Local Life - Ormskirk & Aughton - Dec 2014/Jan2015 by Local Life 247 Ltd

Ormskirk & Aughton Edition

Dec 2014/Jan 2015

Mass Rebellion Scarisbrick’s Martyrs Jack’s Tracks visits Westhead & Lathom Festive Recipe Granny’s Christmas Pudding Class From The Past Aughton Parochial

Photo © David Sudworth

Taste Test in Rufford

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Step into Christmas

In this issue

I have a confession to make – I’m actually looking forward to Christmas. I realise this is a very un-blokey thing to say, but it happens to be true.

14 22 26 31 32 34 38 39 40 42 43

As a kid, I loved Christmas, but as a teenager I did the usual sulky stuff. Then, as an adult with a young child, it was more manic than anything else and I didn’t have time to stop and think. But this year is a tad different. The little ‘un is more grown up and would, if truth be told, rather sit in her bedroom with the iPad. As I write this, I can hear the voices of thousands of parents murmuring in agreement. The other night, my beloved and I even cracked open a bottle of mulled wine - I’m not ashamed to say that, yes, it was on a school night too. I’m not quite ready for Fairytale of New York just yet, but I sense it won’t be long before my best Irish accent will be murdering the line: “It was Christmas Eve babe, in the drunk tank…”

Class From The Past - Aughton Parochial Taste Test - Tastebuds Cafe, Rufford Mass Rebellion - Scarisbrick’s Martyrs Planning Matters Puzzle Corner Jack’s Tracks visits Westhead & Lathom On Your Plot Puzzle Solutions Home Services Useful Numbers Recipe - Granny’s Christmas Pudding Next issue - January

Advertising deadline - Friday 5 December Published - Saturday 3 January Publisher: Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB T 01695 627 999

info@locallife247.co.uk

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I suspect this happens to many of us who have young kids in our lives, whether they be children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren. Once they reach a certain age, Christmas becomes about all of us again rather simply focused on the kids.

Sales: Lisa Jackson, Nicola Gray

That said, I know I’ll spend the vast majority of Christmas morning prising toys from their packaging (why are those plastic ties so damn tricky?) and hunting round for a pair of AA batteries. But once that’s done, they’ll trundle off to their rooms, their heads buried deep in their pressies from Santa. At least that’s the plan.

Local Life is published every month. The magazine will be distributed into the following edition areas on an alternate monthly basis.

And while they do that, we may just find time to open another bottle of mulled wine… Merry Christmas

Editorial: David Sudworth Design & Production: Peter Bretherton

sales@locallife247.co.uk editorial@locallife247.co.uk design@locallife247.co.uk

Distribution: Sally Boon

sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

Accounts: Sam Garrahan

accounts@locallife247.co.uk

The Ormskirk and Aughton edition is delivered to 10,100 homes and businesses in Ormskirk, Aughton, Scarisbrick, Westhead, Halsall, Haskayne and Bickerstaffe. The Burscough and Villages edition is delivered to 9,100 homes and businesses in Burscough, Tarleton, Parbold, Hesketh Bank, Rufford, Mawdesley, Newburgh, 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 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.

David Sudworth - Editor editorial@locallife247.co.uk

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“I used to worry about my mum. Now I know she’s safe and secure nearby in her brand new apartment.” Lorna Dawson, Homeowner’s daughter

Come and see our new show complex now open at Coronation Court in Ormskirk. Visit us today and you’ll see why so many people have made McCarthy & Stone their home. Imagine owning a stylish new retirement apartment, with a House Manager on hand and security built-in. Now you can at our latest development of 39 contemporary one and two bedroom apartments complete with walk out balconies and beautiful shared landscaped gardens. ✓ House Manager ✓ Homeowners’ Lounge ✓ Private Car Parking# ✓ Landscaped garden

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VISIT OUR SHOW COMPLEX TODAY. Call 01695 573749 or visit www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/coronationcourt 4

Fool’s Gold! He was the first man to fool magicians Penn and Teller on their prime-time ITV show - and now John Archer is heading to Aughton. The former police officer duped Penn and Teller with a trick involving four envelopes, one of which contained £100. Each time the audience chose one, it had nothing of value inside - leaving the final one, contained the money, in John’s hand. His trickery outfoxed the Las Vegas duo - the first performer to do so on their Fool Us programme. Now Archer is heading to the Ministry Centre at Christ Church, Long Lane, for a men’s social evening of comedy and magic. Also on the bill is Tim Vine, who appeared in The Sketch Show and, between 20062012, in comedian Lee Mack’s BBC 1 comedy Not Going Out. The event takes place on Wednesday, December 3, from 7.30pm. Tickets are £12 including hotpot, apple pie, tea or coffee, but you can take your own drinks. Book online at http://cto.payway.uk or by calling 07896 991 090.

John Archer fooled Penn and Teller

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More Than One Occasion...

Ormskirk Occasional Singers Ormskirk Occasional Singers have a busy schedule in December. They will be performing Christmas concerts at both St John’s Church, Pemberton, on Friday, December 12, at 7.30pm and St Michael and All Angels Church, Dalton, on Monday, December 15, where organisers say the homemade mince pies and wine always go down a treat during the interval! Everyone is welcome and tickets can be purchased on the door. The Occasionals will also be singing traditional carols on Saturday, December 20, at Cedar Farm Gallery, Back

Lane, Mawdesley, from 2.30pm, to get shoppers in the festive spirit. As a registered charity proceeds from these events will be donated to good causes. The Occasionals meet every Monday evening from 8pm-10pm at Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, and are always looking for new singers. If you are interested in joining, contact Steph Ellis on 01257 463461 for more information or visit www. ormskirkoccasionalsingers.org

Everything you need for a

magical Christmas

Ormskirk Christadelphians .org.uk

Christadelphian Hall, Moorgate, Ormskirk.

December’s Sunday Bible talks at 1:45pm Bible Basics : Prophecy 7th 14th 21st 13th 28th

...About The World ...Evidence that God Rules the World ...About The World To Come ...About the Return of Jesus

Have you any question about the Bible? Then come and ask us at our coffee morning on the first Saturday of the month. 10:00am -12:00pm Traditional Wooden Toys, Pocket Money Toys, Soft Toys, Children’s Arts and Crafts and much more… 15 Church Walks, Ormskirk, L39 3QS 01695 571 457 www.aquillis.com e-mail info@aquillis.com

Facebook.com/OrmskirkChristadelphians Twitter.com/OrmskirkDelphs

Carry On Talking

‘Invaders’ Talk

Ormskirk & District Historical Society continues its programme of talks throughout December and January.

