Lancashire Local Issue 31

www.facebook.com/LancsLocal | www.Lancashire-Local.com | www.twitter.com/@lancslocal

FREE

Inside This Issue: Care • News • Inspired Villages • Your Visit Guide • Sports

Issue. 31

FREE

New cinema complex

is the ‘Reel’ deal

Reel Cinema Ltd has been unveiled as the developer behind a new cinema, restaurant and bar complex in Blackburn town centre.

The exciting plans were revealed

by Blackburn with Darwen Council and the centre’s new owner during a signing ceremony at Blackburn Town Hall.

The development will be built on the site of the former Waves Water Fun Centre, which was demolished last year after the development of the new Blackburn Sports and Leisure Centre.

Reel Cinemas is a top independent cinema operator owned by Kailash Chander ‘KC’ Suri.

The deal was officially signed at Blackburn Town Hall and works are due to start in early 2018 with a completion date of late summer 2019.

During his visit Mr Suri enjoyed a tour of the Northgate area surrounding the cinema site and was interested to see the Mitchell and Kenyon documentary connection the town is famous for. He spoke about his vision for Blackburn and his other projects across the country.

He said: Coming to Blackburn is about creating something unique. I could see the potential as soon as I visited Blackburn. The new cinema will be the first of its kind in the country.

There is nothing else like it. There will be a fusion of Hollywood, Bollywood and Independent cinema.

The theme will come out in the design too and the food and drink offer. Hopefully it will play a part in bringing people together.

It will have the very latest technology, fit for the next generation.

I’m also interested what else Reel might get involved in. It’s an ideal site for leisure, close to the college and King George’s Hall and other exciting investment activity.”

The cinema complex will be built by the Council but leased to Reel for 20 years, which will pay back the £6.5million capital cost but leave the borough with the Reel Cinema Ltd and Council officers at the site of the new cinema complex. freehold.

The scheme is for a single storey eight screen cinema venues. The new development will Because we are independent we are flexible and can work incorporating a bar and food and help to boost the town centre’s night with the local community and be at its heart. We will be time economy, following on from the keen to link up with students and local filmmakers. drink units.

The cinema will sell alcohol and development of the Cathedral Quarter, It’s always a proud for me when people tell me they have parking will be free at the multi storey new bars opening and the new Blakey had a great experience. We can complement other cinema Moor Townscape Heritage project. experiences in the area and research shows cinema car park for visitors.

Mr Suri added: admissions go up when a second cinema opens.

The development will create local jobs and bring more visitors into Providing a value for money “I am delighted to be standing shoulder to shoulder with Blackburn town centre and make experience for all ages in very the Council on this development, we are very encouraged Blackburn a destination for cinema important to Reel. We liked to be by the level of commitment shown to making this goers with a real choice of films and thought of as the local cinema. happen.”

Missing 16-year-old

believed to be in Preston

Lancashire Police are becoming increasingly concerned about a missing 16-year-old boy who is believed to be in Preston.

Joshua Stock, from Gateshead, was last seen at around 6.40pm on Tuesday (April 25th) at an address on Elswick Road in Preston.

We would urge anybody who has seen him, or knows where

he may be, to get in touch with us.

A Lancashire Police spokeswoman said: “We are worried about Joshua’s welfare and would appeal to anybody who knows where he is, or thinks they may have seen him, to contact us as soon as possible. Similarly we would urge Joshua himself, if he sees this appeal, to get in touch let us know he is safe.” Joshua is described as white,

around 5ft 10ins tall, of slim build, with hair which is short, blond and curly. He was last seen wearing a grey hoody and grey jacket, grey tracksuit bottoms, a black baseball cap and blue trainers.

Anybody with information about his whereabouts should contact police on 101, quoting log number 910 of April 25th.

Page 2. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Tackling knife crime on

Lancashire’s streets

LANCASHIRE Constabulary is supporting a week of action aimed at reducing knife crime.

Operation Sceptre, running from 1-7 May, is a national campaign targeting knife crime and those who carry knives.

While knife crime in Lancashire is no worse than many other parts of the country we are keen to stress that any incident involving a knife could have tragic consequences and destroy lives.

Chief Inspector Mark Baines, of Lancashire Police, said: “Too many families have been affected by knife crime with even one person being stabbed being one too many.

The consequences of carrying and using a knife can be devastating and potentially life-threatening.

“I would appeal directly to people that if you know someone who is carrying a knife, don't keep silent. Report it.

“The law is simple - it is illegal to carry a knife, even if it belongs to

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

someone else. “Anyone who is found carrying a knife and is intending to use it as a weapon – even in selfdefence can be arrested, go to court and receive a police record or even a prison sentence of up to four years and an unlimited fine.”

Knife bins were used at locations across Lancashire during surrenders in 2014 and 2016. Hundreds of knives were handed in and taken off our streets. While the bins aren’t being used during this week, we will consider the use of a surrender again in the future and would encourage people to think about why they own a knife and the repercussions of carrying or using it.

Officers will also continue to carry out test purchase operations to ensure that retailers are not selling knives to people under the age of 18.

CI Baines added: “Lancashire Constabulary has a zero tolerance policy toward possession of knives in public and we take reports of knife crime very seriously. We will act on

all intelligence received in a bid to prevent people losing loved ones and to detain those who intend to commit acts of violence using knives.

“If you have information about the possession of knives or offensive weapons or criminal activity relating to this type of crime, call 101 or make a report online via the Lancashire Constabulary website.

“You can also anonymously report information to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: "Knives are potentially lethal weapons and I fully support Lancashire Constabulary’s bid to get them off our streets.

“No-one should live in fear of knives being used in their community. I have funded a range of projects to help stop people getting involved in knife crime – from a hard-hitting film to show to our county's young people to projects that work with vulnerable people to steer them away from crime."

Young people are being encouraged to log onto the Trust Ed website – www.trusted2know.co.uk – to find out more about knife crime and the dangers of carrying a knife on Lancashire’s streets.

If you don't feel ready to call police but want to talk to someone, why not contact Lancashire Victim Services or the young peoples’ support service Nest. Details can be found on the constabulary website.

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.

New legislation gives a boost to child safety

Polling day arrangements

for GM Mayor elections

Almost two million electors will have the chance to elect the first ever Mayor of Greater Manchester as voters across the region go to the polls on Thursday 4 May. More than 1,400 polling stations in Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport Tameside, Trafford and Wigan will be open from 7am until 10pm for people to cast their vote.

Eight candidates are vying for the votes. People can find the location of their polling station on their poll

card but if they do not know it they can check with the election office based at their local council. You do not need to have your poll card with you to be able to vote but it does save time if you do.

Anyone who has requested a postal vote but left it too late to post their ballot pack back can still drop it off at any polling station in their local council area, or their local elections office, on the day.

Combined Authority Returning Officer Eamonn Boylan said: “This is an historic

election to choose an elected Mayor of Greater Manchester. We want to make sure that no one who wants to participate misses out."

The count for all 10 Greater Manchester local authority areas, and the declaration of the winning candidate, will take place at Manchester Central Convention Complex on Friday 5 May.This election uses the Supplementary Voting System, which gives electors the opportunity to cast their vote for their first and second choice

candidates. If one candidate gets more than 50 per cent of the first choice votes, they will become the Mayor of Greater Manchester. If no candidate gets this majority, there will be a second count in which the two candidates with the most first choice votes remain in the running and all other candidates are eliminated.

The second choice votes of people who voted for eliminated candidates will then be counted and any second choice votes for the two remaining candidates added to their first choice totals.

The candidate who has the highest overall total will then be declared the Mayor. For more information about the mayoral elections and mayoral role visit www.gmelects.org.uk

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

A series of Town Hall tours has been

extended, to give more people of all ages

the chance to look behind the scenes at

Manchester’s civic centrepiece this summer.

The tours, led by Manchester Guided Tours and New Manchester Walks, offer Manchester people the chance to visit parts of the Town Hall which are not normally accessible to the public, find out more about the building’s history and see for themselves why a major project is needed to protect it for future generations.

The new dates are:Sunday 7 May Sunday 21 May Sunday 4 June Sunday 11 June Sunday 2 July Visitors will experience highlights including the Courtyard – which, with its 19th century cobbles and leaded windows, is a favourite location for film-makers - a display cabinet containing the silver dinner set used at the Town Hall’s official opening, plus usually unseen areas

like the ‘Porter’s Cubby Hole’. And if you're lucky, you might even hear the resounding tones of the grand Cavaille-Coll organ being played in the Great Hall.

The 75-minute tours are being presented as Manchester City Council continues to make progress with the Our Town Hall project, which will result in the refurbishment of the Grade-I listed building.

The Town Hall, widely revered as one of the UK’s most important examples of Victorian architecture, is now nearly 140 years old and although it is structurally sound, major work is required to bring it up to modern access and safety standards, while ensuring that its many heritage features are preserved.

Councillor Bernard Priest, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “The initial run of Town

Hall behind-the-scenes tours was incredibly popular, so we’re very pleased to add a series of extra dates, to meet the significant public demand.

“Increasing public access to our Town Hall is one of the goals of the refurbishment project and this is just one of the ways in which we can engage residents with the architecture, contents and history of this magnificent building. Looking behind the scenes will also help people to understand the nature and scope of the work required to safeguard this symbol of Manchester for future generations.”

Tickets have been subsidised by the council and cost £2.50 per person, plus a booking fee (75p).

For further information, tour start times and to book, visit www. manchesterguidedtours.com, or www. newmanchesterwalks.com.

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.”

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 3.

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.”

Page 4. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Piccadilly Gardens welcomes the Art & Soul Tattoo Studio public as huge overhaul is completed

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.

The fencing has come down in Piccadilly Gardens marking the end of the major programme and a new beginning for the public space as summer approaches.

Ready for the season, the whole of Piccadilly Gardens has had a deep cleanse, while the historic monuments – Peel, Watt, Wellington and Victoria – have been steam cleaned. A conservation team have also been onsite to give a hot wax treatment to the statues to help protect the bronzes from the elements. At the same time, the Carrara marble steps, which form part of the Queen Victoria statue, have been re-pointed.

The majority of the grassed areas have been re-turfed, with particular attention to the area affected by the water feature project. The famous water feature was brought back on line earlier this year, which required a significant amount of earth works to give access to the underground machinery, and has been running on a minimum flow ever since while the surrounding works were completed.

Following the completion of the turfing work, the fountain has now been drained, deep cleaned and refilled, and visitors to the public square will be able to see the water feature fully operational from 7am until 11pm in the summer, and 8am until 10pm in the winter. Cllr Pat Karney, Manchester City Council’s City Centre Spokesperson, said: “Piccadilly Gardens is a key public space in the city centre that thousands of people visit every day. You just have to see the crowds that flock on a sunny day to see how popular it is and how important it is for us to

create a space where Manchester people and visitors can be proud of.

“The fountain is back, ready for the summer months, and we have already had a huge response from the public celebrating their return.

“It’s taken a number of months to get the Gardens ready for the public and we appreciate everyone’s patience while the work has been carried out.

Now I’m happy to announce that Piccadilly Gardens is open to the public again and it’s fantastic to see it looking better than ever.”

Water feature repair programme The massive operation required the two colossal water tanks to be completely removed and replaced, along with major repairs to the fountain’s plant room. This incredible undertaking required the broken machinery to be lifted out and a significant amount of earth removal works to give access to the water feature’s system. (See accompanying pictures to appreciate the scale of the project) The reinforced concrete tank now has a water capacity of 70,000 litres that will feed 15 pumps to power the 180

jets that create the incredible water show above the surface – throwing water up to 6metres into the air.

Each jet has two sets of LED lights, controlled by an underground system that allows the water above ground to be up lit in any combination of colours, which can also be programmed for different events and celebrations.

Project with St Marys CE Primary School, Webster Primary, Claremont Primary and Martenscroft Nursery School. Pupils from the schools have been part of a project, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, which charted the history of the Gardens through its history. They have learnt how the Gardens came to be, how the area has changed, and have also looked to the future.

The pupils were asked how they thought the Gardens should look in 2050 when they take their children to the city centre. Their designs will now form an exhibition at Manchester Central Library in June.

Some of the work they have made will also be kept as part of the Manchester Archive to ensure a personal history of the city is kept to mark the project.

Council awarded £857,000

for flood repairs

Roads and tunnels in Wigan Borough damaged by Storm Eva will be repaired thanks to another cash boost.

