Chorley Edition
January 2017
Looking back at
Chorley Photo by David Sudworth
Jack’s Tracks visits
Hale
Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health & Fitness What’s On Garden Diary...
locallife247.co.uk
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St Pius X Catholic Preparatory School & Oak House Nursery
OPEN DAY
Saturday, February 4, 2017, 1pm – 4pm
We kick-start your child’s education in our nursery with enthusiastic, creative and energetic teaching and follow up in our school with a varied, stimulating and aspirational curriculum that sees pupils earn places at leading independent and grammar schools Visit our website to read our latest inspection report and to find out how our pupils were crowned ‘Britain’s Brainiest Kids’ in CBBC’s Top Class general knowledge quiz contest. For more information or to arrange a visit, please contact: 200 Garstang Road, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 8RD
Tel: 01772 719 937 or 01772 713 630 Email: enquiries@st-piusx.lancs.sch.uk
www.stpiusx.co.uk
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Time
W
trials
hether it’s age, I’m not sure, but where the heck is time going? Last year seemed to go fairly fast, but I refuse to believe that this year marks some significant anniversaries. For instance, did you know that 2017 will mark the 20th year since Diana died, Hong Kong was handed back to China or that Tony Blair came to power? And if that only feels like yesterday, can you believe it’s 30 years since the Zeebrugge ferry disaster and 40 years since Elvis Presley ate his last fried banana and peanut butter sandwich? Not that I’ll be celebrating any of them, you understand. I’m not one for anniversaries, and I only tolerate my own birthday because of the odd B&Q voucher and other assorted goodies which are thrown my way. But time does go faster when you are older. As a teenager, you count down the days until your 18th, and then it all seems to speed up. I realise I’m hardly ready for the knacker’s yard yet but perhaps it’s just me realising - at the grand old age of 37 - that time doesn’t stand still. It dawned on me recently when I mentioned the word ‘dab’ and ‘bottle challenge’ to my nine year old. Cue muffled giggles which, at a stroke, confirmed my place in the ‘No Longer Young’ category. I can’t say I’m massively worried; I still have all my own teeth and know what Musically is. Asking me to comprehend how You Tubers make millions from talking gibberish into a webcam all day would be a tall order though...
David Sudworth, Editor
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In this issue How to beat
norovirus
Regulars 22 Class From The Past 48 Eating Out Guide 30 Puzzle Corner 49 Test drive 42 Jack’s Tracks
55 Garden Diary
Sections 33 Looking
back
6 Property 10 Local News 33 Health 40 Pets
46 Food & Drink 52 Home Services 55 Gardening
Next issue - February 2017
Advertising deadline - Thursday, 26 January
36 Jack’s Tracks visits
Hale 42
You should have
fun 46
Test Drive
Kia Niro
Published - Thursday, 9 February Local Life 247 Ltd Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
Telephone: 01257 498 329 Publisher: Chris chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Sales: Lisa sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: David chorleynews@locallife247.co.uk Design: Peter, Dylan design@locallife247.co.uk Distribution: Sally sallyb@locallife247.co.uk Accounts: Sam accounts@locallife247.co.uk Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following areas on an alternate monthly basis. This edition is delivered to 12,500 homes and businesses in Astley Village, Buckshaw Village, Clayton-le-Woods, Euxton, Whittle-le-Woods, Wheelton, Heapey, Brinscall and Withnell. The next edition is delivered to 13,515 homes and businesses in Chorley, Coppull, Eccleston, Croston, Charnock Richard, and Heath Charnock. You can also pick up a free copy at Morrisons or Tesco in Chorley.
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Local Life Media
@locallifemedia
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.
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HURRY - OFFER EXPIRES END OF JANUARY
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GRAPE LANE, CROSTON
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WITHINGTON LANE, HESKIN
£218,500
A pretty garden fronted terrace cottage that is situated in a lovely location adjacent to beautiful rural countryside.
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£194,950
BELMONT DRIVE, CHORLEY
£179,995
RIVINGTON AVENUE, ADLINGTON
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£124,500
A traditional 3 bed semi-detached house with tastefully presented accommodation and a enclosed rear garden.
£175,000
A beautiful newly renovated true two bedroom bungalow.
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£185,000
An exceptionally well appointed and much improved semidetached house.
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Stunning detached true bungalow with stylish glass roof conservatory & quiet cul-de-sac setting.
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SYLVAN GROVE, BAMBER BRIDGE
NEW
NEW
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ST. GREGORYS PLACE, CHORLEY
£105,000
A realistically priced 3 bed family home with conservatory, enclosed gardens and off road parking.
