Garstang Focus Magazine - February 2022 by Focus Magazines

FOCUS MAGAZINE 'The Green Book'

by David J Ansell

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

Issue 256 February 2022

TRUSTED LOCAL BUILDER | FREE NO-OBLIGATION QUOTES

• • • • •

All Aspects of Rooﬁng Construction Design Remodelling Property Maintenance

All aspects of home design & maintenance, from rooﬁng, conservatories, extensions, driveways, fencing & full house remodels. No job is too big or small for our experienced & reliable team.

ROOFING SPECIALISTS • • • • • • • • •

Rubber Roofing GRP Roofing Roofing Repairs Strip & Re-tiling Tiling & Slating Flat Roofing Felt Roofing Roof Valeting Leadwork & Flashings

t: 07989 000955 e: gary@homedesigndevelopment.co.uk www.homedesigndevelopment.co.uk

Welcome to Focus Magazine... Garstang Events Team................................. 4 Sequence Dancing........................................ 4 Scottish Country Dance Group................ 4 Babas................................................................... 4 Heritage Open Day........................................ 5 3Ls......................................................................... 5 Garstang Heritage Society......................... 5 Garstang Volunteer Force.......................... 6 Calder Vale Country Club........................... 6 Catterall in Bloom.......................................... 6 Catterall Gardening Club............................ 7 Coffee Stop........................................................ 7 Church but not on a Sunday...................... 7 Calder Vale Methodist Church................. 8 Garstang Free Methodists.......................... 9 Garstang Quakers.......................................... 10 Fairtrade............................................................. 10 Millennium Green........................................... 12 Garstang Library............................................. 16 Garstang Arts Centre.................................... 18 Garstang Wine Circle.................................... 20 Cabus WI............................................................ 22 Garstang Phoenix WI.................................... 22 Claughton on Brock WI................................ 23 Cherestanc WI................................................. 23

Lancashire Federation of WIs................... 23 Alcoholics Anonymous................................ 24 Garstang AFVBC............................................. 24 The Inner Wheel.............................................. 25 Garstang & District Lions............................ 26 Singspiration Community Choir............... 27 Harmony & Health.......................................... 29 Haffner Orchestra........................................... 30 Lancaster Singers.......................................... 30 Garstang Camera Club................................ 32 Garstang Speakers Club............................. 33 Soroptimists...................................................... 34 Spring Cleaning Your Body........................ 37 Children’s Festival.......................................... 39 Sightline Telephone Befriending ........... 40 Garstang Medical Centre............................ 41 Crossword.......................................................... 43 Greater Garstang............................................ 43 Garstang Town Council................................ 43 Grey Matter Test.............................................. 44 Cat Smith MP.................................................... 46 Ben Wallace MP.............................................. 47 Garstang Memory Cafe................................ 48 Cardiac Risk in the Young........................... 48 Wyre Flood Forum......................................... 49

MARCH 2022 DEADLINE DATE

The March deadline for editorial and adverts is 5:00pm on Monday 14th February. Deliveries of the March edition of Focus Magazine will commence on Thursday 24th February. Over Wyre & Garstang Focus Magazines www.focusmags.co.uk | 01253 813433 | www.facebook.com/focusmags Event Advertising & Editorial: editorial@focusmags.co.uk Business & Commercial Advertising: helen@focusmags.co.uk Postal submissions: Focus Magazine, 132 Highfield Rd, Blackpool, FY4 2HH Cover design by David J Ansell | Printed by Moulton Printing | © Focus Magazines 2022 While every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine to ensure accuracy, Focus Magazines cannot be held responsible for editorial content supplied by contributors. Our acceptance of an editorial item or an advertisement does not necessarily indicate our endorsement of the products, services or views contained within it.

GARSTANG EVENTS TEAM

SEQUENCE DANCING

Following the success of our festive trail and Christmas tree festival we now have a new event planned.

Now is the time to start dancing or start again if you have done it before and have gone a bit rusty. It is easy to learn - you just follow the footsteps of the couple in front of you. A full evenings entertainment of music and dancing with tea and biscuits for just £4. Why not come along?

On Sat 5th March we are holding a Giant Book Sale at St. Thomas’s church hall to raise money for the Garstang Christmas lights and the church. More information in next month’s Focus but in the meantime we need books, any books in reasonable condition - lots of books! We are also collecting jigsaws to sell too. If you have any books or jigsaws you no longer want please would you donate them to us? You can drop them off at our collection point at Sweets in the market hall or we can collect them. To arrange a collection you can message us via Facebook or email us. Mary Randles garstangeventsteam@gmail.com fb: @Garstang Events Team

Saturdays, 7:45pm - 11:15pm Barton Village Hall PR3 5AL • •

Sat 5th & 12th Feb: Live Music by Alan Cookson and his magical keyboard. Sat 19th & 26th Feb: Music by John Lancaster and his Fabulous CDs.

Tuesdays from 7:30pm Claughton Memorial Hall PR3 0PL •

Tues 8th & 22nd Feb: Music by John Lancaster and his extensive CD collection.

We would recommend this rewarding pastime to anyone who likes a good social evening with some exercise thrown in. Freda Parker (01995) 605322

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE GROUP Mondays 7:30pm Garstang United Reformed Church We are a friendly group and everyone is welcome whether you have dancing experience or not! The cost per session is £3 which includes refreshments. If you would like further information, please contact Ian 01995 603998 or Pam 01995 603536 or just come along. Marlene Towns

BABAS Parent, Carers & Toddler Group We are open each Wednesday from 10:00am - 11:30am at Garstang Methodist Church. Come along for chat, a brew and a play. Dorothy Gorst 01995 606226

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

HERITAGE OPEN DAY

GARSTANG HERITAGE SOCIETY

Sun 27th Feb, 2:00pm until 4:00pm The Heritage Room, Bleasdale Parish Hall PR3 1UY

2021 has been a difficult year for everyone. However the Heritage Society has been active behind the scenes gathering information and details for our ongoing projects.

No charge for entry. Refreshments are available at a small cost If you have not been before come and have a look, or just go for a walk around the area, and come back for a cup of tea and cake, we would love to see you. If you find any old photographs of Bleasdale, we are always pleased to receive any material you may have. Either contact Jean or Sue via telephone or email. t: 01995 606511 (Jean) / 01995 643499 (Sue) e: fonejean@outlook.com / philipandsusanmcdade@yahoo.co.uk

3LS

Poppy Trail New locations for plaques have been identified and are being followed up. Banners We have determined on which buildings the original banners were displayed and are now looking to carry out health and safety checks on the brackets. We need to finalise costs to replace the old banners and sort out relevant funding and grants. Lancashire Local List Project The Historical Society have been asked if they can identify any sites for inclusion and requests for information and suggestions have been made using social media.

Life Long Learning AGM We start our New Year with the AGM on Fri 4th Feb, 2:00pm at the URC hall. We look forward to seeing many of our members and friends again. Hopefully the ‘official’ part of the afternoon will not take too long, and we can then all enjoy a social time no doubt including one of Anne’s quizzes and a cup of tea and a biscuit. The programme for 2022 will be available, and I’m sure all will agree Liz has again provided us with interesting and informative speakers. Visitors are always welcome, so pop in and pick up a programme, I’m sure you will find something of interest. For further information please contact Ruth 01995 602006 or Jack 01995 238075. Ruth Rendle

Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

GARSTANG HERITAGE (cont) Green Plaques Project In conjunction with identifying sites for inclusion on the Lancashire List it is intended to supplement the existing blue plaques, that are situated around town, with new green heritage plaques. This project is at an early stage and costings need to be determined. If you would like support or get involved in your local heritage, then drop us an email and why not follow us on our Facebook page? e: garstangheritagecentre@gmail.com fb: ‘Garstang & District Heritage Society’ www.garstangheritagesociety.org

GARSTANG VOLUNTEER FORCE As Garstang Medical Centre have no more vaccination clinics for the time being our volunteers are taking a well earned break. In 2021 we volunteered at 86 clinics, through

all kinds of weather, and our volunteers have been brilliant throughout. They also volunteered at the Christmas Tree Festival at St Thomas’s church in December. We’d like to reassure everyone that we are ready to spring into action if we are needed. Mary Randles

CALDER VALE COUNTRY CLUB What’s On Friday 4th & 18th Feb - Meat Bingo. Eyes down 7.30pm. Thurs 24th Feb - Replugged Singers’ Night. Every Saturday evening - Live cabaret, bingo, bonus ball, play your cards right. Every Sunday - Social bingo. Eyes down 7:30pm Memberships available - £10. All welcome. Ros Ashworth 01995 603776

CATTERALL IN BLOOM The new Bloom season meetings normally begin in April, but this year we have a Keep Britain Tidy event next month, organised by Sandra Byrne from Wyre Borough Council. All protective equipment, litter picking sticks and bags will be provided, so if you’d like to give our village a little Spring Clean, then please join us on Tues 29th March, meeting at Catterall Village Hall car park at 10:00am. Meanwhile, the renovation work on the Catterall cart continues. Tim has worked through the winter to ensure the cart takes pride of place in our village once again. Thank you also to Bill who continued to work on various tasks through the dreary weather. We are lucky to have such a fabulous team; no wonder the judges awarded us a gold! Thank you for your support. Netta 07508 144 181

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

CATTERALL GARDENING CLUB Tues 15th Mar, 7:00pm - 9:00pm Catterall Village Hall Hello to all happy gardeners! Have you ever wondered what happens to the contents of your Wyre Green Waste bin? If you’re keen on growing plants and vegetables, then you will know the value of having great compost. So if you’d like to know more then please join us as Antony Walker, from Resource Recycling Solutions, becomes our first speaker of the new gardening year and shares his compost secrets with us. As you may already know, Catterall Gardening Club will be back in business after a gap of two difficult years due to the Covid pandemic. We hope you will support us and return to our well-loved gardening club, as the Catterall in Bloom team take over the running and organising this year. Our thanks to Jan Finch who initially set up the club in 2014. There will be home made cakes, tea or coffee, a raffle, plants stall, and a whole lot of smiles as we greet new and old friends again. Everyone welcome! Membership will be £15 for seven meetings, March to September 2022 or you may wish to pay £3 per visit, payable at the door. Health and safety measures will be in place and hand sanitisers available at the entrance. We have a wonderful calendar of excellent speakers for the year ahead, and we look forward to meeting you on the third Tuesday of the month. Sue Gale 07866 948 357

COFFEE STOP

We aim to offer a safe and friendly place where you can come along alone or with friends. We welcome everyone and invite walkers, cyclists, locals and visitors to call in for a cuppa. There is disabled access and free parking at both venues. We are staffed by volunteers from Inglewhite Church and both communities. We look forward to welcoming you during February. Lesley Hardman 01995 641175

CHURCH BUT NOT ON A SUNDAY Thurs 24th Feb 7:30pm Kirkland & Catterall Memorial Hall We invite you to join us for our first community church of the new year. Join us in the smaller hall at Kirkland & Catterall Memorial Hall. We hope to continue meeting on the last

Now Open

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

Tues 8th & 22nd Feb Inglewhite Church Hall Tues 15th Feb at Catterall Village Hall Coffee Stop welcomes you in 2022. We’re open as a community cafe on most Tuesday mornings, 10:00am - 12 noon and invite you to come along for coffee and company.