Wigan Council has received £857,000 from the Department of Transport’s local transport capital block funding grant to help with ongoing repairs caused by the storm on Boxing Day 2015.

The successful bid was in partnership with Bolton, Rochdale, Bury and Salford.

Wigan has also received £80,448 from the Environment Agency’s Flood Defence Grant in Aid to do further flood remediation work to reduce the risk of any flooding in the future.

The funding is in addition to the £750,000 the local authority secured last year from the government’s flood fund to carry out a series of repairs across the borough to areas damaged by the floods and to reduce the risk in

the future. Storm Eva battered Wigan Borough on Boxing Day 2015 when more than a month’s rainfall fell in 24 hours leaving many properties, roads and greenspaces damaged.

Works have already been carried out at numerous locations throughout the borough. Work to repair the drain network in Lilford Park, Leigh, and to reduce the flood risk to the highway at Crooke village has been completed along with works at Yellow Brook and St Elizabeth’s Road, Aspull and to the drain network in Platt Bridge.

The wall adjacent to the River Douglas at Southgate which was heavily damaged during the floods is currently being repaired.

Mark Tilley, assistant director for infrastructure and regulatory services, said: “We’ve already carried out a lot of repairs following the Boxing Day floods and this money will give us an extra boost and allow us to carry out

further repairs and flood mitigation works that should protect our communities in the future and reduce flood risk. “It’s also really important that residents take steps to protect their own properties from flooding. If you know your property is in a flood risk zone we’d encourage you to sign up to the flood warning system and to also make sure you have insurance to cover any damage caused by flooding.

An updated flood warning system went live on Monday 10th April in England and Wales.

Residents can sign up online to get flood warning messages and access to recorded flood information on Floodline.

Anybody already signed up to the current system will be automatically transferred to the new one.

Residents can find flood information and register for flood warnings at www.gov.uk/flood

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

to defeat bullying Play

Tech tool tootoot helping Technology is helping to lead the fight against bullying at schools across the Wigan Borough.

Schools like St Peter's Catholic High School in Orrell have been signing up to tootoot, an app which lets pupils report any concerns they have in an easy-to-use format.

Through tootoot young people can alert teachers to a wide range of issues from bullying, cyber bullying, racism, extremism, radicalisation, sexism, mental health and self-harm.

Pupils at St Peter's were talked through how the app works and have been signed up to the service.

Michael Brennan created the app after he was himself the victim of bullying but was too scared to tell his teachers in case the bullies found out.

Wigan Council is the first authority in the UK to offer tootoot to all its schools through a match funding programme to provide tootoot for the next four years. Tootoot is a Leighbased company which has worked with more than 1,000 schools across

the world with children in New Zealand, Italy and Dubai among those to benefit from the reporting tool.

Michael Brennan, tootoot director, said: "All too often students are scared or just aren't confident enough to speak to someone face-to-face about their concerns, for fear of being identified and potentially making matters worse. With tootoot, students are able to safely and anonymously tell their place of learning about their concerns and worries, as a first step to resolving them.

"Based in Leigh, I am delighted that we have been able to partner with Wigan Council in order to provide all schools in Wigan Borough with tootoot pupil voice and safeguarding platform."

James Winterbottom, director for children's services at Wigan Council, added: "We want to provide all our young people with a safe environment where they can grow and achieve great things. This is a key commitment in The Deal for Children

and Young People as young people across the borough have told us they want a digital way to raise concerns as well as continuing to have the important opportunity to speak to teachers, parents and trusted adults.

"Tootoot is an innovative way for us to get the right support for any young person who has concerns about the way people are behaving towards them or others and in this digital age offers an alternative route for young people's voices to be heard. We are delighted to be able to team up with them and our schools to provide this for all young people."

Andy McGlown, headteacher at St Peter's Catholic High School, said: "Our students know that when they share a problem with us we will work with them to resolve it, but it can be daunting to take the first step and tell someone. If Tootoot can help more of our young people tell someone earlier about anything that is causing them concern, it will mean that we can help them sooner and reduce anxiety."

Straight forward safety

solutions for your business

CBIOP prides itself on the expertise of our consultants, using their knowledge and experience to keep you safe. CBIOP seeks to demystify and clarify the world of Health and Safety, whether that be rules, legislation, best practice or regulation, giving you the peace of mind to fully focus on attending to your customers’ needs, and growing your business.

When you decide to work with us, we will provide an honest and accurate perspective on your company’s health and safety needs and requirements.

We will seek to keep your employees, your premises and your reputation safe, making sure everybody comes back in one piece.

Craig has experience of working with private sector companies and public sector bodies including central government. He has worked alongside principal contractors covering all aspects of construction including new build, refurbishment and reactive contracts.

These experiences include auditing of multiple sites for best practices and consistency and delivery of onsite training. Craig is also a member of the Institute of Industrial Accident Investigation.

His qualifications as well as being a Chartered Member of IOSH include site management. His strengths include the preparation, compilation and implementation of bespoke health and safety management systems for small, medium and large clients regardless of the industry that they operate in. This include preparation of site specific risk assessments. He also has excellent training skills and

can communicate to all levels of employees within an organisation.

Risk Assessments Two key pieces of health and safety legislation define an employer’s responsibilities to regularly carry out and review risk assessments. These are: The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

Proper risk assessments also help to prevent accidents, and facilitate investigations when they do unfortunately occur. Risk assessments also help with planning training programmes and minimising insurance premiums, cutting costs for your business. As a business, each task that is carried out with your company needs to be assessed and the findings accurately recorded.

CBIOP consultants will guide you through this process, minimising stress, and can also visit your site, if required.

Properly documented risk assessments provide an educated estimate of

risk for your employees while they are carrying out their duties. They also reduce everyday risks to the lowest possibly level, providing safeguards, control measures and, crucially, peace of mind for all workers.

Health Monitoring The health of your workforce is important – you need healthy, content workers to carry out their duties effectively.

As an employer, you also have a duty of care to keep your employees healthy. CBIOP can provide a variety of services, all of which are designed to ensure that the activities and tasks carried out within your work environment do not have any adverse health implications for your workforce.

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

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 5.

Factore

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 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 6. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Warm Homes Oldham

changes lives

Summer is around the corner but the award-winning Warm Homes Oldham scheme is still helping residents to save money on their energy bill.

Oldhamers can receive energy advice, help in switching tariffs and support with debts and benefits.

Donna (49), from Chadderton, says the Warm Homes Oldham scheme has completely changed her life and left her feeling “like she’d won the lottery”.

She was suffering with a variety of health problems, struggling to heat her home and relying on family to support her. After receiving a Warm Homes Oldham flyer through the post, Donna contacted the team to see if they could help her.

The team fitted some energy saving measures in her home, and helped her to switch to a cheaper energy tariff, saving £245 a year on her gas and electric bills. They also made applications on her behalf to charitable trust funds for a new energy efficient cooker and a freezer.

They also referred Donna to a specialist team who helped her reapply for a rejected Personal Independence Payment (PIP) application and further benefits she was entitled to. She’s now receiving an additional £181.70 per week which means she can keep her home warm and stay well.

Donna said: “This has totally changed my life. I was really struggling and it was really getting me down. My family were helping me but there was only so long I could let them do that for me.

“The Warm Homes Oldham team were absolutely brilliant and I’d recommend anyone in the position I was in to pick up the phone.”

May Bradford (86) lives on her own in Chadderton, she suffers from poor hearing and eyesight.

Mrs Bradford’s boiler was no longer working and beyond repair but she could not afford to replace it.

Warm Homes Oldham successfully applied for a grant for a new boiler from a charitable trust and Mrs Bradford is now waiting for it to be fitted.

With their help she also switched to a different energy tariff and will save £230 a year and the team also fitted useful measures, such as radiator foils, to help her save further on energy costs.

Mrs Bradford said: “When you’re in your 80s you don’t have an awful lot left to put everything right.

“I’ve already seen a real difference and I think it is a great scheme. I would really recommend that people get in touch if they are struggling.”

Helen Lockwood, Executive Director

of Economy and skills at Oldham Council, said: “Our fantastic Warm Homes Oldham scheme continues to win national awards for its innovative work.

“Stories like Donna’s and May’s are precisely why we are very proud of this remarkable scheme – it genuinely changes lives.

“Even though it’s getting warm outside now, it’s never a bad time to save money on your energy bill or to prepare for next winter. “Warm Homes Oldham is at hand to offer advice on how to reduce energy use around the home and use heating controls effectively.

There is also support available with switching energy tariff, maximising income, claiming benefit entitlements and getting out of fuel debt.”

For more information about Warm Homes Oldham, or to book a free, no obligation survey, visit www.warmhomesoldham. org or call 0800 019 1084.

Care and support staff

who go the extra mile

An Oldham Council care and support provider has recognised an outstanding employee for taking it upon himself to help local disadvantaged people into work.

Created as a high quality provider by Oldham Council, The MioCare Group gives care and support to people so they can get the most out of life by promoting independence, choice and wellbeing.

MioCare held its annual staff awards on 23 March, recognising the achievements of its employees throughout the last year.

Finance Manager Paul Wilkinson was given the Jim Marshall Making a Difference Award.

Paul had seen the difficulties faced by some individuals in trying to find work and developed the We Do Care scheme to address this problem.

His work has now resulted in three vulnerable people securing employment at MioCare. Cllr Zahid Chauhan, Chair of the MioCare Group board, said: “Paul is a very hardworking and dedicated individual and through his efforts the scheme has been very successful, having a direct positive effect on the lives of those involved.” Cllr Jenny Harrison, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Safeguarding, said: “Paul took it upon himself to support others who needed his help. He went above and beyond his professional duties to do what he knew was right.

“This is an excellent example of how working cooperatively makes us better as a borough. The council’s work with MioCare is an invaluable asset to Oldham and long

may it continue.” Bernie Lewis Assessment and Reviewing Officer within the Reablement Team – won the Role Model Award. Bernie was nominated by several colleagues for being an excellent role model, offering support, guidance and advice to colleagues and service users alike.

Megan Walsh – Care Assistant at Charles Morris House (Extra Care Housing) - won the Rising Star award. Megan has made a real impact in just six months and provides activities such as pamper sessions for service users with dementia, taking a lead in this area within the service. Joanne Cumberbirch – Home Care Worker - was given the Unsung Hero Award. Joanne showed true dedication in working with one service user in particular who was at risk of losing his tenancy, showing incredible patience and tenacity, building trust and supporting him to change his life and enhance his wellbeing. Debbie Messam – Resource Manager, Supported Living – won the Leadership Award. Debbie

is dedicated and hardworking and played a key role in supporting the Autism accreditation process. She provides great support to her teams in challenging circumstances. The Outstanding Team Contribution Award went to the Victoria Street Team. In particular, the team helped an individual with health issues and challenging behaviour by introducing new strategies and changes to help him sustain a home life whilst balancing the needs of other service users and keeping them safe. Jenny Whittaker – Community Support Worker, Supported Living – won the Chairman’s Award. Cllr Chauhan said: “Jenny takes the lead on important issues within the service, liaising with colleagues and other professionals in the best interests of the service users and she always works to a very high standard. “Jenny has natural leadership abilities and is able to motivate and inspire others, turning negatives to positives and getting the best outcome from all involved.”

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 7.

Come and enjoy the fantastic Ormskirk Medieval Weekend

Take a step back in time and find out what life was like in West Lancashire 900 years ago by coming along to the marvellous Ormskirk Medieval Weekend at Coronation Park.

The fabulous free two-day extravaganza on Saturday 13 May and Sunday 14 May will give visitors the chance to experience the sights,

smells, sounds and tastes of both Norman England, and the exotic Byzantine Empire as two armies clash! West Lancashire Borough Council Parks and Countryside Service has organised the fantastic free event where 12th century reenactment group Historia Normannis will take you on a journey through

time. Over the weekend the park in Ormskirk will come alive with fabulous medieval-themed activities, entertainment and displays for people of all ages to enjoy between 11am and 4pm on both days. Similar events held in previous years were hugely successful with thousands of people attending. Dave Tilleray, Director of

Community pillars

recognised by Mayor

A group of community pillars have been recognised by the Mayor of Wigan Borough for their selfless civic commitment over the last 25-years.

Trinity Friendship Group volunteers were invited to the Mayor’s Parlour in Wigan Town Hall, where a ‘Community Service Award’ was presented, recognising their efforts in preparing meals for between 50 and 65 elderly residents once a month for the past quarter of a century. One Monday per month, the group serves a two-course meal at Trinity Methodist Church in Pemberton, which also benefits many Orrell residents.

