St Helens Edition
April 2016
They’re coming
home
Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health & Fitness What’s On Motoring... www.locallife247.co.uk
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couple of weeks ago, I did something that I vowed I’d never do – join Facebook.
I recently became involved in a pop up café initiative in Billinge to raise funds for the local community and charities, and I was persuaded that if I joined Facebook myself and promoted the page it would reap benefits. This, despite me, a 50+ workaholic, having about as many friends as Adam Johnson now has, especially before’ lights out’ at whatever nick he ended up in.
Windle, Eccleston, Dentons Green www.jjspetservices.co.uk
Anyway, what a revelation! I look at my news feed on Facebook and see all these people having a fab time – celebrating in champagne bars, walking in the Lakes, ski-ing in the French Alps, whilst the highlight of my week is the occasional cake and coffee at Boc Boc in Eccleston! Often we’re just too busy pulling together all these exciting things in our magazines for you to do, that we haven’t time to actually do many ourselves.
Dog Walking /Puppy visits Pet Feeding /Sitting OtHer ServiceS AvAiLABLe
So I’m going to mark the clocks moving forward by getting out there a bit more, enjoying the Spring sunshine and making the most of all the attractions the St Helens area has to offer. Hopefully I’ll see you there too!
01942 316 472
JJS Pet ServiceS
Until next time
JO MOrGAN 07505242001 JAN ricHArDS 07941216110 jjspetservices@hotmail.com
Chris Pearce - Publisher Next issue - May 2016
Advertising deadline - Tuesday 19 April Published - Friday 29 April
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In this issue Jack’s Tracks
They’re coming
home
Ashton & Bamfurlong
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43
Let’s talk
Test Drive -
tinnitus
Mini Clubman
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49
Davina’s Smart
Garden
Carbs
Diary
40
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Regulars 36 Class from the past 38 Puzzle Corner 42 Eating Out Guide
Sales: Clare Glover, Nicola Gray Editorial: Chris Pearce
43 Jack’s Tracks 46 What’s On 55 Useful Numbers
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Sections 6 Local News 30 Health 42 Food & Drink
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This 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. The next 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.
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Gone but not
forgotten? Rainhill Parish Council is on a mission to make sure every Rainhill serviceman and woman who gave their lives during WWI are honoured on the town’s Civic War Memorial. Following research by a Rainhill resident, 11 additional names will be added to the Memorial on Warrington Road on Sunday, 3rd July. If you know of anyone from Rainhill Parish who gave their lives during WWI whose names you think should be added to the Memorial. The deadline for notifications is Tuesday, May 3 and it is essential that you provide a service number and the name of the regiment so the correct details can be confirmed. Please send any information to Gillian Pinder, Clerk to Rainhill Parish Council. Gillian can be contacted by email at rainhillpc@hotmail.co.uk or by post to 12, Toftwood Gardens, Rainhill, L35 OQX.
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A Soldier’s story Rainford native Eric McDonald will be shedding some light on his family history in a fascinating talk about WWII for the National Trust. Eric is best known in the local area as the first Headmaster of Cowley School, following the merger of the boys’ and girls’ schools and his family can be traced back through several centuries of Rainford’s history. Eric’s own career path in teaching took him to London and Sheffield before returning closer to home, and finally back to Rainford when he was appointed at Cowley. The talk will centre on his father and his experience as a Prisoner of War. After his Mother’s death, Eric found papers relating to his father’s miraculous escape. Eric’s father was in the Scots Guards before the war and was part of the British Expeditionary Force in early 1940. He was taken prisoner at St.Valery en Caux and escaped whilst being marched through Belgium on his way to Germany.
Eric will deliver his talk at 7.30pm on Thursday, April 21 in the Lecture Theatre at the United Reformed Church on King Street. Entry is free for National Trust members and volunteers, non-members will be asked for a donation of £1.
Mother Goose This April come and join the White Rabbit, Mother Goose and Jack and Jill on a quest to find the missing Golden Egg in Prescot. You and the family will need to collect clues, solve puzzles, sing songs and follow the tour guides through the woods to help find the missing egg. This magical walkabout through Prescot woods is suitable for all the family to enjoy. Tours will take place on Saturday, April 9 and Sunday, April 10 at 12.30pm, 2pm and 3.30pm. All tours will begin from outside Prescot Parish Church, please arrive 15 minutes before the start of your tour and dress appropriately for the woods. Tickets
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can be purchased online at www.mateproductions. co.uk and are £5.50 for adults, £4.50 for children with under 2s going free.
Spring into learning This April, St Helens Council’s Adult and Community Learning Service will be offering residents a number of classes in the local community where new skills and hobbies can be developed. From tasters, to five week courses – these classes are held in adult friendly environments from within local venues, libraries, community centres and schools across the borough. Classes will range from Maths and English skills to life skills and how to research local and family history. For more information please contact the Adult and Community Learning Team on 01744 677314 or visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/adultlearning.
Distributors wanted Local Life require distributors aged 13 and above for this edition of our magazine. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every eight weeks. The areas we currently require distributors is as follows: Rainhill – Kendricks Fold, Warrington Road & Fairclough Road Eccleston Park - Prescot Road, Laurel Road, St Ann’s Road, Grosvenor Road, Kings Road, Princes Road, Scholes Lane, Lowther Crescent & Penrith Road. Sutton Heath – Elton Head Road, Marleybone Avenue, Whelan Gardens, Lowfield Lane, Gibfield Road & Harworth Road. Eccleston Park – St Helens Road, Portico Lane, Watling Way, Honeybourne Drive, Scholes Lane, Penrith Road, Lowther Crescent & Sandfield Crescent. If you are interested, please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
Editor Required Could you be the face of Local Life? Local Life is the fastest growing community magazine in the North West and we’re looking for an Editor/Editors to work from our offices in Orrell near Wigan. The successful candidate/s will be flexible, highly motivated, well organised and be able to fit in with a small and friendly team. We will expect you to be NCTJ qualified and be able to demonstrate experience in print media, ideally local newspapers.
To apply please email your CV to chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Closing date Friday, 9th April Previous applicants need not apply
This post is a full time position, but we also welcome applications from those candidates who are happy to job share. Car required – generous mileage allowance provided. Salary dependent on experience
The little magazine with a big reach
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Brassed
off!
The St Helens Youth Brass Band is on the lookout for new members to join their ranks and this Monday
Beauty Therapist
REQUIRED We are currently looking for an experienced beauty therapist to work within our established beauty salon in Eccleston St Helens. Qualified to level 1, 2, or 3 in Beauty is essential. The successful candidate will be flexible, highly motivated, well organised, have a passion for Skin Care and be able to fit in with a small professional team.