Natural history group West Lancashire Wildlife welcomes a guest speaker to its December meeting. On Wednesday, December 10, a talk entitled Reptile & Amphibian Conservation in the North West by Mike Potts, of the North West Reptile Club, takes place from 7.15pm in Room B003 in the Business School Building, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk.

Details of upcoming events are as follows: Monday, December 1: Dr Nicky Tsougarakis - Pilgrimage and Propaganda in Hospitaller Rhodes. Monday, December 15: Mr Chris Byron - The Peter Lathom Trust and Christmas Social Monday, January 12: Mr Tony Sweeney - The 1918/19 Flu Pandemic. Monday, January 26: Mr D. Chater - The American Indian Wars. Meetings are held in Room M40, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, and all start at 7.30 pm. For details please contact the secretary on 01695 574364.

Mike will talk about the situation in the North West including ‘alien’ invaders as well as the complications of the pet trade affecting the number of unwanted, and potentially released, creatures. Admission is £1.50 for members and £2.50 for nonmembers. Further details including a location map can be viewed at www.westlancswildlife.org.uk

Magical Family Christmas at Rufford Old Hall Sat 6th - Sun 21st Dec Weekends Only 11- 4pm Soak up the festive atmosphere and meet Father Christmas. Visit the house and see the 1st floor at Christmas for the first time. Take a stroll in the gardens, listen to the musical organ and try some warming treats in the tea room. Sat 20th & Sun 21st meet the festive donkeys and go for a ride in the paddock.

searching for presents

Normal admssion applies. Visit Father Christmas £4 includes gift.

01704 823812 nationaltrust.org.uk/Rufford Old Hall

Christmas pattern inspired by wallpaper at Wimpole Estate, Cambridgeshire.

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Village Yuletide

Haskayne Matters

Rainford Village is holding a Christmas fair on Saturday, December 6, from 11am-3pm. The village centre will be free of traffic that day, so everyone is invited to go along and experience the sights, sounds and smells of the rapidly approaching festivities.

Are you interested in local issues in Haskayne and Downholland? A vacancy is currently being advertised for a parish councillor to fill a vacancy on Downholland Parish Council following a resignation. If you are interested, please write to the parish clerk, Mrs Irene O’Donnell, at 14 Eastleigh, Skelmersdale, WN8 6AX, or email clerk@downhollandpc.org.uk

Organised by Rainford Hub with the support of the parish council and local businesses, there promises to be something for all the family. Christmas music will be provided by local schools’ choirs, Rainford Band, the church choir and bell ringers. There will also be a host of market stalls and a Santa’s grotto, not to mention children’s roundabouts and fun fair, donkey rides, a raffle and tombola and a balloon race. For more information call 07790 962681, email info@ rainfordhub.com or visit www.rainfordhub.com

School Fair Lordsgate School on Lordsgate Drive, Burscough, is holding its Christmas fair on Friday, December 5, from 5.30pm onwards. Father Christmas is paying a visit and there will be Christmas decorations, cakes, hog roast, train rides, raffle, tombola and many more stalls. All welcome.

• Garden Furniture & Water Features • Barbecues & Petcare • Hanging Baskets, Containers & Pots • Children’s Play Area Other businesses on site include;

FREE Bags Goody nta a from S s Call for

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• Fireplace & Stove Centre • Windowcare Conservatories & Windows • Artisan Cushions & Furniture • Potting Shed Tea Rooms • Michells Delicatessen • Traditional Sweet Shop • Nail & Beauty Garden • Devine Design • Cards & Gifts Boutique FREE lo • Gifts & Things cal deli very • The Bag Ladies

ChristFresh mas Tr

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Late night Opening: Thursday 4th ,Tuesday 9th & Thursday 18th December. Until 7.15pm

Join us for free mince pies and mulled wine. Local school choir. Discounts available on the night. Santa... free goody bags. vincentsgardencentre.co.uk • vincentsgardencentre.co.uk • vincentsgardencentre.co.uk

300 Southport Road, Scarisbrick, Nr Ormskirk, Lancs PR8 5LF

Tel: 01704 880236

Open 9-5pm Mon-Sat 10-4pm Sun

Artisan Market

Christmas Jaunt

Inglenook Farm, on the Rainford Bypass, is holding a Christmas artisan market over two days on Saturday, December 13, and Sunday, December 14, from 10am. Organisers say there will be over 60 stalls selling items such as handmade gifts, seasonal produce, mulled cider and there will also be music and dancing as well as a visit from Santa.

West Lancashire Footpath Group walkers will have a spring in their step between Christmas and New Year as they’re off to Much Hoole! On Tuesday, December 30, members will be meeting at The Smithy Inn, Liverpool Old Road, PR4 4GB. It will be a walk of around five miles. Contact Ann Robinson on 01695 571303 or 07443 533354.

For more information, visit www.inglenook-farm.co.uk

Full House It’s eyes down time again at Haskayne Village Hall, School Lane, on Wednesday, December 3. This will be your last chance to win a few quid for Christmas at the regular prize bingo. It starts at 7.30pm.

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Step On Are you boot-scootin’ crazy? If so, there’s a new beginners’ class in line dancing starting at Aughton Village Hall, on Winifred Lane, on Wednesdays from 7pm-7.45pm. The cost is £2.50 and for more information, call Gill on 01704 875758.

...call us now on 01695 627 999

Westhead Christmas

Ellie Ingram

Tea with Tom

Westhead will come alive to festive sounds during a three-day event. The village’s Christmas Tree Fest is to be held at St James’ Church, Vicarage Lane, from Friday, December 12, to Sunday, December 14.

Fri 28, Sat 29 and Sun 30 November 2014 Fri 28: Noon-8pm. Special Event: 6-8pm. Sat 29 and Sun 30: 10am – 4.30pm. Around 40 stalls offering retro, vintage and handmade goods plus warm mulled wine and artisan foods too!

Pick up a Diary for a full programme of events and activities - from free Storytelling on 13 December to our free Festive Family Event on 23 December.

