Community | Knutsford Town Council

25Mar2026

Knutsford Health & Wellness Week 2026 Brings the Community Together

Knutsford held its third week-long celebration of health and wellbeing this March. Organised by Knutsford Town Council, in collaboration with a range of the town’s health and wellbeing specialists, this year’s theme was ‘Nurturing Mind, Body and Soul’ with both residents and visitors enjoying a varied programme suitable for all ages, needs and abilities.

The week began with Re-Fresh Knutsford, a vibrant community fair at St John’s Church and Knutsford Methodist Church. Visitors explored a variety of local clubs, groups, volunteer opportunities, and wellbeing businesses and discovered new ways to get involved in the community.

The week highlighted how fortunate the town is to have such a wide range of health and wellbeing businesses on its doorstep, offering services and support that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike throughout the year.

Rodger Lewin from Knutsford Hearing Centre

Sign of Refresh Knutsford with blue and white ballons.

An arrangement of grapes, a smoothie, eggs

Womens Hormones talk at York & Co with speakers Monique Qureshi (Yoga Practitioner), Louise Carter (Dietician), Claire Milton (Womens Health GP), Claire Millington (Personal Trainer) and Lucy Norris (Presenter)

Throughout the week, participants took part in an exciting programme of free and discounted taster sessions, including Pilates, yoga, boxing, circuit training, massage, sound baths, and hypnotherapy. Health checks and screenings were also available, covering dry eye care, oral health, osteopathy, cardiovascular wellness, hearing tests, and musculoskeletal assessments. Specialist talks covered nutrition, menopause, infant and child food, posture, and relationship coaching.

Richard Clare, Managing Director of Clare & Illingworth Optometrists, the event’s sponsor, said:

“We were proud to support Knutsford Health & Wellness Week 2026. It was wonderful to see the community come together to explore a wide range of health and wellbeing opportunities, and we were delighted to be part of such an important initiative.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council, added:

“Health & Wellness Week provided an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to engage with local wellbeing services and activities. We are grateful to all the businesses who participated and helped make the week so enjoyable for the community.”

The Town Council would like to thank Clare & Illingworth Optometrists for sponsoring the event and all participating businesses for their contributions.

Businesses involved included:

Roberta Beauty Redefined
Elite Health
Clare & Illingworth Optometrists
King Street Dental
Casbah Fitness
Soul Reformer
NC Health & Wellness
Judi Quirke Hypnotherapy
Find Your Backbone
King Street Dental
Satya Sanctuary
Tor Nutrition & Guided Outdoor Adventures
Siân Winslade Relationship Coach
York + Co.
Nicola Parish – Non-Linear Movement Method® and Reiki Healing Meditation
Empower Dance
Tomorrow Cardiovascular Wellness
K Clinic Dental
Knutsford Hearing Centre
Stable Minds
Carmichael Clinic of Physiotherapy & Acupuncture
Helen Jones Nutrition

16Feb2026

Volunteers thanked at celebration of volunteering

Volunteers involved in supporting the local community were thanked by Knutsford Town Council at a volunteer appreciation event on Wednesday 28^th January at Knutsford Market Hall.

The event brought together members of the local community to recognise and celebrate the valuable contributions of volunteers.

The event welcomed over 50 volunteers and was designed to highlight the dedication and positive impact of volunteers working across the local area. Guests included community members and volunteers, with Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley thanking volunteers for their continued commitment, noting the difference their time and effort make to individuals and organisations alike. Bryan shared insights from his time in office on the importance of volunteering and its role in strengthening local communities.

Jeanette Hine, Knutsford Town Council’s Corporate Support Manager, said “This event was about showing our appreciation for everyone involved with volunteering and an opportunity to thank all those who selflessly support others and the council activity throughout the year”.

Photo by Knutsford Beer Festival Left to right Paul Buttrick (Knutsford Lions) Andrew Molloy and Nicola Arnell (Knutsford Beer Festival)

The event concluded with informal networking, allowing attendees to connect, share experiences, and celebrate the spirit of volunteering within the community.

Margaret Hacking, Chairman of Knutsford Talking Newspaper said “Many thanks to everyone at the Town Council who organised and worked so hard at the event last night. What a nice idea to have all the volunteer and community groups together. It was lovely, thank you”.

Bridget Knight from Knutsford Hosts said “I just wanted to thank the Town Mayor and Town Council for such a pleasant evening for Knutsford volunteers. It was a lovely opportunity to meet others and chat!”

16Jan2026

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 14^th 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 13^th February 2026.

13Jan2026

Changes at Knutsford Market Hall

Knutsford Market Hall is buzzing with activity this month as it welcomes a local chocolate specialist, celebrates the expansion of a popular party boutique, and sees its newest grocer go digital.

The Market Hall family has grown with the arrival of Hattie Cufflin, the talent behind Hot Cocoa. Hattie opened her stall on Tuesday, January 13th, providing a temporary home for her artisan chocolates while her new permanent premises on King Street are being prepared.

Visitors can enjoy Hattie’s signature range of bon-bons and homemade chocolates, as well as access her bespoke cake ordering and collection service.

