Over Wyre Focus Magazine - December 2021 by Focus Magazines

FOCUS MAGAZINE 'The Green Book'

A Winter’s Day in Winmarleigh

OVER WYRE - Knott End - Preesall - Pilling - Stalmine - Hambleton

Issue 264 December 2021

B ST YOUR IMMUNITY THIS WINTER

WITH THE FLU VACCINE COVID-19 BOOSTER Flu and COVID-19 can both be life-threatening and spread more easily in winter. If you’re 50 or over, you are eligible for a free flu vaccine and a COVID-19 booster. Get vaccinated. Get boosted. Get protected. nhs.uk/wintervaccinations

Welcome to Focus Magazine... Christmas Returns Concert..........................4 Christmas Bingo.................................................4 Over Wyre Community Choir Concert....4 Santa Tour - Knott End & Preesall.............5 Garstang Santa Dash.......................................6 PIlling Village Hall Christmas Market.....6 Christmas Tree Festival..................................7 Parkinson’s UK.....................................................7 OWSAC....................................................................8 Knott End Domino & Whist Club...............8 Time to Dance.....................................................8 Pilling Band 200 Club......................................9 Pilling Drama Group.........................................9 Pilling Lane WI....................................................9 Shovels Hambleton Fun Run.......................10 Moon Charitable Trust.....................................10 Harmony & Health.............................................12 Friends of Knott End Library........................12 Knott End Library...............................................13 Hambleton United Reformed Church....16 Pilling Methodist Church...............................17 Church of England Services........................20 Over Wyre Christmas Services...................21 Over Wyre Medical Centre...........................22 Eat, Drink & Be Merry.......................................24

Lancaster Singers..............................................26 Garstang & District Lions...............................28 Soroptimists..........................................................30 Pilling Historical Society................................36 Lancashire Volunteer Partnership............36 Cardiac Risk in the Young..............................37 Rotary.......................................................................38 Blackpool Art Society......................................41 North Fylde Photographic Society...........41 Garstang Camera Club...................................43 RSPCA......................................................................44 Carter’s Charity Primary.................................48 Preesall Fleetwood’s Charity School......50 Preesall Fire Station.........................................53 Preesall Town Council.....................................54 Christmas Crossword.......................................55 Hambleton Parish Council............................56 Stalmine with Staynall Council..................58 Grey Matter Test.................................................59 SSRA..........................................................................60 Ben Wallace MP.................................................61 Sudoku.....................................................................62 Cat Smith MP........................................................62 Wyre Flood Forum............................................64

JANUARY 2022 DEADLINE DATE

The January deadline for editorial and adverts is 5:00pm on Monday 13th December. Deliveries of the January edition of Focus Magazine will commence on Thursday 6th January. 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 Phil S Clarkson | 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 content supplied by advertisers or editorial contributors. Our acceptance of an editorial item or an advertisement does not necessarily indicate our endorsement of the products, services or views contained within it.

CHRISTMAS RETURNS

OVER WYRE COMMUNITY CHOIR

Sun 5th & 12th Dec, 2:00pm Hambleton United Reformed Church

Sat 11th Dec, 2:00pm St Oswald’s Church

A concert to be presented by Hambleton Choral Group. As numbers are restricted to 50 for each performance, admission will be by ticket only. They cost £5 and can be obtained from members or ring either 01253 700963 or 01253 810153. All proceeds will be divided between two charities, one of which is Cancer Research and the other to be decided by the United Reformed Church.

Our Christmas concert, entitled ‘Festive Noel’ will be followed by mulled wine or soft drink and mince pies, to be served at tables in the church hall. We will also be running our Christmas raffle. Admission this year is by ticket only due to Covid restrictions and will cost £7 (includes refreshments). Tickets are available from Knott End Post Office or choir members. Please note, performance start time is 2:00pm, not 2:30pm as stated in the November Green Book. We look forward to seeing you and hope our concert will bring some festive cheer after the trials of recent times.

Dorothy Haworth

CHRISTMAS BINGO 3rd & 17th Dec Stalmine Village Hall Doors open 7:00pm eyes down 7:30pm. Sanitiser stations will be available if required and masks can be warn if you’d feel safer.

New members welcome to come and join us in the New Year. For further information please contact Kevin 01253 810928 or Rosemary 01253 813837.

David Makinson

Jenny Blythe

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SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN! Sat 11th Dec, 5:30pm Knott End Esplanade We’re delighted to announce that Santa and Mrs Claus are once again visiting Knott End and Preesall with Rudolph, elves and friends. The sleigh will travel along the Esplanade, down Lancaster Road and up Park Lane to Fordstone Ave. It will continue around the Crescent turning left onto Sandy Lane, along to the Youth and Community Centre before stopping for a well-earned cup of hot chocolate. There will be an opportunity here for children to have their picture taken on the sleigh with Santa and Rudolph before the sleigh heads off again. The tour will then travel down Pilling Lane, turning left at the roundabout, up Grasmere Road and back along Lancaster Road to Hackensall Road. They’ll then turn right onto Quail Holme Road before returning to the carpark at the top of Quail Holme.

The elves will be handing out a few goodies along the way as well as collecting money to help support our two local primary schools, Carter’s Charity and Fleetwood’s Charity and our local ‘youthy group’. Santa has also arranged for two Christmas post boxes to be placed in the local Co-ops in Knott End and Preesall. He’d love to hear what you would like for Christmas so to all the children out there, get writing your letters. If you’d like Santa to reply then include your name and address, pop your letter into one of the boxes and he’ll get back to you! It would be great to see your Christmas lights sparkling along the route so get decorating and hanging your festive displays. Follow the countdown to the tour on the Knott End & Preesall Santa Sleigh Tour Facebook page. We look forward to seeing you. Santa & Friends fb: ‘KE & P Santa Tour’

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GARSTANG SANTA DASH We are now taking bookings for our festive dash which will be held on Sun 5th Dec at 11:00am. To be part of this fantastic event please enter via our website. All abilities are welcome including children, buggies, mobility scooters and wheelchairs. •

Best dressed festive dog competition

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Entry fee of £12 for adults & £6 for children includes your Santa suit, finishers medal, hot chocolate, fully marshalled event, first aiders and entertainment.

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The route is approximately three miles.

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Walk, jog or run

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Festive warm-up with Zumba By Jayne

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Blackpool Brass will be performing from 11:15am in Cherestanc Square entertaining the Christmas shoppers, spectators and again at 12 noon for the Established over 14 years

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Sponsored by Towers & Gornall Limited and Bella’s Coffee House. Raising money for Garstang Christmas lights and Garstang Scarecrow Festival. Liz Webster www.garstangsantadash.com

PILLING VILLAGE HALL We will be holding a Christmas market on Sat 4th Dec from 2:00pm to 8:00pm with stalls by local crafts people, refreshments and musical entertainment. And as for New Years Eve - well watch this space! Katrina Bell e: info@pillingvillagehall

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CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Fri 3rd Dec to Sun 5th Dec St Peter’s Church, Quernmore LA2 9EL Visit our beautiful country church lit up by Christmas trees, decorated by our generous sponsors. The church will look wonderful and the atmosphere will be very special. We hope that this special event will provide a warm and welcoming place for everyone. Gale Barton

PARKINSON’S UK Preston Branch As we continue to head back towards normality we are booking guest speakers or entertainers for most of our branch meetings. November’s entertainment was Andrew Tunney, who astounded everyone with his wonderful magic tricks. The next meetings are as follows: •

Wed 8th Dec: Christmas party starting at 7:00pm with the Garstang Ukulele Group

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Wed 12th Jan: Tax, care and toy boys by Co-op estate planning

Meetings are from 7:30pm to 9:00pm on the second Wednesday of each month at St Anthony’s Social Club, Cadley Causeway, Preston. The branch has about 150 members, of whom 50 or so regularly attend meetings. Some people prefer to keep in touch through ‘Our News’ and the occasional phone call. That’s fine by us too. We provide free exercise classes, city breaks and afternoon teas but the main benefit of branch membership is being able to meet other people living with the condition. If you are diagnosed with Parkinson’s it is a major shock. Having been through the same experience we understand exactly how you feel. No one has to face Parkinson’s alone. Steve 01995 608962

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OWSAC Thurs 16th Dec, 2:00pm Knott End Working Men’s Club The next meeting will be ‘Party Time’! To enable us provide enough food for everybody, admission will be by ticket only. So we look forward to seeing you all, in your Christmas jumpers, ready for a great afternoon. For more information call Janet on 01253 467978. Penny Drabble

KNOTT END DOMINO & WHIST CLUB Once again, we are up and running and meet at Knott End Working Men’s Club each Friday at 2:00pm. Unfortunately, as we re-group after the recent close-down due to Covid, we find that we are short of people who wish to play whist. Dominoes is still popular, however, but we would like to see new members for both games. We are a friendly group who always have a laugh and never take the games too seriously, so why don’t you come and join us? Please note, KEWMC requires masks to be worn whilst walking through the premises.

