Hatts Chats and Giggles is a community-focused podcast serving Hattersley, Mottram, Longdendale, and beyond. In candid interviews, host Mark sits down with local movers, shakers, community groups, and everyday heroes making a positive impact. We’ll hear from entrepreneurs energising the local economy, volunteers improving lives, creatives enriching the community, and changemakers tackling important issues. From inspirational neighbourhood leaders to impactful nonprofits, we’ll explore what drives them and how their work shapes where we live. Moving from uplifting local stories to pressing national issues, we’ll dive into thought-provoking territory together. Hatts Chats and Giggles gives our vibrant community a joyful voice. Listen in to feel informed, connected, and proud of the place we call home. With humour, compassion, and an abundance heart, we’re on a mission to educate, celebrate local triumphs, confront complex issues, and unite to create meaningful change.
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Twitter - www.twitter.com/Hatts_Chats
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Hatts Chats and Giggles is brought to you by Prime Active Communities CIC with funding from Onward Homes.
From Cotton Mills to Civic Pride: The Evolution of Hyde Town
Local historian Jim Fitzpatrick takes us on a fascinating journey through Hyde's transformation from a rural settlement to an industrial powerhouse, revealing how the cotton industry shaped the town we know today. His extensive knowledge uncovers the stories behind Hyde Town Hall, local personalities, and the profound social changes that occurred over two centuries. • Hyde's population exploded from 3,500 in 1801 to 30,000 by 1881 due to the cotton industry boom • The Ashton Brothers dominat...
3 Jul 2025
Hattersley’s New Heartbeat: How Birch Lea Park Is Transforming Senior Living
Residents Mike and Bridie reveal how Birch Lea Park's housing with care development improves their lives by offering accessible living and a supportive community, enhancing their overall well-being in this interview episode.
7 Apr 2025
The Hearse and the Heart: Inside the Compassionate World of AF White's Funeral Services
What does it really take to serve a community beyond the expected? In this compelling conversation with Mike from AF White's Funeral Directors, we explore the powerful intersection of a solemn profession and vibrant community engagement. Mike takes us through his journey from hospital porter to funeral service operative, revealing the dedication and compassion required to support families through their most difficult moments. There's something deeply moving about hearing how someone who work...
13 Mar 2025
Adventures at Arundale: A Glimpse into Healthy Hyde's Holiday Fun
In this episode of the 'Hatts, Chats and Giggles' podcast, the hosts set up their studio at Arundale Primary School to interview Hayden from Healthy Hyde and a young student named Elliot. Hayden discusses the activities of Healthy Hyde, a primary care network that runs wellbeing workshops and holiday camps for kids. The camps offer various physical and emotional development activities, supported by the NHS with additional funding. This episode also features interactions with several school ch...
18 Nov 2024
Threads of Connection: Building Resilience Through Creativity with Hattersley Health Champions
Episode SummaryUnlock the secrets of community transformation and discover how local heroes are reshaping Hattersley for the better. Our latest episode of Hats Chats and Giggles is a heartwarming exploration of the extraordinary efforts by the Hattersley Health Champions, with Brenda, Grenville, Tosin, and Mike sharing their inspiring stories. From crafting sessions to gardening projects, these patient volunteers have built a vibrant network of self-help groups that foster social interaction ...
15 Oct 2024
Spreading Love One Plate at a Time with Ark of Hope
What happens when food becomes more than just sustenance, but a bridge connecting communities and celebrating cultures? Join us as we explore this transformative concept with our inspiring guests from Ark of Hope and Tasty Queens: Tosin, Stacey, and Nicola. Hear Tosin's inspiring journey from Nigeria to the UK, where she continues her family’s legacy of giving back by fostering unity through the power of food. As we highlight the origins and impact of Ark of Hope, you’ll also meet Tasty Queen...
6 Oct 2024
Social Seeds and Garden Dreams with Hattersley Community Big Garden Project
Discover how the Hattersley Community Big Garden Project is transforming lives and spaces, one garden at a time. Join us as we highlight the inspiring journey of this community initiative with Lesley, one of the project's directors. From the addition of a new roof to the upcoming community cafes like Elderberries for seniors and Seedlings for children, Lesley shares the passion and dedication that drives these efforts. With free coffee, cake, and engaging activities, these cafes aim to foster...
26 Sept 2024
Unity in the Community with Community Matters
Could community collaboration be the key to overcoming the challenges posed by a global pandemic? Join us as we chat with the inspiring Janet and Jacqueline from Community Matters, who have turned the hardships of COVID-19 into opportunities for positive change. Learn how their organization's initiatives, such as the Bread and Butter project, coat drives, and school uniform donations, have provided essential support to residents in need. Discover the power of partnerships with local businesse...