“I am so pleased to have the opportunity to trade in the Market Hall,” said Hattie Cufflin. “The traders have been incredibly welcoming, and it’s the perfect arrangement. Whether you are a regular or a new face, please come and visit—I’ll ensure your favourites are in stock!”

The Market Hall is also celebrating the success of Cheshire Party Store. Owners Simon and Melanie Naylor have moved into the larger stall previously occupied by Polka Bakery. This expansion allows them to showcase a wider variety of cards, balloons, and stationery. Fans of Polka Bakery needn’t worry, as the bakery will continue its presence in the hall as a weekly pop-up.

Simon and Melanie Naylor of Cheshire Party Store

Melanie Naylor commented: “We’ve been outgrowing our stall for some time, so we are thrilled to move to a larger space. We love trading in the Market Hall and are excited to offer even more to our customers.”

The market’s newest addition, York & Co. – The Grocer is expanding its horizons. Alongside a new range of organic staples and cold-pressed juices, they have officially launched their website: www.yorkandco.co.uk. Customers can now order tailored organic vegetable boxes for free local delivery or market collection.

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager, added: “We are delighted to have Hot Cocoa on board and to see Cheshire Party Store thriving. Offering local delivery is a fantastic step for York & Co., catering to our busy residents who can’t always visit us during the week.”

The full list of market traders is as follows –

The Market Café
Thai Kitchen
Hot Cocoa
Market Hall Barber
Slipped Discs
Cheshire Party Show
Market Hall Butcher
Knutsford Mobile
York & Co. – The Grocer.

Knutsford Market Hall is open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and every Makers Market Sunday.

Pop-ups can apply to trade via https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/market-hall/trade

Photo Credit – Knutsford Town Council and Lee Boswell Photography

10Dec2025

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.”

9Dec2025

Cranford Cafe wins best Christmas Window!

Knutsford’s annual Christmas Window Competition, hosted by Knutsford Town Council, has once again brought seasonal cheer to the town centre.

The annual competition is judged by the Town Mayor alongside Ian Cass, Managing Director of the Forum of Private Business which also sponsors the annual Knutsford Town Awards. Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley and Ian toured the town centre to view all the window displays created by local businesses.

This year the winner was Cranford Café with their handmade window art created by manager Ian Whiteside. In second place was The Blind Pig for their painted window and decorated outdoor area. In third place was NaturalMat for their nature inspired festive display created inhouse from foraged materials.

The overall winner was presented with a trophy and certificate with 2^nd Place and 3^rd Place certificates going to the runners up. Certificates were also presented for best small window and best charity shop window.

The best small window award went to Morgan Edwards for their lush wreath display. Children’s Adventure Farm Trust won best charity shop window for their fun colourful display.

Second Prize, The Blind Pig, L to R – Adam Hilton The Blind Pig, Knutsford Mayor, Lauren Lavin The Blind Pig, Ian Cass, Forum of Private Businesses
Third Prize, Naturalmat LtoR, Ian Cass Forum of Private Business, Faye Ravenscroft, NaturalMat, Knutsford Mayor, Jessvinder Gill, Naturalmat
Best Small Window Morgan Edwards Fine Wines and Spirits L to R – Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Morgan Ward, Morgan Edwards Fine Wines, and Knutsford Mayor
Best Charity Shop Window, CAFT L to R Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Angie Greenway Caft Crew, Stephen Leigh, Volunteer, Knutsford Town Mayor

Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley said, ”Once again, the Christmas windows across our town centre have been nothing short of spectacular. It’s clear how much creativity, care, and hard work have gone into each display, with many business owners dedicating countless hours to bring a little extra magic to our streets. Every shop should feel incredibly proud of their contribution to the festive atmosphere that makes our town so special at this time of year.”

“Choosing the winners this year was no easy task. Each display reflected such effort and imagination, so the awards were decided by looking closely at both the craftsmanship and the overall festive impact. Congratulations to all our winners, and a heartfelt thank-you to every business for bringing such joy and Christmas spirit to our community.”

Pictured

Photos by Knutsford Town Council

Photo 1 : First Prize, Cranford Café, L to R Phil Crook Cranford Cafe, Melanie Potts Cranford Cafe, Cllr Bryan Hartley, Sophie Ranfield Cranford Cafe, Ian Whiteside Cranford Cafe, Scarlet Squire Cranford Café and Kismet Singh Cranford Café.

Photo 2 : Second Prize, The Blind Pig, L to R – Adam Hilton The Blind Pig, Knutsford Mayor, Lauren Lavin The Blind Pig, Ian Cass, Forum of Private Businesses

Photo 3: Third Prize, Naturalmat LtoR, Ian Cass Forum of Private Business, Faye Ravenscroft, NaturalMat, Knutsford Mayor, Jessvinder Gill, Naturalmat

Photo 4 Best Small Window Morgan Edwards Fine Wines and Spirits L to R – Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Morgan Ward, Morgan Edwards Fine Wines, and Knutsford Mayor

Photo 5 Best Charity Shop Window, CAFT L to R Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Angie Greenway Caft Crew, Stephen Leigh, Volunteer, Knutsford Town Mayor

18Nov2025

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

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

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.

11Nov2025

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 17^th 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 31^st 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.

10Nov2025

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 31^st December 2025. For more information visit: https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/community-grants.

7Nov2025

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.

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.

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