Garstang Focus Magazine - December 2019 by Focus Magazines

Garstang FOCUS Your Free Monthly Magazine

Scorton - Cabus - Garstang - Bonds - Bowgreave Catterall - Churchtown - St Michaels December 2019

Issue 231

What’s on in Garstang

Sunday 1st Nativity Crib Festival - Forton URC 4 Alternative Christmas Tree Festival, St Helen’s, Churchtown 5 Santa Barges In - Guy’s Thatched Hamlet 5 Christmas Tree Festival - St Peter’s, Quernmore (until 2nd) 7 Myerscough 10 Mile Road Race - Garstang Running Club 26 Barry Wearing Art Exhibition - Arts Centre (until 12th) 48 Monday 2nd ‘Containers for Christmas & Beyond’ - Garstang Gardening Club 14 Scottish Country Dance Group - Garstang URC (weekly) 16 Bridge Group - Arts Centre (also 16th) 48 Garstang Recorded Music Group - Arts Centre 49 Garstang Town Council Meeting - Garstang Library 58 Tuesday 3rd Coffee Stop - Catterall Village Hall 10 Garstang Folk Dance Group - Arts Centre (weekly) 16 Claughton Sequence Dances - Memorial Hall (also 17th) 17 Forget-Me-Nots - Wesley’s Coffee Lounge (weekly) 19 Knit & Natter - Garstang Library (weekly) 38 Out Rawcliffe’s Over 60s Christmas Party - Village Hall 42 ‘Your Desert Island Luxury’ - Garstang Ladies Speakers 42 Bridge Group - Arts Centre (also 10th & 17th) 48 Woolcraft - Arts Centre (weekly - also Fridays) 48 Scrabble Group - Arts Centre (weekly) 49 Wednesday 4th ‘Red Riding Hood & The 3 Little Pigs’ - Garstang Theatre Group 14 Ladies Night @ M&Co - Friends Together 20 Harmony & Health - Garstang URC (weekly) 21 Festive Songs - Garstang Library 36 Baba’s Baby & Toddler Group - Wesley’s Coffee Lounge (weekly) 39 Memory Cafe - Garstang Library (also 16th - Christmas Party) 45 Garstang Ukulele Band - Galloways Social Club 47 Needlework Group - Arts Centre (weekly) 48 Thursday 5th Christmas Fair & Coffee Morning - Garstang URC 5 Garstang Sports Club Presentation - Wyrebank 34 Good Vibrations - St Peter’s, Scorton (weekly) 39 Friday 6th Garstang 3Ls - Christmas Celebration - Garstang URC 10 Over Wyre & Garstang Focus Magazines www.focusmags.co.uk | (01253) 813433 | www.facebook.com/focusmags 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 2019

What’s on in Garstang

Friday 6th Turkey & Meat Bingo - Calervale Country Club 22 Have a Go - Garstang Library 38 Saturday 7th Table Top Sale - Oaklands 5 Garstang Ramblers - Glasson Dock 5 Phoenix Dance Group - Barton Village Hall (also 14th) 16 Christmas Fayre - Caldervale Methodist Chapel 20 Coffee Morning - Garstang Camera Club - Arts Centre 32 Festive Afternoon with Great Minds - Garstang Library 36 Make Your Own Festive Film - Garstang Library 37 Saturday Stories - Garstang Library (weekly) 37 Board Games - Garstang Library (weekly) 37 Sunday 8th Garstang Santa Dash - High Street, Garstang 6 Monday 9th Garstang Victorian Christmas Festival (also 10th) 6 Tuesday 10th Drop-In for Neurological Conditions - Garstang Library 38 Wednesday 11th ‘Moses Holden’ - Garstang Historical Society - Garstang URC 33 Thursday 12th Aglow International - Crofters Hotel, Cabus 4 Poetry Appreciation Christmas Special - Arts Centre 49 Friday 13th ‘Spirit of Christmas’ - Elswick Singers - Village Hall (also 14th) 4 Poetry Appreciation - Garstang Arts Centre 49 Saturday 14th Christmas Concert - Phoenix Strings - Thornton Methodist Church 23 Crafty Vintage Festive Markets - Scorton (also 15th) 49 Garstang Wine Circle Christmas Social - Arts Centre 54 Sunday 15th Carols in Catterall - New Brockholes Arms 4 Light & Remembrance Service - Garstang Methodist Church 22 Monday 16th Santa’s Illuminated Sleigh Catterall (Cabus & Garstang 17th) 28 Tuesday 17th Lancaster Singers Christmas Concert - Lancaster (also 20th) 17 Fylde Bird Club - The River Wyre 58 Wednesday 18th ‘A Taste of Germany’ - Garstang Library 37 Thursday 19th ‘Lancashire Sings Christmas’ - Caldervale Methodist Chapel 20 Friday 27th Time to Chat - Garstang Library 21 Please note, due to the Christmas break, the January edition of Focus Magazine won’t be out until Tuesday 7th January 2020. January 2020 deadline for editorial and adverts is Monday 16th December January deliveries commence Tuesday 7th January 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.

AGLOW INTERNATIONAL GARSTANG

CAROLS IN CATTERALL

Christmas Event Thurs 12th Dec 7:15pm The Crofters Hotel, Cabus

Sun 15th Dec 4:00pm New Brockholes Arms, Garstang Road

A Christian inter-denominational organisation, invite you to an evening meal, fellowship, and ‘My Story’ from Rev. Lawrence Davie. To book the meal contact Nina Vasey (01995) 640028. Christine Fairhurst (01772) 865485

NATIVITY CRIB FESTIVAL Thurs 28th Nov - Sun 1st Dec 10:30am 3:30pm Forton URC, School Lane Over 100 Nativity scenes will be on display. Free admission. Refreshments. The Festival will close on the Sunday at 3:00pm with a Celebration of Christmas Service. Brenda Fox (01995) 604523

We would love to invite the residents of Catterall to join us for a community carol sing. Join us for mince pies at this community event for all ages. Children’s craft corner available. For more details see the Inglewhite Church website or contact me. Join us if you can for a great sing with live music. Free entry for all. Lesley Hardman 07980 070 349

ELSWICK SINGERS ‘Spirit of Christmas’ Concert Fri 13th Dec 7:30pm Sat 14th Dec 2:00pm Elswick Village Hall Tickets £7 Refreshments included. Accompanied children under 12 yrs free. Averil Booth

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CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

SANTA BARGES INN

Alternative Christmas Tree Festival St Helen’s Church, Churchtown

Sun 1st Dec, 1:30pm - 5:00pm Guy’s Thatched Hamlet

Teas and refreshment will be served throughout the festival in the church rooms.

Santa will arrive by barge to join the family fun day. Kid’s entertainers, craft stalls, outdoor bar and food stalls and lots more. Free event.

Audrey Ashbridge

www.guysthatchedhamlet.co.uk

TABLE TOP SALE

CANCER HELP

Sat 7th Dec 1:00pm – 4:00pm Oaklands, Dimples Lane, Garstang

Christmas Fair & Coffee Morning Thurs 5th Dec 10:00am - 12 noon Garstang Reformed Church Hall

The Table Top Sale is in aid of Oaklands Valorum Foundation. Good quality new and used bric-a-brac, books, toys, clothes, crafts, Christmas items and much more! Come along and grab yourself a bargain! Refreshments available. Entrance: Adults £1, Children free. Tables (in advance): £8. To book call me. Paul Ferguson (01995) 602290

Everyone welcome. Judth Law

GARSTANG RAMBLERS Sat 7th Dec 9:30am - Glasson Dock Walks start from the riverside car park, Garstang. Subject to weather conditions. Carol Stenning (01995) 601478

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VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS FEST Mon 9th & Tues 10th Dec 6:00pm - 9:00pm Take a step back in time by joining us for Garstang’s annual Victorian Christmas Festival. Come and enjoy the magic of Christmas as Garstang transforms into a vibrant and bustling street full of entertainment, stalls and festive spirit – a night of sparkling fun for ALL the family! Starting at 6:00pm each night we’ve got so much entertainment for all the family including Punch and Judy, traditional Brass Bands, the amazing Samba Espirito group, the Trust singers, the Garstang Ukulele Group plus many more acts, and we’ve also got the BIG MAN himself, Father Christmas, who joins our spectacular parade each night at 6:00pm before taking up his seat in his special High Street grotto! This year we’ve got a Craft Walk on Church Street and a Food Walk on Bridge Street

bustling with hand selected stalls selling some great gifts and treats, PLUS we’ve our Made in Lancashire Mini Market outside Nicksons on Park Hill Road offering a handpicked selection of local producers with gifts, food and treats! Added to this is our wide variety of community and charity stalls and a vast array of hot food and refreshments – and not forgetting Garstang’s wonderful shops and businesses who will be opening their doors to welcome you for some last minute Christmas gift shopping or just a friendly catch up! It really is a festival like no other – and one not to be missed! Kate Pollard - Garstang Victorian Christmas Festival Committee

GARSTANG SANTA DASH Sun 8th Dec 11:00am High Street, Garstang Welcome to the first ever Garstang Santa Dash. See our town come to life in full Christmas spirit, Santas, Elves, the lot! You can enter online for individuals, families or large groups using the online entry form. It’s really easy and fast to enter and pay. A set route is planned which covers roughly 5 kilometers (3 Miles). It is completely up to you how you do it - run, jog, walk or even skip! The route is dog, wheelchair, pram and mobility scooter friendly! Money raised from this event will go to the Mayor of Garstang’s chosen charities: Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), Rosemere Cancer Foundation and the NW Air Ambulance. For full detail and to enter go online at www. garstangsantadash.btck.co.uk Entry prices - £12 per adult, £8 per child, family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £35. Dogs are free and can join in the festive fun by entering the Best Dressed Dog competition

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GARSTANG SANTA DASH (cont) with a chance of winning a prize. Price includes entertainment from everyone’s favourite DJ Darrel Edwards, warm-up by Garstang YMCA, free Santa Suit (to be collected on the day from 10:30am), finishers medal, hot drink. All finishers will receive a festive Christmas Tree gingerbread. Can You Spare Some Time? As volunteers we will accept as much help as you can give! We’re looking for as many volunteers who would be willing to marshal our route, there are benefits... we promise! f you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact us. The easiest and quickest way to get a response is to drop us an email at garstangsantadash@gmail.com Garstang Scarecrow Festival & Team ShazzAnn

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL St Peter’s Church, Quernmore Come and visit our beautiful country church, lit up by Christmas Trees, decorated by our generous sponsors – local businesses, individuals and primary school. The church will look wonderful and the atmosphere will be very special. For many reasons it can be hard to come into church, so we hope that this special event will provide a warm and welcoming place for everyone. Opening Times Fri 29th Nov 12 noon – 5:00pm Sat 30th Nov 10:00am – 5:00pm Sun 1st Dec 10:00am – 5:00pm Mon 2nd Dec 12 noon – 5:00pm Sunday Service 1st Dec 10:00am Family Services Among the Trees Christmas Carol Service Sun 22nd Dec 7:30pm and Christmas Crib Service Tues 24th Dec 3:00pm.

