Lancashire Local Issue 29

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Burnley set to take on Syrian refugees

Burnley Council is considering the details of a Lancashire-wide programme to resettle Syrian refugees.

Council leader Coun.

Mark Townsend said: “We have already made a commitment that the town will play its proper part in helping resettle refugees, and will do so as part of a co-ordinated approach across Lancashire.

“This will be done in a systematic way, including by ensuring that all proper support arrangements are put in place with government support.

The report proposes that Burnley resettles a number of Syrian refugee families over the next few years, in line with the average number being resettled across the county. It also proposes to continue working together with the agency SERCO, who already have a contract with the national government to work with asylum seekers in the North West.

The report states that ‘there will be appropriate financial and practical support from the government’ and through LCC, SERCO and other organisations, so that cash costs resulting from Burnley Council’s participation in the Syrian Refugee Programme and a linked Vulnerable Children Resettlement Scheme will be fully reimbursed through national government funds.

The proposals would lead to five families of Syrian refugees moving

to Burnley later this year, with additional similar numbers coming to the town in 2018 and 2019. Alongside this, there would be an increase in the number of houses being lived in

by asylum seekers, from the current number of ten properties to a total of twenty properties in 2017.

The report to councillors takes account of concerns which have

been raised about the impact of the programme and states that the ‘programme will be run without having any disproportionate impact on existing services’.

Cabbie fined £600 for refusing to take guide-dog

A cabbie has been fined £600 after refusing to pick up a blind passenger with their assistance dog.

Rossendale Hackney carriage driver Taiwo Osazuwa, aged 59 of Teddington Road, New Moston, Manchester, was booked to collect a passenger from ASDA in Eastlands on 3 June 2016.

However after arriving at the collection point and seeing the assistance dog Osazuwa refused to allow the passenger into his vehicle.

The refusal was in contravention of the Equality Act 2010, which specifically requires taxi and private hire drivers to carry guide

dogs (and other assistance dogs). At the time on the incident Osazuwa was working for a private hire operator – the operator was made aware of the assistance dog when the initial booking was taken. This information was passed on to Osazuwa before he was dispatched.

Following the incident the passenger contacted another private hire company, who dispatched a vehicle and collected them without incident.

Osazuwa appeared at Manchester Magistrates Court on Wednesday 15 February 2016, where he pleaded not guilty. After hearing evidence from both sides the court found Osazuwa

guilty – ordering him to pay a fine of £65 along with costs of £500 and a victim sur charge of £35.

Osazuwa holds a Hackney carriage licence with Rossendale Borough Council – though in this instance he was working for a Manchester private hire firm. Rossendale Borough Council will now invite Osazuwa to a hearing to assess his ability to continue to hold a hackney carriage driver licence.

Councillor Nigel Murphy, Manchester City Council executive member for neighbourhoods said: “We expect the highest standards from all taxi and private hire drivers operating in

Manchester and will not tolerate anything less that exemplary behaviour.

“Assistance dogs are indispensable for many people with visual impairments allowing them a level of independence that might otherwise be impossible – so it is vital that both Hackney and Private Hire vehicles allow passengers with assistance dogs. "“I hope the severity of this fine reminds all drivers of their responsibilities. Unfortunately this problem often goes unreported, so I’d ask that anyone who has faced a similar issue to report it to us.”

Page 2. Issue 29. Lancashire Local

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OLDHAM TO COMPETE IN 2017

RHS BRITAIN IN BLOOM AWARDS

Work is well underway as Oldham prepares to take part in the Champion of Champions category in the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Britain in Bloom UK Finals 2017.

We will join 78 regional winners in the competition, with only the top seven competing in the Champion of Champions category, where we hope to be crowned one of the cleanest, greenest and most beautiful places in the UK. The borough was chosen thanks to our commitment to environmental responsibility, high levels of community participation and outstanding horticultural achievements.

This year’s RHS theme is ‘Greening Grey Britain’ and the WOW bed centrepiece in the town centre will once again be a showpiece we can all be proud of - more details will be revealed before summer. Along the judging route, starting this year at Lydgate, we will be introducing new wildflower meadows and beehives, as well as increasing our efforts in biodiversity and promoting our biomass set up in Alexandra Park.

In preparation for the event, we have planted more than 200 trees across the borough and in June 130,000 bedding plants will be put in place – complimenting the 35,000 spring bedding plants already gracing the town. In August, we will lead RHS Britain in Bloom judges on a tour of the borough in a bid to win the top award.

Winners will be announced at the Britain in Bloom awards ceremony in Llandudno, North Wales on 27 October. A number of special awards that recognise excellence in a particular area, be that protecting the local environment, getting young people involved in gardening, or overcoming adversity such as flooding or vandalism, will also be up for grabs. Councillor Barbara Brownridge, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Co-operatives, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have been included in the Champion

of Champions category at this year’s Britain in Bloom Awards.

“This special recognition is a credit to the constant combined effort of our environmental services team, community groups, residents, schools and businesses involved in ensuring the borough looks at its best.

“The pride taken in looking after our borough is admirable; hopefully, the judges will appreciate all of our hard

work when they come to town.”

Andrea Van Sittart, RHS Head of Community Outreach said: “Congratulations to Oldham on reaching the UK Finals of this year’s RHS Britain in Bloom campaign.

“To represent their region on the UK stage is an incredible achievement and shows they are already at the top level of community gardening, going the extra mile to improve

their local area and make it cleaner, greener and more beautiful for everyone.” Now in its 53rd year, Britain in Bloom has evolved into a UK-wide campaign that brings communities together while promoting the environmental and health and wellbeing benefits of gardening.

Our efforts will contribute to the millions of bulbs, seasonal plants, perennials, shrubs and trees being planted around the UK by over 2,500 Britain in Bloom and It’s Your Neighbourhood groups, transforming hard grey areas into green spaces that benefit people and the environment.

Our Town Hall project poised for final go-ahead

Senior councillors will be asked to give the final go-ahead to a major project to safeguard and repair Manchester Town Hall and Albert Square when they meet on Wednesday 8 March.

The Council’s Executive will discuss the scheme - which aims to boost public access and ensure the building and square continue to play a role at the heart of city life.

The Town Hall will be 140 years old this year. While it has been maintained and remains structurally sound, it is now seriously showing its age with many elements reaching the end of their natural lifespans.

Without significant work to address damage and defects, its condition will deteriorate to the point where it will become unfit for ongoing use and would need to be ‘mothballed.’

The building, designed in the 1860s, also needs work to bring it up to modern access and safety standards while preserving its heritage.

The budget for the whole project – including a sizeable contingency element which should reduce over time – has been set at up to £328.3 million. Independent expert analysis has confirmed the assumptions

behind this projected cost.

Deputy Council Leader Councillor Bernard Priest said: “Getting to this point has involved a long and meticulous process. But as a result of the rigorous work done we are confident that we have a scheme which will deliver real and enduring benefits for Manchester.

“Not only will it safeguard this much-loved masterpiece for current and future Mancunians, it will also improve public access to our Town Hall and its treasures and support the city’s economy by giving the building an enhanced role as a visitor destination – and even potentially as a base for emerging businesses.

“Allowing this iconic building to slide into decay and disuse is not an option. We are confident that we have struck the right balance in these plans between introducing some commercial elements which will help generate income to support services and preserving the Town Hall’s essential character.”

The Executive will also be asked to support recommendations on the appropriate mix of uses for the refurbished Town Hall following independent expert analysis of

various options.

While the primary role of the Town Hall will always be as the city’s civic focal point, complementary commercial options making use of space not required for this purpose to generate income to support services have been carefully considered.

These included a small boutique hotel in part of the building, office space and food and drink retail.

Work to explore the potential for a prestigious hotel concluded that a 65bed hotel using part of the building’s upper floors would be physically feasible. But it was considered that constraints associated with the building’s Grade I-listed status would make it less attractive to operators.

The fit-out cost to create a hotel space, an estimated £30m on top of the project budget, would be prohibitive.

On top of this, it would involve too much ongoing financial risk for the Council. It is therefore recommended not to proceed with the hotel element.

Further independent research explored the potential commercial use of currently under-used spaces.

Market testing found that food and drink retail could be viable in the basement and ground floor. But it

established that this would be better suited to high quality independents than chains because the latter would want bigger units than would be available, external signage and their own ‘front doors’ to the street.

Analysis of the potential to rent out office space in the upper floors of the refurbished Town Hall found that the constraints associated with the building’s Grade I-listed status would make the spaces less attractive to larger corporate organisations but better suited to small businesses, including start-ups, or public sector partners.

Alternatively, once the Town Hall has been refurbished there may be an option to relocate staff from the Town Hall extension into the older building and market office spaces in the extension instead. It is recommended that the office space is fitted out to basic ‘shell and core’ standard to allow maximum flexibility for future use.

The market testing also that determined that whilst the private sector should be involved in the project the Council should retain overall responsibility for the project during the construction phase and for the complex in operation.

Key heritage features of the building, such as the state rooms including the famous Great Hall and its Ford Madox Brown murals, will be restored through the project and external repairs to the roof, stonework and drains carried out on a like-for-like basis. Significant work is also needed to electrics, plumbing, heating, ventilation and lift insallations – all of which are embedded in the fabric of the building.

The Executive will be asked on 8 March to authorise procurement for a main construction contractor for Our Town Hall project.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 29. Page 3.

COUNCIL TO INVEST £2.8M AT

GRAND CENTRAL LEISURE CENTRE

Don’t use you mobile phone when driving the message is clear

LANCASHIRE Constabulary is supporting a national campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of using a mobile phone behind the wheel and the tough new penalties for those who flout the law.

From Wednesday 1 March 2017, new legislation comes into effect that means motorists who are caught using a mobile whilst driving will receive six points on their licence and a £200 fine, doubling the previous punishment.

In support of the tougher national stance, the constabulary will no longer offer education courses to drivers caught using their phone as an alternative to a fine and points.

Those caught will automatically be issued with a penalty notice or be reported to court, depending on the circumstances of the offence.

For new drivers (within two years of passing their test) this could mean automatically losing their licence and having to re-apply for a provisional and re-take their driving test.

It is hoped that the tougher penalties will act as a deterrent and encourage people to think before they pick up a phone whilst driving.

Alongside this, a number of tactics will be used during a week of action from 1-7 March, to coincide with the legislative change.

Safety camera vans will be deployed to areas where complaints have been received such as outside schools and on major trunk roads, and the camera technicians will be able to capture evidence of offences.

Marked and un-marked police vehicles will be used to identify possible offenders, checkpoints with observation areas on the approach will be implemented across the county and officers will be responding to complaints about persistent offenders.

Chief Inspector Damian Kitchen said: “Inattention and distraction are as big an issue to road safety as speed, seatbelt use and drink or drug driving. The consequences of even a moment’s distraction can be devastating and our message is ‘it simply is not worth taking that call or sending that text’. Killing or seriously injuring someone just because you picked up your mobile phone will live with you forever, and destroy families. In addition you could go to prison, lose your job and your licence.

“Sadly too many motorists on our roads are taking the risk of using their mobile phone when driving.

Whether it’s looking at a text or a new social media post, streaming a video behind the wheel, checking emails or making a phone call, all of these activities are dangerous. I get lots of correspondence from the public, councillors and MPs asking us to do more to tackle this issue. It really is becoming as socially unacceptable as drink driving and rightly so.

“We want all road users to be aware of the new legislation, although I suspect there will be some who view this as a money making scheme, but I want to refute that straight away.

Police forces receive no revenue from the fines issued, which all go to the

treasury. This change in legislation and renewed approach is about reducing casualties. Success for me will be that we don’t issue any fines again because people simply stop doing it.

“I would urge anyone getting behind the wheel to think before picking up a mobile phone, and to those who are passengers or know that someone is likely to be driving, don’t distract them with calls or texts or other forms of communication. Leave it until you’ve finished your journey and have stopped driving.”

Lancashire's Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, said: “This new legislation is more than welcome here in Lancashire and I hope that it will encourage drivers to stop and think before they use their mobile phone to check a message, answer a call or even scroll through their social media profiles when they are driving.

“It is completely unacceptable to take your eyes of the road even for a split second whether you're a careful driver or not. It only takes that split second to lose concentration resulting in a serious or even fatal collision.

“The risks of using a mobile phone behind the wheel have always been very clear and if this new law results in making Lancashire's roads safer then I completely back the change, 100 per cent.”

More information can be found on the Lancashire Constabulary website: h t t p s : / / w w w. l a n c a s h i r e . p o l i c e . uk/campaigns/distracted-drivingmobile-phones/

Grand Central Leisure Centre is to benefit from a multi-million pound programme of investment, which will improve and refurbish the current facilities.

Built in 1991, Grand Central has an Olympic size swimming pool and comprehensive fitness facilities. It is Stockport’s most well-used leisure facility and is managed by Life Leisure.

The proposed investment will see the health suite and pool flumes being brought back into use later in 2017 and other elements, such as the changing rooms and pool features, will be upgraded.

Key aspects of building plant will also be renewed at the same time, with works being scheduled to minimise disruption to residents.

Councillor Sheila Bailey, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for

Communities and Housing, said: “For some time the condition of Grand Central has not been of the quality that local residents should be able to expect and it is quite right that the Council's Executive has very quickly made this investment a priority. The upgrade will complement the Council's investment with partners to regenerate Stockport Exchange and the town centre."

Malcolm McPhail, CEO of Life Leisure, said: “We have been working with the Council to secure funding for the development at Life Leisure at Grand Central and we are delighted that the centre will undergo these essential works over the coming months. The centre is a flagship facility in the town and it is important that we continue to provide the best leisure facilities and opportunities for our communities.”

The investment at Grand Central will complement the £145m development of Stockport Exchange of which it forms an integral part. Stockport Exchange combines high quality offices, a new hotel and retail offer, all set around brand new public realm.

For more information visit www.stockport.gov.uk/ investingingrowth.

Page 4. Issue 29. Lancashire Local

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WWL Receives Generous Baby friendly award for

Donation from Leigh Catenians Lancashire Children's Centres

WWL was delighted to receive a very generous donation of £800 from local association, the Leigh Cantenians.

The funds have been donated to the Three Wishes Cancer Care Fund and will be directed to the Urology Department at WWL to benefit patients with prostate cancer.

The Cantenians, who are an association of Catholic Laymen that dedicate their time to their Faith, their families, friends and to those in need, presented the cheque to Mr Andy Thompson, consultant urologist at WWL at one of their monthly meetings.

Following the presentation of the cheque, they held a talk about prostate cancer and Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) screening for men to help to educate the members and their families on the importance of being screened.

PSA screening measures the levels of PSA proteins in the blood. PSA proteins are produced by the cells of the prostate gland and higher levels of PSA can indicate that a thorough check of the prostate is required to determine if there is a risk of cancer.

While the screening is not currently supported by health policy in the UK, it is still a helpful indicator into whether or not further tests are required and can be administered to any men between the age of 45 and 75 by their GP. After raising the money over the past year, the president of the group made

the decision that the money would go to benefit patients who have had or are survivors of prostate cancer. The donation is one of significance for the Cantenians as they have had members who have required treatment from the trust in the past and prostate cancer has affected some of their friends and family.

Immediate Past President of the Cantenians, Maurice McCarthy said, “I want to thank WWL and Mr Andy Thompson for the work

you do supporting the people of the community. This donation means a lot to all of us and it is going to such an important cause. I also want to thank Mr Thompson for his very insightful presentation on PSAs it opened one or two eyes. I can see a big demand for PSA checks in this area in the future.”

While the money has not yet been allocated, the Trust has committed to keep their promise that the money will be for the direct benefit of urological cancer patients in the Wigan Borough.

Lancashire's children's centres have been recognised with a prestigious award for the high standard of care they provide to new mums and children.

The centres, which are run by Lancashire County Council and the health visiting service, which is provided by Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust in the east, west and central areas of the county, have both been awarded the Baby Friendly accreditation.

Local peer support teams, where volunteer mothers are trained to support others with breastfeeding, were also recognised with this award.

Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which provides the health visiting service at the children's centres in north Lancashire has already achieved the accolade.

The Baby Friendly Initiative, run

by Unicef and the World Health Organisation, is a global programme which helps health services to improve the infant feeding support provided for mothers and babies.

In the UK, the initiative works with public services to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding and to strengthen mother-baby and family relationships.

The accolade recognises the high level of support in Lancashire and the positive comments from mothers who use the facilities, with 94% of them being happy with the service.

County Councillor Azhar Ali, cabinet member for children, young people and schools, said: "It's great that our children's centres have been recognised with the prestigious Unicef Baby Friendly Award.

"We decided to sign up to Unicef UKs Baby Friendly Initiative to increase breastfeeding rates and to improve care for all mothers at our centres.

"Breastfeeding protects babies against a wide range of serious illnesses including gastroenteritis and respiratory infections in infancy as well as asthma, cardiovascular disease and diabetes in later life.

"We also know that breastfeeding reduces the mother’s risk of some cancers so it's important we give new mums all the support they need if they choose to breastfeed.

"We work very closely with the local NHS care trusts, health visitors and local breastfeeding support services who do a superb job supporting mothers in the community.

Congratulations to everyone involved for achieving this award."

Family plea for

information about

missing man

From left to right: Mr Andy Thompson, Clinical Lead Urology Consultant and Maurice McCarthy, Immediate Past President of the Leigh Catenians

The family of a missing Waterfoot man have made an emotional plea for anyone with information of his whereabouts to come forward.

Robert Christopher Hornsby, 50, known as Chris/ Christopher, was last seen by his neighbours almost four weeks ago and it is believed that he has not been at his home address for some days, possibly weeks.

There have been no confirmed sightings since and officers are still trying to establish what has happened to him.

His brother, Andrew Hornsby, said: “No one has seen or heard from Chris for a while now, there are no signs of him recently being at home and it seems as if he has just disappeared.

“Chris, if you’re reading this, please make contact with one of us or the police so we know you’re alright. We are really worried about you and just want to know that you are okay.”

Officers have also released have released a new image in the hope that someone may have seen him.

