Lancashire Local 47

Issue. 47 - September 2018

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Inside this issue: NEWS - WALES - CUMBIRA

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ROLL UP ROLL UP! All the Fun of the Fair this September

Blackburn Business Improvement District (BID) is proud to announce the Blackburn Vintage Carnival.

Coming to town on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd September 2018.

The event sees the return of favourite vintage rides including the Giant Helter Skelter, the Golden Carousel and the Traditional Ferris Wheel. To add to the fun there will be a range of smaller rides for the younger ones to enjoy with a family friendly price of just 50p for each ride. The classic sounds of a barrel organ will add to

the carnival atmosphere.

You’ll have the opportunity to meet Mr Barnard at the Victorian Circus Workshop.

Enjoy learning a range of circus skills including stilts, juggling balls, clubs and diabolos. Mr Barnard knows just about all there is to know about circus tricks and games! Joining in the weekend fun will be the Giant Stilt Walking Ringmaster.

This larger than life character with fabulous costume, exceptional moustache and impressive top hat will have visitors on their toes with his quick-witted repartee.

We welcome back incredible balloon modeller Bob Wooding. Bob’s awardwinning act sees him make almost anything out of balloons. You won’t believe your eyes with his creations ready for you to take away.

During the weekend, visitors can also enjoy Mr Mason’s Heritage Walks. These family friendly tours take you around Blackburn highlighting local history snippets that you may not know or have even seen before. Apart from the small charge for rides, the other events are free and do not require pre-booking.

The Blackburn Vintage and organises events and Carnival takes place on promotions in Blackburn Saturday 22nd September along with a range of other 2018 from 10am to 6pm and on Sunday 23rd September 2018 from 10am to 4pm. The Circus Workshops will take place twice each day and Mr Mason’s walks start at 11am on Saturday and Sunday, with an extra walk at 2pm on Saturday.

The Blackburn BID is funded by town centre businesses

initiatives. You will also be able to meet members of the Blackburn BID during the event, if you want to discover more about the BID

New Assistant Chief Constable Appointed

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins has appointed a new Assistant Chief Constable to the ranks of Greater Manchester Police.

Mabs Hussain is joining the Force from West Yorkshire Police, having spent the first 22 years of his policing career there. ACC Hussain started his career at WYP in uniform in Bradford and, over the last few years, has progressed through the ranks working as a Detective, in strategic Force postings and a period as the temporary Commander for Leeds the largest policing district outside of London at the time. The MBE recipient

has been the Force lead on local policing, crime and the head of Force performance, becoming the District Commander for Wakefield in 2016. He was given the Queen’s honour during her birthday celebrations this year for his services to policing and charity.

ACC Hussain is a Gold firearms & public order commander, overseeing large events such as Chapeltown Carnival, Leeds United home games and, most recently, protests between the National Front and counter protestors in July this year.

ACC Hussain said: “I’m thrilled to have been given this opportunity. I have great

admiration for the work GMP has done for some time, knowing they are a similar size to WYP and respecting the way they have responded to particularly challenging times over the years. Their commitment to public service and the demands I can expect to face in my new role were all things which appealed to me to join the GMP family.

“I am immensely proud of my time at WYP but look forward to a new challenge at GMP.” Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “I’m delighted to welcome Mabs to the GMP family. He is an extremely experienced officer and he will help us to continue to drive the Force forward.

“His background in large events and serious crime will help us continue to protect the people of Greater Manchester and his work around local policing will help us work our communities to keep everyone safe. I look forward to welcoming him to the Force in the coming weeks.”

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Open events are

being held in

Blackburn and

Darwen to tackle

the issue of winter

fuel poverty.

The ‘Heat and Eat’ events will take place in September to make people aware of problems around fuel poverty and give information to residents.

They are designed to give advice and knowledge to all residents about how it is possible to be able to both afford to heat your property in the winter months and be able to eat healthy within a budget.

The two scheduled Heat and Eat events taking place are: • Bank Top Neighbourhood Learning Centre, Arthur Way, Blackburn, on Wednesday, September 12th, from 12pm to 4pm • Darwen Children’s Centre, Lord Street, Darwen on Wednesday, September 19th, from 12pm to 4pm.

The event is open to all residents of the borough.

The event is being paid for by NEA (National Energy Action) and also being supported by Blackburn with Darwen Public Health under Community Healthy Homes.

The events will include: • Local chef offering cooking demonstrations and top cooking tips • Free energy efficiency advice and information regarding a range of grants available to qualifying customers, such as boiler replacements, first time central heating systems, loft insulation and more • Free refreshments available • Raffles, quizzes, workshops and free goodies • Advice and information from partner organisations such as Care Network, Healthy Living, Lancashire Fire and Rescue.

• Fun activities for all age groups

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Award for world-leading

Burnley business

A world-leading Burnley business has been honoured for its commitment to the borough.

Pipeline Induction Heat (PIH) was presented with the Long Standing Contribution to Burnley Award, to mark the 30 years the company has been based in the town,

by Burnley Council leader Councillor Mark Townsend and its chief executive Mick Cartledge.

They were given a tour of the impressive 75,000 sq ft PIH facility on Rossendale Road industrial estate and briefed on the latest developments underway in one of the world’s largest and leading pipeline field joint coating companies.

Over three decades PIH has grown to be one of the borough's largest employers.

Coun.

Townsend said: “This company is definitely a hidden gem. You might expect to find specialists in oil and gas pipeline coating technologies in the US, Russia or China, and be surprised to hear that one of the world’s largest pipeline field joint coating contractors is based in Burnley.