Tell them you saw their advert in the Garstang Focus

CHURCH NOT ON A SUNDAY (cont) Est. 1970

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

Thursday of each month until July. There will be music, discussion and light refreshments for all. A range of speakers are planned to help us explore what the Christian Faith might mean in our everyday lives. You can be sure of a very warm welcome at this informal style of church. We hope you will feel able to come and see if this might be for you. Everyone welcome at weekday church in our own fantastic community. Lesley Hardman 01995 641175

CALDER VALE METHODIST CHURCH ‘Though, February is short, it is filled with lots of love and sweet surprises’. This is a quote by Charmaine J Forde. Born in Barbados, now living in the USA, Charmaine watched as her mum showed her how to love and she noted that her mother always shared: ‘My mother taught us how to share and my sisters and I watched her gave her last to anyone who was in need and although we were not wealthy, she always found something to share, especially food, and I witnessed that first hand’.

DS FLAT ROOF SERVICE Felt roof repairs & full re-roofs All other types of roof catered for For a no obligation quote contact Dave

07840 534 223 davesooty@outlook.com ALL WORK GUARANTEED

Charmaine took generosity further when she began to volunteer in numerous organisations and this later extended to her own projects to brighten the lives of many by sending postcards, letters and care packages as far as Afghanistan. She has now sent more than 2000 letters, over the last twenty years. February is the month of St Valentine when thousands of cards (if not millions) will be sent to those we love. What about sending cards of encouragement and appreciation as Charmaine has done? One of the CDs we have at Calder Vale is one called ‘Make Someone Happy’ with 15 tracks sung by local man, Murray. Songs include ‘You’ve got a Friend’, ‘My Heart Stood Still’ and ‘A Certain Smile’. It is a feel-good CD to play in the dark days of wintertime.

Are you phoning an advertiser for a quote?

CALDER VALE METHODIST (cont) Our Sunday services continue each Sunday at 10:45am. The takeaway lunches (from The Lunch Box) continue each Friday from outside the chapel. These need to be ordered by Wednesday. Our CAMEO (Come And Meet Each Other) continue on the third Friday of each month. This month the date is Fri 18th Feb at 2:00pm. All are welcome for a cuppa, a chat, cake and some craft activity. Our next Family Time will be on Sun 27th Feb at 2:00pm. As we will be nearing the start of Lent we will be making pancakes as well as other activities and games. All ages welcome but children must be accompanied by an adult. To book a lunch or for more details please ring Edith on 01995 602078. Another quote, this time from Walt Whitman, ’Keep your face always toward the sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you.’ Edith Gorst

GARSTANG FREE METHODISTS Our regular meetings are running during the week and services on Sundays. We have a busy programme from Toddle In to Friday Focus covering all ages. Details for all our events are on the website, including links to YouTube where our services can be viewed (we are continuing to live stream our Sunday morning service for those who don’t yet feel comfortable coming to the building). Friday Focus Dates •

Fri 4th Feb: Focus on Prayer

•

Fri 11th Feb: Focus on People

•

Fri 18th Feb: Focus on Film

•

Fri 25th Feb: Focus on the Bible

All 10:30am - 11:30am We continue to follow government guidelines regarding Covid, but are grateful for the efficient ventilation system we have in our

Tell them you saw their advert in the Garstang Focus

FREE METHODISTS (cont) main sanctuary. We would like to remind you that windows and doors are left open and to dress accordingly. We offer a warm welcome to all and tea, coffee and biscuits are served after the morning service, so there is an opportunity to get to know each other better. Katie Devany t: 01995 602852 e: info@garstangfmc.org.ukgarstangfmc. org.uk

GARSTANG QUAKERS Garstang Quaker Meeting is pleased to have been included in the new heritage trail leaflet, produced by Churches Together. We do hope we will have the opportunity to welcome you to our 200 year old meeting house, together with the original stable block. These still have the mangers and stalls in

M I L LW O O D P L U M B I N G & H E AT I N G •

Gas & LPG service, repair & installation engineers

•

Bathrooms supplied & installed

•

All general plumbing work undertaken WE ARE A FAMILY BUSINESS THAT CARES

millwoodheating@ymail.com

07925 570991 10

place, and rests for the saddles. Outside is a covered area for the coaches and traps. Many of the Friends were farming stock, and came down from the fells on a Sunday to make a day of it. If you are interested in a visit please contact Judith. Judith Taylor 01995 602974

FAIRTRADE As part of the Garstang festive trail organised by the Garstang events team we were delighted to enter our Fairtrade Christmas tree. The decorations on our tree consisted of various Fairtrade products. We would like to thank everyone who came along and supported us. Fairtrade Fortnight: Mon 21st Feb - Sun 6th March We will be running a Fairtrade stall at Garstang Arts Centre on Sat 19th Feb between 10:00am and 12:30pm selling Fairtrade products. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for further details. There will be a Fairtrade quiz which will be available from the Fairtrade stall, published on Facebook and in the March edition of Focus Magazine. A hamper of Fairtrade goodies will be presented to the winner A treasure trail for children based round the centre of Garstang is being put together. It will involve going to ten local outlets, which supply Fairtrade products, to get information about Fairtrade from an A4 poster displayed in the window of each outlet. Answers will be recorded on a quiz sheet, available for collection from the stall at the Arts Centre on Sat 19th Feb. All children taking part will receive a bar of chocolate and all correct

Did you know that you can read the ‘Green Book’ on line?

Telephone 01524 874382

Christine and Bill the owners of Lancaster bed company Believe strongly in the phrase the best of British

A GREAT NIGHTS SLEEP...

That’s why they stock the brands that are known To the public for being just that

Waiting just for you

BIGGEST EVER

SALE

20%

97 PENNY STREET, LANCASTER

LA1 1XN

NEXT TO KFC

TELEPHONE 01524 874382

(lancasterbedcompany@gmail.com)

OFF EVERYTHING

Here to help you get a great night’s sleep FREE Local Deliveries 97 PENNY STREET | LANCASTER | LA1 1XN - NEXT TO KFC Email lancasterbedcompany@gmail.com

www.lancasterbedcompany.co.uk See our website : www.focusmags.co.uk

FAIRTRADE (cont) entries will be entered into a grand draw for a Fairtrade Easter egg. The trail will be supported by the Garstang events team Local primary schools are being contacted to ask if they would like a visit around Fairtrade Fortnight. Through learning about how we are all connected through the things we eat, drink and wear, young people are equipped with the knowledge and skills to shape a more compassionate and sustainable world. Great Big Green Week in September In the autumn we are looking to hold a sustainable fashion show, modelling second-hand clothes. The event would raise awareness of climate change, Fairtrade cotton, exploitation of cotton workers and the benefits of recycling unwanted/vintage clothing Date of Next Garstang Fairtrade Group Meeting The next meeting will be held on Sat 5th Feb at 10:00am at Garstang URC Hall. Everyone is welcome to come along. Peter Ryder e: garstangfairtrade@gmail.com fb: ‘Garstang Fairtrade’ www.fairtrade.org.uk

GARSTANG MILLENNIUM GREEN ‘Gardening for Wildlife’ by Andy Rowett from Lancashire Wildlife Trust Wed 2nd March at 7:30pm URC Hall, Croston Road, Garstang Are you fed up with staying indoors and not going anywhere? Garstang Millennium Green Trust is pleased to announce that it is resuming evening presentations (after a two year gap) in order to raise money for Garstang Millennium Green. We are delighted to present a talk by Andy Rowett from the Lancashire Wildlife Trust on the subject of ‘Gardening for Wildlife’.

Focus advertisers support this community magazine

Why not keep it local and support our advertisers?

MILLENNIUM GREEN (cont) Are you interested in increasing our wildlife? The UK has around 2,000 designated nature reserves but the potential to have 18 million more if we consider our gardens. This presentation will give hints and tips on attracting wildlife to your garden. Even making a small change can make a big difference. If you are interested in finding out more come along. Admission is £3, payable on entry and includes tea/coffee and biscuits. A raffle will also be held. All proceeds will go towards the upkeep of Garstang Millennium Green (registered charity no. 1079032). We are a small charity that owns and runs the 3.5ha of public open space alongside the River Wyre that comprises Garstang Millennium Green. We are run and managed entirely by

M.P.H. ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE REPAIRS Fast Reliable Service 30 + Years Experience Washing Machines Tumble Dryers Dishwashers Cookers Vacuum Cleaners Small Electrical Repairs Call Michael Hall Mobile 07703 193667 Home 01524 792824 mphelectrical@live.co.uk 14

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

MILLENNIUM GREEN (cont) volunteers and receive no financial assistance from the Local Authority. All the work on the Green is carried out by dedicated volunteers, who give up a lot of their free time to maintain this area for you to enjoy. Please support us and come and enjoy an informative evening. We will be following all covid guidelines in force at the time. Please wear your mask. Can you Help? Logging Millennium Green Wildlife Many of you have probably been walking along the Millennium green paths with dogs, friends, on your own or, like me, with a husband in tow just enjoying this wonderful space no matter the weather. Lately I have also noticed lots of bird life, be it chirrups, rustling or a cheeky robin hopping around near me as I have a piece of cake and a coffee! I have also been informed, from a reliable source, that an otter has been seen

from the Millennium Green river bank plus I was lucky enough to spot a dipper recently. Therefore, as we move into spring, we hope you can help us to log the various wildlife that visit the green over the coming year. To do this: Initially log your findings using the contact form on our website From there you will be contacted by a member of our team Photographs sent in will be checked and the suitable ones will be uploaded to the ‘Wildlife on the Green’ tab where these will be stored for all to view and admire the diversity of species the green supports. Christine Cummins & Carol Wood - the Millennium Green Committee www.garstangmillenniumgreen.org.uk

Tell advertisers that you saw them in the Green Book

GARSTANG LIBRARY Welcome back to the library. Library Opening Hours Our opening hours are: • • • • • •

Monday 9:00am - 5:00pm Tuesday 9:00am - 5:00pm Wednesday 9:00am - 1:00pm Thursday 9:00am - 7:00pm Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm Saturday 9:00am - 1:00pm

Harry Potter Book Night Thurs 3rd Feb 4:00pm - 6:00pm Celebrate Harry Potter Book Night with us. No booking necessary. Baby Bounce & Rhyme Monday & Friday 10:00am -10:30am A fun filled session with songs and music. Enjoy lively sing-along songs, gentle movements, and rhymes with your baby, plus meet and chat with other parents and carers.

