Local Life - St Helens - January 2018 by Local Life 247 Ltd

LocalLife St Helens Edition

January 2018

Win two Saints 018! memberships for 2 Pages 24 - 25

Iconic local

images Pages 43 - 46

Winter Sleep Pages 26 - 30

Food & Drink Pages 52 - 55

Garswood Park Walk Pages 59 - 62

Local News Motoring Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks Garden Diary Food Home Services locallife247.co.uk

Photo: Shooting Star over Billinge Beacon by Ian Bonnell

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Positive start A Genuine Winter

he festivities are over for another year, our waistlines have surely grown, and our finances may be a little low. I know, I know, it may sound like I’m highlighting the obvious but as we’re now in a New Year it’s surely time for the “New Year, New Me” mantra to start, right? If you’d like to start off the year with some cheer, there are still pantomimes to enjoy including the classics Cinderella and Aladdin. And there’ll be opportunities to kick start a new fitness regime, or just shift a little excess holiday weight.

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The January sales are in full swing, so it’s time to stock up on some of the necessities you may have missed during the Christmas madness – or indulge yourself one last time before the credit card guilt sets in. Whether you’d like to set yourself goals for the year, save for a dream holiday or do things a little differently this year, what better month to start than January? But most of all, be sure to make the most of your weekends off, and what better way to do it than some of the local gems we have right here in the North West. As days gets a little lighter, and (hopefully) a little warmer there’ll be plenty to do both indoors and outdoors for the whole family to get involved with. From all of us here at Local Life, we wish you a very happy start to 2018.

38 Church Road Rainford WA11 8HD 01744 881 588

www.ellamora.co.uk Niamh Ollerton, Deputy Editor

In this issue Win two Saints

memberships for 2018! 24 Shooting

star

Regulars 34 Puzzle Corner 59 Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks 36 Class From The Past 63 Test Drive 56 Events2Go 66 Garden Diary

Sections 6 Property 8 Local News 26 Health 36 Eduacation

48 Travel 52 Food 66 Gardening 68 Home Services

Next issue - February 2018

Advertising deadline - Tuesday, 23 January

43 Beautifully

real

Published - Friday, 2 February

LocalLife Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB

Telephone: 01744 649 722 52 Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks visits

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Publisher: Chris chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Sales: Clare sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: David, Niamh sthelensnews@locallife247.co.uk Design: Peter design@locallife247.co.uk Distribution: Sally sallyb@locallife247.co.uk Accounts: Sam accounts@locallife247.co.uk Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following areas on an alternate monthly basis. This issue is delivered to over 12,000 private homes and businesses in Rainford, Billinge, Garswood, Moss Bank, Haresfinch, Carr Mill and selected areas of Haydock. The next issue is delivered to over 12,500 private homes and businesses in Rainhill, Eccleston, Prescot, Eccleston Park, Windle, Prescot Road and parts of Nutgrove and Sutton Heath. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

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Festive fun It was a bumper festive season for one Rainford shop worker! Mrs Y. Metcalfe was one of the lucky winners of our Local Life Christmas hamper. We donated a hamper - packed with sumptuous local goodies - to the Rainford Village Christmas Fair recently. Hundreds supported the annual event. Santa arrived in style, with help from Rainford Santa and the Scouts. Fairground rides were provided by Silcocks and a town crier was on hand to announce the running order for the day. Locals were treated to performances by the choirs from all three village primary schools and Rainford High and music from Rainford Band. All money raised from the fair is given to local organisations who apply. It’s believed that around £3,000 was raised, and this will be distributed during this year.

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Parish councillor Diane Nichols said: “Thank you to all who came to the fair and made it such a success; our stewards and helpers, our stall holders, Santa and his elves, our local businesses who rallied round

to help and supply electricity and loan parking spaces, our sponsors, the Rainford schools and Rainford Band for entertaining us, and Paul Draper from The Junction for the music tent.”

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Hospital remembered A monument to preserve the memory and heritage of the former Haydock Cottage Hospital has been unveiled in Clipsey Lane. Created from the original ornate arch stone located over the entrance to the building, the monument was opened by the Mayor and Mayoress of St Helens, Councillor Joe Pearson

and his wife Sylvia; local ward councillors - and MP for St Helens North, Conor McGinn. There were also performances on the day from the Haydock Brass Band - which played at the laying of the foundation stone at the Cottage Hospital in 1886 - and local folk singer, Martin Williams. Haydock’s Cllr Martin Bond spoke of his pride after the entrance arch, as well as the 130-year-old foundation stone and a time capsule containing two annual reports of the hospital and copies of local newspapers, were given back to the council from current landowner, Issam Jabrow.

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On sale of the land the items rightly became his, but local resident Mr Jabrow agreed to hand over the items so that they can be permanently displayed in Haydock for residents - and family members of those miners who helped fund the hospital - to see. Councillor Bond said: “Preserving our heritage to ensure that the sacrifices of those who built our town and society is vitally important. “If we can’t always retain the physical reminders, then passing on the stories and memories to following generations becomes even more important.”

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Parish recordings wiped Recordings of a parish council meeting have been destroyed because rules were not formally agreed beforehand. Billinge Chapel End Parish Council confirmed that two recordings have been erased due to the fact that councillors hadn’t officially put in place a proper protocol covering this activity. Two residents who had asked for copies were informed of the situation and, according to parish chiefs, were happy for the recordings to be destroyed without them receiving a copy That matter has now been rectified, and all meetings will be recorded and kept for the council’s term of office, which is a four year period. The next

term of office ends in 2019. Copies of the meetings will be available to members of the public. Billinge Chapel End was censured by watchdogs after a series of ill-tempered meetings in 2016. Two councillors, Terry McEvoy and Paul Roberts, ended up being censured by St Helens Council’s Standards Committee as a result. From now on, the official council summons will state that the meeting is being filmed and there will also be a sign showing this in the Public Hall. The chairman will also announce that the meeting is being filmed at the beginning of each meeting. Residents may opt out of being included in the audio recording should they ask a question. The attendance sheet and question sheet will have a tick box to show this.

