For more details visit the national Heritage Open Days website Search events

The programme will open on Friday 12^th September at 6:30pm in the School Hall at Didsbury C of E Primary School, Elm Grove, Didsbury, M20 6RL.

Diana Leitch, Didsbury Parish Historian will give a talk entitled:

“Some Didsbury Buildings – those that disappeared during the 19^th/20^th centuries and those that survived to the present day”

A donation of £5 per person is suggested to attend the talk and the money will go the British Red Cross who worked tirelessly to support families in the flooding by the River Mersey on New Years Day 2025.

Buildings Open:

St James` Church – Sunday 14^th September plus bell ringing – 12pm – 4pm

The Old Parsonage – Saturday 13^th, Sunday 14^th, Saturday 20^th and Sunday 21^st – 10am – 5pm each day

The Towers – Sunday 14^th September – 1pm – 5pm

Didsbury C of E Primary School – Saturday 13^th September -10am – 4pm

Warburton Street – Saturday 13^th and Saturday 20^th – Shops Open

Didsbury Library – Saturday 13^th and Saturday 20^th – 9am – 5pm each day

Nazarene College -Saturday 13^th – 10:30am – 1pm

Manchester Islamic Centre – Sunday 14^th and Sunday 21^st – 12pm – 4pm

The Albert Club is open for heritage visits on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st September, from 1pm until 4pm (it would be open anyway). A fascinating talk will be given by Jim Machin, ex-President, ex-Secretary, and author of “The Albert Club, A History”, at 1:30pm, on both days. Founded in 1874, by leading Royal Exchange members, designed by famous Manchester Architects, the Albert Club started life as a gentlemen’s club for the Non-Conformist, Jewish, and Orthodox merchants and manufacturers of Manchester. The oldest tennis club in the world, still in the same clubhouse and playing tennis on the same courts, it is now a vibrant and friendly social and tennis club. Address: 39-41 Old Lansdowne Road, West Didsbury, Manchester, M20 2PA.

Christ Church, West Didsbury – Saturday 13^th September and Sunday 14^th– 10am – 4pm

St Nicholas Church – Saturday 20^th September – 11am – 4pm

The Vestibule, Floral Hall, Ambulatory and Pavilion Theatre were all built in the 1870s and the Opera House Theatre originally opened in 1889. The Empress Ballroom was built in 1896, together with the Indian Lounge (now the Arena). The long-gone Blackpool Ferris wheel, erected in 1896, was also located at the complex. The building cost was £100,000 (equivalent to £12,000,000 million in 2023)

The day will be all inclusive, including coach transport from Didsbury to St Annes with drop off close to the pier for a coffee, comfort break and a look around. The coach will drop us off for lunch at the Toby Carvery (with a vegetarian option) which is located at the side of the pier. After lunch we will then be transported to the Winter Gardens Blackpool with an inclusive guided tour of the site. The cost of £45.00 includes lunch, tour of the Winter Gardens, return travel to Didsbury and gratuities.

Itinerary:
08:30 Pick up at Didsbury library M20 2DN
08:45 Pick up at Parrs Wood Methodist Church (Parrs Wood Road) M20 5QQ
10:15 Coffee-stop and break
12:00 noon Lunch at Toby Carvery 7-9 South Promenade FY1 1LS
13:30 Leave Toby Carvery for Blackpool Winter Garden`s FY1 1HL
16:15 Leave Blackpool for Didsbury
The cost of coach hire to the Society still remains a large element of the social trip cost, and we would request early booking to reduce any financial risk of cancellation.

Traveller`s details: Name: …………………………………………………………………..
Contact Telephone Nos: ………………………………………
Your email:
My emergency Contact Telephone Nos: ……………………
Accompanying traveller: …………………………………………………
Method of Paying by: ……………………………………………
You can email details to the DCS at: info@didsburycivicsociety.org
Total: £

Required pick up point: …………………………………………………………………………….

Present: Mike Corlett, Chair, Cllr Leslie Bell, Cllr John Leech, Carol Wilkinson, Ellie Sams, Gordon Browne, Mark Clayton

Apologies for Absence: Mary Christie, Cllr Andrew Simcock, Cllr Debbie Hilal, Cllr Richard Fitzpatrick, Janine Cottingham, Tony Parkinson.

