedicated to the simple things that help us live well, staying healthy, staying connected, and staying part of the communities around us. Each month, we’ll explore a dierent theme that touches everyday life, oering friendly insights as well as practical tips to support wellbeing in a real, relatable way.As we step into January, many people take a moment to reect on their relationship with alcohol, whether that’s a gentle reset after the festive season, a curiosity about low-and-no options, or a more personal look at how habits shape our lives. In this rst edition, we bring together three perspectives: the physical eects alcohol can have on our hearing, the social side of drinking and the growing world of alcohol-free choices, and nally, an honest personal story about seeking help when alcohol becomes something harder to navigate.Together, these pieces remind us that wellbeing isn’t about perfection, it’s about awareness, connection, and knowing support is always within reach. The Social CollectiveExploring the relationships that shape local living.instrument, spend time practising, or, if you’ve always wanted to learn, January is a great time to start.Support Local VenuesFinally, going alcohol-free doesn’t mean staying in. Many pubs, cafés and venues across Sandbach and Cheshire now oer excellent low- and no-alcohol options, making it easy to enjoy a night out while supporting local businesses. Choosing these venues helps keep the local community thriving, and proves that January can still be social, enjoyable and full of great choices.There’s More on Tap Than AlcoholBy KatyJanuary has a way of encouraging a reset. After the busyness of December, many people ease into the new year by mixing things up a little, and for some, that includes taking part in Dry January. Increasingly, it’s less about what you’re giving up and more about what you get to try instead.Alcohol-free drinks have come a long way, and they now sit comfortably alongside traditional favourites. What was once a limited choice has grown into a genuinely interesting range of beers, wines and spirits that focus on avour and quality. For many people, alcohol-free options are simply another choice, something to enjoy during January, or whenever the mood takes them.Rather than replacing alcoholic drinks, alcohol-free options add variety. They give people more exibility when they’re out with friends, meeting up locally or settling in for a relaxed evening. The social side of going out doesn’t change , you’re still sharing a drink, just choosing what suits you in that moment.Dry January has helped bring these options into the spotlight. It’s a chance to try something new, discover a drink Alcohol-Free Activities to Try This JanuaryJanuary is often seen as a quieter month, a chance to reset, slow down and try something dierent. If you’re choosing to go alcohol-free this month, it’s also a great opportunity to rediscover activities that bring enjoyment, creativity and connection, without you might not have picked before, and realise that alcohol-free doesn’t mean compromising on taste or experience. For many, those discoveries stick around long after January ends.Local venues are really leading the way here, showing just how good alcohol-free choices can be. At Four Priests, for example, the selection goes well beyond a single token option. Their alcohol-free range includes three dierent Lervig IPAs, alongside Delirium Belgian Blond, Jever German lager, and Bach 95, a locally produced alcohol-free lager. It’s the kind of menu that makes choosing alcohol-free feel easy, and enjoyable.By oering thoughtful choices, independent pubs and bars create welcoming spaces for everyone. Whether you’re opting for alcohol-free, a classic pint, or something in between, the focus stays where it should be: good drinks, good company and a relaxed atmosphere.Supporting local venues during Dry January, and throughout the year, helps keep our high streets lively and our communities connected. Choosing to spend time locally, whatever’s in your glass, makes a real dierence.So as January rolls on, Dry January doesn’t have to feel like a challenge. It can simply be an invitation to try something new, support local, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a well-chosen drink shared with friends.A Dierent Kind of New BeginningBy anonymousIn March of 2024 I reached a point where alcohol wasn’t enjoyable for me anymore. Not in a dramatic, headline kind of way , more like a slow dimming. The same glass, the same ritual, the same rst sip that used to feel like a soft exhale at the end of the day. But underneath it was a tiredness I couldn’t ignore. I was 46, and I could see, clearly now, how long booze had been threaded through my life.It began innocently enough: social drinking when I was young, the easy laughter of nights out with friends, alcohol as part of the glue. But somewhere along the way, wine stopped being a visitor and moved into my routine. Gradually, I incorporated it into daily life like it belonged there. I’d pour a glass in the evening as automatically as I’d turn on a lamp.And every evening I convinced myself I didn’t have a problem. I only drank red wine over £10 from the town supermarket , I was a posh drinker. I didn’t nish a whole bottle every night… only every second. And I could go the odd day without. Proof, I told myself, that I was ne.