6 Sept 2024
PC Rerferb - Bridging the Digital Divide
Discover the transformative power of digital literacy in our latest episode of Hatts Chats and Giggles. Join us as we chat with Sam Hardy and Alyssa Bryant from PC Refurb about their incredible work refurbishing donated computers and offering digital skills training to those who need it most. From older adults to individuals re-entering society after incarceration, and young people lacking formal education, hear heartwarming stories of how access to technology has changed lives. Alyssa also s...
31 Jul 2024
From Salford to Hattersley: A Poet's Journey Through Change
Have you ever wondered how a childhood move can shape your entire perspective on life? This week's episode brings you heartwarming stories from local poet Roy Page, who vividly recounts his family's transition from the crowded streets of Salford to the spacious, green plains of Hattersley in the 1960s. Roy shares a poignant poem that captures the essence of moving to a newly developed estate, highlighting the stark differences in living conditions and the blossoming sense of community spirit ...
17 Apr 2024
Hattersley A New Hope: From West Gorton Streets to Hills and Sheep
Shirley, Janet and Liz recount the days of their youth, moving from the bustling streets of West Gorton to the sheep-dotted hills of Hattersley, it feels as if we're stepping through the pages of history. Their tales, brimming with the struggles and triumphs of the 1960s Overspill housing plan, offer a rare window into the lived experiences of Manchester's past. The stark differences from their former urban life to the rural setting of Hattersley, complete with the challenges of adapting to sparse amenities and building a new community from scratch, are brought to life through their vivid memories.
Yet, as we navigate the social tapestry of Hattersley, it's impossible to ignore the sweeping changes that time has brought. The technology that has reshaped our interactions casts a long shadow over the once-thriving pubs and clubs where generations of locals forged unbreakable bonds. Our discussion with Shirley and Janet peels back the layers of community evolution, examining the nuances of how we stay connected in an increasingly digital world. The contrast is poignant—yesterday's face-to-face banter juxtaposed with today's digital dialogue, leaving us to ponder the future of community cohesion.
Our exploration takes a heartfelt turn as we celebrate the strength and resilience that have come to define Hattersley. From local rivalries to shared triumphs, the stories encapsulate a community that has weathered stigma and adversity, holding tight to pride in their identity. As we pay homage to the 'good old days' and the cherished community events of yore, we're also reminded of the spirited initiatives keeping Hattersley's heart beating strong today. With every anecdote and reflection, Shirley, Janet, and our other guests paint a portrait of a neighborhood not merely surviving but thriving through the collective spirit of its people.
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Tameside South and Longdendale Food Bank
Open 9am - 11am every friday at The Meeting Point, St Barnabas Church, Hattersley Rd East, Hattersley, Hyde
For more info email - Info@TamesideSouthLongdendale.FoodBank.org.uk
PC Refub - www.PCrefurb.org.uk
For more information email admin@pcrefurb.org.uk
Action Together - www.actiontogether.org.uk
For more information conatct Dawn - info@actiontogether.org.uk
Support the Show. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/2304149/support)
Hatts Chats and Giggles is brought to you by Prime Active Communities CIC and funded by Onward Homes
Follow us:
Twitter - www.twitter.com/Hatts_Chats
Instagram - www.instagram.com/Hatts_chats
Facebook - www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553942216155
15 Apr 2024
Hatts Chats and Giggles Trailer
Welcome to the "Hatts Chats + giggles" podcast, your gateway to the heart and soul of Hattersley, Mottram, and Longdendale. Join host Mark on a journey through these vibrant communities, where every episode uncovers the stories, voices, and secrets that make this place truly special.
From the wisdom of long-time residents to the fresh perspectives of the youth, "Hatts Chats + giggles" gives everyone a platform to share their opinions on the topics that matter most. Whether you're a lifelong local or a newcomer to the area, you'll find inspiration in the tales that weave together the rich tapestry of Hattersley's history, present, and bright future.
But this podcast isn't just for those who call Hattersley home. If you're from elsewhere, prepare to discover a sense of community that extends far beyond geographical borders. Through laughter, reflection, and genuine connection, "Hatts Chats + giggles" invites you to explore the universal bonds that unite us all.
Follow the podcast on social media for the latest episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and a chance to share your own stories, jokes, and thoughts. Have a tale to tell or a opinion to voice? Drop a voice note to 07365 223 70 and become part of the conversation.
Get ready to experience the beating heart of Hattersley, Mottram, and Longdendale like never before. Subscribe to "Hatts Chats + giggles" and join the journey today!
Send us a Text Message. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2304149/open_sms)
Support the Show. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/2304149/support)
Hatts Chats and Giggles is brought to you by Prime Active Communities CIC and funded by Onward Homes
Follow us:
Twitter - www.twitter.com/Hatts_Chats
Instagram - www.instagram.com/Hatts_chats
Facebook - www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553942216155
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
159
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 41 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
33
Social presence
0
YouTube
64
Engagement
60
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