Lancashire local issue 9

20p Where Sold

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Issue. 9

Inside This Issue: Out and About • Weddings • Home and Gardens • Care • Classified • Sports

Council staff geared up to deliver

inclusive cycling activities to

people with disabilities

Geared up... Council staff are now trained to deliver inclusive cycling activities to people with disabilities.

Members of St Helens Council’s Transport and Healthy Living teams got on their bikes in Victoria Park as they received training on how to deliver inclusive cycling activities to people with disabilities.

As part of the Wheels for All scheme - a nationally recognised programme run by the Cycling Projects charity to embrace people with disabilities and differing needs, to engage in cycling - staff were able to develop a detailed understanding of disability cycling

by using specially adapted cycles to teach everyone the benefits of cycling in a sociable environment.

The course was both practical and theoretical and included technical information modules on the wide range of adapted cycles used, risk assessments, instruction skills workshop, cycle development and progression through activities, session planning and delivery.

Victoria Park is one of six locations in the St Helens borough to have a

Community Cycle Hub which acts as a meeting place for free weekly, organised bike rides for all to enjoy.

Developed in partnership with Sustrans, the hubs each have a stock of bicycles, helmets and hi-vis gear available for public use at coordinated events, with Victoria Park holding adapted bikes.

Organised adapted bike rides will start in April and have already attracted a huge interest, but the team is eager to see more people take advantage of

these free sessions. St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Jeanie Bell, said: “The council is keen put a strong emphasis on cycling and this is evident by the great work shown by our fantastic staff who are committed to making sure cycling is accessible to everyone.

“It’s great to hear that so many people are using the adapted bikes on a regular basis and I would like to see even more groups coming to use them.

Our dedicated team will be on hand to tailor a ride around your needs.”

To find out more, contact cycling@sthelens.gov.uk or call 01744 676 174

Page 2. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

Family pay tribute to

boy killed in collision

A boy who died in a fail-to-stop collision in Tameside has been named as Shahzaib Hussain. At 4.45pm on Monday 29 February 2016, police were called to reports of a collision involving a boy and a car on Moss Street West at the junction with Mowbray Street in Ashton-under-Lyne. Eleven year-

old Shahzaib Hussain was taken to hospital but sadly died a short time later.

Two men have been charged following the fatal collision in Ashton-under-Lyne. Henry Brandon Barker (born 16/06/1996) of Hampton Road, Failsworth has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, causing death while driving uninsured, driving without insurance, failing to stop at the scene of an accident and failing to report an accident.

Aaron James Ward (born 14/09/1992) of Hattersley Road West, Hattersley has been charged with aiding and abetting an individual causing death whilst uninsured.

Both men have been remanded into custody and appeared at Tameside Magistrates Court on, Wednesday 2 March 2016.

Shahzaib’s sister, Javairiya, and his cousins have paid the following tribute on behalf of his family: “Shahzaib was a lovely boy. No one could resist being his friend because he had such a bubbly and fun personality. My dad calls him his "Teddy Bear" and "Gudoo" because he was so loveable.

“All of our family loves him so much because he was the youngest. People who don't even know us came to our house to pray for him.

“Cars were made to make travelling easier, not killing someone's child, someone's cousin, someone's brother, uncle or nephew.

“Whoever killed our Shahzaib so ruthlessly, I hope you get what you deserve.”

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Council Tax rise will

help protect vulnerable

residents says council

A 1.99 per cent rise in Council Tax for 201617 – accompanied by two percent increase to support social care - has been approved

by St Helens Council.

Councils with social care responsibilities – including St Helens - have been asked by the Government to raise Council Tax more than the two percent threshold that normally requires a local referendum. The maximum is just below four per cent – with the condition that the extra funds are used for care provision.

Accordingly a 1.99 per cent basic increase will be accompanied by a two per cent rise that will go some of the way towards covering care provision in St Helens.

The basic increase also takes account of further cuts in Government grants.

For 2016-17 this equates to £9 million – and takes the total lost since 201011 to £74 million.

“It gives me no pleasure to present this budget,” said Council Leader Barrie Grunewald, “but we will have lost 60 per cent of the grant that we used to be able to count on from central government and, at the same time, we face additional spending pressures.

“The Government claims that it is providing greater clarity with this grant settlement – but as far as we’re concerned all it does is confirm our worst fears.

Once again we’re seeing deprived areas like St Helens come off far worse. “If that wasn’t enough, we’re also facing other, significant financial pressures.

The removal of opted-out status for pensions means that our National Insurance costs will rise by 3.4 per cent.”

The council has been doing all it can to reduce its costs and generate more revenue.

Last year it beat its target by getting 632 new homes built in the borough generating more Council Tax income.

There has also been more tax revenue from a higher level of commercial activity in St Helens. Major efficiency savings have also been made. The council has changed the way it delivers and purchases services and maximised value for money at every opportunity.

The council workforce is also significantly smaller than it used to be.

Councillor Grunewald added:

“This situation is unlikely to change. So we’ve already started work on a major policy review of our spending priorities that will help us to deal with the challenges we’ll face beyond 2017.

“However these challenges are significant.

As well as cost pressures in the care sector they include general inflation, increases in the number of adults and children needing support and rising levels of need, increases in demand for everyday services as the population grows and pressure on homelessness budgets.”

Budget at a glance · St Helens Council faces an £8.9 million (16 per cent) reduction in Government grant. · It means a 1.99 per cent increase in Council Tax and an additional two per cent rise to invest in the social care that the Government expects the council to provide. · The council faces additional costs due to the introduction of the National Living Wage and higher National Insurance costs. · There will be a 0.8 per cent increase in business rates. · There is a freeze on general funding for schools.

St Helens supports

‘Be a Lover not a Fighter’ campaign

Representatives from St Helens Council, Helena Homes and St Helens R.F.C turned out in force to support a new anti-domestic abuse campaign. Run by the Cheshire and Merseyside Public Health Collaborative (Champs), ‘Be a Lover not a Fighter’ is running across areas in Cheshire, Merseysideand Lancashire in a bid to encourage people to talk about the problem and know what they should do to help if someone is experiencing domestic abuse.

A well-received face-to-face public engagement event in the Hardshaw Shopping Centre saw members of the public given two ‘Be a Lover not a Fighter’ badges for them and a family or friend to wear, to show their support to this year’s campaign which focuses on children, as a staggering 90 percent of domestic abuse is witnessed by children.

St Helens Council’s Director of Public Health, Liz Gaulton, said: “We need to talk openly about

domestic abuse and this campaign aims to breakdown boundaries and stop domestic abuse being a hidden issue in our communities. “Domestic abuse is about more than physical violence.

The short and longterm impacts on children are huge, on behaviour and educational achievement as well as physical and mental health, including increasing the risk of suicide and selfharm.

Creating the environment where domestic abuse is understood better and accepted less will help support our local work and we want to encourage people to pledge their support.” Councillor Jeanie Bell, St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, added: “Domestic abuse has significant psychological consequences for everyone involved especially children in this case. More needs to be achieved and St Helens Council is working with key partners to respond.

“We welcome anything that raises

awareness about what domestic abuse is so people can understand the issue and we can help more people.”

1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men have suffered domestic abuse with two women killed every week and two men killed every month in the UK by their partners. About half of violent relationships involve violence by both partners.

Celebrities including DIY SOS and National Lottery presenter Nick Knowles, Superbike World Champion Carl ‘Foggy’ Fogarty, ‘Shameless’ and ‘Cuffs’ star Karen Bryson, Dancing on Ice star Dan Whiston, ‘Benidorm’s’ Crissy Rock, Hannah Hobley and Philip Olivier and singer Russell Watson have all offered support for the campaign.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 3.

