Garstang Focus Magazine - December 2015 by Focus Magazines

Garstang FOCUS Your Free Monthly Magazine

Scorton - Cabus - Garstang - Bonds - Bowgreave Catterall - Churchtown - St Michaels December 2015

Issue 183

What’s on in Garstang

November

Sunday 29th

Gt Eccleston Christmas Festival Christmas Market - Marine Hall Fleetwood

24 45

Monday 30th

Garstang ‘Magic & Sparkle’ - Wyrebank Banqueting Suite Town Council Surgery - Garstang Library Art Exhibition - Leyland Artists - Arts Centre (until 12th)

5 35 22

December Tuesday 1st ‘Blackpool’s Lost Buildings’ - Pilling Historical Society Coffee Stop - Inglewhite Church Hall (also 15th) Christmas Art Mart - Garstang Library Bridge Group - Arts Centre

6 12 19 22

Wednesday 2nd

Meat Bingo - Winmarleigh Village Hall 5 Newcomers & Summer Cup Competition - Garstang Camera Club 29 Memory Cafe - ‘Nostalgia from the 1950s’ - Garstang Library 35 Galloways Society for the Blind Christmas Lunch 43

Thursday 3rd

Charity Coffee Morning - Gartang URC - Croston House 4 Christmas Tree Festival - St Peter’s Church, Quernmore (until 7th) 14

Friday

Garstang 3Ls (Life Long Learning) - Garstang URC

4th

Saturday 5th

Christmas Fair - Calder Vale Village Hall Doll, Teddy & Miniatures Fair - Barton Village Hall

12 55

Sunday 6th

Garstang Ramblers - Local Walk Coffee Stop Community Carol Service - Catterall Village Hall Santa by Barge - Guy’s Thatched Hamlet 10 Mile Road Race - Garstang Running Club

9 12 51 55

Monday

Garstang Victorian Christmas Festival (also Tues 8th)

7th

Tuesday 8th Scorton WI - ‘Slightly Mysterious’ Magic Show 4 ‘Robin Hood & The Babes in the Wood’ - Garstang Theatre Group 9 Garstang Ukelele Group - Arts Centre 22 Garstang Stamp Club - Auction 24 Wednesday 9th Garstang Phoenix WI - ‘Melody Makers’ & Afternoon Tea 4 ‘Traditional Cottages & Houses of the Lake District’ - Garstang Over Wyre & Garstang Focus Magazines www.focusmags.co.uk Tel: (01253) 813433 Event Advertising & Editorial: sue@focusmags.co.uk Business & Commercial Advertising: helen@focusmags.co.uk Postal submissions: Focus Magazine, 132 Highfield Rd, Blackpool, FY4 2HH Cover design by Phil S Clarkson | Printed by Moulton Printing | © Focus Magazines 2015

What’s on in Garstang

Wednesday 9th

Historical Society Bowland Choir - Garstang Library Galloways Society for the Blind - Choir Concert Give Blood - Garstang Country Hotel & Golf Club

17 35 43 55

Thursday

Garstang Library Reading Group (also 15th)

Friday 11th

Cabus WI - Christmas Celebration - Garstang URC Christmas Story Time - Garstang Library Sleighbells Serenade Concerts - Elswick Singers (also 12th)

9 36 49

Saturday 12th

Garstang Ramblers - Wray Christmas Social - Garstang Wine Circle

9 28

Tuesday 15th

Fylde Bird Club - Quiz & Social - River Wyre Hotel Floral Art Group - Christmas Social - Arts Centre

7 22

Wednesday 16th

ITHA Travel Talks - Blackpool VI Form College Bridging the Gap - Garstang Library

28 35

10th

Thursday 17th ‘Lancashire Sings Christmas’ - Booths Cafe

Friday 18th Saturday 19th

Time for a Chat - Garstang Library Garstang Ramblers - Chipping Elswick Christmas Farmer’s Market

35 9 19

Sunday

20th

Carol Service - St Helen’s Church, Churchtown

Monday

21st

Memory Cafe Christmas Party - Garstang Library

Tuesday

22nd

Sequence Dances in Claughton (also 28th)

Tuesday

29th

Prize Bingo - Golden Ball Pilling Social Club

Garstang Unplugged - Singer’s Night - Kenlis Arms

Wednesday 30th January Saturday Tuesday Thursday

2nd 4th 7th

Coffee Morning - Calder Vale Methodist Church Bridge Group - Garstang Arts Centre Slideshow - Garstang Stamp Club

12 22 24

For details of festive Church events and services, please see pages 14, 42, 46 and 47 January 2016 deadline for editorial and adverts is Monday 14th December January deliveries commence 7th January 2016 While every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine to ensure accuracy, Focus Magazines cannot be held responsible for editorial content supplied by contributors. Our acceptance of an editorial item or an advertisement does not necessarily indicate our endorsement of the products, services or views contained within it.

CHRISTMAS COFFEE MORNING

GARSTANG PHOENIX WI

Garstang URC, Croston Rd, Garstang Thurs 3rd Dec - Cancer Help (Croston House)

Garstang Phoenix WI will be holding their Christmas celebrations on Wed 9th Dec when we will be entertained by the Melody Makers, after which afternoon tea will be served.

Seasonal stalls including cakes, raffle, bottle tombola and refreshments. A warm welcome awaits you! Hilary Ralphs (01995) 603056

SCORTON WI Scorton WI can look forward to a truly magic evening on Tues 8th Dec. Magician Brian Sefton will entertain us with a ‘Slightly Mysterious’ performance. On this occasion we will meet In Scorton Village Hall at 7:30pm. Members of several neighbouring institutes have been invited to join us for pre-Christmas festivities. A good start to the party season. Mary Hodges (01995) 604755

We meet on the second Wednesday of each month at Garstang United Reformed Church Hall at 2:00pm. Why not join us and brighten up a winter’s afternoon with entertaining company and the requisite tea and cake to round of the afternoon? New members and visitors are always very welcome. Outings are arranged throughout the year, including visits to local restaurants and a full programme to places of local interest is being planned. On behalf of the committee I would like to wish all members past and present best wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Lesley Wilson (01995 605274)

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GARSTANG MAGIC & SPARKLE

GARSTANG 3Ls

Wyrebank Banqueting Suite Mon 30th Nov - 7:00pm

Life Long Learning

You are invited to a Christmas ladies pamper and shopping evening in aid of the Neuro Drop-in Centre, Lancaster in memory of Jeanette Armes. There will be an opportunity to try beauty and holistic treatments, browse local, independent crafts and hand-made Christmas gift and watch a fashion show. Tickets ÂŁ5 include a glass of mulled wine and mince pie on arrival. Available from The Neuro Drop-in Centre, Lancaster, Visit Garstang, Salon 39 in Cockerham, Bombshell Betty Boutique and The Beauty Room, Garstang. For further details ring (01524) 840762 or e-mail charitynight@rachelcp.co.uk

Our next meeting is on Fri 4th Dec at Garstang URC, Croston Road at 2:00pm. The speaker is local historian, Mr. Paul Smith. Frank Jones (01995) 600938

GOLDEN BALL PILLING SOCIAL CLUB Prize Bingo Night Tues 29th Dec Doors open 7:00pm. Eyes down 7:30pm. Prizes and raffle. Last Game cash prize. Joan Weardon

MEAT BINGO Wed 2nd Dec 7:30pm Winmarleigh Village Hall Refreshments served at half time. All welcome. For more information contact: (01995) 600715

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PILLING HISTORICAL SOCIETY

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

Tues 1st Dec

Mon 7th & Tues 8th Dec 6:00pm to 9:00pm High Street

‘Blackpool’s Lost Buildings’ Power Point Presentation given by Ted Lightbown. Subscriptions: Full Membership £10 per annum. Visitor’s £2 per meeting. Held at the Methodist Church Schoolrooms, Smallwood Hey, Pilling. Rosina Lawson (01253) 810841

FORTON WI

Thurs 17th Dec Christmas Party. Competition: Prettiest Parcel. Jacob’s Join Supper. Meetings are at Forton Village Hall at 7:30pm. New members and guests are always welcome. Our members come from Lancaster, Cabus, Garstang, Catterall & Winmarleigh so don’t think because you don’t live in Forton you can’t come! Christine Smith (01524) 793549

The Garstang Victorian Christmas Festival is a huge community event attracting local residents and hundreds of visitors from around the region. Under the glow of the town’s Christmas lights, stalls and carts supply everything from German sausages to burgers, candy floss to roasted chestnuts. Visitors can also enjoy a glass of mulled wine as they stroll around the town. And let’s not forget the main man of the night, Santa Claus! He arrives in style led by a band and paraded down the High Street to his grotto, where he settles down to welcome the children. For more information, contact the Garstang Tourist Information Centre (01995) 602125

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GARSTANG 3FS Garstang Methodist Church Park Hill Road Our monthly lunch is on Wed 16th Dec at 12:45pm for 1:00pm. Do join us in Wesleys - an ideal time to meet with old friends and hopefully make some new ones. Pop into Wesleys or ring Margaret on (01995) 603213 to book. £7.50 each. We would also be delighted to see you at any of the following events: Mon 7th Dec Wesleys will be open for Garstang’s Victorian Evening. Sun 13th Dec Light a candle Remembrance Service at 3:00pm.