"We're delighted PIH has its world class manufacturing, test, R&D and demonstration facility in one of Burnley’s

most established flagship business parks, from where it supports the global pipeline industry. This is another fantastic example of the range of world class businesses we have based in the town creating highly skilled jobs.”

Mr Cartledge said: “We were delighted to present the award to PIH to recognise the company’s commitment to both Burnley and to growing and developing its Burnley workforce. The company has adapted well to market conditions and you can feel the positive culture within the business when you are on site.

“It was fascinating to tour and great to hear about the work and the company’s commitment to upskilling its workforce, as well as its dedication to training locals in the various locations across the world where a project may be based.

“One country cited specifically was Angola, where the company employs local people and offers specific training, leaving them with qualifications and experience to better themselves once PIH has completed its scope of work. The company has also recently worked on the

major TANAP project which included a 2,000km pipe that ran the entire length of Turkey.

“It was also wonderful to hear about its commitment to recruiting and training young apprentices. One of the youngest apprentices who started in administration has now moved into the technical department and is the youngest qualified NACE standard inspector in the world!”

PIH managing director Paul McShane said: “We were delighted to receive the award in recognition of our commitment to delivering our global services from our Burnley facility.

"PIH didn’t originate in Burnley; it actually started in High Wycombe in 1988, and the company was approached by Burnley Council who were actively seeking to attract inward investment and promoting the opportunities in Burnley for growing businesses. The council approach worked. PIH was offered a grant to move to Burnley, the relocation took place and here we are today growing PIH in the town for the long-term future.

“Geographically Burnley has been an excellent location for us. Global clients are able to reach us easily and our loyal dedicated local workforce has very much helped grow the business.

“We are committed to promoting the oil and gas sector as a great career choice for millennials and we work closely with Burnley College to recruit apprentices who have gone on to be hugely successful.”

The award is given by Burnley Council and the Burnley Bondholders.

Noisy neighbour problem

equipment seizure

A noisy Colne resident has had stereo equipment removed from their home by Pendle Council’s Environmental Health Team.

Police joined the Council officers as they visited the property on Pendlemist View on the morning of Wednesday 15th August. It followed complaints from neighbours about loud music.

A Sound Bar and a set of speakers were seized.

The Council has the legal powers to take items that are being used to cause the noise nuisance under the Noise Act. Following an initial complaint from

neighbours, evidence was gathered via the Night Time Noise Service.

This is a partnership between Pendle Council and four other East Lancashire Councils - Hyndburn, Rossendale, Blackburn with Darwen and Burnley.

One Environmental Health Officer who went out to the property to witness the noise said that the music was so loud that the floors in a neighbour's property were vibrating.

He said that the noise was one of the worst cases he had ever experienced. A Noise Abatement Notice was served on the occupant of the flat at Pendlemist View, but still the

noise continued. This resulted in the equipment seizure in August as the Environmental Protection Act allows. Pendle Council’s Corporate Director Philip Mousdale said: “Noise nuisance impacts on all aspects of our quality of life, causing stress and anxiety. “Cases like this highlight the powers that councils have under the Environmental Protection Act to address problems caused by noisy neighbours.

“The resident at this property had ignored warnings that he would have his equipment seized if he did not turn the noise down. “No one should have to put up with noisy neighbours. If you’re having

problems with yours, you can get help by calling us on (01282) 661199,” he stated.

Anyone who has problems with noisy neighbours should get in touch with Pendle Council and there’s advice on our website www.pendle.gov.uk/noise Local residents experiencing this problem will need to help by collecting evidence during the investigation.

The quickest and easiest way of gathering evidence is to download the Noise Nuisance App onto a smartphone and search for ‘noise nuisance’ in the App Store or Google Play.

This allows people to record noise as it happens, building up a diary of evidence to validate any noise complaint.

It can then be sent to Pendle Council at the touch of a button.

For more information, visit www. noisenuisance.org or type Noise Nuisance App into YouTube.

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Charity cash injection

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Enjoy Another Cup at

booster for Pendle’s Parks Clayton Green Library

Hard working Park Friends groups have had a cash injection of over £16,700 to help boost their work in parks across Pendle.

Former Mayor and Mayoress, Councillor David Whalley and his wife, Barbara Whalley, dedicated their fund raising efforts during their mayoral year to support the Friends of Pendle’s Parks Groups. They also raised money for the Philip Wright Crown Green Bowling Academy.

Councillor Whalley said: “Pendle’s parks are among the best in Lancashire thanks to the support of the Park Friends groups.

“Our parks are special places which improve the quality of life for local people and visitors.

“They are valuable natural habitats, too,” he added. All eight out of Pendle’s parks which have Friends Groups kept their prestigious Green Flag status, it was announced by Keep Britain Tidy in July. “Pendle’s Green flag success is thanks to the hard graft from

our staff and teams of Park Friends and volunteers,” stated Councillor Whalley.

In handing over the cheques to the Park Friends groups, Barbara Whalley, Pendle’s former Mayoress explained: “Our aim was to raise as much money as possible to support the work of the Park Friends groups and to encourage more volunteers to support their efforts.”

Councllor Whalley added: As well leading activities which have brought in a wonderful amount of money for the charities, Barbara has also helped to raise the profile of the Friends Groups and the sport of Crown

Green Bowling in Pendle.

Fund raising efforts included the Mayor’s Ball and a Pendle Parks photography competition won by Peter Catlow of Nelson for a stunning photography of blossoming cherry trees taken in Victoria Park Nelson.

“It’s all been a huge success and we’re grateful to everyone who helped to raise money for our chosen charities,” said Barbara.

“This is our way of thanking the volunteers for making a difference to our parks,” she added. The money raised could be used in a number of ways including tree planting, park events, health initiatives such as walking trails, new facilities and the chance to upgrade some park benches.

