Idiots ruin The Crown!

Someone told me about this on Thursday. So I popped in and chatted to Janet at The Crown to see what happened. Apparently, it happened in the early hours last Friday. The gorgeous old windows were smashed by a couple of youths who threw bricks from Municipal Square. It was around 5.30am. Janet wasn't impressed with the local police who took 40 minutes responding to the incident. I doubt too many are on duty at that time, but she says that she felt let down. So now there's an insurance assessment pending before the windows can be replaced. If you have heard anything about the incident do report it to the police...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Saturday music around the town

The best place for music updates these dates is Crewe Music. However, a quick look around the venues reveals that the Limey has a Kick Up The 80s which is tempting, but I reckon I'll be taking in Echobelly who play an acoustic set at The Box with SPD and James & The Giant supporting. Do check out your local pubs as a number have live music on a Saturday. Support them.
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Oh, and the Brunnie is open again in a couple of weekends, with a new rock venue, Dantes, soon to be unveiled. More on that later...

Ghost Town Crewe...

Still trying to get my head around that "Ghost Town" tag given to our town. Looks awful, eh?

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

West Street accident

Just heard on the local news that a 23-year-old man was knocked off his bike (collision with a bus) on West Street today. It was further up from the snap, over the bridge and towards Victoria Avenue end. Strange, as I usually cycle down there, to and from town after I've dropped the kids off at school. I usually come out around the Frank Webb Avenue junction, sometimes passing the accident spot en route to the park. Today I walked, and yet took a few snaps of the traffic that's building up because of the ongoing revamp along the shopping stretch of the street. The lad was taken to Leighton Hospital, then on to Liverpool. Best wishes to him and his family...

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Photo copyright of Crewe blog

Out and about...

On the moby today, currently sat in the new Big Apple Café grabbing some time with a newspaper. And what a fun place it is, packed downstairs, foot-tapping tunes playing, smile on everyone's face and good value food and drinks. Also finally managed a hair snip at Helen's in the Market Hall, and couldn't resist a Sherbet Dip from one of the stalls. Nostalgia fest. Oh, and the sun's shining... for now!

West Street shopping

West Street roadworks already causing controversy, new car parks created, but will it lift the area when finished?
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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

What's On Crewe this weekend?

Loads of music ongoing this weekend, and you should check out Crewe Music for details of gigs gone and stuff to come. Top site.
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Elsewhere, it's the Nantwich Family Fun Day over at, er, Nantwich. In fact, it's on the Barony fields and there's something for everyone. Free entry and a long, long list of entertainment, inc dog shows, donkey rides, Punch & Judy, Morris Dancing, a climbing wall and a motorbike stunt show.

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On Sunday you're spoilt for choice. Nip over to Wrenbury for the Crewe ASi fans summer footy tournament at Wrenbury Sports Club, where you'll also find music, bouncy castle, a 24-team tournament, ice-cream/BBQ and more. Free entry.
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Or, you could head over to Queens Park in Crewe where, despite ongoing works, local favourites Blozone (Jazz band) will be performing from 2pm by the cafe. Again, free entry. Can't say fairer than that. Enjoy...

Crewe Alex memorabilia

The footy is almost upon us and, I have to say, I'm mildly optimistic about the chances of a decent season for Crewe Alexandra under new gaffer Gudjon Thordarson. There are friendlies aplenty on the cards over the next few weeks and interest always rises as we approach the end of July. No season ticket for me again, as I'm planning to take in around 2/3 of home games but visit a few more away grounds over the coming season. Plenty of division four memories to rekindle over the next 10 months! Anyway, the reason for the post is to highlight a new badge produced by Alex Exile Martin Hough. If you're into the collectible kinda stuff check out his site here...

W.O. Bentley and his gorgeous motors

To coincide with the 90th year of Bentley Motors, a new teaser video has been released by the Crewe motor firm to inform customers about the beautiful new Bentley due to be unveiled in August. As per the video a few weeks back, the look and feel of the clip is stunning and puts Crewe in a great light...

Mayor's fundraiser this Saturday

Blog reader Neil has told us about a charity event this Saturday that will raise funds for a charity that has touched his son's life - check out their website here. The Mayor of Cheshire East has adopted 'Action Duchenne' (a Muscular Dystrophy charity) as one of her charities of the year, and has decided to hold a charity coffee morning at the Municipal Buildings in Crewe on Saturday 11th July (10.30am - 12.30pm), in aid of her Charity Fund (the other charity being Hearing Dogs for Deaf People). Ticket/entry is £1.50 each, and there will be a tombola/raffle on the day. If anyone is wishing or able to donate a prize, we would be very grateful! You can contact Neil here...

Kids rough it for the Railway Children

Always something happening at St Andrews off Bedford Street, most recently involving the cubs who had a sleep-out last weekend. Cubs from St Andrew’s (1st South West Cheshire) and 5 adults who slept out in Christ Church Gardens http://www.christchurchcrewe.org.uk/ from Friday 4th to Saturday 5th July. It was a lovely sleepless night, but it proved to all how difficult it is to sleep on paving in the open air with all the noises of the town centre. The event was to raise money for the Railway Children Charity for homeless children. If you would like to donate any money to this charity follow this link http://www.railwaychildren.org.uk/ . This weekend sees the Art and Music Festival. You can check out more details on the website here...

Queens Park - some good news...

It's been hard to draw positives from the developments (or not) at Queens Park since Christmas. Contractor Wrekin went bust and left a big mess to clear up. There was a change of authority and the recession hasn't helped. The result is a large space that cannot be used by the public who actually own the park. I have tried to remain positive but that has become increasingly difficult.
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Now the good news. Although drawn out, the stakeholder meeting on Wednesday night was largely positive. What was a relatively small project team has been transformed thanks to the arrival of Cheshire East resources. They are now in a position to drive forward and ensure completion. I think they will. The tenders to continue and complete the lakeside/bridge works will be opened this Friday. When the contractor has been selected, and the authority's solicitor has signed it all off, well, the work will be done inside 26 weeks. The earth moving and retaining wall near the lodges with be finished in 4 weeks. That will men that the unfinished sections of new perimeter railings can be completed, again in about 4 weeks. Work on the band stand by the George V entrance will also start soon. So that's all positive. We'll talk more about the buildings another time...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Polish shops fighting the crunch

Rumours continue around the town about the numbers of Polish people in the Crewe area. "Thousands," you hear one day, then "most are going back to Poland" the next. I don't think anyone knows the real numbers. Still, what I have noticed is the number of Polish shops that have come and gone. The Duke of Bridgewater pub was also, briefly, a Polish bar but didn't last. The bottom line is that Polish shop owners face the same problems in the current economic downturn, and a number have closed across the last year - on West Street and Edleston Road. The latest to open (noticed by Dale) is just down from the Chester Bridge, by the junction with High Street. Good luck to them, as it's another business that fills the shopping space and bucks the trend as many other businesses continue to struggle...

Swine flu cases in Crewe & Nantwich

No reason to panic, but as per national and international warnings I reckon we should all be careful about personal hygiene as this Swine flu thang isn't going away any time soon. The Nantwich News blog reports details from that neck of the woods here, and Mrs Crewe blog told me yesterday that a lady from her office has been informed that her cold/flu is actually Swine flu. Hmmm. Don't panic, just think about what your doing, wash your hands, keep your germs to yourself, change hankies regularly etc etc. Common sense stuff and we'll get through it. Full details about prevention here...

