Local Life - Chorley - July 2017 by Local Life 247 Ltd

LocalLife Chorley Edition

Branching

July 2017

out

Jack’s Tracks visits Penwortham Test Drive - Ford Grand C-Max Local News Motoring Jack’s Tracks Health Food & Drink Home Services locallife247.co.uk

Photo by David Sudworth

SUMMER SALE Blinds of Chorley We have been making blinds locally for over 25 years

Wooden Blinds

Buy DIRECT saving you £££’s Buy DIRECT saving you TIME More new ranges added FREE Measure & Installation

Day & Night Blinds

UK made Shutters in 3 weeks 0% Interest Payment Plan 5 Year Guarantee Read our 5 Star Reviews Online Perfect Fit Blinds

See website for our latest offers

0800 585 364 01257 581 571

www.harmonyblindsofchorley.co.uk

Food for

thought

fter a few barren years, I’ve started growing my own veg again. So I didn’t really need to be asked twice to pay a visit to Astley Walled Garden for this month’s main feature (see page 32-34). The trip itself turned into more than just a standard article about growing your own, but more a conversation about differing attitudes to food. Secretary Lawrence tells me that in her home country of France, growing your own food is very popular. In fact, fruit and veg takes up the vast majority of gardens there, with just a bit of space allocated to flowers. Here, it is the exact opposite. That got me thinking. As a country, our relationship with food really took a dip for a good 30 to 40 years. The ubiquity of convenience/fast food really made an impact to the point that some people happily admit that they live off it. Perhaps that’s why in France, food is almost part of the national identity. Here, it’s mostly treated as fuel for the human body. It’s truly ironic that the amount cooking shows on TV bears scant resemblance to the amount of freshly cooked meals consumed on a weekly basis. That said, things have changed for the better. There’s a greater interest in the provenance of our food, and free range now accounts for over 50% of egg sales. Complete self-sufficiency - aka ‘going off grid’ - may be purely the preserve of 1970s TV comedies, but there are simple steps we can take to create a better relationship with our food.

David Sudworth, Editor

In this issue Branching

out

Regulars 22 Class From The Past 38 Puzzle Corner 26 Planning 58 Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks

Sections 6 7 30 50

Local News Property Pets Events2Go

Glandular

fever

62 Motoring 64 Home Services 70 Gardening

Next issue - August 2017

Advertising deadline - Thursday, 6 July Published - Thursday, 20 July

43 Family first at

mealtimes

54 Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks visits

Penwortham

58 Test Drive

Ford Grand C-Max 62

locallifemagazine247

LocalLife 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: Dylan, Peter 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. 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.

@locallifemedia

events2go

Pupils celebrate expansion A new £4m extension at Primrose Hill Primary in Euxton has been officially opened. The new single storey building includes eight classrooms, a library and a multi-use hall. Improvements have also been made to four classrooms in the existing building. A bigger playing field has also been provided. The extension, which will double the school’s capacity, provides the additional places needed due to a rising birth rate and significant housing development in the area. The extension will double reception class places each year from 30 to 60 places, resulting in the school capacity increasing from 210 to 420 over a

seven year period. The school has been providing an additional 30 reception places in temporary accommodation since September 2015. Headteacher Gareth Caunce, said: “The new building has made such a huge difference to what we can offer to pupils, parents, and the community at our school.”

Tributes to Danny Family and friends have paid tribute to a devoted son on what would have been his 21st birthday. Danny Nicholls died suddenly in December 2012, aged just 16. The former Southlands High School and Runshaw College IT student was a keen X-Box gamer and, after his death, which was caused by a massive seizure, tributes flooded in from friends Danny had made online across the world. His family recently held a fundraiser for Derian House to help them smash the £10,000 charity fundraising target they set after their his death. Parentrs Lorraine and Eric, a long distance lorry

driver, have been organising charity events each year at Danny’s special anniversaries but say this year’s fun day and silly socks fund-raisers will be their last. It was also attended by Danny’s sisters Louise and Leanne, as well as his nieces and nephews Harry, Isabel, Jacob and Max. Previous events have included balloon releases, sponsored walks and Zumbathons. “Danny touched so many lives in his own, short life,” said Eric. “ He was a a true gentleman and a loyal friend. If anyone had a problem they would always talk to Danny. It’s a fitting tribute to mark what would have been a landmark birthday for our very special son.” Lorraine, office manager at Danny’s former school, Duke Street Primary, added: “Danny was simply perfect. “He was a beautiful person both inside and out and we miss him every single day.”

NEW

Properties of Distinction

Lydiate Farm, Lydiate Lane, Eccleston A farm, ancillary buildings & land with planning permission. Offers in excess of The whole of Lydiate Farm is for sale Farm cottage for sale

ÂŁ1,295,000 2.25 acres or thereabouts (All freehold) Converted barn for sale

Newly converted stables

Planning permission for 3 new dwellings

Additional land by separate negotiation

Viewing strictly by appointment only

www.reganandhallworth.com

Villagers bowled over Work on building Euxton’s new bowling green is set to start soon. The parish council’s contractor will hopefully be on site at Greenside recreational area in mid July, or earlier if available, to commence development. Cllr John Bamber, chairman of the parish council’s Bowling Committee, said: “It is not envisaged that the new green will be playable this year, but later in the season, we will be looking to organise taste bowling sessions on a local green for anyone who

is interested - new or existing bowlers will be welcome. “Anyone who provided their details when responding to the questionnaire last year will be contacted directly with further information, including the date when it is proposed to hold an open meeting with regard to forming an Euxton Bowling Club.” For more information, call Cllr Bamber on 01257 277378 or email john.bamber@euxtoncouncil.org.uk

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 01695 627999.

Footbridge alterations Alterations are to be made to the footbridge at Buckshaw Parkway railway station. National Rail are set to implement new European Standard guidelines which state that parapets above an electrified line must now measure 1.8m in height. The previous standard required parapets to be a minimum of 1.5m. A date for the works has yet to be set. Works to the Royal Ordnance Bridge in Euxton have already received the green light. Michael Gradewell, town planner at Network Rail, said: “The railway from Manchester to Preston has been subject to an extensive programme of works to electrify the line, forming part of the wider North West Electrification programme. As part of this, a programme of work has been undertaken to modify a substantial number of bridges. Network Rail has been mandated by the Office of Rail Regulation to fully implement the provisions of European Standard BS EN 50122.”

MPs give thanks MPs Lindsay Hoyle and Seema Kennedy spoke of their pride at retaining their seats at the General Election. Mr Hoyle, has represented Chorley since 1997, romped home with 30,745 votes. Conservative candidate Caroline Moon came second with 23,233 votes. Turnout in Chorley was 73%.

Offering top end High Street & Designer ladies fashions for sale or hire at a fraction of the cost! • • • •

Receive 50% of the selling price for your garments. New stock daily Evening & Cocktail dresses for hire 1st class service

NOW OPEN

267 The Green, Eccleston, Chorley, PR7 5TF

Tel: 01257 676 254 Open: Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 4.30pm

Mr Hoyle said: “It’s great to go back to Westminster with such a fantastic haul. “I never thought that I would have over 30,000 votes.” Meanwhile Tory MP Seema Kennedy held onto her seat with 28,980 votes compared to Labour candidate Julie Gibson’s 21,559 votes. In her victory speech, Seema Kennedy paid special tribute to the families of local girls Georgina Callander and Saffie Rose Roussos, who died in the Manchester bombings, and said she “held the families in her heart at this time.”

Scarecrow Festival

Get gardening!

Clayton-le-Woods Parish Council has announced it

Avant Gardening Club is looking for new members.

is holding its first ever Scarecrow Festival. It takes place between Monday, July 10, and Sunday, July 16. All residents need to do to take part is make a scarecrow and display it in their front garden. A spokesman said: “These events take place in many other towns and villages every year, including in our neighbouring village of Whittle-le-Woods. It’s time we got involved too!”

Members meet on the second Wednesday of every month between 10.30am and noon at Avant Garden Centre, Wigan Road. Pat Woodcock, club secretary, said: “We are a small, friendly club, where each member’s input is greatly appreciated. One of our members arranges an annual visit to a Flower Show or Festival. Last year it was Castle Howard, this year it’s to be Harrogate and Harlow Carr Flower Show.

Email secctc@gmail.com to be sent a copy of the competition rules and an entry form. It’s free to enter and cash prizes are up for grabs.

Members are also strongly involved in choosing Guest Speakers and their topics.” The monthly meetings cost £5, which covers the cost of the room hire, speaker’s fee and refreshments. Call Juliet on 01772 433777.