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31centring plans around drinking.Enjoy Creative HobbiesWith fewer late nights, January is the perfect time to reconnect with hobbies you love or explore new ones. Creative writing, knitting, gardening, learning an instrument or even starting a small DIY project can be surprisingly rewarding. You don’t need to master a skill overnight, simply enjoying the process is part of the appeal.Explore and Photograph Sandbach and CheshireTake a fresh look at Sandbach and the wider Cheshire area. Wrap up warm, head out for a walk and challenge yourself to photograph the best sights along the way. From familiar streets and historic corners of Sandbach to Cheshire’s countryside and green spaces, using your smartphone to capture everyday moments can help you appreciate what’s on your doorstep.Release Your Inner ArtistJanuary is a great time to get creative. Pick up a pencil, paintbrush or sketchpad and practise drawing or painting, even something simple like a houseplant or your pet. Art doesn’t need to be perfect to be enjoyable; it’s about switching o and letting your creativity ow.Cook Up a StormPut your extra evenings to good use in the kitchen. Try new recipes, experiment with avours or plan a themed meal night. You could even explore alcohol-free cocktails or mocktails to add a bit of fun and air to your January evenings.Get Active and Move MoreStaying active can boost your mood and energy levels during the darker winter weeks. Gentle walks around Sandbach, countryside rambles across Cheshire, swimming, running or joining a local tness group are all great ways to move more. Even small changes, like committing to regular walks outdoors, can make a big dierence.Refresh How You SocialiseSocialising doesn’t have to revolve around alcohol. Board game nights, escape rooms, bowling, book clubs or hosting a dinner party are all brilliant ways to spend time with friends. You could even start a leaderboard for game nights or set a monthly book challenge to keep things interesting.Listen to, or Make, MusicSet aside an evening to really listen to music. Dig out old vinyl, rediscover favourite albums or create a playlist lled with songs that mean something to you. If you play an The Social Collective is a new monthly space in our magazines dedicated to the simple things that help us live well, staying healthy, staying connected, and staying part of the communities around us. Each month, we’ll explore a dierent theme that touches everyday life, oering friendly insights as well as practical tips to support wellbeing in a real, relatable way.As we step into January, many people take a moment to reect on their relationship with alcohol, whether that’s a gentle reset after the festive season, a curiosity about low-and-no options, or a more personal look at how habits shape our lives. In this rst edition, we bring together three perspectives: the physical eects alcohol can have on our hearing, the social side of drinking and the growing world of alcohol-free choices, and nally, an honest personal story about seeking help when alcohol becomes something harder to navigate.Together, these pieces remind us that wellbeing isn’t about perfection, it’s about awareness, connection, and knowing support is always within reach. The Social CollectiveExploring the relationships that shape local living.instrument, spend time practising, or, if you’ve always wanted to learn, January is a great time to start.Support Local VenuesFinally, going alcohol-free doesn’t mean staying in. Many pubs, cafés and venues across Sandbach and Cheshire now oer excellent low- and no-alcohol options, making it easy to enjoy a night out while supporting local businesses. Choosing these venues helps keep the local community thriving, and proves that January can still be social, enjoyable and full of great choices.There’s More on Tap Than AlcoholBy KatyJanuary has a way of encouraging a reset. After the busyness of December, many people ease into the new year by mixing things up a little, and for some, that includes taking part in Dry January. Increasingly, it’s less about what you’re giving up and more about what you get to try instead.Alcohol-free drinks have come a long way, and they now sit comfortably alongside traditional favourites. What was once a limited choice has grown into a genuinely interesting range of beers, wines and spirits that focus on avour and quality. For many people, alcohol-free options are simply another choice, something to enjoy during January, or whenever the mood takes them.Rather than replacing alcoholic drinks, alcohol-free options add variety. They give people more exibility when they’re out with friends, meeting up locally or settling in for a relaxed evening. The social side of going out doesn’t change , you’re still sharing a drink, just choosing what suits you in that moment.Dry January has helped bring these options into the spotlight. It’s a chance to try something new, discover a drink Alcohol-Free Activities to Try This JanuaryJanuary is often seen as a quieter month, a chance to reset, slow down and try something dierent. If you’re choosing to go alcohol-free this month, it’s also a great opportunity to rediscover activities that bring enjoyment, creativity and connection, without you might not have picked before, and realise that alcohol-free doesn’t mean compromising on taste or experience. For many, those discoveries stick around long after January ends.Local venues are really leading the way here, showing just how good alcohol-free choices can be. At Four Priests, for example, the selection goes well beyond a single token option. Their alcohol-free range includes three dierent Lervig IPAs, alongside Delirium Belgian Blond, Jever German lager, and Bach 95, a locally produced alcohol-free lager. It’s the kind of menu that makes choosing alcohol-free feel easy, and enjoyable.By oering thoughtful choices, independent pubs and bars create welcoming spaces for everyone. Whether you’re opting for alcohol-free, a classic pint, or something in between, the focus stays where it should be: good drinks, good company and a relaxed atmosphere.Supporting local venues during Dry January, and throughout the year, helps keep our high streets lively and our communities connected. Choosing to spend time locally, whatever’s in your glass, makes a real dierence.So as January rolls on, Dry January doesn’t have to feel like a challenge. It can simply be an invitation to try something new, support local, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a well-chosen drink shared with friends.A Dierent Kind of New BeginningBy anonymousIn March of 2024 I reached a point where alcohol wasn’t enjoyable for me anymore. Not in a dramatic, headline kind of way , more like a slow dimming. The same glass, the same ritual, the same rst sip that used to feel like a soft exhale at the end of the day. But underneath it was a tiredness I couldn’t ignore. I was 46, and I could see, clearly now, how long booze had been threaded through my life.It began innocently enough: social drinking when I was young, the easy laughter of nights out with friends, alcohol as part of the glue. But somewhere along the way, wine stopped being a visitor and moved into my routine. Gradually, I incorporated it into daily life like it belonged there. I’d pour a glass in the evening as automatically as I’d turn on a lamp.And every evening I convinced myself I didn’t have a problem. I only drank red wine over £10 from the town supermarket , I was a posh drinker. I didn’t nish a whole bottle every night… only every second. And I could go the odd day without. Proof, I told myself, that I was ne.