Acceptance of the Minutes from the 12^th May 2025: Proposed: Carol Wilkinson.   Seconded: Gordon Browne

Update on the Lord and Lady Mayoress’ Visit to Garden of Contemplation 17^th May 2025

As part of the celebration of the library`s 110^th anniversary we received a visit to the newly created Garden of Contemplation, which went very well with the garden looking good after watering and weeding especially for the day.

Update on Bunnies Outpost

The DCS understands that several objections have been submitted regarding the licensed hours of operation, especially during the weekends closing schedule where an error in the original closing hours was picked up. The concerns raised are now being resolved by the local councillors. There have also been instructions issued by MCC that the current caged frontage arrangements must also be removed.

Bar 186

Work has also restarted next door to Bunnies Outpost with a new landlord taking over as Kennedy`s, which should be good news after the gradual decline at the site. Currently all of the glass and steel frontage has been removed and we look forward to its new appearance.

Garden of Contemplation for Christmas period

As part of the ongoing discussion, it was felt that Didsbury should have a main street public Christmas tree. Within the discussion there were several thoughts and concepts aired:

Are there alternative sites and ideas?

• The Jubilee Gardens which is a Southway site with a planted tree dressed with solar lights.
• A living tree in the Library Garden close to where the now removed BT telephone box was sited again with solar lights.
• A potted living tree on the library Concourse with solar lights.
• A planted living tree on the library Concourse with perhaps some paving stones removed suitably edged under the footprint and solar lights.
• At the side of Costa Coffee after some remedial work undertaken to the uneven paving stones with either a living or potted tree and solar lights.

Is it time for a rethink going forward?

• Those present thought a rethink and change was acceptable.
• Using a symbolic tree such as a metal “wish tree”, for written gestures like “thinking of you at this time” and other personal written wishes. Though the idea of a rusty one would not be a first choice of several who were present.
• As previously advised, the DCS would not be in favour of an Amey fait-accompli tree, overshadowing its site footprint area similar to 2024, which is not compatible or in-keeping with any green credentials or environmental considerations. Importantly the cost of each tree is significant and has to be budgeted for and NIF Funding allocated.
• Could we light up the trees in the left side hand garden at the library between Wilmslow and Barlow Moor Road with solar lights?
• The question was raised regarding whether we could be part of the annual NIF grant process with a once off tranche to set up and purchase the required tree, a suitable pot, and new solar lights etc from the budget allocation to the Didsbury Traders Association. 

Update on the Cadent Hut

Cadent are seeking suitable publicity from the artwork and hope to have an article in the Manchester Evening News. Cadent are requesting internal permission to have an employee Community Day clearing the top corner of the area of weeds, non-biodiverse bushes and debris.

Gordon Browne asked whether an additional DCS logo could be stencilled to the rear of the hut. The artist thinks that this will not be possible as the first anti-graffiti coating has already been applied and a second top up is due to take place and would all require sanding back, repainting and re-protecting.  If this is the case an alternative solution may be required.

The Old Parsonage Garden Party

Volunteers are required for the day to support DCS fund raising on the day eg a tombola, raffle or a pin the tail on the donkey. As was recently done by DGN at the Didsbury Festival.

Finance and Membership

The DCS has a balance of £17273.94 at the HSBC.

NB: The artist has been paid for her work on the Cadent hut of £3780.00, a re-usable DCS logo stencil was purchased at £42.75 and photographic art work printed for the Community Day £84.00.

Any other Business

The Didsbury Dozen

Plastic pots from the regular Didsbury Dozen can be seen and problematical from the Thursday, Friday and Saturday night sessions. Perhaps some responsibility can be taken by landlords to ensure they are tidied up, or a point-of-sale charge similar to plastic shopping bags. Though, importantly Biffa are doing a good job in clearing up each morning.

Certain pubs also need to remind their clientele that pedestrians need to be able to have a clear path at certain pubs which are adjacent to the road side and pedestrians should not have to use the road to pass bye. One even displays a public notice that their table and chairs should not be used as a public picnic facility. So, a clear path is not too much to ask.

Parrs Wood Veranda/Parade

Concerns were raised again about the state of the cast iron framing and damaged glass. The DCS appreciate that this is the landlord`s responsibility and needs to be resolved. Could the Ward team arrange for MCC Enforcement to contact the landlords and remind them of their responsibility in maintaining the structures integrity as it is used by the public.

Garden of Contemplation, Cenotaph Garden

Carol Wilkinson suggested that we look to purchase WW1 Soldier Silhouette for installing in the garden, which we will investigate for availability and pricing.