• Quality shutters - Incredible value • Styles to suit all budgets • 50+ colours Call us now to arrange a free estimate or call into our showroom 685a Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8AQ

Shutters shuttersbyharmony

01942 743 203

www.harmonyshutters.co.uk

Iron Man returns Motorists are being warned of delays on Sunday, July 16, as the Iron Man event returns to the area. A series of road closures are planned throughout the day on the route, which takes in Buckshaw, Whittle-le-Woods, Clayton Green, Brindle, Wheelton and Heapey. Alternative routes for vehicular traffic and cyclists affected by the closures will be signed locally. Traffic bosses say access will be maintained via marshal points for residents and businesses. There will be some temporary No Waiting on A675 Bolton Road, Withnell; A674 Blackburn Road,

Wheelton; Copthurst Lane, Wheelton and Rawlinson Lane, Heath Charnock. In addition, there will be temporary No Right Turns from A674 Millennium Way, Whittle-le-Woods into B6228 Blackburn Road, Whittle-le-Woods; From B6228 Blackburn Road, Whittle-le-Woods into A674 Blackburn Road; From Moss Lane, Whittle-le-Woods into A674 Millennium Way; from A5106 Wigan Lane, Heath Charnock into Rawlinson Lane, Heath Charnock and from Rawlinson Lane, Heath Charnock into A5106 Wigan Lane, Heath Charnock. All restrictions will be temporary and in effect at periods between 6am and 5pm.

WE BUY & SELL Second hand, quality

PLASTIC STORAGE BOXES

Beautifully furnished

Stone Cottage Holiday Let

Situated near Sedbergh, in the Yorkshire Dales, and also within easy reach of the Lake District

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sleeps up to 4

Children & pets welcome

Call 01942 216 058 / 07792445257 E-mail janemillthrop@yahoo.co.uk www.millthropcottage.co.uk

TIMBER

PLASTIC & WOOD PALLETS

Tel: 07951 583 112

Email: palletman@live.co.uk

Open 7 days a week So why not pay us a visit at

Unit 5, Abbey Lane Industrial Estate, Burscough, Lancashire, L40 7SR

Full range of hinge door wardrobes

Need a new boiler? We install high efficiency Greenstar boilers from Worcester Bosch Pay monthly options available from just £17.99 (unsecured) • 10 year parts & labour guarantee option available • No deposit required • Quick decision

For an effective and friendly service call Haigh Energy Unit S7, Standish Court, Bradley Lane Trading Estate, Standish, WN6 0XQ

01257 424 166 / www.haighenergy.co.uk

Stars sign up for show Two of the best-known names in horticulture are set to make special appearances at Chorley Flower Show on Saturday, July 29 & Sunday, July 30. Gardeners’ World presenter Carol Klein and garden designer, broadcaster, and author Chris Beardshaw will be carrying out gardening demonstrations and taking part in a question and answer session. Carol Klein is no stranger to the Chorley Flower Show, having appeared in 2016 and is returning due to popular demand, while Chris Beardshaw will be making his first appearance. Chris will be attending on the Saturday and is very well known from his long broadcasting career, which to date spans 16 years and includes BBC2 television hit television series such as Gardeners’ World, Hidden Gardens and the hugely popular The Flying Gardener, amongst many others. He is also heard by millions on the weekly BBC Radio 4 Gardeners’ question Time panel where he faces a live audience of gardening enthusiasts.

Carol, who is attending on the Sunday, is most famous for her role as a regular presenter of Gardeners’ World and her down-to-earth approach has made her a popular and trusted figure. She has exhibited at many shows herself with gold medals at Chelsea, Hampton Court and Westminster and has also written gardening books and is a columnist for Garden News, making her one of the most familiar gardening experts. Wristbands are now on sale priced £7 adults (£9 on the gate), £12 weekend pass (Advance Only), £1.50 children (£2 on the gate), £15 for a family ticket (£20 on the gate) and parking will be free. You can also gain entry with seven time credits per day and there are special rates for groups of more than 20. If you’d like more information visit chorley.gov.uk, where you can buy your tickets online and gain information of where to purchase in person, or contact the council on 01257 515151. A free park and ride service will also be operating from Botany Bay.

BEDROOM & SOFA CENTRE

Whatever the floor 0%CreditInterest Free available see instore for details.

Find us on facebook

Offering a huge range of high quality flooring including:

• Roll Stock Carpets • Woods • Vinyls • Laminates

Visit the Flooring Centre today where you are guaranteed a top-quality service from our welcoming yet knowledgeable sales team & let us turn your dream floor into a reality!! Unit 1 to 4 Club Court, Club Street, Bamber Bridge, PR5 6FN

Tel: 01772 627309 www.theflooringcentrenw.co.uk steve@theflooringcentrenw.co.uk Open: Mon-Fri 9-5, Sat 9-5 & Sun 12-4 • Ample free parking • Disabled parking

Home win! Avid Manchester United fan Geoff Ward was celebrating a ‘home win’ thanks to Local Life! Geoff, of Abinger Road, Garswood, won a £25 Marks and Spencer gift voucher in our distribution survey draw. If you get Local Life through the letterbox at home, you too can register for this free draw. We’ll email you a survey every couple of months to check on our distribution team; the survey takes just 20 seconds. To register for the free draw visit http:// locallife247.co.uk/free-stuff/prize-draw/

Are you fed up with clutter? Need EASY ACCESS to your loft? Do you want to: • De-clutter Your Home • Create Up To 1/3rd More Space • Have Safe & Easy Loft Access We supply and fit: • Loft Ladders & Loft Hatches • Boarding, Lighting • Insulation We guarantee: • Professional & Friendly Service • No Mess • 5 Year Full Parts & Labour Guarantee

CALL NOW TO BOOK YOUR FREE, NO OBLIGATION SURVEY & QUOTE

www.access4lofts-preston.co.uk

email: access4lofts@aol.com

01772 811611

Costs revealed The cost of taxpayer-funded projects in the past year has been revealed. Chorley Council spent a total of £7.981m on ‘regeneration and inward investment’. They include: Market Walk Extension: £413k was spent in on acquisitions and pre-construction delivery. Main building works on the project are due to take place in 2017/18 from a capital budget of £11.6m. The new Buckshaw Community Centre: Completed under a design and build contract in 2016/17. After a £150k deposit was paid to the contractor

in 2015/16 a further £475k was spent in 2016/17 bringing the total cost of the project to £626k. Play, Recreation and Open Space Projects: Abbey Village (£21.6k), Buttermere (£48k) and Wymott Park Playground (£17k), while expenditure on on-going projects include Eaves Green Play Area (£3k), Rangletts Recreation Ground (£4.8k), Drapers Avenue (£5.4k) and footpath improvements and resurfacing at Tatton Recreation Ground (£35.4k). Two large scale playing pitch improvement schemes are in their early stages of development - £10k was spent on bore holing and feasibility studies at King George V playing field.

Class from the past

This month’s Class from the Past is from St Gregory’s Infant School at Weldbank Church circa 1963/4. One of those pictured is David Isleworth (stood far

right on the picture) who kindly sent in this old snap. Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact us today by emailing chorleynews@ locallife247.co.uk - maximum file size of 1MB.

ROLL END SALE, 20% of all roll ends

C h o rl e y M a d e in

Quality British Carpets Genuine Factory Prices Visit your local factory shop and we guarantee â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go anywhere else!

Simply Jorgus Adlington

Jorgus

73 rd

efo

im Gr

Blackrod

lto

Open 7 days a week | Fitting service | Free estimates Commercial and domestic | Roll ends also available Jorgus Carpets, Grimeford Mill, Grimeford Lane, Adlington, PR6 9HL

01257 482 636 | www.jorgus.co.uk

ARTIFICIAL GRASS

FF K E O V SA E 25% STOC

IV S IN S S A OLL M A SS R A Jorgus GR is the

Grass ideal alternative to natural grass and the perfect solution for all those areas where grass just wont grow. Jorgus Grass can be in all sizes of gardens, achieving the perfect lawn throughout the year.

A BEAUTIFUL LAWN ALL YEAR ROUND WHATEVER THE WEATHER!

NO MORE MOWING NO MORE WATERING NO MUDDY PATCHES NO FEEDING IDEAL FOR PETS

Jorgus Grass can be installed outdoors or indoors, temporary or permanent. On balconies, timber decking, children’s play areas, caravans, camping, barbecues and many other applications. Jorgus Grass is available in two widths, 4m wide and 2m wide and in seven grades from 20mm pile to 3mm pile heights. Installation of Jorgus Grass can be carried out by most able bodied DIY enthusiasts and here at Jorgus we are always happy to give our professional advice.

For the perfect lawn everyday FACTORY SHOP

Open: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 8am – 5pm, Thursday 8am – 8pm, Friday 8am – 5pm, Saturday 10am – 3pm & Sunday 11am – 3pm

Building fees hike planned The cost of building control applications and sign offs in Chorley is being raised for the first time in six years. Fees are set to rise overall by 6% from August 1. South Ribble Council and Preston Council is also doing the same. Based on figures for the last financial year, the hike would bring in an extra £13,000 for the authority.