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CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL (cont) Est. 1970

Refreshments opening times

Ladies & Gents Barbers Excellent cutting & styling We pride ourselves on perming, colouring & setting Put-ups for special occasions Walk-ins welcome

are

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Trees and displays to enthral you. Drinks and mince pies, soup and bread to warm you. People to talk to. An opportunity to sit and rest. A Prayer Tree – for your prayers and requests. A Remembrance Tree – with cards for names of loved ones. Come along and experience this lovely event. Gale Barton

THE MUSTARD SEED AT CHRISTMAS This Christmas come and visit your local Fairtrade shop and find gifts that really make a difference. We have a wide range of fairly traded items including food, crafts and greetings cards. For Christmas we have Advent Calendars (with chocolates), Christmas cards, ornaments and decorations. Our chocolate is popular throughout the year and we have a large selection to offer you. Christmas biscuits are also available as well as our usual range of teas and coffees. Don’t miss the bargains you can find on our ‘Half Price Table’! Any profits made at the Mustard Seed are used to make donations to charities working with disadvantaged people throughout the world. An example is Street Child’s ‘Mind the Gap’ which provides for the educational needs of many street children in several African countries. The Mustard Seed (and Wesley’s Café) can be found next to the Methodist Church on Parkhill Road, Garstang. Opening times are Thursday to Saturday 10:00am to 2:00pm. We will also be open on the Monday of the Victorian Evening. John Harman

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GARSTANG FAIRTRADE The Steering Group would like to thank the community of Garstang for accepting our invitation to mark the introduction of the Fairtrade Mark 25 years ago. We asked if they would be prepared to have their photos taken with our banner proclaiming this historic event. To see the results please take a few minutes to admire the display currently on view in the Market Hall windows thanks to the Town Trust and the Market Traders. The photos feature The Mustard Seed, The Visitors Centre, The Arts Centre, The Market Traders, Garstang Independent Traders and the Town Council. The Chair of the Steering Group was invited down to London to a dinner to celebrate this event. Needless to say, some of the ingredients used in the recipes were Fairtrade certified and the event took place in Borough Market Hall, a unique venue. Many producers were present and gave us a run down of the difference that being part of the Fairtrade community had made to their lives. We have started to plan for Fairtrade Fortnight which will run from Sun 23rd Feb - Sat 7th March 2020 and for our own very special year as we celebrate Garstang as the First Fairtade Town in the World. Do come along and enjoy the celebrations. You belong to an internationally recognised community. Finally, with Christmas and 2020 just around the corner, thanks to all of you who bought goods bearing the Fairtrade mark to celebrate Christmas and please continue to do so next year. The difference that you have made to these communities is enormous. On their behalf, I would like to thank you and wish you well. You are welcome to join us at any time so please use our contact garstangfairtrade@ gmail.com Ruth Bruce

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COFFEE STOP

GARSTANG 3Ls

Tues 3rd Dec - Catterall Village Hall

Fri 6th Dec 2:00pm Garstang URC Hall

Coffee Stop opens as a community cafe on most Tuesday mornings. Volunteers from Inglewhite Church and the local communities are there to welcome you. Our aim is to provide a safe and friendly place for us to get together and make new connections. If you’re new to the area or if you’ve previously considered coming along it would be great to welcome you for coffee and mince pies Our Christmas celebration will be at 11:00am on Tues 10th Dec in Inglewhite. We will enjoy a Christmas service then a buffet lunch in the church hall afterwards. Lunch will cost £9 per person and must be reserved in advance. The Coffee Stop Team wish you peace and joy this Christmas and look forward to welcoming you when we open on Tues 7th Jan in Inglewhite Church Hall. Lesley Hardman 07980 070 349

The group will meet as usual for their Christmas Celebration. This year we will be entertained by the one and only Garstang Ukulele Group, who are now very well known. We look forward to joining in with some well known songs as well as listening to other items in the group’s repertoire. This being our last meeting before the holiday there will be festive refreshments, so come and join us. You will be made most welcome. The January meeting will be the members’ Christmas meal and in February we meet again on the first Friday for our AGM. Ruth Rendle (01995) 602006

GARSTANG PAINTING GROUP First we want to wish the Focus team a very merry Christmas and a happy, peaceful, prosperous and successful 2020. December already! The Painting Group starts the month with a fresh Committee and a full and exciting programme for 2020! Many of our members are working on their entries for the forthcoming ‘Garstang and District Open Art Competition/Exhibition’ at the Garstang Arts Centre which opens in January. Entries should be handed in on Sat 4th Jan (entry application forms must be submitted by Sat 21st Dec). Paintings not sold during December’s Craft Fair must be collected at the last meeting of this year Wed 18th Dec (a chance to buy an original gift for friends who have everything)! The last meeting will also be our Christmas Party and final flourish of paint brushes for those so inclined this year! A very happy Christmas everyone! For more information about the Painting Group contact Carolyn Wood (01253 ) 812270. Bill Barnes

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EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY! Once more we all blinked and an entire year zipped by! I swear it’s just the start of the year and we have all of 2019 to enjoy. Ah well! I have battened down the hatches and switched my brain into what I call ‘cosy mode’. Given the long dark nights I figured a long time ago that I had to change my mental state to enjoy this time of year so I switch to enjoyment of the darkness, the glow of candles and fires and, of course, the twinkling of Christmas lights. The Christmas festival is traditionally a time of feasting and family. Regardless of the insane and incessant commercial excess we are now exposed to, the whole point of Christmas was that it was a coming together and sharing of our resources in the leanest time of the year. I’m staying away from the religious connotations for one reason only –

we all know that side of the story. Of course I am sure there are many who will be watching what they eat, calorie counting and feeling guilty for over indulging. However, for once I am here to tell you to go for it (kind of!) Did you know that there is very good research showing that if you eat food you think is bad for you and feel bad about it, it has a very negative effect on you. Fortunately there is a get out clause here which is wonderful to behold! It is very simple too. If you eat something you think is bad for you but do not care and thoroughly enjoy the deliciousness of it, like a mince pie with lashings of thick cream for instance, then guess what? It does not have such a negative effect on you. That’s right. Enjoyment is a powerful way to help food do you good, meanwhile, fretting and guilt has the opposite effect. The basic lesson is that being happy is very healthy and very good for you. This sounds obvious but I am sure we all know people who seem weighed down with all of life’s worries – and it does them no good. There are no such ‘cheats’ for over eating I’m afraid. If you eat too much on a particular day then you need to think about what you will be eating the next day. This cannot be avoided if you wish to maintain a healthy weight. Here are a few other cheating tips to help you enjoy the festive season. Firstly if you must eat something with pastries or cakes such as mince pies, then make sure you counter balance the large carbohydrate count by adding a good helping of fat, such as extra thick double cream. The fats help balance the carbs and will stop you feeling too sleepy from the blood sugar crash of eating mince pies. And before you worry, good fats do not cause heart disease.

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EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY! (cont)

PANTO TIME

Secondly, beer most definitely puts weight on you. It is known as liquid bread for a reason and one pint is the equivalent of four slices of bread. However, wine and spirits do not put weight on you despite being highly calorific. The calories in wine and spirits are not bioavailable so your body cannot store them in the form of fat.

Wed 4th Dec - Sat 7th Dec 7:30pm Saturday Matinee 2:30pm Garstang Community Academy

Please be careful with alcohol. It can truly be the demon drink and must be treated with respect and taken in moderation.

This year we are delighted to entertain you with ‘Red Riding Hood and the Three Little Pigs’.

I wish you all the very merriest of Christmas times and may you all enjoy this wonderful mid-winter festival. Before we know it spring will be in the air so savour the crisp, frosty mornings when we get them. Have a pause and smell the winter air. It is a beautiful time of year if you look closely.

Come and boo the wolf, sing along to some great tunes and kick the Christmas season off in style. Refreshments (including a bar) will be available.

Nick Tofalos (01995) 918718

Join Garstang Theatre Group for our annual pantomime. Those that have been before know how much fun it is and of course it is produced and performed by locals young and old.

Performances are nightly at 7:30pm with a special matinee on Saturday at 2:30pm. Prices are £10 Adults, £8 concessions and family ticket (two adults and two children) of £30. Discounts available for group bookings. For tickets email garstangtheatregroup@ hotmail.com message us on Facebook or ring 07594 250 335. Jane Booker

GARSTANG GARDENING CLUB Mon 2nd Dec 7:30pm The Crofters Hotel, Cabus Garstang Gardening Club welcomes Lancashire horticulturalist Tim Smith of Lytham to its next meeting. Mr Smith, who is also a judge at flower and gardening club shows in the county, will talk on the topic ‘Containers for Christmas and Beyond’. Note the meeting is a week earlier than the monthly lectures are usually held to avoid clashing with the Garstang Victorian Festival. Anthony Coppin

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DANCERS’ CORNER Phoenix Dance Group Saturdays 7:45pm - 11:15pm Barton Village Hall Come and join us and enjoy sequence dancing with music by Alan Cookson on the key board. Admission £4.00 which includes refreshments. Contact Christine (01995) 679264 or Hazel (01524) 791177. NB: No Dances Sat 21st or 28th Dec Bill Cowan Garstang Folk Dance Group Tues 3rd Dec - Vanda Musial Garstang Arts Centre We meet on Tuesday evenings 7:30pm 9:30pm from September to May. We offer a varied programme of old and new English country dances. Beginners welcome no partner needed. NB: Christmas break. Resuming Tues 7th Jan. Joan Anderson (01524) 61483

Scottish Country Dance Group Mondays 7:30pm Garstang URC Church Hall We meet on Monday evenings from September to May. Our programme includes a range of dances to suit all abilities. New members are always welcome - no previous dancing experience required just come along and have a go! For further information contact Pam (01995) 603536 or Ian (01995) 603998. Marlene Towns Sequence Steppers Charity Dance Group Alternate Thursdays 7:45pm - 11:15pm Barton Village Hall Dancing with various music groups. Home made refreshments. Admission £3. We donate all our profits to local charities. Barbara Holden (01995) 601348

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DANCERS’ CORNER (cont)

LANCASTER SINGERS

Claughton Sequence Dances Tues 3rd & 17th Dec 7:30pm Claughton Memorial Hall

Christmas Concerts Tues 17th & Fri 20th Dec 7:30pm Ashton Memorial, Williamson Lancaster

Sequence Dancing for your enjoyment with pleasant company, gentle exercise and good music. Beginners welcome. Price £3.50 including tea and biscuits. Dancing to John Lancaster. Contact Hazel (01524) 791177 or Christine (01995) 679264 New Line Dance Class Wed 22nd Jan 10:00am – 12 noon Catterall Village Hall Absolute beginners and returners Modern Line Dance Class. We dance to a wide variety of music including pop, country and Irish. Come and join us, learn something new, make friends and get fit. Don’t be shy, give it a try. For further information contact Chris 07780 711 827 Linda Ward

Park,

Get Christmas off to a cracking start with carols, Christmas songs, mulled wine and mince pies! The Ashton Memorial is a magical place to celebrate this wonderful occasion and you’re guaranteed some fine entertainment as well as being invited to sing along with some of your favourite Christmas songs. Tickets £10. Children free. Advance booking essential. Tickets and full details from: www.lancastersingers.org E: tickets@ lancastersingers.org or call (01995) 603397. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Chris Haughton (01253) 811360 / 07976 875 586

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CHRISTMAS SERVICES & EVENTS Christians Together in Garstang and District St Helen’s, Churchtown •

Sun 22nd Dec 6:30pm Service of Nine Lessons and Carols.

