Lancashire local 43

Issue. 43 - May 2018

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Inside this issue: Visit Guide 2018 - weddings

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‘Carlos’ drugs gang

sentenced to almost a century in jail

Appeal after bowling alley attack

Police are re-appealing for information following a serious assault at a bowling complex in Blackburn. Police were called around 5.40pm on March 10 following reports a security guard had been attacked in Tenpin Bowling at Peel Leisure and Retail Park. Officers attended and found a 20-year-old man at the scene suffering injuries to his face and jaw.

Detectives believe the victim was working close to a cash machine when he was assaulted by another man, knocking him to the floor.

He was then punched twice to the face, leaving him with a broken jaw which required treatment at Royal Blackburn Hospital. The attacker was restrained by a member of staff and then got into a light coloured saloon car and drove off. Police first appealed for information about the incident on social media in

March. Following CCTV enquiries, police are keen to identify this man, pictured in the white t-shirt, in connection with the assault. Det Con Tony Roberts, of Lancashire Police, said: “We are continuing to investigate a serious assault in Blackburn. “The victim was been left with some nasty injuries and we want to find the person responsible.

“If you recognise the man in the CCTV footage, please contact us immediately.” If you know the man pictured or have any information about the attack, please call us on (01254) 353601 or if you fail to get an answer, 101, quoting incident reference 1158 of March 10.

Members of a Blackpool gang which infiltrated the seaside resort with Class A drugs have been sentenced to almost a century in jail.

Fronted by Christopher Nimbley, 37, of Wordsworth Street, Liverpool, the ‘Carlos’ gang smuggled heroin and crack cocaine into the town from the Merseyside area.

Six people appeared at Preston Crown Court on Tuesday 1 May, where they were sentenced following a complex investigation.

Amongst them was Nimbley and his ‘lieutenants’ Jeffrey Dillon, 24 of Inglewhite, Skelmersdale and Bradley Dillon, 20, of Lea Crescent, Ormskirk – who were also sentenced following their conviction for the rape of a vulnerable woman. They received the most significant sentences, totalling 85 years.

The operation which cracked the gang - codenamed Operation Lawson – began in November 2016 and quickly established that OCG boss Nimbley, who pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, was running a mobile phone which drug users would call to then be directed to another number for a street dealer.

Undercover surveillance showed that the Dillons were both using the dealer number before any hand to hand drug exchanges took place.

The arrest of a local drug user in January 2017 seemed to force Nimbley to move back to Liverpool and leave the Dillon brothers in charge of the Blackpool operation.

Detectives overseeing the operation soon learned that more people were involved and that with Nimbley’s relocation, the drugs gang was operating on more of a ‘county lines’ model using vulnerable people to work as runners, delivering drugs and money, coordinated through a phone relay system. ‘Lines’ refers to the mobile phone numbers the gangs use to sell drugs. On Friday 3 February 2017 drugs warrants were executed at a flat on Clevedon Road, Blackpool where Jeffrey Dillon, Bradley Dillon, and James Rothwell, 28, of Hallcroft, Skelmersdale were arrested for conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

Numerous phones were seized as well

(Top L to R: Christopher Nimbley, Bradley Dillon, Jeffrey Dillon.

Bottom L to R: Kerry Smith, Mark Ansell, James Rothwell)

as digital scales and a small amount of cannabis and spice. The scales were later found to contain traces of cocaine, heroin and cannabis.

James Rothwell was yesterday jailed for five years and six months for conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

A further drugs warrant was then conducted at a flat on Derby Road where mobile phones were seized along with plastic bags consistent with the supply of Class A drugs.

The packaging was later found to contain traces of cocaine. A warrant was also executed at a flat on Mill Street, Toxteth, Liverpool where gang boss Nimbley was living. He was not present at the address but documentation and identification was seized that linked him to the premises.

Items recovered from the flat were forensically examined which were confirmed to have Christopher Nimbley’s fingerprints on. Also seized from the premises was a large amount of loose brown powder – 14 grams of 29% purity heroin - and two large white crack cocaine rocks valued at around £10,000. The haul also contained scales, packaging, tick lists, mobile phones and a chopping board which contained scratch marks and was covered in small chips of

white rock, consistent with producing crack cocaine. Other arrests and seizures followed in the following days.

The investigation uncovered that Mark Ansell, 42, of Lindbeck Drive, Blackpool would drive Nimbley to Toxteth in Liverpool at least three times a week to collect drugs.

Yesterday Ansell was jailed for four years for conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

Also sentenced was Kerry Smith, 30, of Cunliffe Road, Blackpool. She was given a four year and two week prison term for conspiracy to supply Class A drugs for her role in dealing the drugs.

Christopher Nimbley remained outstanding but following a media appeal on Tuesday 5 September 2017, he was located and arrested at an address in Liverpool. Also found at the premises was a suitcase containing over £2,000 as well as digital scales.

The complex investigation run by Lancashire Constabulary led to the recovery of evidence that revealed the principal members of the crime gang – Nimbley, Jeffrey Dillon and Bradley Dillon - were not just involved in the supply of heroin and cocaine.

A number of mobile telephones had been seized and were submitted for

forensic examination. Mobile phone evidence obtained from the seize revealed a woman, who appeared to be unresponsive throughout and was clearly intoxicated, had been sexually assaulted and raped.

Detectives later identified the woman, who had not consented to the sexual activity, and had no recollection of the incident.

Nimbley and the Dillon brothers were arrested on suspicion of rape.

On Thursday 9 November 2017, following a three week trial at Preston Crown Court, Nimbley and Bradley Dillon were found guilty of rape and sexual assault and Jeffrey Dillon was found guilty of rape.

Nimbley has been sentenced to seven years for conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, 25 years for rape with an extended five year licence and five years for sexual assault.

Bradley Dillon was sentenced to three years for conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, 14 years for rape and five years for sexual assault.

Jeffrey Dillon was handed four years for conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and 22 years with a five year extended licence for rape.

Nimbley and the Dillon brothers will serve their sentences concurrently.

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Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8386840

Pendle Business Awards 2018

here’s our shortlist!

Pendle Council and Pendle Vision Board are delighted to unveil the 2018 Pendle Business awards shortlist.

The winners will be revealed at the sixth Pendle Business Awards on Thursday 5 July at the Fence Gate.

Business Person of the Year • Glenn Stock, Unique Clean, Hire and Facilities • Frazer Durris, Businesswise Solutions • Kevin Berkins, Fence Gate • Lee Duerden, XLCR Vehicle Management Employer of the Year • Stanley House Veterinary Group • Harvey Environmental • XLCR Vehicle Management Most Outstanding Business of the Year - medium/ large (51+) • Stanley House Veterinary Group • Marsden Building Society Most Outstanding Business of the Year - small (1-50) • Blackoak Surfacing • Businesswise Solutions • Fence Gate

Rising Star of the Year • Wise Owl Creative • The Rookery Holiday Cottage • Extreme Bean Coffee Company Manufacturer of the Year • Riggs Autopack Ltd • Chantelle Lighting • Pendle Engineering Limited Business Technology and Innovation of the Year • JD Engineering Ltd • Extreme Bean Coffee Company • Pendle Engineering Ltd Apprentice of the Year • Brad Ram – Blackoak Surfacing • Bradley Jones – Intershape Fitness • Beth Dickinson – Lomeshaye Village Day Nursery Making a Local Difference • Positive Action in the Community • Pendleside Hospice • XLCR Vehicle Management Created by Pendle Vision and Pendle Council, Pendle Business Awards has fast become one of Lancashire’s most prestigious events in the business calendar.

Dennis Mendoros , OBE, DL, Chairman of Pendle Vision Board and President of Mendor Enterprises, said: “Thank you to everyone who has entered Pendle Business Awards 2018.

“We’ve really enjoyed reading all of your entries and we’re very excited about this year’s shortlist.

“Once again we’re delighted to see businesses of all shapes and sizes making it through to the next stage and it’s particularly great to see entries from some of Pendle’s newest companies. “The judges

had a difficult task whittling them down because everyone who has entered deserves recognition for their fantastic achievements.”

This year new category Making a Local Difference was most popular with 20 entries, followed by Most Outstanding Business of the Year (small) with 16 entries.

The winners will receive the coveted Pendle trophy – an elegant glass and metal sculpture inspired by Pendle Hill. It will be engraved with the winner’s name and the award category. The trophies have

been designed and created by local company Merc Aerospace.

This year’s Awards is being supported by many local companies and organisations which are sponsoring the event including, Barnfield Construction, Nelson Town Council, BusinessWise Solutions, Farmhouse Biscuits, Protec Fire Detection Plc, Riggs Auto Pack, Nelson and Colne College, Merc Aerospace, Training 2000, Hippo Motor Group, Svenska Handelsbanken and Unique Clean.

Mark Sandamas, event organiser and Pennine Events Director,

added: “There are a number of sponsorship packages still available. “They’re a fantastic way to market your business through association, and promote your brand, at a lavish ceremony that celebrates the best local businesses.” Award category sponsorship packages are priced at £1,750 plus VAT. This includes a table of 10 people at the event, logo on all publicity and marketing materials, bespoke video introduction of your company at the event and a presence in the Awards programme.

Please contact Mark Sandamas for a category or a bespoke non-category sponsorship package tailored for your business on 01772 447979 or info@ pendlebusinessawards.com More information about Pendle Business Awards is available at www.pendlebusinessawards.com

Pendle Council helps rough

sleepers in Nelson town centre

Pendle Council is working with a number of organisations to help two vulnerable people who are sleeping rough in Nelson town centre.

Councillor Mohammed Iqbal, Leader of Pendle Council, explained: “Together we’re doing all we can to make sure they have food and temporary shelter whilst we find accommodation locally.” He added: “We want to make sure that anyone sleeping rough can get the help and support they need to get off the streets.

“If anyone sees a rough sleeper in Pendle, contact the Council’s Community Protection Officer on (01282) 661280.

“We’ll need to know where you’ve seen someone and a brief description of the person so that we can try and find them.

“Not everyone will accept our support for reasons which may include drug and alcohol addiction or mental health issues.”

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8386840

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Designs on Blackburn Services

protected as

Fashion designer Wayne Hemingway talks about the success of the National Festival of Making in a new interview.

The festival co-founder and director, who set up the fashion label Red or Dead, also says why his home town of Blackburn was chosen to host the event in the article on the news website Jaded. More than 30,000 people visited the debut festival in the town centre last year. Following its success, the free celebration of creativity returns on May 12 and 13 with a packed programme of workshops, exhibitions, street theatre, music, talks, markets and food stalls. Wayne launched Red or Dead on Camden Market in 1982 with his wife Gerardine, who started out making clothes with fabric bought from Blackburn market. He told Jaded that he knew Blackburn was the right location for the Festival of Making because it is the UK town with the highest percentage of people working in manufacturing.

But he admitted that the success of last year’s festival “vastly exceeded” his expectations and had an impact “around the world”. He added: I didn’t realise the public, the community, the media would get behind it so much and also that as a team we are all capable of delivering such a big event on such a small budget.

council agrees budget

Extension gets go ahead

Visitors to Chorley town centre will soon have a brand new shopping area with a cinema, restaurants and quality retailers after councillors gave the green light to press ahead with the Market Walk extension.

The £16 million investment will also see major improvements to the appearance of the area and a new decked car park to accommodate an increase in shoppers. Shopping centre owner Chorley Council had been reviewing its multi-million pound development amid changes taking place in the wider retail market but strong interest from several businesses has set the plans back on track. Councillor Alistair Bradley, Leader of Chorley Council, said: “It was important we took time to reflect on the progress that had been made but by the very nature of projects like this it is going to change and we have to manage that by adapting and amending our approach just as residents would do in the course of their own interests.

“It is brilliant news for the borough that we can now get on and deliver all the exciting elements that will give our town centre a long term future

and broaden its appeal to visitors.

“We’ve learnt lessons from what we’ve been doing over the last few months and we’ve responded to comments and suggestions from traders and shoppers, particularly around parking, to ensure the progress we make is in the best interests of the town centre. The updates to the plans over the last few weeks include: • Marks and Spencer has reapproached the council as it still wants to come to Chorley and discussions are on-going • Firm interest from another three businesses to complement the already-secured Reel Cinemas • A decked car park will be built on Friday Street/Portland Street creating an additional 149 spaces • The Royal Oak building will be demolished in the coming weeks to create an extra 28 parking spaces • The proposals to create a civic square and relocate the United Reformed Church have been re-prioritised to allow delivery of the extension and associated improvements to the appearance of the town centre first • A commitment to undertake a consultation with market traders and

visitors to the town to see how we can evolve the markets to make the most of the wider improvements “I’d like to reassure the United Reformed Church and its congregation that we will involve them as things develop and having met with them last week we’re keen to support them to find a new home as part of our town centre plans that supports them to achieve their ambitions and continue with the important services they are providing to the community,” said Councillor Bradley.

“We’re also aware that we need to look at how we develop our historic markets as how people use town centres changes and we’ll be speaking

with traders and visitors to the town to see how we can best keep them and the unique independent traders at the heart of everything we do. “We will now start work on sorting the new parking arrangements so that is all in place before we start on the extension and I’d expect building work to start in the late summer. “If we can translate the interest we have now into lets we will not only have a much better offer in the town centre, particularly in the evening, but also a profitable scheme for the people of Chorley and the key to it is doing that.” It is expected the new development would be open in late 2019 in time for the Christmas shopping period.

People in Chorley will see all their services protected and major investment schemes benefitting people right across the borough continue as Chorley Council continues to do its best for residents amidst huge cuts in its funding. ​Councillors described the budget as one of the most difficult it has set after agreeing a council tax increase of 2.99 per cent, only the second increase in eight years. The budget outlines a gloomy financial picture but shows Chorley is better placed than most to tackle the challenges ahead with continued investment in major projects to bring income in to the borough in return for residents paying an extra ten pence per week in council tax. Councillor Peter Wilson, Deputy Leader of Chorley Council, said: “We are continuing to see huge reductions in our grant funding and as you can see across the country with services being cut this is government austerity hitting home. “Despite the challenges we face we are one of a small number of councils that is actually able to continue investing in what matters most to residents, without having to cut services, delivering more things for young people to do, looking after the elderly, creating more jobs and building neighbourhoods that people are able to thrive in.

“Importantly with this budget it is part of a long term plan going forward that helps us to become resilient, despite all the financial challenges we face, and allows us to continue investing rather than having to manage public service decline.” The headlines from this year’s budget proposals include:

• Delivery of major projects with significant capital investment totalling £49 million on projects including: • Improving play areas and open spaces • Attracting more visitors to the town centre through schemes such as the Market Walk extension • Delivering the Primrose Gardens retirement village • Creating world class facilities for young people at the youth zone • No cuts in services • Continue to provide additional resources to help tackle crime and anti social behaviour • A budget gap of £3.3m by 2020 • A council tax increase of 2.99 per cent, which equates to ten pence per week.

“We know it will be hard for people to find the extra money they will have to pay in council tax but the government is forcing local authorities to either cut services or increase taxation locally and leaving us to pass on the bad news to residents,” said Councillor Wilson. “The feedback we got from the consultation was mainly positive and I think people do expect to pay a bit more now because they understand the financial pressure we are under but they do want to see value for their money. “I believe with the plan we’ve got in place we can deliver that for residents right across the borough and continue to make people proud of their communities.

“This is one of the toughest budgets we’ve had to set and it’s going to get even more difficult over the next few years so we really appreciate the support we get from residents.”

Pendle Council urges residents to use fireworks responsibly

Pendle Council is urging residents to use fireworks in a responsible and considerate manner respecting neighbours as well as pets and wildlife.

It’s joined forces with Lancashire Fire and Rescue and the Police to

highlight the dangers of fireworks and encourage people to be more thoughtful.

This comes after a spate of fireworks being used on the streets of Nelson and Brierfield during the day as well as throughout the night.

Tim Horsley, Pendle Council’s Community Protection Co-ordinator, said: “We’ve again had a number of complaints from residents about extremely loud fireworks being used in neighbourhoods at all times of the day and night.

“The fireworks are being set off with absolutely no regard for the community.

“It’s not just about preventing people from sleeping; it can distress and frighten people and animals.

“We have ex-service men and women and families from war zones and it can be extremely frightening for them.”

It’s an offence to set off fireworks between the hours of 11pm and 7am, except on Bonfire Night, Diwali, New Year and Chinese New Year.

And fireworks should not be used by

individuals anywhere other than their own garden or yard. The penalty is a fine of up to £5,000 and a prison sentence of up to six months.

Shabaz Shah, firefighter at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Fireworks can be extremely dangerous if used irresponsibly.

“We’ll be visiting wedding shops, community halls and other related wedding venues to highlight the dangers as well as the impact their behaviour can have on communities.”

The Police will be more visible in across Pendle to deter levels of antisocial behaviour.

You can report problems with fireworks to the police on 101.

To report illegal fireworks sales contact the Citizens’ Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06.

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Burnley supports businesses with week

of free seminars & training events

Burnley Council is running its Burnley Business Week again from 14th – 18th May 2018. Supporting Burnley businesses and their growth is a top priority for the Council.

Details of the week of FREE seminars, training sessions, and masterclasses can be found by visiting Burmley. co.uk or calling Burnley Council on 01282 477213. All the events are hosted by business experts to help businesses grow.

The full programme can be

seen by going to http://burnley. co.uk/wordpress/wp-content/ uploads/2018/04/Burnley-BusinessWeek-Flyer-May-2018.pdf.

Business Week 2018 is organised

by Burnley Council, in partnership with business support agencies and supported by cyber resilience experts Xcina Ltd, to offer the latest advice and guidance on a range of business areas, and there will be something to help all types and all sizes of business.

Sessions which are available include: Starting Your Own Business, R&D Tax Credits – Save your Business Money, Changing the Way You Do Meetings, Interactive Mock Employment Tribunal, Raise your Defences Against Cyber Crime, the Leadership Test, how to Win New B2B Business using Linkedin, B u s i n e s s Networking,

Social Media in the Retail World, Improve Health & Wellbeing in Your Workplace, Secured

By Design, How To Use Your Customer Data to Grow Your Business and more.

Kevin Porter, B u s i n e s s Development Director at Xcina, said: “Business Week is important in providing business leaders with information and practical ways to enable them to discover solutions to their commercial challenges.

Xcina is delighted to be sponsoring Burnley Business Week where we will be meeting a host of fantastic companies based in the Burnley area, one of the most dynamic and enterprising areas of Lancashire.

If you or are a local business looking for business growth support and

advice don’t hesitate to contact the Burnley Council Business Support team on 01282 477213.

Mick Cartledge, Burnley Council Chief Executive Officer said: “This is the seventh Business Week the council has organised in partnership with business support agencies,

offering a wide range of support and advice sessions packed in to one dedicated business week. There will be something to help all types and all sizes of business, as well as expert advice for people thinking of starting their own business.

Adding: “We recognise the

importance of our businesses and that their success impacts on the prosperity of the town. Burnley is becoming well known for having a pro-active council and Bondholder Scheme when it comes to supporting our businesses, and Business Week is part of that package of support.”

Research project:

Bright light treatment of patients with dementia

The study is conducted at the University of Bergen, and Associate Professor Elisabeth Flo is called the DEM.LIGHT project. The project is led by at the University’s department of clinical psychology. She explains the background of the study: “Symptoms of dementia are often treated with drugs that have little beneficial effects, and often cause substantial side effects. However, there is evidence for the effectiveness of non-pharmacological treatment.

Among those, bright light therapy is one of the most promising.” she says.

The project started out in October 2017 and will last till March 2018, a period when the days are short and little daylight comes through the windows. The study comprises eight nursing homes and about 70 patients with dementia as well as the employees in the nursing homes.

Bright light treatment In traditional bright light therapy, the patient is repeatedly exposed to light with high intensity (e.g. 10 000 lux) from a table-mounted light source for a short interval, at a specific time of day. This requires behavioral compliance, and the methodology does not lend itself well to dementia patients. The light used in the DEM. LIGHT project allows patients to be treated using normal ceiling lighting where light exposure is increased.

Therapy light rooms The Earth's natural light cycle has higher light intensity and cooler light in the middle of the day. The light in the DEM.LIGHT study will mimic daylight in this respect. The patients' living space at the nursing homes is turned into light therapy rooms, where participants with dementia and employees are exposed to light for long periods of the day.

Comprehensive testing The patients participating undergo a series of tests during and after treatment. "There are physical tests such as body temperature, blood pressure and pulse, but also

observations and mapping of sleep, agitation, depression, quality of life, pain and other conditions," Flo says.

The evaluations of nursing staff include alertness, sleep, fatigue, depression and anxiety.

The research project is carried out by Flo and a team of senior researchers (Professor Ståle Pallesen and Professor Inger Hilde Nordhus), postdoctoral scholarship holders, doctoral candidates and assistants.

Glamox has provided the lighting for the project.