Safety drive Dozens of older Rainford residents attended a free Senior Road Safety event that took place at the village hall. Hosted by St Helens Council as the Merseyside lead authority for senior road users, the event – the latest in a series of similar events – sought to address the growing problem of senior road users, aged 60 and over, being involved in road traffic collisions. Attendees were given advice on driving while using prescribed drugs and medicine – as well as tips on winter driving and the benefits of public transport. The event also addressed the increasing number of incidents involving pedestrians within the senior road user age group – now becoming an area of

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Lifesaver appeal A Rainford lad and his friends and family are raising funds and awareness for his rare cancer. Chris Carberry, 21, was diagnosed in December 2015 with a rare bone cancer in his leg called Osteosarcoma. Sadly, treatments didn’t go as hoped and Chris had his leg amputated in March 2016. Unfortunately, several months after finishing 14-months of treatment, Chris was re-diagnosed in July 2017, but by this point the cancer had spread to his lungs. He then had more surgery to removed 1/3 of his lung along with the tumour, but with his positive attitude still intact Chris jokes it was “because one leg wasn’t enough.”

Now time is of the essence to try and raise £200,000 for pioneering lifesaving treatment abroad. But Chris and his friends and family have not lost hope, and are taking fundraising head on. There was a 24 hour Spinathon Challenge in December and other fundraising efforts include tackling Hadrians Wall last September. Chris’ dad Steve said: “We just want to raise awareness and get Chris’ story as far as possible.” Vist www. chriscarberry.co.uk

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Tell Us Your Story!

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Local Life is always on the look out for news stories from the local communities we serve. Are you raising money for charity? Are you a member of a community group with something to shout about? Maybe you’ve got an unusual talent, or have a claim to fame? If so, let us know and you could be appearing in the next edition!

Current and budding volunteers, and members

Simply contact us on sthelensnews@locallife247. co.uk or call us on 01695 627999.

of community or charity groups are being offered the chance to take part in an upcoming leadership programme in Moss Bank. Sessions are free for residents of St Helens aged 19+ who would benefit from the course and be able to make a difference in their community. The programme is run by Adult and Community Learning (ACL). If you’re interested in the courses or would like information on other ACL courses available, please call ACL’s Park Road Centre on 01744 677315 or 01744 677328, email: adultlearning@sthelens.gov.uk or visit the website: www.sthelens.gov.uk/adultlearning

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Planning Matters Billinge

One Stop, 44 Bowness Avenue: Change of use from

22 Windsor Road: Demolition of existing detached garage and erection of a single storey side extension along with the creation of a new vehicular access off Windsor Road (ref: P/2017/0937/HHFP).

retail unit to hot food takeway (ref: P/2017/0897/ FUL).

Moss Bank 10 Gormley Drive: Conversion of existing garage to habitable room, along with single storey front infill extension (ref: P/2017/0857/HHFP). Shoots Delph Farm: Construction of a new access roadway from the junction of Moss Bank Road to the existing farm yard (ref: P/2017/0871/FUL).

Rainford 25 Walmesley Drive: Demolition of existing garage, and erection of two storey side extension and single storey rear extension, along with front and rear dormer extensions (ref: P/2017/0891/HHFP). 36 Higher Lane: Creation of vehicular access onto classified road, with associated works to low boundary walls (ref: P/2017/0852/HHFP).

For more information on these plans, visit www.sthelens.gov.uk

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£674,935 by the Big Lottery and DCMS Youth Investment Fund to organise and deliver a Youth Sports Engagement Programme over the next three years. The three-year YMCA Youth Sports Engagement Programme is aimed at young people aged 10 to 18 and will offer a minimum of 20 free weekly sports and physical activity sessions, holiday programmes and sessions aimed at young people with additional needs. There will also be an opportunity to access projects and sessions organised by delivery partner the Saints Community Foundation.

Wine and Gin Shop, on Rainford Road, is poised to open a wine bar at Unit 12 in The Winstanley Centre, Holmes House Avenue, Wigan. Permission to revamp the vacant laundrette was due to be officially approved as Local Life went to press. Bar bosses told customers they hope to be open for business by February. According to papers lodged with Wigan Council, vehicle parking will remain the same, and there will be no external materials used for the site’s proposed change of use. Employees at the site will include four full-time employees; two part-time staff; and the equivalent of five total fulltime employees.

For more information on the free sessions and to view the time table, please visit the St Helens Council Sports Development website: https:// www.sthelens.gov.uk/culture-sport-leisure/sportsdevelopment/ or follow the team on social media.

Should the wine bar become a reality, opening hours are said to be be 12pm-11pm Monday to Thursday; 12pm-12am on Fridays and Saturdays and 12pm-11pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Competition

Saints &

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Win two 2018 memberships!

018 is all set to be an incredibly exciting year for St.Helens Rugby League Club and you can be part of the action by winning a pair of Saints memberships for 2018! These memberships entitle the holders to a seat in the Totally Wicked North Stand, Block NG at all Super League games in 2018, with a value of up to £373 each. There have been a number of important changes that have taken place at the club during 2017, including the arrival of new Head Coach Justin Holbrook from Australian Club Sydney Roosters, and the signing of marquee player Ben Barba, former Australian Rugby League player of the year. These moves signal intent to deliver high quality, entertaining Rugby League played with world class players in the best purpose-built Rugby League stadium in the country. The Club’s theme for the 2018 Betfred Super League campaign is Saints & Proud, and the club wants everyone, Saints fans and all local people to be proud of the Club and what it represents to the Town and local area. This theme is the Club’s ethos for the coming season and beyond. The 2018 Betfred Super League campaign begins on Friday 2nd February 2018 (kickoff 7:45pm) vs last season’s beaten Grand finalists, the Castleford Tigers at the Totally

Wicked Stadium. There are other mouthwatering fixtures in the early portion of the season including clashes with Warrington Wolves, Friday 9th March and the huge local Derby against bitter rivals, Wigan Warriors, Good Friday, 30th March (kick-off time to be confirmed) To win a pair of 2018 memberships simply visit our website www.locallife247.co.uk, click on ‘free stuff’ and then on ‘competitions’. To enter the competition for the January issue of the St Helens Local Life just input your answer to the following question; What is Saints theme for Super League 2018? The expiry date for the competition is Wednesday 31st January 2018. Only one entry per household.