Ruth Green, Fox

Free activities for all, live music, a fancy dress photo booth, retro hair & make-up styling and more. For a timetable visit www.chapelgallery.org.uk

Kevin Maddison, M for Moon

Chapel Gallery, St. Helen’s Road, Ormskirk Lancs. L39 4QR | 01695 571328 www.chapelgallery.org.uk Open: Mon-Sat, 10am - 4.30pm

The doors open on the Friday from 3pm-7pm. On the Saturday, from 10am-5pm, there will also be Christmas delicatessen stalls and a children’s art workshop between 2pm - 4pm. And on the Sunday, the Christmas fun continues between noon and 4pm wil carol singing at 3pm. Entrance is £1 for adults and 50p for children over the age of five. For further details, visit www.e-voice. org.uk/st-james-westhead or www.facebook.com/ StJamesWesthead

Oh Yes It Is... Aughton and Ormskirk U3A Musical Theatre Group has the very thing to get you in the Christmas mood - their own, specially written panto! Santa’s Secret Summer School has been written and composed by U3A member and Aughton resident Tony Crimlisk, with all original songs and dances. It’s set at the North Pole in the summertime where Santa runs a summer school to train fairy godmothers and wicked witches for pantomimes all over the world. However, through a series of calamities, brought about by a magic cow and a cantankerous old genie, the witches threaten to take over Christmas – will they succeed?

Until 3 January 2015 Around 30 of the UKs best designers and makers exhibit prints, jewellery, lighting, textiles homeware and accessories. Great Christmas gifts!

Organisers say the event will feature an amazing display of decorated Christmas Trees from local businesses and organisations. There will also be Christmas music, a children’s quiz and refreshments will be on sale each day.

The performances, held at Ormskirk Civic Hall, on Southport Road, will be on Thursday, November 27, Friday, November 28, and Saturday, November 29, curtain up at 7.30pm For tickets or more information telephone 01695 579742. Alternatively, email stanlivingston5@hotmail. co.uk or tonycrimlisk@mac.com

50th Anniversary Bickerstaffe Amateur Football Club is celebrating its 50th birthday next year - and has announced two events to mark the occasion. The club, which plays at Hall Lane, was formed in 1965/66 season as Bickerstaffe Young Persons Club. From small beginnings, using a former air raid shelter for changing rooms, Bickerstaffe now have an up-to-date clubhouse which was opened in June 1998 with the help of lottery funding. Bickerstaffe joined the Liverpool FA while playing in the now-defunct Ormskirk & District Saturday League, but now have two teams playing in the Wigan and District League in which they have, in recent seasons, won many trophies to add to previous successes. To mark the 50th anniversary, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re holding a race night at the Junction pub on News Lane, Rainford,

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on Saturday, February 7, from 8pm, and a celebration dinner on Sunday, April 17, at Skelmersdale Utd Social Club on Selby Place, Stanley Industrial Estate. The club now wants to track down former players who may wish to attend these events. For more information and to buy tickets, contact Alan Fairclough on 07871 775554.

...call us now on 01695 627 999

West Lancashire WW1 Anniversary Association

Come along to our talks in 2015

Other talks by Member Societies in 2015

6 Feb 2015 1914 – The End of an Era at Scarisbrick Hall - Mrs Veronica Massam

9 March 2015 Ormskirk Life in the Early Months of WW1 - Rev. Sylvia Jacquest

March 2015 (Date TBC) Lancashire Territorials in 1915 - Mr Richard Houghton May 2015 (Date TBC) Ormskirk hospitals during WW1 - Mr Bill Huyton All talks to take place at 6.15pm in Ormskirk Library All welcome

Ormskirk Historical Association

www.ormskirkhistoricalsociety.co.uk 12 January 2015 The 1918/19 Flu’ Pandemic - Mr Tony Sweeny 26 January 2015 The American Indian Wars - Mr D. Chater 9 February 2015 Ormskirk Parish Church Graveyard - Mrs J. Gidman 23 February 2015 The Bibby Line - Christina Spencer

Talks to take place at 7.30pm in Room M40 at Edge Hill University

West Lancashire Heritage Association www.odfhs.org.uk

21 January 2015 Life as a Journalist in West Lancs - Angela Danby 18 February 2015 Founders Dinner & Boat Families on the Leeds & Liverpool canal.– Mr Bill Huyton 18 March 2015 Cow Houses of Liverpool - Duncan Scott 26 April 2015 St George’s Day Lunch - Chris Bentley (Ormskirk Photos of Bygone Times) 20 May 2015 1914 The End of an Era at Scarisbrick Hall - Mrs Veronica Massam 21 June 2015 Walk and Visit to Burscough Priory. (Details TBC)

d iters) have produce OWLS (Ormskirk Wr y of war in log tho an an ” ies “Fallen Popp the front, ludes letters from writing which inc al writers. loc by s and storie memories, poems m the fro le is availab The price is £5 and the time at y rar lib the d s an following Societie of the talks. s’ to ‘Help for Heroe fits Pro All

All talks to take place at 7.30pm at Hurlston Hall Golf Club

Ormskirk & District Family History Society www.westlancsheritage.org

28 January 2015 An Unintended Book (Grandfather’s experience at Gallipoli) - Mrs Oakes 25 February 2015 Old Town to New Town (Skelmersdale) - Mr George Orr 25 March 2015 The History of Civil Registration - Ms Carole Codd 22 April 2015 WW1 - Mr Richard Houghton

The West Lancashire World War 1 Anniversary Association is jointly funded by donations from Lancashire County Council, The Duchy of Lancaster Benevolent Fund, West Lancashire Borough Council, & West Lancashire Heritage Assoication.

27 May 2015 AGM & The Hunt for Obadiah Moralee - Mrs Jean Gidman 24 June 2015 Visit to Lancashire Archives. (Details TBC) All talks to take place at 8.00pm Guide HQ, Moorgate, Ormskirk.

Making Arrangements Aughton Village Hallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flower arranging group meets on Fridays from 10am-noon. All levels are catered for, but numbers are limited. For further details, contact Ann Hinde on 01704 893712 or email alhinde@btinternet. com

Fast Responders Volunteers are being recruited to help give potentially lifesaving help. Community First Responders already operate in Ormskirk, and are currently looking for more members in order to better support the local community. They are teams of volunteers who live and work in local communities, and trained by North West Ambulance NHS Service NHS Trust to attend certain calls where time

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can make the difference between life and death. Such calls would include chest pain, breathing difficulties, cardiac arrest, unconsciousness, fitting, arrest of haemorrhage and diabetic emergencies. The responder provides care and support to the patient and relatives until the arrival of the emergency ambulance. Each volunteer makes themselves available on call to suit their personal circumstances. They carry basic life-saving equipment, and a simple to use Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Anyone who lives or works within the North West can get involved, whether it as a Community First Responder, or helping in other tasks needed to run a team such as support or administration. Volunteers do not need previous First Aid experience to join their local team as full training is given. For more information, visit www.nwas-responders.info or email westlancscfr@gmail.com

...call us now on 01695 627 999

Class from the Past - Aughton Parochial School

This month’s Class from the Past is from Aughton Parochial School. It’s believed this photo was taken around 1961. Maybe you can spot a familiar face?

Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact David Sudworth today by emailing editorial@ locallife247.co.uk

Neanderthal Talk

on Thursdays at 7.45pm, and the choir on Fridays at 7.30pm.

West Lancashire Archaeological Society welcomes Dr R. Peterson from the University of Central Lancashire to their next meeting on Friday, December 5. He will be giving a talk on studies of Neanderthal man in Wales and in the wider world, starting at 7.45pm. Nonmembers are welcome and admission is £3 on the night. For further information contact the Honorary Secretary on 01704 532846.

Sing Along The choir and orchestra of Ormskirk Music Society is welcoming new singers and players. The society is on the lookout for new members for both the choir and orchestra, especially the string section. They don’t hold auditions, but encourage singers and players to go along to one of its rehearsals. These take place at Ormskirk School, on Wigan Road - the orchestra

For enquiries about the orchestra, email Clare on clarebhamilton@hotmail.com and to learn more about the choir, email Diane on omschoir.sec@gmail.com

Pimbo Fair Pimbo Garden Centre on Pimbo Lane, Up Holland, is holding a Christmas Market on Sunday, November 23. People are being invited to go along from 9.30am-4pm and pick up some individual and bespoke Christmas gifts such as cards, children’s clothes, jewellery and cupcakes. There will also be face painting and children’s craft activities. It’s free admission and for more information contact Sarah Hulme on 07900 883976 or email sarah.hulme@ yahoo.co.uk

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Asmall Lane, Ormskirk L40 8JL 5 minutes from Town centre

01704 841 121

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Extra Parking?

Golden Oldies

Ormskirk Hospital bosses are planning an extra 124 car parking spaces at the Wigan Road site in a bid to ease congestion. They have submitted plans to West Lancashire Borough Council to extend the current car park into land which is currently full of bushes and also home to the hospital’s helipad.

Halsall village’s over 60s are in for a treat on Monday, December 1. That’s the date of Halsall Sunshine Committee’s Golden Oldies Christmas Party, to be held at Briars Hall, Briars Lane, Lathom. It starts at noon and there will be lunch with entertainment, as well as music and bingo.

It means the total current car parking capacity across the site would rise from 642 to 766.

Halsall residents aged 60 and above can attend free of charge, and guests are welcome to go along at a cost of £15. People are also being asked to make their own way there if at all possible. For more information, contact John Wroe on 01704 841216 or Betty Knowles on 01704 840611.

A statement on the Hospital Trust’s plans says: “During peak times it is now very difficult to find any parking spaces on the site and illegal parking upon the internal hospital perimeter roads and adjacent public roads is increasing. “It is the Trust’s intention to extend this car park on land currently covered by vegetation and the helipad which is now felt to be redundant to requirements as there is now no general A&E department.” However, the plan has prompted an objection from nearby Beech Meadow, with one residents writing in to say: “The extension will allow car park users to overlook into our property and we will not only lose our privacy but we have concerns about the increased lighting at night that will impact our property that will be needed for the car park.” A final decision is due to be made by December 5.

Park Life Ormskirk residents are being urged to get involved in helping make the town’s Coronation Park sparkle this winter. The park rangers are teaming up with the Friends of Coronation Park and students from Edge Hill University on Wednesday, November 26, to do some hedge-planting between the wetland and the meadow. They would welcome any volunteers to help them, so if you are interested please meet them at the bandstand at 12.30pm. For more details about the hedge-planting, ring Park Ranger Jess Britch on 01695 570258 or visit events.

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bespoke fused glass design

glass morpheus

Open studio sale Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th December

Need some inspiration for Christmas presents this year? Come along to our open weekend and choose from lots of lovely and unusual gift ideas, all work is handmade at the studio and many pieces will have upto 70% off for this weekend! Christmas decorations, bowls, jewellery, wall panels, mirrors, coasters and sculptures will all be on show at great discount prices. So come along on the 6th & 7th December 2014 open from 10-4 both days. Unit 11, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7XB t/f 01695 624182 w www.morpheusglass.co.uk e info@morpheusglass.co.uk splashbacks | panels | coasters | jewellery | hangings | sculptures | bowls

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Free Publicity For YOU! Are you in a local community group? Do you want to publicise a talk, school fair or charity fundraiser? If so, get in touch with us today! Local Life is distributed to thousands of homes across Wigan, St Helens, Chorley and West Lancashire. Each edition is crammed with stories for local events, and your group could be appearing in our next edition. The types of events we publicise are as follows: - Charity fundraising events - Local school, church or community fairs - Amateur concerts or performances by community groups - Talks which are open to the public - Pleas from community groups or associations for new members

- We’re also on the look out for old school photographs, street scenes from yesterday and want to hear from you if your group is celebrating a special milestone. Simply contact our Editor David Sudworth with the details - what, where, when, why, who for, how much - and anything else you want to tell our readers. The earlier you can provide the information, the better the job we can do. So don’t delay – contact David today by calling 01695 627 999 or emailing him directly at editorial@locallife247.co.uk

Business Review

Winning Smiles! It’s almost a year since a new dentist took over at Aughton Dental Practice – and the enhanced service offered by the practice is leaving patients with plenty to smile about! Dr Stephanie Brown has headed up the Bold Lane practice since the end of February. In that time, she has introduced a range of options to help ensure patients get the very best experience while maintaining excellent oral health. Among these are a sedation service to help more nervous patients, and anti-wrinkle treatment which takes advantage of the practice’s in-house, experienced team’s skills, as well as all the continued services such as dental implants and teeth whitening to crowns and hygiene therapy. Dr Brown said: “We recognise that, traditionally, going to the dentist has been seen as something to be endured. However, we want it to be a pleasurable experience. “That’s why we focus on patient care, ensuring that all visits are stress-free and as enjoyable as possible. “We’re a close-knit, friendly team which treats every patient as an individual.” The sedation service is headed by Dr Head-Rapson, a consultant anaesthetist with over 25 years’ experience. He said: “It’s ideal for very nervous or anxious patients who may otherwise find dental treatment stressful. You remain conscious throughout, but also relaxed so it takes any edginess away.” The anti-wrinkle treatment service has also been introduced following patient feedback which revealed that many prefer it to be done in a medical-based environment. 27 Bold Lane, Aughton, Ormskirk, L39 6SG

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It works by injecting small amounts of botox under the skin, temporarily restricting muscle movement. This then reduces the formation of lines and wrinkles, resulting in a smoother and more radiant look. Just a small amount is required for visibly younger looking skin. After 3-4 days, you will start to notice the difference and the effect will remain for between 12-20 weeks. Dr Brown added: “People are now more aware that their smile is important because it’s the first thing others notice about them. Our cosmetic options, from whitening, porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges and dental implants, help our patients make the most of their smile. Whatever the issue, our team works hard to find a bespoke solution.”