Thurs 17th Dec Join with all the churches in Garstang for Radio Lancashire’s ‘Lancashire sings Christmas’ in Booth’s Cafe at 7:00pm. Sun 20th Dec Messy Church at 4:00pm followed by carols at 5:00pm. Christmas Eve Holy Communion Service at 11:15pm. Christmas Day Service at 10:30am. On Christmas Day we invite anyone who is on their own to join us for Christmas lunch. Please pop into Wesleys to book your place. Hope to see you soon! Margaret Abbott

FYLDE BIRD CLUB Tues 15th Dec 7:45pm Quiz and Social at The River Wyre. We are a small friendly Bird Watching club meeting on the 4th Tuesday each month. We have speakers and other events throughout the year. For £3.00 you can attend one of our meetings to show you what we do as a club or join as a member - £14 for a single member, £10 for a senior, juniors £5 or for a family £22 each year. jean.wagstaff@hotmail.co.uk www.fyldebirdclub.org

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VICTORIAN FESTIVAL COMMITTEE The Garstang Victorian Christmas Festival Committee would like to thank everyone that supported their Quiz Night in November. Over £600 was raised for the Christmas Lights Fund. The Winning Team was ‘Pee Knome Workers’ and the prize for best Team name went to ‘Celebral Celebs’. Sandra Perkins did a super job as quiz mistress and an enjoyable evening was had by all. A big Thank you to Niall and Sandra at The Wheatsheaf for hosting the event and providing a tasty supper. Mon 23rd Nov saw the lights switch on and the actual festival takes place on Mon 7th and Tues 8th Dec 6:00pm - 9:00pm. Come and join in the festivities. Fun for all. For more details visit our website www. garstangchristmas.co.uk or find us on Facebook

KIRKLANDS WI Thurs 10th Dec ‘Christmas Party’ with the Senior Moments Ensemble. New members and visitors always welcome. It’s a great way to meet neighbours and friends. For more information contact the secretary Dorothy Walmsley (01995) 602558

GARSTANG UNPLUGGED It’s rare for us to have an event in December, because of the way the dates fall on the holidays. This year, we fit in our monthly Singers Night which will be on Wed 30th Dec from 8:00pm at the Kenlis Arms, Ray Lane, Barnacre, Garstang. PR3 1GD. And we wish all our friends a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Don Moore www.garstangunplugged.com

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CABUS WI You are invited to our annual Christmas Celebration, on Fri 11th Dec 7:30pm at the United Reformed Church, Garstang. There will be a selection of carols and Christmas readings, along with the June Baker Singers. This will be followed by coffee and mince pies. We will also have cakes and crafts for sale. This is a free event, but donations would be welcome, to go to Charity. We meet on the first Wednesday of the month, 7:30pm at Cabus Village Hall. We would love to see new members at our meetings. Margaret Swift (01995) 606676

GARSTANG RAMBLERS Sun Dec 6th - Garstang Local Sun Dec 12th - Wray Sun Dec 19th - Chipping We are a friendly group who enjoy walking. We do not hurry, but savour the countryside through which we pass. Our walk leaders are experienced at finding varied routes with both day and half day rambles delivered. All walks start from the Community Centre Car Park in Garstang and are subject to weather and the leader’s discretion. If you want to know more about the group or individual walks please give me a ring. Carol Stenning (01995) 601478

GARSTANG THEATRE GROUP Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood Tues 8th - Sat 12th Dec - 7:30pm Arts Theatre, Garstang Community Academy. Tickets £9; Under 16 £7 from Mace Stores, Croston Road, Market Place News or ring

(01995) 603551

Terry Underdown

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ST. MICHAEL’S LADIES SOCIAL CLUB Heroic members attended the November airport customs arrangements, ancient meeting in the teeth of the aptly named cars, seat belts removed, as they insulted driving skills! Pot holes galore - nothing new storm ‘Aber-Gale!’ Members are looking forward to Christmas there. Exquisite palaces, a legacy of the at the Crofters, Thurs 10th Dec. 7:00pm for Romanoff’s, including the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, all now, ironically, used by 7:30pm. communists! The menu for the Christmas party was chosen by members, price will be £15 Pamela and John bravely endured long including entertainment. Non members are flights on ancient aircraft, unusable luggage welcome at the full price. Lifts in cars can be racks and bulk heads cut away for feet. Health and safety non-existent. arranged to the Crofters. There were bitterly cold winters in the Our very special speakers, Pamela and Ukraine and Kiev, where many shops and John Nichols, were warmly welcomed and markets are underground. Bucharest was proceeded to serve Pamela’s renowned described as a faded Paris but Transylvania damson gin, to the enjoyment of members. as beautiful, Prince Charles’s favourite Thus fortified, the story of their travels as retreat. pharmaceutical consultants and auditors Then on to Targo Mures or City of Roses. unfolded. Many stacks of communist built concrete Amazing images of Russia, the fairy tale flats abounded. Then a wonderful Roman spires with real golden domes, the erratic amphitheatre was shown in poor Bulgaria, pot-holed roads, pick-pockets and bribes the norm. Poland next with it’s hard working, hard dinking population. Pamela and John worked there for some time in poor conditions, only 40watt bulbs and very cold temperatures. Pozan’s architecture was lovely and they taught awhile in Vienna Then to hot Australia and a flight over Ayrs Rock. Magnificent fire works in Salamanca, Spain. They witnessed forest fires in San Diego and a hurricane in the USA. Were very impressed by the cleanliness of polite Japan along with the technical toilets which did everything for one! Concluding with Canada and Niagara Falls, leaving members feeling they had been on a wonderful world tour. Judith gave a warm vote of thanks stating we were in awe of John and Pamela’s achievements. Wishing a Merry Christmas to all. Judith Hunter

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TIME TO CHAT

GARSTANG RECORDED MUSIC SOC

Garstang Library Meeting Room

Keith Carter gave us an excellent programme at the November meeting, when he kept our attention with two themes: the music of Karl Jenkins and music portraying the sea.

Would you like someone to talk over issues with making friends or just spend some time chatting? Jenny Spencer and Netta Blundell would like to invite you to join us. We will meet on the last Friday of every month and you would be most welcome. Supported by Garstang Free Methodist Church.

CALDER VALE METHODIST CHURCH There will be no Coffee Morning on Sat 5th Dec. We are joining with St. John’s Church for the Christmas Fair in the Village Hall from 2:00pm. Father Christmas will be calling in. We are back on Sat 2nd Jan for a quiet Coffee Morning, just Coffee and biscuits. And maybe a festive Quiz. Edith Gorst (01995) 602078

The December meeting, on Mon 14th Dec, will be an evening of Members’ Choices, with a Jacob’s Join in a slightly extended interval. Members are reminded that the AGM will be held earlier, at 7:00pm. Normality resumes on 4th January, with music ‘Of a Time or a Place’. New members and visitors are always welcome. We meet in Garstang Arts Centre at 7:30pm. £2 entry for non-members includes refreshments at the interval. Inquiries to Gordon Semple (01995) 602337 or David Greenwood (01995) 602875.

COFFEE STOP Inglewhite Church invites you to our community ‘cafe style’ events. Free parking and easy access is available so join us during December. A great way to meet new people. You can be sure of a friendly welcome. Call in between 10:00am and 12 noon. We will be open in the Church Hall at Inglewhite on Tues 1st Dec and Tues 15th Dec. We look forward to welcoming you. Our Catterall meeting will take the form of a Community Carol Service on Sun 6th Dec at 4:30pm. Christmas activities for the children and coffee / mince pies for all. Our ‘Community Choir’ will lead the carols and we are delighted to have Olivia Singleton bring us a special Christmas solo. We would love you to join us in Catterall Village Hall for this all-age community event. Contact Lesley Hardman at Inglewhite Church for more information The Coffee Stop Team wish you a Peaceful Christmas. Lesley Hardman

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CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

CROSTON HOUSE

St Peter’s Church, Quernmore

A Message from Croston House - Cancer Help Charity in Garstang

Visit our beautiful Church lit up by Christmas trees and decorated by our generous sponsors: local businesses, individuals and schools. The church will look wonderful and the atmosphere will be very special. Opening Times Thurs 3rd Dec Fri 4th Dec Sat 5th Dec Sun 6th Dec Mon 7th Dec

12:00 noon – 6:00pm 12:00 noon – 6:00pm 10:00am – 6:00pm 11:00am – 6:00pm 12 noon – 6:00pm

Family Service Among the Trees 6th Dec 10:00am. Christmas Carol Service Sun 20th Dec 7:30pm. Christmas Crib Service Thurs 24th Dec 3:00pm. Refreshments available. Sat Nav: LA2 9EL Gale Barton

We would like to say a big ‘Thank You’ to everyone who has supported us throughout 2015, in whatever way - be it for the House or provisions for the Shop. We wouldn’t be able to continue offering our services for free without your help. Coming Up Please join us at the United Reform Church in Garstang where will we be holding a coffee morning, craft and gift sale with tombola and raffle on Thurs 3rd Dec 10:00am -12 noon. Christmas can be a very difficult time of the year - especially having lost loved ones, whether recently or not. Our Bereavement Drop-in group is a place where you can feel safe and supported. Call in Wed 2nd Dec 2:00pm - 4:00pm. Our next ‘Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy in Cancer’ Programme is due to start early next Feb - give us call to find out more. Our number is (01995) 606469. Please pass the messages on! We wish you all a very peaceful Christmas and Happy 2016 from staff and volunteers of Croston House. Ruth Hornsby

HELP BEAT CANCER Fundraising Group Wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas and A Happy and Healthy New Year. Many thanks for all your help and support over the past year and we look forward to you joining us in our fundraising events in 2016. Jean Horner (01253) 700555, Pat Owen (01995) 672760 and Val Southward (01995) 670857

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CARDIAC RISK IN THE YOUNG (CRY) Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund Awareness and Fund Raising Our stand has now made its last appearances for 2015 at Barton Village Hall and Garstang Pharmacy, but our mission to try to save youngsters from undiagnosed cardiac conditions goes on. Screening: Sat 6th & Sun 7th Feb 2016 There are still a few places left at our third annual screening in memory of Matt at Garstang Academy. If you are between 14 and 35 and would like to have your heart tested for free visit www.testmyheart.org to book a place. If you’re unable to make it that weekend but would like to be tested, fill out a screening interest form at www.c-r-y.org.uk and you will be contacted directly when there is a screening in the North West. It’s been quite an adventure this year and our

thanks go to everyone who has journeyed with us. We have been humbled by the support given to our cause, from the little boy who gave me his hard-earned star to those who suffered blisters for weeks following the Canal Caper. We are truly grateful. Whilst there is no doubt the screenings do save lives, it’s not all about highlighting conditions that may kill or cause problems later in life. We’re not so naive as to think that every potential sufferer will be picked up – no screening is 100% foolproof, but for many it is a reassuring experience. On behalf of our team and all those who have been screened here’s hoping you all share in the gifts of love, peace and friendship this Christmastime. For further information contact paulahez.ph@gmail.com or call 07785 106 976. Paula Hesmondhalgh