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TIME TO DANCE Every Friday, 7:00pm - 10:00pm Hambleton Village Hall Popular sequence, ballroom and Latin. 30 minute workshop for anyone who wishes to start learning these dances (adults only) followed by social dancing. Admission £5 including refreshments. Steve Coughlan stevecoughlan1959@gmail.com

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PILLING DRAMA GROUP We had to cancel our November production in the new village hall due to a very tragic bereavement for two of our cast members. It was just not right for us to continue. We hope to be able to perform for you once more in the spring. Wishing you all a Happy Christmas and New Year. Jenny Blythe

PILLING LANE WI The November meeting was our AGM. We are delighted to say that Janet Astley was unanimously re-elected as the president. Anne Ingham and Barbara Lancashire were elected secretary and treasure accordingly. As soon as the business was completed we were entertained by John Burke who played songs of the fifties and sixties. We all enjoyed hearing his tales of life as an entertainer meeting the pop stars of the day and singing along with our favourites. Our next meeting will be on Wed 1st Dec when we are invited to ‘Matt and Yvonne’s Christmas Party.’ On that evening we will be collecting articles for the Salvation Army to distribute over Christmas. If any lady is interested in joining us for a fun filled evening, please ring for details or just come along on the evening. Janet Astley 01253 467978

SHOVELS HAMBLETON FUN RUN As many of you will know the Shovels Hambleton Fun Run been in existence for a total of 37 years with 35 having taken place (2020 and 2021 cancelled due to the pandemic). I have reached 66 years of age and recently retired from work as I do not feel I am any longer able to give organising the fun run all the care and attention it needs to be run successfully. Therefore at a recent committee meeting a vote was taken as to whether we should continue with the fun run or switch to the extremely successful two day charity

event which we held this year and which many of you supported. The committee voted overwhelmingly in favour of continuing with the two day event which will be held on a weekend over the summer (dates to be decided). We will hold a meeting at the Shovels on Wed 19th Jan at 7:30pm and if anyone feels they are in a position and has the enthusiasm to take over organising the fun run then we would be pleased to see them and provide information and guidance as to what is involved. Thank you all for your support. David (aka Evil) Tripp

MOON CHARITABLE TRUST This charitable trust was set up by Mrs Edith Moon who lived in Lancaster Road, Pilling. Articles in Focus Magazine in previous years have invited grant applications from local charities and the trustees have made a further thirty awards last year to local charities in the Pilling and surrounding areas. In a few months’ time, the trustees will consider making a further round of grants. Applications for grants are invited now, therefore, from Pilling, Knott End, Stalmine, Preesall, Hambleton and surrounding areas, from local charitable groups. Previous applicants will be considered and applicants do not need to be registered charities as long as their objectives are of a charitable nature. Grants will generally be between £500 and £1,000, though larger sums may be awarded. If any group would wish to apply for a grant, please contact the correspondent of the charity requesting an application form. This should be completed and returned by Fri 15th April 2022. Sue Walker t: 01253 684575 a: Linder Myers Solicitors, 21-23 Park Street, Lytham FY8 5LU

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HARMONY & HEALTH Fact - singing, especially alongside other people, brings benefits to both your physical and mental well-being.

Tuesday mornings from 11:00am - 12:00 noon for folks who are housebound or unable to attend a face-to-face session.

Opportunity - Check this out for yourself by joining one of our weekly singing sessions no experience necessary so this is a good time to belt out all those Christmas songs you hear on PA systems but can’t really join in with!

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Time & Place - Monday afternoons in the URC Church Hall, Garstang from 2:00pm - 3:15pm and Tuesday afternoons at the Village Hall, Hambleton from 2:00pm - 3:15pm. The charge at both venues is £2.00 per visit and there is no minimum time commitment. Tea, coffee and biscuits are included and all appropriate Covid protocols are in place. We also hold weekly Zoom sessions on

FRIENDS OF KNOTT END LIBRARY Christmas Coffee & Mince Pies Sat 4th Dec, 10:00am to 12:00pm Knott End Library Don’t forget to join us. We have the children from Fleetwood Charity School coming to entertain us between 10:30am and 11:30am to get us in the Christmas mood. Our next Fokel meeting will be on Mon 20th Dec at 11:00am. New members always welcome. Kate Hind

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KNOTT END LIBRARY As we near the end of another unusual year, let’s be hopeful for the next. There was so much positivity when we welcomed our groups back last month and so let’s all look forward to the New Year and beyond! Author Event - Angela Norris Tues 7th Dec, 2:00pm We are welcoming back popular local author Angela Norris who will be giving a talk on her new book ‘That’s News to Me’ sharing tales and memoirs as a rural reporter back in the 1970s. Festive refreshments will be available. This is a free event, however booking is essential as places are limited. Please ask on your next visit. Storytime Every Monday 10:30am Join us for a storytime session for pre-school children.

Crochet & NeedleCraft Every Monday, 10:00am - 12 noon Crochet at the library – whether you are new or more experienced in knitting, crochet or anything crafty join our friendly group for a natter and a swap of ideas. Refreshments available. Knit & Natter Every Tuesday, 10:00am – 12 noon Knit & Natter at the library, enough said! Refreshments available Over Wyre Family History Mon 6th Dec, 2:00pm - 4:00pm Existing members only, however if you have an interest in your family history and would like to join the group, please pop in to enquire. First Friday Reading Group Fri 3rd Dec, 2:00pm – 3:00pm Existing members only, however if you would

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KNOTT END LIBRARY (cont) like to join pop in to add your name to the list. Poetry Appreciation Group Fri 17th Dec 2:00pm – 3:00pm Bring along your favourite poem to discuss. Poetry is brilliant – enough said! Last Friday Reading Group Thurs 30th Dec 10:00am – 12 noon *Please note change of day and time* For existing members only, but if you would like to join pop in to add your name to the list. Baby & Toddler Bounce & Rhyme Every Friday 10:30am - 11:00am Suitable for children up to 18 months. A funfilled session with songs and music. This event must be booked as spaces are limited. Lego Club Every Saturday 11:00am - 12 noon Calling all master builders!

Join us and

share your passion and amazing creations. We have missed you! Watch this space as our remaining events will be recommencing soon… Board Games Club Mon 10th Jan 2:00pm - 3:00pm Try your hand at Scrabble or Chess at our new weekly club. Why not bring a friend too? Creative Writing Group Fri 14th Jan 2:00pm - 3:00pm Join us for our first group meeting since lockdown New - Family History Support Are you interested in tracing your family tree, but have no idea where to start? We have a volunteer who is experienced in family history who can help you search our digital library, use websites such as Ancestry and Find My Past and generally point you

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KNOTT END LIBRARY (cont) in the right direction all for free! Just ask to make an appointment when you next visit the library.

FOKEL (Friends of Knott End Library) Christmas Coffee & Mince Pie morning Sat 4th Dec 10:00am - 12 noon

Digital Access

We are back! We hope you can join us for drinks, mince pies, Christmas songs (performed by Fleetwood’s Charity School), bran tub and lots of Christmas cheer – Christmas jumpers optional! If you would like to help us raise funds for the library and support their initiatives we meet on the third Monday of each month at 11:00am at the library. Next meeting: Mon 20th Dec.

Free internet access is available using our public network computers, as well as our printing and photocopying services, and also a study area with free access to WiFi. Home Library Service For those in the community who are unable to visit the library because of poor health, we offer the home library service, where we pack a choice of books and our volunteers will deliver to the door. We are operating with strict measures in place. This is a service which is proving more vital than ever before so if you would like to be part of this, do please contact the library. We are happy to help!

We look forward to welcoming you. Take care everyone. Wishing you all a peaceful Christmas and New Year. Sue, Margaret & James - Knott End Library Team t: 0300 123 6703 www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries-andarchives/libraries

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HAMBLETON URC Oh my! How fast this year has gone by and, as it comes to a close, I am sure a great many of you will be happy.

Poulton areas whereby girls’ drinks have been spiked, and, even more worryingly, girls have been spiked by being injected.

As, like the previous year of 2020, I feel this year has been an equally topsy-turvy one for a great many. However, I do believe we are seeing a more stable style of life emerging. I also feel this year has once again showed what a wonderful loving community we have here in Hambleton as it has brought out a wonderful array of personal qualities.

Do you feel lonely? Bored? Want company? Then come and join us for a brew and chat at our weekly coffee morning held every Wednesday, 10:30am - 12 noon.

Thank you to all those who came and supported our Christmas fair. We know this time of the year is for celebrations and parties will be taking place. People will be out and about getting merry, but, please, stay safe. More importantly if you’re a single person, tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back - text them. At present there have been incidents occurring with Blackpool and

Finally, why not join us for this month’s soup and cake luncheon which will be held in the church hall on Sat 11th Dec at 12 noon 1:00pm? The cost is just £4 - such a bargain! If you have a relative or friend who is ill in hospital then please let us know so we can try to arrange a chaplaincy member to pop in and have a chat with them at visiting hours. This is open to all members of our community. Contact Chris Lamb for more information. The church is back open fully so please do feel free to come along and join in the group events that use our church hall. I personally find the church building to be a place of solitude and a place to a have a moment’s quiet reflection, so why not pop in, sit, reflect and say a prayer with us. If you do not attend church but would like a prayer said for either yourself or someone you know, then please do not hesitate to contact us by dropping a note through the letterbox or emailing us. We will be more than happy to include it in our services. Finally, we wish all within our community and beyond to have a safe and happy festive period. Merry Christmas everyone. Please note, the church will not be open on Sun 26th Dec (Boxing Day). Otherwise, services are held every Sunday throughout the month at 10:00am. All are welcome to join us at our dog-friendly church. Chris Lamb t: 01253 811252 e: hambletonurc@gmail.com

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PILLING METHODIST CHURCH Carol Concert The annual carol concert is on Sat 4th Dec at 2:00pm at the Sunday school hall. Admission by tickets only. For tickets (cost £7) please phone 01253 790253. Service of Remembrance & Thanksgiving Over the last two years our lives have been turned upside down by the Covid pandemic. Many of us have lost loved ones in a time when we were unable to gather with family and friends. Others have lost vital contact with loved ones. The difficult economic situation has resulted in many other losses including jobs, businesses and homes. Many of us are still feeling fragile and uncertain in these times, especially as the Christmas season approaches. Pilling Methodist Church is holding a special service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance on Sun 5th Dec at 3:00pm. This service will

offer time to remember those who have died. The many other losses we have experienced over this time, there will be an opportunity to remember your loved ones through placing a bauble in their memory on our special tree of remembrance and thanksgiving. The service will be quiet and reflective as we recall how God comes to us through the birth of Jesus and offers peace and comfort to all who mourn and hope in times of uncertainty. If you feel this service may bring you comfort, then please do come and join us. The tree of remembrance will remain outside the church and you are invited to add to it over the Christmas season. The village carol service on Sun 19th Dec 6:30pm will conclude around the tree as we offer our prayers to God and sing our final carol (weather permitting), so please join us for this if you are able.

