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communityDidsbury

March 2015

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Get in touch with our family team

family@slaterheelis.co.uk 0161 835 3681

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You are just a tram ride away from one of our offices in Manchester city centre or Sale.

I moved to Didsbury for its independent bars, restaurants and shops together with its great transport links to the city. For me Burton Road epitomises Didsbury and its community vibe. I cant imagine myself anywhere else.

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Community Index A5 v04.indd 7 15/06/2014 21:16

Contents

On the coverDidsbury map launch Photograph by Tom Biddle

Deadlines for next editionContent Wednesday 11 MarchAdvertising Friday 13 March

ContributorsGeoff Garnett Deborah Grace Linsey ParkinsonAndrew SimpsonKatherine Watson

Lesley SwannDirector

Joe BeechDesigndesign@communityindex.co.uk

Sam PaechterAccountsaccounts@communityindex.co.uk 07939 077036

@communityindex www.communityindex.co.uk149 Ayres Road, Manchester M16 9WR

16Elizabeth Gaskells open house 129

Creditwhere

its dueDiscover Didsbury

Linsey ParkinsonEditoreditor@communityindex.co.uk 07875 895604

4arranging therapy is easy...phone Paul Melia on07592 340 211or emailPaul.Melia@TherapyInManchester.co.ukTherapy in Manchester, 583 Barlow Moor Road Chorlton M21 8AE (by the HSBC Bank)

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Therst appointmentprovides an opportunity to discuss what brings you to therapy. By the end of this hour-long meeting you will have an understanding of how psychotherapy and counselling can help you.

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Whats the current focus of your work?Thomas Adam, a 17th century physician, said, Prevention is better than healing because it saves the labour of being sick! This aphorism has become the motto for our team. Some years back we built the Genesis Prevention Centre at Wythenshawe Hospital for women who wish to help in our research. Weve been very fortunate in having large numbers of women who volunteer to help in our trials to prevent breast cancer. I work closely with Professor Gareth Evans, a clinical genetics expert and Dr Michelle Harvie, our research dietician at the Genesis Centre. Our laboratory research into new methods for prevention is performed in the Breakthrough Unit at The Christie Campus and led by Professor Michael Lisanti.

With one in nine women in the UK currently at risk of developing breast cancer, how confident are you about reducing that figure?Women at high risk of developing the disease can be identified through breast screening and offered treatment with drugs,

such as tamoxifen, raloxifene and anastrozole, to halve their risk. We have research programmes under way to identify those women likely to benefit from the treatment and a very active research programme to develop new treatments to prevent the disease.We also know that reducing weight and maintaining weight loss will reduce risk by about a quarter. The importance of keeping a healthy weight led Dr Michelle Harvie and I to develop the 5:2 Diet, to make dieting easier!If all these measures were introduced an estimated third of breast cancer could be prevented, but we still have a long way to go. Were fortunate that our research is supported by the Genesis Charity, Breast Cancer Campaign and Breakthrough, although were always looking for new funding.

How do you keep fit?I love running; it gets me out into the fresh air. I do one 10k per week and two or three 5ks. Youll think me mad, but I just run round and round Marie Louise Gardens early in the morning. I think about

experiments and the papers we have to write, so hardly notice the distance. This works well for me! Please be careful if you are there, since my head is always down. Its a bit dangerous and I may bump into you!

Youre 73 now. Any plans to retire?Im not at all keen on retirement! I am tremendously lucky; I cannot think of any other job I would rather do. Im also fortunate in having had fantastic support from the NHS and Manchester University over the years.

Apart from work, what are your interests?Theatre, cinema, gardening, reading. Ive just read Life on the Edge: The Coming of Age of Quantum Biology by Jim Al-Khalili and Johnjoe McFadden. Seriously interesting! Its the basis of everything!

Complete the sentence, I love Didsbury because it has tremendous character, is full of interesting people and close to my workplaces at The Christie and Wythenshawe Hospital.

Tony Howell, Professor of Medical Oncology in the University of Manchester at The Christie and Research Director at the Genesis Breast Cancer Prevention Centre (Wythenshawe Hospital). Professor Howell and his colleague, Dr Michelle Harvie, are also co-authors of The 2-Day Diet (Vermillion 2013).

www.genesisuk.org

Tony Howell

Didsbury Peopleby Deborah Grace

5

Springs the time for fresh starts and nothing says Spring Clean quite like a new bathroom. But first, you need to make a key decision: indulgent, relaxing me-space, or speedy shower-and-go?The two design options arent as mutually exclusive as you might think: there are plenty of tricks to enable you to create something between the two. You wont always be watching the clock or hurrying kids out of the house and your bathroom should reflect that: there will be times when only a really long soak and a proper time-out will do. A bathroom should always have a calm feel, if at all possible.

Although this can seem difficult to manage with a large family, its definitely worth making the effort. If youre looking for a walk-in, opt for a minimalist shower screen, low tray or wet floor thats easy to keep clean and gives you lots of elbow room. If your bathroom is small as they often are avoid clutter and overly fussy fittings to keep the look simple and streamlined. Pastel colours such as warm, chalky pale blues can really create a restful atmosphere, as well as potentially giving your bathroom character and individuality. Youll be surprised how spacious a well-designed, practical bathroom can feel.

If you really want to go for an indulgent space with a touch of luxury, a Victorian claw foot tub or a modern, free-standing equivalent, makes for a wonderful soak. Youll never want to get out! Create a feature wall with gorgeous tiles or a luxury finish and make sure theres space for lots of candles. A rich, dark wooden floor, properly sealed, and some super-fluffy towels complete the opulent vintage look. For inspiration, advice or a no-obligation quote, just get in touch.

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Its time to celebrate the Victorian novelist Elizabeth Gaskell. Not simply because March is when we mark International Womens Day, nor because her beautifully restored home opened last year not even because this year is the 150th anniversary of her death. We should celebrate her as a courageous and inspiring modern woman, who played as significant a role in Manchesters radical past as many of her more famous male contemporaries.Middle-class Victorian ladies - Isabella Beeton being a notable example - felt it their duty to visit the houses of the poor (literally slumming it), to dispense advice on how to feed a family on a budget. Sound familiar? Gaskell, on the other hand, looked beyond the surface and sought to highlight deeper causes of social injustice. Her novels, especially Mary Barton and Ruth were highly controversial, dealing as they did with subjects of urban poverty and illegitimacy. Her husband William was a writer, teacher and Unitarian minister at Cross Street Chapel, as well as Chairman of the Portico Library. He too worked tirelessly to alleviate poverty and educate the children of the poor. Together, the Gaskells were a respectable, high-profile couple, difficult for the patriarchal establishment to ignore.