DI Paul Barlow from Blackburn Police said: “We are very concerned for Mr Hornsby’s welfare given the length of time he has been missing and because there have been no recent confirmed sightings of him.

“Please take the time to look at his image and if you think you have seen him, please get in touch with us immediately as we and his family understandably want to know that he is safe and well.”

He is described as white, around 6ft 4ins, of large build with a ginger coloured beard and receding hair. He also wears glasses.

Anyone with information is asked to call us on 101 quoting incident reference LC-20170214-1243.

Blackburn, Hyndburn &

Ribble Valley Samaritans

Did you know the suicide rate for Blackburn with Darwen is reported as 10.00 per 100,000 for the period 2012 - 2014. This is higher than the England average of 8.9 per 100.000 for the same period.

It costs £33,000 per year to provide Blackburn, Hyndburn & Ribble Valley Samaritans services and the support mechanism for people facing

feelings of distress or crisis that can lead to suicide. Last year our branch received over 26,000 call for support.

Our costs are used to: To raise awareness of our services by marketing and publicity expenditure along with the recruitment and training of volunteers who are always there providing emotional support to those who need us.

Our branch has no paid staff and is run entirely by volunteers - currently our branch has 80 volunteers and we are always looking for more to help us provide a listening service or help us fundraise. Did you know you can text BLKBN24 £3 to 70070 and you could donate £3 or alternatively you could donate through our branch website www.samaritans.org and then search for Blackburn, Hyndburn & Ribble Valley Branch.

If you would like more information on volunteering why not attend one of our information sessions where you can find out if volunteering with us if for you. Please ring our recruitment line on 01254 682266 or alternatively email us on blackburn@samaritans. org for more information.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 29. Page 5.

STOCKPORT SKATERS FLYING HIGH WITH OPENING

OF NEW SKATE PARK IN ALEXANDRA PARK, EDGELEY

Alexandra Park’s fantastic new facility for Stockport skateboarders, BMXers, scooter riders and inline skaters is now open.

The construction of the skate park is now complete and the fences are now coming down!

Alexandra Skatepark Association led this project from the very start and, through partnership working, has delivered a top class Skate Park serving the whole of Stockport town centre and the surrounding districts.

It was carefully designed to cater for a wide range of skill levels and experience, and provides challenging routes for those just beginning to skate, to the most experienced of riders. From the conception to the

completion, this project had always been instigated and driven by young people from the heart of the community. They identified a need for somewhere local that was free, accessible and usable by local people of all ages and abilities. Parents were also behind the idea, as they were taking their children all over the North West to skate parks, so they recognised that having something on their doorstep would be fantastic.

The young people contacted their local Councillors, who have been involved with this project from the beginning, consulted park users and also established a Facebook group in order to expand the group and reach out to the wider community.

Stockport Council provided the first contribution of £50,000 from commuted sums held for sports development; Life Leisure also showed their commitment to this project by contributing £50,000.

Alexandra Skatepark Association then applied for a grant from Veolia Environmental Trust and received an additional £36,850. Stockport Homes also made a contribution of £5,000.

Councillor Sheila Bailey, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Communities & Housing, said: "This project is a credit to everyone involved. It has taken several years to complete but persistence and commitment have been rewarded. I am sure the facility will be a great

Art & Soul Tattoo Studio

Art & Soul Tattoo Studio is owned by Nick Bleasdale, who is a local man from the Preston area, having lived in Penwortham and Preston all his life.

He has had an interest in tattoos since the age of fourteen, and he gets his talent for drawing and painting from his father, who was an accomplished amateur artist with a wicked eye for caricatures.

Nick and his father did not always see eye-to-eye concerning his determination to be a tattooist, and he spent some time travelling the length of the country with his tattoo kit in his rucksack, b e f o r e returning and settling down in Leyland.

He attended the University of Central Lancashire and obtained a degree in Fine Art and Illustration to prove that he was serious!

If you want to know anything about the history and development of tattooing, Nick is the man to see. You can drop in for a chat any time provided he is not busy with a customer, and you will get a brew and a very interesting discussion on the subject – just be prepared to spend an hour or so!

Although Nick’s first love is the tattoo, he is also accomplished with an airbrush or paintbrush, pencil or charcoal, and any medium will do –

your skin is the first choice, but if you have a scooter, motorcycle, sidecar, car, van, fence or wall, (inside or outside) in need of adornment he will be happy to oblige.

In his leisure time Nick is somewhat of a musician; he plays guitar, Mandolin, banjo, drums, penny whistle, flute and probably anything else if you hand it to him.

asset to the local community.”

Malcolm McPhail, CEO at Life Leisure, commented: “We are delighted that the project has come to fruition and are very proud to have played a part in bringing this fantastic project to life. Young people from the local community have shown so much passion and commitment throughout the entire process, so seeing their vision realised is hugely important.

The Skate Park is a great example of how a modern alliance gets things done and makes things happen here in Stockport better.”

Owen Peters, Member of the Alexandra Park Skatepark Association, said: "It has taken an unbelievable amount of time and hard work to get to where we are. When we first started the Association we never expected to get the amount of support and drive that we did. I would personally like to thank everyone for their support. The anticipation from the community has been truly overwhelming. I would also like to thank all the agencies that got us to the place we are today. I'll see you all at the skate park!"

Paul Taylor, Executive Director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, added: “We support community projects across England and Wales.

Skate parks have many benefits for young people and the areas they are located in and we are very happy to be able help with the creation of this one.”

The skate park is located at Alexandra Park, Edgeley Road, Edgeley, Stockport, SK1 3XE.

Page 6. Issue 29. Lancashire Local

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Redrock Stockport brings

major boost to local economy

Stockport Council is celebrating the success of the town’s flagship leisure development, Redrock, which has so far brought a cash injection of over £4.5m to Stockport businesses.

Main contractor, Wates Construction, began building last spring and has been joined on site by Stockport-based subcontractors, Williams Construction and McCrory Brickwork, who were each awarded contracts valued at £3.5m and £1.1m respectively.

The local economic boost is the latest benefit brought to the town

by Stockport Council’s £45m investment in its new leisure destination. The site has also played host to over 21 apprentices and trainees, work experience placements and more than 100 construction workers from across Greater Manchester.

Wates are also continuing to engage with local schools and colleges.

This has seen them getting involved in Stockport Council’s fifth annual ‘Young Apprentice’ tournament at Edgeley Park at which teams of students were challenged to design robots that would improve health and safety on construction sites.

Wates’ work at Redrock is gathering pace with the cinema’s steel frame now complete. The development’s car park is nearing completion and 2017 will see the installation of the link bridge to Debenhams, the buildings completion and interior fit outs ahead of the opening in November.

Once complete, Redrock will

bring a new leisure development to the heart of Stockport, together with a new 360-space car park. Already signed up to open at Redrock are The Light Cinema, Pizza Express, Zizzi and Gourmet Burger Kitchen, The new development forms part of Stockport Council’s Investing in Stockport programme, which is investing over £1 billion into Stockport at the moment, helping ensure the town grows and is as successful as possible. Estimates predict that this influx of investment will generate at least 5,000 employment opportunities for the town.

Councillor Kate Butler, Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration at Stockport Council said: “It’s great to hear about local firms and residents benefitting from the work taking place at Redrock.

Whilst the transformation our Investing in Stockport work is

bringing to Stockport’s landscape is vital, of equal importance to us is ensuring residents and businesses benefit from the investments and the opportunities being created from day one. The work at Redrock demonstrates this in action.”

Tony Shenton, Business Unit Director of Wates Construction North West, commented: “Redrock is playing a major role in the ongoing investments being made in Stockport so it is right and fitting that it is being used to bring so much benefit to the town.

As well as creating on-site employment and training opportunities we have also fulfilled a commitment to engage local supply chain partners, the benefit of which is that the positive economic impact of our work will continue to be felt long after we have left the site.”

New legislation gives a

boost to child safety

New legislation on child car seats is being introduced to limit the use of backless booster seats to older children.

The rules are due to come into force at some point this year and will only permit backless booster seats to be used by children taller than 125cm and weighing more than 22kg.

Currently children weighing as little as 15kg can travel in a backless booster seat. This could mean children as young as three are being put on a backless booster seat.

The new rule will prevent children being put on these seats too early in their development. If a child is too small for the backless booster seat the seatbelt could be too high up on their body, which can cause very serious if not fatal injuries in a crash. Ideally older children should sit on a high back booster seat, as they offer more protection and enable the seatbelt to be routed correctly. Although these car seats can be more expensive they offer more protection and therefore

more value for money.

Jan Brabin, senior road safety officer at Bury Council, said: “A problem that many parents face is that older children can sometimes be reluctant to use child car seats because they perceive them as babyish and not ‘cool’.

“It is important that children are told why car seats are so important and that parents comply with the law by transporting children safely.

“Parents should not rush their children through the different stages of child car seats. As long as your child is within the weight and height limits of the car seat, the lower stage restraint will offer more protection.”

The new legislation will only apply to newly sold products, so parents currently using a booster seat that already apply to existing regulations, will still be able to use that seat. Any parents looking to buy a backless booster seat this year should start to see that they're not approved for use with children under 125cm and 22kg.

According to UK law, all children travelling in a car must use the correct car seat until they reach 12 years of age or 135cm in height.

In-car safety top tips: It is illegal to put a rear-facing child seat in the front passenger seat of a car, where there is an active airbag fitted.

Adjust the internal straps when your child changes clothes or as your child develops to ensure that they are secure.

Don’t buy child restraints from the internet as you will not be shown how to fit them and it may not be suitable for your vehicle.

Don’t use second-hand child car seats as they have a lifespan of approximately five years and you cannot guarantee their history.

If you are involved in a bump, crash or collision you should replace the child car seat even if no one was in the seat at the time. Some insurers will replace them for free as part of your policy.

Artist wins solo exhibition at

Clitheroe Castle Museum

The latest exhibition at Clitheroe Castle Museum will showcase the work of the winner of the 2016 Ribble Valley Selectors' Choice Open Art exhibition.

Local artist Patrick Troughton's art will be on display from Saturday 4 March until Wednesday 3 May in the Steward's Gallery.

Patrick's winning watercolour, 'Impossible Time', a self-portrait featuring symbolism relating to time, will be one of the works on show.

The artist usually paints buildings, landscapes and caricatures in watercolours and charcoal drawings.

The annual Ribble Valley Open exhibition is an opportunity for local amateur and professional artists to submit work on a given theme. The artist awarded the Selectors' Choice is given the chance to showcase their work in a solo exhibition.

County Councillor Marcus Johnstone, Lancashire County Council's cabinet

member for environment, planning and cultural services, said: "I'm sure visitors will be impressed by the high quality of Patrick's work.

"Patrick was such a worthy winner of the Selectors' Choice. It is great to be able to exhibit the work of such a talented artist.

"Our annual Open Art exhibition really does give local artists a chance to show their skill and creativity."

Patrick added: "I love to paint local scenes that showcase both the countryside and the town. My work also includes caricatures that capture the life, humour and energy of the area.

"This is the first time that I have entered this exhibition and it is great to have won the Selectors' Choice. I was so pleased to win it, especially as I'm from Clitheroe, and I'm thrilled to have this opportunity of a solo exhibition showcasing both paintings and charcoal drawings."

This year's Ribble Valley Open exhibition starts on Saturday 5 August.

The Steward's Gallery is open daily from 12 noon to 4pm in March and from 11am to 4pm in April and May. Admission to the exhibition within the Steward's Gallery part of Clitheroe Castle is free.

Admission to Clitheroe Castle Museum from 1 April is £4.20 for adults and £3.10 for concessions.

Children and young people up to the age of 18 years go free.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Limited disabled parking is available at the museum. Parking is also available on car parks in the town centre.

For more information, phone 01200 424568 or email clitheroecastle@ lancashire.gov.uk Alternatively, visit www.lancashire. gov.uk/museums

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Lancashire Local. Issue 29. Page 7.

GMP awarded for their use

of camera technology

Greater Manchester Police has become one of the first police forces to be awarded by the Government for its use of body worn cameras.

The certificate was awarded to GMP in recognition of its compliance with a number of set guidelines related to the use of body worn camera surveillance.

GMP, along with only the Metropolitan Police, has clearly demonstrated that it complies with all 12 of the guiding principles of the surveillance camera code, which the Government has legislated for all police forces in England and Wales to show due regard to.

In order to achieve full certification auditors had to independently judge GMP on a number of principles, including an individual’s right to privacy, safeguards against unauthorised access and to ensure that all surveillance materials are destroyed when no longer required.

Achieving full certification means that the public of Greater Manchester can be reassured that GMP is complying with the code and use body worn video (BWV) technology, and the information gathered, in the most appropriate manner possible.

GMP Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts, said: “Receiving this certification clearly demonstrates our commitment at GMP to

use body worn cameras effectively and proportionally.

“This technology will continue to aid us in the fight against crime, and the general public can be assured that their right to privacy is maintained.”

Tony Porter, the Government’s Surveillance Camera Commissioner who awarded GMP the award, said: “I am delighted Greater Manchester Police has achieved my certification mark for Body Worn Video.

GMP, together with the Metropolitan Police, are the first forces to have achieved this award nationally.

“It is important that the public recognise that such technology is used to the highest standards.

Certification demonstrates compliance to the Surveillance Camera Code of Practice, that its use is transparent and that it places public privacy as a priority.

“Ultimately it will ensure ongoing public support in the use of this technology that is there to support the police in its work and reassure the community as to its use.”

Play Factore, the UK’s leading indoor family entertainment arena!

The state of the art arena houses the largest play frame in Europe along with a host of other unique attractions that are second to none, enabling parents and guardians to join in the fun on age applicable equipment and enjoy all of the great facilities Play Factore have to offer in our 26 000sq ft arena. Based in Manchester next to the Intu Trafford Centre, Play Factore provides a complete day out for families shopping in the area and children eager for entertainment.

For any child, their own birthday party is the highlight of the year and Play Factore provide the Ultimate

Birthday Parties! Situated underneath the Chill Factore building, Play Factore also have incredibly designed party rooms, each fully equipped with iPods providing individual party music, movement sensory LED lights and a selection of delicious party menus.

The ultimate kids’ birthday party at the UK’s leading entertainment arena is for 2 whole hours so there’s plenty of time for your little ones to enjoy the exciting facilities on offer at Play Factore. From the 40ft long indoor slide and exhilarating Zip Wire experience to whizzing around the Go Kart track or mastering the art of stealth in the Laser Quest area; Play

Play Factore

Factore’s dedicated team will ensure you and your guests enjoy a party to remember!

Play Factore’s amazing Italian coffee shop and pizzeria provides healthy, freshly prepared homemade food that all the family can enjoy. Only fresh and locally sourced ingredients are used by our team of dedicated chefs to produce the dishes. The extensive menu consists of pizza baked in a traditional Italian oven, pasta dishes, Deli – baby options as well as a variety of deli style bagels for all the family plus salads and a wide selection of side/sharing plates.

Check www.playfactore.com for more details!

Page 8. Issue 29. Lancashire Local

do you want to get better connected?

Are you a Pendle based business or do you trade in the borough? If the answer’s yes, you need to join us at Pendle Connects!

Created in response to local feedback, Pendle Connects events will run quarterly and combine business networking with panel interviews.

Experts will focus on themes which are key to success within the Pendle economy.

The launch event - Digital, what can it do for your business? – will take place on Thursday 16 March, 8am – 10am, at Training 2000 in Netherfield Road, Nelson.

As well as the chance to learn from and network with guest experts and other local businesses, Dean Langton, Pendle Council’s Strategic Director, will deliver an update for the borough.

Councillor Mohammed Iqbal, Leader of Pendle Council and lead on economic development for Pendle, said: “This is something that we’ve looked at doing for some time and I’m delighted that lovelocalnetworking will run Pendle Connects with support from us and Business in the Community. “Pendle Connects will give businesses a fantastic opportunity to build relationships and create a network of strong contacts.

“Pendle has so many businesses which are key players nationally and internationally and they’ll all have advice on how to succeed.”

The events are supported by Pendle Vision Board which speaks up for the private sector and promotes the borough as a great place to live, work and play. Dennis Mendoros, Chairman, said: “These networking events give us a great opportunity

to shout about what we’re doing to make Pendle the place to do business.

“We need to encourage new businesses to start and grow here, nurture existing ones to become more innovative and attract inward investment. “By working closely with our business community we can ensure that we can better meet their needs and provide a skilled workforce.” Rachel Kay, Pendle Connects organiser, added: “We’re proud to be launching Pendle Connects. “We’ve run events in Pendle for two years and are committed to supporting local businesses.

“At the launch event we’ll discuss how using the latest digital technologies and marketing platforms can transform businesses.

“We’ll also look at the importance of being cyber-secure.”

The panellists for the 16 March launch event are: • Jane Cleaver, Managing Director of Printoff & Concept4 (Nelson) • Leon Calverley, Director of Door4 Digital Agency (Nelson) • Sarah Green, Cyber Security Manager, Training 2000, (Nelson) • Stewart Townsend, Director of Lancashire County Council’s initiative Digital Lancashire.

Breakfast and refreshments will be provided at 8am and networking will take place until 8.40am when the panel interview begins.

Events are open to all Pendle based businesses and those doing business in Pendle. Businesses from all sectors - private, public and voluntary are encouraged to attend.

Tickets can be booked at the Pendle Connects website www. pendleconnects.uk and cost £15 including refreshments.

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Woodnook Regeneration Scoops

Prestigious Partnership Award

Hyndburn Council and specialist build-to-rent developer, PlaceFirst, scooped the Public/Private Partnership of the Year Award at the prestigious Insider North West Residential Property Awards.

The award was for their innovative partnership which is creating a thriving community of new family housing in Woodnook, Accrington.

PlaceFirst submitted the nomination on behalf of the £15.5m partnership, which has brought an economic lift to a deprived neighbourhood of Accrington through re-modelling and refurbishment of over 150 empty homes, a range of environmental improvements and the creation of two new public spaces.

Councillor Clare Cleary, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Housing, who supported the nomination, was delighted with the win. Cllr Cleary said, 'We are very proud of this innovative partnership with PlaceFirst which is creating a thriving community of new family housing in Woodnook. Through the remodelling of empty terraced properties, the high specification of works and superb energy efficiency measures, demand for housing in Woodnook has returned and it's now a desirable place to live once again.'