Suitable for babies up to around 18 months of age, but older pre-school siblings welcome. Toddler Rhyme Time Tuesday 2:00pm - 2:30pm An energising session of singing and dancing for toddlers and carers. Sing-along songs and rhymes with movement and actions for pre-school children from around 18 months upwards. Rhyming is more than just fun, it actually helps young children make connections between sounds and words, encouraging their language development plus the actions help develop motor skills. It will keep your toddler entertained and engaged in learning! Story Time Friday 2:00pm - 2:30pm A weekly story reading session for pre-school children. All pre-school children and their parents or carers are welcome to join us.

Are you phoning an advertiser for a quote?

GARSTANG LIBRARY (cont) We’ll be reading from the best, brightest and most funny picture books in the library for your kids to enjoy and to inspire them to find books and reading fun! Saturday Mornings Join us every Saturday morning for Saturday Stories, Lego Club and board games 10:00am - 12noon. Calling all master builders and Lego enthusiasts! Come and share your passion and amazing creations at our Lego Club. Knit & Natter Tuesday 2:00pm - 4:00pm Bring your knitting or other craft for an informal gathering of like-minded people. Beginners welcome. Get Online at Your Library Learn the basic digital skills which will enable you to keep in touch with family and friends, shop safely online, take up a new hobby, find

work, save time and money, find information about your health and much more... We provide bite-size courses and one to one help. It doesn’t matter how young or old you are, it doesn’t matter if you’ve never used a computer, we can help you! There are also follow-on courses you can access if you wish too. Free 6-week course Tuesday 10:00am 11:00am. Booking required, numbers limited. One-to-One Support Please get in touch to book a one to one digital support session for using a computer, smart phone or tablet. Six of the Best If you don’t have time to browse or fancy a recommendation from the library staff you can request a selection of books to collect quickly at the library. You can ask in branch

Ascension & Cliff Small

Independent Family Funeral Directors Owned & Run by Robert & Kathryn Caunce & Family Garstang’s only independent family owned & family run funeral directors • Private chapel of rest • Monumental masonry • 24 hours - 365 days • Funerals tailored to individual needs • Golden Charter funeral

plans 5 - 6 Pringle Court, Thomas’s Weind, Garstang PR3 1LN t: 01995 605548 e: info@ascensionfunerals.co.uk w: www.ascensionfunerals.co.uk

Tell them you saw it in the ‘Green Book’

Also located at Caton, Morecambe & Bolton-le-Sands

GARSTANG LIBRARY (cont)

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE

or complete the form online with details of the type of books you like to read. Select up to six books. We’ll select books from our shelves at your chosen library. We’ll contact you when the books are ready. Collect them from the library. There is no charge for our six of the best service.

Art Exhibition

Mobile Library For further information of times and stops near you please call Glenys on 07717 543 763 or email garstang.mobile.ml3@ lancashire.gov.uk t: 0300 123 6703 www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries-andarchives e: garstang.library@lancashire.gov.uk facebook: @LancsLibraries twitter: @LancsLibraries

Following on from our very successful open competition and exhibition, we are delighted to welcome back Blackpool born and bred Ken Dagger. Ken is recognised by many for singing Gilbert and Sullivan operas in the Fylde. After studying art at school he maintained an interest in art but rarely had time to paint due to his busy lifestyle. After the death of his wife ten years ago he started painting again and is a member of Blackpool Art Society. Ken’s exhibition may be seen from Tues 15th Feb to Sat 12th March. All profits from the sale of any of his paintings are donated for the care of patients suffering from leukaemia. Sheila Tearle 01995 603816 Garstang Ukulele Group After an extended break we will be returning to the Arts Centre for our regular Sunday practice on Sun 30th Jan, unless the pandemic worsens beforehand. We had to cancel a

WINDOWS • DOORS • CONSERVATORIES • CLADDING

HAMBLETON UPVC A local family company trading throughout Wyre

t any We’ll bea ote qu genuine

Over 20 years’ experience Accredited for quality assurance Quality Composite Doors from just £700 fitted!

Conservatory Refurbishment & Replacement

Fast & reliable upvc products & services All jobs fully guaranteed

www.hambleton-upvc.co.uk info@hambleton-upvc.co.uk 01253 700902 / 07930 406257

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE (cont) couple of gigs in January, but in both cases the groups we were meant to be playing for also chose to postpone their events. Hopefully we will be able to get back to partying soon - though we now prefer to call it work. If you would like to book us or join us, see www. garstangukulelegroup.co.uk

journey on the no. 12 bus in London and the stops in between. We will also be discussing ‘Miss Benson’s Beetle’ by Rachel Joyce, which is about the travels of a lady and her companion as they search for a beetle that may or may not exist. For more information

Poetry Group The subject for February is ‘Beverages, Cafes, Teashops, Public houses etc’. The meeting will be held on Fri 25th Feb at 2:00pm and will be led by Marie Whalley. Everyone is welcome. For more information about the poetry group please contact Marie Whalley on 01995 603605 Bridge Do you fancy a new challenge for the New Year but don’t fancy taking on a marathon? Bridge taxes the brain rather than the body. You may have played bridge many years ago or you would like to learn more about it. If so Garstang Arts Centre Bridge Group, which meets every Tuesday afternoon 1:30pm to 4:00pm would be delighted to see you. For more experienced bridge players, Garstang Bridge Club now meets, at the Arts Centre, every Monday evening 7:00pm to 9:30pm. If you would like more details please ring Bob on 01995 603524. Garstang Musical Productions Singing together in harmony is food for the soul. We are keeping a close eye on changes in government guidelines and are planning something really special. Rebecca Sudell 07985 372 234. Book Club The Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 10:30am. We enjoy talking about a range of books and are never short of suggested reads! In February we are discussing ‘Between the Stops’ by Sandi Tosvig, which is a humorous account of her

Tell them you saw it in the ‘Green Book’

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE (cont) contact Linda 07795 064 266 or Sandra 01995 603436. Scrabble Group Meets on Tuesday afternoons, 2:00pm to 3:30pm. Everyone welcome. Jean Mavin 07501 704 385. Needlework Group

Treatments

ROUTINE NAIL CUTTING CLINIC • Nails cut and ﬁled • Slight callus removal • Nail beds tidied & oiled • Dry skin removed • Professional foot cream applied

Other Groups that Meet at the Arts Centre •

ROUTINE PODIATRY

All the above plus • Heavy callus & corn debridement • Treatment of verrucas • In-growing toenails • Fungal nails

• • •

COMPLEX PODIATRY

• Nail surgery • Minor ops • Biomechanical assessment • Ultrasound therapy • Plantar fasciitis

• •

MLS LASER TREATMENT

For the treatment of sprains pains and inﬂammation.

New to Laura Austin Podiatry from March 2022 • •

Vitamin B12 Injection Therapy Prende Parafﬁn Wax Treatment

Knott End Clinic 14 Lancaster Road FY6 0AR 01253 812555

• •

Creative Card Making: fourth Monday in the month, 10:00am to 12 noon Folk Dancers: Tuesday evenings, 7:30pm to 9:30pm. September to May Garstang Painting Group: every Wednesday, 1:00pm John Towers Big Band: every Friday, 7:45pm Sounds Right: First and third Monday in the month, mornings Watercolour Workshop: Mondays 1:00pm to 3:00pm Paint and Chatter: Fridays, 10:00am to 12 noon Woolcraft: Tuesdays 7:00pm to 9:00pm and Fridays 1:30pm to 3:30pm

Judy Osborne 01995 600996 facebook: artcentre.garstang twitter: ArtsGarstang www.garstangartssociety.org.uk

GARSTANG WINE CIRCLE CH35517

Garstang Clinic 3 Thomas’s Court, Thomas’s Weind PR3 1LL 01995 601106 @LauraAustinPodiatry

www.lauraaustinpodiatry.com lauraaustinpodiatry@gmail.com 20

We meet in the Arts Centre on Wednesday mornings from 10:00am to 12 noon. If you enjoy knitting, crochet, embroidery, patchwork, applique or would like to learn, do come and join this friendly, helpful group.

After much careful preparation and planning our Christmas Party on Sat 18th Dec, where the theme was ‘Dress for Success’, was enjoyed by everyone able to attend. The wines chosen by Mervyn Stokes and Richard Harrison were selected from The Wine Society’s extensive catalogue and were well received.

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

GARSTANG WINE CIRCLE (cont) Everyone enjoyed an excellent buffet consisting of canapés, sausage plait, whole fresh salmon, baked ham with pickled oranges and chutney, salads, red fruit pavlova, tiramisu and a selection of cheeses and mince pies. The food was prepared by Jackie Hastings, Diana Bell, Richard Harrison, Glynis Jefferson, Anne Marie Whitehead and Debbie Hewitt. Party games included Brian Heaton’s fiendish quiz, and a game presented by Frances Whitehead, where everyone suggested a famous person to invite to dinner. Proceedings were accompanied by an audio visual show and music selection prepared by Steve Ridings. Thanks go to all of those involved in preparing and organising this highly successful event. At the regular meeting on Mon 17th Jan, Adam Ventress and Liam Shannon from the Chapel Street Wine shop in Lancaster, gave a presentation of Italian wine. The shop, which

has only been open for about two years, specialises in wines from small producers. Wines are sourced world wide, but Italian wine is their specialist field. We were presented with two whites and four reds. An interesting selection of wines that were well presented, as Adam was knowledgeable about the producers, methods of production and the areas where the wines are produced. Circle members were very grateful to Adam and Liam for a thoroughly entertaining and interesting evening. Thanks also to Glynnis Jefferson for preparing evening’s refreshments. The next meeting will be on Mon 21st February at 7:30pm in the Arts Centre, when Jennifer McNamee will present a selection of wines from South Africa. Details of the meeting can be obtained from Alan Jefferson on 01995 601842. Mervyn Stokes / Anne Marie Whitehead

Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

WI CORNER Garstang Phoenix WI Wed 9th Feb, 2:00pm Garstang United Reformed Church Hall Our speaker will be Kenneth Geddes on ‘Southern Spain - Away from the Beaches’. Cabus WI Wed 2nd Feb, 7:30pm Cabus Village Hall The next meeting of Cabus WI be a talk by Bez Cooper on her life as a ‘Tiller Girl’. The competition this month is anything to do with show business. Cabus WI meets on the 1st Wednesday of the month. We are a very friendly group and we would love to welcome new members. You can visit us for three meetings before you decide to join. Come and give us a try. You’ll be sure to enjoy it. Margaret Swift 01995 606676

Garstang Phoenix WI is the only WI in the area to hold an afternoon meeting so why not forget the dismal weather and dark days and join us for the afternoon. We meet on the second Wednesday of each month. We have a range of speakers covering a variety of subjects from the not-too-serious to amusing. Refreshments are served during social time and all members are given the opportunity to catch up with friends. For those who are new to the area a member of the committee is always available to welcome visitors and introduce them to fellow members so why not come and join us. Lesley Wilson 01995 605274 LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESS SINCE 2008

NPD Curtains & Blinds WE BRING THE SHOP TO YOU

Made to measure & fit in your home or workplace Blinds Roller - Venetian - Vertical - Perfect Fit Pleated - Night & Day Fitting service available for customer’s own blinds

Curtains & Roman Blinds Made to measure in customer’s own fabric Or choose from our range of fabric books. Contact Nigel Phillips on

07776 016 303

AVAILABLE DURING LOCKDOWN RESTRICTIONS or email nigel@npinteriordesign.co.uk www.npdcurtainsandblinds.com

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

WI CORNER (cont) Claughton On Brock WI Tues 1st Feb, 7:30pm Claughton Village Hall

Cherestanc WI Wed 23rd Feb, 7:30pm St Thomas’s Parish and Community Hall

We have made plans for a much belated 100th Birthday Party meal, to be held on Tues 5th April at The Crofters. It’s time we celebrated together again and treated ourselves to a lovely evening with a delicious meal and lively company! The menus will be available for you to select your meal choice at the February meeting and payment by cheque is preferred please, either this month or at the next meeting in March.

