Brand New BOSE Showroom

Heywood Town Centre

FREE DEMONSTRATION !!! *FREE INSTALLATION!!!

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57 – 61 Market Street, Heywood OL10 1HZ Open Monday – Saturday 9am – 5pm

Tel: 01706 693193 www.eclipselightingandsound.co.uk

Solo Cinemate ISR Sound Docks

Headphones Computer Speakers Lifestyle Products

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Welcome to the May edition of Alkrington Life

As always thank you to all of the many people who support our local magazine and ensure its continued

success. If you are thinking of advertising please call and give us a try - local community magazines

really do work for local business by reaching the homes of so many potential customers.

Best Wishes for May

Clare x

PS: Caketastic Creations p.55 gets a huge recommendation from me - Clayton’s 40th Birthday

Cake was fabulous - Thank you Johanna X

For more information regarding advertising:

Tel: 0161 654 0974 M: 07838 371 712 clare@alkringtonlife.com www.alkringtonlife.com

Alkrington Life does not accept responsibility for any of the products or services advertised in this magazine

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ALKRINGTON ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

41 The Downs, Alkrington

Domestic Commercial Industrial

NO CALL OUT CHARGES

No job too big or small

FREE Estimates

Call Alan: 0161 643 5544 07932 624 619

PLASTERINGPLASTERING

ARTEXINGARTEXING

COVINGCOVING

NO JOB TOO SMALLNO JOB TOO SMALL

Telephone: Telephone:

0161 653 63100161 653 6310 Mobile: Mobile:

07866 817 11007866 817 110

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ROD LESTER BUILDING CONTRACTOR

YOUR LOCAL FAMILY RUN

BUILDERS AND JOINERS

Joiner / Builder Approved by

CONSTRUCTIONLINE

ALL ASPECTS OF BUILDING,

JOINERY, TILING, DECORATING

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REFURBISHMENTS & KITCHENS

NO JOB TOO SMALL

CONTACT ROBERT :

07973 493 824

Or ROD TEL : 0161 653 2033

MOBILE : 07973 453316

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Repairs & Upgrades

Storm Damaged

TV Wall Mounting

Extra TV & Satellite Points

DAB Radio Aerials

Telephone Extensions

Tel: 0161 643 4899

Mobile: 07879 840 987

NO CALL OUT CHARGE

Free View Digital Specialists

2 Year Guarantee

7 Day Service

All Work Digitally Metered

46 Warwick Road

Alkrington, Middleton

Children’s

Designer & Simply Gorgeous

Clothes, Gifts & Accessories

11

FREE 24 Hour Call Out

Boiler Service

Installations

Condensing Boilers

Gas Fires

Gas Certificates

Breakdowns

Conversions

Bathrooms

Suites

Showers

Tel: 0161 654 9132 Mob: 07796 518 757 or: 07825 251 167

FULL Installation including Worcester Boiler and 8 Radiators

from: £2895

With Every Heating Installation: Free Chrome Towel Radiator

or Free Chrome Mixer Shower.

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for Period of 5 years

We will Price Match any genuine quote and give a further 10% Discount

Over 35years Experience in the Heating Trade

Plumbing & Heating Services

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Painter &

Decorator

35 Years Experience.

Locally based.

Special Rates for OAP’s.

Competitive Prices.

Tel: 0161 202 5684

07894 164 552

Alan Storton

Phone Kev now on 0161 653 3830 Mobile: 07867 - 655535

Fully insured, police vetted, satisfaction guaranteed

STAR CLEANING SERVICES

CARPETS WAS

FURNITURE WAS

3 PCE SUITE £80.00 2 PCE SUITE £70.00

Also leather suites cleaned on request

1/2 PRICE SPECIAL OFFER

LOUNGE up to 12ft

HALL / STAIRS

LOUNGE / DINER

BEDROOM up to 9ft

RUGS FROM

£18.00

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OFFER PRICE FROM

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£40.00 £35.00

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Cover Babies Boutique

Our New Boutique is now open in Alkrington

We sell Designer Clothes 0 - 4 years Christening Wear Premature Baby Wear

New Baby Hampers

Nappy Cakes

Luxury Blankets

Gifts & More

209 Manchester New Road, M24 1JT

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Unit 1.9, First Floor, Middleton Shopping Centre

Tel: 0161 653 8503

Family run business offering high quality services

SHOE REPAIRS KEY CUTTING WATCH REPAIRS ENGRAVING

Reader Offer 10% Discount on ALL SERVICES... (with this advert)

Don’t forget to have your gifts personalised especially for your loved ones !

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53, Mount Road, Alkrington Tel/Fax: 0161 654 4564 Open 7 Days / Mon - Sat 9am - 10pm / Sun 10am - 6pm

Debit / Credit Cards Accepted

Compost / Bark Available Manure (at Request) Cow or Horse

Top Soil / Grow Bags

LOOK OUT FOR OUR NEW PLANT SECTION OPENING SOON

Specialists in General Groceries Photocopying still 7p per sheet / Fax Service

Water Rates / Gas / Electric Mobile Top Ups / Ukash Vouchers

National Lottery Scratch Cards M.E.News & We are now agents for The Middleton Guardian

Damian’s Plant Department!Damian’s Plant Department!Damian’s Plant Department!

Summer Bedding Plants NOW IN STOCK

Perennials / Basket Plants

Perennials 3 pots £5 WOW !