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Steph’s got some A Whittle-le-Woods woman who took up golf just five years ago is celebrating a clean sweep of awards. Steph Patterson, 70, has got her handicap down from 36 to 15 since 2011, when she took up the game. She’s now the proud recipient of a clutch of awards including two majors - The President’s Trophy, The Royal Jubilee 4 BBB Trophy with her playing partner Kath Clawson. She also came second in a charity tournament at Chorley Golf Club - and made a clean sweep of the Best of Series Competitions by winning the Eclectic, The Birdie Tree, The Lora Fairclough Trophy and the EG Medal. This gives her the opportunity to play in the England Golf
drive Regional Finals this year. Steph said: “When I first started playing golf I wanted to encourage other ladies to play no matter what their age. The ladies section started a Ladies Academy in 2015 at Chorley Golf Club with taster sessions, trial membership and a buddy to help you on the course. “Golf is great for meeting new friends and joining in with the social events.” Any ladies interested in playing golf can email stephpatterson10@aol.com
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Simply Red all
over!
There were smiles all round for these lucky Local Life readers after they won tickets to see Simply Red. Dave Seed from Earlsway, Euxton; Mr and Mrs Berry from Judeland, Astley, and Mrs Johnson from Dunham Drive, Whittle-le-Woods, got to see the Manchester group, led by Mick Hucknall, live after their names were drawn out of the hat. The competition was featured in our November edition. Other winners were Margaret Siddell, of Dorchester Road, Up Holland; Vanessa Derbyshire, of Merton Road, Highfield and Joan Lawson, of Moor Road, Orrell. Remember, for more great competitions, keep reading Local Life!
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Girls Football Euxton Villa FC are recruiting players – aged 4 and above. We can offer:
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Bespoke Timeless Treasures
Jewels May is a gorgeous independent jewellers shop nestled amongst 50 small rural retail business in Heskin Farmers Market and Craft Centre. This little treasure trove of sparkle boasts an amazing collection of antique, vintage and modern precious luxury jewellery items. The owner has a passion for old cut diamonds and precious stones in amazing unique settings, and the shop also specialises in pre-owned luxury watches.
Treat yourself to an affordable extravagance! Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, PR7 5PA T: 01257 450 448 E: info@jewelsmay.com www.jewelsmay.com
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Pub pop up on
display
Three locals who created a pop-up museum project in Chorley’s pubs are taking it to Astley Hall in February. Adam Cree, Richard and Linda Langford (pictured) researched the history of pubs, and collected names of those in surrounding streets who died in World War I, for their Pals & Pubs project. Among those featured are The Bay Horse at Heath Charnock, The Cricketers in Brinscall and J&L Tearooms in Whittlele-Woods. The pop-up exhibition will be in the Coach House
Gallery, Astley Hall, from Saturday, February 4, until Sunday, February 25, during normal opening hours. They will be returned to the pubs permanently after this.
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Distributors Required Local Life magazine seeks distributors for delivery of this magazine and leaflets in the following areas; Chorley – Laburnum Road, Hartwood Green, Hazel Grove, Fern Bank & Linden Grove Clayton Le Woods – Black Croft, Sheep Hill Lane, Glenmore & Cam Wood Fold Euxton – Wigan Road, Euxton Hall Gardens, Firbank, & Church Walk
Blood Bikes boost A Clayton-le-Woods group has handed North West Blood Bikes at £200 boost. Lancashire Vehicle Club, which meets on the first Monday in the month at The Woodsman pub on Lancaster Lane, makes a charitable donation to different organisations each year.
Whittle Le Woods – Dunham Drive, Orchard Drive & Royton Avenue Good rates paid, delivery bags and maps provided. You will be at least 13, healthy, energetic and prepared to work for 2/3 hours once every eight weeks. If you’re interested, email sallyb@locallife247.co.uk with your name, address, a contact number and your date of birth.
For 2016, they chose North West Blood Bikes volunteer riders who deliver vital medical materials throughout the region. For more information on Lancashire Vehicle Club, visit www.lancashirevehicleclub.org.uk
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Carers required
Homes plan rejected
Are you looking for a new job in 2017? The Eaves Lane based care company Independent Living are looking for Home Carers to join their successful team. You need to own a car, the pay is competitive and both full time and part time positions are available. For more details, call Amanda on 01257 696 050.
