Get set for summer 1

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 1.

Page 2. Issue 2. St Helens Local

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Ava Travell produced it's First Holiday Brochure

in March 2016, which has been a huge success.

Director Miles Cassam, together with Alan Clenshaw and Aubrey Glasson (who had all previously worked for John Fishwick & Sons, Leyland, Bus Service & Holiday Tour Operator which finished trading after over a 100 years in October 2015) went into partnership with Paul Tattersall and the AVA Group which includes Avacab Taxis, Leyland Taxis,

Avacoach and Avabus.

We at AVA Travel operate out of town centre premises at 41 Hough Lane, Leyland, together with the Ava Group we are well on our way to being well established in the town.

Miles Cassam's vision of a hassle fee Door to Door Service within the North West Region is part and parcel of AVA Travel's excellent Customer

Service Policy AVA Travel offer modern, spacious Coach Travel to destinations throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales together with destinations in Europe. No Overnight travel on long journeys is our policy, so overnight stops are in hand with chosen hotels or in accommodation on board ferries to the Continent.

All AVA Travel Tours include Door to Door Service direct from your home to Coach, Airport or Docks and on return from your destination back home, so you can relax and enjoy your holiday without having to worry about anything other than having a

good time.

AVA Travel also offer a selection of Cruises, together with our own Madeto-Measure Flights & Hotels to Jersey and Guernsey available throughout April to September.

Our Summer 2017 AVA Travel

Holiday Tours Brochure programme is now underway and our new October 2017 to April 2018 Holiday Tours Brochure will be available from 23 May to order over the phone just call 01772 622 222 or via our website at www.avatravel.co.uk

GET DOWN TO THE ALABASTER JAR

W H O ARE WE ?

The Alabaster Jar is an independently run paint-your-own-pottery shop in Chorley, Lancashire.

We provide a relaxing and friendly atmosphere where you can come and spend some quality time making bespoke pottery products for your home or loved ones.

W HAT W E D O ?

Come in during our opening hours to create from a wide selection of

pottery. All of our pottery is painted in glaze and fired in a kiln, which makes it waterproof and fully useable. We have all sorts of pottery blanks for different tastes and plenty of selection for both children and adults. Prices start from 50p up to ÂŁ70 WHAT ELSE ?

You paint it, We fire it!

Simply drop into our studio, select a piece of pottery from a wide range of items. Paint your item however you

like and we will fire it for you in our kiln, then pop back a week later to collect your finished creation. There's no need to book but recommend ringing ahead for groups of 6+ WHY CHOOSE US? Unlike some other paint-yourown-pottery shops, we have no appointment system or studio fee.

Why not you ask? Call us on 01257 274690 to find out or call in at 180 Pall Mall, Chorley, PR7 2LH

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 3.

Diversion leads way in Keswick Railway Path Route Restoration

Work on a 3.5km diversion means of one of the Lake District’s most flood damage. was devastated by 2015’s Storm walkers can now use a new section popular routes following serious Keswick to Threlkeld railway path Desmond, which washed away two major bridges, over 200 metres of track and affected other structures.

Although these sections are cordoned off, the newly completed deviation takes users off the old rail line via a ramp and on to a 45m causeway crossing an area of wet woodland.

Linking to an existing permitted footpath, the route leads to the Brundholme road and on to Threlkeld village.

Emma Atkinson from nearby Low Briery caravan park and dog Togo on the newly created Keswick to Threlkeld path’s diversion.

Lake District National Park’s projects ranger, Scott Henderson, said the diversion established an invaluable connection for locals and visitors alike.

He added: “Unfortunately, the terrain makes it unsuitable for cyclists and wheelchair users, but will be warmly welcomed by walkers.

“We all look forward to the entire pathway being fully reinstated and are working hard to achieve this.

“In the meantime, significant parts

of one of our best-used routes can be enjoyed, but we would ask that people stay away from the cordonedoff areas.”

Work was funded by the Lake District National Park and carried out in partnership with Eden Rivers Trust apprentices.

Scott said grateful thanks went to the landowner and Cumbria County Council for their help with the project.

More information - www.lakedistrict. gov.uk/keswickrailway

Based on the lovely Lancaster canal all-year round. Our fleet of steel in the Northwest of England. Water- hull narrow boats have full central babies provides holidays afloat heating, luxurious soft furnishings and everything you could want for a comfortable and cosy cruise even in the coldest times of the year.

Operating from landscaped private moorings, Water-babies is ideally located to cruise north to the medieval City of Lancaster and beyond to where sea, canal, mountains and the forest form the perfect backdrop.

The City of Lancaster offers culture in the historic castle and Cathedral.

Lancaster offers an abundance of venues to enjoy a pub lunch or something a bit special.

There is an opportunity to see the wildlife from a different position, Kingfishers , Herons and many more can be seen along the canal as it meanders ,following the contours of this land. You can feel miles away from the hustle of modern life. For those whom enjoy fishing, there is the opportunity to relax on the quiet banks of this canal.

Page 4. Issue 2. St Helens Local

The World of Glass -

Museum & Arts Centre with

an eye on the future……

Would you be surprised to find a wizard, a Victorian furnace, an amazing film show and live glassblowing in a museum – well at The World of Glass you can.

Step into the impressive Cone entrance and you enter a world of learning and fun.

The first gallery tells the story of St Helens, Victorian glass town and heart of the industrial revolution, the second showcases a timeline back to 3050 BC with stunning pieces of decorative glass, there’s the awesome Manchester Airport chandelier weighing a staggering 2 tonne in weight.

If you were wondering about the Wizard, well he is resident in our mirror maze which is great for kids of all ages and it’s ideal for the kids to explore while you have a coffee in the canal side ‘Hotties’ café.

But that’s only half of what The World of Glass has to offer, there is the three screen film show which takes you back in time and explains why you can’t really live without glass, the Victorian furnace with its underground tunnels and of course our live glassblowing.

The World of Glass is a northern hub for glassblowing courses and creates its own very unique glassware; you can even commission your own piece. Two exhibitions galleries sit either side of the shop where there is something for everyone. Come for an hour or two or spend the day.

Opening Times: Summer - 10.00 am to 5.00pm (last admission 3pm).

Winter - 10.00 am to 4.00pm (last admission 2.30pm) Monday to Saturday every week. We are closed Sunday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and every Bank Holiday Monday. Admission Prices: £8 adults, £6 children/seniors. Family tickets: £24 (two adults and two children) and £17 (single parent and two children). Under fives free. How to find us: The World of Glass is situated just 5 minutes from Junction 7, M62. For more information please call 01744 22766 or visit www.worldofglass.com

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Cycle across the new Brecon Beacons route

Brecon Beacons National Park, allowing visitors to take in even more of the beautiful scenery in the area. It spans all the way from Llandeilo in the west to Abergavenny in the east.

The route is divided into five sections, leading cyclists alongside a Roman road with panoramic views of the Central Beacons, gentle country lanes

and a pretty tow path.

Section 1: Llandeilo to Talsarn This 13-mile journey winds through the side streets of Llandeilo town before crossing the river Towy. From here, there's a climb towards Trapp that lets users take in great views of the Towy Valley and the Black Mountains, plus a steep descent and

climb either side of Pont Newydd. It's better suited for experienced cyclists who like a challenge rather than novices and families, but the views will be worth it!

Section 2: Talsarn to Sennybridge Also for confident cyclists,this 11mile section begins with open views over fields that expand into a stunning

exposed area near the Roman Camp. Continuing east through a forest with Usk reservoir to the north, the path then undulates into the army town of Sennybridge.

Section 3: Sennybridge to Brecon This 9-mile route along the north of the River Usk, is a lovely stretch for those used to road cycling. The hedgebound route along country roads gently rises and falls, providing great views of the Brecon Beacons.

Section 4: Brecon to Llangattock/ Crickhowell This 15-mile part of the journey can be used to get to Llangattock and Crickhowell. It leaves Brecon on the towpath that runs alongside the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal, then passes though the picturesque village of Talybont-on-Usk. From here, there's a climb up and over the Ashford canal tunnel and onwards to Llangynidr, crossing the canal a few times before passing the site of the famous Green Man Festival and the villages of Dardy and Llangattock.

Alternatively, you can just stick to the family-friendly towpath as long as your bike can handle the varied road surface.

Section 5: Llangattock/Crickhowell to Abergavenny For this 8-mile section, follow the towpath until Govilon Wharf, from which there is a route to the heart of Abergavenny. It's family friendly up to the village of Llanfoist, just outside of Abergavenny.

If you fancy dipping in to any part of these routes, tweet or Instagram us your pics with #Findyourepic

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Welcome to

Yorkshire

It’s been described as God’s Own Country, boasts seven great cities, three National Parks, miles of golden beaches and two UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The well coined phrase ‘whatever you want, we’ve got it’ is all too often used, but in Yorkshire’s case it is true.

A long weekend won’t be long enough to sample the huge array

of food hailing from the county’s award-winning restaurants and eateries. Whether it’s locally sourced pub food or high end dining, Yorkshire has it covered.

Did you know the county has more Michelin starred restaurants than any other area outside London?

World-class attractions are visitor magnets and Yorkshire is home to several national museums.

These include the National Media Museum, National Railway Museum, National Coal Mining Museum, Royal Armouries and Eureka!

National Children's Museum you’ll need a few repeat visits to enjoy them all.

Other great attractions include The Deep in Hull, Sea Life Scarborough, Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster, Tropical World in Leeds, Lightwater Valley near Ripon and Flamingo Land near Malton.

All are great for making memories and filling up the photo album.