Yours sincerely

Mike Corlett

Your too late for this trip but keep checking our website for future ones

The Didsbury Civic Society May Coach Trip starts with a Morning Visit to Chorley Market. This is an open-air Street Market based in several traffic free streets and joining up with the Indoor Market. There are cafes around with one in the indoor market and there are also other competitively priced ones at The Sir Henry Tate. For lunch we are going to the Bowling Green Inn at Charnock Richard for a carvery lunch, including coffee within the price. In the Afternoon we visit Astley Hall where we will split into groups for guided tours.

Adjacent to the site is the Coach House with the Ambio Cafe and Barrica Wines. You can visit the art gallery, explore the wider park and walled garden.

Astley Hall was started in 1570, in the Elizabethan and Jacobean in style and is a Grade 1 listed building. The site was acquired in the 15th century by the Charnock Family. The original house was a timber framed house built around a small court yard. In 1665 Margaret Charnock married the son of Sir Peter Brook and they built the present grand but asymmetrical Country House with impressive tall stone mullioned bay windows.

Schedule for the Day:
08-30am Pick up at Didsbury Library.
08-45am Pick up at East Didsbury United Methodist Church.
09-45am Arrive Chorley.
11-30am Leave for carvery lunch.
11-45am The Bowling Green Inn for carvery lunch including coffee.
13-30pm Leave Carvery for Astley Hall.
13-45pm Arrive Astley Hall.
16-15pm Leave for home.

The cost of the trip was £42 including Coach travel, lunch with coffee, admission to Astley

Attendees: Mike Corlett, Cllr A Simcock, Cllr R Kilpatrick, M Clayton, C Wilkinson, G Bridson, G Browne, M Browne, Cllr L Bell, Cllr D Hilal, Cllr J Leech.

Acceptance of the Minutes 9^th December 2024: Proposed: Carol Wilkinson       Seconded: Ellie Sams

Matters Arising from 9^th December 2024

Cadent facility in the park outside Parrs Wood entertainment / Tesco

DCS has currently made good progress regarding the cabin in the Parrs Wood Park. The green hut has been cleaned of graffiti and a meeting was due to take place on the 17/1/25 to discuss the application of a mural/artwork representing nature and bio diversity. The DCS has suggested a local artist to Cadent to carry out the work.

Wishing Well Pub

Good news was advised that the outside furniture has been removed, though it is not known if it is being stored inside. The empty beer kegs still remain in place and should be removed as a matter of safety with the Metro line passing below. Warburton Street a historical street of Didsbury still suffers from fast food debris etc and cigarette butts.

Didsbury East matters

Cllr Simcock gave an update on some Didsbury East matters from the Minutes 9^th December 2024:

• The Dog and Partridge pub should be approached about cigarette waste at the entrance to Warburton Street.
• The Parrs Wood Victorian Veranda has recently been safety checked in the latter part of 2024. Though it was advised by Ellie Sams that at least one broken panel was still in situ overhead. Cllr Simcock advised that a concerned constituent had also raised their concerns about this matter.
• It was advised that the proposed Parrs Wood H S playing field work, to erect the security fencing has been damaged during the recent flooding, with its future and completion being currently unclear.  
• Didsbury Community Wood: it was advised that actions have taken place to stop access to Philip Godlee Lodge with fencing, along with regular volunteer litter pics and woodland care taking place. It was advised and agreed that invites to future meetings regarding the wood will include Didsbury West councillors and residents who wish to attend.

With regard to the Parrs Wood H S fencing, it is unclear who were the decision makers actually responsible for the approval of this Planning Application. as a very similar application had previously been rejected due to the problem of flood debris accumulation potential at the Didsbury Sports Club?

Agenda

Flooding in Didsbury

It was advised that there had been 3 breeches in the banks, and damage at Northenden Weir, with water levels recorded at their highest level. Repair work will start using a helicopter flying in reinforcing materials, with rebuilding work starting on 20/1/2025. It has also taken considerable efforts by MCC and the community to provide satisfactory temporary re-housing for displaced residents. Though for residents in Brookside, Palatine Road this work continues. It was also discussed that we should put up a strong resistance to any future planning applications to build on or close to the flood plan area.

Ellie Sams raised a question regarding the updating and information which was being given to community groups through different means, mediums and times. Cllr Leech agreed to raise the issue with MCC through Neil Fairlamb Strategic Director of Neighbourhoods, and has now been done. Suggestions were made that all updates should come centrally and via the Council Website and communications mediums.