Cllr Cleary added, 'Through the partnership we were successful in attracting public funding to the area, with PlaceFirst investing around

£7million to remodel and refurbish the homes in Phase 1. Hyndburn Council, as a result of the partnership with PlaceFirst, gained a further £3.76 million Government funding, which PlaceFirst again match funded pound for pound which we've invested in the wider regeneration of the neighbourhood, including investment in the public realm and surrounding properties with face lifting and external improvements.'

David Smith-Milne of PlaceFirst said,

'We are delighted with the award for best public/private partnership with Hyndburn Council. From the outset, both partners had a clear vision of how Woodnook could be transformed into a thriving family neighbourhood, and we have worked tirelessly over the last few years to deliver that vision.'

'Not only has the project shown what can be achieved with empty properties, but it has also raised the standard of market rent housing for

the increasing number of households who rely on this sector for their accommodation needs.'

Cllr Cleary concluded, 'The regeneration in Woodnook is not yet complete and we will be moving into the lower Woodnook area soon to bring back another 26 properties into use through this partnership.'

Anyone interested in the new family homes in Woodnook should contact PlaceFirst directly on 0161 413 5811 or lettings@placefirst.co.uk.

Trust Chief Executive named one of Top 50 NHS CEOs

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust (ELHT) Chief Executive, Kevin McGee, has been recognised as one of the Top 50 Chief Executives in a list of NHS leaders selected by the country’s largest specialist healthcare magazine, the Health Service

Journal (HSJ). Shortlisted for his foresight, resilience and leadership, the HSJ Top 50 Chief Executives Award recognises Kevin McGee’s outstanding leadership qualities and unwavering focus on improving care at ELHT’s five hospitals and

numerous community services.

Appointed to the Trust’s top role as recently as September 2014, Kevin McGee’s focus has been high quality treatment and patient care with a particular desire to shine a light on the outstanding care, skill,

professionalism and compassion of the Trust’s 7,000+ staff.

Kevin took the helm of an organisation that had been in ‘special measures’ just weeks before his arrival and has overseen an impressive turnaround in the Trust’s fortunes which culminated in a Care Quality Commission rating of ‘Good’ in January this year.

It is very pleasing to be named in the top 50 Chief Executives but this recognition is really for the whole Trust and the major achievements we have made in quality, performance, leadership and employee engagement. Our wonderful staff and leaders fully deserve to share the credit, he says.

The Top 50 Chief Executive judges were keen to look beyond the balance sheet at how NHS leaders such as Kevin McGee engage with the people they serve, the staff they employ and the impact their leadership has both within the Trust and beyond.

Since Kevin’s arrival at ELHT, the Trust has achieved a number of significant improvements in patient care including reducing cases of patient harm by more than 500 per year, reduced inpatient falls by 36 per cent and invested in new facilities such as the East Lancashire Elective Centre at Burnley General Teaching Hospital.

ELHT Chairman Professor Eileen Fairhurst added: This is a magnificent accolade for Kevin personally and East Lancashire Hospitals in general. We are proud of Kevin’s accomplishments, his outstanding leadership qualities and his increasingly influential role within the NHS, both locally and nationally.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 29. Page 9.

Page 10. Issue 29. Lancashire Local

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International Women’s Day to

capture Dreams for our Daughters

Residents are being invited to a workshop to make decorations for a ‘wishing tree’ marking International Women’s Day on March 8.

The handmade decorations that will include dream catchers and prayer flags will be hung on a tree in front of Blackburn Cathedral as part of an art installation called ‘Dreams for our Daughters’.

Other decorations that will hang on the tree will be made by women supported by Blackburn organisation Humraaz, that helps victims of violent abuse including domestic violence.

The tree will be dedicated to hopes of a better future for women around the world.

The art installation is one of a number of events taking place throughout the week in Blackburn with Darwen to mark International Women’s Day, a global day celebration of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

This year’s theme is Be Bold for Change and calls on people to address gender equality.

The events are being backed by a number of partners including The Mall, Blackburn Rovers, Blackburn Youth Zone, Lancashire Constabulary, The Office of the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner and Blackburn with Darwen Council.

Cllr Maureen Bateson, Executive

Member for Childrens’ Services at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said We are working with other organisations across the borough to recognise this day, which not only marks the important contributions that women make in all strands of society but also calls for greater equality for women.

We hope that all women will be inspired by the events that are being held and find out about all the opportunities that are available to them.

The ‘wishing tree’ workshop will be held on March 4 at the Bureau, Centre for the Arts on Victoria Street from 1-4pm.

Marsden Heights students receive

leadership training from Pendle business

Students from Marsden Heights Community College have been given tips on how to become leaders from Pendle company Businesswise Solutions.

It’s part of a programme funded by Pendle Council which enables young people to leave school and go on to build successful working lives.

Called Pendle Business Class, the three year project is being run by charity Business in the Community (BITC), as part of its national scheme.

By linking schools with businesses, the pilot which is part-funded by the Council’s Gearing Up for Growth Fund, aims to give young people more confidence, greater motivation at school and a better understanding of the careers available.

And 19 students from years 7 to 10 from Marsden Heights received leadership training from Catherine Durris, Finance Director at Businesswise Solutions in Nelson.

She said: “The BITC project is a really

good initiative and I was excited for Businesswise to get involved.

“It gives students access to real businesses who can share their real experiences and help students relate their theoretical learning to the real business world.”

Fiona Clark from Marsden Heights Community College said: “We’re delighted to be taking part in Pendle Business Class.

“We re-launched our House system in September and want the students

to take ownership of it rather than the staff. “Those who attended the leadership training had put their names down to be part of a committee to oversee the running of the House system. “This leadership session helped increase their confidence levels and gave them fantastic tips on how to run their own meetings and understand the different roles.”

Councillor Mohammed Iqbal, Leader of Pendle Council and Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: “Our local businesses have a crucial part to play in supporting young people in school and encouraging them to go on to further education or start a career.

“Young people who are involved in four or more employer engagement activities are five times less likely to become NEET (not in education, employment or training).

“It also dramatically reduces the chances of them behaving criminally and having poor physical and mental health when they’re older.”

Councillor Iqbal added that the Council has a positive relationship with all schools in the borough and where possible helps to improve outcomes for all pupils.

Paul Symes, Education Manager Lancashire for BITC, said: “Due to skills shortages, the North West particularly suffers from a high

number of job vacancies in the business, science, engineering, care and administration sectors.

“Business Class is a fantastic way of making sure young people understand what local career options are available.

“It also means they will have better access to opportunities and will be able to recognise and gain the skills they need to build successful working lives.” Business Class is working with Marsden Heights Community College and West Craven High School.

The businesses also taking part are Silentnight, Daisy, Hope Technology, Concept4 and cottages.com.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 29. Page 11.

Burnley's bus of the future

is being 'made to measure'

Back in December, we ran a survey called 'Make My Mainline' to ask you, our lovely customers on Mainline, what you'd like to see on your brand new buses coming later this year.

And tell us, you did!

We received around 200 responses to our survey, with some really fantastic and 'out of the box' ideas sent in. Now, we're delighted to reveal some of the details for your amazing new buses.

30 top-of-the-range buses, to be built right here in the North of England, will replace our entire fleet on Mainline this summer, representing a whopping £4.6million investment.

Mainline runs up to every 7 minutes between Padiham, Burnley, Nelson and Colne, with buses also running to Accrington, Clitheroe, Barnoldswick, Trawden and Keighley.

But what really makes these new vehicles stand out from the crowd is the design details which have come directly from you.

Our CEO, Alex Hornby, said: "No motor manufacturer would design a new car without thinking long and hard about the features most likely to attract buyers, and so why would we possibly design our new Mainline buses without capturing the views of our customers?" “We knew the only way to come up with a new fleet of buses that our customers will really love using was to put their ideas centre stage – and they've done us proud with some fantastic ideas, as

well as a firm reminder about basic requirements too.”

“Some of the wackiest ideas suggested to us included amphibious buses that could drive along Pendle Water, or having coffee machines and baristas on every bus! But we found out that most of our passengers really want fast, free and reliable WiFi, at-seat USB power points and more wireless charging points, which are now expected as standard.

“Perhaps surprisingly, the demand for more basic things like better legroom, a bright and well-lit environment, a place to rest belongings and even a bigger litter bin all rated highly in the survey – all of which have led to enhancements on these new Mainline buses, compared to previous models”.

The new buses will feature a whole host of other exciting features, some of which have never been seen before on buses in the north - we'll reveal all nearer the time!

Can't contain your excitement?

Drop us a tweet @burnleybuses and tell us what you think!

Find out more about Mainline, check fares and plan your journey at mainlinebus.co.uk.

Blackburn welcomes visitors

with eye-catching new sign

Visitors and residents will get a new welcome to Blackburn as a sign is unveiled at one of the town’s gateways.

A large permanent ‘Blackburn’ sign has been installed on the new green area to the front of Blackburn bus station at Penny Street. It features letters one metre high and is part of the gateway improvements to the town centre.

Each letter has two fixing legs that will be concreted in the ground.

It is the newest addition to – and a signpost to – the regeneration of Blackburn town centre, which

includes the award winning market, new bus station and the multi-million pound developments at the Cathedral Quarter.

It also comes hot on the heels of Blackburn’s triumph at the Great British High Street Awards, where it was awarded the Best British Town Centre award, as well as being crowned ‘Winner of Winners’.

Councillor Phil Riley, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, said: This is a major gateway to the town centre and this sign will give a big welcome to anyone travelling in for

shopping, something to eat, or work or business.

Blackburn has a huge amount to offer visitors and residents and this sign is another reminder that Blackburn town centre has taken leaps and bounds in what it has to offer.”

Contractor Nick Riley of Landscape Engineering Ltd, said: This is another example of the innovation within the Council for enhancing key gateways into the town – they will never please everyone but artworks are always a great talking point – even better when they are ‘Made in Blackburn”.

Volunteer recognised

at special awards

A volunteer will be recognised for her work supporting the refugee community at a special celebration this week. Chris Seddon will be this year’s recipient of the Council Leader Award created by community group One Voice.

The award acknowledges people that have promoted community cohesion through leadership and is chosen by the leader of the Council.

Chris will receive her award this Saturday at the One Voice Annual Awards Dinner.

Councillor Mohammed Khan, Leader of the Council, will present it to her.

Chris was nominated for her work supporting the refugee community and the Blackburn YMCA. She has also served as a governor of a local school for 30 years as well as volunteering for a wide range of community activities.

Chris said: I am so surprised and delighted to receive this award and for once I was speechless.

To me our town, Blackburn, is proud and vibrant with a diverse population.

Providing opportunities for understanding the lives and experiences of each other goes a long way to ensuring cohesive communities where everyone wants to contribute and feel valued. Respecting and valuing our neighbours can only support our communities especially our young people to live in harmony in our town and country.

Councillor Khan said: Chris is a worthy winner of this award. She has done much good work over the years to promote community cohesion. She has led efforts to build bridges between different communities.

Abrar Hussain, One Voice Blackburn Chairman, said: Chris Seddon is an inspirational lady who is relentless in her work in community cohesion, and ensuring the most disenfranchised communities in the Borough are given a voice. She is a fantastic choice for the Mohammed khan Leader’s Award 2017.

Page 12. Issue 29. Lancashire Local

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St Helens GPs and Council support

campaign to keep antibiotics working

St Helens Council’s Public Health team and local GPs are supporting a new campaign which highlights the dangers of taking antibiotics when you don’t need them.

Public Health England’s ‘Keep Antibiotics Working’ campaign has been introduced to raise awareness to the estimated 5,000 deaths caused every year in England as a result of antibiotics no longer working for some infections.

In St Helens last year, one in five people had an antibiotic in the previous three months, the highest rate in the in the North West.

Antibiotics are an important tool for doctors and healthcare professionals to help treat serious bacterial infections, such as pneumonia,

meningococcal meningitis and sepsis, and help ward off infections during chemotherapy, caesarean sections and other surgery. However, antibiotics are being used for everyday viral infections, such as colds or flu, where they are not effective and can cause harm. Dr Joe Banat, local GP and board member of St Helens CCG said: “Antibiotics are needed for serious bacterial infections but don’t work for everyday viral infections such as cold and flu. Many people ask their GP for antibiotics when they aren't needed. If you take antibiotics when you don’t need them, the dangerous bacteria inside you can become resistant to antibiotics. This means they are less likely to work for you when you really need them."

St Helens Council’s Interim Director for Public Health, Sue Forster added: “40 per cent of people in the North West don’t realise that if someone has taken antibiotics in the last year, any infection they get is more likely to be antibiotic resistant. They can also pass on antibiotic resistant bacteria to loved ones. St Helens Council and CCG are working with local GPs to reduce the number of antibiotics prescribed unnecessarily and support the Public Health England campaign to help people become aware of the dangers of taking antibiotics.”

For further information on antibiotic resistance please search NHS Antibiotics or visit www.nhs.uk/ keepantibioticsworking.

All 13 councillors voted unanimously in favour of the development which will see the erection of 142 dwellings, including a mixture of detached and semi-detached properties, on a 4.87 hectare site to the west of Common Road that is allocated for residential development in the St Helens Unitary Development Plan.

Located approximately 1km from Earlestown town centre, work on the

dwellings – some of which will be affordable units – is expected to start imminently.

The well-timed approval is a boost in the arm for St Helens’ housing land supply after an assessment carried out by independent assessors found a requirement for more housing in all the key settlements within the borough, in order to create a wider choice and greater affordability for

local residents.

Welcoming the decision, St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Growth, Councillor John Fulham, who sits on the Planning Committee, said: “Granting approval for new houses helps families get on the housing ladder while helping build the local economy, so I am delighted that this application for 142 new homes in the borough has been approved.

St Helens Council’s Public Health team and local GPs are supporting Public Health England’s ‘Keep Antibiotics Working’ campaign which highlights the dangers of taking antibiotics when you don’t need them.

Green light given for 142 new houses in Newton-le-Willows “This is a small step in the right direction to securing a wide selection of housing stock which ranges from starter homes to specialist homes such as bungalows and lifetime homes, and the passing of this application certainly helps us achieve our objective of growing the economy and our tax base to help recover some of the £90m we will have lost to central Government grant cuts by 2020". Image shows the proposed site layout of the 142 houses, which will be built on land to the west of Common Road, Newton-le-Willows.

Local libraries awarded

Young People Friendly status

St Helens Council’s Library Service has been recognised for being welcoming and accessible to young people.

Young People Friendly status is awarded to services that have demonstrated they provide a welcoming experience to young people. Each service is visited by a team of trained Young Assessors, who consider factors such as accessibility, how effectively the service is publicised, staff attitude to young

people and the overall environment in which the service operates.

Sue Williamson, Head of Library Services said: “Young people can be sure of a warm welcome and a helping hand in St Helens libraries so we’re delighted to be assessed so positively.

This award confirms what we strive to be in libraries and compliments the recent Baby Friendly Award that the service has achieved.”

As well as St Helens libraries, a number of other local health and

leisure services have achieved Young People Friendly status.

The award is adapted from the national ‘You’re Welcome’ scheme, with criteria set by the Department of Health.

Libraries are also offering enriching volunteering opportunities to young people aged 11-24 through the Reading Hack scheme. To enquire about Reading Hack, call Library Service Development Manager Kathryn Boothroyd on 01744 677486.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 29. Page 13.

Warrington ‘second

best place to live in UK’

Volunteer of the Year recognition

is music to the ears of DJ duo Two young adults from St. Helens have been commended for their volunteering efforts.

The Mayor of St Helens, Councillor Dave Banks, was on hand to present Carl Smith and Adam Garvey with a trophy each after being named St Helens Council’s Youth Service’s Volunteers of the Year 2016 for giving up their time once a month to help out at Parr wimming & Fitness Centre.

The duo, both 24, DJ once a month for young people at a free swim session and performed at a number of parties last year - including

the Queen’s 90th birthday, Halloween, and Christmas parties - held in youth clubs throughout the borough. Carl and Adam also have a weekly slot at the Youth Service’s 818 additional needs session.

On congratulating the pair, Councillor Banks said: “These two young men fully deserve this award for all their hard work and enthusiasm that they have shown throughout the past year.

“The music they play is enjoyed by young people and staff alike, but more importantly Adam and Carl love playing and helping out. We hope this continues throughout 2017.”

Wargrave Primary School

children cook up a treat

Year One pupils at Wargrave Primary School got a real taste of Italy after visiting an Italian restaurant as part of a class project.

The children, who have been learning about senses, visited local Italian restaurant, Ariete Italian Bar and Restaurant in Newton- Le-Willows, to explore the senses taste and smell and they were sure in for a treat.

Restaurant manager, Eduardo Carcamo arranged for the pupils to design and make their own pizzas from scratch, with a range of toppings including cheese and tomato and pepperoni, available to use.

The children then sat down to eat their pizza while enjoying the real restaurant dining experience, and were able to expand on their vocabulary by describing what their pizza tasted like.

Year 1 teacher Amanda Epstein said: “We have been running this project for a number of years now which is a fun and creative way for the children to learn about senses, and each visit is as good as the last.

“I’d like to thank Eduardo and the team for welcoming us down once again; we’re already looking forward to our next visit.”

Warrington has been named as the second best borough to live in the country in a Channel 4 documentary UK’s Best Places to Live.

Presenter Sarah Beeny announced in the programme, aired last night, that Warrington was in second place nationally behind South Ribble.

The research looked at a series of factors including high employment, income, house price to earnings ratio, culture, health and wellbeing, education and school standards.

The north west ranked highly with Cheshire East and Cheshire West and Chester also high in the charts.

Sarah Beeny said: “Warrington particularly stands out for its highly affordable housing and excellent transport links.”

Cllr Terry O’Neill, leader of Warrington Borough Council, said: “Once again Warrington is riding high in the charts as a great place to live, work, visit and do business.

“The work we are doing as a council to improve the borough’s infrastructure, education and training standards, social care, health and wellbeing, cultural offering and attractiveness to businesses is clearly paying off.”