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GARSTANG HISTORICAL SOCIETY Reformed Church Hall, Croston Road, Garstang, on Wed 9th Dec at 7:30pm. Entry is free for members and £2 for nonmembers (including refreshments). It is advised to arrive early as recent meetings have been standing room only. For more information ring chairman Peter Burrell (01995) 601054 (after 6pm) or visit the society’s website www.garstanghistoricalsociety.co.uk ‘Traditional Cottages and Houses of the Lake District’ is the topic of the December meeting of Garstang Historical Society. Speaker Mr Andy Lowe, a former Lake District National Park conservation officer, will give the talk and slide show which will cover scores of buildings in various Lakeland villages. The event is at Garstang United

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE GROUP Garstang Scottish Country Dance Group classes on Mondays in the United Reformed Church Hall at 7:30pm. New members will be made most welcome, no previous dancing experience necessary! Cost (including tea and biscuits) £2. Just come along or for further information contact Pam (01995) 603536 or Ian (01995) 603998

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CHRISTMAS ART MART

CROSTON HOUSE

Exhibition of paintings by members of the Garstang Arts Centre’s Painting Group

Bereavement Group Drop-In

Africa’s Saviour R.T. Storey or Celebration II Bill Barnes

Following the success of this summer’s pop-up ArtsTrail in venues throughout Garstang, members of staff at Garstang Library approached the Arts and Music Festival to see if further works of art could be given an exhibition.

For anyone who is struggling to come to terms with the loss of a loved one. Please register with Ruth (01995) 606469

The exhibition is a collaboration between the Library, Garstang Painting Group, the Arts & Music Festival and the Visit Garstang Centre involving over 30 original paintings by local artists. These are one-off works of art, there are no prints or copies, so you can be sure if you buy a painting as a special present it really will be unique. The exhibition runs from Tues 1st Dec until the Christmas holiday, during Library opening hours. The catalogue is available from the Library and the Visit Garstang Centre.

Austen Lynch 07794 197 680 CHRISTMAS FARMER’S MARKET Elswick Village Hall Sat 19th Dec 9:00am - 1:00pm There is a variety of food, craft stalls and plant stalls. We also have a community café where you can enjoy a drink and bacon barm after your shopping! We welcome any new stall holders so if you produce local food or have a craft you want to share please do not hesitate to contact Stephanie on 07752 149 214 or email me at stephjwhitfield@hotmail.co.uk

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DOWN TO EARTH Isn’t nature amazing? Several nights ago as we were snoozing away, out in the garden there was great activity: we awoke to find little toadstools had sprung up. The unseasonably warm weather had encouraged their arrival – and as if by magic they also appeared in client’s gardens, growing in lawns, on the soil surface, on woody mulches and on woody plants. As I’m the owner of a small human who insists on putting everything in her mouth my instinct was to rush outside and pluck the blighters out of the lawn. In fact most toadstools are harmless saprophytic fungi, meaning they feed on dead plant and animal remains – yuck. There is no standard definition for a toadstool,

and no clear distinction between toadstools and mushrooms. What we do know for certain is that the toadstool is the fruiting body of a fungus but scientists are still arguing over whether fairies really do use them as a convenient source of seating. And talking of fairies (see what I did there? Seamless…) the fungi you really want to avoid are fairy rings. The most damaging of spreading colonies of the Oreades, which live in altering the appearance producing toadstools.

these are slowly fungus Marasmius the roots of turf, of the grass and

You might notice an irregular ring of dead grass gradually expanding across the turf. Immediately adjacent to the dead grass the lawn may be greener than usual. Since the toadstools produce huge volumes of airborne spores which are carried long

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DOWN TO EARTH (cont) distances, there is little point in removing toadstools from the lawn to try and reduce the risk of infection. There aren’t any fungicides available for fairy ring control either to gardeners or professional contractors. The best advice is where dead patches of grass occur, spiking and watering to break up the water-repellent properties of the fungal colony is helpful, as is feeding the lawn. In terms of winter lawn care, remember to rake fallen leaves off lawns before they block out light and moisture from the grass. Grass will continue to grow in temperatures above 5°C (41°F), so if the weather is mild it may be necessary to trim the lawn with a mower. Ensure the cut is 3-5mm higher than in summer to prevent turf stress. On average, this means a cutting height of around 4cm (1.5in). If you’re putting your lawnmower away for

the winter ensure it’s clean and dry before storing. Also remember to drain the fuel as unleaded petrol doesn’t keep, and may cause problems next year when you come to start up again. If it’s mild you can still scarify, aerate and top dress as long as the soil isn’t waterlogged. This will improve the lawn’s performance next year but don’t do this in frosty weather, very wet weather or snow. What you can do if it snows is stick the kettle on, light the fire, switch on the Christmas lights, indulge in several mince pies and remind yourself to relax – in just twelve weeks’ time you’ll be sowing seeds and battling weeds and Christmas will be a distant memory. Until then, hearty yuletide wishes to you and fingers crossed for a warm and productive year ahead. Alison Tarpey-Black 07738 515 846/(01253) 810039.

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GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE Art Exhibition: Leyland Artists will be showing their work until Sat 12th Dec. The group of about 25 local artists welcome all abilities and indeed disabilities to their workshops. Their website www.leylandartists.co.uk is said to be one of the best in the country and well worth a look. Garstang Ukulele Group: This newly formed group meets at the Arts Centre every Sunday afternoon from 2:00pm - 3:30pm. We are mainly complete beginners with an experienced teacher in Mike Gradwell. Our first public performance will be at the Arts Centre on the Tues 8th Dec, one of the Victorian Evenings. For more details, contact Bob Sapey (01995) 604621 email bobsapey@gmail.com Garstang Victorian Evenings: The Arts Centre will be open on Mon 7th Dec and Tues 8th Dec from 6:00pm for refreshments and free mince pies. Our famous corned beef

hash will be available on the Monday evening. There will be musical entertainment on both nights, with Garstang Musical Productions leading the carol singing on Monday. On Tuesday the Legato Children’s Choir will sing for us, followed by the first public performance of our own Ukulele Group. Admission is free but donations would be welcome. Bridge Group: This will meet as usual on Tues 1st Dec at 1:30pm in the Arts Centre. On Tues 8th Dec members will meet at 1:00pm for a finger buffet lunch followed by an afternoon of bridge. We will then have a break for Christmas and begin our meetings on Tuesday 4th January at 1:30pm. Any enquiries ring Mary (01995) 605210. There will be no Monday evening sessions during December but these will recommence on Mon 7rh January at 7:00pm. More details from Bob (01995) 603524. Floral Art Group: The last meeting of the year will take place in the Arts Centre on Tues 15th Dec starting at 2:00pm. This will be a Christmas Social followed by a Jacobs Join. Visitors are very welcome. For more details contact June Gornall (01995) 602505 or Mary Thornber (01995) 605210. Poetry Appreciation: Your favourite Christmas Poem Fri 18th Dec 2:00pm - 4:00pm. The most well known and documented festival in the Christian calendar, Christmas has been celebrated for centuries from ancient rhymes, through hymns, songs and poems to present times. Come and bring along your favourite. The session will be followed by our usual Jacob’s Join! For more information contact Marie Whalley (01995) 603605. The year’s programme is available on the Arts Centre Website at www.garstangartssociety.org.uk. Click on Arts Society Groups and choose Poetry Appreciation. Pat Hansell (01995) 600397

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GT ECCLESTON XMAS FESTIVAL Sun 29th Nov 11:30am - 4:30pm

Village Centre

Come along and join us at Great Eccleston’s hugely successful Christmas Festival. There will be lots of entertainment and a wide range of craft and artisan food stalls to put you in the festive mood. Our local shops, restaurants and cafes are also open to offer you a wide variety of festive treats.

There will be Cookery Demonstrations by The Farmers Arms Seafood Pub Company at 12:00 noon and 3:00pm.

High Street

Come along to get in the festive mood! Tickets are £5 each including a Seafood Appetiser. Tickets can be purchased at the Farmers Arms or Village Centre in Great Eccleston. Alternatively call Jackie on 07879 118 848.

1:30pm Copp Choir 1:45pm Christmas Lights Switch On and Carol Service (Churches Together) 2:15pm Santa Arrives 2:30pm Circus Workshop

Jackie Garth

Brass Band and local music artists will perform on the day. Traditional Horse and Carriage Rides Around The Village, Morris Dancers and Donkey Rides.

Meetings are in the Meeting Room of the Public Library, Windsor Rod, Garstang. PR3 1ED from 7:30pm - 9:30pm.

Stalls: A range of Festive Craft Stalls and Artisan Food Stalls, face painting and more.

GARSTANG STAMP CLUB Tues 8th Dec Auction Thurs 7th Jan Slideshow D.Jones

Subscriptions Adults £10 Under 18 £1 D. Jones (01995) 602665

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STAYING CONNECTED This time of year is one where the stereotypical image is of families gathering to have a jolly knees up with peace and goodwill to all men and women. Of course the reality can be very different for many people so I thought I would touch upon a very important area for your health... staying connected to society and people. George Monbiot in the Guardian recently wrote that we are in the Age of Loneliness, ‘loneliness has become an epidemic among young adults. Now we learn that it is just as great an affliction of older people. A study by Independent Age shows that severe loneliness in England blights the lives of 700,000 men and 1.1m women over 50, and is rising with astonishing speed.’ This is terribly sad and terribly unhealthy. In a time when communication has never been easier we appear to be drifting away from one another and it is having a dramatic impact on our health. Did you know that the support of family, friends and neighbours can increase your chances of living to a healthy old age by 50 per cent. But the findings, based on an analysis of more than 300,000 people, suggest social isolation is as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day or being an alcoholic. Yes, being lonely is as bad as smoking or drinking too much! Our healthcare systems have yet to get to grips with this situation and acknowledge the cost that loneliness has on society. People are by our very nature social creatures, even those of us who, ‘Vant to be alone’ do not want to be alone all the time! Our communities have evolved to reflect this in our markets and shops where shopping was once a vital social activity where news was shared as well as there being transactions. Of course, we decided that convenience was

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STAYING CONNECTED (cont) more important to us in the large ‘megastores’ with everything under one roof and where no one speaks to you unless you cannot find what you want. Our desire for convenience is one aspect of this complex problem…. convenience comes at a cost….one cost of this being isolation.

what does it cost to knock on their door and have a chat? Sometimes we are too busy in our own lives to realise what we are losing.