DCS Community Day

The day is proposed for the 29^th March 2025 and will take place in Emmanuel Hall which has been booked to celebrate both the new garden and the community generally.

Parrs Wood Pocket Park

Several meetings have now taken place for the DCS to lead in the overhaul of the park area, which will include some remodelling, replanting and maintenance generally. There is also a budget to cover the cost of works and planting. We understand that there is a plan to be issued which is with Mandy Salmon Didsbury East and West Neighbourhoods Manager, with a completion date of March 2026. Both the Community and local schools have been approached to allow the creation of a biodiversity corridor, which will provide a good outlook for Parrs Wood Court and the new Dandara (Blackbird Yard) residents. It was also understood that there are no plans to change the configuration of the area in the near future. A positive meeting has now taken place with Cadent regarding the adding of “nature artworks” to their pumping station cabin on Friday 17^th January 2025. Also 7 trees have been newly planted already in the park.

Spann`s Artwork Update (Costa Coffee)

The newly cast plaque/storyboard was on show and ready for installation and well received. We have advised the landlords of the status, along with the news of a problematical crack appearing in the rendering, which is also in the proposed installation area. Photographs of this problem have been sent to the landlords and their response is awaited.

Social Media for DCS

The DCS currently use X (Twitter) and Instagram along with our website. We are currently working on a new Facebook page as the old site set up in 2016 cannot be accessed. Discussion also took place regarding using the new site called Bluesky to replace X. Which we will pursue as time allows.

Finance and Membership

Our bank balance stands at £16496.43 which includes balances for both G o C and DCS funds

A reminder was made regarding membership renewal being due on the 1^st January 2025, which is being managed by Liz Thornhill. Both membership renewal and donations will be gratefully accepted.

Any other Business

The DCS requested that MCC Enforcement now takes stronger action regarding the bins still left on William Street, despite notification to the household occupants for removal back to their property. Can they arrange for the removal of the offending and contaminated bins including the recent addition of 3^rd party industrial red ones.  There is now a new problem in this area with La Chouquette`s delivery vehicles regularly over-hanging the pavement, which also now has poor drainage and puddling of the pavement area since the opening of their new premises, forcing pedestrians to walk in the roadway.

The next meeting will take place on Monday 10^th February 2025.

Yours sincerely

Mike Corlett

Welcome:

Present: Mike Corlett (Chair), Mary Christie, Carol Wilkinson, Ellie Sams, Cllr John Leech, Mark Clayton, Geoff Bridson.

Apologies for Absence: Gordon Browne, Cllr Debbie Hilal, Cllr Richard Kilpatrick.

Acceptance of the Minutes for the 9^th September 2024 Proposed: Carol Wilkinson                     Acceptance: Mary Christie

Matters arising from the minutes:

(1) Still no clearance/bin removal on the William Street.

This recurring problem still sees 26 bins lined up on the public pavement opposite the Fletcher Moss pub. It is noted that each now has an MCC notification that they will be removed if they remain in place. We would also remind, that it was understood that a direct letter would be put through the letter box of each resident. Councillor Leech agreed to take up this problem with the Ward Management team.

(2) Still no action on the Cadent gas pump building graffiti (online clean-up requests have been submitted by the DCS)

The DCS have chased up the absence of a response and would request action by MCC Enforcement. We would also remind that this building is in a public park which is the responsibility of MCC Parks South. Currently some of these outsourced groups appear to operate outside of MCC including Cadent. Northern Rail also advise that problems like graffiti removal is not in their contract. How do the residents obtain some action to keep their areas clean?

Business Agenda

(1) Garden of Contemplation electric connection and garden status

Amey and MCC are working to deliver a solution this week (w/c 21/10/24). Amey indicated they will return to site Wed 23^rd October. The service required deadline still remains for the 14^th November switch on.

Ellie Sams re-raised the question whether the wall has now been declared safe. Cllr Leech agreed to raise this question again within MCC Building Control and report back.

(2) The Barlow Moor/Wilmslow Road crossing area:

There now appears to be a new area for begging at the traffic lights. It was understood that one of the persons involved had been served with an ASBO or similar for the A34 or does it cover a wider area? Mike Corlett to raise this situation with the local PCSO Craig Boswell.

