Local Life - Chorley - May 2016 by Local Life 247 Ltd

Chorley Edition

May 2016

n to see The Corrs Witickets Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health & Fitness What’s On Garden Diary... www.locallife247.co.uk

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Masterchef

moment L ike many of you I’m sure, I’ve become an avid viewer of the BBC Masterchef, marvelling at the entrants’ creativity and cringing at the pressures they face in the TV studios. It’s fascinating to hear about how they managed to get onto Masterchef, but whatever their respective journeys, they have two things in common; bravery and an unshakeable belief in themselves. I had my own Masterchef moment recently when, at a weekly community event, our two first choice chefs were unavailable at late notice and I had to step up, prep and cook 50 or so breakfasts in the space of a couple of hours. It went like a dream and the feeling afterwards was, I can only imagine, equal to scoring a goal in a cup final. The truth is though; it wasn’t as hard as I thought it was going to be. In fact, we’re down two chefs on Saturday only, this time, I won’t be losing any sleep on Friday night. Isn’t that often the case that the thought of fear itself is greater than what it is we fear?

KIRK & WARD

Many of our young people are facing their own Masterchef moments in the next few weeks, sitting examinations of one kind or another, and many of them will currently, just like my daughter, be in a state of panic. I’ve told her to be brave, prepare thoroughly and believe in herself and hopefully it will make a difference. Maybe it will make a difference for your children too? Fingers crossed,

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Chris Pearce - Publisher Next issue - June 2016

Advertising deadline - Thursday 12 May Published - Thursday 26 May

In this issue Ignoring bowel

Win tickets to see

The Corrs

cancer? 40

58 Jack’s Tracks

Where there’s a

Will

Haigh

Fast

Test Drive - Mercedes

food

GLE 350d

Regulars 20 Class from the past 24 Puzzle Page 57 Eating Out Guide

Telephone: 01257 498 329 64 What’s On 68 Garden Diary

Sections 6 Property 54 Food & Drink 12 Local News 60 Events & Leisure 20 Children & Education 70 Motoring 40 Heath & Fitness 72 Home Services Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB

Local Life Media

Sales: Lisa Jackson, Nicola Gray Editorial: Chris Pearce Design: Peter Bretherton

sales@locallife247.co.uk

chorleynews@locallife247.co.uk design@locallife247.co.uk

Distribution: Sally Boon

sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

Accounts: Sam Garrahan

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Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following edition 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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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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Village fair Mark a date in your diary for Saturday 14th May, for that’s the date of the annual Country Fair in

Modern Collection

the village of Hilldale, near Parbold. The traditional crowning and parade of the Hilldale Rose Queen takes place at 1.30pm and then fun never stops all the afternoon. You can look forward to a fun dog show, a marching band, Morris Dancers, donkey rides, stalls and games, a bungee trampoline and a bouncy castle. Refreshments include cream teas and a BBQ, but feel free to bring along a picnic blanket and chairs with your own refreshments. The event takes place in Hilldale Village Hall/Field on Chorley Road in Hilldale (WN8 7AL) between 1.30 - 4pm, and entry is £1 for adults and 50p for children. To reserve a £10 stall contact 01257 462764 or 01257 464969. For more information visit www.thisis-hilldale@btck.co.uk

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Green fingers If you’re lucky enough to be, or you’d like to be, one of the green-fingered beings in our species, you may be interested in getting together with other like-minded creatures at the Brindle Gardening Club. Members get together on the third Thursday of the month from 7.30pm at the Brindle Community Hall, Water Street, Brindle (PR6 8NH). You can expect to glean tips and advice from other members, listen to expert speakers and browse around the plants for sale. Members also take the occasional trip to local gardens for inspiration and indulgence.

Vintage Collection

Annual membership to the Brindle Gardening Club is £15, but visitors can try a single visit for just £3 for more details about the Brindle Gardening Club, call the (almost) appropriately named Mel Gardner on 01772 313386.

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cycle

Following on from the popularity of the Chorley Grand Prix, local families are being urged to get on their bike this year and join in one of the many free community bike rides organised by Chorley Council and British Cycling. Whether you are a family of novice cyclists or expert riders, the Sky Ride Local programme has free scenic bike rides across the Chorley borough for all ages and abilities. Councillor Bev Murray, who is responsible for community development and health and wellbeing at Chorley Council, said: “The appetite for cycling

in Chorley is growing every year and we are delighted to be working with British Cycling again to be able to offer our residents all of these fantastic opportunities to get out and about on their bikes.

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“No matter what your ability or age is, there is a bike ride for everyone in this year’s programme and I would definitely recommend you visit goskyride. com/chorley to find out more about the different routes. The next three rides are as follows; Tatton Recreation Ride (12 miles) Sunday 1st May at 2pm Whittle-le-Woods Circular (11 miles) Sunday 15th May at 2pm Chorley Historic Villages & Woods (13 miles) Sunday 29th May at 10am For more information, please visit www.goskyride. com/chorley

Distributors required Local Life magazine seeks distributors for delivery of this magazine and leaflets in the following areas; Clayton-le-Woods – Lancaster Avenue, Kellet Avenue, Hampson Avenue, Pendle Road, Hunters Road, Lancaster Lane, Petunia Close, Camellia Drive & Windflower Drive. Good rates paid, delivery bags and maps provided. You will be at least 13, healthy, energetic and be 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.

Save cash Chorley residents are saving hundreds of pounds a year on their household fuel bills thanks to a service being run by Chorley Council. The council launched its energy switch advice service in June 2014 and since then 286 people have switched energy supplier saving a total of £69,871. One person saved an amazing £603 a year just by switching supplier, and the average saving to customers who have switched is £244.50 a year.

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Councillor Graham Dunn, who oversees people’s welfare for Chorley Council, said: “This free service we offer really is helping people make great savings on their annual energy costs as these figures are showing. However, not everyone feels confident enough to go through what may seem to be quite a complicated process, which is why we launched our service. “We have an independent advisor who will ‘hand hold’ people through the whole process, find the right tariff for their needs and will help them to switch supplier if they choose to do so.”

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The scheme, partially funded by Lancashire County Council through its Affordable Warmth Grant, also operates a call-back system to make sure the switch goes smoothly and so should there be any issues at all, they can be resolved quickly and easily. Appointments are available at the council’s Union Street offices on a Monday and Tuesday. Councillor Dunn added: “I would urge people to give us a call on 01257 515151 or email contact@ chorley.gov.uk and book an appointment - it costs you nothing but an hour of your time and it could save you a fortune on your energy bills!”

High fashion A fashion show, organised by St Wilfrid’s Social Committee and hosted by Barbara’s of Standish will take place in St Wilfrid’s Parish Hall, Standish on Tuesday 3rd May, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are £7.50 and include wine and light refreshments.

Fun day On Sunday May 1st thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Fun Day for all the family at Tunley United Reformed Church on Mossy Lea Road in Wrightington from 12 noon until 4pm. There will be stalls and games, a bouncy castle, donkey rides, refreshments and lots more. The Fun Day is part of the Wrightington and Heskin Scarecrow Festival which runs from Friday April 29th to Monday May 2nd and is in aid of Diabetes UK.

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Write on Chorley Calligraphy Group is a friendly collective of enthusiastic calligraphers of all levels who meet each month to learn and develop new skills. The group meets at Chorley Cricket Club on Sandringham Road on the third Wednesday of each month between 10am-3pm. The next meeting is on Wednesday May 18th. For more information, please contact Brian on 01606 891722.

Shaw Hill is perfect for your corporate guests and clients alike, The Golf Resort and Spa Hotel has a stunning parkland golf course with heavily bunkered greens, fluent doglegs, long par threes and awkwardly placed ponds. Good course management is a must. Yet the curious nature of the course rewards long hitting on the par fives in particular and accuracy on the shorter par fours and threes. Catering facilities are above and beyond your normal golf course, offering home cooked food, members bar and restaurant. Let us take the worry from your organisation from start to finish. The PeRfeCT PLaCe foR CoRPoRaTe oR soCieTy goLf days. Packages start from just ÂŁ35PP. sTaTe of The aRT gym & heaLTh CLub memBersHIP avaILaBLe

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Civic awards Traditional

odern world values in a m

Chorley Civic Society is looking for nominations for their 2016 BI-Annual Awards, and would like members of the public to help. If you know of anything that promotes civic pride in the Borough of Chorley, from town centre to rural villages, they would love to hear from you.

Chorley Building Society is proud to support local clubs and charities on your behalf. Our range of Affinity Savings Accounts not only allow you to grow your savings, the charity or good cause you choose to support from our list of Affinity Partners will also benefit from an annual donation from the Society. The Society’s donation will be calculated on the daily balances held in the Affinity Accounts and paid annually to our Affinity Partners so the more you invest up to the maximum allowable the better. Our range of Affinity Accounts are limited issues and may be withdrawn without notice at any time.