Open HouseElizabeth was also mother to four daughters and ran a bustling household. She did all her writing at a small table in the dining room, so that maternal and domestic comings and goings ran alongside her professional work. As well as her fiction, Gaskell was a prolific writer of letters, which reveal her

to be a woman of wit and down-to-earth charm, who regularly faced that all-too-familiar modern struggle to attain a work-life balance. Thats the beauty of the restoration at Plymouth Grove: its charming, homely and elegant without being grandiose: a house to enjoy and feel welcome in, just as Elizabeth would have wanted. While William taught pupils in his study, she received visitors including Charles Dickens, John Ruskin and Harriet Beecher Stowe in the drawing room. Sir Charles Hall taught piano there, and a painfully shy Charlotte Bront once hid behind the curtains, to avoid meeting fellow guests. The Gaskells house is filled with

stories and run almost entirely by friendly and informed volunteers, passionate about sharing them with visitors. From gardeners to conservators, room stewards to tea shop staff its a small, but committed team that keeps the doors open. If youre inspired, do call in Elizabeth loved having visitors!

Elizabeth Gaskells House is at 84 Plymouth Grove. Its open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, 11am 4.30pm (last entry at 4pm). Tickets valid for twelve months - are 4.95, (3.95) and accompanied under 16s go free. Find out more about volunteering at www.elizabethgaskellhouse.co.uk.Already a fan? Join the Gaskell Society atwww.gaskellsociety.co.uk

9

A woman of substance By Linsey Parkinson

Picture by Jill Jennings

10

Book Reviews

Nanda Gray is just nine when her father, a devout Catholic convert, enrols her at the Convent of Five Wounds in Lippington village. Fiercely intelligent and eager to please, Nanda works hard to conform to the strict school discipline and strange, closed world where, as one of the girls puts it, Catholicism isnt a religion, its a nationality. At Lippington, close friendships are frowned upon; the nuns warn their charges against spiritual pride

and subject their every move to constant scrutiny. During her four years at the school, Nanda manages to make friends and even acquires the coveted green ribbon which marks academic achievement. Despite her many successes, however, Nanda remains painfully conscious of the difference between her own background and that of her friends, the daughters of the old, great, Catholic families of aristocratic Europe. Although aware that her status as middle-class convert makes her the object of the nuns suspicion, Nanda is nevertheless unprepared when the inevitable catastrophe strikes.

In her introduction to Frost in May, Elizabeth Bowen describes the book as a school novel written for adult readers, and she adds: It is not the only school story to be a classic; but I can think of no other that is a work of art. The first of a quartet of novels, based on the often painful life experiences of its author, Frost In May is both beautifully written and profoundly disturbing.

Frost in May Antonia White

To mark International Womens Day, Deborah Grace chooses two classic stories, both inspired by personal memoirs. While very different, both depict the strength and courage of two inspirational women.

In 1914, as war was declared, Vera Brittain was eighteen and about to study English Literature at Somerville College, Oxford. The daughter of well-heeled family living in Buxton, Brittain, self-taught, had won her Oxford place despite parental opposition and prevailing societal attitudes regarding the merits (or otherwise) of educating women. Her hard-won struggle, however, was to give way to a more terrible conflict. Four years later, her life

had changed in a way that was unimaginable in the tranquil, pre-war era.To describe Vera Brittain as the voice of a lost generation may seem clichd, but her searing wartime memoir achieves the dual aim of preserving the memory of loved ones while drawing wisdom from painful experience. Initially deceived by the shining figure of patriotism, Brittain encouraged her beloved brother, Edward, to enlist, but was quickly disillusioned. Leaving Oxford in 1915 to nurse wounded soldiers, Brittian saw at first hand the wicked slaughter that was to set her on the path to lifelong pacifism. One by one, her closest friends, including Edward

and her fianc, the poet Roland Leighton, were killed. And when it was all over, Brittain, in common with a generation of stunned survivors, had to find a way to live again.There may not be I believe there is not resurrection after death, but nothing could prove more conclusively than my own brief but eventful history the fact that resurrection is possible within our own united span of earthly time.

Testament of Youth Vera Brittain

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The banking sectors been getting a bad press: irresponsible lending, lack of help for small business, tax avoidance schemes and fat cat bonuses are just some of the reasons that more and more of us are looking for ethical ways to borrow and save. The good news is that there is an alternative. South Manchester Credit Union, open for business since 2000, is run on a co-operative basis, by and for over 3,100 members. Its currently lending 1.3m to the people of South Manchester and holding 1.7m in savings accounts, all protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. This is a safe and empowering way to save: your money works to make a difference to the lives of individuals, rather than line the pockets of corporate shareholders. Just like money spent locally, money saved and lent locally tends to stay in the area and we all see its benefits. Savers can earn a dividend too, when members consider that results are strong enough: last year, it was a respectable 1.25%.Fair lending can make an enormous difference to peoples lives, helping them clear expensive debts, pay for essential items or invest in their future. Debt arrears arent just about financial hardship,

but can also damage health, self-esteem and general wellbeing. And when youre on a low income, credit tends to be much more expensive. South Manchester Credit Union, however, lends responsibly to all sections of the community at reasonable interest rates and talks face-to-face with loan applicants. Sheenagh Young, the manager at South Manchester Credit Union says: We take the time to listen to people and to understand their individual circumstances. When we lend money, were acting on behalf of all our members and so we take that responsibility very seriously. Its in nobodys interest for a loan to be defaulted, so we reach an arrangement that suits borrowers

and minimises the risk to them. Helping people avoid a destructive spiral of expensive debt is another aspect of the credit union teams work. They offer free financial guidance on how to budget, borrow and save. Theyre about to start a pilot project in Fallowfield, working with those in receipt of Universal Credit for the first time. Its not about promoting particular financial products and theres no commission or hidden charges: its simply about giving people solid guidance on managing their own money. South Manchester Credit Unions AGM takes place on March 16 at The Place on Platt Lane (formerly Fallowfield Library). All members welcome to attend. We love seeing peoples faces when they realise theyve managed to save more than they expected, says Sheenagh. Some of our members may never have been able to save before: others have significant account balances. Whatever money they deposit with us makes a real difference: theyre investing in their own community.