 (3) BT telecoms library box removal

Although scruffy and tired the one in a Library Heritage Area has been removed, as well as the one outside Holland and Barrett. The attendees generally had no concerns, as they were very untidy and unkempt. Other facilities probably /remain under the Universal Obligation. Discussion took place to whether this particular box could have been used for a Defibrillator location. Currently there is one available within the Emmanuel Parish Office area 365/24/7, but perhaps requires more publicity and signage. There is also a Stab/Bleed Box fixed to the outside office wall. Perhaps a visible location map could also be considered with time being important to locate, contact and receive the code number to open, especially if being reported by visitors.

(4) Library Heritage Blue Plaque:

Currently it is very overgrown by a Mahonia bush and unseen? Are MCC Ground works responsible for the regular maintenance? The DCS would be happy to cut back the offending bush if MCC will collect the green waste for disposal? It was also agreed to raise a CRM for this issue.

 (5) Ex Wishing Well furniture and kegs

A large number of empty kegs are still on the car park area. A letter requesting their removal has been sent to the Agents requesting removal for safety as they are close to the Metro tracks. If there is no progress, can MCC request their removal? There are also a number of tables and benches left in the car park area. Can these not be made available to Didsbury community group`s such as the Library Garden and Concourse area, the Mosque, Fletcher Moss tennis court area? There is also builder`s rubble and a skip from the stripping out of Harriet and Dee shop on Warburton Street. Which has since been cleared.

Below – Wishing Well kegs and furniture

Above – Warburton Street Builders Skips

DCS Finances at the bank

HSBC £16081 including G o C grants remaining and other projects.

Any other business

1. The Spann`s wall plaque is currently in production for installation at Costa Coffee. Currently this is about 6 weeks to the finished article.
2. It was advised that we now need to prepare the artwork for a DCS plaque for the Garden of Contemplation.

Reminders

a. Remembrance Sunday 10th November 2024

b. Christmas Light Switch on 14th November 2024

c. The Gawsworth Stores Community Carol Service and collection at East Didsbury Methodist Church (to be confirmed)     

d. Old Parsonage Christmas Fair Sunday 24^th November 2024

e. Dragons Den Didsbury Baptist Church 7^th November 2024

Next Meeting dates:

It was agreed that there will be no meeting on the 11^th November 2024. There will be a short meeting on the 9^th December 2024 followed by mince pies etc

2025 diary dates

DCS Meetings are held every Second Monday of each month:                               

13 Jan, 10 Feb, 10 Mar, 14 Apr, 12 May, 9 Jun, 14 Jul,11 Aug 8. Sep, 13 Oct, 10 Nov, 8 Dec.

Mike Corlett                      

Attendees: Mike Corlett, Mary Christie, Carol Wilkinson, Jean Johnson, Geoff Bridson, Debbie Hilal, Jean Dawson, Dorothy Threlfall.

Apologies for Absence: Anne Peart, Mark Clayton, Gordon Browne, Ellie Sams and Richard Kilpatrick

Approval of the Minutes from the last meeting 10^th June 2024:

Proposed by: Carol Wilkinson                          Seconded: Mary Christie

Matters Arising:

William Street Refuse bins

Concerns raised again regarding the number of bins left out on the street, many of which are contaminated. As previously mentioned MCC letters on this problem were to be sent to the residents. Has this taken place? Cllr Debbie Hilal agreed to pursue this matter with the Didsbury East Councillors along with the possibility of Biffa removing the bins otherwise this problem will continue. The meeting was advised that Orchard Road also has a similar problem.

Cadent Building

Good news. The building has recently been cleared of the eyesore graffiti which has recently plagued this building. Hopefully this will continue going forward. A big thank you to our DCS member who has pursued this matter directly with Cadent.

Remembering David Woods

Addendum:

David’s Funeral service will take place at St Catherine’s Church at 10am on Tuesday, the 20^th August 2024. David was a great supporter of the DCS and the Garden of Contemplation and was also ever present with Brenda on our social trips. He was a gentleman, a great ambassador and mentor with a great sense of humour and will always be fondly remembered.  

Public Health Meeting 8^th July 2024

Jean Johnson thanked those involved for the organising of the meeting and the speakers Dr Murugesan Raja and Liz Godfrey (Mums for Lungs).

A further discussion then took place regarding vehicle engine and general pollution on Wilmslow Road. Are there any MCC figures and any reduction plans available for community viewing? It was suggested that a higher level of NIF Grant should be made available to allow the purchase of equipment to enable the capture of samples, their measurement, investigative works and sampling etc by a co-ordinated community group of interested parties. Including Mums for Lungs who have this as a specialism.