More college kids (to be)

We featured primary school kids at South Cheshire College the other day, but older (year 10) pupils also have also had the chance to experience what goes on at college. Pupils from across the area gained a sneak preview of SCC at Secondary College 2009 this week. Over 650 yr 10 students from partner high schools in Crewe and Nantwich took part in fun and enterprising activities during the three-day initiative at the college’s Dane Bank Avenue campus. The annual event (from Monday 6th July to Wednesday 8th July 2009) gave pupils the chance to see what college is all about and sample different aspects of the college curriculum. Many of the pupils will be coming to South Cheshire College to study further education programmes once they have completed their GCSEs at school...

Hightown redevelopment planned

We've talked about Hightown on numerous occasions across the last two years. A number of units have been boarded up, the Methodist Church has seen numbers dwindle and is all but closed, plus there's a general scruffy feel to the area. There are, however, plans afoot to revitalise some of it with a proposal to build 35 apartments and two retail units either side of Heathfield Avenue. The old Bossons & Doig music shop and lock-up garages will be bulldozed, to be replaced by a four-storey building made up of retail and flats. Over the road, bordering the Methodist's car park, there will be more flats. The Victorian House (below) will be retained and included in the development.

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The development ticks most of the boxes, with renewable energy (10% of energy to be provided by solar panels), parking spaces and cycle provision, improved amenities and affordable housing all contained within the proposal. Parking could be an issue as proposed places fall short of the Local Plan (old CNBC guidelines), although the development would be within a few minutes walk of the bus station and also the main shopping areas of the town. Also, a number of CNBC car parks are within easy walking distance.

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This area certainly needs a lift but many of the local residents have objected (108 signatures, from Heathfield Avenue, Samuel Street etc). However, as national planning guidelines "suggest" that most new developments are on brownfield sites this scheme looks set to be rubber-stamped. I certainly hope so, and the conclusion of the report describes the proposal as "an innovative design and a scheme which will improve the visual character of this site at the edge of Crewe." Thoughts on what it can do for Hightown and the edge of the town centre?

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Tuesday downpour

Anyone who can fathom the weather could make a million. It's mid-summer, holidays and BBQs season, and yet the rain keeps on falling. And hard. Tuesday's downpour was impressive, to say the least. Proper rain. Caught by blog regular Dale around Wesley Place in Crewe...

College kids!

Youngsters have been turning their hand to fun and exciting activities during an action-packed South Cheshire College initiative this week. Primary College 2009 has invited up to 1,250 primary school children to try a whole range of new and exciting activities at the College’s Dane Bank Avenue campus. Activities which they have sampled during the action-packed four day event range from break dancing and beauty to circus skills and painting and decorating. A number of sporting activities have also being organised including tag rugby, quick cricket, athletics and Korf Ball. Primary College, from Tuesday 30 June until Friday 3 July, is now in its sixteenth year and youngsters from over 30 primary schools in Crewe and Nantwich were invited to take part. The event gives youngsters the chance to experience college at an early age and many sign up for courses once they leave high school.

What's happening on Hightown?

Noticed the corner plot (where a doctor's surgery once stood) on Hightown (opposite 3Cs, St Paul's church) that is being used to store building materials. Is something afoot? I suspect the blocks are connected to the West Street refurbishment, but there is a new development planned a few yards down the road towards the Limelight. More to follow...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Safe cycling between Crewe & Nantwich

Good news on the cycling/green front, with plans to create a rural promenade between Nantwich and Crewe unveiled to local residents. Talked about some time ago, and linked (in some ways) with the work ongoing at Queens Park, the £1.46m scheme, funded through Sustrans’ Connect2, will provide a safe and attractive environment for walking and cycling between the two towns. The report also talks about a bid to reduce the number of cars on Cheshire East roads, which is taking things a bit far IMO. Sure a few more will cycle, but I think it's more about giving people a safe option. The bulk will still drive (especially to work and back), but for health reasons getting people on bikes/foot at the weekend IS important.

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The scheme will, eventually, connect the riverside walks in Nantwich with Queen’s Park in Crewe. It will also create links to Malbank School, Reaseheath College, Middlewich Road and Nantwich town centre. A new footbridge across the River Weaver in Nantwich (above), which will form part of the project, has already been completed.

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At the Crewe end it will probably come in via the George V pitches, improving the existing paths and proving secure cycle lock-up facilities by the main park car parks. The Nantwich and Crewe scheme is one of 79 Sustrans’ Connect2 projects across the nation sharing a Big Lottery Fund award of £50 million. Sustrans was awarded the money after the public backed Connect2 in a public vote televised nationally on ITV1.

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Sustrans is the UK’s leading sustainable transport charity. Its vision is a world in which people choose to travel in ways that benefit their health and the environment. It is achieving this through innovative but practical solutions to the UK’s transport challenges.

Queens Park update meeting

The latest Queens Park Stakeholders meeting takes place this Wednesday, 8th July, at the cafe from 6pm. Good chance to get an update from the project team. All welcome...

Message from the Cheshire East Mayor

"May I, through your blog, thank everyone who attended the first Armed Forces Day reception which I hosted on behalf of Cheshire East Council, in the Municipal Buildings on Saturday 27th June. My husband and I were honoured and delighted to talk with the veterans during the reception. May I also thank them for their kind words of support and appreciation of the event, I have had contact with some of them since the reception and they were enthusiastic about it and are very pleased that Cheshire East plans to hold this event each year. It was lovely to have the two young Crewe Fire Cadets with us. Tim and Siobhan had given up part of their weekend to be on hand with us to look after and talk to the veterans. Congratulations also to the members of my Mayoral team at Cheshire East who worked very hard to make this event possible and a success. In particular, we send a big thank you to Lee Allen and her staff, from Haslington Bakery, who provided the first class buffet that received such complimentary comments from everyone who attended."

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The Worshipful The Mayor of the Borough of Cheshire East, Cllr Margaret Simon

Oxfam Bookfest 2009

Quick shout for Oxfam on Victoria Street where you can grab some book bargains over the next couple of weeks. All part of the Bookfest initiative. See here..

Bit of nostalgia for you

I love the old link-ups with Crewe, its people and historic events. This in from Steve Graley (Crewe Cobbler): "While watching the Timewatch programme (BBC 2) on Saturday about the 40th anniversary of Prince Charles being invested as the Prince of Wales, I was reminded by my wife Pam that her father, the late Tommy Hope, was the driver of the train that took Charles and the Royal Family to Caernarfon (this being before the custom of the Royal Family travelling anywhere separately) Also on board were members of foreign royalty and heads of state who were attending the event. I have attached a photo of the train crew (Tommy is second from left) and also a scan of his work card for the day."

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Big Apple Cafe - opens Tuesday!