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PILLING METHODIST CHURCH (cont) Christmas Day Family Service Morning family worship will be led by our own minister Rev Sarah Lamb on Christmas Day starting at 10:00am. Village Carol Singing Everyone is welcome to join the carollers as they spread festive cheer and raise money for the North West Air Ambulance. Village Carol Service Join us on Sun 19th Dec at 6:30pm to celebrate Christmas with our village family carol service. This ecumenical event, led by Rev Sarah Lamb is for the whole family. Christmas Eve Communion Christmas Eve communion service in the Fellowship Room at Pilling Methodist Church led by Rev Sarah Lamb at 7:00pm on Tues 24th Dec.

We will meet up at the Pilling Methodist Church at 7:00pm unless otherwise stated. The dates are: Sat 11th, Fri 17th, Sat 18th, Tues 21st, Thurs 23rd, and Fri 24th Jan (at 7:45pm after the Communion service on Friday). Further details are available from John Savage on 01253 790707. You are welcome to join us for any or all of these events. Andrew Bell

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CHURCH OF ENGLAND SERVICES Advent & Christmas

St James, Hall Gate Lane, Stalmine

The Church of England, Over Wyre looks forward to celebrating the coming to earth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

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We hope that all the people resident in our villages will have a happy and holy Christmas and we invite you to come and join us in our special seasonal services (listed below). Please get in touch if you wish to know more about any of the services listed below. The Blessed Virgin Mary, Church Lane, Hambleton •

Sun 12th Dec, 10:30am: Toy Service

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Sun 19th Dec, 6:30pm: Carol Service with Pilling Band

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Fri 24th Dec, 4:00pm: Nativity Service

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Sat 25th Dec, 10:30am Family Holy Communion with Carols

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• •

Sun 5th Dec, 10:30am: Toy Service & Christingle Sun 12th Dec: 10:30am Christmas All-Age Worship / 7:00pm Carols with Pilling Band Sun 19th Dec: 10:30am 9 Lessons & Carols Fri 24th Dec: 4:00pm Crib Service / 11:30pm 1st Holy Communion of Christmas

St Oswalds, Lancaster Road, Preesall • • •

•

Sun 5th Dec, 10:30am: Toy Service Sun 19th Dec, 10:30am: Carol Service Fri 24th Dec, 5:30pm: Candlelight Crib Service / 11:30pm 1st Holy Communion of Christmas Sat 25th Dec,10:30am: Holy Communion

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C of E SERVICES (cont) St John the Evangelist, Crook Gate Lane, Out Rawcliffe

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Sat 25th Dec, 9:00am: Holy Communion

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Sun 19th Dec, 2:00pm Carols with Pilling Band

For further details, contact:

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Fri 24th Dec, 11:00pm: 1st Holy Communion of Christmas

Rev Andy Shaw t: 01253 799895 e: pillingrev@btconnect.com

St John the Baptist, School Lane, Pilling •

Sun 5th Dec, 10:30am: Toy Service

OVER WYRE CHRISTMAS SERVICES

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Sun 12th Dec,10:30am: Service of Lessons & Carols

Lighthouse Community Church, Knott End

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Wed 15th Dec, 4:00pm: School Christingle Service

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Fri 24th Dec, 5:30pm Crib Service / 11:00pm 1st Holy Communion of Christmas

St Bernards, Knott End & St William, Pilling (RC)

St Mark, Bradshaw Lane, Eagland Hill •

Sun 19th Dec, 2:30pm: Family Carol Service

Fri 24th Dec, 10:30am: Holy Communion

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Thurs 23rd Dec, 7:15am: Rorate Mass

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Fri 24th Dec, 6:00pm: Vigil Mass

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Sat 25th Dec, 9:30am: Dawn Mass

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OVER WYRE MEDICAL CENTRE The Front Room

and 2021.

As many of you will already know, The Front Room at the medical centre was set up as a communal space in May of 2019 inviting charities and organisations to our doorstep to help provide services and advice to our local community. During 2019, the service developed and hosted groups for chronic pain, children’s therapy, dementia and cancer advice. Local volunteers would utilise the space to host computer sessions, yoga sessions and relaxing therapies. We also held some successful events as fundraisers and Christmas celebrations. However, Covid came along and our vision lost its way.

Although we need to be mindful of ongoing social distancing and hygiene precautions, we feel that patients should benefit from The Front Room and these resources once again. We therefore announce a re-launch party of The Front Room on Fri 3rd Dec, 10:00am - 1:00pm. This is a sociable event welcoming local services to showcase their wealth of resources to the local community. Guests include: Lesley Crompton and Kerry Cousens from Wyre Borough Council, the MacMillan Team, Cat Smith, our local MP, the Blackpool Smile Chronic Pain group, Lancashire Volunteer Services, our very own social prescriber and many more.

We continue to live in a world where Covid remains prevalent, but it is clear to see that problems with mental health, wellbeing and loneliness have been exacerbated by the restrictions imposed upon us during 2020

Hambleton Primary Academy have kindly agreed to be our resident artists decorating our walls with vibrant artwork – thank you to the children and teachers for all their support! There will be socially distanced coffee and

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FOCUS MAGAZINE 22

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OVER WYRE MEDICAL (cont) refreshments on offer with some music and festive atmosphere. We will also be using the launch of our community room to support two important charities. The Indie Rose Trust has been selected by Caroline, Mark and Ben Dempsey. This is a charity that creates bespoke treasure boxes for children with cancer. Olivia Dempsey received a heart-warming, thoughtful box of goodies during her battle with cancer from The Indie Rose Trust and this really touched the hearts of the whole family. Our vision is to create a stunning Christmas tree filled with chocolates and bright colours. The idea is to take a chocolate in return for a donation of your choosing! This charity campaign will run throughout December so please pop in to take a treat and donate. In memory of Alison Harrison, our dedicated chair of the patient participation group, who sadly died in October 2021, we would like to UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

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raise funds for her chosen charity, MacMillan Cancer Support. Roll up, roll up – we are having a tombola! This will be organised by our fabulous patient participation group, a number of whom will be in attendance to provide support and catering on the day. We’d love to see the community come out to support the re-launch of our community room. It is a vision that is close to our hearts and we are enthusiastic to recreate a homely space where patients can access those holistic aspects of health and social care which have been less accessible over the last 18 months. I would like to take this opportunity to wish everybody a very merry Christmas from our team here at Over Wyre Medical Centre. All the best for the 2022. Stay safe. Dr Vicky Simpson t: (01253) 951165 fb: @overwyremc www.overwyremc.co.uk

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EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY! Well that went quick didn’t it? Another year slips away in the blink of an eye. Time seems to go so fast these days. I figured out a way to slow it down though: switch off your technology, stop staring at screens and let the rhythm of nature show you the way. This was made all the clearer for me in the summer when my wife and I had a break in a place with no phone signal or electricity. The world slowed down and it was beautiful. Once upon a time we lived by the rhythm of the sun and the moon and the stars. We abandoned them for clocks, machines, industry and profit. Whilst there are undoubted technological advances that have come from this I am not so sure we have done anything but harm our human spirit. Which brings me to the festive spirit of Christmas. 12 days (yes folks, it doesn’t end on Christmas day, it starts then) of Christmas

and feasting and family. In the darkest time of the year we bring light into our homes and rejoice in life. I find the commercial aspects so unpleasant these days but I love the Christmas Spirit. Therefore, I thought I would give you some advice for what foods you can indulge in that are delicious and good for you that we have been told, quite incorrectly, are bad for us. First on the list is fat. Eat lots of it! Full fat creams, butter, olive oil and animal fat. These good fats do not give you heart attacks. They provide your body with a balance of omega 3 and 6 and give you abundant energy. If you must have the bad stuff (things that make your insulin spike like sugar and other highly processed carbohydrates) please add some fat to them. An example of this is eating a mince pie with a thick dollop of whipped cream! Yum. A myth has been driven home to the point where we almost consider it truth that fat makes you fat and clogs up your arteries. This is simply not the case. Please stop fretting about cholesterol, it is a vital molecule that helps your body maintain its health. The key to stop heart disease is to get rid of sugar and simple carbs like breakfast cereals. Have bacon and eggs instead. Eat cheese to your hearts content, nuts, meats (yes, I know there are veggies and vegans but they tend to know what they can eat freely), oily fish once a week. Farmed fish once a week only. Adapt your baking to nut flours like almond or coconut flour which will not cause the insulin release that you get from our usual breads and cereals. The key to a healthy and vibrant old age is looking after your blood sugar levels by fasting, avoiding the simple carbs and keep your body moving. Fat is not the devil – sugar most certainly is.

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EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY! (cont)

LANCASTER SINGERS

Please make sure you are taking a good Vitamin D dose through the winter. Anywhere from 1000iu to 5000iu a day is a good starting point. Have vitamin C to hand, and if you get a cold (we aren’t allowed to have just a cold anymore are we?) take 1000mg of it every hour for the first day or so. Take zinc too and CBD is very good for regulating so many systems of your body it really is one of the ultimate superfoods.

Christmas Concerts Tues 14th & Sat 18th Dec, 7:30pm After more than 500 days apart we are once again rehearsing and performing live! We gave a resounding ‘We’re Back!’ concert in November which was a joyous occasion for Singers and audience alike. We’re looking forward to the future very much.

