Lancashire Local Issue 26

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Issue. 26

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Inside This Issue: Care • News • Christmas • Weddings • Jobs • Sports

Knifepoint robbery at

Cleveleys betting shop

Police are appealing for information following a robbery at a betting shop in Cleveleys. The incident occurred at around 8pm Monday 12th December, when a lone male entered the Coral bookmakers on Victoria Road West shortly before it closed. He approached the counter and threatened a member of staff with a knife before demanding the till be opened and cash placed into a carrier bag. He made off from the scene with the money. Now police are appealing for anybody who may have witnessed the incident, or who knows anything about it, to get in touch. Detective Sergeant Neil Smith, of Blackpool Police, said: “The member of staff working in the shop was simply trying to earn an honest living when they were put through this ordeal, which has left them extremely shaken.

“We are determined to find the person responsible and would urge anybody with any information about it to contact us. Maybe you were in the area at the time and saw something that didn’t seem quite right, or maybe you’ve since heard someone talking about it. If you know anything, please get in touch.” The offender is described as a white male, approximately 5ft 9ins tall, wearing a blue hooded top, light-coloured trousers, trainers and a black balaclava.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting log number 1259 of December 12th

Issue. 26

FREE

Arrests, car seizures

and cash recovered

in Longsight Three people were arrested, 14 vehicles were seized and 98 motorists received tickets as part of a crackdown on crime in Longsight The day of action, which took place as part of #GMPChristmas, targeted those causing misery during the festive period.

Fifty police officers joined forces with court enforcement and immigration officers to execute the day of action against criminals.

Of the three people arrested, one was for failure to appear at court, another was for overstaying and the third was for theft of vehicle.

In addition, 14 vehicles were seized for traffic related incidents and one stolen vehicle was recovered.

Traffic officers issued 98 traffic offence reports to motorists for a number of offences including using a mobile phone, speeding and no insurance.

Court enforcement officers recovered £4,000 in outstanding fines and approximately £8,000 was recovered under the proceeds of crime act.

Sergeant Nick Bamber from the Longsight Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “Yesterday’s day of action sends a very clear message to offenders that their behaviour won’t be tolerated.

“The festive period should be a joyous occasion and as yesterday’s activity demonstrates, we won’t be winding down for Christmas and letting a small minority ruin it for law-abiding citizens.

“If you have information on a crime, or want to let us know about the whereabouts of a wanted person, then please do the right thing and contact us before they ruin somebody’s Christmas.”

Page 4. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Micropub ready to be your new local?

Blackburn’s new micropub, which opens this weekend, is set to celebrate the best of local fare.

The Drummer’s Arms on King William Street, which throws open its doors on Saturday (November 26), is the latest enterprise from husband and wife team, James and Katy Quayle from Darwen.

The pair currently run Q-ale, a business hiring pop-up bars to events and festivals, and help fit out micropubs, an increasingly popular phenomenon of small one room pubs that focus on real ales and shun

electronic entertainment.

It was while running a bar at a town centre event that James, who previously ran a homebrew shop in Darwen, spotted his new premises on King William Street.

Bury Market wins

top award from

TripAdvisor

The latest accolade awarded to Bury Market has come from the world’s largest travel site TripAdvisor.

It has given the town’s famous market a Certificate of Excellence for 2016 after the tourist attraction achieved a guest rating of 4.5 based on 585 reviews, putting it among the very best.

The site also rates it the Number One attraction of 32 in Bury!

The Certificate of Excellence is based on the quality and quantity of recent reviews submitted by travellers on TripAdvisor over a 12-month period.

To qualify, a business must maintain an overall TripAdvisor bubble rating of at least four out of five, have a minimum number of reviews and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months.

Councillor Rishi Shori, leader of Bury Council, said: “We are delighted that so many visitors have given such positive feedback via TripAdvisor and we hope that that will encourage many more people to come to Bury and enjoy our unique market atmosphere for themselves.”

Heather Leisman, vice-president of industry marketing at TripAdvisor, said: "With the Certificate of Excellence, TripAdvisor honours hospitality businesses that have consistently received strong praise and ratings from travellers. This recognition helps travellers identify and book properties that regularly deliver great service. TripAdvisor is proud to play this integral role in helping travellers feel more confident in their booking decisions.”

Silver jug used as a Pub’s skittles

trophy makes £600 at auction

Whittaker and Biggs held their auction sale of antiques and collectables at their sale room in Brown Street, Congleton on Friday 2nd December.

There were 300 lots on offer varying from a decorative gold hat pin at £250 to horse drawn carts at £400. One of the highlights of the day was a silver claret jug that was hallmarked and made by Martin, Hall and Co in Sheffield in 1863, it stood 37cm in height and weighed 663 grams.

Perhaps the most surprising feature of this lot was that it had been used as a skittles trophy at a pub in Longton, Stoke on Trent. After bids from numerous interested

parties it was sold to a buyer from Macclesfield for £600. More hammer prices can be found on Whittaker and Biggs on their facebook page.

The next sale of antiques and Collectables at Congleton Sale Room is on Friday 17th March 2017 and entries are now invited for this sale.

This Friday at 9.30 am there is a special auction of 150 to 200 good quality bicycles and on Friday 16th December there is a special sale of

clearance wines, spirits and beers.

In addition, general auctions are held every Friday at 10 am, the last one in 2016 is on 16th December recommencing on 6th January 2017.

These sales each attract 600 to 1000 lots with a huge variety of items to include modern, retro and antique furniture, modern and vintage garden and workshop tools, collectable china, glass and curios, household electricals etc..

“I said to myself that would make a great micropub and nearly 12 months later here we are.

“With some larger pubs and bars you go in they all have the same generic beers on offer but with a micropub you have more choice and we’re more flexible about what we can sell.” Beer fans will be able to enjoy local offerings from Darwen breweries, Three B’s Brewery and Hopstar, alongside an ever-changing variety of guest ales from around the country, as well as boutique gins and whiskies.

Also on sale will be pies made by Lancashire butchers Dales, fairtrade coffee and speciality teas. Even music will have a local element, with the jukebox stocked with CDs from local unsigned bands.

Sunday afternoons will see local musicians invited to take part in an open mic session and live music is planned for another night in the week.

Katy says, “We plan to offer the best experience in Blackburn. The Drummer’s Arms will be a cosy, friendly space, giving a new twist to the the traditional pub feel.

“We’re really looking forward to welcoming discerning customers to enjoy quality service and excellent products, and we have some great events planned for the future.”

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Dangerous

dolls!

Council's warning shoppers and retailers to be careful after officers found dolls containing high levels of chemicals on sale.

A Manchester woman and her company were each fined £5,000 after Warrington trading standards officers prosecuted her for selling the dangerous toys.

The prosecutions were brought by Warrington’s trading standards under the Toy Safety Regulations following the chemical testing of the ‘Baby Genuoa’ doll bought as part of a regional trading standards project into the level of chemicals in toys.

The analysis found that the plastic in the doll contained a concentration of 14.4% of a chemical known as a phthalate which greatly exceed the permitted levels. Children’s plastic toys are not permitted to contain more than 0.1% of this chemical.

Further offences were identified as the packaging in which the doll came in did not carry the name and address of the manufacturer and the EU importer’s details which is required in law.

Jianxin Chen, 47, of Faversham Street, Manchester, along with her Company C&Q Trading Ltd, of Derby Street, Manchester, were both found guilty on 7 November by Warrington Magistrates Court of six offences in relation to the sale of an unsafe child’s doll.

Jianxin Chen was sentenced to a personal fine of £5,000, with a victim surcharge of £500 and £955 cost awarded against her. Her company C&Q Trading, where she is the sole director, was also fined £5,000, ordered to pay £500 as a victim surcharge and £925 costs.

Cllr Judith Guthrie, executive board member of public protection, said: “Protecting the public for the sale of unsafe consumer goods, especially toys, in the run in to Christmas is a key priority for our trading standards team. This results shows that any retailer or importer who sells unsafe toys will face stringent penalties in the courts.”

Pete Astley, assistant director for regulation and protection said: “I would urge anyone buying toys to carefully look at the label to ensure the CE, manufacturers and importers name and address is present. Some toys also carry The Lion Mark of the British Toy and Hobby Association. Consumers can be assured that a toy which bears the Lion Mark has been manufactured by a BTHA member who believes in making good quality safe toys”.

Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 5.

Relive the Encounter: Lancashire Encounter Photographic Exhibition

Lancashire Encounter, September’s Lancastrian weekend festival of arts, culture and creativity which took place across Preston City Centre was captured from all angles

by Preston Photographic Society, on behalf of Preston City Council.

These photos, portraying excited crowds, catching moments of emotional acts and illustrating the flurry of activity that were all key parts of Lancashire Encounter, will be on display at Ham and Jam Coffee Shop from 13 December until 15 January 2017.

The festival brought in performers and artists from across the county, promising visitors a weekend of surprises, quality performances and a highlight event of the Procession of Light. Preston Photographic Society were armed with their personal photographic equipment, high vis vests and official passes and invited in, behind the scenes to capture the magic of the weekend. The resulting images are stunning.

Councillor Kelly, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure Services said, “Lancashire Encounter was a fantastic event, which we were thrilled to host in Preston

Take Up a Sporting

Challenge in 2017

Grab your trainers, don the lycra. Sign up for a breathtaking challenge around Windermere in the Lake District.

If you are a runner how about having a go at one of the most scenic road marathons in the UK organised by Brathay Challenge Team?

Taking place on Sunday 21st May it is one undulating lap around England’s longest lake, Windermere. You will be cheered on and supported by a team of friendly marshals and volunteers as you run the 26.2 mile course taking in the honey-pot sites of Hawkshead, Newby Bridge, Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside. Over half the course is run on partially traffic-free roads or roads with a dedicated running lane. Start and finish amidst a carnival atmosphere, in the grounds of Brathay Hall near Ambleside Now in its 11th year, runners say the ASICS Windermere Marathon is very well organised. It is also the final one of ten being run by the ‘10in10ers’. These inspiring individuals, including two grandmas, will have tackled this same marathon every day. You’ll get a chance to meet them and find out more about their challenge.

If running is not your thing but cycling is, check out a day of events also organised by Brathay on Saturday 26th March. Their cycling sportive offers three routes of differing lengths and challenges to cater for all abilities.

Starting and finishing at Brathay Hall there is the 15 mile Brathay Breeze, the 44 mile Brathay Belter and the 58 mile Brathay Brutal. Depending on your route, you’ll be taking in the amazing views of Coniston Water, Esthwaite Water and Windermere.

Every year Brathay helps young people in Lancashire make positive choices to change their lives, including vulnerable and disadvantaged children and young people.

Find out more at www.brathaychallenges.com

city centre. The images I’ve already seen come from Preston Photographic Society have really captured the essence of the event and I can’t wait to see them in situe at Ham and Jam.” Mick Porter, Vice President and Treasurer of PPS said "The Lancashire Encounter was a unique chance for our members at all levels to be part of an event which offered

a huge diversity of interesting photographic opportunities over the weekend. Working with Preston City Council opened up access to areas which would not normally have been available to members of the public.

In return, the council received a portfolio of images to record and promote this event for the future covering the whole weekend. The

exhibition in Ham & Jam on Lancaster Road brings the club back to where it all started over 110 years ago and showcases just a small selection of images from the weekend.

This is great example of local organisations in the city working collaboratively for mutual benefit and hopefully opens up further opportunities in the future".

Page 6. Issue 26. Lancashire Local Drive safe this winter

use FLOWER power

Double penalties for using a mobile phone while driving

Drivers who use handheld mobile phones have been reminded that the penalties for doing so will be doubled next year. The Government has said Drivers are being urged to think FLOWER this winter to keep them and others safe on the road.

Motoring experts are encouraging them to ensure that their vehicle is road worthy and that they carry a winter driving kit in case of an emergency.

In some cases, they should make alternative travel arrangements or even cancel their planned journey if the weather is severe.

Jan Brabin, Bury Council’s senior road safety officer, advised drivers to carry an emergency kit with them, containing warm clothing, a torch, an ice scraper, battery jump leads, a first aid kit, food, a warm drink and a shovel. “You should also carry sunglasses to reduce the glare from the sun, and a mobile phone – but remember, it is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving.” Officers advise checking the car before a journey by ensure that tyres are at the correct pressure and have the legal minimum depth of tread (1.6mm); make sure that the lights and wipers are working; keep lights clean as they can get dirty from spray. For more regular car maintenance checks remember the word 'flower'.

F is for fuel. L is for lights. O is for oil. W is for water. E is for electrics. R is for rubber.

“Drivers should also adapt to the conditions,” said Jan. “Wet and icy roads can have a significant impact on a vehicle’s stopping distance, so slow down and drive carefully even on roads that have been treated.

“In extreme weather it may be necessary to close roads to traffic using ‘road closed’ signs and cones.

Drivers should be aware that this is done for good reason and on safety grounds. It is an offence to remove signs and cones, and drivers’ insurance can be invalidated if they travel down a closed road. The main concern is Rawson’s Rake in Ramsbottom, which due to the gradient can become impassable in severe weather.”

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it will increase the punishment from three points on your licence and a £100 fine to six points and a £200 fine.

The issue has become prominent due

to recent tragedies such as that caused

by Tomasz Kroker, who was jailed for 10 years after killing a family of four in a crash while being distracted by

his mobile phone. Jan Brabin, senior road safety officer at Bury Council, said: “Drivers using hands-free or handheld mobile phones are slower at recognising and reacting to hazards and a split second lapse in concentration could result in a crash, even for drivers who consider themselves careful.” Newly qualified drivers are reminded that they face an immediate ban if they reach six penalty points in the first two years after passing their test, so just one mobile phone offence could cost them their licence. The penalty for driving carelessly, dangerously or causing death by dangerous driving when using a handheld or hands-free phone can include disqualification, a large fine and imprisonment. Drivers should be aware that they could be prosecuted for using a hands-free device if they were not in proper control of the vehicle at the time. Jan added: “Drivers should switch their phone off, leave it to go to voicemail or pull over in a safe place to return the call. “It is important that people realise the potentially devastating consequences of using a mobile phone when driving. We want people to view using a mobile phone while driving as the equivalent to drink or drug driving.

People should be deterred by the potential consequences of a collision, but perhaps the points and the fine will also be a good motivator for behaviour change.”

Places filling fast for Blackburn’s only 10k race

Blackburn Road Runners 2017 Winter Warmer looks set to beat all records with nearly a quarter of the available places already gone for the popular race three months before the event. The event, which takes place on Sunday, February 5 at Witton Park, will be especially poignant for all those involved as it’s been dedicated to the memory of club member Andrew Boardman who died suddenly after suffering a stroke earlier this year.

The main race is a 10k route and starts at 11am taking in some of the town’s

most picturesque scenery and ends at the Witton Park Arena. There is also a 2k race for children aged 5-15 which last year saw hundreds take part.

Club chairman Sue Wolstenholme said: To honour Andrew’s memory we are determined this year’s event will be the best yet. Andrew was heavily involved with the race and helped us grow its reputation as well marshalled, friendly and suitable for all abilities.”

Race pacers are available for anybody looking for a personal best time. The

race is chipped so times are accurate. blackburnroadrunners.net or for more information email There are prizes for the fastest in entries@blackburnroadrunners.net runners and anybody beating course records.

The race is supported by local businesses MGS Technical Plastics, Crown Paints, Livewire Systems, Forrest UK, Great Harwood Windows, Bridgfords, Philips Business Solutions, JLR Combustion Engineering, Sweatshop and Platinum Bridal Fabrics. Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Regency Fitness is also a sponsor.

To enter visit the clubs website

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 7.

Special new status for

West Pennine Moors

UCLan branches out to Moor Park

Special legal protection has been granted for the West Pennine Moors to safeguard the area’s important wildlife and habitats.

The area that stretches from Blackburn with Darwen to Ramsbottom is the largest new site of special scientific interest (SSSI) notified by Natural England since 2004 and covers a total of 76 square kilometres.

The move reflects the national significance of the area and its combination of upland habitats, moorland fringe grasslands and woodland, which support an impressive array of breeding birds.

Merlin, curlew, snipe, lapwing and redshank nest in the area and it also has large breeding colonies of both black-headed and Mediterranean Gulls.

The moors also provide access to clean water, help reduce flood risks and bring enjoyment to millions of

visitors.

Natural England says it intends to work with owners and land managers to continue to protect and enhance the wildlife importance of the area, whilst maximising the other benefits from the moors.

This includes sensitive management of blanket bogs through careful grazing by cattle or sheep, and maintaining water levels at or around the surface of the peat to make sure the habitat is at its healthiest.