So how do we tackle this? That is a real challenge and if you have been isolated and lonely for a long time, then taking the first step outside the door can be the most challenging one.

May I take this opportunity to wish everyone who reads my garbled words a very Merry Christmas and wish you peace, happiness and of course good health in the New Year.

There are a myriad of clubs and groups that are always wanting new members covering every subject under the sun from boardgaming to Women’s Institute. In my experience of giving talks to local groups you invariably meet wonderful, friendly and interesting people. In addition, you may not be lonely but may know of someone who lives on their own….

You can also pop into the local shops….I make the offer now – stop by at my shop…. somebody will be on a hand with a smile and a chat and maybe even a cuppa!

Nick Tofalos

SEQUENCE DANCES - CLAUGHTON Claughton Memorial Hall Tues 22nd Dec - John Lancaster Mon 28th Dec - Alan Cookson £3.00 per person. Regular dances arranged so why not come and join us? Nancy Cowell (01995) 605803

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ITHA – TRAVEL TALKS

GARSTANG WINE CIRCLE

Wed 16th Dec – Members’ Evening - Malta, Helsinki and Luxembourg.

On 16th November the circle were delighted to welcome Emma Baillie and Alex Burton from Garstang’s independent wine shop ‘Aged in Oak’.

‘Maltese Miscellany’ by John Bleazard. ‘48 Hours in Helsinki’ by Karen Stretch. ‘Luxembourg - the Little Gem on our Doorstep’ by Les and Pauline Mason. New members and visitors are most welcome. Venue: The Concert Hall, Blackpool Sixth Form College, Blackpool Old Road, Blackpool FY3 7LR at 7.30 pm. Facilities are suitable for the disabled, including audio loop. Refreshments available during the break. Cost: Membership is £20 for the season. Visitors may pay at the door for a fee of £4 per meeting. This fee will be refunded if you join as a full member. For further information visit our website www. fyldetravellers.org.uk Joan Gaffiney (01253) 700799 t y por An sea ality i or pec air a s

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All the wines are sourced from smaller producers and are examples of how such wines are of better quality and more interesting than those churned out in large quantities by the big producers.

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Guy Pugh gave the vote of thanks on behalf of the circle. Refreshments were provided by Christine Holland and Phillipa Caterall.

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The four reds were evenly divided between Old World and New. A Zinfandel from California and a Shiraz from Australia showed what the New World can produce. A Negroamaro/Malvesia Nera blend from Italy, and a Touriga Nacional from Portugal gave us a taste of the Old World.

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On a winter night in November, these delicious wines brought us a reminder of warm summer days and evenings that seem a bit of a distant memory at present!

As a result of the lower quantities produced these wines are unlikely to be found in supermarkets. We are therefore lucky to have a local independent shop that can supply us with these delights, a fact that circle members were reminded of by the excellent selection Emma and Alex brought to this meeting.

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Once again their visit allowed members of the circle to taste some of the excellent and interesting selection of wines stocked in the shop. The three white wines, the first a sparkling wine, were all from the Old World. Italy, Portugal and France.

The next meeting of the circle will be the Christmas Social which will be held on Sat 13th Dec at 7:30pm in the Arts Centre. Admission is by ticket only priced at £10. Details from Don Goodier on (01995) 603720. Mervyn Stokes

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GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB The Camera Club has only two meetings in December, the first on Wed 2nd Dec when our Newcomers and Summer Cup images are judged. A Newcomer is defined as any club member who has not won a 1st prize in any Camera Club competition and the Summer Cup is for all pictures taken this year on our two summer outings to Heysham and Holehird/Sizergh - Blackpool South Shore having been rained off. Then on Wed 9th Dec we have our Christmas Social, where we try to answer Chairman Kenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual quiz questions, and more successfully, eat Sue, June and Maxineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mince pies, sausage rolls, quiches and cakes. Wine will no doubt flow.

Puffin flattening the Farne Island Lighthouse. But our picture this month is courtesy of the Garstang Scouts and Guides, who the Camera Club have helped this year with their photography badges. Thank you to Jessica Salisbury for her unusual layered picture of a visitor to the Royal Oak Hotel. Derek Pratt

Then we have our break over Christmas to see if Father Christmas has been listening to all the hints we have been dropping over that new camera/lens which we have been lusting over. November has been exceptional. Gary Waidson entertained on the 4th and Maxwell Law on the 18th. Gary taught us the advantage of having patience when taking photographs, with a demonstration of the differing light levels and light temperatures on an afternoon photographing the Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland. From flat and boring at 3:00pm to awe inspiring with the flood lights on at dusk, he explained that he just sat on the beach opposite the castle and cooked an all day breakfast, only to be interrupted when a coach load of Japanese tourists arrived, who all took just three pictures, one of the castle, the second a selfie with the castle in the background, and finally a picture of a hippy have a fry-up on the beach. Embarrassing! In between, on the 11th, member Peter Knight showed us how to use Layers in Photoshop (CC, Elements or Lightroom). We impressed with a picture of a 200 feet tall

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GARSTANG PAINTING GROUP Well, as a very interesting year draws to a close, and following November’s Annual General Meeting when a new committee was chosen (including some well known faces), we are ready for a season of fresh challenges and interesting activities.

pastels or even graphite sticks!

December sees the end of our Members Only ‘Christmas Fair’ Exhibition when, on the 16th, all unsold paintings should be collected. You are advised to go to the Arts Centre and pick up an original work of art as a perfect Christmas present before the exhibition closes!

Bill Barnes

December 16th is also our final day this year, and the Christmas Party will round off the year in true artistic fashion on that day. So, finally, it just remains to wish everybody a Fantatistic Christmas and remember there is a budding artist in every one of us so why not buy your best friend a set of paints, crayons,

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Have a wonderful holiday everyone, and a very happy and prosperous 2016. For more information about the Painting Group contact Joyce McCormick 07786 271 450

NW CHILDREN’S SUPPORT GROUP Mulled Wine Stall at Garstang Victorian Festival The North West Children’s Support Group will once again be selling their highly praised Homemade Mulled Wine at the Garstang Victorian Festival on Mon 7th and Tues 8th Dec. All money raised will be used to provide much needed holidays for local children who have a wide range of disabilities. Do come and find us outside the Eagle and Child on the High Street and sample the best mulled wine in Garstang! For more information about our charity please visit our website www.nwcsg.co.uk Debbie McCann

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARD SALE The annual Charity Christmas Card Sale held on Sat 31st Oct raised £1,180 for Garstang charities. Our thanks go to the United Reformed Church for use of the Hall, the Mayor Lynn Harter and her Consort for their attendance, Jean and Ann for their expert catering and Hilary McGrath, the Town Crier, for her support. The proceeds from the sale of refreshments were given to the URC for their charity. Finally we thank the public for their generous support. John and Marie Whalley

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CROSTON HOUSE NEWSLETTER

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CROSTON HOUSE NEWSLETTER

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CROSTON HOUSE NEWSLETTER

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GARSTANG LIBRARY Christmas Opening times Garstang Library will be open as usual except for Thurs 24th, Fri 25th, Sat 26th, Mon 28th, Thurs 31st Dec and Fri 1st Jan when we will be closed. Memory Cafe – Wed 2nd Dec A free drop-in cafe for carers and those living with dementia. All are welcome to come along to the Library meeting room for a chat and cup of tea from 10:00am – 12 noon. Wed 2nd Dec Alan Banes will be presenting slides and talking about ‘Nostalgia from the 1950’s’. The cafe also meets every 3rd Monday between 2:00pm - 4:00pm. Mon 21st Dec A Christmas Party will be held and the Bowland Choir will be singing. For further details ring Sandra Perkins (01995) 471236 or simply pop into the Library. Town Council

fancy starting up a new hobby just come along to the Library and join in with this friendly group. Refreshments are provided as well as expert help and advice. Bowland Choir led by Anni Tracy. Wed 9th Dec The Bowland Choir meets in the Library every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 6:30pm but there will be no meeting on the 23rd Dec. No experience of singing or reading music is necessary to join the group as they sing together for fun and friendship. So come along and give it a try. New members are always welcome. For more information contact (01524) 831997 or email anni.tracy@moremusic.org.uk Children’s Activities Baby Bounce and Rhyme - Mon and Fri at

Representatives from Garstang Town Council will be present in the Library between 10:00am until 12 noon. If you have any issues which you would like to discuss with them please drop in and have a chat. No appointments are necessary. Next Surgery Sat 5th Dec.

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Time for a Chat – Fri 18th Dec Would you like someone to talk over issues, make friends or just spend some time chatting? On the last Friday of every month Time for a Chat meet between 10:30am and 12:30pm in the Library meeting room. Knit and Natter Our knit and Natter group meet at the Library every Tuesday afternoon 2:00pm - 4:00pm and every Friday afternoon 2:00pm - 4:00pm. The group are always looking for new members to join so if you enjoy knitting or

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GARSTANG LIBRARY (cont) 10:00am.

Scorton Wed am 2nd Dec.

Please note there will be no Baby Bounce and Rhyme sessions on Fri 25th or Mon 28th Dec.

Catterall and Churchtown Thurs am 17th Dec.

