Local Life - Ormskirk & Aughton - Feb/Mar 2013 by Local Life 247 Ltd

Ormskirk & Aughton Edition

! e e r F

Feb/Mar 2013

Half Term Fun at Rufford Old Hall

Grow Yer Own gardening feature Photograph ® Catherine Hazley

Jack’s Tracks visits Haigh

Saving Money

With TV’s Martin Lewis

www.locallife247.co.uk

Problems with loose or uncomfortable dentures? Aughton Dental Practice Denture Clinic Free initial consultation with no obligation. Aughton Dental Practice is a mixed Private/NHS practice and we are now offering a new Private Clinic specially for people who are having problems with their dentures. The options for treatment will be discussed with you at your FREE CONSULTATION appointment. New Problem Denture Clinic • Experienced Dental Professionals • Mr Marcus Massey GDC No: 151810 • Mrs Jacqueline James GDC No: 50433 • Self referral and referrals welcome from dentists Mr Massey has many years experience in making dentures in his own laboratory and also does all the clinical work. He has been helping patients at Aughton Dental Practice for over a year. Mrs James can stabilise your dentures with implants, if required. Mrs James has been providing oral surgery services at this surgery, including implants, for over 10 years.

Aughton Dental Practice 27 Bold Lane, Aughton Ormskirk L39 6SG

Tel: 01695 424266 Email: aughtondental@btconnect.com Web: aughtondentalpractice.co.uk

New Free Clinic Ring now on 01695 424266 for a FREE consultation with Clinical Dental Technician, Mr Marcus Massey, and Specialist in Oral Surgery, Mrs Jacqueline James.

All you need is love!

In this issue

Those who know me probably won’t be surprised to hear that Valentine’s Day is way down in my list of Top Days of the Year, languishing behind memorable days such as Pay Days, Christmas, Easter, Father’s Day, FA Cup final day, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, every ‘magazine goes to press’ day and many other days too. However, strictly in the name of research, I asked around the oﬃce to get a feel from my female colleagues exactly what Valentine’s Day means to them.

£10,000 offer from Dorbcrest Homes!

20% off all Rooﬂine!

Cashew Chicken Recipe

Jack’s Tracks visits Haigh

Saving Money with Martin Lewis

Test Drive – the Honda DTEC

Half term fun at Rufford Old Hall

Angie Barker’s Garden Diary

Almost to a woman, they concurred that – yes, they are perfectly well aware that 14th February is possibly the tackiest and over hyped day of the year, and whatever gesture their other half makes matter not a jot if he/she a swine for the remaining 364 days of the year. However, woe betides the partner who doesn’t make at least a token eﬀort for Valentine’s Day, even if he/she is the most loving person ever for the rest of the year and is up for the Nobel Prize in 2013. So you’ve been told – the clock is ticking, so pop into the local shops or get on the blower to the numerous excellent eating places in West Lancashire to book a table for this Thursday! If my wife is reading this (and if she isn’t, I must remind her that she is contractually obliged to do so!) I wouldn’t turn my nose up at a new walking hat or some new secateurs! Fingers crossed! See you next time

Chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

Grow Yer Own!

Home Services

Useful Numbers

Publisher: Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB T 01695 627 999 @

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Sales & Editorial: Chris Pearce, Nicola Gray Design & Production: Peter Bretherton Accounts & Distribution: Sally Boon

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The March issue of Local Life will be published on Friday 8th March. The copy deadline is Monday 25th February. Local Life is published every month. The magazine will be distributed into the following edition areas on an alternate monthly basis. The Ormskirk & Aughton edition is delivered to 9,750 homes and businesses in Ormskirk, Aughton, Westhead, Halsall, Haskayne and Bickerstaffe. The Burscough & Villages edition is delivered to 8,000 homes and businesses in Burscough, Parbold, Croston, Rufford, Mawdesley, Scarisbrick, Bescar, Newburgh, Bretherton, Mere Brow and Holmeswood. You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life, on or around the second weekend of the month at Morrisons in Ormskirk, Tesco’s in Burscough or at farm shops in the West Lancs area. Alternatively, you can check out our online publication at www.locallife247.co.uk. 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.

When you receive the new edition of Local Life - remember to recycle the old one.

Cut out the waiting for a stunning new Dorbcrest home.

Luxurious 1 & 2 bedroom apartments from only £182,500

Up to £10,000 to spend on your new apartment!* For a limited period we’re giving you the opportunity to receive up to £10,000 to spend on your new home. Is it going to be new furniture, bespoke design or even help with your deposit? You decide!

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Marketing Suite and Show Homes open Thurs to Mon 10am - 5pm Visit www.dorbcresthomes.co.uk facebook.com/dorbcresthomes Find us on Prices and information believed to be correct at time of going to press and are subject to change without notice. Images are for illustrative purposes only. £10,000 is the maximum available and is subject to the purchase price of the property. Terms and conditions apply. Full details available upon request. No cash alternative will be given. For reservation prior to 31st March 2013.

A dream (home) come true... Occupying one of the most prestigious addresses in Ormskirk, The Old Grammar School is regarded across the North West as a development that offers some of the highest quality and distinctive homes around. And this trend is set to continue with the opening of Cramford and Cramlington House – a range of individual apartments which will be the final properties available on this sought after development. Cramford and Cramlington House are each set within private landscaped grounds and embody character, charm and allure. But our quality and attention to detail is not only in our build; you are guaranteed individuality and personal service every step of the way. And it is this that we believe sets us apart from mainstream house builders. This is what we call ‘The Dorbcrest Difference’ – but don’t just take our word for it... Neil Boyle has been the proud owner of his penthouse apartment at Ormskirk Grammar School for nearly three years. He proclaims every aspect of his purchase not only met, but exceeded his expectations throughout, and he continues to be delighted. “For me, it wasn’t just about the price. The build quality and the service were equally as important - and the location of course! They made the buying process so much nicer and so much easier. They are simply a great company to deal with.” Neil wasn’t just looking for an apartment he was looking for a home, something that offered space and style, but also low maintenance. He recalls how impressed his guests would be when they arrived for the first time. “Is this all yours?’ they would say, always taken aback by the scale of the rooms. Although it is just two bedrooms, it really is a grand place, really large and spacious.”

Sales manager Adele morey celebrates with proud owner Neil Boyle

As a family company founded on integrity and flexibility, we pride ourselves on ensuring your new home realises your own vision, and on making sure every detail is perfect for you. With our bespoke design options and our flexible approach, we will work closely with you to ensure every aspect of your new home is exactly as you desire. Working alongside Neil was no exception to this. “I was involved and able to make layout and design choices at every stage, from the design of my kitchen and bathroom, even down to the finer details like my tiles, my work surfaces and even the colour of my walls – nothing was too much trouble for them. I am a particularly fussy person and I can say the quality of the work and finish was outstanding.” 39-year-old Neil has been so impressed with the build, the service and the location that he has gone on to recommend the development and Dorbcrest Homes to his friends.

