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Articles by So Cheshire
Don’t worry, they won’t bite – zoo’s orchids fit for Halloween
A collection of rare plants, with a name fit for spooky season, have been recognised as a nationally-important type of threatened species. Chester Zoo’s Dracula orchids have been recognised by Plant Heritage which is a conservation charity for cultivated plants. The recognition highlights the importance of protecting the group of plants which is threatened in the wild. It is the sixth time the zoo in Cheshire has been named the official holder of a National Plant Collection.
Lymm’s annual rushbearing service ‘unique and spectacular’
PICTURED: Lymm parish councillor Ann Johnstone; Baroness Lea of Lymm; Tatton MP Esther McVey; deputy chair of Lymm Parish Council Ben Selwood Villagers and local dignitaries in Lymm came together to celebrate the medieval tradition of rushbearing on Sunday.
Tatton’s former head gardener to give ‘potting and planning’ talk
Knutsford Market Hall is set to host a gardening talk entitled Potting and Planning, led by renowned horticulturist and former Tatton Park head gardener, Sam Youd. The event takes place on 23 September 2026 and focusses on preparing your garden for the colder months and planning for spring. Youd will inspire attendees through things like winter potting and protecting tender plants, and the session will conclude with an audience Q&A.
Date announced for Bunbury Village Day 2026
The Bunbury Village Day team has confirmed that their event this year will take place on Saturday 13 June 2026. This will mark the 57th year of the popular village gathering, which is a volunteer-led celebration that has become a firm favourite – both within the village and across the county of Cheshire. Organisers said it helps bring together residents, families and neighbouring communities for “a truly special day”. Planning is already taking place behind the scenes.
Congleton Pride to host St Patrick’s Day quiz night
People are being invited to join in a lively and welcoming St Patrick’s Day quiz night taking place next month hosted by Congleton Pride. The fundraiser is being held at Radley & Co at the Lion & Swan on Monday 16 March 2026. The event promises a relaxed and enjoyable evening, with general knowledge questions only and no specialist expertise required. Whether attendees are regular quizzers or simply looking for a fun night out, organisers say the emphasis is on having a laugh.
New location for Alderley Edge family-run deli
A family-run food and wine store has announced it will be moving to a new home. Grantham’s deli, currently situated on Heyes Lane in Alderley Edge, will be moving to Alderley Park this spring. Bosses said the retailer would remain focussed on its range of products from small, independent producers with products sourced from across the UK and Europe. The new store will include a private dining and event space, and will be located at Apiary opposite Mereside at Alderley Park.
Macclesfield pancake race returns to support NHS charity
The cobblestones of Mill Street in Macclesfield are set to “sizzle” as the town prepares for the return of its annual pancake races. The event, on Tuesday 17 February 2026, will see local firms and community groups sprinting up and down outside the town hall in a bid to raise funds for East Cheshire NHS Charity. Starting at midday, teams of four will go head-to-head in a relay while flipping their pancakes. Registration is now open, at £40 per team of four. Organisations can enter multiple teams.
Help plant a new hedge with Ranger Bob in Knutsford
Volunteers are being sought to help plant a new hedge around an open space in Cheshire. The scheme, at St Helena’s in Knutsford is part of the town’s nature action plan. Bosses at the town council say they have been given funding for a new native hedgerow to be planted there to provide fresh habitat for wildlife. About 200m of hedgerow whips will planted around the perimeter of the site, with regular 3m gaps for passing through.
New era for The Yellow Broom as destination wedding venue
An iconic countryside venue in Cheshire has been given a new lease of life, with a mother and daughter team taking over the reins. The Yellow Broom at Twemlow Green, near Holmes Chapel, has recently been taken over by Kirsty Hadfield, 54, and Hannah Vietor, 26. The site closed in July 2025 after the retirement of long-standing owners Nathalie and Russell Burns. “The Yellow Broom has always been a huge part of our lives,” Ms Vietor said.
First meeting for Congleton's new youth council
Congleton’s new youth council has officially launched, with the group of 12 youngsters coming together for their inaugural meeting at Congleton Town Hall recently. The young people, aged between 10 and 17, attended the first session, representing a range of different backgrounds and experiences.