Must see rolling green hills and stunning vistas are all on offer. Make sure you see the Yorkshire Dales, The Wolds in East Yorkshire, the Pennines including Bronte Country, the Peak District and the North York Moors.

If you like the sea, then see some of the UK’s best along Yorkshire’s stunning coast taking in gems like Whitby, Staithes, Scarborough, Filey and Bridlington among many others.

For more information check out www.yorkshire.com

The History Behind Clarion Lodge

Campsite, Menston 1908 – 2010

‘Carriage-drive’ planted on both sides with forest trees. Soon, a separate two-storey timber building had to be erected to provide forty more beds.

Sadly, the latter was later razed to the ground by fire, but the stone buildings remain to this day as the only providing-surviving Clarion Clubhouse, used still by Clarion The clubhouse idea was eagerly the Clubhouse, while leaving space Cyclists and other’s until its present adopted in other parts of the country for camping, volunteers levelled the owners bought and converted it in

by Clarionettes who had sampled ground for tennis courts and made a December 2010 the delights of Bucklow Hill and Handforth. Bradford CCC members started an annual camp in Wharfedale in the late 1890’s; five second-hand bell-tents in a field between Otley and Burley, where cycle runs went every Sunday for a month or more in the Summer. By 1906 Bradford’s annual camp had changed its site several times, but then the newlyformed Yorkshire Union of Clarion CCs began to look for a permanent ‘Countryhouse’. Early in 1907 the Yorkshire Clarion Clubhouse Ltd was registered as an Industrial and Provident Society offering supporters half-crown shares.

The aim was to build a ‘Bungalow Clubhouse’ for £200.00 in some convenient centre in Wharfedale.

The following year they took a threeyear lease on one of their previous camp sites, a four acre field at Chevin End near the village of Menston.

There was an option to purchase outright, but they needed to raise a total of £500.00 to make this possible.

At first they made do with tents, and then they put up ramshackle sheds and lean-tos until they had gathered enough money from the half-crown shares to have a proper Clubhouse built in stone.

Even then they had to proceed slowly, adding architect –designed wings as funds became available. Next to

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 7.

Keighley & Worth Valley Railway

Travel on the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway through Brontë Country, where you can take in the beautiful views and landscapes. Sit back and witness the landscapes that inspired the classic works of the Bronte sisters. The Railway has also appeared in many TV and film productions including most recently Swallows and Amazons and Peaky Blinders. For those of a certain age the Railway is particularly famous as

the location for the classic 1970 film The Railway Children.

For those that like the great outdoors the railway has plenty of spectacular walks and nature trails. Every stop offers a walk, whether it’s a moorland walk or one of The Railway Children walks - make sure you have your walking boots at the ready. Try the Top Withens Walk, which takes you out of Haworth, the village where the Brontë sisters lived and wrote, along

pathways they walked and through the moorland that inspired them.

Much more than just a railway, Keighley & Worth Valley Railway offers a great day out for all ages. You can hop off the line at Ingrow West, which is home to Rail Story; two award winning transport museums.

Here you can view the vintage carriages and learn about the history of rail travel. Throughout the year the Railway hosts a number of events from Steam Gala’s to Curry Trains and Beer Festivals. If you are looking for an evening of entertainment then don’t miss the Haworth Haddock and Keighley Korma. You enjoy two round trips, whilst being served with fish and chips or curry, alight at Keighley to enjoy live music to end the evening. If you are looking for something more traditional we run our Pullman Afternoon Teas throughout the year. Relax in the luxurious Pullman Carriages, eating traditional Afternoon Tea while the beautiful countryside passes by. A fantastic treat for that special person.

Finally our biggest and best event of the year are the Santa Trains.

Running every weekend from the end of November to Christmas Eve, these

trips create magical memories for all the family. Climb aboard and Santa comes to visit all the children and gives them a special gift, while mum

and dad get a mice pie and a glass of sherry. All our events sell out fast so visit the website for more information and to book.

Page 8. Issue 2. St Helens Local

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A new way to discover the wonders of Welsh wildlife

Wales is one of the world’s best places to watch wildlife, if you know where - and when - to look. So we’ve teamed up with Wildlife Trusts Wales to create an interactive guide to help you explore Wales’ wonderful wildlife, whether it’s amazing ospreys, a feeding frenzy of red kites, the world’s largest Manx shearwater colony, or the best place in Britain to

see puffins and porpoises. Why not go for a relaxing stroll through an enchanting Welsh rainforest carpeted in bluebells and daffodils? Or simply sit in a field full of orchids, or by a brilliant waterfall, and admire the view? The magic isn’t just restricted to spring and summer – there are amazing wildlife displays in autumn and winter with seal pups aplenty, the

return of thousands of birds to our estuaries, and wonderful autumnal woodland colours with golds, bronzes and foxy reds. Wales has an abundance of wildlife hot-spots, including 216 Wildlife Trust nature reserves, 11 RSPB sanctuaries, over 2,485sq miles (4,000sq km) of National Park, and an 870-mile (1400 km) Wales Coast Path for wildlife to, well, go wild in. Wales has it all – but knowing where to go is the key to unlocking its secrets. Wildlife of Wales helps visitors to explore Wales’s wonderful natural world

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 9.

The Gardens of North Wales

Trees planted to mark royal romances hundreds of years ago, and landscaped lawns and exotic guests. North Wales is famous for its gardens. From the National Ivy Collection to listed estates, here are a few places worth a

visit. Bodnant Garden Devotees of the Italianate vision will love Bodnant. Leading up to the Hall, the upper garden has five terraces, featuring brick paths, lily ponds, formal lawns and herbaceous

plants. Below, trees and shrubs flank The Dell, passed by the River Hiraethlyn. Homegrown collections include Chinese, North American and Japanese plants.

Plas Newydd, Isle of Anglesey

North Wales Named One of

Top Regions Globally for 2017

There’s cause for epic celebrations in Wales as North Wales has made it on to Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2017 list – the only destination in the UK to do so.

A playground for thrill seekers, a haven for foodies, a hideout for stargazers and a goldmine for heritage seekers, North Wales has a holiday for every kind of traveller. But what caught the eye of the Lonely Planet, the world’s leading travel authority, is the way the former industrial landscape has been reinvented and repurposed to create a series of truly world class attractions, from high speed zip lining and inland surfing to underground trampolining in a 176-year-old disused slate mine.

Alongside UNESCO World Heritage Sites as Conwy, Beaumaris, Harlech and Caernarfon Castles, North Wales is home to some of the best walking and cycling in Britain, as well as a range of industry-leading attractions, all set against the spectacular backdrop of the Snowdonia mountains.

On the flanks of Snowdonia National Park, Zip World boasts 11 different attractions in total including the everpopular Bounce Below, a colourful underground world of bouncing nets,

slides and rope bridges. Zip World Velocity in Bethesda is the world’s fastest zip line with two 500 ft. (152 m) high courses that enable riders to exceed 100 mph (161 km/h), while Zip World Titan in Blaenau Ffestiniog offers Europe’s first four-person line – perfect for thrill seeking families. A short drive east is Surf Snowdonia, a world-first man-made lagoon where amateurs and professional surfers alike can surf a powerful 6.5 ft. (2 m) wave, under the watchful eye of Welsh National Surfing Champion, Jo Denison. It’s not hard to see why North Wales is becoming known as the adventure tourism capital of Europe.

With enough to keep even the most hardcore adrenaline junkies quiet, North Wales has a full range of accommodation and services to complete its tourism offer, from five star Chateau Rhianfa to yurts and cabins at Graig Wen, and for the extra brave, cliff camping suspended high above the sea with Gaia Adventures.

And if it’s food you’re after, North Wales now has two Michelin-starred restaurants: Sosban & The Old Butcher's on Anglesey, and Tyddyn Llan in Denbighshire, not to mention

the multitude of local producers, delis, cafes, restaurants, farm shops, markets and micro breweries who ensure that north Wales is full of excellent places to eat and drink.

A touch of Aussie lushness on the Menai Strait, where this 18th century house – already the place for pristine views of Snowdonia – is home to an Australasian arboretum, no less.

Elsewhere, there’s a spring garden, a summer terrace and colourful, massed hydrangeas to enjoy. The catkin garden is a highlight.

Plas Tan y Bwlch, Gwynedd Acres of wonderful gardens fill this research epicentre of the Snowdonia National Park.

They include a water garden, a Japanese garden, a fern nursery, an azalea walk and a wildlife garden,

all teeming with unusual exotic specimens. Valleys and woodlands surround this former home of an 18th century mansion.

The Great Orme, Llandudno This valley was dedicated to local residents by Lord Mostyn in 1887, and it offers splendid views of the town more than a century on. Take a sloping walk to the charming landscaped gardens forming part of them, then lie back and relax under the ancient trees towering above.

Bodelwyddan Castle, Denbighshire There are 260 acres of parkland surrounding Bodelwyddan, and the

formal garden, which is part of a site including a maze and woodland areas, was designed in 1910. The walls were the idea of 19th century baronet Sir John Hay Williams, who originally introduced many of the exotic plants here Grade I listed Ivy Collection Erddig is the place to find the National Ivy Collection, but there are also some extremely rare fruit trees within the hallowed grounds of one of the most important gardens in Britain.

Discover why William Eames’ late 18th century design has been deemed worthy of Grade I listing status.

Page 10. Issue 2. St Helens Local

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 11.

History of the NGS In 1859 William Rathbone, who was a prominent Liverpool merchant & philanthropist, paid a nurse named Mrs Robinson to care for his sick wife. He was greatly impressed by Mrs Robinson’s work & it struck him that while he was capable of hiring a nurse because he was a wealthy man, there must be thousands of poor people in Liverpool who could not afford this & yet still had that need.