“After my experience, I would say to anyone buy with Dorbcrest purely for their personal and flexible approach. They are a friendly, professional and personal company to deal with and you know you are assured quality on the design and finish. Above all, you are an individual buyer - not just a number.” Each and every one of our Dorbcrest homes is Beautifully Built. Fulfilling our promise on style and quality is our priority, just as it was for Neil - and there’s still time for you to enjoy this for yourself with Cramford and Cramlington House at The Old Grammar School.

AT THE OlD GrAmmAr SCHOOl, ruFF lANE, OrmSkIrk l39 4QY TEL: 01695 580720 or 07909 523950

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Happy Birthday! Local Life celebrates our 5th birthday later this year. First produced from a bedroom in Orrell, the company recently moved ½ mile onto the Hewitt Business Park in Orrell, and we now produce three magazines which are delivered to over 67,000 homes over a two month period in Wigan, St Helens and West Lancs.

Half Term Activities For a half term outing guaranteed to wow your child, look no further than Martin Mere in Burscough. Their Swan Spectaculars take place every day at 10.30am and 3pm at the Swan Link Hide and 10.45am and 3.30pm in the Raines Observatory. The swan feeds were Highly Commended in the Lancashire and Blackpool Tourism Awards 2009/10 for the Best Visitor Experience award because of the way you can see and be up close to thousands of migratory birds. In addition to the swan feeds, the half term holidays bring a Camouflage theme and there is a selection of family activities around this theme, such as building a den and making masks. Family crafts will take place in the Pintail Room between 1pm and 4pm, there is an otter talk and feed at 11.30am and 2.30pm, a swan stroll to learn about the birds at 12.30pm and a guided walk of the waterfowl gardens at 1.15pm. For more details on what’s on at half term at Martin Mere, visit the website http://www.wwt.org.uk/visit/martin-mere

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To celebrate our anniversary, we have now made the leap feet first into social media; so please do come along and say hello! Search for ‘Local Life’ on Facebook or follow us @ LocalLifeMedia on Twitter. We’ll have exclusive competitions just for Facebook fans and Twitter followers, you’ll be the first to know when there’s a new Jack’s Tracks available, we’ll be telling you about forthcoming community events, keeping you up to date with the local news and letting you know what’s in the next magazine. We’ll also be keeping you up to date with special offers from our advertisers, so follow and friend us and you could save a few quid too!

Calling Community Groups Local Life needs your help in compiling a directory of community and sports groups for a new project that we’re launching in 2013. If you’re involved in any not-for-profit group from sports teams to knitting groups, from toddlers play to history societies, from quiz leagues to camera clubs, then we want just ten minutes of your time. In less than 100 words, email us details of your group to editorial@locallife247.co.uk. Don’t forget the basic necessities; what, where, when etc. You don’t have to give us more than the basics, but if you can, then please use this opportunity to let our readers know more about your club. If you have a logo, then please also email your logo as a separate attachment. Finally, don’t forget to include a contact number, contact email or website if possible. For those groups who don’t have access to email, then please write to Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB.

Bowled Over Holmeswood Bowling Club are looking for new blood to join them for the 2013 season. The club have Men’s and Ladies Teams in local Crown Green bowling leagues, as well as running club competitions in May, June, July and August. The bowling season runs from April to October, and the club have members of varying ages and standards, ranging from beginners to the more experienced. If you are interested in trying crown green bowls, even if you are a complete beginner, then give the club secretary a call on 01704 821663.

West Lancashire’s award-winning leisure, arts and retail complex in the heart of Burscough Village

Winner of the West Lancashire Design Awards and set on the Leeds Liverpool Canal, Burscough Wharf has so much to offer: • Arts and Crafts • Health and Beauty • Retail – ladies & mens clothing, gifts and florist • Food and Drink – tea room, tapas bar, restaurant, bakery, traditional sweet shop • Entertainment – cinema, theatre, comedy, live music and much, much more • A function room for hire, FREE parking, open daily from 10am until late Join us for our 2nd Birthday celebrations on 16th February including the return of Rails at Burscough model transport exhibition with free bus rides from the Wharf to and from Ormskirk. All this complimented by exciting and varied events in our courtyard makes Burscough Wharf the perfect venue for all the family, all year round. Burscough Wharf, Liverpool Road North, Burscough, Lancashire UK L40 5RZ Tel: 01695 576844 www.burscough-wharf.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

Hoops Fun For Saturday morning fun for your child, try out the Ormskirk Saints basketball, which takes place at St Bedes High School on Saturdays between 10am-11am (Under 11’s) and 11am -12.30pm (Over 12’s). Your child can learn how to pass, dribble and shoot and have lots of energetic fun! All coaches at the session are qualifies and have the relevant CRB checks. For more details, call Dave on 07507 857 562 or visit the website www.ormskirksaints.co.uk

Parbold Ramblers If you fancy exploring the surrounding Lancashire countryside this year in the company of like-minded people who enjoy open air and nice scenery, then do get in touch with Parbold & District Ramblers. The group, who have been established for 15 years, get together for a walk on the first Sunday of the month. The walks are over a variety of terrains and areas and are usually no more than eight miles long. For more detailed information contact Jimmy Kelly on 01257 463057 or Liz Foulds on 01257 462121, or just email parboldramblers@talktalk.net

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Deﬁb Appeal Although as many as 270 children die after suffering sudden cardiac arrest in British schools each year, there is no requirement for defibrillators to be kept on their premises. One Ormskirk school, the Ormskirk Church of England Primary School on Greetby Hill , is raising funds to buy a defibrillator for the school and there are a couple of events in February to support their fund raising drive. This Saturday (9th February), there’s a Valentine’s Craft Fair and Fun Afternoon at the Emmanuel Reformed Church on Derby Street in Ormskirk. The event runs

Time to get fit? Gain fitness and flexibility at Ormskirk Shotokan Karate Club Mondays 6:30pm & Fridays 6:00pm at Ormskirk School

Beginners welcome Call John on

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from 1.30-4.30pm, and special guests include Alice in Wonderland, accompanied by the Mad Hatter and Disney’s Mickey Mouse. Your child can have their photograph taken with the characters for a £2 donation (thanks to Moments of Bliss photography). Also at the event is a balloon animal workshop, a jewellery making workshop, hook a duck, face painting, glitter tattoos, and various other local craftspeople. Refreshments include hot dogs, bacon butties, tea and coffee, and admission is free. There’s a second free fund raising event in a fortnight’s time on Saturday 23rd February at the Guide Headquarters on Green Lane in Ormskirk. This Mother’s Day Craft Fair again runs from 1.30pm until 4.30pm. There will be craft stalls, a fine raffle that includes prizes from many local businesses, and stuff for kids to do as well. All profits from the event goes to helping locals kids stay alive, so do try and come along and support the events. Any donations for the raffle would be greatly appreciated – please email sarahsfundraising@live.com if you can help out.