This will be a social evening organised by the committee and should be a fun get-together.

Our guest speaker this month is Gwyneth Millard on the subject of ‘Finding my husband’s Aunt Eliza’, which sounds both mysterious and entertaining! Competition is for an old sepia photograph so it’s time to rummage in the back of the cupboards for a treasured family photo. Netta Parker 01995 605385

GARSTANG STORAGE

A personal service from experienced staff

BRAND NEW SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR

CLEAN, DRY, SECURE STORAGE CONTAINERS AVAILABLE

� � �

Shipping container sales & hire Indoor Secure Storage Available: 30 sq ft – 100 sq ft Portable toilets for site & event hire

Open 6 days a week Domestic & business customers welcome Local family business established for over 15 years

Linda Bark Lancashire Federation of Women’s Institutes Did you know there are 159 WIs in Lancashire. They offer a chance to meet new people, learn new skills whilst having fun and enjoying friendship. For more information, visit www.lancashirewi.org.uk

Thai at Pilling authentic cuisine

Take Away Open 12 - 9pm Every Day at the Elletson Arms Lancaster Rd, Pilling, PR3 6AH

6 FOOT - 40 FOOT

PACKAGING MATERIALS • Storage Boxes • Bubble Wrap • Parcel Tape / Tape Guns • Padded Envelopes • Mattress & Sofa Covers • Indoor / Outdoor & Armoured Locks

We meet on the 4th Wednesday of the month (except December). We are a friendly group and if you had thought about joining the WI please come along as a visitor and give us a try. If you would like someone to meet you at the door please contact Marion on 01995 600590.

Parcel deliveries & drop offs

01995 601810 | Green Lane West PR3 1NJ office@garstangstorage.com www.garstangstorage.com

FREEon

y deliver after orders imum in M . t 6pm iremen u q re order on g in d n depe n locatio

Run by Chef Wan & her team • Menu available at www.thaiatpilling.co.uk and facebook/thaiatpilling

Call 01253 790333 to order

Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Do you think you may have a problem with alcohol? If you need help with a drinking problem then Alcoholics Anonymous can help. There are two AA meetings a week held in the Garstang area at St Marys & Michaels

Counselling Experienced fully-accredited B.A.C.P person-centered counsellor including equine-assisted recovery. Garstang-based. I oﬀer a warm, sensitive, compassionate therapeutic environment to help you move towards deeper self understanding and emotional wellbeing.

07855 445 596

gill@dressageponiesuk.com

RC School Annexe, Castle Lane, Garstang PR3 1RB. Monday Night 7:30pm - 9:00pm & Friday Night 8:00pm - 9:15pm. Alcoholics Anonymous is a totally free resource to anyone who has a desire to stop drinking. For more information call the free helpline or email. t: 0800 9177 650 e: help@aamail.org

GARSTANG AFVBC Sat 5th Feb, 9:30am The Wheatsheaf, 1 Garstang PR3 1EL

Park

Hill

Road,

New year, new venus! Come an enjoy a breakfast menu ranging from full English breakfast, sausage or bacon butty to beans on toast - all with free tea and coffee. Most of all, you can enjoy the opportunity to catch up with your fellow veterans and their families, and once again, enjoy some good-natured banter. January Round Up

Boiler Servicing and Repairs Landlord Certs System Upgrades Boiler Changes Heating Maintenance And Much More... www.atkinsonheatingservices.com info@atkinsonheatingservices.com

07960 193 470 24

The New Year saw GAFVBC welcome several new members to the club at a new location - The Wheatsheaf on Park Hill Road. Our first visit to this new location was a great success and everyone who attended enjoyed the morning, despite the weather on the day being horrendous. The Wheatsheaf will now be the permanent home for the breakfast club on the first Saturday of each month and anyone who has served in any of the military forces will be made most welcome. Events & Trips Following on from a busy December, the members enjoyed a visit to The Imperial War Museum in Manchester in January. Future events include a quiz night, to be held on Tues 15th March, 7:30pm for 8:00pm start, again at The Wheatsheaf. The last quiz night proved very popular, and

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

GARSTANG AFVBC (cont) we are hoping for a good turn out again, so pencil the date in your diary. We are all looking forward to meeting our new members in February and catching up again with all our existing members. Roger Dunn f: Garstang Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club www.afvbc.net/clubs/garstang

THE INNER WHEEL CLUB Garstang & Over Wyre The club held their first meeting of 2022 in the second week of January. It was a business meeting and there was much to discuss. Top of the agenda was of course the wellbeing of members and their families. After much discussion it was decided to postpone the quiz night and the soup and sandwiches

lunch, both scheduled for the near future. While there is still uncertainty regarding Covid it was felt that the two events were just a little early and that as both are open to the public it was the best decision. These events will definitely take place as soon as possible. They are very much fundraising activities benefiting local charities and as such are at the heart of Inner Wheel ideals. In the meantime the club will continue to meet safely at the Garstang Hotel on the second Thursday of the month for a short business meeting and then tea, coffee and biscuits with a chance to catch up with each other. On the fourth Thursday there is a dinner meeting with a guest speaker. If you would like more information, please get in touch. Mary Mason t: 01995 603447 e: marytmason@icloud.com

Established 1991

t: 01995 670792 e: sales@nortechsecurity.co.uk INTRUDER ALARMS • CCTV • FIRE ALARMS Domestic & Commercial Design Install Service Repair Takeovers Wireless Wired

MAINTENANCE OFFER Does your external siren look like an active deterrent? Has it begun to fade? Our new siren is LED back-lit for increased visibility at night. The image is laser printed & ﬁtted internally to prevent fading & discolouarion.

50% OFF EXTERNAL SIRENS Supply & install of external siren while on service visit

NOW JUST £40+VAT (RRP £80+VAT)

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF PROVIDING QUALITY SECURITY SYSTEMS Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS cars for both the entrants and officials.

Donations Two deliveries to Fylde Women’s Aid were made in December. These donations included Christmas gifts and knitted items which were gratefully received. We are providing ongoing support for this worthy cause. There is a continued need for new clothing items (babies, small children, ladies and also men too), new toys, new cosmetics or new toiletries with our collection point being the Resources Centre (old Liberal Club on Bridge Street). Events & Activities The first event of 2022 that the Lions were involved in was the annual Garstang 10k Road Race starting at the Academy on Sun 9th Jan where we assisted with the parking of UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

Our next project will be the purchase of the large luxury Easter Eggs and their delivery to many local venues to give their customers the chance to win one of these. General Our club continues to grow and another prospective new member joined our meeting in January. If you are interested in joining then you will be made most welcome and we encourage you to attend three of our sessions before making a final decision. 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 Tuesday of the month in the Royal Oak at 8.00pm. Chris Wilkinson www.garstanglions.co.uk

BLINDS

Beautiful Blinds Made to Your Requirements

VENETIAN - VERTICAL - ROLLER - PLEATED - VELUX - MIRAGE - ROMAN - CURTAIN 100’s of British-made fabrics to choose from. Blinds repaired • Replacement Louvres Free Measuring & Fitting J.R & D Sillis will be open as normal and will continue to provide the high level of service and quality products that Jack has produced over the last 50 years. Jeff, the new owner of the business, has over 10 years’ experience within the blinds industry. His experienced team are always happy to advise and quote for your blinds free of charge and without obligation

Est

1972 26

Est

1972 Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

SINGSPIRATION COMMUNITY CHOIR A modern, fun and upbeat community choir open to anyone regardless of ability. Do you have a burning ambition to sing? Do you sing in the shower, or are you the next Arianna Grande or Bob Dylan? Does singing out loud just make you feel great? If this sounds like you then put your vocal skills to use and join a new and exciting venture that is Singspiration Community Choir. Singspiration Community Choir is the brainchild of local musician, Stewart Bell, who has been performing professionally for the last twenty years. Stewart studied music at Salford University where he focussed on conducting and musical direction in his final year. On graduating from Salford, he won the coveted Roy Newsome Conducting prize and has gone on to work with various amateur and professional ensembles both as a performer and musical director.