Part 2 of the Crewe is doing ok series - defo not a Ghost Town! Some ventures deserve a good plug and one of the new cafes on Victoria Street look set to offer Crewe something completely different. Being an incredibly nosey type, I stuck my head in the door of the Big Apple Cafe a few weeks back, while they were fitting carpets and painting walls. I was fascinated that a cafe was prepared to give it a go in the current climate. So fair play to them. They're taking a chance on Crewe. The new theme venue opens this Tuesday with a range of breakfast and lunch offerings - all cooked fresh. Upstairs looks superb, although that waiter looks a tad wooden! Seriously, there is some fantastic artwork covering the walls and the owner, Nigel, couldn't be more enthusiastic about the place. They have recruited a chef and waitress from Crewe, they do take-outs and you can bag upstairs for private functions. Well worth a look from Tuesday 7th July...
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As for Crewe the Ghost Town, well, last Wednesday's Chronicle was a bit depressing and disappointing. Sure we've had shop closures around the town - which part of the country hasn't? We have covered them on the blog. But to label Crewe a Ghost Town is going too far. The item highlighted the four units that have gone under in recent weeks. Fine, that's the great circle of business life. However, what about the success stories, the shops, companies and people who are still trying to give it a go? To list a few: there's the new British Heart Foundation store opposite ASDA, William Hill bookmakers are about to open their town centre branch next to Subway, McDonald's have had a 21st century makeover, OZZY's cafe has opened where the Wimpy was, the Big Apple Cafe is about to open and a new Amusement Arcade has applied for planning permission next door (where the Strawberry Fields bakery was). Not to everyone's taste, I'm sure, but businesses that will create jobs and lift the shopping core. The main town square has been improved, the West Street shopping area is being transformed, several park/play areas have been revamped and Crewe Rail Gateway Project could be revived. Ghost Town? I don't think so...
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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Race for Life

Quick shout for Mrs Crewe blog and her mates who completed the Race For Life at Arley Hall (near Northwich) on Sunday. Around 3,500 ladies did the 5k run raising cash for Cancer Research. Top effort, despite the downpour that interrupted the picnic afterwards...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Best pub formula?

Interesting follow-up from The Railwayman about Crewe pubs, music and what it takes to get people out and about spending a few quid...

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"Much documented about how the pub scene is suffering, but most Saturday nights one pub seems to have hit the right formula. The Express has a live band on every Saturday and, with respect to all those that play there, the groups I guess don't hold the landlord to ransom with their fees for the evening. So you get a good turn out of punters putting a few quid over the bar, and in return they get a decent night out. Last night local punk band Wasted Life entertained an almost full house. Lead singer and local lad Graham paid many tributes during the evening, many to the bands of the punk era with some cracking covers mixed with some of the band's own material. Other tributes were also made - one to Crewe Kings Speeedway by wearing the t-Shirt; second nod went to Michael Jackson as Graham donned a white glove in memory of the death of a recent music icon. Worth noting that at a guess most the punters were aged between 35 and 55, so the notion that this age group doesn't go out nowadays is flawed - give this age group the right entertainment and no door fee and they will turn up and part with their cash. Across town at the Crosville, Crewe Soul club held its monthly Souland Motown bash with around 150 folk getting their music fix. The age group this time being on average 45 years young. The line-up at The Ex for next few Saturdays is: 11th: Firestorm; 18th: California Blue; 25th: Tumblin Dice."

Accident on Saturday afternoon...

It's never good news when you hear the siren of an ambulance. Some of you might have wondered why both Parkers Road and Broughton Lane (Leighton/Coppenhall end of town as you head towards the White Lion and Warmingham) were sealed off by police on Saturday afternoon. Not good news I'm afraid, as the stretch of road pictured was the scene of an accident when a lad was knocked off his motorbike and killed. Thoughts with his family...

Footy at the Cumberland...

Always good to see the footy back on the agenda and the Alex travel to Newcastle (under Lyme) today to launch the pre-season proper. I was over at the excellent Cumberland arena artificial pitch early Saturday afternoon to see a Wulvern team take on Crewe Athletic. It was a friendly match, part of a series of games that will also see the police putting in a side next week. Can't remember what they are raising money for (fill in the gaps, Rob?), but it's certainly another good way to build relationships between local people and organisations...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Brunswick to reopen...

To counter some of the negative stuff about pubs, shops and offices closing, Crewe TV will kick-start a series of positive items about people having a go and trying to breath life into the town during tough economic conditions. First up is a bit of a surprise, but a welcome one. The Nantwich Road pub scene has been written off by many, but (cheers to Chris W for the nod) with Bar 22, The Box, 7, the British Lion, Last Orders and Square One all having a go, it's good to see that the Brunny will also be back on the circuit. It appears that the people behind the Swan (from Marbury, I think) are behind the refurb and they'll have live music on as part of the new look. Good luck to them...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Leighton Brook Park

Remember the photo quiz snap from two weeks ago? Talk about progress, this was the scene off Frank Webb Avenue on Saturday morning. It's the new play area that was a grotty, vandalised basketball court until recently. It's all part of the revamp that will see new paths and walkways, manufactured and natural play areas, more planting, fencing and - eventually - some work on the brook that cuts through the park...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Hair today...

Business opportunity for someone. I'm out and about having dropped the little fella at a Ludford Street party, so decided to grab a hair cut. No chance. The whole hair cutting industry seems to shut down at 4pm. So I've been forced to grab a beer...

Yikes! Bentley goes all pop art...

Now I've seen a few weird colours chosen by Bentley customers in the past, but this fella takes top prize. For his exhibition “Come to my World“ in Berlin, the famous artist Romero Britto chose a Bentley Continental GT as a canvas for his cheerful and vivid signature motifs. This is probably one of the most unusual Bentleys ever seen: a large, happy flower, little stars, squiggles and signs dance on the elegant hood and colourful, comic-like figures adorn the doors. The Continental GT – a static prototype built in 2003 – has become a truly unique work of art created by the world-renowned Brazilian artist. Bentley Motors donated the Coupe on the occasion of Britto´s Berlin exhibition “Come to my World” in the Automobil Forum Unter den Linden. What do you reckon?

Kings Grove's rainy Bischofsheim run

Middle of the 'summer' and it just had to rain for the Kings Grove pupils and local organisations who completed their sponsored charity run around the school field today. They ran an accumulative distance of 798 Km (496 miles), which is the total distance between Crewe and its twin town of Bischofsheim, Germany. A proportion of the money raised will be put towards sports equipment in school, with two thirds of the total amount being donated to the special care baby unit at Leighton Hospital and Homestart, the Crewe-based family support charity nominated by Edward Timpson MP . I was there (looking like a drowned rat) around lunchtime, so I missed the local MP who was due to finish the final stages of the run around 2.30pm. There was also a summer (he chuckles again) fair, with a tombola, cake stall and other activities, plus a stall representing the Gresty Community Group that included the real David Williams (ongoing joke), not the prospective parliamentary candidate. Anyway, well done the lot of them for keeping going as the heavens opened...

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From the fire station

Not one on mine, but a lofty spot I'd love to enjoy one day. The snap came from recently retired firefighter Gareth Roberts who grabbed the pic from an aerial fire appliance that came to Crewe Fire Station last week. Cracking view across to Rail House and the Alex ground...

Dr Collins lands top job

College Principals are the kinda characters students avoid as they shuffle down the corridors of academia, but I'm sure some at South Cheshire College will miss Dr Collins when he steps down this August. He's done ok for himself, and has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of LSIS (Learning and Skills Improvement Service). Dr Collins CBE will join the organisation on a full-time basis from August 1st 2009, after officially retiring from the College at the end of July. The high-flying Principal, who has been the driving force behind South Cheshire College’s success, will work for LSIS for a one year period until August 2010. He has enjoyed immense success at SCC, which gained outstanding Ofsted inspections in 1999, 2004 and 2008 which established it as one of the leading tertiary and sixth form colleges in the country. So well done him. Former students please be gentle with any comments...

Independence Day at Willaston Hall

This is turning into Willaston blog! Seriously, my good friend and international DJ (ok, he's known across Crewe & Nantwich via the Cat FM) Paul Senior will be spinning decks and, well, playing some top tunes from various gadgets at Willaston Social Club, all with an American theme for the evening. So, if you're in the area and fancy a good (and cheapish) night out why not give it a try. Kids stuff from 5pm; main entertainment from 8pm. There, plug over. That'll be $1 you owe me, cheers Senior...