•

Christmas Eve 6:30pm Family Crib Service.

•

11:30pm Midnight Mass.

•

Christmas Day 11:00am Eucharist with Carols.

•

Fri 13th Dec 6:30pm Christmas Party (Juniors). 8:00pm Christmas Party (Seniors).

•

Sun 22nd Dec 6:30pm Nine Lessons and Carols.

•

Christmas Service.

5:30pm

11:30pm Midnight Eucharist.

•

Christmas Communion.

Christingle

Day

9:30am

Holy

SS Mary and Michael’s RC Church, Garstang •

Sat 14th Dec 10:15am Liturgy of Reconciliation.

•

Christmas Eve 6:00pm Vigil Mass of Christmas. 9:30pm Carols and poems. 10:00pm Mass during the Night followed by mince pies and drinks.

•

Christmas Day 8:30am Mass at Dawn. 10:30am. Mass during the Day.

Parish

St Thomas’, Garstang

Eve

•

Garstang Methodist Church •

Sun 15th Dec 3:00pm Service of Light and Remembrance, where we remember those who have died.

•

Sun 22nd Dec 5:00pm Carol Service.

•

Christmas

Eve

11:30pm

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CHRISTMAS SERVICES (cont) Communion of Christmas. •

Christmas Day 10:30am Christmas Family Celebration.

Garstang URC, Croston Road, Garstang PR3 1FL •

Sun 22nd Dec 10:45am Nine Lessons and Carols.

•

Christmas Day 10:15am Christmas Day Cafe Worship.

Garstang Free Methodist Church •

•

Fri 6th Dec 7:00pm 4Front Theatre Co presents ‘Back in Time for Christmas’ with songs, silliness and a whole lot of festive fun for the whole family. Tickets £2.50 from the church office (01995 602852). Sun 22nd Dec 7:00pm Christmas Carol Service. Refreshments following the service.

•

Christmas Day 10:30am Short family gathering.

Garstang Quaker Meeting, Friends Meeting House, Calder Lane, Garstang •

Christmas Eve There will be a thirtyminute candlelit Meeting for Worship at 5:30pm. All are welcome. The path to the Meeting House is dark and uneven so please bring a torch.

Susan Willoughby

FORGET-ME-NOTS Wesley’s Coffee Lounge Garstang Methodist Church Every Tuesday afternoon 1:00pm - 2:30pm. A lighthearted social group for friendship and chat, for people missing loved ones in any situation. Come and go as you please. Ruth Rendle (01995) 602006 HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

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CALDER VALE METHODIST CHURCH Calder Vale Methodist Church and St. John’s Church are holding a joint Christmas Fayre on Sat 7th Dec from 2:00 pm. Usual stalls and refreshments plus a visit by Father Christmas. Please note this replaces the usual monthly Coffee Morning at the Methodist Chapel.

Sun 1st Dec 3:00 pm. ‘A Time to Remember’. Quiet reflection as we remember those no longer with us. 4:00pm. Blessing of the Crib. Seasonal refreshments. Sun 15th Dec 6:45pm Carol Service. Thurs 19th Dec 7:00pm ‘Lancashire Sings Christmas’ in Calder Village Hall. Christmas Day Celebration at 10:00am. Edith Gorst (01995) 602078

FRIENDS TOGETHER Mon 4th Dec 7:00pm Ladies Night at M & Co

CLAIRE DIMOND B.Ed (Hons.) Dip. F.D.

Your Local Independent Funeral Director

This friendly group, which usually meet on the last Monday of each month in Wesleys Coffee Lounge, will meet this month in the M & Co shop from 7:00pm to take advantage of this splendid opportunity to look around the store and find some bargains. Men are not excluded and they too are invited to join us. In January the group will meet on Mon 27th Jan at the earlier time of 6:00pm. Further details in next month’s Focus. Ruth Rendle (01995) 602006

GARSTANG QUAKERS Quaker Meeting House Calder House Lane, PR3 1ZE

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Christmas Eve Candle-lit Quaker Meeting for Worship from 5:30pm to 6:00pm, in Garstang Friends Meeting House, followed by refreshments. All are welcome. Please note that the track to the Meeting House is dark and uneven so please bring a torch. Regular Meeting for Worship is on Sundays 10:30am - 11:30am. In addition, the Meeting House has rooms available for hire. Daphne Sanders (01995) 641284 www.lancsquakers.org.uk/garstang.php

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BEAT THE WINTER BLUES Don’t be lonely this winter. St Thomas Church Rose Queen Rose Brewin and her retinue will be holding a three course lunch with entertainment on Sun 19th Jan1:00pm until 4:00pm. Alone? You will be made very welcome. Come along and join Rose. Booking essential. Tickets, just £5 each, available from David Brewin at Sweets of Garstang Market Hall, High Street Tues - Sat.

Age is no barrier and there is no requirement to be able to read music or even sing in tune. We simply invite you to join us for some fun and laughter with friends old and new. There is a charge of £2 for these sessions which includes tea and coffee and maybe even a biscuit!. Singing is good for your health, so why not give it a go! Ann Cameron - ann.cameron@mac.com

David Brewin

TIME TO CHAT

GARSTANG HARMONY & HEALTH

Fri 27th Dec 10:30am - 12:30pm Garstang Library

Wed 4th, 11th & 18th Dec 10:00am 11:30am United Reformed Church Hall Harmony & Health meets every Wednesday morning to sing numbers from the musicals and the pop songs of our younger days as well as more recent hits.

Would you like to make new friends in a friendly, informal group? Jenny and Netta would like to invite you to come down and join them at Time to Chat on the last Friday of every month at Garstang Library. For details contact Jenny 07905 903 955 or myself. Netta Blundell (01995) 604131

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GARSTANG URC COFFEE MORNING Garstang URC, Croston Rd, Garstang

by duo Vogue. Hotpot and fruit pie supper. Tickets £15 - on sale now from committee members. Non-members welcome.

Garstang URC Charity Coffee Mornings on the first Thursday of each month 10:00am – 12 noon at Garstang United Reformed Church, Croston Road.

Ros Ashworth (01995) 603776 wwwcaldervalecountryclub.co.uk

Thurs 5th Dec Cancer Help (Croston House) Garstang.

LIGHT & REMEMBRANCE SERVICE

Hilary Ralphs (01995) 603056 Email: ralphs@garstang.eclipse.co.uk

Sun 15th Dec 3:00pm Garstang Methodist Church, Parkhill Road

Every Sunday - Social Bingo - Eyes down 8:00pm.

We will be holding a Service of Remembrance for anyone who has lost someone close and wishes, at this special time of the year, to take some time to quietly remember them. We hope at this time to enable people of all faiths or of none to reflect on the influence of loved ones no longer with us and give thanks for having known them. The service will be led by the Minister Rev. Derek Oldham. All are welcome.

New Year’s Eve - Fabulous entertainment

Ruth Rendle (01995) 602006

CALDERVALE COUNTRY CLUB What’s On Fri 6th Dec Turkey and Meat Bingo. Ten turkeys to be won. Eyes down 7:30pm. Every Saturday night - Live entertainment throughout December.

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HOPE FOR GARSTANG FOOD BANK If you require assistance with food, please contact 07731 846 124 between 1:00pm and 5:30pm on Thursdays. Your details will be taken and needs assessed. All calls are confidential. Netta Blundell

PHOENIX STRINGS Christmas Concert Sat 14th Dec 7:30pm Thornton Methodists Church, Victoria Road East, Thornton FY5 5HQ We invite you to join us for our annual Christmas concert in the welcoming surroundings of Thornton Methodist Church. Enjoy a selection of festive music plus other light and entertaining pieces. As usual we will invite the audience to join us in our favourite carols. We are also pleased to be joined by

Bev Straker-Bennett on flute. Tickets, ÂŁ5, are available in advance (through orchestra members or Thornton Methodists) and on the door. Children are free. Phoenix Strings is a small, friendly string orchestra for adults. We play classical and light music arranged for string orchestra. Members have a wide range of musical ability but we especially welcome adults who may be late starters or who are returning to playing after a break. If you are interested in joining us please contact our Musical Director, Gill Hume (01253) 868656. Rehearsals are Wednesdays 7:00pm 9:00pm at All Saints Anchorsholme, 36 Valeway Ave, Thornton Cleveleys FY5 3RN. Check out our website to learn more about us at www.phoenixstrings.com Caroline Lovett

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CABUS WI

KIRKLAND WI

Wed 4th Dec 7:30pm Cabus Village Hall Jacobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s join party.

Wed 11th Dec 7:30pm Christmas Party Kirkland & Catterall Memorial Hall

Annual Christmas Celebration. Fri 6th Dec 7:30pm Garstang United Reformed Church

Find out more about Kirkland WI on our website at www.kirklandwi.co.uk Visitors always welcome.

A selection of carols and Christmas readings with coffee and mince pies afterwards. Free event (charity donations welcome). Stall selling cakes and christmasy goods.

Dorothy Walmsley (01995) 602558

Margaret Swift (01995) 606676

SCORTON WI Tues 10th Dec 7:15 for 7:30pm. Christmas Party & Hotpot Supper Scorton Village Hall At the party we will have a chance to try handbells. Please note change of time/venue. Mary Hodges (01995) 604755

GARSTANG PHOENIX WI Wed 11th Dec 2:00pm Garstang United Reformed Church Hall Come and join our Christmas celebrations! Senior Moments will be providing the entertainment for the afternoon, so we are hoping that all our members will be able to join us. Garstang Phoenix WI meets on the second Wednesday of each month. New members and visitors will be warmly welcomed.

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GARSTANG PHOENIX WI (cont)

CLAUGHTON-ON-BROCK WI

On behalf of the committee, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all members, both past and present, best wishes for Christmas and the New Year.

Hello WI ladies. AGMs are not usually the most exciting of meetings, but the November AGM was a delight as we had a delicious Hotpot supper, provided by the Lunch Box in Garstang, followed by beautifully baked cakes provided by our hostesses.

Lesley Wilson (01995) 605274

FORTON WI Thurs 19th Dec 7:30pm Christmas Party Forton Village Hall The competition for this month is ‘Prettiest Parcel’ and there will be a Jacobs join supper. We have a happy mix of members from the village and further afield, including Garstang, Catterall and Lancaster. New members and guests are always very welcome. Further details from Pat Murgatroyd (01524) 791580 or Christine Smith (01524) 793549

The ‘Name the Newsreader’ picture quiz was a real puzzler and taxed the brain cells to the limit! Thank you everyone for making it an enjoyable evening. The next meeting will be our Christmas Party on Tues 3rd Dec at 7:30pm. Please don’t forget to bring a sweet or savoury dish, a secret Santa present and also a gift of toiletries, socks etc, for a local Women’s Refuge. Thank you. So it’s time to brave the attic for the sparkly Christmas hat, put the date in your diary and get into the festive mood! Netta Parker (01995) 605385

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MYERSCOUGH 10 ROAD RACE Sun 1st Dec 10:00am Myerscough College In partnership with Myerscough College, Garstang Running Club is holding the 10 Mile Road Race from the college on Sun 1st Dec. The venue has proved to be a great success and has attracted a good many entries – some even from Halifax! We expect to get close to the limit of 400 entries. If it goes over then there might be a late ordering of extra cheese! Maybe the success of the race is also partly due to the Sandham’s cheeses given out to finishers at the end of the race! The race starts at 10:00am and the carpark will be open from 8:00am onwards. Once again the club is grateful for the help of The Garstang Lions for directing traffic into the carpark. The race headquarters is the Equestrian Centre with its excellent catering facilities – nothing like a bacon butty after a hard run or an hour or so of marshalling!

