Councillor Lesley Dalzell and other members of Crosstown Community Orchard

Re-Fresh Knutsford call for Community Groups and Clubs to exhibit

Knutsford’s Community freshers-style fair, Re-Fresh Knutsford, is set to return in March giving community groups, charities, and clubs the opportunity to showcase their organisation and recruit members.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, Re-Fresh Knutsford emerged in 2021 as a community fair based on the concept of a ‘freshers fair’. The event gave Knutsford residents the opportunity to discover organisations and clubs within the town and to connect to groups working in the community.

Knutsford Town Council are currently recruiting community groups, charities, and clubs to showcase themselves on 14th March. The event will be held across two venues: Knutsford Methodist Church and St Johns Church from 11am – 2pm. It is free to exhibit for all groups.

Corporate Support Manager, Jeanette Hine said ‘Knutsford is lucky to be the home of many interesting clubs and community groups. As an active member of a local sports club, I know how rewarding being a member of a club can be. We understand it can be hard for clubs to get their organisation known and for residents to find exactly what they are looking for. This event is a brilliant opportunity to connect these groups to these residents and showcase what they do’

Any group wishing to exhibit at this event can do so by contacting enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk . The deadline for expressions of interest is 13th February 2026.

From left to right Vicky Goodwin, Knutsford Mayor, Barry Tilby, Joy Jones

Volunteers are celebrating success from this year’s North West in Bloom Awards

Judges visited Knutsford in August to tour the town centre and view the town’s community managed garden spaces.

Knutsford received the Silver Gilt award in the Large Town category of the main North West in Bloom Awards. The second from top award recognises a high standard entry, which meets virtually all of the judging criteria and includes sections of exceptionally high standards. Silver Gilt exemplifies best practice in multiple areas and demonstrates very high potential for continuing development and sustainable effort.  Detailed scoring is awaited to identify how the town can get back to Gold in the 2026 awards.

The North West in Bloom competition judges assess not only horticulture, but also important qualities such as pride of place, sustainability, and community involvement in the town’s floricultural efforts.

From left to right Jackie Edwards, Sikha Dutton, Kevin Griffiths, Paul Jackson, Sue Galloway, Roger Brown, Christine Skinner
Left to Right – Jackie Edwards, Sikha Dutton, Kevin Griffiths, Paul Jackson, Sue Galloway, Roger Brown, Christine Skinner

Four of the town’s community managed garden spaces were awarded the highest accolade of Outstanding in the It’s Your Neighbourhood Awards. The awards recognised the quality of community participation, environmental responsibility and gardening achievement in spaces run by community groups. Crosstown Community Orchard, Mereheath Lane Allotments, Sparrow Lane Allotments and the Railway Station were all recognised with this highest award.

Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Harltey said “This is a remarkable achievement and a true reflection of the hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm shown by the allotment holders and volunteers. The town extends a huge thank you to everyone involved for helping make the area such a beautiful and welcoming place.”

Elves, Santa and Knutsford Mayor, Cllr Bryan Hartley at Knutsford Light Switch On

Knutsford kicks off Christmas with festive lights switch on

Knutsford welcomed the start of the festive season on Saturday 15th November, as the town centre came alive with the annual Christmas Lights Switch On and Santa Parade. Residents and visitors gathered to enjoy an afternoon of festive entertainment, marking the official beginning of Christmas in Knutsford.

From 4pm, the build-up to the switch-on featured a vibrant programme of performances from Knutsford’s local primary schools, SMB Dance, and musician Ben Tavill, who entertained the growing crowds ahead of Santa’s arrival. After the Christmas lights were switched on, local band Instant Vintage took to the stage with a lively set of festive hits.

The Grinch and Elf on the Shelf at Knutsford Light Switch On
The Grinch and Elf on the Shelf at Knutsford Light Switch On
Santa and an Elf starting the parade.
Santa and an Elf starting the parade.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, this year’s lights were switched on by Knutsford Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley who was joined by Father Christmas, The Grinch, Elf on the Shelf and Knutsford Royal May Queen, Jemma Woolf to the delight of children and families. The switch-on followed a Santa Parade, led by the City of Chester Brass Band, with Santa greeting children along the way.