TO APPLY
email CV to beautybyhelenfrench@live.co.uk
(April 4) they will be hosting a free Brass Factory workshop. The band would like the next generation of musicians to step forward, pick up a brass instrument and give it a blow! The Brass Factory workshop will be happening between 9.30am-1.30pm at the United Reformed Church on Ormskirk Street. If your child or someone you know is aged between 8-16 and they fancy giving this a go then make sure to book a place by calling Sheila Hibberd on 07971 825287 or emailing sheilahibberd@blueyonder.co.uk
Environ at Helen French Have you ever wondered what is really happening under your skin? Now you can find out during an Environ Skin Analysis event held at Beauty by Helen French. The Kiln Lane salon will be hosting free appointments with a skin care expert from Environ, using all the latest imaging technology to assess your skin and give advice on problem areas. The event will take place on Monday, April 11 from 10am-5pm. Appointments are required so to book your space call Beauty by Helen French now on 01744 736170.
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Scoutaround The St Helens Scout and Guide Gang Show will be back at the Theatre Royal in St Helens from Thursday, April 28 to Saturday, April 30. This high energy family show is suitable for all ages and contains songs and sketches. Anything goes at the Scoutaround so be prepared! Shows start at 7.15pm and tickets are £8 with discounts for large groups. To purchase tickets or for more information please contact Jennifer Tickle on 07742 383176 or email jentic@tiscali.co.uk
Rapunzel If you have a Disney-mad princess at home then why not take her and the rest of the family along to see Rapunzel the musical? This promises to be a familiar tale with a fantastic new twist, laugh and sing along with a young girl with the longest hair you’re ever likely to see!
her Mother, Rapunzel dreams of seeing the outside world, when a young prince and his trusty valet come across her tower! The musical will be on at Knowsley and Leisure Culture Park, Longview Drive on Saturday, April 9 at 2.30pm. Tickets cost £10 for adults, £8 for children or £34 for a family ticket. For more information or to book tickets please call 0151 443 2200 or go online to www.knowsley.gov.uk/tickets
Singing in St Helens St Helens Ladies Choir’s next concert will be held at the King Street United Reformed Church on Saturday, May 21 at 7.30pm. This promises to be an evening full of harmonies and high notes - tickets are £7 and are available by calling 01744 884913.
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Table top sale Prescot Parish Church will be holding their second Table Top Sale of the year on Saturday, April 23 in the Parish Meeting Room from 10am-2pm. There will be a variety of stalls on the day and refreshments will be available. Admission is free so make sure get there early and bag yourself some bargains.
Food for thought St Helens Food Bank needs your help to replenish their dwindling supplies. The Food Bank helps lots of families across the borough on a monthly basis and they have found themselves short of a few items. If your big shop could stretch to a few extra items such as cartons of milk, sugar, jam, tinned veg, rice pudding, biscuits, instant coffee, tinned fish or pet food, you would be really helping to do your bit. All the Food Bank asks is that you don’t buy fresh food and that you check that all the items you
donate are in date. All St Helens libraries are acting as collection points for you to drop off any donations.
Baby Sale Take the hassle out of your spring clear out and make a bit of extra pocket money by selling your items at the Cheeki Monkey baby sale. If you have any pre-loved baby goods then why not drum up a bit of business at this table top sale held at Clock Face Labour Club on Clock Face Road on Saturday, April 9 from 11am-1pm! This will be a fun community event for all the family to enjoy with face painting, colouring competitions and a soft play area all available on the day. The organisers are also looking for craft and local business stalls – for more information or to book a stall please contact Lynn at lynn.cheekimonkeys@ gmail.com
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Man’s best friend A St Helens business came up with a novel idea to combat loneliness in local residents this Easter. Barking Mad lets people take in a pooch on a temporary holiday as an alternative to kennels. And last month the dog sitters were visiting retired and elderly friends with their new four-legged friends and an Easter Treat. But a dog is not just for Christmas or Easter in this case – if you have always wanted to look after a dog but are worried that you couldn’t look after it all the time, then this might be the solution for you. Now you can go for a walk in the countryside or on the beach with a furry friend for company. Barking Mad’s owner Andrea Gupta told Local Life: “As dog holidays host you provide a loving home environment where your visitor relaxes and feels at home. “ Regular exercise and companionship is your part of the deal and the cost, administration
and transport is dealt with by us. As the dog host, all you need to do is meet with Andrea and you agree together the type of dogs you like and when you are available to look after them. If you would like to become a host for Barking Mad and look after a dog on a temporary basis please contact Andrea on 01942 316472 or email andrea.gupta@barkingmad.uk.com
The Floyd Effect Following a terrific gig in 2015, The Floyd Effect makes a welcome return to The Citadel on Saturday, April 16. Fans will be treated to more gems from the Pink Floyd treasure chest; you can expect to get great music and stunning special effects. Doors open at 7.30pm and tickets can be purchased for £17.50. For further information and to book tickets, please call the box office on 01744 735436 or email at info@citadel.org.uk
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Race for
life
Liverpool women are being urged to join the fight against cancer by signing up to Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life 10K event at Aintree Racecourse on Sunday, June 19. Jennifer Ward, Cancer Research UK’s Liverpool Event Manager, said: “Signing up to take part in Race for Life is a great way for women to commit to get a little more active. “The atmosphere is incredibly supportive. Pledging to take part, alongside thousands of like-minded women, is a great motivation to get fitter.
This year, organisers need 2450 women and girls to stride out to help raise £110,000. So dig out those trainers and join the fight. To enter Race for Life please visit www.raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.
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Rainhill hi-notes If you like the sound of music and hitting those high notes as best you can, then Rainhill Community Choir would want to hear your dulcet tones. The choir meets every Wednesday evening at Rainhill High School (during term time) from 6.30pm8.15pm. The group sings a variety of music that will suit all tastes, everyone is welcome and no auditions are necessary. For more information please contact Val on 0151 426 1409 or Roni on 0151 289 8705.
West Park rugby Is your child in year 1-11 and eager to learn to play rugby? If you can answer yes to both of those questions then West Park RFC would love to hear
from you. At West Park your child can learn new skills, be a part of a team, improve their fitness and meet new people. Players can also join the annual tour and enjoy all of the popular social events and activities. The team train and play home games at their Prescot Road site – no experience is needed and full coaching will be provided. For more information please contact Paul Kennedy on 07900 801914.