Our Christmas Carol Concerts will be held in the iconic Ashton Memorial, followed by I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Christ Church, Wyresdale Road, Lancaster, respectively. The Memorial’s lofty ambience Happy New Year. and Christ Church’s gothic splendour make Nick Tofolos 01995 602833 for wonderful experiences and we hope you can join us for some beautiful music as well as a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine. PREESALL GARAGE

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Lancaster Singers is an auditioned choir, formed more than 40 years ago. Under the baton of our dynamic Director, Duncan Lloyd, we give five or six concerts a year in a range of venues from tiny village churches to large concert halls. The repertoire is eclectic and ranges from early renaissance music to the very latest compositions by some of the world’s greatest living choral composers. We rehearse during term times at Lancaster University. We also have some great social events during the year. If you’re looking to join a modern, vibrant, and accomplished choir, why not come along to a couple of rehearsals in the New Year and check us out? In the first instance, email Sarah at welcome@ lancastersingers.org or call Chris. Chris Haughton t: 07976 875 586 www.lancastersingers.org

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GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS Donations At our last meeting a cheque was presented to the Royal Oak for £200 as a contribution towards the cost of purchasing a new defibrillator. £300 has been provided to the Baby Beat Appeal at Preston Hospital to assist in the monitoring of the development of babies in pregnancy and delivery. A sum of £200 has been given towards the substantial fundraising efforts of a local scout to enable him to go to Malawi joining to assist in the building a much needed education centre for the community of Mangani. The club have also agreed to give £300 towards the cost of the Christmas lunch organised by the Royal Voluntary Service. Club members also have agreed to provide

a sum of £200 for providing Christmas gifts for distribution to Fylde Women’s Aid. Once again we have approached B and S supplies who have always been most generous in their support with providing cosmetics, toys etc. Fylde Women’s Aid has a continued need for new clothing items (babies, small children or ladies), new toys, new cosmetic or new toiletries and this appeal is ongoing with our collection point being the Resources Centre (old Liberal Club on Bridge Street). Events & Activities It was very pleasing that our annual community bonfire and fireworks display went ahead and that a large number attended to enjoy the spectacular display. This reflects both the success and popularity of this event. Our thanks go to all of the organisations who donated wood and to the mayor of Garstang and the youth mayor for their attendance to

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GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS (cont) light the bonfire Our members supported the road closure and traffic management to facilitate the local Remembrance Day Service arrangements on Sun 14th Nov. One of our longest serving members, Alan Townsend took part in the parade and laid a wreath on the club’s behalf. On Mon 22nd Nov a small team of Lion members will be assisting with the short road closure for the virtual Garstang Christmas lights switch on. The club will be assisting in parking the cars of all entrants and officials at Myerscough College on Sun 5th Dec to allow their annual ten mile run to take place. On the same day a few members will be helping with the road closures for the annual Garstang Santa dash. Covid has meant that we have taken the decision to cancel the annual Christmas community lunch for local vulnerable adults

and their carers. However we will be arranging a Santa visit to many of our local care homes on Sun 19th Dec which is something that we successfully did last year . General Our club continues to grow but if you are interested in joining then you are most welcome. Further information is available on the website. You can also speak to any member about what we do or come along to our regular meetings held on the third Tues of the month in the Royal Oak at 8:00pm. Memory Café This is organised separately by Lion, Sandra Perkins but with the full support of the club and with several other members acting as either trustees or helpers. I am pleased to report that this is running once again. This is for those experiencing dementia in any form and their carers with a wide variety of

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GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS (cont) highly social and entertaining activities being provided. The group will return to having their regular meetings on the first Monday (2:00pm to 4:00pm ) and third Wednesday (10:00am to noon) of each month. Chris Wilkinson www.garstanglions.co.uk

SOROPTIMISTS Women Inspiring Action, Transforming Lives Recent Activity Another year nearly over and we can’t believe how busy we have been... and still are! Our November meeting was spent tidying up earlier actions and putting planning

in place for 2022! But firstly, let’s just bring you up to date with previous reports. Our speaker, Charlotte Elwood (Community Fundraising & Engagement Officer at Cancer Research NW) gave an inspiring talk. It was full of interesting facts and fascinating insights as to how the charity is helping to support patients and their families. It also gave us hope for future research breakthroughs. Across the North West, we are up to 25% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer than anywhere else in the UK. North West Cancer Research is working tirelessly to break this pattern by fighting the types of cancer that affect people living here the most. Their current strategy is based on three key things: understanding our region; undertaking research; and education and awareness – all underpinned by a commitment to partnership and maintaining a people and patient focus.

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SOROPTIMISTS (cont) AfriReuse A cause for celebration was the achievement of our target of raising £1,000 to support 100 AfriReuse Dignity Packs for women and young girls through our 100-mile relay. And although donations are still coming in, it was decided that we would make an interim payment to the charity – that way 100 women and girls can receive their packs now and begin to benefit from them. It doesn’t bear thinking about, not having access to sanitary protection – not only from a hygiene perspective but also the knock on effect for education, as the lack of protection prevents girls going to school. It’s not too late for you to make a donation to add to our final total later: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ garstang-soroptimists Moving Forward We have so much work in progress – lucky

so many of you wonderful women are coming forward and joining us! We collected clothing for refugees and one of our members, Annemarie, had the wonderful idea of linking items together such as jumper, trousers and jacket so that recipients have a whole outfit to wear. No matter what your current situation, everyone likes to look good. Linked with this was a collection of trauma bears (see photo) to offer support to children in need/experiencing trauma. A teddy can

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be an amazing source of comfort when all around you is in turmoil. We also had our collection of foodbank donations for the Salvation Army – a great spread and in time for Christmas. We do these collections a couple of times a year, ready for the school holidays and then again for Christmas, both times of increased need on the family purse. We made plans for this year’s ‘Cards for Kindness’ to coincide with the season’s festivities. Remember, there are lots of people who will simply have no one to remember them – so the simple act of sending a card can mean a lot. Why not join in – please see the Cards for Kindness www.healthierlsc. co.uk/CardsForKindness Stamp Collections for the RNIB From the beginning of December we will have various collections points around Garstang at ‘Best Wishes’ (card shop), Visit Garstang Information Centre, the Arts Centre and the Market Hall – a big thanks to these organisations who have let us put our collection boxes in their premises. It’s also a good opportunity to do a little Christmas shopping whilst you’re there! The stamps are weighed in and the charity then receives money towards their cause (don’t forget to leave about 1cm of envelope around the stamp if possible). Our petition of the month was agreed as supporting the development of wetlands as part of the climate change agenda – see

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SOROPTIMISTS (cont) here for more details: www.wwt.org.uk/ wetlands-can From a national perspective we noted the Soroptimist’s presence at COP26, a mark of the recognition of the role Soroptimism plays in national and international campaigning. We also felt ‘justifiably proud’ of Garstang Soroptimist’s Plant Life Campaign being recognised at a regional and national level as an example of good practice. And then importantly, we finalised our plans for our festive meal, the year-end ‘blow out’. We’ll enjoy a meal (this year at the Royal Oak) and a chance to just have fun and socialise with good friends. Again, the fun and friendship aspects of Soroptimism are a vital part of who we are and it’s a wonderful thing to be part of a wonderful group of women of all ages, from all backgrounds and with such a variety of experiences.

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And Finally! Seasons greetings to everyone and a huge thank you for all your support throughout the year. May your winter break be filled with happiness and love and may the coming 2022 be a kinder year to us all in every way. Next Meeting Our next meeting is Wed 12th Jan at 6:30pm at our usual venue of the Garstang Country Hotel and Golf Centre. Don’t be shy, get in touch and be part of this vibrant club. Help other women and girls whilst making lifelong friends. For more information, drop us a line or give our membership co-ordinator, Muriel BurnhamAirey a ring on 01995 606604. Until next month, take care and enjoy friendship. t: (01995) 606604 (Muriel Burnham-Airey) w: www.sigarstang.org.uk facebook: SoroptimistsGarstang twitter: GarstangSoropt

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PILLING HISTORICAL SOCIETY

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Tues 7th Dec, 7:30pm Pilling Methodist Church Rooms

My name is Mark Trent and I am the Wyre volunteer officer from the Lancashire Volunteer Partnership, a public sector service which operates throughout Lancashire.

Our December meeting will be our members’ night. Members will have an opportunity to look through the interesting books in our library along with our new librarians, Juliette and Michelle. A few DVDs of old Pilling will be shown and it is hoped that members will bring along their old photographs or historical articles for members to see. We will also have mince tarts and coffee/tea to enjoy along with friendly chat. Members enjoyed our November meeting when Paul Smith gave an illustrated talk about the general strike. We meet on the first Tuesday in the month at 7:30pm at the Methodist Church room from September to March. Everyone welcome. Annual subscription is £10. Visitors are £2.

There are lots of people feeling lonely and isolated who are referred to our service and would like someone to talk to. If interested, please phone me between 8:00am and 4:00pm Monday to Friday or e-mail me. Mark Trent t: 01772 416417 m: 07887 831672 e: mark.trent@lancashire.gov.uk

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CARDIAC RISK IN THE YOUNG Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund As weekends go, our CRY screening event on 13th and 14th Nov was a tremendously emotive one with the delight of meeting and greeting attendees, the poignancy and anguish of meeting and talking with family and friends of others who have fallen victim to Young Sudden Cardiac Death, the sorrowful recollection of lives lost in war at the two minutes silence and the solace of lives saved through screening in memory of our beautiful and much missed son. In total 166 young hearts were tested, and although appointments took a little longer due to covid measures, we had a fantastic CRY team who worked hard to see so many whilst keeping everyone safe. Huge thanks to all who attended or were involved in some way, and especially to Garstang Community Academy for hosting the screening, to Auction Eats who provided

a delicious lunch for the teams on Saturday, to our lovely friends, Sarah, Jim and Kath for helping and to all who donated so generously towards a future screening. Our thoughts as always are especially with those who need further medical investigation and we send our best wishes for your future good health. CRY Screening Sat 5th & Sun 6th Feb We are hopeful that our next screening (Covid permitting) will return to its regular slot of the first weekend in February. Appointments for this are scheduled to go online on the Wed 1st Dec, but please be aware that the appointments go very quickly – often within a day of being released, so if you wish to be screened please keep a close eye on www. testmyheart.org or go to this web page prior to December and complete an interest form.