Crewe station seen from The Express...

One year on... as a random idea, I thought I'd take a look back and see what was being discussed a year ago today. I'd been up a bungee crane taking snaps of the station area of Crewe and you lot were ranting about Starlings!
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Ok, the snap was taken from a dirty great crane parked outside the Express pub last Sunday. Still, a cracking view. Wonder what the Waverley Court residents think about Crewe station [potentially] moving? Oh, and with massive warehouse and office space created down at Basford (if that's where the station ends up) what future Rail House, as we have highlighted before on the blog? Oh, and the monster evergreens off Pedley Street that house the rampant Starlings for several months during the year, well, they're gonna be chopped down as they cause an environmental health issue. So there...

M Club to close

Hardly earth shattering news, but The Sentinel yesterday rehashed a story about the new Sainsbury's development in the town centre and the fact that its construction will mean that the M Club will have to be bulldozed. Nowt new there for blog readers, but the chap who owns the club's lease told the rag that he was in discussions to find a new venue. Mmmm. Where could that be?
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The rebuild application for the Nantwich Sainsbury's store is due and it has been recommended for refusal, although the proposed Crewe scheme shouldn't be an issue. There are no major objections. I do, however, wonder about the timing. Dunelm Mill need to be relocated and there are not many big empty units around town. So the M Club could live on a while yet, unless other forces want it gone!

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Market Square partly open

As indicated last weekend, the lads working on Crewe's Market Square have rolled back the fencing to allow people onto the top end of the square. So, with the revamp nearly complete, what's your honest assessment of the project? Cheers to Dale for the latest update...

Limey reopening

You might have noticed that the Limelight closed for a few days. There's been a change of management and a new fella has come on board, fresh ideas etc. As part of the formal business transfer I'm told that the club was closed to allow documents to be signed and technical stuff resolved. Will this be the rebirth of a Crewe favourite, a new dawn and good times ahead? A few of the old staff seem to have disappeared so I'm sure not all will be happy. Only time will tell. The Limey reopens tonight with the Antartic Monkeys...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Local author's latest work

A number of blog readers will know the name Tim Prevett. He's the fella who runs the Crewe & Nantwich Ghost Tours (they'll be back on later this year). Tim was previously a successful tour guide in Chester and has given talks across the country on a diverse range of topics. His latest work is a book that focuses on an area not far from these parts, and it's called Roads & Trackways of North Wales. Details here on his website, plus a link to Amazon where you can buy the book. The blog also has a copy to give away if you can answer a simple question. As many of you will have visited North Wales across the years I'm sure you have travelled across a very famous bridge. Question: when was the Menai Bridge opened? Mail the blog on creweblog@hotmail.co.uk and we'll pick a winner on Wednesday 1st July.
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WINNER: you don't usually get many people bothering to answer competition questions, so cheers to the 12 people who mailed the correct answer - 1826. The winner, pulled out of the hat by our lovely ginger office monkey at lunchtime, was Andrew Bradley. So well done him...

Brookhouse sunrise...

We've had some great sunsets posted on the blog, so how about a sunrise? This one taken around the Brookhouse area on Tuesday. Cheers to Mat for the snap (he does the Crewe Music site) who had this to say: "Thanks to my insomnia I see a lot of sunrises, but this morning's was particularly atmospheric. I wanted to catch it coming up behind the Alex but unfortunately the rain caught me before I could get there so I had to settle for the allotment on Brook House Drive (although at a glance it could almost pass for rustic), but none the less it's quite pretty so I figured you may want it for your irregular series of sky pictures..."

Dale does Willaston

That Dale's been a busy fella. On his way to explore the Weaver Way on Monday he made use of his bargain bus ticket to hop off at Willaston and enjoy the delights of a quaint village on the edge of Crewe. The 84 service connects Crewe with Chester and you can hop on/off anywhere along its route for just £4. According to Dale they run every 15 minutes.
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In Willaston itself you have two great old pubs in The Lamb and the Nags Head with, according to our borough explorer, a sleepy feel about the place. Nowt wrong with that on a blistering hot afternoon.

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Scholarship opportunity for Crewe folk

Ever wanted to get into college or university but worried about the cost? I reckon most have, so there's a cracking opportunity to apply for funds thanks to a local scheme that has been launched by the local council, Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) and Wulvern Housing. Described as the 'chance of a lifetime' grants are now being made available to people wishing to study for a degree at Manchester Metropolitan University’s (MMU) Crewe campus beginning September 2009.
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Councillor Brian Silvester, Deputy Leader of Cheshire East Council, launched the Scholarship Fund as his chosen charity during his year as the last Mayor of Crewe and Nantwich. In excess of £20,000 was raised, and that has been doubled to more than £40,000 following match funding by partners Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) and Wulvern Housing. The grant will cover up to 50 percent of the course tuition fees and educational expenses. Successful applicants will undertake an undergraduate course of study of their choice at the campus which specialises in arts, sport science, business and management, humanities and education. The university will also provide a Student Mentor to provide informal advice, help and guidance.
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Councillor Silvester said: “The theme of my Crewe and Nantwich mayoral year during 2008-09 was Lifelong Learning, a cause close to my heart. Education can change lives for the better and I chose to launch the Scholarship Fund because I want as many as possible to have that opportunity."
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To qualify for a grant applicants must reside within the former boundaries of Crewe and Nantwich Borough and satisfy MMU’s entrance requirements. All applications will be considered by a panel comprising Councillor Silvester, Mr Dunn and Rob Allen, Director of Partnerships at Wulvern Housing (all pictured). Application forms for the Scholarship Fund are available from the university’s website at www.cheshire.mmu.ac.uk/learningapplication. The deadline for responses is 5pm on 27 July 2009.

Weaver Way, just down the road...

We get loads of emails asking about walks, nature trails and things to do with kids near Crewe. There's plenty on the doorstep in and around our town, but a few miles down the road in Nantwich is the River Weaver and a host of opportunities. Blog reader/contributor Dale enjoyed the Weaver Way on Monday afternoon and sent a few snaps. All this just a few hundred yards from the centre of historic Nantwich. If you have any photos of nearby beauty spots please send 'em in to creweblog@hotmail.co.uk

Crewe high schools

With two kids at primary school, the high school debate is something that fascinates me. On two occasions recently, I've chatted to senior figures who think that Crewe schools fall way behind those in, say, Nantwich, Alsager, Shavington and Sandbach. Now the Ofsted stats give you an idea about exam results, but why is it that core Crewe schools seem to fall short? Parents, too many kids that aren't interested, poor resources? Can Cheshire East help to level the playing field and will they want to?
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There some interesting proposals from Ed Balls and the Labour Party, as reported on the Beeb here. Grouped schools controlled by one executive head. Better report cards, one-to-one coaching, meaning that every child will succeed. Mmmm. Sounds great but is it possible? Thoughts...

Fantastic charity effort ongoing...

I'm writing a book about Crewe and its People at the moment and a number of recent interviews have highlighted just how much charitable work goes on around Crewe & Nantwich. Wulvern Housing does plenty for the community, and the local housing provider has just announced that its nominated charity for 2009/10 is St Luke’s Hospice. Over 200 members of staff chose the charity, after the organisation’s social committee asked staff to nominate the cause that touched most people's heart. So the recent Midnight Walk was an obvious starting point, and ten ladies from Wulvern kick-started their fundraising effort by raising over £1500 between them on the walk. Cracking effort. If your organisation has a fundraising day for a local charity please send us the details, with a photo if possible...

