Lancashire local issue 6

20p Where Sold

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Issue. 6

Inside This Issue: Health & Wellbeing • Weddings • Home and Gardens • Jobs • Classified • Sports

Evofit issued of attacker after woman is raped

Police investigating the rape of an 18-year-old woman in Stalybridge have issued an evofit of a suspect.

The attack happened between 4.30am and 6.30am on Friday 1 January 2016 after the woman got into a black cab in Stalybridge to return home after celebrating New Year’s Eve. The driver then drove the woman in the direction away from her address coming to a stop on wasteland on Castle Street near to the Texaco petrol station in Stalybridge where he raped her. The victim has been working with police to produce an evofit of her attacker, which officers have now released to the public to help identify the man responsible.

Detective Inspector Richard Ennis from GMP’s Tameside Division said: “The vehicle that the victim got into has been described as a black or dark blue minibusstyle taxi, possibly with a rear sliding passenger door.

We are making significant enquiries alongside Tameside Council to try and identify this vehicle, but we cannot be definite that this was a genuine taxi, or whether it was someone posing as a taxi.

“This is a despicable act which has left a young woman completely distraught. We are doing everything we can to find the person responsible but we need the public’s help.

“If you recognise the man in the evofit, or if you have any information about what happened that morning, please come forward and tell us what you know. You may think your information is trivial, but it could be vital to our investigation.”

The attacker is described as Asian, around 27-years-old, around 5ft 8in, slim/medium build with short dark hair that is longer on top and stubble. The man was wearing jeans and spoke with an Asian accent.

New scheme launched to help "flood proof"

properties in Lancashire The Government has announced details of a scheme to help householders and businesses make their properties more resistant to future floods.

Under the scheme, householders and businesses affected by Storms Desmond and Eva can apply for grants of up to £5,000 to help make their homes more resilient to flooding in the future.

The grants, administered by local district councils, are intended to help homeowners and businesses put in measures which improve the property’s resilience or resistance to flooding, over and above repairs that would normally be covered by insurance.

More details on how to apply for the Flood Resilience Grant Scheme are available from the relevant district council. More details on what the scheme covers are available under flooding advice at the Lancashire County Council website: http://www.lancashire.gov. uk/roads-parking-and-travel/roads/flooding.aspx Speaking about the funding, County Councillor Jennifer Mein said: "All of Lancashire's affected councils have been working very hard with central government and other agencies to help homeowners and businesses to get back on their feet following the flooding.

This new scheme should play a real part in reducing the impact of any future flooding.

"As well as the £500 payments to all affected households there are other sources of funding available for householders and businesses, and I'd like to urge people to make the most of them. Details of the funding, along with who runs each scheme, are available on our website.

If you're not sure if you're eligible, just ask."

Northern Powerhouse minister James Wharton said: “We are determined to support people and businesses affected by the recent severe weather so they can protect their homes against future floods.

“This government has invested nearly £200 million following Storm Eva and Storm Desmond to help flood-affected communities get back on their feet.”

Every household flooded during the storms is eligible to receive £500 and district councils have now made the vast majority of those payments, with the remainder expected to be paid very soon.

Support is also available for businesses severely affected either directly or indirectly by the flooding to help them recover and get trading again as soon as possible.

Page 2. Issue 6. Lancashire Local

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Shop fined £3,000 for

tobacco offences The owner and director of a Preston convenience shop are counting the cost after officers from Lancashire County Council Trading Standards Service found packs of incorrectly labelled cigarettes and tobacco during an inspection in July last year.

Vohra Store (Meadow Lane) Limited, runs the busy store on South Meadow Lane, where sole director, Sohel Vohra, works with his family.

Preston magistrates heard how an inspection at the store led to the discovery of two pouches of contraband Golden Virginia tobacco, hidden in a microwave oven behind the counter.

Elsewhere, a sleeve containing ten unopened packs of Superkings cigarettes was found in an ATM-style cash machine.

One of the tobacco pouches was labelled in German while the other pouch and the cigarettes all bore warnings which

have been out of date since 2010.

The Company and Sohel Vohra were both convicted after pleading not guilty to offences under the Consumer Protection Act 1987.

During the trial Vohra told the court that the two pouches of tobacco were for his own use and were not intended for sale. He said that the sleeve of Superkings had been bought for him by a friend but, after deciding he didn't like

them, he had put them in the cash machine and then forgotten about them.

Vohra and his company were both ordered to pay fines of £1,500 following the trial on Wednesday 13 January.

After victims' surcharges and court costs were added the final bill for the case came to over £3,800.

County Councillor Azhar Ali, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: "Improperly labelled tobacco

products, be they smuggled or out of date, deny consumers vital warnings about the dangers of smoking.

"The trade in these kinds of products harms law-abiding retailers and our economy in terms of unpaid duty and VAT. Trading Standards and the courts are determined to show that under-the-counter tobacco sales will not be tolerated in Lancashire shops."

From 1 April 2016 workers in the UK aged over 25 earning the minimum rate of £6.70 per hour will see a 50p increase

The National Living Wage supports the government’s vision of a higher wage, lower welfare, lower tax society.

More than 70% of workers have said they will feel more positive for themselves and their families as a

result of the introduction of the new National Living Wage, announced by the Chancellor at the Summer Budget.

The findings are part of a new government survey which also shows that 59% of respondents will feel more motivated at work as a result of the increase in their pay packets.

Over a million workers in the UK aged 25 and over are set to directly benefit from the increase, which sees the current minimum rate of £6.70 increase by 50p. Many will see their pay packets rise by up to £900 a year. This will be the largest annual increase in a minimum wage rate across any G7 country since 2009 in cash and real terms.

The survey results coincide with the launch of a new advertising campaign based around real people talking about the positive effect the new National Living Wage will have on their lives.

The advert, due to launch on Monday 18 January 2016, will feature a range of workers from across the UK set to benefit from the National Living Wage as it increases over the next 4 years.

Chancellor George Osborne said: The new National Living Wage is an essential part of building the higher wage, lower welfare, lower tax society that Britain needs and it’s great to see that over a million people will see their living standards boosted when this comes into force on 1st April.

Britain deserves a pay rise and this one-nation government is making sure it gets one, helping more people have the security of a higher wage to provide for themselves and their families.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said: The government believes that Britain deserves a pay rise and our new National Living Wage will give a direct boost to over a million people.

We are building a more productive Britain and giving families the security of well-paid work.

This is a step up for working people, so it is important workers know their rights and that employers pay the new £7.20 from April 1 this year.

Rena Matthew, who appeared in the TV advert, earns £7 per hour as a social services family contact officer

in West London. The mother of 2 welcomed the income boost: I think it’s a great idea. There are a lot of people who are struggling to meet financial needs. To have this extra support and get a good wage is really important to them.

The National Living Wage will give people a little more confidence and motivation to work.

School cleaner Michelle Curley, of Erdington, in Birmingham, earns £6.70 per hour. The 37-year-old, who also appeared in the TV advert, said: It will really help me a lot, especially with the shopping bill. Fifty pence may not seem a lot, but it will make a difference.

The move will support hard working families across the country. They will also benefit from an increase in the personal allowance, taking the lowest paid out of tax, while free childcare will increase to 30 hours, helping household budgets stretch further.

Many UK companies have already pledged to pay at or above the new rate, including Morrisons, Lidl, National Express and Ikea.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 6. Page 3.

Empty properties across Wigan Borough have been brought back to life and have given a vital lifeline to many residents in need of affordable housing

Gary Armstrong, aged 29, moved into a property in Golborne that has been renovated through the ‘Empty to Plenty’ scheme in December 2015.

Gary’s new flat is one of six selfcontained properties in a building that was formerly an empty and derelict pub.

Gary moved to Wigan Borough in 2008 and had been privately renting a property in the area but lost his tenancy after he had to give up his job and could no longer afford the costly rent.

Gary said: “I was working as a chef and it was a stressful job. Unfortunately the stress made me ill and I had to stop working. I couldn’t afford my rent or bills anymore so I had to leave my rented accommodation and was living on sofas.