Sing Out! A local male voice choir which celebrates its 40th anniversary next year is appealing for new members to join the group. The Aughton Male Voice Choir would like to hear from any male who is able to hold a tune and would like to enjoy the many benefits of membership of the Choir. If this interests you and you would like to give it a whirl, then make your way along to the Monday night rehearsals which start at 7.30pm at Aughton Village Hall.

Distributors Required Local Life requires distributors (13+) to deliver the magazine and associated leaflets around the Church Lane area and also in the Long Lane/Prescot Road area of Aughton. We also need a distributor for the small estate off Turnpike Road in Aughton. We are also looking for a distributor who lives in the Wigan Road area of Ormskirk, ideally on the Nightingale Walk estate. Distributors will work once every eight weeks for 2/3 hours. You must be fit, reliable and enthusiastic. If you’re interested, please email your name, address, contact number and date of birth to sallyb@locallife247.co.uk. Local Life also welcome applications from distributors in other areas for our waiting lists.

Get a mention! If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number to editorial@locallife247.co.uk

Modern & Traditional Headstones & Cremation Plaques High Quality guaranteed

For further information give Tony a call on 07919 446595 or visit the group’s website www.aughtonmvc.co.uk.

Free Quotations Additional Inscription and renovation work

Ormskirk Christadelphians .org.uk

Christadelphian Hall, Moorgate, Ormskirk.

February Sunday Bible talks at 1:45pm “What the Bible says about...” 3rd

...The Real Meaning of Life

10th

...Original Christianity

Call now for a free catalogue British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons

17th

...The Nature of God

24th

...The Return of Christ & You

Got a question about the Bible? Then come and “Ask Your BIG Questions” the first Saturday of the month 10:00am -12:00pm

www.locallife247.co.uk

Ormsby Memorials 542 Southport Road, Scarisbrick L40 9QQ (next to the Morris Dancers pub)

Telephone: 01704 880294 www.ormsby.co.uk

New Group

Tai Chi

All businesses are invited to the launch meeting of the first BforB Meeting in the Ormskirk area on Friday 1st March. This is a new breakfast group for local businesses to generate more sales by referral. The fortnightly meetings will be held at Hurlston Hall Golf Club and Country Club. BforB (Business for Breakfast) offers its members sector exclusivity so they will receive all the referrals in their group for this business type – though all businesses are welcome at the launch meeting. You’d best set your alarm clock though – the meeting runs from 6.45am-8.30am. You can book your £10 ticket on the group’s website; www.bforbsouthlancs.co.uk

If you’re feeling your age and beginning to rust up a bit, perhaps you should consider doing Tai Chi – a gentle form of exercise can prevent or ease many ills of ageing and could be the perfect activity for the rest of your life. Tai Chi is often described as meditation in motion and there is growing evidence that this mind-body practice, which originated in China as a martial art, has value in treating or preventing many health problems.

Charity Appeal A local charity shop has sent out an appeal for more volunteers to help out. The Cancer Research shop on Aughton Street in Ormskirk needs additional volunteers to fulfil a variety of roles to help to keep the shop running smoothly and to maximise their contribution to Cancer Research. If you’re interested in helping, just call into the shop for more details on how you can help.

Everything you need at Brookes Bistro Delicious Sunday Lunch with all the trimmings

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Tai Chi sessions are being held at Brookside Retirement Centre on Aughton Street in Ormskirk on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The Tuesday session runs from 10am11am and the Wednesday session from 7pm-8pm. For those who struggle to get there on those days, there’s also a session at Skelmersdale Cricket Club on Blaguegate Lane on Friday 10.30-11.30am. For more details on any of these sessions, please call 01695 322745 or email taichicircle@live.com.

Walk On Southport’s four Rotary Clubs - Southport, Links, Sunrise and Meols – are once again joining forces to organise the Walk4Charity, which will take place in the West Lancashire and Sefton area on Sunday 28th April. The walk, which has raised an astonishing £300,000 for various charities over the past 11 years, will start and finish at Lydiate Parish Hall on Southport Road. Walkers will have a choice of following a 6 mile long or an 8 mile long route, and can raise money for their chosen charity. There’s a registration fee of £7 for adults and £5 for children to cover the club’s administration fees and the Rotary Club are expecting numbers of between 300-500 walkers. For more information, please visit the website www.walk4charity.info

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Up for Arts BBC Radio Lancashire is looking for Creative Writing Groups of all types to feature in a brand new project called ‘Up For Arts’. ‘Up for Arts’ is a collaboration between BBC Radio Lancashire and Lancashire County Council and its aim is to inspire people in Lancashire to get creative by showcasing the wealth of arts and crafts talent and opportunities for involvement on offer across the county. A year-long calendar of events is planned, with the spotlight on a different art or craft each month during 2013, starting with Creative Writing in January and February. BBC Radio Lancashire are also looking for groups and organisers of creative writing events who wish their details to be included in their listings of Lancashire Arts groups, so that listeners who are keen to take part in creative writing events or join a local writing group can be signposted your way.

Wedding Fair The 2013 wedding season is already in full swing so make sure you don’t miss out on the spectacular Wedding Fayre at the Holiday Inn, Haydock from 12 noon on Sunday 24th February. Organisers have a great day in store for you all with ideas and inspiration galore and local wedding suppliers on hand to plan your most perfect wedding day. You will be treated to a glass of Bucks Fizz on arrival and there will also be a designer bridal and menswear catwalk shows at 2pm- plus a chance to see an exclusive presentation of the hotel including a taster for all the upcoming events. Entry and parking is free so make a date in your diary – for more information please contact the Holiday Inn on 01942 868330.

The on-air activity will be supported by an exciting range of events including taster days, sampling sessions and creative writing workshops held across the county. Interested individuals or groups should call the BBC Radio Lancashire Help Desk to register their group event details on 0345 305 9000.

Jane Eyre That classic story of love, loss and redemption, Jane Eyre, will be performed this Wednesday (13th February) at the Arts Centre at Edge Hill University. The production, which has been adapted by Laura Turner and will be performed by the players of the Hull Truck Theatre, starts at 7.30pm.