Residents in Euxton are celebrating after plans for 165 new homes were turned down. Gladman Homes wanted to build on land between Pear Tree Lane and School Lane. However, Chorley councillors backed the concerns of town planners and refused permission for the scheme. A report to councillors said: “The application does not represent a sustainable form of development. The highway impact of the development in the form submitted is unacceptable and does not provide adequate connectivity for all future occupiers of the development.”
Write on Chorley Calligraphy Group meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Chorley Cricket Club, Sandringham Road, from 10am to 3pm, and we are happy to welcome beginners, New members welcome. Call Brian Sudlow on 01606 891722 or Mary Seaman on 01257 279788.
After the meeting, local Cllr Aidy Riggott said: “The passion residents have shown in fighting this application has been fantastic.”
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Check out our brand new
website! Win a £25 M&S voucher
in our monthly draw! Don’t miss a single copy of Local Life – register NOW for your free monthly copy. Upload your pics and we’ll display them FREE in our magazine* or on our website FREE downloads of over 40 Jack’s Tracks Promote your forthcoming event for FREE via magazine*, online and via events2go *where space permits
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Class from the
past
This month’s Class from the Past is from St Gregory’s School. It’s believed this photo was taken in the 1950s. Maybe you can spot a familiar face?
Tell us your story! Local Life is always on the look out for news stories from the local communities we serve. Are you raising money for charity? Are you a member of a community group with something to shout about? Maybe you’ve got an unusual talent, or have a claim to fame? If so, let us know and you could be appearing in the next edition! Simply contact us on chorleynews@locallife247. co.uk or call us on 01257 498329.
Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact us today by emailing chorleynews@ locallife247.co.uk
Family history for beginners A 10-week family history course for beginners starts in the New Year. First Steps, run by the Chorley branch of the Lancashire Family History and Heraldry Society, commence on Friday, January 27, at 7.30pm. The course costs £40, inclusive of resource materials and light refreshments. It will be held at The Chorley Family History Research Centre, Astley Hall Farmhouse, Astley Park, Chorley, PR7 1XA. Bookings are now being taken via course leaders Ron and Pauline Chapman on 07730 793990 or 01257 453087.
Closure fear The Parachute Regiment Association’s Central Lancs branch is urgently looking for new members - or it faces closure. It holds meetings every last Monday of the month at the RAFA club, Station Road, Leyland, at 7.30pm. Call Bob on 07732 250602 or Paul on 07885 552886
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Couple’s
milestone
A Bucskshaw couple celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary with a throwback to how they first met. John and Isobel Dowling, who are both residents at The Lodge in Buckshaw Retirement Village, celebrated their milestone at a special war veterans lunch. John and Isobel met in Dundee during World War II. John broke his ankle during training in Dundee and Isobel nursed him back to health, and they have been inseparable ever since. During the war John, who was originally from London, worked as a signaller for the Royal Marines, including working with Morse code and flag signalling. Their daughter, Maggie Harrison, 68, said: “My parents are a fantastic couple and are still very much
in love. The lunch was a fantastic environment for them to spend their 72nd wedding anniversary as it gives them the chance to reminisce on how they first met with other veterans.”
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SUSTAINABLE INVESTING
THE TIME TO INVEST SUSTAINABLY IS NOW! Most of us are increasingly aware of the social and environmental impacts of our daily lives; we may recycle, avoid buying products from certain companies and try to cut our carbon footprint. How does this work when it comes to our portfolio investments? What are the challenges and options for those to whom these issues matter? So what is this type of investing? There is one unifying theme in Socially Responsible Investing today: it is an investment discipline that takes into account the environmental, social and corporate governance criteria of companies around the world when investing money, with the aim of generating strong, long-term financial returns, whilst delivering a
positive societal impact. These criteria have been abbreviated in the industry to ‘ESG’. We believe that ALL investors should at least be offered a discussion on the subject. Investors may worry that if they invest sustainably, they will not get the return they expect on their money. Sustainable investing is of course about making a return, and investors are becoming more aware that they don’t have to choose between ‘doing well’ and ‘doing good’. The answer sits with seeking the correct financial advice. With a passion for advising in the field of sustainable and impact investing, the advisers at True Bearing are well versed in helping clients with their investment decisions.
To discuss your financial planning talk to us today. This article should not be taken as individual financial advice and you should speak to your adviser before making any investment decisions. Investments can go up as well as down.