In a change from previous years, the Christmas Lights Switch On was separated from the Knutsford Christmas Market to create a more spacious and enjoyable environment for families.

Local resident Clare, who attended with her family, praised the new format, saying “it was much more pleasant and much safer. Previous years’ crowds have been awful, with young children getting squashed and prams unable to move. We actually got close to the stage to see one of our children dancing, which was a real bonus. I hope they do the same next year.”

Event Manager Laura Phillipson added: “We’re grateful to everyone who joined us to kick off Christmas in Knutsford. The new format helped create a calmer and more enjoyable atmosphere, and we’ll keep building on that as we plan future events. It’s wonderful to see the community embracing the celebrations and supporting our performers, traders and volunteers.”

Festivities will continue later this month as Princess Street, King Street and Silk Mill Street host the popular Knutsford Christmas Markets on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November. The markets will showcase Cheshire’s finest artisan stalls, festive gifts and decorations, and a wide selection of high-quality food traders.

Visitors can look forward to highlights including John Collins Funfair outside the Lost & Found on Princess Street, a dedicated food trader section on Silk Mill Street, an array of artisan gift and food stalls and some festive street entertainment.

The Christmas Lights Switch On was generously sponsored by Piccolino, while this year’s Christmas tree has been sponsored by Speedy Freight.

Knutsford Town Council looks forward to welcoming everyone back for another magical festive weekend as the town continues its countdown to Christmas.

Town Mayor Councillor Bryan Hartley stood with Knutsford Tri Club's Chairman - Peter Ford.

Council supports 2026 Knutsford Triathlon

Plans for a second Knutsford Triathlon have been supported with a £1,500 grant in the latest round of our community grant scheme.

Knutsford Tri Club started life in 2009, set up by a group of Knutsford residents including Robin Maxwell and Jim Cox. Having completed the Tatton Park Triathlon as complete novices, they decided to start a triathlon club where like-minded individuals who wanted to train, race and socialise together could gather and enjoy the sport they loved.

Over the years Knutsford Tri Club has grown to become a vibrant community of swimmers, cyclists and runners who train race and socialise together. They have members who have represented Great Britain at all age group levels and members who have qualified for the world championships in Kona – we are even home to the legendary Dave Clamp, Deca Ironman world champion in 2018. Equally there are members who just want to take part in triathlon and do their best at whatever level that is – middle of the pack or the bottom 10% – the important thing at KTC is taking part.

The grant will support the club’s 2026 triathlon, due to take place on Sunday 17th May 2026. The triathlon features two ambitious distance options for those keen to swim, cycle and run their way around town. If you’d like to get involved but don’t know where to start, the club runs regular training and coaching sessions that everyone is welcome to join.

Knutsford Town Council is pleased to have granted £1500 which will support running costs for the event. Peter Ford, Chairman of the Knutsford Triathlon Event Committee shared:

“We at Knutsford Tri Club are very happy to receive a Community Grant in support of our triathlon. It means we have a secure financial basis to put on the event in 2026 and puts us in a position to build on this year’s success with even more happy participants. We look to increase community engagement with sport and actively encourage first-timers into triathlon. We want the Knutsford Triathlon to become an annual fixture, to take part in or support, and welcome the support of the Town Council.”

If you’d like to find out more or get involved with Knutsford Tri Club please visit https://www.knutsfordtriclub.co.uk/.

Interested in applying for a community grant? The next round of applications closes on 31st December 2025. Run by Knutsford Town Council, the Community Grant Scheme provides a range of grants to support community projects and activities within our town. We’re particularly keen on prioritising services/opportunities for young people or older people, providing new or improved assets or services for the community and enhancing the profile or reputation of the Town. For more information visit: https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/community-grants.

A mother bottle feeding her baby in her arms and a mother breast feeding her baby in her arms.

Feeding Charter initiative launches across Knutsford

Knutsford Town Council is proud to launch the Feeding Charter, a new community initiative designed to make visiting Knutsford town centre stress-free and welcoming for all parents and carers of babies and young children.

Effective immediately, this compassionate programme invites local businesses across our charming streets to offer a dedicated, welcoming space for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding babies. The scheme also extends this support to any parent, grandparent, or carer needing a comfortable spot to sit and feed older children.