He therefore paid Mrs Robinson to go into the city to nurse the poor. Before long Mrs Robinson returned to tell Mr Rathbone that because conditions were so terrible there was no way she could make any impression on them on her own. William Rathbone set up a school of nursing & sent nurses into the city in groups. Later this resulted in the creation of district nursing.

District nursing spread through the length & breadth of the land. Among those who were actively supportive of this were Florence Nightingale & Queen Victoria, who were both deeply interested in the work. It is extraordinary to us today to recall that the NHS did not come on the scene until 1948, so all this work had to be funded by charity.

The organising body for district nursing was the Queen’s Nursing Institute. In 1927 Miss Elsie Wagg, who was a member of the QNI Council, had the idea of inviting people with fine gardens to open them to the public with a view to raising funds. The first gardens opened in 1927. A total of 609 gardens opened at a standard charge of one shilling per head & a total of £8,191 was raised

– a considerable sum of money in those days. It was considered a great success, undoubtedly assisted by the active support of his Majesty King George V, who opened the gardens at Sandringham in Norfolk, & these gardens have been open every year since.

When the NGS was born in 1927, visiting private gardens was a well established pastime, but only for the privileged few. So asking owners of fine gardens to open them once a year to the general public was a radical, but wonderful idea. The charity has gone from strength to strength ever since, with thousands of privately owned private gardens & suburban plots opening for the NGS, in addition to large gardens belonging to stately homes Beneficiaries Although many people associate the NGS with Open Gardens, surprisingly few people are aware of the the fact that it is the largest beneficiary of the nursing charities. Through the support of the garden owners & visitors, NGS Cumbria raised £55k in 2015, & the NGS scheme donated £2.7m to the following charities last year (up from £2.6m in 2014): MacMillan Cancer Support £500,000 Marie Curie Cancer Care £500,000 Hospice UK £500,000 Carers Trust £375,000 Queen’s Nursing Institute £250,000 Parkinson’s UK £100,000 Perennial £150,000 The Multiple Schlerosis Society £100,000 Horatio’s Garden £130,000

Contact Details Website address www.ngs.org.uk Follow us on Twitter – CumbriaNGS Like us on Facebook – Cumbria NGS Buy the annual bestseller ‘Yellow Book’ at newsagents everywhere, which gives details of all gardens open across the country for the NGS. Pick up the County Leaflet free in ‘What’s On’ shelves across Cumbria.

This gives details of all NGS gardens open across the county.

County Organiser – Diane Hewitt 015394 46238, dhewitt.kinsman@ gmail.com Publicity – Carole Berryman 0153954 443649, carole@ caroleberrymangardens.co.uk Open gardens 65 gardens will be open across Cumbria this year, of all shapes, styles & sizes. In addition to seeing some wonderful gardens, many not normally open to the public, there are often teas & cakes, & plant sales – a wonderful day out for garden lovers in aid of good causes. Average price £3.50.

10 New gardens in 2016 including: Broom Cottage Long Marton, Appleby-in-Westmorland CA16 6JP open Sun 3 July 6&8 Conyers Ave Barrow-in-Furness LA14 4JT Open Sun 24 July Eden Place Kirkby Stephen CA17 4AP Open 3 July Fern Bank High House Rd St Bees CA27 0BZ Open Sun 10 April Grange Fell Allotments Fell Rd Grange-over-Sands LA11 6HB Open Sun 3 July Grow West Allerby Aspatria Wigton

CA7 2NL Open Sun 22 May Highlands High Knott Rd Arnside Carnforth LA5 0AW Open Sat-Sun 11-12 June Mirefoot Burneside Kendal LA8 9AB Open Sun 5 June

Sandhouse Burnhill Scaleby Carlisle CA6 4LU 39 Outbarrow Rd Ulverston – part of Ulverston Open Gardens Open Sun 26 June

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Enjoy the Lakes!

A predominantly rural county, Cumbria is considered one of the most beautiful regions of the UK and includes the whole of the Lake District, also known as The Lakes or Lakeland, the Eden Valley, the North Pennines, the Furness Peninsula, and part of the Yorkshire Dales. A hideaway just for two for a special occasion in the Lakes; anniversary, birthday, Valentine’s Day, proposal, engagement or honeymoon, or just to

spend quality time with the one you love on a romantic short break. It might be a secluded holiday cottage for two with a cosy woodburner or open fire, a swish town centre apartment with a deep roll top bath and luxury cottages with four poster beds that you're after.

Accommodation in Cumbria are usually available by the week and also offer short breaks. From the national award-winning restaurants to gastro pubs and cafes, Cumbria offers the best in food and drink, day or night.

From the clear Lakeland water in local beer to the renowned Lakeland lamb and beef, an abundance of excellent local food combines with

global influences to provide for even the most discerning foodies. Cumbria has a good variety of places to cater for lovers of animals in Cumbria, from the specialist centres for birds of prey and fishes, to Lakeland’s only Zoo at Dalton-in-Furness where tigers and other rare animals can be seen.

Visitor centres, such as Brockhole and Whinlatter cater for children, and some attractions, such as the Beatrix Potter attraction are aimed especially at children. Cumbria has three historic steam railways, with children especially welcome. The many museums in Cumbria will offer plenty of interest to all the family.

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 15.

Council gets to work on construction

of new cycleway in Kendal

The first phase of construction of a shared use cycleway along Burton Road from Kirkbie Kendal School to Asda in Kendal has begun. The 3m-wide cycleway will be available to use by cyclists, pedestrians, and wheelchair users.

The second phase of works, beginning in April 2018, will further extend the cycleway from Asda to the railway bridge at Natland.

Cumbria County Council is carrying out this work on behalf of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership with funding from central government, with the aim of the project to enhance Kendal’s infrastructure and make the town more accessible for more people.

With 60% of all journeys that start or end in Kendal being made wholly within the town, it is also hoped that

enhancing cycling infrastructure will encourage people to use their bikes rather than their cars - which will reduce congestion and improve air quality within Kendal, as well as promoting an active and healthier lifestyle.

A large number of daffodil bulbs discovered during the initial construction works have been replanted in the nearby Kendal Leisure Centre.

Phase 1 works are expected to be completed in June. The council wishes to thank local residents and businesses for their understanding and patience during this period of construction.

Page 16. Issue 2. St Helens Local

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It’s official: Lake District named as

Britain’s top walking destination

The Lake District, Cumbria, is officially the most popular Their OS Maps service analysed more has topped the country’s league destination for walking in Britain, according to a new than 500,000 routes over ten years table with Keswick and Ambleside nationwide survey just released by Ordnance Survey. and revealed that the Lake District being the most popular locations for walkers.

And of the 20 most popular places to create a walking route across Britain, an impressive 18 of them are within the core areas of the Lake District National Park – taking in popular locations including Keswick, Ambleside, Grasmere, Helvellyn and Scafell Pike. Managing Director for Cumbria Tourism, Ian Stephens, says, “This is the ultimate place to enjoy the great outdoors and this latest Ordnance Survey research confirms that the Lake District, Cumbria, is indeed the UK’s Adventure Capital.

“With a network of just under 2,000 miles of Rights of Way and some of the most spectacular scenery you are likely to find, it’s great to see that the Lake District remains a firm favourite. Whether you’re taking a gentle lakeside stroll with the family or scrambling up more challenging locations like Sharp Edge on Blencathra, this spectacular landscape appeals to everyone from the occasional walker to the more specialist adventurer.” Nick Giles, Managing Director of Ordnance Survey Leisure, says: “For centuries the Lakes have held a special place in people’s hearts, and we know the area is loved by map users, because the region frequently tops our bestselling paper maps.

However, when we started examining

this data and looking at the routecreating habits of people, we weren’t expecting the Lake District to dominate so strongly.”

Just a few of the walks highlighted by Ordnance Survey include England’s highest mountain Scafell Pike and

Langdale Fell which forms part of the popular Cumbrian Way. Other breathtaking walks include Nethermost Pike, one of the highest Wainwrights’ in the eastern fells; Allen Crags which is frequented by walkers on route to Scafell and Fairfield Horseshoe, one of the more classic Lake District walks.

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 17.

Explore the country’s biggest adventure playgrounD

Whether you’re looking for a mountain scramble, a coastal gallop or a downhill challenge, the Lake District,

Cumbria has a dramatic landscape of lakes, mountains, countryside and coast to explore.

Check out our top tips for outdoor adventures, or visit the GoLakes website for more ideas and inspiration: Take in the sea air on horseback: Enjoy stunning views across the Irish sea and the Western Lake District on horseback with Cumbrian Heavy Horses. Canter from the Duddon Estuary on the Cumbria coastline along endless miles of beautiful sand dunes and tranquil scenery. Ride on a majestic Clydesdale, Shire or Ardennes horse and make it a trip to remember. Prices start from £70 per person.

Enjoy a quintessential Lakeland cruise: Windermere’s unique scenery and atmosphere make spring the perfect time of year to get out and discover some spectacular natural wonders. Travelling by Windermere Lake Cruises is a unique way to see the famous Lakeland fells, wooded shoreline and rolling countryside along the lakeshore. The 45 minute ‘Blue Islands Cruise’ is at £8 per adult and £4 per child, other cruises are available.

Get in a spin: Explore the grounds of a country house estate or have an adventure on a race track on Cumbria Tourism’s ‘Tourism Experience of the Year’ Lakeland Segway. Feel the exhilaration as you whizz along tracks and trails whilst taking in the glorious sights and sounds of Cartmel

Racecourse and The Holker Hall Estate. With professional training, safety instruction, and lots of practice included, you’ll be well equipped to set off on a thrilling mini adventure.

Prices start from £40 per person.