Kronebourg / Holsten Pils 8 Cans £7.50 Skol Super 6 Cans £5 Draft Guinness 6 Cans £6 Carling / Strongbow 8 Cans £7 Crabbies Spiced Orange & Ginger Beer (500 ml Bottle - £1.99 NO ... 50p each !!!) Magners Spiced Apple & Honey £1 a Bottle WKDS & Smirnoff Ice £1 a Bottle

GRANT’S Whiskey 70cl £12.99

COURVOISIER 70cl £19.99

MARTELL 70cl £18.99

SOUTHERN COMFORT 70cl £14.99

Hanging Basket Moss

Available

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NOW AVAILABLE... New Elites Electronic Cigarettes As seen on TV

Cheers Everybody !

53, Mount Road, Alkrington Tel/Fax: 0161 654 4564 Open 7 Days / Mon - Sat 9am - 10pm / Sun 10am - 6pm

Debit / Credit Cards Accepted

From Damian’s Wine Cellar...

Bankrupt Stock

3 for £10!

Hardys Stowells Piat D’Or

Echo Falls Lindemans

Paul Masson Blossom Hill

Oxford Landing

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Garden View A Jar of Nostalgia

If you're reading this you probably have an interest in gardening, but even armchair gardeners must be happy that spring is now well under way. May

brings with it a wonderful selection of flowers, mainly in cool blues, purples, pinks and whites, and some great fragrances too, including the heady scent of Lilac. It’s an old fashioned shrub which has fallen out of favour, and for the majority of the year it looks relatively uninteresting – but the Lilac bush smells fantastic in a gentle May evening breeze. Mix this aroma with the scent of freshly mown grass and you have the most perfect spring fragrance, better than any air-freshener.

After a long winter with more snow than I can ever remember, and yet more depressing news about our economy, I think what we all need is to enjoy a little nostalgia; I’m not talking bunting here, but bedding plants. Towards the end of the month is the time when bedding plants and other tender perennials can be planted outside. Thousands of people will flock to garden centres up and down the country over the coming weeks, and for some it's their only pilgrimage of the year to the outdoor retail world. It’s an opportunity for the nurseryman (or woman) to display row after row of highly colourful plants, stacked, tray by tray like jars of sweets in an old fashioned shop. Each standing to attention, faces held high, their label pointing forwards and each doing their utmost to shout "buy me, buy me". The flowers shine in the sunshine like the sparkling boiled fruit sweets in the jars, oh what is it to be, the bi coloured rhubarb custards, or the

combination of blackberry and raspberry jellies?

Choosing your colour scheme for this year’s bedding display (be that just the one hanging basket or a front garden that looks like a Victorian public park) is exciting, and a totally personal task. I've know it can cause arguments between couples, but have also known marriages which have survived successfully on the basis that "you plant your side and I'll plant mine". There are those who like a multi coloured cocktail of plants (a mixed tray of Petunias for example), those who prefer to stick to a muted pallet of 2-3 'sophisticated colours' (usually purple, blue and white) and then those trying to achieve a Swiss cottage look who might plummet for just the one (perhaps a red trailing Ivy Leafed Pelargonium). But whatever your preference I don't think it really matters, because buying annual bedding plants brings nostalgic happiness all round; it’s good for the nurseryman's business, brilliant for passersby to enjoy, and most importantly great at making you feel happy at home.

Happy Gardening,

Lee

Contact Lee Bestall at www.inspiredgardens.net

Garden Tasks for May

Watch out for late frosts. Protect tender plants

Earth up potatoes

Open greenhouse vents and doors on warm days

Lift and divide overcrowded clumps of daffodils and other spring-flowering bulbs

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City & Guilds in Horticulture Established in 1999

Serving you 12 months of the year

Specialising in :

Regular maintenance contracts or short term contracts Seasonal planting schemes Full lawn cutting service Lawn treatments and scarifying Hedges cut Small tree surgery One off jobs No job too small

Contact: Keith Tel:- 0781 054 1078

DID YOU KNOW...

11% of people are left handed. August has the highest

percentage of births. Unless food is mixed with saliva

you can't taste it. The average person falls asleep

in 7 minutes. A bear has 42 teeth. An ostrich's eye is bigger than

it's brain. Most lipsticks contain fish

scales. No two corn flakes look the

same. Lemons contain more sugar

than strawberries.

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www.crown-windows.com

Windows, Doors, Conservatories Porches, Door Canopies, Car Ports

Fascias & Soffits, Guttering, Bi-fold Doors Upvc Repairs, Locksmiths, Replacement Glass Units

A genuine local family run company

Established 1985

6 Boarshaw Road Middleton M24 6BR

27 YEARS OF

EXCELLENCE Registered Company

Call us now for your FREE quotation on 0161 653 2890

We are Rockdoor approved installers

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Bathrooms

Radiators

Showers

Repairs

Maintenance

Electrical Work

Kitchens

Sinks

Free Quotes

Competitive Prices

7 Days A Week

Home Drive, Alkrington,

Middleton Manchester M24 1NB

Emergency Leaks &

Burst Pipes No Problem!

