Garstang Focus Magazine - April 2021

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FOCUS MAGAZINE 'The Green Book'

Knott End Ferry by David J Ansell

GARSTANG - Scorton - Cabus - Garstang - Catterall - Bonds - Bowgreave - St Michaels - Churchtown

Issue 246 April 2021


in Garstang


Welcome to Focus Magazine... The Covid Roadmap.........................................4

Garstang Camera Club...................................20

Garstang Medical Practice...........................7

Garstang Town Council...................................22

Garstang Volunteer Force.............................9

Cat Smith................................................................24

Garstang Library.................................................9

Ben Wallace..........................................................26

Garstang Arts Centre.......................................10

Wyre Flood Forum............................................34

Catterall in Bloom..............................................12

Forest of Bowland AONB...............................36

Garstang Breakfast Club...............................14

Garstang Historical Society..........................37

Garstang Fairtrade............................................14

Lancaster Singers..............................................37

Coffee Stop............................................................16

Garstang Speakers............................................38

Garstang Free Methodists.............................16

Cardiac Riak in the Young.............................39

Caldervale Methodist Church.....................17

Soroptimists..........................................................40

Babas Baby & Toddler Group......................17

Grey Matter Test.................................................43

Garstang Wine Circle.......................................18

Wyre’s Budget.....................................................44

Artist, David J Ansell.........................................19

Crossword..............................................................46

Calder Vale Country Club..............................19

Lateral Flow Testing at Poulton YMCA...49

Knit & Natter.........................................................19

Scorton Steam Fair............................................50

Garstang Walking Festival............................20

Grey Matter Answers........................................51

Garstang Subscription Bowling Club.....20

Crossword Answers..........................................51

MAY 2021 DEADLINE DATE

The May deadline for editorial and adverts is 5:00pm on Monday 19th April Deliveries of the May edition of Focus Magazine will commence Thursday 29th April Over Wyre & Garstang Focus Magazines www.focusmags.co.uk | (01253) 813433 | www.facebook.com/focusmags Event Advertising & Editorial: editorial@focusmags.co.uk Business & Commercial Advertising: helen@focusmags.co.uk Postal submissions: Focus Magazine, 132 Highfield Rd, Blackpool, FY4 2HH Cover design by David J Ansell | Printed by Moulton Printing | © Focus Magazines 2021 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.


THE COVID ROADMAP against the threat from new Covid variants and continue to protect the NHS, a safe exit from lockdown in underway. As we head further in to spring, people in England will see restrictions continue to lift and the government’s roadmap offer a route back to a more normal life. The success of the vaccination programme is one factor (so far over 27 million people have had their jabs) but by no means the whole story. The public have also risen to the challenge of suppressing covid: by obeying the law; staying at home; getting tested when needed; isolating when required, and following the ‘hands, face, space’ and ‘letting fresh air in’ guidance. Taken together, this mean government can continue relaxing the current strict lockdown. While we must all remain vigilant - in particular

Only when the government is sure that it is safe to move from one step to the next will the final decision be made about entering into new phases of the roadmap. The decision will be based on four tests: •

the vaccine deployment programme continues successfully

evidence shows vaccines are sufficiently effective in reducing hospitalisations and deaths in those vaccinated

infection rates do not risk a surge in hospitalisations which would put unsustainable pressure on the NHS

the government’s assessment of the risks is not fundamentally changed by new variants of concern

NOT BEFORE MON 29th MARCH (STEP 1) Social Contact The evidence shows that it is safer for people to meet outdoors rather than indoors. And this is why from Mon 29th March, when most schools start to break up for the Easter holidays, outdoor gatherings (including in private gardens) of either six people (the Rule of Six) or two households will also be allowed, making it easier for friends and families to meet outside. Business & Activities Outdoor sports facilities, such as tennis and basketball courts and open-air swimming pools, will also be allowed to reopen. People will be able to take part in formally organised outdoor sports. Travel The ‘stay at home’ rule will end but many restrictions will remain in place. People should continue to work from home where they can and minimise the number of journeys

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THE COVID ROADMAP (cont) they make where possible, avoiding travel at the busiest times and on the busiest routes. Travel abroad will continue to be prohibited, other than for a small number of permitted reasons. Holidays abroad will not be allowed, given it will remain important to manage the risk of imported variants and protect the vaccination programme. NOT BEFORE MON 12th APRIL (STEP 2) Business & Activities Step 2 will see the opening of non-essential retail; personal care premises such as hairdressers and nail salons; and public buildings, including libraries and community centres. Indoor leisure facilities such as gyms will also reopen (but only for use by people on their own or in household groups); as will most outdoor attractions and settings including outdoor hospitality venues, zoos, theme parks, and drive-in cinemas. Selfcontained accommodation such as campsites and holiday lets, where indoor facilities are not shared with other households, can also reopen.

easing limits on seeing friends and family wherever possible, allowing people to decide on the appropriate level of risk for their circumstances. This means that most legal restrictions on meeting others outdoors will be lifted although gatherings of over 30 people will remain illegal. Indoors, the Rule of Six or two households will apply. As soon as possible and by no later than Step 3, government will also update the advice on social distancing between friends and family, including hugging. But until this point, people should continue to keep their distance from anyone not in their household or support bubble. Business & Activities Most businesses in all but the highest risk sectors will be able to reopen. In all sectors, Covid-secure guidance will remain in place

Hospitality venues will be allowed to serve people outdoors at Step 2 and there will be no need for customers to order a substantial meal with alcoholic drinks and no curfew, although customers must order, eat and drink while seated (‘table service’). Wider social contact rules will apply in all these settings to prevent indoor mixing between different households. Events While funerals can continue with up to 30 mourners, the number of people able to attend weddings, receptions and commemorative events such as wakes will rise to 15. NOT BEFORE MON 17th MAY (STEP 3) Social Contact The

government

will

look

to

continue

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THE COVID ROADMAP (cont) and businesses may not cater for groups bigger than the legal limits. Indoor hospitality will reopen - and as in Step 2 - venues will not have to serve a substantial meal with alcoholic drinks; nor will there be a curfew. Customers will, however, have to order, eat and drink while seated. Other indoor locations to open up in Step 3 include indoor entertainment venues such as cinemas and children’s play areas; the rest of the accommodation sector, including hotels, hostels and B&Bs; and indoor adult group sports and exercise classes. The government will also allow some larger performances and sporting events in indoor venues Events Up to 30 people will be able to attend weddings, receptions and wakes, funerals. and other types of significant life events including bar mitzvahs and christenings.

Review of Social Distancing Finally, before Step 4 begins, the government will complete a review of social distancing and other long-term measures that have been put in place to cut transmission. This will inform decisions on the timing and circumstances under which the rules on 1 metre plus, the wearing of face coverings and other measures may be lifted. This will also inform guidance on working from home. NOT BEFORE 21st JUNE (STEP 4) Social Contact By Step 4 which will take place no earlier than Mon 21st June, the government hopes to be in a position to remove all legal limits on social contact. Business, Activities & Events Government hopes to reopen remaining premises, including nightclubs, and ease the

Now Open

Joint Pain • Back and Neck Pain Sports Injuries • Rehabilitation Sports Massage • Pilates Podiatry • Acupuncture Vestibular and Balance Problems Neurological Physiotherapy

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THE COVID ROADMAP (cont) restrictions on large events and performances that apply in Step 3. As we move through each of these phases in the roadmap, we must all remember that Covid remains a part of our lives. We are going to have to keep living our lives differently to keep ourselves and others safe. We must carry on with ‘hands, face, space’. Comply with the Covid-secure measures that remain in place. Meet outdoors when we can and keep letting fresh air in. Get tested when needed. Get vaccinated when offered. If we all continue to play our part, we will be that bit closer to a future that is more familiar. The above information is correct as of Mon 22nd March. For more information and guidance about Covid, please visit www.gov.uk or www.nhs. uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19Covid Vaccinations

Priority

Risk Group

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Adults aged 16 to 65 years in an atrisk group

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All those 60 years of age and over

8

All those 55 years of age and over

9

All those 50 years of age and over

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Rest of the population

If you are in cohorts one to eight and have not already booked your vaccination appointment, please contact our Covid vaccination line on (01995) 607370. Details of those currently being invited can be found at: www.nhs.uk/CovidVaccine Thank you to everyone who has attended for vaccination and the amazing staff and volunteers who have assisted in any way to ensure the smooth running of the vaccination clinics.