Feed your need for speed: Challenge yourself whilst having an epic day out over endless miles on one of Cumbria’s fantastic man made mountain bike trails. The Altura Trail at Whinlatter Forest Park is a 19km red grade challenge with some superb flowing sections of single-track, huge sweeping berms, technical forest sections, and optional black graded features. This awesome trail rewards success with outstanding views, making it one of the best places for thrill seekers this spring! Free Entry.

Walk the wall: Discover the northern frontier that is Hadrian’s Wall from Carlisle Castle and follow in the footsteps of a mighty Roman empire to the historic Birdoswald Roman Fort. Witness the longest surviving stretch of wall and extensive remains of Roman settlement while spotting fort milecastles, turrets, a Roman bridge, and Cumbrian wildlife as you look out towards the Lake District and North Pennines. With the unique 2017 celebration of Hadrian’s Cavalry kicking off from 8th April, there has never been a better time to have your very own historical

adventure. Carlisle Castle entry at £6.40 per adult and £3.80 per child and Birdoswald Roman Fort entry at £6.10 per adult and £3.70 per child.

Look up to the sky: Head outdoors to witness the dark night sky in all its glory.

Head away from the bright lights of towns and villages and up to Church Fell near Sizergh Castle in Lake District National Park where, on a clear night before a full moon, you can see infamous constellations the Plough and Orion’s Belt. Just remember to take your binoculars and a flask of hot chocolate. Free Entry to Church Fell. Sizergh entry from £6.50 per adult and £3.25 per child.

Zip through a forest: Think you, your friends, and family could handle three hours of tree top adventure? Are you wild enough to climb 30ft up a rope ladder, Tarzan Swing into a giant rope net, then zip wire through trees, crawl through tunnels, and tackle high wire rope bridges?

If so, try out GoApe at Grizedale Forest where you will be guaranteed hours of fun whilst unleashing your inner ape. The Tree Top Adventure starts from £33 per adult and £25 per child.

Descend a clifftop… backwards: A popular and thrilling activity for the brave – walking off a cliff backwards and living to tell the tale! Try your

hand at a gentle abseil, push yourself with a mega abseil of 120ft, or really up the adventure stakes with a canyoning experience at Mere Mountains. Set amongst spectacular caverns and gorges, this exciting opportunity will make for a truly memorable day.

Activities start from £35. Experience views like no other at 15,000ft: Get your adrenaline pumping, face your fears, and enjoy a once in a lifetime experience skydiving the Lake District this spring with Skydive Northwest.

After the exhilarating 120mph freefall, it’s time to catch your breath whilst you enjoy a tranquil parachute ride through stunning landscapes.

What better way to go ‘sightseeing’ than from thousands of feet above it all? Tandem Skydive at £230 per person.

Put yourself in the driving seat: Experience the exhilaration of a real 4X4 off road driving adventure and discover the Lake District National Park from behind the wheel of a specially prepared KANKKU vehicle. These tough and capable exarmy Land Rovers allow you to go off the beaten track as you are expertly guided on challenging rough and rocky terrain on a gripping journey with a spectacular lake and mountain backdrop. Prices from £45 per person.

Celebrating its 33rd year, Lake District Summer Music returns next month (29 July – 11 Aug) with 40 events in 11 venues spread across the South Lakes. With its heart in chamber music, there is something to suit everyone in the 2017 Festival: orchestral, choral, solo recitals, opera on film, masterclasses, early music, world music, popular favourites and new works, jazz and much more.

There's a spotlight on Schubert, including Benjamin Appl singing Winterreise; rarely-heard early quartets; and the Octet with artists-inresidence the Berkeley Ensemble. A golden thread of Haydn runs through

the fortnight, with string quartets, piano trios and solo piano.

The centenary of the Russian Revolution is marked by music by Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov, Shostakovich and Stravinsky, and a very different centenary is celebrated in a tribute to the 'First Lady of Song', Ella Fitzgerald.

LDSM's ongoing WW1 commemorations highlight music

by Debussy, Ravel, Bridge, Elgar, Bartók, Gurney, Rebecca Clarke and rarities by Röntgen, Delius, McEwen, Ibert and Enescu. The subtle art of one composer transcribing the work of another is yet another feature,

including Tchaikovsky/Arensky, Strauss/Hasenöhrl, Gershwin/Wild, Glinka/Balakirev and Bizet/Buxton Orr. Artists-in-residence returning to LDSM include cellist Robert Cohen, the Chilingirian Quartet and the Gould Piano Trio, which brings a new work by Mark Simpson.

The music of father and son Sir Lennox Berkeley and Michael Berkeley (of Radio 3's Private Passions fame) is a feature in two concerts.

At Kendal Town Hall, there's to be an innovative family event mixing puppetry and music by the Palisander

Recorder Quartet, and in the month that marks the 70th anniversary of India’s independence from the UK, there is a recital for sitar, tabla and tanpura. The major opening event is Bach's B minor Mass performed from memory by Solomon's Knot.

Free copies of the Festival Diary are available by calling 01539 742620, online at www.ldsm.org.uk, or by post or personal visit to the Festival Office at Stricklandgate House, 92 Stricklandgate, Kendal LA9 4PU. Advance booking opens to Festival Patrons on 22 May, online and postal booking a fortnight later, and by phone (01539 742621) from 14 June.

lake district summer music

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Council seeks young volunteers

for the Summer Reading Challenge

Every year, volunteers aged between 14 and 24 help Cumbria Libraries make the Summer Reading Challenge a success across the county. In 2016, approximately 1,500 children in Cumbria engaged in reading over the long school summer holidays as part of the challenge. The council is now seeking to recruit young people to help run the challenge this summer.

Volunteers can offer as much or as little time as they have available – even one day a week would be a massive help. We would ask them to talk to children about the books they have read and assist with running a variety of fun summer activities.

Volunteers will gain lots of new skills and experience to increase their employability and add to UCAS forms. Previous volunteers have reported increases in their confidence, social skills and literacy, as well as taking pride from making such a positive contribution to their local communities.

You don’t have to be the keenest of readers to volunteer. Many previous volunteers have been people who struggled to engage with books

at school, or don’t have many qualifications. Engaging with the challenge has helped them to read more, and as a result developed their skills, knowledge and understanding of the vital role books and learning play in the development of young people.

Further information about this volunteering opportunity, along with an application form, can be found via the council website at www.cumbria. gov.uk/libraries or packs can be picked up at any library in Cumbria.

The closing date for applications is June 30th.

Council confirms

Windermere Ferry position

In response to information circulating on social media, the council is issuing the following statement: "Cumbria County Council would like to make clear the proposed actions to improve customers’ experience while using the Windermere Ferry.

"Currently we are installing additional ticket machines on each side of Windermere to reduce the time it takes to obtain a ticket.

A fixed ticket machine is also in operation on board the ferry to assist

pedestrians to obtain tickets, reducing demand on the on shore ticket machines.

"All of these machines take cash or card (PIN or contactless) payments.

No cash purchases via our staff are possible.

"During summer/autumn 2017 we will continue to improve the payment process with new purpose built machines which are user-friendly and quicker to obtain tickets from.

The existing ticket machines will

be reused at other sites owned by Cumbria County Council. In addition staff on board the ferry will have hand-held payment machines so ferry users can obtain a ticket while on board using card (PIN or contactless) payment, and without leaving their vehicle. No cash payments to staff will be allowed.

"It is expected that the combination of these two proposals along with improved signage and information will ease the existing problems."

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Tickets on sale date announced for

‘Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle’ The dramatic sight of 30 cavalrymen performing intricate manoeuvres and showcasing their skills with javelins and other weapons can be seen in Carlisle on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 July in ‘Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle’. Tickets to attend this unique event celebrating the accession of Hadrian to the Imperial Roman throne 1,900 years ago go on sale from Friday 3 March.

Part of Hadrian’s Cavalry (www. hadrianscavalry.co.uk), a unique exhibition along the full length of Hadrian’s Wall celebrating the cavalry regiments that once guarded the mighty North West frontier of the Roman Empire, Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle, will see a troop of 30 Roman cavalrymen perform together for the first time in over 1,500 years.

Taking place at Bitts Park, Carlisle on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 July, Turma!

Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle will showcase some of the exercises the Roman cavalry would have performed at sites across the Wall, many described by Hadrian himself.

Bill Griffiths, head of programmes for Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums and chair of the Hadrian’s Cavalry steering group, said: “This is a rare chance to see the Roman Cavalry in action. Roman cavalry were famous for their lavishly decorated helmets and body armour. The Cavalry would regularly perform exercises to illustrate their skill and prowess. We are really looking forward to bringing

this Roman display back to life!”

Bitts Park in Carlisle will be transformed into a Roman Cavalry pageant, complete with mini Hadrian’s Wall visitor village. After passing through the recruitment house, audiences will enter a Roman infantry encampment where they will be invited to join separate teams to cheer on the Roman cavalrymen as they compete with each other in the parade ground. Audiences will also be able to meet some of the cavalrymen and their horses to see close-up the ornate armour and dress.

Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle will feature Roman reenactors, exhibitions from across the wall, crafts and food and drink concessions.

Zoe Bottrell, producer of Turma!

Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle, said: “It is a privilege to be working alongside Alan Larsen and his fabulously skilled horses and riders to create the Turma. It is unique and special event to be able to re-create a bit of history, whilst adding a bit of theatre along the way. We hope that audiences will enjoy this remarkable show of skill and pageantry.”

Historically, a turma was a troop of 30 cavalrymen, the basic unit of a Roman cavalry regiment. Turma!

Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle brings to life the training exercises the cavalrymen performed in front of senior officers and sometimes the Emperor himself. The exercises included performing intricate

manoeuvres whilst showcasing their skills with spears and other weaponry.