ALL PLUMBING WORK

UNDERTAKEN

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EST 1979 G o d f r e y

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Tel 07850 565449 Eve 0161 643 4739

Local 24 Hr Emergency Plumbing Service

Specialist in Replacement & New Design Bathrooms/ En Suites / Showers /

Cloakrooms

Central Heating Systems / Boilers / Radiators - Replacement & Repairs

Cylinders/Tanks/Ball Valves/Taps/ WCs/ Basins Washing Machines / Dish washers

Emergency Bursts / Leaks

All Types of building work undertaken

FREE ESTIMATES

Unit 3 Whittaker St, M24 4BLUnit 3 Whittaker St, M24 4BLUnit 3 Whittaker St, M24 4BL EST. In Middleton since 1990EST. In Middleton since 1990EST. In Middleton since 1990

Misted Broken SealedMisted Broken SealedMisted Broken Sealed Units ReplacedUnits ReplacedUnits Replaced

Glass, mirror, shelves & tabletopsGlass, mirror, shelves & tabletopsGlass, mirror, shelves & tabletops

Greenhouse GlassGreenhouse GlassGreenhouse Glass

Decorative Leading & BevelsDecorative Leading & BevelsDecorative Leading & Bevels

Laminated & Toughened GlassLaminated & Toughened GlassLaminated & Toughened Glass

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NO JOB TOO SMALLNO JOB TOO SMALLNO JOB TOO SMALL Ring for a FREE QUOTERing for a FREE QUOTERing for a FREE QUOTE

FITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE

TEL:0161 654 6296

Middleton Glass LtdMiddleton Glass LtdMiddleton Glass Ltd

Mobile Based in Alkrington

Specialists in Vehicle Valeting Fully Insured

Mini Valet from £10 Full Valet from £45

ALSO All Mechanical Servicing & Diagnostic Work Undertaken

Telephone for an appointment

07961 277 535

7 DAYS A WEEK

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26

FOR POCKETMONEY & PENSION: A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO BUY-TO-LET

by Harry R. Hewitt

PART 4 : USING A MORTGAGE BROKER

When it comes to financing your very first buy-to-let investment two things are

absolutely essential. You will need to know:

the exact amount of money you need to raise; and.

the means by which you might best raise it.

Now, speaking from experience (and please double check this advice in any one of the

books I listed in PART 1), I would strongly recommend that you apply for:

an interest-only (not a repayment) mortgage;

at 80% LTV (loan to value), leaving you to find a deposit of just 20% of the value of

the property;

over as long a term as possible – 20 years, say, or until your 90th birthday. Yep, 90th,

you heard me right!

Why so?

Because the value of property in the UK has in the past tended to double every 10

years. Admittedly, this is no guarantee for the future. But, should the value of your prop-

erty double in the next 10 years, you may then sell the property on, clearing your mort-

gage debt whilst simultaneously pocketing the balance. In the mean time, of course, eve-

ry last penny of your mortgage payments may be set against tax since they represent

payments of interest. Meanwhile, the suggested 20% deposit and 20-year term simply

maximise the potential for financial gain, whilst providing greater scope for manoeuvre.

By way of example, you may choose to sell when the 20 year term is up, thereby amass-

ing (a speculative) 200% profit. (Or when you reach age 90, say!)

Let’s consider a brief illustration of this:

You buy a house for £60,000, in which case you are looking to raise an interest only

loan of 80% LTV. This means you need a lender who will advance £48,000 (i.e. 80% of

the value of the property), whilst permitting you to make a deposit of just £12,000 (20%)

in all. Using this same illustration, the total amount of money you would need to have

available in order to fund your very first buy-to-let property would be:

plus £1,700, say, for solicitor’s, surveyor’s and other administration fees; (More

anon.)

plus £5,000, say, for part refurbishment – making a total of £18,500 in all.

This leaves you with £48,000 to find. So, where should you best raise the £48,000

advance that you need?

Certainly not at the high street bank/BS into which your salary or pension is

deposited.

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Because your bank/BS is not really in the business of providing buy-to-let mortgages

for punters like yourself – and, even if they pretend to be, the idea of an interest only

loan may well be repugnant to them. Oh, they may be prepared to cobble something

together for you on this occasion – with no fees, say, or a low interest rate. But perish the

thought you may want to repeat the experiment. Because it is most unlikely any high

street bank/BS will assist you in mortgaging a second property, never mind a portfolio.

No, the way your bank/BS sees it you are nobbut a punter – a regular payor/payee, of

course, or you wouldn’t get past their front door. But what the bank/BS would very

much prefer to palm you off with is a specially designed (ergo, unfathomable and, quite

possibly, less remunerative) insurance policy, or bond issue.

Consider, too, the lowly status of the bank/BS advisor who would presume to guide

you through the intricacies of any BTL loan currently on offer, if any. Note well, that

you will not be serviced by the manager; the betting is you won’t even know who the

bank/BS manager is. No, any advice you receive in the matter will be delivered by a

junior bank employee, who is only a professional in the sense that the bank/BS pays

him/her a salary for selling financial products touted by his/her particular bank/BS. That

is to say, come month end, a salary will be forthcoming whether the bank/BS employee

sells you the right or the wrong financial instrument – and he/she may well receive a

bonus for selling you a mortgage which best suits the bank/BS, as opposed to your

personal requirements.

So, instead of subjecting yourself to this unnerving and ultimately untrustworthy

scenario, I strongly advise you to backtrack instead to the estate agent from whom you

are buying your very first BTL property – and who (hopefully) has agreed to be your

letting agent, too. Then, ask your estate agent to introduce you to the properly

professional mortgage broker who services that establishment.

Why properly professional?