Telecommunications Poles

Whilst it is accepted that most telecommunications companies have carte blanche to erect these poles under a 1980`s rule brought in to facilitate the expansion of UK telecommunications at the time, surely it is time for MCC to exercise some change. The delivery could be made more cleanly and professionally and in keeping with the 21^st century rather than in such an antiquated way with some using wooden poles covered in preservative and with overhead wires attached. Surely MCC have the right and the strength to object that our residents deserve better and after all MCC own and are responsible for our streets and their looks etc. It is also noted that some poles have been installed and not actually wired into the network. Should these not be removed and the pavement etc made good?

Garden of Contemplation Update

Power should be delivered to the garden in the first weeks of September 2024. A number of benches have also been installed with a disability bench on order, again for September installation. We also await Landlords approval to wire the back wall for the planting of Clematis for added colour and biodiversity. The DCS would ideally like alcohol restrictions placed on the area in keeping with its Reverence. The DCS have been advised that it would be expensive to introduce. Although it`s only a small area which only covers an area of 66 square metres, who is making the charge against the community and why? Dogs should only be permitted on short leads to protect the plantings and control their otherwise free movement.

NIF Grant Application for September 2024 Social Trip

The DCS has been advised that our application has been turned down by Didsbury East.

Projects for 2024-25

A possible project would be the capture of vehicle pollution along Wilmslow Road from Beaver Road School to School Lane Didsbury measuring current base levels coupled with submissions of potential reduction improvements, and actions, which could take place to reduce the levels currently experienced. The Future Didsbury Plan was drawn up in 2021 to generate some free thinking on this currently topical subject generally.

Other potential projects 1) The Parrs Wood Pocket Park overhaul

                                       2) The Warburton Street Ghost Art   

                                       3)  A Heritage “Old Didsbury Map” of Plaques and Houses

Please advise any other ideas which members may have.

Any other Business

Concerns have been raised at the recent repair to the private road outside of Lansdowne House and its parade of shops used regularly by the public. Whilst it is accepted that this is a private road there is no excuse for such a poor repair with loose fill used. The problem requires inspection by MCC Enforcement and a proper repair carried out. The road should be being maintained properly and fit for purpose especially as pedestrians and road vehicles use it on a daily basis. It is also noted that a pay for parking machine has also been installed close to the Anchor fish and chip shop, when previously it was a free of charge parking area. Surely a formal notification should have been posted displaying a warning of the introduction of charges to vehicle drivers parking there?

It was also advised that the Parrs Wood wall mounted artwork on the Tesco side of Wilmslow Road is again peeling off and will require remedial work to protect them after being made good, perhaps with a Perspex cover or a suitable sealant applied to the pictures to seal and stabilise them?   

Finance Report:

HSBC £19,230.15

A large proportion of which still forms part of the fund holding for the work in progress within the G o C project.

Yours sincerely

Mike Corlett     

The detail will be included on both the English Heritage and DCS websites including information about the dates of activities, and the buildings that will be open to the public. Finalised details will be available closer to the event.

For more details visit the national Heritage Open Days website Search events

The programme will open on Friday 12^th September at 6:30pm in the School Hall at Didsbury C of E Primary School, Elm Grove, Didsbury, M20 6RL.

Diana Leitch, Didsbury Parish Historian will give a talk entitled:

“Some Didsbury Buildings – those that disappeared during the 19^th/20^th centuries and those that survived to the present day”

A donation of £5 per person is suggested to attend the talk and the money will go the British Red Cross who worked tirelessly to support families in the flooding by the River Mersey on New Years Day 2025.

Buildings Open:

St James` Church – Sunday 14^th September plus bell ringing – 12pm-4pm

The Old Parsonage – Saturday 13^th, Sunday 14^th, Saturday 20^th and Sunday 21^st – 10am to 5pm each day

The Towers – Sunday 14^th September – 1pm – 5pm

Didsbury C of E Primary School – Saturday 13^th September -10am -4pm

Warburton Street – Saturday 13^th and Saturday 20^th – Shops Open

Didsbury Library – Saturday 13^th and Saturday 20^th – 09:00 -17:00 each day

Nazarene College -Saturday 13^th – 10:30am – 1pm

Manchester Islamic Centre – Sunday 14^th and Sunday 21^st – 12pm – 4pm

The Albert Bowling Club and Tennis Club -Sunday 21^st September – tours at 10:30am and 11:30am

Christ Church, West Didsbury – Saturday 13^th September and Sunday 14^th– 10am – 4pm

St Nicholas Church – Saturday 20^th September – 11am – 16pm

Website

The museum is a large open-air site with over 80 operational buildings, including shops, houses, a public house, a cinema, a church, a Workers Institute (club), a bus and tram garage, blacksmiths forge, various other workshops and even a coalmine, all of which is contained on one site with free buses to get everyone around the site and much more. At the museum we experienced the sights and sounds, it`s smells and the tastes of the Black Country. We also met costumed characters and actors around the site. Please make sure you speak to the characters around the town and inside the shops. Travellers brought a picnic or purchased local delicacies of hot faggots and peas from the butcher, a fish and chip shop, two pubs, cafes and the Women’s Workers Institute.     