Credit where its due

Find out more or become a member atwww.smcreditunion.co.uk 0161 448 0200 187 Fog Lane (near Burnage Station). Open weekdays, 9.30am-3.30pm (Wednesdays, 1-6pm).

Local drop-in collection points: St Pauls Church Hall Wilmslow Road, WithingtonSaturdays 10-11:30amBarlow Moor Community Association Building23 Merseybank Avenue Saturdays 9-11 am

The South Manchester Credit Union team with Sheenagh (centre) and president of the Board of Directors, Jeff Seneviratne (right)

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Your babys first adventureWe all want to hold onto cherished memories of our finest hours. We book photographers for our weddings and special occasions, so why not when our children are born? Linsey talks to birth photographer Tara Leach. What is birth photography?Its simply photography that documents the birth of a child its very popular in North America, but almost unheard of here. My job is usually to portray everything: from active labour to birth and beyond, including skin-to-skin contact and first meetings with siblings and family.

Is it intrusive?Definitely not: the whole thing is done with absolute sensitivity and discretion and couples forget that

Im there. Birth partners can focus completely on supporting mothers: they are a part of the picture in all senses and shouldnt be spending their time behind a camera. These are challenging circumstances: theres lots going on, light levels are low and those key moments simply cant be recreated. A professional photographer doesnt miss a thing. And the results?The photos are, in a word, stunning: they capture the love, strength, pain and elation of childbirth. So many women have hazy memories of giving birth; so many new mothers and babies are seen in blurred, poorly lit camera phone shots. Why not create a record telling the story of your babys first adventure thats as beautiful and as moving as the experience itself?

How does it work?It all starts with a meeting. Its essential for me to get a sense of not only what my clients want, but who they are, because this is a truly bespoke service: I only get one chance and I need to make sure I get it absolutely right. Personally, I think I have the best job in the world!Contact Tara:taraleachphotography@yahoo.com07976 945028www.taraleach.com

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March In Your GardenBy Katherine Watson

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15

I have just received an order from the Beth Chatto garden nursery in Essex. The garden is famous for spearheading techniques to deal with climactic change and there are really useful books accompanying the different gardens that Chatto has created - the gravel garden; the damp garden etc. Ive received two rather unusual forms of Gunnera: G. Hamiltonii and G. Magellanica. I also ordered two Darmera peltata, part of the saxifrage family but on steroids. When I rst moved to my current house in Old Trafford, I bunged in a random collection of plants bought as presents and purchased without any real scheme in mind. One of these plants was a Gunnera manicata - commonly called the giant rhubarb because it looks exactly like youd expect a giant rhubarb to look - albeit a giant rhubarb with a 20 Senior Service-a-day habit. I loved it but it was way too big and didnt sit comfortably with anything else at the time, so it had to go.I went through a few perennial phases but just recently, Ive been tinkering again and am being drawn to foliage and oddity; spiky yuccas and trachycarpus and even Phormium, which I went

right off for a while. Christopher Lloyd maintained that it was essential to have spiky and unusual plants in an English garden to counteract the softness - ...They give an immediate lift (much like the rst glass of champagne on a Sunday morning) So when I came to think about how to give parts of the garden this lift I started looking at smaller alternatives to G. Manicata. The Darmera peltata have arrived as thick tubers with bright green bulbous heads and lots of leggy roots clinging horizontally underneath - something from the Mesozoic era surely - it will produce similar foliage to G. Manicata but on a smaller scale. The other two varieties of Gunnera - Hamiltonii and Magellanica are much smaller leaved and will, hopefully, act as ground cover around the trachycarpus. All need a moisture retentive soil to do well but in Manchester we denitely have one over on Essex when it comes to wet soil.

Katherine is running a six-week Introduction to Garden Design course in April and May. For more information email k.l.watson@hotmail.co.uk or visit www.fatgrass.co.uk.

Discover DidsburyThe 2015 Didsbury Traders Map was officially launched at the Fletcher Moss in February. 125 businesses from across the Village and West Didsbury - what they offer, as well as how and where to find them - are listed. Some youll know, others you may not. Eating and drinking; shopping; finance and property; health and beauty; community, culture and online services: youll find almost everything you need is already in Didsbury and its on the map. Therell also be a series of competitions through the year, so keep hold of the map for the chance to win some great prizes. Councillor Andrew Simcock, a driving force behind the project, said: This map, which is bigger than ever before, is entirely self-financing. Its a fantastic example of how the City Council and local businesses can work together to produce something excellent that

benefits businesses and residents alike. He gave thanks to all the maps supporters, especially the Didsbury House Hotel; the Didsbury Traders Co-chairs, Carol Thompson and Irene Bayliss; and the maps designer and illustrator, Tom Biddle of Tom Biddle Design & Photography. He also announced that work on the 2016 map would start in August!30,000 maps have been printed, but theyll be snapped up fast, so be sure to pick up yours from shops, libraries and other places over the coming weeks. We guarantee youll learn something new about where you live.

For updates, follow Didsbury Traders on Twitter

@didsburytraders

Enjoy a colourful celebration thats by and for the community, with performances and contributions from Parrswood and Loreto Colleges, The Barlow RC School, Beaver Road, and Didsbury C of E Primaries. Therell be songs from the Mad Onnas all-women choir, plus art and photography displays. Meet women from the Makers Market, including Faith in Fabrics and SWALK, who will exhibit and talk about their work.

This was a great event last year, which is all down to hard work and commitment by a team of volunteers working with Councillor Bridie Adams. Sue Thurston from Didsbury Good Neighbours and Jean Bridson are two local women who tirelessly give their time and have each been nominated for awards for serving the local community. Sue will be guest of honour on the day.The aim is to celebrate the achievements of women from all walks of life, and to raise money for womens charities including Womens Aid and Rape Crisis.

There will also be speakers from Womens Aid on the issue of domestic violence.The events free, theres free tea and coffee and everyone is welcome.

