Midcheshire Independent Issue 170

SEPTEMBER 2024 14 Independent FOOD & DRINK A-LEVEL students in Cheshire East have once again achieved impressive results that were above the national average. The borough’s students’ results show that, collectively, they achieved a provisional pass rate of 98.4 per cent, which is above the national average of 97.2 per cent. The further breakdown of grades shows that the proportion of students achieving grades A* to A was 24.7 per cent and well over half (51.4 per cent) achieved an A* to B grade. Carol Bulman, lead mem- ber for children and families at Cheshire East Council, said: “I am delighted to see that our A-level students have continued to achieve incredibly strong levels of performance. “These fantastic results are an absolute credit to our young people and everyone who has worked so hard to support them– not only their dedicated teachers and support staff but also students’ parents and families. It really is a collec- tive effort to support students so that they can achieve such impressive results. “I am really proud of our students’ achievements and I wish them all the very best for the future, whether they are continuing their studies into further or higher education, apprenticeships or taking their first steps into the workplace.” School pupils across Cheshire East also chalked up great successes in their GCSE and vocational quali- fications results. Provisional figures showed that 70.1 per cent of pupils achieved a ‘standard pass’ or better in GCSE English and maths combined (up 3.1 per cent on last year), with 49 per cent achieving the ‘strong pass’ - up 4 per cent on last year. GCSE English results were particularly strong with 78.2 per cent of Cheshire East pupils gaining the standard pass or better, with 63.6 per cent achieving a strong pass. Overall results for pupils who studied vocational techni- cal qualifications (VTQ) will be available in the autumn. THE Northumberland Arms in Marple Bridge has been named as one of the top 17 pubs in the UK as part of the Campaign for Real Ale’s (CAMRA) prestigious national competition. The group has named it as the best pub in Greater Manchester and it will now compete for the UK National Pub of the Year award. Saved from permanent closure in 2017, following a successful campaign by local people to bring it into community ownership, The Northumberland Arm has continued to flourish. A CAMRA spokesperson said: “Now run by a group of enthusiastic local people who have worked hard to restore this cosy, welcoming pub to its former glory, a varied range of well-kept beers is always available. “Becoming the beating heart of its community, the pub, locally referred to as “The Thumb,” is a hub for events and activities, including running, cycling and walking clubs - affectionally known as Thumb Runs, Thumb Wheels and Thumb Legs. The pub organises an annual event to raise money for MIND.” Andrea Briers, CAMRA national coordinator for the pub of the year competition, urged people to support their local. She said: “With constant pres- sure from stubbornly high energy prices, fluctuating running costs and grossly unfair business rates threatening to drown pubs across the UK, it’s vital to get out and sup- port the licensed trade.” STOCKPORT’S Rob- insons Brewery has unveiled the refurbish- ment of The Alexandra, a Grade II listed pub in Edgeley. It says the restoration has “breathed new life” into the pub, ensuring it remains a cherished part of the com- munity while enhancing the overall customer experience. The Alexandra, steeped in history, has undergone a refurbishment of the bar area and toilets, with a focus on preserving and celebrat- ing its Victorian heritage. One of the most remark- able discoveries during the renovation was the uncover- ing of the original black and white Victorian tiled floor in the gents’ toilets. H i d d e n b e n e a t h modern tiles for decades, these authentic tiles have been expertly cleaned and repaired, adding a touch of historical charm. In the bar area, the removal of a low false ceil- ing has revealed the original ceiling and coving, restoring the space to its former gran- deur. The transformation has opened up the area, cre- ating a more inviting and spacious environment. The architectural revival extends to the uncovering of an original glazed screen that once separated the bar from the pub’s original ‘Off License’. This historic fea- ture now serves as a strik- ing backdrop to the new back bar. The former ‘Off License’ space has been thoughtfully repurposed to house a new glass wash area and addi- tional storage, ensuring that the Alexandra can effi- ciently cater to its busy days without compromising on its character. A Robinsons spokesperson said: “We’re excited for the community of Edgeley and beyond to experience the new-look Alexandra. “This refurbishment is a fantastic thing for the local area, and we’re proud to have maintained the Alexandra’s character as a true commu- nity pub whilst keeping its historical charm.” The refurbishment included upgrades to the ladies, gents, and UA toilets. Robinsons, and Pub Partner Steve, look forward to wel- coming you. Chalking up exam results Independent EDUCATION EXTRA Community treasure: The Northumberland Arms Community pub serves up win Raising the bar TO ADVERTISE CONTACT OUR TEAM 01204 478812