Toddler Rhyme Time - Tues at 2:00pm. Storytime for the Under 5’s - Fri at 2:00pm. Join us for our Christmas Story Time on Fri 11th Dec. Please note there will be no Story Time session on Fri 25th Dec. All these events are free so just come along and join in the fun. Reading Groups Our reading groups will meet on Thurs 10th Dec at 2:00pm and Tues 15th Dec at 7:30pm. Mobile Libraries. The Mobile Library routes for December will be as follows:

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St Michaels - Rawcliffe Road Tues pm 15th Dec. Garstang Library 0300 123 6703 garstang.library@lancashire.gov.uk

KIDS GET ACTIVE – MEND Come and Join the Fun with MEND! MEND is a fun 10 week nutrition and exercise programme for 7-13 year olds who want to learn more about healthy eating and becoming more active. This fantastic programme involves interactive nutrition sessions such as taste testing, supermarket tours, fun recipe ideas and label reading as well as energetic exercise sessions playing fun games such as dodgeball, dancing and football! And the best part is.. its all for free! When: Mon & Wed (5:00pm - 7:00pm) Where: Thornton YMCA Start Date: Mon 18th January 2016 When: Mon & Wed (4:00pm - 6:00pm) Where: Garstang YMCA & Library Start Date: Wed 20th January 2016 Don’t miss out and book your free place now Rachael Myerscough (01253) 882105 Email: mend@fyldecoastymca.org

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Italian Conversation Club - Catterall Calling all Italian-language speakers (Intermediate Level or above), who are looking to practice their language skills! Would you like to be part of an Italian Conversation Club meeting monthly? Anyone interested, please email Jane at janemregan@hotmail.com. Jane Regan

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GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS Car Parking - Lions will be car parking at Guys Road Race on Sun 6th Dec and Garstang Academy 10k and Fun Run on Sun10th Jan. Christmas is fast approaching, which is another busy time for the Lions, and we started by helping at the Christmas Carols and Festive Lights Switch On. What would Christmas in Garstang be without the traditional Victorian evenings and of course the arrival of Santa. Lions are delighted to confirm that Santa has agreed to join us on Mon 7th Dec and Tues 8th Dec where we will be providing his grotto ready for him to give out presents. Keep a sharp look out and you may just see Lenny the Garstang Lion as well! Lions will once again host the annual Mencap Christmas Lunch for residents and carers at the Kenlis Arms. As usual there will be a visit from Santa who will be bringing presents, and Christmas Carols will be sung by Garstang Musical Productions.

come along to a meeting - 3rd Tuesday of the month in the Royal Oak at 8:00pm. Look for anyone in a dark blue fleece or light blue polo shirt. (Don’t worry - it’s not compulsory to get ‘dressed up’ if you join!) Peter Ryder (01995) 604688 Email: garstanglions@hotmail.co.uk Facebook: Garstang Lions

GARSTANG LUNCH CLUB (RVS) Are you aged 60+ and live alone in the Garstang area? If so you’d be welcome to join our Club. Get a 2-course meal and a cuppa for only £3.50 a week. We are a friendly group who meet on Thursdays at 12:00 noon in the basement of Garstang Community Centre (by High St. car park). Judith Lee (01253) 932271

Donations – Lions have agreed to donate £100 towards a defibrillator campaign organised by Catterall Parish Council. Lions Club International Middle East Disaster Relief Appeal - Lions Clubs based in these war-torn areas are distributing aid, especially to help innocent children and families, in order to cope with the onset of winter. We felt it only right and humane to assist our fellow Lions Clubs and donate £200 to the cause.

Merry Christmas

To see more of what we get up to look at the scrapbook on our website at www. garstanglions.co.uk

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BEN WALLACE MP Christmas is almost upon us again and I would like to wish you and your families a very happy and peaceful Christmas. It has certainly been a very busy year and I am looking forward to spending time with my family and relaxing over the festive season! Looking back over the year locally, there have been a number of notable issues: the outbreak of cryptosporidium in the summer left many homes without safe drinking water; the outbreak of Avian Flu on a Lancashire farm and many planning issues have all been causes for concern. I know that the proposed development of the Garstang Community Centre remains of concern to many residents. I would like to assure you that I too share concerns and I have made representations to Wyre Council. I am continuing to support the roll-out of Superfast broadband in Lancashire which has already helped many households throughout the Constituency. On another note, I know that many people are concerned about Police funding. I would like to assure you that I am working very hard with local Lancashire MPs to ensure that Lancashire Constabulary has the resources it needs and Lancashire is not disadvantaged. I have met personally with the Policing Minister and I do believe that the Government is listening. To give residents an update on Halite I want to assure residents that the fight is not over. I subsequently wrote to the European Commission to challenge the decision to allow Halite permission on environmental grounds. I was pleased with the Commissionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s positive response and willingness to investigate. I am now compiling evidence to then present

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BEN WALLACE MP (cont) a case to the Commission. I will continue to keep residents informed. As always, if there is any matter that I can help you with, please do not hesitate to contact me. My Westminster and Constituency Offices can be reached on 0207 219 5804 or (01995) 672977. Alternatively, you can write to me at the House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA or by email at wallaceb@parliament.uk Ben Wallace MP

INNER WHEEL Our International Evening held at the end of October was a big success and quite a tidy sum of money was raised for the charity ‘Happy House’ in Kenya. Elizabeth Gomm from the charity gave us a very interesting talk about their work. At the

moment they have 109 children who are like a big family. They attend school and they are being very well looked after. This was all started by a hotelier from Blackpool who went to Kenya for a holiday and both her and her husband were so upset at what they saw, they came home and started the fund raising and it has gone on from there. In November we had a representative from ‘Dick Kerr’s Ladies Football’ to speak to us at our monthly dinner. The Rotary club of Garstang and Over Wyre have been invited to join us as we thought it would be of interest to them also. We do have some very interesting speakers over our Inner Wheel year. Anyone who is interested please contact our Secretary. Maureen Garstang (01995) 604336.

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GREY MATTER (ans p 63) 1. Who wrote a book about attaining power called ‘The Prince’? 2. What are the two most abundant elements in the sun? 3. What fish is an ingrediant of Worcestershire sauce? 4. Who wrote ‘The Ballad of Reading Gaol’ after his release from prison? 5. Which two countries are linked by the Khyber Pass? 6. What term is given to treeless grass land in North America? 7. What kind of creature was Bilbo Baggins? 8. In tennis, what is a volley? 9. What gadget did Steve Jobs tout in 2007 as ‘Your life in your hands’? 10. Who starred in ‘TheGood, The Bad and The Ugly’ and served as mayor of Carmel, California?

11. What European art museum has a glass pyramid in its courtyard? 12. On which part of a baby would you find the fontanelle? 13. What was the name of the jeweller who created jewelled eggs for the Tzar? 14. Which of these is saltiest, - the Dead Sea, Great Salt Lake or Red Sea? 15. What long-running musical is based on an epic French novel published in 1862? 16. What name is given to a group of owls - a bevy, a covey or a parliament? 17. Where would you find the Hilary Step? 18. What is the name given to the thin, flexible Japanese mattress typically put away after use? 19. What is the codename given to the plane of the President of the USA? 20. The fibres of which plant make linen?

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SAVE THE CHILDREN CHARITY SHOP The ‘Save the Children’ Charity Shop in Garstang held a Fashion Show at Garstang Golf Club in October and raised £1,814. Everyone involved volunteered their skills and time and lots of the models were longstanding members of the team. All the clothes modeled and sold on the night were donated by members of the public to raise funds for Save the Children. The event involved comperes, photographers and a talk and film about the work of the charity.

01995 600353

Our thanks to everyone who attended or who donated outfilts to the shop. Lorraine Cooper

CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE St Helens Church, Churchtown There will be ‘A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols’ at St Helens Church, Churchtown on Sun 20th Dec at 6:30pm. Everybody is welcome to attend. The Choir will be singing several items, old and new. The format will be the same as last year which was really well received. The carols will include the usual recipe of traditional pieces like ‘Away in a Manger’, ‘Sussex Carol’ and ‘The boars Head Carol’ as well contemporary pieces such as John Rutter’s ‘Candlelight Carol’ and ‘The Military Wives Song’. The congregation will have plenty of traditional carols to sing, so we hope you will be in good voice! The choir have been practicing hard over the last two months and we hope that this event

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CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE (cont) will make Christmas very special for you and your family.

For further information do not hesitate to contact me.

Andrew Gardner

May I take this opportunity to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Peaceful New Year.

GALLOWAYS Society for the Blind On Wed 2nd Dec we shall be having our Christmas Lunch at the Sparling Restaurant, Barton. The following week, Wed 9th Dec we shall meet at our usual venue, Garstang Sports and Social Club, and look forward to being entertained by the pupils from Year 2 at Garstang Community Primary School.

Lorna Musgrave (01995) 471319

ACTION GARSTANG Lots of research and planning has been happening behind the scenes this month as we wait to see what will be in the keyworker homes plans for the development of the Community Centre and Car Park.

The Club will then close for the Christmas period and re-open on Wed 6th Jan.

Garstang Town Council have voted unanimously to apply for the Car Park to be listed as a Community Asset and we await a decision on that.

Anyone who is partially sighted is very welcome to come along and join us. Transport can be provided in some cases.

We have had a meeting with Wyre Borough Council where some full and frank views were exchanged!