Your invite to the mayor of Knutsford’s charity ball
Mayor of Knutsford, Cllr Bryan Hartley, is inviting people to join him for his charity ball, which takes place on Friday 13 March at Cottons Hotel and Spa. The special black-tie event is being organised to raise funds for the mayor’s chosen charities – East Cheshire Hospice and Knutsford in Bloom. Guests attending the ball can look forward to a memorable evening of entertainment, alongside a three-course meal, all included in the ticket price of £55 per person.
Arighi Bianchi launches its biggest ever winter sale
Promotional feature Arighi Bianchi’s biggest-ever winter sale is now on, bringing exceptional savings across furniture, interiors and home accessories you won’t find anywhere else in Cheshire. But hurry, some of the special discounts are only for a limited period – so don’t miss out. The iconic Cheshire retail destination in Macclesfield is offering some never-seen-before in-store deductions and promotions across all departments.
Firms back Winsford Industrial Estate BID for fifth term
A group of companies in Cheshire has voted to renew their business improvement district (BID) for a fifth consecutive term. Winsford Industrial Estate BID is home to the longest-running industrial estate BID zone in the country, which has been in operation since April 2006. Companies have now opted to support its continuation for a further five-year period, with 99% voting in favour of the proposals. Bosses said it was one of the strongest ballot results ever recorded in the UK for such a scheme.
Bentley grant scheme supports Crewe community projects
Ten organisations in Cheshire are to receive funding through a programme set up by luxury car manufacturer Bentley. The grants will support community projects in Crewe which deal with food poverty, mental health, youth services, disability support and family wellbeing. Bosses say the funding will support thousands of residents in some of the town’s most deprived areas over the coming year.
Cheshire teen recognised in RSPCA photo competition
A teenager from Cheshire has been commended for two of his photographs in the annual RSPCA Young Photographer Awards. Sam Morris, 15, from Lymm was recognised in the “small world” and the “12-15” categories. His image of a spider on a dew-laden web, titled “An Architect in the Rain”, impressed judges in the small world section. “On a rainy Saturday in August, as the downpour finally eased, I grabbed my camera gear and ventured outside,” he said.
Cheshire organisations urged to enter high sheriff’s awards
Organisations in Cheshire are being encouraged to enter the High Sheriff’s Awards for Enterprise 2025/2026, with the deadline approaching soon. The awards are now in their 19th year and celebrate impact, innovation and initiative in the region. They are open to businesses and charities of any size that are based in Cheshire West and Chester, Cheshire East, Halton and Warrington council areas. Entries close on Wednesday 14th January 2026.
Chester Zoo offers £1 entry to families on Universal Credit
Chester Zoo is offering £1 entry tickets to families claiming Universal Credit between now and the end of the year. Boses said it was part of a scheme to support people who may otherwise struggle to afford a day out. The discounted tickets will be available for visits between up until 31st December 2025 and can be booked online in advance. The initiative is a new strand to its existing community scheme, which aims to reduce financial barriers to visiting the national conservation zoo.
Organisations offer a fresh start for ex-offenders
Chester Zoo is among several employers opening their doors to ex-offenders as part of a scheme aimed at providing employment to ex-offenders. The Fresh Start initiative has a target of placing 100 ex-offenders in work before September 2026. It is being run in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions, the Probation Service and specialist provider Tempus Novo. In Cheshire, 11 ex-offenders have now been offered placements, with four more currently in the pipeline.
First look at Beauty and the Beast on stage at Storyhouse
Audiences have been swept off their feet by this year’s pantomime – Beauty and the Beast – at Storyhouse in Chester, according to theatre bosses. They said the feel-good family show has captivated theatregoers of all ages during its opening weekend, and is set to go on enthralling families throughout the festive season. The production where everyone is invited to “be our guest” runsat until Sunday 4th January 2026.