Dr Stephanie Brown - GDC number: 73554

01695 424266

www.aughtondentalpractice.co.uk

...call us now on 01695 627 999

Drink Plan Vanity Beauty Salon, of 32 Derby Street West, Ormskirk, has applied to West Lancashire Borough Council for a new premises license which includes opening from 9am-8.30pm and for the provision of the sale of alcohol.

Design a coffin Can you help NHS West Lancashire CCG in decorating a coffin that represents the local area?

The application is now out for public consultation, with the deadline set at Sunday, November 30, The application may be inspected at West Lancashire Borough Council, Licensing Section, Robert Hodge Centre, Stanley Way, Skelmersdale, WN8 8EE, between 9am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday inclusive. Brief details can be also obtained from the Councils website http://www.westlancs.gov.uk/business/ licensing.aspx

To support the annual Dying Matters campaign, the CCG wants to know what death means to you by helping them to decorate a coffin. You could include a religious symbol, a story, a poem, a drawing of a loved one who has died, an image of what you would want to be remembered for, your bucket list, where you would like to die etc. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no need for experience in art or design and the selected entries will be included on the coffin. To find out more about our coffin community project and to submit your entry, go to:

www.westlancashireccg.nhs.uk/coffin Closing date for entries is Friday 20 March.

01695 588000 NHS West Lancashire CCG Hilldale, Wigan Road, Ormskirk, L39 2JW info@westlancashireccg.nhs.uk

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Taste Test - by David Sudworth

Tantalizing Taste

At this time of year, I’m grateful for any last vestiges of warmth before the inevitable winter chills truly take hold. So we considered ourselves in luck when we headed out for a pleasant afternoon lunch at Taste Buds in Rufford, for not only was the weather with us, we also had an excellent spot in the outside dining area overlooking Fettler’s Wharf. Having relocated from Mere Brow in spring, my colleague Peter and I were intrigued to see whether Taste Buds’ reputation for good, honest fayre had survived the four mile move down the A59. Considering the amount of people already here when we arrived, it was a heartily reassuring sign. For starters, we ordered broccoli and stilton soup served with slices of chunky bread. Soup is a good indication of how much pride a place has its food. I’ve dined in countless places were the mains have been first class, but the soup has been a watery, insipid mess. So let me give you some advice, if the broccoli and stilton is the soup of the day when you go, then try it because you won’t be disappointed. There’s no need to add any salt or pepper to these home-crafted ladles of comfort - the taste is there in the original ingredients, and, as Peter concurred, each mouthful is a delight.

The main course choice proved difficult, for there were many options to choose from. In the end I put my faith in the Ploughman’s Lunch, while Peter - whose lunch normally consists of a spartan cheese butty on 50/50 defied my expectations by pushing the boat out with some Thai fishcakes.

The unwritten rule of this column is that I don’t order anything salad-based as it tends to be very one dimensional. After all, who raves about lettuce? But after such a dazzling starter, a sense of sheer devilment prevailed and I reckoned that if they could pull the stops out with this, then we were on to something. And when the plate arrived, by Jove I knew I’d struck gold. All the favourites were there; the pie, the chutney, the coleslaw and the cheeses as well as a succulently plump pickled onion. There was no trying to be clever or fancy, this was good, proper food presented well and packed with flavour. By the end, I’d

Buds!

actually forgotten I was ostensibly eating a salad. If my GP is reading this, he will be delighted.

‘proper’ tea. And if that doesn’t take your fancy, how about Rington’s Earl Grey, English Breakfast, Camomile, Peppermint or Green Tea & Citrus. Or how about a Hot Vimto or Ovaltine? If there was such a place as Hot Beverage Heaven, this is what it would look like.

Peter’s Thai fishcakes were served with some lovely, crisp French fries and a sweet chilli dip. The cakes were cooked perfectly - and it was interesting to see that once the cake had been cut open, the filling hadn’t dried out. That’s the mark of the casing doing its job, and also a cook who knows how to time things perfectly. 30 seconds longer and it would have been a different story, but that’s what comes with experience and attention to detail.

It’s clear the owner, Lisa Hunter, knows the area well and what customers want. As a former pupil at Mere Brow and Tarleton High schools, she’s born and bred in this part of the world and sets high standards. The staff are warm and friendly, and I overheard many customers complimenting Lisa and her team on the excellent food. Before going, we had a peek inside and it’s well laid out with a good selection of jams and chutneys, and a further display with Taste Buds’ own preserves are due to be added soon. We were seriously impressed by everything this lovely, friendly place had to offer. And as for our own taste buds... well and truly tickled!

I can’t write an article on Taste Buds without mentioning their exquisite choice of drinks. My eyes lit up like a child in a sweet shop when I saw the words ‘Yorkshire Tea’ on the menu. Rejoice! A deli cafe which actually does

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As we were eating, I noticed just what a diverse range of customers Taste Buds attracts. From retired couples to cyclists, young families to professionals, it isn’t the preserve of one clientele, and that’s very healthy. Next to us were two chaps who were soaking up the rays with a couple of refreshing Dandelion and Burdocks. But once they overheard us thinking aloud about possible deserts, I spotted them grabbing a menu to see what took their fancy. Can’t say I blame them, because the summer berries Eton Mess I ordered was fabulous, and Peter’s double chocolate and nut sundae were the perfect way to found off an afternoon in the sun.

Fettler’s Wharf Marina 20 Station Road, Rufford, Lancashire, L40 1TB 01704 822 888

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Meet Peppa Pig and Sponge Bob at this year’s Ormskirk Christmas Lights Switch On. It’s scheduled for Friday, November 28, kicking off at 4.30pm near the Clock Tower, Moor Street/Aughton Street, with Circus Frank’s Magic Show and Professor Fungus balloon modelling. Both Sponge Bob and Peppa will be walking around to wish everyone - particularly Peppa Pig is heading to the little ones - a Merry Ormskirk town centre Christmas.

West Lancashire homeowners can apply now for free gas heating appliance servicing, repair or replacement. West Lancashire Borough Council has received funding from Lancashire County Council’s Public Health Team to offer the West Lancs Winter Warm Scheme for a third year.