As usual the route will be well marked and well marshalled – just like all our races. Hopefully there won’t be a repeat of the hanky-panky at the recent half marathon race when someone kindly moved some arrows around before the race! I’m sure they found it funny but it did put runners at risk. Fortunately it was spotted early enough! On-line race entry is available at the club’s website or UKResults.net. Provided the race limit hasn’t been reached entries will be available on the day – but be early! The club continues to attract new members so if you are interested pop down to the Garstang Sports & Social Club carpark for 7:00pm on a Tuesday and introduce yourself. If you would like more information about the race or the club phone (01995) 604030 or check out www.garstangrc.co.uk. Frank Miller - Garstang Running Club

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ROTARY Santa’s Illuminated Sleigh visits Garstang Rotary will be guiding Santa’s Sleigh around the streets of Catterall on Mon 16th Dec and Garstang and Cabus on Tues 17th Dec. Subject to the weather the journeys will start around 4:30pm finishing around 7:30pm. The Sleigh will also be parked outside Booths Supermarket on Thurs 19th Dec and Sat 21st Dec from 10:30am until about 4:00pm. Santa will talk to the children and listen to their Christmas wishes. Santa’s Elves will also be in attendance. They look forward to seeing you all. Parents please bring your children to the nearest point. You may take pictures of your own children if they wish. On Mon 16th Dec the route around Catterall

will be: Lapwing Close, Joe Lane, Baylton Drive, Pickering Gardens, Cock Robin Lane, Catterall Gates Lane around Keepers Wood, Hampshire Road, Topiary Gardens, Gryersdale, and Bowgreave Drive. On Tues 17th Dec the route around Garstang and Cabus will be: Dimples Lane, Pleasington Avenue, Spalding Avenue, Byerworth Lane, Clematis Drive, Moss lane, through Hazelhurst into Keppel Lane and Barrett’s Houses off A6, Moss Lane again to Croston Road Oak Road and the Swimming Pool then Mapel Road and Meadow Park, to Green Lane East, Hawthorns and end in Broom Hill Coppice. Details will also appear in What’s On in Garstang and the Rotary Facebook page. For further information please contact Roger Weatherell, 07711 671 224 Event Organiser. Don Goodier donald.goodier@btinternet.com The Countryside Flooring Company OPENING HOURS: Mon - Sat 9.30am - 5pm Closed from Sat 21st Dec. Re-open Sat 4th Jan

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ACTION FRAUD Shop Online Safely this Christmas It’s no surprise that the lead up to Christmas is the busiest time of the year for online shopping, which is why Lancashire Constabulary has provided these expert, easy-to follow safety points to help protect you from falling victim to seasonal scams. • At this time of year, scammers will send you emails and text messages with links to free gift giveaways or fake parcel firm delivery notifications. Clicking on these links could lead to fraud or identity fraud. • Avoid ‘free’ or ‘low cost’ gift adverts without thoroughly reading the small print and trust reviews. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

• Do not pay for any gifts via bank transfer to people or companies you don’t know. Always pay by credit card or PayPal. • Ensure the software and apps you use to purchase are up to date. Fraudsters take advantage of weak software to attack devices and steal your personal information. If you do fall victim to a scam, please make sure you report it to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for Fraud and Cyber Crime. Visit www.actionfraud.police.uk or phone 0300 123 2040. If something doesn’t feel right and you need advice before making a purchase, please don’t hesitate to contact FraudSafeguarding@ lancashire.pnn.police.uk Have a Merry and Safe Christmas, from The Economic Crime Unit at Lancashire Constabulary

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CARDIAC RISK IN THE YOUNG (CRY) Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund This Autumn was definitely the busiest ‘table top’ time we’ve ever had with a variety of events offering seasonal goodies and raising enough for a dozen more heart tests to be carried out! Huge thanks to everyone who has donated items for sale and to our hosts, Out Rawcliffe Village Hall, Garstang URC, Kirkland & Catterall Memorial Hall and the Kenlis Arms. I’m writing this having just got home from welcoming 101 young people to Garstang Medical Practice for a CRY heart screening. Thankfully this time there were no life threatening conditions highlighted, but for some investigations will continue. Our thoughts are with them for a positive outcome. This extra one day screening event was funded by Matt’s Milk Bottle Challenge

(MMBC) so a huge thank you to everyone who has taken part, raising the £5,000 needed to organise this. MMBC Challenge 2! is up and running so if anyone would like to get involved please get in touch. We return to Garstang Community Academy for our next screening on the first weekend in February. Appointments for this will go on line during the first week in December with invitations going to Academy families for the private screening on Sun 2nd Feb. At the charity Christmas card sale the lovely cards depicting Garstang in the Snow, a fabulous image taken by local photographer Mike Coleran, were very popular! I’m pleased to say these are still available from Best Wishes on the High Street, alongside another delightful design featuring Santa’s present for Robin. Our thanks go to Marion and Mark for organising and offering these cards in support of Matt’s Fund. For those who adore a little retail therapy Krystal and Annalee are hosting a Christmas Shopping event with Bodyshop at Home, on Sun 1st Dec at the Kenlis Arms Hotel from 6:30pm. £6 a ticket includes a seasonal hand cream (if pre-booked). Sun 8th Dec 11:00am, Garstang’s very first Santa Dash. £12 per adult, £8 child, family ticket £35. Price includes: free santa suit, finishers medal, hot drink and Christmas tree gingerbread. For full details and entry go to www.garstangsantadash.btck.co.uk or at Market Place News. As the year comes to a close we would like to thank you all for your wonderful support throughout 2019. It has been a whirlwind of a year with so many diverse activities and fundraisers that we sadly cannot thank you all individually. As always we’ve had fabulous company along the way and feel very grateful that

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CRY (cont) some of you chose to share your time and stories with us. Some events have been huge, some carried out quietly, some solo, some joint with other charities, but whatever you have done, and however you have done it on behalf of Mattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fund and all those who have had free screenings we thank you most sincerely. These vital tests would not be carried out in Garstang without you. From all of us at Team Matt we hope the gifts of peace, friendship and love are with you this Christmas time and look forward to your company in 2020. For further information Facebook: The Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund Paula Hesmondhalgh 07785 106 976 paulahez.ph@gmail.com

INNER WHEEL Garstang and Over Wyre The Club will be starting to celebrate the Festive Season very soon. We have our Christmas Party at the beginning of December. As always we are mindful of those less fortunate than ourselves and will not be giving each other Christmas cards. Instead there will be a voluntary collection which will be donated to Charity. The Club will enter into the spirit of the Rotary Santa Sleigh with two members offering much needed refreshments to Santa and his helpers on Mon 16th & Tues 17th Dec when they complete their rounds. We will join Rotary for their Christmas meal and 200 Club draw. We wish all the people of Garstang and beyond a very Happy Christmas and Good Health in 2020 Mary Mason

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PAINTING CLASSES A new hobby for the new year

GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB

• Vouchers Available •

Mondays 10am - 3pm Garstang Arts Centre Croston Rd, Garstang, PR3 1EB For details, contact Terry 07969 177 369 www.painting-classes-uk.net

On Sat 7th Dec we hold a Coffee Morning at the Arts Centre, 10:00am - 12:30pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and chat to members and look at a digital display of our work. December is a short month for the Camera Club, with just two meetings. Wed 4th Dec we have our Environment Cup Competition. Members show images related to where and how we live and how we interact with our environment. The judge will be Joan Gauld ARPS CPAGB. Sun 8th Dec members Adrian and Sue Whitaker will show us how to make an AV Presentation and we will be looking at members images they wish to put forward for the Battle with ‘Junction 36’ Photo Club (previously known as Holme Camera Club). Wed 11th Dec it is the Club’s Christmas Social with a photographic quiz by Harry Emmett from Accrington Camera Club and refreshments by way of a ‘Jacob’s Join’. The club meetings then restart in January. Wed 15th Jan we have our competition ‘Creatures of the World’ with judge Paul Dunmall CPAGB. Images are to show any real creatures with no toys, sculptures or people. Photography is a fantastic hobby allowing you to get exercise by being out and about

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GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB (cont) with your camera and helping your creative side by editing and printing your pictures. Meet other members, many of whom are experienced and can help with your queries about equipment, photo editing or photography in general. Anyone interested in photography who would like to see how the club works is welcome to come along and for just £4, including refreshments, you can decide if the club can be helpful to you. Visit our website or email us for further information. Peter Knight www.garstangcameraclub.co.uk info@garstangcameraclub.co.uk

GARSTANG HISTORICAL SOCIETY A talk on Moses Holden (1777 to 1864) will be given to members and friends of Garstang Historical Society at their December meeting. Moses was an early day polymath, with interests in mechanics, lens making, astronomy, travelling and preaching (he was a Methodist preacher). He was also a Freeman of Preston. Learn more about the life, work and times of this extraordinary man at our meeting at 7:30pm on Wed 11th Dec at Garstang United Reformed Church. The speaker is Mr Stephen R Halliwell. Members: free; visitors £3 (including refreshments in the hall after the lecture). More info from Peter Burrell (01995) 601054. Anthony Coppin

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GARSTANG SPORTS CLUB New Clubhouse Presentation Evening ‘The Future of Garstang Sports Club’ Wyrebank, Garstang Thurs 5th Dec 5:00pm & 7:00pm

The building project is for the benefit of sport for the future for all our children in the Garstang and surrounding locality. The sports club has become a victim of its own success. The current clubhouse can no longer function properly with the existing number of players and supporters. Difficulties include post-match activities and feeding arrangements as well as hosting fundraising events and individual club events - such as presentation evenings and the corporate entertainment events for sponsors. Furthermore, with new legislation regarding the size and layout of both changing rooms and shower areas (introduced by both the Rugby Football Union and the English Cricket Board) the current arrangements for both rugby and cricket at the clubhouse no longer conform to the required standards.