The Charter specifically acknowledges the challenges our unique and sometimes narrow streets can pose. Delivered in collaboration in with local businesses, the scheme creates a more inclusive environment. Participating venues will display a ‘Baby Feeding Welcome’ sticker in their windows, assuring visitors that a welcoming space is available without the obligation to make a purchase.

“We are proud to support our community with this initiative,” said Town Centre Manager Sandra Curties “Knutsford is a town with a big heart, and by introducing the feeding charter, we are taking a step towards ensuring that our shops are accessible to all, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity.”

Participating locations include:

  • Knutsford Heritage Centre, 90A King Street, WA16 6ED
  • Dagmara Studios, 8A Minshull Street, WA16 6HG
  • Cranford Café, 10-12 Canute Place, WA16 6BH
  • The Tea Room, Cotton Shop Yard, 73 King Street, WA16 6DX
  • Detaljer, 39-41 Princess Street, WA16 6BW
  • Booths, Stanley Road, WA16 0BS
  • KnutCraft, Ruskin Rooms, Drury Lane, WA16 6HA
  • Knutsford Market Hall, Silk Mill Street, WA16 6DF
  • Neki Café, 19 King Street, WA16 6DW
  • Satya Sanctuary, 44-46 King Street, WA16 6DT
  • MAK Clinic, Royal George Building, Regent Street, Wa16 6GR

Charlotte Montgomery, owner of Satya Sanctuary said, “Joining this scheme felt like a natural step for us. Our studio already offers a range of parent and baby classes, including Baby Yoga, Baby Massage, Mamma Barre and Mamma Reformer. We’re used to mums feeding their babies in class and always want them to feel relaxed and at home”

Charlotte continues, “Our chill-out lounge is open to any parent or carer passing by during our opening hours. You’re welcome to pop in for a complimentary herbal tea, use our baby-changing facilities, or just take a quiet moment to unwind. We’re easy to find, fully accessible before and after classes via the courtyard just behind Jessica Stone on Church Hill. There’s a short video on our Instagram page showing the entrance if you need a hand finding us. We’d love to see more local businesses get involved to help make our town even more welcoming for parents and babies”

Emma who runs Cheshire East Mum Club said, “This is such a wonderful idea, and I will be spreading the word across all my members. If you have a crying baby or a hungry toddler or both the relief when you spy a ‘Baby Feeding Welcome sticker’ will be immense. Well done, Knutsford!”

Any Knutsford business who wishes to join the scheme can contact sandra.curties@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

All participating businesses and further details of the charter can be found on https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/feeding-charter and www.discoverknutsford.com

Town Mayor Bryan Hartley and Barney Howard of Hop Central stood with their volunteers with the cheque for the grant.

Hope Central Debt Centre Supported by Community Grant Scheme

In the latest round of Knutsford Town Council’s Community Grant Scheme, Hope Central has been awarded £1,500 to support the work of their Debt Centre.

Hope Central’s Debt Centre, in partnership with Christians Against Poverty (CAP), has successfully benefited many local residents in their journey to becoming debt free. The Debt Centre is completely free of charge and is available to those with unmanageable debt.

The service provides face-to-face appointments, usually in the client’s home, and debt coaches offer both practical financial support and emotional support.

Based on research conducted by CAP, 50% of people accessing debt services have considered or attempted suicide as a way out of debt. Mental health and debt are interlinked and by supporting people out of debt, Hope Central is not only facilitating financial stability, but also helping reduce feelings of isolation, despair, anxiety and ultimately, reducing the risk of suicide in our local area.

The grant will offer funding towards the charity’s Christians Against Poverty Subscription, allowing these essential services to continue operating. Christians Against Poverty are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to be able to offer financial advice. The subscription fee also covers the training of Debt Coaches, and other practical support systems that enable the work to continue.

Barney Howard, Director of Community Partnerships shared:

“We’re so grateful for the generous support from Knutsford Town council to our debt service which we run in partnership with CAP. This money will allow us to continue to meet those in unmanageable debt and help them into financial freedom.”