The audience will also be able to enjoy a sing-a-long of popular pop and Christmas carols with the lively Rock Choir. Jenny Jay, a Christina Aguilera tribute act will also perform some Disney Frozen songs and Friends in Unison choir and Skelmersdale Prize Brass Band will be leading the traditional carols. The piper and town crier will play a lead part in the finale at 6.30pm when the lights will be switched-on. The event is free and all are welcome.

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Under the scheme, gas heating appliances including gas fires and boilers can be serviced and repairs can be carried out if needed. Subject to conditions, gas boilers can also be replaced if they cannot be repaired or if their energy efficiency rating is ‘G’ or less. The servicing of oil boilers can also be considered under the scheme. The scheme is available to qualifying owner occupiers who are in receipt of certain benefits who do not have a plan in place that provides servicing and repair. Tenants cannot apply to the scheme as it is the landlords’ responsibility to maintain or replace any heating appliances including gas boilers. The scheme will run until March 31, but funding is limited so residents are encouraged to apply early. To find out if you are eligible and apply to the West Lancs Winter Warm Scheme, contact the Private Sector Housing Team on 01695 585 279 quoting the West Lancs Winter Warm Scheme.

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Mass Rebellion David Sudworth examines the role Scarisbrick played in the bloody and brutal struggle for religious equality

Many adjectives could be used to describe modern-day Scarisbrick, perhaps focusing on its genteel and rural nature. Which makes the fact that, in the 1600s, it was a hotbed of religious anarchy which produced one of Roman Catholicism’s most celebrated martyrs, hard to believe.

Saint John Plessington John Plessington was only 42 when he was hung, drawn and quartered on July 19, 1679, for the ‘crime’ of being a priest. Plessington refused to go quietly though; standing at the gallows, just seconds from death, he mocked the law which had sealed his fate - pointing out that if he were to be deemed a traitor, so were his contemporaries

in the lawful Protestant religion as they were ordained by the same Church of Rome. Scarisbrick played an important part in both Plessington’s life and the Catholic struggle for parity in the eyes of the law. He had been taught by the Jesuits at Scarisbrick Hall, and later in life he took the parish as his surname when going ‘undercover’ to preach to fellow Catholics. Recusancy - the act of refusing to attend Church of England services - was outlawed in 1593. It was the start of a period of persecution which was to last around 230 years. The beginnings can be traced back to serial groom Henry VII’s desire to divorce Catherine of Aragon. As England was a Catholic country at the time, Henry needed permission from the Pope which, historians say, wasn’t immediately forthcoming. This eventually led to the Reformation which severed ties with Rome and turned England into Henry VII a Protestant country. Opposition to this was at its highest in the North West, particularly Lancashire. One of the best known Catholic families locally were the Scarisbricks. Before recusancy, they had effectively helped create self-contained Catholicism in Scarisbrick by providing a chapel at their home off Southport Road. Today, the site is home to Scarisbrick Hall School.

The late, renowned historian, Mona Duggan, covered this in her book, A History of Scarisbrick. She explained: “The distance to Ormskirk made it difficult for the elderly and infirm to attend Mass in the parish church, so one of the priests from Ormskirk or Burscough used to ride to the township and hold Mass at pre-arranged locations. The first reference of these dates was in 1430 when Jane Scarisbrick obtained permission from the Bishop of Lichfield and Coventry to hold ‘divine services in a low voice’ in her home. Some years later, the family either built or converted part of their property and in 1447 this chapel in the Hall, the first one recorded in Scarisbrick, was licensed by the bishop.” If punishment by death wasn’t enough, the heavy fines imposed by the courts saw some of the parish’s poor driven into complete destitution. However, records from the mid-1660s show that magistrates were themselves starting to become more lenient. These were partly thanks to the endeavours of John Entwistle, an Ormskirk lawyer, who pleaded with the courts to discharge those he was defending. The Crown’s enforcers started going after those who were administering, rather than receiving, Mass. As a result, many of the priests serving at Scarisbrick Chapel were targeted. One of them, Bryan Cansfield, lived at the Hall but travelled around the North of England as a missionary. It said that Cansfield was seized at the altar by soldiers during one service in York, and was duly carried off to the city castle where, despite being in his 60s, he was beaten, kicked and starved. He died soon afterwards. Another Scarisbrick priest, John Poulton, died in the line of duty after he caught the plague from one of his congregation. Of all those who died, the 40 Martyrs of England and Wales, of which Plessington is one, are the most

well-known. This is probably because Plessington et al were put to death following a sham trial or, in some cases, no trial at all. Having been executed in Chester, the Garstang-born martyr is believed to be buried in the graveyard of the parish church at Burton-in-Wirral, Cheshire. Plessington was beatified, or posthumously blessed, by Pope Luis XI in 1929. On October 25, 1970, almost 300 years after Plessington’s death, he was made a Saint by Pope Paul VI. Many observers simply believe Plessington was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Indeed, for a while he was able to openly practise his faith. However, a bogus conspiracy about Catholics plotting to assassinate Charles II, saw a large ground-swell of anti-Catholic hysteria grip the country. As a result, many Priests, including Plessington, were rounded up. The day before Plessington met a bloody end, the Chief Justice had acquitted the Queen’s doctor, Sir George Wakeman, of attempting to poison the king… something which many see as being the beginning of the end of the Popish Plot conspiracy. It may have been too late for Plessington, but when hundreds of Catholics across West Lancashire, particularly in Scarisbrick, go to church this weekend, their freedom to do so is in some small way down to the courage people like Plessington displayed 335 years ago.

Scarisbrick Hall as it is today

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Hall of History The Scarisbrick Hall estate can be traced back to 1238 when Simon de Grubhead gave his brother, Gilbert de Scarisbrick, the grounds where the hall now stands.

A.W.N. Pugin

The building we see today is as a result of works in the late 1800s from renowned Gothic Revival architect A.W.N Pugin, a Catholic convert whose faith inspired his works. He was later involved in the designing the interiors and furniture of the Houses of Parliament.

In 1946, it became a teacher training college but in 1963, its future was in grave doubt when planning permission was sought to demolish the hall and build houses in its place. However, the application was rejected and since then it has been used for educational purposes. In 2009, the Headley family bought the building and, after a period of being called Kingswood College, its name reverts to Scarisbrick Hall School.

