The Staffordshire Signal

15/08/2025

Looking for something to do on Sunday? Head on over to the 3rd Potteries Chartists Festival in Burslem.

Sunday 17th August
11.00am - 4.00pm
Burslem Markey Place

Family friendly event.
Stalls, Free activities and entertainment including New Vic Borderlines A Pie A Poem and a Pint and a new theatre piece written by Lisa Blower Blessing in Burslem featuring Lorna Laidlaw
Award-winning musician, activist, writer, poet, Joe Solo
Stoke on Trent Poet Laureate Nick Degg
Stoke on Trent Ukulele Band and Morris Dancing on the Market Place.
A walking tour of the pubs of Burslem with Mervin Edward
Free Art and Games for Children and a Song writing workshop with Joe Solo, so bring your instruments and join in.
Come and celebrate local working class history and heritage

Full event details:
https://thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk/event/3rd-potteries-chartist-festival.html

Add your event to Staffordshire’s new community platform:
www.thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk

13/08/2025

You are invited to the Private View of the upcoming exhibition, ‘Alumni Showcase: Class of 2019 -2021’

Clay College are delighted to be showing the work of 8 professional ceramic artists who completed their diploma course with Clay College here in Stoke in 2021.

Featured Artists:
Birgit Pohl, Charlotte Kluge, Frances Savage, Han Nguyen, Jessica Mason, Sharon Lea, Shaun McGurdy.

Despite the challenges and disruption that the cohort faced due to the Covid pandemic, they have all gone on to great success, winning several prestigious accolades between them.

The class of 2019 – 2021 have continued to refine the many skills they were taught at Clay College, and now return to share their work with our current students and visitors here in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent.

The exhibition showcases a capsule collection of signature pieces from each of the alumni including work in porcelain, stoneware, red earthenware and low-fired slipware.

From expressive painterly decoration to more traditional functional ware, the exhibition looks to showcase the characteristic styles that the graduates have been developing since leaving Clay College and beginning their journey to becoming master potters of the future.

You are invited to the opening evening, 15th August 5pm-8pm.

If you cannot attend this special evening, the exhibition will be available to view for 1 month (16th August 2025 - 14th September 2025)
Tuesday - Friday 10am-3pm
Saturday & Sunday 11am-3:30pm

Event Details: https://thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk/event/alumni-showcase-class-of-2019--2021.html
Add your event to Staffordshire’s new community platform:
www.thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk

11/08/2025

Have you done the "Where's Wallaby?" sculpure trail yet? We completed it this weekend 😁

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Peak Wildlife Park, a mob of colourful, quirky wallaby sculptures has hopped into towns, villages and beauty spots across the Staffordshire Moorlands.

🎉Painted and illustrated by local artists
🎉Co-designed with community groups
🎉Free outdoor adventure
🎉Fun for all ages

We originally planned to complete this in 1 day, however, we got slightly distracted by pubs, ice-cream and steam trains, to name just a few 🙈 So it took us 1 & 1/2 days.

We took the dogs with us and set off with a picnic. First getting the more local ones (blythe & Cheadle) then made our way out towards the peak district.

Why not try it next time you're stuck for something to do?
See the Staffordshire Moorlands from roads and routes you've probably never taken before. Or maybe even find beautiful villages, right on your doorstep, which you never even knew existed.

Also, dont forget when you've collected the names of all 10 Wallabies, you get 10% off entry into Peak Wildlife park!

All sculptures are outdoors with car parking available nearby, none have steps to access, they are all on open ground, additionally none are behind a pay barrier, and accessible to view at all hours (other than the Peak Wildlife Park sculpture which is available to view from 10am-6pm).

For more information on the "Where's Wallaby?" Sculpture Trail, please visit:
https://thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk/event/wheres-wallaby.html

Add your event to Staffordshire's new community platform:
www.thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk

11/08/2025

Cheadle Historical Society - Caroline Spiers, WWII Air Transport Auxiliary Talk

Caroline will tell the story of her mother, Rita Baines. She joined the ATA (Air Transport Auxiliary), in WWII delivering planes from factories to airfields.

The ATA was established in 1939, it played a vital role in the war effort, and civilian pilots freed up R.A.F. pilots for combat.
These pilots were expected to fly any plane with no training. There were no radios or sat-nav aids, a job for a special type of person.
In addition to this, she led a very interesting life.
Caroline is an accomplished speaker and a very interesting evening is guaranteed.

We are a friendly, busy Historical Society, probably the oldest in Staffordshire, being founded in 1951. We have eleven meetings each year, combining speakers as well as visiting locations in the summer months. Everyone is welcome to join at any meeting.