According to the recent Centre For Cities Report, Warrington has the 9th highest employment rate in the country.

The report says that Warrington has maintained its position as the only place in the North of England classed as a high wage and low welfare city. Warrington is also ranked 15th highest for the number of business start-ups per capita.

Page 14. Issue 29. Lancashire Local

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Council demands assurances

over hospital's future COUNCILLORS are urging immediate action to re-open the borough’s A&E department saying the hospital trust has failed the residents of Chorley. ​The authority hosted an extraordinary meeting this evening (Friday) as councillors of all political parties expressed their surprise and deep concern over the sudden closure.

It now wants bosses at the Lancashire Teaching Hospitals Trust to leave no stone unturned as it tries to secure the extra doctors it needs to reinstate the life-saving department and give a timescale as to when it will re-open.

Councillor Alistair Bradley, Leader of Chorley Council and who was speaking on behalf of all political parties at the authority,

said: “We are more than a week on since the closure was first announced and although we’ve got a long list of things the Trust is doing we now need to see some of this come to fruition.

“The re-opening of the A&E department is something that everyone in the borough feels very strongly about and I feel the Trust has let the people of Chorley down.

“When they spoke to us about the problem it was already too late and it came as a real surprise to everyone as we’d had reassurances the A&E department wouldn’t close just a week or so prior to this.

“We will do all we can to hold the Trust accountable and I’d urge residents to join together as we want them to know that the people of Chorley won’t accept what has happened.”

A special council meeting was called within hours of the news breaking last week and a notice of motion was debated that was supported by councillors of all political parties.

It states that there is deep concern that the problem at Chorley and South Ribble appears to be more acute than anywhere else and calls for the reopening of the A&E department as a matter of urgency.

“It seems the hospital has been struggling with staffing for some time and it has tried to resolve the problems unsuccessfully without raising the severity of the situation soon enough,” said Councillor Bradley.

“What we need now is a clear plan for the future and for the Trust to be open and honest with residents about their intention to keep an A&E department

open in Chorley.

“We think it’s vital that the service is maintained and I’m sure the Trust would agree that we can’t have a situation where people’s lives are being put at risk.

“They have committed to us that they will re-open the A&E department – the answer we want now is when is that going to happen.

“Our fight to get the A&E re-opened has unified the whole community in a way that we’ve not seen for many years and I think that underlines how important it is to residents to see a 24/7 emergency service reinstated as soon as possible.”

The notice of motion was agreed unanimously at Friday’s meeting and the council will continue to push for the A&E department to be opened at the earliest possible opportunity.

BRIGHT NEW FUTURE FOR PRESTON’S LEISURE SERVICE

£2m is to be invested in Preston’s two leisure centres as part of a major overhaul of the city’s leisure services.

In transferring ownership of both Fulwood and West View leisure centres to the UK’s leading leisure providers social enterprise GLL, the City Council aims to boost leisure services in Preston.

Facing an uncertain future under continued council ownership, Councillors have taken the initiative to guarantee future leisure provision in the city – a move welcomed by Councillor Peter Rankin – Leader of

Preston City Council who said: “Without doubt this is one of the most important decisions taken by the City Council in recent times. It means a bright new future for the whole of Preston’s leisure service with new investment and fresh approach.

“The funding the Council now receives from Central Government is over £8m p.a. less than it received in 2012. One of the impacts of the funding reduction is that the Council is simply no longer able to afford to keep the leisure centres running.

In 2015/16 the leisure service cost

the Council approximately £1m.

Therefore we’ve had to look at alternative options – and I am delighted at this deal with GLL. “The recent experience with handing over ownership of Preston Guild Hall fills us with confidence in proceeding with this deal. It is an opportunity for investment to be made in Preston’s leisure service.”

Councillor Peter Kelly – Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture added: “This is a landmark deal for Preston as it ensures the future for our popular and well used leisure centres.

It means over £2m of new investment will be made into Fulwood and West View to both improve and expand the leisure facilities there.

“And in GLL, we have secured one of the best leisure providers in the UK. With more than 46 million visitors to over 250 facilities across the country, Greenwich Leisure has a track record of running highly successful and profitable leisure services.

“Yet as a worker owned social enterprise GLL put people first and run their company in a way that benefits all. This is fantastic news for

the staff who will transfer to GLL, as well as the thousands of people who use Fulwood and West View every day.” Mark Sesnan, MD of GLL said: “Preston is key to the expansion of GLL’s health and wellbeing offer in the north of England.

“Our social enterprise goes from strength to strength with more people getting more active more often. We look forward to welcoming leisure staff into the GLL familing and greeting many new and existing customers at

Preston’s leisure centres, which will be operated under our successful Better brand.” “We are thrilled at the prospect and opportunity in the city.

Preston has a fantastic reputation in the leisure industry and we aim to build on this and really take the leisure service forward from day one.”

Acclaimed artist leads 'Lancashire

Not Forgotten' memory sessions

A Lancashire-wide project will capture the memories of people living with dementia in two new pieces of textile artwork.

Internationally-acclaimed artist, Morwenna Catt, will be interpreting people's memories at three free events, aimed at capturing accounts

of Burnley people's working lives, as part of the 'Lancashire Not Forgotten' project. The two pieces of artwork created will be exhibited later this

year. Along the three themes of where we live, work and play, the project aims to record and save the memories of people living with dementia, prevent them from being lost, and preserve them for the future.

Delivered jointly between Lancashire County Council, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and Blackpool Council, the project will run until October.

The memory sessions will take place as follows: • Monday 27 February at the Mechanics Institute, Burnley from 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Limited places are available, so booking is essential.

• Thursday 13 April at the Mechanics Institute, Burnley from 1.30pm 3.30pm. Limited places are available, so booking is essential.

• Monday 15 May at Burnley Library.

Time to be confirmed - please email for more details.

The project will involve staff from libraries, museums and archives across the three councils working together.

The project has received a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant of £49,000.

County Councillor Azhar Ali, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: "This is a superb opportunity

for people to unlock, revive and record memories from their lives, and be able to share them with their family or with others in the future.

"Sometimes we just don't realise what lovely memories we have, or how important they are. This project will make sure they are recorded and preserved forever.

"Losing your cherished memories is one of the most upsetting aspects of dementia, so being able to reminisce and talk about parts of their life can be very beneficial to anyone living with this condition.

"There are also people who may have dementia, but are not aware of it, and this new project is one of the ways for us to create a dementiafriendly Lancashire and make sure that people get support, in a variety of ways, to help them live well with the condition. "It would be great if people in Burnley could share their memories of their working lives, so that we can have a really rich firsthand account."

Many old photographs and objects will be available at the events to prompt memories. Visitors are also welcome to bring along any of their own photographs to talk about.

There are currently over 10,000

people in Lancashire who have been diagnosed with dementia, but it is estimated that the actual number of people with the condition is much higher. County Councillor Marcus Johnstone, cabinet member for environment, planning and cultural services, said: "The Lancashire Not Forgotten project includes everyday life, work and play, as well as the local heritage connecting the present to the past. People living in Burnley are being asked to remember their working lives. "I'm sure that the textile artwork that Morwenna produces will be a great reflection of people's memories, stimulated by these events." People sharing their memories and stories may be recorded on film and audio as part of the project. Photographs from personal collections will also be made available. Life stories will also be recorded in a shared digital archive through the project.

Friends and relatives who may have noticed changes in the memory or behaviour of someone they know can find information, advice and support by visiting www.lancashire.gov. uk/dementia. For more information about the sessions or to book a place email glynischarlton@gmail.com

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Fined for fly tipping furniture

A Charnock Richard man who dumped furniture on a country lane claimed he’d no money to take it to the tip, a court was told.

We will just not tolerate fly tipping, there is no excuse for it. It is unsightly, illegal, dangerous, can be hazardous to the health of people and wildlife and it pollutes land and the waterways ​Lee Stock, 41, of Preston Road, Charnock Richard, pleaded guilty to fly tipping when he appeared at Chorley Magistrates Court in a prosecution brought by Chorley Council.

He was fined £320, ordered to pay £500 costs plus a £32 victim surcharge.

The court was told that a pick-up truck loaded with furniture had been seen driving along German Lane, Charnock Richard, which is a dead end, and had returned without the furniture. Two sofas, a mattress and an armchair were later found dumped at the end of the country lane opposite the entrance to a sand quarry.

Photographs of the fly tipped goods were sent to the police who then contacted Chorley Council and, following investigations, Stock was interviewed under caution at the council offices.

He admitted he had fly tipped the items saying he did not have any money for the tip. He said he had not received any money for transporting the waste and had done it as a favour.

He admitted he knew it was illegal to fly tip, and said he had made a stupid mistake and apologised for his actions.

Councillor Paul Walmsley, who oversees fly tipping issues at Chorley

Council, said: “It was thanks to vigilant members of the public, who saw the vehicle, made a note of its number and sent photos of the fly tipped furniture to the police, that this prosecution came about.

“We will just not tolerate fly tipping, there is no excuse for it. It is unsightly, illegal, dangerous, can be hazardous to the health of people and wildlife and it pollutes land and the waterways. It’s costing our council taxpayers around £90,000 to deal

with, and that money could be better spent on other things.

“We recently increased the level of fine we can impose on culprits to £400 for small scale fly tipping and for larger incidents such as this, we will pursue prosecution through the courts.

“We’d always urge people to be our eyes and ears and report incidences of fly tipping to us – it can be done online at chorley.gov.uk and done anonymously.”

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Check out Chorley in a Hollywood film

CHORLEY’S Rivington Pike and surrounding landscape is currently starring in the Hollywood film, A Monster Calls, which is out in cinemas now.​ It is fantastic to see Rivington play a part in the film.

The film, which stars Sigourney Weaver, Felicity Jones and the voice of Liam Neeson as the monster, features the local Rivington landscape as the backdrop in several scenes, which were filmed back in October 2014.

At the time, nearby residents and visitors spotted dozens of the film’s crew near the Pigeon Tower up at Rivington after filmmakers got in touch with Chorley Council and other land owners for permission to film in the area. For the purposes of the film, the pike’s tower has been edited out and replaced with a house set amongst some trees but the landscape is still recognisable to people who know the area. The film tells the story of 13-year-old Conor, played by newcomer Lewis MacDougall and is a fantasy movie based on the book by the same name by Patrick Ness.

Councillor Peter Wilson, the Deputy Leader of Chorley Council, said: “With its rugged landscape, historic features and scenic views, Rivington and Rivington Pike make excellent backdrops for lots of different filming opportunities. We were delighted when we were approached by the location manager of a Hollywood movie to do some filming in the

Chorley borough and couldn’t turn down the opportunity.

“The story sounds very dramatic and emotional and it is fantastic to see Rivington play a part in the film. A lot of people already visit the Rivington area for walking, cycling or other recreational activities but we’re hoping this will provide even more exposure, encouraging people to come and see the locations where the film was shot for themselves.

“Attracting visitors is really important to Chorley, helping to boost local

businesses and the local economy and having the area feature in a major Hollywood film is a great opportunity to put Chorley on the map.

“In 2016, we launched our first visitor website checkoutchorley.com to inspire people to visit Chorley.

We know we have some of the most beautiful countryside in the region, a thriving town centre, beautiful canals, parks and historic halls but we want more people to know that Chorley has lots to offer visitors for a great day out.”

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Hundreds join the Spring

Clean in Wigan Borough

Dust off your broom and pull on your gardening gloves– a spring clean is set to sweep through Wigan Borough.

As part of The Deal, at least 30 community clean-ups have already been organised with hundreds of volunteers planning activities to tidy up their neighbourhoods.

Wigan Council has backed the national Great British Spring Clean

campaign, supported by Keep Britain Tidy, being held on the first weekend in March.

But Wigan Borough is going the extra mile with ‘Big Borough Spring Clean’ events being held from Monday 27th February to Sunday 5th March.

Joy Winstanley from the Friends of Three Sisters group in Ashton has already signed up.

Our Town Hall project

poised for final go-ahead The Council’s Executive will discuss the scheme - which aims to boost public access and ensure the building and square continue to play a role at the heart of city life.

The Town Hall will be 140 years old this year. While it has been maintained and remains structurally sound, it is now seriously showing its age with many elements reaching the end of their natural lifespans.

Without significant work to address damage and defects, its condition will deteriorate to the point where it will become unfit for ongoing use and would need to be ‘mothballed.’

The building, designed in the 1860s, also needs work to bring it up to modern access and safety standards while preserving its heritage.

The budget for the whole project – including a sizeable contingency element which should reduce over time – has been set at up to £328.3 million. Independent expert analysis has confirmed the assumptions behind this projected cost.

Deputy Council Leader Councillor Bernard Priest said: “Getting to this point has involved a long and meticulous process. But as a result of the rigorous work done we are confident that we have a scheme which will deliver real and enduring benefits for Manchester.

“Not only will it safeguard this much-loved masterpiece for current and future Mancunians, it will also improve public access to our Town Hall and its treasures and support the city’s economy by giving the building an enhanced role as a visitor destination – and even potentially as a base for emerging businesses.

“Allowing this iconic building to slide into decay and disuse is not an option. We are confident that we have struck the right balance in these plans between introducing some commercial elements which will help generate income to support services and preserving the Town Hall’s essential character.”

The Executive will also be asked to support recommendations on the appropriate mix of uses for the refurbished Town Hall following independent expert analysis of various options.

While the primary role of the Town Hall will always be as the city’s civic focal point, complementary commercial options making use of space not required for this purpose to generate income to support services have been carefully considered.

These included a small boutique hotel in part of the building, office space and food and drink retail.

Work to explore the potential

for a prestigious hotel concluded that a 65-bed hotel using part of the building’s upper floors would be physically feasible. But it was considered that constraints associated with the building’s Grade I-listed status would make it less attractive to operators.

The fit-out cost to create a hotel space, an estimated £30m on top of the project budget, would be prohibitive. On top of this, it would involve too much ongoing financial risk for the Council. It is therefore recommended not to proceed with the hotel element.

Further independent research explored the potential commercial use of currently under-used spaces.

Market testing found that food and drink retail could be viable in the basement and ground floor. But it established that this would be better suited to high quality independents than chains because the latter would want bigger units than would be available, external signage and their own ‘front doors’ to the street.

Analysis of the potential to rent out office space in the upper floors of the refurbished Town Hall found that the constraints associated with the building’s Grade I-listed status would make the spaces less attractive to larger corporate organisations but better suited to small businesses, including startups, or public sector partners.

Alternatively, once the Town Hall has been refurbished there may be an option to relocate staff from the Town Hall extension into the older building and market office spaces in the extension instead.

It is recommended that the office space is fitted out to basic ‘shell and core’ standard to allow maximum flexibility for future use.

The market testing also that determined that whilst the private sector should be involved in the project the Council should retain overall responsibility for the project during the construction phase and for the complex in operation.

Key heritage features of the building, such as the state rooms including the famous Great Hall and its Ford Madox Brown murals, will be restored through the project and external repairs to the roof, stonework and drains carried out on a like-for-like basis. Significant work is also needed to electrics, plumbing, heating, ventilation and lift insallations – all of which are embedded in the fabric of the building.

The Executive will be asked on 8 March to authorise procurement for a main construction contractor for Our Town Hall project.

Joy said: “We’re mainly planning to clean up the paths and clear the mud after winter but we’ll also be litter picking and doing general improvement work.

“We have about seven regular volunteers who are all retired but we always need more people to help out.”

Joy’s husband, Ian, aged 75, is also part of the community group and said he feels the benefits of volunteering at Three Sisters and being out and about in the fresh air.

Ian said: “We’ve always had a strong connection to the site. Over the years we’ve made huge improvements and turned an overgrown plot of land into a community garden. I definitely feel the benefits apart from when it’s too cold!”

Community groups, councillors, businesses and schools are all being encouraged to sign up to the spring clean and help rid the borough of unsightly litter.

Action is being taken in certain areas across the borough where there are a large number of litter and dog fouling complaints including Leigh town centre.

And the council will be carrying out enforcement in hotspot areas for litter to catch any culprits who are blighting the environment.

Councillor Kevin Anderson, cabinet member for environment, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for communities across the borough to come together for a big spring clean.

It’s about bringing people together to make a difference.

“Through The Deal, the council is

already working with our residents to increase their responsibility for their neighbourhoods. We believe there are long-term health benefits, both physical and mental, through residents being more involved in their communities.

“We have fantastic volunteers who

are leading the clean-ups and would encourage as many people as possible to get involved and give something back.”

To join a clean-up in your local area visit https://www.wigan.gov.uk/ Resident/Leisure/In-Bloom/BoroughSpring-Clean.aspx for more details.

Step into spring for Greater

Manchester Walking Weekend

It’s the perfect time to lace up your walking boots for a new event this spring, featuring five of Wigan Borough’s top walking destinations.

From Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th March, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) will be holding its first ever Spring Walking Weekend, with five of the 30 fun and friendly walks set to take place in some of the most beautiful and historic locations across Wigan and Leigh, offering something for every age, interest and ability.

All of the walks co-ordinated by TfGM and supported by Wigan Council’s leisure partner Inspiring healthy lifestyles are accessible by public transport and will take place at Pennington Hall Park, Amberswood Trail, Haigh Woodland Park, Three Sisters and along the Leeds/Liverpool Canal at Plank Lane, Leigh, with a variety of activities, including Nordic walks, a family fun walk and a waggy dog walk perfect to bring along a four legged friend.

Walking routes in the borough already prove popular, particularly through Active Outdoors, part of the Active Living programme, supporting people to become physically active to improve health and quality of life through low cost and free activities.