Mike Burke, Natural England’s Area Manager for Cheshire to Lancashire said: The West Pennine Moors are truly special and wholly warrant this SSSI status. It confers special legal protection and recognises the national scientific importance of its mosaic of upland habitats and populations of breeding birds. We will continue to work with all farmers, landowners and conservation groups across the area over the coming weeks and months to explain the importance of this designation and agree how we can work together to protect the area now and in the future.

Landowners, occupiers and interested parties now have 4 months in which to make representations or objections to Natural England, who will then decide whether or not to confirm the notification.

through tree planting project Market ‘Mo Bros’ help Bury

University works with the council to celebrate languages from around the world. Preston’s Moor Park will soon be giving Kew Gardens a run for its money after becoming home to trees from around the world planted by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) during National Tree Week on 30 November. The city’s first park, which dates as far back as 1235, is now home to ten new trees native to ten countries: Britain, China, Egypt, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Spain and Russia, which have been planted on the edge of the park facing Deepdale Football Stadium. UCLan has teamed up with Preston City Council for the project, which aims to celebrate the many languages taught by the School of Language and Global Studies and is led by the University’s

Confucius Institute. Director of the Institute, Feixia Yu, took part in a special tree planting ceremony along with Isabel Donnelly, Dean and Director of Business Development and Partnerships at UCLan, and representatives from the council.

Feixia said: “In China, growing and caring for trees is intrinsically linked to education to mirror how by encouraging and nurturing a person they will flourish. Planting trees from ten different countries to be nurtured right here in Preston is a fantastic way of sharing this ethos; celebrating the many cultures that come together and thrive at UCLan in a unique and long-lasting way.” Councillor Robert Boswell, Cabinet member for community and environment at Preston City Council, added: “It’s a

wonderful gesture from the Confucius Institute at UCLan to provide these trees for Preston. “Celebrating National Tree Week in this way and using the historic location of Moor Park will enable the trees to flourish and become a fantastic backdrop in the city.” Isabel Donnelly said: “Moor Park is in the middle of a big project to restore it to its former Victorian era glory and I hope our small contribution can go onto make a big difference to people who visit this area of Moor Park. We’ve chosen the 10 trees very carefully and each one represents a language that is taught here at UCLan. Of course, if we planted a tree for all the 20 plus languages we teach we would create a small forest.”

NEW GRITTER

NICOLE SALTSLINGER HAS THE X-FACTOR

After an avalanche of interest and suggestions Oldham Council can reveal the name of our new gritter is Nicole Saltslinger.

Named after the former Pussycat Doll and X-Factor judge Nicole Scherzinger the now famous yellow gritter has become the most famous vehicle in the country over the last few weeks.

Recently we asked primary school children from across the borough to ‘prove their salt’ and come up with a fitting name for the new addition to our fleet.

After a ‘snow’ start the number of entries snowballed by the day and we eventually ended up with hundreds to choose from, including Gritney Houston, Spready Eddie and even Andy Gritchie, after the former Oldham Athletic favourite.

The competition also really caught the imagination of the ‘gritterarati’ and it received wide spread national coverage in newspapers, websites, TV and radio.

The winning entry was sent in by Eve McGrath, who attends Royton Hall Primary School. We ploughed through hundreds of entries and Eve was the only youngster who came up with the unique and fun name.

The 10-year-old decided on Nicole Saltslinger as she is a fan of the Saturday night entertainment show.

Eve made the trip down to our depot at Moorhey Street for a special naming ceremony.

Nicole will now join Freddie Salted; Grittersaurus; Goliath; Walter the Salter; Gritterbug; Gritney Spears; Gritanator and Thor, helping to keep the borough's roads moving safely when the snow and ice appear.

Councillor Fida Hussain, Cabinet Member for Environment Services, said: “Firstly we’d like to thank Eve for coming up with such a great name.

“We're delighted with how well the competition took off. It captured the imagination of Oldham residents and the whole nation. It was intended as a bit of fun and we even treated the silly suggestions with a pinch of salt.

'We ran a similar competition a few years ago which was also really well received but this time I think we've taken it up a notch. “On a single tweet

more than 70,000 people engaged with us in one way or another and some of the suggestions we had were fantastic.

“In Oldham we're usually hit quite hard when the snow begins to fall and we have an excellent team who work tirelessly to keep the roads clear and the borough moving.

“Our gritters obviously play a vital role in that and so it's nice that we can have a bit of fun by running competitions like this whilst teaching young people about road safety.”

Hospice during Movember

Traders on the famous Bury Market Tony Sinacola works at Chadwick’s Black Puddings. All took part in the nationwide Movember were really pleased with the generosity of Bury Market movement to raise money for Bury shoppers and thank them for their continued support.

Hospice.

Mark Philips, Adam Athern, Tony Sinacola and Wayne Hammer collected six money boxes during the month, and are still taking donations at their stalls.

Movember is an annual event when men grow moustaches during November to raise awareness of men's health issues, such as prostate cancer.

Mark, Adam and Wayne all work at W & M Butchers on Stall 12, Toulmin Block, on Bury Open Market and

Page 8. Issue 26. Lancashire Local 332 blades binned as

part of week-long

surrender

The surrender, which took place 21 – 27 November, saw 332 weapons handed in at police stations across Greater Manchester. Samurai swords, kukri knives and a machete were among the haul of weapons dropped off by residents. The anonymous surrender was supported by Rhian Jones, the mother of Dominic Doyle who was tragically stabbed to death on a night out in Tameside. He was just 21 years old when he died. The knives will now be donated to the British Ironworks Centre, who will melt them down and transform into a statue in memory to those that have lost their life to knife crime.

Chief Inspector Debbie Dooley said: “During this one week alone, more than 300 knives were surrendered by members of the public, meaning there are fewer weapons on the streets that could potentially fall into the wrong hands.

“We’re pleased so many people took the opportunity to safely dispose of their bladed items and would like to thank the community for helping us to reduce knife crime and make the streets safer, which will ultimately save lives.” Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jim Battle said: “There has been a fantastic response from the public to this campaign and I want to say thank you. Your support has led to the surrender of more than 300 knives, taking them out of circulation and putting them into safe hands.”

To report a crime, call Greater Manchester Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Join in the conversation online using the hashtag #BinTheBlade

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Market Place is Golden Winner

Bolton’s Market Place Shopping Centre has struck gold and won a top national award.

The redeveloped shopping centre won the best refurbishment/extension over £5m category at this year’s Revo Annual Gold Awards dinner, at London’s Grosvenor House.

The awards, held Wednesday, December 7, recognise the best retail and leisure destinations and operators in the UK. The Market Place won the award following a transformational, two year, £20m refurbishment to create a contemporary retail and leisure destination.

The centre had been in decline prior to the purchase by Inception Holdings Sarl in November 2013.

But by uncovering the unique traditional features of the original Victorian Vaults and imaginatively opening up the retail space to attract new retailers and restaurants, the centre now provides an inclusive, vibrant and welcoming consumer experience.

Through adding a state of the art nine screen cinema – operated

by The Light, a wide-ranging catering offer and unique indoor play area, the centre is acting as the catalyst for re-establishing the town centre’s night time economy.

Clever use of formerly vacant space has created attractive opportunities for Next, New Look and the long-

awaited reintroduction of a 10,000 sq ft Topshop store. In total, more than 60 lettings, lease renewals and relocations have revitalised the retail and leisure offer.

Investment in the fabric and character of the building, together with introduction of public art, entertainment and a full overhaul of management, digital and customer services, is already showing a significant return with impressive results.

Footfall has increased by 18.5% year on year and there has been a 71% uplift in car park use and turnover

growth of 25%. Tim Vaughan, CEO of Moorgarth Group, said: “We are thrilled to have won a Gold Award at this year’s Revo presentation. The redevelopment of Market Place has been well received by the consumer, with popularity growing daily.

“To be so well recognised within the industry is just brilliant. One of the key factors in achieving success has been the support shown by Bolton Council whose vision we share for the whole town centre “ Cllr Cliff Morris, Leader of Bolton Council, said he was delighted

that Market Place had won the award. He added: “The shopping centre has been completely transformed thanks to the investment from Moorgarth, supported all the way

by Bolton Council.

“We have worked closely with them to help them achieve their vision and with the Vaults, new restaurants, new shop openings, a new cinema and lots more to come, it is an impressive and exciting development.

“The redevelopment has brought an entirely new offer to the heart of Bolton town centre.

Not only is the Market Place a great retail centre, it is now also a major leisure destination catering for all of the family.

“It is no surprise to us that it won the award and we are so pleased. The award is a great recognition of the work that has taken place and testament that our town centre strategy is working.”

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 9.

Page 10. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Blackburn Lights up

as Ted steals the show Blackburn’s Christmas Lights were switched on in spectacular fashion when a local man brought an emotional performance to the crowd of thousands.

The town’s BIG Christmas Lights Switch On brought a host of stars and local performers to the town to celebrate the start of Christmas celebrations.

Local internet sensation Ted McDermott sang a cappella to the massive crowd and stunned everyone with a powerful and emotional performance. Ted, who sprang to fame when You Tube carpool karaoke style videos of him and his son Simon singing as they were driving around the local area, went viral. Since then, Simon and his dad have raised over £150,000 for the Alzheimer’s Society and Ted was awarded a Pride of Britain award earlier in the year.

The show featured performances

by Britain’s Got Talent stars Boogie Storm who were Simon Cowell’s golden buzzer dancing storm trooper sensation.

Jack P Shepherd, who plays David Platt in ITV’s Coronation Street was joined by the Mayor and Mayoress of Blackburn with Darwen and Santa to push the button which switched on the Christmas Lights and set off a spectacular firework display, whilst the crowd sang along to the Wizzad

Christmas classic “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day”.

Other performances and guests on the night included singers Chloe Rose, The Birchall Brothers Myth of Unity and Jesse McClure from Storage Hunters along with local dance groups from East Lancashire Dance Academy, DAPA and Zoe Taylor Dance Academy. Harriet Roberts, manager of Blackburn BID, said: What an amazing night! We would like to thank all our partners, sponsors, promoters and volunteers who have

all helped to make this year’s Lights Switch On on of the best ever. It is fabulous to see what can be achieved when the town works together.”

The event, which was organised by Blackburn Business Improvement District (BID) in partnership with Blackburn with Darwen Council was supported by Blackburn Market and The Mall Blackburn. The show was hosted by Rock FM’s breakfast team Steve and Janine. The East Ribble District Freemasons sponsored the large screen and also helped co-

ordinate volunteers and the collection on the evening for the Alzheimer’s Society. The event was supported by BID volunteers through Community CVS. Earlier in the day, visitors to Blackburn were able to enjoy Blackburn’s first Comic Con, the Batmobile and from Ghostbusters, the Ecto-1 and a giant Marshmallow man towering above the bus station. There were alos opportunties for visitors to meet the stars of the Lights Switch On show.

Pioneering ‘problem solving’ youth

court scoops national award

Blackburn with Darwen’s Youth Justice Service was named a winner for the delivery of a Problem Solving Court for young people at the Children and Young People Awards in the Youth Justice section.

Problem Solving Courts (PSC) were developed in partnership with Blackburn Magistrates Court and Blackburn Youth Justice Service (YJS), with input crucially from young people aged between 10 and 17 using the service. The PSC works alongside partners GO2, the local substance misuse project, Nightsafe, which supports young people with accommodation needs, the Supporting Families Project, which is for those parents who are unemployed, with children displaying antisocial behaviour, problems with school attendance and displaying o f f e n d i n g behaviour and New Directions to support young people

back into education, training or employment. There is also the Fast 4wd Project which supports those adults experiencing problems with alcohol or substance misuse, and the Carer’s Service for partners, parents, family members affected by another person’s addiction. The focus is early intervention to prevent further offending and give early help and support through a multi-agency approach. The Problem Solving Court has been upheld as best practice nationally. David Fleming, Service

Leader for Youth Justice, said: I am really pleased that the partnership has won this award and want to give my biggest congratulations to everybody involved. The Problem Solving Court provides an excellent service to young people and their families and has been recognised as the gold standard nationally. This award also reflects the high standard of work and support from our staff and volunteers and it is an acknowledgement of their dedication to providing a consistently excellent service for young people.”

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 11.

New living centre gets groundbreaking start

Work has started on a new supported living development for young adults with additional needs and disabilities in Blackburn.

A groundbreaking ceremony took place at the development on Apple Street in Blackburn, which is being delivered in partnership with Blackburn with Darwen Council, Inclusion Housing and Lifeways Community Care.

The development is being delivered and built by Homelife, a leading developer of bespoke supported housing.

It will provide 12 high quality apartments with a mix of private and communal landscaped gardens that has been commissioned and designed for adults with disabilities, who will also benefit from an on-site care team.

The development in Wensley Fold has been designed in two wings to create an individuality within the building and is set over two floors with a

central office within the reception foyer and staff accommodation on the first floor.

It also includes a quiet room and a sensory room that opens into a secluded garden to the rear of the building.

Andrew Hopkinson, director of Homelife, said:

Blackburn with Darwen Council commissioned the development, having identified a need for specialist housing with support. We are delighted that they chose Homelife to design and build the property and for their vision, support and approach.

The apartments on Apple Street will make a big difference to people’s

lives, enabling them to live independently with support”.

Councillor Mohammed Khan, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, said: This is an excellent example of how working in partnership can give real benefits to the more vulnerable people in our community. The apartments and Gardens at Apple Street will help people with disabilities to live as independently as possible. Over the coming weeks and months I look forward to seeing this development take shape.”

Local carer wins Home

Care Worker of the year

A local care worker is celebrating after being named home care worker of the year at a prestigious awards ceremony. The Great British Care Awards are a series of nine regional awards celebrating excellence across the care sector. Their purpose is to promote best practice in both home care and care homes sectors as well as pay tribute to those individuals who have demonstrated outstanding excellence within their field of work. Having won Blackburn’s Choice Care’s inaugural care awards earlier in 2016, Minhajjuddin Patel, or Minni as he is known by his colleagues, was shortlisted for the regional awards dinner held in Manchester on November 11, accompanied by his wife Tayyeba, Manager Tracie Scholes and colleague Stacey Barker.

Speaking at the event Minni said: I was very pleased to find out that I have won the award and to be able to represent the North West of England at the National Awards. I am very thankful to the registered manager of Choice Care, Tracie Scholes and Andrew Key for nominating me. I wouldn’t have achieved this award without their support and guidance.”

Manager, Andrew Key said: I can’t begin to tell you how proud we all are of Minni winning the award and I know that as news filters through to his colleagues and service users they will be equally, if not more, proud of him and what we have all been able to achieve. I hope that people are inspired to step into a new career in care with Choice Care where carers are truly valued.”

Page 12. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 13.

Charity warning on fuel poverty as work by local Health and Wellbeing board commended

National Energy Action’s (NEA) vision is that ‘no one is living in fuel poverty’ but the charity has warned that, at the current level of delivery and funding, this won’t happen in the average lifetime of a baby born today in the UK. NEA’s Warm Homes Campaign highlights that around four million UK households are still unable to access equal life chances because they live in a cold, damp home. Fuel poor households in Blackburn with Darwen typically need to pay £352 more than their more affluent neighbours to sustain a warm home.

But Blackburn with Darwen Health and Wellbeing Board is working hard to combat this, having been rated by NEA as one of the top authorities in the UK for their efforts.

Jenny Saunders OBE, Chief Executive of National Energy Action (NEA), said: We need to see much

more ambition from national and local government if we are to end the unnecessary cost and suffering caused by fuel poverty.

The charity is warning that a baby born today and living in cold housing is more than twice as likely to suffer from breathing problems including asthma and bronchitis and three times as likely to suffer from wheezing and respiratory illness. As she grows up in the same housing conditions her chances of suffering mental health problems are higher – one in four adolescents living in a cold home are at risk of multiple mental health problems and evidence proves that living in fuel poverty impacts on educational attainment.

By the age of 40 she is more likely to have suffered anxiety caused by worry over fuel bills or falling into debt and a number of health concerns such as cardiovascular problems will

be aggravated. In later life, conditions such as arthritis will be worsened and she will have an increased risk of accidents, injuries, and falls in the home.

Saunders continued: There are excellent examples of good practice locally that demonstrate how health and wellbeing boards and local authorities are tackling the health inequalities of living in cold homes.

This includes Blackburn with Darwen which is top rated in our recent ‘Get Warm Soon report’. These examples must be replicated in all parts of the country to facilitate action to improve the quality of life for the most vulnerable. As well as continuing to tackle exclusion in the energy market, the answer lies in increasing investment in domestic energy efficiency. We need to follow the example of other developed countries reduction in total energy demand and be driving massive permanent across the UK. The UK Government must also mobilise all relevant departments to deliver the current fuel poverty strategy and improve conditions in the private rented sector urgently. Currently thousands of landlords are making huge amounts of money from their tenants’ housing benefit but continuing to rent out potentially life-damaging homes.