Stewart and his wife Lisa were both part of the One Voice Community Choir in Preston for nearly ten years. They had the privilege of working on many vocal projects including the Liverpool Capital of Culture opening ceremony (2008) and performed with the choir as part of the Commonwealth Observance Service at Westminster Abbey in front of the Queen and other national and international dignitaries. Stewart wants to bring people in the local area together to sing, socialise and generally have a great time making music. The idea for the choir came about during lockdown, as a way for people to meet and socialise whilst singing fun and upbeat music. Singing is scientifically proven to boost your wellbeing as the joy of singing releases endorphins that promote positive emotions. There is no need to worry about reading music as Stewart the choir director will guide

Electrical Team

James Branson Local electrician covering all of Wyre All jobs to a high standard. We are small enough to care, yet large enough to cope

Mobile: 07494 046 057 Ofﬁce: 01995 670533 Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

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

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

SINGSPIRATION (cont) you through without it, also helping to improve your memory! Sessions & Locations There are three different venues for the choirs. Times and venues are listed below. If you would like any further information, see our website. •

•

Mondays: Broughton Primary School assembly hall, Garstang Road, PR3 5JB – 7:30pm - 9:00pm Tuesdays: Longridge C.E. Primary School, Berry Lane, PR3 3JA – 7:30pm - 9:00pm Wednesadys: Garstang Community Acadamy, Garstang Road, Bowgreave, PR3 1YE – 7:30pm - 9:00pm

WAX AWAY TODAY Why wait for a GP appointment? No GP referral required

Qualiﬁed clinician with over 20 years in the NHS. Specialising in safe ear wax removal from the canal. Ear wax removal (Microsuction) - £60 Covering Preston, Lancaster, Garstang, Lytham & Blackpool

Call 07970 066 881 to book an appointment

Home Visits

MIKE’S MOBILE CARPETS FAMILY BUSINESS EST 1972

Choose your new Stewart Bell carpet from the t: 07740 593 979 e: stewart@singspirationcommunitychoir. comfort of your home! co.uk Guaranteed to beat any written quote Over 400 positive reviews

HARMONY & HEALTH

Recommended on

An Opportunity to Sing Make 2022 the year when you discover the joy and health benefits of singing with others at the following locations:

Tel: 01253 850192 anytime Mobile: 07774 941 393

Garstang - Monday afternoons from 2:00pm - 3:15pm at the United Reformed Church hall, Croston Road. £2.00 per session to include tea/coffee and biscuits. Hambleton - Tuesday afternoons from 2:00pm - 3:15pm at Hambleton Village Hall, Church Lane. £2.00 per session to include tea/coffee and biscuits. We are not a choir and no previous singing experience is necessary. We extend a warm welcome to all. Further details from Ann Cameron. Ann Cameron t: 07966 126 999 e: ann.cameron@mac.com

D is co un ts fo r OAPs

mikesmobilecarpets@outlook.com

All aspects of internal and external carpentry and joinery undertaken. No job too small. Over 30 years’ experience. Free estimates.

Mob: 07846 510 953 Tel: 01995 606 179

Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

HAFFNER ORCHESTRA

LANCASTER SINGERS

Sat 5th March, 7:30pm Great Hall, Lancaster University

Sat 19th Mar, 7:30pm Lenten Concert at The Priory, Lancaster Mealor: ‘Crucifixus’ Rheinberger: ‘Mass in E Flat Major’

Lancaster’s 50-piece symphony orchestra is back again, with more fine classical music. Conductor: Daniel Parkinson. Piano soloist: Rose McLachlan Vaughan Williams: Five Variants of Dives & Lazarus Ravel: Piano Concerto in G Beethoven: Symphony No 6 ‘Pastoral’ Tickets are available at £15 from the orchestra’s website (see below), Lancaster Visitor Centre (01524 582394) or Morecambe Visitor Centre. Free entry for 18’s and under. John Whittaker t: 07752 643 946 fb: @haffnerorchestra twitter: @haffnerorch www.haffnerorchestra.org

In 2020, Paul Mealor became one of the world’s most performed, recorded and broadcast living composers. Famous for composing ‘Wherever You Are’ (the Military Wives Song), he also wrote the beautiful rendition of Ubi Caritas composed for the wedding of Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton. We will be performing ‘Crucifixus’, a beautiful example of Mealor’s contemporary harmonic and rhythmic music. Josef Gabriel Rheinberger (1839-1901) wrote eighteen mass compositions. This concert’s Opus 109 in E Flat Major is considered distinctive and echoes the compositional style of early Renaissance composers, being written a cappella for a double choir.

Local family business with over 40 years experience BATHROOM SPECIALISTS

PLUMBING & HEATING SPECIALISTS

Bathroom Adaptations for Assisted Living Complete Bathroom Suites Washbasins/Toilets/Baths/Showers Wet Rooms Tiling/Decorative Wall & Ceiling Panelling Park Home/Static Caravan Specialists

Replacement/Repairs/Servicing of all your Gas Appliances and Central Heating Systems

We can provide a complete bathroom installation service from the initial design through to the ﬁnishing touches, no matter the shape or size.

Leaks and bursts Repaired 12yr guarantee on selected boilers installed Landlord Gas Safety Certiﬁcates/Inspections All aspects of Plumbing works carried out Park Home/Static Caravan Specialists Oil - Gas - LPG

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 01995 638041 / 07968 310352 Email: ecplumbing@yahoo.co.uk www.ecplumbingandmaintenance.co.uk

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

LANCASTER SINGERS (cont) We hope you’ll be able to join us at the Priory in Lancaster to hear this wonderful music. Tickets are £12 and are available from www. lancastersingers.org on the door or call 07956 115 126. Lancaster Singers, an auditioned choir, was formed almost 50 years ago. Under the baton of our current, dynamic Director, Duncan Lloyd, we give five or six concerts a year in venues ranging from tiny village churches to large concert halls. If you’re looking to join a modern, vibrant, and accomplished choir, why not come along to a couple of rehearsals after Easter and check us out? In the first instance, email Sarah at welcome@lancastersingers.org or call 07929 031 466. For all ticket enquiries, call 07956 115 126. Chris Haughton e: chair@lancastersingers.org

TREE SURGEONS

EXPANSION FOR VINCENTS Vincents Solicitors has expanded its private client team in Garstang and increased support for its highly specialised court of protection work. Lisa Lodge, head of the Garstang branch and joint head of the private client department, has welcomed three new starters to her team and is continuing to recruit to the growing probate department. Solicitor Dan Pinder, legal assistant Mary Greenway and probate clerk Virginia Webster have all become part of the Garstang team. Vincents’ helps people to make and amend their will, deal with both straightforward and contentious probate matters, put in place trusts and lasting powers of attorney and looks after clients’ affairs when they lose capacity as part of the highly specialist court of protection work.

OVER 20 ye a exper rs ience

TREE PRUNING TREE FELLING SITE CLEARANCE HEDGE & SHRUB PRUNING STUMP REMOVAL TREE REPORTS & PLANNING APPLICATIONS UNDERTAKEN

FREE

no obligation quotations

FULLY QUALIFIED & INSURED Tel: 01253 810360 Mobile: 07711545069 Email: jhtreesurgeons@gmail.com

7 Rope Walk, Garstang, PR3 1NS

Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB entertained by Lee Metcalf on Photographing the North West for FotoVue. FotoVue is a company which publishes books on photography for photographers on different areas of the UK and other parts of the world. These are excellent books either for the beginner for ideas and the more advanced of us. I bought one, the latest edition of the Lake District, and wished it had been available years ago. Look them up online. First of all, I should like to apologise for parts of my report in the January edition. Two of the events turned out to be incorrect due to the report having to be sent in by Mon 6th Dec. These events were cancelled due to the recent covid instruction. One presenter was covid positive but one of our chairmen stood in at the last minute to present a very interesting evening on one of his travels to the Central Americas. Thank you Lewis. On the first meeting of the new year, we were

Following this, we had the third of our competitions - ‘Creatures and Plants of the World’. The judge for this was Harvy Emmett via Zoom and the places awarded were shared between some of our newer members as well as our regular competitors. The results will be put on our website alongside the winners of previous competitions from 2021-2022. Well worth a visit! February brings us three meetings. The content of the third one is as yet to be decided.

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE WORK UNDERTAKEN Large Tree Removal Pruning Felling Site Clearance Hedge Trimming Stump Grinding Tree Planting Fully qualiﬁed, fully insured crew happy to help. For more info please visit our website or contact Ben for a free quote. 07496 155 789 tyrertreecare@hotmail.com www.tyrertreecare.co.uk 32

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB (cont) •

•

Wed 2nd Feb is the judging of our humanity competition by Jim Cunningham Wed 9th Feb Scottish Wildlife will be presented by Jeremy Malley-Smith. This will be available via Zoom.

I give advance notice of the judging of our final competition, ‘Anything Goes’ (and it usually does) on Wed 2nd March. Finally, the weather as I write this has been quite mild in the daytime in recent weeks which maybe augurs well for this new year… so, to newcomers and the ‘old brigade’ keep pressing that shutter button.

Encouraging an Independent Lifestyle A local private business offering

HOME SUPPORT Meal Prep • Light Cleaning • Shopping • General Assistance• Paperwork & Calls Appointment Accompaniments Socialising & Enjoying Life

“Thank you so much…I honestly don’t know what Dad and I would do without you.” Mrs D ‘Carpe Diem’ ‘Seize the Day’

Tel: 07553 426800 / 01995 604290 www.abletohelpgarstang.co.uk

Maurice Barker www.garstangcameraclub.co.uk

GARSTANG SPEAKERS CLUB As I write this the situation with Coronavirus is escalating once more. We have had some great face-to-face meetings since September but again doubt is cast on what the rest of 2022 may hold. We plan to have meetings on Tues 1st & 15th Feb at the Garstang Country Hotel 7:15pm for a 7:30pm start. If circumstances prevent this, we will hold meetings over Zoom calls. Notwithstanding what might happen we would welcome any visitors who wish to put their New Year resolution into practice. Have you decided to improve your speaking skills? Have you decided to boost your confidence in group situations? Have you decided to improve your skills at interviews or would you like to meet new friends in social situations? We could help you with all that in a friendly atmosphere whilst you progress at your own pace. Go on, take that first step and contact a club member. Sue Hubbard t: 01995 600357 e: barleyfold@madasafish.com www.garstangladiesspeakersclub.org

PAUL @ TG WINDOWS

All Joinery Work • UPVC Windows & Doors • Kitchens • Floors • Decking • Cladding Fascias • Guttering • All Work Considered Over 30 Years’ Experience • Time Served Free Estimates & Quotes 01995 606942 / 07769 884 778 pauldodd2169@googlemail.com @PaulatTGWindows

Tell them you saw it in the Garstang Focus

Based in Garstang

DISCOUNT UPVC &

GLAZING

SOROPTIMISTS Women Inspiring Action, Transforming Lives Our first meeting of the year wasn’t the face-to-face one we’d hoped for due to our friend the pandemic, but we’re good at Zoom now and we happily got together online. It is still amazing how much work we can get through in our business meetings. Tuk Tuks!

uPVC Windows & Doors Replacement Double Glazed Windows Conservatories Cladding, Gutters & Fascias Caravan & Park Home Specialist

5 years’ With over 2 in experience , we y r the indust ndly, oﬀer a frie nd vice a reliable ser e for valu guarantee money.

Ring Nigel on... m: 07789 498 572 t: 01253 892849

Now I know we advertised that our January social would be a talk by Mary Storrie of the Rosie May Foundation, to update us on the work of the Think Pink Sri Lanka campaign and tell us about our TukTuk, but Mary had a fantastic opportunity to travel to Sri Lanka and assess the post-Covid situation at Project Hope. So this talk will be re-arranged for a later date and just think how fresh and exciting the news will be then – and we have our own mini Tuk Tuk for the time being.

Typical Back Door from just

£430

So instead we had a virtual quiz - told you we’re resourceful and we always have a plan B! Some of us still had Christmas brains but on the whole, we gave it our best shot and certainly learned a few things.