PCSO to be commended for

rescuing former footballer

A Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) will be honoured by Greater Manchester Police’s Chief Constable for rescuing an 86-year-old former England footballer who was stranded for six hours while walking his dog in Bolton.

Tommy Banks, who made 250 appearances for Bolton Wanderers Football Club during his career, was reported missing at 5:30pm on Friday 12th February after he went out walking his 10-year-old Welsh border collie, Susie, before falling and becoming trapped in Blackleach Country Park.

Tommy followed his dog off into a wooded area before he slipped and became stuck in the boggy undergrowth in freezing conditions.

Spotting a tree around 20 metres away, he dragged himself towards it hoping to use the branches to pull himself up, but he only managed to move 10 metres in six hours.

Local PCSO Derek Thomas who knew the layout of the park, was tied up on another job at the time but was released by his Sergeant to join the search.

PCSO Thomas, who knows the FA Cup winner from his Farnworth

beat, was searching the park when he saw Susie barking and shone his torch towards Tommy, who called out for help. The former Bolton MRT Honorary Support Group Chairman found Tommy collapsed but conscious, being comforted by his dog. It then took an hour for Mountain Rescue, police officers and paramedics to rescue him on a stretcher. Tommy was taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital with hypothermia at 7.30pm and kept in overnight but has no serious injuries.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “This is a great example of community policing and highlights the importance of our neighbourhood officers and their extensive local knowledge.

“Derek’s dedication saved the life of a popular local character and I am delighted that Tommy is now safe and well.

“His actions that night deserve to be recognised and I am proud to be able to award him with a Chief Constable’s Commendation.”

During the incident Tommy lost a handkerchief that he had kept in his shorts pocket when he first played for England and PCSO Thomas returned to the country park days later to find it, returning it to its rightful owner.

PCSO Thomas said: “At the end of the day, I knew that I would be able to find him. I don’t know why but I just had a feeling that if I could be released from my duties I had the ability and

the knowledge of the area to locate him. “It’s fantastic to be nominated.

The best reward was seeing Tommy safe and well the next day. He’s a great character and a cracking bloke.

“The rescue was a brilliant team effort and I’m grateful to my colleagues for their help in getting Tommy to safety.

I’m over the moon to be nominated.”

Tommy, who was a member of England’s 1958 World Cup squad, said: "Susie ran off into the woods and off over a ridge. I followed her but I slipped and couldn’t get up.

“I saw this tree in a few yards away but I couldn’t move through the undergrowth, I was physically drained. I was in there for six or seven hours.

“Then all of a sudden I heard Susie barking and saw this torchlight. I picked my head up, I was so relieved.

It was so close but it felt a million miles away.

"Then they all started swarming round me with blankets. They were wonderful, absolutely marvellous. I am so grateful. They saved my life.”

Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “This story highlights the importance of neighbourhood policing and the valuable role of PCSOs in their communities.

“Despite the difficult conditions, Derek’s tenacity and hard work resulted in Tommy being rescued and reunited with his family. He is a credit to GMP and the local community.”

New Bank Park play area for

Warrington’s little and big wolves!

Wolfie,’ with help from children from the nursery, Kids Planet, has officially opened the town’s first Warrington Wolves themed play area in Bank Park.

The new extended play area is the latest development to revitalise Warrington Borough Council’s Bank Park. And it was the park users themselves who came up with the idea to have it themed after the town’s sporting heroes, Warrington Wolves.

The park now has a newly refurbished 2 - 8 year old play area, a new play area for 8 – 13 year olds as well as gym equipment for adults.

Contractor for the project, Wicksteeds, developed a vibrant rugby theme with a 25 metre zip

wire complete with pitch markings, a bespoke Wolfie springer for younger children and even a mini ticket office!

Mayor Cllr Geoff Settle and Mayoress Jean Settle, with Cllr Kate Hannon, executive board member for leisure, community and culture, picked up spades and helped plant 10 cut leaf beech trees to celebrate the completion of the works. The park has also benefited from a new state of the art bowling pavilion with competition standard all-weather artificial greens.

Cllr Kate Hannon said: “The new play equipment and adult gym are yet another great addition to Bank Park’s fine facilities. Just as Bank Park is at the heart of the town, Warrington Wolves are close to the hearts of

many residents, so it is a very fitting theme chosen by local people. Now it is somewhere for all members of the family to go to have fun and have a bit of exercise!” Nicola Daniels, manager of Kids Planet nursery, said: “Having the new park opens lots of new learning opportunities for our children. The children and staff already visit the park on a weekly basis and hold sports days, family picnics and mud days there in the woodland grassy areas.

“Our babies will have lots of colours and flowers to look at when they go for a walk in the pram and the children will benefit even more now with the new equipment as it will build on children’s self-awareness, confidence

and improve gross motor skills. We are hoping it will encourage more families to visit the park now that it has a new look. The new equipment will enable us to encourage the children to exercise and to be healthy, plus there are lots of places to go bug hunting too!”

Wake Up to the Deadly Risk:

Smoking is the Biggest

House Fire Killer

Smokers are being warned that they must wake up to the deadly dangers of smoking especially when tired - as Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service highlights that a third of all deaths in fires in the home are caused by cigarettes.

Smoking is the single biggest killer in accidental fires in the home, often because of careless behaviour such as smoking in bed or not taking care after drinking alcohol.

And when smokers fall asleep with a lit cigarette in hand, their proximity to the resulting fire seriously lowers their chance of escaping in time.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding smokers to 'Put it Out, Right Out' whenever they light up; to install smoke alarms on every level of the home; and, to test them on the 1st of every month. Without a working smoke alarm you are at least four times more likely to die in an accidental fire in the home.

These simple steps can help prevent a cigarette fire in the home: Never smoke in bed. Take care when you're tired – it's very easy to fall asleep while your cigarette is still burning and set furniture alight Never smoke when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If your lit cigarette starts a fire you could be less able to escape.

Put it out, right out! Make sure your cigarette is fully extinguished Fit a smoke alarm and test it weekly.

A working smoke alarm can buy you valuable time to get out, stay out and call 999.

Never leave lit cigarettes, cigars or pipes unattended – they can easily overbalance as they burn down Use a proper, heavy ashtray that can't tip over easily and is made of a material that won't burn. Tony Crook, Group Manager lead for Prevention, Protection and Road Safety, says: "Every week, someone dies from a fire caused by cigarettes or smoking materials. Despite a fall in the overall number of fires caused by these products, it's still the biggest killer in accidental fires in the home across the country.

"Every smoker should wake up to the risks they take every time they light up, and drop the habit of smoking whilst in bed or under the influence of alcohol. The risk of falling asleep before you 'put it out, right out' is just too great.

"Just two to three breaths of toxic smoke can render you unconscious, so invest in a working smoke alarm and test it monthly. It can give you the extra time you need to escape if the worst should happen."

Page 4. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

Ticket scammer sentenced

to 15 months in prison

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New National Taekwondo Centre opens to Olympians and stars of

the future in Newton Heath

A ticket scammer who duped innocent members of the public out of hundreds of pounds of cash has been jailed. Stuart Bowden (born 13/11/1982) of Inskip, Skelmersdale was today, Tuesday 2 March 2016, sentenced to a total of 15 months in prison at Manchester Crown Court after pleading guilty to three counts of fraud by false representation and breaching a previous suspended sentence.

Bowden was arrested in December 2015 following a detailed investigation by the Greater Manchester Police Fraud Investigation Team. In September 2015 Bowden placed adverts on Gumtree for Rugby World Cup tickets, which generated interest from people across the UK and Wales. Buyers contacted Bowden via email and telephone and arranged to pay hundreds of pounds for tickets. Once Bowden received the money he stopped

communicating with his victims and never sent out any tickets. He strung one person along until the day before the game. His victim, who was none the wiser, booked a hotel and train tickets only to find he had no ticket.

