"one of the most historic churches is to recieve a grant for £129,000 to help restore it to its former glory.
"English Heritage (North West) is to make the grant to St Mary's Church, in Stockport Market Place, to carry work needed to repair damage to stonework and masonry features.
"Architect Graham Cunningham said the £129,000 would be used for a survey of the external fabric of the church and the essential repairs this would reveal. The survey is likely to be carried out soon, but it is not yet known when work will take place."
"Ring out for keeper of bells
"A volunteer who has worked tirelessly to maintain the bells and tower of St Mary's Church has been presented with a picture of the church.
"Steeplekeeper Clive Calton, the busband of the late Mp Patsy Calton, was presented with the token of appreciation by Stockport's Mayor and consort.
"Rev Roger Scoones rector of St Mary's said Clives voluntary and exemplary work over the last nine years has not gone unrecognised.
"He said: 'He is an unsung hero of some considerable dignity. It's thanks to him that whatever the stateof the building, the bells are still ringing. We are very fortunate to have him at St Mary's'"
"Spot a chance to walk with the wildlife
"Stockport Council's Parks and Recreation team has joined up with the RSPB to offer people the chance to stroll around Bruntwood Park, Cheadle.
"The free walk will take place on Saturday April 1, from 7am to 9am.
"For more information and to book a place in advance contact Bruntwood Park on 428 5391."
"Heritage areas to increase
"Nine new areas of Stockport have been given the conservation area green light by the borough council.
"The new areas are Cheadle Royal, Cheadle Village, Compstall, Heaton Mersey and Marple Bridge, plus Church Lane in Romiley, and Heaton Moor Road and Mauldeth Road, both in Heaton Moor.
"The conservation status, will, according to the local authority, offer greater protection to the buildings and spaces around them. It also makes them subject to special planning controls in order to protect their status."
"Supermarket plan halted
"Tesco's bid to build another large supermarket store in Stockport has finally bitten the dust.
"The retail giant had wanted to construct a 77,000 sq ft on a vacant site at Tannock Rd, Hazel Grove.
"Tesco do not own the site but did have first option to buy it in the event of planning permission being granted.
"It is now hoped another developer, which has sens its plans for industrial units and offices in Tannock Rd previously refused, can modify proposals to an acceptable form."
"Cale Green Primary pupils worked with hammers and chisels when stonemason Michael Disley visited them. Some of the carvings will decorate an area at nearby Florist Street in a project being undertaken with the Groundwork Trust."
"Choral Society"Members of Stockport Symphony Orchestra will perform Bach's Mass in B Minor with Marple Choral Society soloists at St Paul's Church, Compstall at 7.30pm. Tickets 6.50 (concessions £5) on the door." The Times doesn't say what day, but it's 25 March.