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

SOROPTIMISTS (cont) Latest Updates

Making Plans

We had a lovely message of thanks on behalf of the Syrian refugees for the clothes we sent them. On behalf of the women’s group of asylum seekers who meet weekly as ‘East meets West’ at a church in Lancaster they too loved the woollies knitted for them by another Soroptimist group and they have requested more woolly hats and gloves.

On to more fun things: we’re getting ready to put on our wellies, pick up our spades and head outdoors to plant our trees to mark our centenary year. Looks like early March will be the date – we just need to confirm this and the time and then we’ll advertise it on our Facebook page. Why not come along and meet us? We’ll be planting 100 British native broadleaf saplings which have been specially chosen for the location. It will be a haven for birds and wildlife and a wonderful place to have on our doorsteps.

Before Christmas we set up a number of collection points in Garstang for used stamps for the RNIB. Thanks to the generous folk of Garstang and district and our own club members, we have a bumper package to send off for the RNIB to convert to cash. We will be doing this as a regular activity - so don’t forget, you can save your stamps all year and then just watch out for our next collection information later this year. o We als ton in s g lo supply of logs & ets bags, n ﬁregrates g, n li d e kin h mor & muc

Philippines Typhoon One of our group, Louise, has just sent us the following - and forgive me for simply adding it in her words to this piece. This is another of those natural disasters that seem to have little impact on our televisions these days but we thought it should be highlighted to

COAL

OPEN SACK FUEL

Coal from £15.50 per 50kg bag Ovoids from £16.50 per 50kg bag

PREPACKED FUEL

015 PHON 24 E 32 fo 01 r coa 176

lo 5 for 24 84 r bott 969 6 led gas

Coal from £6 per 20kg Ovoids from £7.50 per 20kg Union Briquettes (wood coal) from £7.70 per 20kg We also supply logs in ton bags, nets of logs & kindling, ﬁregrates etc We are the main stockist in this area for Homeheat and Calor bottled gas, barbeques, patio heaters and mobile gas ﬁres for sale.

FREE DELIVERY

(minimum order: open sack 2 bags, pre-packed 5 bags)

We deliver to your area every 2 weeks and if required the driver will call to see if you need any fuel

V Catlow & Son Ltd

White Lund Industrial Estate, Morecambe LA3 3BS The company is into the 3rd generation of the Catlow family | “A Diploma Coal Merchant”

Tell them you saw it in the Garstang Focus

SOROPTIMISTS (cont) remind us that it’s not just the pandemic that is happening – disasters continue regardless of Covid. ‘…the Philippines was hit by a Super Typhoon just before Christmas. The storm made landfall multiple times, affecting a number of the country’s islands. Sixteen million people currently live in the severely affected areas, with 2.4 million needing assistance. The government of the Philippines reported widespread humanitarian impact, and as of Sat 12th Jan, 41,719 individuals are still hosted in evacuation centres, and more than 1.36 million houses and 2,057 schools are damaged. While I was based in the Philippines, one of the local non-governmental partners that UNICEF regularly worked with was A Single Drop of Safe Water (ASDSW). Palawan the island where ASDSW is based - was

impacted by the super typhoon. They have an ongoing response to assist the most affected communities. They have set up a fund-raising page at: www.donorbox.org/ typhoon-odette-relief-palawan’ Welcome back to Garstang Library Before I add our petition of the month, good news for Garstang: the revamped library has opened its doors again. Go along and take a look at the changes and enter the magical worlds of books – cheapest way ever to travel the world and beyond! Petitions The recommended petition this month is actually a survey. Ruth identified that the government (DEFRA) has put out a call for evidence on commonly littered and problematic plastic items. The aim of the survey is to help gather

Garstang’s local independent family-run funeral service 24hr Personal Attention Assured

THE GARSTANG FUNERAL HOME Castle View - Bridge Street - Garstang - PR3 1YB Tel: 01995 601 600 36

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

SOROPTIMISTS (cont) evidence on other problematic plastic items and help inform future policy making. Also, to find out whether the public support a shift away from single use culture. Deadline for completion is Sat 12th Feb. It’s a little longwinded but it’s a very important topic. Visit https://bit.ly/defra-plastic to complete the survey. What Next...? The next meeting is Wed 9th Feb at 6:30pm. Probably at Garstang Golf Club – although it could be on Zoom if circumstances prevent us meeting physically! Don’t forget to keep checking our Facebook page for fuller, regular reports on what we’re up to. So, don’t be shy, get in touch and be part of this vibrant club and help other women and girls whilst making lifelong friends. Just drop us a line or give our membership co-ordinator

Muriel Burnham-Airey a ring. We’ll be happy to talk to you and answer your questions. Until next month, take care and enjoy friendship. t: (01995) 606604 (Muriel Burnham-Airey) w: www.sigarstang.org.uk facebook: SoroptimistsGarstang twitter: GarstangSoropt

SPRING CLEANING YOUR BODY As we leave behind the dark depths of our winter our body readies itself for springtime and a return of vibrant life. We have disconnected from our natural circadian rhythms but they are vitally important. Nature begins to let the nettles show themselves again and their tender young leaves are excellent for cleansing us. At the other end of the year nettles produce nutritious protein packed seeds that nourish

LOCAL BASED (GARSTANG) PRIVATE HIRE TAXI

BUSINESS FOR SALE Established for 8 years Reason for sale: retirement Loyal customer base Private contracts in place

Mainly local work: doctors, shops, hospital, railway station Scope to increase in younger hands or partnership Interested parties get in touch through email:

daddyd290@gmail.com Tell them you saw it in the Garstang Focus

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

SPRING CLEANING YOUR BODY (cont) us for the onset of winter but for now the divine circle of life and nature brings us a much needed clean up. Fortunately, you do not have to go hunting too far to find nettles and if push comes to shove you can buy excellent nettle tea or tinctures from a good health food shop. Nettle can have a wide variety of uses from helping prostate health to supporting our blood pressure balance with its diuretic action. It can also aid our liver health. Truly it is an unsung hero of a healthy diet. Another cleanser is milk thistle which can be bought in tablet or tincture form. It helps liver function which is the great detoxifying organ of our body, has anti viral properties, can help gall bladder problems and can even protect your brain against age related decline. I know plenty of people who use milk thistle when they have a hangover although I would never advocate getting a hangover in the first place! Activated charcoal is another safe and effective remedy you may want to try at this time of year. Whilst many use it for the relief of flatulence and abdominal bloating it has detoxifying qualities. It is used in heavy metal detox protocols as it appears to draw the toxins to it which are then bound to it and excreted. If you buy it as a powder you can use it to give your teeth a superb clean. The slight granular feel of it is very useful for cleaning your pearly whites, even if it looks rather odd when you have black charcoal in your mouth as you brush. You can also mix activated charcoal powder with water or coconut oil, make it into a paste and put it on your face. It is an excellent facial cleanser and helps remove toxins from your face. People often talk about doing a detox diet which may simply mean being miserable for a few weeks as you try to exist on goodness knows what drinks and potions but never

forget that the most potent detox action comes from your liver so make sure you look after it. I would rather advocate a healthy wholefood diet with the right balance of protein, fat and unprocessed carbohydrates than a gimmicky ‘cleanse’ diet. If you are putting the right foods in, then your body can do all the detoxing without the torture of a detox diet! Wishing you all well as we race through another year, chin up, it will soon be Christmas, sorry, I mean Spring! Nick Tofalos BSc (Hons) Osteopathy t: 01995 602833 e: nick@cbd-one.co.uk

CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL Churchtown & District Advanced notice: the Churchtown and District Children’s Whitsuntide Festival will be held on Sat 28th May after an absence of two years owing to Covid. A procession of visiting queens, tableaux, fancy dress, dignitaries, local organisations and bands will leave Kirkland Memorial Hall field at 1:00pm making its way to Churchtown for a short service at St Helen’s Church at 1:30pm, before returning to the field for the crowning of this year’s queen Imogen White 2:15pm. Anyone wishing to enter the fancy dress should arrive by 12:30pm. On the field during the afternoon Darrel Edwards will be our compere and there will be children’s sports, football competition, a bouncy slide, games, plant stall, sweet stall, tombola and refreshments. At 6:30pm there will be a family disco with a fish and chip supper; all children must be accompanied by an adult. Everyone is welcome, so come and enjoy a great day out! Dorothy Walmsley

Tell them you saw it in the Garstang Focus

EVERYONE NEEDS SOMEBODY But not everyone has someone Our telephone-based befriending service is designed to reduce loneliness and isolation in the visually impaired community. Regular phone-based befriending can be arranged at a convenient time for you. Our service is staffed by our amazing team of friendly, trained volunteers; the majority of whom have close experience of sight loss to provide much needed support and friendship. Many of our service users and volunteers benefit from the positive impact a telephone befriending relationship can offer. We match people based on common and interests for telephone calls at an agreed day and time. The results of befriending can be very significant. Befriending often provides people with a new direction in life, opens doors to a range of activities and leads to increased self-esteem and self-confidence.

Sightline believes in the intrinsic value of befriending relationships and will provide the service for as long as people feel they want it. If you think you might benefit from a telephone befriending relationship, please drop us a line or visit our website to find out more. The delivery of the befriending service is totally dependent upon our amazing, but rather small, team of trained volunteers. We are always keen to speak to people who may like to volunteer; could you offer an hour a week and become one of very own Sightline Superstars? Head over to our website to read some wonderful Sightline Stories about how our telephone befriending has such a positive impact on peoples’ lives. How good would it feel to be part of that? e: info@sightline.org.uk www.sightline.org.uk

Volunteering opportunities available.

Sightline is a charity oﬀering a FREE telephone-based befriending service designed to reduce loneliness and isolation for anyone living in the sight loss community.

“These calls improve my wellbeing ten-fold and I always put the phone down with a smile on my face, looking forward to next week’s conversation.” Please get in touch if youʼd like to ﬁnd out more about our befriending service, or youʼd like to discuss volunteering with us.

0800 587 2252 | www.sightline.org.uk 40

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

GARSTANG MEDICAL CENTRE Covid Vaccinations We have now completed our vaccination programme here at Garstang Medical Practice and will, for the time being, only be doing ad hoc clinics as and when required. For up-to-date information on local vaccination sites and availability, please see the Fylde and Wyre CCG website: Home - Fylde Coast Clinical Commissioning Groups (www.fyldecoastccgs.nhs.uk). Alternatively, please call 119 or go to www. nhs.uk to book an appointment.

Social Prescribing in GP Practices Social prescribing is a way for GP practices to refer patients with social, emotional, or practical needs to a wider range of nonclinical and local services to support their patients. There is no defined list of who can benefit from social prescribing, but recent social prescribing pilots have benefited patients with the following:

Appointments

• • • •

Whilst we do offer patients the choice of a telephone consultation or a face-to-face appointment, we would ask that at the current time, you do ask for a telephone consultation if appropriate. For example, a review of your medication can be dealt with over the telephone rather than coming into the surgery.