“My sister helped me because she

knew how desperate I was. I didn’t have anywhere to live and was struggling quite a lot which wasn’t doing my mental health any good.”

After being declared homeless, Gary was referred to the bond scheme with community interest company Wigan Housing Solutions, who manage the properties on behalf of the council, and was able to start looking for a home immediately.

He explained: “After about a week and a half I was in the property, it wasn’t long at all. I am in the flat on my own but I do occasionally have custody of my son. I couldn’t see him when I was living on sofas and I couldn’t take him anywhere.

The homes renovated through the scheme are all let at 80 per cent of the full market rent making them affordable for someone single and

Diary of becoming a

Samaritan by Kathleen

I suppose I had been aware of Samaritans for some time. I had seen their contact details at the end of newspaper articles about suicide and noticed their phone number on a poster near the bridge going to Anglesey on holiday. My ideas about what they actually did were really pretty sketchy - I knew that they took phone calls from people who may be considering suicide.

But who answered those phone calls? What help were they able to give to callers?

Gradually I had heard more about this organisation; a friend became a Samaritan, I came across a couple of people who had contacted Samaritans and had found help and support when they were in distress.

A good friend had died by suicide and after this I decided to find out a bit more. From their website www. samaritans.org I learned about the people answering the phone calls - and also emails, texts and letters.

They are there to give a listening ear to people in despair or distress,

not just those thinking of suicide.

They are men and women of all ages (over 18), from many different backgrounds and life experiences.

They are all volunteers - people like me and, maybe, like you.

It actually took a few years and a change in my working circumstances before I decided, in 2015, that now was the right time to find out if I could become a Samaritans listening volunteer.

I telephoned my local branch on 01254 682266 and they advised me of an information evening being held the following month. I went along - it can sometimes feel a bit daunting going somewhere when you don’t know anyone but I need not have worried - everyone was very friendly and welcoming. We were told about Samaritans aims, how we could get involved and training volunteers are given. The next step was to fill in an application form I was then invited to attend a Selection day.

To be continued in the next issue

under 35 such as Gary or families on low incomes. And unlike most private tenancies which have short leases the properties are leased for at least five years meaning more security and permanency for tenants.

Gary said: “It means a lot to me.

At the moment I’m left with about £18 a month after rent and bills and when I was on full rent that gap was creating debt. “Until I can get back into work it’s about keeping calm and spending time with my son, which is a

good thing for me and for my mental health. When I’m able to return back to work I will. I love cooking and I want to get back into that.”

So far, 25 properties such as this have been renovated and brought back to life in Wigan Borough thanks to the Empty to Plenty scheme.

The scheme was launched in September 2013 by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and funded by the Homes and Communities Agency.

At least another 12 properties are in the pipeline to be completed and Wigan Council has also bid for further funding to continue the project.

It is hoped even if the council isn’t successful with this extra funding the income generated through the payback of the loan given to landlords for taking on a property will be able to be recycled into more homes.

Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet member for communities and housing, said: “This scheme is a

great way of helping local people and transforming communities. When a property is empty it becomes a blot on the landscape and is at risk of anti-social behaviour. Bringing empty homes and buildings back into use provides both much-needed affordable housing for families and individuals who really need them and visible benefits to the local community.”

Elizabeth Woods from Wigan Housing Solutions said: “This scheme has made a real contribution to the community in offering clients in housing need quality accommodation.”

Work has

started on

new school

at Weeton

The building of a new primary school at Weeton is now underway, following a turf-cutting ceremony that took place on Tuesday 19 January.

The new school will be on land bought by the county council from the Ministry of Defence, on Minden Road, on the Weeton Barracks army site. It will replace the existing school.

The build is needed to replace the outdated existing building and to meet the increased demand for places now and in the future.

Around 160 pupils currently attend the school and a large proportion of them are from serving army families. The number of pupils who are admitted to the new school will increase to 210.

The new single-storey building, expected to be completed in autumn 2016, is being built by Conlon Construction and will have seven classrooms, a library, a 'rainbow room' for children who need extra support, and a sports hall. An all-weather sports pitch is also being installed.

County Councillor Nikki Hennessy, lead member for schools, attended the event and said: "I'm delighted that work has now started on this new school. We need a bigger building for this popular school to meet additional demand for places now and in the future.

"It's great that we've been able to offer these extra places in a modern building. I'm sure that it will provide a superb learning environment for the children, supporting families of our armed forces in particular."

Anthony Goth, headteacher of Weeton Primary School, said: "We are looking forward to our new school being ready. The children are really excited."

Corporal Des Hornby, from the 2nd Battalion of the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, said: "I'm looking forward to seeing the new school starting to take shape."

Darren Lee, commercial director at Conlon Construction, said: “We are looking forward to building our first school on a military base.

“We will work hard to provide a high quality building to support modern teaching and learning.”

Page 4. Issue 6. Lancashire Local

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Plans for Blackpool's new West

Division Police Headquarters

Plans for the new Blackpool Police station available for the public to view The new headquarters building will replace the Bonny Street building in 2018 providing a new base for local neighbourhood teams, immediate response officers and 42 custody cells.

The new building has been planned for several years and will be funded as part of the Commissioner’s capital programme.

When complete the new building will boast energy saving features and save

£180k in annual running costs such as heating and lighting meaning more money can be put into policing.

Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire explained: “The current Bonny Street premises are way past their sell by date. The building doesn’t meet modern policing requirements and actually does nothing to enhance the culture and working practices.

“On top of that the current costs of heating and maintaining the building are £500k which is a drain on our

reducing resources.” A planning application for the new build on the site of the former Progress House council offices on Clifton Road, Blackpool will be submitted to Blackpool Council this month. The site is close to the large Tesco and the junction of the M55 motorway ensuring excellent links to the wider road network and the remainder of West Division. The Blackpool Town Centre neighbourhood team and public enquiry desk will relocate to the Council’s Municipal Building as

part of the plans that will also see Blackpool South police station close in 2019. As part of the build hundreds of local jobs and apprenticeships will be created with local businesses and suppliers given the opportunity to bid for work.

The scheme will also be discussed at the next meeting of the Mereside PACT at 7pm on January 21 at the Mereside Community Centre. Local people are invited to come and talk to the Commissioner and project team about the plans.

extra{ordinary} ~ Photographs of Britain

by The Caravan Gallery (Preston)

A major exhibition of photographs, made in hundreds of locations across the UK over the last fifteen years, will be exhibited at Preston’s Museum of Lancashire. Selected from The Caravan Gallery’s huge archive of images, extra{ordinary} offers an insight into the reality and surreality of everyday life in 21st century Britain.

In an alternative to the picturesque and often clichéd images found in tourist information brochures, the artists, Jan Williams and Chris Teasdale, seek out the curious, unusual and absurd in the places they visit.

They say, ‘The Caravan Gallery doesn’t airbrush out Portaloos, and we’re as likely to photograph tanning salons as thatched cottages’.

The Caravan Gallery itself is an innovative photography gallery-onwheels. Since 2000, Williams and Teasdale have travelled thousands

of miles, taking their iconic situations, and vice versa. Many 1969 mustard-coloured caravan of our images tell stories and raise to locations across Britain from questions. They might be tawdry, London’s Tate Britain to the small topographic, touching, tragicomic, fishing port of Peterhead in the North typical and sometimes irreverent but East of Scotland, in a quest to share are always real’. their photographs and inspire others. The exhibition, extra{ordinary} Contributions from local people are Photographs of Britain by The vital to the project.

Caravan Gallery, is one of three The artists delight in talking to the components in a major citywide many visitors drawn to the caravan, project. Over the course of the and seek out their recommendations of people and places worthy of investigation.

Williams and Teasdale have photographed everything from distressed shoppers in Liverpool, to a one- penny wedding dress; a box of mystery vegetables, to an elderly couple enjoying the papers whilst wedged between two cars in a lay by, oblivious to the scenery. The artists say, ‘Unexpected delights are to be found in the most unpromising

exhibition visitors will also be able to experience The Caravan Gallery on location during the Preston Caravan Gallery Tour and contribute their own photographs to the Preston Pride of Place Project displays in pop-up hubs in the city centre. extra{ordinary}, the Pride of Place Project and The Caravan Gallery Tour are generously supported by an Arts Council England Touring Grant.