Because you will have to pay the mortgage broker a fee to submit your application for

an interest only buy-to-let loan. (If you don’t pay him, the mortgage broker doesn’t eat.)

But a good mortgage broker (such as the person to whom your estate/letting agent will

introduce you) has access to exactly the right kind of loan for you, partly due to the fact

that he has access to infinitely more potential lenders and financial products than you, as

an individual or via your bank/BS, can ever hope to have. Also, your mortgage broker

knows exactly how to fill in the necessary application form, perhaps advising you be-

forehand to ditch any disadvantageous credit cards or debt. He/she will possibly deter

you, too. from making multiple applications for the mortgage you require since duplicat-

ed applications tend to unnerve potential lenders.

Rest assured that your estate/letting agent will recommend a mortgage broker whom he

has personally vetted. Because it is simply not in his best interests to deliver you (tyro

BTL investor that you are for the time being) into the hands of a financial fly-boy. So,

you may trust quite implicitly any mortgage broker thus recommended to you, paying

something in the order of £300 for the privilege, cash upfront. This is an absolute

bargain in the circumstances since your first month’s rental payment for a serviceable

two-bed terrace in Middleton is around £450 at present.

N.B This article does not constitute advice within the terms of the Financial Services Act or any subsequent revisions, additions or amendments thereto. Always consult a solicitor, accountant and/or surveyor prior to

proceeding with any property purchase.

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David Briggs

Your Local Professional Painter & Decorator

Bringing high quality decorating

to your home or business.

Tel: 0161 654 8436

Mob:

07930 871 066

www.hillfarmforge.150m.com Email: hillfarmforge@gmail.com

Made, Supplied, Fitted and Maintained. We can repair your Electric Gates

24 hour Call Out Service Ask to view Electric Gates in operation

we have made and installed in the area.

All Areas Covered

Are you ready to party yourself into shape?

Zumba is an exhilarating, effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired,

calorie-burning dance fitness-party that’s moving millions of people

toward joy and health.

Classes with Simone...

Mondays 10am Alkrington Community Centre Hardfield Road Alkrington

Mondays 7.30pm The Jumbo Social Centre Grimshaw Lane Middleton

Tel : 07791572537

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SEDGWICK PHELAN & PARTNERS

s o l i c i t o r s

large enough to cope ~ small enough to care

www.sedgwick-phelan.co.uk

Royal London House| 56-58 Long Street| Middleton| Manchester| M24 6UQ|

T: 0161 653 5299 | F: 0161 653 3161

Wills and Probate

Powers of Attorney

Employment

Business Contracts

Business Leases

Property Sale & Purchase

Landlord & Tenant Law

Dispute Resolution

Planning & Development

31

SPECIALISING IN DAY TO DAY MAINTENANCE & GENERAL BUILDING SERVICES...

QUALITY WORKMANSHIP - NO JOB TOO SMALL

All types of property maintenance Refurbishments, small building works & alterations Roofing & Re-Roofing Re-Plastering Plumbing & Electrics (appropriate certificates issued) Kitchens & Bathrooms Fascias / Gutters Conservatories / Windows & Doors Joinery & Brickwork Pointing & Acid Cleaning Tiling Fencing, Decking & Flagging Solid Wood Floors & Laminates

T : 0161 643 4649 (eve) M : 07812 527075 (anytime)

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Tel: 0161 643 2411 Fax: 0161 655 3015

TEMPERLEY TAYLOR LLP Durham House,

Warwick Court, Park Road, Middleton, Manchester M24 1AE.

www.temperleytaylor.co.uk

Wills & Estate Planning

General advice for elderly clients... Home visits can be arranged

Conveyancing

Energy Performance Certificates

Businesses

Employment

Accidents - NO WIN - NO FEE

Specialists in all aspects of Family Law

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Licensed Waste Transfer Station in Middleton

Mini Skips / Midi Skips / Maxi Skips

Domestic & Commercial

Small Demolition - Sheds & Garages

Telephone:

0161 653 0629

KEEP IT LOCAL

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Vehicle Body Repair

Specialist

Affordable, Smart Repair Solutions!

Bumper Scuffs

Scratch Repair

Panel Damage

Free No Obligation Quotations

Windscreen Repairs

sSr Scratch Repair per panel £35.00 TEL JIMMY ON - 07522859207!!

FREE Collection

& Delivery Service

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2, Kingsway, Alkrington Tel: 0161 654 9142

This is the newly refurbished Best One Village Store, providing the local community with all the services and produce for their convenience store.

Wine Deals:- Blossom Hill- Red/ Rose and white £5 each or 3 for £10 Blossom hill- Zinfandel and Chardonnay £6 each or 2 for £9 Echo falls- Red/ Rose and white £5 each or 3 for £10 Echo falls- Zinfandel/ Shiraz/ Cabernet/ Merlot/ Sauvignon Blanc & Chardonnay £6 each or 2 for £9 Stowells- £4 each or 3 For £10.00 Gallo- £6 each or 2 for £9 Hardy's £5 each or 2 for £8 Black Tower £6 each or 2 for £9 Jackob's Creek- £6.99 Yellow Tail- £6 each or 2 for £9 Lindeman's- £6 each or 2 for £9 Piat'dior- £6 each or 2 for £9 Paul Masson £5.99 Cellar wine £4.49 Italian Wine £3 each or 2 for £5 Oxford landing £6 each or 2 for 10.00

BEERS

Carling- £3.50 for 4 cans San Miguel- 4 cans for £4 Becks- 4 cans for £4

Store Opening Hours Mon - Sat 7am - 10pm

Sunday 8am - 9pm

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Buttermilk Scones

Makes 10-12

Preparation time 15 minutes

Cooking time 15 minutes

Ingredients

Scones

450g self-raising flour, plus extra for dusting

¼ tsp salt

100g cold butter, diced

85g golden caster sugar

Handful of raisins or sultanas (optional)

284ml pot buttermilk

2 tsp vanilla extract

Splash of milk

Compote

Frozen fruit of choice – summer fruit mix is good, sour cherries are fantastic

Sugar to taste

Method

Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Sift the flour and salt together. Rub in the butter until the mixture is like fine crumbs. Stir in the sugar and raisins or sultanas if using.