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Festive Delights Over the last 12 years, Chapel Gallery on St Helens Road, Ormskirk, has developed a significant reputation for showcasing the work of British designers and makers. As Ormskirk has strong transport links to Liverpool, Manchester and Preston, the facility not only draws its visitors from a loyal local audience but from the large cities too. For anyone with a passion for contemporary craft, Christmas is a particularly magical time at the gallery as the annual Objects of Desire exhibition, including the work of around thirty artists and makers, coincides with the three day Vintage & Handmade Christmas Fair. Objects of Desire is now open until January 2015 while the Christmas Fair runs over Friday, November 28, Saturday, November 29 and Sunday, November 30. Exhibitors in this year’s Objects of Desire include award winners Berty B, Lauren Van Helmond and Tom Philipson, and the gallery’s main exhibition space will be

inspired and handmade goods. There’s also live music, craft demonstrations, activities for children, retro hair and make-up styling with warm mulled wine and artisan foods too. See the advertisement on page 10 further details.

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Branch Fundraiser

AGM Invite

The North West Cancer Research Aughton branch is holding a coffee morning on Tuesday, November 25, run from 10am to noon at the Women’s Institute on Town Green Lane. Entrance costs £1.50 and includes tea, coffee and a mince pie. There will be stalls selling the charity’s merchandise and Christmas cards, as well as homemade cakes, books and bric–a–brac. All welcome.

Locals are being invited to Haskayne & Downholland Community Association’s annual general meeting. It takes place at the village hall, School Lane, on Thursday, November 27, from 7.30pm. All welcome.

Club Together St Anne’s Monday Club in Ormskirk is looking for new members. The group for pensioners meets every Monday afternoon at St Anne’s Parish Centre, Prescot Road, Ormskirk, for refreshments, talks, games, quizzes, parties, lunches, companionship and conversation. Meetings start at 2pm and finish at 4pm.

A&E Views NHS West Lancashire Clinical Commissioning Group is asking any parents, carers or relatives who have taken a child under four to Ormskirk’s children’s accident and emergency unit in the last two years to give their views on their experiences as part of plans to improve services. You can send your comments via email at myview@westlancashireccg.nhs.uk, by telephone on 01772 214 103 or in writing to NHS West Lancashire CCG, Hilldale, Wigan Road, Ormskirk.

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Planning Matters

Halsall

Aughton 15 Granville Park: Erection of timber fence to Granville Park (retrospective). Proposed vehicular and pedestrian metal gates (ref: 2014/1163/FUL). A decision is due by December 31. 22 Granville Park: Erection of a single storey detached double garage (ref: 2014/0938/FUL). The consultation deadline is December 2. 133 Prescot Road: Part two storey/part single storey extension to side/rear. New railings above existing front boundary wall and provision of additional access with dropped kerb (ref: 2014/1156/FUL). The consultation deadline is December 2.

Bickerstaffe Evergreen, Sineacre Lane: Certificate of Lawfulness - Siting of one residential caravan (ref: 014/1097/LDC). The consultation deadline is November 26.

Malt Kiln Barn, Halsall Road: Construction of proposed new garage on gable wall between Malt Kiln Barn and Malt Kiln Cottage (ref: 2014/0984/FUL). The consultation deadline is December 2.

Haskayne 6 Woods Close: Erection of single storey extension to the rear of the house (ref: 2014/1090/FUL). The consultation deadline is November 26.

Ormskirk Golden Lion, 41 Moor Street: Change of use of first floor from residential to bed and breakfast accommodation. Erection of external fire escape at rear (ref: 2014/1081/COU). The consultation deadline is December 3.

Scarisbrick Scarisbrick Marina, Southport Road: Two vertical axis wind turbines (ref: 2014/1159/FUL). The consultation deadline is November 27.

For more information on these applications, visit www.westlancs.gov.uk

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Christmas Overload

Christmas Spirit

If you’re the sort of person who can’t get enough of Christmas, then Squashbox Theatre’s Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness is definitely for you!

A Spirit of Christmas Event takes places at Emmanuel Methodist United Reformed Church, Derby Street, Ormskirk, on Saturday, December 6 (10am-4.30pm), and Sunday, December 7 (noon-3.30pm). The church will be decorated with Christmas trees and there will be stalls, live Christmas music and a visit from Santa on the Saturday. Admission is £2 and children go free.

The show, billed as an over-stuffed stocking of seasonal surprises crammed with comedy, puppets, songs and silliness, takes place at the Arts Centre at Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, on Saturday, November 29. It starts at 2.30pm and tickets are £5 for adults or £18 for a family ticket of two adults and two children, or one adult and three children. Call the box office on 01695 584480 or visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/artscentre

Fairness Survey Older folk in West Lancashire are being quizzed about their health and wellbeing. Lancashire Fairness Commission wants to know whether they feel they have the services and support to help them to carry on working, enjoy retirement or play a full part in their local community. A survey has now been set up at www.lancashire.gov. uk/fairness so people can give their views. Commission chairman the Very Rev. Christopher Armstrong, said: “We’re asking about everything from whether people think the economic climate has led to them feeling more lonely and isolated, to whether they feel austerity is making it more difficult to live in their own homes for longer. We also want them to suggest ideas the commission could take up that could be more widely used for the benefit of older people, whether they are richer or poorer.”

What A Racquet! Halsall Badminton Club is looking for new players aged 16 and over. The club plays every Thursday at St Cuthbert’s School hall, New Street, from 7.30pm. All abilities from beginners upwards are being invited to go along and play for pleasure and exercise, as they are not in a league. Racquets are also available. For further details, call Jim on 01704 840305.

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Jack’s Tracks

Westhead & Lathom Maybe it’s a sign of age, but the overuse of some words really seems to grate these days. Take ‘historic’ for example. It’s totally unnecessary, particularly when bolted onto place names. After all, given the fact it’s now zillions of years since some gas and rocks had a heated argument one day and created this place we now call Planet Earth, doesn’t everywhere have a history? I suppose it’s what happens though when you let loose sharp-suited marketing bods, probably called Hugh and Tabitha, on unsuspecting identikit towns to do a ‘rebranding exercise’... Of course, Lathom has a bona fide history which doesn’t need any such hard sell. Indeed, it’s in front of your very eyes at regular intervals during this six mile walk. And because its history is far from dull, I’ll excuse the use of ‘Historic’ on its local signage.

We started by parking up on Vicarage Lane. Word of warning here though - be aware that next to Ruff Woods there are time limits of two hours. As we knew it would take around three hours to complete, we parked up further down the lane where there were no prohibitions. Once booted, we headed down the path towards Ruff Lane before taking a sharp right just before the gates which directed us around the boundary of the property. The Right of Way took us down to Crosshall Brow, at which point we made a right and followed the A577 down into Westhead Village. As a settlement, it has managed to retain its charm despite the fact it is on an

increasingly busy route. Keep an eye out for some of the old buildings, particularly the Old Post Office and the black-and-white Grapes Cottage, built in 1746. Carry straight along until you reach Greenacre, at which point you turn in. As you walk down Greenacre, there’s a bit of a drop on your right which is signed as Meadowbridge Close. Go down here and follow the path. A point of interest here is that had you gone down this road 60 years ago, you’d have been walking across the old railway line which ran from Ormskirk to Rainford via Skelmersdale. Rail buffs will remember this is the line the old Skem Jazzer train, so called because of the humming noise it made on the tracks, used to run.