Local tennis club's 30-year celebration

I'll come clean. I forgot to add a piece about the Wistaston Jubilee Tennis Club's 30th Anniversary Celebration. But, with Wimbledon in mid-flow and Murray mania sweeping the nation, well, I thought that it deserved a plug. The event took place earlier this month on Sunday 14th June. The celebration consisted of a doubles tournament (players had the option of using 30-year-old wooden racquets), presentation of cups to the doubles winners (Bill Heath and Alastair Bain) and then a buffet tea.The two courts were officially opened on Saturday 16th June 1979 by Cllr Cyril Peake – Mayor of Crewe & Nantwich Borough Council - and Cllr Peter Walker, Chairman of the Wistaston Parish Council. So there you have it. Thanks to Jonathan White for the reminder and the photos...

This is not compare the meerkat dot com!

Forgot about this one, so cheers to Jonathan for the pics and a few words: "I was over at the Reaseheath College Zoo Open Day earlier today and grabbed some photos. It is the first time the animal centre has been open to the public. I saw meerkats, giant tortoises, porcupines, tapirs, goats, ferrets, gerbils, hamsters, alpacas and various reptiles and fish, plus a dog grooming demonstration."
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Don't know about you, but that giant hamster looks a tad scary!

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What's new in town?

Mrs Crewe blog arrived back in town this morning having been in Manchester to see Take That at Old Trafford. She and a few mates stopped over on Saturday night and, just as we did back here in Crewe, got a good soaking midway through the evening. All 55,000 of them! The weather's been crazy, so it was no surprise to see gorgeous sunshine this morning and a heatwave forecast for the rest of the week. Oh, and it might snow on Wednesday. Maybe. So when we all met up in town everything looked mighty fine. Plenty of people about and a full compliment of council fellas working hard to get Market Square opened up again. They were working on the path that runs alongside M&S, hoping to have that sorted asap. Then they'll be taking down some of the fencing early in the week so people can start using the top end of the square. Some of the new lighting structures are up and it's all looking good. Down at the bottom of Queensway the new cafe, Ozzy's, was getting ready for business. Surprisingly, just a few doors along Victoria Street, Thorntons has closed its doors. That luxury/specialist end of the chocolate/gift market that, you suspect, many have cut out in recent months...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Local gymnast to carry the torch

Local disability gymnast Claire Poole has been selected as one of the final torch bearers to carry the Olympic flame into the stadium for the for the opening of the national Special Olympic Games to be held in Leicester from 25th – 31st of July. Claire trains at the Crewe-based Cheshire Academy of Integrated Sport and Arts. The National Special Olympic games are for athletes who have learning disabilities and closely mirror the structure of the mainstream Olympic and Paralympic games. These games promise to be the largest disability games to be held in the UK during 2009 and will see around 2700 athletes compete in 21 different sports. So well done to Claire.

James & The Giant fundraising

Cheers to Simon for the snap of James & The Giant who busked in Crewe town centre today, raising money for Cancer Research. Top effort lads...

Crewe's M comedy success

I went to M Comedy last night and enjoyed another sell-out show. Mike and John seem to have the formula spot on. I grabbed a few words with them before Friday's June show...

Crewe's Cumberland Arena - one of the best

Some great news for local sport, with Crewe’s Cumberland Arena joining the ‘premier league’ of athletics tracks after receiving the highest level of accreditation from UK Athletics. The Class One status means the Cheshire East Council facility is fit to hold all levels of training and competitions from school games to international events. The award follows a series of rigorous inspections and audits and is valid for five years, subject to a yearly inspection.
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Councillor Andrew Knowles, Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing, said: “Cumberland Arena has benefited from major investment over recent years and it is now undoubtedly one of the region’s premier athletics venues. This award is the’ cherry on the cake’ of its success and my congratulations go to staff and users who have worked hard to ensure the track meets the high standards demanded by UK Athletics. There is a full programme of athletics events coming up and I look forward to medals being won and perhaps even records being broken.”
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Info: The Thomas Street facility features a six-lane synthetic track, long and triple jump beds and facilities for all other jumping and throwing events. To qualify for Class One status athletics tracks must meet the specification and requirements for all competition under UKA rules including women’s steeplechase.

First for Whitby Morrison

"Why is he posting a picture of an ice cream van?" you're probably asking yourself. Well, we featured local firm Whitby Morrison back in March (see here) and I was lucky enough to grab a tour around the factory off Weston Road. It's looking good for one of the world's most respected ice cream van manufacturers with orders ongoing for customers in Brunei, Romania, Australia and Slovenia. This week they completed their first 4-wheel drive van (pictured) for a customer in Yorkshire. So great to see a local employer doing so well and flying the flag for our town...

Photo quiz

Not too hard this week, again something slightly different. What and where is this place? Answer: Leighton Brook Park play area off Frank Webb Avenue that is undergoing refurbishment, plus new facilities.

No Foulplay here...

Mentioned the Foulplay gig at The Imp earlier this week. Just a bunch of covers, many thought. Yeah right. As I type they're mid-set and I'm still adjusting to the fact that these lads can play - and then some! Tight unit, quality tracks, great chemistry and a seriously wowed audience lapping up track after track. From Bowie to Oasis, Adam and the Ants to XTC. The lads even threw in a few comedy moments. Brilliant. And it was a free gig! There will be more, much more from this quality bunch. Photo from Mat, plus local music reviews here. Oh, and blog reader Mhairi (MigratingFishSwim) was over at The Box and submitted a great review of two local bands. Check that out here.

Countryside vandals

You don't have to break things to cause damage, just look at this lot dumped off Waldron's Lane on the edge of Crewe. This spot is about ten minutes' walk from the Cross Keys pub - which, btw, reopens under new management tomorrow. Carry on down the lane and you come out near the White Lion pub in Warmingham. Nice stroll. However, whoever chucked this rubbish out of their car actually stopped and set fire to it. In the summer. Genius. How to set farmers' fields alight. Most reading the blog will tut-tut no doubt, but how do you stop these morons from ruining our towns and countryside?

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Football reminder...

Spain were, surprisingly, knocked out of the Confederation's Cup by the US of A! Make sure you're not knocked out of Crewe ASi Footy Tournament (taking place at Wrenbury - see original post here) by failing to register on time. Deadline for entries/registration is the 30th June. They expect to be over subscribed (as last year) so to ensure your place in the tournament (first come, first served) get your registration and entry fee back to them by next Tuesday, 3oth June. Send it to Crewe ASi, PO Box 402, Crewe, CW1 3ZS, or call Kerri on 07500-656912 to arrange collection/drop off...

Whatever happened to Crewe Works?

Every few months there seems to be bad news for what remains of Crewe Works. The numbers at Bombardier have dwindled and there are rumours that what is left will eventually go to Derby. So on that rather downbeat but topical note The Railwayman sent in a couple of scans, one of a cracking poster for the old Crewe Locomotive Works Training School, dated 1955. It states: "The progressive system of workshop training for trade apprentices and an outline of the training schemes for engineering apprentices and graduates." Wow. Sounds great. And I bet it was the place to be in the 1950s, 60s and 70s. The Railwayman gives his opinion on the current state of railway engineering off West Street: "Very topical at the moment as another 80-odd vanished through the gates last Friday - some didn't know until the Friday morning they were going. One I know has been in there 32 years and had just a couple hours notice!" Mmmm. Hope the lads (and lasses) released find something else soon...

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Curate in the stocks!