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ACTION GARSTANG (cont) As a result of the meeting we have compiled a survey as to what people think is the best thing to do with the Community Centre building (we are still absolutely committed to our campaign against any building or development on the Car Park). The survey can be accessed online via the Garstang Under Threat website. It’s on the ‘How you can help’ page or there are links on the Garstang under Threat and Action Garstang Facebook pages. If you don’t have internet access, the survey questions are below and you can drop off written details of your preference at Market Place News. Please take a minute to complete the survey. It’s really important that as many people as possible have the chance to take part. That way we can focus our efforts on campaigning for what the majority of people think should be done with the building. Survey Action Garstang plus over 5000 people who have signed our petition are totally opposed to any sale or building on the Community Centre Car Park and fully support Garstang Town Council in their bid to declare it a Community Asset. As we see it there are a number of possible options for the Community Centre building and we want you to tell us which of the following options you would like us to focus on as the next part of our campaign: 1. Raise funds to support a Community Bid to buy the building and renovate and manage it for the community 2. Raise funds to support a Community Bid to buy the building, demolish it, rebuild a new Community Centre and manage it for the community 3. Support WBC in their proposal to use St. Thomas’s new Parish Hall as a community hub 4. To use a proposed new extension to

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ACTION GARSTANG (cont) The best of local independent traders will be selling gifts for all the family with individual handcrafted items and one of a kind pieces.

the Sports (Football) Club to provide community facilities 5. Other (please give details)

Treat yourself to a glass of mulled wine while you browse the stalls and stock up on tasty treats for Christmas time. Choose food for the big day while you fill up your cheeseboard, grab some tasty chutneys and stock up on wines, beers and ciders.

Mary Randles. Chairman - Action Garstang

CHRISTMAS MARKET Sun 29th Nov 10:00am to 4:00pm Marine Hall, Fleetwood It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Time for the annual Christmas Market at Marine Hall, Fleetwood.

You can also enjoy some delicious hot food for lunch from one of the many hot food street vendors outside. From paella to hog roast to BBQ, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Entry is free and with over 50 exhibitors it’s perfect for picking up all your festive food, drink and gifts.

Demonstrations will be taking place on stage throughout the day including wine tasting and cake making.

Held outdoors along the colonnade and inside the beautiful theatre, the market will be filled with traditional handmade gifts, unique craft items and delicious food and drink everything you need for your Christmas celebrations.

Plus the fabulous Thornton Cleveleys Brass Band will be performing throughout the day with music to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.

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CHRISTMAS CHURCH SERVICES Lancashire Sings Christmas Thurs 17th Dec 7:00pm - 8.00pm At Booth’s Supermarket, Garstang in conjunction with BBC Radio Lancashire. Please come along and join in this live broadcast.

St Mary & Michael’s, Garstang Sun 20th Dec 4th Sunday of Advent Sun Sun 20th Dec 6:00pm Vigil Mass (Saturday)

10:00am Mass

Thur 24th Dec Christmas Eve 9:30am Mass

St Thomas’ Church, Garstang Sun 13th Dec

10:30am Nativity Service

Sun 20th Dec

Families at 915am Puppet Carol Service

Sun 20th Dec

6:30pm Service of Nine Lessons and Carols

Christmas Eve 5:00pm Christingle Service

11:30pm Midnight Mass

Christmas Day 8:00am Holy Communion 930am Carols & Communion

2:00pm Church Decoration with families

6:00pm Vigil Mass

(First Mass of Christmas)

1130pm Carols

Fri 25th Dec

Christmas Day

Midnight Mass

10:00am Mass of Christmas Day Sat 26th Dec

St Stephen’s Day 10:00am Mass

6:00pm Vigil Mass for Sunday Sun 27th Dec

10:00am Mass

There will be no Mass from Mon 28th Dec to Thurs 31st Dec

Fri 1st Jan

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God 12 noon Celebration Mass

Sat 2nd Jan

No morning Mass

6:00pm Vigil Mass for Sunday Sun 3rd Jan

10:00am Mass

Garstang Methodist Church Sun 20th Dec 6:30pm Family Carol Service Thurs 24th Dec 11:15pm Christmas Eve Communion Fri 25th Dec 10:30am Christmas Day Celebration Wesley’s Café will be open until 6:00pm every Fri and Sat until Sat 19th Dec.

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CHRISTMAS SERVICES (cont) Garstang United Reformed Church

Garstang Quakers

Sun 6th Dec 10:45am Junior Church Christmas Service

Thurs 24th Dec 6:00pm Candlelight Meeting for Worship All welcome. Bring a torch as the track to the

Sun 20th Dec 10:45am Service of Carols Meeting House is uneven. Limited disabled and Readings parking, otherwise park on Calder Lane. Christmas Day 10:15am Café Worship St Helen’s Church, Churchtown Garstang Free Methodist Church Sun 6th Dec 10:45am Children’s Nativity Service

Fri 11th Dec 7:00pm ‘Winging It’ A production by the 4Front Theatre Company (please phone or email the

church for tickets)

Sun 20th Dec

7:00pm Carol Service

Christmas Day 10:30am Christmas Day Celebrations o We als ton s in g lo ly supp logs & ets of bags, n ﬁregrates g, kindlin h more m & uc

Sun 29th Nov 6:00pm Advent procession beginning in Catterall and Lighting of the Christmas Tree Sun 13th Dec

4:00pm Christingle

Sun 20th Dec

6:30pm Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

Christmas Eve 6:30pm Crib Service 11:30pm Midnight Mass Christmas Day 11:00am Christmas Day Communion Susan Willoughby

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SUBMITTING PHOTOS

GARSTANG’S GREAT WAR HEROES

If you are sending digital images in to us with an article then please ensure that the finished ‘cropped’ size is at least 768 pixels wide at 300 dpi. Ask us if you need help.

One of the most important Local History books for many years was published in the run-up to Remembrancetide. The book has been written by Paul Smith (pictured) and former Courier Deputy Editor, Anthony Coppin.

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‘Garstang’s Great War Heroes’ tells the stories of the 19 servicemen whose names appear on the Great War plaque of Garstang War Memorial. The book also focuses on others who returned from the war, their lives never to be the same again. Around 1,300 copies have been given free of charge to pupils at schools in Garstang, Bonds and Bowgreave. There are a limited number of copies remaining for sale to the public. ‘Garstang’s Great War Heroes’ can be purchased from Market Place News, Garstang and Towers & Gornall Accountants, 8 Rope Walk, Garstang for £8. It contains a wealth of previously unpublished information about our local heroes who gave their all for king and country. It is certain to become a local ‘classic’. It would make an excellent Christmas present. For more details visit the website of Garstang Historical Society: www. garstanghistoricalsociety.org.uk

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THE ELSWICK SINGERS Sleighbells Serenade Concerts Elswick Village Hall

please contact Alan (01995) 605414.

The Christmas Season has arrived again. Festivities are in the air, children are excited, the mums and dads are busy. Take an hour or two out and join Elswick Singers on a Sleigh Ride through the Winter Wonderland of Christmas and all that it means.

The Choir are always looking for new members. We have been performing for many years and want to continue. We need new life in the choir to be able to do so to the standard we wish to maintain. Singing is known to be beneficial to health and is an enjoyable and social pastime. Please consider giving us a try.

This year our Concerts are on Fri 11th Dec at 7:30pm and Sat 12th Dec at 2.00pm both in Elswick Village Hall, Roseacre Lane. Elswick Tickets cost £6 each and include refreshments. Tickets can be purchased on the door or reserved by phoning Sharon (01995) 238714 or John (01995) 671413 The charity we are supporting this year is the RNLI. The Choir are available for helping with fund raising or for private events. Should anybody be interested in discussing a booking

Call for New Members

If you are interested in joining us come along on Tuesday evenings at 7:30pm in Elswick Village Hall. You don’t need to be able to read music, (many of our members don’t). We are in particular need of tenors and basses, but new members in all parts of the choir will be most welcome. May we wish you all a ‘Happy Christmas’ and thank you for your continued support. Valerie Hamilton

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Tell them you saw it in the Garstang Focus

SOROPTIMISTS 81st Federation Conference 2015 What a time we had! Best Conference ever! With over a 1,000 Soroptimists from 29 countries the opening ceremony of the parade of flags made a colourful and moving start. As we listened to the roll call – Bangladesh, Caribbean, Malawi, Malta, Mauritius, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, all interspersed alphabetically with the United Kingdom’s regions – it was quite a spectacle! Royal Visitor There was a buzz in the hall on our first morning as we awaited the arrival of HRH The Princess Royal, who spoke to us on her work for Save the Children. A cheque

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was then presented to her by Federation President Jenny Vince for their work with refugee children in Syria. Speakers Our speakers for the day were equally exciting. We listened to Jo Fairley, co-founder of internationally successful Green and Black organic chocolate, relate how she looked for ways to support cocoa farmers very early in the Fairtrade movement. Dame Stella Rimington DCB MA was formerly Director General of MI5. Appointed as DG in1992, she was the first woman to take the post and spoke of her remarkable life leading up to this appointment. Dame Stella is known to millions as the role model for the character ‘M’ played by Dame Judi Dench in the James Bond films. We listened to and were entertained by Sarah Montague, one of the main anchors on Radio 4’s ‘Today’ programme. With a keen interest in Education Sarah was responsible for two new BBC Radio 4 series, ‘The Educators’ and ‘My Teacher is an App’. Her advice to women was ‘don’t always try to be nice!’ The following day we listened to The Hon. Justice Rowan Downing QC. He has worked internationally for 23 years dealing with law reform, human rights law and many other aspects of law – it is hard for us to appreciate living in a country where there is little or no law to support us. Very brave and inspiring, Olivia Giles was our next speaker. Whilst working as a lawyer in 2002, she caught meningococcal septicaemia and had to have her hands and feet amputated to save her life. This remarkable young lady walked to the podium, and told her story of fight-back and recovery in a most engaging way. In 2007 she founded the charity 500 Miles which supplies prosthetic limbs to developing countries. Olivia showed a short film on the

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SOROPTIMISTS (cont)

SANTA BY BARGE

success of this life changing work.