Councillor Mohammed Khan, Chair of Blackburn with Darwen Health

Trebor Developments, working in partnership with Burnley Council, has exchanged contracts as developer to deliver the first phase of industrial development at the prestigious Vision Park site in Burnley.

Trebor has appointed Barnfield Construction Limited as itsprincipal contractor to carry out the construction, with a start on the site next to UCLan/Burnley College in January 2017 for completion in summer 2017. The development will provide flexible hi-spec workspace units from 1,500 sqft to rent and larger business accommodation from 5,000 sqft to rent or purchase.

The build contract will include site preparation and infrastructure works to service the balance of phases 2 and 3 at Vision Park in order to provide further office, industrial or hybrid accommodation on a design to suit basis, with accommodation from 10,000 sqft up to 35,000 sqft.

The Vision Park development has been partly funded by a grant from the Lancashire LEP. Phase one will deliver high quality, yet flexible, accommodation that can meet a range of occupiers’ requirements.

Bob Tattrie, managing partner for Trebor, commented: “We are delighted to achieve the delivery stage of phase one which will establish Vision Park, Burnley, as the premium employment location in Burnley, with its location next to UCLan and in close proximity to the

town centre. We have also selected a local contractor with an excellent reputation to deliver the construction, this maximising the opportunity for local employment. We are sure there will be strong occupier demand for the phase one accommodation and future phases at Vision Park”.

Burnley Council leader, Mark Townsend, said: “I’m delighted to hear that our development partner Trebor has appointed Barnfield Construction for the Vision Park and that a start on site will be made early in the 2017. “Burnley is becoming a regionally significant centre for advanced manufacturing and we are creating modern business environments to attract growing business in this sector, which will benefit from being based amongst businesses at the forefront of advanced manufacturing and digital industries.

Vision Park will provide a unique offer to advanced manufacturing and digital industries that can connect to the unrivalled manufacturing and robotic technologies in the adjacent education campus.

“Several blue chips companies have relocated to Burnley in the last couple of years. The town is being recognised as a go to place for business, with a ‘can do’ approach to supporting businesses. Hailed as a town with the best growth prospects in Lancashire by Experian, and a top 5 north west boom town set to thrive by the Estates Gazette, businesses

are cottoning to Burnley’s potential and Vision Park will add to Burnley’s business infrastructure offer.”

Graham Cowley, Chair of the LEP’s Growth Deal Management Board, said: “The Lancashire Enterprise Partnership’s Growth Deal investment in Vision Park will help establish a key asset within Burnley’s advanced manufacturing and technology sector; a high-quality business park with leading edge facilities which will also complement skills and employment initiatives from neighbouring colleges. Supporting projects such as Vision Park is an essential part of the LEP’s wider programme to fuel economic growth across the county, creating thousands of new high value, high skilled jobs in the process.”

Andrew Brown, senior estimator at Barnfield,commented: “We look forward to delivering another exciting project within Burnley. The project complements the adjacent Burnley College building and provides the town with much needed high quality commercial/industrial premises from which Burnley can build on its economic success. The project develops brownfield land on a major arterial link to the town and is another example of Barnfield’s integral role in regenerating Pennine Lancashire.”

Trebor isrepresented by local agents, Trebor Dawson, and Manchester based agent GVA. Enquiries are now being received on a leasehold and freehold basis.

Work to start on Vision Park

and Wellbeing Board and Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: I am delighted to see our local work has been recognised in this way.

Encouraging people to keep warm and healthy, especially during the winter, is really important and something we always look to prioritise. Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Decent And Safe Homes (DASH) service is incredibly important for many people in the winter months and beyond.

They can check that people are getting

all the benefits they are entitled to and that they have the right heating, insulation and fire safety measures.

We are also part of a scheme to help warm up homes across the borough by providing free central heating for certain households without it. To see if you qualify contact (01254) 588822.

We can all play a part in trying to be more energy efficient, for more information on what you can do visit: www.nea.org.uk/advice

Page 14. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 15.

Thousands turn out for

Christmas lights switch-on

Thousands braved the cold weather to celebrate the countdown to Christmas at the St Helens Christmas lights switch-on party in Victoria Square X Factor Finalist Gifty Louise got the show underway as she performed a medley of songs to warm the crowd up on what was a cold night in the town centre, before headline act Union J took to the stage to close the show.

There were also performances from St Helens rising stars The Patriots, Liverpool favourites Girl Talk, Broad Oak Primary & Rainhill High school choirs, the Citadel's Sing Out Choir, local singing sensations Mollie Neil, Harrison Langham, Danny Woods, Lydia Higham, soul star Steve Charles - as well as appearances from The Only Way is Essex stars Amy Childs and Harry Derbidge, Theatre Royal "Aladdin" panto stars, Saints aces Kyle Amor and Louie McCarthy Scarsbrook, Kelly Wellens from the Mayor's chosen charity "Jenson's Twinkle Stars, Linzi Prescott & Ade Cunliffe from the Steve Prescott Foundation – and Council's Town Centre Manager a great time makes the months of and symbolises exactly what the festive period is about. of course, Father Christmas himself. Gary Maddock said: “Seeing the planning and preparation that goes on “All of the acts were superb and that really gave off a Hailing the event a success, St Helens community come together and have behind the scenes really worthwhile fantastic vibe and energy to the thousands in attendance”.

St Helens’ sporting success recognised at Merseyside Sporting Champions Dinner, 2016

St Helens enjoyed a successful evening at the Rio-inspired Merseyside Sporting Champions Dinner 2016, scooping four out of the ten awards on offer.

The event, held at the iconic sporting venue, Aintree Racecourse, recognised the county’s sporting talent, plus the people who make sport and physical activity happen here on Merseyside.

Steve Leather, Chairman and First Team Manager of FC St Helens, was awarded’ Volunteer of the Year’ for his devotion to being the ‘heart and soul’ of FC St Helens.

St Helens Sports Development’s ‘Couch to 5k’ initiative, which has seen over 1,000 inactive local people get involved in physical activity, won ‘Community Project of the Year.

St Helens Canoe Club was crowned ‘Club of the Year’ for its focus on attracting young people into paddle sport.

While former chairman of the St. Helens District Sports Council, Roy Jones, picked up the ‘Lifetime Achiever’ award in recognition of dedicating 46 years, and thousands of voluntary hours, to sport.

Rio 2016 Para-cycling Gold medallist Lora Fachie (née Turnham), who presented Roy with his award said: commented:

“It was fantastic to see so much sporting success in Merseyside this year, from grassroots to international level, and to see everyone to get the recognition they deserve.

I was honoured to present Roy Jones with his Lifetime Achiever Award, as he truly deserved it and overall I really enjoyed helping everyone from

St.Helens celebrate their success.”

St Helens Council’s cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, councillor Jeanie Bell, who was present at the awards, said: “It was an honour for me to be in the same room as so many people who contribute so much of their time for the benefit of the community.

“There are so many fantastic sports clubs and projects here in St Helens which are run by some truly amazing and inspiring people who deserve all the plaudits they get.”

St Helens Councils portfolio holder for leisure services, councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron, added: “These awards are a great testimony to all the hard work that sports clubs and individuals in the borough do for the benefit of the community, and it is only right that they are recognised in this way.

Page 16. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

Earlestown market in the running for top accolade

Earlestown market needs your vote after being put forward for a prestigious award.

St Helens Council has entered the historic market - which dates back over 700 years - in the ‘best large outdoor market’ category at the Great British Market Awards 2017, the UK’s biggest markets awards competition. Held every Friday throughout the year, Earlestown market has over 150 stalls run by local traders selling a wide range of fresh produce and products, and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the North West each year.

Situated in the centre of Earlestown, the traditional market, referred to as the “heartbeat of the community,” is steeped in history and has a grade II listed obelisk monument in the centre where the market’s charter was read out over 130 years ago.

St Helens Council's Markets Manger Kevin Gavin said: “Many things may have changed since its establishment over 700 years ago, but the traditional market atmosphere - created by the fantastic traders and supportive community - certainly remains.

“We are very proud of Earlestown market and its rich history which is why I would like to encourage residents to show their support by voting for this gem which has acted as the heartbeat of the community for centuries."

You have until Saturday 31 December to cast your vote which can be done by visiting http://www. nabma.com/

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Local charities share £10,000

thanks to residents who recycle

St Helens Recycling Rewards has raised £10,000 for four local charities who received their donations at the Town Hall as part of a drive to encourage St Helens residents to waste less and recycle more.

During the last 12 months, members of the scheme have been voting for their favourite local charity, with Willowbrook Hospice winning the top prize of £5,000. Second favourite, the Steve Prescott Foundation won £3,000 and the two runners up, Honey Rose Foundation and The Hope Centre, were both awarded £1,000 each.

St Helens Recycling Rewards is a partnership initiative between St Helens Council and specialist provider, Local Green Points. It has been running for a year now and already over 10,000 residents have signed up. Members earn points for their community for recycling - the more materials they save from the brown bin, the more points they earn. The communities with the most points per household have the biggest say over which local charity receives the largest donation and residents can vote any time for their favourite cause.

For the first 12 months, residents of West Park ward earned the most points, with Rainhill ward following close behind. Willowbrook Hospice received the most votes from residents, which bagged them £5,000 followed in second place by the Steve Prescott Foundation (SPF) who were awarded a £3,000 donation.

Carol Pilkington, Trading Company manager at Willowbrook Hospice was thrilled when she found out, commenting: “This is wonderful, just brilliant! This money will really help us care for adults with life-limiting illnesses in St Helens and Knowsley. And it’s a great

boost for us before Christmas!

This scheme isn’t just about the environment, it’s all about building happier and healthier communities.”

Mike Denning from the Steve Prescott Foundation said: “It’s really fantastic that we have received so much support through your innovative

recycling scheme. The award will continue to raise the awareness of the SPF, and for that we’re very grateful.”

Councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron, cabinet member for Green, Smart & Sustainable Borough added: “After 12 months Recycling Rewards is going really well with the amount of recycling going up across the borough and it’s great to see local charities benefitting from the recycling efforts of our residents.”

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 17.

Page 18. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

Ground-breaking drama highlights impact of domestic abuse on children

A ground-breaking drama which lifts the lid on the impact domestic abuse has on children was performed before a packed audience in St Helens town hall this week.

Produced by the awardwinning Certain Curtain Theatre Company- renowned for tackling sensitive and controversial subjects - Mockingbird High tells the compelling tale of two students who are left emotionally affected from the domestic abuse they witness at home.

The play was brought to the town hall to be shown to council staff and local agencies as part of St Helens Council’s domestic abuse awareness raising activities following White Ribbon Day at the end of last month.

At the end of the show, those in attendance had the opportunity to give their views by filling in a questionnaire which will be used to help shape St Helens Council’s domestic abuse strategy.

Speaking after the event, St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Councillor Lisa Preston said: “It was a privilege to be invited to attend the showing of Mockingbird High which is an emotionally powerful portrayal of the damaging impact domestic abuse can have on a child.

“The council, along with our community safety partners, will continue to work to identify those who are victims of domestic violence and strive to ensure we hold perpetrators to account for their actions.”

Residents are encouraged to sign the White Ribbon pledge to vow never to commit, condone or remain silent about domestic violence.

To sign the pledge and for more information about the campaign, visit: www.sthelens.gov.uk/whiteribbon

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Schools make sure young carers

don’t miss out on education

Cowley International College, Ashurst Primary and Parish C of E Primary School are leading the way in supporting young carers in their schools. These schools are the first in St Helens to have been awarded the ‘Young Carers in Schools Bronze Award’ from The Carers Trust.

Young Carers are responsible for providing emotional, practical or physical care to a parent, sibling or other family member who has a physical disability, mental health illness or an addiction to drugs or alcohol. Young Carers undertake caring tasks that would normally be expected of an adult including personal care, administering medication, cooking and cleaning.

Ann-Marie Leather, Young Carer School Involvement Officer at St Helens Young Carers Centre said: “In achieving the Bronze Award, these schools have fully demonstrated that they support young carers in many ways. They have identified a dedicated member of staff to offer support, provided homework clubs and drop-in sessions. Vital information about how to identify young carers is also made available to all school staff. School noticeboards and their webpage let all students and their families know where to go if they need help.”

St Helens Young Carers Centre supports both primary and secondary schools to achieve this award; the Centre currently support over 550 children aged 6-18 years. It is predicted that there could be a further 2000 children in St Helens who are caring in silence. That’s one in 12 secondary school age children who may be unrecognised and unsupported young carers.

The Young Carers in Schools programme helps primary and secondary schools improve outcomes for young carers and celebrates good practice through the Young Carers in Schools Award.

Ofsted's Common Inspection Framework states that inspectors will look at how well schools support young carers.

Recent research carried out by Carers Trust and The Children's Society shows that, on average, young carers miss or cut short 48 school days a year and often have lower levels of self-confidence, mental wellbeing and significantly lower educational attainment at GCSE level, because of their caring role.

Ashurst Primary’s Chair of Governors, Paul Murphy-Wade said: “It can be difficult for young carers to come forward for help, just as it can be difficult for staff to identify them in a busy classroom.

So Ashurst has taken a whole school approach to raising awareness in

special assemblies and classroom lessons with the St Helens Young Carers Centre. Every child with extra responsibilities at home knows how they can be supported and how to balance this with ordinary school life.”

Mr Cameron Sheeran, Principal at Cowley International College said: “We are beyond delighted that Cowley is the first secondary school in St Helens to achieve the Young Carers in Schools Bronze Award. To achieve such a worthwhile award in only nine months is down to the outstanding support we have received from St Helens Young Carers Centre and The Carers Trust.”

Deputy Head teacher and Health and Wellbeing Governor for Parish Primary, Mark Thomas said: “At Parish School we very much appreciate the enormous hurdles that many of our children face in their daily lives. Some of our children live in domestic situations in which they need to care for an older brother, or younger sister, or even a parent. Such children carry an enormous responsibility – as without them, families may struggle to lead the normal lives that the rest of us take for granted.

“As a school, it is our duty to support such Young Carers, to give them advice and to offer a listening ear. We fully embrace the Carers Trust Charter to all Young Carers and uphold its aims, objectives and aspirations. In doing so, we fully acknowledge the outstanding contribution that many of our children make to building and maintaining successful families.”

Councillor joins charity volunteers

in delivering food to people in need

St Helens councillor Lisa Preston recently joined volunteers from a St Helens-based homeless charity to help distribute food to local people in need.

Councillor Preston, who is St Helens Council’s cabinet member for community safety and housing, met with representatives from newly formed charity, Teardrops, at Greggs bakery in Fingerpost.

There, the group picked up leftover pastries which were

then delivered to the homeless, hostels and a women’s domestic violence unit.

Now a registered charity, volunteers from Teardrops go out twice a week to help the homeless by providing food and blankets.

Councillor Preston said: “Anyone can fall on hard times – that’s why

I count myself lucky every day and work with charities such as Teardrops to help those in desperate need.

“Teardrops is a great charity and one that is very close to my heart.

The work that these guys do on a voluntary basis should not go unnoticed.”

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 19.

Page 20. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Bury renews its

Fairtrade status

Bury has renewed its Fairtrade Borough status for a further two years following its ongoing commitment to promoting Fairtrade principles.

The achievement was celebrated with a reception and a Fairtrade afternoon tea for local supporters in the Mayor’s Parlour at the invitation of the Mayor of Bury, Councillor Mike Connolly.

Bury was first awarded Fairtrade status in 2011, in recognition of the strong support for Fairtrade throughout the borough.

Fairtrade helps small-scale farmers earn stable incomes, have long term contracts with companies, and qualify for the Fairtrade Premium, which they invest in projects that benefit their businesses or communities.

The Fairtrade mark, now the world’s most widely recognised ethical mark, independently certifies that products meet rigorous economic, social and environments standards.

Bernard Emblem, chair of the local Fairtrade Steering Group, added: “This prestigious award recognises the council’s high ethical standards, Bury’s growing commitment to ethical trading, and the work done in local schools and places of worship. We urge anyone or any organisation with an interest in an ethical approach to trade to get in touch and help us work towards a fairer world.” Councillor Rishi Shori, leader of Bury Council, said: “Fair Trade is a system where people are paid fairly for the goods they produce and the focus is on environmental sustainability. We are delighted to work with Bury Fairtrade Group to support initiatives such as Fair Trade Fortnight and in helping to raise the profile of Fairtrade across the borough.” Both local MPs have offered their congratulations to the Bury Fairtrade Group.