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Girl, 16, missing from home in Blackburn

Police are trying to find a 16-year-old girl who is missing from Blackburn areesa Ghaderi was last seen at her home on Pinewood at around 5pm on Saturday 16 January. She is described as Asian, 5ft 1in, slim build with waist-length black hair. She was last seen wearing glasses, black leggings, black and pink trainers, a pale pink scarf and a beige winter coat with a hood with fur trim.

She was also carrying a large blue handbag.

Pareesa has links to Liverpool and Preston.

PC Jade Shaw from Blackburn Police said: “Pareesa has been missing for several days now and we are appealing for anyone who has seen her or knows where she is to get in touch with us. Pareesa is vulnerable because of her age and we are becoming increasingly concerned for her welfare. “We would also urge Pareesa, if she sees this appeal, to return home or to get in touch with us to let us know she is safe.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101, quoting log number 1210 of January 16, 2016.

Exciting times at Penrith Farmers’

and Kidd’s Auctioneers

Exciting changes are underfoot at Penrith Farmers’ and Kidd’s Auctioneers in Penrith, Cumbria which will see the auction house become a regional hub for auction sales of all manner of items – from general house clearance right through to Fine Art and Antiques.

Saleroom Manager Michael Roberts wants to use his experiences of featuring regularly on BBC Bargain Hunt to good effect by drawing all those keen viewers of the programme to visit his saleroom in person and take part in auction sales in Cumbria, either as buyers or sellers.

PFK sell over 20,000 lots a year through a series of 26 auctions from

their purpose built 1500 square metre warehouse saleroom close to the M6.

Their convenient access is a major asset, with clients travelling far to attend the auctions. Currently, PFK are working towards their April 13 Major Fine Art and Antiques auction and are inviting entries of valuable, interesting and unusual items of all types – from fine jewellery right through to furniture. The April sale will contain a garden and statuary section and the major lot consigned for this section so far is a pair of 19th Century cast iron urns on pedestals, probably by Derby maker Andrew Handyside and Company. Each measure an impressive nine feet

in height! In addition to the April Fine auction, PFK are continually accepting entries for their popular Fortnightly auction. Items in this sale include interior design pieces, modern, vintage and retro furnishings and general household and good quality electrical items – a real treasure trove!

For further information, contact Saleroom Manager Michael Roberts directly on 01768 890781.

Lancashire Local. Issue 6. Page 5.

Page 6. Issue 6. Lancashire Local

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Miner monument awarded listed building status A prominent St Helens sculpture has been awarded Grade II Listed status

by Historic England. Commissioned in 1964, by the National Coal Board for its North Western Division headquarters in Lowton, The Miner, or the Anderton Mining Monument, has been given the prestigious status for its aesthetic quality, the materials it’s comprised of, its historic interest and its contribution to the public realm.

For the sculpture an actual industrial component was used, namely the steel cutting drum of an Anderton Shearer Loader, a cutter loader machine developed in the 1950s, which

revolutionised long wall mining throughout the world. The loader was pioneered at the former Ravenhead Colliery, near to where the monument has been sited since 1998 on the St Helens Linkway roundabout. The loader was turned on its side to support a realistic bronze bust of a masculine mine worker holding a large lump of coal above head height, raised on a railway sleeper pedestal.

The Miner is one of a number of sculptures identified for consideration for listing as part of Historic England's project on public sculpture erected between 1945 and 1985. St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member

for Employment, Planning and Growth, Councillor John Fulham, said: “This magnificent sculpture has acted as a showpiece in the town centre for many years and tells the story of the town’s proud mining history perfectly.

“It really is fitting that it has been recognised in this way.” Roger Bowdler, Director of Listing at Historic England said: “Sculptures like The Miner or The Anderton Mining Monument were commissioned and created for everybody and have become a precious national collection of art which we can all share.

“They enrich our lives, bring art to everyone and deserve celebration.

We have worked with the Public Monuments and Sculpture Association, Tate, and the Twentieth Century Society throughout this project to ensure our most special public art is protected and continues to enhance our public spaces.”

Helmshore murder: police arrest second suspect

DETECTIVES investigating the murder of Sadie Hartley in Helmshore have arrested a second woman. The woman, 55, was arrested on suspicion of murder on (Monday, January 18th) at an address in Chester. She is currently in custody. Detectives are continuing to question a 34 year old woman from Chester in connection with the murder of 60 year old Sadie Hartley in Helmshore, Rossendale.

She was arrested on Sunday 17 January on suspicion of murder and officers have been given more time to question her. Police launched a murder inquiry after Ms Hartley was found with a number of knife wounds at her home address on Sunny Bank Road, Helmshore on

the evening of Friday 15 January.

A post mortem examination carried out on Saturday evening confirmed the cause of death as multiple stab wounds.

The murder weapon has not yet been recovered. Following an appeal for a man and a jogger seen on Sunny Bank Road on the evening of Thursday 14 January, we can confirm that we’ve traced both people, who are local residents. Officers are continuing their appeal to identify the person seen passing the man as he walked out of Sunny Bank Road and the unknown person walked into the culde-sac leaving a few minutes later.

We are also still trying to trace the old style Renault Clio car and the driver of that vehicle. This car was

seen arriving on Sunny Bank Road just before 8pm on Thursday 14 January, and driving off moments later.

We would also be keen to hear from anyone who may have information about people asking for the location of Sunny Bank Road in the days or weeks leading up to the murder. A scene still remains in place at the house and as searches continue. Detective Superintendent Paul Withers leading the investigation said: “I’d like to thank everyone, particularly the residents of Sunny Bank Road, for their help and patience with the investigation so far. “The exact motive for this horrific murder remains unclear at this time but we are continuing to make steady progress and I would urge people to help us with our further lines of enquiry today, particularly in identifying who the Renault Clio car belongs to.

“Call us on 101 quoting incident reference 1481 of January 15th with any information you have.”

Alternatively anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 6. Page 7.

New premises for hearing aid drop-in clinic

On 1 February 2016, the borough’s hearing aid repair drop-in clinic will move premises.

The clinic will move from its current home at Fairfield General Hospital to Radcliffe Primary Care Centre, 69 Church St West, Radcliffe, M26 2SP. There will be no change to the

opening times and no appointment is needed. People can continue to dropin between 9am and 12pm and 1pm and 4pm (the clinic is closed between 12pm and 1pm). The clinic is provided

by Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust’s Audiology Service and is for any current audiology patient who is

aged over 18 and has a hearing aid.

It was established to enable issues to be resolved more quickly and easily – without them having to wait for an appointment.

This includes hearing aid repairs, battery replacement and advice around any problems people are having.

The new venue offers many benefits including ample free parking, excellent public transport links, disabled access and a more central location that is closer to many people’s homes. This purpose built health centre also boasts light, airy and spacious clinical rooms and a welcoming environment.

Free support event in Burnley for people with Type 2 diabetes

Diabetes UK will run one of a national series of free educational events to provide expert advice and information for people recently diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in Burnley in February.

The ‘Living with Diabetes Day’ will be held at Burnley Football Club on Harry Potts Way on Friday 12th February. The events are being held at 80 locations across the UK and it is expected that 10,000 people with Type 2 diabetes will attend them over the next two years. Figures released

by Diabetes UK earlier this month show there are now an estimated 18,270 people living with diabetes in East Lancashire.

The one-day events, funded by Tesco, are aimed at helping people who have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in the last few years and to provide them with essential information they need to live well with condition.

People who have been living with Type 2 diabetes for longer but need to brush up on their knowledge of the condition are also welcome to attend.

Type 2 diabetes is a serious, lifelong condition which can be treated with diet, exercise, medication and/or

insulin. Healthcare professionals will provide information on local healthcare and the services available to people with Type 2 diabetes in the area. They will also advise on avoiding health complications associated with diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney failure, stroke, amputation and blindness, through good management of the condition.