Hope Central is a Christian charity with the objectives of bringing hope and relieving poverty in NE Cheshire. They provide front line services including 2 Food Banks, an affordable Pantry, 4 Hope Centres and a Debt Centre as well as courses to improve people’s quality of life. Their services aim to create long term solutions, to protect and support vulnerable people to live an independent life, contributing to the local community and economy; working closely with referral agencies, as well as local and national organisations.

For more information about Hope Central please visit https://hopecentral.org.uk/. To refer yourself or someone else to their debt service please call 0800 328 0006.

The Town Council’s Community Grant Scheme provides grants of up to £1,500 to support community projects and activities within Knutsford. Funding priorities include providing services/opportunities for young people or older people, providing new or improved assets or services for the community and enhancing the profile or reputation of the Town.  The next deadline for applications is 31st December 2025. For more information visit: https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/community-grants.

Characters Ready for Wallwood

Pumpkin Path thrills families!

Knutsford Town Centre was filled with Halloween spirit last weekend as the much-loved Knutsford Pumpkin Path returned, attracting hundreds of families on Friday 31st October.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, the event featured a pumpkin trail through the town centre, live performances from Knutsford Beats, and dance entertainment from SMB Dance. Wallwood hosted themed character entertainment, while local businesses offered sweet treats and decorated shopfronts to enhance the spooky atmosphere.

Sharing her enthusiasm for the event,Laura Christie, co-owner of Linden Stores, one of the evening’s sponsors, said: “We were delighted to take part in the Pumpkin Path 2025, it’s an amazing community event run by the town council which brings a real buzz to Knutsford and smiles to lots of little faces! As residents as well as business owners, it’s great to see the town so busy!”

Owner of Knutsford Sweet shoppe stoof out front in a Queen of Hearts costume accompanied by 4 helpers in Ace of Spades costumes.
Just Drop In Stall ran by 2 witches!

Echoing that sentiment, Lucinda Hinton from King Street Dental, another sponsor for the event commented: “It’s events like the Pumpkin Path which make Knutsford special – we’re very proud to have sponsored an occasion to bring our community together and create a safe place for our children to have fun. Who knew that free toothpaste and vampire fangs would be so popular!!”

Reflecting on the success of the event, Laura Phillipson, Events Manager at Knutsford Town Council, added: “Knutsford Pumpkin Path is one of the town’s most popular events. It was wonderful to see so many families taking part, enjoying the costumes, and appreciating the fantastic displays created by our local businesses.”

The event formed part of Knutsford’s dynamic calendar of community activities and was kindly sponsored by Travel Bag, Linden Stores, and King Street Dental. For details of upcoming events, visit www.discoverknutsford.com or follow @discoverknutsford on Facebook and Instagram.

Kevin Jardine and May Lynch

Prevent Breast Cancer Quiz Night at Knutsford Market Hall

Knutsford Market Hall is gearing up to host a fun-filled fundraising quiz night on Wednesday, December 3rd, in aid of charity Prevent Breast Cancer. The evening promises great entertainment, delicious food, and the chance to win fantastic prizes, all while supporting a crucial cause.

The quiz will be hosted by local quiz master Kevin Jardine with food and drink available from Thai Kitchen and raffle prizes to win from a selection of local businesses including Roberta Beauty Redefined, Detaljer, Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe, Hot Cocoa, The White Orchid Floral Boutique and Cottons Hotel and Spa. Thai Kitchen will also be contributing a percentage of profits from the evening to this worthwhile charity.

Kevin will put teams’ general knowledge to the test. Attendees can look forward to enjoying tasty food and drinks from Thai Kitchen, which is also generously contributing a percentage of its profits from the evening directly to the charity.

The newly refurbished Market Hall will open its doors to quiz-goers at 7:00 PM, with the quiz kicking off promptly at 7:30 PM.

Tickets are priced at £20 and cover a team of four or six people A small prize awaits the winning team!

Kerri Reece, a local resident and representative for Prevent Breast Cancer, shared her excitement: “We are really looking forward to everyone attending the quiz night, having fun, enjoying the Thai food, and of course, raising money for this worthwhile charity. All monies raised on the night will go directly to the charity.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager, added, “We are delighted to host the quiz in aid of Prevent Breast Cancer and look forward to a great, festive evening here at the Market Hall.”

Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity committed solely to predicting and preventing breast cancer. For more information about their work, visit: https://preventbreastcancer.org.uk/

Tickets can be purchased via: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/pbc/1918368

North West based Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity committed solely to predicting and preventing breast cancer. Further information can be found here –

Prevent Breast Cancer Home
A christmas wreath hanging on the edge of a christmas market stall

Christmas in Knutsford Returns with Extended Festive Season for 2025

Knutsford is preparing to sparkle once again as the town’s much-loved festive celebrations return this November — with a few exciting changes for 2025!

This year, the Christmas season kicks off slightly earlier, with the Christmas Light Switch-On and Santa Parade taking place on Saturday 15th November, two weeks ahead of the Christmas Market weekend.

The change aims to extend the Christmas shopping period for Knutsford’s town centre businesses and help manage the high visitor numbers both events attract.

Christmas Light Switch-On & Parade – Saturday 15th November | 4pm – 7pm

Festivities begin at 4pm in Canute Place, where Silk FM will host an evening of live entertainment featuring local school choirs and musicians. Families can also enjoy the CAFT Christmas Grotto and a small selection of food and drink traders offering seasonal treats.

At 6pm, the Santa Parade will set off from outside The Lost & Found, travelling along Princess Street towards Canute Place. The evening will reach its festive peak at 6.30pm, when the Mayor of Knutsford, joined by special guests, will switch on the town’s beautiful Christmas lights to officially mark the start of the season.

Knutsford Christmas Market – Saturday 29th November |12 noon – 5pm, Sunday 30th November  | 11am – 4pm

The ever-popular Knutsford Christmas Market returns for a full weekend of festive shopping and family fun. This year’s market will be bigger than ever, with traders spread across Princess Street, King Street, and Silk Mill Street.

Visitors can browse a wonderful variety of artisanal food and drink, handmade crafts, and unique gift ideas from some of Cheshire’s finest independent makers. Live entertainment will fill the streets throughout the weekend, and Silk Mill Street will host an array of hot food traders, perfect for grabbing a festive bite while enjoying the atmosphere.

Santa’s Grotto – Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November

Bring the magic of Christmas to life for your little ones with a visit to Santa’s Grotto, kindly hosted by Knutsford Methodist Church.

  • Saturday: 11am – 3pm
  • Sunday: 12pm – 3pm

Children will receive a special Christmas treat.

Knutsford Town Council invites everyone to experience the charm of the town during this extended festive period. From the dazzling lights and live music to artisan shopping and seasonal street food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For full event details and updates, visit www.discoverknutsford.com/events or follow @KnutsfordTownCouncil and @DiscoverKnutsford on social media.

charlie berrisford stood holding a plate of food served at the stolen lamb

Stolen Lamb joins Taste Knutsford!

Knutsford’s newest culinary star, The Stolen Lamb, has officially joined Taste Knutsford, the Cheshire market town’s well-established food and drink tour. The family-run Greek restaurant, which opened in August in the former Botanist premises on King Street, has quickly become a local favourite.

The Stolen Lamb’s addition brings authentic Mediterranean flavours to the diverse line-up of independent venues on the tour. Their offering for guests will be a selection of three meze dishes with bread and dips, giving tour-goers a delicious taste of Greece.

“As soon as The Stolen Lamb opened, we knew they were a perfect fit for the tour,” said Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager for Knutsford Town Council and tour organiser. “They are family-run, community-minded, and focus on freshly prepared, authentic dishes. We think our guests will be delighted with their meze offer.”

Saphina Hadjiyianni, owner, said “We’ve received such a warm welcome since opening in August from both residents and visitors to the town. It was an easy decision to join the Taste Knutsford tour. It champions small independent restaurants and it also a great way to promote our wonderful town. We can’t wait to greet tour guests and see them enjoy a little bit of Greece on King Street.

Taste Knutsford runs once a month on a Saturday between February and November, with guests typically visiting around seven participating venues in a single tour.

  • Booking and Information: Guests can find out more about the tour and book tickets by visiting www.tasteknutsford.co.uk.
  • Private Tours: Private tours for groups of 8 or more are also available.
  • Partnership Tours: Taste Knutsford is also currently running special shorter evening tours in partnership with Knutsford Ghost Walks, combining food with a spooky ghost tour element. These tours for October and November have already sold out.