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Puzzle
Sudoku Answers are on page 41 of this magazine
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Health & Fitness
How to beat
norovirus By Abi Jackson
N
orovirus has been in the headlines a fair bit lately - there have been hospital ward closures due to outbreaks, 300 people reportedly fell ill following a suspected eruption of the virus at the Wahaca restaurant chain, and cases are said to be 45% higher than this time last year, according to Public Health England. And that’s only official lab reports; many more will have been struck with the dreaded ‘winter vomiting bug’ but not gone ‘on record’. But what exactly does it mean, and what should you do if you or your family gets norovirus? GP and media medic Dr Roger Henderson coughs up some expert advice... IT CAN BE NASTY Norovirus can knock you for six, often starting with an achy fever and nausea, usually one to two days after exposure to the virus. Virus particles enter
the body through the nose or mouth, travel to the stomach, but it’s only when they hit the small intestine that they start multiplying and irritating the gut lining - then the vomiting and watery diarrhoea strikes. “This is the body saying, ‘Get it out, clear it, clear it, clear it!” says Henderson. You might have stomach cramps and a headache too. The good news is it passes quickly and you should be fine in a few days, though some people do suffer worse than others. “That’s probably linked to the viral load you’re exposed to,” notes Henderson. “If you’re exposed to a very heavy viral load, you might feel worse.” THERE’S PROBABLY NO NEED TO SEE YOUR GP “There’s no cure for norovirus, it’s just a case of treating the symptoms,” Henderson stresses, which means a trip to your GP’s probably going to be futile - and put other people at risk. “It’s a miserable thing to get, but the vast majority of people will bounce back quite quickly. What they should not do, if they can, is walk into a doctor’s surgery because we’re going to say, nicely, ‘Go away’ and give them general advice. But in the meantime, they’ll have sat there spreading their germs left, right and centre.”
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BUT DO SEEK ADVICE IF YOU’RE CONCERNED
DON’T RUSH BACK TO WORK, EITHER
Like flu, norovirus can be “more risky in the very young and very old”. While it’s highly unlikely
There’s lots of pressure to ‘battle through’ and not take time off sick, but while you may feel fine once the sickness stops, Henderson notes you may still be contagious for up to two days after symptoms have passed. “It’s variable, but I always say assume you remain infected for about 48 hours after your symptoms have cleared,” he says.
to be a threat to the majority of people, with a vomiting and diarrhoea bug, the biggest risk is often linked to dehydration, which can quickly become serious - particularly for, as well as babies, young children and older people, those with preexisting conditions like diabetes or a heart or kidney condition. “The dangers [of dehydration include] reduced levels of consciousness, impact on your kidney function, altered confused states, and more prone to falls in the elderly,” says Henderson. “In children, you will get lethargy and weakness.” If anyone’s showing worrying signs, or if symptoms don’t clear after a few days and you’re concerned, phone your GP surgery or local out-of-hours or NHS helpline (of course, if somebody’s very unwell and losing consciousness, call 999). SELF-CARE AND TLC “In terms of treatment, fluid replacement is the main thing,” says Henderson. “You can take paracetamol and ibuprofen for aches and pains if you want to, and avoid certain foods - spicy foods, oily foods most people won’t want them anyway,” he adds. “Little and often” is often the best approach with eating. “Some toast, dry biscuits - everything is fine, to keep your sugar levels up, but the most important thing is fluids.” If you’re vomiting lots, Henderson notes that “if fluid stays down for at least five minutes, at least half of it will have gone into your system. “A lot of people worry if they take a drink and vomit 10, 20 minutes later, they’re not getting any benefit from the drink, but they are. It’s when you vomit it straight back out that it can be a problem” - or if somebody’s reluctant, too poorly, or just not aware how important it is to take on fluids. If
STOP THE SPREAD The other key factor - to avoid spreading and catching the bug - is “scrupulous hygiene”. The virus spreads via droplet transmission and infected droplets can remain ‘live’ for “at least an hour” on hard surfaces, which is how it spreads so widely through touch. To minimise risk, Henderson suggests practical steps like “using hand gels, always washing your hands after the loo, obviously, keeping hard surface areas clean and using antibacterial wipes in those areas. And [don’t forget] things like handles, and making sure your toilet is kept clean with disinfectant”.
Linda Wallbank Foot Health Practitioner Offering home visits for people of all ages, covering a range of foot health problems.
this is the case, “fluid replacement products and sachets like Dioralyte [£3.79 for pack of six, Boots; suitable infants, children and adults] can be really helpful, because they stop you from getting low in certain salts”, notes Henderson. Aside from that, it’s a question of resting and waiting it out.