Experts will give workshops on the practical elements of living with Type 2 diabetes, such as diet, exercise, medication, travel and driving.

Places are limited at the Living with Diabetes Day in Burnley. Those interested in attending the event must register online at www.diabetes.org. uk/lwdd or call freephone 0345 123 2399.

Stephen Ryan, Diabetes UK Regional Manager in the north of England said: “There are around 18,270 people living with Type 2 diabetes in East Lancashire and we know that being diagnosed with the condition can have a life-changing effect on people.

“There is a lot of information to take in, particularly at the time of diagnosis, so these events are a great way to get detailed expert advice in an easy-to-digest way, as well as being an opportunity to meet other people living with Type 2 diabetes.

“We hope the Living with Diabetes Day will give people with Type 2 diabetes in the area the information and confidence they need to live well with the condition.”

There are limited places at the Living with Diabetes Day in Burnley. Those interested in attending the full day event must book a place online at www.diabetes.org.uk/lwdd or email lwdd@diabetes.org.uk or call freephone 0345 123 2399.

Debbie Rose, Audiology Service Lead, said: “The drop-in clinic is hugely popular and feedback from our service users tells us they really value the opportunity to resolve any issues with their hearing aid quickly

and easily. “We’re keen to make sure people know about the new venue and are using every channel available to us. If you know someone who lives in Bury and has a hearing aid, please do let them know about the changes.”

People who have any questions or concerns can phone the Audiology Team on 01706 837121. Further information about the Audiology Service is available at www. penninecare.nhs.uk/buryaudiology

Page 8. Issue 6. Lancashire Local

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The Quit Squad!

On hand to help you quit smoking The Quit Squad is encouraging smokers in Lancashire to make 2016 the year they make a step towards a smokefree future.

The Quit Squad, Lancashire Care

NHS Foundation Trust’s stop smoking service, offers one to one sessions, drop in clinics with no appointment needed, nicotine replacement therapies, stop smoking products and support and advice to those who want to stop smoking. The service also provides assistance for those who use other tobacco products as well as cigarettes including shisha and also welcome users of e-cigarettes to help them quit nicotine for good. The New Year is a great opportunity to quit the habit for good with the help of the service. Julie Trezise, Quit Squad Service Manager at Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust said: "It’s great to see how many people have quit smoking last year, but it’s also important to continue the hard

work. Our team is on hand to help all year round so we encourage anyone thinking of stopping smoking to get in touch. You can stop smoking any time at any age to experience almost immediate benefits to your health so start you’re journey to a healthier you, now!" ‘‘We all start the New Year with the best of intentions and stopping smoking is a popular resolution to pledge. You’re 5 times more likely to quit for good with the help of your local stop smoking service than using willpower alone. Smoking continues to be a major preventable cause of premature death and disease in England however with the help of our dedicated and friendly team we can help you make this year the year of

a new, smokefree you.” Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust’s Quit Squad has helped hundreds of people to take the first steps to a healthier lifestyle by quitting smoking, so call or refer today to get started!

Over 30 thousand people across the North West quit smoking last month which meant the region had the second largest amount of sign ups in the country. You are five times more likely to quit smoking for good with the help of the Quit Squad so make the first three steps today: 1. Check out www.quitsquad.nhs.uk 2. Click on the map to find out where your local stop smoking session is and enrol 3. Register your details online to receive free advice and tips to keep you on track Smoking continues to be the major preventable cause of disease and

premature death in the country and costs the NHS an estimated £2.7 billion each year. Quitting smoking results in countless benefits including: • Improved fitness • Improved breathing

• Enjoying the taste of food more • Reduced risk of some cancers and heart and lung disease.

• More money • Improved appearance of skin and teeth

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Lancashire Local. Issue 6. Page 9.

Page 10. Issue 6. Lancashire Local

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Looking for Things To Do This Half Term

A holiday in Lancashire during half term offers the complete package with something for everyone.

For seaside lovers visit action packed

Blackpool, with its wide range of entertainment to suit the whole family or the sophisticated and genteel resort of Lytham and St Annes.

Discover the recently redeveloped Morecambe with its miles of promenade , Cleveleys and Fleetwood and not forgetting Southport, a classic English seaside resort.

Visit the wetlands of the Ribble Estuary and the sands of Morecambe Bay providing some of the best bird watching areas in the country.

To witness some of the most spectacular scenery in England, a visit to the Lake District National Park is essential. Situated in the North-West of the country, within the county of Cumbria, this expanse of land is a favourite with all nationalities.

Made up of approximately 100 bodies of water ranging from small 'tarns's to large lakes, the Lake District is aptly named! Walkers and campers delight in the breath-taking scenery; writers, poets and painters are inspired by the majestic beauty; holidaymakers revel in the charm of the area. Whether searching for water-sports, hiking opportunities, exploring the area or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the English Lake District will not disappoint!

Photo credit: Derek N Winterburn via Visualhunt.com / CC BY-ND

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Lancashire Local. Issue 6. Page 11.

THE HONEYMOON PERIOD

SHRINKS BY HALF IN A DECADE

WORK PRESSURE & THE EXPENSE SPELLS THE END OF THE TWO-WEEK EXOTIC HONEYMOON THE HONEYMOON period has halved in length in the last decade, new national research has revealed.

Traditionally, UK couples routinely enjoyed honeymoons lasting two weeks in some of the most exotic locations on earth. But modern work pressures and the increase in couples paying for their own wedding celebrations has curtailed the extravagance once considered de rigeur for all newlyweds, according to a study by leading hotel bookers LateRooms.com. Tradition is ushered out into the wedding wilderness with the revelation that just over a third of British couples recently married, or just about to tie the knot, will take a traditional two-week honeymoon.

More than half (55%) of all newly married couples and couples about to get wed claim that they have noticed a huge trend towards shorter, more affordable mini-moons instead of the traditional two week, no expense spared honeymoon of a lifetime.

And now, almost half of UK newlyweds (49%) now either stay in the UK or venture no further than Europe for their post-marital minimoon, the LateRooms.com study reveals. Continues on next page...

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Continued On...

Compare this to 2005, when the top honeymoon destinations for Brits were Hawaii, Tahiti, Fiji, St Lucia, Mexico, Jamaica and Anguilla.* Furthermore, according to a report at the time by Mintel, in 2005 80% of newly married couples went or wanted to go on a 2-week foreign honeymoon.

In 2015, less than a quarter (24%) of UK newlyweds now go on honeymoon immediately after their wedding reception, according to the LateRooms.com poll of 2,000 newlymarried and about-to-get-hitched couples.

And almost one in 10 couples (9%) now don’t bother taking a honeymoon at all.

Almost a third (32%) of newlyweds will wait up to six months before taking their mini-moon, the research has revealed.

Where once, a bride and groom would be waved off by a gaggle of wedding guests as they departed their evening reception bound for a flight of fancy in the Far East, these days many simply go home.

The driving factors for this seachange in honeymoon tradition are pressures from work and the cost of the traditional honeymoon.

In 2015 one in five couples say that the pressures of work means they don’t have the time to enjoy a twoweek honeymoon.

And another 30% say the fact they are having to pay or contribute heavily to the cost of their wedding day means they can’t afford a traditional two week break in a far flung destination.

In 2005 just 16% of couples asked wedding guests for money towards their honeymoon.

Some things remain the same, however. Despite the shorter minimoon trend, the classic beach break continues to be the nation’s honeymoon trip of choice. Almost three in 10 (28%) of newly married couples head to the beach for their post-marital holiday. A further 22% will seek out rest and relaxation in the countryside and 11% head for a city break.

LateRooms.com spokeswoman, Andrea Tarpey, said: “With newlyweds footing more of the bill for their big day than ever before, and having greater demands on their time at work, we’re seeing couples embrace the mini-moon and taking

shorter, less costly getaways closer to home. “With such a fantastic range of destinations on our doorstep, 32% of couples choose to head to Europe, whilst a growing number (17%) opt to stay in the UK to enjoy their first week as Mr and Mrs. Growing in popularity, some 20% will opt for an American mini-moon.