Wheelie walkers A new group has been set up in St Helens to help people on wheels to get out and about with others. If you are aided by a mobility scooter or wheelchair then this is the group for you. This friendly group
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uses their wheels for enjoyable trips into the countryside and to make new friends. The group is currently in need of new members and would like to hear from you. For more information please contact Joan Rostron on 01744 813801 or email joan_rostron@yahoo.co.uk
Moonlight walk The Moonlight Walk is back for its tenth year on Saturday, June 18. This year’s walk will start from the brand new Willowbrook Living Well building on Borough Road. The team have a great evening planned to celebrate the 10th year of the walk, including dancers, singers and a samba band. Entry is £15 for Adults and £5 for Children or £35 for a family ticket, which includes 2 adults and up to 3 kids. So what are you all waiting for? Sign up today and make this year’s Moonlight Walk the biggest and best yet! For more details contact 01744 453798 or email events@willowbrookhospice.org. uk
Tell us your story! Local Life is always on the look out for news stories from the local communities we serve. Are you raising money for charity? Are you a member of a community group with something to shout about? Maybe you’ve got an unusual talent, or have a claim to fame? If so, let us know and you could be appearing in the next edition! Simply contact us with the details by emailing sthelensnews@locallife247.co.uk
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Spring concert St Helens Choral Society will be hosting a spring concert in honour of the Queen and her 90th birthday on Saturday, April 16. Members of the group will be performing Franz Joseph Haydn’s ‘Maria Theresa Mass and Te Deum’. The concert will take place at the United Reformed Church on Ormskirk Street at 7.30pm. Tickets are £10 and £1 for under 16s – for more information or to order your tickets please contact 01695 625500 or email info@sthelenschoralsociety.org
Recruitment fair Local businesses will be gathering at St Helens College on Tuesday, April 26 in the hope of meeting some of the town’s most eligible apprentices. This is an excellent opportunity for potential apprentices to meet employers who hopefully might be able to offer them a job one day. There will also be advice on the day from the dedicated apprenticeship team
about the vacancies available and how to apply for them. The event will take place at the College on Water Street from 11am-2pm. For more information or to enquire about the apprenticeship vacancies please give the team a call on 0800 99 66 99.
Canary girls St Helens Central Library presents ‘The Canary Girls’ on Saturday, April 30 at 1pm. It is the summer of 1914 and sisters Rose and Lizzie work as maids when war breaks out. Adventure seeking Rose becomes a shell worker, persuading her sister Lizzie to follow her into a world offering more money, exciting work and union activity. As old and new worlds collide on the factory floor, each sister must decide whether or not to follow their dreams. Funny, heartfelt and tender, this is a tale of two sisters well and truly at war. This production is suitable for everyone and tickets cost £6, £5 for library card holders and £3 for concessions. To book your seat, please call into any library in St Helens.
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They’re coming
home... After six years in exile , St Helens Town are heading back to familiar turf. David Sudworth reports...
T
hey’ve got an alumni which most clubs would give their high teeth for, but fans of St Helens Town haven’t had much to smile about of late. Relegated for the first time in the recent history last season to North West Counties Division 1, and forced to play their home games in Wigan, following an abandoned groundshare plan with Saints, it would be easy for chairman John McKiernan to be glum. But a return to town following their six year exile mean that, as they celebrate their 70th birthday this year, there’s plenty to be cheerful about.
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For former Sutton High pupil John, who has been involved for the past 30 years, the prospect of kicking off the 2016/17 season at Ruskin Drive Sports Complex is something to look forward to.
didn’t mind it. When I left school I was initially a graphic designer so helped out with the matchday programme, something I still do along with Glyn Jones.”
“Don’t get me wrong, we have been treated really well at Ashton Athletic, and before them, at Ashton Town, where we’d played our home games since leaving St Helens. But we can’t wait to have a place we can call home again. Attendances have dropped off for obvious reasons, but we’re hoping to increase them once we are back in town. It also gives us many more financial opportunities because, let’s face it, trying to convince a St Helens business to pay £50 to sponsor a matchball which is being kicked around over five miles away is a challenge, to say the least.”
Having held various roles including secretary and treasurer, John stepped up to the role of chairman eight years ago to replace the long-serving Jim Barratt. Much of his time is dedicated to ensuring the club’s annual bills, which come in at around £40,000, get paid: “Fundraising is a big part of it. We operate on a non-profit making basis, it’s all in and then out again. There is very little surplus and if there is, it goes on things like extra training balls.
“Hindsight is a wonderful thing...” Like many clubs in the lower echelons of the English leagues, St Helens have had their money worries. The well-documented wrangle with Saints over the proposed new groundshare even found the pages of the national press, something which John doesn’t shy away from discussing. “Our old ground at Hoghton Road was sold and we moved to the old Saints ground at Knowsley Road. The plan was to move with them to Langtree Park. The decision was not taken lightly and hindsight is a wonderful thing. We took some of the legal advice we received at face value. I have to remind people that the decision was taken with the best of intentions.” For someone who has been with the club since a teenager, it’s clear Peasley Cross-born John, 49, whose day job is in the local NHS, is passionate about making it a success. “I got involved when I was 18 through bar work at the old social club. It was Saturday afternoons, which not a lot of people wanted to do, but I
“2015 was a bumper year, in what are still austere times, for sponsorship and we are very grateful for that support. The club has grown and continues to develop with teams at under 18s, 21s and Sunday Open Age. “We continue to see the demise of football clubs at all levels. So on reflection we have to be content with the light at the end of the tunnel and survival during our exile.” St Helens Town are playing Northwich Manchester Villa at 3pm on Saturday, April 16, at Brocstedes Park, Downall Green, Ashton. Visit www.sthelenstownafc.com for more information.
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History & Hall of Fame The original St Helens Town team formed in 1901 and played behind the Primrose Vaults pub on Park Road. The club folded in the late 1920s but was resurrected in 1946 by a group of local businessmen, who took out a lease at the former cricket ground on Hoghton Road. Their golden era was the late 1980s, when they won the FA Vase at Wembley, beating North West rivals Warrington 3-2 in the final. Over the years, a number of famous names have turned out for St Helens. German-born Bert Trautmann (pictured below) kept goal for the club in 1948. Trautmann, a paratrooper in the Luftwaffe, came to England after being captured on the
Another famous ex-St Helens player is Bill Foulkes. Born in Clock Face, Foulkes (pictured below) joined from Whiston Boys Club and played during the 1949/1950 season. Manchester United signed him for just £10 in March 1950, but he continued working at Lea Green Colliery, and only quit after being capped by England. An original Busby Babe, Foukes survived the Munich air disaster in 1958 and played in the 1968 European Cup Final victory against Benfica at Wembley. He died in November 2013, aged 81.