To make an appointment please contact me on 07872 960 494 or email: linda.footbliss@outlook.com
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01257 696 050
E: mark.booker@independentlivinglancashire.co.uk
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We do not carry out 1,000s of care calls to hundreds of people because we want to give you a truly personalised service. When you phone our friendly office – myself, Maria or Mark because we offer a bespoke service we will know who you are, your family and your care history and will already have an idea of what you will require. As we work with a smaller number of customers we can spend more time arranging your care and support so it more fully meets your requirements. If you are looking for care and support at home, pay privately, and want a company that works hard for its customers please give us a call in office hours. We can help you on a regular basis but we are equally happy to help if it you have a short term need. For more information on care please call Amanda 01257 696 050
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The old arches and Railway Inn (now the Lock & Quay) on Blackburn Brow
L
Looking back at old
ocal Life has been dusting off the archives to unearth some great photos from yesterday. We’ve managed to round up some of Euxton, Withnell and the town centre in a collection which
is bound to prompt memories of buildings which are still there, and some that are long gone. Do you have any old photos of Chorley? Upload them to our website, www.locallife247.co.uk
An early shot of Bury Lane, Withnell
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Cottages on Knowley Brow, which remain there to this day. Sadly, the arches are long gone
Chorley
Looking down Wigan Road, in Euxton
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A bus turning out of Union Street, in Chorley town centre
A bustling Market Street in the 1950s/60s
Remember - upload your old Chorley photos to www.locallife247.co.uk
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Is your pet
microchipped? L
ast April, it became a legal requirement for every dog over the age of eight weeks old to be implanted with a microchip, linked to the up-to-date details of their owner. So how do microchips work and why are they a good idea? Microchips, as the name suggests, are small chips about the size of a grain of rice. Implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades (in dogs, cats and rabbits), when scanned they provide the scanner with a unique number. In turn, this number is held on a database, together with your details, by one of several companies. Implantation is a relatively simple and quick procedure, performed by vets or other suitably trained individuals, using a needle a little larger than those used for normal injections. The cost of microchipping has also decreased significantly in recent years. If you wish to avoid a hefty fine of £500, it makes sense to ensure your dogs are chipped. The only exceptions to this are when your dog or puppy has been assessed as unsuitable to be chipped by your vet – for example very small puppies or ill dogs. But beyond the legal requirement, microchipping provides peace of mind. Every rescue centre, local authority and vet should scan stray pets for a chip. There’s no better feeling than being able to contact a frantically searching owner and say “don’t worry,
someone has found your pet and he/she is just fine”. Unfortunately, vets are often unable to take in stray animals and rescue centres are packed to the rafters. That’s why it is advisable to microchip not only dogs, but also cats and rabbits (and even parrots!).
Of course, not every stray animal found is well. But being able to contact the owners quickly to get information about them and talk about treatment can make all the difference. And if there’s bad news, at least the owner knows the outcome. So please, make sure your pet is chipped. And don’t forget when you move, or change telephone number, to let the database company know (your vet can help if you don’t know the microchip number or are unsure how to go about this). Just updating your details with your vet will not automatically update the chip details. And that way, we can have more happily ever afters.
41
Over 40 Lancashire
walks
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42
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Hale by David Sudworth
I
f you want to raise someone’s blood pressure in Hale, tell them they live in Merseyside.
The temptation is obvious, given that it is perched on the side of the Mersey, and also at the end of Liverpool John Lennon Airport runway. But not only is this geographical pigeonholing patently untrue (pub bore alert number one: Merseyside hasn’t existed since 1986 when the old Merseyside County Council was abolished) but Hale is in fact part of the Halton Council area, which has come under Cheshire since 1974. Only for local government purposes you understand, because (bore alert number 2) technically Hale remains part of the County Palatine of Lancashire. Also, don’t confuse it with the other Hale, which is near Altrincham and has always been part of Cheshire.