Individuals, groups, organisations or projects that make a substantial contribution to the benefit of the public within the borough can be entered. Anything from the smallest tidyup to grand architectural schemes. Examples of 2014 Award recipients are The Walled Gardeners, Astley Hall; The War Memorial Project by Manor Road Primary School, Clayton le Woods; In Memorium: Military Memorials and Graves within the Borough of Chorley, a book by Stuart Clewlow. Earlier ones include Friends of the River Yarrow for the installation of four fish-passes; Southlands High School for St.George’s Day Event; Chorley Little Theatre; Chorley Pals Memorial on the Flat Iron; and the Children’s Play Area, Bretherton.

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Your savings in this product may be covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, subject to eligibility. For more information contact the Financial Services Compensation Scheme,Tel: 0800 678 1100 or 020 7741 4100 Email: ICT@fscs.org.uk, website: http//:www.FSCS.org.uk Chorley and District Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Registered on the Financial Services Register under number 206023. Registered Office: Key House, Foxhole Road, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 1NZ. Your telephone conversations with the Society may be recorded. This is to help the Society to improve customer service and to offer additional security. Calls and electronic communications may also be monitored for staff training.

V3/06/2015.

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The project has to be completed

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Nomination forms and further information can be obtained from Kath Almond on 01772 600368 or kathalmond@btinternet.com, or chairman Simon Wellerd on 01257 234644 or sim1954@hotmail. co.uk. Please note the closing date is 20th May 2016. The awards are made in September at Chorley Town Hall.

Reel thing Transform your sleepy Sunday afternoons by going along to the Scottish Country Dancing classes being held at Euxton Parish Church Community Centre in School Lane, Euxton but the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society. These beginners’ classes run from 2.30-4.30pm at the centre and it’s not necessary to bring along a partner. If you are past the beginners’ stage, you can opt to attend weekly classes in Fulwood and Goosnargh, and the society also stages occasional dances throughout the area. For further information call Joan on 01257 278400, or visit the website www.ribblevalley-rscds.org.uk

May fair Don’t miss the annual Cuerden Valley Fair, which is held this year on Sunday 15th May from 10am4pm. This will be entertainment suitable for all the family with rides, games, all manner of stalls, and you’ll be able to see woodland craftspeople at work.

Class from the

Amongst the attractions will be dog and hawk displays and a climbing wall. Admittance prices are £4 for adults, £2 for children, and an £8 family ticket will admit 2 adults and 2 children. Babies and toddlers go free and dogs are welcome, but must be kept on leads. For more information call 01772 324436 or visit www.cuerdenvalleypark.org.uk

Nearly new sale The Chorley & Leyland NCT are holding their next NCT Nearly New Sale (NNS) on Saturday 7th May 2016 at Parklands High School, Chorley, with early entry for NCT members from 11.30am. The entry fee is £1. You can expect to browse through bargains galore on high-quality, pre-loved baby, toddler and young children’s clothing, toys and equipment, such as prams, highchairs and baby carriers – with up to 75% off the original selling price of most items. For more information or to register as a seller or volunteer, please contact nns.chorleyandleyland@ nct.org.uk

past This month’s Class from the Past is from Withnell Fold School, and is believed to be from 1952. Maybe you can spot a familiar face? Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, email chorleynews@ locallife247.co.uk

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Star gazing

Anyone for tennis?

Free star gazing evening to be held on Wednesday, 4th May at Silvesters farm, Washington Lane, Euxton

Chorley Tennis Club are appealing for new members to join for the 2016 season. The club is a not for

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profit organisation that has five all-weather floodlit courts, two short tennis courts for young juniors, a fully equipped club house and has LTA Tennismark accreditation status.

Telescopes will be available to look through but people may bring their own if they wish. We will be looking at Jupiter and its moons and other objects of interest. Hot drinks and food will be available to buy from Silvesters farm café. The second event is an’ 80’s disco night’ with hot pot supper included in ticket price of £10. To be held at the Insty in Euxton on Friday 20th May from 7:30 pm Hot pot supper (included), raffle prizes, prize for best dressed 80’s outfit (80’s fancy dress optional), 80’s quiz with prize for winner.

They provide opportunities for social and competitive tennis and, in addition, offer coaching for juniors and adults. If you would like information about the club and memberships for 2016 then call Bob Gould on 01772 433591 or email secctc@gmail. com The courts are located off Sandringham Road, Chorley behind Chorley Cricket Club or via the marked pathway off Walgarth Drive.

Contact Tracey for tickets at tracey.bumble@ hotmail.co.uk Groups of 8 or above £8 per ticket when booked together.

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Business review

Harley Street –

Chorley style A

recent BBC investigation into two disgraced nurses offering “Botox Parties” has led to calls for laws surrounding who can administer such treatments. The story was just the latest in a series of horror stories about unqualified or poorly trained

practitioners administering anti-wrinkle injections and dermal filler, but if you’re looking for safe treatments with experienced professionals, where do you go? Specialised medical cosmetics and skincare clinic RejuvaMed Skin Clinic is the obvious solution. Situated in the heart of Chorley, RejuvaMed Skin Clinic offers its clients the latest and most advanced technologies and treatments, bringing Harley Street to Lancashire, and is led by a consultant doctor, Grant McKeating, together with clinic

manager, Charlie, with a dedicated team consisting of two highly trained aestheticians, Laura and Zoe, and two receptionists Helen and Bethan, The clinic first opened its doors in July 2015, and as a dedicated clinic with permanent premises, it is able to give its clients the ultimate in personalised

care from initial enquiry through to its thorough follow up service. The specialist team at Rejuvamed are available to answer phone calls outside of clinic hours, and offer out-of-hours support via Facebook and e-mail. “You can trust us to provide safe, professional and quality treatments, with no hard sell, and proper aftercare” - Dr McKeating All injectable treatments at the clinic are carried out by clinic owner, and medical director, Dr McKeating. He is a consultant in anaesthesia and intensive care

medicine, having worked at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals for 16 years, before undergoing additional training in medical cosmetics, and leaving the NHS in 2015 to establish RejuvaMed Skin Clinic. He continues to practice as an anaesthetist within the private healthcare sector. Dr McKeating offers all of his clients a free consultation, and a free follow up review after all his treatments. The clinic offers clients a free 3-D skin assessment, which shows the condition of the skin and highlights areas of sun damage, redness, pores, lines and wrinkles, enabling it to tailor its services, products and treatments for each individual. Available treatments include anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers including liquid facelifts, cheek augmentation, tear trough (under the eye) filler, lip augmentation, liquid rhinoplasty (nonsurgical nose-job), thread vein removal, skin peels, HydraFacial, genuine Dermaroller and prescription skincare which can be used to treat a wide range of skin conditions including acne scarring and pigmentation. The clinic also offers high-tech non-surgical skin tightening and body contouring (fat reduction) using the Exilis Elite system. The General Medical Council has recently issued comprehensive new guidelines on cosmetic

procedure and Dr McKeating complies with every aspect of the new guidelines. So if you’re thinking of rejuvenating your face and body, it’s important that you choose a clinic where you can be seen and treated by a doctor. Clients can easily book online via the clinic’s informative website, www.rejuvamed.co.uk, on its Facebook page or you can download the company’s app on both Android and Apple devices.

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Astley

glasshouse

Work has started this week on an exciting new visitor attraction for Chorley’s Astley Park. A Victorian-style greenhouse is being built behind the historic hall to create a more authentic visitor experience of the Walled Garden. The £100,000 project, which will be unveiled to the public at the Chorley Flower Show on Saturday and Sunday 30 and 31 July, will also provide an educational resource for schools to use, and will give the opportunity for more produce to be grown over a longer season. Chorley Council chief executive Gary Hall said: “This glasshouse was one of the projects that came out of the public consultation we did on Astley 2020, our

five-year development plan to attract more visitors to the Astley complex. “The Walled Garden is looked after and maintained by the Astley Walled Gardeners, a dedicated group of volunteers and this glasshouse was one of their aspirations. “It means they’ll be able to grow a much wider range of produce, over a much longer season, and grow the types of produce that were grown during the Hall’s heyday. “Just as importantly it can be used by schools as an educational resource and it will add to the already fantastic visitor experience that Astley offers.” The project, due to be completed by the end of June to allow four weeks for fitting out prior to its official opening, also includes paths to ensure access for all

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The new attraction will be open to the public daily and will be promoted as an educational resource for use by local schools and community groups.