To cap it off there was old-fashioned fairground to have a few rides to round off the day.

The cost inclusive of the coach travel, museum entrance and gratuities was £45.00 for this social trip.

The itinerary for the day was:

8:30   Leave Didsbury Library

8:40   Leave East Methodist Church

10:00 Arrive Dobbie`s Garden Centre, Penkridge

11:00 Leave Dobbie`s Garden Centre

11:40 Arrive Black Country Museum

16:00Leave for Didsbury

Included in this issue are pen portraits of the elected trustees who will be more than happy to work with all members and giving help and advice where possible.

We also intend to continue running our successful and popular social trips to places of historical interest, the arts and nature. Along with the Garden of Contemplation our biggest community project undertaken to date. The trustees look forward to working and meeting with you all during 2024.

Mike Collett (Chair)

Gordon Brown (Trustee)

Councillor Richard Kirkpatrick (Trustee)

Elaine Sams (Trustee)

Carol Wilkinson (Trustee)

Jubilee Gardens — 6th October Tidy up

Jubilee gardens having its winter tidy up many thanks to Luke from Southway Homes for his support and help Volunteers help every few months to tidy up the gardens, done some pruning and planting

Spring bulb planting – December

This was a bulb planting morning in December and we have another one planned to get the bulbs ready for the GOC spring planting. This links to the successful NiF grant awarded to DCS through the efforts of Pauline Ong.

The Poppy Path and the Cenotaph

The new temporary location for the war memorial wreaths and crosses. As the site clearance at the cenotaph is close to starting

Garden of Contemplation – Didsbury War Memorial

The new Garden of Contemplation – Didsbury War memorial (pictured below), will be created over about 2 years to produce a new space for all to enjoy.

Phase 1, commences on 29^th January 2024. This Phase involves clearing the site, laying the base and paving the area. At present over 500 bulbs have been planted in pots and ready for Spring planting. At the same time we are researching the suitable seating ready for installing when funding is raised through grant applications and public donations.

Phase 2 will be installing the seating, custom made water feature and further plants, installation of electricity. We still have some way to go. Watch the area take shape over the next few months.

Thank you to all those below who have made this part of the work happen.

Garden of contemplation updates. .         

Our community project is starting to come together. 

The project to improve Didsbury’s cenotaph area has started.  The end of January the ground was cleared with the help of Manchester City Council (MCC) and @EQUANS_UK who are providing volunteers, equipment and materials.  You can view the garden plans in on our website: The full design by Peter Clare | Didsbury Civic Society

First pictures in January 2024. With thanks to MCC and Equan’s and Roche for their efforts on site.

Members from Equan’s staff worked hard, along with the project manager pitting up the temporary fencing signage. Then setting to clear and level the ground.

Concourse users are being advised about the site and the improvements taking place.

   However, the back wall looks significantly unstable with a large “fisher” running down it at the corner.

For more photos of the work so far go to the temporary photo page on Peter Clare’s website https://www.peterclaregardendesign.co.uk/contemplation-garden-build-shots

February’s puzzle …………..

As at Friday 16th the paving slabs had been laid: with the cutting finished by Friday 23^rd February within Phase 1 including the initial site clearance and levelling by Equan`s. Again, a big thank you to them for their planning, hard work and support in the community. We have now secured further grants from Manchester Airport Community Funding towards the new seating along with the Worshipful Company of Gardner`s for additional perennial bulbs and plants.

As previously mentioned, the back wall which forms part of the Domino`s Pizza building (preparation area) and is part of the Didsbury Heritage area is still causing concern, regarding its stability before and since the work has started.

It is understood that the responsibility forms part of Lessee`s agreement for maintenance and repair. It is important that Dominos management should be written to, reminding them of their responsibilities as the lease holders and their duty of care to the public. The roof also has a large amount of invasive Ivy growth, which could be further stressing the roof with additional weight.