Entrants must be over 16 years of age. The winners will be notified on Thursday 1st February 2018. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot accept responsibility for entries that do not reach us. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd or their immediate relatives are not eligible to enter this competition. For more information or tickets visit Saints website www.saintsrlfc.com. 2018 Memberships that allow you access to up to fifteen home fixtures are also available including a host of additional benefits and exclusive content. Visit www.saintsrlfc.com/ memberships for details.

Health & Fitness

Winter

here is never a time when sleep isn’t important. But with the shorter, vitamin D-deprived days, gloomy weather - and the dread that it’s going to drag on for months - at this time of year, solid slumber is more vital than ever. Winter, like all the seasons, has its joys (little beats a stroll on a perfect, crisp winter’s morning; stark blue sky, robins and the last of the leaves glistening with dew). But the reality for many is it can be quite hard work, too, whether it’s loneliness, worrying about the cost of Christmas or suffering the moodzapping effects of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), not to mention those winter bugs doing the rounds. And so we’d do well to give ourselves - and our immune systems - a helping hand, which in so many ways, starts and ends with decent dozing. Here are five things to think about if you want to win at winter sleep. Hot and cold Nobody wants to lie shivering in bed with feet like ice blocks. But overheating can actually be more detrimental to sleep, so it’s important to

sleep By Abi Jackson

get the temperature just right. “Ideally, the brain temperature needs to be fractionally lower than the body’s core temperature, so ideally your bedroom needs to be cool, around 19C,” says physiologist and sleep expert Dr Nerina Ramlakhan, author of Fast Asleep, Wide Awake: Discover The Secrets Of Restorative Sleep And Vibrant Energy (£12.99, Harper Thorsons). “So you’ll walk in and find it a bit chilly, but you can put a hot water bottle into the bed which you then discard as you get cosy. It’s important not to overheat as this will make sleep fretful and restless. I find it helpful to keep a fan in my room, even in winter, carefully positioned so I don’t get too cold if I use it. Also, a eucalyptus stick on your bedside table’s a good idea. Eucaplytus is cooling, so if you wake during the night - 2 to 4am is the most likely time for overheating - you rub the menthol stick between your eyebrows and temples and it has a cooling effect on the brain and, surprisingly, the mind.” Go for layers of bedding, rather than one thick duvet, “so you can discard some as you journey through the night”.

28 Comfort is key A comfortable bed, that’s just right for you, makes a big difference - but often it’s only when you actually experience it, that you realise just HOW much (investing in memory foam pillows actually changed my life). A calm environment can equal a calm mind, but when it comes to designing your bedroom, “quality of sleep should be the top priority”, notes James Cox, co-founder and CEO of British brand Simba Sleep, whose unique 2,000 spring/Visco memory foam mattresses can be delivered to your door in a box (from £399, www. simbasleep.com and selected John Lewis stores). “So ditch the lumpy, uncomfortable mattress.” The best mattresses aren’t likely to be the cheapest, but if you are looking to make investments, few things are more rewarding than years of good sleep. A good mattress can also play a role in helping manage and reduce aches and pains. Cox notes that innovations have come a long way, so it’s worth considering designs that combine experience and technological developments. Tech it or leave it We bang on about the importance of stepping away from those screens before bedtime, but the message just isn’t getting through for many of us (according to a recent survey by Simba Sleep, almost one in six Brits spend at least two hours a day on social media in bed). Bottom line: if you want to nail a solid sleeping routine, you need to switch off those devices. Dr Ramlakhan recommends an “electronic sundown” of around an hour before getting into bed, in order to calm those dopamine hits from constantly looking at a screen, and cut down on the blue light exposure that suppresses

melatonin - “the sleep hormone” - production. “We might associate the device with being mentally engaged and in work-mode too, especially if we also have access to email on the device,” she adds. Try old-school bedtime reading - with actual books - instead. “Neuroscience shows that the reading brain responds differently to reading on paper than it does to reading on a screen. With the latter, the reading rate tends to be faster, less mindful and more skimming - sort of multi-task reading - as if looking at a social media feed. Reading on paper tends to be more mindful, and we slow down and read in more detail (neuroscientists call this deep reading).” What’s on the menu? Just as we think about fuelling up in the morning, with energy-boosting breakfasts and those allimportant caffeine kicks, if you’re aiming to improve your sleep, the same theory applies at the end of the day - in reverse. So tailor what you eat and drink in the evening, with winding-down in mind. Keeping stimulating and sugary substances to the first half of the day is one thing, but it can go beyond that. “To sleep well, we need to eat foods that help the brain produce melatonin: a small

30 amount of carbohydrates with a small amount of protein rich in tryptophan,” suggests Dr Craig Hudson, founder of Zenbev.com. “A cheese sandwich will help sleep, but a big steak dinner will make your sleep worse. Food for sleep is like everything else; a little in moderation works well.” A late heavy dinner may make you feel sleepy, but setting your digestive system up for a night of overdrive isn’t going to amount to the best quality slumber. The same goes for alcohol - yes it may seem to help you drift off, but booze actually hinders quality sleep. Making a soothing tea part of your prebedtime routine is a great idea - not only can this be a natural way to aid sleep, but the simple act of making yourself a cuppa, and then sitting quietly to sip it, nurtures a sense of calm and mindfulness.

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Embrace bathing rituals Running yourself a bath is a fantastic way to embrace self-care, treat yourself to a little luxury, and really switch from manic ‘day mode’ to relaxed and sleepready (and it’ll help with dragging yourself away from those screens, too). Even once a week, a bath is worthwhile, and alchemist, aromatherapist and intuitive body worker Michelle Roques-O’Neil, founder of the ‘balancing and emotionally healing’ THERAPIE product range, says even a 10-minute bath will make a difference when you don’t have time for a half-hour soak. Make the ritual even richer by incorporating some aromatherapy based products, such as THERAPIE Himalayan Detox Salts (£38 for 400g, roquesoneil.com), which combine pink Himalayan salts, geranium, juniper berry and powdered amethyst. “This is one of our most popular products,” says Roques-O’Neil. “It’s great for when you’re really overextended, especially with digital overload. If you’re very anxious, suffering from insomnia, you’ve just overdone it. This will help pull you down to Earth.” Applying a soothing body oil, or lavender-based moisturiser, can be another effective step in your snooze-ready self-care ritual, finishing off with a spritz of lavender pillow spray.