Flummoxed? Don’t be, because none of it really matters when you are enjoying this splendid five mile stroll. We start our walk from the car park at Hale Park (postcode L24 4EA). Having parked up, we head back out of the car park onto High Street and take a right heading in to Church End. Here, we get a first glimpse of some truly beautiful old houses with thatched roofs. On the day we visited, the air was wintery and crisp. Against the clear, blue sky backdrop, we saw the odd chimney pot bellowing out plumes of smoke. A sight sure to warm the cockles of even the coldest walker. A little further on, we happen upon an imposing statue of John Middleton, formerly of this parish, who by some accounts grew to a staggering 9ft 3ins
43
tall. Little wonder he was hired as a bodyguard to the Sheriff of Lancashire. Once past the statue, we take a left into Within Way from where you’re soon enjoying open views towards Widnes and Runcorn - the railway bridge stands proudly to the left alongside an endless parade of factories. By contrast, on our side of the Mersey, there is nothing apart from green fields and some winter broccoli crops for company. History enthusiasts will enjoy knowing that this was the point where the first Mersey crossing was situated by way of a ford, which is a mile long. During the Civil War in 1644, troops crossed with their horses and there were skirmishes to take control of what was a major crossing point. As late as the 19th century, a local vicar used to take his horse-drawn buggy across. However, pollution was becoming a big problem, and this led to the construction of the Transporter Bridge in 1905. This was replaced in 1961 by the Silver Jubilee Bridge, which remains in use to this day. As an interesting aside, ‘Mersey’ is derived from the Old English words ‘Mæres’ meaning boundary or border, and ‘Ea’ meaning river.
With the history lesson now over, we follow the route all the way down to the bottom, where it continues to the river as a footpath. When you reach the river go right and continue along the path. After a short while Hale Head Lighthouse will come into view. Built in 1906, it was decommissioned in 1958 and is now a private residence. You’ll go straight through the gates passing the lighthouse as you cross Lighthouse Road and on along the river bank. Shortly after this you go over a wooden footbridge that crosses Lady Pool, a brook that runs out from Hale Park. The path continues for a good while, passing Icehouse Plantation, before you eventually reach a house, where the path goes down some steps to the left. This then crosses
44
A tall story
another brook, before steps take you back to the top of the river bank. Keep going along the river until the path emerges onto a new tarmac path.
John Middleton was born in 1578 in Hale and, according to folklore, is one of the tallest men in history. A towering man, he is believed to have been between 7ft 9ins and 9ft 3ins tall – official records don’t exist to confirm one way or the other. It is said that when King James I learnt about the ‘Childe of Hale’s’ great height, he invited him to his court to fight the King’s wrestler. Middleton won and was given £20, a massive amount at that time. He is also said to have been recruited as a bodyguard for Gilbert Ireland, the landlord and Sheriff of Lancashire who was also a member of Brasenose College Boat Club. Middleton died in 1623, aged 45, and is buried in St Mary’s churchyard. A portrait of Middleton hangs in Brasenose College and the rowing team’s first VIII sometimes wear Middleton’s colours; red, purple and gold. A blue plaque denoting Middleton’s home in Hale adorns a whitewashed cottage on Church End, just a stone’s throw from his statue.
At this point we go right and the path soon emerges onto Dungeon Road, right again the boundary fence to Liverpool John Lennon Airport. Here you get some good views of planes taking off or landing. We managed to hang around long enough to see a private plane jet off to a destination unknown, followed shortly afterwards by an easyJet 12.15pm service to Barcelona. Plan your route carefully if you want to see this, as sometimes there can be an hour’s gap in between take-offs. Just before you reach the yellow post that support the airports landing lights, you take a right into Bailey’s Lane. Follow this until it emerges on Hale Road, a smart route with some very grand homes with thatched roofs. Continue to go right and follow
45
Hale Head
With in
Way
John Middleton ‘Childe of Hale’ Statue
Lighthouse
Hale
Town Lane
Road
d
En
ane
Hig
hS tree
t
P
Postcode: L24 4AF
ch ur
Ch
Carr L
Pool FB
Lady
e
FB
Hale Cliff
i Ba
’s ley
n La
e
Hale Ro
ad
Icehouse Plantation
an
on Lane
Dunge
Oglet
t le Og
ne La
kL
roo
sb
m Ra
Liverpool John Lennon Airport
Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear while walking. While every care has been taken to ensure that the walk is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.
d
Roa
ouse
Also, from this vantage point, there’s no chance of overhearing the cringingly obvious warblings of Gerry & The Pacemakers as the Birkenhead Ferry comes in to dock. And for that, we should all be grateful...
rch
Chu
Lighth
Having done these walks for a few years now, I can honestly say this was possibly the most interesting and enjoyable. There’s just something about the river, its vastness, which creates a sense of calmness, even with the slow chug of industry in the background. The Mersey is synonymous with Liverpool but it is more than just a reference point for the Liver Buildings, the Albert Dock and so on.
Decoy Marsh
it back into the village and then take a right back in to the car park.