Multiple objectives The DEM.LIGHT project is based on the hypothesis that the use of light which compensates for lack of daylight will significantly decrease behavioural and psychological symptoms, and improve sleep and daily living functionality in nursing home patients with dementia. The study also has other objectives, including the effects on nursing home staff, and the possibility for commercialization and development of home-based treatment.

Professor Flo has great goals for the outcome of the study: “Our vision is to improve the quality of the public-sector treatments with novel rehabilitating solutions for nursing home patients,” she says.

“Hopefully these solutions can be transferred to a homecare setting, prolonging the time persons with dementia may stay at home. This will reduce the costs for the society and improve the lives of patients, relatives, and healthcare staff.”

About dementia Dementia is a terminal condition affecting over 47 million people worldwide. As the world population is aging, the number of people affected is expected to rise.

The progressive nature of dementia results in cognitive decline, loss of function and independence.

Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and sleep problems are common.

BPSD include behaviours such as aggression, screaming, restlessness, and agitation, and psychological symptoms which include anxiety and depression, hallucinations and delusions.

Noticeably, both sleep and BPSD are related to a disturbed circadian rhythm. Behavioural problems tend to intensify in the early evening, a phenomenon referred to as sundowning.

BPSD and sleep problems are also distressing for the caregivers of people with dementia, both family and healthcare staff. The symptoms are often the “last straw” leading to institutionalization, which is reflected by the nursing home population.

Dementia care has been linked to nursing home staff burnout, sick leave, turnover, and increased financial costs.

Glamox is a Norwegian industrial group that develops, manufactures and distributes professional lighting solutions for the global market. The Glamox Group is a leading supplier to the world's marine and offshore markets, and a significant supplier to the professional building market in Europe.

The Glamox Group is a global organization, with 1300 employees and sales and production in several European countries, as well as in Asia and North America. The annual turnover is MNOK 2.500 (2016).

The Group owns a range of quality lighting brands including Glamox, Aqua Signal, Luxo, Høvik Lys, Norselight and LINKSrechts. Glamox is committed to meeting customer needs and expectations by providing quality products and solutions, service and support. www.glamox.com

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8386840

Wheels 4 All =

opportunities for all!

Bury Sports and Physical Activity Service is working with Jigsaw to provide new fitness opportunities for all. The Wheels 4 All scheme has returned to Clarence Park for its 2018 season. It’s a nationally recognised cycling initiative which believes that health and fitness, and particularly cycling, should be for everyone.

Jigsaw is a sports and social group for young disabled people aged 13-30, based in Bury.

Its aims are to promote fun, freedom and independence, to support people to enjoy an active social life, and help people reach their sporting potential and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Wheels 4 All offers a range of bikes to suit everyone's needs whether they are young, old, male, female or have a disability.

This includes two-wheel bikes, threewheelers, four-wheelers, hand-propelled bikes, wheelchair load-bearing bikes and much more.

This season Wheels 4 All offers private group bookings, new loyalty cards and special ‘buy one get one free’ sessions. To find out about open sessions, visit our new website https:// wheelsforallbury.wixsite.com/buryw4a One Jigsaw member said: “I have enjoyed so many opportunities to get involved and build my confidence levels. I have been able to enjoy improved concentration levels and improved fitness levels. Jigsaw is a massive piece of my life - if I didn’t have Jigsaw I’d be lost without it!”

Interim Chief Executive for the Council

At Thursday’s Council Meeting, Interim Chief Executive. He will Councillors confirmed the replace the current Chief Executive, appointment of Adrian Phillips as Lorraine Norris, who will be retiring mid-May. The current Director of Environment, Adrian has worked on everything from the introduction of wheelie bins, Preston Guild 2012, to leading on major park restorations such as Avenham & Miller and Winckley Square, and as project sponsor for the Preston Markets redevelopment.

Adrian said: “It has been my privilege to serve the city of Preston and the council for the past 32 years, and I look forward to continuing to do so in my exciting new role. I am passionate about supporting the city’s economic growth and development, and am

ready to support Councillors and partners to meet any challenges head on. “The Council has an ambitious agenda for the city, wanting the very best for our residents and we will continue to work creatively with partners to deliver results for every community and every part of Preston.

Everyone benefits from a growing city and economy, and continuing the strong track record of development and partnership is a key priority.”

Chair of the cross-party appointment committee, Councillor Robert Boswell, added: “Following a rigorous interview process, including a guest panel of external stakeholders, we agreed to appoint Adrian as the Interim Chief Executive, until May

Britain's Got Talent star sings

for Lancashire to give blood

A Britain's Got Talent star from Lancashire is using his singing skills to encourage people to give blood.

Ronald Clark is delighted to have reached the next round of the popular TV competition with the B Positive choir after it received four 'yes' votes from the judges.

B Positive is the official choir for the NHS Blood Transfusion and Transplant service and its aim is to inspire more people to give blood. It is made up of 48 singers.

Ronald is a key worker for Lancashire County Council. The 48 year-old lives in Preston and has worked with young people and families in West Lancashire, Chorley, Fylde and in Preston since he joined the authority in 1979.

He is busy getting ready for his next TV appearance, but he's no stranger to the music scene. He was part of the dance group Felix in the 1990s and sang on the track ‘Stars’ helping the single into the top 10 in 1993.

Ronald said: "I've always loved singing. I do a lot of gospel plus

some soul, R‘n’B and jazz. As blood donation is very close to my heart I jumped at the chance to sing with the choir.

“I think the choir can give a real animated context and a passionate relevance to blood donation in a creative, emotional and fun way that can really resonate in people’s minds.

“Giving blood is such a simple act you walk into a centre, donate, have a cup of tea and a biscuit and get on with your day. It normally takes less than an hour.

“What you don’t see of course is the seismic impact it has on another human being. You change the life of so many people.

"I still give blood and encourage people I know to do the same by taking someone new with me each time."

During his time at the county council, Ronald has worked with young people to support them to take part in community activities at venues such as schools, basketball courts, parks and colleges.

His job involves helping to run Preston Youth Council. In his spare time, Ronald runs a Duke of Edinburgh's award group at Grimshaw Community Centre.

Ronald added: "I'm passionate about working with young people.

"It's important that they have every opportunity to be independent, achieve and develop the skills they need to succeed.

"I feel I can help them to do this in my job at the county council.

"I see giving blood as an extension of my service to the communities I work in and I hope I help to encourage people to do the same when they see me with B Positive or come with me to the blood clinic.

"I'd encourage anyone who can give blood to find out where their nearest clinic is, make an appointment and help to save lives."

People can find out where they can give blood by visiting www.blood. co.uk For more information about B Positive, visit www.blood.co.uk

2019. “It was a strong competition between the internal candidates but we are confident that Adrian will be a great asset to the City Council in this new role.”

Page 5.

Blackburn to host

V&A textile treasures

Four textile panels by some of the 20th Century’s greatest textile designers have gone on show at Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery.

On loan from the V&A Museum in London the four pieces are works

by British design heavyweights Lucienne Day, Ashley Havinden, Tibor Reich and Marion Dorn.

The loan is part of the V&A’s DesignLab Nation programme that aims to bring together secondary schools, local museums and local designers to inspire and preserve the essential role of Art, Design and Technology in education.

The programme that seeks to extend the reach of the V&A’s Schools Programme beyond London, is working with a variety of cultural venues throughout the UK and in Blackburn it will explore the rich legacy of the region’s cotton industry. The scheme will encourage young people to make their own contemporary responses to historical processes, and to gain an understanding of how collections from the past can inform new ideas.

As part of the project students from Darwen Aldridge Community Academy (DACA) will work with local printmaker Sarah Hardacre to create their own fabric designs

inspired by the pieces from the V&A. Councillor Damian Talbot, Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Young People, said: We’re delighted to be working with the V&A and to have been chosen to host such prestigious pieces. It is fantastic that young people are being encouraged to explore the rich manufacturing history of this area that continues to this day, and is something that is celebrated by the wonderful National Festival of Making. This project gives them an opportunity to see how they can develop skills, which could potentially be used in the areas of design and making and contribute to the continuing success of our local creative and manufacturing industries. Tristram Hunt, Director of the V&A, said: As our creative economy grows, international competition accelerates, and the provision of creative subjects in schools is squeezed, art and design education is needed more than ever.

By bringing together local industry, museums and schools, DesignLab Nation will ensure that the V&A works with communities across the country to educate and inspire the artists, innovators and designers of tomorrow.

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Free help to give up smoking as

hard-hitting new TV advert starts

Health bosses in Bury urge smokers to get free support to quit as a new hard-hitting TV advert highlights how poisons from tar in cigarettes enter the bloodstream and spread all over the body.

In Bury, some 1,792 people were admitted to hospital in 2015/16 with a smoking related illness.

Free personalised ‘stop smoking’ support is available locally via the Bury Lifestyle Service. For more information call 0161 253 7554 or email lifestyleservice@bury.gov.uk Public Health England (PHE) has released a new TV advert highlighting the dangers of tar in cigarettes, as England’s seven million smokers are urged to make a quit attempt with help from Smokefree this New Year.

The latest campaign shows how poisons from tar in cigarettes enter the bloodstream, spreading around the body within seconds and causing damage to major organs.

To help explain the ongoing internal harm being caused, a group of seven lifelong smokers - including TV presenter and entrepreneur Hilary Devey - declare their intention to quit in January after seeing the results of a lab demonstration. The test results show how their smoking has led to elevated levels of cadmium (a metal used in batteries), cancer-causing nitrosamines and carbon monoxide in their blood. These toxic substances are among more than 4,000 chemicals released into the body with each cigarette smoked, including more than

70 known cancer-causingcompounds.

Elevated levels of these substances were seen in the participants’ blood and can lead to an increased risk of major damage to the body.

Exposure to cadmium for a long period of time is associated with an increased risk of damage to the kidneys and bones and may lead to lung cancer. Research has demonstrated that if you regularly smoke 20 or more cigarettes a day, you are twice as likely to develop kidney cancer compared with a nonsmoker.

Tobacco Specific Nitrosamines (TSNAs) are potent chemical compounds, many of which are carcinogenic (cancer-causing). They can cause DNA damage, cell death and are associated with cancers of the pancreas, mouth, respiratory and digestive tracts.

Carbon monoxide decreases the ability of the blood to carry oxygen and consequently puts a strain on the heart. Carbon monoxide is also associated with an increased risk of blood clots and coronary heart disease.

In the new film that supports the TV advert, Dr Dawn Harper, a GP from Gloucester, explains the results of the tests to the smokers and how the quality of their blood would start to improve when they quit – ridding them of harmful poisons which cause major damage to the body. Dr Dawn advises the smokers that there are many ways to quit, including free

proven support from NHS Smokefree.

People can choose what works best for them: face-to-face help, stop smoking aids, a quitting app, email, social media, and SMS support. Find out more at www.nhs.uk/smokefree Lesley Jones, director of public health in Bury, said: “Smoking is a deadly habit and each year it kills around 500 people in Bury and in 2014-16 the number of potential years of life lost due to smoking related illness in Bury was 4,727 years. The dangers of continuing to smoke are clear, with 35 people being admitted to hospital in Bury every week throughout 2015 due to smoking.

“Our new TV ad shows how every cigarette sends a flood of poisonous chemicals through the bloodstream in seconds. We are urging every smoker in Bury to take advantage of the free Smokefree support and quit for good this New Year.”

Dr Dawn Harper, GP and medical journalist, says: “I see the damaging effects of smoking in my surgery almost every day. Tar from cigarettes causes damage to major organs, the bones and increases your risk of a range of cancers and diseases. But, the good news is that no matter how long you’ve smoked, quitting can reduce your chances of developing cancer, heart and lung disease and other serious smoking-related illnesses. Some of the benefits are almost immediate, with improved energy and breathing within a matter of days.

“I know how difficult it is to stop but the important thing is to commit to trying again, no matter how many times you might have tried and failed in the past – it’s never too late.”

Hilary Devey, TV presenter, entrepreneur and lifelong smoker, says: “I’ve smoked at least 20 a day for over 40 years. Like many, I’ve been hooked on cigarettes and ignoring the damage – even though I

know the harm I’m doing, I’ve found it extremely difficult to quit for good.

Even a stroke three years ago only led me to stop temporarily.

“Seeing the high levels of poisonous chemicals in my blood from these tests really hit home how dangerous continuing to smoke is – and for that reason, I’m done! “I’m absolutely determined to try again this New Year and I hope other smokers across

the country will join me making full use of all the free help available at Smokefree - this time next year we could be celebrating one year smokefree and feeling the benefits.”

Smokefree provides motivation, information and support for smokers who want to stop. Just search ‘Smokefree’ for free support and advice to help you quit smoking. www.nhs.uk/smokefree

wi-Q Technologies Adds Support for

Global Bitcoin Payment Provider, BitPay

wi-Q Technologies has announced that its web-based digital engagement platforms, wi-Q and Mi-Room, will now support payments via global bitcoin payment service provider, BitPay. wi-Q is the web-based integrated mobile ordering solution developed for F&B outlets, whilst Mi-Room delivers solutions for the full spectrum of hotel guest services including in-room ordering, booking spa treatments, guest loyalty and even housekeeping requests. In addition to cash, debit or credit card, PayPal and charge to room, venues with wi-Q or Mi-Room can now allow their customers or guests to pay from their own device with Bitcoin via BitPay. In the last year alone, wi-Q Technologies has won numerous industry awards, delivered integrations and partnerships with the world’s leading hospitality

technology providers including Oracle Hospitality, Aircharge and Epson. The company’s usercentric technology has already been successfully implemented in venues and hotel groups across the world.

BitPay is the world’s leading bitcoin payment provider, covering financial services, e-wallets, software, gaming and now, hospitality. BitPay processed over $1B USD worth of transactions in 2017.

Graham Cornhill, Co-Founder and Managing Director of wi-Q Technologies said, “The vision behind wi-Q and Mi-Room was to make the mobile ordering process fast, simple and seamless.

Choice is equally important in a global market where users don’t want to be forced into downloading, updating and storing multiple apps.

With wi-Q, customers can instantly choose their language, filter products

depending personal preferences and choose how they pay. Our solutions support PayPal, Credit / Debit Card, Tola Mobile, Apple Pay, Cash, Charge-To-Room - and now BitPay. It is quite possible that one day, a cryptocurrency, or more likely, several cryptocurrencies will be widely adopted for mobile ordering and as an innovator in digital guest engagement, it is a future trend we are keen to explore.”

Sonny Singh, Chief Commercial Officer at BitPay said, “Bitcoin is the ideal payment method for mobile service applications and with BitPay, wi-Q Technologies can accept bitcoin for hospitality services quickly and easily from anywhere in the world.”

For more information on wi-Q for F&B please visit www.wi-q.com For more information on Mi-Room for hotel guest services, please visit www.mi-room.com

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Dominic Berry Poetry boost for Greater Manchester Tour Comes to Darwen Market A new £46m train depot is to be built trains. We will need state-of-the-art building on Wigan’s excellent New home for trains provides jobs

in Wigan as part of the Great North Rail Project.

With the number of passengers set to double in the north over the next 25 years, more depots are needed to enable the more frequent services and additional trains planned by 2020.

At Springs Branch railway sidings in Ince-in-Makerfield, Network Rail is adapting an existing freight yard to stable and maintain 24 electric and eight diesel trains – creating almost 20 jobs in the process.

The location provides easy access to the electrified rail network and the state-of-the-art depot will provide more flexibility for Northern to move their trains across the north overnight in preparation for services the next day. It will be brought into use from December 2019.

Lauren Jones, scheme project manager at Network Rail said: “At Springs Branch sidings, we’re investing £46m to enhance an existing site by the West Coast main line by building brand new train maintenance facilities for Northern.

“This brand new depot that forms part of the Great North Rail Project not only delivers a jobs boost for Greater Manchester, but the facilities it will provide will help transform passenger journeys across the north.”

Ben Ackroyd, Engineering Director at Northern, said: "The new maintenance depot is a key part of our wider modernisation programme.

"By 2020 we will have retired all Pacers, refurbished our entire fleet and, of course, will have introduced our brand new electric and diesel

facilities to look after these trains and Springs Branch is a key part of this."

Ben added: "We look forward to working with Network Rail on this project which is clear evidence, not only of partnership railway in action, but also of the economic benefit the railway brings to the region."

Becca Heron, director of economy and skills at Wigan Council, welcomed the news, commenting: “This new train depot is a key component of our economic strategy,

connectivity to establish the borough as a key transport hub for the North of England. It will bring growth and jobs to the residents of Ince and the wider borough.” The development will see the installation of new overhead line equipment to power the electric trains. It will also include staff accommodation, train washing and fuelling capabilities.

Preparation work will start on site and project completion is planned for December 2019.

Performance Poet Dominic Berry to perform his latest poetry as part of Darwen Live Wednesday 30th May 2018, 1pm, Darwen Market Annex, Tickets are FREE! Award winning poet and Glastonbury Festival regular, Dominic Berry, is thrilled to be taking his latest set of poetry for a special performance at

Darwen Market, as part of Darwen Live.

His latest tour has 20 dates; 10 of which are being performed in traditional performance venues and 10 within unfamiliar venues, specifically identified by Dominic.

Blackburn with Darwen Council is bringing this event to Darwen Market on Wednesday 30th May 1pm; if you

would like to see the Dominic Berry Poetry Tour, for free, then please visit https://dominicberrydarwenmarket. eventbrite.co.uk for your ticket.

He performs his poems; sometimes hilariously funny, sometimes deeply moving, always imaginative, powerful and memorable. If you think poetry always has to be dry and difficult, think again – this is not like the poetry they used to teach at school!

For the past 10 years, Dominic has been a professional performance poet, and has toured across USA, Canada, India, Argentina, New Zealand, Australia and Europe. On TV, he has performed his poetry on BBC2 showcasing the best of 2017 Glastonbury Festival, BBC’s Greg and Celia’s Festivals Highlights (highlights of 2014’s Edinburgh Fringe), Channel 4’s My Daughter The Teenage Nudist and Channel 4 News. In his children’s poet ‘Dommy B’ persona, he has performed on CBeebies Rhyme Rocket.

Reviews include: Dominic is an exceptional force in the poetry and spoken word scene.

John McGrath Artistic Director, National Theatre Wales From the moment he started to speak we were totally captivated – the incredible way he uses words, the expression and energy of the delivery and the subject matter made him irresistible.

City Life Magazine Exuberant, lively, expressive and totally nuts, Dominic owns the stage.

Writers Connect

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Construction begins on

£3 million Darwen investment Work has begun on Ellison Fold Way, the new East Darwen link road, which will make it easier for residents and businesses to access the M65 and will also improve a number of local road junctions in the vicinity.

The new road, which will lead from Marsh House Lane to Ivinson Road, is intended to allow for future high quality housing developments in Darwen and provide increased accessibility and travel options across Darwen. The road that will cut across the site known locally as Baileys Field, will also mean that residents of the new developments will have an alternative to the A666.

It will be a single carriageway with a speed limit of 30 mph residential road including footways and cycling paths, and will also be weight limited to 7.5 tonnes. There will also be junction tables to keep speeds down and associated landscaping and tree planting for noise reduction.

The £3 million scheme, funded by Blackburn with Darwen Council and the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership as part of Central Government’s Local Growth Deal, will also see safety improvements made to several junctions in South East Darwen.

Work on the junction of Sough Lane and Grimshaw Street has already begun, which will see improvements for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

The junction, identified through consultation as a road safety hotspot, will see a compact roundabout installed and vegetation removed to aid sight lines.

Pedestrian crossing points with tactile surfacing will also be constructed.

Junctions at Watery Lane and Grimshaw Street as well as Ivinson Road and Moor Lane are also earmarked for work. The scheme is being constructed by Eric Wright Civil Engineering and is due to be fully complete by Spring 2019.

Executive member for Regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Council, Councillor Phil Riley, said: I’m delighted that work can finally begin on this important new investment in Darwen. This new route not only supports our priorities as a Council to provide high quality housing it will provide a boost to the local economy as both businesses and their staff will be better able to access the M65. In addition, the improvements to the junctions will improve road safety and help address concerns people have about congestion.

Diane Bourne, managing director of Eric Wright Civil Engineering, added: We’re pleased to be working in partnership with Blackburn with Darwen Council to improve connectivity, provide better transport infrastructure and reduce congestion for those who live and work in the local area, as well as supporting wider economic growth.

We’ve extensive experience in road schemes and are doing everything possible to plan and manage the programme of works to help keep traffic moving and minimise inconvenience and disruption for road users.

Top Row – Project Manager Greg Brett, Cllr Phil Riley, Operations Manager Gavin Hulme, Chair of the LEP’s Growth Deal Management Board Graham Crowley and Mike Cliffe Strategic Transport Manager.

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Father’s Day

Father’s Day is on its way, so we have compiled a wide range of present ideas in celebration of all fathers, step-fathers, and granddads ready for Sunday the 17th of June.