David Nuttall, MP for Bury North, said: “In the five years since Bury was awarded Fairtrade status by the

Fairtrade Foundation, many more organisations have chosen to use Fairtrade products. Many people value the wider availability of Fairtrade produce and appreciate the fact it is now much easier to purchase Fairtrade items in shops than it used to be.” And Ivan Lewis, MP for Bury South, said: “Fair trade is an essential

component to creating a fairer world for all its inhabitants. One example is ensuring that local farmers get paid a fair price for their produce so they and their families are alleviated from the effects of poverty. This is something that all Bury residents can be proud of." Adam Gardner from the Fairtrade Foundation added: “We’re

very pleased that Bury has renewed its status and laid out exciting goals to take Fairtrade further. Thanks to the ongoing support of the public and campaigners, an increasing number of farmers in developing countries are now selling their products on Fairtrade terms, giving them a chance to trade their way out of poverty.”

Bikeability sessions are

wheelie good news for Oldham

Oldham Council has secured a Bikeability training grant of £334,807 from the Department of Transport to help deliver cycle training for primary school children in Oldham.

The Bikeability programmes – which will run across Oldham’s schools until March 2020 – aim to help young people gain practical skills and understand how to ride safely on the nation’s busy roads.

The training sessions aim to develop children’s confidence in all types of cycling and improve skills such as balance, control, and journey

planning for busier routes. In addition to the core Bikeability sessions the Department for Transport has also introduced Bikeability Plus.

These are a series of modules designed to ensure that children are given the opportunities and skills they need to make cycling part of their everyday life, such as bike maintenance.

Councillor Fida Hussain, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: “We are very pleased to have secured this grant. It’s great news for Oldham children and we encourage everyone to take part in these sessions.

“This programme will give our children the confidence and skills to ride safely on our roads and encourage more people to take up cycling – increasing physical activity, easing congestion on the roads and reducing the number of cars at school gates.”

The courses have been running in schools since September.

They are provided to primary school children free of charge and are arranged through their school.

To find out more about the Bikeability training please contact 0161 770 4332 or visit bikeability.org.uk

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 21.

WORK PROGRESSING WELL ON

NEW £8M AUDI DEALERSHIP

Work is progressing well on Oldham’s new £8m Audi dealership – which will create more than 80 new jobs.

The 17-car showroom and 24 bay service workshop off Chadderton Way will be run by Jardine Motors Group, one of the largest dealers of the prestigious Germanmarque in the UK.

The new hub, which will also offer a full aftersales and pre-delivery inspection service, is set to open in summer 2017. Councillor Jean Stretton, Leader of Oldham Council, recently met with Stephen Pettyfer,

Group Property Director at Jardine Motors Group to see how work is coming along. She said: “It’s great to see how much construction work has been done on site already.

“In 2014 Jardine Motors Group

informed Oldham Council they were interested in coming to the borough so it’s great to see all the hard work that has gone on behind the scenes is coming to fruition.

“Audi is the type of high end global brand we are looking to attract to the borough. We’ve done it already with ODEON in the Old Town Hall Cinema and this shows that blue chip firms see the borough as a place where they can do business.

“Jardine has also confirmed that they are committed to our Get Oldham Working campaign, and are looking forward to working with local colleges and supply chains, which is great news for jobseekers and the local economy.”

Stephen Pettyfer, Group Property Director at Jardine Motors Group, commented: “I’d like to thank Councillor Stretton for coming down to the site to see its progress.

“This will be a key site for Jardine Motors Group, and we are working closely with Audi to develop a new dealership that will be a benchmark for the future of automotive retailing.

Our ambition is to include the latest technology and introduce tailored customer services for buyers, to really shake-up and modernise the car buying industry – moving away from the traditional one-size-fits-all approach when buying a new car.”

The new hub – on a four and a half acre site that formerly housed Westhulme Hospital – will be a vital addition to Jardine Motors Group’s existing Audi businesses across the region and will create approximately 87 jobs and see millions of pounds invested in the site.

The deal for the hub came about after Oldham Council officers worked with their counterparts at the NHS trust, which owned the site, to facilitate the deal paving the way for the surplus site to be brought back into use.

As part of the deal a grass kick pitch, serving the local community, is proposed to be built on an alternative part of the site by Oldham council, which was a planning requirement from a previous land deal the council concluded with the NHS. A new access junction off Chadderton Way will also be built.

The success of local

businesses celebrated at the 2016 Made in Bury

Business Awards

After much anticipation, the winners of the Made in Bury Business Awards 2016 were announced on Thursday 1 December at a glittering black tie ceremony held at the Longfield Suite.

The mission of the Made in Bury Business Awards is to recognise and celebrate the achievements of local Bury businesses across all industries, from start-ups to those more established.

Now in its fourth year, the Made in Bury Business Awards continues to celebrate the achievements of our local and successful business sectors within Bury.

With entries from across the borough, the Made in Bury Business Awards reflect the tremendous growth of the business community and the determination to put Bury on the map.

Nominations from across Prestwich, Bury, Whitefield, Ramsbottom, Tottington and Radcliffe were entered into 18 categories: Start-up, Community Impact, Tourism & Leisure, Professional, Legal & Financial, Backing Young Bury, plus many more.

The Made in Bury Business Awards, in conjunction with Bury Council, thebestofbury and Tower FM, are proud to champion local businesses and celebrate their outstanding achievements.

Councillor Rishi Shori, leader of Bury Council, said: “The Made in Bury awards go from strength to strength, and the annual ceremony is one of the highlights in Bury’s year. Local businesses are vital to our economy, bringing employment, investment and creativity to our borough and making Bury the great place we all know it is in which to work, study and live. It’s essential that their achievements are recognised at these awards, and I offer them all my heartiest congratulations.”

More than 350 business professionals, including judges, sponsors and Bury’s elite, attended the prestigious awards ceremony, coming together to celebrate our vibrant business community.

The winners of the awards, including those who achieved Highly Commended and Commended in the 18 categories, plus the outstanding achievement award, were announced by BBC Radio Manchester presenter Andy Crane, with businesses of all sectors and sizes rewarded for their success.

The evening featured a drinks reception sponsored

by Connect Comms, a delicious three-course meal, amazing performances by local talent Elli Kiely and the Bury Rock Choir, along with a fantastic afterparty at The Village Hotel, Bury, which continued into the early hours of Friday morning.

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Manchester’s Christmas

tree has arrived

The Manchester Christmas Tree has found a new home at Festive Cathedral Gardens, moving from its former location on Albert Square.

In partnership with Manchester Cathedral, the City Council have taken delivery of the 40ft giant tree, which was grown sustainably, and its lights will be switched on tomorrow - Tuesday, 6 December - at 6.15pm by the Lord Mayor of Manchester, Cllr Carl Austin-Behan.

The new location – on Victoria Street, by the West End of the Cathedral should let young people and families enjoy the festive fir close to the

Cathedral and away from clamour of Albert Square, where the tree had been positioned for a number of years.

The tree is the final piece of the Festive Cathedral Gardens attraction that provides a family-friendly area of the Christmas Markets for younger visitors to enjoy away from the crowds of the other market sites.

Festive Cathedral Gardens includes an ice rink – a Manchester Christmas Markets first – along with a traditional fair ground that includes Helter Skelter, big wheel, carousel and tea cup ride.

There is also a range of refreshments

available from hand-crafted Windmill House including cookies, waffles, bratwurst, hot chocolate and of course mulled wine for the grown-ups.

Cllr Pat Karney, Manchester’s Christmas spokesperson, said: “Our festive tree is the cherry on our festive cake.

The new location will let it shine across Festive Cathedral Gardens and young visitors will love the decorations.

Another perfect reason to get out and enjoy Manchester Christmas Markets.

The Dean of Manchester, the Very Reverend Rogers Govender, said: “I am very pleased that the city have relocated its Christmas tree so close to the Cathedral on the west end. It will be a wonderful addition to the festive spirit on this north end of the city. Join us for the great switch on by The Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Carl Austin-Behan.”

Homeless art collaboration

makes UK debut in Bury

A two-part exhibition made in collaboration with homeless people makes its UK debut at Bury Art Museum & Sculpture Centre. The Homeless Library and “Sing Me To Sleep”, a British-Lithuanian art project (“Padainuok man labanakt”), opens on 13 December at 2pm and runs until 21 January 2017. The Homeless Library is a set of 50-plus handmade books, full of artworks, poems and interviews, looking at how homelessness fits into our history and what can be learned from these stories. “Sing Me To Sleep” is a collaboration between homeless people in Lithuania and the UK, working with professional artists to remake fairytales in words, images and textiles. Work from the project went on exhibition at the National Gallery of Lithuania in one of the largest exhibitions of work by homeless people ever to be exhibited in

a major gallery. The project draws town centre, next to Bury Library attention to the importance of the and opposite the bus/Metrolink creative arts in the lives of people interchange. who are on the margins of society.

Making poems and artworks can have positive health, well-being and other beneficial social results.The project is supported by British arts organisation arthur+martha and Socialiniai meno projektai, Arts Council England and the British Council. Bury Art Museum is open Tuesday to Friday (10am to 5pm) and on Saturday (10am to 4.30pm). Admission is free and the museum is fully accessible.

It is located on Moss Street in Bury

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WARM HOMES OLDHAM Flower power

SCOOPS NATIONAL AWARD

Pioneering scheme Warm Homes Oldham has scooped another national accolade. The initiative, which helps people to stay warm and well, was named winner of the Guardian Public Service Awards 2016 sustainability category. Warm Homes Oldham was launched in 2012 by Oldham Council, NHS Oldham Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and Oldham Housing Investment Partnership (OHIP).

Since then the scheme has helped over 3,500 people out of fuel poverty and picked up a number of awards along the way. Warm Homes Oldham helps by providing home

improvements, such as boilers and insulation, as well as support from qualified advisors in saving energy and maximising income.

Cllr Barbara Brownridge, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Cooperatives, said: “Over the last year alone Warm Homes Oldham has helped nearly 600 households out of fuel poverty, saving them around £600,000 a year

off their energy bills and ensuring they can afford to keep their heating on in winter.

“It is proven that a warm home has a positive impact on both physical and mental health. Over 80 per cent of people helped by Warm Homes Oldham reported a positive impact on their general health and wellbeing.

Almost all who self-reported as being at ‘high risk’ of mental illness moved

to ‘low risk’ and 96 per cent of people helped said their home was easier to heat.

“This invaluable scheme grows from strength to strength every year and to receive another award is icing on the cake.”

For more information or to book a free home visit go to www. warmhomesoldham.org or call 0800 019 1084.

CINEMA PLANNING PERMISSION

IS BOOST FOR PRESTON

The City of Preston has received another major boost with planning approval for a new game-changing cinema as part of the £50m Markets Quarter development.

With 11 screens, including a large format experience screen and the very latest in cinema and entertainment technology, the new cinema will be a major draw for Preston, and Lancashire too.

Complementing the cinema experience will be a host of high quality restaurants – enabling Preston to offer a whole new visitor experience – served by a modern multi-storey car park.

Welcoming the approval of planning permission for the cinema, Councillor Peter Rankin – Leader of Preston City Council, said: “The new cinema is a key element of growing Preston’s leisure offer and making the city centre an even better place to visit, enjoy and stay.

We’re also looking at up to seven new restaurants and bars as part of the cinema development - bringing yet more vitality and difference to Preston.

Add to this the huge investments in the former Post Office building, Preston Markets, the Guild Hall, the Bus Station, housing and city living, plus the railway station it is easy to see why Preston City Centre is fast becoming the place to invest, visit and live.” Mike Horner – Regional Director for Muse Developments, said: “We are making real progress and are delighted with the planning permission.

The Cinema and Market Quarter developments are hugely exciting, game-changing in fact for Preston.

We will now continue to work hard to bring the development to fruition – we’ve already had huge interest from many top national restaurant chains wanting to be part of the scheme, so

marks Chorley as

tourism destination

Chorley is being recognised as one of the top tourism spots in the county after beating off stiff competition to win a prestigious honour at the Lancashire Tourism Awards. ​Chorley Flower Show was voted ‘Tourism Event of the Year’ at the annual event last night rivalling places like the Ribble Valley, Lancaster and Blackpool for the top gongs.

The Chorley Council-run event impressed judges with its visitor appeal and growth, with 13,000 people attending from all over the country in only its second year.

Councillor Alistair Bradley, Leader of Chorley Council, said: “We’re now being recognised as a tourism hot spot and this is our third major achievement in the last few weeks after securing gold in the North West in Bloom competition and figures revealing the number of visitors has grown by more than two per cent in the last year. “We’ve won this prestigious Marketing Lancashire award against stiff competition from other parts of the county that have very established events.

“It puts Chorley in the national limelight again and shows that we are a place that more and more people are coming to visit and spending their money in the local economy.”

The flower show, hosted in the town’s beautiful Astley Park, wowed visitors when it first burst on to the scene with many saying it rivals the likes of Southport and Harrogate Flower Shows.

The event, which the council invested £67,000 in this year, is a true flower show with some of the country’s top exhibitors taking part and famous names like Joe Swift and Carol Klein making guest appearances.

“The investment made by the council is proving to be well worth it with thousands of visitors coming into the borough, bringing hundreds of thousands of pounds into the local economy,” said Councillor Bradley.

“It’s another sign of how the council is using money from investments such as the Market Walk shopping centre to generate further return and bring prosperity into the area.

“It did cost a bit more than we anticipated this year but that’s because there is a real appetite for this event and we decided to grow the infrastructure, which means we’ll be able to run this event for many years and in the near future it will become cost neutral to the council.

“The feedback we’ve had from visitors has been amazing with so many people impressed with what Chorley has to offer and residents proud that the borough is hosting an event of this nature.

“It’s just one of many fantastic events we run throughout the year with Astley Illuminated on Saturday 26 November and our main Christmas attraction a real ice rink in December – make sure you find out more by visiting checkoutchorley.com.”

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Success

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Read David's story

for military

adaptive rowers

Help for Heroes beneficiaries were out in force at the weekend at British Rowing’s Indoor Rowing Championships at the Lee Valley VeloPark, London.

The competition was fully inclusive and open to all ages and abilities.

Entrants were encouraged from across the globe; some participants were seasoned competitors, while many had just got started in the sport.

Help for Heroes fielded a group of competitors from a grassroots to performance level – showing the true nature of Sports Recovery.

There were lots of success stories

from the day, including beneficiaries entering in the Arms and Shoulders (AS), Legs, Trunk and Arms (LTA), Rowability Fixed Seat (RFS) and Rowability Open (RO) categorie Petty Officer Sean Gaffney won the Men’s LTA event and raced against former Royal Marine and fellow Invictus competitor Alan Le Sueur, who finished fourth in the race.

“It’s fantastic to be British Champion and slightly unexpected, as I don’t row full time,” Sean said. “It’s just a keen hobby at the moment, but I’m glad the work has paid off. I do a lot of rowing with my wife; she’s

my training partner, so we push each other on.”

There were plenty of other standout performances from current and former servicemen in the adaptive categories in the Lee Valley velodrome on Saturday, with Martin Tye defending his 2015 title in the fixed seat classification ahead of John Prosser. Meanwhile, Mark Gold took the win in the RO classification ahead of Richard French, with David Kelley finishing fourth. Luke Delahunty, who also participated in the Invictus Last Christmas was a very different Games this year, finished fourth in the affair for David Teague. Struggling AS event. to cope with crippling anxiety, he would barely leave his home. Less than 12 months later, and thanks to the Help for Heroes Career Recovery programme, he will be spending this Christmas in full-time employment and with a new-born son.

David, who grew up in Nantyglo, Gwent, and now lives in Tidworth, Wiltshire, was only 16 when he joined the Royal Engineers in 2005. Hoping to see the world and learn a trade, he spent five years abroad in Germany, did two tours of Afghanistan and was also deployed to Jordan and Austria His life was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

From being active and outgoing, he found himself feeling constantly on

Get real this Christmas, says Blackburn,

Hyndburn & Ribble Valley Samaritans

The suicide prevention charity, Samaritans, is urging us all to stop striving for a perfect Christmas this year and have what it’s calling a #RealChristmas instead, because that could save lives. As Blackburn, Hyndburn & Ribble Valley gears up for the festive season with Samaritans are highlighting the reality that thousands of us will find it hard to have a happy Christmas.

Health, family, work, relationships and money issues, or feelings of loneliness, isolation or uncertainty could be making life really tough.

2016 has been a year of change

and challenge for everyone, and Samaritans says that’s something we need to get real about too. By giving the gift of listening and taking time to understand what’s really going on in our own and others’ lives, more people will open up this Christmas and ask for the support they need.

Judith, our branch director said “Difficult feelings don’t discriminate.

They don’t care if it’s December or June. We know that one in five adults has felt suicidal – it’s not that uncommon and can happen to absolutely anyone.* On average, more than 500 people take their

own lives in the UK every month and every death from suicide is a devastating tragedy.** So, away from the idyllic images and all the hype around the season’s celebrations, let’s get real about how we can save lives, not just at Christmas but all year round. And that’s by listening to how a person who may be having a tough time really thinks and feels.”