“We understand the pressures of modern couples striving to achieve the perfect wedding day as well as the perfect honeymoon, which is why we launched weddingguestrooms.com to help brides and grooms provide a personalised site with the very best accommodation options for their guests.

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Planning for your

Wedding Day 2016

As couples plan for their big day for 2016 now is the time to get into shape and start organizing for what will be the best day of their lives. For the bride, you can’t start earlier enough.

You want to arrive at the alter looking vibrant with health and beauty, so what better excuse do you need to invest a little bit of time, money and energy in getting you there?

Whether it is planning a few pampering trips to some spas or joining a gym, not only can you trim your figure, you’ll do wonders for your complexion and overall energy levels. Shopping for the wedding dress is probably the part of the wedding plans you are looking forward to more than any other aspect. The majority of bridal gowns bought in the UK are classed as ‘off

the peg.’ You try on a sample of the gown in the shop; they take your measurements and order the most appropriate size for you which is then delivered to the shop for alterations to fit your exact shape and size.

Don’t panic, there may be a huge amount to do but here is a handy checklist with some of the main points to take into consideration in the build up to the big day!

12 months before…

• Choose a wedding date • Decide on a budget • Make a list of guests and decide on numbers • Book your Church/Ceremony location • Book your reception venue/caterers • Choose your Bridesmaids, Ushers and Best Man

• Start looking for The Dress!

• Choose and book your photographer 8 months before…

• Choose bridesmaids’ dresses • Book entertainment • Choose and order your wedding cake • Make an appointment with your chosen florist 6 months before...

• Give Notice of Marriage • Purchase or hire menswear • Select your wedding rings 4 months before...

• Send out your wedding invitations • Arrange fittings for the wedding dress and menswear 1 month before...

• Arrange a final fitting of your wedding dress your bridesmaids, ushers and best man • Enjoy your hen and stag parties!

2 weeks before...

• Confirm the date and time of the rehearsal to the relevant people 1 week before...

• Arrange to collect your wedding dress, bridesmaids dresses and the menswear • Have all your beauty treatments • Drink plenty of water and have some early nights • Relax and enjoy this time – all your hard work is about to come to completion!

proving you’re never too

old to start exercising

Ken Williamson, 93, has proven you’re never too old to start exercising again and has won a national award for embracing his new hobby with such enthusiasm, dancing his way to victory.

Ken is one of as many as forty residents at Appleby House who love taking part in the thrice weekly scheduled ‘Oomph!’ exercise sessions in the home. These sessions are designed to make exercising in old age fun again, using popular music, dance moves, colourful props and story-telling routines.

Activity coordinator at Appleby House, Jacqueline Dye, who nominated Ken for the award, was trained by the award-winning social enterprise Oomph! Wellness. She said “Ken is always waiting at the door for our Oomph! sessions to start, he loves exercise and used to do ballroom dancing with his wife who unfortunately now can no longer dance. Ken is so enthusiastic during the sessions and gets up to join me for a waltz. When Ken first arrived at Appleby House he used to sit in his suite and was unwilling to come out, now he is dancing his days away and is so much happier and always smiling.”

Ken himself says: “It takes me back to the old days. It rejuvenates me both of mind and spirit of my days as a youngster in the forces and civilian life with my dear wife of 66

years.” Joan, Ken’s wife, meanwhile, said “Ken really enjoys the Oomph! sessions, he seems happier and more aware.

It makes my heart glad that Ken is happy in his surroundings.”

Ken is one of thousands of older adults that are taking part in the Oomph! sessions each month across the UK. Oomph! founder, Ben Allen said: “Oomph! stands for Our Organisation Makes People Happy! and that’s what we aim to do every day. Our research shows that older adults don’t proactively seek out exercise classes.

Instead we offer them a song and dance party that happens to exercise their body - and they can’t get enough of it! They are enjoying themselves, they’re socialising and they’re getting fitter and stronger at the same time.”

Ken’s prize for winning the competition is his very own ballroom dancing experience and an ‘Oomph!

Party’ at the home, including a bespoke cinema experience of some classic dance hall moments.

Shona Bradbury, manager at Appleby House, a Care UK home, said “We have seen a reduction in falls this

month which I think is down to the Oomph! classes. The visual aspects of Oomph! work really well in getting residents engaged. We have residents, colleagues and relatives all joining in Oomph! Sessions - they really lift the mood of the home.

Instructor Jacqueline is revelling in her role as an Oomph! Instructor, she consistently delivers enthusiastic, confident and engaging sessions. She is adored by residents.”

George McNamara, Head of Policy at Alzheimer’s Society, who funded the training and support programme on behalf of Appleby House said: “We’re thrilled to be a part of this wonderful story. Leading a physically active lifestyle can have a significant impact on the wellbeing of old people, especially those living with dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Exercise is beneficial for physical and mental health and may improve the quality of life for people in all stages of the condition. Oomph! gets people exercising in an enjoyable way. By involving family and friends in the sessions makes it even more powerful.”

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The Met announces £4.6 million investment in Bury Live music, theatre and arts venue, The Met in Bury, is to undergo a £4.6 million refurbishment starting this March 2016 to meet growing audience demand, thanks to a £3.1 million capital investment from Arts Council England and supporting contributions from Bury Council and other benefactors. The Met is one of the North’s most successful entertainment venues and the investment will enable it to increase its capacity and attract even more national talent to perform in the town. The Met is currently ranked number 39 in the PRS Top 100 Venues in the UK and regularly attracts audiences of more than 45,000, some of which will have first seen Steve Coogan, Eddie Izzard, Johnny Vegas, Caroline Aherne and Lee Evans before they became big names; along with a legendary performance from Joy Division and of course Elbow.

It is also one of Bury’s much-loved heritage buildings and in need of renovation. Bury Metropolitan Arts Association (BMAA), the charity that runs the Met, has spent the last four years successfully applying for and raising money towards securing funds for this redevelopment project.

The capital investment will restore the building’s heritage features and transform the interior to increase capacity and improve facilities for everyone who uses the venue.It will also enable The Met to attract more high profile artists and theatre productions, thanks to new and improved studio and theatre spaces, a new bar area, workshop spaces, new dressing rooms and a new more accessible lift in the centre of the building.

Arts Council England has provided the greatest contribution, investing £3.1 million in the capital development programme. Financial support has also come from Bury Council, Garfield Weston Foundation, Oglesby Foundation, Monument Trust, Granada Foundation, Manchester Guardian as well as public donations and individual giving.

David Agnew, artistic director of The Met, has led the capital project since 2011. He said: "The building is in dire need of investment but this project is about more than just the building. In the last 5 years we have grown to offer a programme of festivals, and Edwin Street Recording Studio, alongside regular international touring artists and weekly workshops. Our partners and audiences are supporting the work we have been carrying out in Bury and plan to continue with into the future.

“Bury’s arts and culture is a huge part of its success and we are delighted to have this investment to continue with a programme that is both relevant to local communities and brings artists and audiences into Bury. " Alison Clark, Director North, Arts Council England, said: “We very pleased to invest in Bury Met’s exciting renovation plans which will enable it to attract more high profile artists and productions to the town benefitting both local and visiting audiences.”

Councillor Paddy Heneghan, Bury Council’s cabinet member for children, families and culture, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Arts Council has chosen to make such a

significant investment in Bury’s major arts venue. The council is also pleased to be able to add its own financial support to this excellent scheme. I have no doubt that a more customer friendly arts centre will undoubtedly increase the cultural offer of the Borough, enhancing its reputation and improving even more the attractiveness of Bury town centre as a visitor destination. “The proposed refurbishment will also significantly improve one of Bury’s most important historical buildings, making it more sustainable for the future” The Met welcomes over 45,000 people a year to Bury through its events, recording studio and festivals programme including Ramsbottom Festival and Homegrown festivals. Work will commence onsite from March 2016 and the project is expected to be completed by November of 2016.

To see more about the plans for the building go to http://themet.biz/better.