Personalised Pint Glass If your dad is partial to a tipple, why not treat him to a personalised pint glass this Father’s Day? Available through www.thegiftexperience. co.uk, a special message along with your dad’s name is sure to bring a smile to his face. The glass comes fully packaged, so just grab the beer!

Pair of Engraved Cut Crystal Whisky Tumblers Following on from the beer glass…

If your dad is more of a whisky man, take a look at the beautiful engraved cut crystal w h i s k y

tumblers also available via www. thegiftexperience.co.uk.

Add a personal message of your choice to perfect the gift.

Personalised Wine Bottle Stopper

Treat the connoisseur in your life to a subtly beautiful silver-plated wine bottle stopper. Not only is the stopper designed to preserve unfinished wine, but the silver-plated top has space for a personalised message, providing the perfect opportunity to blend a practical and sentimental gift within one. Once again, available via www. thegiftexperience.co.uk.

Golf Ball Finding Glasses The ground-breaking Golf Ball Finder Glasses, available from www. iwantoneofthose.com, is the perfect gift for your dad if he spends a lot of time on the golf course. The glasses will help locate stray golf balls as the blue tinted lenses will illuminate any white objects, making the process of finding the golf ball much easier. The

glasses also fit over most prescription eye wear.

Lifeprint Portable AR Printer The Lifeprint Portable AR Printer works alongside the free Lifeprint app for iOS and Android allowing your dad to print both photo and videos! Videos up to fifteen seconds long can come to life with help from the Lifeprint app. Photos and videos can also be printed straight from social media, without the need for any printer ink. The Lifeprint Portable AR Printer is available via www. menkind.co.uk.

Smartphone Projector – White Transform images, games, and videos directly from your phone on to a fortyinch screen by popping a smartphone in to the projector, aim it against a flat wall and voila! Available via www. iwantoneofthose.com. The projector fits most smartphones and the best part is the no-fuss set up: no batteries or wires are required upon set up!

My Family Cookbook

Physical records of family recipes are often absent in this day and age, providing the possibility for the secret to Dad’s roast potatoes or Nan’s chocolate chip cookies to be forgotten! Visit www.menkind.com and give your Dad this thoughtful keepsake with space for over eighty recipes, which can be personalised with photos and reviews. Cooking guides, tips, and conversion tables can also be found in the introduction. box is jam-packed with twenty-seven retro sweet classics, such as Popping I Heart My Daddy Mug Candy, Flying Saucers, and Sherbert Dip Dabs, along with an A5 card which can be personalised to your Dad! Personalised Leather 'Day You Became My…' Keyring by Create Gift Love The beautiful personalised leather keyring from www. notonthehighstreet.com is an ideal gift for the sentimental Dad, as each keyring is engraved with an individual message and date. The

leather comes in the option of two colours: tan brown and natural.

Three Month Friday Night Curry Subscription by The Spicery If your Dad has a love for curry, the Three Month Friday Night Curry Subscription via www. notonthehighstreet.com is the perfect gift as every month a new curry spice box arrives in the post with everything that he’ll need! Dishes come from across the word, from Malaysian, Caribbean, and Indian curries as well as a variety of side dishes. Longer options are also available.

Show Daddy how valued he is with this cute mug from www.menkind. com. With a heartfelt, handwritten scrawl of ‘I Heart My Daddy’ across, it’s bound to bring a smile to his face on those cold mornings!

Personalised Deluxe Retro Sweet Box Does your dad have a sweet tooth?!

If so, the Personalised Deluxe Retro Sweet Box from www.menkind.com is the ideal gift. The beautiful gloss

Personalised Framed Vinyl Record

by Vinyl Village If your Dad is an avid music lover, a 7inch vinyl record from any point from 1950 to the present day from www.notonthehighstreet.com can be framed in one of two sizes. Whether it be the first record they bought or even an old favourite, it’s sure to make them smile. A personal message or a photo can be added to the vinyl record to make it all that more special.

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Colette Counselling

and Wellbeing services

Counselling and Wellbeing is a very personal journey and it is different for each individual. At Colette Counselling we like to work holistically with the individual to explore their needs. In todays society we are under more pressure than ever before. People are often under immense amounts of stress and our bodies go into the fight, flight or freeze mode. These stresses can show in many different ways, anxiety, depression feeling stuck and many more.

When asked who comes to counselling Colette said that people often ring and say “ I’m not sure if I need counselling. I tell them counselling is a very personal journey and if the issue is troubling them, it is important. It doesn’t matter how big or small the issue is. If it is a problem for them, counselling or one of the wellbeing services can help.”

Counselling can be individual or couples. Couples counselling is a safe place for couples to explore their issues, giving each individual the time to speak, listen and reflect.

Whilst talking to Colette she spoke passionately about pain. She said “ I have been no stranger to pain throughout my life. The important thing is to make friends with your

pain. Once you have made friends with your pain you can start to listen to the messages it is giving you, then you can work with the pain rather than against it. If you have had pain for longer than two weeks it turns into chronic pain.

With the new therapy Old Pain 2 go, it is possible to release that old pain and as a result you only feel the new pain which is giving you the warning that you need to do something.” In a lighter note, Colette is now doing Laughter Yoga sessions. If you are looking for a fun wellbeing activity Laughter yoga is for you. Laughter Yoga is a mixture of yogic breathing exercises with playful laughter exercises.

If you would like something quieter mindfulness or meditation might be for you. There is often confusion between meditation and mindfulness.

With meditation you set out with the intention to do something and mindfulness is about being in the moment.

At Colette Counselling we also provide clinical supervision. If you would like to know more or would like to book an appointment, call Colette confidently on 01254 828160 of 07762970024. Discount code Whalley

Blackpool runners raise over

£8,000 for the Stroke Association More than 200 people from across Blackpool ran, jogged and walked on Sunday 18 March, raising more than £8,000 for the Stroke Association at the charity’s Resolution Run. A sea of purple fundraisers took to Stanley Park to complete a 5k, 10k or 15k course, after making a resolution that counts. The event was one of 30 runs organised by the Stroke Association, to raise funds for vital research and to support people affected by stroke in the North West.

Rebecca Owen, Community and Events Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “Every five minutes across the UK, someone’s life is turned upside down by stroke. By taking part in our Resolution Run, each runner has helped us continue to support stroke survivors and their families as they rebuild their lives. We’re extremely grateful to everyone who took part – despite the cold weather, it was a fantastic turn out and everyone crossed the finish line with a big smile.”

At least half of strokes could be prevented if people made simple lifestyle changes, such as keeping blood pressure under control and exercising more. For more information about the Resolution Run Series, visit http://www. stroke.org.uk/resolution, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.

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HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT

THE LYTH VALLEY COUNTRY INN? The Lyth Valley Country Inn is a charming inn which houses a magnificent restaurant and bar area within the stunning Lyth Valley. The inn is situated in the north west of England, treasured within the rugged, mountainous area of the English Lake District where picturesque views of the surrounding landscape can be enjoyed from every angle. If you endeavour to stay over in the Lake District, treat yourself to a luxurious, refreshing, and peaceful break with the Lyth Valley Country Inn where you can witness panoramic views out towards Scout Scar or gaze in wonder at the woodland scenery. Each bedroom is individually decorated and can become the perfect start to an amazing trip in the Lake District.

The inn is a family-run business as

owner, Steve, works side by side with his two sons, Craig and Shaun, and his head-chef, Jamie. They pride themselves on their ability to provide a broad variety of hearty meals from locally sourced produce into their even broader variety of menus. The dining experience at Lyth Valley Country Inn is renowned for brilliance; not only is the food exquisite, but the internal environment and surrounding areas allow for total satisfaction.

Breakfast delivers the opportunity to devour the likes of fresh pastries and artisan coffee or, if you prefer to eat out during lunchtime, why not pop in to enjoy the highly recommended lunch or afternoon tea menus?

Experience the delightful dinner menu during the evening with the highly sought-after succulent pork belly, which is slowly cooked for seventy-two hours. You will not fail to find something that caters to every taste, diet, or requirement. This same level of greatness can also be found within the bar of Lyth Valley Country

Inn, as they hold both the finest ales, due to the Winster Valley Brewery, and the best wines from all around the globe. Don't forget to check out their cocktail menu as they also provide expertly mixed concoctions which are a treat to the taste buds! Take a seat with family or friends within the cosy booths or venture out on to the raised decking area to savour both the drink and the spectacular views.

The greatness of Lyth Valley Country Inn spills over into their sister pub, the Brown Horse Inn, which is

located just three and a half miles away. Contemporary takes on the traditional dishes has allowed them to form their classy and chic menu with a comprehensive range of wines and ales served alongside. Like Lyth Valley, the Brown Horse also offers on site accommodation as well as the added luxury of self-catering cottages scattered around the Winster Valley.

So, why not indulge in yourself this Christmas and journey to the Lyth Valley Country Inn - or the Brown Horse Inn - to experience the fun fuelled festivities with great company among beautiful surroundings.

LYTH VALLEY COUNTRY INN: Lyth, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 8DB. Tel: 015395 68295.

Email: info@lythvalley.com Web: www.lythvalley.com BROWN HORSE INN: Winster, Nr Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3NR. Tel: 015394 43443.

Web: www.thebrownhorseinn.co.uk

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Get fit in the Lakes

“Getting fit” can sometimes be dreaded words to hear, but if you find ways to focus on your health and wellbeing that suit you, then it can actually be really fun…we promise!

Heading outdoors can give you great motivation to get healthy and happy.

The beautiful views will keep you so distracted that you won’t even

realise you’re getting fit! Plus, it can be a more sociable way to get in shape, suitable for all ages and not to mention cheap!

You don’t need to hike Scafell Pike or swim across Lake Windermere to constitute fitness, there are many ways to feel great and get fit to suit you. If you’re looking for easy ways

Potfest

Potfest - Pottery Festival is by far the biggest ceramics event in the north two weekends of pottery overload.

Over 250 individual potters and ceramic artists from all over the UK, Mainland Europe and beyond will be showing their work near Penrith in the Lake District at the end of July and the beginning of August. So if you’re serious about hand made ceramics or just potty about pottery Potfest is the place for you.

From sculptures to ceramic jewellery, clocks to candlesticks, teapots to tableware all made from clay.

Meet and talk with 100 makers at Potfest in the Park in the wonderful grounds of Hutton-in-the-Forest, home of lord and lady Inglewood off junction 41 of the M6. Then a week later meet another 150 at Potfest in the Pens at the auction mart off junction 40 – the gateway to the Lakes.

Feel inspired? There will be clay and tools for sale at Potfest in the Pens and a chance to join a class on a small hand building project or a hour long session on the potters wheel. Get inspired, get involved, get started on a new hobby or just enjoy a whole day of creativity at Potfest.

to get healthy in the Lake District then try… Taking a walk around the gardens of Brockhole whilst your little ones burn off some energy in the many attractions on site, including Treetop Trek and Brave the Cave.

Taking a brisk walk along Ullswater Shore.

This is a short route but you’ll clock

Page 17. up 2,800 steps! Or, if you're feeling a little more adventurous, why not try the 20 miles of the circular Ullswater Way route to clock up a mighty 42,240 steps.Peddling around Coniston waters. If you don’t have bikes to hand then head to Coniston Boating Centre where you can hire adult and child bikes.

Packing up your weights, skipping rope or even hula hoop and finding a spot with a view to do your very own bootcamp!

If you’re looking for more of a challenge then how about… Braving the cold and taking a dip. 30 minutes of swimming could burn more than 2,000 calories…don’t forget your wetsuit! Cycling along the Eskdale Trail. This is a great fitness challenge but isn’t likely to take more than 3 hours, leaving you the rest of your weekend to recover!

Stretching your legs along Windermere’s Western Shore. This suitably scenic route will keep you

distracted from the whopping 11,600 steps you will take.

Taking to the peaks to tone up and burn even more calories! If you’re looking for a real challenge check out this Patterdale route.

And, let’s not forget that by walking, running, cycling and swimming your way around the Lake District you’re doing your bit for the environment too!

Find out more about being lowcarbon in the Lakes here.

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Things to do in Penrith - your 24 hour itinerary by North Lakes Hotel & Spa

If you’re after a short break away or only have 24 hours to spend in Penrith, why not follow this great itinerary we’ve put together for you.

It’ll keep you active from morning till evening as you explore and discover

this stunning natural area of the Lake District.

Day one A hearty breakfast to start the day After a hearty breakfast at North Lakes Hotel and Spa, start your day by

heading straight out on the 20 minute walk to the centre of Penrith. The first stop on your morning route will be the 14th century imposing remains of Penrith Castle. The castle is looked after by English Heritage and the condition of the remains allows you to appreciate its former grandeur.

If you’re intrigued by historical facts and drama, this is the place for you with it once being occupied

by Richard 3rd before he became King of England.

Stellar pictures

are guaranteed here so make sure to get a couple of snaps before heading to the town centre.

Penrith’s traditional town square is an excellent stop for any visitor; full of independent shops and boutique cafes. The Penrith Clocktower is the central piece of the square. With its gothic look, it’s a great opportunity for another photo. Don’t forget to visit St Andrew’s Church and the Penrith Museum as stop-offs on your morning of discovery. All these sights are nearby, making the town centre a great starting point.

The start of March means the beginning of market season, and the start-up of the Penrith Farmers’ Market which is held on the third Thursday of every month until the end of December. If you’re looking for

seasonal produce, local specialities or original Lake District crafts, this is the market for you. There’s a mixture of first time traders, local regulars and award winning producers all happy to discuss where they grow their produce or make their crafts. It’s a fantastic traditional market to experience, and with its location right in the heart of the town, it’s accessible for all.

Walk to Penrith Beacon After all that exploring it’ll be time for a break, so feed your hunger with a sweet treat or warm savoury snack from one of the local cafes to get you ready for the next part of the itinerary, the walk to Penrith Beacon. This recognised AA route will provide you with stunning panoramic views at the top, making it the perfect way to end your morning. The straight walk up

Fell Lane makes the route one of the most accessible and straightforward to follow with the entrance to the climb at the top on Beacon Edge.

Along the way you’ll be able to spot the feature buildings such as Potter’s Lodge with its gorgeous Georgian architecture or Caroline Cottage and its gothic design.

We’d recommend giving yourself 30 to 40 minutes to complete both the climb and descent. At the top of the 937 feet elevation, the Beacon monument of 1719 awaits, but that’s not all, as you’ll have the added reward of spectacular views of the Lake District Fells. If you’re lucky and look towards the Solway Firth, you might see the mountains of Scotland, which is an epic sight to behold on a clear day. Try and get to

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the top of the trail for around midday for the optimum conditions to have the perfect view.

Lunch in Penrith and the famous Ullswater Steamers Head back to North Lakes Hotel and Spa to enjoy a scrumptious lunch at the restaurant and bar. Choose from a varied menu, designed with fantastic local produce and care. It’s the perfect stop before your afternoon out and about. If a slower paced afternoon is more your style, then the ideal option for you is the Ullswater Steamers.

Drive the ten minute route from North Lakes to Pooley Bridge, park up and head down to the pier to set sail on this iconic transport. Being the second longest lake in the Lake District, there are plenty of opportunities to jump off at different spots along the lake and explore; Howtown and Glenridding are amongst the most popular.

The boat journey to Glenridding stretches the full length of Ullswater, so sit back and take in the beautiful scenery. Stretch your legs upon arrival and wander around the former

mining village before boarding the boat for the tranquil route back. If you’re after a shorter trip on the water, Howtown is an excellent option.

Gateway to the Martindale Valley, Howtown is host to one of the oldest red deer forests so if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of one of the only red deer herds in the UK – a magical experience!

A relaxing evening On the trip back, why not try and keep an eye out for daffodils on the west shore which start to appear throughout March. After you’ve finished exploring beautiful Ullswater, you’ll be ready for your evening at North Lakes Hotel and Spa. With a warm welcome to look forward to, it’s the ultimate end to a fantastic day.

Day 2 Balloon ride over Ullswater After a good night’s sleep, you’ll be ready for your last trip out to end your 24hr stay in style. Drive the short six minute journey to the Dalemain Estate where on weekday mornings you’ll find a fleet of hot air balloons, ready to

Page 19. take you on a journey into the skies. If you want to try something new, then this is the spectacular activity for you.

The balloon ride itself is around one hour long and will offer you plenty of time to take in the views and get some amazing photos from your floating vantage point. A traditional champagne toast awaits you when you land to cap off your memorable trip in style but don’t panic when

you land in an entirely different location to where you set off! Included in the package is a retrieval service to take you back to your take off-site at Dalemain Estate.

Air ballooning is a weather dependent activity but with perfect time to take to the sky in 2018!

After touching down, and with your feet back on solid ground, you’ll be ready to say goodbye to Penrith. This itinerary offers a great introduction to the area; we’ve given you lots to experience, but if you can’t fit it all into the short 24 hours, it gives you a great reason to return!

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Report calls for National Parks to get smart

A walk in a park could soon be an entirely different experience if National Parks act on urgent recommendations made in a report released today. Real-time information from environmental monitors and sensors could soon inform rangers of the conditions of footpaths and monitor the effects of climate change.

Bins could send alerts when they are full to reduce unnecessary emissions due to bin collections. Your phone could sense when you tire during a walk, notifying you of the nearest pub for a rest stop. It could even send you the menu, or make a reservation on your behalf. These are all examples of smart technologies in use across the world that are quickly changing the face of cities and open spaces, shaping new types of experiences. Now, experts suggest innovation and the ‘Internet of Things’ could be the key to better protecting the world’s National Park landscape while reducing costs and enhancing visitors’ experience.

Professor Edward Truch, a Director of the Connected Communities Research Lab at Lancaster University Management School, is the lead author of the Smart Parks: Bringing smart technologies to National Parks report, commissioned by the Lake District National Park Authority.

He said: “National Parks are under increasing pressure to deliver more for less and with population booms, visitor numbers are increasing – putting greater strain on the natural environment. This report sets out business models and revenue streams for National Parks right across the world to consider, that can help address the gaps in budgets caused by cuts in public sector spending. The Smart Park model demonstrates how a high degree of connectivity and exchange of information can benefit all - from nature conservationists, tourists, businesses and communities, through to park authorities and

emergency services. A Smart Park could open up opportunities for new types of visitor attractions, which protect rather than spoil some of the world’s most treasured landscapes.

“Visitors are already making use of intelligent connected devices through apps like Google, Ordinance Survey and Booking.com for things like navigation and accommodation bookings.

Some areas of the world are already drastically cutting traffic pollution by introducing ‘smart’ car parking systems, for example, directing individual motorists to available car parking spaces.

“Research suggests there will be exponential growth in the number of worldwide devices connected to the internet over coming years, growing from 4.9bn in 2015 to around 25bn in 2025. National Parks need to act now and seriously consider these innovative technologies to better protect the environment and keep pace with future visitor expectations.”

The new vision of a ‘Smart Park’, or a national or urban park enhanced by the effective use of the Internet of Things, identifies p o t e n t i a l solutions for the main challenge vast, rural national parks currently face - efficient and reliable internet connectivity. New and emerging networks are

Penrith

Once known as the capital of Cumbria, the buzzing town of Penrith is now filled with traditional shops and arcades acting as a large regional centre for the eastern Lake District and those just outside of the National Park.

Cumbria, and therefore Penrith, was a semi-dependent state in the 9th and 10th century and formed part of the Kingdom of Scotland and Strathclyde until 1070AD. Penrith has a rich history and was later used as a strategic route to and from Scotland, cementing its status as a military centre.

The Penrith Museum and Tourist Information Centre are housed within an Elizabethan building, recently refurbished, which was being used as a school until the early 1970’s. The museum displays the history, geology and archaeology of Penrith. The Penrith Beacon, a monument built in 1719, sits at the top of Beacon Hill and reminds residents and visitors of the numerous times the beacons were lit in times of war since King Henry VIII. The view from Beacon Hill is spectacular as views across Eden Valley up to the hills of Lakeland are able to be enjoyed.

The Penrith railway station is within close proximity to the centre of Penrith and opposite the ruins of Penrith Castle.

offered as solutions to the problem, such as cognitive radio technology which is considered to be the next frontier in wireless communications.

The report suggests developing technology with built-in intelligence and agility to adapt to the environment it is operating in, can offer ‘greener’ more sustainable options for natural spaces - optimising transmissions to preserve power.

Lake District National Park’s Head of Strategy and Partnerships, Liam McAleese, said: “This collaboration between the Lake District National Park Partnership and Lancaster University Connected Communities Research Lab creates an opportunity for us to explore innovative technology that may one day benefit our communities and enhance the experience for the

millions of visitors who enjoy the Park every year. Smart Parks is a fascinating piece of research and it has presented us with a broad range of options to consider for the future of the National Park.” Chris Mahon, Chief Executive of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Committee UK and Development Director of World Heritage UK said:

“The report offers a very new look at how designated natural areas and other green spaces, and the people that visit them, can benefit from the latest innovations in modern technology. It's about new ways of delivering conservation as well as visitor convenience and experience enhancement. Commissioned by the same organisation responsible

for the successful 2017 inscription of the UK's most recent UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 'English Lake District', this study will be of considerable interest to many people, including members of the UNESCO and IUCN networks, involved in land and people management.”