Anyone who’d like to help care for and improve their local park is welcome to join a Park Friends group. To find out more email: parks@ pendle.gov.uk or visit www. pendle.gov.uk and look up the details in our Parks section.

And you can follow what’s happening with the Friends Groups as Barbara continues to post news and events on the Facebook page: Friends of Pendle Parks.

A pioneer, author, counsellor and life coach who recently launched her sixth novel will visit Clayton Green Library this month.

Vera Waters will be at the library for a special free event to talk about her life and her latest novel, Another Cup – An Anthology of Encounters, on Wednesday 19 September. From 1pm Vera will be talking about her pioneering work, speaking with visitors to the event and signing copies of her book. It is free to attend the event, but tickets are limited and must be booked in advance.

Another Cup – An Anthology of Encounters describes many of Vera's experiences of everyday situations.

County Councillor Peter Buckley, Lancashire County Council's cabinet member for community and cultural services, said: "This promises to be a really interesting event. Vera has received much acclaim in many areas of her life and it will be fascinating to hear directly from such a pioneer.

"Vera describes her latest book as being more biographical than her previous titles, exploring a little more of her early life in Manchester. I'm sure that she will have a lot of humorous stories to tell."

Vera lives in Chorley. She worked in education and pioneered change in the 1960s for teenage offenders to receive better treatment. Vera became the first voluntary service coordinator in the health service before focussing on counselling police forces nationally. Advising Greater Manchester and Lancashire police, Vera then became the first counsellor ever

retained to advise the constabulary from the private sector. She was involved in speaking to officers as they coped with the emotional aftermath of major incidents, including the Manchester Airport disaster of 1985.

Her work with the police earned Vera a research grant award from the Home Office department of science and technology, and a special commendation.

Vera then turned her attention to writing, and her first book was published in 1990.

Tickets for the event can be booked by calling in at the library on Library Road.

For more information about the event, email claytongreen.library@ lancashire.gov.uk, or phone 0300 123 6703.

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

Membership is free and there are no age restrictions.

For more information, go to www.lancashire.gov.uk/ libraries Alternatively call 0300 123 6703.

Council “should be proud of its achievements.”

Burnley Council has been told it “should be proud of its achievements” following a review of its services and plans for the borough by an independent review team.

The feedback was received following a “corporate peer challenge.” The council invited external local government experts from

outside the borough to challenge its way of working, and to suggest improvements to the council’s services and plans. The peer challenge team included the chief executive of Norwich City Council, and the council leader of Chesterfield Council. The review team first inspected the council

in 2016, so was returning to review what progress had been made. In its latest assessment, the review team said the council had built on the positive work it had identified two years ago: “The council has made significant progress in relation to a range of economic, housing and regeneration projects…There

was evidence of a strong shared vision for the borough, with the council viewed as a respected and valued partner.

Crucially, jobs growth in the borough has outstripped many parts of the country.”

To build even further on these successes, the peer review team identified a number of opportunities for the council to consider. One suggestion is that the council work with partners to build up the borough’s leisure and cultural scene.

Linked to the council’s vision of Burnley as a ‘university town’, the review team also said that there “are opportunities to strengthen engagement approaches to ensure achievements and future vision are better understood by local communities.”

In response, Councillor Mark Townsend, Leader of Burnley Council said: “It is of course pleasing to get such good feedback, and to hear from independent assessors from

outside the area that Burnley is continuing to making positive strides.

“The council will consider the recommendations from the peer review in more detail.

However, in response to its suggestion that we need to make sure that the council’s vision is better understood by local communities, we will act immediately. The council will shortly be announcing proposals for the town centre. I encourage as many

residents and businesses as possible to give us their view, as we make plans to take the borough to the next level.”

The peer review team’s feedback letter is available here at https://www.burnley. gov.uk/sites/default/files/ FINA%20Letter%20 from%20LGA%20Peer%20 R e v i e w % 2 0 Te a m % 2 0 31st%20August%202018.pdf and will be considered by the council’s scrutiny committee on 17th September.

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New gateways gearing up to boost

business and housing in North Blackburn

A new project investing £2.6m to improve a key gateway to the Borough at Brownhill Roundabout and nearby junctions is getting underway and proposals are ready to view.

The package of improvements is being developed as part of the wider £13m Growth Deal 3 Pennine Gateways project which will deliver key transport improvements at main gateways into Blackburn with Darwen

between 2019 and 2021. The project is funded from Central Government’s Local Growth Deal via the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership.

Major transport improvements will act as the catalyst for new housing and commercial development, contributing to the delivery of the Council’s adopted Local Plan targets for new housing, businesses and jobs.

The package of improvements is focussed on the following: • Brownhill roundabout – this forms a key intersection between the Ribble Valley, Blackburn Town Centre and Blackburn’s major employment zones at Whitebirk, bringing wider connectivity to the M6/M65/ M66 motorways. A number of designated housing sites are close to the junction, hence the need to upgrade this and adjacent junctions on the highway network.

Work will include intelligent traffic signal equipment, resurfacing and Whalley New Road parking amendments and bus stop formalisation

• Pleckgate Road / Ramsgreave Drive (Knowles Arms) junction improvement, including new traffic signal equipment Whalley Old Road / Whitebirk Drive junction capacity upgrade, increases to the northbound “stacking” lane on Whitebirk Drive and new traffic signal equipment Work at

these sites will also include sustainable transport improvements for walking and cycling, highways signage, street lighting, drainage, surfacing, lining and soft and hard landscaping.

There will be smart, intelligent signals to reduce congestion and queuing time for users of the highway.