Services offered include health and lifestyle advice, money management including debt and benefit advice, guidance towards social and leisure groups, help with housing and independent living, and also just a listening ear.

With the recent increase in cases of Covid, it is safer for patients and staff to have as few people visiting the surgery as possible. Dr Katie Walker We are very pleased to announce that Dr Katie Walker will be joining our team on Wed 2nd Feb as a salaried GP. Dr Walker has been working as a trainee GP here at the practice since December 2020. We are delighted that she has chosen to stay with us on a permanent basis. Recruitment We have now completed the recruitment programme for our reception team. At the present time we are still struggling at times due to Covid related sickness/isolation rules, but we are hopeful that, in due course, this will significantly reduce the waiting times on the telephone lines for patients and improve access to our services.

mental health problems, long term health conditions, social isolation, untreatable or poorly understood long term health conditions e.g., chronic fatigue.

The benefits of social prescribing include a reduced pressure on GP appointments, which enables clinicians to focus on medical issues, a wider range of services offered, a more holistic care package and therefore a better outcome for patients. We are now able to refer you to a link worker for our local social prescribing service, Let’s Connect. The link worker will work with you to discuss what problems you are currently facing, explore what is important to you, agree your goals, source appropriate local activities and services and help you access them. Taking the first step can make a big difference – if you feel you would benefit from a referral to Let’s Connect, please ask your GP during your next appointment, or ask reception for a self-referral card. t: 01995 607399 fb: @garstangmedicalpractice www.garstangmedicalpractice.nhs.uk

Tell them you saw it in the Garstang Focus

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

GREATER GARSTANG Partnership Board Following on from my January update, the feedback from the December exhibition and online documents has been collated and I’m pleased to say that there was broad support for the proposed ‘interventions’ outlined in the exhibition and for the Board’s proposed approach to revitalising the town without compromising its unique character. The feedback has been passed to the consultants who are working on the draft regeneration and investment framework for consideration at the February board meeting. Following that it will be published for public comment so please keep an eye out for further details and timings on local social media channels and the Greater Garstang Partnership Board’s own website. Once we have completed the public comment phase the final regeneration framework (with

CROSSWORD (ans page 51)

any amendments deemed necessary) will be formally adopted and published by the board. This document will give us the basis for working up detailed project plans and funding bids in the months and years ahead. Jan Finch - Chair www.greatergarstangpartnership.co.uk fb: TheGreaterGarstangPartnershipBoard twitter: @greatergarstang

GARSTANG TOWN COUNCIL Town Council Awards 2022 This year we are introducing a new category which will mean that awards will be given in a total of nine categories. The new category is new business in the community and is being sponsored by councillor Alec Allan. This category will be awarded to a business which commenced operating in the Garstang area any time in the calendar year prior to Across 4 Don’t say this to a goose! (3) 6 The cosmos; everything (8) 7 Bar bill; tag (3) 9 One of the senses; trial (6) 11 Commerce (5) 12 Grown-up (5) 14 Turning over and over (7) 15 Sum; tot (3) 17 Colony of insects (3, 5) 18 Plaything (3) Down 1 Meant; fiancée (8) 2 All together; umbrella (7) 3 Mark left by finger or foot; edition (5) 4 Wager (3) 5 Sphere (3) 8 With passion (8) 10 Explicit; pictorial (7) 13 Cog; incisor, for instance (5) 15 Insect living in 17a (3) 16 24 hours (3)

Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

GARSTANG TOWN COUNCIL (cont) Fri 31st Dec before nominations open. This will include sole traders, limited companies, partnerships, and any other business having a legal structure including charitable organisations. Award Categories • • • • • • • • •

Young Citizen of the Year Junior Citizen of the Year Youth Group of the Year Community Team of the Year Good Citizen of the Year Business in the Community New Business in the Community Sports Team of the Year Mayor’s Award

We will be opening nominations on Sun 6th Feb be open for six weeks and will close on 20th March. The awards panel will then meet and review all nominations to determine the winners in each category.

The awards ceremony will be held on Thu 28th April as part of the annual town meeting. We will be updating our website and social media with full details of categories, category definitions and eligibility rules in time for the nominations to open. We look forward to receiving your nominations which highlight the strengths of the people, teams and businesses in our community and being able to celebrate the amazing achievements of Garstang. Council Open Forums Last year we set up our stall on Cherestanc Square, and spent time discussing all things Garstang with visitors and residents. We are planning to restart these open forums from March to give you an opportunity to meet up with your councillors in person. We will release the date as soon as it is finalised. If you have any ideas or questions for the

GREY MATTER TEST (ans page 51) 1.

How many wings does a butterfly have?

Which is the longest river in France?

In which county is Bodmin Moor?

How many British Monarchs have been called Edward?

Which compass point is opposite Northnorth-west?

What was banned in the British Empire as a trading commodity in 1807?

How many pieces are there in a game of chess?

Who were the opposing armies in the American Civil War?

How many players are there in a netball team?

12. What name was given to the pandemic that struck England in the 1340s? 13. Which is the highest mountain in the Alps? 14. The National Homing Union is associated with which leisure pursuit? 15. Which two countries are on the shores of Lake Geneva? 16. Which artist was the creator of the children’s book ‘The Snowman’? 17. Who was the wife of Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha? 18. Where, according to the song, should you pack up your troubles?

10. Which ancient wall crosses England from Solway to Wallsend?

19. In which month is the State Opening of Parliament in England?

11. The artist Canaletto was associated with which Italian city?

20. What is the main source of energy in our ecosystem?

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

GARSTANG TOWN COUNCIL (cont) council in the meantime, you can get in touch at any time via our clerk. Crime in Garstang There appears to have been a marked increase in the amount of vandalism and antisocial behaviour in Garstang and surrounding areas over the last year. Over the Christmas period there was sadly some vandalism to the Christmas lights in Thomas Weind. Councillor Webster has been in contact with Lancashire’s new Police and Crime Commissioner, Andrew Snowden and asked for greater police presence in Garstang and the surrounding areas. The town council will be following up that request by writing to him to reinforce Councillor Webster’s request. Flooding in and Around Garstang Flooding at the junction of Lancaster Road and High Street has been well documented on social media. Wyre Council and Wyre Ward Councillor Lady Atkins have raised this issue with LCC and it is under investigation. Cllrs Webster and Allan have impressed on Wyre and LCC that we need to see a resolution to this as there is the potential for delays to emergency vehicles on the main route into Garstang centre from the North. Additionally when road closed signs are put in place we have asked that more thought is given to the actual positioning of the signs as we all recognise that diversion signs should avoid the frustrations of drivers having to turn around at the actual flood. Councillor Brooks has been tackling many such issues around the Garstang area, including Longmoor Lane flooding, with the Wyre Flood Forum.

lights. There is no date for when this work will be undertaken and it may be several years off. We will be writing LCC to request that these improvements are made sooner rather than later. Play in the Park - a Frozen Workshop Wyre Council have asked us if they can hold a Frozen themed workshop on Moss Lane Park. The town council is pleased to see Wyre bringing this to the town. The Workshop is scheduled to take place on Fri 18th Feb between 11:00am and 5:00pm. North West Stages Rally Fri 18th & Sat 19th March We are pleased to be able to confirm that the North West Stages ceremonial start will again take place on Garstang High Street. There will be an opportunity to get up close to some cars which have cost upwards of £250,000 to prepare. The cars will be completing the rally on the High Street on Saturday evening with a champagne celebration for the winning cars. Mayor’s Charity Spring Ball The mayor will be hosting a charity spring ball at Garstang Golf Club and Country House Hotel on Sat 9th April. All proceeds from the ball will be going to the 150th Anniversary of Garstang Children’s Festival. Tickets, £35, include a three course dinner and with the entertainment being provided by the amazing local band the Flatlanders. Dress code will be lounge suits. Tickets are available from alec. allan@garstangtowncouncil.gov.uk Next Meeting

A6/A586 Junction, Catterall

Our February full council meeting will be held on Mon 21st Feb at 7:30pm. If you’d like to attend the meeting please contact the clerk.

Councillor Webster has been advised by LCC that plans have been drawn up to make significant improvements to this junction which will include the installation of traffic

Edwina Parry - Town Clerk t: 07592 792 801 e: clerk@garstangtowncouncil.gov.uk www.garstangtowncouncil.gov.uk

Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

CAT SMITH MP I hope you’ve all had a good start to the year. I, like many of you, had Covid in January and I was either very unlucky or it really isn’t that mild! I had a pretty rubbish time of it for a while and I dread to think how it might have affected me if I hadn’t had my vaccinations and booster. If you haven’t already had your jabs, please go and get one to protect you and those around you. At the time of writing, I’ve been leading a campaign to have the mobile breast screening unit returned to Fleetwood. I hope by the time you read this we’ll have succeeded but I’m not hopeful at present. The North Lancashire & South Cumbria Breast Screening Service run by the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust confirmed a few weeks ago that they had removed the mobile unit from Fleetwood and it wouldn’t be returning for 2022 and maybe beyond. This means women living in Over Wyre must travel 30 to 40 miles to attend a breast screening appointment in either Blackpool or Lytham. Constituents tell me, given the poor public transport links, many simply aren’t able attend their appointment. Due to Covid, many women have had their breast screening appointments cancelled and are now very concerned that they are missing out on life saving diagnosis by not being able to access the service in Lytham or elsewhere in Lancashire. Research shows breast screening programmes probably prevent around 1,300 women in the UK dying from breast cancer every year. Most cancers found through breast screening are at an early stage. This means treatment is more likely to be

successful. More than half of all breast cancers found through screening are very small, and 4 out of 5 (80%) have not spread to the lymph nodes. I’m concerned that the present situation means some women will go without being diagnosed leading to greater health problems further down the line. Myself and Dr Mark Spencer of Fleetwood’s Mountview Surgery and the Clinical Lead for the Fleetwood Primary Care Network are deeply concerned about the future health implications for women already disadvantaged by living in rural areas where there is less access to education, jobs and services. I also think that in the interests of health equality, the mobile unit should be sited in an area that can be accessed by the majority. I do understand that for women in Over Wyre, getting to Fleetwood is a trek – wouldn’t it be great if the mobile unit was truly mobile and could park up at Preesall Park car park for a few days – but until we can be more joined up, at least having it in Fleetwood affords the transport option of a bus or ferry. We’re constantly reminded by the NHS that ‘early detection saves lives’ – but we need to make sure that everyone, regardless of where they live, has the same access to life saving programmes. Farming concerns I’ve been contacted by farmers in the area, concerned about the total lack of detail around the environmental land management schemes (ELMs) designed to replace EU payments post-Brexit. Farmers say the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) have given no explanation of how the new scheme’s impact on English farmers would be mitigated, warning that some would see their income from direct payments reduce by more than half by 202425. I understand the deep concerns from local farmers – those with small farms say