Price: £3
Location: Wellspring Methodist Church, 43 Chapel St, Cheadle, ST10 1DU.
Start Time: 7:30pm prompt

Event details:
https://thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk/event/cheadle-historical-society--caroline-spiers-wwii-air-traffic-auxiliary-talk.html
Add your event to Staffordshire’s new community platform:
www.thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk

11/08/2025

Why Government Bailouts Won't Save Local Journalism (But Community-Led Media Might)

Last month, we learned that despite "warm words" from ministers, no action has emerged to support local journalism. 293 local newspapers have closed since 2005, leaving 4.1 million UK residents in "local news deserts."

The response? Calls for tax breaks, government funding, BBC partnerships with commercial outlets and a rise of subscription model local news.

But here's the uncomfortable question nobody's asking:
Should we be charging people for trusted news and journalism in the first place? Isn't access to reliable local information something that should be free and inclusive for everyone?

And here's the even more uncomfortable follow-up:
Why should taxpayers bail out profit-driven media companies that failed to adapt to changing times?

We're essentially asking the public to subsidise business models that not only failed, but still prioritise shareholder returns over community service.

The current model clearly isn't working.

Corporate-owned local papers close because they can't extract enough profit.

Government bailouts create dependency whilst maintaining the same flawed economics.

Subscription paywalls create what researchers call a "two-tier media environment" where only those who can afford to pay get reliable local news.

But what if there's a third way?

Community-led media platforms that are:
- Not profit-driven (so no pressure for impossible returns)
- Not government-dependent (so genuinely independent)
- Free to access (so truly inclusive)
- Locally accountable (because editors live in the communities they serve)

I won't pretend this is easy. Building sustainable, non-profit community media requires different thinking about funding, volunteer coordination, and revenue models. But the alternative is accepting that reliable local news becomes a luxury good for those who can afford subscriptions.

My questions to you;
- Should access to local news depend on your ability to pay subscription fees?
- Is government funding really the answer, or does it just prop up failed business models?
- Have you seen other community-led media initiatives? What makes them work?

Community-led, non-profit local media isn't just idealistic dreaming. It's a pragmatic recognition that if journalism is essential for democracy, then access to it shouldn't depend on quarterly profit targets, personal income, or government handouts.

It's actively supporting community-led journalism that maintains editorial standards because it's accountable to real people, not profit margins.

The future of informed communities depends on whether we choose human editorial judgement rooted in local accountability, or algorithmic engagement optimisation designed by people who've never set foot in our towns.

Join the movement - www.thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk

https://www.politicshome.com/news/article/ministers-urged-to-publish-local-journalism-strategy

07/08/2025

Want to know what happens when you arm someone with strong views and a microphone for 60 minutes, with no diplomatic filter, about Staffordshire and local media?

Well, wonder no more! I've been on the Wrecked Podcast by Reputation, having what can only be described as a proper, passionate discussion with Chelsea Spencer about Stoke, Staffordshire, and exactly how I'm building a solution to local media's problems.

I break down my background, how I ended up as The Red Haired Stokie, why I started The Staffordshire Signal CIC, why it is a non-profit, and what's genuinely broken about media coverage in our area (spoiler: when profit becomes the priority, proper journalism, people, and the area suffer).

I also talk about why the constant negativity isn't helping anyone when there are genuinely brilliant things happening that hardly anyone is telling the real stories about. Print media's decline has left massive gaps, and someone needs to fill them properly.

Plus, there's a bit about what the future holds for me and this whole mad project. Less moaning about the state of things, more "here's what I'm actually doing about it." Though there's definitely some passionate ranting about our patch thrown in because, well, someone has to.

If you're interested in seeing what real local journalism looks like when it's built from the ground up, or if you want to support what we're building at The Staffordshire Signal, get in touch.

[email protected]
www.thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk

Listen Now!

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2NU6kAAwBnOXWgfNSd8q5p?si=1TORhG1_Roe4beGgABDXWg

Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reputation-wrecked-jenna-goodwin/id1744056743?i=1000721008275

YouTube - https://youtu.be/0zf1ysxKdc8?si=UzGAsifcSg3AU7UD

04/08/2025

A Huge Thank You to Hannah Ault & Valentine Clays Ltd

I’m thrilled to share that Valentine Clays is now an Official Supporter of The Staffordshire Signal CIC, and even more exciting, the incredible Hannah Ault will be a regular contributor to our newly launched ceramics section.

To the best of my knowledge, a dedicated ceramics feature has never been featured in local media… until now. And who better to lead it than someone whose voice, knowledge, and deep industry experience can shine a light on the real issues and future of ceramics in North Staffordshire?

Yes, the ceramics industry has its challenges. But instead of feeding clickbait and doom-and-gloom narratives, we need answers, solutions, and ideas.

We need to explore how we can effectively help, lobby the government, and unite to strengthen our industry.