The cost of the meal is £5.50 and profits are used to buy equipment.

Any excess goes to the church funds to help pay towards the use of the premises. Anne Finch, a retired cookery teacher, set up the group with Eve Nickeas in the 1980’s, to help Venture Scouts raise money

to buy equipment for their Duke of Edinburgh expedition to the Pyrennes.

The idea grew substantially and now, the whole community is welcome to enjoy a freshly prepared, locally sourced meal. Mayor of Wigan Borough, Councillor Ron Conway said: “It’s absolutely phenomenal the dedication that Anne and this group have shown over the years. We could all benefit from the Trinity Friendship Group as they really are the epitome of what ‘The Deal’ is all about.” “I’m so proud to be part of a borough that takes pride in their community in this way. The award is most deserving and I wish the volunteers all the best in continuing this work.” Although anybody is welcome to attend, the monthly Monday meal helps to tackle social isolation by catering for individuals who may live alone.

Anne said: “We’re so thankful to have received this award from the Mayor

but it was quite a shock as we just want to help our local community. I set the group up with Eve and also my late friend, Jennifer Butler, so I wish she’d have been here to see the award too.” “Many people who attend on a Monday tell us how much they enjoy and appreciate the firm friendships they have made and our services are now in demand for anniversaries, birthdays and other celebrations!”

For more information or to attend the monthly lunch, call Anne Finch on 01257 462839 or Ann Brown on 01942 223589. The next lunch is scheduled for Monday 5th June due to bank holidays.

Leisure and Wellbeing, said: “Once again some wonderful displays and activities have been lined up which will make the Ormskirk Medieval Weekend a great treat for all the family. So make sure you come and enjoy this fantastic event.”

Members of Historia Normannis will do battle in exciting combat displays and tournaments, bringing the exciting events of the Fourth Crusade to life. Visitors can try on the armour, take a closer look at the weapons and how they’re made or even try their hand at archery. Everyday life in the

12th century will be featured with medieval cooking demonstrations and a fashion show to talk about the different styles of dress of the times. There will also be displays of medieval crafts. Several other medieval-themed activities and stalls are being planned for the day.

Hungry visitors will be able to enjoy a range of refreshments. There will also be face painting and children’s rides and a giant bouncy castle. For more information regarding any of our Parks and Countryside sites or any of the events organised by West

Lancashire Borough Council Parks and Countryside Ranger Service please go to our website countryside.

For more information about volunteering opportunities with the Ranger Service please contact 01695 622794. You can also find out more about parks and countryside events by following the Rangers on Twitter @WLBC_Rangers or the www. facebook.com/wlbc.rangers For more information about other West Lancashire Borough Council events please visit www.westlancs. gov.uk/events.

In this column Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn & Ribble Valley Samaritans try to raise awareness of the work we do as Samaritans. If you ask someone what do Samaritans do?

What do you think would be their first answer? Oh, it’s a suicide crisis line is the normal answer.

Well it is true that we are there for anyone who has suicidal feelings and/ or thoughts - but did you know we are there for anyone who is in emotional distress or despair - you do not have to feel suicidal to call us FREE on 116 123. Did you also know that when we take your call we cannot see your phone number and calls to 116 123 do not appear on phone bills, so no one else needs to know you have called us.

Samaritans is the only charity that is "there for everyone" 24/7, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year.

For most people in emotional distress and despair they just want to be given the opportunity to be listened to and that is what the Samaritans do “we listen”, we do not judge anyone.

If you personally want to make a difference in 2017, why not think about volunteering with us. You do not have to live or work in the Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn or Ribble Valley area, Samaritans branches are throughout the North West and could be in your town. If you are interested why not call 03705 627282 or email volunteering@samaritans.org and someone will get back to you to invite you to an information session where

you can find out about volunteering with Samaritans. You can also help us raise vital funds no matter how big or small. Every little helps as it costs £30,000 per year to run our branch in Blackburn, which is a lot of money to raise.

You can donate to our branch by going to http://www.samaritans. org/branches/samaritans-blackburndarwen-hyndburn-and-ribble-valley and click the donate button or alternatively you could donate just £3 by texting BLKN24 £3 to 70070. If you would like to help us fundraise why not email us on blackburn@ samaritans.org for more information.

Also follow us on Twitter @ bbnsamaritans and follow the news from our branch

Samaritans

Page 8. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Burnley man thanks life-saving officers Four hero police officers have been praised after their quick-thinking actions helped save a motorist’s life in Burnley.

PC Graham Leyland, PC Steve Worsley, PC Mike McMahon and PC Helen Blackburn were thanked by Alan Wood at Burnley Police Station after he fell ill at the wheel earlier this year.

Around 5.50pm on February 26, Mr Wood, from Burnley, was waiting at traffic lights in Colne Road when he suffered a cardiac arrest. The 64-yearold, who would later be told he technically died twice during efforts to revive him, was given emergency treatment by the officers at the scene.

Insp Dave Clark, of Lancashire Police, said: “The officers were waiting at traffic lights in Colne Road when Mr Wood’s vehicle, a black Citroen, drove through a red light and was involved in a collision with another vehicle.

“The officers went to help and found Mr Wood conscious in the driver’s seat, but clearly very ill.

He was removed from the vehicle but soon lost consciousness and stopped breathing. “The officers quickly administered CPR and used a defibrillator from their vehicle to give Mr Wood two shocks. They continued CPR for some time until paramedics arrived to take over.” Mr Wood was

taken to hospital for further treatment and his family were told to expect the worst. Thankfully, after two days of medical care, Mr Wood’s condition started to improve, with relatives told he was recovering. Doctors told Mr Wood he had technically died twice, once at the scene and again

in hospital. Insp Clark added: “Alan continues to recover and visited Burnley Police Station to personally thank the officers for saving his life.

“He had no recollection of the incident so was pleased to be able to watch the dash-cam footage from the armed response vehicle which

showed the officers’ actions. “While this was clearly emotional for Alan and his family, it helped to fill in the blanks of what happened to him that day.

“He was then shown the kit that the armed response vehicles carry – the same kit which helped save his life.”

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.

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 9.

Page 10. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Blackburn welcomes visitors

Family event in Burnley

with eye-catching new sign calls for stallholders

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”.

Local crafters and food vendors and buskers are being sought to take part in a family-friendly park event in May. The Thompson Park Family Fun Day, organised by the Friends of Thompson Park, the Miniature Railway Society and Burnley Council, will take place on Sunday 28th May. The parks boating lake, paddling pool and miniature railway will be open and there will be live music from the Accrington Pipe Band and local buskers.

The popular family event will give visitors the chance to browse an exciting range of stalls and enjoy entertaining activities for all ages. The event will also host an exhibition of proposals for the restoration of Thompson Park, which commences in the autumn, following the successful bid from the Heritage Lottery Fund. With preparation for the event well underway, organisers are keen to hear from experienced stallholders, charities, crafters and

food vendors who want to take part.

Michelle Wolfenden, chair of the Friends of Thompson Park, said: “There's still time and space for traders and charities to come forward and take part. We'd love to hear from anyone who can sell bespoke goods or just want to promote their charity, so please get in touch.”

Stallholders interested in supporting the event must bring their own

equipment including gazebo, table and chairs. They must also provide a copy of public liability insurance and further necessary documentation, if a food trader. Places are available to book from £10.Booking forms and more information about the event are available by contacting the greenspaces team on greenspaces@ burnley.gov.ukor text Tracey on 07967 179 799.

EVERCARE PHARMACY

brothers Javed and zaheer run an independant pharmacy in the heart of colne town centre.

What made you want to become Pharmacists? I have always wanted to commit myself to healthcare, It gives me a chance to make a real difference to the health of others every day. And to make that my job was the most amazing and rewarding thing I could do. I am speaking to patient’s day in and day out on ways to improve their health, help them stop smoking, give them diet and exercise advice, talk with them about mental health problems they may be having, show them how to take their tablets and inhalers and explain to them why it’s important to take them on time.

With a Doctor’s time becoming even more limited, now is the time to take full advantage of your local pharmacist as we have a vast amount of knowledge and training and resources to help patients with most for their health questions and worries.

I am also in the process of training to work in a Doctor’s surgery and help them out part time. I will be seeing patients with minor ailments, doing medicine reviews, and a whole lot of other exciting and interesting work in helping the NHS become more streamlined and cost efficient.

Experience. I worked in a lot of different pharmacies before I got the chance to run my own, so I have a good amount of experience behind me. But even now I am always seeing new drugs and patients with problems I have never encountered before so it is a good learning curve got me to learn about new areas of medicine, so I am well equipped for the future.

Services we provide. Also, we have a wide range of vitamins, minerals,

supplements and proteins for optimal benefit from having their medications health. For those that want optimum checked professionally. We offer to sports performance, or for those that put patient’s medication in a 7-day want the most valuable nutrients blister pack so all the tablets are foods have to offer, in a raw and ready popped and put into the correct easy to consume form. All our staff time slot. All the patient needs do is are fully trained on what type of check the time and take the pills in supplements to offer in order to meet the right slot (AM, LUNCH, TEA and specific needs, For e.g. antioxidants, BEDTIME) heart support, energy, a clear mind, There are a lot of services we offer, joint support, balancing blood so I believe there is something for glucose, prostrate health for men, everyone there, and if there isn’t just younger looking skin and digestive give us a call or pop in, we can always health. work something out, Flexibility is the We offer patients a range of free key in our business, especially these services, some of them are: we do days, with people’s lives becoming Blood pressure checks for patients, more active and busier than ever. I We do the emergency hormonal mean even my grandma has emails to contraception for women. We offer the check and reply to every day now!! finger prick test for patients who are worried they may have high blood glucose (diabetes).

We Two brothers are happy to be in business in Colne, offer clean and where they established their own pharmacy business sterile needles for in the main street. Javed and Zaheer Choksi, aged 29 those who inject and 27, from Bolton, are both qualified pharmacists, for a variety of and worked for pharmacies in the Bolton area before reasons. deciding to go it alone.

We order and They took over the former Well Pharmacy in Market deliver patients Street – which had previously been a Co-op pharmacy m e d i c a t i o n s and a dry cleaner’s shop before that – and established so they don’t their Evercare pharmacy a year ago. “It was an forget, so once opportunity to run our own pharmacy and work for less hassle for ourselves,” said Zaheer. “Colne is a nice little town, the patients. although to be honest we hadn’t really heard of it And because before. It’s a lively town with a lot of potential, and were late night, it’s very interesting for us as a business. we can offer “We’re very happy with the way our first year has delivery when it’s gone, and we want to open another pharmacy later this convenient for year or early next year.” the patient. We do The brothers’ Evercare pharmacy offers a full medicine review prescription service including home delivery, for patients who plus consultations, flu jabs, morning-after pill and feel they may methadone specialism.

BROTHERS’ EVERCARE SUCCESS

Their team is completed by Rebecca, Sarah and Shawana.

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 11.

Page 12. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Ram raiders

steal bikes

worth over £35k We are appealing for information following a ram raid in Rawtenstall where thousands of pounds worth of bikes were stolen.

We were called by concerned local residents at around 1am this morning (Friday, April 28th) after they were disturbed by loud banging noises coming from Ride On Cycles on Bacup Road.

A group of thieves smashed in to the front of the shop using a stolen Ford Focus estate car. They have then managed to get inside, taking several specialised bicycles and loading them into a waiting Ford Transit van which then made off in the direction of Rawtenstall and then towards Manchester.

The stolen bicycles totalled over £35,000. The haul included: Giant Glory Advanced 0 – Blue/Black – Size L Mondraker E-Crafty RR – Yellow – Size L Mondraker E-Prime R – Black – Size M Mondraker Foxy XR – Orange – Size M Giant Trance X2 – Black/Green – Size M Giant Reign 2 – Black/Yellow – Size L Giant Reign Advanced 1 – Orange – Size L Giant Reign Advanced 1 – Turquoise – Size L Transition Patrol Alu – Black/ Turquoise – Size L Mondraker Dune XR Custom – Black/Purple/Yellow – Size L Forensic experts are currently examining the Ford Focus which was left at the scene along with other evidence to identify those responsible.

DS Charlie Haynes from East CID said: “Although this appears to have been an organised and well thought out attack, we have numerous lines of enquiry to follow up to identify those responsible for this offence.

“We have already spoken to a number of witnesses, but are keen to hear from anybody else who saw it happen, particularly if they have filmed it on their mobile phones.

