Following the launch of our 'Village People' series, here is our eighth interview.
During the series the intention is to feature local people from a variety of backgrounds and different occupations. If you would like to feature in the 'Village People' series or suggest someone who would make a good candidate then please email me.
Full name: Michael Scaife
Age: Let's say nearer 80 than 70!
Occupation/previous occupation: Now retired. Taught History at Cheadle Hulme School, ending up as Deputy Head.
Marriage status: Married to Ann for over 40 years.
Any children? Two sons, one in London and one in Berlin, and a daughter in Dublin. My children seem to like capital cities!
Hobbies and Interests? Local history.
Where do you live? Devonshire Drive.
How long have you lived in the village? 44 years – a comparative newcomer.
Where did you move from and why? I was brought up in Davyhulme, but immediately before moving to Alderley Edge I lived in Lymm. I came here when I got married and was looking for somewhere within easy reach of Cheadle Hulme.
What do you most like about living in Alderley Edge? It's a friendly place, enough to generate a real community spirit, within easy reach of Manchester and yet close to lovely countryside. From where I live I can walk out onto the Edge in no time.
What changes/improvements would you like to see in Alderley Edge? Better public transport.
What have been the biggest changes to Alderley Edge since you have been here? First, the changes to London Road. When I came here – only 40 years ago, we had a Boots, at least three butchers, two bread shops, two greengrocers – I could go on. And secondly, the gradual disappearance of so many of the Victorian villas which to my historian's eye gave the place its character. But one major change for the better has been the bypass.
What do you miss about the village that has since gone? Alderley Motor Co. and No. 15 Wine Bar.
If there is one thing about Alderley Edge you could eliminate what would it be? Illegal parking – especially 4x4s on pavements.
Describe Alderley Edge in 3 words. Friendly, peaceful and well-situated.
What is your favourite way to spend a day out and about in Alderley Edge or the surrounding area?
For a whole day, I would go further afield – there are so many lovely places within easy reach. But the Edge itself is a splendid place to walk – and then a little further away there are Styal Woods, the Middlewood Way, Tegg's Nose – I could go on and on.
What is the most underrated thing about Alderley Edge? Its (comparative) freedom from crime and vandalism. Yes, I know there is some and I'm as appalled as everybody else by the disappearance of the planter from the War Memorial, but it's still true that we are lucky compared with many other places.
What are the main myths about Alderley Edge? Its image as the champagne capital of the north and the home of footballers and WAGS. Both true but it is a myth that they are the defining characteristics of Alderley Edge.
Are you a member of a club or association based in the village?
Alderley History Group and Alderley & District Probus Club. I am also a long-standing member of St Philip & St James Church. I was Churchwarden for 15 years and am still much involved, especially with our current Spire Appeal. I have written a History of St Philip's, which is available from the church.
If you didn't live in Alderley Edge where would you want to move to?
North Yorkshire – the Helmsley area where my ancestors came from 200 years ago.