An impression of the Victorian-style glasshouse in the Walled Garden linking in with the existing path network. Internal furniture and fittings will include the installation of blinds, staging heating and internal water storage harvested from the roof. A £14,000 grant from the Lancashire Environmental Fund will provide internal landscaping, heating, staging and some exotic specimen plants to provide an immediate impact.

Barry Sharples from Astley Walled Gardeners said: “This is a very exciting project that we’re looking forward to getting involved in. We don’t currently have any covered space in the Walled Garden so this will complement what we do by providing much needed indoor space which will not only extend the growing season, but also mean we can grow a wider range and diversity of plants.” Mr Hall added: “It does mean that whilst the work is ongoing, there will be limited access to the Walled Garden, but once it’s complete we will have a fantastic new facility for people to enjoy all year round and for many years to come!”

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West Pennine

walks

You can discover the rugged beauty of the West Pennine moors in a number of walks being staged throughout the next few months on Friday evenings, which are hosted by volunteers from the Greenmount Village Community Hiking Group. The group are working to bring the West Pennine Way into fruition –an idea of creating a local route to the Pennine Way – and their members have spent 1000’s of hours over the last 5 years planning a 46 miles rural route with 35 short links to all the surrounding urban areas and a 15 miles link to the Pennine Way from Bull Hill on Holcombe Moor to Warlands Reservoir on the Pennine Way. The Friday night circular walks illustrate the links and are all around 4 miles long. The next two walks take place on the 6th May, (meet at Turton Tower

Car Park at 6.30pm) and on the 13th May (meet at Barrow Bridge Car Park at 6.40pm). For more details about the Friday night walks and the group’s efforts to establish the West Pennine link visit www. westpennineway.org.

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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 is on chorleynews@locallife247. co.uk or call us on 01257 498329.

Race for life It’s time to lace up your trainers, and walk, jog, or charge your way around Race for Life 2016. The race takes place on 12th June 2016 at Haigh Hall Country Park, and is Cancer Research UK’s womenonly events raising money for research into all 200 types of cancer. The distance is 5km; an achievable distance for all ages and abilities and participants can walk, jog or charge their way around the course. You can sign up now at www.raceforlife.org

Painting classes If you’d like to try your hand at painting simple watercolours, there’s an easel set up for you at a friendly watercolour painting class that meets on Tuesday afternoons at St George’s Church Hall on Halliwell Street in Chorley. The sessions run from 2-4 pm, but you can get there from 1.30pm to set up. The cost is £7 a session, which is payable on the day. For more details call Dave on 01257 261729.

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Design a

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Southport Flower Show is on the hunt for the next generation of gardening talent to compete in their 2016 design competition, and local primary schools throughout the North West are invited to design a garden that will be part of the prestigious show. With the generous sponsorship of the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity, this year school

OPEN DAY Saturday, 7th May 10am - 4pm

children in the region are being set the challenge of designing an eco-friendly, Mediterranean themed garden in the ’Schools Design-a-Garden Competition’. The competition is open to children in years 3, 4, 5 and 6 and entries from all primary schools are welcome. Ray Roukin, general manager at Southport Flower Show, said: “The competition is a great opportunity for children to let their imaginations run wild and come up with a garden which sums up what the word Mediterranean means to them. The two

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winners will have their designs turned into real gardens, to be viewed by the thousands of visitors to the show. We will also give the winning schools £500 to enhance their own school grounds.” A team of judges will sift through the designs sent into the show and two winners, together with 10 runners-up, will be chosen. Their garden designs will be built by Myerscough College’s work-based apprentices in time for this year’s show, which runs from 18th - 21st August. The winners, their families and teachers, will be invited to the show and will be presented with their prizes by sponsors and guests. The 10 runners up, with families and teachers, will also be invited to the show to receive their prizes.

The picture illustrates one of the winning gardens from last year, the design of Jessica Smith, from Holmeswood Methodist School. To find out more visit www.southportflowershow.co.uk and download an entry form, closing date for entries is Friday 10th June 2016.

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Handmade market The Chorley Handmade Market returns on Saturday 4th June from 11am until 4pm in the beautiful

are available from Malcolm’s Musicland on 01257 264362 or via www.buckshawvamp.co.uk

Library events

Lancastrian Suite at Chorley Town Hall. If you love handmade then this craft market is not to be missed. There will be over 30 handmade craft and food stalls, live music and refreshments and it’s free entry!

From Broadway to Buckshaw The next big production to arrive in Buckshaw is the Magic of the Musicals show being staged by the Buckshaw VAMP (Village Amateur Musical Performers). You can enjoy the songs from all your favourite shows, including Les Miserables, Oliver, Hairspray, Wicked, Matilda and many more The show is staged in the community centre in the village on Saturday 14th May at 5pm and on Sunday 15th May at 2.30pm. Tickets are priced as follows; Adults £8, children £6 or £25 for a family ticket, and

Clayton Green Library has an eclectic range of activities planned for this month. The Comedy Club, for those who fancy themselves as the next big stand-up artist, runs from 10-11am on Saturday 14th May. You can book your place today by calling the library on 0300 123 6703. If you’re more into words than laughs, then you may enjoy the Clayton Green Book Club which meets at 2pm and the 2nd Wednesday of the month at the library. For further details about the Book Club call Gordon on 01772 510186. And last, but not least, if you’re into craft activities, then don’t miss the library’s Craft Group which meets every Wednesday between 10am-12 noon. No need to book, just drop in with your projects for a warm welcome.

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LIFETIME ISA V WORKPLACE PENSION Chancellor Osborne announced the launch of a Lifetime ISA in the March Budget last month. Starting in April ‘17 it will allow those aged 18-40 to receive a government bonus of 25% on up to £4,000 worth of savings a year. It can be run to age 50. The savings and bonus can be used towards a deposit on a first home worth up to £450,000. The home must be in the UK. OR the funds can be taken out tax free after the age of 60. If you withdraw before age 60 for any other reason than house purchase there is an exit fee of 5%. Some commentators believe that the Lifetime ISA signals the end of pensions for the next generation. I would urge you not to be fooled by that thought.

Pensions in the form of Workplace Pensions offer every member far superior benefits. Why is this? Simply the value of the Employers Contributions must be added to the Pension equation. Employers will contribute a minimum of 3% of pension salary on top of the employees own contributions. The employee gets the same tax relief on their pension contribution as is the case with the Lifetime ISA. If retirement planning is your objective, and you are comparing the two, Workplace Pensions win every time.

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Health & Fitness

Ignoring bowel

cancer?

By Lisa Salmon

he British are notoriously private and prone to embarrassment when it comes to bodily functions, particularly those ‘down there’ which may go some way to explaining why up to two-thirds of eligible people aren’t taking part in bowel cancer screening. Despite having been introduced 10 years ago in some areas of the UK - and the fact the programme could save over 2,000 lives a year by 2025 - less than half the people offered the home tests aren’t completing them.

In some communities, uptake is as low as a third, and men, as well as people in deprived and ethnic minority communities, are the least likely to take part. April’s Bowel Cancer Awareness is aiming to change this, in a bid to help more people detect changes early - which means better outcomes, higher survival rates and even the chance to stop cancer from developing.

A common cancer More than 41,500 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer, and around 16,000 people die from it every year, making it the UK’s second biggest cancer killer. However, if it’s caught early, many survive - in fact, there’s a 98% five-year survival rate for those diagnosed at the earliest stage, and by far the best way of catching bowel cancer early is through screening. “Bowel cancer is one of the most treatable cancers,” stresses Gail Curry, head of health promotion at Bowel Cancer UK. “Screening saves lives by catching it at it’s earliest stage - when it’s most treatable.”

What’s in a test? Bowel cancer screening tests, called faecal occult blood tests (FOB), are sent out every two years to people aged 60-74 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and to those aged 50-74 in Scotland.

Recipients are required to collect and send back (in the pre-paid envelope provided) three small bowel motion samples - there are instructions detailing exactly how to do this - which are then analysed in a laboratory for traces of blood. If blood (which can be an early sign of bowel cancer) is detected, there will be further tests. However, even if something does show up, it doesn’t always mean it’ll turn out to be cancer. “Evidence shows that one of the main reasons for people not doing the test is that they think there’s nothing wrong with them, and they have no connection to bowel cancer. But the test is designed to diagnose any problems before symptoms arise, so just like cervical and breast screening, it’s a prevention method,” says Curry.

Gail Curry, of Bowel Cancer UK

Easy business The idea of collecting a stool sample can be offputting for some, but Curry urges everybody not to be embarrassed. “A lot of us have children or pets and have had to deal with their poo, so you shouldn’t be afraid of doing the test on yourself. People aren’t asked to touch it with their hands and it’s very straightforward,” she adds. “It’s done in the privacy of your own home, it’s not painful - and doing it is a lot better than getting bowel cancer.”