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Saturday 7 March Didsbury Baptist Church from 2pm

Didsbury celebrates International Womens Day

Didsbury Juniors FC Fog Lane, 07979 656666 www.didsbu

ryjuniors.com @djfc

02

Didsbury Cricket Club 860, Wilmslow Road, 0161 445 534

7 www.didsburycc.com @didsbury

cc

01

Didsbury Parsonage Trust& Civic Society The Old Parsonage, Stenner Lane,

0161 445 7661 www.didsburyparsonagetrust.org

.uk @Parsonagetrust

04

Didsbury Park Childrens Centre Didsbury Park, 0161 434 1601 www.manchester.go

v

03

Didsbury Sports Ground

Simon Field, Ford lane, 07442 5076

01 www.didsburysportsground.co.uk

@DidsburySportsG

05

PRAMACTIVE 07713183522 www.pramactive

.co.uk @pramactive

06

tHE ALBERT CLUB 39-41 Old Lansdowne Road, 0161 44

5 1056 www.thealbertclub.co.uk @thealb

ertclub

07

Gusto Bar & Restaurant

756, Wilmslow Road, 0161 445 82

09 www.gustorestaurants.uk.com @g

ustodidsbury

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DIDSBURY TRADERS www.didsburytraders.co.uk @didsburytrade

rs

02

Rcoffee of Didsbury 43 Dene Road, 0161 448 9171 www.rcoffe

e.co.uk @RCoffeeUK

03

Short Cut Social 07876 802794www.shortcutso

cial.co.uk @shortcutsocial

04

TOM BIDDLE DESIGN+PHOTOGRAPHY 07989 430807 www.tombiddle.c

o.uk @biddle_tom

08

Greens 43, Lapwing Lane, 0161 434 4259 www.greens

didsbury.co.uk @greensveggie

14

Pavillion Caf The Holt Pavilion, Didsbury Park www.didsbur

ygoodneighbours.org.uk @pavilion

cafe1

18

Pizza Express 95, Lapwing Lane, 0161 438 0838 www.pizzae

xpress.com @pizzaexpressM20

19

The Alpine Tea Room The Croft, Fletcher Moss Gardens, @alpinetear

oom

22

The Hub Vegetarian Caf

37, Barlow Moor Road, 0161 434

6784 www.healthy-spirit.com

24

The Stokers Arms 655-657 Wilmslow Road, 0161 448

7941 www.thestokersarmsdidsbury.co.u

k @stokersarms

29

Wine and Wallop 97, Lapwing Lane, 0161 446 2464 @wineandw

allop

30

Volta Eaterie & Bar 167 Burton Road, 0161 448 8887 www.voltafo

odanddrink.co.uk @volta

32

Zizzi 700, Wilmslow Road, 0161 434 5923 www.zizzi.c

o.uk @zizzididsbury

33

The Station Bar 682 Wilmslow Road, 07577 446801 @stationdi

dsbury

28

The Metropolitan 2, Lapwing Lane, 0161 438 2332 www.the-m

etropolitan.co.uk @MetDidsbury

26

Refresh Caf 10 Whitechapel Street, 0161 434 45

90 @refreshcafe10a

20

Ashley Brown 17, Warburton Street, 0161 445 089

4 @ashleybrownhair

01

Maclure Didsbury Barbers

26 School Lane, 0161 448 7536 www.mac

lurebarbers.co.uk @macluredidsbu

ry

06

Village Physio & Sports Injury Clinic 3 Warburton Street, 0161 448 7844 www.didsbu

ryphysio.co.uk @didsburyphysio

15

Wheeldon Opticians 106, Palatine Road , 0161 445 4253 www.wheel

don-opticians.co.uk

16

CashPoint 724 Wilmslow Road, 0161 434 5841

www.cashpointdidsbury.com @D

ids_Cashpoint

04

Didsbury Fish Bar 1 School Lane, 0161 445 4207

08

Art of Tea 47, Barlow Moor Road, 0161 448 93

23 www.theartoftea.co.uk @artoftea

UK

04

Applebys Homemade English Refreshment 21, Barlow Moor Road, 0161 448 7225 www.applebys-he

arty-refreshment.com @applebys

tweet

03

Bourbon & Black 704, Wilmslow Road, 0161 448 0383 www.bourb

onandblack.co.uk @bourbonandb

lack

05

Evies Retreat 115, Lapwing Lane, 0161 434 4400 www.eviesb

eauty.com @eviesretreat

03

Callaghans 163 Burton Rd, 0161 434 4747 www.callagh

ansltd.com @callaghanssell

03

Lewis Phipps Property Management Ltd Nelson House, 15, Barlow Moor Roa

d, 0161 448 2121

www.lewisphipps.co.uk

10

Salehs llp 748, Wilmslow Road, 0161 434 9991

www.salehs.co.uk

07

Alan Gregory Music&Musical Instruments Xenon House, 10 School Lane, 01

61 445 4466 www.alangregory.co.uk

02

Bisous Bisous 663, Wilmslow Road, 0161 222 4480

www.bisousbisous.co.uk @_bisou

sbisous

04

Cocoa Cabana Chocolatiers

128, Burton Road, 0161 282 5700 www.coc

oa-cabana.co.uk @cocoa_cabana

07

Co-operative Food 175, Burton Road, 0161 434 2592 www.co-op

erativefood.co.uk @thecooperativ

e

08

Drop the Boy 73, School Lane, 0161 445 1918 @droptheb

oy

12

Evans 1, Barlow Moor Road, 0161 445 240

4 www.evansofdidsbury.co.uk @eva

nsofdidsbury

14

Frames 33 Lapwing Lane, 0161 445 2354 www.frame

sdidsbury.com

16

McQueen Independent 677, Wilmslow Road, 0161 446 1177 @mcqindep

endent

23

Orchard Interiors & Gifts

2 Warburton Street, 0161 434 62

78 www.orchardinteriordesign.com @

orcharddidsbury

26

Sterling Pharmacy 103, Lapwing Lane, 0161 445 3753 www.sterlin

gpharmacy.com @DidsburyChemis

t

09

The Flower Lounge 98, Barlow Moor Road, 0161 446 25

56 www.didsburyflowerlounge.co.uk

@flower_lounge

31

The Picture House 47 Barlow Moor Rd 07738 068030 www.manc

hesterpictureframing.co.uk

32

The White Closet 204, Burton Road, 0161 445 5678 www.thewh

itecloset.co.uk @thewhitecloset

33

Victoria Highf ield Jewellers 735, Wilmslow Road, 0161 434 8111 www.victoriahighfield.com