“These bikes are expensive and unique in appearance so please keep a look out for them.

“If you have been offered any of these for sale, perhaps on an internet selling site, please get in touch.”

The offenders are described as medium to stocky build and one of them was in possession of some sort of weapon.

Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact DC 3171 Phil Wilkins via 101 quoting log reference LC-20170428-0045.

Alternatively you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

The first ever Painting Padiham event will take place on Saturday 13 May 2017. Artists will be able to compete for cash prizes by creating an original piece of art, depicting Padiham and its people, over the course of one day in May. This exciting event is open to artists, both professional and amateur, using any style or media (except photography). Participants will be asked to select a location within a 1mile radius of Padiham Town Hall, and can

paint inside or outside. Visitors to the event will be able to see artists at work and enjoy seeing original art created before their eyes. On the day artists will register at the newly opened StormArt Gallery with a blank canvas before moving out to their chosen location. Their completed work will be submitted at the end of the day and judged over the course of the following week. An exhibition of all event artists’ submitted work will

be on display at the Picture House Gallery for 4 weeks commencing on 20 May 2017. There will be two cash prize winners announced at the Launch of the Exhibition event on 20 May and a People’s Choice Award decided by visitors to the Exhibition and announced at the end. First prize will win £1000 kindly donated

by A1 Motor Stores of Burnley Road Padiham, supplying the UK’s motoring and leisure needs locally.

Winning submissions will be framed by the Picture House Gallery. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase the original artwork during the exhibition. Artists taking part in the event will also be invited to submit up to two pieces of their original work to be exhibited at StormArt Gallery and other town centre venues in the week prior to the event. These works will also be available to buy.

On the Day

The newly opened StormArt Gallery, 101-105 Burnley Rd, Padiham, will be the event hub for the Painting Padiham event. Artists will be asked to register from 8am on Saturday 13 May at the StormArt Gallery, where they will have their canvas, paper, board (or other media capable of being stamped) stamped to confirm that it is blank. Artists will then be able to move out to their chosen painting location.

Artists can submit their work at StormArt Gallery anytime that day up to 6pm. Judging will take place over the course of the following week and first and second place winners announced at the Launch of an Exhibition of participating artists work on Saturday 20 May 2017 at the Picture House Gallery, 4-8 Burnley Rd, Padiham. Maps of the event will be available for visitors to see where the artists will be located for the event.

Visitors will be able to take in the great shops and eateries in Padiham town centre as well has visiting as many artists around the town as they can. For more information see our Directory pages. http://padiham.org. uk/businessdirectory/ For more information see our FAQ’s http://padiham.org.uk/paintingpadiham/faqs/ Follow us on facebook at: h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / events/1867720230140812/

On your marks as football

stars launch Burnley 10K

One of Lancashire’s premier 10Ks got off to a Premier League start when Burnley FC stars turned out to kick off the countdown to race day.

And with 2017 marking the fifth running of the event, around 2,000 runners are expected to pull on their trainers on Sunday 4th June to be part of the celebrations. The run is expected to generate a huge boost for local good causes. Entries are now open at /10k/burnley/ Lynne Preston, Events Manager at organisers Run For All, said: “We’re really excited to be celebrating the Burnley 10K’s 5th birthday. “The event is much-loved locally and by regular Run For All participants who always make a date with the Burnley 10K for its stunning scenery and fantastically friendly atmosphere.”

Julie Ward, Asda Foundation Senior Manager, said: ““The Burnley 10K is always a popular event and this 5th birthday outing is set to be no different.

We look forward to seeing all of those runners on the start line, having a great day while supporting some brilliant local causes.”

A new route - starting and finishing in Towneley Park - was introduced last year and proved a big success.

Participants will take another run at this course in 2017.

Runners have a flat and fast start and will run along the bottom of the Park’s Events Triangle before heading along Hall Road and turning right after the Stables Café. They’ll then follow the tree-lined causeway out of the park for a long downhill section along Todmorden Road. The route then levels out to cross Harry Potts Way at Turf Moor, and follows Belvedere Road to the fire station before turning left into Thompson Park. The course follows the picturesque paths taking in the beautiful Boating Lake and Italian Gardens.

Runners leave Thompson Park at Queen Victoria Road then head up Queens Park Road, taking in further parkland then down Ormerod Road to meet Belvedere Road again and the flat and triumphant return to Towneley Park. Organised by Run For All, the Burnley 10K is supported by the Asda Foundation, Motorpoint, 2BR, Burnley Express, Burnley Borough Council, Aftershokz, Viisana, Up & Running, Calico Group, Liberata, Arla Protein, Urbaser Ltd and BananaKick. The race forms part of the hugely popular Asda Foundation 10K Series, which also includes runs in Leeds, York, Hull, Lincoln, Nottingham, King’s Lynn, Leicester, Bury and Sheffield. Runners can take part of fun, a personal challenge or to raise funds for charity. They can fundraise for a good cause of their own choice or for one of the event’s partner charities – Macmillan Cancer Support, Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Pendleside Hospice, Burnley Leisure Trust, Every Action Has Consequences and Burnley FC in the Community and Cancer Assessment Rapid Early Support (CARES).

Siobhán McNamara, Marketing and Partnerships Manager, Burnley FC in the Community, said: “We’re delighted to be a partner charity of the Burnley 10K once again this year!

Fundraising events like this are key to supporting our charitable work in the local area – work that touches the lives of over 20,000 people every year. We’d love as many people as possible to join our team and help us continue to make a difference in our community.”

Pat Rogers from Every Action Has Consequences said: “Every Action Has Consequences are really pleased and proud to be a partner charity for

the Burnley 10K. It is a great way to raise funds and to raise the profile of the charity in the area.

“The Jane Tomlinson Appeal is doing amazing work on a really big scale and we are pleased to be associated with it.

The Run for all 10Ks are very close to our heart because it was the York 10K Pat did as her first run after Adam died.

“She has taken part in every York, Hull and Pennine/Burnley 10K since 2009 in Adam's memory.

We are really pleased to have the support of many of the runners in Blackburn who have been doing the couch to 5K and also Blackburn Road Runners who will be taking part and also providing the volunteers that are much needed to make the event a success."

Hannah Richmond, East Lancashire Fundraising Manager for Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “Over 2,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year in Burnley and the surrounding area and we want to be there for every single one of them, right from the point of diagnosis. Make your miles count and join Team Macmillan in the Burnley 10K to help make sure no one faces cancer alone.”

Kaye Bartle, Fundraising Manager of Pendleside Hospice, said: “Pendleside Hospice has been a partner charity for this great Run for All event since it first came to Burnley in 2013 and Pendleside runners have raised over

£110,000 over the past four years; money that will provide much needed support for people in our community diagnosed with a life limiting illness.

“It means we can help them and their families through the most difficult of times. We are very excited to be part of Burnley 10K once again this year and are looking forward to cheering our runners past the finish line on June 4th.”

Andy Voss of Cancer Assessment Rapid Early Support (CARES), said: “CARES are really excited to be a partner in the 2017 Burnley 10K. As a charity committed to supporting early assessment and diagnosis of cancer, the event will help us raise vital funds to support the diagnosis of Cancer earlier and raise awareness of the importance of early assessment and the significant impact it has on surviving this terrible disease.”

Katie Bell, Fundraising Manager for the Jane Tomlinson Appeal, said: “The Burnley 10K is one of the most

popular events with the Appeal Team and we’re looking forward to seeing them all on June 4th. Thanks to everyone who pulls on their trainers for the Appeal, helping to continue Jane’s legacy of supporting children’s and cancer charities across the region and beyond.”

Paul Foster, Burnley Leisure’s head of development, said: “The Burnley 10K is one of the sporting highlights of the calendar in Burnley and we are delighted to join it as a partner charity again this year.

“Starting and finishing at Towneley Park, the route will see runners of all abilities taking in Burnley’s awardwinning parks before finishing in the shadow of the majestic Towneley Hall.

“Whether you’re running or supporting those that are, I’d like to congratulate everyone taking part in this event. I hope we get some big crowds to cheer on the runners and support this very worthy cause.”

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 13.

Page 14. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

County Council Celebrates

Foster Care Fortnight School Lane, Bamber Bridge, PR5 6SY 8, 10 & 11 May - 10am - 3pm: Fishergate Shopping Centre, Preston 10, 12, 15, & 17 May - 10am-2pm: The Glass House, Colne (outside the Market Hall) 11 May - 10am - 4pm: Marks and Spencer, Deepdale Retail Park, Preston PR1 6AF 11 May - 9am-5pm: Tesco, Centenary Way, Finsley Gate, Burnley BB11 2HE 12 May - 9.30am - 3pm: Leyland Market, Leyland 13 May - 10am - 4pm: Iceland supermarket, Unit 3 Eastgate Retail Park, Accrington, BB5 6PW 13 May - 10am - 3pm: Chorley library, Union Street Chorley, PR7 1EB 13 May - 1pm - 3pm: Clitheroe Fire station Princess Avenue, Clitheroe BB7 2AL

Lancashire County Council is holding a number of events throughout the county to celebrate Foster Care Fortnight and recruit new carers.

Foster Care Fortnight is the UK’s biggest foster care awareness raising campaign, delivered by fostering charity, The Fostering Network.

Amanda Hatton, Director of Children's Services at Lancashire County Council, said: "We are pleased to take part in this great campaign which showcases the commitment, passion and dedication of foster carers.

It also supports fostering services to highlight the need for more carers.

We are always looking for new foster carers to care for the range of children who come into our care each week, with the greatest need being for foster carers for older children, sibling groups and children with additional needs.

"The theme of Foster Care Fortnight this year is 'foster care transforms lives', and we know this isn't just the lives of the children and young people who are fostered, it also has the power to change the lives of foster carers, their families and all those who are involved in fostering."

Foster carer Lisa Bannister has worked with Lancashire County Council for five years. She talks about her experiences of fostering a teenager and how it changed her preconceptions: "My husband and I had never fostered a teenager before so when we were asked to take a 14 year old girl for an emergency placement we had a lot of concerns that they would have a bad attitude and problems with smoking, drinking or stealing. We couldn’t have been more wrong!

When I opened the door Hannah stood there like a new born lamb,

thin, shaking and obviously scared to death. "Actually she was the loveliest teenage girl you could ever meet. Her problem was and always will be, she craved being loved.

She stayed with us not for the weekend but for 12 months. It certainly wasn’t all plain sailing, but we have no regrets, and still keep in touch. Hannah is now in independent living and is enjoying it. She texts me every day, and always tells me how much she loves us."

As well as the number of events taking place throughout the county, there will also be a Fostering Information Evening at County Hall on Wednesday 17 May at 6pm.

There is no need to book but please arrive early to avoid disappointment.

You will have the opportunity to meet experienced social workers and current carers and ask questions. No formal experience or qualifications

are needed to be a foster carer, all you need is a spare room available and a desire to make a difference to a local child's life.

A package of support is available 24/7 to help foster carers in their role, including local support groups, their own social worker, a dedicated helpline and flexible training.

If you're unable to come along to an event, you can still call the fostering recruitment team on 0300 123 6723 or visit the website: http://www. lancashire.gov.uk/fostering.

Foster Care Fortnight Events 3 May & 6 May - 10am - 1pm: Cheeky Monkey Play centre, Factory Lane, Whittle Le Woods, Chorley, PR6 7YA 6 May - 10am - 4pm: Lancaster Library, Market Square, Lancaster LA1 1HY 5 May - 10am - 2pm: Monkey Magic play centre, Old Mill Industrial estate,

Preston City Council has been successful in a fly-tipping prosecution against Mr Scott Smith, 31, previously of Riverside Caravan site, Banks, Southport at Preston Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 26 April 2017.

Following a report of a fly-tipping incident on 21 September 2016, an officer attended the car park of the unused St Teresa’s Church Hall, Church Avenue, Preston, where he found a quantity of garden waste, building waste and other household waste.

On inspection of the waste he found evidence linking the waste to an address in Neston Street, Preston.

Following two visits to the property, a card was left asking the occupier to contact the enforcement officer.

At the time of the second visit the officer became concerned about the accumulation of household waste

in the rear garden of the property of which he took a number of photographs. Mr Smith subsequently contacted the officer claiming that he had engaged a local waste carrier to remove the waste and that he had a receipt to prove this. On 26 September 2016 the officer became involved in the investigation of another fly-tipping of a large amount of household waste on a road within the grounds of Preston Cemetery.