Macclesfield FC trust launches Christmas gift appeal
Young patients at Macclesfield Hospital will receive some festive cheer this year thanks to the Macclesfield FC Community Sports Trust. The organisation has launched its annual festive fundraiser, which aims to bring a little bit of joy to youngsters in the children’s ward who will spend Christmas in hospital. Money raised will be used to buy gifts for the children to help share the magic of Christmas during their stay – with players from the club helping to deliver the presents.
The Romans return to Chester to celebrate Saturnalia
This Thursday (11th December) the Romans are back to reclaim Chester – for one night only – as Chester’s Deva Victrix 20th Legion mark Saturnalia. The action begins at 6pm with the parade leaving the city’s Grosvenor Museum to head to Eastgate Street where the emperor will address his subjects.
New year events programme launches at Jodrell Bank
This month marks 80 years since the first observations at Jodrell Bank – on 14th December 1945. In that time, its inspirational history of research and technology has captured the imaginations of scientists and visitors alike. Jodrell Bank’s story includes revolutionary discoveries, incredible feats of engineering, the dawn of the space age and the creation of the Grade I listed radio telescope for which it is most well-known.
Previewing a blockbuster 2026 season at Chester's Storyhouse
Heartfelt drama, joyful musicals and family-friendly fun are all on the programme for the next 12 months for theatregoers in Chester. Bosses at Storyhouse have revealed their line-up for 2026, with a fantastic range of shows being billed. The line-up includes a new stage production of Charles Dickens masterpiece The Signalman, from Middle Ground Theatre Company, which pulls in to the Hunter Street venue 3rd-7th February.
Two of the world’s rarest lions arrive at Chester Zoo
Two of the world’s rarest lions have arrived at Chester Zoo as part of efforts to protect the highly endangered animals from extinction. The pair of Asiatic lions – a male named Nilay from Köln Zoo in Germany and a female named Shanti from London Zoo – were carefully matched by conservationists following genetic analysis as part of an international breeding programme. Zoo staff said the duo formed “an instant connection” and were hopeful that they would go on to have cubs in the future.
Swedish luxury bed boutique opens new store in Wilmslow
A new “sleep boutique” has opened in Wilmslow, selling high-end luxury beds. It is Swedish firm Hästens’ first foray into the north of England – with four other UK locations in London plus one in Buckinghamshire. The firm’s range includes the Grand Vividus model, the bed which is owned by rap star Drake. Bosses said only 15 people in the world knew how to make it, and that it was created in collaboration with designer Ferris Rafauli.
Congleton Pride hosts vigil for World AIDS Day
Members of Congleton Pride held a short vigil on Monday (1st December) to mark World AIDS Day. The group lit candles underneath umbrellas, on a rainy night in the town’s community garden, and spent some time together in reflection. Across the road, Congleton Town Hall flew the World AIDS Day flag.
Festive cheer at Knutsford’s new-look Christmas Markets
Knutsford has been brimming with festive spirit, as the town welcomed thousands of visitors to its annual Christmas markets, over the last weekend of November. This year’s event, run by the town council, took on a new layout – with the markets expanded across both Princess Street and King Street for the first time. Organisers said this created a more spacious and enjoyable festive experience for attendees as well as a great range of stalls.
Former Pecks restaurant site in Congleton up for sale or to lease
A hospitality firm has put one of its former venues on the market with a guide price of £700,000 for the freehold property or for £55,000 per year to lease. The building on Newcastle Road, Brownlow Heath, was previously home to Pecks until the business moved to Congleton town centre in February this year. Bosses at Pear Hospitality, which runs Pecks, had teased plans for an “unapologetically American” venue at the site, but further details failed to materialise.
Chester Zoo signs two new firms to its sustainable palm oil campaign
Two UK food giants have become the latest to sign up to Chester Zoo’s sustainable palm oil programme, aiming to protect the world’s forests. Bosses at the zoo announced that food oils supplier KTC and food manufacturer The Compleat Food Group had both signed up to the programme, which was set up and run by the conservation charity.
More than 100 new homes planned for Northwich at Weaver Square
Cheshire West and Chester Council has signed a pre-development agreement with its preferred partner for a regeneration scheme that is set to bring more than 100 new homes to Northwich. The authority is working with VINCI UK Developments Limited on a joint venture with ION Property Developments Ltd, to produce a masterplan for Weaver Square in the town centre.