GARSTANG MEDICAL PRACTICE Covid vaccination continues at pace. All patients in cohorts one to eight (see chart) should now have been invited for their vaccination, either via the surgery or the NHS vaccination booking service. Priority

Risk Group

1

Residents in a care home for older adults and staff working in care homes for older adults

2

All those 80 years of age and over and frontline health and social care workers

3

All those 75 years of age and over

4

All those 70 years of age and over and clinically extremely vulnerable individuals (not including pregnant women and those under 16 years of age)

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7 Rope Walk, Garstang, PR3 1NS

All those 65 years of age and over

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GARSTANG MEDICAL (cont) Appointments As we are still working hard to deliver the vaccination programme, we need to continue with our same-day GP/nurse practitioner appointment system at this time. Appointments are available every weekday and we would encourage patients to contact the surgery each day to arrange a consultation with one of our clinicians for the same day. Please call at 8:00am for a morning appointment and 1:00pm for an afternoon appointment. Pre-bookable appointments with our nursing team will continue as normal. Appointments are also available in the evenings and at the weekend across the Fylde & Wyre CCG area. Clinics are held alternate Saturdays here at Garstang Medical Practice. We hope to resume our normal routine appointment booking system as soon as possible and apologise for any inconvenience caused. We respectfully request that patients try to avoid ringing for routine problems or reviews over the Easter holiday period due to reduced availability of appointments and additional vaccination clinics. Extended Access Service – Evening & Weekend Appointments

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Garstang Medical Practice patients can access services for diabetic (including bloods, foot check, weight and BP), hypertension, asthma and COPD reviews at the surgery on alternate Saturdays. Appointments are also available for blood tests, blood pressure checks, cervical screening (smears), pill checks, dressings, Depo injections, suture removal and ring pessary change. Please contact the surgery to book your appointment.

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GARSTANG MEDICAL (cont) Macmillan Cancer Support – Brave the Shave Congratulations to Sam Westall in our Administration Team who ‘braved the shave’ in February to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. A fantastic total of £1394 was raised through donations for the head shave and raffle. Well done Sam! For more information about the work of Macmillan Cancer Support and the support they provide to people with Cancer and their family and friends, please see www. macmillan.org.uk or call 0808 808 0000. We would like to wish all our patients, staff and volunteers a lovely Easter. We are extremely grateful for all your patience, understanding and support over the past year. t: (01995) 607399 e: fwccg.gmpadmin@nhs.net fb: @garstangmedicalpractice www.garstangmedicalpractice.nhs.uk

GARSTANG VOLUNTEER FORCE We have been busy over the last few weeks helping out at the covid vaccination clinics at Garstang Medical Practice. It’s been a great experience, everyone is so pleased to be getting their jabs and our volunteers have really enjoyed themselves. We will continue to help out and look forward to seeing you if you’re coming for a jab at Garstang Medical Practice. Mary Randles

GARSTANG LIBRARY As we prepare for safe re-opening we are renewing all books to Tues 4th May and waiving all fines. Access Your Library at Home Did you know that you can access free eBooks, eAudiobooks, comics, magazines

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GARSTANG LIBRARY (cont) and daily newspapers? Find out more and download step-by-step guides through our digital library at: www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries-andarchives/libraries/digital-library Home Library Service You can use the home library service if you can’t get to a library because of your age, disability, poor physical or mental health, caring responsibilities or mobility problems. You may want to use the service all the time or for a short period. A friend, relative or carer can collect books for you. If you can’t arrange for someone to collect them for you, volunteers can deliver your books to you free of charge. If you are interested in joining or for more information call or email us. Mobile Library There are some changes to the service to keep everyone safe, so please call Glenys on

0771 754 3763 or email garstang.mobile. ml3@lancashire.gov.uk to find out more information and to find out times of stops near you. t: 0300 123 6703 e: garstang.library@lancashire.gov.uk fb: @lancslibraries twitter: @lancspublib www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries-andarchives

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE Garstang Ukulele Group Word has reached us that our tens of fans have been writing to their MPs demanding an end to pandemic restrictions so they can once again listen to live music in the key of C. Well be patient, we shall return soon (hopefully in the late summer or autumn) with all our favourite tunes. Mind you, after such a long break we’ll be in need of some rehearsals before we’re ready to play in public again. Hope everyone is keeping well and that we get to see you soon.

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GMP continue to meet weekly on Zoom. We are rehearsing some fabulous new material that will be shared via our social media pages. Our first virtual performance was launched Mothering Sunday and we are pleased to say the response has been fabulous. There is still chance to see it. Search ‘Garstang Musical Productions’ on Twitter, Facebook or instagram and we will come up. Please follow our pages for upcoming events.

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Rebecca Sudell Poetry Group At last we seem to be slowly moving forward! Spring is arriving and with it the prospect of better weather. There is hope that we are nearing our goal of meeting again and

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GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE (cont) returning to normality. So keep your spirits up. We will get there! Marie Whalley www.garstangartssociety.org.uk

CATTERALL IN BLOOM Hello everyone and welcome to the first Catterall in Bloom communication of the year. We can’t wait to get gardening again and spruce up the neglected corners of Catterall. If you are thinking of getting exercise and fresh air, then working and laughing together as part of a volunteer group is the best way to feel great and make new friends. Our Bloom team has been going since 2015 and happily, our village has achieved Gold in the RHS North West in Bloom competition in 2018 and 2019, when it was awarded ‘The Best Large Village in the North West’. So we invite you be part of this happy bunch of jolly volunteers. We meet on Tuesday mornings at Catterall Village Hall to weed and tidy up the raised beds. Having the two raised beds means easy gardening access for anyone with mobility issues, so just bring a trowel and gloves. We also meet on Wednesday evenings at Stone Cross Gardens (off Cock Robin Lane) to maintain the beautiful community garden. There are many little pocket gardens around the village as well as planters to weed and water so that every Bloom team member can adopt whatever area they fancy! We love where we live so come along and help us keep Catterall looking gorgeous. The first meeting will be on Tues 30th March Catterall Village Hall 10:00am. Then Wed 31st March Stone Cross Gardens 6:30pm. Netta Parker (01995) 605385 annettaparker@hotmail.co.uk

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GARSTANG BREAKFAST CLUB Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club The Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Clubs are groups of men and women, both serving and veterans of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces, her allies and the Merchant Navy. Before Covid we used to meet regularly to enjoy a breakfast together in a safe, social, informal and familiar environment. Subject to the planned next stage of the recent Government Covid roadmap being implemented in England from Mon 29th March, GAFVBC is pleased to announce that we will be holding another of our popular, social and leisurely walks for our Veterans. So, if you would like to burn off some calories to enable you to eat more chocolate at Easter and not feel guilty, please join us on Sat 3rd April at 9:30am by the river at the High Street council car park. Important details (may be subject to change):

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We can walk in groups of up to six (or two households).

Whilst on the walk you should maintain two metres social distancing or one metre if you wear a face covering.

We may not be able to meet and socialise with members of the other groups during or after the walk, if that means you are now in a group of more than 6 (or 2 households).

We will ask for your contact details before the walk for the purpose of Track & Trace i.e.name and phone number.