Art Workshops The Scout Hall on Wigan Road in Ormskirk is the venue for Art Skills Workshops being held every Thursday morning. These workshops would suit beginners and improvers, and last for 2 hours between 10am-12 noon. Cost per session is £5: for more details call 0844 245 8703.

Tickets are £10, Concessionary tickets are priced at £8, and are available from the Box Office on 01695 584480.

We are now offering Newspaper & Magazine Delivery in your area! Aughton, Ormskirk & Scarisbrick

• • • •

No Delivery Charges for the ﬁrst four weeks (exclusive to new customers) Prices then start from £1.50 for 7 days Excellent Service The most competitive delivery charges in the area

Grocers & Off Licence

Come and visit us for some amazing deals! Plus you can now pay your bills with us for FREE! Take advantage of our ‘You Shop, We Drop’ service – Groceries & Alcohol delivered to your door (minimum order applies) Premier Ormskirk Convenience Store 113 County Road, Ormskirk L39 1NL Telephone: 01695 573421

Rails at Burscough Burscough Wharf is again the host for the Rails at Burscough exhibition, which is being held at the popular venue on Saturday 16th February between 10.30am4.30pm. The show, which is being held in association with The Tramway & Light Railway Society, includes a multitude of rail and tram layouts in all the popular scales. Refreshments are available throughout the day and there are many shops, cafes and restaurants nearby. Merseyside Transport Trust are running a free Heritage Bus service from Ormskirk Bus Station to Burscough Wharf on the hour from 10.00am to 4.00pm on Saturday 16th February. Return from Burscough Wharf to Ormskirk Station is at 30 minutes past the hour with last bus at 4.30pm. Admission prices to Rails at Burscough is £2.50 for adults, and children pay £1.50 or they can go free with a responsible adult.

n i t u O e Liv cks? the Sti

If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number to editorial@locallife247.co.uk

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Homestead Far m’s Shop Wiggins Lane, Holmeswood www.homesteadfarmsshop.co.uk

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New Year Celebrations Last year over 65,000 visitors made Manchester’s Chinese New Year celebrations the biggest and best Chinese celebration in the North; this year, you can celebrate the year of the snake in Manchester next Sunday (10th February) with an entire afternoon and evening of entertainment. The event sees the city transformed, with Dragon and Lion dancing by Master Chu. The parade of colour will begin at the Manchester Town Hall in Albert Square and proceed to China Town, starting at 12.30. Street markets, food stalls, art and craft workshops will also be located at both locations, and performers will be entertaining the crowds at both locations throughout the day. Traditional Chinese arts will be on display, and the whole family will be able to get involved learning skills such as calligraphy, origami and tangrams. The climax will be a firework display in China Town at 6pm, so don’t miss out!

Jewellery Workshops If you envied your friend’s hand crafted jewellery at Christmas and you fancy learning how to make your own, then you might want to make a note of 23rd March. Heather Scott is holding a Silver Jewellery Making Workshop on those days at her Cedar Farm base near Mawdesley. All items are made from scratch, and you’ll be making a silver cuff bangle and matching ring at the workshop. The cost of the workshop is £75 which includes the material costs. For more information, please call Heather on 01704 823355 or email infor@heatherscottjewellery.co.uk.

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RECIPE

Cashew Chicken Celebrate Chinese New Year in style with this tasty dish. Ingredients

Method

For the chicken

Cut the chicken into 1cm cubes. Mix with the egg white, salt and corn flour in a small bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

• • • • • • • • • •

450g boneless chicken breasts, skinned 1 egg white 1 tsp salt 2 tsp corn flour 310ml groundnut (or peanut) oil or water 2 tsp groundnut (or peanut) oil 55g cashew nuts 1 tbsp shaoxing rice wine or dry sherry 1 tbsp light soy sauce 1 tbsp spring onions, finely chopped, for garnish

For the vegetables • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

225g bean sprouts 1 red pepper 1 green pepper Red or green chilli 225g water chestnuts, peeled if fresh, rinsed if canned 2 tbsp groundnut oil 1½ tbsp garlic, finely chopped 2 tsp fresh ginger, finely chopped 6 spring onions, shredded 1 tsp salt ½ tsp freshly ground white pepper 2 tbsp light soy sauce 1 tbsp dark soy sauce 2 tsp whole yellow bean sauce 2 tbsp shaoxing rice wine or dry sherry 5 tbsp chicken stock or water

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Heat a wok or large frying pan until very hot. Add the oil and when it is very hot and slightly smoking remove the wok from the heat. Immediately add the chicken, stirring vigorously to prevent it from sticking. The chicken will turn white after a couple of minutes. Drain off the excess oil and reserve the chicken on a plate Wipe the wok or pan clean with kitchen roll. Heat it until it is very hot, add 2 tbsp oil and the cashew nuts and stir-fry them for 1 minute. Add the rest of the ingredients. Return the chicken to the wok and stir-fry the mixture for another 2 minutes. Reserve the chicken to a plate again. Make the vegetables: trim the bean sprouts at both ends. Chop the peppers into bit-size pieces and finely shred the chillies and the water chestnuts. Heat a wok or large frying pan until it is very hot. Add the oil and when it is very hot and slightly smoking, add the garlic, ginger and spring onions and stir fry for 15 seconds. Then add the bean sprouts, shredded chilli, peppers and shredded water chestnuts and stir fry for about 1 minute. Then add the rest of the ingredients and stir-fry for about 3 minutes until it is well mixed and heated through. Return the chicken to the pan for a final stir. Serve at once with some steamed rice, garnished with spring onions.

Glass Class If you’ve ever wanted to develop your craft skills, then here is your chance! On the Stained Leaded Glass Introduction workshop run by Mike Allen, you will cut stained glass and then lead, assemble, solder and cement a small leaded glass panel which is yours to take home with you. All tools, safety equipment and materials are included in the cost (£65) of the workshop, as are tea, coffee and biscuits, at Mike’s workshop which is located in Burscough. Please call Mike for more details on 0750 212 0453 or visit the website www.mikeallenglass.co.uk for more details.

Heritage Programme West Lancashire Heritage have unveiled their 2013 programme, and the first talk is entitled ‘Lady Margaret Beaufort -The Lady who Changed England and Lathom’ which is being presented by Paul Kenyon. This will be held on 7.30pm on Thursday 21st February at Hurlston Hall Golf Club in Hurlston Lane, Scarisbrick. Visitors are welcome free to the talks, and there is a raffle too. For more details about the society’s 2013 programme, visit the website www.westlancsheritage.com.