To do that, we need to know what’s really going on and stay informed.

That’s where Hannah’s insights will be invaluable: helping educate, inspire, and connect tradition with the exciting changes shaping ceramics’ future.

We need more voices like Hannah’s, voices that speak truth, not just headlines driven by profit and politics. The ceramics industry is not dead. It’s evolving, innovating, and adapting to the times, and The Staffordshire Signal is proud to tell that story.

If you’d like to be part of this journey, whether through paid advertising, contributing content, or supporting in any way, please get in touch: [email protected].

This is a community-led, non-profit magazine, and together we can give ceramics the voice it deserves.

Let’s celebrate our heritage while building its future.

Thank you, Hannah!

Proud of our past, excited for our future
The Staffordshire Signal – www.staffordshiresignal.co.uk
The Red Haired Stokie – www.theredhairedstokie.co.uk

03/08/2025

Rode Hall Farmers Market 2nd August.

We had a lovely morning yesterday at the monthly farmers market. There were so many stalls selling summer produce, crafts, gifts, fresh meat, cakes and drinks.

There's something for everyone, and dont forget you can visit the gardens whilst you're there too!

The Courtyard Kitchen cafe was busy selling homemade cakes, breakfast, and lunch. With plenty of seating in the courtyard too, obviously we had to sample a cake or 2. Highly recommended!

This market is run monthly, so you’ve got plenty of time to plan your September visit.

6th September 9-1:30pm

Add your event to Staffordshire's new community platform:
www.thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk

01/08/2025

Stone Town Council is excited to invite you to their Summer Street Party on Saturday 16th August 2025, a fun-filled afternoon of live music, family entertainment, food, and community spirit!

Stone High Street, ST15 8
16th August 2025
From 12pm

With live performances from:
The Funkbreakers
The Herbaceous Borders
Headline Act: Fleetwood Mad! bringing the sounds of Fleetwood Mac to Stone!

Event details:
https://thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk/event/summer-street-party.html

Add your event to Staffordshire’s new community platform:
www.thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk

31/07/2025

Love classic cars, stunning scenery, and a brilliant day out?
The Classic & Performance Motor Show at Himley Hall is back!

Himley Hall, Nr Dudley DY3 4DF
Sunday 7th September
10.00 am to 4.00 pm

Set in the gorgeous parkland of Himley Hall, this one-day motoring spectacular features hundreds of classic and performance vehicles, vintage gems, American muscle, motorbikes and more. Enjoy live music, food stalls, trade stands and family fun throughout the day.

A must-visit for enthusiasts, families, and anyone who loves a bit of petrol-powered nostalgia!

Event details:
https://thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk/event/himley-hall--classic-performance-motor-show.html
Add your event to Staffordshire’s new community platform:
www.thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk

30/07/2025

A massive thank you to Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce for officially supporting The Staffordshire Signal CIC, and to Chris Plant personally for his guidance, encouragement, and for being such a shoulder to lean on throughout this journey.

It’s hard to put into words how much it means to have trusted, respected, local institutions like the Chambers, Keele University and University of Staffordshire on board. Their belief in The Signal isn’t just a badge of honour, it’s a huge boost of confidence that tells me that we’re on the right track.

Their backing truly means the world, and it strengthens the ability to celebrate the people, creativity, and character that make Staffordshire so special.

I genuinely could not be doing this without the incredible local support I have had so far.

If you’d like to get involved, whether that’s sharing your story, collaborating, or supporting the mission, please don't hesitate to drop me a message or email me at [email protected].

Let’s keep lifting Staffordshire’s stories, voices, and talent to where they deserve to be.

We’re pleased to be recognised as an Official Supporter of The Staffordshire Signal, a new not-for-profit media platform celebrating the real character and creativity of Staffordshire, without the noise or negativity.

Find out more 🔗 tinyurl.com/k9ev2jpp

30/07/2025

Bring your family for a FREE ENTRY Circus Bank Holiday Event at Hales Hall on Sunday 24th August from 1pm!

With an amazing line-up of entertainment, including dj party roo kids entertainment, precious little princess parties characters, the fantastic lj_mystery, circus-themed entertainment, face painting by RLC, and the resident DJ Russ Russel. Enjoy food, bars, and free parking.

Date: 24th August 2025
Time: From 1:00pm
Location: Hales Hall Caravan & Camping Park
Oakamoor Road
Cheadle
Staffordshire
ST10 4QR

A fun-filled family day out, or why not make it a weekend and book a stay at the Caravan and Camping Park.

Event details:
https://thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk/event/circus-bank-holiday-event.html

Find more events or add your own free at
www.thestaffordshiresignal.co.uk

Real local voices
Real visibility
No algorithms or clickbait
Just Staffordshire