Another victim expected to receive tickets in the post only to be sent nothing but an empty envelope

by Bowden. PC John Hockaday from the GMP Fraud Investigation Team said: "This was a game of huge significance and Bowden took advantage of people's desperation to get hold of tickets. "His victims were not only conned out of hundreds of pounds of their hard-earned cash, but also met by a huge sense of disappointment when they realised they wouldn't be going to a game they'd been looking forward to.

"Bowden thought he'd found an easy way to make some quick cash but as today's sentencing shows, this type of crime doesn't pay and we take it very seriously indeed ."

A world-class facility designed for Britain’s Olympic and Paralympic medal hopefuls will also be open to Manchester residents, after the new National Taekwondo Centre was officially unveiled in Newton Heath.

The state-of-the-art facility, which opened at the Ten Acres Lane Sports Complex on Monday 7 March, will be the home of GB Taekwondo and gives star athletes like Jade Jones

and Lutalo Muhammad a permanent base - where all of their training and conditioning needs are met under one roof.

And local talent will also benefit from the elite centre, which will be open for schools and local community clubs to use for 46 hours per week.

Members of the GB Taekwondo squad greeted World Taekwondo Federation President, Dr. Chungwon

Choue, as he performed the official opening. Dr Choue said: “It is always a pleasure to be in Manchester. We have been treated to many worldclass events here and I am always struck by the quality of the facilities and the passion that exists for our sport. The establishment of the National Taekwondo Centre, which will also serve as a World Taekwondo Federation regional centre, truly

cements Manchester as the home of taekwondo in the UK. “Taekwondo is more than just a sport; it is a philosophy. It teaches discipline, understanding and respect and inspires people to live healthy lifestyles. At the WTF, we are working with all our 206 Member National Associations to develop taekwondo in their Continues on next page....

Wargrave Primary School

celebrates World Book Day

Pupils at Wargrave C of E Primary couldn’t quite believe their eyes when a giant multi-coloured gnu turned up at their school.

As part of a World Book Day celebration event, Reu, the star of children’s book ‘Reu the Rainbow Gnu’ joined author Victoria C Trundle for storytelling and poetry workshops with the infant classes.

Written for Reuben's Retreat, a charity that provides counselling and helps to create memories for

families with children that have life threatening or life limiting illnesses, Reu the Rainbow Gnu is a rhyming book which helps young children deal with the loss of a loved one by explaining to them that, although they can no longer see them visually, their memory lives.

Victoria, whose idea for the book grew from a little picture in her head into a giant character, also delivered an inspirational speech to the juniors about achieving their dreams and

ambitions. St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, Councillor Jeanette Banks, said: “Reading is a wonderful gift which we will continue to encourage.

That is why it is important to highlight events like World Book Day – to get people together to appreciate the joys of reading. ”This was demonstrated beautifully at Wargrave Primary School."

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423 countries and encourage people of all ages, genders and backgrounds to participate in the sport.

“I have no doubt that the development of the National Taekwondo Centre in Manchester will do just that and will also ensure British athletes perform at their very best at Rio 2016.”

Manchester City Council’s Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, Councillor Rosa Battle, said: “As well as providing outstanding facilities for GB Taekwondo, the National Taekwondo Centre will provide a lasting community legacy, giving Manchester residents the opportunity to get involved in an Olympic sport, at a world-class centre right on their doorstep."

GB Taekwondo’s Jade Jones and Lutalo Muhammad captured two medals at London 2012 and British fighters have qualified for four weight divisions for Rio. Jade Jones said: “It’s a huge boost to the athletes to have this centre open, particularly as we ramp up our preparations for the Rio Games later this year. “To have world class training and conditioning facilities available for our athletes, along with rooms to rest and recover and to meet with staff, is a really big step forward for taekwondo in the UK. “It is already having a big impact for the current group and I’m sure it will really benefit and inspire our future taekwondo athletes for years to come.” The £2.7m project has been funded by Manchester City Council, Sport England and UK Sport, with management services at the centre delivered by the Eastlands Trust.

Rebecca Livesey, Chief Operating Officer of the Eastlands Trust,

said: "Manchester is blessed with a wealth of world class facilities and this new addition is fantastic news, not only for GB Taekwondo, but also for sport at grassroots levels. "As a Trust dedicated to operating world class centres offering accessible community programmes, we are proud to be able to work in partnership with GB Taekwondo and Manchester City Council to deliver a community taekwondo programme that supports clubs across the city, as well as the club based at the National Taekwondo Centre. "This fantastic addition follows less than 18 months on from a significant investment into three brand new 3G football pitches and the site now provides access to high quality facilities we’re confident will excite, inspire and engage people of all ages from our local communities." Charles Johnston, Director of Property at Sport England said: “We are all really pleased to see the opening of the new National Taekwondo Centre and seeing the impact it will have on the sport, from the community participant just starting the experience in the sport to the elite athlete hoping for medal success on the world stage.

“I am sure they will appreciate the world class facilities that have been created in partnership with GB Taekwondo, UK Sport and Manchester Council.”

Liz Nicholl, CEO of UK Sport, said: “As the Rio Olympic Games fast approaches, this new training centre will help our best taekwondo players achieve their potential to make the nation proud at this crucial final stage of preparations.

“To achieve world class performances, athletes and staff need access to world class facilities, and this new centre will be a beacon of

aspiration for young taekwondo players across the UK. “Thanks to our elite training centre partnership with Sport England, and partners at Manchester City Council and Eastlands Trust, GB Taekwondo has a fantastic new home.”

GB Taekwondo has been based in Manchester since 2007, but the new centre means that for the first time, elite athletes, coaches and administrators will all work together in the same building.

The opening of the new facility with its 900m2 training hall and 500m2 strength and conditioning hall - comes as the GB athletes continue to build-up to this summer’s Olympics in Rio, starting with this month’s Dutch Open.

Steve Flynn, GB Taekwondo Director, said: “Facilities are often the major challenge for sports as they strive to develop and improve and it has been no different for GB Taekwondo down the years.

Our athletes and staff have often had to compromise but it hasn’t stopped us delivering some superb performances on the mats.

"Now, with the commitment of Sport England, UK Sport, Manchester City Council and Eastlands Trust, who have collectively recognised and responded to the needs of our Performance and Pathway programmes, we have a fantastic platform on which to build towards the Olympic Games this summer and beyond."

The National Taekwondo Centre is the latest world class facility to be opened in Manchester, with its unveiling following the opening of the National Basketball Performance Centre at the Belle Vue Sports Village, in February 2016.

Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 5.

Cash and jewellery taken

from Burnley home

Police are appealing for information after a high-value burglary at a property in Burnley.

Officers were contacted around 1.40pm on Tuesday, March 1, following reports of a theft in Colne Road.

Between 1pm and 1.30pm, offenders have entered a property and taken £13,000 in cash and a quantity of jewellery.

The thieves then left the address before the 60-year-old female homeowner returned a short time later. Police are appealing for information and are keen to trace the driver of a red Seat Leon car, seen in the area at the time of incident.

PC Duncan Hall, of Lancashire Police said: "This was a cold and heartless theft during broad daylight.

"The occupant had only left the property for a short time before the home was targeted. "We are keen for

anyone with information to contact police, in particular anyone who saw a red Seat Leon with an 05 registration.

"The car is described as having tinted windows at the rear and alloy wheels,

with a small black spoiler above the rear window. "If anyone saw this vehicle, or anyone in the area at the time acting suspiciously, please contact police immediately."

Exciting times continue at

Penrith Farmers’ and Kidd’s Auctioneers

Penrith Farmers’ and Kidd’s Auctioneers in Penrith, Cumbria are a regional hub for auction sales of all manner of items – from general house clearance right through to Fine Art and Antiques.