Mum Markets Let’s face it; kids cost a fortune! Clothes, shoes, prams and baby seats all set you back an arm and a leg, and unless you’re a regular visitor to the Bank of Mum and Dad, the first few years of baby’s life can be extremely stressful financially. Which is why www.mum2mummarket. co.uk was launched; a series of pop-up markets across the UK that brings together sellers and buyers of top quality pre-loved baby and children’s wear. Burscough’s Debbie Beard became involved with Mum2Mum Market after becoming frustrated at the existing methods of buying and selling baby and children’s stuff. Mum of three Debbie, found auction sites disappointing as a buyer and time consuming for very little reward as a seller. During a visit to family in London, she visited a Wimbledon Mum2Mum Market, and enjoyed the experience so much that she decided to bring the Mum2Mum Market idea to West Lancashire, and she is the only franchisee that the company has in the entire North of England. Mums book a stall through the website www.mum2mummarket.co.uk and turn up on the day to sell their stuff and they keep 100% of their takings. Whether you’re selling or buying - two dates for your diary are Saturday 2nd March and Saturday 27th April. The location is Aughton Village Hall on Winifred Lane in Aughton, and the action kicks off at 11am on both days! Don’t be late, or the good stuff will be gone! On sale at the markets will be clothes, toys, prams, car seats, bedding nursery equipment, cots and much more. If your little darlings have matured into sulky teenagers, and you want to trade in some of their old stuff to soundproof their walls or replace a few doors that have been slammed too often, then here is your chance! You can book a stall at the Aughton markets by contacting Debbie on debbie@mum2mummarket.co.uk.

• • • •

Re-upholstery Repair Large range of materials to choose from Domestic & Commercial work undertaken

Master Upholsterer with over 30 years experience Unit 7, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB

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Frank Conversation Esther McVey, the MP for Wirral West and the Minister for Work & Pensions, will be appearing in a business networking event for local businesses being held at the West Lancs Investment Centre in Skelmersdale on Friday 22 February from 8.30-10.00am. Before being elected as an MP at the last General Election, Esther ran several successful companies herself, including leading networking group ‘Winning Women’. She has also enjoyed a career in broadcasting, appearing in several television programmes, and in 2004 she was nominated for the award of Merseyside and Cheshire Woman of the Year. The event, which will be hosted by Downtown in Business group’s Frank McKenna, will explore government policy on business, bureaucracy and red tape; the challenges facing the government’s welfare reform programme; and Esther’s own views on running a successful business. There will also be an opportunity for event delegates to put questions to the Minister. Admission is free and breakfast and refreshments will be provided. To register for your free place at this event, visit www. downtowninbusiness.com.

r u o y e r o t Res room bath rmer to its fory! glo At a fraction of the price of a new bathroom Before

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Competition Winners!

The winners of our popular Christmas Hamper competition were as follows; Simon and Helen Catterall from Manor Avenue in Burscough, Mary Livingstone (pictured) from Wigan Road in Ormskirk and Denise Dixon (pictured with husband John and sons Andrew and Michael) of New Lane in Aughton. The winners won a luxury hamper stuffed with regional foods and drink. Well done to all the winners and thanks to all who entered!

New Year is a difficult time for couples. It is well known that more relationships break down shortly after Christmas, than at any other time of year. Often the stresses of the festivities, the expense and, (dare I say it), the influx of all the relatives visiting, are the final straw for a failing relationship. It is important at these difficult times to get good legal advice regarding your position. Decisions made in the early days of a separation can affect radically your future. It can be tempting to accept suggestions from well meaning friends, but amateur lawyers, even those who have been though a relationship breakdown themselves, are no substitute for comprehensive legal advice, tailored to your particular concerns and worries. We can do so much more than simply advise regarding divorce; we can point you in the right direction for information concerning benefits, how to deal with debts, sorting out where and with which partner the children are going to live, and dealing with any domestic violence issues, as well as assisting you in clarifying yours and your former partner’s financial entitlements following a separation.

Alexandra Fowler Ll.B. Partner Call: 01695 574 201 email: ajfowler@dphlaw.co.uk

In fact, it doesn’t have to be a marriage that has broken down for the same devastating impact to be felt. More and more couples chose to live together, and have children, and the practical arrangements for sorting out a relationship breakdown are just as real for cohabiting couples as married ones. We offer a £30 plus vat (total £36) interview to enable you to get quality legal advice for your particular circumstances. We aim to be able to give you the information you need to enable you to make the correct choices for your life and your future. I am a solicitor with over 17 years experience dedicated to family law – and a member of the Family Law Panel and Resolution – an organisation which encourages solicitors to promote a digniﬁed and conciliatory approach to relationship breakdown. To speak to me call 01695 574201 or email ajfowler@ dphlaw.co.uk

Dickinson Parker Hill Solicitors 22 Derby Street, Ormskirk, L39 2BZ Telephone: 01695 574201 www.dphlaw.co.uk

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Conservatory living is a myth! There – I’ve said it! All those glossy colour Sunday supplements extolling the virtues of having a conservatory; extra family space to relax in the sunshine without actually braving the outside elements are just an overblown sales campaign to sell conservatories. Whilst they are high on our wish list when it comes to improving our homes; conservatories rarely live up to expectations. A conservatory is supposed to be a calm and tranquil space, one that lets us linger over the Sunday papers without having to put on an extra layer or jumping up to retrieve the lifestyle section from the rose bushes. In reality you probably have a love hate relationship with what can only be described as your glass box. They overheat in the summer and winter temperatures rival the North Pole during the winter months; all in all you start to feel like you haven’t beneﬁted from the extra room you paid for. In fact, research shows that, in the British climate, a conservatory is unlikely to provide more than two hours of comfortable temperatures per day.

the problems associated with plastic ceilings. Freedom has already helped people save on their energy bills and given them a room that they can use 365 days of the year. The process does not alter the external appearance of your roof or remove any part of your conservatory causing a minimal amount of disruption to your home and because the work is internal there is no need for any planning permission. Paul says “Following our three-day installation you will no longer need to look at an ugly plastic roof, you will have a plastered and painted ceiling with a bespoke lighting and audio package of your choice. Before we plasterboard we lag the plastic roof with insulation that helps to deflect heat away and keeps heat in and the material we use meets all the current building regulations and fire certificates.” Paul is dedicated to designing new Conservatory concepts and is constantly looking at other ways of improving your Conservatory living. In a short space of time his team have now created a Plasma TV wall, which will carry your TV and give you extra floor space; cables can be hidden were possible

Well, before you seal those French doors shut for good we’d like to tell you about a local company who might just have the answer to all your conservatory woes. Freedom Conservatory Roof Conversions promise to give you back the extra room you have always dreamt about. With their innovative ceiling modiﬁcations they can make your conservatory up to 90% warmer in the winter and up to 75% cooler in the summer! After suffering with the same problems in his own conservatory, the Billingebased owner of Freedom Conservatory Roof Conversions Paul Stubbs came up with a revolutionary idea to combat

We offer deferred payment plans and accept all major credit & debit cards

Conservatory roof before “Conservatory overheats in summer and winter temperatures rival the North Pole!”