I had to read it twice when the email arrived. Curate in his socks was my first take. But no, there's a Summer Fair at Christ Church in the centre of town this Saturday, with the usual Tombola, cakes and plants, beat the goalie etc. In fact, plenty goes on at Christ Church despite its tumbledown appearance from certain angles.
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However, as the title says, you can also see a curate in the stocks where those with a nasty disposition will be able to hurl wet sponges at a very nice man called Austin. It's happening between 10am and 2pm off Prince Albert Street by the big council-run car parks...
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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Those Crewe telescopes...

We've covered the Crewe telescope company a while back here but we're always happy to plug Crewe-related stuff. Tom mailed us today with this: "I was at Barmouth earlier today when I found this coin operated telescope on the promenade. On the telescope it reads Owl Telescopes, Crewe, Cheshire. I haven't heard of this make before and I can't find anything about it on the Internet. Do you know anything about this company?" Indeed we do. But what's the latest? Are they still going?

Another fuse blows!

What's happening with power in Crewe? A few weeks ago it was the Crewe Green roundabout area, then Tesco, Morrisons and a big chunk of the town. Today, the other half of the town centre - inc ASDA down to Richard Moon Street - was also again. Is Cheshire East forgetting to put 50p in the meter?

Cheshire Show

Cheers to Steve for the photos from this year's Cheshire Show (also on today) where massive crowds enjoyed beautiful weather while us office/factory-bound fools watched as the rain crashed down on Crewe.
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I've only been once and wish that it could overlap with a Friday or even a weekend. However, as around 70,000 attended last year's two-day event I suspect that the organisers aren't too fussed about attracting more punters.

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Still, plenty to do and see, with exhibitions, displays and stalls across the massive Tabley grounds. Cheshire East (and West) representatives were there, so it's good to see that splitting the county's administration doesn't affect shows like these. Food and drink is expensive, but name me an event these days where vendors are not out to fleece you? Still, Steve and his family were there for over eight hours so that's decent value in anyone's currency...

Ruskin School reunion week

We've had a few details about the Ruskin Reunion (see here) planned for a while, but blog reader Gordon jogged our memories with a few snippets of his own. He said: "One of the finest buildings in Crewe will be 100 years old at the end of the month. Many of your readers overseas, including me, went to school there during the 1950s when it was known as the Crewe County Grammar School (CCGS) and is now the Ruskin School. There will be a reunion and exhibition week from June 30 to July 4. I would be interested in activities on July 2 which will celebrate the years between 1944 and 1959. The main contact for the reunion is Miss Barnett enquiries@ruskin.cheshire.sch.uk who is a teacher at the school." Indeed, if you want to know more about the week's events you can contact the school on 01270-560514.

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Gordon recalls good but tough times at the school: "I have many fond memories. I remember climbing up on to the roof one evening with a couple of other boys and scratching our names inside the tower. I think we got the cane for that from the head, Mr Dowling, but there were so many canings in those days (1952-57) that it's all a bit of a blur."
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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Queen's visit to Crewe, 1987

Following the link to that video of the Queen visiting Crewe for the opening of the Heritage Centre back in 1987 we received a few emails and photos from people who were there watching or played a part in the various events that were organised to celebrate the occasion. John told us this: "I was in the group of kids you can see [in the video] as she comes from under the canopy heading towards the exit. We were from Pebble Brook primary school (1987 being the year I left). She did ask how we were doing, but I don't think it was directed at anyone in particular. She was here to open the Heritage Centre and I think my dad met her, but then he had worked on the centre, the pedestrian bridge over Vernon Way and the roadworks etc... I put the end of the flag I was waving in my mouth and cut the back of my throat that day. Bloody hurt. Still I was only 11."

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Thanks to Graeme for the snaps; he also had this to say: "I was in the Guard of Honour at the Heritage Centre, for the visit of the Queen. The photos were actually taken by the then Cadets official photographer, Pete Lloyd."

Rolling back the years...

My mate Bampo from work leaves this week. One of the early release phase, he'll have time to enjoy a few leisure activities. He's started early with trips to his Spanish pad and, last Saturday, a steam journey from Crewe to Carlisle. Talk about extremes! Anyway, the elegant old 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcumbe engine came from the Heritage Centre to meet the carriages that had travelled up from the Midlands. Bampo described the carriages as proper Victorian craftsmanship (surely not that old, although I know what he means), wooden tables, carpets, curtains and all. Sounds very plush, with a healthy turnout at Crewe station to see the loco on its way. Plenty more steam services are planned from Crewe...

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Raising the flag...

Mayor of Cheshire East Cllr Margaret Simon, has led celebrations for the first annual British Armed Forces Day, by raising a flag outside Crewe’s Civic Hall. British Armed Forces Day, which will be held on Saturday June 27, will provide an opportunity for the nation to show its appreciation for the contributions made by all of those who serve, or have served, in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces. Councillor Simon said: “British Armed Forces Day will create a fabulous opportunity for us to appreciate the efforts of those men and women, both past and present, who have dedicated their lives to our country. Local authorities across the UK were invited to simultaneously ‘Fly the Flag’ for the first national British Armed Forces Day and I am delighted that we have seized this chance to recognise the contributions of veterans and armed forces staff throughout Cheshire East.”

Crewe COOP factory late 80s

Thanks to Steve (Crewe Cobbler) for the aerial view of the old COOP tea factory that stood on Weston Road (now a distribution centre). He reckons this was taken in the late 1980s, with the CRS warehouse behind and Air Products to the left. Plenty changed since then...

Queens Park meeting postponed

Tuesday's (23 June) planned stakeholder meeting at Queens Park has been postponed and will be rescheduled for early July. Delays with the new tenders and a meeting with the Heritage Lottery Fund have meant that a full update will not be possible, and project officers want to convey the latest information when progress has been made after this week. We'll post the date of the new meeting as soon as we have it...

Mr Crewe blog's funeral

I had a fascinating chat with the eldest the other day. We wandered home via Crewe cemetery and got onto the subject of funerals. There was an event ongoing at the crematorium and he asked asked if I was going to be burnt when I died. Fair question, I thought, and I have given it some thought. In fact, I'd like to have what's left donated to science - for what it's worth by then. "Oh, and I suppose there would be a funeral of some kind," I told him. "I'd probably go to your funeral," he said. So that's nice. Kids, eh?

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Local legends play The Imp

The local music scene will witness the return of a few familiar faces this week, with a brand-new covers band of accomplished musicians performing their debut show at The Imp on Thursday 25th June, 9.30pm - FREE admission. I grabbed a few photos for the lads and caught a few of the tracks they are set to play on Thursday. From Oasis to Bowie and XTC to the Jam, they'll also include some Squeeze and a corker from The Vapours.
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The band - FOULPLAY - comprises four of the area's most experienced musos. Neil Beech and Lee Garner share the duties on guitar and vocals and are joined by drummer Steve 'Shoey' Shoebridge and bassist Nick 'Spoons' Bayes (pictured, right). Shoey, Neil and Lee performed in a band called 'Fourplay' in the late 80s achieving national success. After being courted by EMI and MCA records they were offered a recording contract by the now defunct Jet Records (ELO, Ozzy Osbourne, Roy Wood, Magnum etc). The band supported such acts as Dr and the Medics and Bros amongst others during that era. Songwriting success also came with top 75 hits by artists featuring the SAW star Miriam Stockley as backing vocalist. Since then they have continued to contribute to the local music scene, appearing between them in a plethora of local bands such as Big Blue House, Voice, Beam, The Space Hoppers and The Blues Roosters amongst others over the years.
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Bassist Spoons achieved national recognition with 'Tower Struck Down' in the early 90s. He featured on several international tours with the band and enjoyed significant UK success, appearing at Glastonbury Festival and supporting the likes of the late Kirsty MacColl. He now plays bass for rising local star Chloë Chadwick in her band - CHLOË. .