WELLBEING NEWS 85% of over-75s say listening to music sparks special memories It’s often said that scent is incredibly powerful at triggering memories and, according to a new survey by the Royal Voluntary Service, hearing music transports many of us back in time too. Nearly three-quarters of the 500 over-75s quizzed as part of the charity’s Sing Your Heart Out campaign, admit they’ve forgotten lots of things - but can still remember the words of their favourite songs. Many say music has the power to help them remember pivotal events from their past, such as the day they met their partner (14%), a special day (12%) or their wedding day (8%). Furthermore, 92% agree that singing along to music lifts their mood, 81% think it helps keep their mind active, while 63% say it helps them forget health worries. Presenter Phillip Schofield, said: “My song is Make Me Smile by Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel. That’s my childhood in a song. What seemed like endless summer days, growing up in Newquay. Playing on the beach, being late for tea having lost track of time.”

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9 5

26 14 26 26 14

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LORDGSECT NEWR NOPOGOWIDE

totals to the right.

WIGGLE WORDS CLUE: I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t agree

STEELKR WORKDOPEEC LOGDINCFH LUBE ITT

Trace a path through all the letters to find the word or phrase that fits the clue.

T A N I

E K N N

A R U G

P M U J

All the puzzle solutions are on page 65 of this magazine

Class from the past

This month’s Class from the Past is from Garswood St Andrew’s School. It’s believed this photo was taken in the 1950s. Maybe you can spot a familiar face?

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

A new Starting Point Starting Point - the organisation which has provided advice and guidance on employment, skills and education to local people for the past 20 years - is entering a new era. Thanks to funding secured from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s Local Growth Fund, this new development will see Starting Point become a modern skills centre. Bosses hope this will help the organisation lead the way for delivering the skills, knowledge and qualifications demanded by today’s businesses. While the developments take place, the Starting Point team, which provides the National Careers Service in St Helens, will be moving into St Helens Chamber’s main building on Salisbury Street near

the World of Glass, and will continue to deliver its full range of services to support local people into jobs or training. Any Starting Point customers due to attend appointments or courses will now be seen at St Helens Chamber. For any enquiries, please call Starting Point on 01744 698800 or email info@ thestartingpoint.org

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Interested? Please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

LocalLife

Two new faces at

sch0ol

Merchant Taylors’ School has announced the appointment of two new Heads to lead the Boys’ and Girls’ Senior Schools in 2018. Claire Tao, who is currently Deputy Head at the City of London School for Girls (CLSG), will take over as headmistress from Louise Robinson when she leaves at Easter 2018. David Wickes will join Merchant Taylors’ Boys’ School as headmaster in September. David is currently the deputy headmaster at Warwick School. Claire started her career in industry and following the completion of an MSc in Personnel Management and Industrial Relations at the London School of Economics in 1993 and a PGCE at Roehampton University in 2004 moved into education working for the Old Palace School of John Whitgift as a biology teacher and head of house. She then went to Dulwich College Preparatory School as a chemistry teacher and housemistress before moving to CSLG where she has been for 10 years. Claire’s interests include the theatre and hosting social events and she is also looking forward to continuing her love of cycling in the Northern hills. After achieving a Master of Arts degree at Oxford in History and a further Master of Arts from King’s College, London David pursued a teaching career at Dulwich College and then Abingdon School. He enjoys travelling in Europe, visiting the theatre and watching most sports including following the ups and downs of Southampton FC. Chairman of Governors, Beverley Bell, said: “We were impressed by the calibre and number of applicants the posts attracted. Both are highly qualified for the roles and are experts in male and female pedagogy which is crucial for the Schools’ single sex education focus.”

Shooting

star

David Sudworth meets the Billinge dad-of-two whose photographs are delighting locals

an Bonnell knows he’s lucky. “Most people who enjoy photography have to travel for miles, but we’ve got great scenery on our doorstep.”

He’s not wrong. Although technically, Ian himself came quite a long way to enjoy the scenery Billinge and the surrounding area has to offer - from Australia to be precise. “I was born in Melbourne because my parents, Eddie and Mary, emigrated there in 1965. They had me in 1968 but came back in 1970. So I’ve been in Billinge since I was two and grew up on Hillside Close.” The former Chapel End and Rainford High pupil is becoming well known in the area for his stunning photographs - mostly thanks to the power of social media.

Crosby Beach

45 Liverpool Waterfront

“I’ve always sort of been interested in photography and my dad certainly was. In fact, every so often we come across photos he took of Billinge in the 1970s. Some of them have even appeared in Local Life. “She thinks I’m mad for going out at five o’clock in the morning, trying to catch the sun coming up,” he laughs. For Ian, 49, it remains largely a hobby. By day he works across the North West repairing petrol pumps

“Wife thinks I’m mad for getting up at 5am!” on garage forecourts. “It’s starting to become a bit of a business but there’s not a great deal of money in photography unless you’re a wedding photographer, and for me it’s more man-management than anything else. “I’ve been to photograph my son Matthew’s band, Last Reserves, but even that is completely different

Sign Post Billinge

46 to doing landscapes. It’s nice to have variety though. I had a stall at St Aidan’s Church’s Christmas fair a few weeks ago and sold a few then. It’s not at the stage where it’ll pay the mortgage though,” he smiles. For Ian, his own particular interest is when there’s any sort of activities in the skies.

“Doing trigonometry for first time in 30 years”

Carr Mill Dam

“I’ve captured a shooting star going over Billinge Hill and various shots of the moon. To be honest, a lot of the skill is about being in the right position to take the shot. For the first time since school, I’m doing trigonometry and reading maps. For some shots of Billinge Hill, I’ve been standing on a bridge over the M58 at Skelmersdale. “It’s all good fun though, and I just hope people get as much enjoyment out of them as I do.” To view Ian’s photos, visit www.facebook.com/ IanBonnellPhotography/

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Travel

Zakynthos for

everyone

entioned by the Daily Telegraph as one of the 20 Mediterranean islands you must visit in your lifetime, Zakynthos (or Zante has it is more popularly known) is the most southerly of the Ionian Islands and one of the most popular Greek islands. There is something for all the family on this gorgeous island with stunning

views, where locals offer tourists the hospitality which Greece is famous for. This island paradise has three distinct geographical areas: the north west region is mountainous with many traditional mountain villages, the central region is a fertile plain chock-full with olive groves and vineyards and the south east is characterised by its beautiful

49 beaches. Similarly, there are a range of contrasts on the island for tourists, depending on what you’re looking for in a holiday. Zante boasts numerous sandy beaches, mountain villages, beautiful natural scenery, water sports and good quality restaurants, bars and nightclubs to more than cater for all your entertainment needs.