Councillor Jenny Bullen, Wigan Council’s portfolio holder for leisure, client and resources said: “It’s important for people of all ages across the borough to feel good about themselves, maintain healthy lives and enjoy social activities like walking. The Greater Manchester Walking Weekend is an excellent opportunity for residents to enjoy some of the great walking routes we have through Wigan and Leigh’s Greenheart, coming together as communities to support each other

in getting active.” Councillor Chris Paul, TfGM Committee Cycling and Walking Champion, added: “We’re pleased to be working with some of our local walking partners again to build on the success of our previous walking events and deliver

the region’s first Spring Walking Weekend. “Spring is a particularly beautiful and picturesque time in the British calendar so there really are lots of reasons to get involved and explore some of Greater Manchester’s stunning scenery and interesting

past.” To find out what’s happening at each of the locations listed above, visit www.inspiringhealthylifestyles. org/walking or contact Tracy Morris by emailing t.morris@wlct.org, and don't forget to showcase your walk on social media using #GMWalking

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National Apprenticeship Week 2017:

ladder of opportunity

In its 10th anniversary year, the week will give everyone involved in the apprenticeship community the perfect chance to celebrate individual stories of career progression over the last decade from traineeships through to higher and Degree apprenticeships During National Apprenticeship Week, employers and apprentices

from across England will come together to demonstrate the many benefits that apprenticeships can bring. The week will also aim to encourage more employers to take on apprentices and individuals to choose an apprenticeship as a ladder of opportunity to a great career.

A logo, incorporating the

10th anniversary of National Apprenticeship Week, has also been developed and is now available to promote and support the week. And, in addition to this, 2 toolkits have been created, to enable employers, apprentices, MPs, schools, colleges and training providers to start to plan how they will support the week. The

National Apprenticeship Week 2017:

A time to celebrate!

Monday 6th March sees the start National Apprenticeship Week, a time when all eyes are on Apprenticeships and the benefits they bring to people’s lives, careers and businesses.

This year St Helens Chamber is joining in the celebrations with a number of events, including their annual Apprenticeship Awards Evening on the 7th, which celebrates the local businesses who grow their own talent through Apprenticeships, and the Apprentices who have made a significant contribution to their workplaces.

The awards recognise achievement in a number of categories, including Apprentice of the year, Business of the year, Mentor of the year, and career journey of the year.

Joanne Abraham, Workforce Development Manager at St Helens Chamber, commented: “We had over 300 Apprentices complete their

qualifications with us last year, which in itself is an amazing achievement, so it has made shortlisting the award winners a very difficult task indeed.

“It is fantastic to see how well valued Apprenticeships are by local businesses and the impact their can have on their staff development. We currently have over 500 Apprentices in learning in businesses around St Helens and beyond, and are always looking to fill new positions as businesses continue to create Apprenticeship vacancies.”

Apprenticeships are a great way for people at the start of their careers to gain formal qualifications and valuable work experience, whilst in paid employment.

As an Apprentice, you will earn as you learn, gaining practical skills from the workplace that you can take forward into your future career.

St Helens Chamber’s Apprenticeship

programme is open to people of all ages and career progression for their Apprentices is excellent!

On Thursday 9th March St Helens Chamber will be holding an Open Evening for anyone looking for an Apprenticeship or anyone leaving school in 2017 who is considering their options. The event takes place 4pm – 6pm at St Helens Chamber, Salisbury Street, St Helens.

St Helens Chamber offers Apprenticeships, Traineeships and Study Programmes in a wide range of subjects, including Business Administration, Health & Social Care, Manufacturing, Warehousing, Marketing, Construction, Hairdressing, IT, childcare and much more.

To find out more visit sthelenschamber.com, facebook.com/ sthelenschamberapprenticeships or call them on 01744 742045.

toolkits include key messages, some suggestions for PR and social media and also some tips on hosting events.

Sue Husband, director of the National Apprenticeship Service said: National Apprenticeship Week is a fantastic opportunity for us to celebrate the many benefits of apprenticeships.

Year-on-year I am overwhelmed by how many organisations get behind the week and show their support with the huge amount of events and activities that take place across the

country.

I have no doubt that this, our 10th Anniversary, will be our biggest and best week yet.

Find out more about National Apprenticeship Week 2017, visit GOV.UK. Updates on National Apprenticeship

Week can also be found on the National Apprenticeship Service LinkedIn Showcase page. Follow @ Apprenticeships on Twitter.

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Outstanding apprenticeship Key facts about apprenticeships opportunity available with

global IT company

Learning Curve Group (LCG), a training and education specialist based in the North East, has recently partnered up with global IT company, TATA Consultancy, with the hope of increasing apprenticeship opportunities in the Liverpool area.

They are looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals to take on the role of IT Service Desk Analyst on an apprenticeship programme.

LCG, who currently have an Accountancy Apprenticeship Academy in Warrington, are expanding their remit within the local area and are using their expertise

in apprenticeship delivery and the Apprenticeship Levy to help local companies. The partnership with TATA Consultancy is a very exciting time for LCG. TATA Consultancy is a global leader in IT services, digital and business solutions that possess comprehensive industry expertise and a global network of innovation and delivery centres.

An apprenticeship with TATA stands out from the crowd. The successful applicants would earn £12,000pa starting salary, almost double the national minimum wage, with the opportunity to progress within this

prestigious company to a Team Leader or Service Manager.

The company offers an in-depth induction and on-going training throughout the apprenticeship programme. The individuals will gain invaluable experience and skills throughout their time at TATA, which will set them up for a highly successful career in the world of IT. For more information on this apprenticeship opportunity then please contact Claire from Learning Curve Group on claire.forrest@ learningcurvegroup.co.uk or call 01429 809988

• There has never been a better time to employ an apprentice, or start an apprenticeship.

• Up to 28,000 apprenticeship vacancies are available online at any one time.

• There were 1,656,680 on-line apprenticeship applications in 2015 to 2016.

• Apprenticeships are available in 1500 job roles, covering more than 170 industries, from advertising to youth work and from environmental engineering to legal.

• More than 2,600 employers are involved in designing the new apprenticeships standards.

• 270 apprenticeship standards have been published so far, of which over 84 are higher and degree apprenticeships.

• There have been 4,300 starts on new standards in occupations such as Software Developer and Aerospace Engineer.

• Apprenticeship participation now

stands at a record level - 899,400 funded apprentices participated on an apprenticeship in the 2015 to 2016 academic year.

• Nearly all apprentices feel that they acquire or improve their skills as a direct result of their apprenticeship.

• Apprentices are most satisfied with the relevance of their training (89%), the quality of training (87%), their assessment on the job (86%) and the quality of feedback (86%).

• Almost 9 out of every 10 apprenticeship employer hoping to achieve business benefits tell us that apprenticeships deliver – including 75% reporting that it has helped their business improve the quality of their product or service.

• There are currently 100 higher and degree apprenticeships available, with more in development, including foundation degrees, HNDs and full honours degrees. These include job roles ranging from legal services to banking and engineering.

• After finishing, 7 in 10 apprentices (77%) stay with the same employer.

• 46% of apprentices had received a pay rise since completing their apprenticeship.

• 36% of higher apprentices report getting a promotion after completing their apprenticeship.

• Nearly 9 out of 10 (89%) apprentices were satisfied with their apprenticeship overall, and nearly three quarters (72%) were very satisfied.

• The majority (92%) of apprentices in work felt that their apprenticeship had had a positive impact on their career.

• Traineeships have been developed by employers making them a great stepping stone to an apprenticeship or other job. • Traineeships are continuing to grow - there were 24,100 traineeship starts in 2015 to 2016. • 94% of employers consider traineeships an effective way of increasing young people’s chances of finding paid jobs and apprenticeships.

STOCKPORT COUNCIL SUPPORTS EMPLOYERS TO UNDERSTAND THE APPRENTICESHIP LEVY DURING NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK

Stockport Council is hosting an “Apprenticeships Conference” on Tuesday 7 March 2017 at the Apprenticeships Store, Stockport from 9am until 11am.

Attendees to the event will be able to find out information on the following items: • Central government changes to GCSEs, A-Levels, Vocational Qualifications and particularly Apprenticeships.

• The Apprenticeship Levy and how to use the Digital Apprenticeship Service.

• How to access grants for Apprenticeships.

• Higher and Degree level Apprenticeships.

Alison Cresswell, Head of Participation and Education Services, will lead the event.

Events in the past have been described as ‘Informative and relevant’ and people would attend future events.

Councillor Dean Fitzpatrick, Executive member for Education, said: “This conference will provide employers with the correct information on the Apprenticeship

Levy and other items, it is important we educate our employers, as a large number of them in Stockport have apprentices.”

For further information about this event or to book your place contact the Apprenticeships Store at Stockport Council.

Further information about the Apprenticeship Store is available online at www.stockport.gov.uk/ apprenticeships or by calling 0161 474 4745 Twitter: @appstore_SK Facebook: /apprenticeshipstore

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What’s On at the new LiVe venue

at Preston Guild Hall 2017

LiVe MUSIC Big Country Sunday 5th March 8.30pm Following the phenomenal response to ‘THE SEER’ 30th Anniversary tour last year, BIG COUNTRY continue to celebrate he release of their third album in 2017. The band will perform the album in its entirety, as well as visiting their stunning catalogue of songs, taken from their multi-million selling and Number 1 hit albums.

Tickets £23 LiVe https://prestonguildhall.co.uk/shows/ big-country/ LiVe MUSIC White Lies *SOLD OUT* Monday 6th March 9.30pm Due to overwhelming public demand, White Lies have announced a headline UK tour. We are incredibly pleased to announce that we will be bringing them over to LiVe Preston for a very special show.

Tickets £21 *SOLD OUT* LiVe https://prestonguildhall.co.uk/shows/ white-lies/ LiVe MUSIC Lee “Scratch” Perry Monday 13th March 8.30pm Regarded with awe throughout the music world, Perry holds status as one of the most enduring and original reggae producers.

From his early days in the 1960s as a singer and engineer for Coxsone Dodd’s Studio One in Kingston, through his production of the seminal Wailers’ classics African Herbsman and Soul Revolution,

Perry’s innovative style marks him as one of reggae’s original treasures.

Tickets in advance £20, on the door £25 LiVe https://prestonguildhall.co.uk/shows/ lee-scratch-perry/ LiVe MUSIC Evil Blizzard & Special Guests Saturday 1st April 8pm Evil Blizzard are truly an enigma.

Four Bass players, a singing drummer, and an array of rubber masks that will give both children and adults sleepless nights for days on end. They are the most ingenious and charismatic live experience on the music scene today! With both Public Image LTD, and Killing Joke both personally asking Blizzard to support them, this is a night not to miss!

Tickets £10.50 LiVe https://prestonguildhall.co.uk/shows/ evil-blizzard-special-guests/ LiVe MUSIC Lloyd Cole Monday 3rd April 9.30pm Cole is on tour frequently, and now brings his high energy duo set to Preston for an all seated evening of Lloyd Cole songbooks.

Playing and presenting rock songs from his past career remodelled as simple folk songs. He interacts extensively with the audience and some songs are told rather than played.

Tickets £21 LiVe https://prestonguildhall.co.uk/shows/ lloyd-cole/ LiVe MUSIC Hot 8 Brass Band

Sunday 9th April 8pm After their sell out tour last year, HOT 8 BRASS BAND are now touring larger venues! We are over the moon we are able to bring them to Preston!

Tickets £16 LiVe https://prestonguildhall.co.uk/shows/ hot-8-brass-band/ LiVe MUSIC Mark Radcliffe Thursday 27th April 7.30pm ‘Radio and television presenter, musician, writer, friend of the stars and all round cheese fetishist Mark Radcliffe has been making a little go a long way for several decades now.

This show is no exception. Expect stories and songs of middle aged angst and ennui along with tales of ineptitude and encounters with some of music’s most famous names who Mark has on speed dial.

Tickets £16 LiVe https://prestonguildhall.co.uk/shows/ mark-radcliffe/ *NEW ON SALE* LiVe MUSIC W h e a t u s Friday 5th May 7pm With a new line-up, Wheatus hit the road mid-decade throughout the US and UK, including the sold out UK Get Happy Tour, and their own independent University and College Tours, which once again put the band on stage in front of tens of thousands of fans, who sing along....loudly.

Tickets £18.50 LiVe https://prestonguildhall.co.uk/shows/ wheatus/

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Lancashire Local. Issue 29. Page 1.

Welcome to the

Lancashire Local’s

“Your Golf Guide” Within our Golfing Guide we aim to provide stimulating yet also valuable information for our readers. We have sought out the most up-to-date and insightful stories for our readers to enjoy whilst providing more in depth information on certain clubs and the services they provide. Regardless of whether you deem yourself as an experienced golfer or somewhat of an amateur… This is the guide for you!

The North West of England is considered a golfing heaven by many, with perhaps one of the highest concentration of top quality links golf courses in the world. There are no less than 15 classic links courses within any given area, all of which span no more than an hour's drive - and there are three Open Championship venues within each of these.

New trophy lets club golfers

‘Chase Their Dreams’ Club golfers will get the chance to chase their dreams this to connect thousands of club golfers with Bridgestone’s season – and could win a place in a European Tour Pro- golf sponsorships throughout 2017” Am, thanks to a partnership between Bridgestone Tyres and England Golf.

Rory Colville, Championship Director of the British Masters supported by Sky Sports, endorsed the partnership, The Bridgestone Chase your Dream Trophy, which is saying “This is a great opportunity for regular club golfers being played for the first time in 2017, will be an annual to graduate to mix with the leading lights of the Tour. We event open to members of England Golf’s 1900 affiliated look forward to seeing England Golf’s qualifying players clubs. It features separate competitions for men and reaching the final stages at the Bridgestone Challenge and women to discover the country’s top handicap golfers of ultimately the British Masters, supported by Sky Sports the year. at Close House”.

It will take them on a golfing adventure with nine men and nine women qualifying to play in the Pro-Am at the Bridgestone Challenge on the European Challenge Tour, followed by a dream outing with a top Tour player at the Pro-Am of the British Masters supported by Sky Sports.

England Golf’s Chief Executive Nick Pink commented: “We are delighted to partner with Bridgestone and join their campaign to inspire new golfers and put existing players at the heart of the grassroots game.” Bridgestone’s Consumer Sales & Marketing Director, Farrell Dolan, said “Joining forces with England Golf is the perfect way

Last season, England Golf and Bridgestone worked together to run the Driveguard Trophy for club golfers and made a dream come true for South West players Zack Rosen, Carl Broomfield and Peter Carr.

The trio qualified to play alongside Dylan Frittelli in the pro-am of the Bridgestone Challenge at Heythrop Park, Oxfordshire. They were victorious on the day and then found themselves as guests of Bridgestone at the British Zack Rosen said: “As a club golfer, you can only ever Masters supported by Sky Sports, at The Grove, playing dream of the experiences that we’ve had, and that’s down to Bridgestone. To win the DriveGuard Trophy was alongside 2010 US Open winner Graeme McDowell. special enough, but to play on some of the courses during the process was something to remember forever. And of course, the round of golf with Graeme McDowell was the icing on the cake.”

The Bridgestone Chase Your Dream Trophy will replace the women’s Grand Medal and the men’s Gold Medal competitions. Each year the club players who had the best medal scores of the previous season will qualify for regional finals, where the leaders will go forward to men's and women's national finals. So, the stakes are high in 2017 club medals!

Here you will find a mass of information that endeavours to assist in the process of finding the best suited golf club for you. We have six featured golf clubs that are located nearby which we believe showcase true golfing values.

These features help the clubs to display their courses, products, and any other services they may provide.

Likewise, we have each of the club’s current membership offers in order to help find the best suited deals for you.

Ensure you check out our map of the North West on page 10 to see the exact locations of our featured clubs!

There are, of course, also many other top quality inland golf clubs also presenting with excellent facilities with a variety of course styles and membership prices.

A directory has also been compiled within our guide to help you find these other clubs, of which contains the name and contact details for every golf club within the North West and North Wales area. The North West is sure to provide you and your golfing friends with the kind of golfing experience you are looking for.

For those readers who find themselves already established and content within a golf club, we have also included entertaining stories for a pleasant read.

Find out more about Tiger Woods’ trip to Dubai on page 3. Club golfers can also get the chance to chase their dreams this season – and could win a place in a European Tour ProAm, thanks to a partnership between Bridgestone Tyres and England Golf.!

By Jemma Fisher

This year’s grande finale will take place in England Golf Week at Woodhall Spa in August. There, the players will be the overnight guests of England Golf and be treated to the full championship experience. The individual winners will be England’s handicap golfers of the year and the top nine players at each final will play in the Pro-Am at the Bridgestone Challenge on 6 September.

The most successful team there will play in the Pro-Am at The British Masters supported by Sky Sports, at Close House Golf Club, Northumberland, on Wednesday 27 September.

Graeme McDowell with the winners of Bridgestone’s 2016 amateur golf tournament, from left, Peter Carr, Carl Broomfield and Zack Rosen.

Bridgestone is the world’s largest tyre and rubber company and all players in the Chase Your Dream Trophies will have the opportunity to receive tyre offers from Bridgestone as well as additional opportunities to win golf tickets and hospitality prizes.

Gleneagles named as official supporter of Glasgow 2018 European Championships

Gleneagles, the world-renowned luxury hotel, has today been unveiled as an Official Supporter of the Glasgow 2018 European Championships – an exciting new multi-sport event that will see Gleneagles make golfing history as host of the first ever European Golf Team Championships.

To be staged every four years, the European Championships will combine the existing European Championships of Athletics, Aquatics, Cycling, Gymnastics, Rowing and Triathlon. The first edition will be held in 2018 in a unique sporting partnership between Host Cities Glasgow and Berlin.

The European Golf Team Championships is the only new event being staged as part of Glasgow 2018 and will take place at the famous Jack Nicklaus-designed Gleneagles PGA Centenary Course – the same venue that hosted Europe’s memorable victory over the USA in the 2014 Ryder Cup. The Championships promise to be a game changing moment for golf, with Europe’s elite men and

women set to compete together for the first time. It is backed by the European Tour and Ladies European Tour and will include a men’s and women’s event along with a groundbreaking mixed competition.

Host Venue and Official Supporter Gleneagles is home to some of the best golf facilities in the world including three championship courses and the PGA National Golf Academy.