Western Front and spent time at a Prisoner of War camp on the Byrchall High School site in Ashtonin-Makerfield. He became famous for breaking his neck, but carried on playing, for Manchester City in their victorious FA Cup Final match against Birmingham in 1956. He was awarded an honorary OBE in 2004 for his services to Anglo-German relations. The following year, he was inducted into the National Football Museum’s Hall of Fame. In 2009, during a visit to England, Trautmann met St Helens officials and he donated a number of items which the club auctioned, raising over £1,000. He died in July 2013 at home in Spain.
Another notable name is John Connelly, who played in England’s 1966 World Cup opening match against Uruguay. Connelly, also from Clock Face, played for Burnley, Manchester United (with Foulkes) and Blackburn Rovers, and was one of the 1966 England squad who received a belated winners medal in 2009. He died in October 2012.
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Health & Fitness
Let’s talk
tinnitus
W
Many of us will have experienced the sensation of hearing sounds that seem to be coming from nowhere other than deep inside our own heads and ears - perhaps a high-pitched ringing, or hissing sound. Thankfully for most of us, these sounds will be nothing more than a mild and temporary irritation - but for some people, tinnitus can become a significant problem.
Can’t switch it off Not everybody who experiences tinnitus will be severely affected, but in some cases, the relentless noise can have a big impact on quality of life and psychological wellbeing, causing
By Abi Jackson
distress and difficulty sleeping and concentrating, in turn affecting work and relationships and, as the British Tinnitus Association (BTA) points out, can be linked with anxiety and depression. However, while there’s currently no cure, Tony Kay, head of Audiology Services at Aintree University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in Liverpool and a member of BTA’s Professional Advisers’ Committee, is keen to highlight that support is out there - and there is hope. “The first thing is not to be alarmed, but if you think you may have tinnitus, you should see your doctor, who will check your ears and offer general advice. You may also get referred to a tinnitus clinic,” he explains.
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“It’s also important to clarify that while tinnitus is not curable in most, it does tend to get less annoying over time for the majority. Anybody with tinnitus that is troublesome should seek a referral to a tinnitus clinic via their GP.”
Better with time Often, when ‘hidden’ problems are causing us distress, the simple step of talking to a doctor, or anybody with an understanding of your problem, and having it openly acknowledged that it’s getting you down can be a massive weight off the shoulders. Kay, who also facilitates the Aintree Tinnitus Support Group, notes that a number of things can really help with managing tinnitus. “In the vast majority of cases, tinnitus is managed rather than cured, and modern therapies are effective for most,” he explains. “Using background noise to reduce the intrusiveness of tinnitus, relaxation, keeping active and socialising may improve things.
“Studies have shown that over time, tinnitus becomes less intrusive as the brain loses interest in it; this process is called habituation.” There’s lots of information on the BTA website too, and local support groups, Kay adds, “will probably be beneficial”.
What causes tinnitus? Tinnitus is actually considered a symptom, rather than a single disease, “related to changes in activity or connectivity within the hearing system and brain”. Although often seen as something that affects older people, anybody can experience tinnitus, even children. However, it’s far more common in older age groups, affecting around 10% of UK adults. “The prevalence of tinnitus generally increases with age, affecting males and females more or less equally. The main risk factor is hearing loss,” adds Kay. “Exposure to loud noise, ear infections, certain medications, stress and head injuries are some of the other risk factors.”
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Where infections, or blockages with wax, are involved, treating these can relieve tinnitus. The link with stress is more complex, but it’s generally recognised that stress and anxiety may act as a ‘trigger’, or make people more acutely aware of tinnitus - a pattern that’s seen across a range of health issues. Exposure to loud noise, however, is a major factor and one we can all try to prevent, by being aware of what amounts to ‘dangerous’ noise levels and taking steps to protect our hearing, by using ear guards and earplugs. This can be particularly important for people who regularly work in noisy environments, but is something everybody should be aware of, as even the volumes of our TVs, and listening to music with headphones, could be putting us at risk of hearing loss and tinnitus.
Prevention better than cure “Prevention is better than cure, so being ‘sound aware’ should be your aim,” stresses Kay. “We’re not
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saying avoid - just be more aware of the potential hazards of loud noise. Our ears tend to be tough in most cases, but we only have one pair, so looking after them will enable us to go on enjoying music for a long time. “Don’t turn it off but turn it down and protect, is the general rule of thumb.”
Plug’em! :: This Tinnitus Awareness Week (February 8-14), the British Tinnitus Association is highlighting the need to protect hearing with its Plug’em campaign, raising awareness of when and why we could benefit from protecting our ears with earplugs. To find out more, visit www.plugem.co.uk :: The charity is also marking the 10th anniversary
of Tinnitus Awareness Week with ‘Tea for Tinnitus’, encouraging people to ‘put the kettle on’ and get together to talk about tinnitus and help raise funds. To find out more, or for a fundraising pack, visit www.teafortinnitus.co.uk
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34
Easter event
Family fun day
The National Wildflower Centre on Roby Road, Huyton has a great Spring lined up for Knowsley
Here is a date for your diary - the Friends of Sutton Park would like to invite you to their annual family fun day on Saturday, May 14 between 12-5pm. The fun day will take place at Sutton Park on Robins Lane. Activities on the day will include tombola, face painting, prize stalls, music, classic cars and fair ground rides to name a few.
residents starting with their Easter event on Thursday, April 7. You can go and join the Friends of Court Hey Park for some Easter fun with crafts, Easter egg hunts from 12pm-3pm. Bridgefield Archers will also be there on the day to give some archery lessons to the over 8s. On Friday, April 15 there will also be a Spring Celebration from 11am-3pm. The Great Outdoors Project will be celebrating all things Spring with activities for all the family to enjoy, including planting, tasting activities, seed bombs and a plant sale. Both of these events are free but for more information or to see what else is on offer, please visit www.nwc.org.uk or call 0151 738 1913.
Over the last couple of years the group has made links with a few of the local schools and in conjunction with the fun day they will be holding the annual Sutton Park Shield Football Tournament. A number of primary schools will be taking part on the day and the winners will hold the shield for the following 12 months. If you would like more information about the fun day please contact Lisa Bundock on 07799 595 621 or email friendsofsuttonpark@hotmail.com
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35
Focus on
S
family law
adly, families do not always stay together. Marriages end and couples split up. Most adults in these situations try to look beyond the hurt, and deal with their ex-partner to resolve things properly. But what if that doesn’t happen?
is to negotiate with the other party and try to break down the disagreements and reach a fair result”.