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 Junction 40 M6. Their convenient access is a major asset, with clients travelling far to attend the auctions which can be viewed on Saturday mornings prior to the sales.

In addition, every lot is photographed and available to buy live online at www.ukauctioneers.com, reaching a worldwide audience.

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.

Free valuations are available throughout Lancashire and beyond.

In addition to the April Fine Art and Antiques auction, PFK are continually accepting entries for their popular

Fortnightly General 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.

Page 6. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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Carers UK joins Minister and national charities to launch campaign to build

communities that value and support carers

Carers UK and six other major charities launched Carers Week 2016 – a nationwide awareness campaign to improve public understanding about caring and the unique challenges carers face. Carers Week will run from 6-12 June 2016.

Alistair Burt MP, Minister of State for Social Care and Community, joined the Carers Week charities to call on individuals and organisations from across the UK to sign-up to the campaign and do what they can to support carers in their community.

6.5 million people in the UK currently care, unpaid, for a disabled, ill or older family member or friend.

Research for Carers Week 2015 revealed that carers are experiencing huge variations in the level of support and recognition they get from their local community.

As a result, this is putting their health and ability to look after the person they care for at serious risk1.

With this in mind, Carers Week 2016 will continue to focus on helping individuals, services and businesses to build Carer Friendly Communities – places where local people and services support carers to look after their loved ones well, while recognising that carers are individuals with needs of their own.

Carers Week 2016 is made possible

by Carers UK joining forces with Age UK, Carers Trust, Independent Age, Macmillan Cancer Support, Motor Neurone Disease Association and MS Society.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 7.

Page 8. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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Recycle your

unloved clothes

Warrington Borough Council is asking residents to think again before they put their unwanted clothes in the bin.

Many people might be thinking about clearing out their wardrobes at this time of year, so the council is asking residents not to throw away old clothes but to donate them to charity or recycle them in the clothing banks throughout Warrington.

In the average household, there’s over £1,000 worth of clothes that

haven’t been worn in the last year.

Cllr Judith Guthrie, executive board member for environment, said: “We want to encourage Warrington residents to think about how they dispose of their clothes and to recycle more.

“Please don’t put your clothes in the bin. If they are still wearable, pass on your unwanted clothes to a charity so they can be enjoyed by someone else. If they can’t be worn again, you can recycle them, so they can come back as something new. This will

ultimately help reduce the impact on the environment too.

“We’d also like to remind people that clothes and shoes cannot be recycled in the blue bins, but can be recycled at recycling sites throughout Warrington and the three community recycling centres.”

A list of recycling centres in Warrington can be found here: https://www.warrington.gov. uk/directory/6/local_amenities/ category/51

Police search goes on for man

wanted for attempt murder

Police are still searching for a man wanted in connection with the attempted murder of a woman in Newton Heath. Shortly before 9.45am on Monday 29 February 2016 police were called to an address on Surbiton Road in Newton Heath, Manchester to reports that a man had deliberately set fire to a woman.

Fire and police officers attended and found that a 49-year-old woman had been left with serious burns. She was taken to hospital via air ambulance where she is still in a critical condition and has 70% burns to her body.

Initial investigations suggest that petrol was thrown over the woman before she was set alight.

A 19-year-old woman escaped uninjured from an upstairs window of the house, with help from neighbours.

Police efforts are ongoing to trace 50-year-old Stephen Archer, of Victoria Street, Openshaw, who is wanted in connection with this incident.

Superintendent Arif Nawaz from GMP’s North Manchester Division said: “First of all our thoughts are with the victim and her family, this is a horrific incident and I cannot imagine what the victim is going through. We can assure her, and the wider public that we are doing all that we can to try and find the person responsible.

“We have a large multi-skilled team currently searching for Stephen Archer and we believe he may have links to Openshaw, where he lives, and the Marple and Romiley areas where we know he has connections.

Our search however, is not limited

to those areas. “We have reason to believe Stephen could be carrying several bottles of petrol in his backpack and a man was seen fitting his description cycling away from the scene. We are appealing for the public to take a look at his picture and get in touch with us if you see him.

“In particular, we are appealing to anyone who may work in a petrol station who may have seen Stephen.

“Please do not approach Stephen, but contact police as a matter of urgency by calling 999.

“Stephen, if you should see this appeal, come and talk to police. We

can end this situation in a calm manner and find out what lead to this tragic situation.” Anyone with information is asked to call the investigation team directly on 0161 856 3891, 999, or the independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 9.

Page 10. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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Wedding venues

advised to play fair

The Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) advice reminds the businesses – which provide venues for a range of events including wedding receptions, parties and anniversaries – of their obligations under consumer protection law, and recommends that they review and, where necessary, change their terms.

With costs for hiring venues often running into thousands of pounds, potentially unfair cancellation terms can result in considerable loss to consumers, particularly when they have to pay significant sums up-front which they lose if they have to cancel or change their plans. The letters inform the businesses of when their terms are more likely to be fair under consumer protection law, including the following: a deposit is just to reserve the goods/services and is no more than a small percentage of the total price advance payments reflect the business’ expenses, and leave customers with a reasonable amount still to pay on completion customers do not lose large advance payments if they cancel, in all circumstances businesses set sliding scales of cancellation charges so they cover their likely losses directly from the cancellation The CMA has sent the letters on behalf of the Consumer Protection Partnership (CPP), which has been considering the use of advance payment and cancellation terms by businesses in their consumer contracts. Nisha Arora, CMA Senior

Director, Consumer, said: Planning a wedding or any large event can be stressful. Consumers are particularly vulnerable when they are focusing on preparing for a special event and have paid significant sums upfront. Businesses need to treat their customers fairly and should not require unjustifiable, non-refundable deposits or impose unreasonable cancellation charges, which could mean customers lose a significant amount of money if they change their mind about the venue or have to call off the event. Clear and fair terms benefit consumers and businesses, help to prevent disputes and provide protection should things go wrong.

Unfair terms, even when a contract is signed, are not legally binding and we encourage any businesses which use advance payments and cancellation charges to review their terms to ensure they comply with consumer protection law.

We have worked closely with Trading Standards Services and consumer advice bodies to help businesses improve their practices and ensure they comply with consumer protection law. Many businesses in this sector comply with consumer protection law and engage in good business practices, but we urge others to raise their standards. Businesses that use unfair terms risk enforcement action. As the first item in a suite of planned compliance materials, the CMA has produced an at a

glance business guide to help them understand the things to look out for and tips on setting advance payment and cancellation terms that are more likely to be fair. Leon Livermore, Chartered Trading Standards Institute Chief Executive, said: Getting married should be one of the happiest and most exciting days of a couple’s life, but sadly it doesn’t always go to plan.

If a wedding has to be cancelled or plans have to be changed, couples could face losing out on considerable amounts of money after putting hefty deposits down to secure their dream venue or location.

When you are trying to plan the perfect day, it is often easy to overlook certain contractual details during the planning stages but consumers need to be cautious before entering into a contract and always be aware of any costly cancellation charges or nonrefundable deposits.

Trading Standards Services advise businesses to ensure their practices comply with consumer protection law, those that do not risk enforcement action.

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5 things every bride needs to know

about their man’s wedding suit

When it comes to your wedding day, your groom simply has to look as good as you. Even though you, the bride, will steal the limelight, your groom’s the wind beneath your wings.

To encapsulate the wonderful, stylish couple you are, you’ll want to have cherished memories of your special day with stunning photos of you both looking amazing – you like a princess and your man like prince charming!

Assuming you’ve got your dress and the bridesmaids’ dresses taken care of, the next most essential part of your big day’s your man’s wedding suit! See 5 things every bride needs to know from The National Wedding Show exhibitors A Suit That Fits – Buying VS Renting A Suit That Fits has created over 50,000 bespoke garments and spans 34 studios, across the UK, Ireland and America. At A Suit That Fits we believe a bespoke tailoring process should involve a choice of materials, styles, cut and fashion before being individually crafted and adjusted to a man’s taste.