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Following a consultation plans have been drawn up and a planning application was submitted to Wyre Borough Council in February 2018. The expansion and improvement plans for the clubhouse can be viewed on the council’s website – Ref No 18/00181/FUL. This presentation evening marks the start of the fundraising campaign to raise money for an extension to the Sports Club in Garstang. Please RSVP re attendance and time you wish to attend to me. Charlie Collinson 07825 colgar69@yahoo.co.uk

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GARSTANG LIBRARY Please note Garstang Library will be closed from Tues 24th - Fri 27th Dec and Wed 1st Jan due to Christmas and New Year. Special Events Garstang Library is always looking for events for the local community. If you think you have something that would be of interest or would like to discuss using the Library as a venue for an event please contact us at garstang. library@lancashire.gov.uk

fun, with crafts, games and a screening of the film ‘Nativity’. Tickets include all activities, refreshments and popcorn. This event has been organised by Great Minds, a group of young people who run cultural events in the Library, with the support of Friends of Garstang Library. Tickets are £3 per child and £1 per adult. Get your tickets from the Library in advance to guarantee your space! Friends of Garstang Library

Make your own decoration inspired by your favourite book to hang on our community tree. Drop off any time before Christmas.

Do you want to be involved in your local community? Would you like to make a difference to your Library? Come along on Tues 3rd Dec at the new time of 11:30am and join in their regular monthly meeting.

Festive Afternoon With Great Minds. Sat 7th Dec 1:00pm. Come along to the first Great Minds film event at Garstang Library. Come to the Library for an afternoon of festive

Festive Songs with Harmony & Health . Wed 4th Dec 10:00am - 11:00am. Join local singing group ‘Harmony and Health’ for some festive songs and carols. Sit back and listen

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GARSTANG LIBRARY (cont) or join in. It’s all about having fun and making friends. All welcome, no booking required. Make Your Own Festive Film With Stop Motion Animation. Sat 7th Dec 10:00am 12 noon. Make a Christmas movie with Stop Motion Animation. Plan the story, design and create the set and direct your very own film using Lego characters. For ages 8+. All children must be accompanied by an adult. This event is free. Saturday Stories - Saturdays 10:00am12 noon. Discover a new story every week! Share your love of reading with family and friends. Explore the story together and make something to take home. Children aged five - eleven years welcome. Must be accompanied by an adult. Come to Saturday Stories during December to make Christmas cards for people in your local community and share festive stories. o We als ton s in g lo ly supp logs & ets of bags, n ﬁregrates g, kindlin h more m & uc

Board Games. Saturdays 10:00am - 12 noon. Come along for the next few weeks and join our Duke of Edinburgh volunteer and his selection of family favourite board games and chess. Everyone welcome Lancashire Adult Learning Courses at Garstang Library. Look out for details of courses being held by LAL at Garstang Library, but please note some courses are subject to a charge. A Taste of Germany: Language, Food & Lifestyle. 18th Dec 10:00am - 12 noon. Experience a flavour of German language, lifestyle and food. Learners will hear the language and be able to say a few words and phrases. They will also have the opportunity to learn a little about the way of life in Germany and sample food at the end of the session. This event is free to all adults over 19. Booking required. To enrol call 03330 031 717 or visit www.lal.ac.uk

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GARSTANG LIBRARY (cont) Activities for Children Baby Bounce and Rhyme followed by Chat Play Read - Mon and Fri 10:00am 11:00am. Toddler Rhyme Time followed by Chat Play Read - Tues 2:00pm - 3:00pm. Storytime for Pre-school and Primary School Aged Children - Fri 3:30pm 4:00pm. Activities for Adults Have a Go. First Friday of every month from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. Do you enjoy being creative and meeting like-minded people? Share your talent and ideas and learn new skills. This informal group gives you the opportunity to share your creations and pass on your skills to others. Bring along something you have been

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working on and celebrate each others’ achievements. Don’t worry if you don’t have anything to share, come along anyway and ‘have a go’! You might find a new passion and make some new friends. All adults welcome, no booking required. Knit and Natter – Every Tuesday 2:00pm - 4:00pm. Join our friendly and informal group to share ideas and patterns, learn new crafts and to meet new people. All ages and abilities welcome. Pop Up Drop-In for everyone affected by neurological conditions. Tues 10th Dec 12 noon - 2:00pm. Delivered by NeuroDropIn. Further Information If you require any further information about any of the events or to book a place please contact the Library or go online at www. eventbrite.co.uk www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries facebook: @lancslibraries twitter: @lancspublib Tel 03001 236 703 or just pop into the Library and speak to a member of staff. Mobile Libraries Scorton - Wed 11th Dec Mytten Hall, Scorton 9:15-9:40 Brook Avenue, Scorton 9:45-10:05 Near Scorton C of E School 10:10-10:40

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GARSTANG LIBRARY (cont)

BABA’S BABY & TODDLER GROUP

Stones Lane, Catterall 12:10am - 12:20pm.

Wesley’s Coffee Lounge Garstang Methodist Church Every Wed 10:00am - 11:30am

Meadowcroft Avenue, Catterall 12:25pm 12:35pm. Claughton-on-Brock Tue 3rd Dec (no visit 24th Dec) Ducketts Lane, Claughton-on-Brock 9:20am - 9:30am. The Mobile Library stocks books in a variety of formats and has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction titles for all ages. If not already a Library member it is easy to join. Please note, routes and dates can be subject to change. For details of exact times and locations of stops please ring 07717 543 763 or email garstang.mobile.ml3@lancashire.gov.uk Garstang Library 03001 236 703

A friendly welcome awaits you and your baby/toddler for chat, brew and play. The last meeting before Christmas is Wed 11th Dec opening again on Wed 8th Jan. Happy Christmas! D Gorst (01995) 606226

GOOD VIBRATIONS Every Thursday 6:30pm St Peter’s Church, Scorton This is a feel good, wellbeing group for people who love to sing (whether they can or not!) That’s not important. It’s not a choir. No auditions. Just come along and sing. Find us on our Facebook page at Good Vibrations which will keep people updated. Jan Hindle 07730 646 581

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SOROPTIMISTS Women Inspiring Action, Transforming Lives

and made lots of new ones. All in all, it was a fantastic few days!

Annual Conference

Think Pink Sri Lanka

Well, we’re back from Conference. It was a long journey down to Bournemouth, but it was well worth it! Sometimes motivating yourself to do something is the hardest part. When I looked at the 5-6 hour journey time, the ‘should I?’ question came to mind but after attending, all I could think of was ‘I’m so glad I made the effort!’ We enjoyed fantastic speakers who provided great insights and were so motivational. We had feedback on projects from around our Federation which have been so successful and provided so much help and support for women and children. We enjoyed great entertainment and most importantly, met with old friends

Whilst at conference, we ‘met’ a real Tuk Tuk – what a great piece of machinery and to think we are fast approaching the half-way mark to providing one of these machines for Sri Lanka. As you can see, we took the opportunity to have our photo taken. To find out more information about the project visit www.rosie-may.com/work-sri-lanka Garstang Victorian Festival Our next big event in the fundraising programme will be our famous parched peas at the Victorian Evening in Garstang on Mon 9th and Tues 10th Dec. These always sell out fast, so make us your first stop to avoid disappointment. This year we will also be show-casing a great Christmas gift idea, so come and look at our ideas to light your home (all money will go to our Tuk Tuk project). BackPacks We may seem to be quiet on this one, but with your help we are still really dedicated to this great way of helping children in other parts of the world get some of the basic requirements to help them to attend school. Annemarie has just sent off another batch of filled backpacks – and this means we have completed over 500 since we started in 2012. That’s absolutely amazing!

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SOROPTIMISTS (cont)

OUT RAWCLIFFE OVER 60’S

Thank you to everybody who has donated backpacks etc over the years – and please carry on if you can. We are currently in need of pencil cases, spoons (dessert spoon size), toothpaste and of course backpacks.

Our November meeting was an enjoyable get together with 20 members attending. A one minute silence was held in remembrance of member David Johnson who passed away on Wed 23rd Oct. He will be sadly missed.

Please continue to drop off your used backpacks or other items at The Mustard Seed Café, Park Hill Road (opposite the Wheat Sheaf Pub). Yhey are open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 10:00am to 2:00pm. Or ring us to arrange collection.

Our Autumn Tints October trip to Bowness was a lovely day out, with some members taking boat rides on Lake Windermere. The autumnal colours were a sight to see. The high tea at Crooklands was enjoyed by all. Unfortunately this was the last trip of the year, but we can all look forward to next year’s trips.

Other News We hosted an evening with My Pink Angel at our speaker meeting in November. This was a fun evening and we’ve finally learnt some of those fashionable ways to fasten a scarf, rather than just tying a knot. It was really nice having the opportunity to have accessories explained and demonstrated in a comfortable gathering. We’ll give you plenty of notice for the next event.

Twenty games of dominoes were played and prizes presented to the winners: 1st Joyce Williamson, 2nd Renee Higginson, 3rd John Horrocks, 4th Vera Redman, 5th Kathleen Lawrenson, 6th Ron Holford. The booby prize went to Vivien Glossop. The evening was brought to a close with John Ireland expressing his appreciation for the help given and for the raffle prizes donated.

And finally… a big thank you for all the support you have given us during the year and we wish you all a fantastic and, if possible, a relaxing Christmas break and here’s to a peaceful 2020 full of fun and friendship together – Happy New Year! Why not come and find out if you could make a difference? We meet twice a month at the Garstang Hotel and Golf Club, at 7:00pm on the second and fourth Wednesday (excluding August and December). Interested ladies from throughout the Over Wyre and Garstang district are always very welcome. Please ring our membership co-ordinator Muriel Burnham-Airey (01995) 606604 to arrange to be met, or just come and introduce yourself. Take a Look at What We Do www.sigarstang.org.uk facebook.com: SoroptimistsGarstang www.twitter.com/GarstangSoropt Muriel Burnham-Airey (01995) 606604

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OUT RAWCLIFFE OVER 60’S (cont) The next meeting - our members’ Christmas Party - will be on Tues 3rd Dec at 5:00pm for the meal at 5:30pm. Please remember your numbered ticket; it could be a prize winner! This is our last meeting of the year. The Club has a break over the new year restarting in the Village Hall on the Tues 3rd March at 7:30pm. Jane Webster

GARSTANG LADIES SPEAKERS Do you want a different sort of social activity? You’ve done the knitting, the embroidery, the cake making and now want something new to challenge you? We at Garstang Ladies Speakers Club could be your answer. Don’t be put off by the title; if you come and join us you won’t be put under any pressure to speak, you can just enjoy listening to others. However, I doubt you’ll be able to resist the opportunity to be heard for

very long as the themes for each meeting are subjects we all encounter and about which we have something to say. Our meetings are friendly and enjoyable with members presenting speeches ranging from the serious to the hilarious. Come along to our meeting on Tues 3rd Dec for a light-hearted look at ‘Your Desert Island Luxury’. There will be no more meetings before Christmas but this last one of 2019 will spur you on to start again on Tues 7th Jan. We meet in the comfortable surroundings of the Garstang Country Hotel & Golf Club with meetings commencing at 7:15pm for 7:30pm. To contact a club member phone Hilary Ormston (01995) 600539 or e mail me. You can also find us on Facebook. Sue Hubbard barleyfold@madasafish.com www.garstangladiesspeakersclub.org

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TRAVEL TALKS Wed 4th Dec 7:30pm Blackpool Sixth Form College John Atherton shares with us a ‘A South Africa Diary’, telling us of a safari from Jo’burg to the Cape, exploring parts of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho - a three week journey with a truly wide range of experiences.