Distributors

wanted Local Life require distributors for the following areas; Clayton Green Wood Beech Gardens, Preston Road area Brinscall All areas Distributors typically work for 2-3 hours every 8 weeks. Applicants must be aged 13+ and be fit, enthusiastic and reliable. Interested? Please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

LocalLife

A report to councillors said: “The income stream is dependent upon market performance within the construction industry and may peak or trough at any time based upon the economy at large. “Increased charges for Building Regulation applications does have an element of risk attached to it insofar as this may push the work towards the private sector. However, they do not operate with fixed charges and frequently price to undercut the local authority service. The result is likely to be that the private sector put their charges up too.”

Planning Matters Buckshaw 115 Brookwood Way: Conversion of garage to living accommodation (ref: 17/00504/FULHH. Clayton-Le-Woods Pines Hotel, Preston Road: Erection of a convenience retail store, a building comprising 40 apartments, car parking and associated infrastructure following demolition of all existing buildings and structures (ref: 17/00464/FULMAJ). Heath Charnock Liptrot Farm, Gilbertson Road: Demolition of existing equestrian centre and replacement with four domestic dwellings (ref: 17/00483/FUL). Whittle-Le-Woods 23 Shaw Brow: Change of use of post office to a dwelling (ref: 17/00458/P3PAN). For more information on these plans, visit www.chorley.gov.uk

SOLD

BRINSCALL MILL ROAD, HEAPEY

SOLD

BLACKBURN ROAD, HIGHER WHEELTON

SOLD

SOLD BELMONT DRIVE, CHORLEY

www.reganandhallworth.com

SOLD

WARDLE COURT, WHITTLE-LE-WOODS

GLENMORE, CLAYTON-LE-WOODS

BROOKWOOD WAY, BUCKSHAW VILLAGE

Chorley office 01257 232300

Flea

octor, Doctor, I’ve got spots on my ankles and they itch a lot… What do you think it is?

‘I am afraid you have flea bites…’ Fleas are usually a parasite of dogs, cats and rabbits but can happily feed on humans if the food gets sparse. Fleas are insects that suck the blood of your cats and dogs after injecting saliva in order to numb the skin (hence the spot). But how do pets get fleas in the first place? It is unlikely that a flea is waiting at the end of a hair waiting to jump on the next dog that passes! You need to know that the main way of catching fleas is through the environment: your carpets, your garden, the park, etc. Fleas lay eggs in the environment (about 50 eggs a day) which are falling off the coat of your pet wherever they go. These eggs are going through a cycle which will make them become a pupae. The hatching of the pupae will be directly linked to stimulation by heat or vibration. That’s why it can all go wrong when you come back from your holidays after leaving your home unoccupied for a few weeks: they are all starving! Pupae in your garden are usually destroyed by frost and temperatures under zero degrees Celsius. Unfortunately, we have had very mild winters for the past 2 years and the flea burden has been increasing. Pupae can stay in the environment for 9 to 10 months!!

bites

Now I have fleas, how can I get rid of them? Fleas can be hard to eradicate. The number of fleas/egg/ pupae in your house can be really high as well as in your garden. In order to decrease the burden and get rid of the fleas, you need to use a flea treatment

specifically made for the species (Dog products can be toxic for cats!) and apply it according to the manufacturers instructions. Some products seem to be more effective than others. Please speak to

01257 367550 01257 276517 10, Mill Street, Coppull, Chorley, PR7 5AZ

23, Crown Street, Chorley, PR7 1DX

www.pinewoodvets.co.uk

31 your veterinary surgeon or nurse if you would like more advice. These products are designed to kill fleas on your pet. Now in an ideal world, we would like to decrease the burden from the environment. You can spray with an appropriate spray for your house, carpets, laminated or wooden floor, etc after vacuuming. You can also call an exterminator who will use more efficient products if spraying is not enough. Unfortunately, you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spray the garden, and you will need to treat your pet long term. Some injections and tablets given to your pet can also impair the reproduction of the fleas and help to eradicate them. Ask your veterinary Surgeon for more information. The best option really is to avoid an infestation with fleas in the first place. Cats crossing your garden or dogs going for walks are the main way of contamination. Using efficient flea treatment on your pet regularly is the best option to have a flea free life, a happy pet and a happy owner.

Over 40 Lancashire

walks

FREE to download at locallife247.co.uk LocalLife

Branching

out

David Sudworth talks to the dedicated volunteers who keep Astley Park’s Walled Garden in trim all year round

ver since her first job in an office overlooking the French Alps, Laurence McCormick knew she was destined to be outdoors.

“I could see the mountains from my office window and I thought: ‘What am I doing here?’ That’s why I’m so happy when gardening here at Astley. For me, it is complete relaxation.” Lawrence is secretary of Astley Walled Gardeners, a small but enthusiastic group of locals who tend to the various raised plants, heritage fruit trees and veg which grow within the 260 year old site.

33 Lawrence grew up in the south eastern French city of Grenoble, just a couple of hours from the Italian border. She came to Chorley 17 years ago via Montreal, Canada, and now lives in Clayton-le-Woods with her English husband and their 10-year-old son. Ironically, when she first arrived here, Astley Park was deemed by some as a no-go area. “It was known locally as a place to stay away from as it was very run down. Nowadays, I come here as much as I can. The transformation has been brilliant. “Even when my mum comes over from France, one of the first things she says is: ‘Right, when are we going to the garden?’ “In France, people will grow maybe a few flowers but mostly they will grow vegetables, even in the tiniest of spaces. Over here, it’s the other way round!”

“The transformation has been brilliant” Although first mention of a Walled Garden at Astley way back in 1757 (its construction cost the princely sum of £20, 5s 8.5d), the current site has only been active in the past few years. And its largely thanks to local resident Barry Sharples who started tending the plot as a way of helping adults with disabilities as part of his job. Even after Barry retired, he continued to look after the garden. “He did it on his own for about a year and I got involved by responding to a call for volunteers. We set up as a constituted group in 2012 and Barry is now the president.” Since then, the garden has gone from strength to strength - one of the latest additions being a fabulous glass house which is home to plants, vegetables and even a lemon tree. Currently, the group has around six to 10 core people who help out regularly. Their mission now is

34 to double that figure - and Lawrence, who teaches French in local primary schools, says there are many ways to help out. “We generally have more activity on a Saturday. That’s when we put out our produce and there’s an honesty box/collection bucket. “We have several events a year and also there is a lot of paperwork. So even if you can’t do gardening, there’s still roles for people who may want to help us. “The thing is, volunteering can be anything from one hour a week upwards. It’s very therapeutic here, you can get outside, speak to people and get active. “We are a friendly gardening group who range from complete beginners to experienced gardeners. As the garden is growing in size and activity, we need new members.” To get involved, call Laurence on 07967 583746 or Barry 07989 589 674.

Garden events Sat, July 29, and Sunday, July 30: Flower Show Sunday, October 1: Apple Festival Sunday, October 29: Pumpkin Carving Day December (date TBC): Wreath Making Day For more information, search for Astley Walled Gardeners on Facebook or visit www.chorley.gov.uk

We can modernise your stairs in just 2 days! Nothing distinguishes the quality of a house more than a well-designed, well-built staircase and balustrade. Whether it be from exotic hardwood, sleek chrome or contemporary glass, your staircase should make a statement of elegance for your entire home and provide a welcoming, timeless, grand entrance.

FREE SURVEY WITH NO OBLIGATION

Download our brochure from www.moderniseyourstairs.com

ASK

YEAR GUARANTEE

R ABOUT OU RS AI UNDER ST STORAGE S SOLUTION

01942 246553

“Vale of Wigan produce a stunning oak staircase with glass balustrades.... you could not pick a better company to work with.”

David H – Frodsham

Step up in style!

BEFORE

Visit our NEW showroom at...

Rear Mill, Wood Street, off Chapel Lane, Wigan, WN3 4HL

CALL US todayON

01942 246553

www.moderniseyourstairs.com info@moderniseyourstairs.com

INVESTMENTS

LOOKING TO INVEST FOR INCOME OR GROWTH?

Few of us really have the time or inclination to understand the vast number of different investment products available on the market and consider what the best options are to suit our particular objectives. To do this effectively, it would need to become a full-time job. However, creating and maintaining the right investment strategy plays a vital role in securing your financial future.

Whether you are looking to invest for income or growth, we can provide the quality advice, comprehensive investment solutions and ongoing service to help you achieve your financial goals. To discover how we can help you build a long-term strategy for your investments, please contact us â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we look forward to hearing from you.

To discuss your financial planning talk to us today. Brought to you by Chartered Financial Planner, True Bearing Ltd. Highly qualified independent financial advisors offering a professional yet personal financial planning service, built on trust, experience and transparency.

Telephone: 01257 260011 Email: enquiries@truebearing.co.uk | Website: www.truebearing.co.uk True Bearing Chartered Financial Planners is a trading name of True Bearing Ltd. True Bearing is an Independent Financial Advisory Firm, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

FOR INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVICE Our Services and Charges: An initial meeting is at our expense. To proceed further, advice charges will apply and would be fully discussed with you. Go to our website www.truebearing.co.uk for our terms of business.