To read the report, visit: www. connected.community/smart-park

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Gin, gems and gardening…

The Holker Spring Fair attracts new

exhibitors for its second year! 19th & 20th May 2018 The Holker Spring Fair returns for a second year at the historic estate of Holker Hall & Gardens. A celebration of the arrival of spring, the May event is attracting interest from both new and returning exhibitors and confirmed so far is a fine array of all things home, food, garden and gifts.

NEW for 2018 visitors will discover Brownthwaite Hardy Plants and Beetham Nursery for all things gardening and outdoor. Gin fans are in for a treat - A selection of gins from Cumbria’s, and possibly the UK’s smallest gin distillery, Shed1 will be available! - Small batch, big gin flavours!

For something unusual, Gren’s Shed will be attending with his wild bird feeders and nest boxes made from upcycled household items. Hand made in Gren's Shed and designed to make your garden quirky and beautiful.

Not forgetting the fabulous food with Coco Baroque attending for the first time with their delicious chocolates, bakes and treats and Lakeland Mues, specialist producers of the finest toasted muesli!

For gifts and trinkets Ellis & Eliza will be showcasing their handmade colourful and fun embroidered gifts, keepsakes, card stationary, framed art, clothing & accessories.

Gates open at 10.30am – 5.00pm.

Entry is £3.00 per adult, accompanied children free of charge, and includes parking and entry to the Café, Food Hall and Gift Shop.

Finish off your day with… A Spring Evening Barbeque will take place

at The Ilex Bar and Brassiere in the Holker Courtyard following the Fair on Saturday 19th from 5pm.

A selection of local meats, salad bar and artisan breads will be available. Prebooking essential. Families welcome.

Adults £12.95, children (up to 12yrs) £8.95.

Special offer: Purchase a Hall & Garden ticket online at www.holker.

co.uk in advance for the 19th or 20th May and get free entry to the Spring Fair! If you would like to exhibit at the Holker Spring Fair, there’s still time to book a stall, telephone 015395 58328.

For more information on all of Holker’s 2018 events visit the website at www.holker.co.uk or telephone 015395 58328.

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Lake District low-carboN

initiative calls for support

The Lake District National Park Partnership has reassessed its carbon footprint and is encouraging residents, businesses and visitors to support its efforts to reduce the impact of climate change on the Lake District.

An area-wide ‘low-carbon Lake District’ initiative, which seeks to tackle climate change, has reviewed the baseline carbon footprint in the Lake District, and for the first time has reviewed business emissions too.

Sam Hagon Strategy and Partnership Adviser at the Lake District National

Park said: “Our approach is to decide what actions will deliver the largest carbon savings. We have a focus on visitor travel as transport has become more important since the previous assessment. Accommodation, food and drink are also important as combined they make up the second largest area of greenhouse gas emissions.” Residents of the Lake District can join the initiative too by making lifestyle changes, no matter how small. For example, Drinking from the tap instead of

buying bottled water can be up to 1000 times less carbon intensive.

If you swapped your bottle of imported lager for a pint of locally brewed ale, the carbon saving would be equivalent to driving one mile. Cumbria has over thirty microbreweries so there’s no shortage!

Tomatoes grown in artificially heated greenhouses in winter can be 100 times more carbon intensive than those grown locally and in season.

Keep an eye out for locally produced food and embrace the UK seasons.

Buy seasonal and local fruit and vegetables to keep yourself and your carbon footprint healthy.

If you need an excuse to keep up your January diet then how about this, a cheese burger has a carbon footprint of about 2.5 kg CO2e, that’s four and a half miles in an average car or 15 miles by train! In fact, you can eat 250 locally grown apples for the same amount of carbon.

The climate change subgroup of the Lake District National Park Partnership took a pioneering approach in 2010 by setting out the first ‘carbon budget’ for a local area with the target of reducing the emission of carbon, and other greenhouse gases, by 1 percent per year. It has now taken a look back at the learning so

far. Sam Hagon added: “It is good practice to review the methodology used in the carbon budget at regular intervals. This review, seven years since the scheme launched, allowed us to identify what may be required

to achieve greater carbon savings so that we are clear which actions make the biggest difference. “Collectively we’ve saved over 340,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide, from activities such as sustainable transport initiatives, installing hydroelectric schemes and planting new trees. We are now saving almost 100,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. That’s equivalent to the carbon footprint of 5,600 people in the Lake District – or six times the population of Coniston.” The Lake District National Park is encouraging people to be efficient in their use of travel as part of its Get Fit in the Lakes campaign, which is motivating people to walk, run, cycle and even swim around the Lake District in a bid to look after themselves and the environment. To read the full carbon budget report visit www.lakedistrict. gov.uk/carbonbudget

U.Dance if

you want to

Over 1,500 young people from primary schools across Cumbria will be wowing audiences at The Carnegie Theatre tonight and again next month at The Sands Centre as part of U.Dance Cumbria – the county’s annual dance festival for children & young people.

U.Dance Cumbria is organised by Active Cumbria (Cumbria County Council) and brings together pupils of all ages from primary, secondary and special schools in Allerdale, Carlisle, Copeland and Eden to perform and celebrate their achievements in dance.

Following an amazing performance by secondary schools at Theatre by the Lake last month, the event now moves on to celebrate primary school’s creativity, when pupils get the unique opportunity to perform on a professional stage to a live audience. Schools taking part at The Carnegie in Workington are: Bransty, St Herbert’s CE, Richmond Hill, Gosforth, St Bega’s CE, Grasslot Infants, Moor Row, Lorton, Orgill, Bookwell, Frizington & Flimby.

On Thursday 26th & Friday 27th April thirty nine schools from Eden and Carlisle will similarly trip the light fantastic at The Sands Centre in Carlisle. They include St Bede’s, Beaconside, Yanwath, Lanercost, Brough, Inglewood Junior and Lees Hill. New to the event this year as first-time participators are Braithwaite, Newtown, Bolton, St Herbert’s, St Bega’s, Bookwell, Frizington and Flimby Schools.

U.Dance Co-ordinator Lynn Barnes says, “U.Dance Cumbria is such a fantastic event, a real celebration of achievement. The children are always so excited to perform and give 110% on stage.”

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Community room opens in iconic Keswick Moot Hall

The completion of significant restoration work at The Moot Hall, in Keswick town centre, marks the re-opening of an exclusive workspace for local businesses, community groups and artists.

The eye-catching building, which in its current form dates back to 1813, required major construction work to its renowned clock tower in 2017, creating an opportunity to develop a new community room on the first floor. Based on the ground floor of the Grade II listed building is the hugely popular Lake District National Park visitor information centre which welcomes more than 300,000 visitors each year. Not only will local businesses using the space benefit from a central location and lots of passing customers, but all proceeds made through hiring the space will be put straight into caring for the Lake District National Park.

Andy McGirl, Retail and Commercial Development Manager at Lake District National Park, said: “We’re delighted that The Moot Hall is once again restored to its former glory.

It’s an adored building that is so appreciated by local residents, and the huge number of visitors who pass through the doors every year. “The first floor space offers an exciting opportunity for locals to be based in the heart of the town. As well as being available for hire as a meeting room and exhibition space, we are also offering reduced rates for community groups so that it will continue to serve as a hub for local people to enjoy.” In particular, due to the popularity of the location and the layout of the space available, local artists are said to be keen to use the room as an exhibition space. Local artist, Pat Cramer, said:

“The community room is an excellent space for an exhibition of paintings or photographs with good lighting, and display screens and hanging equipment provided.” Find out more

about hiring this space. Photo shows the iconic The Moot Hall which is home to the Lake District National Park visitor information centre and new working space in Keswick.

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Tackle the famous Morecambe

Bay Walk for St Catherine’s

Walkers are invited to uncover natural landscapes and scenic views at Morecambe Bay with St Catherine’s Hospice.

This summer, the Lostock Hall charity is looking for volunteers to take to the sands and wade through the waters of the Bay for a good cause.

All the family are welcome to take on the famous eight-mile-trek on Sunday 8 July 2018.

Follow in the footsteps of the royally appointed Guide to the Sands, Cedric Robinson MBE. Funds raised in sponsorship will go towards helping the hospice deliver vital services for people in the community affected by serious illness, enabling them to enjoy quality of life and have dignity in death.

Head of community engagement at St Catherine’s, Emma Jacovelli, said: “The Morecambe Bay Walk is always a popular event and a great day out for everyone.

“It’s a charity trek with a difference – it’s not too strenuous, but involves tackling everything from soft sands to knee-deep water.

“We’re providing return transport from the hospice, which will drop walkers off at the starting point in Arnside and collect the group from the finish line at Kents Bank.

“Funds raised in sponsorship will help us continue providing specialist care for people with life-shortening illnesses at the hospice and in their own homes.”

Morecambe Bay

The walk, which was due to take place in September last year, had to be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.

Registration is just £10 for adults and £5 for children, and the return transport is £10 per person.

You can sign up by calling 01772 629171 or visiting St Catherine’s website.

Will you be taking part in the Morecambe Bay Walk? Have you been involved with any charities recently?

Explore Morecambe Bay – a great place to experience amazing sunsets, discover natural landscapes and unearth your adventurous side with an incredible range of exhilarating outdoor activities. The Bay is one of the best places in the UK for high adrenalin outdoor activities from sailing, to powered paragliding, parachuting, windsurfing, mountain biking, horseriding, and kitesurfing.

Morecambe Bay stretches from the south west coast of Cumbria to Fleetwood in Lancashire, taking in coastal towns such as Grange Over Sands, Morecambe and Heysham. The headlands of Morecambe Bay offer spectacular, seascape views; the hardy and adventurous can experience a guided walk across the sands, taking in the wide-open vistas across the tidal sand and mud flats towards the Lake District and the Bowland Fells.

Morecambe Bay has some of the most beautiful coastline in Britain and a number of long distance walking and cycling routes start in the Bay area, including the Way of the Roses (long distance cycle route from Morecambe Bay to Bridlington Bay), and the Lancashire Coastal Way. If you are looking for something more gentle, then try cycling on Morecambe Promenade or try one of the Cycle and See routes within Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The Bay also offers opportunities for a range of amazing wildlife experiences, like watching the oystercatchers and other waders march up the shore at Hest Bank, Bolton-le-Sands, in front of the advancing tides, or even looking for seals lazing around the south tip of Walney.

With golden sandy beaches, and plenty for children and adults alike to discover, Morecambe Bay is the perfect place to relax, explore and enjoy.

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Will you discover the Seldom Seen of

Morecambe Bay this Bank Holiday?

University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay Trust's

international acclaim for filling its toughest vacancies

'I've always been meaning to go there'... sound familiar? We have so many beautiful places on our doorstep and they're often on our 'to do' list, yet we never quite make it, there's always something more pressing to do.

Well now is your chance to rectify the situation... Grab one of our unique illustrated maps and head out to explore our spectacular coastal corner of England this bank holiday weekend... you're in for a treat!

With the sun (mostly) shining, and summer well and truely on its

way, Morecambe Bay Partnership's Seldom Seen maps are the perfect way to explore the treasure trove that is Morecambe Bay. The stunning series of 5 illustrated maps, inviting you to delve into the secrets that make Morecambe Bay such a special place, is available now from local booksellers, visitor centres and online.

The artist-designed maps cover the whole of Morecambe Bay, from Walney Island near Barrowin-Furness in South Cumbria, all

around the estuaries, peninsulas, inlets and communities of the Bay, to Cockerham, south of Lancaster in north Lancashire. They give a real insider’s view of the Bay, its landscapes and its communities, past and present, shining a spotlight on the area’s intriguing history and its fascinating stories.

The Seldom Seen maps are available individually, or as a boxed edition of all 5, from local tourist information centres and other local outlets and online from Lancaster Visitor Centre.

Sunderland

Point Beach Clean

Health body has featured in the prestigious Deloitte report A successful recruitment campaign launched by the hospital trust which runs Furness General has been singled out by an internationally acclaimed report.

The University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT) was commended for its six-week, #BetterWithYou campaign which led to the appointment of seven midwives, 18 registered nurses, one theatre

practitioner, 17 medical consultants, three radiographers and one mammographer .

The campaign featured a dedicated recruitment website, specially commissioned films, and social media ‘takeovers’ and was chosen as a case study for the prestigious Deloitte report, which focused on the challenges of securing a future for hospital workforces across Europe.

Of the 16 individual case studies mentioned in the report, UHMBT was the only individual hospital trust to be

singled out.

David Wilkinson, director of workforce and organisational development at UHMBT said it was “great” to see the campaign recognised.

“The recruitment and retention of clinical staff is one of the highest priorities for the trust and we have deployed many strategies to address this across local, regional and international recruitment pools,” he added.

Join us at 10am for our beach clean at the unique Sunderland Point. Meet a lovely bunch of people and do your bit for the Bay! All ages are welcome, but young people under the age of 14

must to be supervised by an adult.

All equipment is provided, but all volunteers are advised to wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes.

For more information, please

contact Jean Ellis - 01524 859115 / granjean99@yahoo.com Leader: John Gilchrist Grid Reference: SD 427 562.

Postcode: LA3 3HR

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WALKING AROUND MORECAMBE BAY

EXPLORE MORECAMBE BAY

BY FOOT WITH ONE OF THESE WALKING TRAILS. The Morecambe Bay coastline, much of which is of international ornithological interest, offers an array of landscapes from the distinctive limestone scenery of Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, through glazed saltmarshes and agricultural land, the seaside resorts of Morecambe and Fleetwood, as well as well as the major river estuaries of the Lune and Wyre.

Walking can be the very best way to explore the countryside, canals, coast and towns, giving you access to stunning views, quiet lanes and rare wildlife. And Morecambe Bay and the surrounding area offers a terrain and distance to suit everyone.

From short, gentle rambles to long distance treks, you can download a whole range of walks that allow you to explore the area.

Here is a list of some that you are sure to enjoy:HEART OF BARROW WALK A one hour walk through the Barrow Conservation Area.

CHANNELSIDE WALK This walk will take you from The Dock Museum along Channelside and over the reclaimed Slagbank’s around Barrow.

ST GEORGE’S WALK A one hour walk through St George’s Conservation area in Barrow WALNEY WALK A 4 mile walk around Walney Island near Barrow with the option to extend to 6.8 miles MORECAMBE TERN TRAIL Less than a Mile.

Enjoy a stroll along Morecambe Promenade taking in the TERN series of public artworks including the famous Eric Morecambe statue CARNFORTH CANAL WALKS 4.5 – 6 mile walks The four easy walks detailed in this leaflet allow ample time and opportunity to explore the countryside which links two of England’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty; The Forest of Bowland and Arnside and Silverdale.

Drama in

the Bay!

An exciting new ITV commission looks set to bring a tourism boost to the Morecambe Bay Area. The sixpart detective drama ‘The Bay‘ will be produced by Tall Story Pictures and written by Lancaster’s own award-winning writer and playwright Daragh Carville.

The drama unfolds the story of a missing person investigation in Morecambe.

In a recent interview with the Visitor newspaper, John O’Neill, the Morecambe Business Improvement District Manager said “The new series will help showcase what a beautiful area we live in and the unique assets we have on our doorstep” he added “Just the presence of having a film crew in and around Morecambe in summer will bring short term benefits but the longer-term benefits for the whole area in terms of tourism and greater exposure should be immense.

We are sure the town will open its arms to the film crew and actors and give them a big northern welcome.”

Filming will begin in Morecambe and the surrounding area in the summer.

WALKING FOR ALL 3-9 miles Eight walks of different ability around Lancaster, Morecambe and the Lune Valley. Walks range from 3 to 9 miles.

LANCASHIRE COASTAL WAY The Coastal Way is a 137 mile footpath following the Lancashire coastline from Merseyside to Cumbria. The Lancashire coastal walk provides spectacular views of Morecambe Bay, the Bowland Fells and the Lake District, and the opportunity, particularly in spring and autumn, to observe the large variety of waders and seabirds for which the Lancashire coast and estuaries are internationally important.

THE FOREST OF BOWLAND Offers some of the most beautiful

and remote walking in the country, from the grandeur and isolation of the moorland hills to the undulating lowlands with their distinctive pattern of settlements, woodland cloughs and river valleys. These landscape contrasts, along with the serenity and tranquility of the area make this a walker’s paradise. As well as the fell tops and moors, there are extensive opportunities for shorter and less challenging routes in the valleys, most especially riverside walks which abound in the area. Some websites that you might find helpful:www.visitlancashire.com/explore/ morecambe-bay/walkingaroundmorecambe-bay www.forestofbowland.com/WalkingInformation

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Places to Visit

LANCASTER CASTLE Stroll through Lancaster and you’ll find history on every corner. Unlock history within the castle prison walls or admire Georgian Splendour in its fine buildings. Want to take in the views? Then head up to Williamson’s Park and enjoy the views from the Ashton Memorial, one of the North’s

great follies. Lancaster really is one of England’s Heritage Cities with a big story to tell. Lancaster Castle is steeped in almost 1000 years of history, including the trials of the Pendle Witches and the Birmingham Six. Lancaster Castle is one of the most important historic monuments in the North West. Come and visit

the old cells, Shire Hall and Crown Court.

LANCASTER MARITIME MUSEUM Lancaster Maritime Museum is housed in the Port of Lancaster Custom House and warehouse buildings dating from the second half of the 18th century. Come and

discover the history of the merchants and learn about Lancaster’s exciting trade industry.

JUDGES’ LODGINGS & ROMAN BATHHOUSE Built in the centre of Lancaster against the backdrop of Lancaster Castle, the Judges’ Lodgings, an elegant, Grade I listed building is Lancaster’s oldest town house. The house (now a museum) was originally home to Thomas Covell, Keeper of Lancaster Castle and notorious witch hunter.

Roman Bath House and Wery Wall Remains is an interesting surviving fragment of Roman walling on the east slope of Castle Hill and represents a section of a bastion of the last Roman fort on the site. Adjacent to the wall are the excavated remains of a small Roman bathhouse.

LANCASTER CATHEDRAL Lancaster Cathedral is the mother church of the Diocese of Lancaster, home to Catholics living between Preston and Carlisle. Lancaster Cathedral is a place of prayer and home to many concerts and cultural events.

LANCASTER PRIORY & PARISH CHURCH Lancaster Priory & Parish Church dates from the 11th Century, though there has been a church on the site from 630 AD. Come and discover the Church’s history and witness the impressive medieval interior, with Viking ornaments and much more.

FURNESS ABBEY Furness Abbey, or St. Mary of Furness is a former monastery located in the northern outskirts of Barrowin-Furness. The Abbey dates back to 1123 and is built entirely out of local sandstone. The majority of the current ruins date from the 12th and 13th centuries. By the 15th century, it had been completely re-modelled and has become the second richest and most powerful – as well as one of the grandest – Cistercian Abbeys in England.

ST PATRICK’S CHAPEL Of historical interest are the stone graves in the ruins of the ancient St.

Patrick’s Chapel, close to St Peter’s Church. They are thought to date from the 11th century and are hewn from solid rock. Local legend has it that St Patrick landed here after crossing from Ireland and established the chapel. However it has been established that the chapel was built around 300 years after Patrick’s death. These stone graves appear on the cover of the Black Sabbath CD, ‘The Best of Black Sabbath’. The grounds of St Peter’s Church contain many Saxon and Viking remains, and the church itself contains a Viking hogback stone. Hey sham also contains one of only three sites in Britain and Ireland that contain a pre-Roman labyrinth carving.

PIEL CASTLE Piel Castle, is situated on the southeastern point of Piel Island, off the coast of the Furness Peninsula.

Built in the early-14th century by John Cockerham, the Abbot of neighbouring Furness Abbey, it was intended to oversee the trade through the local harbour and to protect against Scottish raids. The castle was built using stones from the local beach, and featured a large keep with surrounding inner and outer baileys.

HOLKER HALL A privately owned country house located close to the village of Cartmel, Cumbria, England, a location previously in the historic county of Lancashire. It was “the grandest building of its date” and the house stands in an estate of about 80 hectares, surrounded by formal gardens, parkland and woodland.

There are many events and activities throughout the year and the house, café and local produce shop is open to visitors.

LEVENS HALL Levens Hall is a magnificent Elizabethan mansion, situated in the Kent Valley, close to Kendal.

Originally built around a 13th Century pele tower, it was expanded and rebuilt towards the end of the 16th Century. It is the family home of the Bagots, and contains a collection of Jacobean furniture, fine paintings, the earliest English patchwork and many other beautiful objects.