The enforcement officer recognised the waste - found over a 30 metres stretch of the road - as that he had seen in the back yard of the address on Neston Street three days earlier.

An inspection of the contents of the main pile also found correspondence addressed to the occupant of the address in Neston Street. Those findings prompted the officer to return to the property, where the occupant

provided him with a receipt for waste removal services. Later enquiries about the waste removal company found that there was no record of such local waste removal company being registered as a waste carrier. Separate enquiries about the transport of waste in Preston revealed that Mr Smith had been involved in transporting scrap metals and end of life vehicles to a local company operating a scrap metal yard. Enquiries with the council’s licensing manager confirmed that Mr Smith is not the holder of a scrap metal collector’s licence.

Adrian Phillips, Director of Environment, said: “Thanks to the rigorous investigations and continued good work of council officers, we have successfully prosecuted another individual for fly-tipping offences.

“This sends a message to residents that we do take action and operate a

robust policy to fly-tipping and waste offences.”

Offences: Failure to comply with duty of care in respect of controlled waste – s. 34(1)(c) and (6) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 – Church Avenue, Preston.

Failure to comply with duty of care in respect of controlled waste – s. 34(1)(c) and (6) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 – Preston Cemetery, Preston Carry on scrap metal business without a licence – s. 1 of the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 Sentence: Offence 1. £200 compensation Offence 2. £400 compensation Offence 3. £100 fine £30 victims surcharge £150 prosecution costs

15 May - 10am - 12pm: Euxton library, St Mary's Gate, Euxton, Chroley PR76AH 15 May - 11.30am - 2.30pm: Community Solutions, Elmfield Hall Hyndburn Road, Accrington BB5 4AA 17 May - 9am - 13.00pm: All Seasons Leisure Centre, Water Street Chorley, PR7 1EX 17 May - from 6pm: Information Evening at County Hall, Preston, PR1 8XJ 18 May - 10am - 4pm: Marks and Spencer, Deepdale Retail Park, Preston PR1 6AF 20 May - 10am - 4pm: Asda, Hyndburn Rd, Accrington BB5 1QR 20 May - 11am - 3pm: St. Nicholas Arcade, 12 Lancaster Gate, Lancaster LA11NB *Name has been changed to protect the identity of the child.

Preston fly-tipping prosecution

Fancy being part of the new Preston Markets?

Applications for traders wishing to be part of the new Preston Markets are now being invited. If you’re already a trader on the current market, have a market stall elsewhere, or would like to try out your business in Preston’s brand new market then Preston City Council would like to hear from you.

The new Preston Markets will be made up of a brand new Market Hall, which is currently being built under the large Covered Market, as well as an innovative Box Market under the Fish Market canopy. Applications for the revitalised Outdoor Market will be invited later in the year. The new Markets are due to be ready for opening next winter.

Each part of the new Markets will have a different look and feel.

The Market Hall will be mostly fresh food, including food-to-go, whereas the Box Market will have an interesting mix of products which could include quirky fashion, vintage and homewares.

The traditional Outdoor Market will continue to run 4 days a week along

with the popular second hand market which currently runs twice a week will continue with running the rest of the week.

The Council has also developed a new brand for the Markets, working with locally based, award winning practice The Chase, which sets the tone for the new Markets.

Adrian Phillips, Director of Environment said: This is a very exciting point of the project and another important milestone.

We’ve got some great traders that will be coming with us from the existing market, a new brand and soon we’ll have a fantastic new Market Hall and Box Market.

To complete this picture we need some exciting new offers to make the new Preston Markets a place where customers will want to come back to, time and time again.

We’re confident our market customers will continue to

be really well served with traditional market products by long standing traders but also want to bring in some new traders to add a different dimension to the market offer, making it the best in the area and a real draw for the city centre.

Examples of products that would complement the market mix include ethnic cuisine; a barber; cobbler and key cutter; real ale bar; and vintage fashion. As well as a host of others that haven’t been considered, so if you have a business looking for a new home or are thinking of starting a business, then you are urged to consider making an application.

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 15.

Page 16. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

AVENHAM MULTI-STOREY

CAR PARK GOES CASHLESS

In addition to offering a traditional pay and display facility, it will also offer a cashless system.

New payment machines have been installed throughout the car park, which will take payment in cash or via the ‘MiPermit’ app, ensuring maximum convenience.

The software enables customers to self-manage payments through their

smart phones or via the website. An option is also available for customers to opt in for a 10p reminder text – this will allow you to extend your stay remotely while continuing your visit to the city. Councillor Robert Boswell, Cabinet member for community and environment, said: “With the introduction of the new, innovative software this will make

visiting Avenham car park much easier and more convenient. You will no longer need to worry about carrying cash or rushing back to your car to top up the ticket. “By managing your payments online it will become hassle free. “Despite these changes Avenham car park will continue to be patrolled regularly, with CCTV cameras always recording.”

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 17.

Page 18. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Warmlight Windows Thriving

after Will Mellor Opening

Warmlight Windows had their brand local celebrity Will Mellor. It was a new showroom opening event on the hugely successful day and Ms Alison 22nd April and it was headlined by Brook from Billinge was delighted as she won the raffle and an Elite Rock door from which all proceedings went to Derian House and Wigan And Leigh Hospice Charities which shows just how generous the owners are.

They are now operating from one of the largest showrooms in the North West.

The move was a result of their own success as they had outgrown their previous premises in Atherton.

The Company is owned by Mr Glenn Foxwell and Mrs Susan Foxwell who also own Foxwells Builders Ltd which has been established for 17 years, they also work alongside Warmlight as a sister company as they do full house refurbishments as well as working in the commercial sector.

They are also open to the Trade. They pressure sale scheme, First for quality, contractors,no salesman, just a smile and a honest price” . trade under this theory “We run a no first for service, first for reliability, no 10% Discount can be claimed by showing this editorial

Warrington comes together to back

Mental Health Awareness Week

Organisations across Warrington have come together to back Mental Health Awareness Week. Mental Health Awareness Week (8-14 May) aims to raise awareness of the importance of talking about our mental health and the theme for this year is 'surviving or thriving?', asking why too few of us are thriving with good mental health.

By coming together, organisations that provide a range of services in our town are sending a strong message

to residents – it’s OK to talk about our feelings or anxieties as part of a healthy attitude towards recognising that our mental health is just as important as our physical health. All organisations involved, are keen to flip the focus away from mental ill health and explore how together, for the benefit of the town, we can work together to cultivate good mental health and work with our residents to help them to thrive. Dr Muna Abdel Aziz, director of public health at Warrington Borough Council, said: “As a council we’re keen to promote Mental Health Awareness Week and increase people’s understanding of how to support their own and other people’s mental wellbeing. This year’s theme about ‘surviving or thriving?’ helps raise awareness of how we can look after our health and build resilience to cope with the demands of everyday life. “We are encouraging people to talk to someone about their issues and to make time for things that can help us feel good. By joining in with others as a group, taking part in activities, or having a simple conversation can help to let people know that they are not alone. “We want to make people aware of the services available in Warrington that can provide support. happyoksad.org.uk has been developed to help people access the wide range of support services available locally. There are also tips of how you can boost your mood and where to get help if you or someone you know needs advice urgently.”

Margi Butler, head of mental health commissioning at NHS Warrington Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Good mental health is just as important as our physical health. All too often mental health can be a taboo subject. In Warrington, we want to actively encourage residents to talk openly about mental health and to seek support so that they can thrive in living with a mental health problem.

“As commissioners, we are working together with providers, service users

and carers to ensure that we continue to innovate across all age ranges and conditions to look at the best possible ways of enabling people to thrive.

Warrington’s initiatives includes the Time For Me project which supports mums with post-natal anxieties.

Future in Mind, which is pledging to work with local high schools to raise the importance of good mental health with young people, through to talking therapies for adults and older people, including those accessing services for severe and enduring mental health conditions” Cheshire Constabulary deputy chief constable, Janette McCormick, added: “As a force we are in full support of Mental Health Awareness Week and will be taking part in the our 'blue light mental health' torch relay during that week to help raise awareness.

“It’s vitally important that we give our officers and staff space to talk about their issues to help prevent the buildup of any mental health problems.Events and awareness raising weeks like this help to get people talking and highlight the fact that there is plenty of support available for anyone who has concerns about mental health.”

Emma Hutchinson, managing director of LiveWire and Culture Warrington, said: “One in four people will suffer with a mental health condition throughout their life, so it’s vitally important that we talk more openly about the affects it can have on people throughout Warrington. “Through the activities that both LiveWire and

Culture Warrington deliver, we aim to reduce the stigma of mental health conditions and encourage people to talk about it.”

Christine Samosa, deputy chief executive officer at Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are fully committed to supporting the positive mental health and wellbeing of both our staff and patients.

As a trust, we have recently renewed our commitment to the Mindful Employer Charter. "By signing the charter we pledge to create a culture of acceptance through a range of measures so our staff feel comfortable disclosing any mental health conditions and confident that they will be supported and not face any discrimination. “We also aim to support both patients and staff in Warrington with our online mental health resource live-life-well.net.

From promoting positive mental health through advice for eating well, information on local exercise classes and walks, through to coping strategies to help manage the symptoms of depression and anxiety, the website is a useful tool which provides help and support on a range of mental health issues.”

An important part of thriving is to ask for mental health support, if you need it.

For more information about where to go for help, please visit: happyoksad.org.uk or live-life-well.net

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 19.

Page 20. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 21.

There’s more to

Lancashire than hotpot!

Discover the diversity of Lancashire's food and drink on a visit to this scenic county and you won't be disappointed.

Dine on succulent seafood in

Morecambe Bay, purchase awardwinning sausages in Clitheroe's famous sausage shop and find local produce at farmers markets and farm

shops. Indulge in a gourmet feast of food and drink in Lancashire’s highly acclaimed restaurants, relax in cosy pubs.

What could be more appealing than a piping hot pot of tea accompanied by a slab of chocolate cake in a café or tea room?

You can always be confident in finding quality.

Food is now one of the nation's favourite pastimes and as the

Ribble Valley has some of the finest producers and restaurateurs in the country.

The recipe for traditional Lancashire cheese known as Creamy & Tasty is unique in Britain in that it blends the curds from different milkings which creates a cheese with depth of flavour, added complexity and a texture that gives an ideal melting consistency.

Crumbly Lancashire is the most recent addition to the family of Lancashire cheeses.

It was created in the 1960s as a lighter more acidic cheese and, unlike Creamy and Tasty, is made from the curds of one day's milking. Farmers Markets have grown in popularity over the past few years, and are noted for the quality of their fine locally produced stock, cheeses and meat products.

Lancashire's farm shops sell local produce which often has been grown, picked, reared or made on the farm where the farm shop is located.

Discover the delights of Lancashire's food at one of Lancashire's many exciting food festivals and events throughout the year. Coupled with visits to some of the most scenic countryside in the UK Lancashire has a fine feast to offer.

Dine in our out, relax and enjoy!

The very best of Wyre’s markets

in north west Lancashire.

Today’s markets are seeing something of a revival in fortunes. We are turning once more to our butchers, bakers and other more traditional

outlets keen to show our support for local businesses.

You can visit a market in Wyre six days a week (well Sunday is meant

to be a day of rest after all). From coastal Fleetwood market boasting over 250 stalls to Garstang’s historic market dating back to the early 1300’s

– Wyre really is a shopper’s paradise.

Fleetwood Market Fleetwood Market is a traditional market with over 150 indoor and outdoor stalls. The indoor stalls are housed in one of three heated halls. It is open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday all year round.

Poulton Market The weekly street market is held every Monday in Poulton-le-Fylde’s historic Market Square (except Bank Holidays).

Garstang Market Garstang’s market dates back to the early 1300’s and the days of Edward

II. The traditional weekly outdoor market is held every Thursday Great Eccleston Market The market takes place every Wednesday and there’s a farmers market every third Wednesday of the month.

Welcome to Yorkshire

It’s been described as God’s Own Country, boasts seven great cities, three National Parks, miles of golden beaches and two UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The well coined phrase ‘whatever you want, we’ve got it’ is all too often used, but in Yorkshire’s case it is true.

A long weekend won’t be long enough to sample the huge array of food hailing from the county’s award-winning restaurants and eateries. Whether it’s locally sourced pub food or high end dining, Yorkshire has it covered.

Did you know the county has more Michelin starred restaurants than any other area outside London?