Conservatory roof after “...save on their energy bills and given them a room that they can use 365 days of the year”

and they can ﬁt full surround sound cinema systems using ceiling speakers and mood lighting. Paul added, “We have also designed a Wood Burner that can be safely vented through either our roof conversion or existing polycarbonate; this will not only heat your conservatory but save you money on energy especially in the winter months. All the burners are DEFRA approved and ﬁtted by approved tradesman.”

So if you would like to claim back the use of your conservatory and possibly save on your energy bills, call the team now on 08456 860542 for more details. Freedom did our porch and conservatory and we now have balanced heat throughout the down stairs and I am saving £15.00 per week alone on Gas. The ﬁtting team were brilliant and had it all done in 3 days. Our best room in the house is now our conservatory, which before Freedom came along, was unused - Mrs Gillbanks from Poolstock

Call

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Well done Freedom for the best idea I have seen since double glazing! I now have a 7 metre lounge with Freedom doing a full makeover and that new ceiling looks amazing in the conservatory, especially with the new lighting system that was ﬁtted. Thanks Mr Dale from Winstanley

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popular works for viola and piano by Bach, Beethoven, Brahms and Glazunov. Both musicians are in the early stages of brilliant careers and are widely renowned throughout Europe, but less so in the UK. Nicholas originally studied at the Royal Northern College of Music before going on to study in Cambridge, Hanover, Berlin and Cologne. He leads a successful career in Europe as a soloist, chamber musician and accompanist and is regarded as one of Europe’s finest accompanists. For concert tickets, please call 01257 498452 or 01257 462382, or visit the website www.parbolddouglasmusic.org.

Yoga

Live Concert Young pianist, Nicholas Rimmer, who is originally from Standish and whose parents still live in the village, returns to the area next Saturday at 7.45pm to play in Douglas Music’s next Live Music at the Weekend event at Parbold Village Hall. In 2007, Nicolas formed a regular duo with Nils Mönkemeyer, with whom he won the prestigious Parkhouse Award in 2009 and whose debut CD ‘Without Words’ for the Sony label received an ECHO-Klassik Award. They will be playing some of the most famous and

The Aughton WI Hut on Town Green Lane is the venue for a weekly yoga session for those who want to get toned, strong and flexible in 2013. Pauline will be leading the class every Thursday between 7-8.30pm at the Hut and the cost is £5 per session. For more information about the class, call Pauline on 01695 424335 or 07759 093784, or visit the website www.holistictouch.org.uk. Ormskirk yoga enthusiasts should make space on Tuesday evenings when Margaret will be leading a Yoga for Beginners class in Ormskirk School on Wigan Road. That session runs from 7-9pm on Tuesday evenings and the cost is £20 for 5 weeks. You can contact Margaret on 01695 572418.

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Accountancy Matters!

Starting a Business in a Recession We are often approached by clients who are considering starting a new business. Some people are forced into this decision due to redundancy, while others reach a stage in life where they decide that they want to be their own boss. We currently act for a number of clients who have left public sector employment, as the Government seek to reduce the size of the public sector. People who have worked in employment for many years are often nervous about starting a business. You would need to decide whether to trade as a sole trader, in partnership, or as a limited company. If you are seeking finance from a bank or elsewhere, it is essential to prepare a detailed business plan which is where we can help you. There is a large volume of paperwork involved in establishing a new business but we try to take the pain out of this process. We have often found that, once over the initial hurdle, clients come to relish the independence that working for themselves provides. Most people think of banks as their first port of call when it comes to raising finance to start a business but there are other sources available, some of which are described below :-

Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme This is a Government scheme specifically designed for start-up companies which can raise up to £150,000 within the scheme. The scheme provides significant tax benefits for investors. Example of a Successful Start-up Business An example of a successful local start up business is our fellow Malthouse Business Centre tenant Andrew Dodd, owner of StampDesign4U ( see photo above ) who design and supply a comprehensive range of rubber stamps to clients all over the UK and abroad. Andrew was employed for many years before taking a voluntary redundancy package and working from home for one year before he was confident enough to move into rented office premises. He now employs 2 people and expects to double his turnover this year. Andrew can be contacted on 01695 575135 or andrew@stampdesign4U.co.uk.

Family and Friends This form of ﬁnance is often overlooked but is worth considering as annuity rates are so low. A commercial loan granted at a rate of (say) 5% interest is higher than an investor would receive at most banks and building societies. Business Angels Not all Business Angels are as intimidating as the “Dragon’s Den” judges! We have a number of contacts who can assist with funding, particularly in conjunction with the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (see below). Funding Circle This is a national peer to peer lending company which offers unsecured loans of £5,000 to £100,000, secured loans of £100,000 to £500,000 and asset ﬁnance loans of £20,000 to £500,000. Funding Circle is keen to lend to businesses which have been established for at least 2 years and they provide prompt decisions to loan applications.

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Roger Anderton FCA

RJ Anderton Limited

Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors Suite 110-113, The Malthouse Business Centre, 48, Southport Road, Ormskirk, L39 1QR Tel: 01695 580000 E-mail: info@rogeranderton.com

Haigh Windmill & Lady Mabel’s Wood

This is Jack’s second walk in the area of Haigh and whilst most of the walk is on good surfaces, there are a few short sections where waterproof footwear is a must, which isn’t surprising after the wettest year in English history. The walk is of about 4.5 miles with a diﬀerence in elevation of about 320 ft; most of the climbing being on the second half of the walk. If you have time after your walk then do have a look around the outside of the hall and some of its nearby attractions, all of which are sign posted.

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 you’ll notice an old windmill that has recently been restored coming into view ahead of you in the field on the right. Continue all the way up the road until you reach the main road at Haigh.

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

Haigh Windmill 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.

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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.

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

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.

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 and follow the towpath, 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 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 beyond the car park towards the hall. 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.

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Winter isn’t good for your wallet. Whether it’s a crisp sunny day, or you’re knee deep in snow, the added chills mean bigger bills. Sadly, neither the weather nor the costs are likely to improve any time soon, yet that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. Work your way through my winter checklist to help save yourself £100s.

Winter by Martin Lewis

Myth-busting - is it cheaper to leave the heating on all day?

Slash £100 a year off boiler cover costs.