The venue will be closed from mid March 2016, and the venue’s restaurant and bar, Automatic Café will remain open during this period, closing for two weeks in June as part of the redevelopment. A site-specific programme of live music and events will continue throughout the building’s renovation.See http://themet.biz/ for more details.

The Fundraising Continues…

To donate to the building scheme through the purchase of a seat in the theatre go to http://themet.biz/better/have-a-seat/. Or donate to the £5 campaign (Donate by text: To send £5 right now text BMAA01 £5 to 70070.)

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Lancashire Local. Issue 6. Page 15.

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Don’t Be Blue, Holiday

Equinox Is Nearly Here

In a recent piece of research looking at people’s holiday habits, including when in the year people are most likely to take their holiday, online travel agent, Travel Republic, can reveal that 23rd January 2016, is Holiday Equinox, the day which the average Brit becomes closer to their next holiday than to their last!

The majority of holiday-makers take one main holiday a year, typically in the summer, so discounting city breaks or secondary winter holidays/ UK trips, once January the 23rd arrives, you are nearer to your main

sun holiday – which is a good thing, seeing as we all know how horribly quickly holiday memories fade upon return! This blue Monday (18th January) Travel Republic wants everyone to know that in just five days, they will have gone through the worst of it, with Holiday Equinox finally here! Naomi Wilkinson, Marketing Director, Travel Republic comments, “Blue Monday is branded the most depressing day of the year, when a host of factors including, weather, daylight hours and postChristmas money worries culminate,

to leave people feeling down, but we are excited to be able to announce an antidote. A ray of light at the end of the dark January tunnel. We really hope that if people know Holiday Equinox is just on the horizon, it will help to lift their spirits! Wilkinson continues, “Everyone will have heard of spring and autumn equinox, when the hours of daylight verses darkness are equal. Everyone looks forward to the days getting longer and being nearer to the day with the longest hours of daylight (and hopefully sun), well this is the holiday equivalent!”

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Lancashire Local. Issue 6. Page 17.

5 Things You (Probably) Didn’t Know About Valentine’s Day We know it seems like Christmas is only just over, but Thorntons has begin its countdown to the sweetest occasion of the year – Valentine’s Day! As chocolate is the perfect romantic gift, February 14th is a big deal at Thorntons, so they would like to think of themselves as experts in the ultimate celebration of love. Here they share five of their favourite little known facts about Valentine’s Day, to hopefully get you in the mood: It has a surprisingly dark past In Victorian times it was considered bad luck to sign a Valentine’s card – which probably had something to do with the grizzly origins of the tradition. The occasion can be traced back to Bishop Valentine, who was executed by a Roman Emperor for performing secret weddings (which were banned during wartime).

While in jail he wrote a note to the jailor’s daughter signed ‘From Your Valentine’ – the first ever Valentine’s card, in very unfortunate circumstances! Maybe he’d have been pardoned if he’d charmed her with a box of chocolates instead?

There’s an alternative for singletons If you’re happy to be single then you don’t have to miss out on the fun. Why not celebrate the modern creation that is Singles Awareness

Day – unfortunately abbreviated to SAD. Combine this with the Finnish version of Valentines ‘Friends’ Day’ and get your besties around to share the biggest box of chocs you can find to celebrate your single status together. Why should the couples have all the fun?

It kicked off speed dating in the 12th century. Ever wondered where the expression ‘wear your heart on your

sleeve’ comes from? Well wonder no more! Fittingly, it’s linked to St Valentine’s Day, and comes from an old tradition of choosing a name out of a bowl to determine your Valentine. You’d then pin this name to your sleeve for everyone to see.

Sort of like the ‘speed dating’ of the Middle Ages!

Chocolate and love have a (very!) long-standing connection

Whats On

In Cumbria

There’s plenty of things to see and do and we’ve selected just a few top suggestions for a perfect winter break. Come join us and enjoy this truly remarkable landscape. To find out more visit: www.golakes.co.uk and book yourself a break away.

1. Lakes Artist Society’s Winter Exhibition, Rheged Centre – Nr Penrith The Lake Artists Society was founded more than 100 years ago, by artist W.G.Collingwood, secretary to John Ruskin. The society consists of a range of Cumbrian painters and sculptors working in a variety of styles and mediums. The annual Winter Exhibition is an opportunity to see a large selection of artworks, and is an ideal chance to add to your collection, at this festive time of year.

Running until 31st January 2016 2. Canalleto – Exclusive After Hours Tour at Abbot Hall Join an exclusive tour of the Canaletto: Celebrating Britain exhibition after hours. Take in the exhibition in the company of only a dozen people before joining the curatorial team to hear more about the paintings and discuss the work.

Canaletto, is today remembered as one of Italy’s greatest view

painters. His images of Venice were particularly popular with the wellbred English gentlemen undertaking the Grand Tour of Europe. When war caused the flow of British visitors to Venice to dry up Canaletto followed his patrons home to Britain. After Hours Tour: Thursday 14th January 2016 Exhibition: Open now until 14th February 2016 3. Distillery Tours at The Lakes Distillery Set in the backdrop of the beautiful Cumbrian hills and mountains, The Lakes Distillery, the largest distillery in England, is set in an area of unimaginable beauty next to Bassenthwaite Lake. Overlooked by one of the Lakes’ highest peaks, Skiddaw, our location has been an inspiration to many people over the years including the poets Wordsworth and Tennyson.

We welcome visitors to learn about their spirits via their cutting edge distillery tours. Visitors will be taken on a tour through the ages, exploring the history of distilling, learning about what makes The Lakes Distillery’s products so special and unique, and of course having a sample of the spirits themselves! Open every day except Christmas Day

4. Health and Wellbeing Fair Come along to The Rheged Centre and meet with fitness experts, nutritionists, beauticians and join us in our quest to get fit, feel great and wipe away those winter blues.

The event also features gluten free products in association with the Cumbria Coeliac Society. January 3st 2016, 10am - 4pm, free entry 5. White Noise Festival, the Brewery Arts Centre Brand new for 2016, The White Noise Festival aims to inspire young people under 26 to reflect on & question the world around them through an eclectic mix of theatre, spoken word, music & art.

See all White Noise events for only £20 (Under 26s) or £5 individually. February 5th and 6th 2016 6. Burns Night at Tullie House A night of dialect poetry and Burns Night traditions to celebrate the birthdays of Robbie Burns and Robert Anderson, the famous Cumberland Bard. The Lakeland Dialect Society and local poets will deliver a night of entertaining and wide ranging dialect performances. There’ll also be the chance to view the Picture the Poet exhibition. January 29th 2016

Chocolate and love have gone together like Romeo and Juliet since the ancient Aztecs professed the aphrodisiac qualities of cocoa.

Then, in the 1800s, doctors would advise their patients to eat chocolate to fix a broken heart. Nowadays, some scientists have attributed our emotional connection to chocolate to two chemicals it naturally contains.

Or it might just be the fact that

chocolate puts us in a good mood, which makes us feel more romantic.

Whatever the reason, a special gift of chocolate is a safe bet for a loved up Valentine’s Day. Far more women buy Valentine’s Day gifts than men. If you’re male then you might need to up your game this Valentine’s Day. While a card is always nice, a gift is even nicer – yet women purchase approximately 85

per cent of all Valentine’s Day gifts.

That’s an awful lot of annoyed ladies missing out on a love token! Head to your local Thorntons store or online and it couldn’t be easier to pick up a gift she’ll love. You can even order flowers on our website too, making it the ultimate one stop shop. Why not go all out on the romance factor with our gorgeous Red Roses and Continental Heart combo?

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Does your dog walk to heel? Will your dog sit and stay on command?

Does your dog come back to you every time on recall? If the answer is ‘no’ to any of these questions then a short trip up to Cumbria could be of great benefit to you (and your dog!)

Cumbria is home to renowned dog trainer and behaviourist, Ingrid Grayling who offers dog owners all over the country bespoke dog training courses to suit the individual’s needs.