Photos of copyright of Crewe blog

Maccy D's closes down!

Don't worry you Ronald McDonald aficionados, it's only for a week. The blog family wandered through town on Sunday and noticed the signs and shutters. It looked like a Saturday night incident being fixed. But no. The fast-food emporium is being spruced up with, it seems, oh-so funky and colourful furniture that will put it on a par with the Big Brother house's interior! Now that's a frightening thought. Only a short-term closure, so you'll be able to get your Big Mac and McFlury fix from Monday 29th June...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Scented gardens at Queens Park

We like to throw a few Memory Lane photos on when we can, so here's a snap that Jan Wright sent in showing the scented gardens off Coronation Walk in Crewe's Queens Park (no idea of the year - guess anyone?). The designs for the new walk under a much larger bridge are ambitious and, at the moment, are on hold. Hopefully, within a couple of years we'll all be able to experience something special down at the park...
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Update - received this snippet from Mick G: "Are you aware that at the front of the photo is perhaps the oldest piece of Crewe history? The boulder (rock) is reputed to have been swept down from Scotland after the last Ice Age. There was originally a sign on the boulder but it disappeared many years ago." So what happened to it - any offers?

20:20 charity cricket at Nantwich

Cricket in aid of St Luke's is on offer this Friday 26th June over at Whitehouse Lane in Nantwich. The lads from the local cricket club will take on the Nantwich Town fellas more accustomed to a bigger ball from 6.30pm. It's just £1 admission, with all proceeds to the charity...

SCC open day...

First Year Performing Arts (Dance) BTEC National Diploma students from South Cheshire College at their end-of-year show last Friday...

QEII tribute - too pricey?

The Railwayman took advantage of the freebie offer at the M Club on Saturday night, where Queen tribute act QEII took to the stage. He took a few snaps and had this to say:

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"The tribute band scene has thrived for years, and there was a time when QEII had to do two nights at the Limelight to meet demand. Last night's gig at the M Club, sadly, had less than 80 people attending. Despite the small numbers for the FREE gig, QEII put on a great show as usual. So you have to ask if the days of tribute bands are numbered? Certainly £9 and £10 tickets are having a effect, and in my view the bands are simply asking too much in the way of fees - therefore inflating ticket prices. Times are hard and demand isn't what it was on this scene, so in my opinion maybe the bands involved might need to review their fees."

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Interesting points. Is The Railwayman right? What would you pay to see a decent tribute act?

Big Apple Cafe

They're hanging pictures, painting walls, assembling some fantastic USA memorabilia and also getting the new carpets down. Busy bunch, I tell you. The Big Apple Cafe on Victoria Street is due to open during the first week of July in time for Independence Day. It's looking pretty fine. Great colours, seating 40-plus upstairs and 25 down, as well as opening across the morning and afternoon it looks as though you'll be able to book the venue for parties. We'll be there for the launch...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

The Crewe TV message board is coming...

Enjoy your anonymous comments while they last. The revamped Crewe TV website (might give you a taster soon) will include a message board - with user names/logons etc. If you'd like to know more and, maybe, set up user names in advance then get in touch via creweblog@hotmail.co.uk

Royal Mail Weekend at Heritage Centre

Just £10 for the family gets you into Crewe's Heritage Centre. Stacks to see and do these days, with new vehicles added to compliment the many locos on show in addition to those undergoing refurbishment. This weekend (Saturday and Sunday) is dedicated to the old mail trains, with the centre's own Travelling Post Office Coach which is stunning. Next door to Tesco, give it a couple of hours...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Are you getting an Alex season ticket?

Most fans I have spoken to lately are leaving their Alex season ticket purchase until the last minute this summer (whenever that starts). Pay cuts, fear of job losses and uncertainty about the team has seen many hold back. Not so The Railwayman who splashed out today and secured his seat for the League Two campaign that kicks off at home to Dagenham & Redbridge in early August. "As rare as rocking horse sh*t," was his description of the piece of plastic now nestled in his wallet, moths and all. He reckons there hasn't been a rush to snap up seats, and unless Gudjon and Steve Davis bring a few players in fans will remain sceptical about our chances of progress in the bottom division.
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That all links perfectly to today's video clip, an old classic that I found in the archives. It's not too long, just a tour around Gresty Road as it was back in 1979. Fond memories for some, although back then we were always at the bottom of the old Division Four...

The new Grand Bentley

We've all seen the new rather beautiful Bentley at the factory, but the worldwide audience have recently been given a teaser trailer to generate some intrigue and interest ahead of launch day in August. Kick back, chill out and let some soothing sounds wash over you as seductive images paint a beautiful picture of Bentley and Crewe. Enjoy...

Anyone for chess?

The work on Market Square did slow down over the last couple of weeks, but it's now back on track with the chess/checkers (or draughts) board almost complete in the centre of the square. I think it'll be great seeing people of all ages having a game with huge pieces, maybe local school kids taking things a step further and acting out a game with real-life characters? They just need to get a place to store the chess (or other games) pieces, maybe with a local firm offering sponsorship. What I don't agree with is several businesses around the square complaining about reduced trade. Nonsense. Previously, visitors to town could walk diagonally across the open space and avoid most if not all businesses around the edges. While this work is ongoing people are forced around the edges past EVERY shop. Stop moaning for the sake of moaning! The council is trying to improve the place to bring in MORE shoppers.

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Photo quiz

You know the Friday routine. Crewe image, twisted and masked in some way. You guess what and where it is. Easy one today. Answer: Betley Street cottages, which was a bit easy. But you deserved a break this week...

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British Armed Forces Day in Crewe

Flags will be hoisted and special receptions held at council buildings across Cheshire East as the local authority joins national celebrations for the first British Armed Forces Day later this month, and veterans are invited to join in. Councils across the country have also been invited to join in a simultaneous “flying the flag” on Monday 22 June at 10.30am. A special Armed Forces Day flag will be hoisted by the Mayor of Cheshire East Councillor Margaret Simon at the flag-raising in the Civic Square, Earle Street, Crewe. The flags will remain until the following Monday. Later in the week, marking British Armed Forces Day on Saturday 27 June, a reception for the veterans of the British Forces’ conflicts will be held at 12 noon in the Mayor’s Reception Room at the Municipal Offices in Crewe, again hosted by Councillor Margaret Simon.

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If any veteran wishes to take part in any of the events, please call the Mayor's PA, Nicola Carberry, on 01270-529733.

Crewe Station update

You've probably noticed the station image (top) that appeared on the blog last week. It's all part of a redesign phase where the once humble blog will morph into a rather more substantial website, inc a raft of sections and links housing all manner of Crewe stuff. It's not far from completion. Honest.

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Crewe Station, on the other hand, is very much work in progress. There's no big overhaul (or move to Basford) on the cards, more a lick of paint and some essential maintenance here and there. We contacted one of the North West-based media/PR guys to determine what's ongoing and he confirmed that the following should all be completed by July: new lighting to platforms 1-11 costing £500k; a new Fire Alarm system at £250k; replacement glazing and painting to the station roof coming in at £560k. So, as our contact told us, not quite the swanky new station that many hoped for, but still progress and hopefully enough to make a real difference.

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What do you make of the ongoing work over the last few months?