Who gets bowel cancer?

The screening can even prevent bowel cancer from developing in the first place, by picking up noncancerous growths (polyps) which could become cancerous in the future.

Age is a major risk factor for bowel cancer, with nearly three-quarters (72%) of people diagnosed with the disease aged 65 and over. However, the number of young people developing this form of cancer is rising, so symptoms should always be addressed with your GP if concerned. A strong family history of bowel cancer is also

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linked to developing the disease. It’s believed that up to a third of cases may be caused by a change or fault in one or more genes, although it’s usually not known which genes are involved.

• Bleeding from the bottom and/or blood in your poo.

People with a history of chronic inflammatory bowel problems, including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or polyps (growths on the bowel lining) and type 2 diabetes, may be at higher risk too.

• Extreme tiredness for no obvious reason.

“The majority of bowel cancers start from polyps but not all polyps turn into cancer,” stresses Curry.

Curry says: “People can be afraid or embarrassed if they have blood in their poo, or another symptom ‘down there’, but doctors see these symptoms all the time. If anyone has any symptoms, they shouldn’t wait for the test kit to arrive, but go straight to their GP.”

“They’re very common and mostly nothing to worry about, but if they get large, the risk of them becoming cancer is higher.” Lifestyle factors can also increase the risk of bowel cancer, with smoking, drinking alcohol, eating an unhealthy diet and obesity all linked to the disease.

Spot the signs These symptoms don’t always indicate cancer, but it’s best to get them checked without delay, to be on the safe side...

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• A change in normal bowel habits lasting three weeks or more, especially to looser or runny poo.

• Unexplained weight loss. • A pain or lump in the tummy.

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Can you tell me more about “personal care” and how it differs from other care services?

Personal care is the area of our work which requires careful attention and sensitivity. Understandably for some customers and their families having someone help with these personal tasks can make them feel a little uncomfortable at first. With bathing for example it may take a while before a customer feels comfortable allowing a carer to help, or they may feel more reassured with certain carers. In terms of regulation personal care is the part of our service that is monitored by the Care Quality Commission (CQQ).

ANSWER. “Personal Care” includes helping a customer wash, bathe, brush their hair, clean their teeth and go to the toilet. These activities may involve moving a loved one around the house. We can also “prompt” someone to take their correct medication from a blister pack. Personal care relates to tasks which are a little sensitive and if the person was of good health they would carry out themselves unaided.

Not all our customers require personal care or they may use it with a range of our other services. Support outside personal care includes: companionship, help with hobbies, making meals and drinks, taking someone out and about in our insured vehicles, looking after pets, staying overnight or helping 24 hours a day. Many of our customers despite being over the age of 80 continue to lead very active lives!

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Where there’s a

Will...

One year on from her election win, David Sudworth discovers how South Ribble’s newest MP is finding life in the public eye

n the whiteboard in Seema Kennedy’s Longton office, there’s a few aide-memoirs written in various colours. ‘Prizegiving to market stalls’ in red, ‘Write to everyone who has completed the road survey’ in black. But one note, in blue, catches the eye. It simply reads: ‘Will Young!’ I sense a Local Life scoop. Has the Pop Idol winner upped sticks; swapping his 17th Century cottage in Cornwall for the delights of Seema’s South Ribble constituency? “No,” she laughs. “It’s just a reminder to get tickets to his concert at Hoghton Tower this summer. It’s a fundraiser for St Catherine’s Hospice,” before quickly adding: “Of course, I’ll be paying for them myself!”

Although a rookie in terms of the House of Commons (she was elected last May), the 41-yearold is well aware of how some may perceive her new career. The expenses scandal, although six years ago now, casts a long shadow. “Some people will want to have a go, or talk to you in the street about an issue. I remember a while ago one man stopped to talk to me in Booth’s in Hesketh Bank, and I was in a real rush because I’d only popped in for a few things. But people aren’t stopping to have a selfie taken with me - I’m hardly Taylor Swift.” the Shah of Iran was overthrown by Ayatollah Khomeini. It was an awful time, so we decided to come to Britain. My dad was shuttling back and forward for years, because people had had their property and businesses taken off them and his brother was put in prison.

“Friends were coming back with horror stories” “Imagine being five years old and seeing Queen Elizabeth taken away. It makes a massive imprint on your brain. Friends were coming back with horror stories about what was happening.” Her experiences as a child explain why Seema has a great deal of empathy for the current plight of Syrian refugees. Seema aged three Born in Lancashire in 1974 to an Irish mother and Iranian father, Seema Louise Ghiassi Kennedy moved to Iran when she was just six weeks old. “My parents were living in Iran and the only reason I was born here was that my mum wanted to be near her mum for the birth. “I spent the first four years of my life there and can still speak the language. “Then everything was turned upside down when

“I understand the area, and what’s happening in Syria is a total catastrophe. Effectively, it has become an arena for proxy-wars, with the likes of Russian president Vladimir Putin flexing his muscles. He’s not actually bombing Daesh (Isamic State), he’s bombing the rebels. “One day, God willing, this war will end and people will want to return to their families. The British taxpayer can be proud of what it is doing to support people who are in desperate need.” It’s fair to say the last 12 months have been a whirwind for Seema. This time last year, she was in

the middle of a full-on election campaign. Having contested an unwinnable east Manchester seat in 2010, this time round was a completely different prospect. The incumbent MP, Lorraine Fulbrook, had won the seat for the Conservatives from Labour in 2010. When she decided to step down after just one term, all bets were off as to which way it would swing. In the end, Seema actually increased the Conservative vote and won with a majority of 5,945. “The weird thing is that you come out of this intense, six-week campaign, stay up all night on Polling Day, have the weekend where people are contacting you to offer their congratulations and then on the Monday you are starting a new job. When I got to Westminster there were some new MPs who were in no way expecting to be there. “In the first week, you get so much training that I don’t think any of us were able to absorb everything. “In Parliament, some of the rules are very arcane and I’ve decided that in terms of parliamentary work, it is really useful if you specialise.” One aspect of Westminster which rarely gets much public attention is how the pressure-cooker existence can take its toll on individual MPs.

Seema in the Commons Child Support Agency and Department of Work and Pensions cases. She also wants to raise the more general issue of finances; particularly the tragedy of personal debt. “We don’t save enough as a nation and I’d like to look at how we build up financial resilience, from children to retirement. That’s something I’m thinking about at the moment. I’ve just joined the Unifty Credit Union.” Away from politics, Seema spends time with her husband Paul and their three young children. She is fiercely protective of them, and determined that

“I think it’s well documented that MPs can find it very stressful and there are some with drink or mental health problems. My colleague, Charles Walker, has been a real champion in highlighting mental health issues among MPs.

“My kids are more interested in Minecraft”

“I don’t think social media helps because some MPs have been subjected to trolling campaigns. You can’t explain complex political argument in 140 characters.”

they will enjoy as normal a childhood as possible.

Locally, Seema has been campaigning on the planned closure of local pumping stations, and even hosted a Prime Ministerial visit to Croston, which was subjected to horrendous flooding over Christmas. She’s also pushing hard for the Green Lane link in Tarleton. Most of her constituency mailbag consists of highways matters - “from speeding to Belisha Beacons” as she says - as well as a steady stream of

“They’re not a bit interested in what I do, their more interested in the latest Minecraft game,” she laughs. “As someone with a family, it’s important for me to have a hinterland away from politics. On the occasional free evening I get off, I like to slump in front of the sofa and watch something like Bake Off.” As we part, Seema’s secretary gives her a run down of her diary. She’s off to Runshaw College next for a panel discussion and then a surgery afterwards. Looks like those Will Young tickets may have to wait for another day...

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Test ride

It’s just so

easy! by Chris Pearce

shouldn’t complain because there are a lot of others worse off, but last Tuesday was a grindingly dull morning at work; a 5.30am start pulling together editorial content was followed by a meeting with the company accountant. I’m sure there are genuinely funny, laugh-a-minute accountants, it’s just that I don’t know any and, true to form, by 11am a throbbing headache had kicked in. Next up on the daily schedule though was a trip to Bailcast, a company that’s based on Chorley North Industrial Park, to test ride their brand new range of power assisted bikes. And the two hours that followed made me realise how much I love this job. In fact, I’ve never laughed as much since my Grandma hoovered up her budgie whilst cleaning out its cage. Let me paint the picture of the participants on this test ride; I’m a overweight 50 something who loves getting outdoors and seeing places when it’s nice out, but suffice to say that I don’t enjoy the exertion you need to ride a bike. I know that, without putting that effort in, you don’t get very far very fast, so I’ll retreat to my garden and potter around instead.