Gently warm the buttermilk (don't throw away the pot) and vanilla in a microwave or pan. Using your largest bowl, quickly tip in some of the flour mix, followed by some of the buttermilk mix, repeating until everything is in the bowl. Use a knife to quickly mix together to form a dough - don't over-mix it.

Tip onto a floured surface and lightly bring together with your hands a couple of times. Press out gently to about 4cm thick and stamp out rounds with a 6cm or 7cm cutter. Re-shape trimmings, until all the dough is used. Place scones evenly on to a lightly floured baking sheet or two.

Add a splash of milk into the buttermilk pot, and then use to glaze the top of each scone. Bake for 10-12 mins until golden and well risen.

To Make The Fruit Compote:

Place as much of the frozen fruit as you need in the saucepan, on a gentle heat on the hob on top of your cooker.

Simmer the fruit in the saucepan on the hob until the fruit starts to soften; stir gently now and again just enough so that the fruit does not stick to the pan; do not allow it to burn.

Now add sugar to taste - not too much at first. Taste the fruit as you add the sugar so that you do not make it too sweet or leave it too tart. Take care not to burn yourself when testing it! Fruit and sugar get very hot.

Once the fruit has softened, but before it turns to a pulp or goes too mushy, it is ready and you should remove it from the heat to cool.

It keeps for 2-3 days in the fridge.

With Fruit Compote

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DE:LUXE Decorators

Interior & Exterior Fast Friendly Service 30 Years Experience Portfolio Available Ring NOW for your

FREE QUOTE Cheaper quotes till end of

March

Telephone: 0161 345 8470 MIDDLETON BASED

Email: tsilividerek@googlemail.comEmail: tsilividerek@googlemail.com

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Beverley Calvert M. Inst. Ch. P. HPC Registered Chiropodist

Gentle & Efficient Chiropody in the comfort of your own home.

Tel: 0161 653 9811

Mobile: 07748 562 937

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Evening Dance Every Monday 7.30pm - 11pm Latin, Ballroom and Sequence dance classes. Dance tuition available. Heywood Civic Centre, Church Street (Price £3.80) 01706 368 130

Acting and Devising Every Tuesday 4.30pm - 6.30pm Participants on this course will be encouraged to explore different themes using a wide variety of media and performance techniques and to devise a new and engaging piece of theatre. Oldham Theatre Workshop, Old Museum, Greaves Street Ages 8 - 12yrs (£26 - £49 per term) 0161 770 3240 (Gaye Lewis)

Multi-sports Every Wednesday 5pm - 7.30pm Come along and join us for a fun and exciting multi-sports session. your chance to try a variety of sports includ-ing dodgeball, tennis and basketball. All ages welcome, under 8's must be accompanied by an adulr. Coalshaw Green Park (FREE) 0161 624 1444 (Dawn Fox)

Tea Dance Every Thursday 12.30pm - 3.30pm Price includes refreshments. Middleton Arena, Corporation Street (Price £2.10) 0161 662 4000

Thai Chi Every Friday 10am - 12pm Heywood Civic Centre, Church Street (Price £2.10) 01706 368 130

Young Oldham Dance Co Every Friday 6pm - 7.30pm You could play your part in one of Greater Manchester’s foremost con-temporary dance groups. No previous dance experience is needed, just lots of enthusiasm and dedication. The Museum, Greaves Street Ages 12 - 16yrs (FREE)

Ladies’ Day

10th - 25th May (7.30am + wed/sat matinees) When the society event of the year, Royal Ascot, ups sticks to the fair city of York, our four intrepid lasses, fresh from a fish factory in Hull, decide to show the Southern softies how it’s done. Swapping their hairnets for fascinators, they don killer heels, spray on some fake tan and head off to spend a day at the races. The girls may be fish out of water, but as they hob-nob with the toffs and try to be caught on camera, their fortunes gradually begin to change - with plenty of laughter and some startling revelations along the way. Oldham Coliseum Theatre (Tickets £5 - £19.80) 0161 624 2829

0161 770 3070 (Victoria Brown)

Happy Days: A New Musical 15th - 18th May (7.30pm + sat matinee) Book by Garry Marshall, music & lyrics by Paul Williams. Based on the Paramount Pictures Television Series "Happy Days". Middleton Arena, Corporation Street (Tickets £8 - £14) 0161 653 7528

The Tempest 23rd - 24th May (10.30am + 1pm) Shakespeare’s thrilling tale of love and enchantment. Using Shakespeare’s original text, this shortened version introduces children to the mysterious magician Prospero and his magical island. Oldham Coliseum Theatre Ages 7yrs+ (Tickets £5 ) 0161 624 2829