Local law firm I E Legal Solicitors have a team of caring, expert solicitors who are there for you, to advise and help you resolve any legal disputes. Whether it is your ex being unreasonable about the arrangements with the kids, or an argument over property or money, I E Legal’s experienced team can help.
“Because legal aid is no longer available in most cases, we are able to offer a range of services to help with family law. We emphasise working as quickly as possible and doing our best to get matters resolved fairly and for the lowest cost” said Dominic. “But sometimes an ex-partner simply won’t see sense” he explained, “and in that case, a settlement may not be possible. As a court representative, I am well used to having to tell judges that the other side is in fact lying to the court, or to CAFCASS or trying to manipulate the situation. And if the matter needs to go to a fully contested hearing, I will be there to represent my clients and guide them through the process – and get the best result”.
Resolving difficult disagreements is one of the things that Dominic Cooper, senior solicitor at I E Legal, deals with regularly. “In many cases, ex-partners are still angry and bitter about issues from the relationship, and this can cloud judgment” explained Dominic. “We often find that the real issues – such as who gets what from the house, who will live where, how the children will spend time with their parents – these are not very disputed. But nobody reaches agreement about these important things, because of arguments over other matters. Part of my job Dominic Cooper
But if that doesn’t work, and the other party refuses to behave reasonably or reach an agreement, the Family Court can be asked to step in.
So for advice on any matter relating to family law, including Divorce, Children’s arrangements, Social Services involvement, dispute finances, property or anything else, contact the specialist family law team at I E Legal Solicitors, to see how they can assist you.
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36
Class from the
past
This month’s Class from the Past is from Rainhill High School. The photo is believed to be from the early 1990s.
Over 40 local
walks
Maybe you can spot a familiar face? Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, email sthelensnews@locallife247.co.uk
FREE to download at www.locallife247.co.uk
37
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38
Puzzle
corner
Guess where? Answers are on page 52 of this magazine
Sudoku
39
Outdoor
T
living
raditionally, the favourite hangouts in the home have been the kitchen and living room. But today, the back garden is taking over as the favourite space for cooking, entertaining and relaxation. More homeowners are bringing all the comforts of their indoor rooms to the outside by creating multipurpose outdoor living spaces that function as inviting extensions of their home. But if you’re struggling to visualise how to make the most of your outdoor living space, who do you call?
directly with home owners to manufacture and install quality joinery that not only looks superb, but is also built to withstand the test of time.
Hanton Joinery, run by New Zealander Murray Hanton, was established over 20 years ago in the Wigan area and the company specialises in providing bespoke joinery, such as manufacturing and installing staircases, doors and door frames, sash windows and wooden bi-fold doors. The company works with architects, builders, and
If 2016 is the year when you want an outdoor room that enhances the beauty and usability of your home, simply give Murray a call for a free consultation on
Now the company has launched a new range of garden furniture, custom made for any individual requirements, in any configuration you want, to suit even the smallest of areas. Hanton Joinery will design, supply and fit your outdoor furniture, and there’s even a full range of bespoke cushions in various colours.
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40
Food & Drink
Time to smarten up
mealtimes? By Keeley Bolger
W
ritten out of frustration at the confusing advice surrounding carbohydrates, Davina’s Smart Carbs seeks to simplify
the issue.
“I’ve always been telling everybody about eating a balanced, healthy diet [one that includes carbs], and then I suddenly thought, ‘Have I been telling people the wrong thing?’ Then a nutritionist told me that there are good carbs and bad carbs, and we came up with this idea of smart carbs. “It makes total sense; there are smart carbs, ones that are good for us - and there are some very simple changes we can make.” These changes include swapping white bread, rice and pasta for brown varieties (“That’s a no-brainer”) and using sweet potato in place of regular spuds. McCall recalls how she thought her kids would “baulk” when she first made a chicken crumble with a cauliflower, quinoa and Parmesan topping - but actually they loved it. “It’s interesting, you think, ‘Oh well, the kids aren’t going to like it’, but the kids have got more adventurous with the new stuff I give them. They’re into trying new things.” She acknowledges mealtimes can be a battleground, however. “I’ve got three kids and quite often, two of them like something and one of them
doesn’t. I don’t make them something different - I just say, ‘Have some of the veg and have a bit more of this if you don’t like that’. “I always try and get them to try it,” McCall adds. “The more somebody tries something, the more likely they are to like it in the end.” Fancy trying some of McCall’s recipes yourself? Here’s a tasty recipe from Davina’s Smart Carbs...
Davina’s Smart Carbs by Davina McCall is published by Orion Books, priced £16.99.
41
Bubble and
squeak Method Bring a saucepan of water to the boil. Add the carrots and swede and cook them for about 10 minutes or until tender. Drain thoroughly, then tip them back into the saucepan and leave them over a low heat for a few minutes, just to help steam off any excess liquid. Swede in particular can get quite waterlogged, so this is important. Mash the carrots and swede with the butter until fairly smooth. Tip the mash into a bowl and leave it to cool, then chill it in the fridge for a while to firm it up. Wash the greens thoroughly, put them in a saucepan with a little water and cover the pan. Place the pan over the heat and cook for a few minutes until the greens have wilted down, then drain them thoroughly and leave them to cool.
Serves 4 Ingredients 300g carrots, cut into chunks 300g swede, cut into chunks 10g butter 150g spring greens, cabbage or Brussels sprouts, shredded 1tbsp olive oil 1 small onion, finely chopped Olive oil spray Poached or fried eggs, to serve (optional) Salt and black pepper
When you’re ready to cook the bubble and squeak, mix the root veg mash and the greens together and season with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan and gently fry the chopped onion over a medium heat until it’s softened and caramelising around the edges. Add this to the vegetables, then tip everything back into the frying pan and spread the mixture out into a large round. Cook the bubble and squeak over a medium heat for several minutes until it’s nice and brown underneath and cooked through. Meanwhile, preheat your grill to its highest setting. Spritz the top of the bubble and squeak with olive oil spray, then pop it under the grill for three to four minutes until it’s browning around the edges and in patches on top. Cut it into wedges and serve as part of a brunch with poached or fried eggs, if you like.