Northwich Market set to move to Barons Quay
Bosses at Cheshire West and Chester Council say they are committed to providing a new modern market at Northwich’s shopping and leisure destination, Barons Quay. It would be the biggest investment in Northwich Market since the 1960s, the authority claimed, adding that the new market would receive about £1.8m of funding.
Find out when your library is open in Cheshire this Christmas
Our local libraries in Cheshire will be varying their opening hours over the Christmas holidays – read on for more details. Membership cards issued by any library in Cheshire West or Cheshire East can be used to borrow books from any of the other libraries in Cheshire West and Cheshire East. As well as this, library membership in Cheshire East and Cheshire West is free of charge, and is available to anyone with a UK address.
Your invite to Knutsford's annual community crib service
The mayor of Knutsford, Cllr Bryan Hartley, is inviting people to join him for the town’s annual community crib service. Taking place outside the Lost and Found on Princess Street, it will be led by mayor’s chaplain Father David Long, and starts at 3.30pm on Saturday 6th December. The event will also include a Christmas message from the town mayor, who has chosen some of his favourite carols for the gathering.
The countdown to Christmas is under way in Congleton
Congleton is set to light up for the festive season this Friday (28 November) with an evening of music, entertainment and family fun. The town’s annual Christmas lights celebration will take place from 4pm, with the big switch on itself taking place at 6pm.
Peek behind the scenes - Storyhouse panto rehearsals
The countdown to Christmas in Chester is officially on – with just over a week to go before this year’s pantomime Beauty and the Beast dances onto the stage at Storyhouse. The spellbinding new version of the much-loved fairytale opens on Friday 5th December for the start of a month-long festive run.
New top team and "slimmed down" Congleton Pride for 2026
Organisers of a Pride event in Cheshire have unveiled a new leadership team, as plans for next year’s event begin to take shape. Congleton Pride is due to enter its seventh year, with outgoing chair Malcolm Pope thanking volunteers and sponsors for their support. Abby Smith and Ronan Clayton were elected as co-chairs for 2025-26, with Abby leading on campaigns and Ronan on events. Mr Pope added it had been the honour of his life to chair the group.
Congleton to sparkle at annual Christmas lights switch on event
Congleton is set to welcome the festive season with its annual Christmas lights switch on event later this month. It’s taking place between 4-8pm on Friday 28th November in the town centre, with the switch on itself happening at 6pm. Road closures will be in place on High Street, Mill Street, and Swan Bank between midday and 10pm to keep the event safe. “The Christmas lights switch on is a highlight of the year for Congleton,” said town mayor, Cllr Robert Brittain.
Celebrate the season at Congleton mayor’s Festive Feast Fundraiser
Congleton mayor, Cllr Robert Brittain, is preparing to host his Festive Feast Fundraiser early next month. The event, on Thursday 4th December 2025, at 7pm, includes a two-course meal and a celebration of community spirit in support of local charities. Tickets cost £35 each, and must be booked in advance. The event will see civic dignitaries and neighbouring mayors in attendance, and all proceeds will go to the town mayor’s chosen charities. These are: Circus Starr, Mentell, and Visyon.
Your 2025 guide to Christmas celebrations in Chester
Christmas in Chester is one of the most magical times to visit the city – a day out in November or December could easily include the markets, a parade, plenty of shopping and even a trip to the theatre. “Christmas officially starts in Chester with the opening of the Christmas Market,” said Cllr Lisa Denson. “All of the popular parades are back this year – 12 Days of Christmas, Lanterns, Winter Watch and Saturnalia.
Storyhouse presents bold new adaptation of Macbeth
Chester’s Storyhouse is preparing for a “visceral new version” of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. “The Scottish play” comes to the stage at the Hunter Street venue from 6th March to 21st March 2026. The iconic tragedy is being presented in a bold new production, adapted and directed by Jamie Sophia Fletcher with set and lighting design by Andrew Exeter.