Is it worth just heating when you’re in, or keeping the central heating on all day at a lower level? The answer is to turn the heating on only when you need it. Try to keep the doors to rooms you’re heating closed, plus drying your clothes in an airing cupboard is cheaper than a tumble dryer (though watch out for damp).

Don’t mistakenly think you need to stick with your energy provider’s boiler cover – there may be a lot cheaper out there. uSwitch.com has a comparison which can help you cut costs.

It’s the PERFECT time to switch – lock in no price hikes for TWO winters All the big six energy companies have now announced price hikes and the price comparison sites are updated with the new prices. To switch, get yourself on a Consumer Focus-approved comparison site, like MoneySupermarket, uSwitch or Energyhelpline. Better still, if you go to exactly the same sites via www. moneysavingexpert.com/energy, you can get up to £30 cashback. Look out for the new EDF June 2014 fix. It isn’t the very cheapest deal, so won’t come top but the rate you pay is fixed until June 2014 – meaning no price hikes guaranteed. Plus it has no early exit fees, so you’re free to leave if other prices drop. Those on standard tariffs paying a typical £1,400 a year would pay just £1,180 on this.

On a prepay (key or card) energy meter? You can still switch and save. Prepaid comparisons are possible at Energyhelpline, MoneySupermarket and uSwitch, with £200 a year savings for some. Better still, check if you can move off prepay to a normal billed meter, which is likely to be far cheaper with more competitive tariffs. Full help at www.moneysavingexpert.com/ prepaidenergy

Are you due winter fuel payments? If anyone in your home was born before 6 July 1951, you’re due up to £300 in tax-free winter fuel payments. If you’ve previously received a winter fuel payment in a previous year, no action is needed, but if you’ve never had it before, you may need to register. You can do this by filling out the claims forms at gov.uk/winter-fuelpayment or calling 08459 15 15 15.

Free £300 insulation for those on certain benefits While most big providers have now closed schemes, a few are still offering free loft and cavity wall insulation worth up to £300 to those certain benefits. You also need a suitable home. Go to mse.me/insulate

Don’t walk around in your underwear It’s amazing how many sit at home barely dressed, then ratchet up the thermostat. Change your instincts. If it’s cold, chuck on a jumper. Adding one degree can cost £60 a year. Old-fashioned solutions like sausage-dog draft excluders and homemade window quilts really can slash bills.

Don’t pay energy bills the wrong way Paying by MONTHLY direct debit (not quarterly, be careful) is 5%-10% cheaper, but your monthly bills are estimated. Make sure you do regular meter readings to keep them accurate. Overpay and you can ask for the excess back.

Get Martin’s FREE tips and money-off vouchers emailed directly to you each week by signing up to www.moneysavingexpert.com/tips

Martin Lewis Martin Lewis, Money Saving Expert, is an awardwinning campaigning TV & radio presenter, newspaper columnist and a best-selling author. An ultra-specialised journalist, focusing on cutting bills without cutting back, he runs and founded the UK’s biggest money site, www.moneysavingexpert.com with 13 million monthly users. Each month, Martin will be writing a feature for Local Life - advising our readers how to save thousands of pounds every year! Don’t miss it!

Care Costs THE PROBLEM:IN THE LAST 5 YEARS OVER 100,000 PENSIONERS HAVE HAD TO SELL THE FAMILY HOME TO PAY CARE HOME FEES. (DAILY MAIL 13/10/2011) THE SOLUTION:CONTACT BESPOKE LEGAL SERVICES SO THAT YOU LEAVE YOUR HOME TO YOUR FAMILY NOT THE LOCAL AUTHORITY.

WHY BESPOKE LEGAL SERVICES? RECENTLY WE HAVE PROTECTED £58,500,000 OF CLIENTS ASSETS MAINLY THE FAMILY HOME AND MONIES HELD IN BANK AND BUILDING SOCIETY ACCOUNTS.

www.locallife247.co.uk

WATCHING

Honda hasn’t exactly been at the forefront of diesel engine development, but this time round the Civic gets a more advanced oil burner. Andy Enright reports. Until now, it feels as if Honda has just been paying lip service to diesel. Prior to 2002, Honda didn’t have a diesel engine on its books. In 2004, the Honda N-engine was introduced. In 2004 it was a very good engine, but by 2012 it was state of the ark. Time for a rethink. What we have instead is a new generation of Honda diesels and this time it feels as if the Japanese brand has given the designs its full attention. The Honda Civic 1.6 i-DTEC might just be the Honda diesel you’ve been waiting years and years for. This 1.6-litre diesel has been designed to offer high performance and low emissions and goes about its job in a very Honda way. For a start, it’s extremely small and light for a diesel lump, weighing in at fully 47kg less than the 2.2-litre engine. The designers

of this ninth-generation Civic wanted to keep the sporty and advanced elements of the car’s character but tweak them to express a more dynamic feel. The car is 20mm lower and 10mm wider than its predecessor, giving it a squatter, more purposeful stance. This ‘blended body’ features smarter aerodynamics, including a rear light cluster that works as an aerodynamic spoiler, managing air flow over the top and sides of the car. The interior is focused around the driver and, like the eighth generation car, features a split-level instrument binnacle. One area where clear strides could be made was in the perceived quality of the cabin. The old car featured quite a lot of scratchy hard plastics but this ninth generation model alters its approach to meet a far more demanding European customer base. Class leading boot space and versatile seating boost its credentials for family buyers. Prices for this 1.6-litre diesel variant have been kept quite competitive, starting at just under £20,000 for the SE model, just over that figure for the plusher ES variant and a little over £23,000 for the top-of-the-range EX. The specification for this trio of Civics is identical to the equivalent 2.2-litre i-DTEC cars, but with the addition of

THE DTECTIVES

revised 16-inch alloy wheels. The range-topping EX has also been treated to a few more goodies in the shape of front and rear parking sensors, an auto-dimming rear view mirror and DAB digital radio. Standard equipment that’s new to this generation Civic range includes Honda’s Intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) 5-inch dashboard screen which displays relevant driving details such as mpg, climate and audio settings. Other additions include a rear wiper, daytime running lights and a headlight-off timer that maintains illumination for 15 seconds after the car is locked. The

(HFT), front fog lamps, auto headlights and wipers, leather steering wheel and gear knob, ambient interior lighting and 6 speaker audio system.