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Eating out
guide Sing Faye Restaurant
Blue Mango
Dine at Sing Faye and enjoy a taste of Oriental Cuisine. Amazing Sunday banquet, Early Bird & A la Carte menu. Open 7 days a week. Book a table to avoid disappointment. 01744 738882 East Lancashire Road, Carr Mill, St Helens, WA11 9AE singfayerestaurant.co.uk
Open 7 days a week and offering an extensive choice of traditional Indian and European dishes, check out the website for details of live entertainment and theme nights. 0151 493 2875 Dane Court Shopping Centre, Rainhill L35 4LU bluemangorestaurant.com
Quattro’s A family run Italian restaurant situated on the Rainford By-pass at Bickerstaffe. Being just off the slip road of the M58 makes this an ideal location for meeting friends and business lunches. 01695 720800 54 Rainford Road, Bickerstaffe, Ormskirk L39 0HF quattros.co.uk
Houghwood In a perfect setting, Houghwood’s restaurant has panoramic views across the course and over to the Welsh hills. A modern British menu is served Wednesday to Sunday. Monthly tribute events and theme nights. 5 star food hygiene rating. 01744 894754 Crank Road, St Helens, WA11 8RL houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk
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sponsored by
Ashton &
Bamfurlong by David Sudworth
W
ith words being the tools of my trade, I despise clichés. Indeed, I avoid them like the plague. So that’s why this month’s walk, despite being reasonably hidden and displaying gem-like qualities, shall not be described as ‘a hidden gem’. I’m not sure what descriptive tag it deserves though. Maybe I’ll think of one later on. Anyway, to the task in hand... I know the Ashton and Bamfurlong area well, having grown up a few miles away, so wasn’t expecting anything out of the ordinary. By the end though, I had a whole new perspective. Our starting point for this 6.6 miler was the Three Sisters Recreational
Area, off Lockett Road. We took advantage of the free parking just by the pond and play area, and started our hike by going in north easterly direction towards Bryn Hall Farm. Once out of the main Three Sisters parkland, it’s a short walk before turning right. At this point, you have two choices to make; you can either head north for a longer walk or simply go eastwards, past Bryn Hall Farm and down Bryn Gates Lane. Whichever way you go, you end up at more or less the same spot on the A58 later on. There’s also a few other considerations; the longer walk involves going through fields and, certainly while we in situ,
44
there was a herd of cattle present. Regular readers will know the lack of demarcation between man and beast makes me very nervous. Another consideration is that the northern path throws up a red herring as the map denotes a public right of way towards the Leeds-Liverpool Canal. For the benefit our lovely Local Life readers, we went down to check it out. Not only was it massively overgrown, but once you get to the water’s edge, there is no bridge. It appears that at one time, there may have been either a bridge or landing stage, hence the presence of the right of way, but take our word for it that nowadays, it’s merely a road to nowhere. After much chin-stroking, we opted for the more northerly path. This is undoubtedly the more challenging route, even from the outset as the public right of way is not only unsigned, but it also has a gate which at first glance appears to be a sturdy, boundary fence from the adjacent house. Thankfully, a friendly farm worker was nearby and advised us to push on it, which we did, and it sprang open. Notwithstanding the nettles, brambles and
aforementioned cattle, I’m glad we tested out this path because further down we got a real sense of nature when, out of the undergrowth, a young deer crossed our path. It scarpered very quickly - much too rapid for our normally super-agile lens man Peter - but what a treat. Of all the beautiful and rural places I’ve visited doing Jack’s Tracks, the last place
I expected to see wild deer was on the fringes of Ashton! We continued until our path did a bit of a dog leg. The vast expanses of wheat crops, evident in the earlier part of a walk, continued to carpet the fields as far as the eye could see. It could have been a scene from North America rather than little ol’ Wigan. If only George Orwell could have seen it. We eventually emerged opposite Abram Bryn Gates School where there was a handy pedestrian crossing to take us over into Furlong Close, a small cul-de-sac with neat dormer bungalows. We turned right into Epsom Drive (I sensed a horse racing theme going on here) and carried on into the field in front. After two minutes, we arrived at a copse, went over the footbridge and turned a sharp left. Although the vegetation in the area was extremely well developed and dense, the route was amazingly clear. By this point, the sound of Virgin trains whizzing up and down the West Coast Main Line could be heard up the steep embankment yonder. Once you get to the bridge, which goes underneath the tracks, just be aware that there are a few paths and it’s therefore easy to take the wrong one. For our suggested route, stick to the path which is closest to this side of the embankment. From here, it’s a very straight route south on a formal path before it veers south west towards Riding Lane. While on this section, our eyes were drawn to the presence of a commemorative stone laid to the left of the path, and surrounded by loose bricks. It reads: “P. W. DAVIES. BORN EDGE GREEN 9 JULY 1889. DIED CHESTER 18 NOVEMBER 1944. AT HIS REQUEST HIS ASHES WERE SCATTERED NEAR HIS BIRTHPLACE. A WORTHY SON OF LANCASHIRE. A GREAT THINKER.” There are no further details on the background of this particular gentleman, but as far as final resting places go, he chose a lovely spot. We finally went past some farm buildings and a house on the right before coming to Edge Green Road/Riding Lane. A combination of weary feet and the sight of a rural pub is hard to resist, and so the gravitational pull towards The Harrow Inn
45
pub proved too much for our aching limbs to fight against. As it was a warm, bright day, we sat outside on one of the many benches, nursing a refreshingly cold cola and plotting our way back.
still have stored away by letting them loose in the play area. As I said at the outset, it’s hard to believe that in an area known for its industrial past, so much countryside is still not only in place, but also actively used and harvested. As a born and bred Ashtonian, it certainly opened my eyes. Never again will I solely think of traffic jams when asked to describe my hometown. But let’s get one thing straight, despite all this I’m still not labelling the walk ‘a hidden gem.’ That would be far too trite. More like an undiscovered diamond...
We found that from here, it was a virtual straight line back; down Riding Lane, back across the A58, past Lily Lane Farm and into the formal Three Sisters Recreation Area. Look out for the bird watching area on the left hand side – some of the species indicate a twitchers’ paradise. Once back at the car park, there’s the option of feeding the ducks or letting the little ones burn off any energy they may
Bryn Hall Farm
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South Lancashire Industrial Estate
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Ashton-in-Makerfield 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.