However, my wingman for the day, our designer Peter, is right at the opposite end of the fitness scale and is one of those annoying MAMILs (middle aged man in Lycra) who spends most of his weekend with others of his sort riding round Lancashire’s lanes holding up motorists as best they can. For Peter this test ride would obviously be a breeze, but could I really get out and enjoy the fresh air and the countryside, and not get hot and sweaty? So off we set from Bailcast, me on an Eazi-Rider Mountain bike and Peter on an Eazi-Rider Urban bike. This good looking mountain bike, with a sturdy aluminium alloy frame, has 5 levels of power assist powered by a 36 volt 250w brushless motor, and this is assisted by a 21 gear set from Shimano. The main controller on the handlebars has an LCD readout for the assist functions, including cruise control – how cool is that? Though Peter’s wheels weren’t as modern looking as the mountain bike, the upright riding position is ideal for urban use, and the bike is powered by the same brushless motor as the mountain bike. With three levels of power assist and seven speeds, this ‘step through’ design is built for comfort, particularly its seat which is possibly the most comfortable cycle seat ever.

We negotiated the traffic near the Hartwood pub and then turned right down Euxton Lane, quickly picking up speed as we go down the hill before turning left towards Astley Village. I’d never been on an e-bike before and it took me a while to get my head around the fact that I could pedal as slowly

as I wanted, exerting little energy, and still move at a fair lick. On the flat, with virtually no contribution from me, the bike was moving at between 14-15.5 mph. After a pit stop at Astley Hall, we rode through the park, with our bikes attracting some admiring glances, through to the gates and turned right up the hill towards the town hall. You know the phrase ‘You never forget, it’s just like riding a bike’ which is often used to describe how easy it is to do something that you used to do a long time ago, well, it’s totally apt in this situation. I never reached a point where I felt out of control. Once you stop pedalling, the motor fades out and you gradually slow down, until you decide to pick up the pace again. It’s just so easy to ride.

Off we go down Market Street, and up the A6. As we pass Albany Academy and take the long trail uphill to Frederick’s, Peter spots a cyclist in the distance and sets off in pursuit, like a greyhound chasing a rabbit. Believe me; those cyclists don’t like e-bikes and this one positively hated Peter for going past him with ease and chased him in vain all the way down the top road to Adlington, only to give up when Peter turned up Babylon Lane. We stopped at Rivington to swap bikes and then set off back in the direction of Chorley. Peter was amazed at the power at his fingertips and loved the LCD display. The legal limit for the power assist is

15.5 mph, but of course, if you feel inclined to lend some leg action you can increase that speed quite a bit and in Peter’s case he hit a top speed of 28 mph; gravity assisted that is. Obviously, the more pedal power you contribute, the less strain on the battery and the greater the range you can achieve from the e-bikes. We could have stayed out by the water’s edge all day, but eventually emerged via Limbrick, cycled down Cowling Lane and then got onto the canal towpath towards Botany Bay and returned to Bailcast. How many calories I’d burnt off at this stage I haven’t a clue, but I was having the time of my life! These eazi-bikes come with a 12 month guarantee for the motor and battery, and can give a full charge to the battery in just three hours. The assisted range runs from 25-35 miles, more than enough for most cyclists and the specification of both bikes is top-notch. In the humdrum of everyday life, rarely does an opportunity like this come along and make you seriously think about your lifestyle choices, but these power-assisted bikes definitely do. They take the hard work out of cycling, they get you to places ‘lazy you’ wouldn’t get too, and they are fun, fun, fun! Take a free test ride and I promise you that you’ll have a great time! For more details and full specifications about the eazi-rider range of bikes that have been developed by Bailcast visit the website www.bailcast.com/ electric-bikes, but to get a true idea of their capabilities, take a free test ride from their Chorley base. Free test rides are available 9-4pm Monday to Friday, but call 01257 266060 to book ahead. Bailcast Ltd. Unit 8, Chorley North Industrial Park, Chorley, PR6 7BX.

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FREE TEST RIDES AVAILABLE Monday - Friday, 9am – 4pm T: 01257 266060 E: enquiries@bailcast.com W: www.bailcast.com Unit 8, Drumhead Road, Chorley North Industrial Park, Chorley, Lancashire, PR6 7BX

Food & Drink

Fast

food By Claire Spreadbury

uilt is something many mums suffer immensely from.

In today’s busy world, it’s so hard to find time to do everything you should for your kids including cooking from scratch. And it’s so easy to reach for the fish fingers and waffles and give little ones a lunch you know they’ll love. But with even a tiny bit of time, you’ll be amazed at what you can whip up in the kitchen. To prove the point, Annabel Karmel has unveiled her latest batch of recipes, splashed deliciously across 220 pages in her new book. There are quick recipes, ingredients-based ideas, dishes for entertaining - from pasta bakes, to cakes and steaks - there’s pretty much everything you could ever need to feed a family at any age. But the difference with this latest release - The Busy Mum’s Cookbook - is that you really don’t need hours on end to cook up these delicious storms. So there are the 20-minute recipes for people (like me) who don’t have the time (or inclination) to cook. Just the other week, I was cursing for agreeing to ‘do’ dinner the evening before a 10k race (something else to try and squeeze in and feel guilty about), because I wanted a pasta dish that wasn’t too heavy. By the time the kids had gone to bed, all I wanted to do was slump in front of the telly and watch The Voice. So what did I do? I turned to page 44 and whipped up Karmel’s Mushroom And Broccoli Pasta in about 20 minutes flat.

There are oodles of quick and easy dinner ideas to get kids excited - the Sweet Potato Curls (though, granted, mine looked NOTHING like the ones in the picture!) make a brilliant alternative to chips, the Frittata With Cherry Tomatoes is “the best frittata in the whole wide world”, according to my three and six-year-old, and the Apricot, Pecan, Raisin And Chocolate Cookies are easy for little hands to make - and taste so good, you’ll struggle to keep away from the biscuit tin. Feeling inspired? Try these easy Annabel Karmel recipes for size...

Annabel Karmel’s Busy Mum’s Cookbook is published by Ebury Press, priced £20.

Chicken

goujons

wrapped in parma ham

Method Preheat the oven to 200C/Gas 6 and grease a baking tin.

Makes 14 goujons Ingredients 2 large skinless chicken breasts 7 slices Parma ham 2tsp runny honey For the sauce: 200g creme fraiche 2tbsp fresh green pesto Squeeze of lemon juice Salt and black pepper

Place the chicken breasts on a board. Cover them with cling film, then bash them with a rolling pin until they are slightly thinner. Remove the cling film and slice each breast into seven goujon-shaped strips. Cut each slice of Parma ham in half. Wrap each goujon in a piece of Parma ham, then place on the prepared baking tray. Drizzle over the honey, then roast for 10 minutes, until cooked through and crisp. Mix together the creme fraiche, pesto and lemon juice and season. Serve hot (heated through in a small saucepan) or cold with the crisp goujons. Tastes great served with baked potato or sweet potato wedges.

Roasted vegetable

galette Method Preheat the oven to 200C/Gas 6, and put a baking sheet in the oven.

Serves 8 Ingredients 1 aubergine, cubed 1 red pepper, deseeded and diced 2 red onions, peeled and sliced into thin wedges 3tbsp olive oil 3 small courgettes, halved lengthways then sliced into crescent shapes

Put the aubergine, red pepper and onions on a baking tray. Toss with the olive oil and season to taste. Roast for about 20 minutes, until lightly golden brown. Add the courgettes, then roast for a further 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool. Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured work surface to a rectangle roughly 35cm x 28cm. Score a 2cm border around the edge with a knife. Pierce the centre of the pastry several times with a fork and brush with a little of the egg wash. Place on the preheated baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove from the oven, press down the centre within the scored line, spread with the sundried

375g packet ready-rolled puff pastry

tomato paste and sprinkle with fresh thyme.

A little plain flour, for dusting

Arrange the cooled roasted vegetables on top. Season, arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the vegetables and sprinkle over the Cheddar. Brush the border of the pastry with a little more beaten egg.

1 egg, beaten, for brushing 3tbsp sundried tomato paste 1tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves 2 x 240g packets mozzarella cheese, sliced 75g Cheddar cheese, grated Salt and black pepper

Bake for about 10 minutes, or until browned on top and golden and crisp underneath. Remove from the oven, slice into eight rectangles and serve.

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Competition

Win tickets to see

The Corrs!

n Evening At The Races and Haydock Park Racecourse will welcome The Corrs as the first act to their 2016 summer season of open-air live concerts at Haydock Park Racecourse. Last year, over 40,000 fans descended onto the hallowed turf at Haydock Park to see show-stopping headlining performances from Kylie, Madness and Kaiser Chiefs after a day of racing. Since releasing their album ‘Forgiven, Not Forgotten’ in 1996, The Corrs have gone on to sell over 30 million albums worldwide. Known for hits including ‘Runaway’ and ‘Breathless’, the band took a 10-year break to spend time with their families while Sharon and Andrea also pursued solo careers. They returned last year to a rapturous welcome, with their album ‘White Light’ going straight into the UK charts at #11 and saw the band catapulted back into the touring circuit with a sold-out arena tour.