@vhjewellers

34

Oxfam 778/780, Wilmslow Road, 0161 434

5380 www.oxfam.org.uk @oxfamdids

27

Reserve Wines 176, Burton Road, 0161 438 0101 www.reser

vewines.co.uk @reservewinesuk

28

Fusion Deli 109, Lapwing Lane, 0161 438 0404 www.fusion

deli.co.uk @fusiondeli

18 Montrose Properties 20a, Lapwing Lane, 0161 445 7000 www.montr

oseproperties.co.uk @montrosep

rops

11

Chalk Bar and Grill 784-788, Wilmslow Road, 0161 445

1042 www.chalkbar.co.uk @chalkbargr

ill

06

Folk Caf Bar 169, Burton Road, 0161 445 2912 www.folkca

febar.co.uk @folkdidsbury

12

Fosters Fish & Chips 812 Wilmslow Road, 0161 445 4430

www.fostersfishandchips.com @f

ostersfish

13

The Original Third Eye 661 Wilmslow Road, 0161 446 2300

www.originalthirdeye.com

27

The Lime Tree 8, Lapwing Lane, 0161 445 1217 www.thelim

etreerestaurant.co.uk @thelimetr

eeres

25

Didsbury Eyecare 717 Wilmslow Rd, 0161 445 7668 www.didsb

uryeyecare.co.uk @DidsburyEye

care

02

Susan Styles You 07801 341526www.susanstyles

you.com @susanstylesyou

10

HSBC 760, Wilmslow Road, 0845 740 4404 www.hsbc.c

o.uk @hsbc_uk_help

06

Didsbury Lounge 43, Barlow Moor Road, 0161 434 24

08 www.didsburylounge.co.uk @dids

burylounge

09

Croma 651a Wilmslow Road, 0161 445 694

4 www.cromapizza.co.uk @cromap

izza

07

Urban Grille 671 Wilmslow Road, 0161 445 5111 @urbangril

leuk

31

Flanagans Gents Hairdressing 804. Wilmslow Road, 0161 448 7400 www.flanagansbarb

ers.com @flanagansbarber

04

Squires BarberShop 675 Wilmslow Rd, 0161 445 9111 www.squir

esbarbershop.com @SquiresBarb

ers

11

Toni&Guy 737, Wilmslow Road, 0161 445 5466

www.toniandguy.com/salon/inform

ation/650 @ToniGuyDidsbury

12

ABC Estates 35 Barlow Moor Road, 0161 434 20

00 www.abc-estates.co.uk @ABCEst

ates1

01

Jordan Fishwick 757-759 Wilmslow Road, 0161 445

4480 www.jordanfishwick.co.uk @jorda

nfishwick

07

Dog & Partridge 665/667 Wilmslow Road, 0161 445

5322 @DandPDidsbury

10

Mud Crab Diner 747 Wilmslow Rd 0161 445 2055 www.mudc

rabindustries.co.uk @MudCrab_

Ind

17

Mary and Archie 200 Burton Rd, 0161 445 3130 @maryanda

rchie

16

M J Leeming Opticians 1A School Lane, 0161 445 5307

05

John Yates Hair & Beauty

3, Old Oak St, 0161 445 0201 w

ww.johnyates.co.uk

07

Salon M20 723 Wilmslow Road, 0161 445 6161 ww

w.salonm20.co.uk @salonm20

08

Tyson Hair Design 45 Barlow Moor Road, 0161 445 08

99 www.tysonhairdesign.co.uk @tyso

nhairdesign

13

Barclays Bank 753-755 Wilmslow Road, 0161 251

3605 www.barclays.co.uk @barclayson

line

02

JP & Brimelow 748a Wilmslow Road, 0161 448 062

2 www.jpandbrimelow.co.uk @ jpan

dbrimelow

08

Philip James Kennedy 679 Wilmslow Road, 0161 448 1234 www.philip

james.co.uk @pjkdidsbury

12

Julian Wadden 764b Wilmslow Road, 0161 434 431

1 www.julianwadden.co.uk @ julianw

adden

09

Richmond Property 3 Elm Grove, 0161 434 6666 www.richm

ond-property.com

13

Tiger Property Partners

722 Wilmslow Road, 0161 434 24

44 www.tigerproperty.co.uk

14

Wren Properties 696 Wilmslow Road, 0161 434 5225 www.wrenp

roperties.co.uk

15

EAT and drink

community and sport

Manchester Language School Moor Cottage, Grange Lane, 0161 448 8372 www.manchesterlang

uageschool.co.uk

05

Carringtons Wines 688-690 Wilmslow Rd, 0161 446 25

46 @carringtonsmcr

06

E J MortEn Booksellers

6 Warburton Street,0161 445 762

9

15

Healthy Spirit 37 Barlow Moor Road, 0161 434 67

84 www.healthy-spirit.com

22

Harriet & Dee Jewellery Boutique 9 Warburton Street, 0161 445 3821 www.harrietan

ddee.co.uk @harrietanddee

20

The Cheese Hamlet 706 Wilmslow Road, 0161 434 4781

www.cheesehamlet.co.uk @chees

e_hamlet

30

Kip McGrath Education Centre First Floor, 31 Barlow Moor Road, 0161 43

4 0494 www.kipmcgrath

.co.uk/didsbury

02

Peter Woolley Printers

31 Barlow Moor Road, 0161 445

9607 @pcwprinters_m20

06

A sweet thought 812b Wilmslow Road, 0161 434 283

2 www.asweetthought.co.uk @aswe

etthought1

01

Co-operative Food 756-758 Wilmslow Rd, 0161 445 62

07 www.co-operativefood.co.uk @th

ecooperative

09

Fresh Save Fruit and Veg

718 Wilmslow Road, 0161 448 72

93

17

M&S Simply Food 726-732 Wilmslow Rd, 0161 445 35

08 www.marksandspencer.com @m_

sdidsbury

24

M.I.Cloud Informatics 792 Wilmslow Road, 07928 772398 www.miclo

ud.co.uk @m_i_cloud_b_i

03

Starjumper Social Media

31 Barlow Moor Road, 07543 933

660 www.starjumpersocialmedia.word

press.com @starjumpermedia

08

Didsbury Jewellers 724 Wilmslow Road, 0161 434 5841

www.cashpointdidsbury.com

10

Giddy Goat Toys 2 Albert Hill Street, 0161 4451097 www.giddyg

oattoys.co.uk @giddygoattoys

19

Nest Interiors 6, Albert Hill Street, 0161 448 9999

www.nestinteriorsdidsbury.com @

nestdidsbury

25

Mailboxes Etc 792 Wilmslow Road, 0161 445 0444

www.mbe.co.uk/manchesterdidsb

ury @didsburyprint

04

The Robins Voice Holistic Vocal Academy 33 Barlow Moor Rd, 07944 681 904 www.therobinsvo