Teams of cavalrymen competed to receive the Emperor’s praise.

Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle takes place on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 July at Bitts Park, Carlisle. Performance times are 2pm and 6pm on Saturday 1 July and 4pm on Sunday 2 July 2017. Early bird tickets, available until Monday 1 May, cost £6.50 for children and £9.50 for adults. Full price tickets cost £8:00 for children and £12.50 for adults. A special family ticket (two adults, three children) cost £35.

Tickets go on sale at 10:00 on Friday 3 March from www.hadrianscavalry. co.uk/tickets. Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle tickets can also be bought in person at Carlisle Tourist Information Centre and Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery.

Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle ticket holders can also benefit from discounted entry into some Hadrian’s Cavalry exhibition venues and the AD122 Hadrian’s Wall Country bus. For full details visit www.hadrianscavalry.co.uk.

Other cavalry-themed re-enactment events will take place throughout August as part of Hadrian’s Cavalry.

Venues include Segedunum Roman Fort, Baths and Museum (5 & 6 August), Great North Museum: Hancock (19 & 20 August) and Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum (27 & 28 August). Additional Romanthemed re-enactment events can be

seen at various English Heritage sites too. For details visit www.englishheritage.org.uk. Turma!

Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle is part of Hadrian’s Cavalry, which opens on Saturday 8 April at 10 museums and heritage attractions along the full 150mile length of

Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site area. The exhibition brings together a unique group of Roman cavalry objects including ornate helmets, armour and weapons on loan from national and international museums; all shown alongside objects from museums across

the Wall. Hadrian’s Cavalry runs until Sunday 10 September 2017.

For more information visit www. hadrianscavalry.co.uk.

Turma!

Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle is funded by Arts Council England, Carlisle City Council and Christian Levett.

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- Accommodation

Iconic classic Lakeland Inn to reopen its doorS

Robinsons Brewery are delighted to announce that the doors to the Queens Head at Troutbeck, in the Lake District, Cumbria will reopen in April 2017 following a 2 million pound investment.

In 2014, the Queens Head was devastated in a fire that resulted in the popular Inn closing for almost three years whilst a full refurbishment programme and rebuild of the damaged areas took place by Robinsons Brewery. The Queens Head, nestles on the side of the Lakeland fells overlooking the Troutbeck Valley, four miles from Ambleside and three miles from Windermere. There are unsurpassed

views of Garburn Pass, High Street and 111 Bell Ridge. The former 17th century coaching Inn boasts an eclectic mix of ancient Cumbrian and contemporary decor alongside it’s iconic four poster bar.

The brand-new Queens Head will feature a large drinking area with cosy and secluded dining areas, with focus being around the three original real fireplaces which are being lovingly restored. The bar will feature a great range of real ales, craft beers, premium lagers, wines and awardwinning spirits with a focus on the Queens Head’s new eye-catching gin range. Renowned for serving some of the finest food in the area, The Queens Head’s new menu will highlight a mixture of hearty classic pub food created with provenance and served with flair.

The menu has been created to include requests from old friends of the pub who have contacted the brewery through Facebook

to make sure their favourite dishes are featured. There are also 10 newlyrefurbished en-suite guest bedrooms named after the iconic Lakeland fells of Great End, Bowfell, Great Gable, Pillar, Helvellyn, Skiddaw, Nethermost, Catstyecam, Scafell Pike and Esk Pike, providing the perfect base for guests to Cumbria and, of course, their four legged companions.

Rooms start from £110 per night, which includes a hearty breakfast.

They can be booked at www. queensheadtroutbeck.pub William Robinson, Managing Director (Pubs Division) for Robinsons Brewery said: “It’s no easy feat restoring such a historic pub. It was of the utmost importance that we worked closely with the local council to ensure the most authentic restoration of the original building’s fabric. The Queens Head has never been a case of ‘reinventing the wheel’ and it will pick right up where it left off – a cosy, family friendly pub where you can enjoy a pint, a great night’s stay, and a warm, hearty meal.

The outpouring of support from local residents and previous customers has been brilliant and we can’t wait to welcome them back to the Queens Head.”

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Enjoy the spectacular Lake District

with the help of the ‘Super Six’

If you are looking for the ideal day trip or short break, head to the Lake District to experience the great outdoors at its very best , packed full of fun and adventure.

The Lake District ‘super six’ attractions are a unique group of leading family attractions located in this beautiful National Park.

A whole range of activities such as a steam railway, aquarium, motor museum, historic house with adventure play and the famous World of Beatrix Potter Attraction.

All these fantastic attractions are perfectly linked together by the area’s leading way to explore England’s largest lake, Windermere Lake Cruises. A trip on a Windermere Lake Cruises ‘steamer’ is a quintessential Lake District experience which is an idyllic way to sit back and enjoy the backdrop of the iconic mountains,

wooded shoreline and miles of rolling countryside and the 18 small islands dotted around Windermere. You can sail from eight lakeside locations, with over 100 daily sailings.

VisitEngland ranks Windermere Lake Cruises in the top ten of the countries paid for visitor attractions.

You can enjoy an on-board commentary explaining more about the fascinating landscape, heritage and wildlife around Windermere.

The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway provide a really special experience stepping from boat to train at the lovely Lakeside connecting platform.

Travel back in time when you climb aboard this steam train with distant memories of bygone years for some and an exciting new experience for others in the picturesque Leven Valley at the southern end of

Windermere. Travel from Lakeside to the Haverthwaite station on the scenic 18 minute journey and enjoy the views from your carriage whilst experiencing this fabulous journey.

On arrival at Haverthwaite why not take a break from your travels and enjoy the warm, welcoming and nostalgic surroundings of the Station Restaurant.

Then explore the station, engine sheds, picnic areas, play area and a great little woodland walk. A short stroll from Haverthwaite Station, (or short bus ride from Lakeside, included in any of the combined attraction tickets) you can head further down memory lane to the Lakeland Motor Museum and feast your eyes on a fabulous collection including 140 classic cars and motorbikes, all carefully assembled over the last 50 years. In total, the Lakeland

Motor Museum offers 30,000 exhibits for visitors to enjoy. Star exhibits include the Isle of Man TT Tribute Exhibition and the Campbell Bluebird Exhibition. Nestled in the scenic Leven Valley and open seven days a week, the Museum isn’t just about cars. The entire collection is presented in a social context, with a host of rarities to awaken some special motoring memories.

The Lakes Aquarium is also situated at Lakeside and brings you face to face with a vast array of creatures from the furthest reaches of the globe – from fierce piranha and dainty seahorses, to menacing pike and diving ducks.

The huge “Morecambe Bay” marine tank brings you so close to huge Cod, Rays and British Sharks that you could actually reach out and touch.

From the underwater tunnel, you can see the incredible diving ducks and be stunned by the huge carp, starlet and perch swimming overhead.

Lurking at the bottom of the tank you may discover the colossal wels catfish, the biggest of which is 6ft long. Back in Bowness The World of Beatrix Potter™ is a vibrant family attraction, bringing to life all 23 enchanting stories in a magical recreation of the beautiful Lake District countryside.

The exhibition features favourite characters from the famous books including Peter Rabbit and Mrs Tiggy-winkle, and the quaint outdoor Peter Rabbit Garden offers visitors a timeless view of Mr. McGregor’s vegetable patch. Children can enjoy a free activity sheet whilst grown ups absorb themselves in Miss Potter’s history in the fascinating virtual world and interactive area.

With a superb character-themed family friendly café and a fantastic gift shop, all generations of visitors can experience a little bit of Beatrix Potter magic, whatever the weather!

Just a short cruise from Bowness

on board one of Windermere Lake Cruises’ 16 vessels, a day out at Brockhole on Windermere is a great option. If the children are feeling more adventurous, here they can even swing or bounce through ancient woodland on Treetop Trek and Treetop Nets. Down by the lakeshore, you can hire kayaks and rowing boats, or catch the cruise boat across the lake.

There’s also archery, bike hire, pony rides and play mini golf on offer.

The perfect way to relax after all the

adventure is by taking in the stunning lake views towards the distant Langdale Pikes at the terrace café, while enjoying local ales and dishes.

There’s also a well-stocked gift shop and ever changing exhibition space to enjoy indoors.

The beauty of the super six is not just the surrounding landscape and majesty of Windermere but the seamless link between these wonderful attractions which ensure any visit, however long, will become a treasured memory forever.

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Three Lochs voted Britain’s best Holiday Park

Scottish outdoors attractions

When you become a holiday home owner at Three Lochs Holiday Park, not only will you get the keys to your caravan or lodge, you will also open the door to a fantastic new lifestyle and automatic entry to a world where family bonds are strong, friendships endure and kids enjoy a childhood where bikes rule and getting dirty is law. At Three Lochs, everyone is so busy having fun that electronic devices, mobile phones and social media don’t rule the roost. Three Lochs offers a healthier lifestyle in a breathtaking environment where you can enjoy peace and relaxation or action and adventure, depending on what you are looking for.

Three Lochs is situated in a quiet corner of Dumfries and Galloway at the edge of the famous Galloway Forest. Set against a dramatic backdrop of fishing lochs and sprawling woodland, Three Lochs is the perfect destination for those looking for a holiday home of their own with so much going on, you’ll never have to have a dull moment!

There’s a huge range of activities available including, three fully stocked fishing lochs, archery, airgun and clay pigeon shooting, nine-hole golf course, cycle hire, horse riding, indoor swimming pool, jet-ski, two children’s playgrounds, sandpit and beautiful marked walking trails in and around the park. If you don’t want to venture far you don’t have

to as everything you need is on site. There’s a shop, laundry and our ‘Duck or Grouse’ family bar/a la carte restaurant serving home cooked meals and a great range of wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks.