Areas of advice provided by True Bearing:

Peter Ashcroft

Investments Building Pensions Pension Freedoms Care Fees Planning Protection Equity Release

To discuss your needs with no obligations, please call True Bearing Ltd today on 01257 260011

Puzzle Corner

2 5

3 2

WORD SEARCH T

LONGHORN LADYBIRD JEWEL

3 1

Find the hidden beetles S

SCARAB DUNG DARKLING

GROUND BARK STAG

8 6 9 5 4

8 5 3

2 5 7

4 8

7 1 2 6 6

SUDOKU WIGGLE WORDS CLUE: A bit of a botch Trace a path through all the letters to find the word or phrase that fits the clue.

T I A K

O F M E

R S G A

A E I P

Henry runs a book store and has several old maps for sale. Using the clues below can you match each of the maps to the cartographer, subject matter, publication year and price?

CLUES 1. The most expensive map was created by Senex 2. Bowen did not create the map dated 1767 3. The map costing Â£300 was for Scotland 4. Desbarres created the map for Russia 5. The map for Eastern Europe was created in 1713

All the puzzle solutions are on page 67 of this magazine

LOGIC PROBLEMS

New Soft Touch Carpets New Dynamic Designer Vinyls New Tartan & Geometric Design Woven Carpets New Extra High Density Underlays

Peek behind the scenes Locals are being offered a glimpse behind the scenes at Astley Village’s famous Derian House.

in small groups, led by members of the team, as well as enjoy attractions including entertainment and activities; craft stalls; strawberry teas with homebaked scones; live music and dance.

An open day is being held at the Chancery Road facility on Sunday, July 9, from 11am-4pm.

Judy Miller, a community fundraiser at Derian House, said: “We have some truly amazing facilities here at Derian House that we would love to show to the community. Please make a date in your diary for our Open Day and pay us a visit to see just what support we offer to children, young people and their families from across the North West.”

Now in its 24th year, Derian House Hospice offers end-of-life and vital respite care to children and young people with life-limiting medical conditions and life-threatening illnesses. Visitors on the day will be able to tour the hospice

Deputy Editor Wanted We are looking for a journalist trained to NCTJ/degree standard who is ambitious, hard-working and has a passion for local news and events. The role will include: • Sourcing and writing local news stories and events • Sourcing unique content for our social media channels • Deputising for the Editor in his absence The role would suit a recently qualified graduate who wants to make their mark in the local area.

A full driving licence and own car is a must. To apply, simply send your CV, and two examples of your best published cuttings to chrisp@locallife247.co.uk The closing date is 09/07/17 although an appointment may be made before that date if a suitable candidate is found.

LocalLife

www.locallife247.co.uk

Health & Fitness

Glandular

fever By Abi Jackson

obody likes a sore throat, and some can be particularly painful, especially when accompanied by horribly swollen glands and a raging fever - which can be tell-tale signs of dreaded glandular fever. Caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), most people will be exposed to it during their lifetime - often during early childhood, when it might cause minimal symptoms, or even go totally unnoticed, and the body builds up immunity to it. This isn’t always the case though, and some - particularly teens and young adults catch it later and experience a nasty bout of illness. Here are eight things everybody should know about glandular fever... You don’t just catch it from kissing It may be commonly known as the ‘kissing disease’, but that doesn’t mean you only catch it from locking lips with somebody who’s infected. “It’s mainly spread through saliva, so kissing, coughing, sneezing, and sharing a glass or cutlery, are the easiest ways to catch the virus,” says Dr Louise Read, a GP and advisor to Dr Morton’s - the medical helpline. “It is, however, less easy to catch than the common cold.” It can make you feel really unwell Symptoms typically include swollen glands, a high temperature/ fever, a horribly sore throat and fatigue. How severe these things are can vary from person to person, but it can make you really poorly. But you probably won’t know you’ve caught it immediately “The incubation period is four to eight weeks,” Dr Read explains of the time frame between catching the infection and getting unwell. “Symptoms usually settle after two to three weeks, but can last for many weeks or months,” she adds.

44 The fatigue can linger “The tiredness associated with glandular fever can last for several months. Up to 50% of people with glandular fever can feel like this. Frustratingly, the reasons for this are not known,” says Read. “It affects people in different ways; teenagers often have a tricky time as they’re already dealing with the affects of puberty, exams and changes in their social relationships. Interestingly, 10% of people diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome have had glandular fever previously.” You’ll need to take it very easy Though complete bed rest isn’t generally recommended these days (this can actually slow the recovery process), children and teens will need some time off school, and adults will need some time off work to get some decent rest - and then ease back into normal activities gently while your energy returns. Staying well-hydrated is also important, “because the body needs more liquid

when it has a fever,” explains Read, along with good nourishment and general TLC. Avoiding alcohol is also advised, due to a greater risk of liver damage while your body’s fighting the infection.

45 But you probably won’t need a prescription “Antibiotics are usually not needed,” says Read, as they’re used to treat bacterial infections, not viruses. However, if you develop a secondary problem such as a bacterial throat or lung infection, they may be required. Paracetamol and ibuprofen can help relieve pain and fever, and gargling with a warm salt-water solution can help sore throats. “Infections like pneumonia are recognised complications, but are fairly rare,” says Read. Other serious complications can occur “About half of people with glandular fever get a swollen spleen, while one in 750 will end up in hospital with a ruptured (burst) spleen,” says Read. “For this reason, people are advised to avoid strenuous exercise for three to four weeks until their spleen has returned to normal size. Other complications, like problems with the nerves, are also rare, affecting about one in 100 people with glandular fever.” A severely swollen throat can also result in difficulty swallowing for some people, who may end up needing a short stay in hospital. You’ll need to take steps to avoid it spreading Once you’ve got symptoms and while they settle, it’s sensible to take steps to avoid spreading the virus (like you’d do with a cold or flu; not sharing drinks, washing your hands or using a hand sanitizer as required, etc). However, as Read notes, most people will already have been exposed to the virus at some point in their lives, or be carriers. Plus “15-20% of people will feel well but continue to spread the virus. The virus can reactivate in them but not cause any illness. This is bad news for people around them who can catch it”.

Linda Wallbank Foot Health Practitioner Offering home visits for people of all ages, covering a range of foot health problems.

To make an appointment please contact me on 07872 960 494 or email: linda.footbliss@outlook.com

ASK AMANDA

Amanda is the Registered Care Manager for Independent Living – she answers your questions.

We want care for mum but worried about who will go to her house. Can you tell me about your carers? YES. Our carers come from all walks of life. Some carers are what I would describe as “professional carers” in that they have done this type of work for many years and likely to have care qualifications. A good thing about care is that if someone is of a caring nature and relates well to older people we can consider them for employment – qualifications are not essential. We employ part time carers – daytime, evenings, weekends, overnights – or a combination. We can consider women returners, early retired, students, people wanting a second job. When someone applies I and another member of our staff interviews them to see if they are genuinely interested helping older people. If suitable we send for references and complete a DBS check. A DBS tells us if a person is barred from working with vulnerable people, and any criminal convictions.

When a carer joins they “shadow” an existing carer to learn the role. We listen to customer and carer feedback, and we do unannounced spot checks at our customer’s homes. This helps provide a picture as to how well a carer is doing. In September we are introducing an electronic “logging in/out” system so we will know exactly when a carer arrived at a customer’s home, when they departed and how long they stayed. If you know anyone interested in the role of a carer please call us.

If we can help with care for a loved one please call Amanda 01257 696 050.

01257 696 050

E: mark.booker@independentlivinglancashire.co.uk

independentlivinglancashire.co.uk

Chorleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading provider of bespoke home care Why Independent Living? Well established Chorley company.

Our services include;

Local office on Eaves Lane. Kind, well presented carers with calls of 30 minute or more.

Companionship

A bespoke service to suit each individual client.

Spending time with our clients; taking them out & about, on trips to the shops, doctors and other places

Clear and upfront pricing structure.

Personal Care

For a FREE no obligation assessment, call us on 01257 696050 or call into our office for a friendly chat.

Washing, bathing and dressing our clients, and providing overnight care if needed.

Fully insured and regulated for social care. Experienced office staff dedicated to serve your needs.

Housekeeping Ensuring our clients homes are clean and safe, and have enough of food and drink

Specialist Support For those clients who suffer from Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, memory loss, strokes, cancer and need post-hospital support

End of life care Providing respect and support to the client and their families when passing is near.