ice.com

09

Boots the Chemist 736-740 Wilmslow Rd, 0161 445 42

85 www.boots.com

05

Didsbury Village Bookshop

47 Barlow Moor Road, 0161 438

0211 @web_master_dave

11

Sew-In of Didsbury 741 Wilmslow Road, 0161 445 5861 www.mykni

ttingyarnandwool.co.uk

29

SHOPPING

accommodationSERVICES

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

PROPERTY AND FINANCE

online/ web

Fletcher Moss 1 William St, 0161 438 0073 www.hydes

brewery.com @thefletchermoss

11

Airyfairy Cake Boutique

We have a gorgeous vintage Cake

Boutique at the Airyfairy HQ.

Here youll find our cupcakes, ca

kes, cakepops and brownies.We

offer the best Afternoon Tea, fresh

ly ground coffee, and milkshakes. 24 School Lane

, 07791 850641 www.airyfairycup

cakes.co.uk @airyfairycakes

01

ALBERTS DIDSBURY Busy West Didsbury restaurant & bar serv

ing modern british food

in a contemporary environment.

Join us for something to eat or

just a drink in our buzzing bar.

120 Barlow Moor Road 0

161 434 8289www.albertsdids

bury.com @Alberts_Dids

02

Andrew Graham Shoes Welcome to Andrew Graham Shoes. We are

an independent shoe

retailer and offer an extensive ran

ge of attractive and stylish footwe

ar that you wont fi

nd elsewhere on the high street.

673 Wilmslow Road, 0

161 445 8243 www.andrewgrah

amshoes.co.uk @agshoes 03

Didsbury Magazine Est in 2002 wed love to hear from you. Ge

t in touch 0161 445 2883 visit us online ww

w.salutions.co.uk

99 The Old Bank, 0

161 445 2883 www.salutions.co

.uk @didsburymagazin

01

Earle & Ginger Kitchens

Earle and Ginger give a bespoke, p

rofessional, personal kitchen

design service at a competitive pr

ice.

680, Wilmslow Road, 0

161 434 4354www.earleandgin

ger.co.uk @earleandginger

13

Social Circle Social Circle is Manchesters Social & Activ

ity Network that connects

like-minded people through fun lo

cal events. Get a FREE local event @SocialC

ircleMcr07845 529538www.social-circle

.co.uk @SocialCircleMcr

05

Community Index Delivered to 10,000 homes and community

settings. Community

Index is a magazine that champion

s local people and independent

businesses. We celebrate what mak

es Didsbury special. 149 Ayres Road,

07875 895604www.community

index.co.uk @communityindex

01

The Tinned Snail Attractive, fun mugs & coasters featuring yo

ur area, name, or

anything! Ideal gifts for all occasio

ns. One offs or large quantities

for weddings, corporate gifts etc.

07970 501149www.tinnedsnail.

co.uk @tinnedsnail

07

Harriet & Dee Award winning Gift & Card Specialist on the c

obbled street that is

the jewel in Didsburys crown

8 Warburton Street 0

161 438 2500www.harrietandd

ee.co.uk @harrietanddee

21

SoLiTa Solita Restaurants are famous for their bur

gers and great grill

menu and have been listed in the

Good Food Guide for the last

two years.

10-12 Warburton Street, 01

61 434 4884 www.solita.co.uk

@solitaNQ

21

The Deli The Deli brings a touch of southern Europe

to Didsbury. We offer

a tantalising taste of Italy, bringing

together regional delicacies and

fresh Italian dishes.

754 Wilmslow Road, 0

161 434 4084www.thedelidids

bury.co.uk @delididsbury

23

David Parish Didsbury Business Centre, 137 Barl

ow Moor, Road www.sjpp.co.uk/davidparish 0161 4

38 1156

05(St. Jamess PlaceWealth Management)

01 KEY:= TOILET FACILITIES= Disabled access

= FLAGS p.t.o= Breast feeding

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= Disabled access

= FLAGS p.t.o= Breast feeding

= Baby changing= Nominated Chair= wifItbhotography .co.uk &

FIND.SHOP.

DO.EAT.PLAY.

SUPPORTED BY DIDSBURY HOUSE HOTEL

DIDSBURY VILLAGE

WITHZO

N

FIRSWO

OD

EAST DIDSBURY

BURTON RO

AD

CHORLTO

N

CORNBRO

OK

WEST DIDSBURY

ST WERBURGHS

TRAFFORD BAR

ST PETERS DEANSGATE

Didbury Park, M20 5LJ, 0161 448

2200 www.didsburyhouse.co.uk

@DidsburyHouse

11 Didbury Park, M20 5LH, 0161

448 7711 www.elevendidsburypark.co.

uk @DidsburyHouse

01

02

@dids

bury

trad

ersDIDSBU

RY map

2015

On behalf of Didsbury Traders A

ssociation, welcome to our

second, and much extended edit

ion of the Didsbury map. With more mem

bers and the very generous suppo

rt of Didsbury House

Hotel, our map has been self-fund

ing this year. Special thanks to

Councillor Andrew Simcock for fo

r all the time he has volunteered

as

co-ordinator to the project doing

the legwork and visiting hundreds

of

Didsbury businesses, Tom Biddle o

ur talented designer and Co- Cha

irs Carol Thompson

(Didsbury TAG! Loyalty Scheme)

and Irene Bayliss (Harriet and Dee) All tho

se featured on the map are memb

ers and in partnership with a

committed network of Didsbury

Community groups, local

representatives and Manchester C

ity Council, we aim together to m

ake

Didsbury a vibrant, attractive, mo

dern urban village extending a wa

rm and friendly northern

welcome to all. We love Didsbur

y for our unique range of indepe

ndent businesses, good

choice of brands, cherished green

wide open spaces to enjoy, lively p

ro-gramme of event

s and sports, our heritage and loc

al history... We hope you will do too, while u

sing our map to enjoy finding, sho

pping, doing, eating and

playing Didsbury style! If the

re is anything you think weve miss

ed please get in touch with Andre

w cllr.a.simcock@ma

nchester.gov.uk

www.didsburytraders.co.uk

THE nORTHERN The Northern is a unique members owned

Racquet Sports and

Fitness club. We offerTennis, Squa

sh and Fitness facilities to rival

any club in the North West of Eng

land.