A drop in event will be

held at St Gabriel’s Church Hall, Brownhill Drive, Blackburn BB1 9BA, on Wednesday, September 5th, between 4pm and 7pm.

Detailed engineering plans will be on display, as well as annotated maps, images and materials, and a summary of considered options. Council officers and scheme engineers will be on hand to answer any questions. Anyone is welcome.

Information is also available on the Council’s website at: https://www.blackburn.gov.uk/ Pages/growthdeal.aspx

PopUp Business School to start one

hundred new businesses in Wigan Borough Revolutionary start-up training company, PopUp Business School, aims to kick-start over one hundred new businesses in Wigan Borough.

The PopUp Business School has teamed up with Wigan Council to offer people the opportunity to start up their own business, regardless of whether they have experience or money to do it.

The free, two-week course will start on 1st October and will be hosted at The Galleries in Wigan town centre. Each day will focus on different topics from taxing and payroll to finding customers using social media.

The course is open to anyone who has a hobby or an idea they would like to develop and to startup companies who need some guidance and support getting off their feet.

Councillor David Molyneux, leader of Wigan Council said: “PopUp

Business School offer invaluable advice, guidance and support to local people who have ambitions of working for themselves but may not know where to start.

“As outlined in The Deal for Business, we are committed to helping the local economy grow and providing opportunities for people to develop their skills.

“Arranging this course with PopUp Business School is a fantastic way for us to demonstrate that commitment and we anticipate a high take-up in places. We look forward to seeing the breadth and range of ideas brought to the table and watching them be transformed into business ideas.” Since 2011, PopUp Business School has been travelling around the United Kingdom teaching aspiring entrepreneurs how to start their own businesses.

Unlike other enterprise support companies, their advice is the polar opposite of the status quo. They don’t believe in business plans,

financial projections or loans. Instead they get their students starting off with sales and proving a demand in their businesses first.

Liam Sibley from the PopUp Business School said: “There’s nothing quite like helping people reach their milestones, and start a new journey with their business.

Whether it’s a first sale, a lightbulb moment or publishing a shiny new website they’ve built. It’s truly inspiring, and I can’t wait to bring this to Wigan.

At a recent event in Reading, The PopUp Business School helped start over one hundred and twenty businesses. Eighty nine percent of which are still trading today eighteen months after the course finished.

If you would like to find out more about the free Pop Up Business School course, email liam@ popupbusinessschool.co.uk or call 07841589680.

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More success for digital

schools programme

An exciting digital programme for schools combining health apps with the national curriculum has found even more success in Blackburn with Darwen with a second school successfully taking part. Blackburn’s Witton Park Academy joins St Thomas’s Centre and seven other East Lancashire schools participating in the Digital Healthy Schools scheme.

The programme enables pupils to engage with mobile apps to help them manage their health.

It has been designed in collaboration with teachers and students from across the country to join together

national health and academic priorities, in an initiative where ‘safe’ health apps can be searched, compared, downloaded – and even recommended.

Healthier Lancashire and South Cumbria, the Integrated Care System (ICS), and ORCHA (the Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Applications) have collaborated to bring the programme to the area.

Since the start of the programme in February 2018, pupils have discovered and downloaded more than 88 different apps onto their phones and 50 per cent of pupils who participated now

use a health app. Pupils have reported changing a range of behaviours, from swapping car journeys to walking, drinking more water and going to bed earlier.

The most popular apps have included Lincus companion, which allows users to track a number of complex health conditions as well as tracking general day-to-day wellbeing, and Fitbit the well-known activity tracker.

Steve Archer, a teacher at Witton Park Academy, said: Using apps is second nature to young people so they embraced the programme immediately.

It created conversations and enabled

technology’s positive role to shine through. Pupils have actively used apps to adopt changes to their lifestyles, particularly around diet and exercise – although one pupil even found an app to better treat his mum’s eczema!

It’s great to see them taking responsibility for their own health. Dr Amanda Thornton, Digital Health and Activation Clinical Lead for Healthier Lancashire and South Cumbria, said: It’s important to keep children safe online but also important to encourage them to keep well – and use digital tools to do so. ORCHA has prompted some great conversations in

schools and helped enforce the message that we want to empower every person to feel confident and capable of making informed decisions about their health. Councillor Mohammed Khan, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, said: I’m delighted that more of our schools are taking part in this programme and seeing some

great results.

Healthcare apps are a valuable tool in taking care of health.

Helping students engage with technology to manage their health is something that will be important for their future wellbeing. Visit the ORCHA website to learn more about how it’s helping people to find the best and safest health and care apps.

Council considers new policy

for more resident parking schemes

A new policy enabling the roll-out of more residential parking permit schemes in Manchester is to be considered for approval by the City Council’s Executive later this month.

Responding to calls from residents for more schemes to tackle commuter parking, particularly in areas around the city centre, the council is developing a comprehensive policy which prioritises the needs of local residents and businesses by controlling and discouraging commuter and non-resident parking in residential areas.

The council currently provides a total of around £225,000 per year to support the city’s eleven existing residential permit schemes and a report to the Council’s Executive notes that twelve further locations have been identified as being in need of a parking scheme.

The high level of demand for schemes means it is no longer sustainable to issue vehicle permits free of charge. Under the new policy, a modest annual charge is being considered to cover the enforcement and administration costs of schemes.

No profit would be generated through charges, while discounts for some residents

and free spaces for carers and Blue Badge holders would be made available.

Charges for resident parking schemes are currently levied in other areas of Greater Manchester, including Salford and Trafford, plus other major English cities such as Liverpool, Newcastle, Birmingham and Sheffield.

While the charges would meet annual running costs, set-up costs for schemes assessed as eligible to be brought forward would need to be raised from other sources, such as financial support from developers, or city council reserves.