If you have been at all unwell or in contact with anyone who may have Covid, you must not take part in the walk.

We look forward to seeing you. Roger Dunn fb: Garstang Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club www.afvbc.net/clubs/garstang/

GARSTANG FAIRTRADE Get Involved As the world’s first Fairtrade town, this is a great opportunity to get involved with your local Fairtrade group. We are keen to encourage new members who could get involved in campaigning, promoting Fairtrade in schools, encouraging local businesses to make more of a commitment to Fairtrade, liaising with other Garstang community groups, organising events, and helping us to develop our use of social media. All whilst making new friends and helping some of the world’s poorest people to use Fairtrade as a means of improving their quality of life. For more details just email us on garstangfairtrade@gmail. com

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GARSTANG FAIRTRADE (cont) Certification It is nearly time for Garstang to renew its certification as a Fairtrade town and over the next few months we will be working towards our July submission. Earth Day This year, we celebrate Earth Day on Thurs 22nd April. The connection that we have to nature, plants, and the land is integral to our health and all that we are. Earth Day reminds us to take care of our planet - whether it is cleaning up litter, planting more trees, recycling and repurposing, or going on a walk in a green space amidst the wildflowers.

To mark the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, the Fairtrade Foundation has announced that it has launched a three-year programme in India to grow non-GM cotton seeds, benefiting the environment, farmer’s health and commanding a higher price. Nearly two thirds of all cotton grown worldwide is now GM (genetically modified), which means that it is difficult for farmers to have access to non-GM seed varieties, which must be used to grow Fairtrade and organic cotton. Fairtrade Easter Eggs Remember it’s still not too late to buy your Fairtrade Easter Eggs. Take a look at this blog post to see some of the delicious options available: http://bit.ly/fairtrade-eggs Peter Ryder www.garstangfairtrade.org.uk fb: @garstang-fairtrade

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COFFEE STOP

GARSTANG FREE METHODISTS

It’s great to feel we are getting a little bit closer to a future that is more familiar to us. Perhaps an outdoor event is something we might be able to enjoy together in the coming months? We’re all looking forward to sunshine and company.

Our building work is completed and we look forward to being able to worship freely when the government guidelines allow.

Sadly we’re not allowed to reopen our community cafes in Catterall or Inglewhite just yet. We have however restarted Sunday worship in the church building. Please view the church website to book your place in advance of attending. Details of online services and activities for all ages are available there too. We look forward to open doors and a warm welcome for all as soon as restrictions allow, meanwhile we trust that the message of Easter will fill you with hope and joy. Lesley Hardman www.inglewhitechurch.org.uk r Open fo & s s busine g in r e adh ty fe a s o t es guidelin

As we want to take a cautious approach back to normality, we don’t have any firm date for our first in-person Sunday service just yet, but in the meantime, we continue to produce a weekly online service. For details of the online service and all sorts of other helpful videos, please keep an eye on our website, as our latest information will be posted there. We trust you will have a blessed Easter and as we enjoy the spring sunshine, we can look forward to the promise of brighter days ahead when we will be allowed more contact with friends and family. Katie Devany e: info@garstangfmc.org.uk www.garstangfmc.org.uk

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CALDER VALE METHODIST CHURCH As April begins, the roadmap allows for restrictions to be gradually lifted and, with vaccinations going apace, it looks like we will be able to meet for Sunday worship again over one year on!

Day we have the decorated Easter Cross. As last year if you would like to add your own flowers or other Easter symbols to the cross please do. It will be in place for a week or two, depending on the weather.

During the last year we have been putting various posters on the notice board outside the chapel. We have tried to bring hope and offer encouragement with the message on the posters, as well as following the Christian festivals and seasons.

By the May edition of Focus Magazine we may be able to give dates of regular Sunday worship. Sadly with social distancing in place, it may be a while before our coffee mornings etc. restart. Please watch this space.

During April we are in the Easter period and one poster we use each year leading up to and including Good Friday is one that says, ‘It wasn’t the nails that held Him to the cross.’ As Christians we know it was love that held him there. These phrases come from a song sung by the Mississippi Mass Choir, if anyone can tell me the author? On Good Friday we have the cross representing the crucifixion but from Easter

Edith Gorst (01995) 602078

BABAS Baby & Toddler Group Hello to all the parents, carers and children. Lockdown is coming to an end so hopefully we will be able to open for our Wednesday morning group. We will keep you updated when we can. Dorothy Gorst (01995) 606226

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GARSTANG WINE CIRCLE In the Zoom meeting on Mon 15th March Jennifer McNamee presented a selection of wines from Italy. Members were given a list of six wines that could be obtained from Booths, from which to make their selection for the evening. The wines were: • • • • • •

Booths Soave Classico 2019 Inycon Vermentino 2020 Inycon Nero D’Avola/Shiraz 2019 Integro Primitivo 2019 Cascina Rosalba Barbaresco 2017 Corsini Barbaresco 2014

The wines brought back memories of some of the holidays organised by the circle which Jennifer referred to in her presentation. One such trip was to Sicily, eating delicious Italian food al fresco, accompanied by wonderful wines... something we can hopefully look forward to when the world has returned to some kind of normality.

All of the wines were well received on the night, and no doubt many of us will try to obtain the wines we did not buy. Once again we have been able to use technology to keep members of Garstang Wine Circle in touch, in spite of being unable to meet at the Arts Centre. Thanks from everyone attending go to Jennifer for making and presenting this selection of Italian Wine and providing us with another enjoyable and entertaining evening. Breaks from the monotony of lockdown are very welcome. The next meeting will be on Mon 19th April when we will have a selection of wines from three of our members. Details will be in the April edition of the Grapevine which Alan will circulate prior to the meeting in time for members to make their purchases. Mervyn Stokes

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COVER ARTIST - DAVID J ANSELL

CALDER VALE COUNTRY CLUB Finally we have arrived at British summer time and lockdown is easing. Unfortunately we are unable to offer outdoor service but are preparing to open for indoor service when the lockdown road map allows. In the meantime keep safe, keep an eye out for a further update next month. Ros Ashworth (01995) 603776

KNIT & NATTER I was brought up in Fleetwood. From a very young age I discovered I had a natural ability for drawing. My first influences were the caricature drawings of Arnold Taylor, that I encountered on the postcards that filled the many gift shops along the promenade. I loved the way he did his caricatures, and this spurred me on to do caricatures of people, in particular my school teachers. They were received with great hilarity!

We have been busy knitting twiddlemuffs for the Garstang Memory Cafe - and thanks to a couple of really kind donations of wool we’ve been able to do lots of them. We’re also knitting Easter chicks which fit over a Creme Egg - these will be going to Brian House Children’s Hospice. We’ve been really grateful for a donation of a big box of Creme Eggs from Sweets

I loved art so much that I was encouraged to take it as my main subject at school and upon leaving I gained a place at the Harris School of Art in Preston in the mid-sixties. Unfortunately, I became disillusioned as I was being pushed in the direction of commercial art, which I hated, as this was where the job opportunities were. After two years, I left and pursued a career in office work. I still carried on with my love of art and drew caricatures of my work colleagues, which I don’t think helped my career much! I discovered Lowry following his death in the mid-1970s, I loved his work and like him, I started putting my caricatures into everyday settings. I have taken up painting again since retiring and you can find my original paintings at www.oakhamcontemporaryart.com David Ansell Instagram: @artisansell

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KNIT & NATTER (cont) of Garstang and we expect to be sending around 100 chicks to the children at the hospice to brighten their Easter. You can find photos of what we’ve been up to on our Facebook page.

The walking festival has activities for people of all levels of fitness and is a great way of getting out into the fresh air and discovering more about our beautiful area. We look forward to welcoming old friends and new.