DALTON CASTLE Dalton Castle is a grade I listed 14thcentury peel tower situated in Daltonin-Furness. It was constructed by the monks of Furness Abbey for the protection of the nearby market town and was the building from which the Abbot administered the area and dispensed justice. The property hosts an exhibition on local history, as well as a display about local painter George Romney.

LEIGHTON HALL The ancestral home of the worldrenowned Gillow furniture family, Leighton Hall is still lived in today and is no stuffy museum – there aren’t any roped off areas here! Share the magic of Leighton Hall’s colourful heritage and unique “personality” either at a regular day visit or during one of their special themed events throughout the season.

MARSH MILL Constructed in 1794 Marsh Mill is a Grade II* listed Tower Windmill, one of the best in the UK with working machinery. Here you will get a unique introduction to milling

of a bygone era. Guided tours of the mill are available at a small charge, with exibitions, workshops and events during the year, and children’s activities during school holidays.

The mill is set in the centre of Marsh Mill Village with shops and free entertainment that are open all year.

However, the actual Mill is only open weekends from April until the beginning of November.

CARNFORTH STATION Carnforth Station Heritage Centre and the Brief Encounter Refreshment Room opened on 17 October 2003 following 3 years work to renovate the derelict buildings of Carnforth Station. In 1945 it was the location where David Lean filmed his romantic classic “Brief Encounter” starring Celia Johnson and Trevor Howard.

Carnforth Station was perfect as it was remote and safe from attack, but filming had to take place at night, so as not to interfere with daytime train operations. Visitors now come from all over the world, to enjoy the nostalgia of the station, which has been restored to it’s 1940s glory when the Refreshment Room was used as the setting for David Lean’s film “Brief Encounter”. Both the Heritage Centre and the Refreshment Rooms are open daily and this year sees the opening of a permanent David Lean ‘Life and Works’ Exhibition in the Bateman Gallery at the station.

JOHN BARROW MONUMENT The John Barrow Monument (known locally as The Hoad) is a 100 ft (30.5 m) tower at the top of Hoad Hill (436 ft/133 m), near Ulverstone and was erected in 1850 at a cost of £1250.

It commemorates Sir John Barrow who was born in Ulverston in 1764.

Sir John was a founder member of the Royal Geographic Society, and held various government posts in the 19th century becoming the Second Secretary to the Admiralty.

Whilst the monument was designed to resemble a lighthouse, it has never had a functional light. It is a Grade II* listed building and the monument stands as one of the iconic symbols of the Northwest of England.

GRANGE OVER SANDS Grange is first mentioned in the ancient Cartmel Priory Registers of the 15th or 16th century, when it was recorded as ‘Grange-withKentisbank’. It is generally believed that the name derived from the old French ‘Graunge’ meaning ‘a barn’ or ‘granary’ where the monks of Cartmel Priory stored some of their grain (or possibly from the Latin ‘Grancia’ – meaning Grain).

SIZERGH ESTATE On the edge of the Lake District, the 1,600-acre Sizergh estate is amazingly varied with limestone pastures, orchards, wetlands and semi-natural woodland, inhabited by a rich and diverse wildlife, including the rare hawfinch. With more than 700 years of history and centuries old portraits sitting alongside modern family photographs, this medieval house certainly feels lived in; indeed it’s still home to the Strickland family.

It’s surrounded by rich gardens including a limestone rock garden, where colours change with the passing of the seasons; its timeless atmosphere makes this the perfect place to relax.

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The Yorkshire Air Museum

"The Yorkshire Air Museum is perfectly poised to celebrate the forthcoming RAF Centenary during 2018, as our extensive, internationally acclaimed collection of historic aircraft covers all era’s of the history

of the Royal Air Force. From WWI bi-planes to the current frontline Panavia Tornado GR4 supersonic jet, we have it all!

Discover the history of the Royal Air Force with our recently launched

RAF100 Family Activity Trail, which is already proving popular with visitors after its launch on the 1st April, the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Air Force!

See the only complete WWII Halifax

bomber in Europe, climb aboard the Douglas C-47 Dakota, the aircraft famed for its role in the airborne invasion of the D-Day Landings and stand up close to our examples of the famous WWII Spitfire and

Hurricane fighters. Don't miss our many events during the season, especially the "Against the Odds" Revival Weekend on 12th and 13th May, where our Halifax and Dakota will be on outdoor display, with 'air

and ground crew' re-enactors really looking the part. See our website www.yorkshireairmuseum.org or follow us on Twitter @air_museum for details of this and other exciting events during the year."

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Enjoying the delights of Cod Beck Reservoir and the popular Sheepwash beauty spot near

Osmotherley is now possible for all thanks to North Yorkshire County Council’s locality budget.

Sheepwash is a popular picnic area and was once a watering place on the ancient drovers' road over the moors to Yarm and the River Tees. Combined with a walk around the nearby Cod Beck Reservoir, surrounded by woodland, it is a picturesque and easy stroll of under two miles.

In order to make the popular route fully accessible to all, a number of partners including the county council, Yorkshire Water, the National Trust, the North York Moors National Park Authority, North Yorkshire Police, Osmotherley Parish Council and local volunteers got together to form Sheepwash Action Group to develop a project for a new disabled access footbridge at Sheepwash.

Fundraising started with £1,500 from the locality budget of Tim Swales, at that time a county councillor and now chairman of Osmotherley Parish Council. Locality budgets allow the 72 county councillors to respond to local needs and requests by recommending funding of up to £5,000 to support projects or activities that benefit the communities they represent.

North York Moors National Park

contributed £3,500 plus staff and volunteer time to construct the bridge and Yorkshire Water allowed the use of its land at no cost (and is subsequently in the process of constructing a disabled access route on its land to align with the new bridge).

The National Trust permitted the use of its land, plus staff and volunteer time to build a footpath linking the car park and bridge.

After planning permission was secured, the project was completed early this year and an official opening took place on 25 April.

Mr Swales said: “This is an excellent example of a partnership project, with everyone contributing for the benefit of the community. Volunteers are a credit to the area, collecting litter and keeping the area clean and tidy so that people can enjoy a welcoming and pleasant environment.’’

Countryside and recreation apprentice for Yorkshire Water, Philip Tennyson, said: “It’s fantastic to see three like-minded, positive organisations coming together to provide something beneficial for everyone.

The bridge is a great leap forward for accessibility and we look forward to developing the path system around Cod Beck to eliminate other barriers that prevent people from accessing the reservoir path.”

New addition jumping for joy at the Tropical Butterfly House The Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre has an exciting new addition to its awardwinning Wilderness Walk-through.

A Parma wallaby baby has been born and is finally out of mum’s pouch. Parma wallaby babies stay in mum’s pouch for the first 6 months of their lives, permanently leaving the pouch at around 7 months old.

The Parma wallabies are joined by an array of wonderful wildlife in the enclosure that visitors can walk through, these include Azari’s agouti, Patagonian mara, as well as native species.

Abigail Carter is the Animal Team Leader at the popular wildlife centre, “In the wild Parma wallabies are only found in Australia, and New

Zealand, and are classified on the IUCN Red List as Near Threatened, therefore it’s truly amazing for our visitors to be able to see these beautiful creatures up close.”

The wildlife centre at North Anston, near Sheffield is holding a naming competition on its social media pages, head to Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to put forward your

suggestion.

The gender of the baby is currently unknown, it will be sexed once it has settled in to life outside of mum’s pouch.

The Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre is open daily, all year round and is located just five minutes from the M1, junction 31, with free parking.

See www.butterflyhouse.co.uk to plan your visit.

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Businesses Get Set to Thrive with Connecting Cheshire

Connecting Cheshire partners with Thrive Creative for the launch of their latest business support package - Digital+.

Available to businesses across Cheshire and Warrington, the ERDF funded programme is designed to equip businesses with up to date digital knowledge and provide financial help to businesses who wish to upgrade to a Superfast broadband connection.

Delivered via a series of face-to-face, free seminars and business support, the programme will help businesses make the most of digital technology by • Working more efficiently and profitably with digital tools

• Reducing IT costs with cloud computing • Increasing leads and sales through digital marketing and social media • Reducing admin and improving service through e-commerce platforms • Using artificial intelligence as a key business tool • Being business-ready for new online tax and GDPR rules Thrive Creative, a brand and digital communication agency based in South Cheshire, has been awarded a 2 year contract to deliver creative services. Selected from 18 agencies who tendered for the work, Thrive will provide brand development, advertising, digital marketing and event collateral.

Managing and Creative Director at Thrive, Dave Powell said, "We're

delighted to be working with Connecting Cheshire, and excited to be developing the Digital+ brand.

For ambitious organisations looking to grow, or start-ups who want to get the most from digital, this is a great initiative which offers measurable benefits – something we are keen to communicate through the Digital+ strategy."

The appointment follows a series of successful pitches for the agency in

2017, which has an enviable client roster including Iceland Foods, Manchester Metropolitan University and UHY Hacker Young.

Seminars are taking place in Chester,

Nantwich and Warrington. To find out more about Digital+ contact james. rowley@skillsandgrowth.co.uk or call 07866 158 593.

Make attractive savings in Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ ‘Summer Sale 2018’

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is offering guests attractive savings on over 40 ocean and river sailings from June to September 2018, in its new ‘Summer Sale 2018’, on all new bookings made from 11th April to 2nd July 2018 inclusive. Guests can save up £400 per person on ocean cruises, and up to £300 per person on Brabant river cruises. Special solo cruising offers are also available on selected sailings.

The itineraries featured in Fred.

Olsen's new ‘Summer Sale’ brochure are all offered on board its fleet of four smaller, more intimate ships – Balmoral, Braemar, Boudicca and Black Watch – along with 156-guest river cruise ship, Brabant. Sailings include all the firm favourites, from Norway and the Arctic, to scenic French river cruises and leisurely voyages along the Rhine, on a variety of durations.

The ocean cruises featured in Fred.

Olsen’s new ‘Summer Sale’ brochure depart from five convenient regional UK departure ports: Southampton, Dover, Liverpool, Newcastle, and Edinburgh (Rosyth).

Justin Stanton, Sales and Marketing Director for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: "Fred. Olsen’s new ‘Summer Sale’ offers a wide choice of unforgettable destinations to tempt guests, with departures from around the UK, so no

doubt there will be a cruise getaway to suit.

“Step aboard one of Fred. Olsen’s smaller, friendlier ocean-going ships – together with river vessel Brabant – and be whisked away to a range of remarkable destinations.

Lose yourself in the beauty of Norway’s stunning fjordland or seek out fascinating natural wonders in Greenland and Iceland. Head to the French region of Provence at the perfect time to see the famous lavender fields, or sail picturesque French rivers into charming cities.

Immerse yourself in the architectural highlights of the Baltic, or uncover Scotland’s unspoilt landscapes, remote islands and enchanting lochs: the choice is yours.”

Fred. Olsen’s new ‘Summer Sale’ brochure showcases the following example itineraries: - Boudicca’s nine-night D1811 ‘German Waterways with Kiel Week’ cruise, ex Dover on 21st June 2018.

Prices start from £999 per person, based on an Interior Room. Save up to £200 per person!

Combine stunning scenery and historic city highlights with the opportunity to experience the excitement of the world’s largest sailing event on this very special German Waterways cruise. Have the chance to take a tour to Lübeck from Travemünde; enjoy an extended stay in Hanseatic Hamburg; and glide along the Weser River straight to Bremen, all topped-off by a memorable sail of the Kiel Canal to Kiel, in time for the ‘Kieler Woche’ (‘Kiel Week’) extravaganza.

Ports of call: Dover, UK ‎– Kiel Canal Transit – Kiel, Germany – Travemünde, Germany – Kiel Canal Transit – Hamburg, Germany (overnight stay) – Cruising River Elbe – Cruising Weser River – Bremen, Germany – Dover, UK For more information: See 'German Waterways with Kiel Week' - Balmoral’s nine-night L1819 ‘Greatest Fjords of Norway’ cruise (adult-only), ex Edinburgh (Rosyth) on 12th July 2018. Prices start from £1,099 per person, based on an Interior Room. Save up to £200 per person!

This exquisite itinerary packs in nine of the ‘Top Ten’ fjords experiences, as voted by the Norwegian public in Fjord Norway’s 2013 survey. Experience scenic cruising of astonishing waterways, such as Hardangerfjord, Nordfjord, Geirangerfjord, Lysefjord and Nærøyfjord, thanks to Balmoral’s ability to divert from the usual sea

routes. Discover sights and highlights galore during your time ashore in picturesque Flåm, Olden, Bergen.

Ports of call: Edinburgh (Rosyth), UK – Cruising Lysefjord – Cruising Hardangerfjord – Cruising Maurangerfjord – Flåm, Norway – Cruising Naeroyfjord – Olden, Norway – Cruising Nordfjord – Cruising past Seven Sisters Waterfall – Hellesylt, Norway – Cruising Sunnylvsfjorden – Kristiansund, Norway – Bergen, Norway – Edinburgh (Rosyth), UK For more information: See 'Greatest Fjords of Norway' - Braemar’s 11-night M1820 ‘Islands & Cities of Scandinavia’ cruise, ex Southampton on 12th August 2018.

Prices start from £1,199 per person, based on an Interior Room. Save up to £400 per person!***Summer Sale Solo Cruising Offer’ – £1,279, for an ‘H’ Grade Interior Room.*** Escape to Scandinavia and experience the region’s wonderful diversity to the full, taking in remote islands and vibrant capital cities.

In Denmark, visit charming Rønne on the pretty island of Bornholm and cultural Copenhagen; while in Sweden, Braemar will guide you to Gotland Island and UNESCO-listed Visby, as well as stunning Stockholm.

Also enjoy scenic cruising of the spectacular Stockholm Archipelago and the Kiel Canal, as well as visiting Mariehamn in the Finnish Åland Islands.

Ports of call: Southampton, UK – Kiel Canal Transit – Rønne, Denmark – Visby, Sweden – Stockholm, Sweden – Cruising Stockholm Archipelago – Mariehamn, Finland – Copenhagen, Denmark –Southampton, UK For more information: See 'Islands & Cities of Scandinavia' - Black Watch’s seven-night W1820 ‘Lochs of Scotland’ cruise, ex Liverpool on 15th September 2018.

Prices start from £999 per person, based on an Ocean View Room. Save up to £250 per person!

Join Black Watch for an incredible exploration of the Scottish lochs: discover spellbinding scenery, remote towns, stunning natural wonders and a host of historic sites. Highlights include the chance to marvel at Eas a' Chual Aluinn, Britain’s highest waterfall, sail the picturesque lochs of Dunvegan and Broom, and go in search of the fabled Loch Ness Monster!

Ports of call: Liverpool, UK – Cruising Loch Dunvegan - Kirkwall, UK – Invergordon, UK – Ullapool, UK – Cruising Loch Broom – Tobermory,

Isle of Mull, UK – Cruising Sound of Mull – Cruising past Duart Castle – Greenock, UK – Liverpool, UK For more information: See 'Lochs of Scotland' - Brabant’s seven-night R1814 / R1818 / R1822 ‘Exploring the Scenic Moselle Valley’ river cruise, ex London Heathrow on 5th July 2018 / 2nd August 2018 / 30th August 2018, via Düsseldorf, Germany, ending in Basel, Switzerland. Prices start from £1,299 per person, based on a Standard Room (fly-cruise package) / from £999 per person (cruise-only).

Save up to £300 per person!

This is Germany at its beautiful best.

See a medley of exquisite vineyards, forested hills, and picture-perfect historic towns, as stylish Brabant sails the Middle Moselle, Lower Moselle and Middle Rhine valleys.

Marvel at Cologne’s stunning cathedral, the half-timbered houses of Bernkastel-Kues and Cochem’s imposing Reichsburg Castle. There is also the chance to explore the UNESCO-listed historic centre of Strasbourg, before sailing through the Upper Rhine Valley and Grand Canal d’Alsace.

Ports of call: Düsseldorf, Germany – Cologne, Germany – Cruising Passage of Bonn – Remagen, Germany – Cruising Middle Moselle Valley – Bernkastel-Kues, Germany – Cochem, Germany - Cruising Lower Moselle Valley – Koblenz, Germany – Cruising the Middle Rhine Valley – Speyer, Germany – Strasbourg, France – Cruising Upper Rhine – Basel, Switzerland For more information: See R1814 'Exploring the Scenic Moselle Valley' / R1818 - 'Exploring the Scenic Moselle Valley' / R1822 - 'Exploring the Scenic Moselle Valley' All prices shown above are based on two adults sharing a twin-bedded room, and include accommodation, all meals and entertainment on board, plus port / airport taxes, flights and transfers, where applicable.

Guests can also choose to upgrade to Fred. Olsen’s ‘all-inclusive’ drinks package for just £15 per person, per night on its ocean cruises, and for just £10 per person, per night for the ‘Dining Drinks Upgrade’ on Brabant’s river cruises.

For further information on Fred.

Olsen Cruise Lines, visit the website at www.fredolsencruises.com. Book online, call Reservations on 0800 0355 242 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm; Saturday, 9am to 5pm; Sunday, 10am to 4pm), or visit an ABTA travel agent.

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Visit Scotland

Retrace Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger’s footsteps and journey through Edinburgh to the Highlands, immersing yourself in the wizarding world of Harry Potter through a four day tour.

DAY ONE: JK Rowling’s development of the wizarding world began in Edinburgh, so wander through the cobbled streets and winding alleys of the city’s Old Town to begin your adventure.

Visit the birthplaces of Harry’s adventures, The Elephant House and the Edinburgh Castle, and encourage your very own creative voice. JK Rowling’s handprints are set in stone at the Edinburgh City Chambers on the Royal Mile.

The Greyfriars Kirkyard is believed to be inspiration for the graveyard of Harry’s beloved and, as it’s only a short journey from The Elephant House, it has earned itself a spot on the whistle-stop tour.

JK Rowling spent her time wisely whilst she penned the final chapters of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by staying in The Balmoral Hotel.

Why not do the same?!

DAY TWO: Mimic the Hogwarts Express and witness beautiful views whilst on the train journey to Glasglow.

However, be warned: Death Easters boarded the train on the Rannoch Moor within Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part 1. Trade your chocolate frogs on the train journey to Fort William; the train should take

just under four hours. Or, you could drive to the Bo'Ness Motor Museum where Ron Weasley's Ford Anglia can be seen, as well as many exotic owl species at the Scottish Owl Centre.

Use the accommodation search to find the perfect place for you to stay the night in Fort William!

DAY THREE:

Book a seat on the Jacobite Steam Train, which travels along the West Highland Line, and observe truly spectacular views. The steam train starred as the Hogwarts Express taking Harry from platform 9 ¾ all the way to Hogwarts. Take the very same journey as Harry and his friends over the magnificent Glenfinnan

Scotland’s events portfolio continues

to thrive with funding awarded to 12 events

• Twelve events from across 10 local authorities are to benefit from nearly £100,000 of funding from EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate • Among them are five events receiving funding for the first time, including Cream o’ the Croft in Comrie Croft, Perthshire, and The Eliminator Mountain Bike Festival in Newburgh, Fife • The National Programme Fund plays an integral role in developing domestic tourism across Scotland by help grow the country’s diverse events portfolio Nearly £100,000 of funding has been awarded to 12 events and festivals across Scotland from the latest round of EventScotland’s National Programme Fund. Among them are Cream o’ the Croft and The Eliminator Mountain Bike Festival, two of five events and festivals receiving funding for the first time from EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate.

Taking place in June and August respectively, and organised by Muckmedden Ltd, the two familyfriendly mountain bike events offer more than just your average mountain bike festival. With something for everyone, including mountain bike racing, live music, gourmet food and drink, and wild camping, the two events are the perfect book ends to the summer. Both events have been awarded £5,000 each to enhance the PR and marketing support and activity around the event, including video production and online advertising.

Aaron Gray, Events Director at

Muckmedden Ltd, said: “We would like to sincerely thank EventScotland for their invaluable support with Cream o’ the Croft and The Eliminator. The generous funding we have been awarded will allow us to promote both of our familyfriendly festivals to all of the UK. The investment also gives us the freedom to significantly improve the quality of infrastructure and entertainment at both venues as we seek to attract not only mountain bikers, but young families and music festival-goers to Highland Perthshire and Fife.”

Also receiving funding is Bonfest, the three-day rock music festival that celebrates the life and music of the AC/DC legend Bon Scott. Held in his home town of Kirriemuir, and organised by Scottish charity DD8 Music, this is the third year the festival has received funding from EventScotland. Over that time the funding has helped the festival expand its offer and increase its attendance, with a record attendance of 6,000 from 27 countries turning out across the three days for last year’s festival. This year the festival has been awarded £9,332 towards increasing the capacity and quality of the campsite as well as for staging in Bellies Brae car park, next to the Bon Scott Statue, that will showcase young bands as part of Scotland’s Year of Young People 2018.

Graham Galloway, DD8 Music Chairperson, said: "DD8 Music are delighted that Bonfest is being supported for the third year by the National Programme Fund. The fund has enabled the festival to

grow significantly over the past few years, and we would have found this very difficult to achieve without the help and support of EventScotland.