Gleneagles is a former long-standing European Tour and Ladies European Tour venue and has unrivalled experience of hosting international events such as The Ryder Cup. The European Golf Team Championships will also build on Scotland’s reputation as the perfect stage for major events such as The Open, Scottish Open and Women’s British Open as well as major one-off events like The Ryder Cup and The Solheim Cup. Aileen Campbell MSP, Scottish Government Minister for Sport, said: “Gleneagles has staged many prestigious golf tournaments through its history and was the home to what many regard as the best Ryder Cup ever in 2014. In 2018 Gleneagles

will be the magnificent setting for European Championships and will see elite men and women golfers compete together for the first time.

“In 2014 the Ryder Cup players spoke about the top class facilities, an enthusiastic and knowledgeable crowd and left with good memories and we know it will be the same for those taking part in the inaugural European Championships in 2018.”

Councillor Frank McAveety, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “The European Championships will be a new highlight on the global sporting calendar, set to be played out in front of a potential television audience of up to one billion people.

“Gleneagles is a world leader when it comes to golf and we are delighted that they will play such a crucial role in the delivery of the new European Golf Team Championships, which will be a real first for world sport.

“Glasgow is the gateway to Scotland and partnerships such as this with Gleneagles will help us bring one million more people to the city as part of Glasgow’s Tourism and Visitor Plan to 2023.” Bernard Murphy, Gleneagles’ Managing Director, said:

“We’re proud to be associated with what will be a groundbreaking moment in sporting history. The event will build on Gleneagles’ long history of raising the bar in golf and breaking cultural boundaries in sport – including the first match between British and American professionals in 1921.

“We look forward to continuing that tradition at the European Golf Team Championships, when Europe’s leading men and women compete together for the first time, in what will be a real historic moment for the sport.

“We are therefore delighted to be announced as an Official Supporter of Glasgow 2018, and look forward to delivering an inspiring event that will strengthen Gleneagles’ reputation as one of the foremost golfing venues in the world.”

Attendances across Glasgow 2018 are expected to be in the region of 250,000 with registration for priority access to tickets currently available at www. glasgow2018.com for all sports including golf.

As part of the inaugural European Championships in 2018 around 3,000 athletes will visit Scotland for six events (Aquatics, Cycling, Golf, Gymnastics, Rowing and Triathlon) while a further 1,500 athletes will compete in Berlin as part of the European Athletics Championships.

Dubai commits to the

future growth of golf

A new entity called Falcon Golf has been established to work with Dubai’s golf stakeholders locally and internationally to maximise long-term benefits for the emirate. Dubai’s commitment to golf has been underlined through the establishment of a new entity which will serve to optimise the benefits the sport brings to the emirate.

Falcon Golf will convene all relevant parties in the industry to enhance Dubai’s golf efforts – including driving greater golf tourism, using the sport as a platform to tell Dubai’s story in overseas markets, promoting grass roots participation and managing the successful hosting of tournaments. The organisation will be Chaired by Peter Dawson, former Chief Executive of The R&A and former Secretary of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews. It will work to increase knowledge about Dubai through the lens of golf, as well as boost Dubai’s reputation as one of the world’s leading golf destinations.

Commenting on his appointment and the establishment of Falcon Golf, Mr Dawson said: “Dubai has a fantastic golf offering and, combined with the emirate’s forwardthinking approach, I believe there is a real opportunity to develop it further. It is a sporting partnership that, over the years, has not only contributed to the growth of Dubai, but also to the global growth and popularity of the game. I am delighted to have been chosen for this special role and motivated by the exciting challenge ahead.

Dubai’s investment in its golfing credentials, including its relationship with the European Tour, has proved to be very successful and I look forward to working with all of our stakeholders as we look to the future.”

His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council, said: “Dubai has long recognised the potential of both golf’s contribution to the sport economy and the platform it provides to tell our story to the world.

The entity will bring together the emirate’s fantastic golf assets and ensure that these continue to deliver for Dubai.

This is great news for the continued development of the game in this part of the world. With world-class facilities and courses, a number of professional golfers calling Dubai home, including Rory McIlroy and Rafael Cabrera Bello, as well as new courses coming to the market, we see a clear opportunity for future growth.”

Khalid Mubarak Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the Emirates Golf Federation, said: “Golf has been played in the UAE for more than 40 years. In Dubai, as recently highlighted in a Deloitte report, it has grown into an industry worth $270 million. In Falcon Golf, we now

have an entity that is responsible for the growth of the game.” Falcon Golf will manage Dubai's involvement with the Race to Dubai, a season-long competition on the European Tour which celebrates both the diversity and shared passion for golf in 26 countries across the globe.

The world’s best golfers accumulate Race to Dubai ranking points as they compete across four continents, earning a place in the season-ending DP World Tour Championship, Dubai in November 2017, when the European Tour’s Number One player will be crowned. This season’s Race to Dubai is well under way, showcasing a new ‘look’ that incorporates Dubai’s official brand logo.

Management of the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters and the Omega Dubai Desert Classic will transfer to Falcon Golf from April 1st 2017. Mohamed Juma Buamim will become Honorary President of the tournaments and continue to impart his knowledge and expertise that has led to the successful hosting of these two events, while golf in DUBAi – under a new name – will continue to oversee the MENA Golf Tour and tee-time booking platform Golf Citizen.

and its golf offering and I am excited to see the industry being convened in this way. I am honoured to have been able to contribute to the success of Dubai’s growth through golf over the last two decades and look forward to my continued involvement, guiding the success of the two tournaments that are so close to my heart.”

Peter Dawson added: “Mohamed Juma Buamim and the team at golf in DUBAi have done an outstanding Commenting on Dubai’s renewed commitments to golf, job and I look forward to building on the strong Buamim said: “These are very energising times for Dubai foundations they have laid.”

Golf Greats Jacobsen, McDowell,

Tiger Woods at the Burj Al Arab

Sorenstam and Strange to host 2017 Arnold Palmer Invitational

Getty Images for Falcon ©

Four of golf’s most recognizable players will help lead Arnold Palmer’s namesake tournament this year, ensuring his life is honored and his legacy continued.

Peter Jacobsen, Graeme McDowell, Annika Sörenstam and Curtis Strange will join former Secretary of Homeland Security and family friend Tom Ridge to host the 39th Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard, taking place in Orlando March 13-19. “Arnold was a force of nature, on and off the course,” said McDowell. “We can’t fill his shoes but we can carry on his passion for helping others. I live with my family in Orlando and my children were born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, so I've been a direct beneficiary of Arnold's charitable legacy. I’m honored to be part of such a remarkable event.”

As hosts, the group will step into traditional roles held by Palmer throughout the tournament — greeting players and guests, hosting Pro-Am parties and helping to present the championship trophy on Sunday.

They will also take part in new events planned to honor Palmer’s legacy, including a special ceremony to mark the start of the tournament on Wednesday, March 15. In addition

to announcing its new hosts, tournament officials today also shared plans to add all-new photo spots and signage throughout the course. Each spot will tell a different story about Palmer’s many accomplishments and his far-reaching influence.

Each day of tournament play, Palmer’s iconic golf cart and clubs will be on display overlooking the 16th green, where Palmer most frequently watched the game and greeted players and fans. Guests can also expect a bigger emphasis on Arnie’s Army Charitable Foundation, Palmer’s philanthropic organization. All proceeds from the tournament support the foundation.

“Part of my dad’s legacy was to inspire others to care about things he thought were important,” said Palmer’s daughter Amy Saunders, chairman of Arnie’s Army Charitable Foundation.

“With the help of his many friends, fans and followers, we intend to keep that light shining brightly.” For more information or event tickets, visit www. arnoldpalmerinvitational.com.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 29. Page 9.

La Manga Club added to

Top European line-up

Offering the chance to play some of the world’s top golf courses, the European Amateur Golf Tour (EAGT) is a must for any serious golfer, and the tour continues to go from strength to strength after adding Spain’s five-star La Manga Club to its list of venues.

The famous resort in Murcia, south-east Spain, has joined the likes of Royal Birkdale – venue for this summer’s Open Championship – Pebble Beach, Sawgrass, Carnoustie, Sunningdale and Woburn on the EAGT’s impressive tournament schedule for 2017.

Boasting three 18-hole golf courses, a nine-hole academy course and outstanding practice facilities, La Manga Club is a firm favourite with golfers across Europe, making it the perfect setting for any professional or amateur event.

Taking place from November 17-20, the four-day EAGT programme costs £694 per person and includes four rounds of golf – two rounds on the resort’s North Course and two on its South Course, the host venue for five Spanish Opens and numerous other high-profile tournaments.

Open to all male and female golf club members with an active CONGU handicap, the event will be scored on an individual Stableford points basis with competitors playing off their full handicaps.

As well as golf, players will enjoy three nights’ bedand-breakfast accommodation in the five-star Hotel Principe Felipe and complimentary access to the facilities at the luxury Spa La Manga Club, plus the opportunity to experience La Manga Club’s array of other sports and leisure amenities, including a choice of 20 bars and restaurants. Launched in 1997, the EAGT is now established as the most popular amateur golf tour in Europe. Starting in April, it will feature 90 events at 30-

plus world-class golfing venues throughout 2017, with experience some of the most exclusive courses in Europe each event contributing to an overall Order of Merit table. and North America including Les Bordes in France, Whistling Straits – venue for the 2020 Ryder Cup – and As well as featuring many of the UK’s top golfing Erin Hills, which will stage the US Open for the first time venues, the tour also offers gives amateurs the chance to in June.

For more information on the EAGT and each event, go to www.eagt.co.uk, call 0845 4662222 or email info@gmmltd.co.uk For further details about La Manga Club and to book, go to www.lamangaclub.com

Prime date to display Fiji at its finest

The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism together with PGA of Australia announced the dates for 2017 Fiji International. The tournament dates are from 17-20 August 2017 at the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course the Fiji International will be staged during Fiji’s tourism peak season.

The August 2017 date is anticipated to attract some of the best players in the world to the tropical destination. “The Fiji International showcases Fiji to the world, so we want the world to see Fiji at its finest and what better time than in August,” said Hon. Faiyaz Siddiq Koya, Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism.

“We hope that the allure of Fiji in August along with a prime

position in the world, golf schedule will again ensure a quality field of Professionals competing in the fourth edition of the Fiji International.”

“We also look forward to welcoming holiday makers to experience the Fiji International, which is Fiji’s biggest and most prestigious sporting event.

Fiji international has over the past three tournaments attracted a large number of visitors to our shores, who are interested in golf. In fact our visitor numbers during the tournament month (October 2016) saw an increase in arrivals by 6.5% (or 73,595), proving that Fiji has grown as a golfing destination since the inaugural Fiji International,” added the Hon. Minister. The move to August will see the Fiji International, which is co-sanctioned by the

European Tour and ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia, played in a less congested part of the global golf schedule which will help the event secure another strong field.

“Now that the Fiji International is on the European Tour schedule we took a more global approach to scheduling,” said Peter O’Malley, Chairman of the PGA of Australia.

“We believe the August date will better enable some of the leading European Tour players to include the Fiji International on their playing schedules.” “The three stagings of the Fiji International have produced excellent champions in Steven Jeffress (2014), World Number 20 Matt Kuchar (2015) and World Number 27 Brandt Snedeker (2016) and we are looking forward to seeing

who will emerge the champion in August 2017.” The 2017 Fiji International will also be the first time Vijay Singh’s redeveloped holes 1-6, 8, 9 and 11 -16 at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course will be played by the Professionals.

“The date of the Fiji International will coincide with the reopening of Natadola Bay Golf Course following the changes currently being made under the design of Fijian Golf legend, Vijay Singh,” said Basil Scaffidi, Managing Director of SEL, the promoter of the Fiji International.

About the Fiji International To be held from 17-20 August the Fiji International will be played at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course which boasts breathtaking views of the Coral Coast and is home

to the Natadola Beach Land Estate.

Enticed by the tropical destination, the Fiji International has attracted some of the world’s best golfers since its inaugural staging in 2014 including Fijian hero and three time Major champion Vijay Singh, 2016 champion Brandt Snedeker, 2015 champion Matt Kuchar, Steven Bowditch, Boo Weekley, Nick Price, Robert Allenby, Heath Slocum, Liang Wenchong, and Anirban Lahiri.

In 2017, the Fiji International continues to have a global presence confirming its position as an integral tournament in the South Pacific region, with the tournament being co-sanctioned by the European Tour and ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia. A Pacific paradise, the Fiji International also boasts some

of the most unique hospitality options in world golf with the par-3 4th hole providing the perfect vantage point to watch the golf, whilst socialising on the beach.

More than just a golf tournament, the Fiji International aims to leave a lasting legacy for golf in the Pacific region, with the PGA of Australia supporting initiatives to introduce and grow the game in Fiji.

The Fiji International is proudly supported by the Fijian Government, Tourism Fiji and the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa as the official resort of the tournament until 2017.

The Smurfit Course undergoes major renovation programme

The K Club in Straffan, Co. Kildare in Ireland is well known for its championship golf courses, both of which were designed by the legend and ‘King of Golf’, Mr. Arnold Palmer. The resort famously hosted the Ryder Cup in 2006 and has set the scene for some of golf’s most exciting moments, many of which happened on the Arnold Palmer designed Smurfit Course. Who could forget the excitement of the 2004 Smurfit European Open when Retief Goosen went on to win just two weeks after taking his second US Open title? Or the closing stages of the 2007 Smurfit European Open, when Colin Montgomerie finally ended his 18-month drought without a trophy and somehow stayed out of the water on the 18th to win the 2007 European Open by just one shot?

This inland inspired course is situated to the south of the River Liffey which flows through the 550-acre estate course and boldly faces its sister to the north, the Arnold Palmer designed Ryder Cup Course. While the Ryder Cup Course is generally described as a mature parkland course, the Smurfit Course is distinctly different. A combination of doglegs skirt the water’s edge on the 5th

and 6th holes leading up to the breath taking signature hole, the almighty 7th. The magnetic feature of this hole is the ‘Swallow Quarry’, a vast man made rock face that rises some 60 feet out of a glorious lake. A series of waterfalls cascade the water hazard but its beauty belies its treachery and players are well advised to admire the view from the centre of the fairway! The course has recently undergone a substantial rejuvenation programme in order to make it sharper, fresher and more challenging. Course Superintendent, Gerry Byrne and his team have been busy and the refresh of the golf course was just the third phase in a reinvestment programme that has seen over €20 million being spent on the famous Kildare resort. The full reinvestment programme commenced when Sir Michael Smurfit became the sole owner of the resort and started to put money into all aspects of the property in order to firmly place it as one of the most exciting resorts in Europe. Stage one involved resurfacing the full entrance avenue, the refreshing of public areas in the hotel and the laying of new, handmade Connemara carpets. New tennis courts were also constructed and a new, Thai Restaurant now enhances the Smurfit Clubhouse. Stage two got

under way two years ago, involving the construction of 70 new hotel bedrooms, comprising the Liffey Wing of the Five AA Red Star hotel, along with a new hotel bar, the Media Puzzle Lounge and the extensive renovation of bedrooms in the original wing.

Most of the work on the Smurfit Course was completed in late 2016 and was done after the team finished working on the Ryder Cup Course which was the venue for the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open in May 2016. For Gerry and his team the work represented a great challenge, coming as it did nine years after the last European Open and 10 years since the resort staged the Ryder Cup. Work began in earnest on the Smurfit course when more than 3,000 metres of drains were laid.

Then came extensive sanding, the fairways were re-seeded and top-dressed with 1,000 tonnes of sand, hauled from a pit in Wexford in Southern Ireland. And one application wasn’t considered sufficient, rather there were as many as three in a year. The plan is for this sand treatment to become part of the course-maintenance programme from

now on. Meanwhile, various lakes throughout the course had become heavily overgrown and needed to be cut back. Little landing areas for fishing were also created and all the lakes were restocked. “Our aim here is to present premium playing surfaces with attention to all the key details,” said Gerry Byrne.

“I believe the drainage upgrade will help us create those surfaces. That, and nearly two tonnes of seed onto our fairways should gradually deliver the lush, uniform look that we desire.”

Director of Golf at The K Club Sharon Smurfit said that the work on the course has been very successful and was warmly welcomed by the members and guests. “Work never stops here, it can’t. We must continually strive for excellence – an attribute that The K Club is well known for. New course furniture and signage will also be put in place this summer and various upgrades are due to take place in the Smurfit Clubhouse later in the year.” For more information on The K Club see www.kclub.ie or call 353 (0) 1 6017200

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National Park announces action-

packed 2017 events programme

Lake District visitors looking for inspirational ideas to enjoy the National Park will be spoilt for choice in 2017, as a packed programme of more than 350 new events and activities is launched by the Lake District National Park this week.

February half term holidays kick off this exciting programme with activities such as sharpening your winter skills with a Fell Top Assessor on Helvellyn or meet Milly the Mombasa train millipede at Minibeast Magic at Brockhole on Windermere.

There’s something for everyone, including the return of Lakes Alive Festival, in Kendal in September - a finalist in the recent Cumbria Life Culture Awards. Many events are free or low cost and it’s the perfect way to discover more about the Lake District as it bids to become a World Heritage site in July.

Lake District National Park Volunteer Coordinator, Belinda Turnbull, said: “We have more than 250 guided walks and navigation days on offer this season. All delivered by our amazing

team of volunteers. Walks start from easy, leisurely strolls through to high fell hikes. The full programme can be found on our website. Many are bookable online to guarantee a space or you can just turn up on most activities.”

Photo shows the High Rigg guided walk at Legburthwaite led by the Volunteers Service.

To find out more and book online, visit the events website www. lakedistrict.gov.uk/events.

Your adventure starts here!

Bowland opens its doors

for Brewery Tours

Bowland Brewery has officially opened its doors to the public for brewery tours.

The brewery, based at Holmes Mill in Clitheroe and owned by James’ Places, offers visitors a chance to see a fully operational brewery as well as an opportunity to share enthusiasm for beer.

Scheduled tours run on Monday, Tuesdays and Wednesday at 11am and 1.30pm. Tours for groups of eight of more at other times (MondaySaturday during the Beer Hall opening hours) can be organised by prior arrangement.

Said sales manager, Angela Edney: “We’re delighted to be able to offer these tours to the public in the Bowland Brewery’s new home as part of a £10 million transformation.