225 Eaves Lane, Chorley PR6 0AG

Registered with the Care Quality Commission

New

directions

he team at New Directions supports people aged 18 + with aged related conditions, learning disabilities, autism, physical disabilities or with a mental health diagnosis. New Directions cares for people across Lancashire and Merseyside in home or in day support, respite or residential settings. And they provide specialist day care for residents with more advanced dementia, helping them to live fulfilling lives both at home and in the community, The organisation also delivers short term care and support, in your home or in one of their centres,

helping to give carers a break â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whether for a day, a weekend or a longer stay or to help restore confidence after a spell in hospital. New Directions is highly rated by the Care Quality Commission and employs over 300 highly trained, dedicated, enthusiastic and caring staff, providing support designed to meet your, or your loved oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s care needs, helping to get the best out of life. The organisation is ready and able to help you and the ones you love so if you would like to know more information please call Dave Hughes on 0151 934 2572 or email dave.hughes@ndirections.org

Upload your event for FREE at www.locallife247.co.uk/events Follow us on Facebook

events2go

Willy Russell: Another Aspect

Euxton Gala

Tuesday, May 9 – Saturday, Sept 2, 9am – 5pm

Saturday, July 1, 1pm

Following his successful exhibition in Kirkby Gallery in 2015, Willy Russell is returning this time to show an entirely new side to his creative portfolio.

There is entertainment for everyone with all the aspects of a traditional village gala. So be sure not to miss out on one of the best events of the Summer.

The Kirkby Centre, Norwich Way, Kirkby, Knowsley, L32 8XY. Contact: tina.ball@knowsley.gov.uk

Euxton C of E Primary School, Wigan Road, Euxton, PR7 6JW. Contact:

Neighbourhood Watch

Moonlight & Memories Walk

Thursday, June 29 – Saturday, July 1

Saturday, July 1 , 7.30pm

Mawdesley Amateur Dramatics Society will be performing ‘Neighbourhood Watch’ by Alan Ayckbourn. This timely and provocative play contains some hilarious comedy moments as well as that staple of Ayckbourn’s dramatic world - a garden gnome. Tickets £8 - available from the Spar in Mawdesley and www.madsociety.co.uk.

Walk under the stars in memory of loved ones in a 10 mile or 4 mile family-friendly routes around Lostock Hall, Bamber Bridge, Preston and Penwortham, raising money for your local charity through sponsorships and donations. As ever, there will be music and dancing at the hospice for walkers to warm up and register from 7.30pm, before setting off on the poignant night-time trek at 10pm. Dogs are allowed on the walk, but must be kept on a lead.

Mawdesley Village Hall, Hurst Green, Mawdesley, L40 2QW. Contact: info@madsociety.co.uk

Haigh Foodie Friday Friday, June 30, 6pm – 10pm It proved so popular again last time that they have added even more vendors so there’s even more fabulous food on offer. So get the date in your diary and come and enjoy great food, drink and entertainment (DJ/Live music) in these beautiful surroundings. Fun and family friendly - children’s play area open until dusk, Adventure Golf is open too (last entry 7.30pm). Haigh Hall Country Park, School Ln, Wigan WN2 1PE. Contact: facebook.com/haighwoodlandpark

St Catherine’s Hospice, St Catherine’s Park, Lostock Lane, Lostock Hall, Preston, GB PR5 5XU. Contact: fundraising@stcatherines.co.uk

Formby Vintage & Craft Fair Saturday, July 1 & Saturday, August 5, 10am – 4pm Over 30 stalls, of excellent quality, vintage; local craft, antiques & collectables. In the heart of beautiful Formby village, at the end of the high street, sign posted. There are two halls, and a small cafe. Holy Trinity Church Hall, Rosemary Lane, Formby, L37 3HA. Contact: formbyvintageandcraftfair1@ gmail.com

Blackrod Scarecrow Festival

St. Mary’s Music Festival

Saturday, July 1 – Sunday, July 2, 10am – 7pm

Wednesday, July 5 – Sunday, July 16

Displays will appear from 10am until 7pm each day. Programmes are just £2 and contain full details of where the scarecrows are, where to get food, photographic competition details and what events are happening throughout the weekend.

The festival features 9 varied concerts with the Houghton Weavers headlining and local bands including Starlight Swing Orchestra, Eccleston Brass Band and Langonet string Quartet. Full programme details at www.ecclestonstmaryschurch.org and Eccleston Post Office.

Blackrod Village, Greater Manchester BL6 5EN. Contact: 01204 691575

Farmers Market Sat, July 1 & Sat, August 5, 10am – 4pm Cedar Farm’s Farmers Market produce includes local beef, pork, lamb, Lancashire haggis, black puddings, cheeses, pies, flowers, fruit and veg, homemade chocolates, wine, cakes and much more. All undercover and free parking! Why not make a day of it and visit the Cedar Farm Cafe for lunch, the menu is mainly, but not exclusively vegetarian with the emphasis on homemade dishes from locally sourced ingredients, lovingly prepared by our chefs. Cedar Farm, Back Lane, Mawdesley, Ormskirk, L40 3SY. Contact: mel.gaskell@gmail.com

Ladies’ Fashion Show Tuesday, July 4, 7.30pm Chorley & District MS Society event. There will be at least 50% off ex-High Street fashion which can be bought after the show, tickets cost £5. St Joseph’s Parish Centre, Harpers Lane, Chorley, PR6 0HR. Contact: 0300 365 0014 or email chorleyms@gmail.com

Ladies Day

St Mary’s Church, Eccleston, Towngate, Eccleston, PR7 5QG. Contact: 01257 451863

The King Returns Saturday, July 8 – Sunday, July 9, 10am 2017 is the 400th Anniversary of the visit of King James I of England to Hoghton Tower and in July this will be celebrated by a weekend of re-enactments, celebrations, music and more! Visitors to the event will be able to see and experience what a visit of a King in the 1600’s would have looked and felt like. Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, Preston, PR5 0SH. Contact: 01254852986

Adlington Carnival Friday, July 7 – Sunday, July 9 Join the fun at the annual 3-day Adlington Carnival. This is a family friendly weekend bursting with events, stalls, food and more. Events are happening all over so make sure you check the website to find out more! Contact: adlingtoncarnival.com

Picnic Brass Sunday, July 9, 1pm – 3.15pm

This is an exuberant comedy about four likely lasses from the Hull fish docks on a day trip to the races.

Bring along your picnic, set your blanket on the ground and enjoy the music of local brass bands. An afternoon combining traditional brass sounds and the historic and beautiful surroundings of Haigh Woodland Park. A great family event.

Wigan Little Theatre, Crompton Street, Wigan, WN1 3SL. Contact: 01942 242561.

Haigh Hall Country Park, School Ln, Wigan WN2 1PE. Contact: facebook.com/haighwoodlandpark

Wednesday, July 5 – Saturday, July 15, 7.30pm

Euxton Summer Fair

Music on The Green

Sunday, July 9, 1.30pm – 5.30pm

Saturday, July 22, 7pm – 11pm

Enjoy the family friendly Euxton Summer Fair, there will be something for everyone with homemade craft stalls and event interactive stalls to keep the kids entertained. Even if it’s raining this event is indoors so don’t miss out.

An open air ‘Live’ music night with Exceptional live covers band ‘Doolittle’ - a magical journey through timeless ‘Rock and Pop’. Bring along Gazebos, tables & chairs plus food and drink. Tickets £8 available from Mawdesley Spar or pay on the gate.

Euxton Parish Church Community Centre, Wigan Road, Euxton, Chorley PR76J

Mawdesley Millennium Green, Hurst Green, Mawdesley, L40 2QT. Contact: 01704 822550 or 07870 428953

Into The Woods Wed, July 12 – Sat, July 15, 7.30pm – 10pm Chorley Youth Theatre present Stephen Sondheim’s fairytale musical, in which red riding hood, Cinderella and Prince Charming embark on a quest for the village baker. Ticket prices vary. Chorley Little Theatre, Dole Lane, Chorley, PR7 2RL. Contact: 01257 264362

Farmers Market Sunday, July 16 & Sunday, August 20, 10am – 2pm A celebration of fresh ingredients grown or reared locally. Farmers and growers are joined by bakers, confectioners and craftsmen and women to make it a great day out. It is a mecca for locals in the know so come and see what it is all about! Hoghton Tower, Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, Preston, PR5 0SH. Contact: 01254852986

As You Like It Saturday, July 22, 6pm – 9pm Join the Handlebards all-female troupe for a bicyclepowered production of a Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ like no other. In usual Expect riotous amounts of energy, a fair old whack of chaos, and a great deal of laughter. Rufford Old Hall, 200 Liverpool Road, Rufford, L40 1SG. Contact: 01704 821254

Manchester Jazz Festival Friday, July 28 – Sunday, August 6 Manchester Jazz Festival is celebrated for its diverse and inviting mix of musical cultures and its adventurous approach to creative music-making, bringing together local, national and international artists of many backgrounds. With events across Manchester the week of music is not to be missed.

The Secret Garden

Find out more at: manchesterjazz.com

Sunday, July 16, 5.30pm

Chorley Flower Festival

Experience an enchanting outdoor theatre performance in Astley Park’s Walled Garden of The Secret Garden. Pack a picnic, some camping chairs and get family and friends together for Heartbreak Productions’ beautiful performance of the Frances Hodgson Burnett novel, The Secret Garden. The Walled Garden at Astley Park, Off Hallgate, Chorley PR7 1NP. Contact: eventbrite.co.uk

Saturday, July 29 – Sunday, July 30, 10am – 5pm There will be all your favourite attractions returning with a wider variety of horticultural displays and trade stands. They are also working on a number of exciting new additions too. Astley Hall, Chorley chorleyflowershow.com

PR7

1XA.