As a youth music charity, we are very excited to be one of the many amazing Year of Young People events happening all over Scotland, which are celebrating the talent and ambition of our upcoming generation."

The National Programme Fund supports the strategic development of events which occur outside of Edinburgh and Glasgow, with the aim of driving tourism, delivering economic impact for local communities and generating media profile for Scotland. Since 2008, EventScotland has invested more than £3.9m into 363 events across the country. Building on existing event activities, extending marketing reach and enhancing the on-site food and drink offer are just some of the ways funding is put to use by events and festivals. Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s Director of Events, said: “We are delighted to be funding these 12 amazing events and festivals from the latest round of EventScotland’s National Programme Fund. Taking place across 10 local authorities between May and October, these events and festivals will bring real impact by attracting visitors and driving economic impact in their local area. “The National Programme Fund plays a vital role in maintaining Scotland’s reputation as the perfect stage for events and it is through events like these that we can ensure we continue to have a dynamic events portfolio that benefits everyone.”

Viaduct. Explore the small, lively harbour village in Mallaig and treat yourself to lunch!

DAY FOUR: Spend the final day wandering through some of the most beautiful scenic spots in the Highlands and feel the magical atmosphere. The short walking route at Steall Falls

is a popular choice as the waterfall is featured during the Triwizard Tournament within Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

The Clachaig Inn in Glen Coe was a filming location for Hagrid's Hut within Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. The hut is no longer erected, however the landscape

remains the same! Take a welldeserved break and enjoy some food and refreshments.

Finally, you can take a trip to Loch Etive in Glen Etive – the place that Harry was dropped after escaping Gringott’s Bank! The surrounding glen is a fan favourite and is stunning.

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Take the family for a trip to the Brecon Beacons National Park whilst in Wales and enjoy a broad

assembly of attractions and activities!

STARGAZING: The entire Brecon Beacons National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve and has some of the highest quality skies throughout the whole of the UK which makes it a first choice for many to enjoy stargazing as the contrast of the stars against the beautiful dark sky allows for a truly brilliant stargazing experience. There are also many nocturnal animals that venture out in the night that you will be able to spot with your binoculars!

You may be able to spot some of the rarest creatures of the night such as barn owls, horseshoe bats, foxes, badgers, dormice, hedgehogs, moths and insects.

MOUNTAIN BIKING: Enjoy beautiful views whilst cycling throughout the stunning scenery within the National Park and simultaneously participating in a healthy bout of exercise and spending plenty of time in the fresh air with family and friends. Bikes can be hired from the park where guests can enjoy a range of packages such as a modest one day bike ride to a complete set including equipment, accommodation, routes and guides.

A range of different terrains are available for guests to discover such as lanes and hillside tracks.

FISHING: Whether you’re an avid fisherman or a complete newbie, turn your hand to fishing at the National Park and experience fishing in rivers,

canals, lakes and reservoirs within The River Wye, The River Usk, Talybont Reservoir, Usk Reservoir, Llangorse Lake, or the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. All participants are required to hold a Rod Licence.

HORSE RIDING: Horse lovers are also welcomed at the National Park as the stunning scenery spans over 600 miles of bridle paths and tracks. Guests can also enjoy a relaxing pub lunch whilst exploring as facilities also cater for the horses. Experience quality trekking, riding and hacking holidays, short rides and pony trekking.

GROUP ACTIVITIES: Experienced coordinators can help to create a package of activities including mental exercises or physical challenges for an afternoon of fun with your family and friends. Take advantage of the group activities at the Brecon Beacons National Park where a variety of activity sessions can be booked such as: water activities, i.e. Canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, whitewater rafting, raft building, sailing, windsurfing; walking and riding, i.e. Hill walking, orienteering, geocaching, cycling, mountain biking, quad biking, horse riding, pony trekking; nature and skills building, i.e. Navigation, bushcraft, wildlife-watching, archery, clay pigeon shooting as well as exploration activities, i.e. Caving, rock climbing, abseiling, gorge walking, ropes and zip wires.

It is important to note that before partaking in outdoor activities, a thorough visit to the Brecon Beacons National Park’s website is recommend ensuring that all essential equipment can be obtained. Also, check the weather forecast to allow for proper preparation for the course of nature. Ensure family and friends are aware of your location and always take local advice about any natural hazards you might encounter. Contact a local guide, instructor or organised group and follow the Countryside Code and the Waterways Code.

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 hotspots, 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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Be Inspired to Go Wild at

our Bute Park Pop-up Garden

The Wildlife Trust debuts first ever Pop-Up Wildlife Garden in the Wildlife garden by Margaret Samuels Capital.

Did you know that there is more space managed as garden in the UK than all nature reserves put together?

Imagine what a difference we could make if everyone did something for wildlife in their gardens.

The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales are reaching out to Cardiff residents to encourage people to garden with wildlife in mind.

The Wildlife Trust’s ‘My Wild Cardiff’ project, funded with the generous support of the players of People's Postcode Lottery, is helping people around Cardiff welcome their wildlife neighbours into their gardens.

As part of the My Wild Cardiff project, The Wildlife Trust are creating a ‘Pop-up’ Wildlife Garden in Cardiff’s largest park. Designed by Shani Lawrence Garden Designs, the garden features a pond, a living lawn, a green roof and plenty of homes for wildlife. The temporary garden will serve to inspire visitors and give them ideas as to how they can improve their own gardens for wildlife.

Rose Revera, The Wildlife Trust’s People and Wildlife Officer who is running the My Wild Cardiff project, says “Anything that people can do in their gardens to create more habitat for wildlife in the area Creating a network of green areas them being confined to a single green educate and inspire people to help 7th August until Sunday 20th August, Come and visit us! For more will help species such as hedgehogs, will strengthen the populations that area with limited resources. We hope their wild neighbours.” The garden 10:30am – 6pm. Find us next to the information, contact Rose via 01656 bumblebees, butterflies and birds. are seriously struggling, rather than that our pop-up wildlife garden will will be open to visitors from Monday Summerhouse Café in Bute Park.

724100

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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 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.

Do you believe in love at FIR sight? You Will.

Invest in a holiday home or lodge at Fir Trees Caravan and Lodge Park on the edge of Chester and you will be transported to a place of serenity and tranquillity.

You’ll know you’ve made a good choice as soon as you enter the park in its countryside setting full of the sounds of nature.

It’s easy to imagine yourself relaxing on your veranda with a book, or simply taking in the

countryside air. You’ve discovered Chester’s best kept secret!

Fir Trees is located only 1.5 miles of Chester City Centre where you will find a wealth of amenities and facilities.

It’s also the ideal location for exploring North Wales - just a short drive from the area’s beautiful beaches and, for the more adventurous, all the outdoor activities that the region offers.

Owning a second home on a

prestigious five-star park like Fir Trees may seem like a dream, but with prices starting from £24,995, it can become a reality.

Fir Trees Caravan and Lodge Park has an 11-month holiday season making it possible to enjoy your holiday stays for longer and more often throughout the year For more information call 01244 398365 or visit www. firtreescaravanpark.com

Upgrade your lifestyle experience to a

holiday home in beautiful North Wales

Do you dream of owning a caravan holiday home in beautiful North Wales, with its luscious landscapes and captivating coastline? Or perhaps wish to upgrade to the very latest model? Roy Kellett Caravans want to help you do just that! Roy Kellett Caravans are inviting the general public to their 2017 Holiday Home Exhibition at their showground in Towyn to see the most up-to-date 2017 Caravan Holiday Homes from all the top manufacturers between Good Friday 14th of April until 23rd of April. Roy Kellett Caravan Distributors specialise in selling both beautifully sculptured and affordable holiday homes from the leading manufacturers onto privately owned caravan parks across all of North Wales and Cheshire.

The team at Roy Kellett Caravans are on hand when assisting you in making the decision of the right holiday home for you. Whether you’re after a new or preowned holiday home, or can’t decide against 2 or 3 bedrooms, the friendly staff at Roy Kellett Caravans will provide you with all the information and advice you

need to make that decision. New to ownership? Roy Kellett Caravans deal with 100’s of privately owned caravan parks across North Wales and Cheshire, from the Llyn Peninsula to the Wirral, with some park owners being at the exhibition themselves.

With park owners and staff at hand during the event, help is at hand to narrow down your park options before the next holiday season starts.

Finding you the perfect park which suits all your needs, in the most perfect location.

Roy Kellett Caravans can recommend the best parks suited to you, the area you prefer, your lifestyle, the activities you enjoy and your budget, offering you parks you never knew existed.

Roy Kellett Caravans 2017 Holiday Home Exhibition will take place over the 14th and 23rd April, where not only will the latest caravans be showcased from top manufacturers including; ABI, Atlas, Carnaby, Regal, Swift and Willerby but there will be discounts on pre 2017 models!

Making sure there is something to suit all taste and budgets. Roy Kellett

Caravans, Sales Manager Jennifer Hughes, says ‘we have a wealth of knowledge and have been the leading suppliers of caravan holiday homes since 1965’, making Roy Kellett Caravans the perfect choice when looking to purchase a holiday home.

Hughes and the rest of the team are determined when looking to exceed a customer’s expectations and will do all they can to ‘offer customers with parks to suit their particular taste, budget and holiday style.’

Hughes prides herself on introducing customers to ‘parks you never knew existed’, finding hidden gems throughout North wales and Cheshire which tick all the boxes.

Head down to North Wales largest holiday home exhibition at Roy Kellett Caravan Showground in Towyn between the 14th and 23rd Aprtil to view all the latest releases from the biggest manufacturers in the industry and start the journey towards your dream holiday home.

For more information on buying a static caravan holiday home or the parks we deal with visit www. roykellettcaravans.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 hedge-bound 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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Go Wild at Walby during the May Lancashire libraries Half Term. (Sat 26 May Sun 3 June) take part in Mental

Pull on your wellies and take a walk to the nature trail, where you will discover the Creature Creek! Join our outdoor Explorer and ‘Expert’ Kerry Nutkins for Pond dipping sessions at Creature Creek and see what you can discover lurking under the water at Walby!

The Ugly Bug Trail is on daily, located around the Farm Park you’ll need to find and record all the Ugly bugs, this is seriously good family fun, however we are counting on you to find the bugs, so they don’t interfere with the Professors invention!

Professor Wilbur Walby will be here to retune TBC (The Big Computer), as

we think it has caught ‘bugs’. Wilbur Walby had a real job at Easter trying to unscramble the eggs from around the farm and this time his wonderful invention is really playing up! Shows taking place each day throughout the holidays.

Have you ever sat in a Fire engine or tried on a policeman’s hat? Here at Walby we are celebrating Emergency Services Day on Wed 30 May, where we will be joined by the Police Dog handlers, Blood bikes, The Fire Brigade and Police. (emergency call outs permitting) Join in the informative talk sessions and have a sit on the blood bikes, meet the

Police Dogs and listen out for the sound of the emergency siren.

So much to do, you’ll need all day…

New Go Karts, Trampolines, Dig and play, Cheer on the Goat Racing, Meet the Rabbits, Meet the Guinea Pigs, budding farmers are invited to help us with the Lamb and Goat bottle feeding.

A huge indoor soft play and lots of outdoor space Walby Farm Park is a great day out for all the family.

Walby Farm Park is easily reached from Junc 44 of the M6 and located just outside Carlisle. The Farm Park lies in the Solway basin, a mile away from the River Eden and is built on top of the line of Hadrian’s wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Open Daily 10am-6pm To pre-book tickets and SAVE online www.walbyfarmpark.co.uk 01228 573056

Health Awareness Week

Lancashire libraries and two local further education colleges will be working in partnership to promote Mental Health Awareness Week from Monday 14 May to Sunday 20 May. The theme of this year's Mental Health Awareness Week is stress and how we’re coping with it.

Activities in Lancashire will focus on the mental health of young people.

Students from Preston's College and Cardinal Newman College have been creating art pieces over the last few months. The work they have produced, based on their personal reviews of the Reading Well Books for Young People, will be exhibited during the week.

The first event, displaying the work of Preston's College students, will be held on Tuesday 15 May at 2.30pm at The Harris, in Preston.

Cardinal Newman College students will then exhibit their work on Friday 18 May at 11am, also at The Harris, Preston. The selection of Reading Well books in libraries includes collections of self-help books chosen by health professionals, covering common mental health conditions such as anxiety, stress, depression, eating disorders and self-harm. The books are suitable for adults, children and their carers.

County Councillor Peter Buckley, Lancashire County Council's cabinet member for community and cultural services, said: "I'm pleased that we are taking part in this national week. It is important that everyone can access appropriate information about mental health and wellbeing, and it is also vital to recognise that there are things we can do to promote our own wellbeing and increase our resilience.

"This gives us a great opportunity to focus on the range of information, guidance and support to help young people.

"I'm sure that we all know what it’s like to feel stressed.

But when you’re overwhelmed by stress it may lead to mental health problems or make existing problems worse, especially for a younger person.

"Mental Health Awareness Week 2018 is a great time to think about how we can all address the causes of stress, and help to cope with it.

"I hope that people go along to The Harris to take a look at the work of the young people, and also call in at a library and see the range of information that is available."

You can call in at your local library to find out more and take a look at the resources that are available.

Anyone who lives or works in Lancashire can join a Lancashire library, either online or by visiting in person.

Membership is free and there are no age restrictions.

More information about Reading Well Books on Prescription is available at www.lancashire.gov.uk/ libraries-and-archives/libraries/reading-for-health For more information about Mental Health Awareness Week, visit www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mentalhealth-awareness-week More information about Lancashire libraries is available at http://www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries www.lancashire. gov.uk/libraries, or by calling 0300 123 6703.

Historic railway officially launches

significant new steam locomotive

This weekend The Ravenglass Preservation Society are delighted to locomotive Whillan Beck. In service capable of handling the busiest of look forward to the locomotive continuing as a significant new and Eskdale Railway Preservation be formally launching and naming on the railway since March, it has trains on the railway; a remarkable delivering reliable service to the attraction for the railway."

Society will officially launch their their magnificent new Krauss steam already proven itself to be more than feat after 85 years stored in Spain. We railway for decades to come and newest addition to join the historic Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway visitor attraction on the West Coast of Cumbria.

The magnificent new Krauss steam locomotive formerly known as ‘The Train from Spain’ will be officially named ‘Whillan Beck’ at a special naming ceremony at 12 noon on Saturday 5 May. During the ceremony the dedicated team who have worked tirelessly to get Whillan Beck into service will be thanked and celebrated. The locomotive has been in service since March at Ravenglass but the first public train after the official naming ceremony will depart Ravenglass at 15.10 on Saturday 5 May. The new addition to The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway would not have been possible without the innovative fundraising initiative ‘The Train from Spain Appeal’.

The locomotive was brought from Spain, where it has had a chequered history from its build in 1929.

Extensive works were carried out over two years to bring the locomotive into working order.

Mr Sam Dixon, Hon. Chairman for The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway Preservation Society says; "Fifty years after introducing their steam locomotive River Mite to the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, the

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From garden shows to private art lessons: make an escape with Maritim Hotels, Germany

Now that the sun is out and the temperatures are starting to rise, it’s time to make the most of the great outdoors. Maritim Hotels’ latest range of packages and activities across its properties in Germany will

enable guests to enjoy a wide range of unique experiences.

Green fingers in Wurzburg From April to October 2018, northern Bavaria will showcase one of Europe’s largest contemporary international

garden design, landscape architecture and green urban lifestyle festivals.

Set on 95 hectares, the Horticultural Show will feature numerous themed gardens, including play and adventure areas. It will also examine the latest nature and gardening trends, as well as new urban gardening and mobility methods. A dedicated exhibition will lead visitors through the region’s multifaceted and diverse agriculture history.

For green fingered guests, the Maritim Hotel Würzburg has the perfect package. In addition to a one-day pass to the garden festival, visitors can enjoy a complimentary glass of local Mainmuehlenschoppen wine and three sausages on the nearby Mainbrueke bridge, which offers breath-taking views of the city.

After a day exploring the garden show, guests can unwind at the hotel, which is situated on the banks of the river Main and features 287 elegantly furnished rooms and suites. Facilities include an exclusive fitness area, swimming pool, sauna and saunarium.

For a hearty start to the day, guests can enjoy Maritim’s signature lavish breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant, complete with terrace view of the Marienberg Fortress.

The hotel’s renowned “Viaggio” Restaurant” offers authentic regional dishes. After a day exploring the horticultural show, guests can unwind with a drink at hotel’s Franconian Wine bar or at the ‘Mainhattan’’ bar famed for its wide range of rare

wines, signature cocktails and vintage whiskies.

The package is available from 1 April to 7 October 2018. Prices begin from €204 for two nights’ accommodation in a single room, along with Maritim’s signature breakfast buffet. For more information, please call +49 (0) 391 3053-0 or email: info.wur@maritim. com.

Munching through Munich As part of hotel’s famed ‘Taste’ event, held several times a year, foodies at the Maritim Hotel München will be spoiled with a unique blend of gastronomy, fine wines and a programme of extravagant

entertainment. On 23 June 2018, guests at the interactive “Dolce Vita 43” event can prepare Mediterranean specialities themselves by hand, accompanied by top quality liquors.

The newly renovated hotel, which is ideally located between the city’s main railway station (the site of the Oktoberfest) and Stachus square, has 347 elegantly furnished rooms and suites. Hotel facilities include a panorama rooftop pool, which offers stunning views of the city centre and the historic Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche). Additional features include a fitness area, while a sauna and steam bath offer the perfect

opportunity for some well-earned rest and relaxation. Guests can enjoy Maritim’s signature lavish breakfast at the‘‘Rötisserie’’ Restaurant, which includes a wide range of hot and cold seasonal produce, including sparkling wine and fresh smoked salmon, while the hotel’s renowned ‘‘Wintergarten Restaurant’’ offers regional and international specialities for lunch and dinner. In the hotel’s beer garden, visitors can experience a taste of Bavarian culture, with a refreshing glass of local beer (Maß) and sampling platter, the adjacent Pianorbar, famed for its cocktails and rare whiskies.

The Mediterranean summer extravaganza costs €105 per person, accommodation is not included. For more information, please call +49 (0) 89 55235-0 or email: taste@maritim. com.

Learn to paint with the artist himself Budding artists can test their creative skills during Art Week at the Maritim Hotel Kaiserhorf Heringsdorf. With expert instruction by acclaimed artist Bern Maro at the hotel’s fully equipped studio, the package is available from 1 October and 2 November 2018 and includes seven nights’ accommodation in a Classic Plus room including Maritim’s signature breakfast buffet, seven evening meals as part of the half-board plan, art materials and complimentary use of the swimming pools.

With picturesque views of the Baltic sea and its white, sandy shores, the designer hotel offers budding artists plenty of inspiration in addition to its 143 rooms and suites. Set

amongst exotic palm trees, guests at “Palmengarten” restaurant, can sample a wide range of freshly caught fish and mouth watering dishes. For bibliophiles, the hotel’s comprehensive library houses over 5,000 books, while the exclusive “Vitalgarten” wellness facility offers

countless opportunities for pampering with a lengthy list of holistic health and beauty treatments. Prices start at €545 for a single room. Private art lessons by Bern Maro are available on request.For more information, please call +49 (0) 38378 65-0 or email: info.her@maritim.com.

Join a walk with a

Lake District expert With record numbers of visitors set to head to the Lake District this year, a team of seasoned walkers who guide groups across the landscape are dusting off their walking boots ready for the first guided walk of the year this weekend.

People take to the hundreds of routes around the Lake District year-afteryear, exploring mountains, fells, tarns, caves and lakes, but not all are confident enough to navigate their way through unknown territory.

In a bid to make the landscape accessible to visitors and encourage those with varying levels of experience to explore the Lake District, the National Park Authority recruits a group of expert volunteers to lead guided walks each year.

Beth Kennedy, Volunteer Team Leader at Lake District National Park said: “A guided walk gives visitors the opportunity to be led through the Lakes by a real expert with years of experience hiking across these hills. They can leave their map and compass at home and relax knowing they’re in safe hands!

“Locals also enjoy exploring the Lake District in this way as it’s a really sociable way to get outdoors. It doesn’t matter what level of walking experience you have, there are routes for all abilities.”

The Lake District, which boasts peaks topping 900 metres, lakes stretching for miles, 13 valleys and more than 200 fell tops, attracts more than 18 million visitors each year.

A new schedule of walks for 2018 will set-off this Sunday with a guided route of ‘Hills, Gills and Falls’ in Coniston, and multiple routes per month will follow until the end of October. Guided tours even include hikes to the summit of world-famous peaks Scafell Pike and Helvellyn, which was this year voted Britain’s favourite walk.

Beth Kennedy added: “We have a fantastic, dedicated and experienced team of volunteers who are extremely passionate about the Lake District.