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CARDIAC RISK IN THE YOUNG Fundraising We currently have some pretty handmade items for sale at the Art Centre Christmas Fair until Thurs 2nd Dec and Christmas cards for Matt’s Fund are still available at Best Wishes in Garstang. A few of the charming Highland Cow calendars in memory of Andrew Key and Matt are also still available at Garstang’s Best Wishes, The Cheese Shop, Dewlay, and also at Longridge from Meraki, The Old Station café, Tap and Vent, Raymond James Investment Services, Jo’s Village Kitchen, Heritage Interiors and Longridge Golf Course. As the year comes to a close, we all would like to thank everyone in our wonderful community and beyond for all your tremendous support over what has been a somewhat challenging 12 months, and we hope the gifts of peace, friendship and love are with you and yours this Christmas time and in the year ahead. Paula Hesmondhalgh t: 07785 106 976 e: paulahez.ph@gmail.com fb: @The Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund

ROTARY Efforts for Calvert Trust Rewarded In September, after an 18 month delay, Calvert Lakes was able to accept the first of the 2020 groups. Thirty one people aged 15 to 69 with a wide range of disabilities enjoyed an action-packed week with outdoor challenges including: climbing, canoeing, cycling, high ropes course, horse riding, sailing, walking and zip wiring. On Sat 6th Nov they welcomed the remaining 18 delayed guests. All these guests were funded by Rotary Clubs in Lancashire and Cumbria. This is in addition to the £33,000 emergency funds with a

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ROTARY (CONT) challenge that was set up by Keswick Rotary Club and supported by Garstang Rotary and Clubs throughout Lancashire and Cumbria. Wrap-up Central Lancashire Following the success of our pre-Covid programme to collect surplus winter coats Garstang Rotary Club joined the west Lancashire group in their ‘Wrap-Up’ exercise. Collection boxes were placed at Booths and Sainsbury’s supermarket shops in Garstang between Oct 18th and Nov 8th. This resulted in a total collection of 200 acceptable winter coats which formed part of 750 items collected in West Lancashire. On the tenth of November representatives from Preston South and Garstang Rotary Clubs took 200 winter coats to the Salvation Army sorting centre in Blackpool who were delighted with the donation There is a massive issue in Blackpool with poverty, Asylum seekers and the recent arrival of Afghan refugees. Further distributions will follow to: homeless shelters, women’s refuges and other charities helping people in crisis. Santa’s Footnote The Rotary Santa Sleigh will make its usual visit to Over Wyre in December. It will tour the Catterall area on the evening of Mon 13th Dec. On the evening of Tues 14th Dec it will tour the Garstang area. This will be followed by a static display outside Booths from mid-morning on Thurs 16th Dec. Similarly Santa’s Sleigh will be outside Booths on Sat 18th Dec. The proceeds from the collection will be for Saint John’s Hospice Lancaster, local children’s festivals and charities sponsored by the Rotary Club of Garstang & Over Wyre. Don Goodier donald.goodier@btinternet.com

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Christmas &

HAPPY NEW YEAR KEPPLEGATE CARE SERVICES t: 01253 811957 | e: kepplegate@yahoo.co.uk www.kepplegate.co.uk Sandy Ln, Preesall, FY6 0EJ

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BLACKPOOL ART SOCIETY Our daily groups meet at our well-equipped studio on Wilkinson Ave, Blackpool. We enjoy meeting fellow artists, practicing new skills in a friendly environment and holding several exhibitions each year. We host demonstrations from professional artists on a weekly basis and / or have our members work appraised. We also have workshops and work-alongs. We have a social secretary who co-ordinates our social events and we look forward to our New Year celebration lunch on Fri 28th Jan at the nearby Blackpool Park Golf Club. We wish all readers a very happy Christmas and invite new artists or advanced artists to join us. You will be made very welcome. The December Syllabus • •

Thurs 2nd Dec, 7:30pm - 9:30pm: Caricature Demonstration by Chris Knapman Sat 4th Dec, 10:30am to 12:00pm: Christmas fayre / exhibition of members’ work with coffee and mince pies

•

Tues 21st Dec: Christmas social (via Zoom)

Join our club, check our programme some nights we might be in our club or on zoom! We will have visiting lectures. We will also have talks and ‘how to do things’ on your photography. There will be outings for the club. Details will be posted to our Facebook page. Neil Pascoe t: (01253) 734243 fb: North Fylde Photographic Society www.northfylde-ps.co.uk

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Advance Monthly News Fri 28th Jan, 12:30pm for 1:00pm: New Year celebration lunch at Blackpool Park Golf Club Rod Robinson - Publicity Officer t: 01253 790692

NORTH FYLDE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOC NFPS is continuing to run it’s 2021-22 season using both Zoom and their new venue. The Church of St Martin and St Hilda Fleetwood Road, Carleton FY6 7LS. December Programme •

Tues 7th Dec: Guest Speaker: ‘The Industrial Tourist, Exploring the Industrial North’. With Andy Marland

•

Tues 14th Dec: Results Night. Results of 2nd Seasonal PDI Competition (to be judged by Kendal Photo Club via Zoom)

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Sea Bank House

A special home for special people Sea Bank House is a residential home for elderly people who are unable to live independently in their own homes. Or philosophy of care is based on the belief that it is the right of any resident in the home to be respected as an individual, and that everyone has the right to be allowed to live as full and active a life as both their mental and physical condition allows. We endeavour to provide an environment which is not only comfortable and homely, but gives the warmth and understanding normally associated with family care but supported by specialist equipment and well trained care staﬀ. Needs are met maintaining personal dignity, privacy and encouraging independence where possible. Activities, passive and active are encouraged throughout the day by trained care staﬀ under the guidance of the Home Manager. Each care plan takes into consideration the physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs, in order to create a care plan that is relevant to individuals. Recognising, nurturing and encouraging the residents remaining skills and ability to communicate is or paramount importance to the quality of care given at Sea Bank House.

Call Joanne and her team on 01253 810888 E: info@seabank-house.co.uk www.apexhealthcare.co.uk

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GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB

Treatments

Well, here we are at the end of yet another year of restrictions, but the main thing is that we are still here. November’s meetings gave us an excellent presentation on urban / street photography, our events competition and an interesting night on sport and action. In December, we have the second of our annual competitions entitled ‘The Environment’ followed by Carmen Norman’s ‘Lake District Moods’ (on Zoom). How fortunate we are to be so close to the jewel in the crown. We also look forward to our Christmas Social on Wed 15th Dec. An early prompt for Wed 5th Jan: Lee Metcalfe on ‘Photographing the North West for Fotovue’. Coming hot off the press is the news that our club is to ‘join up’ with another in Rangiora, a town on the South Island in New Zealand. Rangiora is a large town just north of Christchurch. This venture is still at the foundation stage and is the result of some diligent work by our chairmen. It augurs well for the future of the two clubs even though we meet at diametrically opposite times of the day. Well done gentlemen. I can just see the name, Garstang International Camera Club appearing at some stage... well maybe! Just because the nights have drawn in and the days shortened, don’t put the cameras away; there are still plenty of opportunities for some good shots.

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GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB (cont) And a reminder not to forget to hang up your stockings on 24th Dec. I measured up the boxed new Canon R3 and will have to substitute a pillow case in anticipation!

Shoebox Appeal 2021 Could you donate a shoe box full of goodies for the animals spending Christmas in our care? If so, please donate towards our 2021 appeal.

Finally, can I, on behalf of all our members, wish everyone who reads this magazine Shoe boxes can be filled with any type of season’s greetings - everything in moderation! toys, food, treats etc. and can be dropped off directly at the animal centre and placed Maurice Barker under our Christmas tree or at one of our www.garstangcameraclub.co.uk charity shops. Please remember to label your box so we know whether it’s for a dog, cat, rabbit or small animal.

RSPCA Events Christmas Open Day Sun 28th Nov, 11:00am - 3:00pm Visit our animal centre for a day of festive fun. There will be a variety of seasonal stalls including cakes, stocking fillers, bottle stall, gift bags and Christmas raffle draw.

Boxing Day Dog Walk 2021 Sun 26th Dec, 11:00am Our Boxing Day dog walk will take just over an hour and on your return to the centre, hot drinks and biscuits/cakes will be available. All dogs welcome. Please ensure that they are kept on lead at all times.

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RSPCA (cont)

YOUR HOME ‘N’ GARDEN

Special Appeals Joey: At the centre we always have feral and nervous cats suitable for homing to rural locations where they have the freedom to live on their own and to come and go as they please. These homes include farms, stables and small holdings. Joey is a special cat requiring a very special home. We suspect he has been kept as an outdoor cat for a number of years and has lived off local residents feeding him. He is used to the freedom of living outdoors without being fussed over. Due to the circumstances he found himself in on arrival at the animal centre, he was very timid. Joey has since made some progress with the people he sees on a regular basis whilst in our care and has gained a little confidence though much prefers his own space. Joey is a big foodie so this is a great way to build a relationship and is the way to his heart! We can stroke him when he is eating however his new owners should be aware that he will hiss and swipe if over handled. He is looking to be re-homed as an outdoor cat again with owners that have a suitable secure area to keep him contained for the first few weeks before he is allowed out. He’s been blood tested, neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and has had an initial flea and worm treatment.

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Tyson: This gorgeous dog has found himself at the centre after there were concerns over his welfare. He is looking for a very special home with someone who has extensive

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RSPCA (cont) Dogue de Bordeaux experience. He hasn’t had the greatest start in life and is looking for a calm, quiet forever home. Having been passed around many homes, Tyson finds it very hard to trust people. so we are looking for an adult only home with no visiting children. We are looking to rehome Tyson in the local area, as his new family would need to come to visit him regularly so that he can form a bond with them. Due to Tyson’s fearful nature a behaviourist has been consulted, as he will need a little help to overcome his fear when it is time to meet his new family. o We als ton s in g lo ly supp logs & ets of bags, n ﬁregrates g, kindlin h more m & uc

He is currently following a plan that has been set out to help him cope in difficult situations. His new family will need to follow this plan in order to be successful with him. He doesn’t have a lot of experience of crowded areas and busy streets, so a location that is quiet would be ideal. He loves exploring and having a good sniff when he’s out walking, so would like an active home. Tyson loves the company of other dogs, so it is possible for him to live with a calm, neutered female. He loves toys and will engage in a game of fetch once he knows you. He can be stubborn and headstrong, as well as playful and affectionate with the people he knows. Hannah Kirrane - Animal Centre Manager t: (01253) 703000 e: enquiries@rspcablackpool.org.uk fb: @RSPCAlongview www.rspcablackpool.org.uk

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CARTER’S CHARITY PRIMARY Festive News It’s that time of the year again, where the stage gets dusted off, the infant staff are in a flurry of activity getting organised to find the crib and families of infant children are getting costumes organise... the atmosphere around school is wonderful, with children and staff all looking forward to the festive season and all the fun which goes with it. Wriggly Nativity is this year’s infant production and our juniors will be performing per class. Brass and Guitar will also be performing. Our shows this year are being recorded and will be shared electronically with families. We know this is not ideal and the decision not to invite families into school has been an extremely hard one to make but keeping everyone safe; pupils, families and staff is our highest priority as it has been throughout the pandemic.