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If it’s all out partying you’re after, then Laganas will fit the bill perfectly. Over 100 bars and clubs are packed into the main street in Laganas, so you can imagine how exciting things get during the summer holidays. Just off the coast of Laganas is the famous Marathonisi ‘Turtle’ Island, with beautiful almost tropical beaches, and also a small bay with intriguing sea caves to explore and a great spot for snorkellers. There are no buildings allowed on the island, but a quaint boat that bobs around the island selling refreshments.

Zante holidays for you. Go to Alikanas and you’re ideally placed for exploring Zante’s lush north coast which has dramatic white cliffs, magical sea caves and one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Greece. Take a trip to one of the Zante’s best loved tourist spots, the Blue Caves, which are located at the northern tip of the island, underneath Cape Skinari. The caves show a range of blue hues on the white rocks caused by reflections from the sea. The area

But for those who want to simply relaxing in an achingly beautiful setting you’ll find there are ideal

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50 is popular for snorkelling to see the wide range of marine life living in the clear waters. On the south eastern tip of the island, the pineforested Vasilikos peninsula is an area that has been mostly protected from large-scale development because of the loggerhead turtles that breed on Gerakas beach. Arguably the most beautiful area on the island. Nearby Daphni beach, also a turtle nesting beach, is well-worth a visit too. Not far from Keri is the beautiful pebble beach of Marathias. It is off the beaten track and well-worth the walk down. The island also boasts one of the most photographed beaches in Greece, Shipwreck Cove, which is a blissful cove backed by plummeting limestone cliffs; but be warned, there is usually a long queue out onto the viewing platform where you can photograph it.

Greece Checklist Language: Greek Currency: Euro Time: +2 hour Beer: €3.50 Cappuccino : €2.91 3 Course Meal: €15

loggerhead turtles lay their eggs at night and some of the beaches are also closed at night for the same reason.

The Zante authorities take their conservation seriously; the only airport on the island is closed after dark because it’s close to beaches where

It’s no wonder that the Telegraph rates this jewel in the Ionian, Zante, so highly. With its breath-taking green hills, lemon and orange trees, authentic Greek villages, olive groves, vineyards, long white beaches; all framed by a crystal clear blue sea. Your family holiday for 2018 awaits you!

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Food & Drink

Beautifully

real

By Keeley Bolger

n a tug-of-war relationship with food and fitness for many years, blogger Sam Murphy is the first to admit her initial foray into veganism wasn’t a healthy one. The 24-year-old, who hails from New Zealand, had anorexia as a teenager, and initially, switching to veganism proved another means of controlling her eating and introducing new restrictions. “I was raw vegan for a while, and I was so obsessed with eating only raw foods in their natural state,” explains Murphy. “I can see how easy it is to slip into that, because essentially it’s addictive, you become obsessed with it. It’s a control thing. “If you’ve got something in your life that you feel a bit out of control with, a lot of us will turn to food and control that. I know I do.” After moving to Melbourne, where she still lives and works in a vegan cafe, Murphy slowly began to change her habits and rebuild a healthier relationship with nourishing her body, reintroducing the full gamut of vegan-friendly foods (and actually cooking them), opening up about her experiences in her blog (sobeautifullyreal.com) and, eventually, shaking off her staunchly-held views of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ foods. “Having spent so many years having a very strict food rule list, I still catch myself out having those pre-conceived ideas about what is good and bad,” she admits. “It really restricts you creatively, but it also restricts your enjoyment for food. The challenge for me and for others is to break down barriers and just enjoy food as food, and obviously the important thing is keeping it within the realm of being dairy-free and cruelty-free. “I don’t see any reason why you should have to label something good or bad; it should just be real food.” Although she still has bad days, reflecting on her recovery, Murphy says: “I

53 got to a point where my survival instincts kicked in. Something clicks, and you realise you definitely don’t want to live your life that way, and it’s that drive to keep striving for more but also to be really patient and really forgiving and loving towards yourself, and to know that you’re going to have ups and downs. “As soon as I removed the expectation that recovery was going to be this consistent uphill on a progressive scale, it relaxed me a little bit more,” she adds. “I’m able to deal with those moments that aren’t so great, which I still have - I’m human.” Her debut cookbook, Beautifully Real Food - a gorgeous, colourful collection of mouthwatering vegan dishes - is clearly the work of somebody who now celebrates the joy of food. She’s keen not to preach about veganism though, especially since, as a former meat-eater, she recalls finding the concept very alien. “When I first heard of vegans, I thought it was the

weirdest thing in the world. I was like, ‘What the hell do those people eat? It’s like eating grass!’” she says with a laugh. “It’s different. People are very set in their ways and I was too, and I suppose it’s more about educating, just trying it out. I don’t expect everyone in the world to go vegan, but if they could just try a meal that is vegan, possibly not knowing that it is vegan first, that would be ideal, so they go in with a very open mind. “The more people we can get on board, the better,” says Murphy. “I try not to push my views on people; I just welcome them in like ‘Hey, I’ll cook you some food and see if you like it!’” Tempted to see if you’d like it? Here are three recipes from Beautifully Real Food to try at home... Beautifully Real Food: Guilt-Free, Meat-Free Recipes To Indulge In by Sam Murphy is published by Blink Publishing

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Turmeric Baked Beans, Potato Hash & Sautéed Greens

Serves 2 Ingredients For the potato hash: 3 medium-large potatoes, peeled and chopped 1tbsp vegan butter For the baked beans: 2tsp coconut oil 1 red onion, finely diced 1 garlic clove, minced 1 × 400g can haricot beans, rinsed and drained 1tsp ground turmeric 1tsp ground cumin 1/4tsp ground nutmeg 1tbsp coconut sugar (available from Tesco or Ocado) 1-2tsp vegetable bouillon or paste 125ml tomato puree 1/2 a 400g can chopped tomatoes 1tbsp coconut cream Salt and pepper, to taste Sautéed greens and mushrooms, to serve

Method Prepare the hash by chopping the potatoes and boiling until tender. Remove from heat and rinse in water. In a non-stick frying pan, simply fry the potatoes with the vegan butter over a medium heat until the potatoes are slightly crispy and broken up. For the baked beans, heat up the coconut oil in a non-stick frying pan and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and browned. Add the beans, spices, coconut sugar, vegetable bouillon, tomato puree and canned tomatoes. Simmer for five to six minutes over a medium heat. Add the coconut cream and stir in. Remove from the heat and serve. Season to taste and serve with sautéed greens and mushrooms.