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

CAT SMITH MP (cont) they’re on “wafer-thin margins” and could go out of business. The National Farmers’ Union says farmers have been left in an untenable position through a lack of information. They say we may need to import more food as a result and ‘the recent energy price crisis should be a salutary warning of the potential risks to the availability and affordability of food if the UK becomes even more reliant on imports.’ For our country to thrive, we need to see more food grown at home, to a high standard and through sustainable processes. Labour wants to support our farmers to prosper by making, buying and selling more in Britain, raising standards and awarding more contracts to British businesses. If you’re concerned or struggling then please get in touch with me by emailing me or calling my office. I’m delighted to hear the Preesall and Knott End Gala is going ahead again this year – put it in your diary, July 9th! I’m told there’s lots of exciting things planned, including the drumming group Batala Lancaster who I love! Cat Smith MP t: 01253 490440 e: cat.smith.mp@parliament.uk

BEN WALLACE MP Westminster continues to be an extremely busy place and while much of the work carried out there affects the constituency directly or indirectly. I do look forward to constituency days so I can travel around the area. I don’t want to wish the year away but, I do look forward to the summer, better weather and many constituency days, travelling around Wyre and Preston North. We don’t need much reminding that we are

still in winter. As I write this, the frost is on the ground and recently the area has suffered from the effects of incidents of heavy rain. I don’t have to tell anyone the dangers of freezing water on the roads and the additional risk it poses to road users. I frequently receive letters and emails telling me about the poor condition of some of the roads. Again, much of this is due to a combination of rain and then freezing conditions which breaks up the road surface. The quickest way to report potholes or a poor road surface is through the Lancashire County Council report it system on line. Just go to: www.lancashire.gov.uk/ roads-parking-and-travel/report-it The council will then determine if the issue meets the intervention levels (as a rule, potholes need to be deeper than 40mm) and will take the appropriate action. Unpredictable weather and its effects are something we live with especially in some parts of Wyre. My aim is to continue to work with all the lead agencies to minimise the risk and impact of flooding. There have been extreme examples in the area where households are flooded for long periods, and in some cases, cut off. More information on flooding can be found at: www.gov.uk/ prepare-for-flooding/future-flooding My mailbag continues to be full, covering a wide range of subjects which include local, national and international issues. Please remember, I am always interested to hear the views of constituents. While I do try to speak to as many as I can during visits etc, this may not always be possible. With this in mind I encourage my constituents to write or email with their views. While we continue to live with Covid, you will be aware that from Thu 27th Jan new guidance will be introduced. You will not be required to wear a face covering in many settings. However, advice still suggests that we continue to wear one in crowded indoor spaces or when in contact with people you

Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

BEN WALLACE MP (cont) would not normally meet. I believe that this community have not only been patient but extremely sensible when making decisions connected to Covid. I thank you all for this and I am sure we will all continue to apply common sense as the situation continues to change. For information and advice about Covid, please go to: www.gov.uk/ coronavirus

provided free of charge. We do ensure that all arrangements are covid secure. Usually we meet twice a month but in January there was only the one event because of the bank holiday, this was on Wednesday 19th where a post Christmas variety of games and quizzes were enjoyed by all of those present. February Meetings

Please remember I am here to help. The best way to contact me is by email. Please provide a brief description of the issues or concerns that you wish to raise, along with your contact details (including home address). You can also ring my Office at the House of Commons 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

CRY Screening Sat 5th & Sun 6th Feb

GARSTANG MEMORY CAFÉ These sessions are designed to provide much needed support and advice for those experiencing dementia in any form and, importantly, their carers too. A wide variety of highly social and entertaining activities will be offered in our full programme during the year ahead. These include indoor games, quizzes , craft /art sessions , musical / dramatic performances, occasional lunches /afternoon teas and several outings or visits.

Mon 7th Feb: 2:00pm - 4:00pm Wed 16th Feb: 10:00am - 12 noon

Chris Wilkinson

CARDIAC RISK IN THE YOUNG Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund We’re kick-starting National Heart Month with two full days of screening. Our very best wishes to all who have appointments. Please don’t forget your paperwork and the extra Covid measures that will be in place to keep everyone safe. If you are unable to attend please let CRY know in good time so that your place can be re-allocated. Pop-up Shop Sat 12th Feb 10:00am – 3:00pm Catterall Village Hall

We have built up a strong support network and provide access to specialist advice plus latest research. Every effort is made to ensure that any new members of the group are made to feel most welcome and involve them in the future direction of the group.

This month we’re going ‘dotty for spots’ with many of our lovely donated items, from clothing, footwear, handbags, accessories and gifts, to dominoes, ladybirds, soft toys and homeware. If you’re not a fan of dots and spots we’ll also have our regular items including; books, puzzles and baking. We’ll also have a range of new and pre-loved coats and boots to keep you warm and dry until spring brings the warmth and sunshine.

The group have returned to having their regular meetings on the first Monday (2:00pm to 4:00pm) and third Wednesday (10:00am to 12 noon) of each month in the new venue of the Free Methodist Hall with refreshments

Paula Hesmondhalgh t: 07785 106 976 e: paulahez.ph@gmail.com fb: @The Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

WYRE FLOOD FORUM I arrived at High Street car park, Garstang, a few minutes before 10:00am on Wed 19th Jan. It was bright and sunny; a few cars, if any, on the main concourse of the car park. Mitzi, my dog, and I walked the riverside path which is in poor condition. It has lost its top surface layer and the flotsam of river flooding is strewn everywhere to remind us that while today the river is tranquil and docile it can rear up and bite us without notice Our hearts sang when we noticed Henrythe-Heron - not in his usual position on the far left hand side of the weir but tucked in on the right side enjoying the sun shining through the tree branches. He stood up to his full height and strode imperiously for lunch placing one delicate foot in front of the other along the concrete bulwark and taking flight when a gap opened up half way across the pathway in one graceful movement soared up and over the gap landing softly further along before continuing a stately promenade to his usual spot- and I assume he is male. We have missed Henry and it is good to see normal activity resumed.

me that the shiny metal contents were in fact the diesel powered back up system which would operate the gates should there be a regional electricity failure. I was assured that the system itself contained sufficient diesel to raise and close the gates three times and additional fuel supplies were handily available. It was most encouraging to know that our public agencies are preparing for all contingencies. On the way back to the car park, I scrambled down the bank on the wide left hand bend in the river to look how the excess water draining from down town Garstang is reaching the Wyre. There are three pipes in this area which can be viewed best from the opposite bank but much more closely by very careful descent to the water side. Two flaps are immediately obvious; one flap is fully closed but with a stout stick the flap can easily be moved to an open position falling to close

Greeting other dog walkers, we passed under the bridge which in times past carried the Pilling Pig to Knott End and up on to the high platform with wide and spectacular views of one of Wyre’s countryside assets, the Bowland Fells, offering recreation and solace for residents and visitors alike. Two white commercial vans were parked by the East Gate and I watched fascinated as two engineers in overalls disappear into the bowels of the earth. I peeled off and asked what task they were employed on as they came up for air. The van they were working from was signed LIJ Hydraulic Engineering of Preston. I looked them up on Google and they have the right qualifications. Standing by the open doors of a green cabinet, of the sort seen in many areas of our street infrastructure, it was explained to

Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

WYRE FLOOD FORUM (cont) when the support is removed. Its twin flap will not budge at all and is stuck with about an inch gap allowing water to dribble out but it will not open further despite a squirt of WD 40+. County Highways are aware of the fault and plan to ask a nearby Blacksmith to fix it. Good to know that the agency supports local business. I am aware that this report is almost exclusively about Garstang. My justification is that the efficiency of the Garstang flood storage basin is vital to the safety of residents and their property down the river. The following is from Rachel Crompton, the Principal flood Risk Officer at HQ Lancashire County Council: ‘The only recent topic I can think of that is the Flood Risk Management team’s direct responsibility relates to the flooding around Lancashire of October / November and again over New Year’s Eve, both of which

FOCUS MAGAZINE

2022 Deadline Dates Issue

Deadline Date

Delivery Starts

March

14/02/2022

24/02/2022

April

14/03/2022

24/03/2022

May

18/04/2022

28/04/2022

June

16/05/2022

26/05/2022

July

13/06/2022

23/06/2022

August

18/07/2022

28/07/2022

September

15/08/2022

25/08/2022

October

12/09/2022

22/09/2022

November

17/10/2022

27/10/2022

December

14/11/2022

24/11/2022

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

impacted across Lancashire as well as locally to you in the Wyre district. The county council has identified in accordance with our investigations policy that we must investigate these floods under our duty set out in Flood and Water Management Act 2010 at Section 19. The process of assessing what all the local drainage authorities did at the time, are still doing and may yet have to do in response to those events will take a number of months. Our report will be published on the council’s website. We continue to investigate complaints of flooding to the point where we can advise on how to manage future risks, and we continue to support the other drainage authorities with their investigations. Scanning Items of Interest from Wyre I came across Cllr Roger Berry’s report to Wyre Council in January which highlighted the role of the unsung heroes of our emergency response officers. I have extracted the following paragraph: ‘I would like to take this opportunity to thank Garry Scott and his team for their ongoing commitment to provide an exceptional out of hour’s service. This was called upon during Storm Arwen at the end of November and more recently in December when 54mm of rain fell onto the Wyre catchment over a 15hour period, causing flooding to highways and the opening of both flood basins on the River Wyre. The team worked well into the early hours on both occasions, deploying the council’s pumps and assisting residents and partner organisations. Their efforts prevented flooding to properties and allowed the highway network to be used with a minimum of disruption. Mark O’Donnell, LCC Operations manager, expressed his gratitude to the team for providing trained chainsaw operatives and machinery during storm Arwen to remove a number of obstacles on the highway. Councillor Roger Brooks

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?

GREY MATTER ANSWERS

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Across 4 Boo 6 Universe 7 Tab 9 Hearing 11 Trade 12 Adult 14 Looping 15 Add 17 Ant hills 18 Toy

9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.

Four Loire Cornwall Eight South-south-east Slavery Thirty two The Confederate and the Unionist armies Seven Hadrian’s Wall Venice Bubonic plague/The Black Death Mont Blanc Pigeon Racing Switzerland and France Raymond Briggs Queen Victoria In your old kit bag November The sun

Down 1 Intended 2 Overall 3 Print 4 Bet 5 Orb 8 Ardently 10 Graphic 13 Tooth 15 Ant 16 Day

Tell them you saw it in the Green Book