We have taken delivery of over 160 saplings for our outdoor areas, which we have (hopefully!) now planted in our re-wilding areas around the school grounds. Years 3 & 4 had a fantastic day out to Bolton Museum – their topic work this term is all about Egypt, and the exhibition at the museum is fantastic to bring the subject to life, and has a lasting impact on learning. Our wonderful Friends of Carter’s PTFA have restarted and have organised a virtual raffle, which will be drawn on the Fri 10th Dec, as well as Infant and Junior Christmas Discos with the infamous DJ Haydock! We would like to thank them for their fundraising efforts, as we have now received a number of deliveries which have been paid for from the PTFA for topic boxes for the whole school. Our eco warriors are on a mission... their first choice has been made for the three topics to work on as a whole school project this year.

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CARTER’S CHARITY PRIMARY (cont) Meetings are taking place to finalise the other two choices. They will also be having lunch in the hall to monitor food waste and the use of plastics at lunchtime. Recycling is their first ‘hot topic’! This is the second year we have asked pupils to design our school’s Christmas card which will be shared with the community. If you know of someone that doesn’t have family or friends who you think would delight in receiving a card, please contact school with their name and address. We will gladly send a card, as we always want to bring a smile to someone’s face at this time of the year. Wishing you all a wonderful, peaceful and happy Christmas, and all best wishes for the coming New Year. Mr B Hassett - Head teacher t: 01253 810236 e: bursar@carters.lancs.sch.uk

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PREESALL FLEETWOOD’S CHARITY The School on the Hill I can’t believe we are already approaching the end of our first term – the weeks have flown by! I must thank our pupils for their exemplary behaviour and positive attitudes to learning since returning in September and also our staff team who are always fully committed to wanting the best for all our pupils and show unbelievable dedication and commitment. It has been a challenging term as we still battle with the implications of Covid but we have dealt with everything that has been thrown at us and kept going! As you are reading this, we will be about to commence our Christmas activities and our school will be full of excited pupils!

Staff have been very busy making our school look festive; the Christmas tree is twinkling and our porch has been transformed into a magical winter wonderland. We are hosting a Christmas Fair on Fri 3rd Dec from 3:30pm - 5:30pm. There will be a wide range of games, activities and stalls, a Christmas draw, refreshments (designed by Year 6), local craft stalls and hopefully a very special visitor! Everyone is welcome. Parking will be available on the school playground. Please help us raise funds for school and also support our local businesses. Our Christmas draw winners will be announced at the end of the fair. We have had a huge number of lovely prizes donated by local businesses for which we are extremely grateful. On Sat 4th Dec, our school choir will be

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FLEETWOOD’S CHARITY (cont) singing at Knott-End Library from 10:30 am, at the Christmas Coffee Morning, organised by the Friends of the Library Group. The choir will also be entertaining members of local care homes, probably virtually, over the next couple of weeks. As a school we will be attending the toy service at St. Oswald’s Church on Sun 5th Dec. The pupils in re-School, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 are rehearsing for their nativity performance, ‘Stable by Starlight’ which will take place in school on Thurs 9th Dec. We are delighted that we are able to invite our families to watch, even though we have had to reduce the number in our audience. Our KS2 pupils will take part in a Carol Concert at St Oswald’s Church on Tues 14th Dec. Each class has a part to play; we get to sing some of our favourite carols and

the highlight is the Christingle where our pupils sing to their families in candlelight. This is the moment when we feel Christmas has arrived! We have a whole school Christmas lunch planned for Wed 15th Dec with turkey and all the trimmings and then on Thurs 16th Dec, a group of Year 5 and 6 pupils will have an exciting visit to Lancaster on Ice where they will be taught to ice-skate by a professional coach from Blackpool Ice Rink and then have a go at dancing on ice! As a church school, we take time to teach our pupils about the true meaning of Christmas from Advent through to the incredible events of the very first Christmas. Some of our pupils have helped to make a beautiful Advent wreath from natural materials in their forest session so we can acknowledge the countdown to Christmas in our whole school worship and think about how and

JOB OPPORTUNITY Registered Nurse (RGN) Complex Nursing Care & Support at Home A rare opportunity to oﬀer one-on-one support to our daughter.

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FLEETWOOD’S CHARITY (cont) why Christmas is important for Christians all over the world. Our core Christian Values this half-term are joy and peace which fit beautifully with the time of year. We will also be thinking about the value of service as we put together our second ‘Kindness in the Community’ Christmas campaign. We will be out delivering special boxes to the elderly members of the church community to show we are thinking about them. Our pupils will also be making Christmas cards for the residents of the local care homes. We would like to take this opportunity to wish all members of the local community a very happy and joyous Christmas. See you in 2022! Victoria Gladwin - Headteacher www.fleetwoods.lancs.sch.uk head@fleetwoods.lancs.sch.uk

PREESALL FIRE STATION Welcome to our seventh editorial where we give you an insight into your community fire station. Recently the crew have been to road traffic collisions, fires in the open and assisted North West Ambulance Service by gaining entry into property where needed. All members of the crew live or work within five minutes of the fire station and respond immediately when their pager sounds. With Christmas fast approaching it’s now a good time to check the condition of all your Christmas lights. Do not use any lights that show any signs of wear and tear. Please always turn them off before going to bed and before leaving the house.

Christmas, especially after last Christmas was so difficult for some due to Covid. But be mindful of alcohol intake as there is a significant increase of cooking related fires due to alcohol intake over the festive period. It’s very easy to get distracted after a glass or two of wine. December is also the time to celebrate with family, friends, and colleagues. Do not go out with the intention of only having one drink. Please leave your keys at home or do not drink at all. One may lead to two and before you know it, you’re behind the wheel thinking you feel ok to drive home. The consequence of drink driving is deadly. So please eat, drink and be merry safely! Happy Christmas everyone! Sarah Holden e: sarahholden@lancsfirerescue.org.uk www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk/careers fb: @preesallfire

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PREESALL TOWN COUNCIL New Recruit

Benches Sought

The council is back to a full complement after the installation as a councillor of Steven Rossall, who attended his first meeting in November. He will represent the Preesall South ward.

Two requests have been received for memorial benches on the riverside walk meaning that the five benches acquired by the council this year will all have been purchased by members of the public. A further five benches are to be purchased as requests are still being received for memorial benches.

Sums for Schools From 2022 each of the primary schools in Preesall is to receive a sum of £500 a year from the council’s donations budget, an increase from the previous £50 paid for many years. Each school will be expected to report how it spends the money. Plaques Push A sum of £1,500 has been allocated to the 2022/23 budget for blue plaques to be installed on buildings in Knott End and Preesall identified to be of interest within the community.

Focus on Footpaths Work will start soon on updating the marking of public footpaths in Preesall and Knott End after receipt of a grant from the county council. Next Meeting Preesall Town Council will meet next on Mon 13th Dec at 7:00pm at Preesall and Knott End Youth and Community Centre. This is a public meeting and residents are welcome. An opportunity to raise matters is available.

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CHRISTMAS CROSSWORD (ans p67)

Across 1 Ship of the desert (5) 4 Smith’s metalworking block (5) 7 Thick black sticky oil (3) 9 Maker of millionaires for good causes (8, 7) 10 Means of moving; carry away (9) 11 Scandinavian ogre (5) 12 Please; delight (7) 14 Moderately slow (in music) (7) 16 Graze; score; remove from competition (7) 18 Run away (7) 19 Not here… (5) 20 Salvaged; rescued (9) 22 The cause of global warming (10, 5) 24 Add up (3) 25 Connected for electricity (5) 26 Lewis Hamilton, for instance (5)

Down 1 Trick; scam (3) 2 Consensus (6, 9) 3 Large African cats (5) 4 Structure of the human body (7) 5 Maltese capital (7) 6 Degrees north or south of the equator (9) 7 Film based on the von Trapp family (3, 5, 2, 5) 8 Regal; majestic (5) 10 What Roman men wore in the forum (5) 13 Aware of a secret (2. 3. 4) 15 Finished (5) 17 Haven; dock (7) 18 Alleged; person on trial (7) 19 Cramped; miserly; drunk (5) 21 Ire (5) 23 School master (3)

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PREESALL TOWN COUNCIL (cont) Please keep an eye on the council’s website, noticeboards and Facebook page for updates. For further information contact the clerk.

you would like a copy delivering to your home please contact the Clerk to register your details.

Alison May - Clerk e: clerk@preesalltowncouncil.org t: 07739 868212 www.preesalltowncouncil.org

The next ordinary parish council meetings will be held on Tues 7th Dec, the meeting will be held face-to-face in the Village Hall Supper room starting at 7:30pm. Members of the public are encouraged to attend. If you are unable to attend but have an issue you would like the Council to consider, please let the Clerk know so it can be added to the agenda.

HAMBLETON PARISH COUNCIL Facebook Page The Parish Council have a Facebook page HAMBLETON ( Wyre ) PARISH COUNCIL – send a friend request and keep in the know with Parish Council events and village developments. The Parish Council have introduced a quarterly newsletter (Edition 2 is out now), primarily it will be available via Facebook and the Parish Council Website, it will also be available from local shops. If

Parish Council Next Meeting

Best Kept Village It has been decided to suspend the monthly litter pick just for December so that we can all get ready for the festive season, we will be back up and running in January. If you fancy having a womble around the village at any time but don’t have the kit. Litter picking equipment is available to borrow.