The Peter Cowap Music Festival 26th May (12pm) Featuring Victor Brox and Desi Friel. Middleton Arena, Corporation Street (Tickets £5)

0844 855 4020

Mini Sailing Ships 30th May (1pm - 2.30pm) Inspired by our Sea exhibition, make your own small-scale boat, captain of your ship and seascape scenery to take home. Touchstones Gallery, Rochdale Ages 5 - 12yrs (FREE - please book) 01706 924492

Creative Family Fun 1st June (drop-in 11am - 3pm) Craft activities, painting, drawing and creative fun for all the family. Embroider your own bookmark, inspired by sam-plers and textiles in the Oldham Stories exhibition. Gallery Oldham (FREE - no need to book) 01706 770 4653

Send us your events: Send the details of your events via the methods below and we’ll try to include them on our website or magazines. Visit: midldletonlife.com/whatson

What’s On in MAY

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Gail Hurst Dummett Dip Cll.

INVESTMENTS

PENSIONS

TAX PLANNING

PROTECTION

NO ADVICE FEENO ADVICE FEENO ADVICE FEE

Tel: 0161 643 8591 or 07501 453 453

Painters & Decorators

Interior & Exterior

Telephone:

0161 653 8044

07880 721 479

13 Kingsway,

Alkrington

Middleton, Manchester

M24 1LR

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4

5

6

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Across

2 3 5

6 7

1 4 6

Down

Can you solve our picture crossword? Each of the pictures represents a job.

Can you get them all?

P

MECHANIC

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Crossword Solution Riddle-Mi-Ree Answers

Sharing riddle : A secret Number riddle: Only once, then it isn’t 30 any more!

Doctor Doctor I feel like a dog. Well sit on the couch and we’ll talk about this problem. But I’m not allowed on the couch!

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48

Cramp is a common and

usually harmless

condition where muscles

suddenly become tight

and painful. Mostly

cramps occur for no

apparent reason, but

certain things can trigger them such as

pregnancy, exercise or some

medications.

During cramp the affected muscle fibres

contract or shorten suddenly, causing

pain. This spasm can last from a few

seconds to several minutes. Afterwards

the affected muscle might remain tender

for a few hours.

Most cases of cramp require no medical

treatment and can be relieved by simply

stretching the affected muscle. Applying

warmth to the area can help too.

Consult your doctor if you suffer frequent

night-time cramps which affect your

sleep, or if you have other symptoms

such as numbness or swelling, which

may mean you need blood or urine tests

to rule out underlying medical conditions.

Useful tips for night cramps

Stretch your calf muscles before bed

Sleep with your feet rested against a

pillow to keep them pointing upwards

If you sleep on your front, allow your feet

to dangle over the edge of the bed so

calf muscles are not tensed.

Keep sheets and blankets loose.

Wear bed socks to keep your feet toasty.

Warm muscles are less likely to spasm.

MANUFACTURING UPHOLSTERERS

Have your new sofa and chairs hand made to order in

sizes of your choice.

All work done by British craftsmen in our factory.

We also offer a friendly, reliable re-upholstery service.

Call now for a free estimate without obligation.

Telephone: 0161 624 4477 Unit A2, Falcon Centre

Victoria Street, Chadderton Oldham, OL9 0HB

By Sarah Davey

49 By Sarah Davey

50

Heywood Market Hall Tel: 07746 677 412

Fabulous Fresh Flowers

for all Occasions

Free Local Delivery

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54

5

3 2 5 4 8

9 6 2

6 2 4

8

8 4 6 3

5 9

1 3 4

4 8 1 3

Mindbenders Find the three hidden phrases

mill1ion

EMOCLEW

Across

1 Diminish or cease (3, 2)

4 Inexpensive (5)

7 Supporting structure (8)

8 Sweet red wine (4)

9 Brief summary (8)

11 Eyelid abscess (4)

12 Attends to (6)

14 Suppose (6)

16 Musical composition (4)

18 Refurbish (8)

20 Warmth (4)

21 Creatively stimulated (8)

23 Wild activity (5)

24 Hikes (5)

1 Appealing (7)

2 For hire (2, 3)

3 Vessel (3)

4 Restrict (9)

5 Reveals (7)

6 Celebration (5)

10 Self-assured (9)

13 Guest (7)

15 Affairs (7)

17 Iron (5)

19 Human sound (5)

22 Take the load off (slang) (3)

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8

9 10 11

12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19

20 21 22

23 24

MAY PUZZLES

Down

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Bespoke Celebration Cakes, Cupcakes, Decorated Cookies & Cake Pops all made to order

* Cupcake Decorating Classes * coming soon

Contact Johanna Moloney Manor Road, Alkrington

Tel: 07949737448

caketasticcreations@virginmedia.com www.Facebook.com/caketasticjohanna

A bit about Johanna ...

Johanna Moloney is the very talented lady behind Caketastic Cre-ations. An Alkrington resident for over 13 years, Johanna lives on Manor Road with her husband and two daughters Ashleigh 18 and Neve 10. Having been made redundant from Colgate Palmolive in 2010 after 15 years service, Johanna signed up for a basic cake decorating course and thoroughly enjoyed it. “Whilst seeking employment I was making cakes for friends and family and word spread. So I decided to give it a go on a self employed basis and in April 2011 I enrolled on an accredited Advanced Sugarcraft course at Tameside College.” Johanna didn't just give it a go, she qualified with distinction in 2012, having won two Gold Awards and two Bronze Awards for her cake designs from the college! Johanna runs her successful business from her custom built cake studio on the side of her home which holds a 5 star Food Hygiene rating from Rochdale Council Environmental Health. Business is booming for Caketastic Creations and Alkrington Life would like to wish Johanna every success for the future. Watch out Stacie Stewart !