World-class attractions are visitor magnets and Yorkshire is home to several national museums. These include the National Media Museum, National Railway Museum, National Coal Mining Museum, Royal Armouries and Eureka! National Children's Museum - you’ll need a few repeat visits to enjoy them all.

Other great attractions include

The Deep in Hull, Sea Life Scarborough, Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster, Tropical World in Leeds, Lightwater Valley near Ripon

and Flamingo Land near Malton.

All are great for making memories and filling up the photo album.

Must see rolling green hills and

stunning vistas are all on offer. Make sure you see the Yorkshire Dales, The Wolds in East Yorkshire, the Pennines including Bronte Country, the Peak

District and the North York Moors.

If you like the sea, then see some of the UK’s best along Yorkshire’s stunning coast taking in gems like

Whitby, Staithes, Scarborough, Filey and Bridlington among many others.

For more information check out www.yorkshire.com

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.

Grassington Festival 2017 – 16 June – 1 July

Now in its 37th year and focusing world to the village and provides on the central concept of Explore!, opportunities for audiences of all ages Grassington Festival welcomes the to push boundaries and be inspired by its fascinating programme of theatre, music, comedy, talks, art exhibitions, guided walks, literature and creative workshops. The 2017 Festival embraces experiences for families and young audiences across the fortnight with Sean Kempton's STUFF and Morgan and West's magic show. The idyllic setting of the Cavendish Pavilion Grounds provides the backdrop to Illyria’s performance of The Emperor’s New Clothes.

Live at the Festival Hall welcomes a fabulous line up of 5 brilliant comedians and the classical offering includes the Gala Concert

with Raphael Wallfisch and Ben Crick and the Skipton Building Society Camerata in Bolton Abbey Priory and an afternoon of Beethoven and Bartok from The Heath Quartet at Scargill House.

There is a varied and impressive selection of live music catering for all tastes at the Festival in the Field Marquee, kicking off with national icon, Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra. The award winning jazz singer Clare Teal performs with her 17 piece Hollywood Orchestra led by Guy Barker to celebrate Ella Fitzgerald’s centenary year and The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain will perform with an amusing dose of deadpan British humour as well as foottapping music.

The singer/ songwriter, Newton Faulkner, will play with support from

Holy Moly & The Crackers, and the fortnight comes to a finale at The Last Night Party featuring Bananarama, with support from The Opera Comic and Back Chat Brass. For more information and to book tickets, please visit: www.grassingtonfestival.org.uk.

Chipping Steam Fair 2017,

Sat 27th, Sun 28th & Mon 29th.

Can it really be May again and time for another Chipping Steam Fair?!

What a year we had last year with the sun shining and everything running like clockwork, thanks to all the volunteers who spend all year preparing for our three day extravaganza. Someone compared the 2016 show to a well oiled machine... which is quite apt consider our theme.

It's well worth the hard work with

all proceeds going to local good causes and the event being enjoyed by tens of thousands of visitors who come back year after year to partake in this unique experience.

So this year, 2017, will be our 19th show and because we do it every year we learn and try to improve on every aspect of the previous one...from choosing unique acts for the arena entertainment, finding interesting catering providers to improving our information website www.chippingsteamfair.com and social media presence. For this May we've hundreds of exhibitors eagerly anticipating the opportunity

to show off their pride and joy. 1997 on the new website or follow us We'll have steam traction engines, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. vintage tractors, classic cars and #chippingsteamfair motorcycles, pedal cycles, classic plant, commercial and military vehicles. Not to mention our regular attractions including live musical entertainment in the beer tent (until late Sat & Sun), the funfair, craft fair, food hall, arena entertainment, ride on children's train, puppet shows, donkey rides, demonstrations and the ever popular digger playpen. Read all about how the show started back in

Brass in the Park First

cycling

for all festival

We’ll be hosting an open air concert, as part of a series of brass band concerts across Burnley’s awardwinning parks.

The annual Brass in the Parks musical extravaganzas have already started will continue throughout June and

beginning of June and July. All concerts run between 2pm-4pm and admission is free of charge.

Stacksteads Band will be performing in Towneley Parkon Sunday, 11th June. “Brass in the Parks is really the sound of summer and what better

way to spend a Sunday afternoon than enjoying an open air concert in beautiful surroundings?”

The concerts have been organised by the council with help from the parks’ friends’ groups.

A gathering geared to bring cycling to everyone beckons in the heart of the Lakes with specially adapted wheels for riders with disabilities.

Showcasing the benefits of being mobile in the great outdoors, the Inclusive Cycling Festival is being staged at Brockhole, the Lake District Visitor Centre on the shores of Windermere, on Friday 12 May. Specially adapted cycles will cater for a wide range of abilities and people are being invited to roll up and have a go, while enjoying sensational scenery and beautiful grounds.

Local cycling and care organisations will have stands and displays.

There will also be plenty of outdoor entertainment and fun for the whole family.

The event is led by Cycling Projects, the charity behind nationally recognised programme, Wheels for All. By using specially adapted cycles, it provides quality, fun activities that are both physically and mentally stimulating for adults and children with disabilities and differing needs.

Lake District National Park’s chief executive, Richard Leafe, said: “We want to put the Lake District on the map for visitors of all abilities to come and enjoy our spectacular scenery. “We hope this event will be the catalyst for a longer-term project to develop more activities like this across the park.” People can turn up on their own, with families, or

groups and have a go, learn more about all-ability Lakes’ cycling opportunities and find out how they can help to support the initiative. Ian Tierney, director of Cycling Projects, explained: “We are delighted by the positive response we have received so far from local groups and charities, sponsors and vital stakeholders, such as the Lake District National Park Authority. “We know how much pleasure that having a go on an adapted bike can be, both for the

user and also their family and carers.

We are excited to work with our local partners to develop a really rewarding programme of cycling activities across Cumbria for both local people and visitors.” The Brockhole event runs from 10am to 3pm on Friday 12 May. Cycling Projects said it was very grateful to vital sponsorship from James Cropper, Kendal Cycling Club and Cumberland Building Society’s Kendal branch, which had made the event possible.

Photo shows how specially adapted bikes bring fun for all.

Council confirms

Windermere Ferry position In response to information circulating on social media, the council is issuing the following statement: "Cumbria County Council would like to make clear the proposed actions to improve customers’ experience while using the Windermere Ferry.

"Currently we are installing additional ticket machines on each side of Windermere to reduce the time it takes to obtain a ticket. A fixed ticket machine is also in operation on board the ferry to assist pedestrians to obtain tickets, reducing demand on the on shore ticket machines.

"All of these machines take cash or card (PIN or contactless) payments.

No cash purchases via our staff are possible.

"During summer/autumn 2017 we

will continue to improve the payment process with new purpose built machines which are user-friendly and quicker to obtain tickets from.

The existing ticket machines will be reused at other sites owned by

Cumbria County Council. In addition staff on board the ferry will have hand-held payment machines so ferry users can obtain a ticket while on board using card (PIN or contactless) payment, and without leaving their

vehicle. No cash payments to staff will be allowed.

"It is expected that the combination of these two proposals along with improved signage and information will ease the existing problems."

Ingrid Grayling –

Professional dog trainer

Ingrid Grayling is a renowned dog trainer, known nationally as well as throughout Cumbria, for her highly professional experience and extensive knowledge of working with every aspect of a dog.

With over 35 years of experience working with animals, Ingrid has built up a highly successful business in the heart of rural Cumbria, offering

expert training in all fields, and for all breeds of dogs.

Ingrid has always had a love for animals and prior to moving to Cumbria in 1995, she set up and ran a successful boarding kennel establishment in Lancashire, which is still thriving today. Ingrid says that the success behind her business, which has been established for over

22 years, lies in the unique and expert services she offers. Her training methods are very different to the traditional group training lessons often advertised, and see Ingrid offer her undivided attention as she trains on an exclusive 'one-to-one' basis.

All the training takes places in a natural and open environment with no other distractions, including dogs and people, where Ingrid trains the owner to train their dog. Ingrid's training methods are based on teaching the owner the skills, which work quickly and effectively, and after training the dog will have complete freedom but remain firmly under the owner's control. Dogs are totally relaxed, and understand exactly what is required of them for the rest of their life.

Ingrid's training methods have been highly commended by many different clients from all over the UK, due to her very simple and positive training methods.

Cool Iceland is hot stuff

with visiting golfers

Popular as a short-break destination, Iceland is now wowing overseas golfers.

There are 65 golf courses spread around the volcanic island – 16 offering 18 holes and two with 27 holes – and golf is second only to football as its most popular sport.

Foreign golfers are increasingly being attracted by its green fairways. Almost 4,000 visitors played golf in 2016, a big increase on 2015, and while half of them played only one round 27% played five or more rounds.

Despite its proximity to the Arctic Circle, Iceland’s golf season lasts six months on average, and seven months in the south. Some courses near the coast can be played most of the year and there was even a golf tournament in northern city Akureyri, the world’s most northerly 18-hole golf course, in the middle of December!

Golf Iceland chairman Magnus Oddsson said: “We have over 16,000 members in the Icelandic Golf Union, which is about 5% of Iceland’s total population, but according to surveys about 30,000 Icelanders say they play golf.

“But we have so many courses, all of them open to public and during the midsummer months open 24 hours!

Only 330,000 people live in Iceland and we are number one in Europe regarding courses per capita, so we have a lot of available tee times for visitors.”

Golf Iceland was established in 2008 when the country’s courses and tourism sector joined forces to

create an organisation to promote and market its golf internationally.

“IAGTO helped us with the first steps and made a marketing plan for us,” said Oddsson. “The number of foreign golfers visiting our courses has increased over those years, but it took some time to get the messages out, that golfers can play in nature on 65 courses around the island – in fact to make people believe that there are good golf courses in Iceland!

“We have had a very good increase and in 2016 we were up about 50% compared with 2015. Almost 4,000 visitors played golf in 2016 and over 10,000 rounds were sold to foreign golfers last summer.”

IAGTO Chief Executive Peter Walton said: “Very much like the destination itself, Icelandic golf is often spectacular! There are a number of high quality courses that will appeal to avid golfers and trophy hunters, as

well as golfers who love to experience unique and interesting environments with some tremendous views. We nicknamed the excellent Kellir Golf Course near Reykjavik ‘Lava-Links’ because the front nine negotiates its way through lava fields, transforming to a true links experience on the back nine. The Grafarholt and Oddur golf courses are also close to Reykjavik and are well worth playing for those visiting the capital.”

Walton added: “Playing golf among volcanoes and even within ancient volcanic craters, such as on Heimaey in the Westman Islands, or within sight of angry towering geysers is not an every-day occurrence, which is why they live long in the memory.

Interestingly, most courses in Iceland offer a special rate for couples which is significantly less that the cost of two green fees.” For more information, visit www.golficeland.org

Ava Travell produced it's First Holiday Brochure in March 2016, which has been a huge success.

Director Miles Cassam, together with Alan Clenshaw and Aubrey Glasson (who had all previously worked for John Fishwick & Sons, Leyland, Bus Service & Holiday Tour Operator which finished trading after over a 100 years in October 2015) went into partnership with Paul Tattersall and the AVA Group which includes Avacab Taxis, Leyland Taxis, Avacoach and Avabus. We at AVA Travel operate out of town centre premises at 41 Hough Lane, Leyland, together with the Ava Group we are well on our way to being well established in the town. Miles Cassam's vision of a hassle fee Door to Door Service within the North West Region is part and parcel of AVA Travel's excellent Customer Service Policy AVA Travel offer modern, spacious Coach Travel

to destinations throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales together with destinations in Europe.

No Overnight travel on long journeys is our policy, so overnight stops are in hand with chosen hotels or in accommodation on board ferries to the Continent.

All AVA Travel Tours include Door to Door Service direct from your home to Coach, Airport or Docks

and on return from your destination back home, so you can relax and enjoy your holiday without having to worry about anything other than having a good time. AVA Travel also offer a selection of Cruises, together with our own Made-to-Measure Flights & Hotels to Jersey and Guernsey available throughout April to September.

Our Summer 2017 AVA Travel Holiday Tours Brochure programme is now underway and our new October 2017 to April 2018 Holiday Tours Brochure will be available from 23 May to order over the phone just call 01772 622 222 or via our website at www.avatravel.co.uk

Based on the lovely Lancaster canal all-year round. Our fleet of steel in the Northwest of England. Water- hull narrow boats have full central babies provides holidays afloat heating, luxurious soft furnishings and everything you could want for a comfortable and cosy cruise even in the coldest times of the year.