They guide more than 2,500 walkers

each year and they couldn’t be more excited to pull on their walking boots and kick-start a new season.”

Lake District National Park volunteer walk leader, Tricia Brown, said: “Our guided walks are categorised by ‘easy’, ‘moderate’ and ‘hard’ to be suitable for a range of ages and levels of experience; from people looking for a gentle amble to those seeking an adventurous hike.

You could find yourself exploring ancient caves, staring up at wild waterfalls, exploring historical houses or of course looking onto the beautiful lakes.”

Prices to join a guided walk vary from free to £10 and all proceeds are put straight back in to protecting the Lake District National Park. To see the full schedule and book your place visit: www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/the-blog/blogposts/slipped-up-planning-your-route

Don't Miss Bowland's

Spring Wildlife Events!

Whilst the weather might not have made up its mind completely yet, there's a definite feeling of spring in the air, so what better time to go on the lookout for Bowland's wildlife highlights? not join the RSPB for the first moorland walk of the season on Saturday14th April from Slaidburn and see how many upland birds you can spot? If you can’t make that date there will be another chance on the 28th.

Wyre Coast and Countryside Service will be heading off on a Tramper Trek from Claughton looking for lapwings and hares on the morning of the 21st and walkers too are very welcome. If you have a pair of binoculars make sure you pack them.

Also on the 21st, this time in the afternoon, is a ramble by the River Hodder in Newton – a great spot to look for wildflowers, birds and insects.

Back over to Wyre for an evening whimbrel watch on Wednesday 25th to catch a sight of these beautiful birds as they come in to roost and then a Sunday morning walk to search for snipes and hares around Bleasdale on the 29th.

Saturday 5th May has a choice of two events: a springtime wander

around Garstang and Barnacre in the morning, or a journey into the Langden valley looking for the beautiful Green Hairstreak butterfly and amazing Emperor moth in the afternoon.

We’ll be celebrating International Dawn Chorus Day on Sunday 6th May with an early start in Whitendale

followed by a well-earned hot breakfast at the café in Dunsop Bridge. If 5.30am is a little too early then a springtime walk around Nicky Nook near Scorton from 10am might just do the trick. Enthusiasts might even be able to make the first of this year’s bluebell tea walks over in Calder Vale that afternoon as well!

Full event information and booking details are available on the Forest of Bowland AONB website at www. forestofbowland.com/Festival-Bowland-Events

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There’s more to

Lancashire than hotpot!

Discover the diversity of Lancashire's food and drink on a visit to this scenic county and you won't be disappointed.

Dine on succulent seafood in

Morecambe Bay, purchase awardwinning sausages in Clitheroe's famous sausage shop and find local produce at farmers markets and farm

shops. Indulge in a gourmet feast of food and drink in Lancashire’s highly acclaimed restaurants, relax in cosy pubs.

What could be more appealing than a piping hot pot of tea accompanied by a slab of chocolate cake in a café or tea room?

You can always be confident in finding quality.

Food is now one of the nation's favourite pastimes and as the

Ribble Valley has some of the finest producers and restaurateurs in the country.

The recipe for traditional Lancashire cheese known as Creamy & Tasty is unique in Britain in that it blends the curds from different milkings which creates a cheese with depth of flavour, added complexity and a texture that gives an ideal melting consistency.

Crumbly Lancashire is the most recent addition to the family of Lancashire cheeses.

It was created in the 1960s as a lighter more acidic cheese and, unlike Creamy and Tasty, is made from the curds of one day's milking. Farmers Markets have grown in popularity over the past few years, and are noted for the quality of their fine locally produced stock, cheeses and meat products.

Lancashire's farm shops sell local produce which often has been grown, picked, reared or made on the farm where the farm shop is located.

Discover the delights of Lancashire's food at one of Lancashire's many exciting food festivals and events throughout the year. Coupled with visits to some of the most scenic countryside in the UK Lancashire has a fine feast to offer.

Dine in our out, relax and enjoy!

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Keep Active Mobility is topping the table with its gold standard

MOBILITY specialists Keep Active Mobility is topping the table with its gold standard customer care and Olympic-sized passion for premium products.

The independent, family run business offers a wide range of products to help people maintain the freedom they've always enjoyed, from powered and manual wheelchairs,

scooters and Rollators as well as rise and recline chairs, and living aids.

With 28 years in the industry, business owner Philip Rawlinson previously supplied 1,000 manual wheelchairs and 480 scooters to elite sports stars and distinguished visitors (CHECK) during both the London Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012.

Now customers in Oldham and across

the North West can benefit from his extensive knowledge and excellent industry contacts to get the perfect product - at a price that is right.

Established in 2014, Keep Active Mobility provides all manner of competitively priced specialised living aids to cater for individual needs Customers looking to get out and about more easily can browse the

PAIN RELIEF FOUNDATION

WHAT IS PAIN?

Most people do not think of pain until it affects them personally, or those close to them; then they are able to think of almost nothing else.

The terrible scourge of chronic pain remains one of the last unconquered frontier of medicine.

A recent survey found that 7% of adults in the UK, that’s about 4 million people live in more or less constant pain from non-fatal causes. 70% of them are taking pain killers without obtaining any relief from their pain!

And they have a life-sentence (often a long one) from such conditions as arthritis, neuralgia, shingles, diabetic neuropathy, painful strokes, pain following limb amputation (phantom limb) or backache – all very painful, but not fatal. In March this year, a 58 year old woman suffering from

trigeminal neuralgia (facial pain – also known as the ‘suicide pain’ because it is so agonising) killed herself to avoid further pain. She had been suffering for 5 years, but in December 2013 she threw herself from the top floor of a car-park because the pain was so excruciating.

The pictures in our feature below show how limbs can be distorted and useless for someone suffering from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Almost nothing is known about CRPS and patients suffer the most terrible agony. Most Cancer charities have trust deeds which specify that they must only spend their Funds (which exceeds £billions each year in the UK) on the cause and cure of cancer; so, to their regret, they are unable to fund research into the

alleviation of pain in cancer; which is one of this Foundation’s priorities.

It is only through the research and educational work carried out in our Pain Research Institute that progress can be made in improving knowledge of chronic pain and its relief, and in training the specialists who will carry it out. But that depends entirely on YOUR support and the support of the public.

range of portable, mid-sized and large scooters, priced from £150, as well as electric Powerchairs suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Choose from a selection of lightweight, medical or self-propel wheelchairs, and associated accessories, and check out the collection of clever living aids including practical folding walking sticks and key safes for added security.

Visit the wheelchair accessible (CHECK) store in Ashton Road, Hathershaw or the easy to navigate website www.keepactivemobility. co.uk to see first-hand why customers from as far as Southport and Preston are choosing to shop at Keep Active Mobility.

Philip, from Austerlands, said: "I've been in the industry since I was 12 years old and worked my way up from servicing to sales to company director.

"As a smaller, independent business, we take pride in the fact that we listen to our customers and find out what they want to achieve.

"We have built up an excellent rapport with our loyal customers over the years, some of whom I've been helping for almost 20 years.

"There are no aggressive sales tactics, gimmicks or confusing prices.

"What you see is what you get - quality products, clear pricing and a friendly team ready to help in any way we can."

Customer choice is paramount at Keep Active Mobility.

The company sells the most reliable scooters and powered products on

the market each with a 12month warranty, but also offers refurbished items serviced to the highest industry standards with a six month warranty.

As sole contractors servicing almost 50 mobility scooters at the Westfield Shopping Centre in London (CHECK), the company has invested heavily in the latest diagnostic equipment and battery testing.

As such, clients can take advantage of the convenient inhouse servicing from just £20 for regular checks and maintenance.

Most repairs can be completed at the customer's own home but if more extensive work is needed, replacement scooters and wheelchairs are available at no extra cost to keep inconvenience to a minimum.

And for extra peace of mind, the company works with three insurance companies offering a variety of different insurance packages to purchase.

Customers who would like to try a scooter or wheelchair before they buy can utilise the Keep Active Mobility hire service, to test out their selected product and ensure it is just right for them.

Philip, who regularly attends trade shows to find the most innovative products, said the company's low running costs and longstanding business relationships with manufacturers means savings are passed directly onto the customer - great news for

shoppers who want the best for less.

He said: "We are confident in every product that we buy or sell, and we've spent a lot on diagnostic equipment so we can be 100 per cent sure that an item is going to work perfectly.

"In this business, reliability is key and I've worked very hard to keep us at the standard that we are at."

He added: "We're in this for the long term and that is why customer satisfaction, not sales, is our top priority.

"I always put myself in the customer's shoes and try to get a picture of their needs and requirements so we can pinpoint the best products to suit their lifestyle.

"We offer free, impartial advice and invite customers to visit our shop or website and ask us any questions they have."

Keep Active Mobility is based at 344 Ashton Road, Oldham, OL8 3ED. Opening hours are Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday 10am to 2pm and closed Sunday.

Call them on 0161 258 2388 or email keepactivemobility@yahoo.co.uk Alternatively visit www.keepactivemobility.co.uk or our shop website shop.keepactivemobility.co.uk

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Big screen boost for Art & Soul Tattoo Studio

business and town centre

An impressive digital screen which will provide a boost for businesses and the town centre has being installed on Tuesday, May 1 The electrics have already been laid and the 15sqm rotating screen is being lifted into place in King William Street, Blackburn, by a crane.

Businesses will be able to advertise on the screen which is due to go live on May 9 following testing. The project is self-funding and the income generated will be put back into providing front line council services.

The screen has the ability to show events and is expected to draw crowds into the popular area close to Blackburn Town Hall. It will also be

used to promote community events and initiatives such as the National Festival of Making in the town centre on May 12 and 13.

The initiative follows the success of the digital screen at the busy Larkhill junction on Barbara Castle Way which is popular with businesses and is seen by more than 600,000 people a fortnight.

A section of the pedestrianised area in front of the town hall has been closed while the installation takes place today but the town hall is open as usual with access via Exchange Street. The council apologises for any inconvenience. Denise Park, Deputy Chief Executive of Blackburn

with Darwen Council, said: We are always looking at ways to generate income which can be put into front line services.

More and more organisations are requesting digital advertising and this is the type of technology which is found in modern cities. It demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that the borough is a vibrant place for business to thrive and invest money in. The screen is also a fantastic way to highlight the great events which take place all over the borough and to bring people together.

To advertise on either screen contact Blackburn with Darwen Advertising on 01254 585551.

Penrith Beer Festival at

Richard III’s former residence Dockray Hall, 18th – 20 May 2018

Dockray Hall is holding its first ever beer festival in Penrith this year featuring over 30 different beers from across the UK. There is a stunning selection of beers from 15 leading brewers including Marble, Brew by Numbers, Magic Rock, Beavertown, Salopian and Tiny Rebel.

There will be 8 beers from our own brewery, Cumbrian Legendary Ales including Loweswater Gold, American Invasion and Grasmoor Dark. The brewery has also created a

unique, one-off brew especially for the Penrith beer festival: Bloody Crown which is a hoppy red ale named in recognition of Dockray Hall's historic links with King Richard III. Head Chef, Steve Pott, has created a menu for the event with hand-held dishes which will include Wagyu beef burger, slow roasted leg of pork bap & Thai green chicken curry.

Speaking about the festival, owner Roger Humphreys said, Craft beer is booming in the UK

and the first beer festival at Dockray Hall will feature the cream of British brewing. Situated in this 15th Century building where Richard once resided we think this will be a really successful weekend and become a regular event.

1 May 2018 For further information please contact Janice Hodgson Tel 01768210676 info@dockrayhall.com www.dockrayhall.com

Art & Soul Tattoo Studio, a Leyland based, well established studio Nick opened in 2001. Through all the changes Leyland has seen this particular shop has weathered every storm.

With many, many regulars and more clients being added weekly this studio is very well settled. Nick Bleasdale found his passion in art at a young age, influenced by his \father, also a talented artist.

He spent many years travelling most of the country, often requested for personally, he could be on a journey to the top of Scotland at the start of the week and in devon by the end !

He settled in Leyland and attended Preston University of Central Lancashire where he obtained his degree in fine art and illustration.

By 1998 he and a friend were commissioned to paint a large 19ft mural in St. Georges shopping centre, Preston.

Nick’s first passion may well be tattoos, he is also accomplished with various other mediums including - airbrush, paintbrush, pencil or charcoal and loves to do portraits, murals, recently completing a full wall in the local Unicorn pub, Preston.

Nick’s studio is a friendly place, you are more than welcome to drop in for a chat, provided of course he’s not snowed under, as he often is, you can have a brew and get involved in some interesting discussions on many subjects !

In his spare time he enjoys playing numerous instruments, including guitar, mandolin, banjo, drums, penny whistle, flute and will often turn his hand to whatever instrument that has been passed to him. He also has being more than exemplary in the art. piece of art, you are more than a passion for magic and card tricks, So if you’re thinking of that special welcome to pop in for a chat.

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TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF ORGANISING WEDDING

TRANSPORT via http://www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk

The Kings Ferry tells us how to take the stress out of organising your wedding transport!

How do we get to the venue? Is there going to be enough parking? How will Nan and Grandad get there?

Sorry we are running late!

These are not things you want to hear on your big day, but getting guests to your venue without a hitch can be difficult and one the of most stressful parts of wedding preparation. There have been numerous discussions on

how to best deal with the stresses of travel on your wedding day, and here are some of the regular hints and tips: •You invitations should state your exact ceremony/reception time •Is your venue accessible enough for both you and your guests?

•Organise extra parking facilities with the venue/or find out about local parking areas for your guests to leave their vehicles Make sure your venue can be found using a Sat Nav (and if not, give

alternative directions!)

Although these pointers are good (and some of them you definitely need to do), it is still not going to stop the questions. The bigger your wedding, the bigger the worry is and the last thing you want to be doing is rushing around checking your guests are okay when really you should be getting yourself ready. So we have created the perfect solution for you.

LUXURY GROUP TRANSPORT Give your guests a taste of the high

life on-board a VIP coach with premium features such as: a star-lit rear lounge, state of the art sound system, RGB colour mood lighting, catering and hostess service and much more.

When your guests step onto one of our state of the art coaches, they will be able to sit back and relax in leather, air craft style seating and pop open some bubbly to help start the celebrations.

The coach’s layout is perfect for

on-board mingling, so forget the awkward silences between courses and after dinner, your guests will be well acquainted and ready to enjoy your big day when they arrive in style to your wedding venue.

To avoid guests being late and to make sure no one is left at home, we can organise dedicated pick up and drop off points for your family and friends. This can be a single, central location, or we offer a shuttle service, so no matter where they live, your

guests are picked up and dropped home safely at the end of the night.

So what are you waiting for?

Take the stress out of wedding day transport for both you and your guests by using our luxury group transport services.

To find out more, visit The Kings Ferry website: http://www.thekingsferry. co.uk and to have a look around one of our beautiful VIP coaches, head over to stand V1 at this years National Wedding Show at London Excel.

PLANNING THE ULTIMATE HEN PARTY via www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk

If you’re starting to think about planning a perfect hen party, whether you’re the bride or the tribe, take a look at some of the best hen party ideas we’ve found to inspire you.

Sun, Sea and Sand One of the most popular choices for hen weekends nowadays is to head abroad. Hen parties are the perfect excuse for an exotic getaway to Malaga or Benidorm for a cocktail fuelled beach party, with some pretty reasonably priced adults-only hotels on the beach front or by the strip. You could even do a long weekend city break to Amsterdam or Dublin with your gal pals – the only limit really is your budget.

Royal Wedding Weekend Why miss out on the Royal Wedding extravaganza? Start

the day early with cocktails and canapes whilst you watch days and get those face masks in, order a pizza or 12 and the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle get talk about boys. underway. May is the prime time for hen parties, being outside of school holidays and just a little bit cheaper than going in the summer months. So if you’ve planned your hen do for the 19th May, make it a royal party to remember. The wedding commences at 1pm, so why not arrange an afternoon tea with your nearest and dearest.

Adrenaline Junkies If a day in the spa is not your thing, that’s ok! Why not organise an action-packed weekend with the girls. You could get the adrenaline going at Go Ape or with a bit of gorge-walking, or there are even plenty of companies that organise some crazy inflatable games perfect for hen dos. Pick each other up at the end of the day with a pro cocktail making class so you can show off when you get back home – Be at One Hen Hub is DEFINITELY recommended for some serious shaking!

Woodland Getaway Whether you’re happy to fork out for a Centerparcs chalet where there are shops, restaurants and water parks at your fingertips (yes, waterparks!), or you’re quite happy to go with a more budget-friendly cabin or AirBnB option, what could be better than a bumper sleepover with your favourite babes. Go back to those good old teen sleepover

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Unusual Wedding Venues If you’ve never considered yourselves to be a conventional couple, check out our list of top alternative wedding venues in the U.K. Some are fun and quirky, some are downright odd.

The Gherkin Boasting the best views over the city of London, The Gherkin is the capital’s most iconic modern building.

The London landmark also offers a very high standard of hospitality with some the biggest companies choosing it as the venue for their lavish parties.

The Gherkin can be seen for miles around so your guests certainly won’t have any difficulty finding your wedding venue.

A Cave Wookey Hole in Somerset, who recently appointed a new resident witch, offer couples the opportunity to exchange their vows deep underground in one of their spooky

caves. There are a selection of caves to choose from, the largest can accommodate 120 guests, all of which are fully licensed for civil ceremonies.

A lighthouse West Usk Lighthouse is situated halfway between Newport and Cardiff in South Wales.

The lighthouse is privately owned and has been restored to a very high standard with a hot tub, four-poster beds, an exquisite spiral staircase and a beautiful roof garden with views across the Severn Estuary. Your ceremony can be conducted on top of the lighthouse in the open air. The building is steeped in history being over 180 years old and grade ll listed; keeps your eyes peeled as many of the local farmers have spotted UFO’s in the area.

Editor’s Office

We’re not sure why, but the offer is there. Media enthusiasts (if there is such a thing) can choose to commit themselves to each other in the Editor of The Daily Mirror’s office in Canary Wharf, London. Aaah, the romance!

If you’re a busy career couple, this maybe the perfect venue as you can tie the knot during your lunch break; even better if you happen to work at The Daily Mirror.

Theatre It’s expected that the newlyweds are the centre of attention on their big day, however privately owned Clonter Opera Theatre in Cheshire offers couples the opportunity to wed live on stage.

They have a selection of 5 separate reception rooms to choose for your reception. The theatre enjoys an idyllic setting surrounded by bluebells woods and lush parkland.

London Eye Climb aboard your own private capsule with your family and friends and hold tight.

A full revolution takes half an hour and by the time you’ve reached the highest point of the wheel 135 metres above the city, you’ll be married. If you choose the Platinum Package you’ll also be treated to a complementary ride on the Eye to celebrate your fist wedding anniversary.

Absolut Ice Bar Set in the heart of London this sub zero venue will certainly give your guests an occasion to remember. The aisle is constructed out of the purest ice harvested from a river in Sweden.

This bar is far from being a novelty venue as they also offer a very high standard of catering courtesy of their award winning chefs.

Combining beautiful architecture with picturesque Cheshire surroundings, Inglewood Manor, nestled within 38 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens makes for the perfect venue to hold your wedding ceremony or reception.

Situated between the historical cities of Liverpool and Chester, this delightful Grade 2 listed building retains all the charm and warmth of a lavish Edwardian family home, remaining almost unaltered since it was built in 1915.

Depending on the time of a year, a roaring log fire greets our guests in winter, and in summer elegant oakpanelled rooms lead out onto spacious sunlit terraces, creating a memorable backdrop for this most special of days.

Wisteria clad walkways, formally planted gardens, pretty ponds and shimmering lakes all contribute to an unforgettable setting for photographs you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

The beauty of the building is matched only by the quality of the food and service from your champagne

reception, to dancing long into the night. Our spaces include luxury dining rooms and a bar that can all be specially transformed for your wedding day. The team here at Inglewood Manor see every wedding as a unique opportunity to make your dreams come true. Offering a number of wedding packages, we simply could not try any harder to ensure that every single detail has been meticulously taken care of. Our award-winning chefs and experienced banqueting team ensure that every

meal is prepared with care, presented with pride and served with the friendliest of smiles.

From start to finish, our aim at Inglewood Manor is to create from your ideas and dreams a magical ceremony day for you and your guests.

Love at First Sight…

Fairytales Castles for your dream wedding

Edinburgh Castle either The Great Hall or the State Leeds Castle. Despite its name this a secluded location as it’s marooned middle of the River Len. The Castle an aviary, small golf course and even The jewel in the crown of the dining room.

Castle is actually in Kent. It enjoys on its very own private island in the is exquisitely decorated and also has a maize to keep your guests amused.

Edinburgh skyline. It’s difficult to imagine a more dramatic venue for your wedding. Tie the knot in one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks and have a magical wedding day.