– Get your groom’s suit tailored.

Think about the opportunity of buying your groom’s outfit as the ideal chance to get him a super-chic, tailored suit or tuxedo that’ll serve

many future occasions. Every man needs a smart suit in his wardrobe and since you won’t be renting, make sure to get the suit tailored to the perfect fit. Some grooms like to lose a little weight before their wedding day, so wait for his weight to stabilise before the fitting and don’t let him leave it too late! Badly fitting suits are unflattering and will make your man look heavier in photos – all the more reason to get a suit that fits his body shape perfectly.

– Add the personal touch.

When you’ve finally helped your groom to choose his suit, encourage him to add some personal touches.

Leave this up to him if you dare but you could end up being very surprised as to what he comes up with, as some brides have found to their amusement and occasionally to their horror! Read on to find out what your groom could have in store for you.

If your groom’s both quirky and fashion-conscious he could turn up on your wedding day in not just his perfectly tailored suit, but also his designer sneakers (e.g. Vans) loud socks (e.g.vibrant stripes) or funny hat (e.g. a Trilby). If you’re worried about this, suggest more conservative and tasteful accessories ahead of time, such as his favourite watch, jewellery or some meaningful cufflinks to add personality to his look, complimenting his suit.

– Prepare for your groom’s suit well in advance.

The ideal time frame to start planning in terms of choosing and fitting the suit’s 4-6 weeks ahead of your

big day. There are two reasons for this. Firstly it will save you money, because a suit that has to be hastily tailored a couple of weeks before the wedding will have to be prioritised above all other work by the tailor.

This will undoubtedly increase prices, as overtime costs could be included. If it’s a rushed job, with the best will in the world, mistakes could creep in too, costing more to rectify.

The second reason is it’s much less stressful to plan ahead for your man’s wedding suit. There’s enough to think about in preparation for you big day, so don’t make his outfit one of the stressful elements!

– Practice makes perfect.

Encourage your groom to practice wearing the clothing he’ll wear on the day, which means donning his suit and wearing it for a short while in a risk-free environment where it won’t get marked or damaged. It’s important he becomes comfortable with it on, after all, he’ll be standing, sitting, eating, drinking, dancing, speech-making and most importantly, saying ‘I do’ in his prized suit, so it needs to feel just like a second skin.

Most couples plan well in advance for their wedding, sometimes years.

Whilst there are bound to be things left to an element of chance on your big day (e.g. the weather!, make sure your groom’s outfit isn’t one of them!

You both deserve the most fabulous wedding day, with the added benefit of your groom owning an item of clothing that will last for many, many years, just like your rings and your wedding day memories.

Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 11.

Page 12. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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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!

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Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 13.

Page 14. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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Visitors to experience rare

and unusual wildlife at

Morecambe Bay nature reserve

Local wildlife enthusiasts will be able to enjoy one of Cumbria’s oldest nature reserves once more thanks to a grant of £35,964.00 from SITA Trust.

1000 metres of boardwalk, three information signs, a waymarker post and two benches will be installed to make Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s Meathop Moss Nature Reserve, near Witherslack, Kendal, easily

accessible and enjoyable for everyone once again. A cycle rack has also been donated by South Lakeland District Council and will be installed by volunteers. Cumbria Wildlife Trust has been able to secure this grant thanks to additional donations of £4,135 from members of Cumbria Wildlife Trust.

The Cumbria Wildlife Trust nature reserve underwent restoration work in 2012 to improve the peat bog habitat, including raising water levels which caused the current boardwalk to become unsafe.

M e a t h o p Moss, which is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, was the charity’s first nature reserve and was identified as a valuable wildlife habitat by Lord Rothschild in 1915 and was designated as a nature reserve in 1919. Hazel Jones, Senior

Fundraising Officer for Cumbria Wildlife Trust says: “Meathop Moss has been a nature reserve since 1919 and it continues to be one of the best examples of raised peat bog in the country. The peat bog has unusual plants like Sphagnum mosses, cotton grasses, bog rosemary, bog asphodel, cranberry and sundew. Entomologists come from far and wide to experience some of the 200 species of butterfly and moth that have been recorded here.” “Thanks to this generous grant from SITA Trust, 2,000 reed and 1,000 willow plants will be planted by volunteers alongside the new boardwalk to create a natural screen that will reduce visitor disturbance to wildfowl in the fen and pools.

Regular volunteering events will be held to assist with this project and the Reserve Warden will lead guided walks at the site to inspire people about nature and the special wildlife at Meathop Moss.”

Marianne Ivin of SITA Trust added “This project has been funded through our Accessing Nature fund and is an exciting project that will allow the public to access areas of the reserve that have previously not been possible. We are really looking forward to seeing how the project progresses. SITA Trust provides grants through the Landfill Communities Fund. This important source of funding has been available since 1997 and has provided such worthy projects with more than £1.4 billion.”

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Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 15.

Page 16. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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A new and exciting app to see what's happening around you

The experiences you have, the people you meet and the friends you make shape you. A new app called 'Blast' has been launched that enables you to extend your life experiences through the eyes of people around you. Blast was created out of the simple question - "What's happening around me, right

now?". Whether it's a nearby party, a local concert or just a simple selfie, Blast allows you to experience the world through the eyes of others, instantly.

With Blast you can take a photo or a short video and share it instantly with everyone in your area. Your photo or

video - dubbed a 'Moment' can be viewed in real-time by anyone close to you – even if they don't follow you. Users can tap or swipe to get an almost unlimited number of new moments that have been taken around them. If you like what you see you can follow a particular user to always receive their Blasts. It's even possible to send a photo/video reply back to someone to strike up a conversation – and maybe a new friendship.

Blast redefines content discovery with its unique 'Blast Radius'. Every moment taken on Blast starts at it's epicentre and expands like an explosion. The more engaging your moment is, the further the Blast travels and the more people that get to experience your moment. Blast is viral, quick paced and limitless.

Jonathan Thirkill, Blast Founder describes the inspiration behind the app: "Blast was created out of the intrigue of wanting to know what's happening around you at this very moment.

This is particularly true when you visit a new city and want to easily explore and find like-minded people.

Blast is like having your own personal tour guide in your pocket - it's really interesting."

For businesses, Blast provides a powerful platform to showcase their brand and engage a local audience in real time. Location information gives brands useful and actionable insight into audience response, allowing them to tailor their campaigns in the most captivating way possible. The fast paced speed of Blast – with moments

been posted around the clock – also provides a great vehicle for viral marketing, as images and videos can immediately gain traction in their original location, and expand their reach as the 'Blast radius' increases, and they gain a bigger audience.

Since the app has been launched, its been met with positive feedback by users who have enjoyed the refreshing perspective it gives on photo sharing.

As the team behind the app describes, "we've had some really positive feedback since launching Blast. So far we're seeing over 60% of users returning weekly as Blast is highly addictive – People are intrigued to see if there are any new moments, especially when you visit a new place like a bar, new city, music festival or just out with friends."

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Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 17.

Bolton’s markets continue to thrive

Ten miles northwest of the city of Manchester and not far from the West Pennine Moors lies the former mill town of Bolton. Bolton is a common Northern English name derived from the Old English bothl-tun, meaning a settlement with a dwelling. There appear to have been several variations on the name over the years, however, including Boelton (1185), Bothelton (1212), Botelton (1257) and Boulton (1288). After 1307 it became plain old Bolton. There is evidence of human existence on the moors around Bolton since the early part of the Bronze Age, and signs of a Saxon settlement exist in the form of religious objects found when the Victorian parish church was built. A charter to hold a market

in Churchgate was granted on 14 December 1251 by King Henry III, and Bolton became a market town and borough by a charter from the Earl of Derby in January 1253.

