We took a stroll down Poynton’s high street and got to know the people behind the thriving businesses that call Park Lane home.
Emma and Stella Bosworth
Co-owners of Prestbury Travel
Prestbury Travel is very much a family business. My mum, Stella, and dad, who has now retired, founded it 35 years ago. Everyone in the family has a role. I originally had no plans to follow in my parents' footsteps, but ended up working in the marketing department of a travel agency in London and that was it. It's incredibly rewarding to provide tailor-made holidays people will remember forever. We have our own favourite holiday destinations; mum loves a luxury cruise and, for me, it's South Africa. We're incredibly fortunate to have travelled and we love helping others find their dream destinations.
Nichola Wilkson
Owner of Serenity
I've always been interested in the beauty industry; I wanted to understand how to look after the body. When I was in school, I did work experience in a salon and from there, knew this was the area I wanted to work in. I love that in this industry we're tasked with looking after people's best interests - helping them get the results they're after. When I do get some time off, which is rare, I love being with my family. I have two dogs, so I like to go on long walks, which goes towards looking after myself and my loved ones.
Christopher Evans
Owner of Christopher Evans Jewellers
One of the things I love about this industry is the client interaction we have; we have customers who have been coming to us for 20 years. Just recently, a young lady came in with a fine, worn-out gold chain that belonged to her grandfather. She was upset as it had broken, and it was unfortunately unrepairable. We gave her the idea of melting the chain down into a simple button pendant, setting a diamond in it and running it on a new chain. When we gave it to her, she was in tears. It was an emotional, lovely moment.
Brian Eason
Owner of The Acoustic Lounge
I was on holiday in Fuerteventura nine years ago and my friends and I came across this tiny venue, Rock Island Bar. A guy called James Gillespie was playing, who is now touring with Pink. When he played, everyone was so quiet, it was like a church. I remember thinking I'd love to replicate that feeling back in Stockport. The opening night was the best; James Gillespie flew over and performed for us. It was an incredible feeling seeing everyone enjoying the music. Hopefully, I'll open another place and replicate what I've done here in Poynton.
Mike Walton
Owner of The Butcher's Block
I'm an eighth-generation butcher, so I've been around this industry since I was a child; it's in my blood. I did work as a chef, which I enjoyed, but it was long hours, and it wasn't feasible to continue working them. The hours here are a little bit more social; I have five-year-old twins and a 13-year-old son, so when I get some downtime, I love to spend it with them. But to be honest, my children love spending time with me here. I'm hoping we will be able to have a ninth-generation butcher in the family; who knows?
Susan Blueman
Owner of Susie Blues
I've always loved fashion and the power and potential clothes have to change the way you feel. I've had my shop for 29 years and I've remained consistent with the style I've stocked. My personal style hasn't changed, and I've loved every moment of stocking this shop with items I know my customers will love. I am hoping to retire later this year, though, as it's time to pass this shop on to someone else. My partner has a lovely farmhouse in Italy so, hopefully, I'll get to spend more time there.