The

Grapes

CHRISTMAS

Our meetings consist of illustrated talks covering all parts of the world. Speakers are drawn from recognised professional writers, photographers and journalists, our own members and travellers from across the country.

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New members and visitors are most welcome.Facilities are suitable for the disabled, including audio loop. Refreshments are available during the break.

your total food bill*

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. www.traveltalks.club Email: info@traveltalks.club Twitter: @TravelTalks.club Joan Gaffiney (01253) 700799

POSTING DATES FOR CHRISTMAS Royal Mail’s latest recommended posting dates for delivery in the UK for 2019 are: •

Weds 18th Dec for second class mail

•

Fri 20th Dec for first class mail

•

Mon 23rd Dec for special delivery

There will be no delivery and collection service from Christmas Day through to Boxing day. Normal service will resume on Friday, December 27. On New Year’s Day there will be no deliveries or collections. For cut-off dates for the rest of the world, visit www.royalmail.com/christmas

20% OFF

on Mondays & Tuesdays from 4-8pm

*Minimum spend - 1 main meal per person. Offer not available 23rd, 24th or 31st Dec.

If you just fancy a tipple... All cask ales £2.50 a pint Carling & Aspall £3.00 a pint (available 4-7pm)

OPENING TIMES Mon - Thurs: 4-11pm | Fri: 4pm-12am Sat: 12pm-12am & Sun: 12pm-11pm

01995 679788

The Grapes, Garstang Road St Michael’s on Wyre, PR3 0TJ

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GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS Donations A decision was made to donate £500 to the Brain Tumour Charity to be used to fund much needed future research. A sum of £200 had been allocated to purchase Christmas gifts to distribute to the different refuges in the area run by Fylde Womens’ Aid. However there is a continued need for new clothing items (for babies, small children and/or ladies), new toys, new cosmetics or new toiletries. This appeal is ongoing with our collection point being the Resources Centre (old Liberal Club on Bridge Street). The next delivery is planned to take place in the week beginning Sun 8th Dec.

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During the year Garstang Lions has given a total of over £5,500 to support the activities of a very wide range of local groups and charitable causes. Among the organisations that have received help are Fylde Women’s Aid, the local Memory Café, Garstang in Bloom, Brian House, Kids Cancer, the Bowland and Pennine Mountain Rescue Team, Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), Prostate Cancer UK, Achieve, Change and Engagement, the North West Children’s Group, the Marie Curie Appeal, Rosemere Cancer, UK Activity Alliance, the Brian Tumour Charity, the Royal British Legion and the Youth Opportunity Trust. In addition several local families plus several members of the Girl Guides have received direct support and assistance. Monies or help has been given to groups including the Youth Cricket Team, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards scheme (Garstang Academy), Lifeguarding training (Garstang Swimming Club) and Team ShazzAnn.

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GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS (cont) Events & Activities

Memory Café

The Bonfire and Firework Display was a great success and the weather was kind on the night. Our thanks goes to both the Mayor of Garstang and the Deputy Youth Mayor for their attendance and assistance with the lighting of the fire, all of the Lion members and their partners who helped plus the several businesses that delivered and donated wood for this event.

The Lions continue to support the activities of the local Memory Café which is organised by Lion Sandra Perkins and meets on both the first Wednesday of the month (10:00am - 12:00 noon) and also the third Monday (2:00pm - 4:00pm) in Garstang Library. This is a lively social group with a range of fun activities being provided free for those suffering from dementia and their carers, family members and partners. The dates for these sessions are Wed 4th Dec and Mon 16th Dec (Christmas party).

Several members of the club acted as stewards supporting both the Switch-on of the Garstang Christmas Lights and the necessary road closures. The club will once again be assisting in parking cars for the popular Myerscough Ten Mile Run on Sun 1st Dec. The Lions will be hosting their annual Mencap Christmas Lunch on Sun 8th Dec at the Wyrebank Banqueting Suite. The event is expected to attract 105 guests with their arrival from 12 noon onwards.

Last month’s activities included a lively performance by the Garstang Ukulele Group who played a wide range of songs and a relaxing practical session on mindfulness and well being. Chris Wilkinson Lions

- Garstang & District

As usual the Lions will be assisting Santa Claus at the 2019 Garstang Victorian Festival on Mon 9th Dec and Tues 10th Dec. Please watch out for and visit our Grotto which will be outside the Kings Arms Public House. The annual Garstang Tractor Run is due to take place on Sun 29th Dec. Many Lions will be working hard to support this event. Our first event in the new year will be to assist with the car parking at the 10k Road Race and the two mile Family Fun Run to be held on Sun 12th Jan at Garstang Academy. Further information about the range of activities and projects we are involved in is available on the Garstang Lions website www.garstanglions.co.uk or you can just speak to any member about what we do or come along to our meetings held on the third Tuesday of the month in the Royal Oak at 8:00pm.

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COMPUTER ADVICE After a bit of a gap (No! Did you miss me?) a quick last minute article based on a ‘real life story’.

internet problems so couldn’t buy them online (or so the story went). She also wasn’t going to be contactable by phone, hence the email.

I’ve just had a phone call from someone who wanted to tell me of her shock and embarrassment at having fallen for an email scam.

My friend – let’s call her Mary – did try to ring Anne but got no reply which fitted in with what the email said. She asked, by email, how many gift cards to buy and was told £200. Mary went to the shops and bought £200 of Amazon vouchers, and then again tried to ring Anne but still no reply. She then followed the instructions she had been given which was to scratch off the reveal panel on the back of the cards, take a picture of the Redeem Code and send the pictures back by email.

The specific nature of this one was a new one on me (although it shares common elements with other scams) so I thought it may be worthwhile flagging it up to the Focus readers in an attempt to prevent others from finding themselves in the same situation. In this instance, the bad guys had managed to hack into or take over control of someone else’s email account – let’s call her Anne. They then sent emails to people in her address book asking for help in buying some Amazon Gift Cards which she urgently needed as presents but she couldn’t manage to get to the shops herself and was having

A day or so later Anne returned Mary’s calls, and confirmed that she was having some problems because her email account had been hacked. She hadn’t sent any emails asking for help or Amazon cards etc: Mary had been scammed and had lost £200.

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In many respects Mary was quite lucky – the money was unfortunately long gone (the Gift Cards had already been used up by the bad guys), but she hadn’t given away her bank details etc so no further damage would be done and she didn’t have to get a new credit card. But it was a very expensive lesson in not believing everything you read on an email from a genuine person in your contacts.

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 EASY, safe and secure use by getting it set up now .

There are two different messages I want to leave you with from this tale – the first is one which I have covered on previous occasions but which I can never stress too strongly: do not trust emails just because they appear to come from someone you know.

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Websites ~ PC help and advice ~ Bug fixes

If the email asks you to click on a link or do something slightly unusual, STOP. If you really want to be sure, contact the person who has sent the message by phone to check, or ask another friend/family member for advice. The second message is for anyone who finds themselves in the position of having their email account hacked. If this does happen

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COMPUTER ADVICE (cont)

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE

to you, don’t just leave matters hanging. Get your email provider to change the password or lock the account to prevent the bad guys from using your reputation to target your friends with a scam like this.

Welcome to Garstang Arts Centre

Tell as many people as you can that you have had a problem, and if you then have missed calls from your friends, make sure you get back to them as soon as possible just in case they are ringing to ask whether you really need some Amazon Gift Cards. Nobody wants to hand over £200 to scumbag scammers, or to be responsible for their friends having been hit, and especially not at this time of year, so please everyone – just be careful! If you have any questions and concerns about computer security etc then please do get in touch with me. Joan Bailey 07528 173 891

GALLOWAYS SOCIAL CLUB Never mind the weather for on Wed 4th Dec we welcome once again Garstang’s own Ukulele Band and they will get your feet tapping to warm you up. Normally we meet every fortnight but for once we will be meeting the following week on Wed 11th Dec in order to make arrangements for transport etc. to the Royal Oak for our Christmas meal on Wed 18th Dec. Our next meeting will be held on Wed 22nd Jan at St. Helen’s Church Hall, Churchtown, at 2:00pm - 4:00pm. Anyone who is blind or partially sighted is very welcome to come along and join us. We are a small mixed, very friendly group and if you live locally - Scorton, Churchtown, Catterall or St Michael’s we can provide free transport for you. If you are interested please contact me. Lorna Musgrave (01995) 471319

Are you new to Garstang or recently retired? Have you visited the Arts Centre yet? It’s not just for artists - it’s got something for everyone. It’s a great place to meet up for a coffee or a pot of tea and find out about all the various groups that meet there, some weekly, others monthly, ranging from music, dancing, singing, floral art, bridge and wine tasting to name just a few. The paintings are changed monthly and you can view them for free! Find out more about us online: www.garstangartssociety.org.uk Facebook /artcentre.garstang Twitter /ArtsGarstang Art Exhibition Barry Wearing makes a welcome return to the Arts Centre this month. His imagination is always stirred by Fantasy Art and he is inspired by artists such as Frank Frazetta,

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GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE (cont) whose work is dynamic, energetic and dreamlike and Dali whose work is surreal. As you view Barry’s artwork don’t be surprised if you see a fox riding a penny farthing or a dragon standing on the battlements of some mythical castle. The exhibition closes on Thurs 12th Dec. Open Art Exhibition/Competition There is still time to enter our Open Art Competition in January. Details and entry forms may be found on the Arts Centre website or from me. Sheila Tearle (01995) 603816 Bridge Group

twice in the 20th century, both time in relation to ships. In a 1933 debate on Shipbuilding, Mr J Jones asked Sir Robert Horne if he’d played the ukulele while visiting Honolulu, to which Sir Richard replied that he did not, but he had heard it. In 1971 during a debate on the Wilberforce Report, Lord Davies of Leek mentioned the wreck of the Nancy Lee in which Captain Brown played his ukulele as the ship went down. In 1991 ukulele is mentioned again, but this time it is the nickname of the pension scheme for employees of the UK Atomic Energy Authority at Aldermaston.

This month the Bridge Group will meet on Monday 2nd & 16th Dec at 7:00pm and on Tuesday 3rd,10th & 17th Dec at 1:30pm. This is a friendly group and if you have any interest in learning or continuing to play this absorbing game come along and give it a try. You will be very welcome. Best wishes to everybody for a Happy Christmas.

The only mention so far in the 21st century was earlier this year on the 17th July in a debate on Music Education in England.

Bob Burns (01995) 603524

This made me wonder if MPs wouldn’t benefit from having their own ukulele group, the Memberleles perhaps. This would give them something else to think about other than endlessly voting against each other.

Needlework Group We meet in the Arts Centre on Wednesday mornings from 10:00am to 12 noon. If you enjoy knitting, crochet, embroidery, patchwork, applique or would like to learn, do come and join this friendly, helpful group. Ann Kelsall (01995) 606408 Ukelele Group - Ukuleles in Parliament Since the Fixed-term Parliament Act 2011 we seem to have moved to having a general election every two years, which made me wonder about the role of ukuleles in our parliament. My search of Hansard revealed that the word ‘ukulele’ has only been uttered four times in the Houses of Parliament within the last 220 years. There was no mention in the 19th century, but

Labour MP Tracy Brabin said that children who might be unable to concentrate in class can ‘play the ukulele for hours. No one loses in music, so we all benefit; there are no winners or losers’.