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HAMBLETON COUNCIL (cont) Hambleton/Stalmine Flood Action Group (FLAG) To keep up-to-date on Flooding in Hambleton and Stalmine a full list of current issues and minutes from FLAG, Wyre Flood Forum and Making Space For Water meetings are available on the Hambleton Parish Council website (also see page 64 for a recent update from Wyre Flood Form). Meetings are generally held quarterly at the village hall. Bob Williamson Park The working group in November met to work on clearing drains of leaves and other debris from around the park.

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Many drains were covered in leaves and, in some cases, blocked up below the ironworks. Any that could not be cleared by the volunteers were reported to Lancashire County Council (LCC). Please over the coming months keep any drains around your property clear and if you do see a blocked drain report it to LCC, this can be done online or by ringing LCC on 0300 123 6780. Roads A new Speed Indicator Device (SpID) has been purchased by the Parish Council and erected on Marsh Lane. Early reports from the device are showing some vehicles travelling at very high speeds for a 30mph road.

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Please drive with care around the village. Thank you to the children of Hambleton Primary Academy for providing Road Safety posters for around the village and to Paul from Hambleton signs for reproducing the posters into signs.

Chronic muscle/Joint pain Frequent bowel movements Dairy intolerances Skin conditions Exhaustion/Fatigue Wheat/Gluten intolerances

Yvonne Walton - Clerk t: 07703 773 785 e: hambletonpc@yahoo.co.uk fb: Hambleton (Wyre) Parish Council www.hambletonparishcouncil.org.uk

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STALMINE / STAYNALL COUNCIL Woodland Maintenance

Footpaths Work

Felling and pruning work is scheduled to restart on Tues 4th Jan.

Public footpath signs in Stalmine are being installed or replaced according to specific needs. A sign making the route of the Wyre Way clearer has also been installed. Members of the public are advised that the route west, towards the marsh, does not provide access to the Wyre Way, only to privately owned property. The Wyre Way follows the tarmac road.

Festive Switch-on Stalmine’s Christmas lights switch-on event will this year take place on Mon 6th Dec at St James’ Church. Planning Request The council continues to seek information from Wyre Council, the planning authority, regarding figures relating to enforcement action against breaches of planning permission. Dog Area Decision As the council does not own land suitable for an enclosed area for exercising dogs off the lead, no action will be taken towards creating a facility similar to the one in Hambleton.

Clerk Vacancy Part Time – 10 Hours Per Week Hours of work will be flexible and subject to workload and the parish council meetings’ schedule. Ideally, applicants will have prior experience as a parish council clerk. The successful applicant must be a first-class administrator with excellent communication and financial skills.

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STALMINE / STAYNALL (cont) council or its staff.

The clerk will be required to: •

Ensure that statutory and other provisions affecting the running of the parish council are observed and obligations for risk assessment are properly met.

•

Prepare the agendas, attend all formal meetings of the parish council and the Parish Meeting of Stalmine and prepare the minutes thereof.

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Attend all meetings and conferences as may be necessary for the proper discharge of duties.

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Receive correspondence on behalf of the parish council and deal with the items or bring them to the attention of the parish council promptly.

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Keep safely and conveniently in secure but accessible custody all deeds, plans, records, letters, writings and other documents of or concerning the parish

•

Keep all financial records of the parish council, make payments of invoices, wages, VAT and PAYE, monitor and balance the parish council’s accounts and prepare records for audit purposes.

•

Update the parish council’s website and notice boards, as required.

•

Act as the representative of the parish council, as required.

Salary up to National Joint Council band 18, to be discussed at interview and will depend on experience. The closing date for receipt of applications is Fri 10th Dec with interviews to be held on Tues 21st Dec. For further information please contact the chair, Cllr Terry Williams on 01253 702734 or clerk@stamineparishcouncil.org Applications to be made using the application

GREY MATTER TEST (ans p67) 1. Cape Canaveral took on the name of which American president? 2. Which planet is closest to the sun? 3. Cambridge, Gage and Victoria are all types of what? 4. Which early police serial is found at the end of the alphabet? 5. The names Saatchi and Saatchi are associated with which industry? 6. Which British political party made massive gains in the European elections of 2014? 7. From which London railway station do Eurostar trains depart? 8. What is the name of the prison situated on the Isle of Wight? 9. What name is given to the almond coating found on Christmas cakes? 10. Which Russian city was designed and built by Tsar Peter the Great? 11. What two colours are the sweater worn

by Dennis the Menace? 12. Who set up the largest chain of holiday camps in the UK? 13. Africa’s largest lake is named after which British queen? 14. Which St Bernard bounded onto film screens in 1992? 15. Which children’s game is played on the fingers with looped string? 16. If you suffered a myocardial infraction, what would have happened? 17. Edwin Hubble was concerned with which branch of science? 18. The Duke of Windsor was Governor of which island group in 1939? 19. The song ‘Don’t Cry For Me Argentina’ comes from which musical? 20. Where were the code breakers based who broke the German enigma code during WWII?

Tell them you saw it in the “Green Book”

STALMINE / STAYNALL (cont) pack that can be downloaded from the website.

Cottage, Sower Carr Lane, t: 01253 701119.

Next meeting of the Council

Get in Touch

This is planned for Tues 14th Dec at 7:00pm at the village hall in Stalmine. Any changes will be notified via the council’s website.

For further information contact any councillor or contact the clerk.

Stalmine-with-Staynall Councillors •

Cllr Terry Williams (Chairman), By The Way, Brickhouse Lane, t: 01253 702734;

•

Cllr D Booth, Wardleys Cottage, Wardleys Lane, t: 01253 701711;

•

Cllr F Cardwell, Meadow Cottage, Carr Lane, t: 01253 700150;

•

Cllr A Morton, 1&2 Porters Row, Smithy Lane, t: 01253 702156;

•

Cllr Sue Pelham, Eldersfield, Brickhouse Lane, t: 01253 700750;

•

Cllr Jean Wilson, Premium Farm

T ho wo Hap urs of pyl fun and !

k Boo for now 22 20

KIDS’ PARTY PACKAGES

From all of us at Hugo’s & HappyLand, thank you for the tremendous support you have given us - may Christmas bring you lots of joy with your loved ones this year!

01524 220311

book@happylandgarstang.co.uk Lancaster Rd, Forton, Forton, PR3 0BL

Alison May - Clerk t: 07880 657 761 e: clerk@stalmineparishcouncil.org w: www.stalmineparishcouncil.org

SSRA

Stalmine with Staynall Residents’ Assoc Our annual Christmas lights competition will be on as usual and we look forward to seeing Stalmine lit up and celebrating Christmas time. Over the years Stalmine residents have created some wonderful displays for everyone to enjoy. We would love all our new residents to join in and help celebrate living in our lovely village. Also, we hope to again put up our Christmas tree gift to Stalmine and our thanks go to all our helpers who make it happen. Wishing you all a peaceful, happy Christmas and New Year. The committee will next meet on Wed 12th Jan at 7:00pm at the Seven Stars. For further information on any SSRA details please use any of the following contacts; Jill Coleman 07733 890 774, Pauline Andrews 07808 058 097, Ann Ralph 07713 852 639, Peter Swarbrick 01253 702675, or view our Facebook page and Stalmine Chat. Pauline Andrews - SSRA Secretary

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BEN WALLACE MP With Christmas closing in fast, winter is well and truly with us. I know some have suffered flooding recently with the road at St Michaels being impassable and some properties being cut off by flood water. I can assure you I am looking into all cases reported to me and highlighting them with the appropriate agencies. Highway flooding has been quite widespread although in some cases leaves on the road have been the culprit. With that in mind, could I please remind all constituents that there is a very easy way to report blocked highway gullies to Lancashire County Council. Just go to www.lancashire.gov.uk/roadsparking-and-travel/report-it and then follow the steps set out. I did highlight this in the last article but I do think it is important and it is a straight forward way to report blocked gullies as well as many other highway faults.

in winter conditions please go to: www. lancashire.gov.uk/winter As well as our road network, there is no doubt that winter will bring many challenges for the NHS and that is on top of the pressures of Covid. I would continue to ask constituents to be vigilant in relation to the virus and to apply common sense to try to keep the spread to a minimum. As always to keep up to date with the latest advice please go to the Government’s website: www. gov.uk/guidance/covid-19-coronavirusrestrictions-what-you-can-and-cannot-do Electricity North West has been in touch with me, letting me know that, as the region’s electricity network operator, they are continuing to work hard to support constituents and keep power flowing to homes, businesses, schools and hospitals across the region. They are conducting a #BeWinterReady campaign, with a focus on

I recently received Lancashire County Council’s latest winter newsletter and wanted to highlight some points: The county council is responsible for over 4,300 miles of roads of which approximately 1,800 miles are part of Lancashire’s ‘priority road network’ for salting and snow clearing. It can take gritters up to four hours to grit one route and even longer in severe weather conditions. When low temperatures are forecast they grit the roads as a precaution before the frost forms, usually during the evening or early hours of the morning. Remember weather forecasts are only a guide and local knowledge and expertise is vital in deciding what to do. Despite their best efforts, winter weather can still make roads treacherous and there is no guarantee that roads will always be completely free of ice and snow. Please take extra care. If you would like to find out more about driving Tell them you saw it in the “Green Book”

BEN WALLACE MP (cont) promoting their free priority services register for people who may need additional support or advice. This campaign sets out three simple steps customers can take this winter:

in Whitehall. Lest we forget!

•

If anyone in your household needs additional support, join their free priority services register

•

Keep Electricity North West’s number handy – call 105 if you need to report a power cut

•

Visit www.enwl.co.uk/BeWinterReady for more information

As always, my mailbag has been full of letters covering a host of issues. I say it often but, please do keep the letters and emails coming. Although I do pride myself on travelling around the constituency listening to residents, I can’t speak to everyone and it is vital for me to know the issues that concern people on a daily basis in order for me to carry out my role as your Member of Parliament.