To help people listen, Samaritans has produced a set of vouchers that can be given as Christmas presents on their own, or along with staples like chocolates, bubble bath, cufflinks or socks. Each voucher can be personalised and entitles the person receiving it to some one-to-one listening time with the giver. It could be over a coffee, while going for a walk or part of a night in with a mate watching a box set. The vouchers are available to download for free from Samaritans’ website along with a free guide to having a #RealChristmas.

It gives tips on how to be a good listener, what to do when someone doesn’t want to talk, and how to look after yourself if you’re supporting others this Christmas.

edge and anxious: “I lost confidence and couldn’t make decisions for myself. I had massive social anxiety being around people.”

In need of support, David spent time at Tedworth House Recovery Centre, and joined the Band of Brothers.

But it was earlier this year, when he spent time on Heritage Heroes, a partnership between Canal & River Trust and Help for Heroes, that things really started to change.

The project aims to train wounded, injured and sick service personnel, veterans and their families for an accredited qualification as they restore forgotten canals across the country.

Being part of the project was a huge benefit to David’s ongoing recovery and, just one month after it finished, he landed a job as a delivery driver

with Ocado: “Heritage Heroes was the best thing I ever did because it got me out of the house and back into a routine. It gave me something to aim for and brought me back to the real world.

“If it wasn’t for H4H support and the confidence they gave me, I never would have secured a job I love.”

David is now looking forward to Christmas with his wife, daughter Claire-Florence and their newborn son Ben-William.

“If you’d have told me 12 months ago I’d be this happy, I’d have said there was no chance. I was in such a bad state. I’m nowhere near the person I used to be and I have a sense of purpose. All I wanted to do was get to a stage where I can support my family again. I’ve reached that and more, all thanks to Help for Heroes.”

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THOMSON PREDICTS THE RISE

OF THE MICROADVENTURER

Holiday brand reveals its travel trend predictions for 2017: An increase in demand for multicentre holidays A growth in city breaks popularity Top five destinations: Vietnam, Cuba, New York, Singapore, Sardinia As 2016 draws to a close, and people spend the festive season dreaming of the holidays they will take in the New Year, leading holiday company Thomson has predicted the latest travel trends Brits will be adopting in 2017. Following a somewhat unpredictable year, holidaymakers are looking to make the most of their trips, packing more into a typical week-long break whilst looking for ways to make their money go further.

Thomson is predicting that holidaymakers in 2017 will be looking to experience more during their annual holiday, resulting in the rise of the ‘microadventurer’. With a growing emphasis on experiences

and people now sharing pictures and memories more often than buying souvenirs, microadventurers are increasingly seeking a trip that lets them embrace the sense of adventure; visiting more than one destination and trying something new.

To meet this demand for microadventures, Thomson is launching multi-centre holidays for 2017 winter via its website using market leading technology with six exotic, long-haul destinations currently on sale – Costa Rica, Cuba, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Goa and our new destination Vietnam.

This will be the first website in the UK where customers can design and book their own holiday visiting multiple resorts. In the coming months holidaymakers will be able to book over 40 different multi centre types with more than 1,500 options including Tour & Stay combinations.

Thomson is predicting that key

destinations for multi-centre holidays will be USA, Cuba, Italy, Croatia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Thailand.

Thomson is also expecting a growth in city breaks with microadventurers looking for a shorter break but still wishing to maximise their experience.

Destinations such as New York, Las Vegas and Singapore have long been at the top of many bucket lists and are now, with the addition of Thomson’s new city breaks programme for 2017 using its partner scheduled airlines, more accessible than ever before.

Thomson expects big demand for US city breaks with more than half of its city break customers expected to book New York, Las Vegas and Miami. Closer to home, short and mid-haul beach destinations such as the Balearics, mainland Greece and the islands of Corfu and Rhodes will continue to remain firm favourites with Brits, however far flung, longhaul hotspots are again expected to

top the wish list in 2017. With more than three-quarters of people (77%) happy to travel more than nine hours to find their perfect break, many more are expected to book exotic holidays in 2017 with Vietnam, Cuba’s Cayo Santa Maria and St Lucia topping the list of predicted ‘hot’ long-haul

destinations next year. Mark Hall, Director of Product at TUI UK & Ireland, said; “2017 promises to be another exciting year for travel. We’ve seen strong demand for our favourite destinations like Spain and Greece but this year we’ve also seen a big trend for ‘microadventurers’ looking

for holidays that offer more than just a week on the beach. Our multicentre and city breaks programmes are catering for this demand and we’re predicting that Brits will be heading to more exotic and relatively undiscovered destinations such as Vietnam and Cayo Santa Maria.”

A third of travellers fail to

check if they have appropriate

cover before winter sports

As thousands of Brits prepare to head off on snow sports holidays this winter, research from ABTA, in partnership with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), shows that a third (33%) of snow lovers never check whether they have taken out appropriate insurance for the activities they are going to do, including skiing and snowboarding.

Those most likely to travel without the appropriate cover were in the over-55 age bracket, with almost half of that group (46%) admitting that they never check that they are covered for winter sports. This is significantly above the general average of 33%.

There have been 58 British deaths and 118 hospitalisations from skiing and snowboarding holidays reported to the FCO in European resorts in

the last four years, with thousands more suffering injuries both on and off-piste. To increase awareness of the importance of being prepared, the FCO has teamed up once again with ABTA as well as former British Winter Olympian Graham Bell to provide helpful advice, from predeparture to après ski.

Michael Vibert, Head of Consular Communications, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, said: “As the ski season gets under way, we want to ensure that everyone is adequately prepared for their winter sports holiday. The research from ABTA suggests that not enough British Nationals are checking they have taken out appropriate insurance before they travel. We want to emphasise the importance of taking

responsibility and preparing for your trip so you can #SkiSafe this winter and enjoy your time on the slopes.”

Mark Tanzer, ABTA Chief Executive said: “People heading off to the slopes this winter should make sure they are covered by the appropriate travel insurance. Winter sports holidays often include activities that may not be covered by the usual insurance policies, so we would advise holidaymakers to check that they are covered for everything they plan to do. Unfortunately, accidents can happen and can lead to costly medical bills, but having appropriate insurance means people can rest assured that they are adequately covered and can make the most of their time on the slopes.”

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Six Wonderful

Winter Activities

With a Nordic Ski Trail, Ice Skating rinks and even a bobsleigh track, you don’t need to wait for snow to have a go at some fantastic winter sports this festive season.

Six Wonderful Winter Activities: Camp Hill Estate Head to Camp Hill Estate in Bedale and have a go on one of only two Olympic-standard Bobsleigh push start tracks in England. Bring five of your fastest mates for the ride of a lifetime; don’t worry, lycra suits are optional!

Snozone, Castleford Don’t worry if there is no snow outside this year, Snozone in Castleford have plenty of the white stuff indoors! Whether it’s your first time on skis or you’re an experienced snowboarder come and have a go on the indoor slope.

Stockeld Park Try something a bit different at Stockeld Park near Wetherby and have go on their Nordic Ski Trail. Ski along the 1.2km illuminated trail which runs through an Enchanted Forest, winding through beautiful woodland and around a lake.

Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland at York Designer Outlet is home to the north of England’s largest outdoor ice rink, The Ice Factor. With its magical setting, giant Christmas tree and rink side Alpinethemed café, it’s a great day out for all the family.

The Dome, Doncaster Skate on the UK’s only split level ice rink with interconnecting ramps at The Dome in Doncaster.

Offering everything from Ice Disco’s to figure skating sessions, they have a skating activity for everybody.

So why not get out on the ice and have a go. iceSheffield Boasting two Olympic sized ice pads, iceSheffield has plenty to offer. Come along and have a go at ice skating, or why not try your hand at ice hockey or curling. With special sessions for over 50’s, wheelchair users, students and after school skating, they’ve got something for everyone.

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Jingle all the way!

Here's some top festive suggestions: Ackworth Garden Centre's Winter Wonderland - Looking for the bushiest Christmas trees, the most sparkling lights or simply the shiniest of baubles? Well they have everything you need to decorate your home this Christmas. With internet beating prices, staff to give help and advice, plenty of free parking, gifts galore and not forgetting Santa Claus in their Winter Wonderland Grotto, they would fill Ebenezer Scrooge himself with the festive spirit!

Lotherton Hall Christmas Experience: This will be the ultimate festive day out, steeped in Christmas magic and excitement. Taking inspiration from traditional story-telling the event will spread throughout the estate and

Edwardian house. Visitors will enjoy a magical Twelve Days of Christmas Walk, an Elf Village where you'll find that Santa's taken up residence to meet the little visitors, plus you can uncover a secret fairy hideaway in the rock garden and enjoy an Edwardian Christmas Weekend in the house.

Nightshade Productions presents: Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol at the York Castle Museum. Walk along the cobbles of Kirkgate for an immersive and intimate production that will bring the magic of this much-loved Dickens Christmas classic to life. Find the true meaning of Christmas with Ebenezer Scrooge and enjoy a glass of wine and a mince pie in these enchanting surroundings.

Burton Constable Hall - A visit to

this fascinating country house at Christmas is the perfect chance to lift your spirits for the festive season ahead. Meander upstairs and downstairs through 30 evocative rooms filled with fine art and furniture that will be transformed with seasonal floral displays, stunning decorations and garlands. The Stables Tearoom and Gift Shop is the perfect way to start and end your visit to Burton Constable Hall. Our small but perfectly formed gift shop is stocked with unusual gifts for all the family and the tearoom will be serving a seasonal menu alongside a delicious selection of homemade cakes. Why not indulge in a traditional afternoon tea with a glass of Prosecco? What better way is there than to spend

the day at Burton Constable where you can soak up the seasonal atmosphere!

Have a Christmas Adventure at Stockeld Park this year, as Yorkshire's most unique attraction welcomes guests for a blend of active outdoor fun, theatre, magical illuminations and unique sculpture. For our inner child, get closer to the magic of Christmas with special events such as an exclusive breakfast with Santa himself and a chance to get that dream present this year at Santa's Grotto. In addition to the four adventure zones, enjoy the dazzling lights and sights of Stockeld Park's diverse range of Christmas trees and don't miss out on your chance to bring one into your home.

Eat, drink, shop and get creative with all the family this Christmas at The Hepworth Wakefield. See the new ranges for autumn/winter in their shop, including exclusive collaborations, ideal gifts for Christmas. With over 40 stalls on offer this year, take your chance on what The Guardian called, ‘One of Britain's best Christmas markets'.

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The Gardens of

North Wales

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

Bodnant Garden Devotees of the Italianate vision will love Bodnant.

Leading up to the Hall, the upper garden has five terraces, featuring brick paths, lily ponds, formal lawns and herbaceous plants. Below, trees and shrubs flank The Dell, passed by the River Hiraethlyn. Homegrown collections include Chinese, North American and Japanese plants.

Plas Newydd, Isle of Anglesey A touch of Aussie lushness on the Menai Strait, where this 18th century house – already the place for pristine

views of Snowdonia – is home to an Australasian arboretum, no less.

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

Plas Tan y Bwlch, Gwynedd Acres of wonderful gardens fill this research epicentre of the Snowdonia National Park. They include a water garden, a Japanese garden, a fern nursery, an azalea walk and a wildlife garden, all teeming with unusual exotic specimens. Valleys and woodlands surround this former

home of an 18th century mansion.

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

Bodelwyddan Castle, Denbighshire There are 260 acres of parkland surrounding Bodelwyddan, and the formal garden, which is part of a site including a maze and woodland areas,

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

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

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Ten reasons to visit The Lake District,

Cumbria this winter

1. The Lake District, Cumbria now boasts the highest concentration of Michelin stars outside of London after Gilpin Hotel’s restaurant and new-comer Forest Side both received their first star recently. They join The Samling, near Ambleside and Simon

Rogan’s 2-star L’Enclume in Cartmel on Cumbria’s superior foodie list.

2. The brand new Christmas markets.

Both Windermere and Penrith are hosting Christmas markets for the first time this year. They are the perfect opportunity to find unique Christmas treats and precious presents or to spoil yourself, helped along by a glass of mulled wine to really get you in to the festive mood.

– Penrith’s Christmas Bazaar 2016: Sat 26th November – Sat 3rd December – Windermere Ja German Christmas Market: Sat 10 – Sun 11th December 3.

Discounted theatre tickets.

Watch Neil Duffield’s stage adaptation of Hans Christian Anderson’s The Nightingale at movement and spectacle of Chinese Theatre by the theatre combine with the beauty of Lake. The colour, the nightingale’s song is a feast for the senses that will delight the whole

family and get £3 off per ticket with a Love Cumbria Card.

4. Our cosy winter pubs. In every corner of the county you will find a cosy country pub, with many serving locally brewed beers. Try The Kirkstile Inn at Loweswater where their own brewery Cumbrian Legendary Ales supplies the goods, including the award winning Loweswater Gold.

5. Stunning winter walks, which can be accessed by everyone. Tarn Hows near Coniston was once owned by children’s author Beatrix Potter. Now it’s open to the public and offers an idyllic circular walk suitable for young and old. You can also hire National Trust trampers at Tarn Hows, an all-terrain mobility scooter available for use on the circular track, free of charge.

6. Glamping is on trend. In the last five years, alternative accommodation

has seen a upturn in bed spaces across Cumbria so there are plenty of options to choose from for your winter staycation. With insulation and electrical sockets, there’s no reason the winter should stop your glamping trip.

7. The funny men are coming. Venues across Cumbria are hosting a whole host of professional comedians this winter. Big names include Omid Djalili. James Acaster and Joel Dommet, fresh from the ’I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here’ jungle.

A list of comedy events in Cumbria can been see the GoLakes website.

8. Indulge in your own chocolate and prosecco.

Cocoa Bean in Hawkshead is opening its chocolate factory to adults for the first time this winter. They have created special truffle making workshops where you create 14 of your own delicate truffles for you to

take home or if you can’t wait, enjoy them there and then with a glass or two of complimentary prosecco. (18th November, 7th and 14th December) 9. We have our own Christmas spirits.

The Lakes Distillery on the shores of Bassenthwaite has, in only two years, created an award winning portfolio of distilled spirits including; The ONE blended whisky, The Lakes Gin, The Lakes Vodka and new this year The Lakes Sloe Gin and The Lakes Damson Gin. The very first batch of Lakes Malt Whisky will be available from 2018.

10. The Lakes – well, obviously.

A visit to The Lake District, Cumbria wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a lake.

Whether it’s Coniston, Windermere, Ullswater, or Derwentwater you can join a launch or steamer service and take a relaxing, sightseeing cruise on the water.

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Open your eyes to the wonders

of wintry Windermere

Windermere’s unique scenery and atmosphere make winter the perfect time of year to get out and discover some spectacular natural wonders in the Lake District.

Travelling by boat is a unique way to arrive at one of the many festive markets taking place across South Lakes in the run-up to Christmas.

Windermere Lake Cruises is even operating a special ‘Sail and Ride’ service to the new Ja Windermere Christmas market, alongside a shuttle bus with Mountain Goat. The magical new German-themed event on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December 2016 will include live entertainment, food and drink, and plenty of festive gifts and treats.

Of course, scheduled sailings on the lake provide a unique perspective of the lakeshore throughout the winter.

The ancient woodlands at Claife Heights and – perhaps snow-capped – peaks of the Langdale Pikes are a sight to behold from the cosy cabin of a Windermere Lake Cruises vessel

gliding through the tranquil waters of England’s longest lake.

Although Windermere is home to well over a thousand ducks, geese and swans all year round, the winter months see many more birds flying in

from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe - that’s more any other lake in the region. It’s a treat for anyone with a love for nature!

Head down to the south end of the lake and it’s just a short journey to the

Lakeland Motor Museum, so why not make the most of Windermere Lake Cruises’ convenient links with this leading all-weather attraction.

More than just a museum, this trip down memory lane takes in a unique collection of 30,000 exhibits carefully assembled over 50 years, including 150 classic cars and motorbikes,. Star exhibits include the Isle of Man TT Tribute Exhibition and the Campbell Bluebird Exhibition.

Open 7 days a week, the Motor Museum also has a riverside café just next door – ideal for some rest and refreshment after a day out exploring this special part of the North West.

Page 44. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Top 10 Wedding Cars

What Are the Best Wedding Cars?

Wedding cars play a key role in the overall wedding presentation, being a key player in the image your big day conveys. Whatever religion, tradition or faith you follow the one thing that can be agreed across the community of brides and grooms is that a luxury wedding car is imperative.

At Wedding Car Hire they are always trying to help happy couples select the perfect wedding car for them, assisting them with cars that reflects their personality and the nature of their celebration.

Below you will see their top ten wedding cars, we hope they help you with your wedding planning.