During the 14th century Bolton - like previous Fotofocus town Blackburn - became an important centre for the manufacture of woollen cloth, spurred by the settling of Flemish weavers there in 1337. In 1644 during the English Civil War, an attack on a garrison took place which became known as the Bolton Massacre, in which 1,500 died, 700 were taken prisoner and the town was plundered.

A tradition of cottage spinning and weaving and improvements to spinning technology by local

inventors, Richard Arkwright and Samuel Crompton, led to the rapid growth of the textile industry in the 19th century. This industrial growth was assisted by the availability of coal in the area, as well as the development of important rail and canal transport links. Local firms built locomotives for the railway,

and by 1900 Bolton was Lancashire’s third largest engineering centre after Manchester and Oldham.

About 9,000 men were employed in the industry, making textile machinery, boilers heavy machinery and machine tools for the international motor industry. Wrought iron was also produced in the town for more

than 100 years. By 1911 the textile industry in Bolton employed about 36,000 people. But the cotton industry declined significantlyfrom the 1920s, and by the end of the 20th century had virtually vanished. Unlike most of the town’s we’ve featured Bolton doesn’t seem to have burned down in the past - but it was bombed during

World War I and several people were killed. Bolton has a long heritage as a bustling market town and the markets continue to thrive today. Bolton’s main market is located on Ashburner Street, right in the heart of the town centre, and the town’s annual Food and Drink Festival is one of the biggest in the North West.

Page 18. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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Lake District re-creates

‘The Grand Circular Victorian Tour’

Visitors to the Lake District can capture all the nostalgia of a bygone age this summer, with the re-creation of ‘The Grand Circular Victorian

Tour’. The tour was regularly used in the 1860s to integrate steam and boat services in and around Coniston and Windermere.

Now, it is being brought back to life by the National Trust, with support from the ‘See More’ sustainable transport programme.

Passengers will start their day-long experience by stepping aboard a lovingly-restored vintage steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Steam Railway. They will chug three

and a half miles into the picturesque Leven Valley on part of the Old Furness Line, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide in full period costume.

Arriving at Lakeside, at the southern end of England’s longest lake, they can enjoy two leisurely cruises on a historic Windermere Lake Cruises ‘steamer’ and a traditional wooden launch, before taking a stroll to the newly restored Victorian Viewing Station at Claife – for superb views and a ‘ferryman’s lunch’. Then it’s time to board a Mountain Goat minibus for the short trip to Coniston and a cruise back in time on the Steam Yacht Gondola. Originally built in 1859 by the Furness Line Railway Company, the Gondola’s opulent saloons and

The Antiques Emporium, Kendal

Here at The Antiques Emporium, Kendal, We have re- re-furbished and re-vitalised after the emerged stronger and more interesting than ever, Fully devastating storm Desmond flood, The Antiques Emporium with its 60 strong traders has a wide range and selection of items to suit all shoppers and dealers. Whether your looking for gifts for any occasion or something new to grace your home The Antiques Emporium has it all, With our friendly and inviting staff who are on hand to help and encourage you to browse and remember bygone times from your childhood, Toys that were played with and lost that you thought you would never see again, Items that your parents and grandparents used, Loved and enjoyed.

Open 7 Days a week 10am5pm Monday to Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sunday.

Free entry all day everyday.

The Antiques Emporium is a

fantastic treasure trove of exciting and enticing items for all but just just take our word for it. Here's what a few of our customers say.

“A little Treasure chest in the Lake District” Miss VLB “Unlike any other antique shop, Add it to your list of things to do. You wont be disappointed” Jayne What are you waiting for, Come Visit the Antiques Emporium Today....

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open air decks are the ultimate recreation of the journey taken by early Victorian visitors to the Lakes.

Passenger round-off the day with a final scenic trip on a Mountain Goat minibus.

The Grand Circular Victorian Tour is being supported with funding from the See More sustainable travel programme; its Small Grants Fund aims to develop and promote easy, accessible visitor transport across Cumbria. See More Programme Manager, Nicola Parker, says, “We hope projects like the Grand Circular Victorian Tour will give visitors the best possible access and experience of car-free travel around the Lakes. It is

great to help an organisation like the National Trust work together with local businesses and communities to bring this vintage tour back to life.”

Jane Saxon, General Manager for the Lakes Holidays Portfolio at the National Trust explains, “We’re very happy to be working collaboratively with our Lake District partners to enable our visitors to enjoy the area in a sustainable way whilst also engaging with our rich cultural heritage.” Proposed 2016 dates for the Grand Circular Victorian Tour are: • Weds 4 and 18 May • Weds 1 and 15 June • Weds 6 and 20 July • Fri 5 and Weds 17 Aug • Fri 2 and Weds 14 Sept Tickets for the day-long experience cost £110 per person.

Minimum group of 10 people and maximum 30. To book, contact The National Trust on 015394 32733.

Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 19.

Tour de Yorkshire

race build up

begins with

Trophy Tour

Communities across Yorkshire are gearing up to welcome the official Tour de Yorkshire trophy which will be going on tour after Easter.

Each local authority is being lent the Y shaped trophy ahead of race weekend and plans include visits to schools as well as events in start and finish towns. The trophy will be touring Doncaster on Monday, April 11, Middlesbrough on Tuesday, April 12, Scarborough on Wednesday, April 13, Beverley on Monday, April 18, Settle on Wednesday, April 20, and Otley on Friday, April 22. The trophy enjoyed a similar tour after its unveiling in Leeds last year. Sir Gary Verity, Chief Executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “Having such a beautiful trophy reflects on Yorkshire itself as well as the race.

I’m delighted it will be off on its travels and visiting towns and villages along the route before returning to Scarborough on race weekend.”The trophy, designed and made by hand at world leading trophy makers Thomas Fattorini Ltd, was won by Team Sky’s Lars Petter Nordhaug in 2015.

A new addition for 2016 is a women’s race trophy, also being made by Fattorini’s.The women’s trophy will be awarded to the winner of the one-day race which takes place before the men’s stage on Saturday 29 April.The men’s race promises to come down to a thrilling finale in Scarborough on Sunday 1 May. Organisers will be announcing the teams whose riders will battle it out to raise the trophies in the next few weeks. Tom Fattorini, of Thomas Fattorini Ltd, said: “Being a Yorkshire company it was an honour for us to be asked to make the trophy for the Tour de Yorkshire.

I look forward to seeing the excitement it brings to local communities before being awarded to the race winner.”

Each host local authority has made arrangements for the trophy’s visit and media will be alerted to activities while it is on tour

Page 20. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 21.

Superfoods iron and calcium), olive oil (rich in antioxidants) and salmon (omega 3 fats dramatically reduce the risk of having a heart attack, among other things).

3. Is it true that eating superfoods reduces the risk of getting cancer?

Hmmmm, tricky one.

Some experiments have suggested so, but only for specific superfoods such as bananas, brazil nuts, blueberries and broccoli. The four B's!

4. What's the super-est superfood in the world?

Everybody has different opinions on that. But one that always seems to be up there is blueberries. They're choc-a-bloc with a specific type of antioxidant which has potential benefits for the nervous system, brain health, eyesight and even memory improvement...

4. What's with wheatgrass juice?

Apparently one shot is equal to a kilo of vegetables.

Far too much hype around this. 30 ml of wheatgrass juice contains less folic acid and vitamin C than just two florets of broccoli.

5. So should I be gorging on superfoods?

No! You can overdose on superfoods.

If we have an excess of nutrients and cannot store them, they will essentially go to waste.

Yes, although most do fall in the fruit And if they can't be excreted, certain & veg category. Examples include nutrients could even cause cellular baked beans (jam-packed with damage.