Contact:

Picnic Brass

Welly Walk

Sunday, July 30, 1pm – 3.15pm

Thursday, August 3, 10am – 11.30am

An afternoon combining traditional brass sounds in the beautiful surroundings of Haigh Woodland Park.

Search the sea edge for jiggly jelly fish and their friends. Wellies essential! Ideal for 4 to 8 year olds. £3.00 per child, normal admission charges apply.

Haigh Hall Country Park, School Lane, Wigan WN2 1PE. Email: facebook.com/haighwoodlandpark

Summer Fair Sunday, July 30, 1.30pm – 5.30pm There will be a variety of stalls and entertainment for the whole family. It’s free entry for all! Buckshaw Village Community Centre, Unity Place, Buckshaw Village, Chorley, PR7 7HZ.

The British Pageant Tues, Aug 1 – Sat, Aug 12 (Excluding Aug 6 & 7) Over 300 actors, dancers and singers bring letters, diaries and histories of Victorian Britain to life. Enjoy the pre-show Country Fair too. All tickets are free. The Pageant Theatre, Temple Way, Chorley, PR6 9AF. Contact: ldsbritishpageant.co.uk

National Trust Formby, Victoria Road, Formby, L37 1LJ. Contact: 01704 874949

Pride and Prejudice Sunday, August 6, 7pm – 9.30pm Brought to life by award winning writer Laura Tuner, this brand-new adaptation promises to be the most splendid evening of the summer. Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, Lancashire PR5 0SH. Contact: 01254 852 986

Wind in the Willows Sunday, August 20, 3pm – 5pm Alive with music and song, this magical family show is presented in beautiful traditional costume. Botany Bay, Canal Mill, Botany Brow, Lancashire PR6 9AF. Contact: 01254 852 986

COOPERS TAXIS

SAFE - CLEAN - RELIABLE Coopers Taxis have available: • 16 seat minibus with free hi-speed Wifi • Large fleets of 6 & 8 seaters • Large fleet of cars & executive cars

Easy ways to book and pay:

Great Selection of Vintage & New Guitars One-to-One Music Lessons, Guitar Set-Ups & Repairs

Gift Vouchers Available

01257 261666 01257 266666

Tel: 07590 984773

Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre, Wood Lane, Heskin PR7 5PA

www.blackstonemusic.co.uk

Food & Drink

By Jeananne Craig

Family first at

“I

mealtimes

f you want an honest answer, ask a toddler.

They’ll make their feelings known, loud and clear - which means product tasting sessions at baby food brand Ella’s Kitchen can get pretty messy. “If they love it, you can really tell. And if they don’t like it, they’ll throw it on the floor or the walls,” says Paul Lindley, who founded the organic firm in 2006 as an alternative to the “invariably orange” and not very eye-catching jars of baby food available when his own daughter, Ella, was small. With its handy pouches and colourful, quirky packaging, the small start-up proved a hit with parents and little ones, and is now the biggest baby food business in the UK and sold in 40 countries. Now, the fourth Ella’s Kitchen book - The Easy Family Cookbook - has hit the shelves. A collection of recipes from a company best known for preprepared food might sound like a contradiction, but Lindley insists it’s all about striking a balance.

fun as there is on flavour and nourishment, with ‘Can I help?’ tips on how young children can get stuck into the cooking, and games to play.

“We never say you should have Ella’s Kitchen and nothing else. In fact we know most of our customers do a mix. They have home-made food and on occasion, whether things are running late or they’re running low in the cupboard, or whatever, then there’s an alternative they can trust.”

the process,” says Lindley.

The book includes all sorts of colourful recipes, from dunkable cheesy broccoli fritters and sunset jerk chicken, to seaside fish with creamy corn dip and sticky sesame bananas. But there’s just as much emphasis on eating together and making mealtime

“If you involve children in food, however old they are, they’re more likely to eat it. Even if it’s, ‘Let’s make a shopping list together’, or, ‘Let’s find it in the shop together’. Even just stirring, they’re involved in It is important that you find the time, not only for your own memories and family time, but actually for your child’s development and social skills, to eat together.” Fancy trying some new recipes with your family? Here are three from The Easy Family Cookbook to have a go with...

Ella’s Kitchen: The Easy Family Cookbook is published by Hamlyn, priced £14.99.

Elvis Tribute Night

7.30pm, Saturday, 23rd September

Starring Kirk Kreole, plus local DJ Allan 11 Course Banquet Meal

STARTERS: Pappadum * Pickle Tray * Shish Kebab Hoppers * Special Pakora * Chicken Mushia MAIN COURSE: South Indian Murghi Balti * Lamb Monsoor Fish & Aloo Chef’s Curry * Rice * Naan Vege/alternative dishes also available, please ask for details.

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.

Tickets Only £25 (£22 when paying in full when booking or £10 deposit on £25 tickets) Group booking available, 4 people minimum

Weekly Special Offers Monday-Friday 5.30 – 7.30 3 course only £9.50 Sundays 1.00 – 8.00 12 Course Banquet only £12.00 Book today to avoid disappointment

61 Church Street, Blackrod, BL6 5EE

01204 66 9000

sagarrestaurant.co.uk

01704 807 330 29, Liverpool Road North, Burscough, L40 5TN oldpackethouse.co.uk

Rainbow Lamb & Couscous Salad

Serves 4 Ingredients 60g couscous 4tbsp flaked almonds (optional) 1tbsp olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 carrots, peeled and cut into ribbons or coarsely grated 1 courgette, cut into ribbons or coarsely grated 175g leftover roast lamb (or other roast meat), cut into thin strips 4 radishes, thinly sliced 6 ready-to-eat dried dates, roughly chopped A handful of chopped mint A handful of chopped coriander For the dressing:

Method Put the couscous in a bowl, pour in just-boiled water to cover, put a plate on top and leave for five minutes to absorb the water and until the grains are tender. Fluff up with a fork. Meanwhile, mix together all the ingredients for the dressing, adding the cumin seeds, if using, and set aside. Toast the almonds, if using, in a large, dry frying pan for two minutes, or until starting to turn golden. Chop finely for young children. Heat a splash of oil in the frying pan over a medium heat. Add the onion and fry for five minutes, until soft. Stir in the carrots, courgette and lamb and heat for five minutes.

3tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Tip into the bowl with the couscous, add the radishes, dates and herbs and combine gently.

Finely grated rind and juice of 1 lemon

Pour over the dressing and combine again.

1 garlic clove, crushed

Sprinkle with the almonds, if using, and serve warm or at room temperature.

1tsp cumin seeds (optional)

Carnival Curry & Sunshine Rice

Method Serves 4 Ingredients 1 onion, coarsely grated 2 large garlic cloves, coarsely grated 2.5cm piece of fresh root ginger, peeled and grated 1tsp mild cayenne pepper 400g diced chicken breast 200g brown basmati rice 2tsp turmeric 2tbsp coconut or sunflower oil 1 red pepper, deseeded and chopped 200g peeled and deseeded butternut squash, cut into bite-sized chunks 200ml coconut milk 200ml reduced-salt chicken stock 1 heaped tbsp tomato puree Juice of 1 lime A handful of chopped coriander leaves (optional) Green vegetables, to serve

Mix half the onion, half the garlic, half the ginger and the cayenne in a shallow dish. Add the chicken and turn to coat. Cover with clingfilm and marinate in the fridge for one hour. Put the rice in a saucepan and cover with 400ml of water. Bring to the boil, stir in half the turmeric, then reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Leave the rice to stand for five minutes. Meanwhile, make the curry. Heat the oil in a saucepan and add the remaining onion, garlic and ginger, and the red pepper, cover with a lid and cook for five minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the squash, coconut milk, stock, tomato puree, lime juice and remaining turmeric and cook for five minutes, stirring. Add the chicken and the marinade and cook for five minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve sprinkled with coriander, if using, and with the yellow rice and green veggies. If the grown-ups fancy more chilli heat, separate out the little portions, then stir through half to one teaspoon more cayenne pepper, just before plating up for adults.

sponsored by

Penwortham P

erhaps the biggest advantage of walking over other means of transport is that it allows - nay forces - you to re-evaluate any firmly-held preconceptions about an area. I’m not ashamed to say that, having spent three years at university in Preston, I had a few, mostly involving rain, urban sprawl and traffic jams. This, I realise now, was entirely my own fault, because if I’d ventured further than just the well-worn path between the train station and the uni’s Greenbank Building, where scribes of the future learn how to write ironic and witty prose, then I’d have spent the last 15 years being much more positive about the place. For instance, I never realised just how stunning Avenham Park is, or how the River Ribble has an

by David Sudworth

almost European feel. But more of that later. We started our walk just outside the city boundary in Penwortham, at the free car park on Hill Road (PR1 9XH). At this point, it’s worth noting that if you fancy cycling this route, then that is also an option, as it consists of an excellent network of paths. Turn right out of the car park and then almost immediately turn right again down Valley Road. After a few minutes it bears off to the right. Keep right and head up to the bridge which goes over the A582. From the bridge, simply head straight on until you can see a main road in front of you. This is the B5254 Leyland Road. Cross the road and after a minute or so, you’ll come to a sharp left, Holme Road. This is a straight track and the place