The Corrs told Local Life ‘We love open-air summer shows, so are really looking forward to playing Haydock Park on 18th June after the races. We had a fantastic time playing songs from our new album ‘White Light’ at the Echo Arena at the start of the year so can’t wait to perform all our hits for a few familiar faces and more this summer.’

We’ve got hold of four tickets to this concert at Haydock Park on Saturday 18th June , so two lucky Local Life readers and their guests will be part of the sell-out crowd on what’s sure to be a night to remember. To enter this competition, simply complete the simple crossword on the opposite page and return your entry to us by Tuesday 31st May at; The Corrs Competition, Local Life Media, Unit 8 – Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB. Or just visit our website (www.locallife247.co.uk), click on the competition graphic and enter your answers.

Across 6. Rochdale’s biggest star, Lisa _ 7. English singer/songwriter, Jess _

Down

An Evening At The Races offers a value for money experience unlike any other this summer. Alongside show-stopping headline performances by some of the world’s biggest artists, the action kicks off earlier in the day with a six race card - giving fans the chance to witness powerful equine athletes who are stars in their own right, and enjoy the thrilling drama and spectacle of them racing for glory.

1. Irish pop-rock group, The _

The Jockey Club Live, who run An Evening at the Races events, are leading promoters on the UK live scene. They delivered a spectacular line up of some of the hottest chart talent and legendary household names in 2015 and this year is set to continue the incredible success. Acts already announced for 2016 at North West based racecourses include Deacon Blue (Aintree – 13th May), Tom Jones (Aintree – 10th June), Jess Glynne (Haydock Park – 1st July) and Lisa Stansfield (Haydock Park – 5th August). The events are renowned for combining a fun filled evening at the races with a spectacular evening concert in the informal and relaxed open-air setting of some of the world’s most famous racecourses.

Address ....................................................................................................

Tickets for all the above concerts are available via www.thejockeyclublive.co.uk.

2. Sir Thomas Jones Woodward, aka Tom _ 3. Racecourse near junction of M6 & East Lancs Rd, _ Park 4. Glasgow band formed in the 80’s, _ Blue 5. Home of the Grand National Name ....................................................................................................

....................................................................................................................... ................................ Post Code ............................................................ Phone ...................................................................................................... Email ...................................................................................................... Crossword Competition Rules 1. Only one entry per household 2. Entrants must be over 16 years of age 3. The winners will be notified within 14 days of the closing date. 4. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot accept responsibility for entries that are delayed or damaged in the post. 5. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd or their immediate relatives are not eligible to enter this competition. Local Life 247 Ltd is registered under the Data Protection Act and abides by the guidelines of the act. We will never sell or pass your data to any third party company. However, we will contact you occasionally to check our magazine distribution in your area.

sponsored by

Haigh

and Lady Mabelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wood by Peter Bretherton

his walk is of about 4.5 miles with a difference in elevation of 320ft; most of the climbing being on the second half of the walk.

Take this lane and follow it until it turns to the right, where you leave the lane to continue straight on along a surfaced path.

We start the walk from the pay and display car park at Haigh Hall Country Park, from where we head east along Copperas Lane past the gothic cottages, towards the village of Haigh. After about a 1/4 mile youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll notice Haigh coming into view ahead of you. Continue all the way up the road until you reach the main road at Haigh.

Where the path takes a sharp turn to the right, you need to go left, through the metal gate and then right into the field. This section was very muddy when we did the walk. Your aim here is to keep to the right and find the path close to the fence line, but you may need to go out into the field first to avoid the mud as we did.

Here you will find a narrow lane to your right, that runs down the side of the Parish Church of St David.

The path is an old rail bed and you follow it first going under a road bridge and continuing on,

keeping to the left hand side of the path to avoid more mud further along the way. Eventually you reach the Leeds & Liverpool canal where you cross the bridge and continue on down the hill until reaching Aspull Sough Minewater Treatment Scheme site.

Haigh Windmill

Here you take the path to the right and after about quarter of a mile you come to a tarmac path on your left. Take this path down to where it emerges at a clearing, where you come across another old rail bed. Walk straight across and you’ll notice a stepped path leading down to one of the old entrance roads to the Haigh Estate. At the bottom of the roughly stepped path you go right and head down this road to where it joins the main driveway that runs from Wigan Lane up to Haigh Hall. Here you go right again walking up a short climb heading towards the Hall. At the top of the climb take the rough surfaced road on your left just before the bridge over the old railway cutting.

Follow this road down over the small stream and up round to the left. As the road starts to go downhill again you’ll notice a stone marked with the words Wigan Way. The stone stands at the bottom of a path that leads up through the trees. Take this path to where it emerges by the side of the Alms Houses, from where you then follow the unsurfaced single track road out onto Hall Lane. Here you turn to your right and walk along the lane until you pass a line of

The Grade II listed windmill at Haigh, the last surviving windmill (wind pump) in Greater Manchester, was built in or around 1845 to pump water 500 metres uphill from a nearby pond to the Haigh brewery of John Sumner & Company, that was situated behind the Balcarres Arms. In 2011, with the aid of £60,000 largely by Heritage Lottery Funding, the windmill underwent extensive restoration.

Arley Lane

Fir Tree Farm laurel bushes on your left, at which point you’ll find a gate and public footpath.

Go around the gate and follow the track until you reach the path on the right. Taking this path leads you through Lady Mabel’s Wood (a Woodland Trust site) and on up to the Leeds & Liverpool canal. At the canal turn to your left B5239 and follow the towpath, d Rock Lane taking in the views along the way, until you reach the bridge (number 61) where you leave the canal and go over the bridge to climb Sennicar Lane. This

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Marylebone Water Treatment Site

Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear whilst walking. Whilst 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.

will eventually bring you out onto School Lane, but before emerging at the junction, as with Jack, ensure your dog is safely back on its lead. Turning right you walk along School Lane, taking in the view on your left towards Blackrod and the hills beyond, before reaching the car park from where you started out. If at this point you’re in need of some refreshment you’ll find a café in the old stables, just inside the park. Other attractions include a huge children’s play area, miniature railway and more.

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Events & Leisure

What’s

effects. Meet the Pendle Witches and hear the accused Alizon Device’s story in her own words. Immerse yourself in an exciting walkthrough experience where you will hear, touch, smell and feel everything. The Blackpool Tower, Bank Hey Street, Blackpool, FY1 5BJ Contact www.thedungeons.com/blackpool

Liverpool Lightnight Friday, 13th May

Harlem Globetrotters 2016 Sunday, 1st May The world famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the greatest athletes and entertainers on the planet, will celebrate 90 historic years with a very special Manchester Arena show. The Globetrotters’ one-of-a-kind show is unrivalled in the world of family entertainment, with incredible ball handling wizardry, rim-rattling dunks, trick shots, hilarious comedy and unequalled fan interaction. Manchester Arena, Manchester, M3 1AR Contact 0844 847 8000 or visit www.manchester-arena.com

Wicked Women Up until Sunday, 8th May The Blackpool Tower Dungeon has launched a brand new thrilling show entitled ‘Wicked Women’. Delve through 1,000 years of Lancashire’s murky past, accompanied by the loathsome ladies as you encounter laughs, frights and amazing special

LightNight, Liverpool’s one-night arts and culture festival returns to illuminate the city for a seventh year. World-class galleries, museums and public spaces stay open late for a free showcase of the city’s arts and culture. Explore Liverpool with your friends and family along a trail of light projections, street performances, exhibitions, walks, talks and hands-on activities for all ages. Various city centre venues, Liverpool, L3 8EN Contact 0151 478 4550 or visit www.lightnightliverpool.co.uk

Ormskirk Medieval Weekend Saturday, 14th May to Sunday, 15th May What did Ormskirk look like a thousand years ago? Experience the sights, smells, sounds and tastes of the past as Historia Normanis take you on a journey through time at Coronation Park in Ormskirk. There’s lots of activities for all the family, including archery, cooking demonstrations, a fashion show, story telling, themed stalls and much more. Open from 11.00am until 5.00pm each day. Coronation Park, Ormskirk L39 3BY