“Between them, our guide, sales manager and head brewer have 80 years brewing expertise under their belts. They are excited to share their passion for real ale, and brewing with others.

Visitors can also enjoy The Beer Hall afterwards if they wish.” Tour tickets include a 45 minute guided tour, tasters of Bowland Ale and the option of food, and start from £10.00 per person. To purchase a ticket, please call Angela on 01200 443 562 or

email sales@bowlandbrewery.com Beer buffs can also join the Bowland Beer Club which grants access to special offers and exclusive discounts on Bowland Ales at Holmes Mill, The Shireburn Arms and the Waddington Arms. Members are also informed of events taking place at Holmes Mill and the latest beers available in the Beer Hall.

To join the Beer Club, visit www. bowlandbrewery.com/beer-club and fill in your details.

James' Places is currently conducting the £10m redevelopment of Holmes Mill, a previously derelict, former

textile mill. As well as the brewery, Holmes Mill houses a Beer Hall, café, bakery and multi-use function room.

Further phases of the rejuvenation of the mill will include a hotel and gym.

James' Places portfolio includes The Emporium, Clitheroe, Waddington Arms and Lower Buck in Waddington, Mitton Hall at Mitton, The Royal Hotel at Kirkby Lonsdale, Eaves Hall, West Bradford, Shireburn Arms at Hurst Green, Falcon Manor, Settle and the Bowland Brewery. All share the same service values and ethos for beautiful surroundings with exceptional food and drink.

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CANARY ISLANDS MOST POPULAR FOR BRITS THIS WINTER

BUT MAJORCA & PHUKET OFFER BIGGEST SAVINGS

TripAdvisor Winter Holiday Value Report Highlights Most Booked Destinations for Winter Spain boasts five of the top ten most popular destinations for Brits travelling abroad this winter, according to the travel and booking site, TripAdvisor.

The Canary Islands come out on top with Tenerife at number one, followed

by Lanzarote and Gran Canaria respectively, while Fuerteventura comes in seventh. Flying the flag for the Balearics is Majorca coming in tenth. The TripAdvisor Winter Holiday Value report published today reveals the ten most popular destinations for British holidaygoers this winter travel period (1 Jan – 31 Mar 2017), based on booking interest, along with the average one-week holiday costs for hotels, airfare, meals and attractions. The seasonal report helps travellers discover savings at these destinations by highlighting the least expensive week to visit, highlyrated value hotels and must-see bookable attractions on TripAdvisor.

Lanzarote offers Brits best bargain

When comparing the average cost of a week’s holiday among the ten destinations over the winter travel period, Lanzarote offers the lowest cost overall at £1,268. When looking at specific travel dates, a winter holiday to Lanzarote is still the cheapest on offer compared to other destinations but travellers can enjoy a saving of £46 compared to the average price if they book on TripAdvisor for the week of 20th February, with prices coming in at £1,222 that week.

Fuerteventura offers the second best bargain on average this winter and also comes in second when looking at specific dates. If travelling on mid-January, Brits can book a trip to Fuerteventura on TripAdvisor for £1,293 versus the average price of £1,368, making a saving of £75.

Biggest savings made when booking Majorca and Phuket While Lanzarote cements its position as the cheapest winter getaway destination this year, Brits can still enjoy big savings on some of the more expensive destinations if they pick their dates wisely. While Phuket and

Majorca are the fourth and fifth most expensive destinations on average respectively, they also offer some of the biggest range in prices during the winter season – meaning significant savings for those travellers who opt for the cheapest weeks available. If travelling to Majorca at the end of March, for example, travellers will save over £200 (13%) booking on TripAdvisor compared to the average price, while Phuket can be booked for £164 (10%) less than the average when travelling in mid-February.

“This report proves that travellers who plan ahead and are willing to be flexible can reap the rewards, with savings of up to £200 on offer during the winter months. While Lanzarote offers the cheapest winter getaway this year, those far flung destinations don’t need to be off limits. For example, if travelling the week of 23rd January, you can book a trip to New York on TripAdvisor and save over £160 against the average cost over the rest of the winter,” advised Hayley Coleman, TripAdvisor spokesperson.

ABTA reveals top five scams

as busiest holiday sales

period gets underway

As the busiest holidays sales period of the year kicks off, ABTA is warning holidaymakers about the risks of booking with fraudulent companies, after seeing an increase in fake websites, online scams and noncompliant travel companies that have no financial protection in place.

With a third of summer holidays typically booked during January and February, ABTA is concerned that people looking for a bargain may be duped by fraudsters – travel fraud is up 425% year on year and costs holidaymakers £11.5 million according to the City of London Police*. ABTA has put together the following list of warning scams and signs to look out for: Businesses not providing financial protection In 2016 more than 100 travel businesses were identified by ABTA as selling package holidays without having proper financial protection in place, and referred to the relevant authorities. All package holidays sold in the UK should include protection, where holidaymakers are not only entitled to a refund or repatriation, should their travel company go out of business, but also other specific legal rights, should there be a problem with the holiday. All ABTA Members provide protection for their package holidays. People booking a holiday that is ATOL protected should always receive an ATOL Certificate.

Scam websites Some websites are set up purely to defraud customers, and these scam or fraudulent websites are an area of growing concern for ABTA. On a legitimate website, there should be a locked padlock symbol in the browser window frame, which appears when you attempt to make an online payment, or the web address should begin with ‘https://’.

Cloned websites These are websites that are copies of a genuine site with subtle changes made. Fraudsters can clone legitimate websites but will change the last part of the web address, such as from . co.uk to .org. They can also produce a realistic-looking website, but with the spelling of the address slightly different from that of the authentic site.

Check that the website address that appears in the top window is correct.

If you are suspicious of a website, carry out a web search to see if you can find out whether or not it is fraudulent.

Payment via bank transfers. Be suspicious when the only payment option is a bank transfer. Not only is this an indication that no bank is prepared to provide credit card facilities, but if you are dealing with a scammer it will be virtually impossible to get your money back.

False credentials

Some fraudulent companies may falsely use logos of official bodies such as ATOL, or of organisations such as ABTA and IATA. If the company you are using claims to be a member of a trade association, you should be able to easily verify membership on the trade association’s website, for example on https://abta. com/find-a-member.

Mark Tanzer, ABTA Chief Executive, commented: “Booking a holiday should be an exciting experience, however it can be ruined by clever and unscrupulous scams. We have seen a significant increase in fraudulent activity over the past year, so we are encouraging all holidaymakers to stop and think about the company they are booking with.

I would encourage people to book with an ABTA travel company, so they can rest assured that their holiday company is genuine and covered by our Code of Conduct.”

ABTA is launching a nationwide advertising campaign today (4 January) in response to the growing issue of fraudulent websites, online scams and non-compliant travel companies that have no financial protection in place. The advertising will promote ABTA’s ‘Travel with confidence’ message and encourage consumers to book with an ABTA travel company during the busiest holiday sales period of the year.

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It’s official: Lake District named as

Britain’s top walking destination

The Lake District, Cumbria, is officially the most popular destination for walking in Britain, according to a new nationwide survey just released

by Ordnance Survey.

Their OS Maps service analysed more than 500,000 routes over ten years and revealed that the Lake District has topped the country’s league table with Keswick and Ambleside being the most popular locations for walkers.

And of the 20 most popular places to create a walking route across Britain, an impressive 18 of them are within the core areas of the Lake

District National Park – taking in popular locations including Keswick, Ambleside, Grasmere, Helvellyn and Scafell Pike. Managing Director for Cumbria Tourism, Ian Stephens, says, “This is the ultimate place to enjoy the great outdoors and this latest Ordnance Survey research confirms that the Lake District, Cumbria, is indeed the UK’s Adventure Capital.

“With a network of just under 2,000 miles of Rights of Way and some of the most spectacular scenery you are likely to find, it’s great to see that the Lake District remains a firm favourite.

Whether you’re taking a gentle lakeside stroll with the family or scrambling up more challenging locations like Sharp Edge on Blencathra, this spectacular landscape appeals to everyone from the occasional walker to the more specialist adventurer.”

Nick Giles, Managing Director of Ordnance Survey Leisure, says: “For centuries the Lakes have held a special place in people’s hearts, and we know the area is loved by map users, because the region frequently tops our bestselling paper maps. However, when we started

examining this data and looking at the route-creating habits of people, we weren’t expecting the Lake District to dominate so strongly.”

Just a few of the walks highlighted

by Ordnance Survey include England’s highest mountain Scafell Pike and Langdale Fell which forms part of the popular Cumbrian Way. Other breathtaking walks include Nethermost Pike, one of the highest Wainwrights’ in the eastern fells; Allen Crags which is frequented by walkers on route to Scafell and Fairfield Horseshoe, one of the more classic Lake District walks.

actress’ daughter to

perform at Carnforth

Station Heritage Centre

The daughter of Brief Encounter actress Celia Johnson is taking to stages across Cumbria and Lancashire to tell the story of her mother’s war years, through letters to her father, Peter, brother of James Bond creator, Ian Fleming.

Lucy Fleming and real-life, actor husband Simon Williams, who make regular recurring appearances as Justin Elliott and Miranda Elliott in BBC Radio 4’s ‘The Archers’, star in Further information on investment 111 6768 (freephone) or 0300 500 Advice consumer helpline on 03454 ‘Posting Letters to the Moon’, a funny scams can be obtained from The 8082 from the UK. 04 05 06 or visit www.adviceguide. and touching account of life during Financial Conduct Authority 0800 For further advice call he Citizens org.uk the war and highlights the problems of a dual life of domestic problems and, unlike other women at that time, being a film star.

Carnforth Station was the backdrop to Celia Johnson’s iconic shots in the 1945 film, ‘Brief Encounter’ and in March Celia’s story will return, through a sold out performance of ‘Posting Letters to the Moon’ at Carnforth Station Heritage Centre, as well as a tour of other venues around Lancashire and Cumbria, an area which influenced the classic movie.

Celia’s letters tell of her life in a large isolated house with her small son, two widows and their evacuated children and very little help. Life is curtailed through rationing, of petrol, clothes and food. The letters tell of her friendships with Joyce Grenfell, Noel Coward, David Lean and filming such classic films as “In Which We Serve”

Wine Investment Scam

Cumbria Trading Standards are warning residents to watch out for bogus investment deals, after Cumbrian residents have lost thousands of pounds in wine scams.

Investment fraud comes in all sorts of disguises, it is often sophisticated and very difficult to spot and fraudsters can be articulate and appear financially knowledgeable.

Bogus companies are targeting our growing over-55 population because they are more likely to have money to invest. They may pressure you to make a quick decision or try to make you feel stupid for not taking up their bogus offers.

Common scams seen by Trading Standards are where consumers have invested large amounts of money in wine, pensions, watches and precious metals.

Wine investments scams have seen consumers, conned by fraudsters to invest their savings into a scheme offering a good return. They then discover that the trader has gone out of business and they have lost everything. Often this is followed by a call from another company connected with the fraudsters, who offer to recover some of their money for a fee - unfortunately this is just another scam.

Low interest rates are driving consumers to seek higher returns by investing in unregulated schemes promising a good deal.

However many consumers are unaware that unregulated products bought through an unauthorised firm offer no protection from the Financial Ombudsman Service or Financial Services Compensation Scheme, if things go wrong Trading Standards is urging retirees to take the following precautions before making investments, in a bid to help combat widespread investment fraud.

Reject unsolicited contact about investments Check the Financial Conduct Authority Warning List Get impartial advice Do your research and don’t make hasty decisions.

If you are contacted out of the blue about an investment opportunity that sounds too good to be true then it probably is.

Brief Encounter

and “This Happy Breed” and of course the iconic “Brief Encounter”.

Lucy Fleming, daughter of Celia Johnson and an actress herself says: “It was a joy to discover these letters and I hope you will find them as funny and moving as I do.

“Like my mother didn’t, I don’t know the Lake District, and am so looking forward to discovering the places she writes about and seeing the beauty of the lakes and hills.”

Following its world premiere at the Hampstead Theatre Festival 2016, the tour of “Posting Letters to the Moon” will be arriving at the following venues: Wednesday 1st March: Dukes Playhouse Lancaster Thursday 2nd March: Carnforth Station Heritage Centre (SOLD OUT) Saturday 4th March: Glenridding Public Hall, with optional 1940’s dress code, with a prize offered for best outfit Sunday 5th March: Alhambra Cinema Keswick, with screening of “Brief Encounter” Tuesday 7th March: Ennerdale Centre

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Family Fun In Yorkshire Yorkshire's Traditional Towns and Great Cities

Outdoor Adventures There are plenty of places where little ones can play all day and use up that energy. Lotherton Hall has fantastic options for all ages; the Adventure Playground is perfect for the under 8’s, with climbing frames, roundabouts, swings and more. Or, for older kids, have a go on the zip wires in the Woodland Play area.

With a zipwire, swings and slides, aerial walkways and climbing nets, the Harewood Adventure Playground is a haven for children to let their imagination and energy run wild.

There’s plenty of fun to be had at Stockeld Park too! See if you can navigate the maze, get your skates on and enjoy the ice rink and explore the themed adventure play areas.

Exciting Animals Animal lovers in the family? You’re in for a treat! Visit Tropical World and explore tropical habitats and other exotic places from around the world: including jungle; desert; water and night-time zones. You can see crocodiles, lemurs, butterflies, bats, snakes and a gorgeous family of meerkats with babies!

Home Farm at Temple Newsam is a great opportunity to come face-to-face with hundreds of child friendly farm animals. They include pigs, sheep, goats, cattle and ducks. Get hands on with the piglets and chickens running free in the yard!

Or enjoy a spot of bird watching in the bird gardens at Harewood House and Lotherton Hall.

Hands on History Not for the faint-hearted, Thackray Medical Museum is perfect for some hands on history. The nine interactive galleries take you on a journey through the history of medicine. The museum also runs exciting family events during the school holidays.

The Leeds City Museum offers an exciting, fun and interactive day out for all the family. Life on Earth explores our planet's history over the last 540 million years. Discover all the different types of life on earth and even experience the sights and sounds of a rainforest. Use the interactive displays to feel the skin of a python, and dig for some fossils!

The Royal Armouries Museum, based at Leeds Dock, is one of the country’s best museums for budding historians and fans of adventure. It is home to the UK’s largest collection of arms,

armour and artillery, including Henry VIII’s original armour, as well as hosting a number of workshops and events including sword fighting and jousting.

With even more awesome attractions in Leeds, you’ll never be short on something to do which is fun for the whole family.

Feast with the Family Kids can be picky, but fortunately, Leeds is full of restaurants that will keep them quiet with more than just chicken and chips.

Head to Fazenda and try to distract them from the sword skewered steaks with an activity pack. Trinity Kitchen is packed with street food vendors from all corners of the globe; kids will love these colourful surroundings too.

For the older kids with an appetite, Brasserie Blanc offers half portions from their main menu of French classics. But if they’re really hungry, get to Almost Famous for their stacked burgers and chilli fries.

Yorkshire's Historic Past

Yorkshire - a county with a history unsurpassed in Britain For more than 2000 years, history has written a proud and fiercely independent story across the landscape, from the mighty castles of medieval England to the mills which mark the birth of the Industrial Revolution. This was once the kingdom of the woad-painted warriors, the Brigantes, whose capital is now marked by the Roman town at Aldborough. The conquering Romans made their base at Eboracum which in its turn became the Vikings' Jorvik and later, medieval York.

The Middle Ages left their legacy standing in stone - a wealth of ancient abbeys and castles.

Seeking solitude in the wilderness, the monks gave glorious settings to their abbeys, among them Bolton, Jervaulx and Rievaulx Abbeys and incomparable Fountains Abbey, a World Heritage site. For centuries, "he who held the north held the

kingdom", a stark truth which speaks from the stones of castles such as Skipton, Helmsley, Conisbrough, with its mighty Norman keep, Castle Bolton, and tranquil Middleham in Wensleydale, once the power base of the infamous Richard III. More peaceful ages poured their wealth into lavish country homes, among them, Nostell Priory near Wakefield, palatial Harewood House near Leeds and the Baroque splendour of Castle Howard, near Malton, made famous by the television series "Brideshead Revisited". Excellent city museums include those in Leeds, Hull and the Yorkshire Museum in York, with its superb Middleham jewel. Lively smaller museums include the awardwinning Hornsea Museum and Scarborough's distinctive Rotunda Museum, and museums with a special appeal such as Holmfirth Postcard Museum, Ripon's Prison and Police Museum and Wilberforce House in Hull, dedicated to the fight against

slavery. More intimate but no less beautiful are the region's many smaller historic homes. They reach back through time from Edwardian Lotherton Hall near Leeds to the Elizabethan warmth of Burton Agnes Hall on the Wolds and the medieval memories of Shibden Hall near Halifax, the West Yorkshire Folk Museum. Remember, too, Yorkshire's dynamic industrial museums capturing centuries of working pride in textiles, mining, fishing and steel. See how people lived and worked at the Colne Valley Museum, Golcar, the Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, Sheffield and the Museum of South Yorkshire Life, Doncaster.

Visit Worsbrough Mill Museum, Barnsley, Thwaite Mills and Armley Mills in Leeds, Bradford Industrial and Horses at Work Museum, the Calderdale Industrial Museum and the Hull Town Docks Museum - all harnessing the power of the past in a unique experience.

Yorkshire - from market squares to city streets The ancient capital of Yorkshire is York, one of the great cities of the medieval world. Still encircled by its ancient walls, the city is dominated by the soaring pinnacles of York Minster, the finest Gothic church in northern Europe. From narrow streets, lively with chic cafes and specialist shops, to trips on its tree-lined river, York is a treasure house with a superb choice of museums and galleries.

York may be the most famous but it is only one among Yorkshire's wealth of historic towns. Enjoy the Georgian charm of Beverley and Howden. Stroll the elegant spa towns

of Harrogate and Ilkley. Visit Selby, with its massive abbey, Ripon, with its fine cathedral and busy market square and Otley, birthplace of Thomas Chippendale.

Others of the region's historic towns are still guarded by ancient castles, including Richmond in beautiful Swaledale, Knaresborough, high above its spectacular gorge, Pontefract, where Richard II was done to death and Skipton, market town of the Dales. Bolton Castle, Bolton Abbey and Castle Howard are famous visitor attractions.