From 1 and 2 days courses to 6 week residential, Ingrid offers her extensive expertise and 25 years of knowledge to help dog owners everywhere train their dogs. Her 1 and 2 days courses are perfect for people who live further afield to Cumbria and who are time poor so want to do the 6 week dog training course in a condensed period of time. The days courses are highly informative, and importantly are great fun, they are totally hands on and clients who come on these courses will leave having had a great time learning new and extensive training skills. They will also be armed with the confidence and knowledge to be able to train their

dog back in their own environment; as well as knowledge of how to handle any problems that may have arisen during the days training program. As well as basic training the day courses include many other aspects of owning a dog, such as nutrition, social skills and behaviour. One local Lancashire resident, Mrs A.Greg, made the trip to see Ingrid with her dog Rosie and said of the training: “Not having owned a dog for 30 years, I knew when I got Rosie that “we” needed a level of training that would become a way of life for us both. Ingrid is an excellent dog trainer, passionate about what she does with a wealth of knowledge about all aspects of training. She gave me the confidence and guidance to help me train Rosie. Training with Ingrid is fun with the added bonus of learning so much. The journey from Lancashire to Cumbria was

well worth it. I would highly recommend anyone who is looking to train their dog to make the trip to see her”.

It is important when training your dog not to feel rushed or under pressure which is why Ingrid’s one-to-one training approach is so popular and works so effectively. Ingrid says; “ I believe that spending quality training time together with you and your dog, I am not only passing on my professional advice and skills, but during the course we have quality time to achieve what we need to in a relaxed and focused environment”. If you’d like to learn more about Ingrid Grayling’s courses please visit her website for further information and contact details.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 6. Page 23.

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This is the shed you are looking for;

now everyone can explore the galaxy

Taking inspiration from iconic sci-fi films, Waltons www.waltons.co.uk, the national garden building online retailer, have created a space-themed shed.

The garden building specialist set themselves the challenge of building a unique shed that looks like it's teleported straight out of the movies.

Moving away from traditional shed design, they have created a functional building that is out of this world.

The 'Space Shed' has multiple features such as opening windows and removable shelving, perfect for budding stargazers armed with their telescope.

The shed could also be turned into an outdoor gaming room.

Aaron Ketland, a spokesperson for Waltons, said: “When talking about the idea of creating something different, something outstanding, we

agreed that the Space Shed will be only one-off it's kind. “The whole team enjoyed building this quirky potting shed. Fun fact is that only one person can take this shed apart and put it back together, as it's very unique. The shed could also be used as a gaming room, all you need to do is add electricity, a gaming chair and surround sound."

The 'Space Shed' is made from a solid timber frame, clad with 12mm tongue and groove timber for strength and durability. It also has two opening shatterproof styrene windows for ventilation as well as two removable timber shelves, which provide an ideal storage solution.

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New research from Which?

Mortgage Advisers

New research from Which? Mortgage Advisers reveals that buying and selling a house is one of the most stressful life experiences – more so than having a child and second only to going through a divorce. As many as seven in 10 people considered buying or selling stressful, according to our research.

In a survey of nearly 2,000 members of the general public, respondents were asked to rate how stressful they found each of life's major events, ranging from going through a divorce to buying a new car.

While going through a divorce came out on top of the list of life's stresses, with four in five people (78%) considering it stressful, buying and selling property followed closely behind, with seven in 10 people (69

and 70% respectively) finding either process nerve-wrecking.

Buying or selling a property was considered more stressful than: arranging care for an elderly relative (68%); having a child (53%); changing jobs (49%) or getting married (40%).

Our research also reveals that women found both buying and selling a property more stressful than men.

Three quarters (75%) of the women we surveyed told us they found selling a property stressful, whilst only two thirds (66%) of men felt the same.

These figures were mirrored when it came to buying a property, with 73% of women finding the process stressful as opposed to 67% of men.

Which? Mortgage Advisers offers the following expert advice to help

reduce the strain if you're buying a property: Know the process - Buying and selling may involve being part of a chain of buyers and sellers, so be realistic about timeframes and when you can expect to move.

Invest in good mortgage advice – While seeking assistance from mortgage advisers may cost you, it is likely to save you money in the long-run. Choosing a mortgage isn't just about finding the lowest rate, it's about finding a mortgage that's right

for your personal circumstances.

Make life easier with a reliable mortgage lender – When choosing a lender, consider their reliability, range of products and the overall costs, rather than just the initial cost alone.

Consider service as well as cost of conveyancers – Invest in a quality conveyancer or property solicitor.

While often online companies are cheaper, they don't always offer a full service.

Ease your worries by staying informed – Don't just leave parts of

the process to professionals, you'll be less worried if you build good relationships with those involved in the process and know what needs to be done and when.

Know your limits to avoid future issues – Try not to over stretch yourself for that 'dream property'. If you end up in arrears, you may have financial trouble for many years.

David Blake at Which? Mortgage Advisers said: “We're a nation obsessed with homeownership, but when it comes

to buying or selling, our research shows that it can be an incredibly stressful process. Thankfully there are a number of things you can do to reduce the strain, including speaking with a mortgage adviser early on to get your finances in order.

“Investing in good mortgage advice will ensure you find the best mortgage for your personal circumstances. To help avoid unnecessary stress when you're getting a mortgage, do ask about the reliability and service levels of any lender you're considering.”

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Abingdon

Street Market This is the best time of year to reacquaint yourself with Abingdon Street Market, with a huge range of goods, services & products from over 70 stalls!

Our stalls are run by experienced and friendly Stall holders. If you're shopping for local produce, the Market is very well known for it's fresh, quality produce. There is a fantastic selection of fresh fruit and veg, meat, fish, cheese, pies, scones, cakes, flowers and much, much more.

The Market also has leather goods, a pet store, a newsagent, a sweetshop, jewellery vendors, a tattooist, a barber, trinkets, perfume, books, shoes, wigs, hair extensions, make up, fancy dress costumes and a hairdresser. See our Stall directory on our website for more details. www.abingdonstreetmarket.co.uk We are also thrilled to announce our new stalls that have opened selling Toys, Rugs, Bedding & towels.

Come in and see for yourself, sit

down and take in the ambience with a cup of tea and toasted teacake at one of our many cafes. You will be pleasantly surprised by the quality on offer, all available for just a fraction of the supermarket prices you're used to paying!

Why not save yourself some money in January and do your fresh food shop here at the Market.

We have a fishmonger, butchers, fruit & veg stall, fresh meats and bakers.

Support your local market and it's many traders.

Open Monday to Saturday 8.30am – 5pm. We are based at 16-20 Abingdon Street, Blackpool, FY1 1DE Want to work in a well established market? Interested in running your own stall contact John or Stuart on 01253 291874 for more information.

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UK retirees share their

wisdom with today’s grads

As the latest wave of UK graduates begin their job hunt, new research from Monster.co.uk reveals that the average retiree has worked for six companies, was most proud of being respected within their workplace and hit their earning peak at the age of 50.

The study was conducted amongst recently retired full time workers to uncover insights and words of wisdom to pass onto graduates about to embark on their career.

The researched discovered that getting stressed (20 per cent), working long hours unnecessarily (14 per cent) and not having the ambition and confidence to push themselves up the career ladder (13 per cent) were the three biggest regrets. Earning a high salary was only a source of career pride for two per cent, highlighting that when people look back objectively on working life it’s not the monetary element that most springs to mind, but the more emotive aspects.

Biggest Regrets The five biggest regrets from working life were: Getting about work Working

than needed (14 per cent) - Not having the ambition and confidence to push themselves further (13 per cent) Staying in a job that wasn’t right (13 per cent) - Not retiring earlier (8 per cent) The Path to Success Over a third of respondents (36 per cent) said that they would recommend looking for a new job every three to four years, while just as many (39 per cent) cited the value of keeping up to date with industry trends.

Career success was closely linked to feeling respected; both within the industry and by colleagues, with 44 per cent naming this as the aspect they were most proud of when looking too stressed back at their (20 per cent) career.

Only longer hours two per cent cited financial rewards as their career highlight.