However if you do fancy a change, the nearest town of Newton Stewart, is a twenty -minute drive away with shops, cinema, restaurants, bars and plenty of tourist attractions. So if you’ve been thinking about a holiday home of your own, don’t think any

longer, just come and see us! We have a range of fantastic pre-owned and new caravans and lodges from £12,995 with site fees included until March 2018 and various finance plans available. All holiday homes come with a deck – perfect from which to enjoy the stunning views, relax with a morning coffee or watch the sun go down. With a season stretching for eleven months including Christmas and Hogmanay, you get enormous value for your site fees and if you want to, you can rent out your caravan or lodge and make it pay for itself.

So if we’ve tickled your taste buds and you want to find out more, give us a call for details or to arrange a visit to see the park and the facilities. Don’t delay it could be the best phone call you ever make! Three Lochs – 01671 830304 or call Pete – 07787 298061 or by email enquiries@3lochs.co.uk. www 3lochs.co.uk. If you aren’t looking to buy a holiday home why not come and stay with us? We welcome holiday guests in our fleet of static caravan and luxury lodges.

Tents, tourers and motorhomes are also welcome. Give us a call for details or to book your next break.

Two of Scotland’s most outstanding outdoors attractions have beaten stiff competition from top visitor destinations across the UK to win 2017 BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards.

Abernethy Forest, Strathspey, Highlands has been named Nature Reserve of The Year in the prestigious annual national awards which are now in their sixth year and celebrate the best of the British countryside, from its great heritage attractions and favourite holiday destinations to its most stunning nature reserves and finest rural pubs. The stunning reserve of ancient Caledonian pines overlooked by the snow-capped Cairngorms was called “unmissable” by Radio 4 presenter, naturalist and author Brett Westwood who nominated it. Readers of BBC Countryfile Magazine clearly agreed, voting it ahead of runner-up the Farne Islands, off the coast of Northumberland. Abernethy Forest - which boasts mountain, moorland and forest landscapes where a host of wildlife including yellow siskins, crossbills, squirrels and the Loch Garten ospreys can be seen – was described by Brett Westwood as: “A worthy winner. Who wouldn’t be seduced by the sunlight filtering through ancient pines, the promise of capercaillies, crested tits and pine martens, all against the majestic backdrop of the Cairngorms?”

Inverewe Gardens in Wester Ross is Scotland’s second 2017 BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards winner.

Taking the title Garden of The Year, the beautiful Inverewe benefits from mild temperatures brought in by the Gulf Stream. In 1892, landowner Osgood MacKenzie’s ambitious plans to create a garden from windswept moorland on a rocky peninsula beside Loch Ewe raised a few eyebrows. His vision was to be paid off spectacularly though as he successfully transformed 49 acres which now bloom with flamboyant plants from around the world.Described as a ‘sub-tropical paradise overlooking Loch Ewe’ by garden designer and ‘Gardeners’ World’ presenter Joe Swift who nominated it, Inverewe Gardens also captured the imagination of Countryfile Magazine readers whose votes enabled it to pip another subtropical beauty, coastal Trebah Garden in Cornwall, to the winning post. Another Scottish triumph is celebrated in the Wildlife Success of The Year, won by conservation projects to return the Eurasian beaver from extinction in the UK after 400 years. Reintroduced on the Knapdale Estate in Argyll through The Scottish Beaver Trial - a big opportunity for both the environment and wildlife tourism, according to The Scottish Wildlife Trust. – the beaver has now received official recognition as a native species in Scotland whilst in England, a wild breeding population has been developed on the River Otter in East Devon. More than 57,000 votes were cast in this year’s awards which featured 12 categories

and nominees from all over the UK selected by some of the country’s most respected travel, nature and outdoors writers and broadcasters.

In addition to Abernethy Forest and Inverewe Gardens there were eight Scottish nominees – of which five came second in their categories. Isle of Mull was runner-up for Holiday Destination of the Year, with the Northumberland Coast taking the coveted title for 2017. Skara Brae, Orkney was runner-up for Heritage Site of the Year, which was won by Durham Cathedral. Balephuil Bay, Tiree, Argyll & The Isles was runnerup for Beach of the Year, won by Embleton Bay in Northumberland.

The Stein Inn, Waternish, Skye shared the runner-up position with theThe Earle Arms, Norfolkfor Country Pub of The Year, won by Crosskeys Inn, County Antrim.

Orkney-set ‘The Outrun’ by Amy Liptrot was runner-up for Book of the Year, won by ‘Fingers in the Sparkle Jar’ by Chris Packham. The other Scottish nominees were:Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park for National Park of the Year,Seacliff near North Berwick, East Lothian forBeach of the Yearand Bass Rock, Fife image ‘Gannet Glory’ by Ken Lewis as Reader Photo of the Year.

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Help your community flourish with an entry

into the 2017 Cumbria in Bloom Awards Entries are now open for this year’s ‘Cumbria in Bloom, Pride in Your Community’ Awards and tourism businesses are being urged to make their mark on the competition by 30th April 2017.

For over 30 years, Cumbria in Bloom has been encouraging people to make visual improvements to their surroundings for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.

With the outcome of the Lake District’s bid for UNESCO World Heritage status expected this summer, there’s never been a better time to spruce up Cumbria’s horticultural delights and showcase this inspirational ‘cultural landscape’.

Cumbria Tourism is backing the awards, with three special categories for the county’s tourism businesses to take part in: • Visitor attractions, tourist information centres,

The Diaz Academy of

Performing Arts

Fridays from 4:30pm – 6:30pm For Children Aged 8 – 16 Years Starting Friday 9th September!

Come Find Us At Chester Music Theatre, On Tarvin Road, Boughton, In Chester The Diaz Academy of Performing Arts (The DAPA) is an exciting new Stage School in Chester, with a vision of promoting artistic individuality and confidence in performance. It covers an exciting balance of Drama, Dance and Music, as well as the opportunity to achieve LAMDA qualifications.

The provides a platform for pupils to develop a passion for the Performing

Arts as well as the foundations to grow as self-assured, sociable and creative individuals.

At The Diaz Academy of Performing Arts, for a supplementary cost, each year we will structure sessions to cover The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) examinations for pupils who are interested in gaining qualifications related to the Performing Arts. Pupils who enter for LAMDA exams with us are supported and encouraged throughout their journey and experience with tailored sessions for each individual need.

Testimonials “The Diaz Academy of Performing Arts has really boosted my confidence” Pupil. “My child has excelled at Drama in school, The Diaz Academy of Performing Arts have done an amazing job with him!”

Parent. “The teachers at The Diaz Academy of Performing Arts are professional and approachable, they create a fantastic atmosphere for all the children” Parent.

Contact us: Steven Diaz, Artistic Director – 07714 919 470 E-mail: steven@the-dapa.co.uk Website: the-dapa.co.uk

caravan parks, and self-catering providers can compete for the Rose Bowl.

• Hotels can showcase their floral delights in a bid for the Jackie Sanderson Trophy.

• B&Bs and guesthouses face a

botanic battle for the Cumbria Tourism Chairman’s Trophy.

Also, new to this year is the Greening Grey Britain for Wildlife award, which is open to entries from tourism businesses, schools and neighbourhood groups. Some of the

2016 winners include: The World of Beatrix Potter (Rose Bowl), The Willowsmere Bed & Breakfast (Cumbria Tourism Chairman’s Trophy), Lakeside Hotel & Spa and Cedar Manor Hotel (Joint winners of Jackie Sanderson Trophy).

Step Aboard FLOATING GRACE and join the Skipper Peter Kenny and his wife Carol for the warmest of welcomes. Our 50 Passenger floating restaurant and licensed bar is available for business events and family occasions including birthdays, anniversarys, weddings & christenings.

FLOATING GRACE is berthed right in the heart of Liverpool City Centre, at the Famous Albert Dock.

After a short safety brief, we depart our berth and set sail, whilst out top chef Alan Wafer is busy preparing your food we head east then south under Gower Street Bridge into Wapping Basin, passing the Big Wheel and Duke’s Dock entrance.

Then we cruise into Wapping Dock; on the east side, you can see the beautiful East & West Quay apartments, which were originally dock warehouses when the docks were operational.

Looking west, we pass Staybridge Hotel and the Jurys Inn; we can also see Liverpool’s Echo Arena and the BT Convention Centre. As we proceed under Queens Wharf Bridge

into Queens Dock, to the east we pass the Campanile Hotel, Leo’s Casino and the Dolby Hotel, to the west, we see the recently closed Customs & Excise VAT and Tax Office, now exclusive apartments.

A bit further along to the west of Queens Dock is the Liverpool Watersports Centre, where waterborne sports like Canoeing, Dragon Boat Racing, competitive rowing and wakeboarding take place.

Heading south and passing under Mariners Wharf Bridge, we enter Coburg Dock, the start of the Liverpool Marina; here you see some of Liverpool’s amazing Yachts and Cruisers, fantastic boats of all shapes and sizes. Full steam ahead… past the Yacht Club Bar and Restaurant into Brunswick Dock, where the rest of the 500 Boats & Yachts are berthed; this is also part of the Liverpool Marina. Continuing south, we pass the Brunswick Lock entrance, that leads to the famous River Mersey, and to the east we can see HMS Eaglet, the Royal Naval Reserve and Royal Marine Reserve. We then turn

about, and head north through the Docks at a leisurely cruise, returning to Salthouse Dock, where our journey started.

For the Finale, we sail under Hartley Bridge into the famous Albert Dock, home of some of Liverpool’s finest Bars and Restaurants: PanAm, The Smugglers Cove, Revolution, Blue Bar, Circo and the Pump House.