Tatton Park Country Show Saturday, 14th May to Sunday, 15th May Set in the beautiful parkland at Tatton, this family-oriented Country Show has something for everyone with a range of arena entertainment including Jez Avery’s Stunt Bikes & Buggies, Terrier Racing, Birds of Prey Flying Displays, Devilstick Peat Children’s’ Entertainer, Have-A-Go Dog Scurry and, on Sunday, the Companion Dog Show and much more including skilled craftsmen demonstrating their rural skills. There will also be a delightful range of arts, crafts and gift marquees. Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6QN Contact 01206 374400/263088 or visit www.oakleighfairs.co.uk

Mamma Mia Tuesday 10th May to Saturday 4th June 2016 Mamma Mia! is the ultimate feel-good musical. Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. Sophie’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings her mother face to face with three men from her distant romantic past on the eve of a wedding they’ll never forget. Palace Theatre, Oxford Street, Manchester M1 6FT Contact 0161 245 6600 or visit www.atgtickets.com

Castlefield Food Festival Thursday, 12th May to Sunday, 15th May A weekend showcase with some of Manchester’s finest chefs, restaurants and street food traders. After its unbelievable inaugural success in 2015, the Castlefield Food Festival returns to Manchester in May for a four day run, offering more tastes, treats and entertainment than before. The newest addition to the packed schedule is the first ever Night Market. Castlefield Bowl, 101 Liverpool Road, Castlefield, Manchester, M3 4JN www.castlefieldfoodfestival.co.uk

Dinosaurs…. The Next Adventure Saturday, 28th May to Sunday, 4th September They’re BIG, they’re FIERCE... and they’re BACK. After four years away, Chester Zoo’s award-winning dinosaurs return for another unforgettable summer. Take an exhilarating journey back to the Jurassic age when these gigantic creatures roamed and ruled the earth. You’ll walk amongst the predators and their prey, not knowing what is lurking around the next corner. This fearsome collection of dinosaurs includes the Giganotosaurus, one of the biggest carnivores of all, Utahraptor with his curved claws and feathery limbs, and the gentle giant, the plant eating Brachiosaurus. Chester Zoo CH2 1LH Contact 01244 380280 or visit www.chesterzoo.org

International Mersey River Festival Friday, 3rd June to Sunday, 5th June The International Mersey River Festival is a celebration of Liverpool’s wonderful and historic waterfront in a completely free three day extravaganza of family fun, amazing music and entertainment along the iconic River Mersey. The festival will see the visit of 60 narrow boats, four Tall Ships, the International Canoe Polo Tournament, jet skiing demonstrations, have-a-go water sports sessions at Salthouse Dock, flyboarding and a thrillingly heart-stopping Yakovlevs air display. There will also be a dedicated children’s area which will include street theatre, arts and crafts. www.merseyriverfestival.co.uk

Southport Food and Drink Festival Friday, 3rd June to Sunday, 5th June A ‘foodies’ paradise with a little something for everyone to enjoy, stimulate your senses and try food from different cultures Street Food stalls. Tantalise the taste buds by sampling the different produce around the event - handmade cheeses, sausages, sweet and savoury pies, chutneys and pickles are just a few of the delights that can be taken home. Set in the beautiful Victoria Park, there will be entertainment from local bands throughout the day. If you are bringing the kids along then make sure you pop over to the ‘kids’ corner’ for circus workshops, food themed activities and much more. Victoria Park, Rotten Row, Southport, PR8 2BZ Contact 01704 533333

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Woodvale Transport Festival Saturday, 18th June & Sunday 19th June Taking place on Southport’s beautiful Victoria Park, the Woodvale Transport Festival will feature all the usual Woodvale Rally favourites including Classic Cars, Car Clubs, Military Vehicles, Motor Cycles, Model Railways, Model Boats, Model Aircraft, Model Racing Cars, Bandstand, Refreshments, Bar, Car Boot Sale, Morris Dancing, & Arena attractions. Victoria Park, Southport, PR8 2BZ Contact 01704 576122 or visit www.woodvalerally.com

Burscough Heritage Weekend Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th June The village of Burscough comes alive to celebrate 200 years of the Leeds/Liverpool canal with a weekend of fun for all the family. You can enjoy horse and carriage rides, traditional musical entertainment, craft demonstrations, free vintage bus rides and an exhibition with images of the Burscough of old. There’s also fairground rides and vintage vehicles on display, and most events are centred around the Wharf area, which has a selection of independent shops. Burscough Wharf, Burscough L40 5RZ 10am-5pm both days

Cheshire County Show Tuesday, 21st June & Wednesday, 22nd June With its roots firmly embedded in farming, the 2016 show will, again hold the many competition classes for cattle, sheep, pigs, dairy goats, but will also include hundreds of classes for light and heavy horses, show jumping, rare breeds of livestock, poultry, pygmy goats, pigeons, cavies, rabbits and dog show. The show will also feature the Food Halls, a Food Live Theatre and much more. Cheshire County Show, Tabley, WA16 0HJ Contact 07966 499748 or visit www.royalcheshireshow.org

Much Ado About Nothing Wednesday 22nd June

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The photo on page 24 is of the corner of Fazackerley St and Market Street, Chorley

Whispering

grass... by Angie Barker

Award Winner

If you are thinking now about your summer borders and feel there is something missing – it might be that you need to include some grasses in your planting scheme. May is a really good month for planting grasses as most of them prefer to be moved when they are actively in growth. They are brilliant plants for bringing movement to a garden and they come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. A word of caution though, some grasses spread by underground runners (Elymus arenarius ‘Blue Dune’ or Lyme Grass is one) which can soon take over your border so unless you have a garden the size of Tatton Park (oh I wish!) stick to clump formers. Here are some of my favourites: Stipa tenuissima – this is lovely because it is very soft and tactile and moves in the slightest of breezes. It looks brilliant with bright coloured perennials like Geums. (This one will self seed but the seedlings are easily removed – and you get new plants for free!) Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’- this gets tall around 2m (6 feet in old money) and is upright – perfect for a skinny border in sun

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.

Miscanthus sinensis. ‘Kleine Fontane’- has gorgeous pinky purple seed heads in August and stands up well all through winter. Looks wonderful when winter sun hits the frosted seed heads Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ - I love this one because it looks stunning planted with Acers, it has a graceful arching form and re-emerges each spring with fresh green growth Carex oshimensis hachijoensis ‘Evergold’ - quite a mouthful I know but a good grass for shade and is evergreen and very low maintenance - looks effective planted as a group Festuca glauca ‘Elijah Blue’ – a tufty, evergreen grass blue grey in colour so makes a brilliant contrast with darker leaved plants such as Heuchera If you would like to see some grasses in a garden setting then please come along to have a look at my garden on Sunday, 26th June, open from 11am to 4pm with admission of £3.50 going to cancer charities. You can have a look at Hubby too – evergreen with lovely movement!

Call Angie now for your free consultation! Angie Barker Dip GD (Inst GD) BA (Hons) Garden Design For All Seasons Tel: 01942 522 405 Mob: 07857 008 383 www.angiebarker.co.uk

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Test drive

Mercedes-Benz

GLE 350d Coupe by Tim Barnes-Clay

f you love pomp and ceremony, you will adore this broad-shouldered offering from MercedesBenz.

The GLE 350d Coupe 4Matic AMG Line, on test here, doesn’t know the meaning of ‘subtle’. It doesn’t need to. After all, why buy a machine of this magnitude if you don’t want people to notice you? The car’s looks will divide opinion. It’s a bit like looking at a certain well-known, generous-nosed, French actor. Some women swoon, other’s scowl at the sight of him. But, whether you think the GLE is handsome or hideous, it is definitely mesmerising. So, what exactly is the GLE Coupe all about? Well, it’s Mercedes-Benz’s answer to super-SUVs, such as the Porsche Cayenne, Range Rover Sport and BMW X6. The goliath houses either a 3.0 litre V6 diesel, churning out 255bhp or a far less sensible V6 petrol, producing 362bhp. Both engines come hooked up

to a slick-shifting nine-speed automatic ‘box. Behind the wheel, the diesel model has more than enough pull for British roads and, in AMG Line trim, you can either waft or thunder along encased in splendid surroundings. Kit includes: heated front seats, climate control, a DAB radio tuner, auto dimming and folding mirrors, parking sensors and a reversing camera. On the move, body roll is not really noticeable – which, considering the heft of the GLE, is a feat of engineering and design in itself. The permanent four-wheel drive set-up provides tons of traction, too, so the mighty Merc is safe, as well as talented at delivering driving enjoyment. You can sharpen up the steering and throttle response, and you can even adjust the air suspension at the touch of button. For instance, the Stuttgart’s firm’s ‘Sport’ setting just ups the ante a bit, providing

Fast

facts

0-62 mph: 7.0 secs Combined mpg: 39.2 Engine layout: 2987cc V6 turbo diesel Max. power (bhp): 255 CO2: 187 g/km Price: £60,680 a heavier steering reaction and a more ‘on-rails’ like experience through corners. But, if you don’t want your passengers throwing up, the Merc is best left in its standard ‘Comfort’ mode. Here, the SUV is in its ‘natural’ state, allowing you to control its power in a more measured way, while the well-weighted steering guides the car through twisty tarmac effortlessly, rather than crazily.