A d v i c e The advice focused on the importance of not becoming complacent in the

workplace, and finding a fulfilling job rather than one that simply pays the bills. An overwhelming 57% agreed that it's important not to be scared to change jobs, whilst half of respondents (52 per cent) urged today's graduates to concentrate on finding one they love. One in three (33 per cent) agreed it was important to always do something that makes you happy.

Lancashire Local. Issue 6. Page 29.

Page 30. Issue 6. Lancashire Local

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Helping Veterans

Help Themselves

The Trades Brigade is delighted to announce another veteran who not only is finding a route back into work but has set up his own business with the launch in Warrington of "CRG Plumbing". Craig Greenaway is launching his new venture in partnership with the Trades Brigade and with the support from the team at The Poppy Factory, a charity that helps ex-Service people with health challenges into rewarding employment.

The recent Alex Polizzi “Hire our Heroes" programme highlighted the problem of veterans finding employment. The Trades Brigade believes that self-employment and running your own business is another great way for veterans to return to civvy street.

It was while serving in the Mercian Regiment and performing a peace keeping role in Iraq with 1 Kings that Craig first thought of starting his own business.

"When I was out in Iraq I saw some of the problems that arise from poor water sanitation issues. I have family connections in the plumbing industry and when I had to leave the army in 2008 to look after my children (after serving for nearly 8 years) I needed to find a career which I enjoyed and also allowed me to balance looking after my partner and children and earning a living.

I have retrained as a plumber by going to college as well as hands on practical work by helping my father in law in his business."

Craig also added “I couldn't have done this without the help of The Poppy Factory's Getting You Back to Work Team and the Armed Forces Hub at the Gateway Centre in Warrington.

Without the employment & welfare support I received from both organisations, I would not be as far down the path as I am today.

I also received grant funding for a website and marketing materials through the Golden Gates Housing Trust and Upturn Enterprise" "Working together with the Trades Brigade, the team will help me build my own business but under the banner of a national exmilitary brand.

I get support with marketing, accounts and finance as well as knowing that if I need any technical help I can call on one of the mentors who will assist me in getting the job done right."

Will Garment one

of the founders of the Trades Brigade said “We are delighted to work with Craig and help him in his desire to run his own plumbing business. Since I first met Craig I have been impressed with the enthusiasm and dedication he has shown towards setting up his own business.

Being self-employed and running your own business is very exciting yet quite scary in equal measure. We at the Trades Brigade support Craig with every part of his business and give him the confidence to 'work for himself, but not by himself'.

Our registered trade mark is “heroes on the homefront" and we will support Craig all the way as he becomes a hero on the Warrington homefront!"

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Lancashire Cricket Board Announced as Women’s Cricket Super League Host The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced that the Lancashire Cricket Board (LCB), with partners Lancashire County Cricket Club and Lancashire County Cricket Club Foundation, is one of the six hosts that will compete in the inaugural Women’s Cricket Super League this summer. The announcement

follows a rigorous bidding process over the last six months, which saw 28 different organisations express an interest in becoming a Women’s Cricket Super League host. The award process culminated today, when the ECB Board approved the six selected hosts.

The Lancashire Cricket Board will now work with a network of surrounding partners, including Lancashire County Cricket Club and Lancashire County Cricket Club Foundation to form a single Women’s Cricket Super League entity.

ECB Director of England Women’s Cricket, Clare Connor, said: “Lancashire Cricket Board, with their partners, will be one of our six Women’s Cricket Super League hosts for the next four years. It is great to have a county with such a rich cricketing history as Lancashire involved with this pioneering project for the women’s game.

Lancashire Local. Issue 6. Page 31.

Simeon settling in well Simeon Jackson was pleased to make an impact as a second half substitute in Saturday's draw with Charlton Athletic.

The Canadian international caught the eye with an all-action display as Rovers drew 1-1 at the Valley.

"I was told to come on, to try and get us up the pitch and run the channels and try and create havoc," said the forward.

"It is what you try and do when you come on, especially in a game like this, you hopefully maybe come on and make a difference and try and get the winner."

Jackson has relished linking up with manager Paul Lambert once more after the two enjoyed a successful time together at Norwich City, and with the competition for places, he is sure the club can have a good second half to the season.

He added: "The lads have made myself welcome, it has been really good. It is good to be back under the gaffer now.

"The training has been brilliant since I've come in, it is high intensity and the lads are really putting the effort in daily which is very important.

"There's competition up front, everyone is a different type of striker so it is very good to have, especially going into the back end of the season. It is needed at every club."

Jackson wasn't signed in time to play for Rovers in the 3rd round of the Emirates FA Cup against Newport County, but is eligible to play this weekend against Oxford United.

Sky Sports

announces record-

breaking F1® coverage

Sky Sports F1® will be the only place to watch live coverage of the F1® season opener as Lewis Hamilton begins his quest for a fourth World Championship at the 2016 FORMULA 1 AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX .

As part of a record-breaking year of F1® with more races than ever before, Sky Sports F1® will be the only place to watch all 21 races live. The Sky Sports F1® schedule offers 11 of those races exclusively live including Monaco, Canada and three of the first four races.

Sky Sports F1® viewers can enjoy exclusively live coverage from Melbourne on 20 March as Lewis Hamilton begins his bid to become the first ever British driver to win four world titles. This season also sees the return of Hockenheim in Germany, the only place to watch the race live on 31 July will be on Sky Sports F1®.

Sky Sports Head of F1®, Martin Turner, said: “This season offers everything. More races, more stories and more drama and only on Sky Sports F1® can viewers enjoy the complete story live. All eyes

will again be on Lewis Hamilton while Mercedes and Ferrari will go head to head for the Constructors title. Our award-winning coverage will be there from the opening grid to the final chequered flag on our dedicated F1® channel and across our digital platforms.”

Commentary this season will come from Martin Brundle and David Croft, with expert analysis by Damon Hill, Anthony Davidson and Johnny Herbert.

Presenter Simon Lazenby will be fronting the coverage alongside reporter Ted Kravitz. There will be a host of programming, features and archive footage throughout the year.

In addition to watching every session of qualifying, practice and race in the 2016 FIA Formula One World Championship™, viewers can enjoy live coverage of F1® feeder series GP2™ and GP3™.

Race weekends will be supported by weekly episodes of the F1® Show and rolling coverage on Sky Sports News HQ, and across digital and social platforms skysports. com/formula1 and @skysportsf1.

Paul Lambert felt the cup victory was a real

triumph over adversity after defeating

Newport County 2-1 on Monday night The Rovers had to suffer illness and injury before the game and then the sending off of Chris Brown ten minutes into what could have been a potential banana-skin after County captain Mark Byrne had cancelled out Ben Marshall's early penalty.

But a hugely professional second half display culminated in half-time sub Jordan Rhodes grabbing his tenth goal of the season to send Rovers through to a fourth round tie at Oxford United.

"We lose Kilgallon to a sickness bug just before the game, and then we lose Williamson to injury in the warmup," said Lambert.

"Then after taking the lead we lose Chris Brown. I thought the referee was quite quick to get his card out, but I need to see it again.

"75 minutes is a long time to play with ten men, especially on a pitch that is not in the greatest of conditions. That made for a difficult game.

"But I thought we deserved to win it, the ten men were outstanding."

The introduction of Rhodes proved to be the catalyst for a muchimproved showing in the second half, with Lambert feeling the result was fully deserved due to their improvement after the break.

He added: "We changed it at halftime and went two up top and I thought we were fantastic, I really did.

I thought there was only one team that was going to win it in the second half and that was ourselves.

"We could have easily sat with 4-41 but we put another striker in there and it is a fantastic winning goal.

"It was a terrific cross from Tom and he makes a brilliant run across the face and everybody knows that is Jordan's trait in the penalty box so I'm delighted with him.

"It is the second time that we've been down here in less than a fortnight and our supporters were fantastic coming down that distance to watch us."

Page 32. Issue 6. Lancashire Local

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Each Edition of the Lancashire Local has a print run of 5,100 copies. Published by JAC Media Ltd, Foxhall Lodge, Foxhall Road, Nottingham, NG7 6LH.