On board we have a PA System, playing light background music, whilst one of our crew provides a historical account of our Seven Docks Cruise.

Why not try a Sunday lunch at £25 per head or an evening three course meal at only £35 per head.Booking is essential as the fresh ingredients are sourced locally to order!

We are now taking bookings for Christmas office parties, Association cruises and Christmas meal cruises.

For all enquiries and bookings please call Peter on 07540 373838.

“What A Way To See All of South Liverpool’s Amazing Docks… A Truly Fantastic Unique Experience To Be Enjoyed…”

FLOATING GRACE

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 29.

Page 30. Issue 2. St Helens Local

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Land of legends:

places to see

What makes a legendary place?

It’s more than just people and buildings. Just about every lake, rock and hill in Wales comes with its own legend attached.

Over the centuries, history and mythology have become intertwined - and that’s the way we like it.

We make no apologies for having legends around every corner; we’re swimming in legendary people and places! But if you’re thinking ‘Well… where do I start?’ here’s a snapshot of places where you can start your Welsh adventure.

1.) Yr Ysgwrn (Hedd Wyn’s birthplace). Hedd Wyn was the penname of the great poet Ellis Evans, who died in battle in World War 1. In 2017 the National Eisteddfod, held in Anglesey, remembers the centenary of his death and his birthplace ‘Yr Ysgwrn’ in Snowdonia unveils its new look and visitor centre. Visitors can also see ‘Y Gadair Ddu – The Black Chair’, the Bardic chair which was famously draped in a black cloth when it was revealed that he had been killed in battle some weeks before the chairing ceremony.

2.) Caernarfon Castle. This huge Norman fortress in North Wales was

designed to evoke the romance of the Roman Empire and Macsen Wledig (Magnus Maximus), the 4th-century warrior who dreamed of (and later married) a Welsh princess. The castle, sits grandly in a harbor-side position, a short stroll from the epic ‘Black Boy Inn’, a historic Caernarfon coaching Inn where you can sup a pint and listen to the melodic Welsh language all around you.

3.) Beddgelert. This is the name of one of Snowdonia’s prettiest villages, meaning ‘Gelert’s grave’, after Llywelyn the Great’s trusty dog Gelert, who saved Llywelyn’s baby son from a wolf. The faithful old dog was slain in an unfortunate case of mistaken identity. You may wish to take a hankie when you read the full story.

4.) Bardsey Island.

Bardsey is said to be the resting place of 20,000 saints, who share this beautiful North Wales island where grey seals bask on rocks and wildlife is abundant. The Welsh name for Bardsey (Ynys Enlli) means ‘island of the currents’ and it’s a great place for day trips. Just hop on a boat from Aberdaron or Pwllheli and sail to the place where Christians

have been travelling to since the 6th century, when St Cadfan established a monastery on the island.

5.) Cantre’r Gwaelod At low tide the remains of an ancient sunken forest appear in the sands of Borth and Ynyslas in Ceredigion.

Situated at the gateway of Dyfi National Nature Reserve, the sight of 4,000 year old oak, pine and birch trees peeping through the sand is an arresting sight.

According to legend, this is the lost land of Cantre’r Gwaelod. The poet J.J Williams wrote of this legendary place: ‘And as the sandy silence stays with me till I sleep, the bells of Cantre’r Gwaelod are ringing in the deep…’

6.) St Davids The 12th century cathedral, built from dusky purple sandstone, is one of Wales’ most iconic religious sites and sits tucked away near the River Alun. So legendary is this site, that in the 12th century the Pope decreed that two pilgrimages to St Davids in Pembrokeshire were equal to a trip to Rome, and three matched one to Jerusalem. The legacy of Saint David (the man) lives on every 1st March in Wales – a day of concerts,

eisteddfodau (festivals of literature, music and performance) and parades.

7.) Twm Siôn Cati’s Cave Twm Siôn Cati was a 16th century folk hero, trickster and con-artist similar to Robin Hood. Born in Tregaron in Ceredigion, his exploits led to him hiding from the long arm of the law before eventually being pardoned by the queen.

During his bandit career, Twm hid himself and his booty in this cave half way up a steep hillside overlooking the beautiful RSPB GwenffrwdDinas nature reserve. You can see a copy of his will at the Red Kite Centre and even follow the Twm Siôn Cati trail in Tregaron.

8.) Pennard Castle Swansea is choc-full of legendary smugglers tales and creepy castles. At Pennard, there are whisperings that the castle lord made the fatal error of annoying the local fairies, who took their revenge by swamping the fortress in sand.

The castle ruins now perch on the edge of Pennard Pill, which leads down to stunning Three Cliffs Bay. You may have to scramble up sandy hills to reach the top but it’s hands down one of the finest views you

will see at any castle in the UK, with sweeping sea and bay views across to Penmaen Burrows.

9.) Llyn y Fan Fach Llyn y Fan Fach lies at a lake below the peak of Black Mountain in the Brecon Beacons National Park.

It's home to the beautiful Lady of the Lake, who married a local farm lad.

Their sons became the first of many generations of herbalists and healers, know as the Physicians of Myddfai.

It’s thought the myth of Llyn y Fan Fach inspired another famous tale – the Arthurian legend of the Lady of the Lake and Excalibur. Nowadays

the lake is a great spot for wild swimming and paddling.

10.) Llanddwyn Island St Dwynwen was unlucky in love.

So she went to live as a nun on Llanddwyn Island, North Wales, where she prayed for true lovers to have better luck than she did.

And so St Dwynwen became the Welsh patron saint of lovers, whose day we honour every year of 25th January, very much like Valentine’s Day. Her home, Llanddwyn, is one of the most wildly romantic spots in Wales and a great stop-off spot for an Anglesey adventure.

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 31.

Page 32. Issue 2. St Helens Local

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Three new winners as team work leads to Blue Flag and Seaside Awards success for beaches in Cornwall

Once again seven Cornish beaches will be flying Blue Flags this summer with Cornwall receiving one of the largest number of Blue Flag and Seaside Awards in the country.

Prestigious Blue Flags, the international standard for the best beaches in the world, will be flying this season at Cornwall Council’s Gyllyngvase in Falmouth; Porthminster and Porthmeor in St Ives; Polzeath; Porthtowan; Trevone and Widemouth, near Bude. All seven have also been successful in their bid for a Seaside Award.

Porth near Newquay, Crooklets and Summerleaze in Bude have been successful in once again winning Keep Britain Tidy’s own Seaside Award for the beaches that meet the very highest standards for cleanliness and facilities. Winning Seaside Awards for the very first time are Perranporth beach, Great Western, Newquay and Sennen Cove. The awards have been sponsored by Sharp’s Brewery Limited with Cornwall Council coordinating the applications, and the work required to make sure that the beaches reach the exacting standards required to win made possible through the efforts of community groups, beach champions and local businesses. Sharp’s Brewery, based in Rock, Cornwall has played a key role in sponsoring the Blue Flag initiative and Seaside Awards. This year 5p from every pint of Sharp’s limited edition beers: Two Tides, Rye Rock, Dawn Patrol, Fathoms Deep and Doom Bar Reserve, will be contributed to the prestigious Blue Flag initiative. James Nicholls, Senior Brand Manager at Sharp’s Brewery, said: "With Sharp’s Brewery being

based in Rock, North Cornwall, the coastline and our beaches are deeply important to us. We are delighted to have supported the Blue Flag initiative over the last two years and raising over £28,000 through sales of our exceptional, limited release beers. We are extremely proud to be supporting the coastal community again, helping these beautiful beaches obtain and retain the prestigious Blue Flag status and Seaside Awards that they so highly deserve. The Blue Flag Initiative does a fantastic job of supporting beaches and communities in coastal areas, and we are pleased to

be supporting the charity again within our heartland of Cornwall."

Cornwall Council Strategic Director for Neighbourhoods Paul Masters said: “It is fantastic to see what can be achieved when sponsors, local beach champions and the Council work together to achieve these really excellent results for Cornwall. It’s great to see how everyone has stepped up to support their beaches. It is not just the cost of the application itself which needs to be factored in but all the work that needs to be carried out for a beach to be worthy of a Blue Flag or Seaside Award. The sponsorship

and practical efforts of all concerned, which has helped Cornwall Council to make the applications, is to be applauded.”

Malcolm Bell, Chief Executive, Visit Cornwall said: “This is great news for local residents and our visitors it show the quality of these beaches and give people the reassurance on the excellence of the beaches and bathing waters. A huge thanks you for all those involved and to Sharp’s Brewery for supporting the awards."

Lee Gamble from Newquay Adventure Ltd said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have won a

Seaside Award for Great WesternNewquay’s original surfing beach!

We’re hugely excited to have taken on the task of looking after the beach and restoring it to its former glory.

Central to our plan is our commitment to sustainability. We’re working with a number of amazing organisations and individuals, including BeachCare, #2minutebeachclean and the beach team at Cornwall Council, to look at ways we can introduce sustainable practices throughout the beach- to cover visitors’ entire beach experience. This includes a new café with compostable tumblers and tableware, signage with eco-related infographics, an onsite composter, water conservation, and the removal of marine waste. And now we get to celebrate all this with an award!

We’ll be honoured to fly the Seaside Award flag high over Great Western.”

A spokesperson for Perranzabuloe Parish Council said: “We are pleased and proud to have received the Seaside Award for Perranporth Beach. The beach is a central part of the community and much loved by residents and visitors alike, who have voted it the No. 1 in Cornwall on TripAdvisor. We would like to thank

the range of agencies, businesses and individuals who work together to help to look after this beautiful and precious beach, making it a safe and special place to enjoy.” Staying safe and top tips on enjoying our beautiful award winning beaches are available from BeachWise.