Loaded Vegan Hot Dogs

Serves 2-3 Ingredients For the sweet chilli sauce: 1-2tsp hot sauce or chilli paste 2tbsp reduced-salt tomato puree 2-3tbsp maple syrup 1tsp garlic powder 1tsp onion powder 1/2tsp salt Water to thin, if necessary For the cheesy mustard mayo: 1tsp Dijon mustard 1tbsp tahini 1tbsp maple syrup 2tsp nutritional yeast 1tsp onion powder 3-4tbsp hot water (to reach your desired consistency) 1/8tsp salt For the hot dogs: 2-3 vegan sausages 1/2 red onion, sliced 1-2tbsp oil, for frying 2-3 hot dog buns Salt and pepper, to taste Sesame seeds

Method Prepare the sauces by mixing each separately in a bowl and storing in resealable plastic bags. Set aside. In a large frying pan, fry the vegan sausages and red onion in a little oil until the sausages are browned and crispy on all sides and the onions are crispy. Drain on a paper towel. Warm the buns in the oven or microwave. To assemble the hot dogs, cut a slice down the centre of the hot dog bun with a bread knife (ensure you do not cut all the way through). To apply the sauces, simply slice a small corner off the resealable plastic bags with scissors and squeeze as you would with a piping bag. Spread a thin layer of sweet chilli sauce inside the bun and then insert the vegan sausage. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Top with onion, salt and pepper and finish with a drizzle of both the sweet chilli sauce and cheesy mustard mayo.

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Charity KILO SALE

Research Your Family Tree

Thursday, January 18, 10am

Wednesday, January 31, 4.30pm-6.30pm

A vintage and High Street kilo sale where you can grab some bargains at just £10/Kilo with all proceeds going to the British Heart Foundation. Find amazing vintage from various eras, and clothing from high street brands. Early bird entry 10am-11am is £3 on the door, and general entry from 11am is £2 on the door.

This taster session is the introduction to a free five week course to help you start researching your own family tree. Suitable for beginners and for all ages. The five week course runs from Tuesday, February 20 to Tuesday March 20 1pm- 3pm. Booking is required. Contact adultlearning@sthelens.gov.uk or call 01744 677675 to reserve your place.

The City of Liverpool College, Roscoe Street, Liverpool, L1 9DW. Tel: 0151 252 3000

Still Born, Still Loved Thursday, January 25, 7pm (film starts 7.40pm) Still Loved explores the struggles felt by families surviving baby loss. Giving an unexpected voice to bereaved fathers, who speak candidly providing an additional perspective. This is a brave, inclusive and ultimately life affirming film, for anyone that has ever, or will ever, lose someone they love. Mercure St Helens, Linkway West, WA10 1NG. Tel: 01744 453444

Eccleston Community Library, Broadway, Eccleston WA10 5PJ. Tel: 01744 677575

Ghost Hunt Friday, Feb 2, 9pm, to Saturday, Feb 3, 3am Join Haunted Houses for a unforgettable ghost hunt experience at Mill Street Barracks. In 1890, the building was the Headquarters of the 2nd Volunteer South Lancashire Regiment, and during both World Wars, the building was used as an RAF barracks and housing wounded soldiers. Tickets are £32 per person from www.haunted-houses.co.uk Mill Street Barracks, St Helens, WA10 2BB.

Dance To The Music 2018 Wednesday, Jan 31, 7.30pm (doors open 6.30pm) ‘Dance to the Music’ is a dance show like no other! Experience the evolution of dance, starting in the roaring twenties, with tap and Charleston, up to modern day Ballroom and Latin! For more info www. sthelenstheatreroyal.com St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St Helens, WA10 1LQ. Box Office: 01744 756 000

The Script | Liverpool Monday, February 12, 7pm-10pm With their recent album Freedom Child launching to No.1 on the UK Official Album Chart, The Script has announced a series of UK and Ireland arena tour dates. Visit http://tidd.ly/e4c576b6 for tickets which are £41.25 (incl. booking fee) and more info. Echo Arena Liverpool, Monarchs Quay, Liverpool, L3 4FP. Tel: 0844 800 0400

The Wizard of Oz

I LOVE ME Wellbeing Event

Tuesday, February 13, to Sunday, February 18

Sunday, February 18, 10am-5pm

This family classic includes a hilariously funny script, dazzling costumes and sets, plus brilliant songs and show-stopping choreography. More info and tickets www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com

Come along to this uplifting event where you’ll have the opportunity to try a wide variety of holistic treatments and try out some new complimentary therapies. Browse the stalls and discover new products. Entrance fee is £2, but kids go free. Contact Lyndsay May for more info 07572 066365.

St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St Helens, WA10 1LQ. Box Office: 01744 756 000

Postgrad LIVE! Liverpool Thursday, February 15, 12pm-3pm Whether you’re a student thinking about your future options, a recent graduate looking to add to your qualifications, or currently working and considering a career change, Postgrad LIVE! Liverpool will help you gather the info you need to plan your steps toward Masters or PhD study. Visit www.findamasters.com Liverpool Guild of Students, 160 Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, L3 5TR. Tel: 0151 794 6868

Southport 60s Weekend Friday, Feb 16, 7pm to Sunday, Feb 18, 11.59pm

Rainford Village Hall, Church Road, Rainford, WA11 8HB. Tel: 01744 884709

Rainford Heritage Society Monday, February 19, 7.30pm The Society is hosting a talk on the manufacture and usage of manuscripts in Medieval England and France by Brian Farrimond. Entry is £2 per person. Function Room, Junction pub, Rainford, WA11 7JU. Tel: 01744 882868

Hot Pot Lunch Monday, February 19, 1pm-4pm

Great music from the likes of, The Rag Dolls, The Berries, The Fourmost and The Undertakers plus much more all under one roof. Full weekend tickets are £199 (incl. three nights’ accommodation), call 01757 700042 for tickets and more info.