46
Events & Leisure
What’s Friday, 25th March to Sunday, 17th April
Peter Pan Easter Special Peter Pan will join Regal Entertainments’ long line of critically acclaimed smash hit seasonal productions, which are always chockful of glitz, glamour, songs, dance, family filled fun, silly antics and slapstick comedy. With an all-star cast, the Theatre Royal is taking panto to never before seen dizzying heights with Peter Pan; an egg-stra special Easter treat for the whole family. St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St Helens, WA10 1LQ Tickets Adult £12.50, Concessions £12, Child £11.50, Family £46 (1pm & 5pm) Contact 01744 756000 or visit www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com Friday, 25th March to Sunday, 24th April
Giant Easter Duck Hunt at WWT Martin Mere Calling all kids - we’ve lost our GIANT yellow ducks and we need you and your family to help us find them at our WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre this Easter holiday. You’ll need to use all your fantastic hide-and-seek skills to track down these 25 elusive birds and be in with a chance of winning a yummy chocolate treat! It is 50p to enter and prizes will be awarded for everyone who takes part. WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre, Fish Lane, Burscough, Lancashire, L40 0TA Tickets Adult £12.60, Child £6.00, Family £33.50 (10% discount when booked on line) Contact 01704 891240 or visit wwt.org.uk/martinmere
on
Wednesday, 6th April to Sunday, 10th April
Speke Hall - Alice in Wonderland This is your chance to escape everyday life into a magical oasis. Families can join the White Rabbit on a whirlwind adventure through Wonderland and experience Speke Hall as you’ve never done before. If running around isn’t your cup of tea, why not pay a visit to the Mad Hatter’s Tea Rooms and enjoy a scone or two? Speke Hall, Merseyside, L24 1XD Tickets from £7.99 Contact 0151 427 7231 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events Sunday, 10th April
The Wizard of Oz - Sooty & Friends Click your heels, clap your hands and journey over the rainbow as Dorothy and her dog Toto enter the wonderful land of Oz. During their travels down the yellow brick road our two friends meet some colourful characters including a Scarecrow, a Tin Man and even a Lion, who really wants some courage. Featuring a live band, dazzling dance routines, great scenery, costumes and plenty of laughter. This Easter pantomime is the story everyone knows and loves with all new music including well known pop songs and audience participation. Preston Guild Hall, Lancaster Road, Preston, PR1 1HT Contact 01772 804440 or visit www. prestonguildhall.com Tickets £18.00, Concession £16.00, Family Ticket £58.00 (2pm)
47
Tuesday, 12th April to Saturday, 16th April
Breakfast at Tiffany’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the classic tale of Holly Golightly written by Truman Capote and so memorably portrayed by Audrey Hepburn in the iconic 1961 film, is being given a new lease of life as a stage play with music in a sparkling, sophisticated production starring the multi award-winning Pixie Lott as Holly. With memorable songs from the era, this stylish production is set to capture the hearts of audiences and sparkle like a diamond in a Tiffany’s window. The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ Contact or visit www.thelowry.com Tickets From £29.00
Saturday, 23rd & Sunday, 24th April
Liverpool Food and Drink Festival Sample the best of Liverpool’s thriving food and drink scene at Sefton Park with an abundance of gastronomic delights. Sitting on the grass with a glass of Pimms in the spring sunshine, wondering whether to opt for dim sum or oysters next – it’s a tough life, but someone’s got to do it. Over the course of three days, more than 160 local chefs bring their ingredients to Sefton Park, serving up a slice of Liverpool’s foodie scene. As well as cooking masterclasses and workshops, the city’s favourite bars, restaurants and cafés are also represented. Sefton Park, off Aigburth Dr, Liverpool, L17 1AF Contact 0151 432 5652 or visit www. liverpoolfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk Tickets from £5 Sunday, 1st May
Harlem Globetrotters 2016
Saturday, 23rd & Sunday, 24th April
Robot Wars Live Show Manchester The show is coming to Event City Manchester for an action packed weekend. With over 50 mechanical monsters old and new, including the 2015 current Robot Wars Champion “TR2”, previous UK champions “Ripper” and “Eruption” and of course, crowd favourite “Behemoth”. Total carnage battles, demonstrations, a chance to grab some brand new official robot wars merchandise, to drive your very own robot, plus the chance to meet some special guests from out of this world! Event City next to INTU Trafford Centre, Manchester, M41 7TB Tickets Child £14, Adult £16, family Ticket £54 Contact www.robotwars.tv
The world famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the greatest athletes and entertainers on the planet, will celebrate 90 historic years with a very special Manchester Arena show. The Globetrotters’ one-of-a-kind show is unrivalled in the world of family entertainment, with incredible ball handling wizardry, rim-rattling dunks, trick shots, hilarious comedy and unequalled fan interaction. Manchester Arena, Manchester City Centre, M3 1AR Contact 0844 847 8000 or visit www.manchester-arena.com Tickets from £41.00 Saturday, 14th May to Sunday, 15th May
Tatton Park Country Show Set in the beautiful parkland at Tatton, this familyoriented Country Show has something for everyone with a range of arena entertainment including Jez Avery’s Stunt Bikes & Buggies, Terrier Racing, Birds of Prey Flying Displays, Devilstick Peat Children’s’ Entertainer, Have-A-Go Dog Scurry and, on Sunday, the Companion Dog Show and much
48
more including skilled craftsmen demonstrating their rural skills. There will also be a delightful range of arts, crafts and gift marquees. Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6QN Tickets Adult £7.50, Child (5-16) £3, Family (2 adults and 3 children) £19 (car parking charges) Contact 01206 374400/263088 or visit www.oakleighfairs.co.uk
Chalkey’s Catering (Lesley and Wayne)
The Professional Caterers
Wedding Receptions - Dinners & Banquets Corporate Lunches - Bereavements Christenings , Holy Communions Celebratory Hot & Cold Buffets House Parties Hot Pot Suppers
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wchalkey@blueyonder.co.uk www.chalkeyscatering.co.uk
Tuesday 10th May to Saturday 4th June 2016
Mamma Mia! at The Palace Theatre Mamma Mia! is the ultimate feel-good musical. Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. Sophie’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings her mother face to face with three men from her distant romantic past on the eve of a wedding they’ll never forget. This irresistible, sunny tale has been thrilling audiences all over the world, and now the party will continue at the Palace Theatre. Palace Theatre, Oxford St, Manchester M1 6FT Contact 0161 245 6600 or visit www.atgtickets.com Sunday, 22nd May
Dunham Massey - Open Garden for NGS Enjoy the elegance of this vibrant Edwardian garden. Richly planted borders packed with colour and texture, sweeping lawns, majestic trees and shady woodland all await your discovery. Explore the largest Winter Garden in Britain and marvel at the colourful, scent-filled Rose Garden. Dunham Massey, Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 4SJ Contact 0161 941 1025 or visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey Tickets Adult £8.80, Child £4.40
Saturday 28th May
An Audience with Allan Beswick BBC broadcaster Allan Beswick brings his oneman show to Chorley Little Theatre. Witty, acerbic, charming, chatty and occasionally just downright rude, he has earned plaudits, awards and even a few death threats in more than thirty years of broadcasting. He’s not sure of which he is most proud. Unlike his phone-in across the north west he will be live on stage with no ‘cut off’ button to hide behind; he’ll tell tales of life and the Universe as seen through the eyes of a working class lad from a council estate in Lancashire. Two hours of “whatever comes into his head comes out of his mouth”. Chorley Little Theatre, Dole Ln, Chorley PR7 2RL Tickets £10 from Malcolm’s Musicland (01257 264362)
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Test drive
Mini Cooper S Auto
Clubman by Tim Barnes-Clay
T
he old Mini Clubman was no oil-painting, but this one could easily earn its place on the podium at Legs 11. It’s a looker alright.