Launched last summer, BeachWise includes beach safety advice and useful information from a range of partners including Cornwall Council, Environment Agency, Keep Britain Tidy, Marine Conservation Society, RNLI, South West Coast Path Association, South West Water, Surf Life Saving Great Britain and Visit Cornwall. Malcolm Bell, who is Chairman of the BeachWise Forum as well as Chief Executive of Visit Cornwall, said: “All of our partner organisations, in one way or another, are involved in promoting and protecting our beaches and coastal waters and want to encourage residents and visitors to enjoy them in safety. However, with so many different sources of useful information it’s not always easy for people to know where to look it. We therefore joined forces to put all that information in one place, displayed in a fun and interactive way: BeachWise.

Take the Ultimate

Undersea Safari

Enjoy close encounters with seahorses, tropical sharks, stingrays, giant octopus, dwarf caiman and hundreds of incredible aquatic creatures. Over 40 naturally themed habitats take you on a fantastic journey from Cornish waters to exotic seas. Come face to face with freshwater turtles, watch pulsating jellyfish and meet amazing pufferfish!

At the Aquarium’s heart is the ocean tank where an underwater tunnel offers stunning views of tropical sharks and shoals of colourful fish.

A full programme of entertaining talks and feeding displays takes place throughout the day.

Blue Reef is family friendly with under 3’s admitted free. It’s easily accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs (for further information

on disabled access, please call us prior to your visit).

Complete your day out with a relaxing break in our ocean view café and a visit to our innovative themed gift shop.

We look forward to welcoming you soon Blue Reef Aquarium, Towan Promenade, Newquay, Cornwall Town Centre Car Parks: SAT NAV: TR7 1TD, TR7 1BD, TR7 1HR, TR7 2AZ Telephone: 01637 878134 W: www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk E: newquay@bluereefaquarium. co.uk Open daily from 10am Please visit website or call us on 01637 878134 for latest information on opening times.

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 33.

If you're looking for some action while you're

in Cornwall then Adrenalin Quarry is it

The rides and activities are unique and great value, all wrapped up in a spectacular free-to-enter quarry.

Choose from The Zip, The Giant Swing, Axe Throwing, Coasteering & The Blob, Wild in the Woods (Hammock Camping) and even a Cliff Diving Academy! If that's not enough there's an 800m outdoor Kart

circuit inside the same site that runs junior, intermediate and adult Karts.

Book Coasteering, Axe Throwing and their BBQ's, just turn up for the rest.

Wild Swimming, Sunbathing, BBQ's, Picnics, Pasties, Cakes & Ice Cream, plus a huge lawn by a lake for kids to play on and a marquee for shade......... take a picnic, lay a blanket down by

the water. You can eat on the viewing platforms, or on the pontoon as well as the lawn.

Try wild swimming! Find the world’s smallest beach, dive off the floating platform or just dip your toes in the water. Join the locals there on a sunny day chilling, swimming and eating.

Locally sourced Cornish pasties, cakes and ice cream plus natural fruit ice lollies........ what's not to like?

You can go mad and book a BBQ, cook great food on charcoal and eat it

down by the lake. (Just choose a date and time to pick it up, they'll do the rest) When you come they'll give you everything you need for an epic BBQ, right down to the napkins.

Be a star in the show with a video pass: they'll film your rides as you fly, you can watch them anywhere. See yourself on their big screens, on your phone or when you get home.

Check out www.adrenalinquarry. co.uk, search them out on FB and @ adrenalinquarry, decide for yourself!

Page 34. Issue 2. St Helens Local

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 35.

Page 36. Issue 2. St Helens Local

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 37.

Value drives Algarve towards

another record golf year

The Algarve continues to exceed golf visitor records after a flying start to 2017, while it has also retained its place as the best value holiday destination for UK tourists.

The region is widely-regarded as Europe’s number one golf destination with 43 fabulous courses and hit an all-time high for golf visitors numbers in 2016 with almost 1.3m rounds throughout the year – an increase of more than 10 per cent on its previous record in 2015.

But the surge has continued into 2017 and the sights are now set on another new record after nearly 328,000 rounds were played in the first quarter of the year – another six per cent rise on last year’s figures.

Aside from the quality of the golf courses, the hospitality and the fabulous climate, golfers also know they can expect exceptional value for money as, according to the recent Post Office Holiday Costs Barometer, the Algarve is the best value holiday destination throughout the eurozone once again for 2017.

The Algarve was one of 14 beach resorts in the eurozone surveyed by the Post Office for price checks on meals, drinks and other holiday essentials, coming out on top of the pile for British holidaymakers on a budget.

Visitors know that prices for meals and drinks – one of the biggest costs for tourists – do not come any cheaper

Gleneagles voted ‘Best Golf

Resort in the World’ for

unprecedented sixth successive year

Gleneagles, the iconic Scottish fivestar hotel, has been voted ‘Best Golf Resort in the World’ for an unprecedented sixth successive year by readers of Ultratravel, the Telegraph’s luxury travel magazine, and visitors to the telegraph.co.uk website.

Readers were asked to vote for their favourite travel experiences in 19 categories, with Gleneagles taking the top golf award ahead of Pebble Beach Resorts and Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, USA; St. Andrews Links, Scotland and La Manga Resort in Spain.

Bernard Murphy, Gleneagles’ Managing Director, commented: “We continually strive to offer all our guests an industry-leading experience and prestigious awards such as this – voted for by our customers – underline the quality of our worldclass golf facilities and the dedication of the whole Gleneagles team.”

This latest accolade comes as the 850-acre Perthshire estate prepares to host two significant events over the next two years, The 2018 European

Golf Team Championships and The 2019 Solheim Cup. The award also coincides with the completion of a detailed renovation project on The King’s and The Queen’s courses.

The King’s Course, the #1 inland course in Scotland*, which will celebrate its centenary in 2019, has been taken back to James Braid’s original design vision last year, and similar work was undertaken last winter on The Queen’s Course.

Gary Silcock, Director of Golf at Gleneagles, added: “Following completion of the work, our courses are in fantastic condition for the 2017 golf season.

“The experience customers receive when they visit continues to be second to none and, with three criticallyacclaimed 18-hole championship courses to choose from, Gleneagles remains, quite simply, a golfer’s paradise.”

For further information about Gleneagles and its current golf and stay and play packages, visit: www. gleneagles.com, or telephone: +44 (0)1764 662231.

than along the stunning Algarve coastline, which can make a huge difference to holiday costs.

Maria Manuel Delgado e Silva, ATA golf product manager, said: “Last year was a hugely successful year for everyone associated with our golf tourism industry but it’s fantastic to see this continue into 2017.

“Our guests know they can be assured of enjoying top-quality golf courses and can expect friendly and the very best in service whenever they visit. It remains our ambition to provide the very best in hospitality, accommodation and the whole golf experience and we look forward to welcoming many more visitors throughout the rest of the year.”

Page 38. Issue 2. St Helens Local

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Cool Iceland is hot stuff

with visiting golfers

Popular as a short-break destination, Iceland is now wowing overseas golfers.

There are 65 golf courses spread around the volcanic island – 16 offering 18 holes and two with 27 holes – and golf is second only to football as its most popular sport.

Foreign golfers are increasingly being attracted by its green fairways. Almost 4,000 visitors played golf in 2016, a big increase on 2015, and while half of them played only one round 27% played five or more rounds.

Despite its proximity to the Arctic Circle, Iceland’s golf season lasts six months on average, and seven months in the south. Some courses near the coast can be played most of the year and there was even a golf tournament in northern city Akureyri, the world’s most northerly 18-hole golf course, in the middle of December!

Golf Iceland chairman Magnus Oddsson said: “We have over 16,000 members in the Icelandic Golf Union, which is about 5% of Iceland’s total population, but according to surveys about 30,000 Icelanders say they play golf.

“But we have so many courses, all of them open to public and during the midsummer months open 24 hours!

Only 330,000 people live in Iceland and we are number one in Europe regarding courses per capita, so we have a lot of available tee times for visitors.”

Golf Iceland was established in 2008 when the country’s courses and tourism sector joined forces to

create an organisation to promote and market its golf internationally.

“IAGTO helped us with the first steps and made a marketing plan for us,” said Oddsson. “The number of foreign golfers visiting our courses has increased over those years, but it took some time to get the messages out, that golfers can play in nature on 65 courses around the island – in fact to make people believe that there are good golf courses in Iceland!

“We have had a very good increase and in 2016 we were up about 50% compared with 2015. Almost 4,000 visitors played golf in 2016 and over 10,000 rounds were sold to foreign golfers last summer.”

IAGTO Chief Executive Peter Walton said: “Very much like the destination itself, Icelandic golf is often spectacular! There are a number of high quality courses that will appeal to avid golfers and trophy hunters, as

well as golfers who love to experience unique and interesting environments with some tremendous views. We nicknamed the excellent Kellir Golf Course near Reykjavik ‘Lava-Links’ because the front nine negotiates its way through lava fields, transforming to a true links experience on the back nine. The Grafarholt and Oddur golf courses are also close to Reykjavik and are well worth playing for those visiting the capital.”

Walton added: “Playing golf among volcanoes and even within ancient volcanic craters, such as on Heimaey in the Westman Islands, or within sight of angry towering geysers is not an every-day occurrence, which is why they live long in the memory.

Interestingly, most courses in Iceland offer a special rate for couples which is significantly less that the cost of two green fees.” For more information, visit www.golficeland.org

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St Helens Local. Issue 2. Page 39.

Page 40. Issue 2. St Helens Local

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