Anyone know what a superfood is? "Something you eat which makes you lose weight", "any food that's colourful" and, our personal favourite, "snacks that make you feel like a superhero" is what our office came up with.

All wrong, we're afraid. In fact, a superfood is simply "a food which is very good for your health", as defined by the English dictionary. So that can be anything from a stick of celery to a handful of sunflower seeds, or even a slice of wholegrain toast.

To understand this mystical league of foodstuffs a little better, we've done our research and answered the most common superfood questions for you...

1. A plain old apple is good for you.

Does that mean it's a superfood?

Yes, indeed it does. An apple a day provides a quarter of your daily requirement of vitamin C, which keeps skin glowing and gums healthy.

2. Is there a superfood which isn't a fruit or vegetable?

Page 22. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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Employers running out of

options in race to hire

More than eight in ten businesses (82 per cent) plan to hire more permanent staff in the next three months, according to the latest Jobs Outlook survey by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC).

Almost three in ten employers (29 per cent) have taken on more staff in the last year, helping to push UK employment to its highest on record (74.1 per cent).

With 95 per cent of businesses operating close to full capacity, the data indicates that it will become increasingly difficult for employers to find staff.

Almost half of UK employers (47 per cent) have awarded pay rises in the last 12 months to help attract and retain talent.

With fewer candidates on the market, employers say that temporary workers have become increasingly important.

Ninety per cent of businesses need strategic skills’, while six in ten (58 temporary workers to provide ‘key per cent) need temps to ‘respond to growth’.

REC chief executive Kevin Green says: “Options are running out for organisations that want to take on more staff.

Schools and hospitals are already facing enormous

problems because of a shortage of teachers and nurses. SMEs and big businesses are both feeling the pressure.

The need for people to do the jobs available is driving firms to become more innovative and creative in their recruitment strategies.

“As campaigning begins in earnest around the EU referendum, jobs will be high on the agenda.

We urge both sides of the argument to keep in mind that UK businesses must have sufficient access to the global labour market in order to thrive.

We need more skilled people to fill job vacancies in the UK, not fewer.”

Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 23.

Page 24. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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UK employment

reaches record high

The UK’s employment rate has hit another record high, rising to 74.1% the proportion of young people who have left full time There are now a record 31.4 million year, fuelled by a rise in full-time economy’s strong performance. people in work – up 521,000 employment – and there are a record The unemployment rate is the education and are unemployed has fallen to 5.6% – the compared with this time last 776,000 job vacancies, reflecting the lowest in a decade, at 5.1%, and lowest on record.

Wages before bonuses have continued to grow, with an increase of 2% compared with this time last year (inflation over this period was relatively flat) and the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefits is at its lowest level since 1975.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Iain Duncan Smith said: February is another record-breaking month with the employment rate now at the highest it has ever been and wages continuing to grow.

At a time when we are seeing the number of workless households at its lowest ever, this is further proof that our economic and welfare reforms are delivering more security and providing opportunities that give families the best chance in life.

Minister for Disabled People Justin Tomlinson said: It is vital we stay the course with our long-term economic plan, to ensure more hardworking families benefit from the country’s growing economy.

There are now 150,000 more disabled people in work over the past year, which is fantastic news.

By working to halve the disability employment gap, we want to make sure more people can reap the positive financial and health rewards of employment, and are helped to achieve their ambitions.

Among the record-breaking figures released today: the employment rate of older people, aged 50 to 64, is at a new record high of 70.1% the employment rate of young people who have left fulltime education is at a 10-year high of 74.7% over a million more women are in work since 2010 and the female employment rate remains at a record high 150,000 more disabled people are now in work over the past year The government is committed to helping those further from the labour market into work, and spends £50 billion each year on benefits alone to support people with disabilities and health conditions.

Since the launch of the Disability Confident campaign in 2013, which sees the government working with businesses so they understand the benefits of recruiting and retaining disabled people, there are more disabled people in work – up 293,000 over the past 2 years.

Universal Credit is transforming lives across the country with over 10,500 people on average claiming the new benefit every week. Over 364,000 claims have been made to Universal Credit and a third of those receiving the benefit are in work.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 25.

Page 26. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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Manchester sets out 10-year

strategy to build enough homes

An ambitious strategy to ensure Manchester can build a minimum of 25,000 homes over the next decade is set to be approved by the City Council’s executive this week.

Manchester is currently experiencing a huge rate of growth that requires a planned vision to meet the housing demand for both buying and renting.

The city was the fastest growing in the UK between 2001 and 2011 with more than 80,000 people moving to Manchester and that growth has continued over the last five years.

The city’s reputation is internationally competitive with fast growing employment sectors (particularly in digital, creative, life sciences and construction) and renowned education institutions, which are helping to retain working people.

But to support this continued growth the city needs a range of affordable housing products across all housing types, while being mindful of high quality standards and sustainability.

Following a consultation, the Residential Growth Strategy sets out six priority themes for housing in the city that will ensure Manchester remains attractive and liveable – along with a detailed implementation plan that identifies priorities over the short to medium term. The action plan will be reviewed and updated annually to monitor and refresh the actions to ensure homes continue to be built amid a changing housing landscape.

1. Increase house building on existing and new sites. The city’s housing stock needs to keep pace with a growing population and without more new homes house prices will

inevitably rise. There is increased risk of a growing affordability gap, a lack of coherence between income and available housing and a housing offer that is more unattractive and crowded.

The Manchester Place partnership will continue to encourage development and future investment by assembling land, creating development and investment opportunities and setting quality standards 2. Improve the quality and sustainability of the city’s housing Manchester has established an expert group to bring forward a Manchester Residential Design Guide that will inform the expectations of all new homes to ensure quality, design and sustainability. Excellent housing is imperative at all prices and tenures to create strong communities and areas where people want to lay down roots.

Domestic properties contribute 30% of carbon emissions across the city and more needs to be done – especially in the private sector – on new homes to help Manchester meet our climate change commitments.

3. Increase opportunities for home ownership. Although in many parts of the city houses are affordable compared to large areas of the UK, limited access to mortgage products, large deposits and poor credit ratings have severely limited access for young people to enter the housing market. Manchester will work with Manchester Place and developers to ensure there is a diverse portfolio of housing that includes homes that are available to first time buyers.

4. Expand the city’s family housing offer. Historically people have moved out of the city when

having children, but in the last two decades Manchester has sought to create popular neighbourhoods with excellent transport and amenities that appeal to residents and encourage them to remain in the city. The housing offer needs to support this need through new family housing across a range of prices in areas of strong demand.

5. Professionalise the private rented sector across the city.

Manchester’s fastest growing sector, private rented is likely to rise to 40% in the next decade but fragmented ownership can lead to inconsistent management standards. The recently launched Manchester Market Rental Pledge looks to improve the support mechanisms in place for tenants, and a targeted approach to landlord licensing may also be required. Good operators are also being brought into the market, such as Matrix Homes – a joint venture organisation borne from an innovative housing model in partnership between the council and the GM Pension Fund, which has blazed a trail nationally for the new model of market rent in family housing.

6. Provide appropriate housing options for retirement living.

Options will be made available for people who want to stay in the city as they get older through positive down-sizing options – which also frees up larger family homes – and purpose built accommodation, which can reduce isolation and dependency on healthcare. Sites have already been approved by the council for 400 specialist homes in the next five years.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 27.

Page 28. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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One month left to chip your dog

From 06 April it will be compulsory for owners to ensure their dog is microchipped Every year over 102,000 dogs are picked up from our streets having strayed or been stolen, but thanks to new microchipping laws coming into effect on 6 April they’ll soon stand a much greater chance of being returned home safe and sound to their owners.