The report also notes that ‘Section 106’ developer support is available to contribute towards the set-up costs of four new schemes including one in Rusholme, one in the Hathersage Road area, one in the vicinity of North Manchester General Hospital and another for the St George’s area of Hulme.

If the new policy is approved, detailed proposals for the future charges and discounts to be applied would be brought forward later in the year. The public would also be consulted as part of any review of the city’s existing parking schemes and on any new schemes which are brought forward.

Executive Member for the Environment, Planning and Transport, Councillor Angeliki Stogia, said: “We have listened to residents’ concerns about the blight of commuter parking in residential areas, which causes significant road safety issues, increased air pollution and serious inconvenience.

“It’s vital that we tackle the problem by introducing new schemes to control nonresident parking in those areas where they would help to meet the needs of residents and businesses.

“However, the financial pressures associated with the management of such schemes are jeopardising the funding of other frontline services, so in line with other major cities and parts of Greater Manchester, we’re considering the introduction of an annual charge to help cover the running costs of each scheme.

“That would mean a modest cost for the residents who would directly benefit from the scheme, rather than it being subsided by all council taxpayers.

While charges for residents will be minimised and will not generate any profit, they are essential if we want to bring forward the many new schemes which

we know are required.”

The report will go to the council’s Neighbourhoods and Environment Scrutiny

Committee on Wednesday 5 September, before being considered for approval by the Executive on Wednesday

12 September. To read the report, go to https:// democracy.manchester.gov. uk

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House improvement

scheme gets underway

As part of a wider commitment to improving the local housing stock, Burnley Council is carrying out improvement work in one of the borough’s selective licensing areas.

Improvements are being carried out in the Ingham Street and Lawrence Street area of Padiham.

They include installing new gutters and downpipes, pointing and rendering, and painting of the stonework.

Each property is individually assessed as not all the houses need all the works offered. The majority of the owners and residents have given their permission for the

scheme to take place. It follows similar schemes in other parts of the borough, including Brennand Street and Accrington Rd. Councillor John Harbour, the council’s executive member for housing and environment, said: “This facelifting work helps brighten up the houses and generally gives a boost to the look and feel of aneighbourhood. It’s part of a wider commitment by the council to improving the borough’s housing stock.

The work is relatively small-scale but has proved to be a really effective method of improving the way an area looks.”

Fantastic footage of

1950s Blackburn uncovered The BBC has recently revealed footage of 1950s Blackburn, filmed during a traditional annual event in the town.

Directed by future Oscarwinner John Schlesinger, the black and white film features Blackburn locals in the buildup to the annual cotton town holiday known as Wakes Week.

Wakes Week became a traditional annual holiday in northern towns after the Industrial Revolution.

Improved transportation meant that workers could now visit seaside areas such as Blackpool during their time off. It was the only week that workers could get away from their usual daily life.

In the film, the voiceover of a local Blackburn man describes the anticipation of Wakes Week. The footage depicts people’s rush to finish last minute chores before going away. Children hurry out of school, suitcases are packed, and houses are locked up. Finally, families board a train, leaving an

empty Blackburn behind.

Councillor Andy Kay, Executive Member for Resources, said: This is a fantastic find. Wakes Week is a long standing tradition and is a large part of Blackburn’s history and the history of many other northern cotton towns. The chap who narrates the film

speaks with affection for the town and people despite saying Blackburn wasn’t much to look at! We like to think that’s changed now and it is good to look back and compare Blackburn life then to what it is like now.

If anyone sees themselves or family or friends please let us know.

The short film can be viewed on the BBC archive Twitter page https://twitter.com/ BBCArchive/status/ 1030081834561007617.

For more info on the history of Blackburn’s annual Wakes Week and visit: http://www. cottontown.org/Pages/home. aspx

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Work begins to demolish Art & Soul Tattoo Studio

former cinema block

Work has begun to demolish a former cinema block in Burnley.

Internal work is underway at the old Studio 123 cinema in the Charter Walk shopping centre.

Burnley Market Hall, which is next to the site, will remain open for business as usual throughout the demolition work, as will the nearby Curzon Street car park.

The demolition will remove an unsightly and underused building and is part of wider plans for the continued regeneration of Burnley town centre. Initial work will generally be carried out internally and concentrate on preparing the building for demolition. General site

clearance has been completed and controlled works are now underway to remove internal structures to facilitate the demolition/dismantling.

It is expected that this will take a further month or so and that the building will start to be pulled down in the autumn. Preparation work, including scaffolding and working platforms, are expected to start to be put in place shortly.

The vehicle bridge and pedestrian bridge over Bankfield will be the final two elements to be taken down and it is expected that these will be completed towards the end of this year.

Given the size of the building and its town centre location

there will be some disruption but the contractors will aim to keep it to a minimum.

Surrounding businesses, including the market hall, will remain open throughout.

Reinstatement work will be carried out once demolition is completed to improve the look of the site.

Councillor Asif Raja, Burnley Council’s executive member for economy and growth, said: “This essential work is part of wider, ongoing plans to redevelop Burnley town centre to attract more people to Burnley and boost the local economy. It will improve the appearance of that part of the shopping centre and pave the way for potential redevelopment in the future.”

£2,000+ penalty for woman who

fly-tipped waste at local green space

A woman who dumped bags of domestic waste at a local green space close to her home in Moston has been handed a penalty of £2,186.

Elizabeth Doherty was prosecuted by Manchester City Council’s Environmental Crimes Team, after two separate fly-tipping incidents were reported to the council by local residents.

Officers working for the council found that more than 20 bags had been dumped at a green area just off Anfield Road.