You could argue that the Porsche Cayenne has a cooler badge, and that the Range Rover Sport is more of a thoroughbred. And you could even maintain that the BMW X6 has better kerbside appeal. But the Cayenne is not as striking - and everyone seems to have a Range Rover Sport. The same goes for the BMW. No, the Mercedes is one rung higher up the ladder of ‘different’. And that’s a good thing – especially when you take into account that the Porsche and Range Rover have a higher price-tag. At the end of the day, none of the cars mentioned here are bad. In fact, they are all stonkingly good. It’s very much a case of “one man’s meat is another man’s poison” or “one man’s pleasure is another’s pain” when it comes to choosing between SUVs of this high calibre.

Car Paintwork Repairs

The air-suspension hides the fact that you’re riding around on 21 inch alloys by soaking up even the evillest of potholes. There is only one price to pay for the awesomely outsized wheels – and that’s a bit of extra noise. This is only really noticeable at motorway speed, but combined with 70mph wind-blast around the wing mirrors, the calm of the otherwise hushed cabin can become threatened at times. The GLE Coupe will take five-up, no problem - and even though it’s a coupe, rear passenger head and leg-space is ample. Only six-footers, upwards, will be vaguely bothered by the low-slung roofline. Room in the boot is very good, too, with plenty of space for a pushchair and the weekly shop, or a stack of suitcases. Only the high load lip rains on the parade, making the lifting of heavy items into the cargo area more of a chore than it should be. When all is said and done, the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d Coupe 4Matic AMG Line is a well-appointed, fine-driving vehicle. The engine and automatic gearbox are nothing short of perfect; the steering response and handling are bang on the money – and even the sophisticated switchgear takes some beating.

We’ll fix your; Paintwork Scratches Bumper Scuffs Alloy Wheel Damage Minor Dents

No VAT charged!

Quality repairs with a lifetime guarantee.

Mobile Service – we come to you! For your free estimate, call Dave on

07970 915 504

c/o JW Gaskell Garages, Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge WN6 9DR

Home Services

Advertise

Decorators, plumbers, builders...

here

Advertise your business in this section for £30 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01257 498 329

Domestic Appliance Repair Service & Sales

We sell fixings to the professional trades and the general public especially DIY enthusiast. Wood Screws, Drywall Screws, Nails, Nuts & Bolts, Washers, Rawplugs, Hammerfix, Screw Bits & Screw Bit Holders, Jigsaw Blades & Chopsaw Blades etc

Tel: 01257 263 983

Unit 6 - Cockers Farm, Long Lane, Limbrick, Chorley, PR6 9EE

Digital Aerials fully fitted from just

Domestic Appliance Repair Service & Sales All makes of domestic appliances repaired & serviced. Fast, Friendly, Efficient Service.

£59!

Call now for a FREE, no obligation quote!

07817 807 960 / 01257 453 133

www.qualitv.co.uk

Experienced Engineers.

PAINTING & DECORATING

No Call Out Charges.

112 Pall Mall, Chorley, PR7 2LB

Mob: 07970 974 363

Email: capfixingsltd@yahoo.com Web: www.capfixings.co.uk

From interior to exterior - we do it all! • High Quality • Superb Value • Outstanding Service

01257 269 339

www.ccc-appliances.co.uk

Call today for your free quotation

01257 402045

or 07702 360597 www.ParkinsonDecorators.co.uk

Local Life is now welcomed into 130,000 quality homes in; Wigan, Chorley, Warrington, St Helens, Leigh & West Lancs

Little mags, BIG reach

AG E S

CLE

UPVC CLEANING

20% OFF N

I N G PA

• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.

CONSERVATORIES

• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning)

JETWASHING

• Driveways & Patios etc.

EXTERIOR PAINTING • Fascias, Rendered Walls etc.

Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.

01257 543 021 or 07834 241 642 www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com

Say “NO” to wet carpets! Dry Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Our unique dry cleaning method leaves your CARPETS clean, DRY and READY FOR IMMEDIATE USE.

Deep cleans and sanitises You will our Fully insured Dry Cleaning System! Safe for children and pets FREE Stain Guard on all carpets Specialists in leather and Family run business upholstery suites

Call Andrew to arrange a free quotation

01257 600 006 / 0800 170 1510 www.zerodrytime.com

ALL PROPERTY REPAIRS LARGE OR SMALL

PLASTERING, RENDERING & ALL DAMP PROBLEMS

• Plastering & Rendering • Tiling • Brickwork Pointing • Chimney & Ridges Pointing • Roof Repairs Call Paul: 01257 268950

MOB: 07768 99 76 88 www.PlastererAndRenderingChorley.co.uk

Home Improvements Specialist in Kitchens, Windows, Doors & Floors

• Renovations • Brickwork • Re-roofing • Fencing• Patios • Pointing • Paving • Soffits & fascias • Driveways • Property repairs & maintenance • Damp Proofing & control From big jobs to little jobs we cater for all, so give Darren Finney a No obligation call.

Tel: 01772 459873 Mob: 07886 236564

Email: darrenfinney@msn.com

www.darrenfinneybuilders.co.uk

Totall Property Maintenance & Repairs

T.G.M. Joinery Services

Internal & External • Free Estimates • No Job Too Small

T: 01257 411 473 M: 07870 922 639

C S BELFIELD

All types of Joinery and Property Repairs Doors Flooring upvc Windows Home Improvements and maintenance est over 35 yrs No job too small

T 01257 452036 M 07746 946086 charlesbelfield@ymail.com

Roof & Gutter Repairs

Roofing & Roofline Extensions & Porches Decorating, Tiling & Plastering Windows, Doors & Conservatories Landscaping, Decking & Fencing For a Totall solution to your maintenance and repairs, call Dave

07598 492 087 01257 277 273 (answerphone) All work guaranteed

Smart Electrical Contractors - Domestic - Commercial - Industrial • Rewire • PAT Testing • CCTV • Alarms Tel: 01257 367386 Mob: 07594 240054

Domestic - Commercial - Industrial

Slates, Tiles, Ridge Tiles & Chimneys Guttering - Renew & Repair Pointing – Garden Walls & House Fronts New Roofs – Re-Tile & Re-Slate Flat Roofs, Bays & uPVC Cladding

Big Enough To Cope Small Enough To Care!

Call Phil

Telephone: 01257 543 034 Mobile: 07845 325 893 www.futuraroofing.co.uk Got An Electrical Problem...

Ian Mawdesley Electrical Ltd

...Trust a professional

• Over 25 years experience • Enhanced DBS (CRB) clearance • FREE Estimates, advice & all work guaranteed

Tel: 01257 278840 Mob: 07720 894812 Info@ianmawdesleyelectrical.com

CROSTON PLUMBING & HEATING

Free Worcester Magnetic Filter

(worth £180) available on the next 10 boiler installations. Automatically upgrades warranty to 8 years!

Complete Bathroom Design & Installation Boiler Installation, Servicing & Repairs Central Heating Installations 7 Year Warranty on all Boilers Power Flushing Jet washing/drain clearing service 232341

01257 452 879 or 07956 100 084 info@crostonplumbing.co.uk

www.crostonplumbing.co.uk

A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES

Accredited Installer & Ser vice Partner • Annual Boiler Servicing • Landlord & Home Owner Gas Safety Checks • Gas Fire & Cooker Installations • Under Floor Heating Specialists • Home Efficiency Control Upgrades

10 YEARS

EXTENDED WARRANTY ON SELECTED BOILER INSTALLATIONS

Everything from full bathroom & shower installations to leaks & burst pipes No job too small

Friendly & reliable service

Call Liam for a FREE no-obligation quote

07706 447 973 or email lmps@live.co.uk

Finance available

WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!

Telephone:

01257 421 660 Registration No.

88604

TEL: MOB:

01942 504 429 07931 766 684

www.fgwelch.co.uk

Double Glazing Repair Specialist Domestic & Commercial

Specialists in Replacement Double Glazed Units Ring with sizes for FREE estimate

Open 7 days 8am - 8pm Established Local Family Company

01257 720 095 / 0800 328 8573 www.steamywindows.net

Est. 17 years

Install double glazed windows Replace misted windows Repairs to hinges, locks & handles Installer of composite doors Conservatory roof repairs For a competitive quote call Nick on

07760 774 678 or 01257 498 067

www.cgsglazing.co.uk

AR E YE NTE 0 1 RA A GU