08Palatine Road, 0161 445 3093 www.thenorther

n.co.uk @theNorthernMCR

Urban Angels Didsbury

58 School Lane, 0161 446 1119 www.urba

nangelsdidsbury.com @urbanange

lsm20

14

Tag! Pass It On 07907 731141www.tagpassiton

.com @tagpassiton

06For Savings look for

(MAPDESIGNER)

FREE

CHORLTON LEVENSHULME

cheadle

sale

stockport

THE AIRPORT

manchestercity centre

M60

M56

ALTRINCHAM

DIDSBURYVILLAGE

WESTDIDSBURY

Carol Thompson, co-chair of Didsbury Traders, with Cllr Andrew Simcock at the launch. Photo by Tom Biddle

Are you part of a voluntary or community group? Tell us about it - editor@communityindex.co.uk

Clubs, Societies & GroupsActing For Fun 431 4794Didsbury Civic Society didsburycivicsociety.org.ukDidsbury Cricket Club didsburyccsports.co.ukDidsbury Good Neighbours Tues 10-11.45am coffee morning. Holt Pavilion, Didsbury Park 07749 504298 www.didsburygoodneighbours.org.ukDidsbury Ladies Probus Club Alternate Monday afternoons in East Didsbury. Joan Woodall 434 2532Didsbury Mens Probus Club Alternate Thursday mornings in East Didsbury. Bill Woodall 434 2532Didsbury Lawn Tennis Club Bob Peel 445 0465 didsburyccsports.co.ukDidsbury Players celestaplayers.co.ukDidsbury Village East Residents Association dvera.co.uk Didsbury Village WI www.didsburywi.co.uk Dolls House and Miniatures Group 2nd Monday of each month, 8-10pm, Whalley Range Venue. Ann 07814 861285 Eat Green free cookery school, food bank, garden tool libraries and community growing activities. info@eatgreen.co.uk www.eatgreen.co.ukFord Bank Residents Association fordbankresidents.org.uk Frets community guitar and singing, Fridays 10am 07759 598973

Friends of Didsbury Park friendsofdidsburypark.co.ukFriends of Fletcher Moss Park Alan Hill 215 0971 awhill@globalnet.co.ukFriends of Marie Louise Gardens marielouisegardens.org.ukLipreading and Communication Skills classes Free to deaf people and their families and friends. Wednesdays 1-3pm at Mauldeth House 0161 832 0444 enquiries@manchesterdeafstudies.orgManchester JKF Karate Club Didsbury MMU Sports Centre, Tuesdays 8.30pm Ben Pollock 07894 108944Oneness Deeksha Meditation Saturdays 11am-midday Didsbury Parsonage. Donation 2 Christine 07734 072040Social Circle UKs biggest Social & activity network dedicated to providing free events. social-circle.co.ukSouth Manchester Camera Club Mondays 8-10pm, Didsbury Methodist Church smcc.org.uk Didsbury Over 50s Group 247 2323South Manchester U3A 1st Tuesday of the month 2pm, Emmanuel Church. Edna 434 2509West Didsbury Bookgroup Meets every four weeks at 7.30pm. Lively mixed group of all ages. Call 445 4483 leaving your name, address & landlineWest Didsbury Residents Association westdidsburyresidentsassoc@gmail.com westdidsbury.org.ukWithington Civic Society Roger Smith 445 1473 withingtoncivicsociety.org.uk

Social & Support GroupsManchester Diabetes Support Network 860 5688 diabetesinmanchestersouth@gmail.com New Family Social UK charity for LGBT adopters, foster carers and their children. Meets every month in south Manchester. newfamilysocial.org.uk email: nwdevelopment@newfamilysocial.co.ukRethink Manchester Carers in Action www.rmcia.blogspot.co.uk 07757 082976

Useful NumbersDidsbury Library 227 3755Environment on Call 954 9000Mersey Valley Countryside Warden Service 905 1100Manchester City Council 234 5000 Didsbury East Councillors Andrew Simcock cllr.a.simcock@manchester.gov.ukJames Wilson cllr.j.wilson@manchester.gov.ukBridie Adams cllr.b.adams@manchester.gov.ukDidsbury West CouncillorsJosie Teubler cllr.j.teubler@manchester.gov.ukCarl Ollerhead cllr.c.ollerhead@manchester.gov.ukDavid Ellison cllr.d.ellison@manchester.gov.ukLocal MPJohn Leech - MP8 Gawsworth Avenue M20 5NF 434 3334 johnleechmp@parliament.uk

17

Community IndexLocal groups and useful numbers

18

www.treestation.co.uk 0161 231 3333

Greater Manchester TreeStation Ltd - A Society for theBenefit of the Community committed to combatting climate

change, FSA Mutuals registered number 31552R

Local hardwood firewood | Timber for joineryMulch for local allotments

Local EthicalTree Work

Biomass woodchip

We are a unique social enterprise that provides accredited

arboricultural services, including planting, pruning, emergency

call-outs, dismantling and felling, along with tree safety surveys.