The officers gathered evidence linking the offences to Doherty, before clearing the site.

Doherty, 37, of Anfield

Road, Moston, was offered two separate opportunities to provide evidence at an interview under caution, but failed to attend on either occasion.

At an initial hearing, she pleaded not guilty and a trial date was consequently set for 10 August 2018.

Doherty failed to attend the hearing at Manchester Magistrates Court and was convicted of fly-tipping in her absence. She was fined £990 for the two offences, plus court costs of £1,130 and a victim surcharge of £66 – a total penalty of £2,186.

Doherty was given 28 days to pay up and a collection order was imposed.

Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, Councillor

Rabnawaz Akbar, said: “To illegally dump waste in your own neighbourhood, particularly at a green space, is outrageous, so I’m glad that Ms Doherty has received a heavy financial penalty for these shockingly selfish offences.

“I’d like to thank the local residents who promptly reported the offences to us and our Environmental Crimes team for their continuing efforts to clamp down on fly-tippers.

“There is never any excuse for fly-tipping in Manchester and we will not stand by and let people get away with blighting our neighbourhoods through irresponsibly dumping their waste.”

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 a passion for magic and card tricks, being more than exemplary in the art.

So if you’re thinking of that special piece of art, you are more than welcome to pop in for a chat.

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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.

Fairytales Castles

for your dream wedding

Edinburgh Castle The jewel in the crown of the 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 either The Great Hall or the State dining room. Leeds Castle.

Despite its name this Castle is actually in Kent. It enjoys a secluded location as it’s marooned on its very own private island in the middle of the River Len. The Castle is exquisitely decorated and also has an aviary, small golf course and even a maize to keep your guests amused.

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Thousands flock to first

ever Festival of Manchester

What a day! The first ever Festival of Manchester had the crowds buzzing with laughter, excitement, and wonder during a day that saw more than 10,000 flock to Platt Fields Park for a late summer fiesta to showcase the very best of Manchester.

For one day only the brand new festival brought together more than sixty different community groups, with each of them showing off their own culture and traditions in a fantastic carnival of culture, colour, and creativity.

An action packed programme of free family-friendly cultural activities and performances had the crowds buzzing from midday until well after sunset.

In true festival style the park was full to bursting with an eclectic mix of the ever so slightly weird and the downright wonderful.

With bee hives full of bees as you’ve never seen them before, an allotment full of carefully tended beds of fruit

and vegetable ‘babies’, popup chat with over the garden fence gossip, rickshaw rides, and a ‘hat’s off’ parade – the festival was a feast for the eyes at every turn. Stunning music and dance performances from community groups representing cultures from around the globe kept the carnival atmosphere going under blue skies and the warm late summer sun.

Jet Black Dance, Colibri Mexican Folkdance, Lithuanian folk dance, Bhangrasize and plenty more kept festival-goers on their toes, trying out the moves and dancing along with them.

Music lovers were also spoilt for choice as different sounds spilled out from across the festival site.

With African drummers from Amani Creative, Manchester School of Samba, Soul Beats, Backchat Brass, Baked A La Ska, and Manchester Malayalee Association’s drum ensemble the Chenda Melam demonstrating their

very own unique traditional art of drumming Keralan style, the festival didn’t miss a beat.

Sports fans were well catered for too, with everything from jaw-dropping displays in BMX and Taekwondo, to try out sessions in American football, rugby, dodgeball, cricket, netball, tennis, and skateboarding.

Also on the menu at the daylong festival was a mouthwatering array of food and drink - from refreshing smoothies and the coolest of ice creams, to the hottest of curries.

Queues for the ever popular Spanish sweet treat proved of course that everyone loves a churro, but also cooking up a storm amongst festival-goers was a feast of street food from every corner of the world.

The non-stop programme of fun activities and free things to do lasted until well after sunset.

Have-a-go workshops in dance, design, crafts, and

sports, walkabout theatre, poetry slams and debates, made sure there was something for everyone.

No festival would of course be complete without a grand finale finish - and the Festival of Manchester finished in spectacular style with an amazing show on the lake in the middle of the park.

‘Swan Song’ was specially created for the festival by Walk the Plank and featured the proudest of peacocks and the most elegant of swans, who sought each other out as night fell to join together in a fleeting moment of fiery magic on the lake.

As the giant-sized illuminated swan made her way gliding elegantly over the lake across the moonlit water to where the peacock stood calling for her, fires burned on the shore-

line, and musicians skimmed the surface of the lake around the swan in boats lit up with coloured lights and fire.

In a magical and mesmerising display accompanied by a haunting soundtrack played live by musicians from Manchester International Roots Orchestra, the swan briefly found her peacock, before disappearing again in a magnificent shower of lights back across the lake.

Moments later the mood was changed again one final time when, in complete contrast to the serene swan and now calm stillness of lights on the water, the crowd’s rapturous applause was broken by the frenetic high energy drumming of the amazing illuminated drummers of Spark as they came into view at the water’s edge, working

the crowds into a frenzy of excitement as they led them in a final fiesta fanfare around the lake. Councillor Luthfur Rahman, Executive Member for Schools, Culture and Leisure, Manchester City Council, said: “This was our first ever Festival of Manchester and was a brilliant success.

People turned out in their thousands to celebrate the many different cultures that make up our fantastic hometown.

“Behind all the fun is a recognition of the serious contribution that culture makes to Manchester, and especially the value brought by all the many different communities that together make our diverse and vibrant city such a great place to live, work and play.”

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£300k for library service at Culture Centre Welsh Government has awarded £300,000 towards the area library for Conwy, Deganwy and Llandudno Junction, which is to be based at the new Conwy Culture Centre.