CHYPS pantomime returns to Wilmslow with Snow White
Wilmslow-based youth theatre company CHYPS is preparing to perform classic pantomime Snow White, as they mark their 18th season since forming in 2007. The company will take to the stage at the Evans Theatre in Wilmslow Leisure Centre with six performances from Tuesday 30th December 2025 until Sunday 4th January 2026 – including three matinees. Bosses say the production promises current hits and timeless classics, brought to life by a talented cast of 11-to-18-year-olds.
Feeding charter to make Knutsford more welcoming for parents
Knutsford Town Council has launched a new initiative designed to make visiting the town centre more welcoming for parents and carers of babies and young children. The council’s feeding charter involves businesses in the town providing a dedicated space for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding babies. The scheme also extends this support to parents, grandparents or carers who needs a comfortable spot to sit and feed older children.
“Discover Congleton” with town's walking routes booklet
Congleton Town Council has launched a set of country walks, aimed at helping people discover and enjoy the town and its diverse green spaces. The new walks have been published as a map and leaflet entitled Discover Congleton From Your Door. The booklets urge people to leave their cars at home and go for a walk around the local countryside. The eight walks range from 1.5 miles to 9 miles in length and include two routes that are step-free.
Knutsford Christmas markets return - and earlier than usual
Knutsford is preparing for a sparkling festive season a little earlier than usual this year. A number of the town’s much-loved festive celebrations will take place this month, to help extend the Christmas shopping period for retailers. The change is also designed to help manage the high visitor numbers the seasonal events attract. This year, the annual Christmas light switch-on and Santa parade will take place on Saturday 15th November, two weeks ahead of the town’s Christmas markets.
An autumnal concert in Chester from a trio of folk acts
An evening of folk music presented by Chester Folk Festival Saturday 15th November 2025 The organisers of Chester Folk Festival will be presenting an autumn folk trilogy concert on 15th November at All Saints Church in Hoole. “The trilogy the perfect antidote to the darker evenings and fading memories of the summer festival season,” a spokesperson said.
Lord Mayor of Chester to lead city's Acts of Remembrance
The Lord Mayor of Chester, Cllr Sherin Akhtar, is inviting residents to join her at Chester Cathedral on Sunday 9th November 2025, at 10.15am, as she leads the city’s Act of Remembrance. She will also led the Armistice Day Act of Remembrance Service on Tuesday 11th November 2025 at 10.50am at Chester Cathedral Gardens on St Werburgh Street. This year’s Remembrance Sunday will be particularly significant as it will also commemorate the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe and Victory over Japan.
Services for Remembrance Sunday 2025 in Knutsford
Knutsford Town Council and the Knutsford branch of the Royal British Legion are inviting members of the local community to join services of remembrance taking place in the town on Sunday 9th November.
Why Dutch soldiers march in Cheshire for Remembrance Sunday
For decades Dutch soldiers from the Prinses Irene Brigade have been travelling to a Cheshire town to take part in Remembrance Sunday commemorations, reflecting their long and proud association with the area. The regiment was formed in Congleton in 1941, when young Dutch soldiers, having escaped their occupied homeland, were housed there to continue their fight for liberation.
New theatre festival aims to put Sandbach centre stage
The organisers of a new festival, launching later this month, say local drama lovers won’t have to travel beyond Sandbach for a night at the theatre as they bring three productions to the town over the course of two weekends. Cheshire and Sandbach Theatre (CAST) Festival comprises plays produced and performed by people based locally. It is a partnership between Manchester-based Wonderhouse Theatre Company and Sandbach-based Carney Academy Performing Arts School.
Celebrating 80 years of Macclesfield Young Farmers' Club
A gathering of 200 past members, officials and supporters recently attended Macclesfield Young Farmers’ 80th anniversary celebration meal, hosted by Graham Parks at Shellow Lane in North Rode. Guests were welcomed by the club’s president Lorraine Brunt and deputy president Wendy Davenport – both of whom are former club chair ladies. Isabel Worthington – who made history when she became Macclesfield YFC’s first chair lady in 1967 – gave the grace, which was followed by a buffet and sweets.
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