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Time Served Time Served

PlastererPlasterer

1ST CLASS JOB VERY CLEAN

NO MESS GUARANTEEDNO MESS GUARANTEED

Tel: Daniel 0161 653 8442 07912 984 603 Tetlow St. Middleton

We have many years experience in the SMART Repair Business.

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58

Alarms & Security 24 hour emergency call out

T: 0845 83 86 95 Mobile: 07711 362 118

Repairs & Maintenance

Full Alarm Systems

Upgrades

Lighting Systems

Maintenance Contracts

CCTV Systems www.abacuss.co.uk

sales@abacuss.co.uk

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Tel: 0161 654 7430 or 07808 722343

R CULLEN Painting & Decorating

Over 25 years experience

Locally based

High quality decorating

Interior and exterior work

Free quotes

Competitive prices

Over 30 years experience

All types of interior plastering

All work is guaranteed

Please call 0161 654 0582

Or 07751 256 616

To arrange your free estimate

44 Moss Lane, Alkrington

60

ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

The Cleaning Equipment Experts

Vacs, Shampooers, Pressure Washers

DYSON SPECIALISTS 7 days a week 48 Hr Service Free Estimate & pick up service

Give Rob a call for an immediate response

0161-654-9766 07962-219359

5 Warwick Close, Alkrington

email: avcs44@hotmail.com

ALKRINGTON VACUUM CLEANER SERVICES

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Colin Knight Tiling Specialist

Domestic and Commercial

FREE ESTIMATES

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Also Painting & Decorating

Tel: 01706 352 381

Mob: 07930 655 114

PHIL CLEATON

LOCAL MOBILE

LOCKSMITH

Locked Out? Need New Keys?

Need New Locks Fitted? Need Repairs?

over 20 years experience

Domestic • Commercial • Industrial No Call Out Charge All Locks Supplied, Fitted, Opened & Repaired uPVC Lock Repair Specialists Mobile Key Cutting • Break-in Repairs OAP Discount Rate

Mobile 07770 603 210 Kingsway, Middleton, Manchester www.localmobilelocksmith.co.uk

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WINDOW SERVICES Windows, Doors, Conservatories

Porches, Door Canopies, Car Ports

Fascias & Soffits, Rock Doors, Bi-Fold Doors

uPVC Repairs, Locksmiths, Replacement Glass Units

SURFACING SPECIALISTS Block Paving Driveways & Patio Specialists

Natural Stone Paving

Full Range of Cobbles / Flags available in various colours

Also Garden Walls

PLUMBING SERVICES & BATHROOMS Full Bathroom Refurbishments

En-Suites / Cloakroom Suites

Wet Room Applications

Fitted Bathroom Furniture

Burst Pipes, Blockages & Kitchen Sinks

BRICKWORK SERVICES Garden Walls, Conservatory Bases, All brickwork undertaken. DISABLED FACILITIES Handrails / Ramps / Internal & External Adaptations available. ROOF SERVICES Roof Repairs to Full Re-Roof: Slate, Tiles, Flat, Metal. PLASTERING SERVICES Plastering, Artexing, Coving. Insurance Work Undertaken NO JOB TOO SMALL LOCAL AUTHORITY APPROVED FREE no obligation quotation Extra Discounts for OAPs

TEL/ FAX : 0161 653 5256 MOBILE: 07976 275 820

ESTABLISHED 1999 Registered Company: 5730901

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Police Enquiries* (0161) 872 5050

Heywood Fire Station* (01706) 901 203

Crimestoppers*† 0800 555 111

Middleton Neighbourhood Police* (0161) 856 8701

NHS Direct*†† 0845 46 47

North Manchester Gen. Hospital* (0161) 795 4567

Tesco Extra Pharmacy (open 7 days) (0161) 912 7147

Why advertise in Alkrington, Why advertise in Alkrington, Why advertise in Alkrington, Chadderton and Middleton Life?Chadderton and Middleton Life?Chadderton and Middleton Life?

Alkrington Life, Chadderton Life and Middleton Life have a total monthly circulation of almost 8500.

The magazines have longevity. The majority of householders keep each magazine for a whole month until their next edition is delivered - giving unbeatable value for money.

The three publications don’t merely contain adverts. Quality editorial and relevant advertorial content ensure that the magazines are highly readable.

Advertising rates are unbeatable within the area, for such high quality, respected and established publications.

Rates start from less than £22. Can your business afford NOT to advertise?

Contact Clare: 0161-654 0974 or Email: clare@alkringtonlife.com

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.alkringtonlife.com

Alkrington Library (0161) 643 7799

Rochdale Council (switchboard) (01706) 647 474

Manchester Council (switchboard) (0161) 234 5000

Water (United Utilities)†† 0845 746 2200

Electricity (United Utilities)† 0800 195 41 41

Gas (National Grid)† 0800 111 999

Traveline†† 0871 200 2233

GMPTE Enquiries (0161) 228 7811

Alkrington Life www.alkringtonlife.com (0161) 654 0974 clare@alkringtonlife.com

*These numbers are not for emergency use and you should always dial 999 in replace of these in an emergency. †0800 numbers are free from BT landlines, other providers may vary. ††0845 numbers are charged at a local rate from BT landlines, but can be charged at premium rates by other providers. 0871 numbers are premium rate.