So at the hustings it will be important to ask the candidates how much ukulele practice they manage each day. Before you vote, find out if they might prefer to spend some of their time in Parliament enjoying harmony rather than winning and losing. Merry Christmas! Bob Sapey www.garstangukulelegroup.co.uk Woolcraft If you are interested in woolcrafts (knitting, crochet, maybe felting) or would like to know what we do, please come along to the Arts Centre in Garstang at 7:00pm on Tuesday evenings (except the first of the month) or

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GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE (cont) Friday afternoons at 2:00pm, where we will make you very welcome. We work on individual and group projects, often raising money for charities. Everyone is welcome. Experienced or beginner. We will support you! There will also be tea and biscuits!

Book Club 10:30am – 12 noon at Garstang Arts Centre on a Tuesday morning, monthly. For more information please contact The Arts Centre (01995) 606648. Scrabble Group

Poetry Appreciation

The Scrabble Group meet on Tuesday afternoons at the Arts Centre 2:00pm till 3:30pm. Everyone welcome.

Fri 13th Dec 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Judy Osborne (01995) 600996

Kate Crook 07759 659 004

This month is our Christmas Special. Choose your favourite Christmas Poems. The meeting ends with a Christmas Tea. Visitors are always very welcome. Come and sit and listen or join in if you wish. Marie Whalley (01995) 603605 Recorded Music Group At our November meeting, presenter Gordon Bell’s ‘Desert Island Decade’ was a programme of memorable works that he had heard in many concert venues during ten years living in the South-East. Most of his chosen composers were British or Irish and almost all the recordings were by the players he had heard at the concerts. It was an unusual theme for a programme and a very successful one. Everyone made their approval and enjoyment very clear. Our final meeting of 2019, on Mon 2nd Dec at 7:30 pm, will be an evening of members’ choices. Some seasonal content is of course appropriate, but other offerings are welcome. Following the success of the November programme, members might consider pieces that have associations with happy memories? Finally, attendees should be aware that the group has no programme in place for 2020, and present indications are that this is unlikely to change. Gordon Semple (01995) 602337 David Greenwood (01995) 602875

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CHRISTMAS GREY MATTER TEST (ans page 59) 1. Alphabetically, which of Santa’s reindeer comes first? 2. Which Joan had a 60s hit with ‘There But For Fortune’? 3. Who is generally recognised as writing the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (also known as “’Twas the Night Before Christmas”)? 4. The letter ‘W’ is on which side of a typewriter or computer keyboard? 5. In ‘The Gingerbread Man’ fairytale, who or what devours the gingerbread man in the end? 6. What is 5/8 minus 1/4? 7. What stick would you put into a mulled wine? 8. Jodrell Bank is in which English county? 9. Who wrote the Band Aid song ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas’? 10. Is Barbados ahead of or behind Greenwich Mean Time? 11. The Australian external territory of Christmas Island is in which ocean? 12. How many degrees in a circle? 13. In the novel A Christmas Carol, which is the first ghost to visit Scrooge? 14. What term describes vegetables cut thinly and slowly cooked in butter? 15. In the Christmas song ‘Let it Snow’ what has happened to the lights? 16. What name is given to the crime of deliberately burning someone else’s property? 17. Which wordless children’s picture book by Raymond Briggs was first published in 1978? 18. Who was the outgoing American President when Barack Obama took office? 19. La Noche Buena refers to which time over the Christmas period in Spain? 20. In which 60s film did the deranged character Norman Bates appear?

21. Traditionally what do you stud onions with in a bread sauce? 22. Which T.V. sit-com was set in Walmington-on-Sea? 23. In ‘The Twelve Days Of Christmas’, what were there eight of? 24. On which radio station is ‘The Archers’ broadcast? 25. If you were born on Christmas Day, what’s your star sign? 26. Idi Amin became the president of which country? 27. What is a Buche de Noel better known as in the UK? 28. The monarchy returned to Spain after the death of which general? 29. Bethlehem is a tiny village in which UK country? 30. Which Australian rock is sacred to the Aborigines? 31. From which country does the Christmas drink Eggnog originate? 32. What was the traditional colour for Aran wool? 33. The Christmas movie ‘Miracle on 34th Street’ is set in which city? 34. Which city boasts the Jorvik Viking Centre? 35. Which Christmas carol demands figgy pudding? 36. William the Conqueror held what title prior to becoming King of England? 37. What was Mr. Bean searching for when he got his head stuck in the turkey? 38. What kind of Naked creature did Desmond Morris write about? 39. What type of animal eats meat? 40. In the Dr Who Christmas special in 2017, which actress made her first official appearance as the 13th Doctor?

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CHRISTMAS CROSSWORD (ans p59)

Across

Down

8. 9. 10. 11 12 14 15 18 20 22 23 25 26

1. 2. 3. 4. 5 6 7 13 16 17 19 21 24

Savoury snack before a meal (6) Accomplishes (8) Teeth cleaner (10) Retail outlet (4) Sign of appreciation (8) A written version of a play (6) Christmas vegetables (8,7) Calm; tranquil (6) Making something fit for the present (8) The sun, for instance (4) Mentions; testimonials (10) Almond-based coating for cakes (see 2 down) (6)

Singer of Christmas songs (8) 26a US film producer & animator (4,6) Greek oracle (6) Filling for the turkey (7,8) Makes someone happy (6,2) Weigh ingredients for baking (7,3) Regain, reimburse (6) Treat milk (10) Liquid for cleaning sore eyes (3,5) Decorated with glittery strips (8) Additional runs; spare actors? (6) Scoff; mock (6) Home (4)

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GARSTANG MEDICAL PRACTICE Christmas and New Year Opening Times

Appointments

Garstang Medical Practice will be open as usual throughout the Christmas and New Year period apart from the Bank Holidays. We will be closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. If you need medical assistance or advice outside of our opening hours, please call the NHS 111 service.

We will be running Open Surgeries every day during the festive period from Mon 23rd Dec to Fri 3rd Jan. Patients must ring the surgery first; it is not a ‘walk in’ service.

The NHS 111 service is staffed by a team of fully trained advisers, supported by experienced nurses and paramedics. They will ask questions to assess your symptoms, then give you the healthcare advice you need or direct you to the local service that can help you best. That could be A&E, an out-of-hours doctor, an urgent care centre or a walk-in centre, a community nurse, an emergency dentist or a late-opening chemist. For more information please visit the NHS choices website: www.nhs.uk

When you telephone the surgery you will still need to give the receptionist an idea of your problem so that the clinicians can prioritise and ensure patients are seen by the most appropriate clinician. If your problem is such that you would prefer not to pass these details to our staff, this will always be respected. However, we do ask that this is the exception and not the norm as the doctors and nurses will be unable to appropriately assess which patients need to be seen by whom. The receptionist will give you an allocated time window to come to surgery e.g. 9:00am - 9:30am. You may then come down at any time within that half hour. You will be asked to sit and wait to be called in by the most appropriate clinician. Patients will be able to express a preference as to who they would like to see but this may not be guaranteed as it will depend on who is available that day and the number of patients requesting any particular clinician. The doctors will work through the list of patients between them in order of both time and clinical priority. Prescriptions As we are only closed for three days over Christmas and New Year. Please order your repeat prescriptions as normal allowing two working days for collection. Kepple Lane Dispensary is open every day including Christmas Day (10:00am - 1:00pm), Boxing Day (10:00am - 7:00pm) and New Year’s Day (10:00am - 7:00pm).

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GARSTANG MEDICAL (cont) Vitamin D Advice

all the fuss was about.

Vitamin D is an essential vitamin required by the body for the absorption of calcium, bone development, immune functioning and alleviation of inflammation.

I lived a few months of a miserable life. I ne’er fell in love or e’en took a wife.

A deficiency of Vitamin D can lead to rickets, a weakened immune system, and weak bones. However, excess vitamin D can cause the body to absorb too much calcium, leading to increased risk of heart disease and kidney stones.

I was born by artificial ‘semination, a disgrace for what passes for farms in our nation.

Foods high in vitamin D include fish, mushrooms exposed to sunlight, fortified milk, fortified milk substitutes, fortified tofu, fortified yogurt, fortified breakfast cereals, fortified orange juice, pork chops, and eggs. During the autumn and winter, you need to get vitamin D from your diet because the sun in the UK isn’t strong enough for the body to make vitamin D. However, since it’s difficult for people to get enough vitamin D from food alone, everyone (including pregnant and breastfeeding women) should consider taking a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms or 400 units of vitamin D during the autumn and winter. Between late March/early April to the end of September, most people can get all the vitamin D they need through sunlight on their skin and from a balanced diet. You may choose not to take a vitamin D supplement during these months. Please note, using sunbeds isn’t a recommended way of making vitamin D. We would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy & Healthy New Year Garstang Medical Practice (01995) 607399

TURKEY’S LAMENT I was born in an egg, and pecked my way out/ wondering what

I’ve never seen grass much less a tree. I have two wings which are useless to me. My whole life excluded from natural light. I never knew difference between day and the night. I have to admit I was truly well fed. But I’d willingly swap that for freedom instead. Our natural home is a forest or wood. To scratch round and peck there would do us all good. There’s a rumour around I just know it’s true. That we have to die to feed all of you. You’ve tortured and caged us we’re ignored and needy. You humans are all so incredibly greedy. You sing, ‘Peace on Earth’, and ‘Goodwill to Men’. With no thought for God’s Creatures locked up in this pen. One thing’s for sure as you sit down to dine. Your Christmas will be much better than mine. Norma Southwood

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GARSTANG WINE CIRCLE As one of its ‘extracurricular activities’, the Wine Circle held a Port and Cheese tasting at the Arts Centre on Sat 9th Nov. The Port was supplied by Stuart Rothwell from the Vineyard Wine Shop at Ramsbottom, and the cheeses were sourced by circle member Anne Whithead. We tasted six ports, the selection consisting of a White Port, a Rosé, both sampled with and without tonic then a Tawny, a Ruby, a Late Bottled Vintage Port, a Crusted Port and a Vintage Port. These wines were followed by a Portuguese Muscat. Certainly a chance to compare Ports of various age and prices. The selection of cheese included Garstang White, Garstang Blue, and Manchego (not local of course). A most convivial evening, and thanks must go to Stuart for coming across from ‘Rammy’ with the Port and leading the tasting and for Anne’s hard work in sourcing the cheeses.