59 where you’ll get the first glimpse of the Ribble. It’s tempting to start snapping straight away but trust me, there’ll be plenty of better opportunities later on. Eventually, you’ll meet the A59 Liverpool Road. Turn right and head over the river. This is the point you start to appreciate just how wide and tidal the Ribble is. At the time we visited, in the early afternoon, the tide was out so the rock bed was very visible. Once across, turn right onto Broadgate. If, like me, you are a sucker for architecture, then this is the stretch for you. Built at a time of great prosperity for Preston, it offered the burgeoning, new middle classes views of the river but that doesn’t mean they skimped on the detail. The fantastic Georgian properties have been retained pretty much in their original state, and the area as a whole is all the better for it. It’s not hard to imagine what it was like down here 120 years ago. Carry on along Broadgate until you come to the next bridge, and head back over. This particular crossing is, if you have a bit of time, an opportunity to get really arty with your camera. The cobbles and old-style street lamps, with the spire of Penwortham Methodist Church in the near distance, mean this is

crying out to be used as a location for one of those BBC period dramas. Back on the south side of the Ribble, we turn left and stride down Riverside Road. Again, there are some fine examples of period property in this part, before it transforms into a river side pathway. Almost immediately, the splendid North Union Railway Bridge viaduct comes into view. Built between 1835 and 1838, these days it carries West Coast Main Line trains. Amazing to believe that 177 years after coming into operation, this bridge is still an integral part of our transport system, as well as being of significant architectural merit. Our next crossing point takes us to yet another old bridge, one which has been closed since 1972. The East Lancs Railway Bridge ran to Bamber Bridge, but now allows pedestrians and cyclists across. Before you get onto it though, you have to go underneath it, bear right and then follow the path back on yourself by going up the banking. Once on the bridge, the original barriers between rail and pedestrian sides are still there and, again, you are afforded excellent views We now find ourselves at Avenham Park/Miller Park, which melt into each other. I can’t help thinking that Prestonians are being canny in not broadcasting

60 this too much to the outside world. It is, without doubt, one of the most regal parks I have ever seen. At times, it feels like you are in a National Trust property. Designed and built in the 1860s, it’s an English Heritage Grade II listed attraction boasting a number of historical structures, as well as a lovely Japanese Garden. There’s also a modern cafe, where we stopped for a cappuccino (£2.30) and a bag of crisps (£1.20). I could write pages about the park,

but nothing does it justice more than seeing it in real life. Heading eastwards, we walk down the tree-lined path towards the Old Tram Bridge. This isn’t, in fact, the original Tram Bridge, but a concrete replica of the wooden bridge which was pulled down in the 1960s. In its heyday, the bridge was used to transport coal and other goods from Walton Summit. These goods were then loaded on to barges and sent to Lancaster and Kendal. With all this, it’s easy to overlook the river itself. Apparently, it is an incredibly important waterway for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The first Mormon baptisms took place in the Ribble in 1837 and, to this day Preston remains the home of the oldest branch of Mormons anywhere in the world. Once over the bridge, it’s a dead straight path until you get about 10-15 minutes in (depending on your walking speed) when you veer off right down Factory Lane. This snakes south-westwards until you get to a gate. At this point, turn right, following the sign for Penwortham. This takes you underneath the West Coast Mainline and eventually brings you out on the B5254 opposite Penwortham Fire Station. Turn left, going past the church on your left and the petrol station on your right until you get to a mini roundabout. Ahead, you’ll see the entrance for Middleforth Green park. Follow the path across until you get to the main road (Marshalls Brow). Turn right and then make a left at Hill Road South. You’ll pass a primary school on your left and then, across the road, there’s a path which connects to Hill Road across the A582. Once over, it’s only a matter of minutes before you’re back at the car park. There is much to commend this four mile walk. The history, the architecture, the landscape and the fact that half way round there is the chance for a cuppa. Whether you tackle this walk by foot or bicycle, it’ll give you a new perspective on the North West’s newest city. I spent three hours there and not only did the rain stay off, but I saw no urban sprawl or any traffic jams. Preston, my old sparring partner, you did yourself proud today...

Preston

Avenham Park Earl of Derby Statue

ble

ad Holme Ro

River Rib

l Ro

erp Liv

Cafe

River R

ibble

ad l Ro

Hil

Tramway

Le y

lan

Mainline

Car Park 54

B52

Postcode: PR1 9XH

West Coast

ll Va

Penwortham Bridge

Lower Penwortham

Hurst Grange Park

Hil

l Ro

lls

a rch

Sou

w Bro

B52

Middleforth Green

Factory Lane

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.

Test Drive

Ford

Grand C-Max by Tim Barnes-Clay

Ford’s Grand C-Max is a car designed to carry up to seven people safely and comfortably. It’s got all the things that make life easier. Things such as sliding rear doors that mean the children can get in or out without bashing the doors on walls or other cars. What’s more, the Grand C-Max is roomy inside, with a smart setup that enables the centre chair in the second row to fold beneath one of the other seats, leaving a space to walk through. I should add, the Grand C-Max Ford loaned me was the Titanium X 2.0 TDCi 150PS Powershift. Basically, I was handed the top of the range version - the one with all the bells and whistles. However, whether you get the entry level or the top level Grand C-Max, its function is the same – it’s a car that’ll hold lots of people. Granted, the third row of seats are tucked away for most of the time in the boot floor, and even though they’re only for kids, they’re still very handy. There’s also a ‘normal’ Ford C-Max, which is a spacious five-seater - so don’t feel

63 you must go for the ‘Grand’ version. On test, I didn’t need to use the third row all that much, so the two spare seats often remained where they were. This was no bad thing, as without the third tier of seats in operation, the boot stays big. With the seats up, the load area is only good for about three bags of shopping, but with them down, you can knock yourself out filling it up. Not literally, you understand. Standard equipment on the Ford Grand C-Max is generous. It includes Ford’s Quickclear windscreen, sports-style seats, air conditioning and DAB radio. Upgrade to the flagship Titanium X trim and you get a panoramic sunroof, bi-xenon headlights, a partial leather interior, heated front seats, dualzone climate control, rear parking sensors, and keyless start and entry. There’s also Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system, with an easy-to-read eightinch touchscreen. But the best thing is that the Grand C-Max is a surprisingly good drive. I say ‘surprising’ because I was a man who used to dislike MPVs because of their apparent dearth of dynamism. The 2.0 TDCi 150PS Powershift model is smooth and has lots of low down shove. It works particularly well with the six-speed automatic transmission. In fact, it doesn’t drive like a bus – it behaves just like a decent 2.0 litre turbo diesel car should do. What’s more, it holds the road well, feeling planted on motorways and through twisty sections of tarmac. It’s also got a cheeky punch to it, with the Titanium X 2.0 TDCi 150PS Powershift variant able to do 0-62mph in 10.7 seconds. It’s efficient, too, consistently doing mid to late 40s real-world mpg.

EURO DIESEL Service & Diagnostics Centre

Driving down the cost of motoring • MOT’s Only £30 • Servicing From £45+VAT • Repairs • Diagnostics

Don’t delay book today!

01257 230195 - Open: Mon – Fri 8.30 – 5.30 & Sat 8.30 - 1.00 Unit 10 Duke Motors Complex Off Bolton Rd, Chorley, PR7 3DY

Fast Facts • 0-62 mph: 10.7 secs • Combined mpg: 56.5 • Engine layout: 1997cc 4-cylinder turbo diesel • Max. power (PS): 150 • CO2: 129 g/km • Price: £28,865

So, I’ve got to say, as a dad-of-three, I’m impressed. In fact, I’m seriously considering buying the Ford Grand C-Max now I’ve lived with it for a while. I just might not be able to dig deep enough for the flagship version.

Car Paintwork Repairs

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

Decorators, plumbers, builders... Wood floor restoration. GivinG old floors

a neW lease of life. • DUST FREE wooD FlooR SanDing anD SEaling. • all DomESTic / commERcial wooD FlooRS RESToRED. • all coaTingS anD FiniShES ExpERTly appliED anD UnDERwRiTTEn by a 2 yEaR manUFacTURER’S waRRanTy. • appRovED FoR pallmann & JUnckERS FlooR FiniShES. call US now FoR a FREE no obligaTion qUoTaTion on:

07714 439 813/ 0800 852 7177

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

Digital Aerials fully fitted from just

£59!

oR Email: inFo@1STopFlooRcaRE.co.Uk WWW.1stopfloorcare.co.uk

Double Glazing Repair Specialist Domestic & Commercial

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

CCTV Installations from £295 Call now for a FREE, no obligation quote!