Here are their suggestions: Rolls Royce Phantom - The Rolls Royce Phantom is our most soughtafter wedding car, showcasing a certain affluence that adds a touch of class to a wedding day. From its luxurious interior to its magnificent design, the Phantom is renowned for its incredible reputation of elegance.

At Wedding Car Hire we stock a fleet of all colours, ensuring your wedding car further enhances the plans in place.

Rolls Royce Ghost - The Rolls Royce Ghost is a wedding car that has been blessing UK weddings for many years, providing its timelessness and traditional qualities. Promoting comfortable travelling and astounding interior the Ghost is the perfect bridal car for both traditional and modern wedding celebrations, providing a sophisticated travel experience to

all that have the pleasure of being a passenger.

Mercedes S Class - The white vehicle makes that great impression of sophistication and glamour, a prodigious car that everyone will recognise as an admirable wedding car choice. Mercedes are infamous for implementing that sense of desire that is essential on the most important day of your life. If you are looking to stand out on your wedding day then be sure to enquire about our S Class range.

Rolls Royce Silver Cloud - The Cloud is more of a classical choice, encapsulating traditional qualities that are refined yet luxurious. Offering a blend of qualities, both understated and lavish, it is true to say that this vehicle possessing everything you need in a wedding car, as well as making for astounding wedding pictures.

Tuk Tuk - Looking for something a little unconventional? We have just the thing! Our fleet of Tuk Tuks or Rickshaws as they are commonly referred to is the perfect novelty wedding car option. Enquire with the member of our team today and give your quests something to talk about. .

Chrysler 300c Limo - Wedding limousines really possess that wow factor that all brides and grooms crave for, with the long wheel-base offering an image of importance and wealth. The Chrysler 300c is one of our most popular limos, with brides and grooms feeling like royalty when

sat inside. Its spaciousness is a feature that is highly sought-after, making room for big wedding dresses as well as friends and family members.

Bramwith- The attractive Bramwith is a classic wedding car option, showcasing a beauty that is understood by all that lay eyes upon it. This car has proven to be a great travel choice for brides and grooms alike, a universally celebrated wedding car with a vast range of stunning features.

Porsche Panamera - This vehicle is a real joy to travel in, being notoriously smooth when taking to the streets of the UK. Due to its humble, understated nature it makes for the perfect wedding car, getting brides, grooms and close members of the family to the venue on time and in style.

Ferrari F430 - Of late sports cars have become a popular choice for wedding day travel with grooms in particular desperate to arrive at the venue in style.

What better way to make a shocking arrival than in a Ferrari? Ferraris just posses that speciality that everybody recognises. Being such a rare car it will really make a unique mark on your wedding day.

Lamborghini Gallardo - If you really want your wedding to standout then the Lamborghini Gallardo is definitely the car to hire on your wedding day.

Supercars are synonymous with impact and this is the exact mark you want to make. As well as being

one of the most exciting vehicles to travel in it is great for taking pictures in and next to. Weddings are all about creating memories that you can reflect on through photographs.

The journey to and from the wedding venue should be celebrated just as much as any other part, with the wedding car being the environment in which significant parts of the day

unfold. From emotional goodbyes between Father and daughter to celebrations as newlyweds, the car symbolises both physical and emotional journeys of a wedding day.

Top wedding complaints revealed

If you are in the planning stages of your wedding then you will no doubt want to impress, wanting to give yourself, the wedding party and the all-important guests a great day to remember. With guests talking and reviewing their wedding experience it can often feel impossible to please everyone. In a recent poll conducted by the Daily Mail guests revealed that they do notice things like awkward silences and bad canapés.

Here are the top guest bugbears for

you to take inspiration from.

A wedding that starts too early – Apparently the later the wedding, the better, with many guests not enjoying the inconveniences and expenses a morning wedding encourages.

Canapés – While many enjoy putting on a unique food spread for guests many wedding attendees prefer a more traditional meal, finding canapés difficult messy and difficult to eat. Bad budget management – nothing gets guests more miffed than

having to pay for their own drinks.

So, to keep your guests talking for months to come make sure you have a free bar!

A silent feast – There is nothing more important than encouraging a smooth-running wedding day, ensuring the day doesn’t go stale.

A part of the wedding always prone to criticism is the wedding meal, with eating in silence often boring guests. This is why many decide to put some background music on.

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Top 5 hen and stag

party ideas

The hen and stag party is the last chance for the bride and groom-to-be to let their hair down, being the last moment of freedom to share with friends and family. If you have been appointed as Best Man or Matron of Honour then it is your responsibility to ensure they exit single life with a bang! Here are a few suggestions of ours, we hope they help!

Dance Lessons Dance lessons can be a fun and outof-the-box idea for the hen. Whether they are a ballet, street or jazz dancing kind of girl you will find a wealth of teachers and dance schools dotted throughout the country, there and waiting to show the hen party how to

own a dance floor.

This can also help the bride or groom prepare for that all-important first dance.

Activities Us Brits love to challenge ourselves with outdoor activities such as gokarting and whitewater rafting making for superb hen and stag celebrations. From paintballing to horseriding, it is safe to say you can experience just about anything in the great British outdoors.

Spa Getaways The wedding planning process can be extremely stressful, with a relaxing day well needed. By booking a spa break you will be sure to give the

hen party the luxury they deserve, allowing them to indulge in a touch of Euro Trip A Euro Trip is a popular way for hen and stag parties to celebrate the upcoming event, getting together and exploring their chosen destination. A weekend getaway to mainland Europe will guarantee your group the time of their lives! There's plenty on offer from classic and stylish weekends in southern France, to nightclubs and drinking in Amsterdam, all the way to exploring history and culture in Prague.

Adventure Another category that can serve as an ideal day out for men and women, adventure weekends are for those who fancy an adrenaline rush before they tie the knot. White water rafting, coasteering, quad biking, 4x4 off road driving, powerboating and George scrambling, if you're in the mood for some thrills and chills these options are perfect for you. Whatever you decide on, don't forget to book your chauffeur-driven luxury car hire from Wedding Car Hire. Whether you are going for a meal, weekend away or need airport transfers for a trip overseas, it makes sense to make use of our fleet for the occasion.

From Rolls Royce and Bentley cars to limousines and performance vehicles, have faith that we have the [perfect vehicle to make your stag or hen party a memorable occasion.

Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 45.

Page 46. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Falls Response car is the driving force behind

cutting falls related hospital admissions

A pioneering new partnership project which looks to cut the number of fall-related hospital admissions is to launch in St Helens.

Funded by the NHS St Helens Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and supported by St Helens Council and the North West Ambulance Service, the five-month pilot scheme will see the introduction of a falls response car which will provide specialist emergency support to residents aged 65 and over who have fallen at home or in residential or nursing care.

The response car, operated by a trained paramedic and occupational therapist, will be on call five days a week from 8am - 4pm as from Monday 5 December and will respond to non-life threatening 999 fall calls so that patients can be treated at home without having to go to hospital.

In St Helens, nine per cent of all ambulance 999 calls are in response to residents over the age of 65 who have fallen at home, with 77.4 per cent of cases resulting in hospital admission.

Sarah O’Brian, Interim Clinical Chief Executive of NHS St Helens CCG, said: “St Helens has a high percentage of older people and we want to ensure they have the opportunity to live as independently for as long as possible.

The response car –with its highly specialised team – will be able to respond quickly to residents aged 65 and over who have fallen, giving them the maximum opportunity of not being admitted to hospital.

“This is just one of the initiatives we are introducing which will improve

patient experience and drive efficiency savings to close our funding gap.”

St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, Councillor Marlene

Quinn, said: “The council and its partners have recently placed falls amongst one of its highest priorities.

“By introducing the falls response car, it will cut down on the number

of hospital admissions, enable better and faster care and also save money – while allowing residents to remain at home so that they can continue to live an independent lifestyle.”

Paul Walton, Urgent Care to collaborate, working towards Development Manager at North West providing excellent patient care and Ambulance Service added: reinforcing positive outcomes".

"This is an exciting opportunity for a number of care providers

OLDHAM COUNCIL LAUNCHES

Careers ADVANCEMENT Service

Oldham Council’s Get Oldham Working (GOW) team is launching a pioneering new programme aimed at helping those already in employment gain more skills and gain better paid and more secure work. The council knows that it must ensure inclusive growth – where all residents and communities benefits – is at the heart of our economic and regeneration strategies. That’s why we are investing £250,000 into the Careers Advancement Service to help move residents into better paid jobs and reduce the impact of welfare reforms which will see working families lose up to £2,000 per year from in work benefits. The service - the first of its kind in Greater Manchester - will seek to work with 400 employed working-age residents in its first year.

The scheme will also help local firms grow and support their staff, thanks to a partnership with the Manchester Growth Company. Each resident who signs up will receive a service tailored to meet their needs and helping them to climb up the career ladder. GOW staff will provide 1-to-1 support and help with a personalised development plan. Residents will also be able to take part in a psychometric test and various bespoke assessments, which can help them understand their own strengths and areas for improvement, and will assist in obtaining that next step up the career ladder. Support will also include workshops and networking events, support to navigate the jobs market, assistance to apply for Advanced Learner loans, and help

with self-promotion via social media.

Councillor Shoab Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Employment and Skills, said: “There are lots of hardworking and talented people across the borough who the GOW team have helped over the years. “Like all of us they want to do better for themselves and their families but they feel they can’t take the next step because they don’t have the right skills or are unsure what their key strengths are.

“Our Careers Advancement Service will hopefully help change that – we are doing our bit to help and support them. “By doing this we are investing in skills – helping residents advance their careers and helping Oldham businesses and the local economy to grow.” The Careers Advancement Service will work in partnership with the National Careers Service and local training and support services and is an extension of GOW. It builds on the ongoing and successful

Warehouse to Wheels project, which is run with Mantra Learning Limited, of Chadderton. That scheme, which has been praised by industry leaders, has seen a number of warehouse workers upskilling and training to become Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) drivers – gaining them higher paid jobs. If you have previously been helped by the GOW you can visit the team at Metropolitan House, Hobson Street, Oldham, OL1 1TT – across the road from the Job Centre Plus – weekdays from 9am until 4pm.

Alternatively you can visit www. oldham.gov.uk/gow or send an email to employability@oldham.gov.uk or call 0161 770 4674. Local businesses and organisations interested in a skills check or able to provide traineeships, apprentices or jobs for local people can also get in touch.

Follow the GOW team on Twitter @EmployOldham or “like” www. facebook.com/getoldhamworking

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 47.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 49.

Page 50. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Help is close

at hand this

Christmas

Progress Lifeline offers remote monitoring in your home and emergency personal assistance when you need it to help to make your life easier, safer and more comfortable.

We can provide the service in any home - all that is needed is a connected landline. The service works via an easy-to-use personal alarm that you can use to summon assistance or gain reassurance at any time of the day or night.

The Control Centre based in Leyland is home to 20 highly trained and dedicated operators. They are on hand 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to take calls from customers who press their alarms, or from any sensors that may send an alert to the Control Centre. The operators make sure that the appropriate help is sent in the event of assistance being required.

We also provide a mobile response service, this is to support people who may not have family or friends living close by who could attend following the personal alarm being activated.

Our friendly mobile responders are available day

and night and will attend within 45 minutes.

They are all fully trained in assistive lifting. If you fall and are uninjured we can get you back on your feet without the need for the emergency services.

In an emergency quickly gaining access to your property is really important, especially for the emergency services.

We can install a KeySafe, which can provide a quick and easy way for family, care workers, emergency services and other authorised people to gain access to your home without delay.

If you feel that you, or someone you care for, could benefit from our Progress Lifeline service, please contact us for a free, no obligation home demonstration.

If you are happy with the service recommend it to a friend* and Progress Lifeline will give you both shopping vouchers. *Subject to terms and conditions.

Christmas shopping in Wales

T’is the season to be jolly! So don’t let the thought of all that Christmas shopping get you down. Make your Christmas shopping trips fun, take a friend or loved one and head off on a festive Christmas city break. Wales offers stylish Christmas shopping from the vibrant city of Cardiff with big brand shops to the boutique town of Llandeilo with independent retailers. Come and get all your presents on a Christmas shopping trip in Wales.

Cardiff. Base yourself in Cardiff and you will be at the heart of great city centre shopping. In the modern St David’s shopping arcade you will find prestigious brands like John Lewis, Apple, Jo Malone and Cath Kidston amongst many others.

Cardiff also boasts great independent

shops too, housed in the Victorian and Edwardian arcades you’ll find a range of shops, cafes and delis perfect if you’re looking for something a little different.

Swansea In Swansea you will find a host of great festive shopping options. From high street brands to independent retailers and shops, you are sure to pick up the perfect presents for family and friends here. From mid November you can also visit the annual Christmas market, over 40 wooden chalets will line Oxford Street selling a range of speciality food, handmade Welsh gifts and arts Llandeilo This boutique town Llandelio in Carmarthenshire is great for Christmas shoppers looking for

unusual and distinctive gifts. This small town boasts some fabulous independent women’s fashion shops, a cluster of antique shops, decorative home and interior shops as well as Heavenly, a glorious Welsh chocolate and ice cream shop. Look out for their Christmas pudding flavour ice cream!

Hay on Wye The streets of this small market town are lined with an array of independent shops. If you’re looking to beat the crowds, Hay on Wye is the perfect Christmas shopping trip. Stroll around the many independent shops and you are sure to find that perfect gift. If you’ve got a book lover to buy for take advantage of the many bookshops here, as Hay on Wye is affectionately known as the ‘town of books’.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 51.

Give something special

this Christmas

This year the Lake District National Park is offering a Christmas present with a difference giving you the chance to sponsor a piece of the spectacular landscape. A new online sponsor system where you can

sponsor bridges, gates, signs and other work within the National Park has just been launched.

Photo shows a fingerpost at Howtown in Glenridding which was installed using sponsorship money.

National Park Project Ranger, Phil Clague explains the benefits of the new scheme: “We maintain more than 3,100km of paths and bridleways.

Millions of visitors, combined with our Cumbrian climate, means we are

OLDHAM COUNCIL STAFF DONATE 320 CHRISTMAS GIFTS TO LOCAL CHILDREN

Oldham Council workers dug deep this Christmas, donating 320 presents for local young people who might otherwise receive nothing.

The Operation Christmas Child campaign sees people donate a gift which is then given to a local child or young person who is part of family in need.

Those taking part are given a tag

with a first name, age and gender on it. They then buy a relevant gift for their young person which is presented in time for Christmas.

Cllr Jenny Harrison, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Safeguarding, said: “It goes without saying that thanks go to all those who have carefully selected and donated a gift.

“Some of our young people wouldn't

receive a single gift on Christmas Day if it wasn't for the kindness of colleagues within the council and partners.

“May I thank our officers who organised the appeal and other staff for their kindness. On Christmas Day, those involved will have brought a smile to the face of a child in difficult circumstances.”

Christmas gift appeal 2016

St Helens Council’s People Service department is calling on kind-hearted residents to make a disadvantaged child’s Christmas special, by donating to its gift appeal.

As in previous years, the team is once again running the appeal for children aged from birth to 18 years old who may not otherwise receive gifts.

Items such as rattles, teething rings, books, toys, toiletries and clothing will be most welcome - but for health and safety reasons, soft toys cannot be accepted and it is asked that your gifts are not wrapped.

St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Families, Young People and Education, Councillor Andy Bowden said: “Sadly, the gifts that we collect may be the only ones

received in many local homes."

“So I’d urge everyone to do what they can to make Christmas happen for those going through difficulties – and thank those who have already contributed. Their efforts will help to ensure a happy Christmas and bring some much needed joy to many young people.”

Collection Points have been set up in various town centre locations including: · St Helens Town Hall · Atlas House · Wesley House · Central Library · Central Link Children’s Centre, Westfield Street Donations can also be made at: · Parr Children’s Centre, Ashtons Green Drive

· Fourways Children’s Centre, Burnage Avenue · Thatto Heath Children’s Centre, Brisbane Street · Sutton Children’s Centre, Ellamsbridge Road · Newton Children’s Centre, Patterson Street.

The deadline for donations is Friday 16 December 2016.

For more information contact Tracy Sexton on 01744 676563

constantly carrying out improvements and maintenance.” “This new, online system will allow you to choose a location or item which is special to you, with an option to have a small plaque, showing initials and dates.

Alternatively, you can sponsor one of our larger projects, or the valuable work of our apprentices and rangers.

You can pay for your donation online, and choose a message that will be shared on our website’s message wall.” “It is easy to use, and will provide people with the opportunity to sponsor something in a place which might be special to them, perhaps in memory of a loved one, to celebrate a special event such as a wedding or birthday – or even as a unique Christmas gift.” By making a donation today, you can help us look after this spectacular place now and in the future. If you would like to find out more about donations, please visit www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/donations

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 53.