46
Food & Drink
You should have
fun! By Gemma Dunn
H
e’s been branded one of the trailblazers of new British cooking, but at the heart of Glynn Purnell’s success is his refusal to take himself too seriously. If he’s not cracking jokes and reeling off witty anecdotes, the ‘Yummy Brummie’ is referring to himself as the Roger Federer of Birmingham’s imploding culinary scene. “I’m always going to be remembered as something that broke the mould; the one who was awarded the first ever Michelin star in Birmingham [which happened in 2005, while he was head chef at Jessica’s in Edgbaston],” says the forward-thinker. “I’m still in the mix, so I like to see myself as a Roger Federer: I won’t be No 1 all of the time, but it’s great,” the 41-year-old adds, chuckling. “Competition is great!” And having achieved his childhood goal - “I never had any interest in passing GCSEs because I knew I was going to be a chef” - it seems Purnell has plenty to smile about. His latest venture is the brilliantly-titled cookbook Rib Ticklers & Choux-Ins, a follow-up to 2014’s Cracking Yolks & Pig Tales, and a tome he says was inspired by the more down-to-earth dishes served at his bistro, or “takeaway food at home”. Written with trademark wit, chapters range from ‘This little piggy went to market’ to ‘A moment on the lips’. It’s infused with brunch, fish, meat and knockout dessert recipes, and peppered with yarns about perfecting his skills through years of reading women’s magazines at the dentist, and why he has such a vendetta against sprouts.
“It’s important as a chef to have your own personality, but then to be able to put that personality onto the page makes you different,” reasons Purnell, who credits his publishers with giving him the creative freedom to put out a book that “sounds as if I’m talking to you”. “When I stop running restaurants, and when I stop doing what I’m doing, I want people to look back and go, ‘Oh look, that’s a Glynn Purnell dish’, or when they come to the restaurant and eat a dish, they know they’re not going to get that anywhere else in the world. “It’s important to keep hold of your personality,” he continues. “I’ve been cooking in Michelinstar restaurants nearly all of my career, and chefs always want to perceive themselves as being a bit aggressive. I’ve moved on from that. “I don’t need to push my chest out and act like some sort of big grumpy chef that throws plates at people, because times have changed. For me, food is fun; you should have fun. “Some chefs should smile a bit more - it wouldn’t kill them!”
Rib Ticklers & Choux-Ins by Glynn Purnell, photography by Peter Cassidy, is published by Kyle Books, priced £19.99.
47
Sweet spicy sticky
Serves 7 Ingredients 2tbsp vegetable oil 1 onion, thinly sliced 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 4 cloves 1/2 cinnamon stick 1tsp black onion seeds 1tsp ground ginger 1 rack of pork belly ribs, cut into individual ribs 150g caster sugar 50ml white wine vinegar 50ml dark soy sauce 1tbsp (large) tomato ketchup 2 medium-hot chillies, roughly chopped 1tbsp chopped coriander Squeeze of lime juice
ribs
Method Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened but only lightly coloured. Add the cloves, cinnamon, onion seeds and ginger to the pan and then add the ribs. Cover all the ingredients with two litres of cold water (or enough to cover the ribs), then simmer for 30-40 minutes until the meat is tender. Drain the ribs (you can reserve the cooking liquid to make a sauce for another dish). Heat a large frying pan, add the sugar, vinegar and soy sauce and boil the mixture until reduced to a thick consistency. Add the ketchup to the pan, then stir in the ribs, coating well with the glaze. Add the chillies, coriander and a squeeze of lime juice, then serve. The ribs can be served with egg noodles or jasmine rice. A little tip - instead of ribs, buy pork belly on the bone. That way you get free ribs and probably the best part of the pig.
48
Eating out
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A beautiful historic pub overlooking the canal. Whether you’re after a quick lunch, sophisticated evening meal, cask ales or cocktails, value and quality is guaranteed. 01704 807330 29, Liverpool Road North, Burscough, L40 5TN oldpackethouse.co.uk
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Warmest and friendliest of welcomes with award winning chef Mike Heap, who uses only the finest, freshest, local ingredients to ensure you leave completely satisfied. 01257 462874 16, Alder Lane, Parbold, WN8 7NN thestockstavern.co.uk
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49
Test drive
Kia
H
Niro by Tim Barnes-Clay
ybrid vehicles are in vogue these days – or so it appears. Will this technology take over
undoubtedly, inspired by Toyota, but you can let Kia off because every car manufacturer ‘makes use
the conventional power plants we know one day? I don’t have the psychic wherewithal to tell you. But a lot of automakers seem to be following this trend – and now it’s Kia’s turn.
of’ ideas. It’s a fashion thing and, by its very nature, fashion is all about making certain you’re ‘down with the kids’ on the hottest style.