Yorkshire is celebrated for its textiles and the wealth of the Victorian era can still be seen in the superb architecture

of towns such as Halifax and Huddersfield, fine bases for exploring the beautiful Pennine Hill country.

Yorkshire's traditional country towns bustle with local life. They include Wetherby, Thirsk in 'Herriot Country', Driffield on the rolling Yorkshire Wolds, Northallerton, in its broad green vale and Malton, the gateway to Ryedale. Find northern tradition alive and kicking in little Pennine towns such as Hebden Bridge and Marsden.

In dynamic contrast, there is the big city buzz of vibrant modern centres such as Leeds, Hull, Bradford, Sheffield and Doncaster, with Leeds now firmly established as the UK's second financial centre after London.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Editor’s Office

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Many women dream about their wedding day from childhood. Not only is it one of the biggest days of a person’s life, it is also likely to be the most romantic.

Given the momentous nature of the all-important wedding, it should

therefore come as no surprise that a lot of thought goes into the planning involved. And one of the most significant aspects of that is the wedding venue.

While most people associate a wedding with a church and minister, tying the knot in registry offices has become increasingly popular over the years. Ultimately, however, the decision between church and registry office depends on the individuals in question. A bride and groom-to-be could think about whether they want a traditional wedding versus modern.

There is nothing more traditional than donning a lavish white wedding dress and walking down a long aisle flanked by scores of family and friends to the tune of Here Comes the Bride.

The tradition of having the father of the bride accompany his daughter and give her away at the altar is one that many dads dream about.

Having bridesmaids at the side of the wife-to-be is another comforting

aspect of traditional weddings that is so engrained in our cultural identity.

But such strict adherence to tradition is not everyone’s cup of tea — particularly those who are in no way religious. Ultimately, marriage is a legal contract and what better way to seal that than by having a more official and straightforward ceremony in a registry office?

As opposed to having passages from the bible recited and old religious hymns sung by guests, registry office weddings can incorporate a more modern set up consisting of clear and concise vows - that are not necessarily devoid of romance — along with songs that again, are not strictly religious.

At the bones of the comparison between church and registry office is just how lavish you want your wedding to be. For example, at a church there will be room for more guests, in which case a big and extravagant ceremony is a possibility,

but in an official office, only a handful of people can be present.

Brides feel more comfortable wearing a fabulous traditional wedding gown in a church, but in a registry office, a smart dress and jacket seems more apt. A church wedding undoubtedly provides men and women — regardless of their religion - with the ultimate fairytale setting that is often considered more romantic and magical. But, on the plus side of the registry office, it can be an awful lot cheaper.

There is also less wedding planning and stress involved, meaning that the bride and groom can focus solely on each other and the reasons why they are tying the knot, instead of being distracted by the drama surrounding the spectacle that is their big day.

There is a lot to be said for couples who do not need to profess their love to the world by spending thousands of pounds on an over-the-top ceremony.

Clearly all they need is each other.

Church Versus Registry Office

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Fairytales Castles for The

latest wedding

your dream wedding catering

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

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

Pendennis Castle

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

Warwick Castle Warwick Castle is a truly majestic venue. Framed by mature sweeping trees and an idyllic lake, you really couldn’t hope for a better backdrop

for your wedding photographs.

The venue is also renowned for its high standard of hospitality and excellent catering facilities. Drinks can be taken in the Peacock Gardens surrounded by fountains.

Your reception can take place in either The Great Hall or the State dining room.

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

we’ve compiled a list of the top wedding catering trends sweeping weddings this year. Read on and be inspired by these inventive ideas, guaranteed to provide a talking point at your big day.

Grazing Yes, grazing is the new buzz word in the catering world; it’s a buffet, but not as we know it. The idea is to create a more sociable dining experience so guests aren’t restricted to sitting on a table surrounded by a handful of people. Everyone is free to mingle whilst they munch creating a more relaxed ambiance. Food stations are set up around the room as opposed to one specific area forcing guests to explore the room and make new acquaintances along the way.

Outrageous cakes It’s your big day, have your cake and eat it! If you have a colour theme extend that to your food too. Perhaps you can’t get enough of pink? Have a giant pink marshmallow wedding cake as the centre piece for your reception.

Monochrome theme wedding? How about a chequered cake decorated with white and dark chocolate pearls?

One bride even went as far as having a life size replica of herself for her wedding cake; it goes to show, there really are no boundaries. Self-service cocktail bars Present your guests with a range of liquors, fruit juices and mixers and let them loose with their imagination. It’s worth having a professional cocktail

trends

waiter on hand to assist your guests and offer them some tips. Cocktail waiters are generally more than happy to show off their skills adding a great spectacle to your reception.

Organic menus Have a wedding breakfast with a conscience and use only fair trade, local, organic and seasonal produce to create your menu. Your insightful choice of ingredients won’t go unnoticed by your guests and many will appreciate the effort you’ve made. Clavelshay Barn in Taunton is

a wedding venue set on a family run farm. They offer a menu using locally sourced produce, with their speciality being their organic beef reared on their farm.

Banquet style Instead of segregating your guests off onto separate tables, arrange to have two or three long tables alongside each other and enjoy a medieval style wedding. For an added feature consider having your meat carved at the table for guests to watch whilst they wait to be served.

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No Barriers can help you develop

New facilities for RWP

Residents looking to develop new skills and looking for employment are invited to get free 1-to-1 professional help.

No Barriers is a National Lottery funded three-year project which can help people with personal development, confidence building and learning skills which could lead to a new job or further training.

The sessions are held at Topping Fold Community Centre and Library in Bury, every Tuesday from 2pm to 4pm.

For an appointment or more information, call Rebecca Albrow on 0161 280 8645

RWP Training LTD cover the whole of the Lancashire area and offer apprenticeships in: Business Administration Childcare Health & Social Care (Adults) Teaching Assistants This year they have extended their premises and now possess a fantastic new training room to offer to their apprentices. The room features spacious table seating with a separate computer area and a chill out zone.

Michelle Chambers from our Business Development team based in Haslingden said `The new training facilities in Haslingden allow us to offer a more bespoke training package, we intentionally keep the class sizes small so learners don’t feel intimidated and benefit from a more personal form of training. We have excellent success rates and many of our success stories of past students have gone onto higher education or secured good jobs due to

new skills for employment Training LTD in Rossendale an Apprenticeship with RWP Training Ltd.’ RWP will be out and about visiting local schools, as well as careers events throughout the academic year, providing parents, carers and students with information, advice and guidance.

The application process is open all year round with school and 6th form leavers for 2017 being asked to apply as soon as possible via the website www.rwp.co.uk or alternatively call the Business Development team on 01706 260914 who are happy to answer any questions you may have.

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Home & Gardens

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Holidays

Holidays

Antiques & Collectables

Pets

Wanted

Funerals

Masseur

Adult

Training

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Community Trust will be joined alongside

five other EFL regional winners at the House of Commons on Monday 6th March

Wigan Athletic Community Trust will be recognised in Parliament for their outstanding community work after being named 2017 North West Checkatrade Community Club of the Year.

The Community Trust will be joined alongside five other EFL regional winners at the House of Commons on Monday 6th March to receive their award from EFL Chief Executive Shaun Harvey.

As part of the award, the Community Trust’s Pathway 2 Participation scheme, a mentoring programme for 12-19 year olds to enable them to take part in activities designed to improve their health and well-being, whilst also raising their aspirations and ambitions, was highlighted as an example of good practice.

Funded by The Big Lottery Fund and Wigan Council, the scheme is run in partnership with Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles and Wigan Youth Zone, and was also named Community Initiative of the Year at the North West Football Awards in November 2016.

Jonathan Jackson, Wigan Athletic Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to be named the North West Checkatrade Community Club of the Year for 2017 in recognition of the excellent, wide-ranging and diverse work that Wigan Athletic Community Trust deliver in schools and the local community.

“We are extremely proud of this success story – helping young people realise their potential and ambitions is an important objective for the Trust and the football club. All staff and volunteers involved in the Trust should take enormous credit for this award.”

The six regional winners were selected by an independent judging panel including The Times’ Chief

Football Writer, Henry Winter, and Senior Professional Sports Advisor at the UK Department of Health, Sam Haylen.

Shaun Harvey, EFL Chief Executive, said: “The announcement of the Regional Award winners provide a fitting tribute to the work that takes place to transform local communities through the power of football. “All Clubs, not just the winners, work

tirelessly to connect with local supporters and I am delighted to see such innovative and effective ideas recognised in this way.”

Wigan Athletic will now be put forward alongside the five other regional winners for the Checkatrade 2017 Community Club Year of the Award, which will be unveiled at the EFL Awards on Sunday 9 April in central London.

Tom Flower, Head of Community at Wigan Athletic Community Trust, said: “We are delighted to be named as the 2017 North West Community Club of the Year by the EFL. “Each year the Trust delivers projects that reach over 11,000 young people and families across Wigan, which achieve positive results and make a real difference to their lives. “The award is a testament to the hard work of all our staff and volunteers and further enhances Wigan Athletic’s reputation as a football club that takes its commitment to the local community seriously.”

Parkour/Freerunning

officially recognised as a sport!

The UK has become the first country in the world to officially recognise Parkour/Freerunning as a sport, after the Home Country Sports Councils approved Parkour UK’s application for recognition of the sport and the National Governing Body.

The recognition of Parkour/Freerunning as a sport & Parkour UK as the National Governing Body (NGB) by the Home Country Sports Councils – Sport England, Sport Wales, sportscotland, Sport Northern Ireland and UK Sport follows completion of the UK recognition process by Parkour UK. Parkour UK began the formal recognition process in March 2013, with the pre application for recognition approved in March 2014. The full application for recognition was submitted in August 2015 and was recommended for approval by the UK Recognition Panel in Dec 2015. During 2016 the Boards of the Home Country Sports Councils approved the full application for recognition, with the final confirmation of recognition being confirmed in October 2016.

Recognition will enable Parkour/Freerunning groups and organisations affiliated to Parkour UK to apply to the home country sports councils for lottery or exchequer funding to support the development of the sport locally in each home nation Minister for Sport, Tracey Crouch, said: “I want people to get out there and find the sport and physical activity that appeals to them and Parkour is certainly a fun, creative and innovative option. I am pleased that it has been recognised as a sport, giving it the platform for further growth in this country, with Parkour UK as its governing body. The sport promotes movement and using the great outdoors as a space to get active in and I encourage people to don their trainers and give it a go.”

YOUR LOCAL TEAMS FIXTURES...

MANCHESTER UNITED Sat 4th Mar BOURNEMOUTH (HOME) PREMIER LEAGUE Thu 9th Mar FC ROSTOV (AWAY) EUROPA LEAGUE ROUND OF 16 1st LEG Mon 13th Mar CHELSEA (AWAY) FA CUP 6th ROUND Thu 16th Mar FC ROSTOV (HOME) EUROPA LEAGUE ROUND OF 16 2nd LEG Sun 19th Mar MIDDLESBROUGH (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE Sat 1st Apr WEST BROM (HOME) PREMIER LEAGUE Tue 4th Apr EVERTON (HOME) PREMIER LEAGUE MANCHESTER CITY Sun 5th Mar SUNDERLAND (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE Sat 11th Mar STOKE (HOME) PREMIER LEAGUE Wed 15th Mar MONACO (AWAY) CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ROUND OF 16 2nd LEG Sun 19th Mar LIVERPOOL (HOME) PREMIER LEAGUE

Sat 1st Apr ARSENAL (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE Wed 5th Apr CHELSEA (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE BURNLEY Sat 4th Mar SWANSEA (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE Sun 12th Mar LIVERPOOL (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE Sat 18th Mar SUNDERLAND (AWAY) PREMIER LEAGUE Sat 1st Apr TOTTENHAM (HOME) PREMIER LEAGUE Tue 4th Apr - STOKE (HOME) PREMIER LEAGUE BLACKBURN ROVERS Sat 4th Mar WIGAN (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Tue 7th Mar CARDIFF (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 11th Mar NORWICH (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Tue 14th Mar FULHAM (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 18th Mar PRESTON (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 1st Apr BRIGHTON (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP

Tue 4th Apr READING (AWAY) PRESTON NORTH END Sat 4th March FULHAM (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Tue 7th March DERBY COUNTY (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 11th March READING (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 18th March BLACKBURN ROVERS (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 1st April FULHAM (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP WIGAN ATHLETIC Sat 4th March BLACKBURN ROVERS (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Tue 7th March BIRMINGHAM CITY (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 11th March BRISTOL CITY (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 18th March ASTON VILLA (HOME) CHAMPIONSHIP Sat 1st April NEWCASTLE UNITED (AWAY) CHAMPIONSHIP BOLTON WANDERERS Sat 4th March AFC WIMBLEDON (HOME) LEAGUE 1

Sat 11th March FLEETWOOD TOWN (AWAY) LEAGUE 1 Tue 14th March GILLINGHAM (AWAY) LEAGUE 1 Sat 18th March NORTHAMPTON TOWN (HOME) LEAGUE 1 Tue 21st March OXFORD UTD (AWAY) LEAGUE 1 Sat 25th March SHREWSBURY TOWN (AWAY) LEAGUE 1 Sat 1st April CHESTERFIELD (HOME) LEAGUE 1 ACCRINGTON STANLEY Sat 4 March Barnet (HOME) LEAGUE 2 Sat 11th March Exeter (AWAY) LEAGUE 2 Tue 14th March Leyton Orient (HOME) LEAGUE 2 Sat 18th March Yeovil (AWAY) LEAGUE 2 Tue 21st March Morecambe (AWAY) LEAGUE 2 Sat 25th March Grimsby Town (HOME) LEAGUE 2 Sat 1st April Plymouth Arglye (AWAY) LEAGUE 2

Page 48. Issue 29. Lancashire Local

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The future of Belle Vue Aces is

secured as new tenure confirmed

Speedway is set to return to the National Speedway Stadium on Kirkmanshulme Lane in time for the newly named 2017 British Speedway Premiership as a new consortia has been agreed to secure the future of the historic Aces club.

Founded by Tony Rice and Robin Southwell, Belle Vue Speedway 2017 Ltd can now be announced as the new owners of the Belle Vue Aces franchise.

The British Speedway Promoters Association (BSPA), who have control over speedway promoters’ licences across the UK, have confirmed their decision following consultation with Manchester City Council.

The franchise will take control of the club from today (24 February 2017) and will occupy the National Speedway Stadium at the Belle Vue Sports Village.

Bringing significant commercial experience to the venture, Club owners Tony Rice and Robin Southwell have strong business links to Manchester and have the desire to develop a long-term and sustainable future for the Club in Manchester and to promote the National Speedway Stadium as a world class venue for Speedway activity in the country.

The Club Owners have appointed Adrian Smith as Chief Executive Officer (who has worked with Tony Rice in other businesses) and are also delighted to announce that Mark Lemon the 2015 & 2016 Team Manager and well known speedway figure has been appointed as Director of Speedway reporting to the CEO. In their roles, Adrian will have overall responsibility for developing and managing the business and Mark will be Team Manager and will also have full responsibility for all the Premiership, National and development team activities.

Club Owners Tony and Robin commented: “Whilst it has taken a few weeks to finalise negotiations, we are delighted to become the new owners of the Belle Vue Aces. We have been impressed with Manchester City Councils passion and commitment to Belle Vue and believe that we will continue to build a close working relationship with them as we develop the business during the season.”

Adrian Smith said: “I am delighted to be joining Belle Vue Speedway 2017 and I am very excited that Mark

Lemon is our Director of Speedway.

Both of us are determined to build a sustainable club that our fans and Manchester can be truly proud of.”

Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Belle Vue Aces is one of the Manchester’s most historic sporting clubs and to be able to confirm their continued tenure at the National Speedway Stadium will be welcome news to their fans.

“We would like to thank the British Speedway Promoters’ Association (BSPA) for working constructively

with us over the past few months, during difficult circumstances, and we welcome the new owners on what we hope will be a successful future for the team, on a track that has already been recognised as one of the best in the world.”

Keith Chapman, Chairman of the British Speedway Promoters Association (BSPA), said: “It’s a thrill to be able to officially announce Belle Vue Speedway 2017 Ltd as the new owners of the Belle Vue Aces franchise, securing the club’s future after a period of intense speculation.

The National Speedway Stadium is a shining beacon of British Speedway and today’s news marks the start of a bright future for the club.”

Partnership

is up and

running!

THE fledgling Lancashire County Golf Partnership got off to a flying start when in excess of 200 delegates from more than 70 clubs attended the official launch at Bolton Old Links.

“We were overwhelmed by the turn - out,” said county development officer Iain Lancaster. “The build - up had been brilliant and the people who came here to listen to our initiatives will have returned to the clubs with some exciting ideas on how to grow the sport.”

He added: “This is the time to break down the barriers and get the message across that golf is for everyone.” Sean Hammill, England Golf’s regional development officer, revealed it was the biggest launch attendance he’d witnessed, describing it as a “reflection on the enthusiasm for the game in the county.”He also outlined the importance of the partnership in encouraging more people to get into golf thanks to Sport England funding.

“There’s a network of county golf partnerships in the country and Lancashire can now take advantage of a whole range of projects and benefits. It has a key role to work alongside clubs and driving ranges to increase participation.”

Andy Leigh, the North West Region officer for the Golf Foundation who is a member of Chorley Golf Club, said: “We are a charity dedicated to developing juniors from the moment they pick up a club right the way through to becoming a club member. “We also offer skills for life which come through playing the game which include such things as honesty and respect. HSBC Golf Roots programme is our national initiative which is very flexible.

One of our key areas is schools but we don’t go into them with no clear pathway to excel in the game without involving the local clubs.

We are also involved with community groups.” Leigh also emphasised the importance of the role of PGA professionals in teach the sport. And he made a plea to encourage more girls to take up the game. Other speeches came from Paul Keeling, who explained England Golf’s customer services workshops, and Beth Kay, from Lancashire Sports, who highlighted available funds for clubs.

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.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 29. Page 3.

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