March … Saturday morning first dig of the beds

We will keep you updated on progress.

Some local information on business in the East Didsbury – Gawsworth Ave area known as the Didsbury Hub

Railton-Meeks are a local Lettings & Property Management company, specialising in all aspects or the rental market. From preparing your property ready for letting, right through to finding the right tenants for your investment. We have over 20 years of experience, and we have excellent reviews.

Call Tara on 01614482154 to discuss your specific requirements www.railtonmeeks.co.uk

DCS Social Trip to Attingham Park Shrewsbury – Wednesday 27th September 2023

Our trip to Attingham Park started with the Coach and Passengers both being in place on time and ready to go at 8:30am, with our second pick up at 8:45am also to time. The weather looking good for our ever-popular social event, with the final head count of 35 travellers and off we went.

Surprisingly, even with the speed limit restrictions on the M6 motorway, our driver Howard delivered us to our first stop to water the horses and coffee at a new Designer Outlet of McArthur Glen West Midlands. A part of the Cheshire Oaks group and newly opened it was very smart, Italianate in design and decorated in a piazza style, with all of the top names present. Our money spent and lunch time approaching, all aboard for the Spread Eagle near Penkridge on the A5.

Being the first customers of the day, it was quiet and we were on time for the first cuts of the day in the carvery, and with all preferences catered for by great staff.

The buntings up for the Attingham Grand Tour 2023

Back onto the coach for Attingham Park. Unfortunately, the weather was taking a turn for the worse with grey clouds appearing, rain predicted and high winds. Even a yellow warning! Gordon was now in close contact with NT at Attingham for their visitor update.

The house built in 1785 is a Neo-Classical Georgian Mansion of very generous proportions. It is typical of the period in that many buildings of this era were updated by encapsulation (rendering) to update it into a modern and luxurious house of the period. Such changes were made to demonstrate the wealth of the owners.

The welcome committee in waiting for Didsbury Civic Society.

The records in the house basement and kitchen areas show that the staff were well paid for their services. The house with its long carriageway and gardens were designed by Landscape Architect Humphry Repton with a picture gallery by John Nash.

On a good day there are nice walks in the deer park, with a walled garden, open fields, and walks of one to four miles. Unfortunately, not on this day!

Thank you, Gordon, for organising this trip.

Dates for your diary of upcoming events

DCS Social Trip to Lytham Hall, Wednesday 8th May 2024

The originally planned venue for the trip has been has been changed. The new venue is now Lytham Hall. The new details are as follows:

In the morning, we will drive to Lytham with a stop in the centre for a coffee break and some browsing and shopping.

Lunch will be a carvery at the Water`s Edge Hotel around 11:45.

In the afternoon we will visit Lytham Hall which was built in 1764. A fine Georgian Mansion of Palladian Architecture and Grade1 listed. It was designed by John Carr, a famous architect of the period. John Carr was probably best known for the Buxton Crescent and Harewood House, West Yorkshire.

At Lytham Hall our group will be directed to a private room where tea/coffee and biscuits will be served. Whilst we enjoy our refreshments a guide will enlighten us with a short history of the ownership by the Clifton Family.

Schedule for the day:

08:30am   Pick up at Didsbury Library

08:40am   Pick up at East Didsbury Methodist Church

10:15am   Arrive Lytham Town centre

11:45am   Leave for carvery lunch

13:30pm   Leave for Lytham Hall

13:45pm   Lytham Hall

16:15pm   Leave for Didsbury

The cost including coach, lunch, entrance, guided tour of the house and gratuities is £43.00 per person. Non-members are also welcome.

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I would like to join the trip: ……………………………………………….

Accompanied by: ………………………………………………………….

Email Contact: ……………………………      Telephone Contact:  ……………………….

Emergency telephone contact name: …………………………………

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Payment preferred by bank transfer to Sort Code: 40-31-20 Account:11514644

Or cheque payable to Didsbury Civic Society at The Old Parsonage Office

Didsbury Spann`s Ghost Advertisement

Who were the Spann Family who advertised their business on the gable end of the building which is now Costa Coffee in Didsbury?

The advert is now a ghost sign but originally read “TEL. 234 DIDSBURY, SPANNS, BLINDS, REMOVING, CARPET, LINOLEUM & BEDDING WAREHOUSE”.

A further exciting announcement will follow soon to commemorate this family and their life in Didsbury society,

More information is on our website Didsbury Spann`s Ghost Advertisement | Didsbury Civic Society