We’ve come a long way in a short space of time and this 1.6-litre unit boasts an average of 78.5mpg and emissions of just 94g/km - that means free road tax! The engine’s the ﬁrst to have been developed by Honda’s fantastically-titled ‘Earth Dreams Technology unit’, tasked with improving efﬁciency while keeping the engines fun to drive. It uses a latest generation injection from Bosch and variable nozzle turbo technology from Garrett. It’s bound to be a popular choice with that winning combination of low day to day running costs, excellent reliability and modest depreciation. Anyway, the ninthgeneration Civic as a whole is already a distinctly pragmatic vehicle, utilising technology that works. Nowadays, Honda’s become a bit more mainstream and a little more expedient, and as this Civic 1.6 i-DTEC shows, sometimes there’s genius in exactly that.

entry-level SE trim also includes 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic air-conditioning and USB connectivity for compatible MP3 audio devices. The ES speciﬁcation adds cruise control with a speed limiter, rear view parking camera, keyfoboperated windows and door mirror folding, plus auto up/down electric rear windows. Additional kit on ES models includes dual-zone airconditioning, Bluetooth Hands Free Telephone

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Snowdrop Sundays

Half Term Fun at Rufford Old Hall

Spring into Spring this month with a ‘Snowdrop Sunday’ visit to Bank Hall in Bretherton, the home of a fantastic display of snowdrops!

Rufford Old Hall is open for the new season from next Saturday (16th February). It’s the first time the property has been fully open in mid February, and Catherine Hazley, Rufford’s Visitor Experience Officer is gearing up for a busy time.

Snowdrop Sundays are being held on 10th, 17th and 24th February between 12-4pm at the Jacobean country house, which is just off the A59 near Tarleton. Bring your camera for some great shots, and you can also undertake a woodland walk, or pop into the shop for some refreshments too. The cost of Snowdrop Sunday is £2.50 for adults and children go free. For more details, visit www.bankhall. org.

“We’ve got some great family activities here at Rufford over half-term” says Catherine. “Rufford is a fantastic Tudor building so we’ve kept to this theme. Children can dress up in Tudor costume and help make a mock Tudor Banquet using ‘Marchpane’ (what today we know as marzipan). Marchpane contained a lot of sugar – so only wealthy people in Tudor times could afford it: in fact it was a status symbol to show your visitors how rich you were! On Monday 18th you can have a go at making butter in the great hall and on Tuesday 19th you can try hand spinning with Lucy the Tudor. You can also make a 3D Tudor house using cardboard boxes. The boxes will be painted as windows, doors, etc with a mock Tudor front piece. The resident magician will also be offering Free Magic shows on Monday 18th and Wednesday 20th February at 1.30pm and 2.3pm. It’s great fun for all the family – so come along and join in! Rufford Old Hall opens for the new season on Saturday 16 February, 11am and is then open Saturdays – Wednesdays 11am-4pm. For further information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ruffordoldhall

Angie is a qualified award-winning garden designer who will plan your garden to your needs from start to finish, supplying reputable contractors and the ideal plants.

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Growing your own I have dabbled in growing my own veg for a few years now in pots and containers, not having had room in the garden because of all the plants I love to grow as well. I have to say that I really enjoy it - it always amazes me how much food you can produce from tiny seeds. So last November I got rid of my shed and bought a Sentry box storage unit instead. It’s just large enough to take the lawn mower and a few garden tools. I re-arranged a corner of my garden and hey presto, I’ve been able to ﬁt in a raised bed measuring 1 metre x 4 metres (or 3 feet x 13 feet in old money) without losing any of my planting space. Before Christmas I planted some onion sets and garlic which as far as I know (I’m no expert in this growing your own lark) is pretty much all you can grow at this time of year unless you have a greenhouse - which I don’t. (Oh dear, I can see Hubby shrinking at the thought that might be the next thing I try to squeeze in!) In March I intend to sow seeds for tomatoes and plant ﬁrst early potatoes. I will continue to grow these in pots and potato sacks as its really easy. My raised bed I will keep

for cabbage, parsnips, mange tout and lettuces (not the ﬂoppy kind as Hubby will only eat Cos). This is a great way to get children involved in gardening as well and more and more clients are also asking me to include small vegetable patches in their new designs which is lovely. And don’t think your veggie patch has to look like an allotment. Kitchen gardens can be made to look really pretty as well as being productive. Grow some lovely colourful varieties and include herbs like Lavender and outline beds with low growing Box hedges for seasonal structure. I hope I have helped to inspire you to have a go yourself. If I have and you would like more information, the BBC’s Gardeners World magazine is superb with lots of advice. So until next time - happy growing! Author: Angie Barker Dip GD (Inst GD) BA (Hons) Garden Design For All Seasons Tel: 01942 522 405 Mob: 07857 008 383

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The days are getting a little longer, green shoots are starting to appear and we’re all just itching to get out in the garden now. Just one problem - it’s still likely to be blooming cold! It’s at this time of year that having some undercover growing space is a real benefit - not least because it’s so much more of a pleasure working in a protected environment, basking in the glory of those few rays of sun, than it is feeling a gale force wind that seems as if it’s come straight from the arctic! If you don’t have a greenhouse, polytunnel or cold frames then why not think about investing in one now? Get it built in February and you can get a head start on many plants for the season to come. If space is limited then a cold frame may be a good option and greenhouses can offer lots of benefits too but are generally not a great idea if your garden is also the kids play area. Most people opt for a polytunnel; they are very reasonable in price, but remember polytunnels can become very hot in the summer so ensure that there is adequate ventilation available. So, now that you have this great new space what can you plant in it? Early tomatoes can be started off in pots and if you plant some summer cabbages now you can get them established and benefit from a crop

Council Run Allotments (West Lancashire): West Lancashire residents can contact the Council on 01695 585146 • Tower Hill - Ormskirk - 11 plots • Clucas Gardens - Ormskirk - 10 plots • Owen Avenue – Ormskirk - 6 plots

by late spring or early summer. Cucumbers, beetroot, leeks and lettuces can also be sown indoors and if you want to try something a little more exotic why not plant some peppers, aubergines or even a melon? This is also a good month to think about soft fruit. Most fruit bushes, trees and canes need time to get established before you start to get a good yield and it is easy to overlook them in favour of crops that give a quicker return. You could plant raspberry canes this month, or incorporate a gooseberry or blackcurrant bush into your border. If you have pot grown strawberries that have spent the winter indoors then place them outside as they will only ﬂower after exposure to cold weather. A bit of time and money invested now in a polytunnel or greenhouse will give you beneﬁts for years to come.

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Tasks for February: Whilst you are waiting for the weather to take a turn for the be tter we have a few little jobs you can be doing around the vegetable patch in the month of February. • Erect a cold frame, polytunnel or greenhouse • Plant out onion sets • Sow tomatoes indoo rs • Chit seed potatoes • Sow early beetroot an d summer cabbages • Plant soft fruit bushe s

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