In the last article I mentioned attending remembrance services and the importance of doing so. I was extremely pleased and heartened to see that all services locally were well attended and I do think the weather played its part. Personally, it was a great honour for me as a veteran to attend various events and services culminating in the parade

SUDOKU (ans p66) The object of sudoku puzzles is simple; fill the blank squares, using all the numbers 1–9 exactly once in each row, column, and the nine 3 × 3 subgrids. Good luck!

2 9

6 3 1

8 1 4

9 3

8 4

8 1

Please remember I’m here to help. The most effective way to contact me is by email 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 or write to me at the House of Commons. Ben Wallace MP t: 0207 219 5804 e: wallaceb@parliament.uk a: House of Commons SW1A 0AA

CAT SMITH MP A happy December to you all! What an odd year this has been! Having started the beginning of 2021 in lockdown, I’m glad to say the first occasion I had of being able to get back out into the constituency, was to visit Over Wyre.

Again, I feel extremely fortunate to be travelling around our beautiful constituency, visiting local groups, businesses etc.

After months of virtual meetings, it was lovely to visit the two primary schools in Preesall and watch the children enjoy being back in each other’s company. In both schools the children were doing something really special. At Fleetwood’s Charity every family was invited to purchase a young fruit tree and to plant it in person on the perimeter of the playing field.

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CAT SMITH MP (cont) I was delighted to attend the opening of their fruit orchard. Over at Carters, the pupils had designed, built and sown a new allotment area. They’ve gone on to grow and sell their produce to fund the purchase of new seeds for the next growing season.

Wyre. This is just the tip of the iceberg and if you’re struggling, if you need prescriptions, if you need shopping or you need help getting to an appointment then give the Knott End and Preesall Help Group a call on 01253 810628 9:00am - 5:00pm (except in an emergency).

It occurred to me that following a period where it felt like time almost stood still, it was interesting that school staff, youngsters and their families came together to mark a new beginning, by planting something. Planting is such a hopeful thing to do. It was a fantastic, life affirming experience that after months of uncertainty, youngsters were using their time to focus not on the past but on the future.

I’m very excited to hear that Santa is once again taking to his sleigh and touring around the Knott End and Preesall villages on Sat 11th Dec. You’ll find all the details on the KEP Santa Facebook page or on the posters around the community. A little elf has told me that Santa has also placed some post boxes in the two Co-op stores. If your little one would like to post their Christmas wish list then Santa will reply!

Since then, I’ve been back regularly visiting local businesses in Over Wyre and its remarkable how diverse they all are – from agriculture to manufacturing and from engineering to logistics. Some companies with a global reach have faced difficulties this year travelling overseas. I’ve been pleased to help them navigate the constantly changing rules caused by Brexit and Covid.

I hope that this year we all get the opportunity to spend time with the people who matter to us and I wish you all a very happy Christmas. Cat Smith MP

At the time of writing, I’ve so far received 11,000 emails this year requesting help or highlighting a concern. Myself and my fantastic team of caseworkers have helped 6,000 people – from finding emergency accommodation, supporting asylum seekers, advocating on behalf of people, helping to overturn wrong decisions on benefits, supporting people with employment issues, writing to Ministers, helping people with health concerns, supporting struggling businesses and running the London Marathon to raise money for the Lancaster and Fleetwood foodbanks! When you run for charity you want to be able to help everyone but sadly that’s impossible so I’d like to give a big shout out to Natasha Wright and her team who have set up a Community Interest Company and provide food parcels for those in need across Over Tell them you saw it in the “Green Book”

WYRE FLOOD FORUM Follow Up to a Very Wet Start to November “During extremely heavy rain in the county between Fri 29th Oct to Tues 2nd Nov 2021, there were multiple reports of flooding to Lancashire’s local roads, including A roads which are important transport links between our residential, industrial, commercial and educational centres. The county council’s Highways teams were busy over the weekend in very difficult weather conditions, and are still responding to some of the reports received. The routine response is for the local Highways teams to urgently check

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and correct any obvious defects such as blocked gullies, then to assess any repeat or long-running problems and to programme in any repairs or improvements. As the week has rolled on, the county council’s Flood Risk Management team has received various reports of flooded properties and the current known position in Lancashire (at 9/11/21) is as follows: Residential property internally flooded: 3 Commercial property internally flooded: 2 Other properties flooded externally (gardens, drives, outbuildings, porches and other nonliving spaces): 28” So wrote the county council’s principal flood risk officer, Rachel Crompton, in an email dated Tues 9th Nov. She went on to identify nine districts covering most of the county that had reported issues. She continued: “In our role as lead local flood authority (LLFA), the county council will be investigating the flooding events to identify whether there were any defects in the local drainage systems, how the various drainage authorities responded to the events, and whether there are any further improvements that could be made by any of the public bodies with responsibility for the local drainage systems. The information will be included in the report which we will publish in due course. It is still too early for us to provide a specific timetable for the investigation, however once it has been carried out and the report has been created it will appear on the following page: www.lancashire.gov.uk/flooding (under Flood Reports) where you can also find the reports that we’ve published of previous flooding events. Members of the public and local businesses who experienced flooding and who haven’t reported their experiences to any of the drainage authorities yet are still welcome to do so by emailing details to the county council highways@lancashire.gov.uk. It

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WYRE FLOOD FORUM (cont) would be most helpful if you would include the address of the flooded property, the time, date and nature of the flooding, and contact details for the person making the report.” It is now the public’s turn to report if we are to be better informed. County Councillor Matthew Salter, Wyre Rural Central reports on specific instances in his division which will be familiar to residents: On Mon 1st 1 Nov the heavy rains brought anxiety and damage with flood water entering two homes in St Michael’s-on-Wyre and Sunnyside Terrace Preesall once again having to rely on pumps scrambled by Wyre Borough Council to keep the waters at bay. In St Michael’s, there was a road closure early in the day, which prevented water from entering more properties, as the bow waves from cars pushing water into houses is one mechanism for flooding. Notwithstanding, high levels still saw water entering some properties with all the upheaval and difficulty that brings.

Cllr Salter makes a very important point here when he refers ‘managing multi locations simultaneously’. Clearly a question of stretched resources both equipment and council manpower. The next forum, by the way, to which the public are invited is Thurs 9th Dec at 1:00pm in Poulton. With the memory of Storm Desmond 2016 in mind I took off on Tues 2nd Nov to see for myself and was immediately thwarted by a road closure at the junction of the A586 and A6 at Kirkland Village Hall obliging me to carry on to Bilsborrow and skirt Myerscough College and on to St Michaels. There was very obvious evidence of standing water on farm land gushing over on to the public highway and more to come. Road barriers were being removed at entry points to the village but a glance over the bridge parapet was enough to remind that it would take some time before the water table fell to normal levels. The clear

At Sunnyside Terrace pumps were deployed in time and proved effective, although the threat from flooding remains every time bad weather hits. Wyre have certainly improved their ability to respond to flooding in recent years with more pumps enabling the defence of Sunnyside Terrace and Churchtown on this occasion, but there will need to be further consideration of how to manage the situation in multiple locations simultaneously as adverse events become more frequent. It is also clear that many people are understandably unsure who to contact in an emergency. In cases of flooding where there is no risk to life it is vital to contact Wyre Borough Council, and even if other authorities have been contacted you should contact Wyre as well. The causes of the latest flooding are being investigated by all the local flood Risk Management Authorities and no doubt will be discussed at the next flood forum.” Tell them you saw it in the “Green Book”

WYRE FLOOD FORUM (cont) up was underway amongst evidence of sand bags by cottage doors but Highways are legally obliged to clear gullies; a simple task one would think but the sheer quantity is over whelming. The Ainspool Lane Hotspot was seriously flooded close to its junction with the main road. Wyre Council’s pump made no impression until they brought in a tractor driven machine which deployed throughout the night preventing rising flood water reaching the Cross and adjacent low-lying property.

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At Butlers Farm on the old section of the A6, flooding occurred as it always does threatening a dwelling, the farmhouse and farmyard containing livestock. This is caused by blocked gullies on the A6 throwing surface water across the camber of the A6 and draining through the sewage system but only if the sewer is not overloaded! This month all eyes were on Glasgow and climate change in the decades to come. Residents of Wyre are holding their breath praying that we get through the coming winter. Councillor Roger Brooks - Garstang Town Council

SUDOKU ANSWERS 8

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Land behind houses in Ainspool Lane saw water levels rise extensively threatening stables with livestock. Here the water stood while Ainspool Brook remained closed off because of natural high water in the River Wyre as Garstang Storage Basin gradually emptied. Despite LCC repairing a broken pipe the Avenue close to the A6 and BP garage flooded as it always does threatening two bungalows and up to ten houses.

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GREY MATTER ANSWERS

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

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

Across

Down

1 Camel

1 Con

4 Anvil

2 Mutual agreement

7 Tar

3 Lions

9 National lottery

4 Anatomy

10 Transport

5 Valetta

11 Troll

6 Latitudes

12 Gratify

7 The Sound of Music

Kennedy Mercury Plums Z Cars Advertising UKIP St Pancras HMP Parkhurst Marzipan St Petersburg Red and black Billy Butlin Lake Victoria Beethoven Cat’s Cradle A heart attack Astronomy The Bahamas Evita Bletchley Park

14 Andante 16 Scratch 18 Abscond 19 There

8 Royal 10 Togas 13 In the know

20 Reclaimed

15 Ended

22 Greenhouse gases

17 Harbour 18 Accused

24 Tot

19 Tight

25 Wired

21 Anger

26 Racer

23 Sir

Tell them you saw it in the “Green Book”

Over Wyre Focus Magazine - December 2021

Articles inside

Grey Matter Test

Ben Wallace MP

Stalmine with Staynall Council

SSRA

Hambleton Parish Council

Christmas Crossword

Preesall Town Council

Garstang Camera Club

Preesall Fire Station

Rotary

Preesall Fleetwood’s Charity School

RSPCA

Cardiac Risk in the Young

Garstang & District Lions

Hambleton United Reformed Church

Knott End Library

Santa Tour - Knott End & Preesall

Lancaster Singers

Over Wyre Medical Centre

Pilling Methodist Church

Eat, Drink & Be Merry