Mary Randles fb: Search ‘Garstang Knit and Natter Group’

Keith Montgomery fb: @garstangwalkingfestival

GARSTANG WALKING FESTIVAL

Garstang Subscription Bowling Club

We’re back! This year, Garstang Walking Festival will take place in August instead of May. After having to cancel in 2020 due to the national lockdown, we are busy making plans to hold a festival in August 2021. Look out for further announcements in Focus Magazine, on the Garstang Walking Festival Facebook page and information boards at local tourist information centres.

ANYONE FOR BOWLS? The exercise is good, the fresh air is good, it is not time-consuming like golf or cricket or hockey. It is not expensive. You can play any day throughout spring and summer. What’s not to like about bowling? Although we can’t hold our proposed open days until Covid restrictions permit, we can still arrange an introduction to bowls specifically for you. If you would like to meet at the green and have a try (free of charge) with no obligation, then contact Dave and he will arrange a Covid-safe meeting. The green opens on Mon 29th March and is located next to the Riverside car park. Dave Rochester 07767 428 923

GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB Here we are in yet another April still under lock and key, or, as Sinatra sang ‘The second Time Around’. We should be much more savvy than last year having experienced many of the restrictions, although there are still many amongst us who in the words of Kenneth Wolstenholme ‘they think it’s all over’. There may be a possibility of our home venue re-opening in September, but all information given here is not incised onto stone tablets and for that, I must apologise! All we can be is optimistic and hope that things go well. Any specific details regarding dates and venues can be checked nearer to the time

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GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB (cont) been completed. I have found these very inspirational and a ‘look forward’ to the voting and compilation of the results each month. Thanks gents!

by using the website and the contacts given within. We had our final competition, ‘Anything Goes’ in early March with an excellent range of images as per the title. Our chairmen have done a stalwart job in keeping members busy throughout this past year with our own MCC, no not at Lords, but the Monthly Club Comp and by the time this goes to press, the final one will have

Our next annual competition will be the Events Cup. This will be judged on Thurs 11th Nov and to enter, members must have attended any or all of our summer visits from Sat 24th April to Tues 12th Oct. Only images taken at these events on the dates specified may be entered for the cup. I now give details of these outings which are as much of a social event - something much-needed as long as we take care - as an opportunity to put our photographic skills

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GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB (cont)

GARSTANG TOWN COUNCIL

back into use. I’m sure that some of mine have suffered from an amount of rust!

Spring has well and truly sprung, and it has been wonderful to see the efforts of the Garstang in Bloom team come to fruition with stunning spring bulbs in flower around the town.

Sat 24th April, 3:00pm: Glasson Dock / Condor Green

Thurs 6th May, 2:00pm: Calder Vale

Wed 16th June 2:00pm: Rivington Pike / Gardens

Fri 16th July, 8:00am: Brockholes

Wed 11th Aug, 6:00pm: Heysham

Sat 18th Sept, 8:00am: Silverdale/ Arnside

The two early starters may be joined at any time - no need for a full day! At this stage I would like to wish everyone, in the coming weeks and months, a safe and successful release from jail! Maurice Barker www.garstangcameraclub.co.uk

Town Emergency Plan Last month we reported that we had submitted a grant application to LCC Champion’s Grant Fund for Parish and Town Councils, to facilitate the creation and launch of a Town Emergency Plan. We’re pleased to say the application was successful and the plan is coming together with pace. Garstang Conservation Area Over recent months the subject of the Garstang Conservation Area has been much discussed. The Garstang Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan (CAAMP) is in need of an update but this has not been progressed by the conservation officer from Wyre due to other commitments. We are therefore extremely pleased that local resident, Stephanie Croston has stepped forward to assist. Stephanie has completed a Master’s Degree in Building Conservation and Adaptation (MSc) last year and is keen to help protect historic buildings in Garstang. It was agreed at the meeting that Stephanie would work directly with the conservation officer to move forward, with a survey of the conservation area as it currently stands. It is a real positive to have the expertise of Stephanie for this important work and we thank her for her commitment to this project. Remembrance Sunday Looking ahead, the council agreed to take over as the organising body for Remembrance Sunday. The Royal British Legion have organised this for many years but sadly have been advised by the central body of the RBL that they should not do so. The event is an important moment in the civic

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GARSTANG TOWN COUNCIL (cont) calendar. We will work with representatives of the RBL and ensure the high standard of past events is upheld. Meetings The Annual Town meeting will be held virtually on Thurs 29th April. The Meeting is a meeting of all the local government electors for the Town. You are invited to come along and find out about the events that have taken place throughout the past year. Residents will have an opportunity to address the meeting and share any issues/concerns that they may have relating to the local community. Please apply to the Clerk if you’d like to attend.

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Our next town council meeting will be held virtually on Mon 19th April. Please apply to the clerk if you’d like to attend. Garstang War Memorial: Our Lost Heroes Finally, Garstang War Memorial belongs to and is kept by Garstang Town Council. It records the names of those killed in the Great War and World War Two. If you know of someone who was killed in action in one of the subsequent conflicts such as Palestine, Kenya, Malaya, Aden, The Falklands, Northern Ireland, Iraq, Afghanistan with a connection to Garstang or a neighbouring parish we would like to hear from you. Please contact the town clerk. Get in Touch As always, we are keen to hear your thoughts on how the town council is doing and about any issues or concerns that you would like us to look into. Much of our information is available online or you can contact our town clerk, Edwina Parry. Edwina Parry - Town Clerk t: 07592 792 801 e: clerk@garstangtowncouncil.gov.uk www.garstangtowncouncil.org

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CAT SMITH MP

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I hope everyone is well, and the signs of spring which we are starting to see are offering comfort that winter is over, and the better weather is coming. One of the joys of living in a beautiful area like we do is we get to see those signs of spring daily, often when we have been out for our daily exercise - be it the lambs in the fields or the daffodils at the roadside. I think the increased pace of the vaccine roll out also reminds me of spring in many ways. It is the snowdrop pushing through the frozen earth. Offering hope that better days are to come and that winter cannot last forever. Yes, there are still public health restrictions in our lives, with the ‘stay at home’ message not being lifted any earlier than the end of March. But as more and more people have had their first dose of the vaccine and a lucky few, their second, it’s offering us hope in the way we take hope when we spot the first snowdrop. Vaccine Roll-Out The success of the vaccine rollout is vital for reducing the spread of the virus, minimising the time areas remain in economically damaging restrictions and for all of us to get back to the things and the people we love. The success so far of the vaccination roll out shows the true value of our incredible health service, and my thanks go out to our NHS staff, armed forces and volunteers working hard to make this happen. Vaccination must go hand-in-hand with measures to break transmission chains. That means paying people decent financial support to isolate, updating face coverings guidance and insisting in ventilation standards to ensure all workplaces are Covid secure. I want to take this opportunity to say a very deeply felt and genuine thank you to all our

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CAT SMITH MP (cont) front-line heroes who have supported us through the past year. I would also like to reflect on the past year: it’s been tough. Who would have thought we would be talking about ‘daily exercise’? The words ‘socially distanced’ weren’t ones we used all the time, and many people wouldn’t have known what an ‘R-rate’ was. Our lives have changed beyond all recognition and we look back at how things were and I wonder; do we miss the old ways or have we learned new ways of living? Are there things you took for granted that now you value dearly? Looking to the Future So many people are looking to the future and talking about building back better. But what does that look like? I suspect it looks a bit different to each of us. I hope that as we now start to emerge from this public health crisis we might re-think who the key workers are. I don’t want us to forget the evenings we stood out on our doorsteps and clapped the NHS and social care heroes who worked on the front line, risking their own health and lives, right throughout this. We should remember the shop workers and delivery drivers who ensured - whilst we were told to stay indoors - we had food and essential supplies, either when we visited the shops or took deliveries at home; the emergency service workers who ensured we were safe and they couldn’t work from home.