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I knew my body didn’t have a physical dependency yet. I didn’t wake up shaking or desperate for a morning drink. But I could feel the truth in other ways. There was a mental dependency. A habitual one. With my personality , all-in, intense, prone to turning habits into identities , that felt like dangerous ground. The scariest part was not knowing when the physical dependency might arrive. Two days? Two years? Ten? If I carried on, it was only around the corner; I just didn’t know where that corner sat.Don’t get me wrong, I loved the feeling. Room-temperature French red wine smoothing the edges of a stressful day, lowering the volume in my head. By the third glass I’d slide into bed in a dozy haze, convinced I’d earned this softness. But the relief was borrowed. The interest was brutal.At 7am the alarm would go o and I’d peel my eyes open into hangover fog and alcohol anxiety that hit me like a train. I called it “the fear.” A whole-body vulnerability, as if I’d woken up without skin. Part toxin, part guilt , the quiet shame of knowing I’d done it again.I’d done Dry January once, back in 2016, and I clung to that memory as evidence I was in control. But March 2024 felt dierent. I wasn’t drinking to celebrate or even to enjoy it. I was drinking because it was there. Because it was what I did.Then something clicked , about twenty months ago now. I still can’t explain it. If I could, I’d bottle it and sell it. But it was the right thing at the right time, and I listened.I didn’t do it alone. I reached out to my GP, and that one honest conversation opened a door. He connected me with Change Grow Live (CGL) Cheshire East, and suddenly there were people who spoke the same language of “the fear,” the same mix of habit and shame and hope. Over the next year I worked through my relationship with alcohol with support , group sessions, practical tools, and the steady kindness of people who understood. I learned that help isn’t a last resort; it’s a lifeline you’re allowed to take early. CGL isn’t the only option either. There’s SMART Recovery if you want a focus on thoughts and behaviour, and Alcoholics Anonymous if you need peer support , meetings run all day online, so you can step in any time, quietly, even if all you can manage is to listen.Now, coming into January 2026, I think about Dry January dierently. Not as a test, but as a mirror. For many, it works , not because it cures anything, but because it creates space to notice the habit, to question the autopilot, to remember what choice feels like. And if that mirror shows you something you don’t like, you don’t have to face it on your own. Support is out there, and you’re allowed to reach for it. Sometimes, that reach is the beginning of everything.Visit changegrowlive.org or alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukAs we step into 2026, we hope this rst edition inspires you to look after your wellbeing, to stay connected, and to keep supporting the places and people who bring our communities to life. Whether you’re choosing something lighter, meeting friends for a chat, or simply taking a moment to reect on new habits, we wish you a year lled with good health, meaningful conversations, and the kind of togetherness that makes our villages and towns feel like home. Here’s to a happy, social 2026.