The Welsh Government’s Transformation Capital Grant Programme is supporting museums, archives and libraries to transform services for users, and ensure their future sustainability.

Announcing the funding, the Minister for Culture, Tourism

and Sport, Lord Elis-Thomas, said: “The Welsh Government remains committed to supporting these important services. This fund will widen access for our communities, promoting cultural engagement, providing learning opportunities and supporting community cohesion and prosperity. I look forward to visiting the new facilities in due course, and encourage everyone to see what their local museum, archive or library has to

offer.” Work started on the Conwy Culture Centre site in May; the development will see a new cultural destination for Conwy County, providing access to library, archive and heritage collections.

Cllr Mark Baker, Conwy’s Cabinet Member for Communities said, “We’re delighted that our bid has been successful, the Area Library is a key part of the services that’ll be offered at the Conwy Culture Centre.

“Providing fit-for-

purpose, contemporary, library facilities is part of modernising our services and modernising the way we work, to meet the changing needs of our communities.”

In addition to the library, the Conwy Culture Centre will incorporate an arts hub, a local history point, archive, youth programme, and café.

The brand new building will be located on the edge of Bodlondeb Park, a stone’s throw from the Conwy Castle and Town Walls World

Heritage Site.

The total cost of the Culture Centre Project is £3.7million, which includes grant funding from Heritage Lottery Fund; Welsh Government Transformation Capital Grant Programme; capital funding and sale of buildings from Conwy County

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

Borough Council; funding from the Rural Community Development Fund, and Gwynt y Môr funding in partnership with the Conwy Arts Trust.

To find out more about the Conwy Culture Centre project visit www.conwy.gov. uk/culturecentre

The Gardens of North Wales

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.

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 870mile (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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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 selfcatering 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

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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Omega European Masters Preview, Picks & Analysis

WITH the identities of Thomas Bjorn's Ryder Cup automaric qualifiers now known, life continues on the European Tour, with Matt Fitzpatrick returning to the glorious Crans Sur Sierre to defend his Omega European Masters title. If there is a a more spectacular venue anywhere on the globe it is difficult to imagine where it might be. And with the thin air in the Alps, the players are able to hit the ball even further than ever, raising the possibility that this may be the most likely venue for somebody to finally shoot a 59. It is hard to believe that the feat has been achieved 10 times on the PGA Tour, along with Jim Furyk’s memorable

58, and yet we still wait for the first sub-60 round on this side of the Atlantic.

There are several reasons.

PGA Tour courses always boast perfectly manicured greens that have been heavily watered - it means that the Americans play target golf most weeks, while their European counterparts face different challenges every time they tee the ball up.

But one thing is for certain - whoever wins the latest editions of the European Masters is going to have to go low to do so. It was won in 2011 and 2013 by Thomas Bjorn, in 2012 by Richie Ramsay, in 2014 by David Lipsky, in 2015 by Danny Willett, in 2016 by

Alex Noren and last year by Yorkshire’s Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick won in thrilling fashion 12 months ago when he carded a final round 64 to force a playoff with Australia’s Scott Hend. On the first hole of suddendeath, the Englishman calmly converted a difficult par putt to keep his title hopes alive, and after narrow misses for birdie by both Fitzpatrick and Hend on the second extra playoff hole, the duo was headed back to the 18th tee once again. Maintaining his nerve throughout, the Sheffield native found the fairway and green before two putting for par and breaking the deadlock as Hend made bogey following a missed

green. “I’m delighted to announce I’ll be defending my title in Crans Montana,” said Fitzpatrick. “I’m really looking forward to being back and competing there again- it’s going to be a great week.”

The picturesque mountain views of Crans Montana offer an exquisite setting for a tournament who previous winners also include Seve Ballesteros, Nick Faldo, Ernie Els and Sergio Garcia.

Fitzpatrick already has four titles to his credit and will surely be among the favourites. It is getting towards the business end of the season and there will be several players in the field with other things on their mind, namely finding one good week to secure their playing privileges for next year.

The top 60 players in the Race to Dubai standings will take part in the season-ending Dubai World Championship, but there is also the small matter of finishing in the top 110 to avoid having to make a trip back to the dreaded qualifying school.

And among those who are uncomfortably close to that number are Scott Jamieson, Nicolas Colsaerts and Romain Wattel, who are just inside the top 110, and the likes of Thongchai Jaidee, David Horsey, Richie Ramsay, Marc Warren, Haydn Porteous and Callum Shinkwin, who are all on the outside looking in. With a good week in Switzerland or one of the other five remaining events in the regular season all of these players can still rescue themselves. But the pressure on each and every one of them is intense. At the end of the season it could all come down to one missed putt that causes somebody to miss the cut. Or, like Eddie Pepperell a couple of years ago it could be a wayward tee shot at the 36th hole when all he had to do to keep his card was make it to the weekend.

Jamieson gave himself a chance of survival with a good week at the Czech Masters. The Scot, who is a former winner, has been here before and admits that it is a horrible experience. But they keep coming back because

they all have dreams, they all want to win, and they all believe that they can win.

And who knows? Crans Sur Sierre just might be where it happens.

In truth, it is far more likely to be somebody from the upper reaches of the Race to Dubai who walks away with the trophy. Unsurprisingly, there is a superb field, featuring the likes of Danny Willett, Thomas Pieters, Charl Schwartzel, Matt Wallace, Alexander Levy, Paul Dunne, Haotong Li, Kiradech Aphibarnrat and George Coetzee.

To Win: Matthew Fitzpatrick. Hugely underrated young player Each Way: Alexander Levy. Capable of brilliant bursts of scoring Fantasy Picks: Matthew Fitzpatrick. Adores this place Alexander Levy. Bitterly disappointed not to make Ryder Cup team Paul Dunne.