Come and join us for a lovely warm homemade hot pot, cake or scone and unlimited tea/coffee Byroney’s Cafe & Bistro. For those not rushing home, you can stay a while and have a sing song or join in with some fun games. Tickets are £12 and is hosted by St Helens & Warrington Oddfellows. For info, call 01744 453650.

Prince of Wales Hotel, Lord St, Southport, PR8 1JS. Tel: 01704 536688

Byroney’s Cafe & Bistro, 2 George Street, St Helens, WA10 1BU. Tel: 01744 612122

The Lancashire Hotpots

The Little Mix Experience

Saturday, February 17, 7.30pm-11pm

Tuesday, February 20, 6pm-9pm

The Lancashire Hotpots return for another cracking gig! Support comes from the ‘Kings of Clubland’ Stu Penders & Spladoosh. This gig sells out every year so try to get tickets sooner rather than later. Tickets are £13 from www.citadel.org.uk Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult and seated on the balcony upstairs.

Four talented girls pay tribute to the UK’s top girl-band, Little Mix. With breathtaking dance moves, replica costumes this is a high-energy show, packed with all of Little Mix’s greatest hits. Tickets £12.50 (+£1.50 booking fee) from https://sthelenstheatreroyal.ticketsolve.com

The Citadel Arts Centre, Waterloo Street St Helens, WA10 1PX. Tel: 01744 735436

St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St Helens, WA10 1LQ. Tel: 01744 756000

RAOC Veterans Reunion

Luke Daniels

Saturday, March 3, 7pm-11.59pm

Friday, March 9, 7.30pm-11pm

If you’re ex RAOC and in the area you’re welcome to attend the veterans reunion, but you must book so that food numbers can be calculated. For more info visit http://raoc.websitetoolbox.com/

The BBC award-winning singer songwriter and composer. He creates masterful acoustic folk music encompassing humble woodnotes to syrupy synthesized twists. Tickets £14 from www.citadel.org.uk

Eagle & Child, 38 Main Street, Billinge, Wigan, WN5 7HD. Tel: 01744 892453

The Citadel Arts Centre, Waterloo Street, St Helens, WA10 1PX. Tel: 01744 735436

Comic Con

Rio Carnival in Liverpool

Saturday, March 3, 10am-5pm

Friday, March 16, 10pm to Saturday, March 17, 4am

There’ll be Cosplay, special guests and exhibitors at Liverpool’s very own Independent Comic Con. All enquiries should be sent to epic@liverpoolcon. com. For more info visit www.facebook.com/ events/1406295456147872/ St George’s Hall, Liverpool, L1 1JJ. Tel: 0151 233 3020

There’ll be Latin parade performers, you can learn to Carnival samba with infamous Rio beats and rhythms and international DJ’s. As well as a range of South American Street Food Stalls, Brazilian beers, and a face paint artist to get you party ready. Find out all you need to know at www.facebook.com/ events/510369545981463/

Some Guys Have All The Luck

Liverpool

Sunday, March 4, 7.30pm-10.15pm

Chip Shop Chips

This production celebrates the career of one of rocks greatest icons, Rod Stewart – from street busker through to international superstar! All tickets are £21.50(+£1.50 fee) from https://sthelenstheatreroyal. ticketsolve.com St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, WA10 1LQ. Tel: 01744 756000

Apprenticeships Open Day Monday, March 5, 1pm-2pm Visit Liverpool Chamber to find out all about the Apprenticeships, traineeships and fast track courses available. If you can’t make it email apprenticeships@ sthelenschamber.com to find out more or call Starting Point on 01744 698800 or visit www.sthelenschamber. com Chamber Training, 1 Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L3 9HG. Tel: 01744 742045

Saturday, March 17, 2pm-4pm and Saturday, March 17, 7pm-9pm It’s the grand reopening of Booth and Son’s Fish & Chip Shop. Eric has returned home forty years later, and it’s time for a fresh start. But old flame Christine has other ideas. Tickets are £5-£8 from www.eventbrite.co.uk Parr Library, Fleet Lane, Parr, St Helens, WA9 1SY. Tel: 01744 677580

Rainford Heritage Society Monday, March 19, 7.30pm, 7.30pm The Society is hosting a talk entitled “How Ormskirk treated evacuees from Liverpool in WW2” by Roger Bloxall. Everyone is welcome; entry is £2 per person. Function Room, Junction pub, Rainford, WA11 7JU. Tel: 01744 882868

Garswood Park

by David Sudworth

nce upon a time, the way to assure immortality was to have a statue erected in the local market square. These days, it’s having a pub named after you. Sir Thomas Gerard has that distinction on Gerard Street (where else?) in Ashton-in-Makerfield. Despite said pub being housed in an old Kwik Save supermarket store, it does little to diminish his aura as a hero who was sent to the Tower of London for trying to rescue Mary Queen of Scots. This walk roams around the Gerard family’s old stomping ground. Part of the estate is still there, but more of that later.

We park up on Woodedge (postcode WN4 9JZ) and head north west through Skitters Wood. Millingford Brook runs through the heart of Skitters, and you can follow it pretty much to where it goes towards the M6. For non-aquatic species such as ourselves, it’s much better to take the footbridge over the M6. Once across, the path will take you right and then veer left, past some detached homes and up towards Low Bank Road. After about five minutes on Low Bank Road, turn left onto Camp Road. Without much fanfare, you’ve just crossed from Greater Manchester and into Merseyside. Follow Camp Road as it merges into Gibbons Road before

were also lost, although most of the parkland designed by Humphry Repton including a large fish pond survived and still exists today. During World War II, the estate was used as a Prisoner of War camp and also as a training base for American troops preparing for the D-Day landing (more on this a little later in the walk). We walk past the gates, onto Millfield Lane, and head towards Haydock Industrial Estate.

These farm fields are always producing something, and we could spot the first signs of some green veg as we wandered up.

On the left, you will pass a very grand looking black and white house. Le Chateau, as it is now called, is the former estate office for Garswood Park. It looked unloved for many years, and has been sympathetically restored to its former glory.