07817 807 960 / 01257 453 133

www.qualitv.co.uk

www.cgsglazing.co.uk

AR E YE NTE 0 1 RA A GU

Heat Pumps

embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working

LED Lighting

with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding

...and general Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...

Energy Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Savings Same Day Service, Safety Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced

es Lash Tan y Spra ils eds Sunb & Gel Na ic Acryl

Dennis Goulding A49

Mossy Lea Road

Book Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6FREE 9RS your home survey VICING SER Telephone: 01257 000 and we’ll VAN provide 427 toowith you a cycles CAR & detailed motorreport showing the (Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)

Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon

...andreturns available

from your www.dglwindows.co.uk

Slash your electricity and water heating bill

Protect your household from future energy price rises ReduceE your household’s impact on the environment

X (10% typical return) Call H us now A k ChecVisit our showroom at T Car84 Health U or Unit 4a, rton dio Cricket Street Business Park Brethe Y n and S @ Stu Miry Lane, Crosto of off 7PG Wigan. e WN5 R for all residents WN6 Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk need me! T 7TP , Billing you 400 Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk - 6PM Road 4 619 ford ESaturday 10AMKeep me until : 0781 Check S hone : 84 Rain Health 7PM, Car Open Telep 10AM yS FREE , Fridayay & Sunda now on Book your A5209

Natalie

Shevington

FREE

own solar panels

J27

Standish

Call

esday Thursd ay, Wedn Closed

ay, Tuesd

Mond

TwinLakesMotorE

ngineers

0843 224 9555 07595 420237

01772

REPAIR

603923

DING & WEL

C S BELFIELD

All types of Joinery & Property Repairs Doors Flooring UPVC Windows Home Improvements & maintenance Established over 35 years No job too small T

01257 452036

07746 946086

charlesbelfield@ymail.com

Wind Turbines

B5250

LocalLife

money is the clear beneﬁt!

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

0 lly £2

Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and

UPVC CLEANING

Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories, Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold DoorsSaving

For more information call

01257 498 329

CLE

l Geails N £15

20% OFF N

Flyers, postcards, brochures and distribution service.

Design & Print

AG E S

I N G PA

• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.

CONSERVATORIES

• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning) • Glass roofs / Orangeries

JETWASHING

• Driveways & Patios etc.

ROOF CLEANING

• Moss Removal (No Jet washing/no mess) • NEW Soft Wash Cleaning

Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.

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

Our Readers Your Customers Promote your business to 75,000 potential customers with this size advertisement from just

£35 + VAT

(Includes free artwork service).

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@ian mawdesl eyelectric al.com

Ideal for cleaning services, chimney sweeps, builders, plumbers, central heating tecnicians, electricians, painters and other home services

LocalLife

01257 498329 or email sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

Totall Property Maintenance & 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

Home Improvements

Specialist in Kitchens, Windows, Doors & Floors

T.G.M. Joinery Services

Internal & External • Free Estimates • No Job Too Small

T: 01257 411 473 M: 07870 922 639

Bryant Park

CONSTRUCTION

• Domestic and Commercial Building Contractor. • Planning and design drawings professionally prepared. • Extending or converting? Create the extra living / working space you need.

25 years experience • 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

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

Flyers, postcards, brochures and distribution service.

l Geails N 5

Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories, Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold DoorsSaving

For more information call

01257 498 329 LocalLife

Wind Turbines

money is the clear beneﬁt!

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

0 lly £2

Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and

w£

Heat Pumps

embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that

cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding

LED Lighting

...and general Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...

Energy Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Savings Same Day Service, Safety Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced

es Lash Tan y Spra ils eds Sunb & Gel Na ic Acryl

Dennis Goulding Mossy Lea Road

ALL PROPERTY REPAIRS LARGE OR SMALL

Design & Print A49

www.darrenfinneybuilders.co.uk

www.bryantparkconstruction.co.uk

B5250

Email: darrenfinney@msn.com

Tel: 01257 251 534 Mob: 07973 143 289

A5209

Natalie

Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon

...andreturns available

from your www.dglwindows.co.uk

EE FR 84

own solar panels

J27

Standish

esday Thursd ay, Wedn Closed

Unit 4a, Cricket Street Business Park off Miry Lane, Wigan.

TwinLakesMotorE

Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk need WN6 you T 7TP Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk me until Check

Health FREE Car Book your Call now on

ay, Tuesd

Mond

Call H us now

0843 A224 9555 U rton n and Brethe 07595S 420237 of Crosto residents me!

k ChecVisit our showroom at Health

7PG e WN5 for all , Billing 400 - 6PM Road 4 619 ford ay 10AMKeep : 0781 Saturd hone : 84 Rain - 7PM, Open Telep 10AM y

R E S , Fridayay & Sunda

Slash your electricity and water heating bill

Protect your household from future energy price rises ReduceE your household’s impact on the environment

(10% typical return)

Car dio Y @ Stu Shevington

ngineers

01772

REPAIR

603923

DING & WEL

Puzzle Solutions

1 5 8 6 4 3 2 9 7

6 9 2 8 7 5 3 4 1

4 3 7 1 2 9 6 5 8

9 4 6 3 8 1 5 7 2

2 8 3 9 5 7 4 1 6

5 7 1 4 6 2 8 3 9

8 6 9 5 1 4 7 2 3

7 1 5 2 3 8 9 6 4

3 2 4 7 9 6 1 8 5

CARTOGRAPHER

MAP

SUBJECT

PRICE

SENEX DESBARRES BOWEN

1713 1767 1749

EASTERN EUROPE RUSSIA SCOTLAND

£1900 £175 £300

WIGGLE WORDS: MAKE A PIGS EAR OF IT

Want to promote your company in Local Life? Roof & Gutter Repairs Call Lisa: 01257 498 329 - Chorley 01695 627 999 - West Lancs locallife247.co.uk

LocalLife 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

AJH DECORATORS Painting and Decorating Quality work assured Over 30 years experience Free quotes

Mob: 07784 876 338 Email: ajhdecorators@sky.com Quality work at a competitive price

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

T: 01257 453741 M: 07842 716156

586651

• • • • •

Boiler installations Boiler service & repair Bathroom installations 24 hour emergency call out No job too small, no job too large

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

Accredited Installer & Ser vice Partner

Complete Bathroom Installations All aspects of plumbing work undertaken Call Liam today for a free quote

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

• 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

WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!

Telephone:

Plumbing and Heating • Energy efficient upgrades • Installations • Servicing • Emergencies • Repairs • Maintenance

01257 421 660 Registration No.

TEL:

88604

MOB:

01942 504 429 07515 505 501

www.fgwelch.co.uk

Free quotations and advice Tel: 01254 433458 (Brinscall) Mob: 07816 075434 Email:

jvenergysolutionsukltd@gmail.com

Want to promote your company in Local Life? Call Lisa: 01257 498 329 - Chorley 01695 627 999 - West Lancs locallife247.co.uk

LocalLife

Over 40 Lancashire

walks

FREE to download at locallife247.co.uk LocalLife

Transform your home with a brand new driveway Resin Driveways

Summer

Savings Now On! Save The VAT!

Made in Lancashire Established over 25 years

Tarmac Driveways

J.P.Surfacing jp-surfacing.co.uk

42, Seymour Road, Astley Bridge, Bolton, BL1 8PT

01204 590 499

Love your

lawn

by Angie Barker

f you are looking to revamp your garden but don’t want to spend a fortune – a simple trick is to re-shape your lawn. Your sward does not have to resemble a football pitch either to instantly look better with a new shape and the edges defined.

Award Winner

Consider installing a brick mowing edge to give further definition and to stop plants which outgrow their border space from spilling out over the lawn and killing off the grass.

It is amazing what a difference it can make to your garden space. First of all consider what shape would best suit your plot. A circular lawn makes a real statement and adds movement, drawing the eye. They are great for small gardens because they make the space feel larger. Curves are good for creating a calming feel in the garden and for dealing with slopes. Don’t be tempted though to make the curves too tight as they can make the garden look fussy – go for sweeping curves which will also be easier to mow. Straight lines can form bold geometric patterns which are more suited to a contemporary style but can look equally as good. Square stepping stones laid through turf can be a practical but eye catching way of navigating from one part of the garden to another and children love them. If you have a wide but narrow plot, try shaping the lawn so that the grass gets narrower as it gets further away from the house. It creates the illusion that the garden is actually longer than it is – nifty!

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.

So give it a try – and if you have a spare corner in the garden somewhere, perhaps at the back of a border, you can stack the turf you’ve removed and after a few months it will rot down and can be returned to the garden as good top soil. I have to admit I am a curvy kind of girl (Hubby wants me to point out that I am talking about our lawn and not my shape) as I find curves allow me to squeeze in extra plants – yes I have to admit - I love my lawn.

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

Award Winner