National Rail Enquiries†† 08457 48 49 50

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Reliable Door 2 Door Distribution CompanyReliable Door 2 Door Distribution Company

Delivering leaflets, brochures, magazines and more.Delivering leaflets, brochures, magazines and more.

Operating around The Ribble Valley, Preston, Operating around The Ribble Valley, Preston,

Blackburn, The Fylde & South Manchester.Blackburn, The Fylde & South Manchester.

Tel: Michael:Tel: Michael:

07552 636 66907552 636 669

www.door2doornorthwest.co.ukwww.door2doornorthwest.co.uk

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

Solution to Mind benders

1. One in a million

2. Look behind you

3. Welcome back

Solution to May Sudoku

7 8 6 3 1 2 4 9 5

3 2 1 5 4 9 8 7 6

9 5 4 6 8 7 3 2 1

6 3 7 1 2 5 9 4 8

1 9 5 8 7 4 6 3 2

8 4 2 9 6 3 5 1 7

2 6 3 4 5 1 7 8 9

5 1 9 7 3 8 2 6 4

4 7 8 2 9 6 1 5 3

Solution to May Crossword

L E T U P C H E A P

I O O O X A

S K E L E T O N P O R T

A E S O T

A B S T R A C T S T Y E

L S R E

S E R V E S A S S U M E

I E I A

O P U S R E N O V A T E

R I T O T

H E A T I N S P I R E D

S O V I C R

S P R E E T R E K S

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Accountants Michael Brookes 56 Aerials Middleton Aerials 10 Alarms/Security Services Abacuss Alarms 58 Advantage Alarms 9 CEA Alarms 40 Audio Equipment Bose Showroom 1 & 5

Bathrooms Blackley Bathrooms 57 Complete En-Suite 49 Blinds Archer Blinds 2 Sonic Kleen 58

Building / Construction & Supplies D Cleary 63 Godfrey Builders 24 Rod Lester 10

Butchers Kirway Meat’s 34 & 35 Cakes Caketastic Creations 55 Car Services Colour Quick 56 Erazor Dent 36 Performance Valet 24 Carpet Retail & Fitting Chris Kelly’s Carpet Market 4 Carpet & Furniture Cleaning Mr Hygenic 43 Star Cleaning Services 12 Central Heating Blue Flame 11 Kwik Plumb 51 SJM 25 Children’s Play & Activities Running Wild 47 Running Wild Out of School 47

Children’s Wear Cover Babies Boutique 13 Lilly’s Closet 10 Chiropodists Beverley Calvert 40 Clothing Repairs & Alterations Topstitch 40 Convenience Store Best One 37 Curtains Curtain Design Service 13

Dance Leesa Vain Dance Academy 6

Distribution Company Door 2 Door NW 65

Electricians Alkrington Electrical 8 DMS Electrical 11 GL Electrical 49 Live Wire 29 Wrights Electrical 16 Estate Agents Mark Warren Estates 21 & 48 Financial Advisor Broomfield Wealth Management 44 Florist Livi Mae’s 50 Football Coaching Mark Allott Coaching Academy 45 Function Rooms Leesa Vain Function Suite 7 Middleton Cricket Club 17 Virgin Active Lancashire H & R 67

Gardening Garden of Eden 21 Gates & Railings Hill Farm Forge 28 Glass Specialists Middleton Glass 24 Cloudy 2 Clear 22

Golfing Powerhouse Golf 41 Hair Dressers Hair by Nic 39 Headwear Wedding / Prom Vintage Bowtique 31 Health, Beauty & Fitness Virgin Active Lancashire H & R 67 Zumba 28

Heating & Plumbing A & J Burns 44 Fourways Gas Specialist 29 Jet Washing ADS Multiclean 57

Joinery Collier Property Develoopments 8

Kitchens Andrew James Kitchens 9 S & S Kitchens 68 Locksmith Mobile Locksmith & Key Cutting 61 Motor Mechanic S Bolz Car Engineer 62 Off Licence Damian’s General Store 18 & 19

Oven Cleaning The Oven Cleaners 60

Painter & Decorator Alan Storton 12 David Briggs 28 Deluxe Decorators 39 R Cullen 59 Ray Worrall 44

Photography Pixel Photography 52 Plasterer C Collins 8 Dan McArdle 56 MW Plastering 59 V. Martin 61 Plumbing Services A Allan Plumbing 24 Property Maintenance AGV Property Maintenance 31 JWS Property Maintenance 36 Middleton Handyman 33 Pubs & Restaurants Lancashire Fold 7 Toy Box 14 & 15 Roofing Crescent Roofing 12 Duckworth Roofing 59 Senior Care Home Instead 3 Shoe Repairs Shoe Doctor 16 Skip Hire Middleton Waste & Recycling 33 Solicitor Sedgwick Phelan 13 Temperley Taylor 32 Tiling Colin Knight 61 J. Edwards 11 Upholstery Fittons 48

Vacuum Repairs Alkrington Vacuum Cleaner Serv. 60

Van Maintenance Van Parts 60 Windows & Doors Crown Windows 23 JLG Windows 43 Vista Windows 39 Whitefield Home Improvement 43 Your Choice 53

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