Heads, shoulders, knees and toe-tally no idea

75% of UK adults admit to having an average to very poor knowledge of the muscles they exercise every day according to new research by Virgin Active.

- Study by Virgin Active looked to see if Brits knew their own bodies, as the company aims to help the nation discover new movement and muscles we never knew we had in 2015 - Nearly 50% have no idea what triceps are - 6 in 10 struggled to locate their quadriceps - Only one third could say where in the body the pectorals were - East Midlands had the least knowledge of muscles in the body People from London proved the most knowledgeable January inevitably brings new resolutions with health and fitness one of the primary focuses for Brits up and down the country as we move

into the new year. But do we know the muscles we are exercising? Can we differentiate our glutes from our ginglymus*?

Not according to a new piece of research by Virgin Active, which shows that three quarters of Brits are unable to locate basic body muscle groups, showing little understanding of the human frame.

The research, commissioned by Virgin Active, comes as it seeks to help consumers discover the benefits of movement in 2015, helping people to be more conscious about the muscles they are exercising and helping to keep things fresh by showing them new ways to exercise them. With this in mind, Virgin Active is introducing its most targeted programmes to date, helping you discover all of your muscles and unlocking freedom of movement in everyday life.

The study of 2,000 people revealed

Britons can't work

out their work outs

A quarter of Brits confess they don’t feel clued-up enough on fitness techniques to attend a gym Almost a fifth say they are confounded by the exercise equipment 60% of Brits want to discover new ways to exercise; Brits also shown to worry about not having the right kit and feeling like the only new person in the class. A quarter of the nation doesn’t believe they know enough about exercise or fitness to go to a gym or health club, according to new research. Almost a fifth (16 per cent) of Britons say they’ve skipped the gym because they’re not sure how to operate any of the equipment and a further 10 per cent are scared that noone will be on hand to help them.

The research by Virgin Active Health Clubs also reveals that other gym turn offs can include the fear of not having the right kit and feeling like the only new person in the class. Yet, despite a lack of confidence when it comes to embracing exercise, the study shows there is a real appetite to learn. A third (33%) of those canvassed in the poll admit they are keen to pick up hints and tips on how to get the most out of exercising as well getting to grips with using the equipment.

Refresher classes also featured highly on the regular gym goers wish list with 20% interested in reeducating themselves to help them discover new classes and routines.

Having identified the barriers to the nation’s fitness habits, Virgin Active is introducing a new “Get to Grips” programme based on bookable education sessions, held on the gym floor or in a class

studio, to give people a taster of different exercise routines.

The 30 minute sessions will focus on breaking down these barriers, helping members to get comfortable with new activities and walk away with a plan for themselves so they can get the most out of their workout. Classes will include getting to grips with cardio, abs and core, stretching and self-massage, weight training, functional training and group exercise. All six sessions will be available Virgin Active’s health clubs across the country from 14th September, the classes aim to help thousands with a wish to discover new ways to embrace exercise.

Andy Birch, Head of Fitness at Virgin Active, commented: “Trying something new can be daunting, particularly when you’re around people who look like they are experts.

Our “Get to Grips” classes are our way of making sure fun trumps fear in our clubs.

Whether you’re a new member or an existing member looking to mix up your routine, these sessions will help you get started”.

“By introducing such an easy way to educate, or re-educate yourself in exercise, we hope to break down barriers and help people discover new ways to stay active. There really are no more reasons to feel gymtimidated!”

Despite many Brits lacking the confidence to join a health club or gym, those considering it admitted that it was the range of facilities and classes on offer that really interested them. 60% of those surveyed wanted to discover new ways to exercise.

that nearly 50% had no idea what triceps were, a third couldn’t say where in the body the pectorals were located and nearly 10% thought their glutes were in their stomach!

Six in ten struggled to locate their quadriceps - thinking they can be found in the arm, the stomach or even their nose rather than the upper leg.

Only a quarter knew that the deltoids were located in the shoulder, with over 10% thinking they were in the upper leg and 32% admitting they had absolutely no idea.

Even more alarmingly 75% of those surveyed revealed that they had an average to poor understanding of the different muscle groups they are exercising when working out, with

half saying they focused purely on the stomach, arms or upper legs, ignoring other muscles.

Andy Birch, Head of Fitness for Virgin Active said: “The results show just how much of an opportunity there is for us to build knowledge about our own bodies, and how to improve our movement and wellbeing just by being more conscious of what we are trying to achieve.

Modern lives lead us to being increasingly sedentary and the data shows we’re not only unsure of the names and locations of these muscles, but that as a result, we are not exercising our whole body, instead becoming overly focused on specific areas and falling into routines that

we are comfortable with. With this in mind we are inviting consumers to discover new ways to move with us and new ways to keep exercise challenging, fresh and fun. We are always introducing new innovations and activities that will work muscles you never knew you had.”

People in the West Midlands proved to have the least knowledge, with 34% of all surveyed admitting they had a ‘bad or very bad’ knowledge of their muscle groups and areas they are working out. The East Midlands and South West were not far behind, both at 32%.

At the opposite end, London’s residents proved tops with 31% of those surveyed saying they had a

‘good to excellent’ knowledge of their muscle groups, with Yorkshire and Humberside coming in second most knowledgeable with 26%.

Andy Birch, Head of Fitness for Virgin Active added: “We know that there is a growing trend to build knowledge of and monitor fitness both inside and outside of the health club.

“These stats show that it is necessary for knowledge to substantially grow in this area. It’s why we are inviting members and non-members alike to access our free and unique virtual workouts this January, and get a taste of the benefits that freedom of movement can bring to your everyday life.”**

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PROGRESS IN MOOR PARK RESTORATION

There’s probably much more going on at Moor Park than you realise, and it’s all part of the £2.35m restoration project. Essential funding of £1.725m from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund has enabled this restoration to take place.

Access is being created for the events area; drainage is in progress for the cricket field, along with installation of two new artificial wickets; refurbishment of the Grotto and drinking fountain; plus footpaths in the decorative garden. Also recently completed is work to the access and inside of the Observatory owned by the University of Central Lancashire.

Councillor Robert Boswell, Cabinet member for community and environment, said: “Moor Park is Preston’s oldest park and the Heritage Lottery funding is vital in helping us to progress our restoration plans.

“There is some great work being carried out, not only by our own Parks staff but by some of the most experienced contractors across the North West. We hope Prestonians and visitors enjoy seeing our plans take shape and help us celebrate next year when it’s completed.”

Don’t forget that donations can still be made for a bench in Moor Park. Anyone interested can contact the Parks team at parks@preston.gov.uk or on 01772 906471 to arrange a tour around the park to pick their favourite spot from the bench space available, to discuss the plaque inscription and how to make the donation.

Officers to run marathon for

fallen colleague's charity

Six Greater Manchester Police officers will shortly be leaving for New York, to take part in the world famous marathon race to raise funds for the PC Nicola Hughes Memorial Fund.

In September 2012, PC Nicola Hughes, 23, and her colleague PC Fiona Bone, 32, were murdered whilst attending a routine burglary call in Mottram, Tameside.

Nicola’s father, Bryn Hughes, set up the memorial fund in order to provide children, who have been affected by the loss of a close family member through a violent crime, with learning opportunities and pre-employment skills in form of grants or services to help them build for the future.

The six GMP officers have been in training for the gruelling 26.5 mile race for a number of months and on November 6th in New York

they will be running alongside Bryn are Stu Rostron, Jenni Smith, Anyone wishing to support the officers and make a Hughes, as well as representatives Aaron Duggan, Jennifer Reeve, donation to the PC Nicola Hughes Memorial Fund can do from a number of UK police forces. Michelle Lomas and Cecelia Oakley. so via www.pcnicolahughesmemorialfund.co.uk.

Regarding the GMP officers taking part in the marathon, Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “The PC Nicola Hughes Memorial Fund is a charity that is understandably very close to all our hearts at GMP. “We will all be supporting and wishing the very best to the six officers taking part in the marathon.

Their dedication and determination to raise funds for an exceptional charity cannot be applauded enough.

“The funds they raise will help provide a much needed lifeline to a number of children and young people who have experienced the horror of losing a close family member through a violent crime.”

The six GMP officers taking part

Time to do that last

bit of gardening!

Burnley residents are reminded to get their last bits of gardening done before the garden waste collection service begins its annual winter break.

Burnley Council’s garden waste collection service will stop at the end of the month, when demand for the service reduces because of the low levels of green waste being produced.

The last garden waste collection of the year will be made on 21st November and 28th November depending on which week your garden waste is normally collected.

The service will resume on 27th February and 6th March 2017. In the meantime garden waste can still be recycled at the household waste and recycling centre located in Heasandford Industrial Estate.

Councillor Lian Pate, Burnley Council’s executive member for community services, said: “Before residents hang up their gardening tools for the season, we want to make sure they don’t miss out on their last garden waste collection of the year.”

“Over the winter months, people do less gardening and as a result less green waste is produced, so suspending the service is a sensible and cost effective option for the council.”

Further information about household, recycling and garden waste collection dates can be found in residents’ waste and recycling calendars or on www. burnley.gov.uk.

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Twit T’woo

Tutoring

The Story Frog Early Literacy Course has been designed by an early years specialist, qualified teacher and mum to give you and your child the best foundation required to understand the process of young children learning to read and write through phonics and early literacy skills.

Not only does this course aim to encourage children and empower parents but it offers an understanding and overview of the skills and knowledge young children can acquire in preparation for entry to school, in line with expectations outlined in the Early Years Curriculum.

Story Frog Phonics is a wonderful introduction to the very earliest sounds for reading and writing. All children develop and learn at different rates and consolidate what they know through play, which is the most important part of their learning. This phonics course has been designed to help you, the parent or caregiver, provide your child with the necessary opportunities to learn early sounds and literacy skills.

What is clear is that when children begin school having been introduced to these sounds and the associated skills, they have a far greater chance of reaching and exceeding their potential in reading as they work their way through school.

The course is designed to be delivered to children from age 2 and up, although children will gain different skills and progress at different rates depending on their age. In addition to reading and writing skills: fine and gross motor skills, messy play, creative play and language are all included within the sessions as they are fundamental for your child’s development and enjoyment.

Sessions are at Little Munchkins Activity Café, Cavendish Street, Skipton, BD23 2AB every Monday and Thursday from 10 – 11am. Here you will find a ground floor pram park, sensory texture trays, ball pool and specialist Children’s menus made from locally sourced produce and homemade on site – why not stay for a play and some lunch after the phonics session?

Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 55.

Page 56. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Celebrations as Cowley

retains ‘Good’ Ofsted rating

Students and staff at Cowley International College are celebrating after receiving their latest Ofsted report.

Cowley maintained the secondhighest grading, “Good”, by Ofsted, the independent body, which inspects and regulates services which care for children and young people on behalf of the government.

The inspectors, who visited the College just before the October half term, praised staff for working hard for the benefit of pupils. Despite being a larger than average school, Ofsted said that they found Cowley to be well-organised, noting in the report that ‘the school is calm and orderly’.

Throughout the report there is praise of the leadership, admiration for well-behaved students who are ready to learn, and recognition

of the quality of teaching with inspectors observing that ‘pupils currently in the school learn well as a result of typically good teaching.’

Principal Cameron Sheeran said: “Publishing this report for all to see is a proud day for Cowley. Every day, staff, students and parents support each other in the challenges and celebrate in the successes. We are delighted that during their visit, Ofsted saw for themselves just how good a school Cowley is.” St Helens Council’s cabinet member for children, families, young people and education, councillor Andy Bowden said: “Cowley’s latest OFSTED report makes for excellent reading.

“The strong leadership under the guidance of Mr Sheeran and his vision and determination to best serve

pupils is rightfully recognised – as is the quality of teaching in place and overall positivity from pupils about attending school. Put these key factors together and you have a good example of how a school should be.”

Ofsted particularly celebrated the extensive educational and enrichment opportunities available and this is highlighted several times in the report.

Inspectors also praised the quality of teaching and the impact that the most effective teaching had on pupils making rapid progress.

Cowley’s effective Safeguarding systems were commended too, with inspectors reporting that ‘pupils are properly protected’ and ‘pupils who talked with inspectors said that they feel safe and that any bullying is rare.’

Not stopping at the school gates, the praise continued for Cowley for its vision and work in the local area with inspectors commenting: ‘the school is outward looking. Leaders

have a clear view of the needs of the school’s wider community and aim for the school’s work to redress some of the challenges it faces.

To improve further, the school

was advised to assist students of all abilities with their confidence as learners. The school was last inspected in 2012 when it received a rating of ‘Good.

Primary pupils bear road

safety responsibility

Nearly 100 pupils from 20 primary schools across St Helens attended the town hall for a Junior Road Safety Officer event.

Organised by St Helens Council's Road Safety team, the event was a forum for children from Years 5 and 6 to think of ways to increase road safety around the borough, particularly near schools.

Workshops on the day included parking outside of schools and sustainable travel. The Year 6 and Year 5 pupils returned to their schools being appointed as Junior Road Safety Officers and deputy officers to produce and promote road safety campaigns.

St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety Councillor Lisa Preston said:

“It’s great to see so many young people take responsibility for safety, especially where roads and traffic around schools is concerned.

“The Junior Road Safety Officers programme is a great way of getting schoolchildren thinking about road safety, discussing it with their friends and coming up with new ideas to promote it.”

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 57.

Page 58. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Award-winning TV chef supports GMP Christmas campaign

Cooking up the perfect recipe for a safe and happy Christmas An award-winning TV chef supports Greater Manchester Police’s 2016 Christmas campaign, giving tips on how to create the perfect recipe for a safe and happy Christmas.

Adam Reid, one of the winners of this year’s Great British Menu has backed the Forces campaign as it launches today, with this year focusing on one of the UK’s favourite past-times food.

GMP has created four quick fire, no nonsense recipe videos which will be shared throughout December, these videos remind people to think about their actions over the festive season and to consider their consequences.

Christmas can be a stressful time - spending money on presents and preparations for the festive season,

Christmas events to organise or attend, many members of the family under the same roof at one time. It can be hard to get everything right and make everyone happy.

These messages help to highlight the ways we can stay safe and happy over Christmas, whilst reminding people what can happen if you do something wrong, they could end up in custody eating a microwave meal instead of a Christmas dinner with loved ones.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “Every Christmas it is crucial to remind people how to stay safe throughout the festive season.

We want people to enjoy celebrating Christmas but it’s important to stay in control and consider the consequences of our actions.

“Sharing our messages in this way will help prompt people into thinking

ahead and remember that their actions can have life changing results, for instance reminding people that even the smallest amount of drugs and alcohol can impair their ability to drive - the safest amount to have is none.

“GMP will be working hard throughout the festive season to help to protect the people of Greater Manchester.”

Adam Reid, Chef Patron at the prestigious restaurant in Manchester’s Midland Hotel, is happy to be supporting the campaign, saying: “The key to creating perfect food is about getting the balance right, one ingredient too many or too little or too much of one ingredient and the dish can be ruined, it’s all in the planning.

“That’s exactly how Christmas can be too. Too much alcohol, too much

LINDA LANCASHIRE READ YOUR STAR SIGNS HERE EVERY ISSUE

Linda Lancashire , of great experience will be here every issue with your up to date star signs. Linda has over 40 years experience in the industry, an only child she recovered from breast cancer after being diagnosed in 2014.

Linda is available for private readings , tarot cards , crystal ball, palmistry and face to face readings.

She will be introducing telephone readings early in 2017. She completes her work alongside her working dogs , 2 twin poodles named Hilda and Talulah, aged 7. Hilda has a gift for picking up on finance and wellbeing issues whilst Talulah is known for picking up on romantic situations.

Linda describes the scene of her readings as a 'calm atmosphere' and reassures her work as 100% honest ,

one 2 one private and completely private and confidential. There are no recordings for safety reasons.

Linda is available 7 days per week.

Upon being asked by myself on how she got into the industry she quickly prompted' I was born with it' and that her parents ' didn't understand it'.

Asked for a few individual quotes at the end of the interview Linda concluded with ' I am a big believer in Karma '. Nothing lasts forever , there is a beginning , a middle and an end to everything'.

Linda’s daughter, Katie Lancashire is also a clairvoyant You can contact Linda on 07764 466381

By Phil Copson

sudoku

© Kevin Stone [www.brainbashers.com]

stress, not enough time to get everything sorted and that’s it, it can be ruined for you and your family.

“GMP shares important messages that remind people to not drink and drive, how they can stay safe at home or when they are out and about celebrating Christmas. These are important and these recipe videos are a great way to share these messages.” As well as giving hints and tips on the perfect recipe, the Force is also asking people which ingredients they think make a safe and happy Christmas.