Operating from landscaped private moorings, Water-babies is ideally located to cruise north to the medieval City of Lancaster and beyond to where sea, canal, mountains and the forest form the perfect backdrop.

The City of Lancaster offers culture in the historic castle and Cathedral.

Lancaster offers an abundance of venues to enjoy a pub lunch or something a bit special.

There is an opportunity to see the wildlife from a different position, Kingfishers , Herons and many more can be seen along the canal as it meanders ,following the contours of this land. You can feel miles away from the hustle of modern life. For those whom enjoy fishing, there is the opportunity to relax on the quiet banks of this canal.

W H O ARE WE ?

The Alabaster Jar is an independently run paint-your-own-pottery shop in Chorley, Lancashire.

We provide a relaxing and friendly atmosphere where you can come and spend some quality time making bespoke pottery products for your home or loved ones.

W HAT W E D O ?

Come in during our opening hours to create from a wide selection of

like and we will fire it for you in our kiln, then pop back a week later to collect your finished creation. There's no need to book but recommend ringing ahead for groups of 6+ WHY CHOOSE US? Unlike some other paint-yourown-pottery shops, we have no appointment system or studio fee.

Why not you ask? Call us on 01257 274690 to find out or call in at 180 Pall Mall, Chorley, PR7 2LH

GET DOWN TO THE ALABASTER JAR pottery. All of our pottery is painted in glaze and fired in a kiln, which makes it waterproof and fully useable. We have all sorts of pottery blanks for different tastes and plenty of selection for both children and adults. Prices start from 50p up to ÂŁ70 WHAT ELSE ?

You paint it, We fire it!

Simply drop into our studio, select a piece of pottery from a wide range of items. Paint your item however you

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 37.

Page 38. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

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.

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 39.

Page 40. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 41.

North Wales Named One of Top

Regions Globally for 2017

There’s cause for epic celebrations in Wales as North Wales has made it on to Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2017 list – the only destination in the UK to do so.

A playground for thrill seekers, a haven for foodies, a hideout for stargazers and a goldmine for heritage seekers, North Wales has a holiday for every kind of traveller. But what caught the eye of the Lonely Planet, the world’s leading travel authority, is the way the former industrial landscape has been reinvented and repurposed to create a series of truly world class attractions, from high speed zip lining and inland surfing to underground trampolining in a 176-year-old disused slate mine.

Alongside UNESCO World Heritage Sites as Conwy, Beaumaris, Harlech and Caernarfon Castles, North Wales is home to some of the best walking and cycling in Britain, as well as a range of industry-leading attractions, all set against the spectacular backdrop of the Snowdonia mountains.

On the flanks of Snowdonia National Park, Zip World boasts 11 different attractions in total including the everpopular Bounce Below, a colourful underground world of bouncing nets, slides and rope bridges. Zip World Velocity in Bethesda is the world’s fastest zip line with two 500 ft. (152 m) high courses that enable riders to exceed 100 mph (161 km/h), while Zip World Titan in Blaenau Ffestiniog offers Europe’s first four-

person line – perfect for thrill seeking families. A short drive east is Surf Snowdonia, a world-first man-made lagoon where amateurs and professional surfers alike can surf a powerful 6.5 ft. (2 m) wave, under the watchful eye of Welsh National Surfing Champion, Jo Denison. It’s not hard to see why North Wales is becoming known as the adventure tourism capital of Europe.

With enough to keep even the most hardcore adrenaline junkies quiet, North Wales has a full range of accommodation and services to complete its tourism offer, from five star Chateau Rhianfa to yurts and cabins at Graig Wen, and for the extra brave, cliff camping suspended high above the sea with Gaia Adventures.

And if it’s food you’re after, North Wales now has two Michelin-starred restaurants: Sosban & The Old Butcher's on Anglesey, and Tyddyn Llan in Denbighshire, not to mention the multitude of local producers, delis, cafes, restaurants, farm shops, markets and micro breweries who ensure that north Wales is full of excellent places to eat and drink.

Page 42. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 43.

Page 44. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

A1 Bridals Boutique A1 Bridals Boutique formerly known as A1 Bridals has relocated to 68A Warrington Road, Platt Bridge, Wigan, WN2 5JA (next door to original shop) The move is a natural progression in our development and has not impacted in any way on the service we provide and collections that we stock.

It has a complete new boutique look with fresh clean lines. According to current brides it looks and feels more intimate and personal which is how a modern bridal boutique should look and feel.

The ‘Brides Room’ is specifically for the bride to change in privacy and where attendants are invited to view

the bride in full attire as she chooses.

The bride does not go in the main body of the shop with a wedding dress on thereby keeping it personal and individual to each bride.

A1 Bridals is a main stockist of the award winning Callista Collection specifically designed for brides with curves. www.callistabride.com We carry at any one time around 30 plus size Callista gowns from size 16 – 30 Always keeping up with new trends in the bridal industry we always look to take on new labels that are well established and sit well within our shop.

The Ladybird collection was launched in the UK in September 2015 and is massive throughout Europe.

Beautifully styled using a variety fabrics and colours, this collection has really made an impact on the UK market. Need to be tried to fully appreciate the supportive structure of these gowns. A look at www.ladybird. nl will give you a glimpse at the diversity of the collections.

We also have a great selection from the internationally acclaimed Alfred Angelo collection which has recently celebrated 80 years in the bridal industry. The bridesmaid collection boasts an amazing 62 colours from which to choose from. www. alfredangelo.com Choosing your gown should be an enjoyable and exciting experience.

Appointments are always advisable.

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.

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 45.

Page 46. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Fairytales Castles for

your dream wedding

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

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

Pendennis Castle

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

Warwick Castle 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.

Kefalonia Weddings

Kefalonia Weddings offers a comprehensive wedding planning service covering all aspects of organising your event: from the initial planning stages of finding the perfect venue, to sourcing all suppliers, creating the design concept through to making sure every last detail is in place on the day.

We offer this to our Kefalonia Weddings clients so they can experience the full support of a professional planner. This ensures that the special day far exceeds expectations without stress and distance constraints of organising an over-seas event entirely alone.

Kefalonia Weddings approaches each wedding with a fresh, enthusiastic outlook, focusing on the individuality and uniqueness. A warm relationship is formed through the months of working together, developing trust and creating a special bond. We can schedule a convenient Skype appointment to discuss your plans in person as well as full email response.

The warmth of the Greek sun, hospitality and ambience makes getting married abroad a simple solution - contact us now so we can start your wedding planning journey together.

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 47.

Page 48. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 49.

Page 50. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Care and support for most

vulnerable improving

Warrington is performing well in Safeguarding vulnerable adults - 78% the third best performing local preventing hospital readmissions, of care providers in Warrington are authority, with only 2.6% of 16providing quality care, supporting meeting the council’s standards, 4% 17 year olds classed as NEET, homeless people, boosting higher than the national average. This compared to an England average employment and helping young measure includes residential homes, of 7.1%. In September, the Careers homecare and supported living for Young People service held their people achieve. most successful careers evening to The council’s latest quarterly providers. performance report reveals that Schools – The hard work of date, with a record number of 660 progress is being made in a number of Warrington’s young people and their people attending Orford Jubilee teachers was rewarded by another Neighbourhood Hub, to speak key areas. These include: Supporting older people to stay at year of excellent GCSE exam results, to college representatives and home – the latest figures show that with Warrington’s secondary schools employers.

83.2% of people using the council’s once again performing above the Council Leader, Cllr Terry O’Neill, ‘re-enablement’ services were at national average for 5+A*-C grades. said: “It’s pleasing, in such challenging home 91 days after their discharge Homelessness - There have been times for local authorities, that we from hospital. The AQUA scorecard almost 400 instances of positive continue to provide good services for (relating to supporting older people action in recent months to prevent some of our most vulnerable people. in the community) indicates that or relieve homelessness, including “This reports shows we are Warrington is one of the top performers providing housing assistance to making progress in caring for older in the North West in preventing older people who consider themselves residents, looking after those who people being readmitted to hospital. at risk of homelessness in the near are disadvantaged and helping build bright futures for our young people.

It is also performing well above the future. regional average in getting older Employment – Recently published There’s much more to do, but we can people out of hospital quickly and figures for young people not in be encouraged that the work we are in reducing the need for older people employment, education or training doing continues to make a difference to be admitted to residential care. (NEET) show that Warrington is to people’s lives.”

A PORTAL TO THE PAST

FOR PEOPLE LIVING

WITH DEMENTIA

People living with dementia in Oldham can now return to yesteryear in a nostalgic 1950s-inspired room which helps trigger old and new memories.

Thought to be the first of its kind in Oldham, the memory room is decorated exactly as a home would be over sixty years ago.

It is located at Trinity House on Godson Street – an Oldham Council Extra Care housing scheme which is independent living flats for people with some care and support needs.

The room is full of 1950s memorabilia and decor; including a black and white television,

newspapers and posters from yesteryear and a record player playing familiar music.

The time-warp room helps people living with dementia relax and feel comfortable through triggering memories from their past.

Cllr Jenny Harrison, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Safeguarding, said: “Dementia is such a difficult condition for those who have it and it’s heart-breaking for their families and carers. We must do everything we can to help those with this cruel condition have the best quality of life they can.

“That’s why I’m so impressed with this memory room. The amount

of time and effort that has gone into it is remarkable and if this gives someone just one precious memory back then it has been well worth it.” The room was made possible through donations of both money and old artefacts from staff, members of the public and Oldham Masonic Hall and Horton Lodge.

It is available to anyone affected by dementia locally and can be booked by contacting Jodie Ashton on 03701924286.

For more information on dementia and the support available locally for those affected, email donna. atherton@ageukoldham.org.uk or call 0161 622 933.

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 51.

Slow down – it’s Global

Road Safety Week Pupils at Radcliffe Hall CE Methodist Primary School measure the speed of local traffic with Jan Brabin, the council’s senior road safety officer.

Drivers are being urged to slow down and take care during Global Road Safety Week, which runs from 8 to 14 May. The initiative, which is organised by the World Health Organisation, is being backed by Bury Council, and motorists are asked to show their support by pledging to #SlowDown. Drivers are also being urged to consider the weather, traffic and vulnerable road users, when driving within the speed limit might still be too fast.

Jan Brabin, Bury Council’s senior road safety officer, said: “Drivers should understand that speeding is dangerous and that speed limits are there for a reason. According to the Department for Transport, exceeding the speed limit and travelling too fast for the conditions are significant contributory factors in road incidents, especially fatal

Billington Bears Preschool

Billington Bears opened in January this year. We are a pack away setting based in St.Bedes Church Hall, in Clayton-le-woods. We provide childcare and education for 2,3 & 4 year olds in a warm and welcoming homely environment. We believe children can learn and explore through play, whilst we give them the opportunities to develop and succeed as individuals at their own pace.

Our setting is open 5days a week for 38weeks of the year. (Term time) Sessions are run 9.00am-12.00pm 12.00pm-3.00pm All 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to 15hrs FREE

preschool education per week, and from September some families will be entitled to 30hrs FREE per week, (more information about eligibility can be found at www.lancashire.gov. uk/childcare) Any additional hours can be paid for at a cost of £11.50 per session.

At Billington Bears we believe in building strong partnerships with parents so we can work together in providing your child's education from the start. Billington Bears offer the children a wide range of curriculum activities and learning opportunities based on The Early Years Foundation

Stage (EYFS) We have a wonderful team of staff bringing many years of experience, qualifications and knowledge, to Billington Bears.

Limited spaces available for September 2017 intake.

If you require any further information, please don't hesitate to contact us on T: 07399251870 E:info@billingtonbearspreschool. co.uk Alternatively take a look at our Facebook page Billington Bears Preschool. The team at Billington Bears look forward to meeting you and your little ones.

incidents.” Over spring and summer, Bury’s road safety team will give pedestrian training sessions to thousands of Year 3 and Year 5 pupils across the borough.

Officers will also run a Theatre in Education project for Year 6 pupils in

wards with a higher numbers of child road casualties.

Jan added: “Speed limits are not targets. Drivers should take care to respect the community they are driving through and not behave in an aggressive manner. We help children

to develop road user confidence, awareness and skill through our work in schools, but we all have a duty to share the roads responsibly.”