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We 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 & Fridaysupport@oakena-reiki.com07788 715117oakena-reiki.comOAKENA REIKI THERAPYA HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM ALL ATReiki Practitioners for Human, Canine and Equine ClientsBENEFITS OF REIKI:Relief of stress and anxietyStrengthens the immune systemSupports the body’s natural healing processPromotes deep relaxationEnhances well-being and mental clarityEases muscle tensionProvides a sense of calm and balanceHARMONISES & BALANCES THE MIND, BODY & SPIRITPROVIDES A SENSE OF CALM & BALANCESTRENGTHENING THE BOND WITH YOUR ANIMALI knew my body didn’t have a physical dependency yet. I didn’t wake up shaking or desperate for a morning drink. But I could feel the truth in other ways. There was a mental dependency. A habitual one. With my personality , all-in, intense, prone to turning habits into identities , that felt like dangerous ground. The scariest part was not knowing when the physical dependency might arrive. Two days? Two years? Ten? If I carried on, it was only around the corner; I just didn’t know where that corner sat.Don’t get me wrong, I loved the feeling. Room-temperature French red wine smoothing the edges of a stressful day, lowering the volume in my head. By the third glass I’d slide into bed in a dozy haze, convinced I’d earned this softness. But the relief was borrowed. The interest was brutal.At 7am the alarm would go o and I’d peel my eyes open into hangover fog and alcohol anxiety that hit me like a train. I called it “the fear.” A whole-body vulnerability, as if I’d woken up without skin. Part toxin, part guilt , the quiet shame of knowing I’d done it again.I’d done Dry January once, back in 2016, and I clung to that memory as evidence I was in control. But March 2024 felt dierent. I wasn’t drinking to celebrate or even to enjoy it. I was drinking because it was there. Because it was what I did.Then something clicked , about twenty months ago now. I still can’t explain it. If I could, I’d bottle it and sell it. But it was the right thing at the right time, and I listened.I didn’t do it alone. I reached out to my GP, and that one honest conversation opened a door. He connected me with Change Grow Live (CGL) Cheshire East, and suddenly there were people who spoke the same language of “the fear,” the same mix of habit and shame and hope. Over the next year I worked through my relationship with alcohol with support , group sessions, practical tools, and the steady kindness of people who understood. I learned that help isn’t a last resort; it’s a lifeline you’re allowed to take early. CGL isn’t the only option either. There’s SMART Recovery if you want a focus on thoughts and behaviour, and Alcoholics Anonymous if you need peer support , meetings run all day online, so you can step in any time, quietly, even if all you can manage is to listen.Now, coming into January 2026, I think about Dry January dierently. Not as a test, but as a mirror. For many, it works , not because it cures anything, but because it creates space to notice the habit, to question the autopilot, to remember what choice feels like. And if that mirror shows you something you don’t like, you don’t have to face it on your own. Support is out there, and you’re allowed to reach for it. Sometimes, that reach is the beginning of everything.Visit changegrowlive.org or alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukAs we step into 2026, we hope this rst edition inspires you to look after your wellbeing, to stay connected, and to keep supporting the places and people who bring our communities to life. Whether you’re choosing something lighter, meeting friends for a chat, or simply taking a moment to reect on new habits, we wish you a year lled with good health, meaningful conversations, and the kind of togetherness that makes our villages and towns feel like home. Here’s to a happy, social 2026.

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38AccountingBruce Marshall & Co 15Aerials, Satellite, TV & InternetH&D Satellite & Aerial Services 18Blinds, Curtains & Soft FurnishingsBlinds 2000 7Buildings, Maintenance & DevelopmentBrereton Driveways 23Cheshire Roong Contractors 17Prestige Roong Cheshire 26, 27TTL Building & Maintenance 37Business ServicesLeaet Team 29SC Digital 34Carpets & Flooring FittersUnlimited Carpets & Flooring 39CleaningCranmer's of Cheshire 33Community, Education, Classes & ClubsSandbach High School & Sixth Form College 6, 22Crafts, Gifts & RetailChurchside Antiques 11Decorators & Interior DesignTony Taylor 11ElectriciansFully Wired 29EventsMiddlewich & District Concerts Society 6Food & DrinkCow To Cup 33Halton Farms 18Lowes Farm 14The Four Priests, Sandbach 19Furniture & Home DecorationsWebb House 1, 10Garages, Sheds & Garden BuildingsGarolla 38GardeningBen Roberts Landscaping 10RSC 34Health & FitnessOakena Reiki Therapy 33Sandbach Clear Ears 2Kitchens, Bedrooms & BathroomsAhm Installations 6M6 Bed Warehouse 5Transform Your Kitchen 9Legal & Financial ServicesJP Goldman 3Leisure & LessonsSuzanne Collins Acting Studio 25LocksmithsLockforce Mid & South Cheshire 11Opticians & Hearing AidsCongleton Hearing Centre 29Plumbing, Heating & Boiler ServicesPlumbing Plus 34Rightio 18PrintersNMC Design+Print 23Removal Services & Household ClearanceMonster Junk 14Residential Accommodation & CareAblewell Care 40Elworth Grange Care Home 35SecurityJanus Protection Solutions 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 1 2026

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