A specially-developed web app has been produced to allow people to create and share their own recipes for a safe and happy Christmas, which can then be posted on social media. The Christmas recipe web app will be available from GMP’s website, Twitter account @ gmpolice and GMP’s Facebook page.

Christmas cards will also be sent to criminals across the region to warn them how they might be spending Christmas this year if they misbehave.

Here's our second video which is how to create the perfect Christmas dinner but with a twist. It's a quick reminder why you should think about your actions and their consequences this Christmas

Search continues

to find Young

Citizen of the Year

Nominations are still being sought for Lancashire’s Young Citizen of the Year 2017 as part of a countywide competition.

High Sheriff John Barnett MBE DL is encouraging applications involving young people who have put others first.

He said: “We want to hear from people who know inspirational youngsters who put others first through care work, helping out at charities or just sheer hard work that has helped people or supported a cause important to them.”

The awards take place every year and involve the High Sheriff inviting applications to find a young person, ideally aged up to age 21, who has helped either their local neighbourhood, an individual, family member or local organisation.

The University of Central Lancashire are sponsoring this year’s awards, and are also reminding people to submit nominations. Vice Chancellor Mike Thomas said: “We are very proud of all our young people at UCLan and want to share some of the amazing ways they engage with the wider community in Lancashire.

“If you know someone who goes above and beyond to help others and is a strong and positive role model then this award provides a great opportunity to celebrate all that they do and say thank you.”

Winners and runners up are selected by the High Sheriff and a panel of judges from the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime (LANPAC), Lancashire Constabulary, the University of Central Lancashire and the former High Sheriff Rodney Swarbrick, who initiated the award.

Lancashire Constabulary’s Chief Constable, Steve Finnigan said: “We are extremely proud of our continued involvement in the Young Citizen of the Year Award and I am really looking forward to seeing the fantastic entries I am sure we will receive this year.”

All finalists will be invited to attend a presentation at Lancashire Constabulary Headquarters in March 2017 where the winner will receive £500 along with a specially commissioned trophy and certificate from the High Sheriff and Chief Constable Steve Finnigan.

The scheme is being administered by the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime (LANPAC) charity on behalf of the High Sheriff and the closing date for nominations is 31st January 2017.

Two runners up will also receive £100 and a certificate.

Approval of a parent or guardian is needed for the nomination, subsequent publicity and any future events involving the finalists.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 59.

Page 60. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Hameed and Livingstone

named in Lions squads

Haseeb Hameed and Liam Livingstone have been named in the England Lions squad for the four-day and one-day series against Sri Lanka next February and March.

Hameed impressed for England in the first three Test Matches against India before breaking a finger in the Third Test which ruled the nineteen yearold out for the rest of the series.

Keaton Jennings will lead the England Lions in their four-day and one-day series against Sri Lanka A next February and March.

The Durham opener, who joined a select band to score a century on Test debut in Mumbai last week after being called from the Lions camp in Dubai to replace the injured Haseeb Hameed in the England squad, will be joined in Sri Lanka by both Hameed and Ben Duckett.

Hameed has been included in a 15-man squad for the first section, which is due to include two four-day matches against Sri Lanka A, while Livingstone has been named in both squads.

James Whitaker, the National Selector who watched the Lions beat

Afghanistan in an historic first-class match in Abu Dhabi last week, said: “The Lions play such an important role in bridging the gap between county and international cricket, and after a successful training camp in the UAE culminating in an excellent win against Afghanistan, this tour of Sri Lanka is a great opportunity for the players to gain experience of playing on the subcontinent.

“Keaton Jennings impressed everyone on the Lions programme, with his leadership skills as well as his batting – he was named captain for their one-day games against the UAE, and scored a century in the first.

That has already led to his call into the England Test set-up in India, but the Sri Lanka tour offers him the chance to gain further captaincy experience as well as playing some high-quality cricket in different and challenging conditions.

“Haseeb Hameed had also made such a promising start in Test cricket before it was cut short by injury.

Like Keaton and Ben Duckett, who will be returning to the Lions after playing some brilliant innings for

George Lavelle and Ellie Threlkeld Named them in the home Tri-Series against Sri Lanka A and Pakistan A last summer, I know he will relish the chance of playing some quality cricket in Sri Lanka in the New Year.

Junior Players of the Season for 2016

George Lavelle, LCB County Age Group Under 17 wicket keeper batsman was named the Cedric Rhodes Boys Player of the Season and Ellie Threlkeld, LCB County Age Group Under 17 wicket keeper and bat, named the Girls Cedric Rhodes Player of the Season.

Both George and Ellie received their awards at the annual Lancashire Cricket Board (LCB) Development of Excellence Presentation Evening for 2016 in association with the Lancashire Schools Cricket Association (LSCA) sponsored by Yellow Panther part of Industrial Space Solutions Ltd on Monday 05 December in The Point at Emirates Old Trafford.

George, aged 16, won this award last year making it 2 years in a row being named the boys player of the year. He has performed consistently to a high level all season and his contribution to the Under 17 team’s success was down to his dynamic performances with bat which included 3 centuries, aligned to the pressure he created behind the stumps which totalled 28 victims.

Playing a year young to his peers makes his performances more impressive. He represented the ECB North of England at Under 17s level in the Super 4s competition. George plays his club cricket at Ormskirk CC and goes to Merchant Taylors School in Crosby, Liverpool.

Ellie, aged 17, has made steps up to play alongside full International players in the Kia Super League and has acted as a role model to both her team mates and those in younger age groups. With 350 runs, an average of 58 including a century against Cheshire, a Lancashire Thunder contract and England Women’s Senior Academy selection has made for a successful year. Ellie plays her club cricket at Rainford CC and goes to Winstanley College in Orrell, Wigan. The evening is aimed at celebrating and congratulating all involved with junior county age group and disability squads. This year the success of Team Manchester was also celebrated following their national victory in the ECB City Cup. 2016 has been a good year for the county with all the age groups taken together winning 60% of all games. National success has been had by the Boys Under 10s, 12s and 13s winning their respective Taunton Festivals, with the Under 17s reaching the ECB County Championship final. Girls’ success was seen at Under 17 level where they were the T20 North Division winners.

Bobby Denning, LCB’s Managing Director, said: “We continue to pride ourselves on producing home grown talent linking our pathways into Lancashire County Cricket Club and this evening was about celebrating this.

“The game is about the players and I would like to congratulate all our representative players this evening. Wearing the Red Rose comes with responsibility on and off the field and I sincerely hope they all continue to strive to have the honour that comes with being a County Player. I am delighted that we continue to recognise an important part of our work this evening, the LCB Disability Player Pathway and Team Manchester success.

“Special mention must go to John

and Myra Isterling for their significant contribution to the LSCA and LCB, scoring and umpiring on our age group programmes for over 20 years.”

Stephen Titchard, LCB’s Performance Manager, said: “On behalf of the Lancashire Cricket Board I’d like to congratulate all the players that have represented LCB County Age Groups squads this year. These players are the best players currently playing within their age groups and we hope some of them will go on to represent Lancashire at the senior level.

“I would also like to thank the LSCA who work in partnership with us to deliver a comprehensive county age group programme, the LCCC Foundation for their continued financial support and the Lancashire County Cricket Club. Thanks to all the managers, coaches and officials who help ensure these squads perform to their highest level.

“A special thanks to Yellow Panther for sponsoring our annual presentation evening this year and in particular Gunjan Parikh for enabling this to happen.”

Jennifer Barden, LCB’s Women & Girls Cricket Development Officer, added: “Once again a great showing from the female players in the County, plenty of performances and even more girls playing County cricket than ever before! Well done to everyone for representing their County in 2016, some exciting talents moving through the pathway and we look forward to seeing them representing Lancashire Thunder in the years to come. It’s exciting times to be involved with women and girls cricket and we look forward to the future in Lancashire.

“Many thanks to all the volunteers, clubs, parents, players, officials who have all helped give these players the opportunity to represent their county.”

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Not Getting Carried

Away' - Dyche

Sean Dyche believes his Burnley boys have already proved some doubters wrong this season.

But the Clarets’ boss is not getting carried away by his team’s positive start, which sees them occupy 13th place in the Premier League before the first mid-week round of fixtures of the campaign.

The 3-2 win over Bournemouth took Burnley’s points’ tally to 17 – five more than they had at the corresponding stage two seasons ago when the Clarets ended up being relegated.

A total of 38 points would have been enough to stay up last season

but Dyche isn’t looking that far ahead as he prepares his side to go in search of a first away win of the season at struggling West Ham United on Wednesday night.

The Burnley boss said: “There’s a long way to go. We’re certainly not over-thinking that.

“We’re going along steadily.

We have certainly proved a few people wrong in this early part of the season.

“But we know the journey is through a whole season.

“Don’t get me wrong.

It’s there to be recognised. We have certainly had a solid start, particularly

at home which is well documented.

“But it’s so early in the Premier League season.

Maybe not in the physical side of things, because we are well into December and coming up to that Christmas period, but there is still a lot of football to be played, so there is no getting too carried away with what we’ve done so far.

“Equally, we have to find a balance and say it’s been a solid start and that’s what you’d hope for after what we have learned from the last time around.”

The LCCC Foundation

Bat away FGM Campaign

The LCCC Foundation 'Bat away FGM' Campaign Launches at the 3rd Annual LCCC Foundation Christmas Ladies Lunch. Working in partnership with ‘Cricket Without Boundaries’ (experts in this field) this campaign is about raising money to help end the barbaric practise of FGM in Trafford where there are currently 2,000 girls and young women who have been identified as ‘at risk’ Natasha and Kay from the Foundation Community Team, were given the opportunity in June this year, to go to Kenya alongside ‘Cricket Without Boundaries’, ’28 too Many’, Cricket Kenya and the ‘Maasai Cricket Warriors’ to work on a project in local, rural schools that focussed on addressing the serious cultural issue of FGM which is

prevalent in the Maasai community where 3 in 4 girls are currently cut.

This was an amazing opportunity to help combat 2000 years of cultural practise and Natasha and Kay both encountered many tough and harrowing stories from girls who had been affected by this practise.

The LCCC Foundation FGM programme in Trafford #EndFGM Using the learning gained from this experience, any and all the funds raised through this campaign will

be used to implement a secondary schools based programme; delivering 6 weeks of education activity specially designed to help raise awareness and try and put an end to FGM in Trafford.

Using cricket as the vehicle young girls/women are provided with the opportunity to play and learn together and are equipped with the skills and confidence to stop FGM and make a real change within their community.

Lancashire Local. Issue 26. Page 61.

Page 62. Issue 26. Lancashire Local

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Rising Stars Get Preston North End have completed a double

a Helping Hand swoop for Irish international pair Andy Boyle and Daryl Horgan from Irish champions Dundalk

Nine talented athletes from across the county have been awarded a cash boost to help them achieve their sporting goals.

The Lancashire Rising Star Fund, in association with Lancashire Sport Partnership, the University of Central Lancashire and Fettle, award grants of £1000 to individuals to support the cost of travel, training, accommodation, competition fees and equipment.

In addition to the money, each athlete will receive a tailored package of support from UCLan that included strengthening and conditioning services, nutritional advice and support and access toUCLan’s sports and training facilities.

Adrian Leather, Chief Executive at Lancashire Sport Partnership said: “Families can spend well in excess of £5,000 a year on supporting young athletes progress in their chosen sport.

We want to help to support aspiring athletes to achieve their potential and realise their dreams of competing at the highest level.

“We are looking forward to working with all 12 athletes over the next 12 months and you never know they might competing for the country in future Championships and Olympic and Paralympic Games!”

Boyle, 25, is a centre half, who made over 150 appearances for the ‘Lilywhites’, helping them to three consecutive Irish titles, as well as into the group stages of the Europa League.

Horgan, 24, is a winger with 27 goals in 132 appearances for Dundalk in three seasons in the Irish Premier League, including their final goal in their European campaign last week in Tel Aviv.

Both players were called up by Martin O’Neill for the Republic of Ireland’s recent World Cup qualifier

against Austria, along with new team-mate Aiden McGeady.

The duo have both agreed two-and-ahalf year contracts which will begin from 1st January 2017, when the transfer windows open, but will require international clearance before they are eligible to play for their new club.

Speaking about his latest squad

additions manager Simon Grayson said: “First and foremost we have signed two players who have attracted a lot of interest from a lot of clubs over the past few weeks and months and we have had to work hard to get them, which shows our intent as a football club.

“Both players have had great seasons in their league and in Europe, leading to their call ups for the Irish squad.

They are young, hungry and looking to improve and will be excellent acquisitions for us.

“I spoke to Steve Guppy [Republic of Ireland coach] about both of them, who was very positive and we have watched them a number of times and they have been excellent at club level and handled the Europa League games very well.

“Daryl is a forward thinking players with a lot of goals.

He makes things happen, has got a bit of pace about him, has a good delivery in him and he has scored a lot of goals this season.

“Andy is a good centre half, who can also handle the ball and both have shown their determination to join us by coming over a couple

of times to meet us and got things done very quickly. They both have the desire to keep improving and joining a Championship club is the next progression for them – we have always tried to improve and we look forward to working with them.”

Boyle, who captained Dundalk during their Europa League fixtures said of his move: I can’t wait to get started.

Once I heard Preston were interested in me and I got over and had a look around it was the only place I wanted to come to. I knew of the history of the club and I am now really looking forward to getting going.

“We have had a great run with Dundalk in Europe and won the league and then I got the international call up, so it has been a great year and this has capped it off.”

Whilst Horgan was also pleased to be making the move to Deepdale, adding: “I'm delighted to be here; I'm absolutely thrilled to get the deal over the line and now I'm really looking forward to getting into training and hopefully into the team.

“It's a massive club with a great history. It is a good team who like to try and play football, which was key for me. I met the manager and I was impressed by everything that he had to say, so that all helped massively, it just all seemed to fit and hopefully I can fit in here.”

YOUR LOCAL TEAMS FESTIVE FIXTURES

MANCHESTER UNITED Sat 17th Dec WBA (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE Mon 26th Dec Sunderland ( HOME ) PREMIER LEAGUE Sat 31st Dec Middlesbrough (HOME ) PREMIER LEAGUE Mon 2nd Jan West Ham ( AWAY ) PREMIER LEAGUE Sat 7th Jan Reading (HOME) FA CUP 3rd ROUND Tue 10th Jan Hull City (HOME) EFL CUP SEMI FINAL MANCHESTER CITY Sun 18th Dec Arsenal (HOME) PREMIER LEAGUE Mon 26th Dec Hull City (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE Sat 31st Dec Liverpool (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE Mon 2nd Jan - Burnley (HOME)PREMIER LEAGUE Fri 6th Jan - West Ham (AWAY) FA CUP 3rd ROUND

BURNLEY Sun 18th Dec Tottenham (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE Mon 26th Dec Middlesbrough (HOME) PREMIER LEAGUE Sat 31st Dec Sunderland (HOME) PREMIER LEAGUE Mon 2nd Jan Man City (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE Sat 7th Jan Sunderland (AWAY) FA CUP 3rd ROUND BLACKBURN ROVERS Sat 17th Dec Reading (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Mon 26th Dec Barnsley (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 31st Dec Huddersfield (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Mon 2nd Jan Newcastle (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 7th Jan QPR (AWAY) FA CUP 3rd ROUND

PRESTON NORTH END Sat 17th Dec Bristol City (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Mon 26th Dec Leeds Utd (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 31st Dec Sheff Weds (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Mon 2nd Jan Burton Albion (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 7th Jan Arsenal (HOME) FA CUP 3rd ROUND WIGAN ATHLETIC Sat 17th Dec Ipswich Town (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Mon 26th Dec Rotherham (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 31st Dec Derby (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Mon 2nd Jan Huddersfield (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 7th Jan Nott'm Forest (HOME) FA CUP 3rd ROUND

BOLTON WANDERERS Sat 17th Dec Chesterfield (AWAY) LEAGUE 1 Mon 26th Dec Shrewsbury (HOME) LEAGUE 1 Sat 31st Dec Scunthorpe (HOME) LEAGUE 1 Mon 2nd JAN Coventry City (AWAY) LEAGUE 1 Sat 7th JAN Crystal Palace (HOME) FA CUP 3rd ROUND ACCRINGTON STANLEY Sat 17th Dec Plymouth Argyle (HOME) LEAGUE 2 Mon 26th Dec Grimsby Town (AWAY) LEAGUE 2 Sat 31st Dec Crewe Alexandra (AWAY) LEAGUE 2 Mon 2nd Jan Hartlepool United (HOME) LEAGUE 2 Sat 7th Jan Luton Town (HOME) FA CUP 3rd ROUND

Each Edition of the Lancashire Local has a print run of 10,100 copies. Published by JAC Media Ltd, Foxhall Lodge, Foxhall Road, Nottingham, NG7 6LH.