Sun 6th Dec 1:00pm Guy’s Thatched Hamlet

During the conference we heard reports of how our many overseas projects are progressing. One in particular was the work of Soroptimists in Nepal in the aftermath of the earthquake. We were thrilled to welcome a member of Soroptimist International Katmandu and see, through her presentation, the devastation and the work that has been done in providing tented schools in order for the children’s education to continue, along with many other support systems. Victorian Evening Mon 7th & Tues 8th Dec Your Garstang Soroptimist members have been allocated their bags of peas and will be on the High Street cooking up Parched Peas again! Please come early to avoid disappointment! Our charity this year is Water Aid. Thank you for your support. All the Garstang members would like to send you their Good Wishes for a Healthy and Happy Christmas and thank you for your support of our projects during 2015. We could not make a difference without you. For all enquires about our club, its work, or membership ring (01995) 606604 www.sigarstang.org.uk Muriel Burnham-Airey

CAR WASH THANK YOU Utugi Boys Home, Kenya A huge Thank You to everyone who came to our Car Wash Fundraising event despite the bad weather on Sat 14th Nov. You helped raise £103 for Utugi Boys Home, Kenya. Special Thanks go to the car washing team and refreshment ladies. (We are aiming to do our next Car Wash in March). Eleanor Bullen

Join Guy’s Thatched Hamlet Christmas Family Fun Day.

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Father Christmas will be arriving by canal barge at Guy’s Thatched Hamlet in Bilsborrow, on Sun 6th Dec. Santa’s Kiddie’s Christmas Party starts at 1:00pm with Uncle Martin’s Punch & Judy Magic Show, Darrell Edwards Music Roadshow, face painting, fair ground rides and lots more. There will also be Christmas craft and gift stalls - something for everyone! Father Christmas arrives by barge at 2:00pm with his friendly elves to join in the party and go into his special grotto to meet all his little friends. He has a gift for all the children. Don’t forget your letter for our Christmas Post Box! facebook.com/guysthatchedhamlet

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COMPUTER SAFETY have dozens. The official security advice is that you should have a different login name and strong password for every single site or account you use online. This is because having the same password for different sites means that if one account gets hacked, the bad guys may then be able to use it elsewhere and get access to your online banking for example. It’s now time to start looking at one of the most important user topics – passwords. These days it seems that almost every website you visit wants you to create an account just to look around. At the very least anyone using the internet will need one account (for your broadband) and probably two as you will be using email too. Most people will have a few more, and some of us

In real life, if you have a few passwords, it can help to think of them as like a big bunch of keys to your home - some are more important than others and therefore need to be a bigger/stronger key. Bank accounts are obviously the most important, but many people don’t realise that an email account is also important as this can be used to gain access to other accounts.

All these need to have unique and very strong passwords. Any shopping sites where your bank or credit card details are stored and which could be used to make Your local source for all IT help purchases should also be protected with Located in Pilling, offering reliable and different strong passwords. friendly community-based IT help and support services in the Over Wyre area. Training an d advice given.

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Getting or giving a new PC or laptop this Christmas? Want it to be up and running on the day? Make sure it’s ready for safe and secure us e by gettin g it set up no w . Or book your setup, data transfer, or “Windows 10 getting started” sessions, ready for the New Year .

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Other shopping sites where there is no financial information stored are not quite as important and sites for things like hobbies and newspapers etc are a lower level risk provided that you do not use any of your important passwords for them. A strong password is a long phrase or sentence, with a mix of capital and lowercase letters, includes numbers and symbols (#@~), is NOT a word in a dictionary, and is NOT your name, child’s name, pet, partner, phone number, football team etc. For PIN numbers (online or to use with your bank cards), please don’t use: sequential numbers (6789), repeated numbers (3333), your own phone number, or any year.

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COMPUTER SAFETY (cont) It is never a good idea to write your passwords down on a note stuck to your computer, but it is actually much safer to use unique strong passwords on all your logins with the details written down and stored carefully away from the computer than it is to end up using the same simple password for everything because you can’t remember several different long ones. If you have quite a few passwords, you can also use password management software to help you. With these, you just need to remember one master password (make it a REALLY good one) and the program will take care of the rest. Examples include Norton Identity Safe or McAfee SafeKey which are included with their internet security packages, or a separate one such as LastPass or KeePass. Finally don’t let your browser save the passwords for you as this isn’t secure (especially with Google Chrome). Don’t tell anyone else your passwords and try to change them regularly.

has recently given Dark Sky Discovery Site status for four sites in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Dark Sky Discovery Sites are recognised by the Dark Sky Discovery Partnership, managed by the Science and Technology Facilities Council UK Astronomy Technology Centre in Edinburgh, as places within the UK that are both dark and easily accessible, but where it is possible to observe the spectacle of the Milky Way or the constellations, such as Orion, with the naked eye. The Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), as part of its sustainable tourism developments, put forward four sites for approval by the Dark Sky Discovery programme - Beacon Fell Country Park, Crook O’Lune Picnic Site, Gisburn Forest Hub and Slaidburn Village Car Park. They

are

accessible

sites,

with

good

Next month – a closer look at online shopping and banking. In the meantime if you have any questions or concerns about security, then please do give me a ring for a quick chat. Joan Bailey 07528 173 891

BOWLAND ‘DARK SKIES’ PROJECT Bowland’s Skies Recognised Nationally Imagine yourself on a frosty, winter evening wrapped in an inky darkness and sprinkled in starlight, in awe of the view as the cosmos magically reveals itself in the wondrous dark skies of Bowland. There’s no better time to explore Bowland’s dark skies thanks to a national initiative that

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BOWLAND ‘DARK SKIES’ (cont) land owners and local authorities to gain their support for the project. During 2016 Robert is working with the AONB and will be offering a series of star gazing events and workshops through the Festival Bowland programme.

sightlines and relatively low light pollution, giving people the best possible conditions to just turn up and see the stars on a clear night.’ The AONB has been working with local physicist and amateur astronomer Robert Ince, who has assessed the night skies, how they are affected by light pollution and identified the best and darkest places to star gaze. The process also involved consultation with

Robert explains: ‘I love showing people the night skies. In the Forest of Bowland you can literally see thousands of stars. It has a real wow factor! Everyone can enjoy stargazing with a pair of binoculars and some basic information on how to get started, including star maps. During 2016 we’ll be running a series of events at Discovery Site locations – during the spring when glittering star clusters and magnificent constellations like Orion grace the sky, and in the autumn when the Milky Way is overhead and meteor showers like the Perseids can put on an amazing show’.

CROSSWORD (ans page 63) Across 1. Hearth (9) 7. Curtained bed (10) 10. Family car (6) 11. Jerk; type of grass (6) 14. Women serving in a restaurant (10) 15. Storage compartments (9) Down 2. Metal, symbol Fe (4) 3. Listening organs (4) 4. Back-scrubbing sponge (6) 5. Natural thread (6) 6. Facade (5) 8. Hotpots? (5) 9. Setting, atmosphere (6) 10. Beetle (6) 12. Continent (4) 13. Metal, symbol Pb (4)

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BOWLAND ‘DARK SKIES’ (cont)

DOLL, TEDDY & MINIATURES FAIR

If you would like to be added to our mailing list for star gazing events contact hetty.byrne@lancashire.gov.uk or keep an eye on updates on our website at: www.forestofbowland.com/Star-Gazing

Sat 5th Dec Barton Village Hall

GARSTANG RUNNING CLUB

10:00am to 3:30pm. Admission £1, children 50p. Disabled access, car parking, refreshments.

Guys 10 Mile Road Race Sun 6th Dec Garstang Running Club are once again presenting the annual 10 mile Road Race from Guy’s Thatched Hamlet at Bilsborrow. The race starts at 10:00am but runners are asked to arrive by 9:15am to collect their numbers, as the race starts through the carpark. We are grateful to The Lions for their help in controlling the flow of traffic into and around the car park. Postal applications can be made before 30th November at £10 for affiliated runners and £12 for non-affiliated. Entries on the day will incur an additional charge of £2 but will only be available if the race limit has not been reached.

Vintage and antique, dolls, dollhouses and teddys with some artist dolls and bears. 38 stalls.

Barton Village Hall, A6 Barton, PR3 5AA.

BLOOD DONATIONS AT GARSTANG Wed 9th Dec Garstang Country Hotel and Golf Club An NHS Blood Transfusion service will hold sessions in Garstang 1:45pm to 3:45pm and 5:00pm to 7:30pm. Please call 0300 123 23 23 to book an appointment. Bookings can be made up to the close of day before the session. www.blood.co.uk

Note however that online entries will be available through the club website www. garstangrc.co.uk until Fri 4th Dec if the race limit has not been reached. There is an admin fee. The club is very grateful to Guys for their support, particularly in providing prizes for the race leaders in each class. All finishers will get a Lancashire cheese as a reward for their efforts, regardless of whether a race leader or not! New members are always welcome. We have a wide range of abilities so don’t be put off if you aren’t particularly fast! And if you are fast then there are one or two members who will be willing to put you through your paces! Frank Miller (01995) 604030

Tell them you saw it in the Garstang Focus

CAT SMITH MP Lancashire County Council - Tough Tmes Ahead Many readers will be aware that Lancashire County Council is facing some tough times ahead. With funding from government cut, some very difficult decisions will be made by our County Councillors. I am hoping to talk with all the County Councillors in my constituency to find solutions. I have also written to the Duchy of Lancaster asking for a meeting to discuss if there is any support they can give local communities. Over the past five years we have seen the back room staff and the ‘low hanging fruit’ of cuts being made – I suspect there may be some upsetting decisions made in the near future but I will speak out for Lancaster and

Fleetwood in Westminster and make the case. Police Funding I know local people care very much about policing – it’s one the biggest issues you raise with me across Wyre. For the past month I have been challenging the Home Office to review their police funding formula which seemed to be disproportionately hitting Lancashire Constabulary. Indeed, Lancashire was hit with the deepest cuts across the country despite being a well-run, good value for money service. I asked for the formula (which took a while) and when I looked at it I could not understand how such a deep cut had been reached. I spoke out in Parliament on this matter and demanded the funding formula was reviewed, as it clearly made no sense. Now we have seen the Home Office finally