If you’ve got a pair of binoculars handy, it’s worth turning left and getting a good sight of Winter Hill. On a very clear day, it feels like you could almost touch it.

You need to keep your eyes peeled at this point as the public footpath you need to take on the left is somewhat obscured. The entrance is directly opposite Millfield Farm, which itself is well signed.

We’re now heading towards Ashton Cross (yes Ordnance, not ‘Aston Cross’ as your maps show). It’s a busy old junction, close to the East Lancs Road and the M6. Across Liverpool Road, you’ll see the majestic Ashton-in-Makerfield Golf Club gates. These are in fact the original gates to the Gerard family’s old home, Garswood Park.

This stretch is pretty much straight for about a mile, until it reaches the M6 motorway bridge at the rear of Byrchall and St Edmund Arrowsmith high schools.

turning left on to Tithebarn Road.

The main house, Garswood New Hall, was built in the 17th century but was demolished in 1921 along with its associated outbuildings. The formal gardens

The stretch can get very muddy in places, so this does slow you down, and you have to ensure you don’t veer off piste. The trick is not to follow the deep tyre track grooves in the ground, as you’ll end up about 100 yards away from the bridge (yes, that happened to us). Instead, stick to the map and you’ll

arrive at the bridge without an unnecessary detour. At the height of summer, finding the bridge can be difficult as there is heavy leaf cover, so sticking to the map is doubly important. Once across the bridge, turn right and follow the path round the boundary wall of Byrchall. You eventually come out on Chelwood Park. Once at the end, turn left on to Warrington Road. Here, you’ll be walking along the front of Byrchall. Now, remember earlier I mentioned about a prisoner of war camp? Well, it was actually sited where the Byrchall buildings are today. One famous prisoner held there was Bert Trautmann, a Nazi paratrooper. After the war, Bremen-born Trautmann refused to go back to Germany, and instead played as a goalkeeper for St Helens Town and then for Manchester City. He shot to fame when he broke his neck - but carried on playing - during the 1956 FA Cup Final. As no substitutes were allowed back then, Trautmann played on and helped City to a famous 3-1 victory over Fulham. Carrying on the walk, we turn left into Vicarage Road, then right onto St Oswald’s Road before heading left, back down Liverpool Road. Turn right into Woodedge and you’ll soon see Skitters Wood again on the right hand side. You can either go through the wood, following the westerly paths, or carry on until the end of Woodedge and take the footpath opposite Orton Way, through the woods and back to where we started.

Over 40 Lancashire

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62 This is an ideal walk for this time of year - there’s not too many fields so mud splattering is kept to an acceptable level, but you still get a decent dose of local history. It’s well connected via road and bus, and there’s no shortage of places to stop for a drink of bite to eat. You could even try the eponymously named Sir Thomas Gerard close by... although you may want to change your footwear beforehand!

Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear while walking. While every care has been taken to ensure that the walk is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and

hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.

Length of walk: 4.2 miles Difficulty: Easy Accessibility: Fairly straightforward, although the stretch down the side of Ashton-in-Makerfield Golf Club is very boggy at colder times of the year. The route is served by the 156 bus, which stops near Ashton Cross.

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Test Drive

McLaren

570GT

he letters ‘G’ and ‘T’ are used far too often on cars. And, yes, I’m referring to a grand tourer rather than a gin and tonic. Some automakers think that by sticking a ‘GT’ badge on the boot lid it makes their product instantly irresistible. Many are wrong about that. But McLaren isn’t. Indeed, the 570GT is so far from wrong, it’s untrue. McLaren’s 570GT is one of the best cars the British firm makes and it’s undeniably the most multitalented sports car, too. You can probably tell I was utterly blown away with the 570GT when I tested it on British bitumen recently. Fundamentally, McLaren has taken the awesome 570S and has injected it with an extra dose of civility. The result is

by Tim Barnes-Clay

the 570GT – a machine that’s as refined as possible without swapping for a smaller power unit and additional seats. The 570GT even looks like the 570S, but there are some major differences between the models. The latter’s flying buttresses have been replaced by curved bodywork that comprises a glass hatch. There’s a respectable 220-litres of load space under there, meaning the 570GT has a genuine practical edge to it. The car also has a glass roof that makes the cabin airy and full of mood-enhancing light. The engine, normally on display in the McLaren 570S, is tastefully concealed under a leather floor in the 570GT. While, inside, the car gets extra

Fast Facts • 0-62 mph: 3.4 secs • Combined mpg: 26.4 • Engine layout: 3799cc twin-turbocharged V8 • Max. power (PS): 570 • CO2: 249 g/km • Price: £154,000

soundproofing, soft-close doors and electric heated seats. If that’s not enough to start justifying those letters ‘G’ and ‘T’, the 570GT is equipped with a more hushed exhaust system and softer suspension. The steering is also milder than the 570S’. These changes make the McLaren 570GT a car you could use every day. The ride is pliable enough to make our pothole-ridden roads bearable, and motorway cruising din is subdued enough so that your ears don’t bleed. But, just because you could use the GT on a daily basis doesn’t mean this is a lacklustre McLaren. Oh no. In every other way, the 570GT does everything

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else a full-fat McLaren does. And, most importantly, it looks one of the meanest, sexiest cars out there. It’s a major head-turner, that’s for sure. With just a quick stab of the 570GT’s starter button, the twin-turbo 3.8-litre V8 lump barks into life. Depress the gas pedal and the increase of velocity is hard-hitting, due to the 570 horses under the lid. And snapping up and down the cogs via the paddle-mounted gears-shifters is a real smileinducer. Zero to 62mph is done in an insanely rapid 3.4 seconds, while the top speed is a licence-losing 204mph. Regardless of the additional luxuries added to the

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65 GT, this McLaren’s cabin stays broadly the same as in the 570S’. It’s a work of genius in contemporary sports car interior design and a long way from the chaotic button-fest of the Ferrari 488 or the unemotional ambience in Porsche’s 911 Turbo. You sit near to the ground but erect in the 570GT, so visibility is very good. And, as mentioned earlier, it’s comfortable enough to be used as a real-world form of transport.

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While the alterations from the 570S to GT could be seen as fairly minor, they make a substantial difference to the McLaren driving experience. The British sports car maker has constructed a machine that is as calm as possible, without kicking any of the theatre to the kerb.

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