where they live and gives families the security to prosper. Let’s make Britain the best place to grow up in and grow old in. Census 2021 Finally, Sun 21st March was Census day. A final reminder that you should have got a letter with an access code, so that you can complete the census online. A successful census will help give the best picture of the needs of everyone living both in our community and across England and Wales; it helps us understand what our society needs now and what it will likely need in the future. It takes around 10 minutes per person to complete the census and, if you cannot get online, there are paper forms available for those who need them. This census is the most inclusive yet. People can answer in the way that best represents them using the options (including write-in

Then I hope we keep the spirit of volunteering and looking out for one another. I have enjoyed learning about all the street and village online forums and chats that have been initiated. When our world was made smaller by our travel being restricted, did we start to see the people and the community that was on our doorsteps? As we emerge from this pandemic, we cannot return to all the old ways. We must rebuild for a better future; one that can provide opportunities for all, restore people’s pride in

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CAT SMITH MP (cont)

BEN WALLACE MP

options) provided. For the ethnic group, religion and national identity questions, this ability is further enhanced online by searchas-you-type functionality. The questionnaire includes questions about your sex, age, work, health, education, household size, identity and employment. Census 2021 will also ask people aged 16 years and over questions on three new topics. These are about previous service in the UK Armed Forces, gender identity and sexual orientation. The sexual orientation and gender identity questions are also voluntary. Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years for future generations. To complete your census, or to find out how to get help, visit www.census.gov.uk or call 0800 141 2021. Cat Smith MP

Dare I say that the weather is improving and like me many of you will be looking forward to a good summer. During the restrictions, I have made an effort to put time aside for walking and I really hope to continue this. I have enjoyed the fitness aspect and just getting out and about in the fresh air. The vaccination process is continuing in line with the government’s target to offer the vaccine to everyone over 50 by May. We, therefore, seem to be on track for the easing of current restrictions. While this is great news, I do advise caution and urge all to continue to follow Government guidelines and advice. Please remember, for

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BEN WALLACE MP (cont) up-to-date information on the pandemic go to: www.gov.uk/coronavirus and www.nhs. uk Please also remember your community hub, Wyre Together which can be contacted on (01253) 891000. Also, the Department of Health and Social Care helpline for any on-going Covid queries can be contacted on 03003 032 713. Lines are open from 7:00am - 11:00pm daily. If anyone is showing symptoms of Covid, they will be able to arrange testing. As restrictions are easing, the traffic on local roads seems to be increasing quickly and will soon be back to normal levels. I do wonder if there will be more employers promoting working from home when possible. Will we continue to use the online platforms for meetings at least some of the time? It will be interesting to see if we keep some of the working practices adopted during the Covid restrictions. In these articles I have paid tribute to the great work carried out during the pandemic by NHS staff, the armed forces, emergency services, care workers, teachers and school staff, key workers etc. I, like many of you, have also been impressed by the staff who have worked on the vaccination roll-out, some council staff, some NHS staff, some armed forces and volunteers etc. Being a father of children at school age I know the hard work teachers have put in during the so called school closures. The reality is schools have not been closed, teachers and school staff have continued to teach the children of key workers in school while juggling on-line schooling, which I am sure has not been easy. I would also like to highlight the work of council staff at Wyre and Lancashire County Council. Services we sometimes take for granted have continued and I have been pleasantly surprised that routine re-surfacing and road repairs are being carried out, despite some staff being re-directed at times.

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LYTHAM, ST ANNES, BLACKPOOL, STAINING, POULTON, BISPHAM, THORNTON, CLEVELEYS, FLEETWOOD, HAMBLETON, STALMINE, PREESALL, KNOTT-END, PILLING, GARSTANG, ST MICHAELS, SINGLETON.

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BEN WALLACE MP (cont) Stay in the Know

Keeping in Touch

In the last article I mentioned how residents could sign up to the ‘In the Know’ scheme the police are running. Since then interest has increased so here are the details again:

As always, I welcome letters and emails because this informs me of the issues which really concern constituents, whether personal, local or national issues. It is important for me to understand how people are coping in their business, work or home lives. I also know some businesses may still have questions about our new trade agreement and relationship with the EU. Please remember I’m here to help.

Residents can sign up on-line to find out what’s really happening in your area. You will receive regular crime updates, information on road closures, information about fires and other emergencies and you can learn about what your local neighbourhood policing team is doing. For more information go to: www.stayintheknow.co.uk In the Community I am looking forward to some form of normality returning soon and I really hope to be able to tour around the constituency to find out the real challenges communities have experienced during Covid. Of course, this must all be carried out safely. I look forward to visiting everyone from the NHS locally to charities. If you run a business or local charity, please contact my office at the House of Commons if you would like me to visit. I think it is very important to learn from the experiences in order to be better prepared in the future. My mailbag has been full of many issues ranging from the current pandemic to local flooding issues. On flooding, I know the Wyre Flood Forum carries out great work with all agencies working together and the views of local communities being represented by their local Flood Action Groups. I keep a close eye on the Flood Forum and their work

The most effective way to contact me is by email, at wallaceb@parliament.uk with a brief description of the issues you wish to raise, along with your contact details (including home address). You can also ring my Office at the House of Commons on 0207 219 5804 or write to me at the House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA. Ben Wallace MP

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WYRE FLOOD FORUM First, a bee in my bonnet; I was brought up at school and in the boy scouts that the way to refer to the banks of the river was to stand with your back to the source facing the sea and the bank on the right was the right bank and the other bank the left bank. Trying to describe them by points of the compass ties you in knots as rivers are not straight. I am sure some will disagree! The Environment Agency (EA) has issued its work commitment for the end of the financial year and the new year starting in April 2021. The planned annual flood and coastal risk management, FRCM, asset maintenance programme can be found on line at https://environment.data.gov.uk/ asset-management/index.html You will find an interactive map and detail of work. You should be able to access the main river map. To report a problem on anything to do with water dial the EA’s national call centre on LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESS SINCE 2008

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0800 80 70 60. The annual maintenance programme is nearing its completion for the financial year 2020/21. Work to remove wrack from coastal/ river embankments and basins that has builtup over the winter storms and up-coming spring tides (although ‘spring’ tides do not only occur in spring) is ongoing. At the head of the river in operational terms, EA plan to replace the West Gate and Ram in the Garstang Flood Storage Basin in May this year to replicate the works undertaken on the East Gates a few months ago. Hopefully the regular silting problem will be addressed and Garstang will maintain its controlling influence on the river. The Green Lane culvert running from Green Lane West to Wyre Lane, adjacent to the Show Ground, is scheduled to be re-lined. Residents have been advised. It will be an opportunity to see what goes on below ground.