Choose from a variety of packages and suites; all of the function rooms are immaculately restored and offer sumptuous surroundings with breathtaking views over Princes Street and Frith of Forth. If you choose to exchange vows in The Gatehouse Suite you’ll also benefit from a private terrace which looks out onto the historic Royal Mile.

Pendennis Castle This enchanting Castle in Falmouth, Cornwall, commands panoramic views across the sea. Your ceremony will take place in the Tudor Castle Keep surrounded by candles, ancient tapestries and flowers of your choice. Dinner can be served in the impressive Royal Artillery Barracks before which guests can take champagne and canapés on the grassy “chemise.” This magnificent building is at its most striking when it’s floodlit after dark.

Warwick Castle is a truly majestic venue. Framed by mature sweeping trees and an idyllic lake, you really couldn’t hope for a better backdrop for your wedding photographs. The venue is also renowned for its high standard of hospitality and excellent catering facilities.

Drinks can be taken in the Peacock Gardens surrounded by fountains.

Your reception can take place in

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Booking A Church Wedding Ceremony:

Everything You Need to Know

Saying your vows in a church is a traditional part of planning a wedding, and a quarter of couples plan on getting married in a religious ceremony. www.hitched.co.uk have put together the ultimate beginner’s guide to church wedding ceremonies, so you know exactly what you need to do.

What are the legal requirements for a church wedding?

You can marry in a church wedding ceremony from the age of 18 onwards in a church wedding ceremony in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

If you’re aged 16 or 17, you will need your parents’ approval in England and Wales, but not in Scotland where it’s legal without consent providing there are two witnesses.

Church wedding ceremonies must take place between 8am and 6pm and be witnessed by at least two people.

You’ve probably heard about ‘having your banns read’ in connection to a church wedding – this is required before the marriage takes place as it signifies your intention to marry. Your banns will be read out in the parish where each of you lives as well as in the church where you’re planning on marrying for three Sundays during the three months leading up to the wedding.

If you’re marrying in a hurry it is possible to skip having your banns read, but you will need to apply for a common licence for this. They cost from £200. You may also need a licence if one of you isn’t a British citizen or currently lives outside of

the UK. In Scotland you’re required to give 15 days’ notice with the local registrar.

Do the rules differ depending on where in the UK the church is?

Depending on where you are in the UK and what kind of church you want to marry in will impact what you need to do.

Scotland has different rules relating to church weddings that England and Wales, as explained above, and there are stricter residency requirements for those planning a church wedding in Northern Ireland.

A Catholic church ceremony is different to book compared to a Church of England wedding too – for example, you will need a dispensation to marry in a Catholic ceremony if one of you is not Catholic, but you don’t have to have the banns read out beforehand. Do I have to attend the church to get married there?

The Church of England gives all British citizens with no former partner still living the right to get married in the parish church of the town where they live, or where either of the couple are on the church’s electoral roll.

You can also get married in church to which you have a connection, such as: - Either of you lived in that church’s parish for six months or more - One of you regularly attended worship in that parish for six months or more - Either of you were baptised or prepared for confirmation in the parish - One of your parents lived in the parish/regularly attended

worship there for six months or more in their child’s lifetime - Your parents or grandparents were married in the parish If you attend services at your chosen church for six months – even if you only attend a single service a month – that can help your case. Do I have to be religious to have a church wedding? You don’t have to be religious to have a Church of England wedding, however for a Catholic wedding at least one of you must follow the faith and you’re required to get a dispensation to marry there for the one that isn’t Catholic.

Anyone is welcome to have a Church of England wedding, regardless of their beliefs as the vicars understand that 'spiritual beliefs are complex and varied'.

How far in advance should I book my church wedding ceremony?

It works the same way as booking a civil wedding ceremony in that places will get booked up months in advance. Talk to your vicar or the church office as soon as possible, particularly if you’re hoping to marry in peak wedding season. Bear in mind most Church of England churches won’t host ceremonies during Lent, although this isn’t usually the case for Catholic ceremonies.

How much does a church wedding ceremony cost? It costs around £500 to get married in a church in England and Wales, so make sure you factor this into your wedding budget. This cost covers the expense of reading of the banns, the certificate, the

vicar and the use of the church itself.

Extra details such as flowers, having the bells rung or making use of the organist or choir will incur additional costs. It’s worth noting in Scotland and Northern Ireland there is no fixed cost for a church wedding.

Can we use our own vows in a church wedding ceremony? If you’re planning on writing your own wedding vows, a church ceremony might not be for you. In England and Wales you cannot change any part of the wedding vows, however in Scotland you can vary the traditional vows or write your own as long as the minister approves them.

You can include poems, readings or songs in your vows as long as your vicar is okay with it. Can I decorate the church with my own flowers? Most churches will be able to recommend someone from the parish who can decorate the church for you, but it shouldn’t be a problem to bring in your own floral displays.

Just check with your vicar where you can have the flowers as you wouldn’t want a large arrangement to get in the way during the ceremony.

What is a wedding rehearsal?

Lots of churches offer the chance to have a wedding rehearsal – this allows you, your partner and your

bridal party to run through the service ahead of the big day so you know what to expect and when.

Can we have confetti at our church wedding? This varies from church to church so check with your vicar and let your guests know in advance.

If wedding confetti is not allowed, find out if they’ll allow you to use a natural or bio-degradable type of confetti instead.

Can we have the reception in the church hall?

Usually you can – check with the church office to find out. You can also have your reception at a different venue if you wish.

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County Council Celebrates

Foster Care Fortnight

Lancashire County Council is holding a number of events throughout the county to celebrate Foster Care Fortnight and recruit new carers who are #ProudToFoster.

Foster Care Fortnight is the UK’s biggest foster care awareness raising campaign, delivered by fostering charity The Fostering Network. It will take place this year between Monday 14 May and Sunday 27 May. County Councillor Susie Charles, Lancashire County Council's Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Schools, said: "We are pleased to take part in this great campaign which showcases the commitment, passion and dedication of carers who

are proud to foster. It also supports fostering services to highlight the need for more carers. We are always looking for new foster carers for the range of children who come into our care each week, with the greatest need being for foster carers for older children, sibling groups and children with additional needs. "The theme of Foster Care Fortnight this year is 'foster care transforms lives', and we know this isn't just the lives of the children and young people who are fostered, it also has the power to change the lives of foster carers, their families and all those who are involved in fostering." You can spread the word about Foster Care

Fortnight and get involved with the campaign on social media by sharing a picture or film clip of yourself using the hashtags #ProudToFoster or #ProudToSupportFostering. You'll find out more about the campaign and how you can help by visiting The Fostering Network website.

As well as the number of events taking place throughout the county, there will also be a Fostering Information Evening at County Hall on Wednesday 23 May at 6pm. There is no need to book, but please arrive early to avoid disappointment. You will have the opportunity to meet experienced social workers and current carers and ask questions.

No formal experience or qualifications are needed to be a foster carer, all you need is an available spare room and a desire to make a difference to a local child's life. A package of support is available 24/7 to help foster carers in their role, including local support groups, their own social worker, a dedicated helpline and flexible training. Some of the community events across the county that are being held during Foster Care Fortnight are: • 16 May – 10am to 3pm: Chorley Library, Union St, Chorley, PR7 1EB • 17 May – 9.30am-4pm: Charter Walk Shopping Centre, Market Promenade, Burnley BB11 1AE • 18 May – 10am to 3pm: Sainsbury's,

Active Way, Burnley, BB11 1BS • 19 May – 11am to 3pm: Lancaster Pride, Dalton Square, Lancaster, LA1 1PN • 21 May – 10am to 4pm: Fishergate Shopping Centre, Fishergate, Preston PR1 8HJ • 22 May – 10am to 4pm: Freeport, Anchorage Rd, Fleetwood FY7 6AE • 25 May – 10am to 4pm: St Peter's Heath Care Centre, 42 Church St, Burnley BB11 2DL • 25 and 26 May – 10am to 3pm: Tesco Extra, Centenary Way, Burnley, BB11 2HE County Councillor Charles, added: "Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer is invited to go along to any of our community events and talk to our friendly fostering team in an informal setting at a venue near where you live. If there's nothing in

your area at the moment, please check again as events are added throughout the year."

Drop-in fostering information evenings will also be held on: • 17 May – 6pm to 7.30pm Burnley Library, Grimshaw Street, Burnley BB10 2BD • 22 May – 6pm to 7.30pm Fleetwood Library, North Albert Street, Fleetwood FY7 6AJ. If you're unable to come along to an event, you can still call the fostering recruitment team on 0300 123 6723 or visit the website www.lancashire. gov.uk/fostering More information about The Fostering Network, and this year's campaign is available at www. thefosteringnetwork.org.uk/getinvolved/foster-care-fortnight/fostercare-fortnight-2018

'The Sounds of Identity' project to inspire values

Visitors to Lancashire Archives can take a look at some of the creative work produced by Lancashire pupils as part of the 'Sounds of Identity' project that is now on display.

Pupils from nine Lancashire schools took part in the project, which aims to encourage young people to think about their values, and to create new ones for their school.

The young people worked alongside staff from Lancashire County Council's heritage learning team, the award-winning Young Uns folk group, and in partnership with the Department for Education, to find new ways of teaching British values in primary schools.

Their work so far has been compiled into a 'Sounds of Identity' collection and was recently presented to Lancashire Archives, on Bow Lane in Preston.

County Councillor Peter Buckley, Lancashire County Council's cabinet member for community and cultural services, said: "I think that engaging the young people to harness their own ideas is a very useful way of achieving greater understanding.

"The project has also continued to develop both their literacy and creativity.

"The pupils were able to choose someone from their community, or a historical figure, who they feel brought about change and cohesion, as the inspiration for their work. This made the project have even more personal relevance for

each pupil taking part."

One teacher and three pupils from each of the schools became British Value Ambassadors, and they in turn identified a class or year group to take part in the project. Each pupil created a 'book of journeys' to record their work.

The award-winning 'Young Uns' folk group worked with the pupils to showcase their work musically.

Pupils were also encouraged to explore their values through prose and poetry, or by developing their own ideas.

The schools that took part in this project are: Lancaster Lane Community Primary School, Clayton Le Woods, Chorley Carter's Charity Voluntary Controlled Primary School, Preesall, Poulton-le-Fylde, Fylde Appley Bridge All Saints Church of England Primary School, Appley Bridge, West Lancashire St. Andrews Church of England Primary School, Preston Bretherton Endowed Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School, Leyland, South Ribble Cobbs Brow School, Skelmersdale, West Lancashire Pendle Primary Academy, Brierfield, Nelson, Pendle Springfield County Primary School, Burnley St. Leonard's Primary School, Balderstone The Young Uns are a British folk group who won the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Best Group award in 2015 and 2016.

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Golf bookings up by 40 per cent in Italy, that's Amore!

A new survey has revealed that Italy is the number one destination for travellers in 2018 and things are looking just as promising for Italian golf, with latest figures showing that the number of international green fees booked has risen by 40 per cent in the last three years. Recent research for the 2017 World Travel Market has found that six out of ten UK people would prefer to visit Italy rather than the likes of the US, Greece and Spain, and the country’s golf courses are experiencing a boom with players eager to experience the new star of European golf tourism. With Italy Golf & More – the first pan-Italian international promotional golf project – leading the way, and momentum continuing to grow ahead of Italy hosting the Ryder Cup for the first time in 2022, the number of rounds played by international golfers rose by 200,000 between 2014 and 2017.

The country has proved particularly popular with players from the UK, Germany, Switzerland, France and Scandinavia while the positive impact has also been felt by the European golf tourism industry during the same period, with an increased number of specialist tour operators switching to Italy as a golf destination.

Next month, 26 exhibitors from 11 different regions will head to Cannes on the French Riviera to showcase Italy’s extensive golf offering to a global industry audience at the International Golf Travel Market.

Representatives from a combination of golf clubs, resorts, regional tourist boards and tour operators from the regions represented – Emilia Romagna, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Tuscany, Lombardy, Piedmont, Veneto, Liguria, Lazio, Puglia and the islands of Sicily and Sardinia – will meet show delegates throughout the week to discuss opportunities to further promote Italy in the future.

Bruno Bertero, project co-ordinator

for Italy Golf & More, said: “Not only does the desire for For further information on Italy Golf & More, please travellers to visit our wonderful country remain as big as email info@italygolfandmore.com or visit www. ever, but there is a real appetite for people to play golf in italygolfandmore.com Italy, which is seen in the growing number of international golfers that we are continuing to attract. “The response that we have received since we made a concerted effort to promote Italian golf and its many delights to a wider market has been outstanding, and we’re optimistic that the numbers will continue to grow in 2018 and beyond.”

With no fewer than 142 18-hole courses, Italy is the ideal destination to combine a golfing break with the chance to experience many of its other historic, cultural and gastronomic delights. With 20 airports in the UK operating regular flights to all over Italy, the country has never been so accessible, while its warm climate and mixture of mouth-watering cuisine, fine wines, spas, history, culture and beaches make it the perfect location for a golf break.

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ZHOU TO MAKE HISTORY Great Formats to Play on a Golf Break

The very nature of a golf break means that at least some of your party are unlikely to be terribly proficient at golf (that’s another way of saying they are hackers). You want everybody to walk away from your time together having had a great time, and you need to ensure that they will want to come back next time, so think seriously about the format you come up with.

Tour professionals play 72-hole stroke play events precisely because of the incredibly high standard that they have managed to achieve - they are not going to be running up triple- and quadruple-bogeys, and worse.

Unless everbody in your group has an official handicap and is used to playing in competitions, you should avoid medal play at all costs. Just imagine how people will feel if they run up an eight or a nine early in their round – they will know that any chance of winning is gone, and that is going to spoil their enjoyment.

Stableford. Probably the best option because it gives players of all standards the best chance to compete together on level terms – and if you have a couple of disasters it really doesn’t matter because there are always another 16 holes to get your own back on the course.

Depending on how many of you there

are, consider splitting your group into two teams – you can draw names from a hat, you can team old against young or you can do it geographically.

It also makes sense to team high and low-handicap players together.

If you opt to follow this format, the obvious thing is to compete against each other in matchplay, and there are various ways of doing this. Here are three of our favourites: Fourballs Nothing could be simpler. Everybody in the group takes their handicap allowance from the best player in the group and the best score wins the hole. It’s the format most people play with their friends and it gives golfers bragging rights.

Foursomes. This is a fun format, where one player hits the drives on the odd holes, his or her partner hits them on the even holes, and then you play alternative shots. There are a couple of things to consider, however – if you are going to do it properly (and why wouldn’t you?), ensure that when you have putted that you don’t walk up to the ball and tap it in because it will result in the loss of that hole. And check that your partner is not going to lose his cool if you lose his brand new Titleist Pro V1.

Texas Scramble. Everybody drives,

you pick the best tee shot and play the next shot from that spot. You then both hit from that spot, pick the best one and so on. You should also determine that a specific number of drives from each player is used.

And on the last day, why not consider organising a singles draw? So if you play fourballs one day, foursomes the next and finish it all off with a series of singles matches then you have just staged your own Ryder Cup-style contest. And everybody will love it.

Guaranteed.

Longest Drive. Pick a par five with a wide fairway and give everybody the chance to open up their shoulders and go for it.

Nearest the Pin. The pro will advise you as to the best par three to choose for this. If the standard of your group really isn’t very good, you might consider changing this to ‘Nearest the green’! Just joking.

Shortest Drive. OK, so not everybody hits the ball 280 yards, so pick a par four and designate it as the Shortest Drive hole. Just make sure that the prize on offer is a silly one, otherwise you might find people deliberately hitting dreadful shots.

Give everybody a mulligan. No matter how good you are, there will always be a shot that you want to take again – a mulligan allows them to do this.

Everybody gets one mulligan per round and they must announce when they are taking it. If they fluff their mulligan then that is just hard luck.

Why not get somebody in your group to organise a quiz in the evening? You can either split yourself into two teams (or more) or do it as individuals. And maybe take £5 per head so that you have a prize at the end of it all.

FOR CHINA IN BETWAY WORLD CUP OF DARTS

MOMO ZHOU will become the first woman to represent China on a PDC stage at the 2018 Betway World Cup of Darts as seven further nations confirm their teams for the forthcoming event.

Zhou, who won the World Cup China qualifier, will team up with runner-up Xiaochen Zong as the tournament takes place at the Eissporthalle in Frankfurt from May 31 – June 3.

The 26-year-old will become the second female player to appear at the World Cup of Darts, after Anastasia Dobromyslova represented Russia at the 2010 tournament.

Zhou and 20-year-old Zong – a World Championship qualifier last year - both hail from the same home town of Dandong in Liaoning Province, and the pair will be looking to improve on China’s first round exit last year.

China will be joined by four other Asian countries at the World Cup, all of which have now confirmed their pairings to play at the event following the second weekend of the 2018 PDC Asian Tour.

Japan will be represented by World Cup ever-present Haruki Muramatsu and Seigo Asada, who won through to the 2018 World Championship first round before losing to eventual winner Rob Cross.

Darts legend Paul Lim will once again team up with Harith Lim as Singapore aim to better their run to the quarter-finals of last year’s tournament, which included a sensational win over Scottish pairing Gary Anderson and Peter Wright.

Thailand’s line-up will also have a familiar look as Thanawat

Gaweenuntavong and Attapol Eupakaree will bid to improve on their first round defeat to Greece at last year’s event.

Recognisable Hong Kong star Royden Lam will appear in his fifth consecutive World Cup alongside debutant Ho Yin Shek.

Japan, Singapore, Thailand and Hong Kong’s pairings were chosen from the highest two ranked players on the Asian Tour Order of Merit following the four events held so far in 2018 on the new PDC-affiliated circuit.

Meanwhile, Larry Butler and Darin Young will be the American team, after finishing as the top two players on a two-year Championship Darts Corporation ranking list.

Former World Matchplay champion Butler had been the runaway leader, with Young overtaking DJ Sayre on Sunday by progressing one round further in the final CDC event before the USA team was confirmed.

Russia will once again be represented

by Boris Koltsov and Aleksandr Oreshkin after qualifying from a twoyear EADC Order of Merit, and will be bidding to emulate last year’s run to the quarter-finals thanks to wins over Hong Kong and Australia.

The 2018 Betway World Cup of Darts will see 32 nations represented by twoplayer teams as they compete from May 31-June 3 at the Eissporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, and will be televised live on Sky Sports and worldwide through the PDC's series of international broadcast partners.

For tickets, visit www.pdc-europe.tv/ tickets Betway World Cup of Darts Competing Nations: Australia Austria

Belgium Brazil - Diogo Portela & Bruno Rangel Canada China - Momo Zhou & Xiaochen Zong Czech Republic - Roman Benecky & Karel Sedlacek Denmark - Per Laursen & Henrik Primdal England Finland - Kim Viljanen & Marko Kantele Germany Gibraltar Greece Hong Kong - Royden Lam & Ho Yin Shek Hungary - Tamas Alexits & Nandor Bezzeg Italy - Michel Furlani & Alessio Medaina Japan - Seigo Asada & Haruki Muramatsu Netherlands New Zealand - Cody Harris & Warren Parry Northern Ireland Poland Republic of Ireland Russia - Boris Koltsov & Aleksandr Oreshkin Scotland Singapore - Paul Lim & Harith Lim South Africa - Devon Petersen & Liam O'Brien Spain Sweden - Daniel Larsson & Dennis Nilsson Switzerland Thailand Thanawat Gaweenuntavong & Attapol Eupakaree United States of America - Larry Butler & Darin Young Wales

‘Blues Monday’ – celebrate with

Rovers in Blackburn Town Centre

Blackburn Rovers fans are invited to celebrate with the newly promoted team at a special appearance at One Cathedral Square on Bank Holiday Monday, May 7th. Blackburn with Darwen Council has extended the invitation to fans from the borough and beyond to help congratulate the club following its promotion back to the Championship at the first time of asking.

The event will start at 4.30pm when the Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Colin Rigby, will welcome the first team squad along with Manager Tony Mowbray and his staff to One Cathedral Square to celebrate in style. BBC Radio Lancashire’s Andy Bayes will compere the event, with the station broadcasting from the site. This free event is non-ticketed and being run on a first come first served basis, so early attendance is advisable.

Councillor Rigby said: Rovers have been promoted back to the Championship at the first time of asking in style, with long unbeaten runs, lots of goals and playing some fantastic football. It’s only fitting that

we celebrate such a successful season in the town centre with the club and its fans.

The Council is delighted to host this event and we are inviting Rovers fans from far and wide to turn out on Bank Holiday Monday and help make it an occasion to remember. Having a successful team is good for Blackburn with Darwen – with more visitors being attracted to the area and an increased sense of prestige and happiness for those from the borough.

Steve Waggott, Chief Executive of Blackburn Rovers said: The Club are both honoured and delighted that the Council have invited us to a Civic Reception to celebrate our promotion back to The Championship at the first attempt. Gaining promotion is always a special achievement and something that needs to be shared with all connected with the Club. We are all looking forward to it being a great occasion.

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