The all-new Kia Niro hybrid is propelled by an orthodox 1.6-litre GDi petrol engine, paired up with a 32kW electric motor. There’s also a lithium-ion polymer battery where energy is saved. This layout is like with the one in Toyota’s Prius, and manages an official combined mpg of up to 74.3mpg, alongside CO2 emissions starting from 88g/km. The Niro is larger than its relative, the Cee’d, yet more pocket-sized than its other relation – the attractive and admired Sportage. The all-new Kia Niro is the South Korean car company’s first attempt at a hybrid crossover type of vehicle, but you wouldn’t know. Sure, there are copied elements, such as white plastic adornments inside the cabin, especially around the inner door handles. These are,
The new Kia Niro’s body is rectangular, but it’s not at all disagreeable. The Niro has a simple, fetching form, that has hints of Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) about it. At the front, the Sportage’s genetic material comes through – most markedly around the headlights. What’s more, the rump of the allnew Niro is easy-on-the-eye, with a conventional tailgate decorated with touches of silver trim. The all-new Kia Niro will seat four-adults comfortably, or five at a squeeze. The load area is a decent size – certainly large enough for a regular sized family’s needs. The steering wheel is pleasingly thick to grasp and the switchgear and dials are intuitive and clear to use. The only difference between the Niro and a conventionally powered car is an energy flow meter replacing the rev counter. There’s also a drivetrain pictorial
50
showing the energy stream between the Kia Niro’s engine, battery and wheels. On start-up, the all-new Kia Niro sounds like it’s not turned on. That’s because, as with all hybrids, the engine under the bonnet doesn’t cut in instantly. Instead of any tick-over sounds, you hear a chime, signifying that the Niro is running. It’s not long before the 105PS petrol powered unit makes its presence known, though. On the road, the Niro delivers even-tempered performance, thanks to a six-cog automatic gearbox. And, while the Kia Niro is no out and out performer, the additional power the petrol engine receives from the electric motor is appreciable. The all-new Kia Niro also feels planted and deals with the straights contentedly. It’s only on more blemished B-road surfaces that the Niro’s firm suspension results in a bit of jitteriness. The Kia Niro has to have a stiff set-up, though, to cope with the extra heft of the hybrid assembly. Luckily, there’s a silver lining to every cloud and this firmness means that body lean is hardly noticeable in corners.
well-appointed with driver assistance, comfort, and connectivity features. Every Kia Niro has a lane-keep assist system, hill-start assist control, cruise control and a speed limiter. The new car also comes factoryfitted with support smartphone connectivity, music streaming and a DAB radio.
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55
It wasn’t raining when Noah built
the ark!
I
saw this caption outside a Methodist church recently and I thought what a brilliant way to illustrate the concept of planning ahead. And when it comes to our gardens, planning ahead is a necessity if you want a truly seasonal garden with year round interest and colour and this is particularly true of the winter months. Winter can be a drawn out, dreary affair so injecting some colour and structure into our gardens can really lift the spirits at this time of year. Some excellent plants for the winter garden include: Buxus sempervirens or Box. Fantastic evergreen structure. If you are worried about Box Blight (a fungal disease which is becoming more prevalent) then Euonymus japonicus ‘Jean Hugues’ is an excellent substitute. Daphnes are brilliant for providing winter flowers which are scented. Two of the best are Daphne odora ‘Aureomarginata’ and Daphne bholua ‘Jacqueline Postill’. Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald ‘n’ Gold’. Bright lime green and yellow leaves cover this small shrub
by Angie Barker
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throughout the year and when the temperatures fall, they turn pink. Miscanthus sinensis ‘Kleine Fontane’ is a tall grass which keeps its structure all winter and looks stunning with a sprinkling of frost. Sarcococca confusa -a small evergreen shrub with amazing scent in winter which will knock your socks off and is also really useful for a dark, shady corner. Christmas or Lenten Roses (Hellebores) are lovely small perennials which although don’t offer much in the way of colour and structure throughout the year, really come into their own in January and February. Helleborous x hybridus provide some of the best colours. So if you think your garden lacks interest at this time of year, start planning now for next winter and take a trip to the garden centre. Bypass the sale of left over Christmas decorations and head outside for the plants. As for Hubby, well he is busy planning too. He wants to know when is the best time to open that vintage bottle of wine I bought him for Christmas! Happy New Year everyone.
Angie is a qualified award-winning garden designer who will plan your garden to your needs from start to finish, supplying reputable contractors and the ideal plants.
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