Brilliant Irishman Charl Schwartzel. So much talent Thomas Pieters. Could bring this course to its knees Danny Willett. Only a matter of time before he wins again Matt Wallace. Should suit him Haotong Li. Class act Scott Jamieson. Determined to stay on the right side of the 110

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Have You Tried Playing in a

Professionally Run Pro Am Event?

At the beginning of the year, I made playing in more proam events part of my golf objectives. Why? I have found that getting involved in these events has taught me a lot about my game and they are great fun as well.

The prize tables are brilliant, often sponsored directly by manufacturers.

I was lucky enough last year to be invited to play in a Senior European Tour ProAm in Italy at the Villa Verde Resort. It was part of an organised press trip and was an incredible experience from start to finish. It was terrifying but also invigorating and we were incredibly lucky with the players our group got to partner with.

Thankfully given my role within Golfshake, I enjoy different experiences and challenging myself whenever possible. A bit of terror on the golf course never hurt anyone.

I recently received a call from a PGA Professional among my acquaintance who asked if I fancied joining him in a pro-am to be played the following day. He plays in both Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire PGA events so there are some fantastic golf courses to choose from.

The events involve teams of four players, all requiring CONGU handicaps. The

professional plays a medal competition within the team event. Occasionally we play off blended tees between white and blue so you get to experience the course at its most challenging. All the courses are also well prepared given the status they achieve by being involved in this type of event.

Strangely, I find that there is a lot less individual pressure when playing in these events as a mid range handicap golfer is not expected to score on every hole. The best ball format ensures the two best scores count for the team. I have found that it allows me to play a much freer game and attempt shots that I normally wouldn’t consider taking on in a competition format. Best piece of advice I can give is don’t be afraid to pick up your ball if you are not in contention. Keeping the pace of play going is an important part of this style of golf.

From a learning point of view most of the great lessons I have absorbed have been around preparation for the round. How many times do you rock up, swing a club twice near the putting green and then launch into a drive only to be surprised that it didn’t do as you wanted?

These professional players always warm up properly using the range and also they

stretch the main muscles to ensure they are ready to perform. I like watching the warm up routines at these events and have copied a number of things I have spotted. One player took out all the even number clubs and starting with his wedges hit three shots per club to a defined target. This routine only takes 10 minutes but has had real benefits to my early round scoring since I copied it.

I have noticed that most professionals ensure that the last shot they hit before walking to the tee is an exact replica of that they wish to play that day.

A lot of work is about rhythm and tempo and it is a delight to watch them on the putting green.

Another thing I have copied is not getting too target focussed concentrating on green pace and roll. I saw one pro drop three balls on the green and play them away from any holes. His goal was imply to ensure that they

were all evenly paced and they all ended up in the same place. Ideally they need to be touching.

I have also seen pros aiming at tee pegs instead of the hole itself. Many of the better courses have half size holes on the practice green. These are also very popular as when playing on the course the hole looks twice the size.

Another major learning point for me has been the emphasis on proper hydration and nutrition. All the pros carry a lot of drinks and food. I am amazed at the amount they consume during the round but this is to avoid the sugar spikes that I am used to experiencing having sneaked a chocolate bar at the halfway house. The energy spike and subsequent drop in energy has been really harmful to my overall score tracking so I now carry a banana and a protein bar as this allows a much steadier energy release.

I have realised after playing these events that it is important to have a decent relationship with the professional golfer. Most are playing for their living and they are under pressure.

These are not playing lessons but if you watch and observe there are massive lessons to be had. On the course in the team format the professional can give help on reading greens and strategic thoughts on shot etc.

These are invaluable and provide real gold dust for someone like myself who is absent of any strategic

thinking on a golf course. Hit it, find it, hit it again does not work on the quality of courses these events are played on.

You need to be wary of ensuring your etiquette but most professionals help in this regard anyway.

If you have doubts about a rule, ask. These guys also know the rules inside out.

It is their living after all so they are able to ensure that rules work for them as well as against them. I love the way the events are run and played. Pace of play is always maintained properly, other players are always given the proper courtesies and it is a joy when rules are strictly and properly applied.

These events can be accessed easily by viewing the PGA website and checking out the regional areas where you wish to play. Most organisers will maintain a list of interested players so ring them if there is an event you wish to play in. Many of the younger professionals are less than organised and having a list of willing players helps them and can get you to play with new partners.

Speak to your club professional or his assistants if this type of activity appeals.

It is a great way to build relationships on both sides.

The cost of these events is reasonable given the quality of courses on offer. For example, to play the brilliant Hollinwell (Notts Golf Club) for £55 is excellent value in

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my opinion. The courses are always in the best condition and many maximise on the extra traffic by offering special menus for the players.

Many events have sponsorship and advertising boards just like the main tour events you watch on TV. Please don’t do as I did at one event where I saw two beautiful Maserati displayed by the first tee box and mistakenly thought that they were a hole in one prize.

It was gently explained to me that they are there to be bought not to be won.

I genuinely cannot think of a downside to getting involved in these type of events. It is great fun and when everyone plays well it is a fantastic feeling to be in contention at a serious golf event. The buzz is brilliant.

My last event was played at Coxmoor. Our professional played seven under gross to card a 66. We had four twos in the team and our combined score was 20 under par. We came fourth!

Minus 10 under won the professional event.

Congratulations Lee Clarke from Beeston Fields. A brilliant performance. How many times can you say that you played in an event when such a score was recorded?

It is a challenge to first try this format of golf as an average amateur golfer but since dipping my toe in the water I can’t get enough of it.

Give it a go, what have you got to lose?