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The regular programme of tastings continued on Mon 18th Nov. The proceedings were started with Debbie Hewitt presenting a Welsh Sparkling Wine to the group. Pefriog is produced at the Gwinllan Vineyard near Conwy, and it demonstrates the quality of sparkling wines now being produced in the British Isles. It was clearly a hit with members. Jennifer McNamee presented a selection of wines from the Lebanon including some from the iconic Chateau Musar. The Chateau Musar wine is produced in Lebanon, in the Bekaa Valley. The winery was established in 1930 and has remained in the Hochar Family to the current day. Over recent years, with the exception of 1976 and 1984 it has continued production in spite being close to what has been a war zone. Since peace was established, the number of wine producers has increased in that area of the Lebanon, and Jennifer also presented wines from Chateau Kefraya and the Ixsir Winery, competitors to Musar. Musar tends to be controversial, and opinions were split about its wines presented at the tasting. The wines from Kefraya and Ixsir were well received and provide good alternatives to Musar. It was certainly an enjoyable tasting that provoked much discussion of the merits of the wines amongst the members of the circle. The food for the evening was provided by Carol and Bruce Allan and Mike and Brenda Ashton, and the vote of thanks by Jolanta Basnyet. The next meeting of the circle will be on Sat 14th Dec 7:30pm in the Arts Centre. This will be the Wine Circle Christmas Social. Members of the Circle will be given priority in purchasing tickets, and any queries about the event should be addressed to Alan Jefferson (01995) 601842. Mervyn Stokes

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A NEW ERA FOR OAKLANDS As many readers of the Garstang Focus will know Oaklands on Dimples Lane has been a provider of residential nursing care for 50 years. It is home to up to 30 disabled adult residents, many with complex needs. Readers may recognise Oaklands as being a part of Leonard Cheshire Disability – indeed it is colloquially referred to as the ‘Leonard Cheshire Home’ by many local people. However, on 1st August 2019 ownership of Oaklands, along with 16 other Leonard Cheshire Homes in the North of England transferred to Valorum Care Ltd. Traditionally Oaklands has received tremendous support from the local community and this support and engagement is very important to all that live, work and volunteer here. We are keen to expand the engagement that we have with our community and seek your support in helping us to achieve this. Oaklands is a Victorian house which sits in magnificent grounds, adjacent to the Lancaster canal near to the Dimples Lane bridge. In 2020 we will be looking to utilise this wonderful setting to bring our residents and the community closer together whilst supporting the newly established Valorum Foundation - a charitable community benefit society - which will support all at Oaklands in leading a full and inclusive life.

If you would like to support our residents by volunteering, you can make a huge difference to the enjoyment they find in life. We would particularly like to hear from you if you have time to offer in befriending (spending time with our residents) gardening, fundraising, supporting events and driving. Any funds raised for Oaklands will be used to provide opportunities for our residents to engage in activities that they identify as being important to them. All expenses incurred through volunteering with us are paid and we will provide the necessary training and development to support your time with our residents. As you would expect all volunteers are subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check. If you would like to help please contact me. Paul Ferguson (01995) 602290 Paul.Ferguson@ValorumCare.co.uk

We are at the early stages of planning a range of events that will take place next year, all of which will be located at Oaklands. Our ideas include a family fun day (many of you will remember similar events in years gone by) and concerts and plays showcasing local and national talent. In addition, we will be organising events in and around Garstang to promote our residents and raise funds to support their goals and ambitions. This will include an active presence in the Garstang Children’s, Ice Cream and Scarecrow Festivals. Please support us where you can by attending one or more of our events.

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GARSTANG IN BLOOM It’s Awards Season and what a fantastic time we’ve had! On Fri 25th Oct, four of the team travelled down to London for the Britain in Bloom Awards at the Lindley Hall, the headquarters of the Royal Horticultural Society. Britain in Bloom is a national competition so, along with Catterall, we were delighted to be invited to participate in this prestigious horticultural event. The prizes were presented by Baroness Floella Benjamin, Vice-President of the RHS. You may remember her lively personality on the BBC many years ago on programmes such as Play School. She hardly looked a day older! It was a successful evening with Garstang in Bloom winning Gold in the Small Town category plus a Discretionary Award for

Wise Ways with Water. Our ‘wise ways’ are the use of Booths harvested rain water, hence saving on mains water, and having reservoir planters rather than ordinary ones. We must also boast that we were nominated for two other discretionary awards, the only place in the UK to do so! Our neighbours Catterall won Silver Gilt in the Village section, a splendid result considering the group only formed three years ago. The following Thursday and Friday, prizes were presented at Southport for the North West in Bloom competition. Here we received our best-ever haul of Neighbourhood awards with a total of seven, five of them rated as Outstanding. This shows what a thriving community we have here in Garstang. This was followed by two Golds for the Bloomers and Kepple Lane Park and, the icing on the cake, the prize of Best Small Town for the North West. Here’s a summary of the NW in Bloom honours: Garstang in Bloom - Gold and Best Small Town. Kepple Lane - Gold and National Award with Distinction for Parks and Green Spaces. Judges Discretionary - Garstang Marina. Thriving Neighbourhood - Garstang Dementia Cafe. Advanced Neighbourhood - Cancer Help Croston Road. Outstanding Neighbourhoods - Kepple Lane, Millennium Green, Sandbriggs Court, Woodlands Community at Oak Rd, Garstang Marina. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to our success. As Alan Pearson, our Chairman, said, it is ‘not just about the flowers’. A large part of Britain in Bloom recognises community involvement - from larger businesses like Booths or smaller contributions by individuals on litter picks.

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GARSTANG IN BLOOM (cont) One of the ‘wow’ factors that impressed the judges this year was the newly painted green bollards on the High St. Thanks go to Neil Dever and his team of painters for making this difference. After such a successful year, now is the time to rest a bit, but also to start our planning for the next competition. Roll on 2020! Gill Bergman - Garstang in Bloom

CATTERALL IN BLOOM GOLD! The RHS North West in Bloom judges awarded Catterall a Gold at the recent ceremony in Southport. This comes after a Silver Gilt in the Britain in Bloom finals which took place in London in October. We are chuffed! What a brilliant result for all the hard work in Catterall by the dedicated Bloom team and also the people in the local community who have supported us all year. The judges were delighted to meet many passionate and enthusiastic gardeners during their tour of the village, where there was a balance of bedding and sustainable planting for pollinating insects. They loved the new Bee and Bee raised flowerbed at the entrance to the village Hall car park and gave special praise for ‘Mr Wobbly’ our watering system made of recycled materials, which was used daily during the heat of summer. The judges commented on the beautifully painted bus shelters, the outstanding community garden at Stone Cross Gardens and noted how clean and tidy the village looked. It was obvious during the tour that there is pride in our community and so the Bloom team would like to say a huge thank you to Wyre Borough Council, Catterall Parish Council, local businesses and individuals who donated funds towards the plants and

paint in 2019. Thank you most of all to the happy people of Catterall who encouraged the Bloom team with kind words and sometimes with cups of coffee and cake! You may have noticed the knitted and crochet Poppies at the War Memorial and the Milestone near Joe Lan and purple Poppies near Baylton Drive. These hundreds of Poppies were created by ladies of both the Gardening Club and Bloom team. Thank you everyone for helping us make a unique Remembrance Day display. This shows the community working together at its best so if you’d like to join us next year, then please look out for the Bloomers in their hi-viz vests. Happy Christmas to all! Netta Parker (01995) 605385

LIVE OUTSIDE OUR DELIVERY ROUTE? SUBSCRIBE & RECEIVE A COPY OF FOCUS MAGAZINE THROUGH THE POST EACH MONTH If you or someone you know would like to receive Focus Magazine but currently live outside the areas in which we deliver, sign up for our new subscription service.

1 Month - £4 3 Months - £11 6 Months - £20 12 Months - £36 For more details or to register, please contact e: cassie@focusmags.co.uk t: 01253 342992 Please note: monthly door-to-door deliveries will continue as usual & will not be affected by the subscription service

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GARSTANG TOWN COUNCIL Climate Change Wyre Borough Council are looking at how the Authority can become ‘carbon neutral’ and how Garstang, being one of the largest Parishes, can contribute. This obviously would need a lot of thought, work, ideas and co-operation from various residents, businesses and traders. The Town Council would welcome any ideas or suggestions. If you think you can help, then please contact: info@garstangtowncouncil. org Message from Elizabeth Webster - Mayor of Garstang Another year has almost passed and in 2019 the Town Council has been extremely busy making improvements within the local community. The new play equipment on Moss Lane

Garstang Country Market

Open Every Thursday 10am - 12noon Refreshments served from 9:30am

playing fields has been installed and the pavement at Bowgreave near Garstang Community Academy has been improved. As Mayor I will continue to visit as many places and people as possible during the remainder of my term. I would like to thank all the charities and voluntary organisations in Garstang & District, all of whom work tirelessly to help others and help the town thrive. My next fundraising event for my mayoral chosen charities is Garstang Santa Dash which will be held on Sun 8th Dec at 11:00am in Garstang town centre. For further information please visit Garstang Tourist Information Centre or www.garstangsantadash.btck. co.uk On behalf of all the Councillors and Clerk at Garstang Town Council, I wish Garstang & District residents a Merry Christmas and peace and happiness in the New Year. Two Councillors will available during our surgery on 4th Jan 10:00am – 12 noon, at the Library to discuss questions or concerns regarding the Garstang parish.

Baking – Preserves – Plants - Seasonal Produce The next Town Council meeting will be held Cards – Woodturning - Needle & Other Crafts at 7:30pm on Mon 2nd Dec at the Library.

Don’t forget to check our website www. garstangtowncouncil.org for regular updates.

Christmas Markets 2019 Last two Markets of the Year

Thursday 5th December Thursday 12th December

Edwina Parry - Town Clerk 07592 792 801

FYLDE BIRD CLUB

Come and find that Unique Present

Open 10am till 1.30pm

Tues 17th Dec 7:45pm The River Wyre, Poulton Quiz and Social

Bacon Butties & Soup will be available on these dates

Garstang Sports & Social Club 14 High Street Garstang PR3 1FB Tel: 01995 600827

£14 for a single member, £10 for a senior, juniors £5 or for a family £22 each year. Visitors £3.00. jean.wagstaff@hotmail.co.uk www.fyldebirdclub.org

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GREY MATTER ANSWERS 1. Comet 2. Joan Baez 3. Clement C. Moore 4. Left 5. A fox 6. 3/8 7. Cinnamon 8. Cheshire 9. Bob Geldof 10. Behind 11. Indian Ocean 12. 360 13. Jacob Marley 14. Julienne 15. They’ve been ‘turned down low’ 16. Arson 17. The Snowman 18. George W. Bush 19. Christmas Eve 20. Psycho

21. Cloves 22. Dad’s Army 23. Maids-a-milking 24. Radio 4 25. Capricorn 26. Uganda 27. Yule log 28. Franco 29. Wales 30. Uluru Kata 31. England 32. Cream 33. New York 34. York 35. ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’ 36. Duke of Normandy 37. His watch 38. Ape 39. Carnivore 40. Jodie Whittaker

CROSSWORD ANSWERS Across 8 Canape 9 Achieves 10 Toothpaste 11 Shop 12 Clapping 14 Script 15 Brussels sprouts 18 Serene 20 Updating 22 Star 23 References 25 Marzipan 26 Disney

Down 1 Caroller 2, 26a Walt Disney 3 Delphi 4 Sausage stuffing 5 Cheers up 6 Measure out 7 Recoup 13 Pasteurize 16 Eye drops 17 Tinseled 19 Extras 21 Deride 24 Nest

A very merry Christmas to all of our readers, contributors & deliverers. Thank you for all your support in 2019. We wish you a very happy & healthy 2020.

Sue, Dave, Helen & Cassie (The Focus Team)

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