Further information: https://www. unroadsafetyweek.org/en/whyslowdown

Page 52. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Twit Twoo Tutoring year in Cumbria offered their first choice

Over 97% of children starting primary school this

The Story Frog Early Literacy Course has been designed by an early years specialist, qualified teacher and mum to give you and your child the best foundation required to understand the process of young children learning to read and write through phonics and early literacy skills. Not only does this course aim to encourage children and empower parents but it

offers an understanding and overview of the skills and knowledge young children can acquire in preparation for entry to school, in line with expectations outlined in the Early Years Curriculum. Story Frog Phonics is a wonderful introduction to the very earliest sounds for reading and writing. All children develop and learn at different rates and consolidate

what they know through play, which is the most important part of their learning.

This phonics course has been designed to help you, the parent or caregiver, provide your child with the necessary opportunities to learn early sounds and literacy skills.

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

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

Sessions are at Little Munchkins Activity Café, Cavendish Street, Skipton, BD23 2AB every Monday and Thursday from 10 – 11am.

Here you will find a ground floor pram park, sensory texture trays, ball pool and specialist Children’s menus made from locally sourced produce and homemade on site – why not stay for a play and some lunch after the phonics session?

Cumbria County Council’s School Admissions team can confirm over 97% of children starting primary school in September 2017 have been awarded their first choice. Over 99% were offered a place at their first, second or third choice, a slight increase on last year’s figures.

Starting school – September 2017 Out of 4,592 applicants resident in Cumbria, who applied by the closing date, 4,466 were offered a place at their first preference school.

97.3% of parents / carers were offered a place at their first preference school, with 99.2% of parents / carers securing an offer at their first, second or third preference (providing second

/ third preferences were given).

Transfer to junior or primary school September 2017 Out of 987 applicants resident in Cumbria who applied by the closing date, 98.28% were offered their first preference school.

All applicants who followed the recommended process of providing more than one preference were allocated one of their chosen schools.

John Macilwraith, Director of Children’s Services at Cumbria County Council, said: “It’s great news that the vast majority of pupils have secured a place at their first choice school. Cumbria is a fantastic place to grow up and

an important part of that is ensuring children can attend the schools their parents and carers want them to go to.

“While most will be very pleased with the result of their applications, where places have been refused, applicants have the right of appeal to an independent admission appeal panel.”

Details of how to submit an appeal have been included with the notification letters.

If any applicants have changed their mind since requesting a school place they are advised to contact the school admissions team either via email at school.admissions@cumbria.gov.uk or on 01228 221582.

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 53.

Celebrating our foster carers in

Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale

To celebrate the hard work and achievements of local foster carers, Lancashire County Council held an awards ceremony event at the Thornton Arms, Burnley.

Foster carers from across the county were invited to an evening celebration in their area, and the council's fostering team and carers nominated people for a range of awards in advance.

The winning foster carers in Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale are: • Foster family of the year - Marieta

and Stephen Birt from Colne • Friends and family foster carer of the year - Reece Craig from Padiham • New foster carer of the year Catherine and Alex Paterson from Burnley • Outstanding contribution to the fostering service - Elizabeth and Graham Nelson, from Foulridge • Outstanding contribution to children in our care - Kay and Peter Livesey, from Bacup The winners go through to a grand final event in June at County Hall,

LAL playing key role in

ensuring businesses are

Disability Confident

Lancashire Adult Learning is playing a major role in encouraging employers in the county to be Disability Confident.

Working in partnership with Chorley Council and other organisations, LAL staff accepted an invitation to speak at a Disability Confident event at Chorley Town Hall, which was organised by the Department for Work and Pensions and Job Centre Plus. The event’s aim was to encourage employers to understand the business benefits of employing disabled jobseekers.

Disabled people make up almost 20% of the working age population and many of them are highly qualified individuals. However, employers can be reluctant to employ those with disabilities, and as a result, miss out on a valuable pool of potential employees with strong and diverse skillsets. Chorley MP Lindsay Hoyle attended the event to show his support for the initiative and described it as vital in showing how businesses can and must break down barriers. Community Learning Development Officer Zoe Ogden, from Lancashire Adult Learning, said: “I delivered a presentation on behalf of LAL on the business benefits and opportunities of employing disabled people. The event was extremely positive and I think we are really seeing the message is getting through to businesses that employers need to look at the whole person when considering candidates for employment.

“There are a number of myths about disabled people taking more days off sick and costing money to have workplace adjustments, for example, but these assumptions are simply incorrect. “It was great opportunity for LAL to be involved in this Disability Confident event and I am certain businesses left determined to make the most of the talent that exists among disabled people in our area.”

Lancashire Adult Learning delivers a huge range of planned provision across the Red Rose County, from Arts and Crafts to Humanities classes, Languages to Health and Wellbeing sessions and Employability courses.

For more information about LAL, contact 0333 003 1717 or visit www.lal.ac.uk.

Last Month’s Puzzle’s...

Preston where the overall countywide winners will be announced.

Georgine Lee, Senior Manager of the Fostering and Adoption Team at Lancashire County Council said: "All of our foster carers work tirelessly to improve the lives of looked after children in Lancashire and we wanted to do something to recognise their efforts. Well done to our winning foster carers, there were many deserving nominations and it was a tough job for our judges to shortlist the winners. A fun night was had by

all and it was such a pleasure to be part of it and see the foster carers have a well earned break."

The council is currently recruiting new people who can foster all ages of children, particularly siblings who need to stay together and teenagers. No formal experience or qualifications are needed, all they ask is that you have a spare room available and a desire to make a difference to a local child's life.

A package of support is available 24/7 to help foster carers in their role, including local support groups, their own social worker, a dedicated helpline and flexible training.

If you are interested, call the fostering recruitment team on 0300 123 6723 or visit the website: www.lancashire. gov.uk/fostering

Page 54. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

A note from the Chairman

Ken Anderson addresses the supporters following the club's promotion back to the Sky Bet Championship I think it is safe to say that April 30, 2017 is a date which will remain forever etched into the memories of all associated with Bolton Wanderers Football Club.

The day itself could not have gone better – a comfortable victory to cap off an incredible season from the team, a celebration to remember in the aftermath of the match and of course, seeing the beaming smiles on the faces of all associated with the club.

It was a day which this time last year, nobody could have envisaged.

In football, you will always dream big but those only come to fruition with a lot of hard work.

This season however, we have had just that and more from Phil Parkinson, the players, the staff and the supporters.

All season long, we have remained unified in our aim of achieving promotion and to do so at the first attempt is something that we should all be very, very proud of.

Coupled with the adversities we have faced this year, the job which has been performed at this football club is one which will go down in the history books.

Next season will be a new challenge for us, but for now, let’s savour this moment and celebrate what has been a campaign to remember for Bolton Wanderers.

We will be looking to stabilise the club now both on and off the pitch so that we can build on what

we have achieved this year. After the game meanwhile on Sunday, it was superb to see so many of the club’s supporters in attendance at our End of Season Awards Dinner with over 500 people packed into Macron Stadium’s Premier Suite. It was certainly a night to remember for all there and reiterated what a fantastic support network we have here at the football club, both on the terraces and in corporate hospitality and sponsorship.

We had seen our hospitality areas more or less sold out for the match itself, while almost 23,000 of you turned out for the match in the stands.

On behalf of the manager, players and staff, I would like to thank you once again for your unwavering support this season – it truly has been integral in helping us achieve what we have.

We will be announcing details of our season tickets for 2017/18 this week and I hope that many of you will join us as we play Sky Bet Championship football once again.

I hope to see as many of you as possible meanwhile at the Civic Reception which will be held in Bolton town centre on Tuesday evening.

Sunday was a fantastic occasion not only for the football club, but also for this great town of Bolton and I am delighted that we are able to come to the heart of the town to celebrate our promotion back to Sky Bet Championship with the people who

have supported us this season.

I would also like to thank Bolton Council for their support with this and I hope everybody has a great evening.

Following on from our success meanwhile, we will be releasing a special book to commemorate the team’s achievement by documenting the season as a whole.

Fans who pre-order before May 11 will also have the opportunity to have their names on a special Roll of Honour which will be included in the book itself. To purchase, please CLICK HERE. This year will also be a special one for the club as a whole too as we celebrate 20 years at our current stadium.

To commemorate this, we will be holding a competition for fans to help us design a unique logo to mark the occasion, details of which will be announced in due course.

Once again however, I hope you all enjoyed the weekend and the celebrations that ensued following the final whistle – you all very much deserved it.

Kind regards, Ken Credit bwfc.co.uk

charity challenge! visiting every EFL club in the North West in aid of Blackburn Community Sports Club. The final leg of his fundraising tour brought him to Ewood Park, where he was given a warm Rovers reception as he made his way out onto the hallowed turf at half-time. Alex has been a member of

2017 Player Of The

Year Awards:

The Winners

Alex completes

Blackburn Rovers season ticket holder Alex Hook was a special guest on the pitch at Rovers’ final home game against Aston Villa after completing a charity hand-cycle challenge.

Alex, who has Cerebral Palsy, cycled 170 miles over a five-day period,

Lancashire Local. Issue 31. Page 55.

Blackburn Community Sports Club’s disability section since 2005 and is now attempting to repay the £3,500 funding the Club gave him last year for a new hand-cycle.

To donate to the worthy cause, please visit: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Alex-HookNWTour

Aiden McGeady scooped the top award at the 2017 Preston North End player of the year awards on Sunday afternoon.

The Irish winger, who has thrilled the Deepdale faithful with his displays on loan from Everton this season, was presented with the Sir Tom Finney player of the year award trophy on the pitch at half-time during the Community Day, in aid of Prostate Cancer UK. North End fan Julie McClellan was the lucky winner of the chance to present the PNE No.14 with his prize after a record number of votes were cast, McGeady collecting almost 50 per cent of the votes made.

There were different winners for all the awards, with Chris Maxwell collecting the community player of the year award for his efforts with the Preston North End Community and Education Trust and local charities.

The young player of the year award was presented by manager Simon Grayson and that went to midfield battler Ben Pearson, whilst assistant manager Glynn Snodin presented

Jordan Hugill with the goal of the season for his first effort away at Aston Villa, where he ran from his own half before firing into the top right hand corner from 25 yards.

Youth team goalkeeper Callum Roberts, who was recently awarded

a professional contract, collected the scholar of the year award trophy, whilst the final gong was collected by Paul Huntington, on behalf of skipper Tom Clarke, who due to his injury was not able to be present to collect his players’ player of the year award.

Page 56. Issue 31. Lancashire Local

Sales E: sales@jac-media.com | T: 0115 8456423

Burnley FC committed to

promoting Equality and Diversity

Equality Statement from Mike Garlick, Burnley FC Chairman; We recognise that Burnley Football Club is an intrinsic part of the local community, which contributes to the quality of life of many people and has the ability to foster community cohesion throughout the town and wider community. Football also has the unique ability to bring people together from a wide range of different communities and can provide opportunities for all sections of the community to engage with the football club and participate in the community activities provided

by our official charity, Burnley FC in the Community. As a Premier League football club and provider of services to our fans and partners, Burnley Football Club is committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity and combating unfair treatment throughout our organisation, supporters and staff.

Along with supporting Kick it Out, Burnley Football Club implemented its first ever Celebrating Inclusion Day on Saturday 26th November 2016 vs. Manchester City which involved bringing together a range of organisations and individuals to

celebrate our diverse community.

We are absolutely committed to confronting and eliminating discrimination while promoting diversity, this commitment is set out in our Equality Policy and we are committed to embedding this throughout our organisation. To this end we have a strategic team consisting of Brian Nelson (Club Equality Board Champion), David Baldwin (Chief Executive Officer, Burnley FC) and Neil Hart (Chief Executive Officer, Burnley FC in the Community) who will ensure this is implemented throughout our organisation. Mike Garlick – Burnley FC Chairman .Burnley FC Equality Statement. Burnley Football Club endorses the principle of equality and will strive to ensure that everyone who wishes to be involved in the club whether as players, match-day fans, staff, board members, participants in outreach programmes and other people engaged with the club’s activities (i.e., suppliers or corporate partners): Has a genuine and equal opportunity to participate to the full extent of their own ambitions and abilities, without regard to their age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion and belief, sex or sexual orientation; and Can be assured of an environment in which their rights, dignity and individual worth are respected, and in particular that they are able to enjoy their engagement at the club without the threat of intimidation, victimisation, harassment, bullying and abuse. The club will not tolerate any form of discrimination, whether physical or verbal and will ensure such behaviour is met with the appropriate action whenever it occurs.

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.