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Carrying on, the path sweeps round to the right and then goes past a house with private paddock at the side. The left turn off which takes us over the field was a bit hidden, but we eventually discovered a small sign on the post holding the electrical cables. So if in doubt, follow the pylons.

route, follow the path which to all intents and purposes, gives the appearance of a private driveway. It is in fact a route which services a number of dwellings but of course is a public right of way. We come out at Blythe Lane, directly opposite the imposing gates to Blythe Hall. This impressive, Grade II listed pile was built somewhere between the late 16th Century or the early 17th Century. It was remodelled by the 3rd Earl of Lathom as a residence to replace Lathom Hall, and apparently used in the 1920s for entertaining his theatrical friends such as Ivor Novello and Noel Coward. Before we start making our way back, we head to the junction of Abbey Lane to take a quick look at the site of the Ancient Priory Cross. The cross was only reinstated recently, and it’s believed the original cross could have been an ancient boundary marker or a place where funeral processions rested on their way to the nearby abbey.

Again, it’s a straight route across to Lodge Farm, at which point you take a straight right towards Hall Lane. This is now where the area’s ‘historical’ tag is wellearned. But first, we pass on the right the Pilkington research laboratory. Pilks, as they are referred to locally, have been here since 1960 and the facility is set within 50 acres. Although it’s slightly odd to see such a large site of this kind in a rural area, it does blend in reasonably well. Just a bit further down, opposite the junction of Cranes Lane, is the entry to Lathom Park. This is the site where hundreds of thousands of horses were trained ahead of being sent to the fields of conflict in France. In fact, Cranes Lane was used as the main route to transport the mules to and from Ormskirk Train Station. Although Steven Spielberg has given their story the Hollywood treatment in his 2011 film War Horse, the area seems more popular for resting drivers than film buffs. Indeed, while we were there a Dutch family parked up with their caravan to have a flask of Douwe Egberts and some Edam butties. Probably. After stopping for a few photos (of the park entrance, not the Dutch family), we carry on down the unadopted Cranes Lane before veering right across the fields in a north-westerly direction. Once at the top there are a variety of directions but if you are following this exact

Back over Abbey Bridge, we follow the sign which sees us follow the brook. For this part of the walk, it can be a little bit daunting for those who aren’t used to informal paths. There is no clearly defined path for this, indeed, the only way we could fathom it out was by some recent cutting back of the vegetation. Again though, the overhead electrical cables provided a useful guide as they more or less followed the route.

We headed over a stile and through a small copse before we ended up facing a tennis court. We were convinced we’d taken a wrong turning as we now appeared to be in someone’s back garden. Indeed, we were but said garden contained a public right of way. Mercifully for us, someone (presumably the owner) was out weeding the path and not only helped guide us, but cheerfully asked where we’d come from and then ended up wishing us well for the rest of our walk. I don’t think I’d have been as jovial to find two stranger trampling over my neat lawn, but this gent was joviality personified. If you are reading this, many thanks! I recognise though that not everyone will be as lucky as we were so, if you find yourself in the same spot and can’t seem to find a way out past the locked gates, the following tip should help. Next to the gates, there is a small cluster of trees. Walk into the cluster and ahead of you will be some wire fencing which you follow, and will eventually lead you out at the side of the gates, and onto the formal driveway. Once at the end, you come to a crossroads where you need to take the road ahead (Lathom Lane). Bear left at the first public footpath you come to and you’ll be on the concrete access towards Charlesbye Farm. Whereas the farm route veers leftwards about a quarter of the way down, the public access carries on over the fields, so don’t take your eye off the ball here.

The beauty of this walk is that is can be taken in either direction, it’s fairly flat and it presents a few challenges which, although puzzling at first, aren’t insurmountable. Also, a perhaps most importantly, it gives you a proper sense of the area’s history rather in a way which Hugh and Tabitha could only dream of…

From here to is a now virtual straight line up to Crosshall Brow, across the road and into the path into Ruff Woods. Once in the woods, turning left and keeping to the path which adjoins the wood boundary will take you straight out onto Vicarage Lane and, once you take a final left, back to the car. Otherwise, there’s a few other paths where you can explore the woods, if your aching feet can take it.

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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On Your Plot

Scarves at the ready! December is perhaps the one month where, in the build up to Christmas with roaring fires and shorter days, even the hardiest of gardeners may struggle to get out there and do the necessary for their plots. December often means hard frosts and you need to harvest your winter cabbages, celery and cauliflowers this month. Parsnips and swedes are pretty hardy so if you are a bit over-run with your crop you can keep these in the ground until you need them. If bad weather is forecast then keep some straw handy to cover them over and stop the ground from freezing them in. Make sure that you check your stored crops for any sign of disease and remove any that look problematic. If the ground isn’t too sticky then this is also a great time to get out your hoe and work between your vegetable crops. Look out for any plants which might have been lifted by frost and press them gently back into the ground. Keep an eye on your Brussels too - these should be starting now so try cooking them in different ways in your meals before the ‘big day’ (adding a spot of garlic can make all the difference) until you find something suitable to go with the bird. You don’t just have to eat them on Christmas Day you know! Be mindful of any snowfall this month or in future weeks and help out your plants and shrubs as best you can by brushing off any settled snow. This helps to prevent any damage with branches breaking under the weight. Just make sure you if you have small children they don’t

take this as an opportunity to flick snow everywhere otherwise your quiet gardening time could suddenly turn into an impromptu snowball fight! Birds at this time of the year need all the help they can get too. There are some great plants that you can introduce to help them as well as popping out the traditional feeders. These include hawthorn, holly, beriberi and indeed your holly can double up as a craft project for indoor decorations over the festive season. If you are planting these types of shrubs for our feathered friends then do try and put them somewhere quiet in the garden where the birds won’t be frightened off. Sit back at your window and watch them feed contentedly whilst you enjoy the view. Why not get out a few gardening books, grab a cup of tea and imagine how you’d like your garden to look next summer? More or less vegetables? Bigger shrubs, more colour? Whatever you choose, pat yourself on the back for all the hard work you’ve done this year and think how green your fingers really could be!

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