Members of the Garstang Flood Action Group have explored the short (no more Made to measure & fit in your home or workplace than 3km) Ains Pool. The pool rises in the Blinds Nateby Field site or perhaps in the housing Roller - Venetian - Vertical - Perfect Fit development East of the A6 off Dorchester Pleated - Night & Day Road and begins its short journey before Fitting service available for customer’s own blinds joining the River Wyre at Churchtown, flowing by culvert under Nateby Crossing Lane, the Lancaster Canal, Longmoor Lane then piped to the rear of properties facing Parkside and the A6 and the Chicken factory to the rear of Cross House Farm, Dewlays, Kirkland Hall and finally under the A586 before reaching Curtains & Roman Blinds its goal. Made to measure in customer’s own fabric Poles & accessories available Guaranteed to beat any like-for-like quotation Contact Nigel Phillips on

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The, so far, un-built developments on the West of the A6 numbering 270 dwellings and a commercial park plus 70 dwellings south of Prospect Farm, Bradshaws Farm Shop, have yet to test the direction in the planning permission that development must not increase the threat of flooding elsewhere ie, the River Wyre. The 250 dwelling permission

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WYRE FLOOD FORUM (cont) on the Cockerham Road will drain straight into the Wyre using existing drainage infrastructure. At the recent flood forum held on Thurs 11th March, I asked the EA officer present to ensure that a proper modelling exercise or hydraulic analysis be carried out and he undertook to see that it was. Only then will all communities living close to the Ains Pool and the Wyre down-stream be reassured. The Catterall river level sensor for St Michael’s has been recalibrated and will be checked after every high-level event. A problem has been caused due to the sensor station slipping, as a result of erosion, which now experiences problems with silt. EA are seeking funding for purchasing radar sensors which would not need to be placed in the channel. Work has been completed to the embankment near Old House in St Michaels to fill-in low o We als ton in s g lo supply of logs & ets bags, n firegrates g, n li d e kin h mor & muc

spots to bring the embankment back to condition. Reseeding will follow shortly. Work to repair the overtopping along Rawcliffe Road and the embankment at Wild Boar Cottage are in progress. At Sunnyside Terrace, Preesall, residents are awaiting to see the result of discussions between officers and a local landowner on Cartgate. Lancashire County Council has agreed to carry out a topographical survey as a precursor to a new drainage plan to be drawn up by Tom Myerscough of the Wyre River’s Trust, but before that all land owners need to be involved; not always a straightforward task There is significant activity in the region with more going on at Great Eccelston, Hambleton, Stalmine, Pilling, Preesall and Fleetwood - not to mention Thornton, which has its own distinctive problems with land drainage combined with significant building

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WYRE FLOOD FORUM (cont) development. EA’s work programme should be swinging into action and hopefully I will be able to report on good progress on all fronts over the summer months. Roger Brooks - Garstang Town Councillor

FOREST OF BOWLAND AONB Delve into Bowland’s Heritage this Spring From medieval monastics to radicals and reformers, Bowland and Pendle Hill are full of fascinating history – not all of it well known to a wider world. Through the Festival Bowland online events programme the Forest of Bowland AONB and Pendle Hill Landscape Partnership will be shining a light on two very different aspects of the area’s history this spring. Sawley Abbey will be spotlighted on Wed 21st April thanks to Dr Michael Carter, senior properties historian at English Heritage.

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Between 1148 and 1537, Sawley Abbey was home to a community of white-clad Cistercian monks. Dr Carter’s talk will examine the insights the abbey’s ruined buildings provide into the evolution of the monks’ way of life over 400 years, and question traditional notions of late medieval decline leading to Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. It will also use art and architecture to illuminate the lives of the people who lived, prayed and worked at the abbey from 12th - 16th century. The event will run from 6:30pm to 8:00pm and will take place online. The session is free but places need to be booked in advance. For more information and booking details, people are invited to contact Sandra Silk at the Forest of Bowland AONB on sandra. silk@lancashire.gov.uk Sandra Silk

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GARSTANG HISTORICAL SOCIETY Society officials are currently discussing the possibility of resuming our once-monthly lectures sometime later this year. The timing of the resumptions will depend on government rulings during the next few months. Safety issues will need to be discussed and agreed with the owners of our venue, Garstang United Reformed Church, before any definite decisions are made. Among lecture topics pencilled in for future meetings are: • • •

the life and times of Sir John Barrow of Ulverston and the story of The Hoad monument an update on recent research into the history of the Dalton family of Thurnham the history of art thefts and famous art forgeries.

More details will appear in Focus and local print and on-line media when the situation is more clear. For more info contact: Peter Burrell (01995) 601054 Anthony Coppin (01995) 605824

LANCASTER SINGERS Come & Join our Rehearsals Have you ever wondered what it’s like to sing online? Well, it’s different, that’s for sure. And while it will never replace the warmth and joy we get when we’re together, we’re making the most of what we’ve got. We meet via Zoom at 7:30 pm on Tuesdays and usually begin with a ‘catch-up’ in smaller breakout groups. Duncan Lloyd, our inspirational director, then takes charge and will start with some physical and vocal warm up exercises. It’s good fun and you may even

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LANCASTER SINGERS (cont) find one or two muscles you didn’t know you had. You can always leave your camera ‘off’ if you’d rather. We’re currently working on a new collection of beautiful folk songs and some other pieces and are planning for live performances later in the year. We stay ‘muted’ and sing along to recorded tracks. To get the music, you can borrow books from our library, download PDFs, or buy it - the folk song books are about £12. Why not give it a go? We’ve recruited two new ‘virtual’ members so far and there’s plenty of room for more. If you need help on the technical side, there’s loads of support available and we can always put on a prerehearsal ‘tech’ session. In the first instance call Sarah Jackson on 07929 031 466 or email welcome@ lancastersingers.org

Lancaster Singers is an auditioned choir, so our usual ‘light-touch’ auditions will resume when we get back together. You’ll get all the support you need when that time comes. So what are you waiting for? We hope we’ll see you on Tuesday! Chris Haughton - Chairman m: 07976 875 586 www.lancastersingers.org

GARSTANG SPEAKERS CLUB As we move into spring and hopefully edge towards a way out of lockdown you may be feeling a little more motivated to take on something new. At Garstang Speakers Club we can provide the opportunity to boost your confidence levels and learn to speak and present in front of an audience.

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GARSTANG SPEAKERS CLUB (cont) All of this is achieved in a friendly and supportive environment. We also have fun. We currently meet over the Zoom platform, which in itself is a useful skill. Sue Hubbard t: (01253) 701019 (Sheila Croft) e: barleyfold@madasafish.com (Sue Hubbard) or garstangspeakersclub@gmail.com fb: ‘Garstang Speakers Club’ www.garstangladiesspeakersclub.org

CARDIAC RISK IN THE YOUNG Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund As restrictions around Covid 19 begin to ease we can perhaps begin to see a chink of light at the end of the tunnel. The first tentative steps towards events are emerging with a couple of our intrepid supporters making plans for a summer sky dive, ideas for fundraisers being mooted and a 2022 CRY calendar in the making from Longridge Highland Cow! More about these on Facebook (@Longridge Highland Cow ) and in future Green Book issues as plans progress. The situation around the pandemic has been incongruous; some have blossomed whilst others, sadly, have faltered, but kindness has shone through it all. The Catterall Wednesday Social Group has, like so many other community groups, not been able to physically meet, but have stoically kept in touch with each other. For now they have no further plans to re-form and have considerately donated their funds towards local heart screening. Thank you to our lovely neighbour, Pat Collins who spearheaded this, and to all for your generosity, it is our hope that at some stage a similar group may be created to keep that community spirit alive. Pat has also kept herself extremely busy during lockdown, making laundry bags for the hospital and face coverings which have been available to others through the kindness of

Nicksons, who have had them on the counter. Together with their customers an amazing £515 has been raised for Garstang Children’s Festival and £400 for CRY – what a fabulous achievement! Well done and thank you to

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CRY (cont) this inspirational lady and to all who have been involved. Huge thanks too to Barry Shultz for his unwavering encouragement and princely donations, to Sarah for the countless things she does – far too many to list, giving so much of her time and efforts to promoting the fund and fundraising (you may have spotted that on sunny weekends her wayside stall has made a reappearance), Sarah I don’t know what I’d do without you! Cheers m’dear! We are so lucky to have such good neighbours and friends around us who take a huge interest in what we do, supporting us in so many different ways from asking about Matthew, the fund, our plans, giving us ideas, resources and so on to the numerous donations and challenges in a myriad of forms that they undertake in support of CRY regardless of whether they knew Matt or not.

who are screened and their families do so too. Let’s hope that light at the end of the tunnel leads to more screening soon. Take care, keep safe. Paula Hesmondhalgh t: 07785 106 976 e: paulahez.ph@gmail.com fb: @The Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund

SOROPTIMISTS

We appreciate it and I’m sure that all those

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SOROPTIMISTS (cont) The YOGA You To help ensure we’re ready for the busier times ahead, the club enjoyed a virtual yoga session last month with Helen Dixon of The Yoga You. What a revelation! We practiced ‘chair’ yoga and, considering we were sat down for 45 minutes, we did an awful lot of moving. The beauty was that Helen ensured all the yoga positions were tailored to suit the wide range of ages in the group. Helen’s many years of experience in teaching yoga shone through with her clear verbal instructions and demonstrations - the session just flew by! Helen kindly donated her fee for this session and, together with some further donations, £52 was added to the pot for Derian House.