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

This month's M Comedy

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I don't mind plugging the M Comedy gigs because a) they are quality, b) you'd have to go to Manchester to see similar, and c) the lads involved put in hundreds of hours to secure some top acts. Check out the video clip above if you haven't given it a go yet. Next Friday, 26th June, sees Justin Moorhouse, who can also be seen in cinemas up and down the country starring in Ken Loach’s new film “Looking For Eric”, play at Crewe's High Street venue. Justin is perhaps best known for his role as Young Kenny in the cult TV show, Phoenix Nights, but has also starred in other shows such as “Max and Paddy” and “8 out of 10 cats”. Add to that Sony Radio nominations as “Best Radio DJ” for his afternoon show on Key 103 and multiple awards won from stand-up and it’s easy to see why Moorhouse is widely regarded as one of the country's elite comedy talents. Also on stage will be Roger Monkhouse, Nathan Caton and Silky. Check out http://www.mcomedy.co.uk/ for times, prices and availability...

Help shape local housing policy

Cheshire East Council is to survey thousands of residents on their housing needs and concerns, in line with Government guidelines. It will help to shape the council’s priorities over the next five years. More than 48,000 homes will be mailed a survey by specialist research firm arc4 on the Council’s behalf from the end of June. The questionnaire will ask about the aspirations of households, how much affordable and open market housing is required, and what the need is for specialist and supported housing for particular groups such as older people. Issues such as how many generations live in the same property, income levels and condition of their housing will also be included. Councillor Jamie Macrae, Cheshire East Portfolio Holder for Prosperity, says: “This is an important snapshot of the housing situation. We’ve already made affordable housing a priority and have been working with parish and town councils to assess how some of these needs can be met. This study is expected to be completed by the end of the year and I would urge people to take part and help us develop the policies for the future.”
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The questionnaire can be completed on-line at www.cheshireeast2009.info. Alternatively, the survey can be returned to the researchers using the freepost envelope provided. The closing date for responses will be Friday 24 July.

Thursday BOX

Had a meet with the lads behind the revamp of Crewe.TV tonight and then, as predicted by Mrs Crewe blog, ended up in The Box for some tunes, chat and beers. A tad heavier than my old ears are used to, but crashingly good sounds from the two bands I caught. The Troops of Mafeking are a likeable bunch and delivered some ceiling busting music. They are a tight unit and the stage act is more than decent. I couldn't help enjoying their sound that isn't far off a toned-down Kings Of Leon! Oh, and the half-nude drummer certainly adds to the effect! Like 'em. Then came Pulled Apart By Horses, a confident bunch from Leeds who brought a few fans with them. In-yer-face rock they played as though their lives depended upon it. Heavy, fast, crashing guitars and some good banter with the crowd. Great stuff. Crewe music is exploding...

Edward Timpson expenses

You might have heard news snippets about MPs' expenses being made available online. Indeed, you can do a simple search on the BBC site. However, to save you a few moments of digit tapping, Crewe MP Edward Timpson's expenses are not included as the period covered is 2004-2008 (check here for yourself). That said, he has been quick to add this year's expenses to his own site. Check them out here...

One door opens, one closes...

There's no stopping Dale at the moment. Out and about on Wednesday he caught the official opening of the new British Heart Foundation store opposite ASDA, then confirmed that the Wimpy restaurant has closed its doors just a few yards around the corner. No signs up, nothing to indicate that business will resume after a refit. However, the way it's been covered up suggests that something could be about to happen. I'm no Wimpy fan but this creates a serious gap in the High Street, so let's hope it's not vacant for too long. Interestingly, just a few more yards along Victoria Street that new Big Apple Cafe is about to open. One door closes, another one opens. UPDATE: the interior of the Big Apple Cafe looks great. More on Saturday. As for Wimpy, I think it's gone. The guys completing the refit suggested that the new-look cafe will be called Oz's cafe or similar. If I heard them right. Maybe Ozzie's. We'll see...

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The history of print

I'm a big fan of the printed press despite spending plenty of time online. So I was fascinated to learn of a project that local students completed in conjunction with Crewe firm Design Office. The South Cheshire College students let their creative imaginations run wild to design a wall display based on a ‘History of Print’ theme. Some spectacular artwork was produced during the week which was then assessed by art lecturer Dave Ballantyne, graphics tutor Mike Smith and Kevin Edge, Managing Director of the Design Office. And as the firm's MD explains, the best of the work will enjoy a prime spot back at the studio's base: “I’m extremely impressed with the quality and standard of the artwork that students have produced in such a short space of time. There are some very creative and diverse ideas presented which fills me with optimism for the industry in the future. The plan now is to pick a selection of posters to display on a wall at our premises in Crewe which hopefully become the focus of conversation with many of our visiting clients."

Quiz your local MP

We still get questions about local MP Edward Timpson (pictured, left, with party leader David Cameron in Crewe's Market Square last May). That's fine, but you can go direct to the man himself. His latest constituency surgery takes place tomorrow, Friday 19th June, at the Victoria Street office next to the Crewe Chron office. If you would like an appointment please call in to the constituency office at 30 Victoria Street, Crewe, call 01270-501725 or send an email to timpsone@parliament.uk. Alternatively, if talking to a Tory is too much for you, well, you could contact the Labour candidate David Williams via his website here. He will be challenging Edward Timpson at the next election and, like his Conservative rival, pledges to stand up for the people of Crewe and Nantwich. He can be contacted on 07798-696 603...

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Photos copyright of Crewe blog

Crewe pub stuff...

Quickie update: most know that the Lion & Swan on West Street was bulldozed last week, that The George at the bottom of West Street/Sunnybank is sealed off with steel shutters and The Bank closed after last weekend. However, there's a chink of light over Coppenhall way with the Cross Keys about to become a proper food pub - according to the chap who has taken the tenancy. We had a chat over a Stella on Tuesday afternoon at one of the more successful boozers near Nantwich Road. We'll see. Pubs are important but I still believe that, given recent economic conditions, lifestyle changes and the availability of cheaper alcohol, the Crewe pub trade just needs to find its level. Whether that's 50, 30 or just 20 pubs remains to be seen...

The Queen in Crewe... 1987?

I thought I'd embedded this clip a couple of years back, but I can't find it. So, as it's such a cracking snapshot of Crewe folk trying to grab a look, word or photo with the Queen of England, I thought that it deserved a slot on the blog. Hundreds of faces, crammed along the pavements, walls and any available space around the station, were you there that day? This video was taken by Nigel Peever but I'm hoping a few of you might have snaps and memories of the day. I'm putting a book together about Crewe folk and would love to chat with anyone who did get a bit of one-to-one with the Queen. I believe this trip linked the station visit with a tour of Camm Street and then on to the Heritage Centre. Mail me on creweblog@hotmail.co.uk if you have any snippets...

Dale does The Greenway...

Dale's been out an about with his camera, this time checking out a local trek I suggested a few weeks back. The nature trail off Electra Way (down by MMU) is a great spot for a walk or - around some of its paths - a bike ride.

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Worth a visit, especially with kids, and hopefully somewhere that will appear in the Open Air magazine next year...

Wheelie excited!

As discussed on the blog last week, brown wheelie bins are coming (for all) to the old CNBC area. here's the confirmation from Cheshire East: From July, residents within the Nantwich and Crewe areas will be provided with new 240-litre garden waste wheeled bins. More than 40 percent of homes in the area already recycle their garden waste and the plans will now extend the free scheme to all residents. New garden waste bins will be delivered to all houses from 1st July, 2009, with the first collections beginning in August. If you do not require a green waste, wheeled bin, or would prefer a smaller size, please call 0300-123-5500 or email newgardenwaste@cheshireeast.gov.uk