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CAT SMITH MP (cont) admit, on the final day of their twice extended consultation, that the funding formula they were proposing was based on the wrong data! Which explains why I couldn’t understand how they’d reached their conclusions. The revelations show the monumental incompetence of the Home Office when it comes to the police. The Home Secretary should apologise to the police for the chaos of her funding review and launch a fresh consultation. In circumstances where there is no confidence in the Home Office, I want to see the Home Secretary agree to a fresh process of consultation undertaken together with the police service and overseen by an independent third party such as the National Audit Office. The change in funding for Lancashire Constabulary, using the right data compared to the Home Office figures is that we will see a £16.5 million gain. That’s a huge help for our locally policing budget compared to the huge cuts we were looking at. I’ve no regrets for speaking out about this funding formula and although I feel vindicated in my campaigning for a just cause it’s truly gobsmacking to see how close we got to seeing unfair cuts hitting our communities. Fracking and Gas Storage Activity In Westminster I attended the Delegated Legislation Committee on fracking regulations, i.e. should government allow fracking through drinking water aquifers, drinking water protection areas, National Parks, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, and in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty? I spoke out passionately against this. Sadly the government passed this legislation which will allow fracking in these precious areas. I am obviously very disappointed with this result but would like to thank local people who have written in to me about it. It’s always nice to receive these emails so I can know

that issues I speak about matter to you too. It was a pleasure to be able to take part in a local campaign opposing the gas storage under the Wyre – this campaign has been strong for over a decade supported by local councilors and MPs from all parties coming together in the interest of our community. In this spirit I will be working with my neighbouring MP, Ben Wallace to do all we can to ensure no stone is left unturned in opposing Halite. Remembrance Sunday On Remembrance Sunday I joined the morning commemorations in Fleetwood. Like my predecessor I plan to alternate between Lancaster and Fleetwood for the 11am service every year. In the afternoon I was pleased to be able to join local councillors at the Preesall march and church service. As this is my first

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Tell them you saw it in the Garstang Focus

CAT SMITH MP (cont) Remembrance Sunday as your MP I have been reflecting on my role as a politician to stop conflict and war, as so often those who pay the highest price for conflict tend to be those who have had the least involvement in causing it. We will not forget them. Constituent? You’re welcome to get in touch. If you live in the Lancaster and Fleetwood constituency, which includes Knott End, Preesall, Pilling, Cockerham, Scorton and Forton, please always feel free to get in touch if you need to – either on email to cat.smith.mp@parliament.uk or you can telephone on (01524) 566551. I am also regularly updating my Facebook page which is at www.facebook.com/catsmithmp and you can write to me at 47 Scotforth Road, Lancaster, LA1 4SA.

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The talk by Brian Gomm from Kendal at the November meeting must rank as one of the best presented talks the club has had for several years. Brian and his long suffering wife are regular summer visitors to the Alps and this highly civilized, personally led trip was to one of the less known but highly attractive valleys near St. Moritz . No roughing it but staying in comfortable hotels, Brian plans their trecks using all the available local transport systems, often coming free with hotel passes and as far as possible using level walking tracks but still enabling them to view a wide range of the flora as in season. He very kindly made use of the English names for the plants that he showed, a feature that this writer would have had difficulty doing as botanically correct Latin was the way I learned - a real credit to him!

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GARSTANG GARDENING (cont) His photographs of the landscapes, villages, transport systems as well as the flowers were all superb and he had a technique of presentation second to none by occasionally, as the mood deserved, switching neatly from static to mobile displays.

time and distances travelled will proportionally add to costs which will be announced in the Spring and the viability of the trip can then be assessed. There are some spectacular gardens in Kent so let’s hope this venture receives the support needed.

The chairman announced that there was still time to book in for the Annual Club Dinner which will be on Mon 11th Jan at the Crofters Hotel and Hilary Hine will happily take your money for this event.

A reminder to get those free club bulbs planted and kept cool till January, by when the roots will be well growing and a bit of warmth can be given.

The Chairman also announced, very firmly this time, that he will not be standing for reelection in 2016 and this could put the club in a very awkward situation when we already are struggling to fill a very minor responsibility of the post of Secretary, where only five general meetings’ minutes are kept along with other minor correspondence. It is very sad when such a thriving club as ours with over 100 members, cannot raise a few souls, preferably aged under 80, to spend a little of their time and skills keeping the club together, though we all appreciate this is not a rare occurrence with local societies now-a -days. Are we all really too busy? The talk for Mon 7th Dec has the mysterious title ‘T.B.A.’ and we were left in the dark by our Chairman, Ray Pearson, as to what the subject matter of the talk was to be or even whom the speaker is! So come along and be amazed! We were assured it will be alright on the night! As usual the event starts at 7:30pm at the Crofters, A6, Garstang with all the usual ‘add ons’. Roger Broadbelt and June Gornall, who organise the annual Summer Three Day Gardens trip, have, following talks during last year’s trip, agreed to venture further afield this coming year to visit Kent, stopping over at Hastings. Obviously for this to be successful it will need to run over four days and the extra travelling

See you at the December meeting. Ben Andrews

SEQUENCE STEPPERS Charity Dance Group We meet at Barton Village Hall every Saturday night, 7:45pm to 11:15pm. Music by Alan Cookson. All profits to local charities. Tea and Biscuits. Barbara Holden (01772) 612311

WANTED DELIVERERS FOR

FOCUS MAGAZINE Each month, Focus Magazine is hand-delivered by a team of local people We’re looking for local residents to deliver the magazine in Cabus & Scorton If you’re interested, contact cassie@focusmags.co.uk 01253 342992 to ﬁnd out more about routes and rates of pay

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WINDSOR ROAD SURGERY Christmas Opening Times Thurs 24th Dec 8:00am - 1:00pm Christmas Day Closed Mon 28th Dec Bank Holiday Closed Tues 29th Dec

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Wed 30th Dec 8:00 am - 6:00pm Thurs 31st Dec 8.00 am - 1.00 pm New Year’s Day Closed Please note that appointments over the holiday period will be booked on the day only. This is to ensure we have adequate appointments for patients requiring medical advice during this busy period and to prevent any extra pressure being placed on the hospital A&E Departments. If you require medical assistance or advice when the surgery is closed please dial 111. However, please note, Preston Primary Care Centre will cover all calls as usual on Thursday afternoons between 1:00pm and 6:30pm and all week days between 6:00pm and 6:30pm. To contact Preston Primary Care please telephone (01772) 788058. Please remember to order your regular monthly repeat prescription in good time to ensure you have adequate supplies over the Christmas period. Vaccinations If you are eligible for a flu vaccination and have still not received one, please contact reception to book on (01995) 603350. We are also now running Shingles vaccination clinics for those eligible to receive the vaccine (those aged 70, 71, 72, 78 or 79 on 1st September 2015 who have not previously had the vaccine). If you are unsure if you are eligible for either

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WINDSOR ROAD SURGERY (cont) of the vaccines, please contact our reception team who will be happy to help. Self Care Self-care is the best choice to treat a wide range of minor illnesses, ailments and complaints. Many patients we see through our â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;same dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; system are for common, self-limiting conditions that do not usually require a doctor or a nurse input or prescription. We now have a range of self-help leaflets available either from reception, our website, or from our on-site dispensary at the Medical Centre. These cover a wide range of common ailments including low back pain, constipation, fever in children, headaches, coughs, sore throat and common cold. These leaflets offer advice and guidance on how to self-manage some of these conditions and when to seek appropriate medical advice. Our team are committed to providing the best possible care for all our patients and it is important our patients feel confident in the advice they receive about managing these common conditions. Please do consider taking a copy of these leaflets home for reference. New to the area? We are always happy to welcome new patients within the practice boundary, just pop into the Windsor Surgery reception at the Garstang Medical Centre, Kepple Lane to register. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas from all the staff at Windsor Surgery. For further details on the Friends and Family test, please visit our website at www. windsorsurgery.nhs.uk The Windsor Surgery Team (01995) 603616

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ST MICHAEL’S VILLAGE NEWS ‘Bloomers’ Spin Silver Gilt to Gold St. Michael’s ‘Bloomers’ turned Silver Gilt, 2014 into Gold in 2015, for the October North West in Bloom Village Competition. Anika and Andy Gibbons took two Golds for Best Farm and Garden. Large Garden winners were Margaret Clayton, Pat Kaylor and Mr & Mrs Holmes. Small Garden winners were Mr & Mrs Tony Ball, Jeanette Martinand Mr & Mrs Graham Fleet.

participants and to David, the excellent lengthsman, John for cutting verges and Reg Blundell for varnishing street furniture. Special thanks went to Gary and Michelle at the Grapes Hotel for the magnificent planters outside their pub all summer. These wonderful people keep the village looking beautiful for most of the year, enhancing the enjoyment of living here. Grateful thanks are sent to them all for their continuous efforts.

A delicious barbecue was held at Doverstones where prizes were awarded.

The Vicar, Andrew Wilkinson, along with his son George, is cycling ‘The Way of the Roses’ coast to coast 170 miles cycle route to raise funds to repair the stolen lead off the roof, but not with lead! Sponsorship forms are available in St. Michael’s Church. Here’s strength to your legs Andrew!

Many thanks were extended to all the

Judith Hunter

Planted Containers won by Mr & Mrs Alan Haworth and David Jones. Hanging Basketson by Bill Patterson, Mr & Mrs Alan Haworth, Anika and Andy Gibbons.

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GREY MATTER ANSWERS

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

1. Niccolo Machiavelli 2. Helium and Hydrogen 3. Anchovy 4. Oscar Wilde 5. Afghanistan and Pakistan 6. Prairie 7. A Hobbit 8. A shot played before the ball hits the ground 9. The iphone 10. Clint Eastwood 11. The Louvre 12. Its head 13. Faberge 14. Dead Sea 15. Les Miserables 16. A parliament 17. Mount Everest 18. A Futon 19. Air Force One 20. Flax

Across 1. Fireplace 7. Four-poster 10. Saloon 11. Twitch 14. Waitresses 15. Cupboards Down 2. Iron 3. Ears 4. Loofah 5. Cotton 6. Front 8. Stews 9. Milieu 10. Scarab 12. Asia 13. Lead

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