Thankfully, life does seem to be getting back to a degree of normality for most of us, and it’s wonderful to have welcomed back many shops, bars, restaurants, and other local businesses. Those we’ve spoken to, whether they managed to adapt their business during lockdown or have only recently been able to start again, have all been grateful to our community for the support and patience shown. As a community that has always backed its independents, I’m not surprised at how The Heatons has responded, but now we need to maintain that level of loyalty to local businesses as we move forward.
For several reasons, my family and I spent a large chunk of lockdown isolating. At one point many weeks passed with us only leaving the house for the weekly ‘clap for carers’. One of the things that I missed the most was being able to look across a wide expanse, far beyond the end of my back garden! When we started going for walks again, we sought out those special little pockets dotted around, from where we could look across Stockport and far out to the hills of The Peak District. What a benefit that The Heatons sits proudly on high ground (Heaton means high settlement or farm). It was nice to stretch the eyes, and it gave us a little perspective (literally and figuratively) by looking into the distance.
At MOOR we have also been ‘looking into the distance’ – or at least the near future! We’ve been working really hard on creating something that can support both businesses and community groups, and that will work within a world in which flexibility and instant access to information must sit comfortably beside the more leisured ‘read and reference’ that our printed magazine offers. After a lot of research and hard work, I’m delighted to say that we are now ready to launch The Heatons App – a means of bringing together contact details for all Heatons businesses and community groups. As well as business listings, there will be offers, event information, a special ‘made in The Heatons’ gift guide, links to local transport, weather and key community services. Very importantly, The Heatons App will provide a way for businesses to quickly share details of their services – which could prove vital should we go into lockdown again.
The Heatons App is free to download, just search for it in your app store and start using it. We’re adding content all the time – there will be walks and trails, local history and restaurant reviews all coming over the next few weeks. And we welcome your feedback to help us make it as useful as possible to everyone in our community.
For more details on how to download The Heatons App (including how to check if your community group or business is already listed) please see the advert in the magazine. We’re very excited and hope you find it a useful way to keep supporting local businesses and keep informed about your community.
Melissa (Editor)