Already 83% of responsible dog owners have had their four-legged friend painlessly implanted with a microchip and their details updated on a national database. This means should one of our 8.5 million dogs take itself for ‘walkies’ we can quickly find out where they’ve come from and reunite them with their family.

The new rules which come into force in England next month will not only protect the welfare of dogs and promote responsible ownership, but also make it easier to track down the owners of dogs that carry out attacks on people. We also expect local authorities and charities, which would otherwise feed, kennel and home dogs, to make £33million in annual savings were these dogs microchipped and returned to owners.

Commenting on the new law Animal Welfare Minister George Eustice said: We are a nation of dog lovers and we want to make sure they stay safe.

Microchipping our dogs will not only reunite people with their lost or stolen pets, but also help to tackle the growing problem of strays roaming the streets and relieve the burden placed on animal charities and local authorities. Microchipping is vital for good dog welfare and a simple

solution for responsible pet owners to provide peace of mind and ensure your much-loved dog can be traced.

Providing support for compulsory microchipping, Paula Boyden, Dogs Trust Veterinary Director added: Dogs Trust welcomes the new legalisation coming into effect on 6 April as we have long campaigned to make microchipping compulsory.

Losing a dog is an extremely upsetting time for both dog and dog owner and microchipping increases the likelihood that a dog will be reunited with their owner in the event they are lost, making it an essential part of animal welfare law in England. It is vital that the microchip details are kept up to date.

In 2015, 47,596 unclaimed and unwanted dogs were left in council kennels across the UK as these dogs could not be reunited with their owners. Stray dogs that find themselves at Dogs Trust are the

lucky ones, as we will care for a dog for its entire life if needed. In 2015 alone Dogs Trust has microchipped over 185,000 dogs for free across our network of Rehoming Centres and we’re still working tirelessly to ensure even more dogs are given these small but essential pieces of technology before April. Currently, at Dogs Trust there are 1,546 stray, unwanted and abandoned dogs looking for their forever home.

The soon-to-be-compulsory procedure is inexpensive and ranges from £10-£30, with many charities and animal shelters offering to carry it out for free.

Additional information: After 6 April 2016, owners of dogs found by the police or local authorities not to have a microchip will have the benefits explained to them and be given a short period to comply with the microchipping law. If they do not, they could face a fine of up to £500.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 29.

Page 30. Issue 9. Lancashire Local

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Paul Lambert was pleased to see Tony

Watt make an impact on his return to the starting line-up in Tuesday's

victory over Middlesbrough

The Scottish international has had to be patient for his opportunity since joining on loan from Charlton at the turn of the year, but impressed as Rovers made it three home wins in a row against the Teessiders.

The Rovers boss admitted that there were several selection headaches ahead of the match, but was happy with the attacker's display.

"I think that is the best that Tony

Watt has been for the hour that he was on," said Lambert. "He's not been in the team due to the form of other guys, but I thought the night was the time to bring him in.

"I left Elliott Bennett out, who has arguably been one of our better players, because of amount of workrate that he has been doing over the last few weeks. "We changed it around a little bit and got a great win."

Euro 2016: fans already preparing

for tournament in France

With less than 100 days to go, new figures have shown that a third of home nations fans planning to travel to France for the 2016 UEFA European Championships still do not have accommodation booked and more than half do not have tickets. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), who conducted the survey* of more than 1,600 England, Northern Ireland and Wales fans, has urged all supporters to make sure they prepare and plan ahead so they can enjoy a trouble-free trip.

To help travelling fans the FCO has compiled 11 Top Tournament Travel Tips as part of its ‘Be On The Ball’ campaign, including advice on how to stay up to date by signing up to FCO travel alerts, and tips on keeping your passport safe.

John Sykes, football liaison officer at the British embassy in Paris, said: Tickets or not, we’re expecting thousands and thousands of British supporters to make the short trip across the channel and take in the competition, and we want all of them to have the best possible time – regardless of their team’s results!

However, we expect the demand

for accommodation to be high, and we encourage fans to think ahead, get their tactics right, and ensure they book all their accommodation and travel in advance.

The survey shows the 57% of fans plan to travel without a ticket. Of those, 29% will try to purchase tickets at the ground, and 51% plan to go to designated fan zones to watch the games. The rest will head to bars and pubs (13%) or seek other alternative viewing options (7%).

It also indicates that the majority of fans have already been making proper preparations - almost three-quarters (73%) plan to take out comprehensive travel insurance, and 79% will research the local area before they depart. Two thirds (66%) have already booked their accommodation – but a fifth (22%) of those surveyed do not plan to book somewhere to stay until they arrive in France.

Martin Redmond, from the FCO’s ‘Know Before You Go’ team, said: It’s great that so many fans are already thinking about how they will prepare for their trip to France.

We want everyone to enjoy the competition, whether it’s in the stadiums; fan zones or local bars.

But wherever they plan to be, it’s important that supporters do the right pre-tournament preparations, like taking out comprehensive travel insurance, getting a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), and ensuring your passport is valid.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 9. Page 31.

Lauren Smith signs for

Lancashire Women's Cricket

Lancashire Women have confirmed the signing of 19 year-old Lauren Smith from New South Wales yesterday. Lauren was part of the Women’s Big Bash this winter in Australia where she played for the Sydney Sixers. A young off spinner and right hand bat Lauren is already making her mark at the next level having been named in the shooting stars squad for the upcoming tour to Sri Lanka where they will play against England's woman academy and Sri Lanka In 2015, Lancashire Women had the services of Meg Phillips and as we forge stronger relationships with Australia with players having the opportunity to travel to England and experience the conditions here and take their game further. We hope in years to come some of our young players will have the opportunity to take advantage of these links to

travel to play oversees. Lauren will play in the Lancashire Women’s side in Division 2 of the ECB Women’s County Championship and Division 1 of the ECB County Championship T20 competition. We also hope to provide Lauren with coaching opportunities in our county and regional programmes.

Dan Atkinson, Lancashire Women’s head coach commented: ”It is great news to bring in Lauren, she has played in the Women’s Big Bash something I’m sure many of our girls can learn from. Lauren will have the opportunity to play plenty of cricket whilst here including helping out with coaching on the county programmes.

We hope Lauren will enjoy her stay in Lancashire, learn and grow her game and return to Australia a stronger cricketer and person.” Lauren will arrive mid-April and is likely to be available for the whole season.

Rovers welcomed a special guest

to Brockhall last week, as the club gear up for the Championship run-in

British cycling supremo Sir Dave Brailsford, who helped Team GB win eight gold medals at the 2012 London Olympics and Team Sky claim three Tour de France titles in the last four years, visited the training ground to meet manager Paul Lambert and senior coaching staff.

The Rovers boss has become a cycling enthusiast over the past 12 months and was delighted to spend time with the world-renowned coach.

“It was absolutely fantastic,” said Lambert. “It was a great experience for myself and the staff to listen to

him. “He’s in charge of team and he has got to make big decisions and he has worked with elite athletes like Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome and Chris Hoy, and it’s an incredible thing what they’ve experienced.

“It’s a different sport, but there’s not too much disparity with a lot of things. He spent three hours and I could have sat all night listening to him and asking questions. It was really kind of him to come in the first place and a fantastic experience to hear from somebody of that ilk, who has achieved incredible success.

“I think he said that Britain hadn’t had a World Champion cyclist for 70-odd

years and all of a sudden there’s two or three there, as well as Olympians and Tour de France champions, which is an incredible achievement and it was an absolute pleasure to meet him.

“I don’t know everything, I never will know everything and hopefully I’ll never stop learning, because if you do that, I think you become vulnerable to yourself and these kind of guys and great managers that I’ve spoken to, you’ve got to learn from and it’s important that you do take things in and hearing from Sir Dave Brailsford, it really was a fascinating day.”

Page 32. Issue 9. 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.