to step into the road. This didn’t help sales and the Clubman therefore wasn’t exactly the rock star that BMW, Mini’s owner, was expecting.
The brand new Mini Clubman must have been breast fed at birth, because it’s far bigger than its siblings. That doesn’t mean it’s fat – no way. This car is well formed and its proportions are just right. And because it’s not exactly a shrinking violet, the Clubman is likely to win over quirkier types who might otherwise have gone for mid-size family car choices, such as the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus.
But the Germans have seen the light and the previous rear-hinged ‘clubdoor’, has been kicked to the kerb in favour of two ‘normal’ back doors. They make it far easier for passengers to get in and out of the car. Then there’s the barn-door boot. You’ll remember that from the last model. Well, that stays put, but now the doors can be released manually, or if you ticked the hands-free tailgate option, a sassy little kick under the rear bumper will open them up.
The story hasn’t always been good for the Clubman, though. The first generation had a useless, single rear door that meant UK passengers were forced
Inside, the comfortable seats are kind to your backside and feel supportive, especially during long periods on the road. The car’s uncluttered
50
dashboard is dwarfed by a massive screen that sits where the speedometer on older Minis used to be. The controller on the central console manages most of the Clubman’s systems, so there are fewer buttons on the dash to confuse or divert you. As the Clubman is the largest of the current Mini litter, it has, predictably, the most capacious cabin. To be frank, with a big load area too, the word ‘mini’ seems rather outmoded. The whole motor is 270mm longer than the five-door Hatchback, allowing for oodles of room in the front and respectable space for two adults in the rear. The boot is about the same as a VW Golf’s, so you’ll get the family shopping in – and a toddler’s buggy. The Cooper S Clubman Auto is easily the most gratifying to drive. Out at the Mini’s media launch on the roads surrounding San Sebastian in northern Spain, the most powerful petrol drove go-kart-like on the straights - just as a Mini should. It’s a shame the slightly pulpy suspension can drizzle on your chips in the corners, with body roll kicking in if you enter the twisty bits too hard. But that can be forgiven, because the Cooper S generates more than enough pull to keep you cheery. 189bhp can be squeezed from the S’ 2.0 litre
turbocharged four-cylinder lump, and with the eight speed auto box, a zero to 62mph sprint in 7.1 seconds is easily achievable, finishing up with a top speed of 142mph. Even though these figures might make the car sound insatiable for fuel – it’s not. With the superb automatic gearbox you can officially get an average of 48.7mpg out of the Clubman - and the CO2 emissions are 134g/km, meaning road tax is a trifling £130 per annum. The state-of-the-art 2015 Mini is a gargantuan stepup from its forerunner, and it puts right pretty much everything that was awry. The Clubman now has more doors, better space, good looks, and it really is exciting to drive. The Cooper S version is especially guaranteed to bring a grin to the face of anyone who slips behind its wheel.
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51
Gardening
Small
trees by Steve Law
D
ecades of gardening for other people has taught me that there are topics that clients find difficult. I’m fairly confident about what plants do but it can be hard to share that confidence with customers who worry about ‘things getting out of hand’. It’s understandable – many popular species are monstrous things. Garden centre labels can be misleading and it’s important to research. Thus when I say to my customers “You know what you need here? A tree” they’re sceptical, especially given that some of their gardens are little more than paved yards. But there are many genuinely small trees about, if you know what to look for. I could recommend a tree that grows to 20ft and they are aghast, imagining it filling what little space they have and blotting out the sun, undermining the house as it goes. In fact, a 20ft tree is really not very big. In a woodland amongst mature trees it’s just a sapling, and it’s sad how rarely a customer has given in and let me plant a small tree in their yard. There’s nothing like a tree to really give a space that third dimension, to relieve the monotony of the flat garden floor and the four walls that surround it. As a compromise, they may plant a tree against the boundary – pushing it to the edge. I say plant it nearer the middle, off to one side of the lawn or at the front of the border, or near the house. Very few trees damage drains and foundations and they’re mainly vigorous trees with thick roots – exactly the kind we don’t want. I’d love to look out of my bedroom window through the upper branches of a tree, at all the birds there. In a garden you want a light airy canopy that the sun can shine through, casting a cool dappled shade. This will also make an
environment for woodland plants - there are plenty of gorgeous plants that need shade. It goes without saying that the tree needs to be interesting for as much of the year as possible, with flowers and fruit, newfoliage, autumn colour and bark effects, not to mention the overall form of the tree, with and without leaves. The first thing to avoid in a small garden is anything that simply fills the space with an overwhelming blob of foliage, so I would generally avoid evergreens. Pinus and Eucalyptus can have a light airy canopy but most get big. Some deciduous trees also have a dense canopy – horse chestnuts most obviously. Here are a few suggestions: Acer – Japanese Maples are the obvious ones but most people go for the fine leaved forms, which are shorter, certainly, but also very wide and that means they take up a lot of space. Choose one of the taller varieties – they are the epitome of light, graceful airiness. Well-known varieties are Senkaki and Katsura, or species like circinatum or coreanum Sorbus – there are many small rowans with fine ferny foliage, spring flowers, autumn leaves and berries. S.cashmeriana, forrestii and koehneana are usually available. Prunus – avoid the common flowering cherries – go for forms of incisa or subhirtella, or cultivars like Pandora or Okame Malus – ornamental crab apples like M.transitoria, sieboldii and toringoides. M. trilobata is one of the very best. Betula – most birches are over 20ft but have a light canopy.
52
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