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International Women’s Day Mon 8th March was International Women’s Day when we celebrated the joy of women and girls across the world and all of their achievements. Thousands of Soroptimists worldwide marked the day with hundreds of activities and events. Events highlighted the economic, political and social achievements of women and raised awareness of work still to be done to build a better world for women. For more information, search socials for #ChoosetoChallenge and #IWD2021. Meetings & Work Undertaken We enjoyed another jam-packed business meeting at the beginning of March. We have these Zoom meetings finely honed now, getting the maximum amount done in a set time but still allowing enough time to chat and enjoy each other’s company and friendship. These meetings have to take in the general business of running a club, but the main focus is on our Programme Action work which covers a wide variety of different activities, from the very quick signing of petitions or canvassing MPs, to short-term or long-term project activities. Take a look at our website and Facebook page to see what we

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SOROPTIMISTS (cont) have and are doing to support women and children worldwide. We had lots of progress reports on our current Programme Action work: •

Laptops for Schools - The collection of laptops for schools now stands at eight laptops and three tablets – brilliant for children without devices in the Garstang area

Backpack Project - The backpacks for children to attend school in Malawi are currently on hold due to not being able to ship them out due to the pandemic – but we have a stockpile ready to go as soon as we’re given the word

Charity Coffee Breaks - We’re enjoying lots of virtual coffee breaks. Each time, Derian House benefits financially and we benefit from the boost to our mental health and wellbeing

Recipes for the Wish Centre (domestic abuse centre) - one thing Soroptimists like is food, so this was so simple as we have a wealth of tried and trusted recipes to hand. In fact we even have our own recipe book!

Ask for ANI - This initiative across pharmacies is something we are actively chasing as pharmacies are an ideal place a woman can go for help without

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SOROPTIMISTS (cont) •

raising suspicion

page – why not take a look?

Blister Pack Recycling – at last a chance to recycle these items and potentially add some funds to charities as well;

Petitions

Domestic Abuse Bill - Lobbying for the bill going through Parliament

Plant Life Roadside Verge Campaign - A real ‘feel good factor’ as well as a reminder of the wide range of activities that Garstang Soroptimists is supporting

Looking Ahead This was also the time to focus on our Programme Action plans for next year (starting April 2021) which centre around a theme of 100 as our central organisation is celebrating a special birthday this year. We’ll give you lots more information on the direction we’re taking next month but I’m sure there will be lots of teasers on our Facebook

The petition of the month was agreed as the Freedom United petition in support of strong, mandatory human rights due diligence legislation in the US, UK, and EU to address human rights and environmental violations around the world. Supporting the petition is an easy action everyone can take – just follow this link: http://bit.ly/freedom-united You can always drop us an email or message on Facebook to let us know you’ve supported the cause: And Finally… Our March (virtual) social meeting event featured guest speaker, Felicity Jones, co-founder of Thinking Philanthropy at Empowering Charities (working with International Foundations, statutory organisations and individual philanthropists

GREY MATTER TEST (ans p51) 1. What was the nickname given to V1 flying bombs in World War II? 2. Which common British garden creature belongs to the locust family? 3. What damaged Alexandra Palace in both 1873 and 1980? 4. Which motel provides the setting in the film Psycho? 5. Hermit and spider are types of what? 6. What is the male honey bee known as? 7. Which beetle was sacred to the Egyptians? 8. Which bird is associated with Lundy Island? 9. Who was the first American President to be assassinated? 10. Which city in the book of Genesis is still in existence? 11. For what crime was Al Capone convicted and for which he was imprisoned?

12. For whom is the Glorious Twelfth not glorious? 13. What was discovered at the Sutton Hoo archaeological dig in 1939? 14. Which waterway divides the Isle of Wight from the mainland? 15. Which moor is named after the county town of Cornwall? 16. Which type of pastry is normally bought frozen in wafer-thin sheets? 17. Where are the world headquarters of the Mormon Church? 18. What type of quadrilateral has all sides the same length but contains no right angles? 19. How was the Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceaucescu executed on 25th December 1989? 20. Where did the world’s worst nuclear disaster occur?

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43


SOROPTIMISTS (cont)

WYRE’S BUDGET

committed to evidence-based partnerships for change). She gave us a talk on female genital mutilation which is as horrible as it sounds and, unfortunately, a worldwide issue including in the UK. Soroptimists have been vocal in bringing this topic to public notice and it is now being talked about openly – no longer the dreadful secret of young, frightened girls.

For the Year Ahead

Interested in What we Do?

Councillor David Henderson, Leader of Wyre Council comments: ‘We are proud to provide our services to the residents of Wyre for 57p per day, based on a Band D property.

April brings our AGM, a new club year and perhaps a new adventure for you? Why not look into joining us to help make a difference? Just drop us a line or give our membership co-ordinator Muriel Burnham-Airey a ring. t: (01995) 606604 (Muriel Burnham-Airey) w: www.sigarstang.org.uk facebook: SoroptimistsGarstang twitter: GarstangSoropt

Wyre Council’s budget and council tax for the year ahead were approved at a meeting of Full Council on Thursday 11 March 2021. The council has decided to follow the government’s lead to maximise spending power potential whilst keeping costs low for residents, raising council tax by just £5 a year, or 10p per week on a Band D property.

‘Wyre Council collects Council Tax on behalf of all the authorities that provide services in the area, but our element equates to just under 11% of your total bill. If you live in a Band D property you will pay £209.74 to Wyre Council for the year. ‘Over the last 11 years we have lost £7m in funding which is the equivalent of over 78% of our grant back in 2010/11, which was £8.9m. We have prepared for this by reducing spending, not increasing the level of borrowing and balancing the books through efficiency savings, income generation and prudent financial management including exploring commercial opportunities. ‘We have an excellent track record of delivering efficiency savings which has protected residents from the full impact of reductions in funding. We’ve saved over £6.1m since 2010/11, that’s an average of £614,000 per year. ‘We continue to do all of this whilst still providing excellent services for our residents. Over the past twelve months, Wyre Council has played a key role in supporting residents and businesses throughout the pandemic. ‘Last year, we quickly mobilised our community hubs to help vulnerable people in Wyre as they were told to shield and stay at home. This vital service has provided support

44

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CROSSWORD (ans page 51)

Across 3. Soup (5) 6 15th of Month (4) 8. Inside a House (6) 9. Sign (4) 10 Type of Fruit (6) 11. Birdcage (6) 12. Poor Taste (4) 13. Brought Up (6) 14 Eye Sore (4) 15. Grind Teeth (5) Down 1. ‘Terrible Lizards’ (9) 2. Googlebox (10) 4. Essential for an Airport (6) 5. Dental Cleaner (10) 7. Lines Around Eyes (5,4) 10. Crawls (6)

Nestled in the beautiful and tranquil Pilling countryside, the ideal venue hosting complementary and wellbeing therapies, workshops and retreats, Kurloon Source Wellbeing Retreat is a purposely designed space with Meditation / Meeting Room, Readings Room and Therapy Health Room. We also have a beautiful outside space with stunning views of Beacon Fell and the surrounding hills, together with a peaceful orchard, both of which will be used for outside gatherings, celebrations, workshops and events. We are extremely pleased and proud that Cindy Crystalmoon Page will be working with us at the Retreat. Cindy is an eclectic Pagan with strong Celtic roots, originally from South Africa where for the past twenty-five years she has explored many modalities and journeyed down many paths in search of the Truth. A trained Reiki, Body Balance Activation and Crystal therapist and Rune reader, she also uses intuition and is guided to adapt each treatment so that it best compliments the client. Bringing balance and healing inside and out. Cindy says "My aim is to provide each individual with the tools to begin their own journey and discover that which is Sacred within."