All byproduct upcycled to make wood fuels, planks, and other products - nothing wasted

Sleepers and Weatherboards

Tara Leach PhotographyCapturing the story of your baby's first adventure

07976 945028taraleachphotography@yahoo.com | taraleach.com

Call today to have your oven, hob, extractor or Aga

We clean your ovenso you dont have to

Ian Glancy Mob Tel: 07580 765765professionally cleaned

www.ovenwizards.com

NACS member

www.acornchimneysweepingservices.co.uk

Call John0161 445 3650

CHIMNEY SWEEPING SERVICESAcorn

open fires, boilers Agas, multi-fuel stoves, birds nests removed

Read more on the history of Didsbury in Andrew Simpson & Peter Toppings book Didsbury Through Time. chorltonhistory.blogspot.com

Now it is very easy to become parochial about where you live, which is a shame because the history of South Manchester knows no geographical divisions. So, in the summer of 1847, a radical journalist looking for evidence of potato blight in Chorlton was intrigued by stories he was told of theradical potato and the farmer, Joseph Johnson of Northenden. Mr Johnson had been imprisoned for his part in organising the meeting at St Peters Field in the August of 1819, which was broken up by the authorities and became known as Peterloo. On his release he settled down to a quiet life as a market gardener and the type of potatoes he grew became known locally as radicals.Just sixty years later in 1918 James Butterworth, who was a young student at the Didsbury Ministerial Training College, happened to be cycling through Chorlton and passed the old Wesleyan chapel on Beech Road. He was caught by the appearance of the dark and closed building next to a brightly lit and lively public house. It struck him as wrong and he determined that the chapel should become as warm and inviting as the pub. Within a few years he had established a successful boys club in the old chapel and, when preaching re-commenced in 1921, the boys and girls club provided a youthful choir. This was followed by other activities

including concerts every Saturday night.There are still many people in Chorlton who remember the impact of that young student from Didsbury and many more in London, for with the success of the project in the old Beech Road chapel, the Reverend James Butterworth went on to found Clubland in the East End of London.Pictures: the former Didsbury College courtesy of Pierre grace, and the Wesleyan Bazaar Souvenir Hand book, 1908 from the collection of Philip Lloyd

by Andrew Simpson

Didsbury Through TimeWhen Didsbury lit up the night in a little bit of Chorlton

19

20

BasementConversions

home office gym playroomwine cellar bathroom wetroom

garage & loft conversions

www.bestcellarsnw.co.ukTel: 0161 300 0530 Mob: 07921 710 563Roy Nesbitt

Best Cellars North West Unit 204792 Wilmslow Rd Didsbury Manchester M20 6UG

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANERS

FAST DRYING SYSTEM FREE STAIN & ODOUR REMOVAL STAINGUARD PROTECTION 10% RETIRED PERSONS DISCOUNT ALL WORK IS FULLY INSURED ALL FURNITURE MOVED BY OPERATIVE

Fully trained to NCCA standards

We are a local company based in Chorlton

Ring or email for a FREE ESTIMATE

07742 369 231or leave a message on 0161 881 4822

contact@pro-fresh.co.ukwww.pro-fresh.co.uk

homeware gifts curios

www.DigVintage.co.uk

VintageStuff?Dig

21

Shirley Leak is a legend in Didsbury ladies golf and the other Mersey Valley clubs, having been a member of the club for 43 years, including being Lady Captain, winning numerous competitions along the way. She recently reached a special landmark as she celebrated her 90th birthday in style with the ladies of the club.Shirley still plays regularly each week and in 2014 she was the clubs representative in the Coronation Foursomes having won the club qualifier with Clair Canning to make it through to the regional finals of the national competition.But golf isnt the only string to her bow. In the 1990s she competed in Mexico to become the world over 70 years ladies triathalon champion!

Jean present Shirley with her birthday card along with a group of fellow members

Golf: Shirley celebrates in style

Sport in DidsburyBy Geoff Garnett

grass rootsgarden design

Contact Severine Cochard on 07790 631 078sev@grassrootsgardendesign.co.uk www.grassrootsgardendesign.co.uk

design & build, landscaping, planting plans, on site consultation

from small borders to whole gardens

DESIGNDESIGNGRAPHIC

beechjw@gmail.com

JoeBeech.co.ukJoeBeech.co.ukbeechjw@gmail.com

07528 617 87007528 617 870

AerialsDale Communications 14

BathroomsBathroom Angels 7

Building & MaintenanceBest Cellars 20

CarpenterDidsbury Carpenter 11

Chimney SweepAcorn Chimney Sweep 18

CleaningOven Wizards 18Profresh Carpet Cleaners 20

GardeningFat Grass Garden Design 15Grass Roots 21Green Designs 22

Graphic DesignJoe Beech 21

Health & WellbeingAlexander Technique 14Therapy in Manchester 4

InteriorsLeapfrog Home 11

Mortgage AdvicePinkstone 14

Painting & DecoratingCarol Smith Home Improvement 6

Pet CareClares Cat Care 11Petpals 8

PhotographyTara Leach Photography 18

PhysiotherapyVillage Physio 14

School Holiday ClubWe Are Adventurers 24

Social ClubSocial Circle 21

SolicitorsHLF Berry 13Slater Heelis 2

Tree ServicesTree Station 18

VetManchester Veterinary Clinic 4

VintageDig Vintage 20Planet Vintage Girl 6

Please mention Community Index when responding to adverts

professionalgardendesignfullconstructionserviceplantingdrivewaytreesurgeryfencing&hedgingfreeinitialconsultation

info@greendesigns.eu

www.greendesigns.eu

07810147070

Business IndexPlease note: Community Index accepts no responsibility for transactions entered into or work undertaken by any of the businesses advertising in the Index or any loss, harm or damage arising from using any of the products & services listed.

22

Were proud of where we live.We shop local and support independent business.We celebrate the things that make Didsbury special.

Find out more about advertising with us at communityindex.co.uk or call us on 07875 895604

We publish two free magazines: a Didsbury We publish two free magazines: a Didsbury edition and a Chorlton & Whalley Range edition and a Chorlton & Whalley Range edition. Each goes to 5,000 homes in one half edition. Each goes to 5,000 homes in one half of each area, then 5,000 in the other half the of each area, then 5,000 in the other half the following month. We also deliver to shops, following month. We also deliver to shops, cafes, libraries and other places every month.cafes, libraries and other places every month.We keep our advertising rates as low as we can, We keep our advertising rates as low as we can, so we can offer a service to sole traders and so we can offer a service to sole traders and local independent retailers. We talk straight, we local independent retailers. We talk straight, we dont hard sell and we wont go glossy.dont hard sell and we wont go glossy.Lets hear it for butchers with plastic grass in Lets hear it for butchers with plastic grass in their windows; cafe owners who give names to their windows; cafe owners who give names to their coffee machines, and great builders that their coffee machines, and great builders that take three sugars in their tea.take three sugars in their tea.Keep the magazine handy and support the local Keep the magazine handy and support the local independent businesses that advertise with us. independent businesses that advertise with us. Money spent local stays local, so lets keep Money spent local stays local, so lets keep South Manchester interesting.South Manchester interesting.