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Wellbeing Retreat Horse Park Lane, Pilling, Preston PR3 6AS Tel: 01253 799119 KurloonSourceWellbeingRetreat email: sue@kurloonsourcewellbeingretreat.co.uk Workshops offered, when we can meet again, courtesy of

Cindy Crystalmoon Page:

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WYRE’S BUDGET (cont) to thousands of people. We’ve delivered food parcels, helped people with shopping and prescription deliveries and provided a friendly voice on the other end of the phone to people who needed to know that help was available. ‘Many staff have been moved from their regular jobs into new roles. These range from working on the community hub to working on the NHS Test and Trace programme, contacting local people who have tested positive and offering support to help them self-isolate. ‘We have set up testing centres across the borough and are supporting the NHS vaccine roll out, using every asset available to us to including the Civic Centre, our theatres and our car parks. ‘We have paid over £41 million to local businesses in grants, and have worked hard to process payments quickly, adapting to changing guidance. This work continues as new business support grants are introduced. We have worked with the Health and Safety Executive and alongside our Covid marshals, we are helping establishments in different sectors to reopen safely when restrictions are lifted.

with our community lottery which to date has raised over £38,000. ‘As we progress along the roadmap out of lockdown, we look forward to welcoming visitors back to re-discover our beautiful part of the country. We will also be re starting our Great Outdoors and Healthier Wyre programme of activities which will allow people to reconnect with others, get more active and explore the borough. ‘The restoration project at the Mount is now complete and the pavilion and the lodge will soon be back in regular use. ‘Our beach management scheme is due to start later this year. This project involves a significant investment of £40 million which will benefit Cleveleys and the surrounding area by further protecting 11,000 properties from flooding. ‘We also hope to make good progress with

‘On top of all this, we have continued to provide our essential services which is a testament to all the staff at the council. ‘Looking to the future, we have a lot to look forward to. We are pleased to be working with local businesses and town centre partnership boards to help get our high streets back on their feet. We have set aside £300,000 for a new Town Centre Strategy Fund to help support business recovery in key economic centres in the borough. ‘We are also here for local community groups, who have worked so hard to support people over the last year. We will continue to raise much needed funds for good causes

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WYRE’S BUDGET (cont) Project Neptune over the next year, our plan to build a new food processing facility on the ABP land on Fleetwood Dock.

now Poulton Leisure Centre will be used as a lateral flow testing site for as long as it is required.

‘I’d like to thank all of our staff, volunteers, communities and local businesses for their support in driving down infection rates in Wyre to the point where our district now has the lowest in Lancashire. We remain committed to providing vital services going forward as our communities and businesses recover. Together we have made a real difference and we can look forward to a brighter future.’

‘Lateral flow testing is critical to stopping the spread of coronavirus. Having a testing centre in Wyre means that anyone who has to leave home to work can get tested regularly and stop the spread if they test positive. The centre will open in April and we will confirm the date it will move from Thornton soon. Anyone who is self-employed or who works for a business not offering testing can drop in and get tested quickly, and get their results sent to them within 30 minutes.

www.wyre.gov.uk/budget

LATERAL FLOW TESTING At Poulton YMCA Lateral flow coronavirus testing is set to move from Thornton Leisure Centre to Poulton Leisure Centre as part of Fylde Coast YMCA’s reopening plans. This facility is for symptom free workers who have to leave home to work.

‘It is estimated that around one in three people might not display symptoms but are still infectious. Symptom-free testing allows us to identify more of these cases and break the chain of infection in our community. I’d like to thank everyone who has been tested so far, your efforts are making a real difference and

On Mon 12th April, Thornton Leisure Centre will reopen, alongside the centre at Garstang. This will be followed by the reopening of Fleetwood Leisure Centre including the pool, and the pool at Garstang on 1 May. Fylde Coast YMCA, as the operator, has confirmed it fully intends to open all the centres and that Poulton Leisure Centre should reopen by September 2021. In the meantime it will provide a vital service allowing symptom free workers to get tested on a regular basis. Councillor David Henderson, Leader of Wyre Council comments, ‘Wyre Council has been requested by Lancashire County Council Public Health to provide Lateral Flow Testing facilities in the borough. The council is already using the Civic Centre and Thornton Little Theatre for vaccination centres and

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LATERAL FLOW TESTING (cont) I’m pleased to say Wyre currently has one of the lowest infection rates in Lancashire.’ ‘The testing centre is only for those going out to work and who do not have symptoms. Anyone else who is concerned they may have coronavirus should book a test in the normal way, through the NHS website, app or by calling 119.’ Councillor Lynne Bowen, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Health and Community Engagement at Wyre Council comments, ‘We are very much looking forward to seeing the leisure centres start to reopen and we’re pleased to have supported this by providing £1.5 million of additional funding across this financial year and next, plus securing National Leisure Recovery government grant funding of £235,000 for the Fylde Coast YMCA. ‘The YMCA has previously announced its plan to reopen all the centres between now and September. We are pleased that centres

FOCUS MAGAZINE

2021 Deadline Dates Issue

Deadline Date

Delivery Starts

May

19/04/2021

29/04/2021

June

17/05/2021

27/05/2021

July

14/06/2021

24/06/2021

August

19/07/2021

29/07/2021

September

16/08/2021

26/08/2021

October

13/09/2021

23/09/2021

November

18/10/2021

28/10/2021

December

15/11/2021

25/11/2021

January 22

13/12/2021

06/01/2022

Editorial: editorial@focusmags.co.uk Advertising: helen@focusmags.co.uk

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and pools across the borough will begin reopening in the next couple of months and that we can utilise the centre in Poulton to provide this hugely important service to our residents. ‘The centres will be assessed on their own performance and over a time period from when each one reopens, so to ensure their future success the public now need to show their support. YMCA staff are looking forward to welcoming members old and new and there are some great membership offers available. The YMCA has some amazing facilities and instructors and it’s crucial that people now take the opportunity to use them.’ www.ymcayactive.org enquiries@fyldecoastymca.org

SCORTON STEAM FAIR CANCELLED After much deliberation, it is with regret that we have taken the decision to cancel this year’s Scorton Steam gathering which was scheduled over Father’s Day weekend, Sat 19th and Sun 20th June. Although the government has published its roadmap for exiting lockdown, its decision to be led by data rather than dates means there is still a lot of uncertainty for us as the organisers of a major public event like Scorton Steam, which takes many months of planning and pulling together. As everyone’s safety and enjoyment are our paramount concerns, we feel waiting until next year before we get together is the right way forward. Keep safe and well and hopefully, we will see you for Father’s Day weekend, 18th and 19th June, 2022! Paul & Craig Whittingham & the Team www.scortonsteam.co.uk

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GREY MATTER TEST ANSWERS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

Across Doodlebugs The Grasshopper 3. Broth Fire 6. Ides The Bates Motel 8. Indoor Crab 9. Omen Drone 10. Cashew Scarab 11. Aviary Puffins Abraham Lincoln 12. Naff Damascus 13. Raised Tax evasion 14. Stye Grouse 15. Gnash An undisturbed Anglo Saxon burial ship and its treasure Down The Solent 1. Dinosaurs Bodmin 2. Television Filo 4. Runway Salt Lake City 5. Toothpaste A Rhombus 7. Crows Feet He was shot Chernobyl 10. Creeps

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