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

LocalLife St Helens Edition

Rainford Pages 22 - 23

May 2018

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The Billinge Split Pages 40 - 42

Burscough Walk Pages 59 - 62

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Something about

May

’ve come to the realisation I’m at my happiest around water. I don’t know whether it’s the ripple in a reservoir, the clapping of waves, or the fresh breeze that gives me a new lease of life, but I know that when I’m by water this is where I’m the most calm. My happiest memory is when I was on holiday in Spain, on a pedalo on a lake surrounded by rolling mountains, and that was a moment in time where I felt anything was possible. And whenever I need a little boost at home, I get outside and enjoy the vast green spaces our local area has to offer. And I think May is a great month to get out and enjoy ourselves. There are lots of activities to enjoy: including this year’s ‘Beating the Bounds’ on Sunday, May 13, which falls in line with St Helens’ 150th anniversary celebrations. Organiser Ste Lingard revived the Anglo-Saxon tradition with a 42.5 mile walk, starting/finishing at Haydock Park. Could you handle walking the boundary of St Helens? Or if you’re looking ahead, why not attend Picnic in The Park on Saturday, June 2. This family music festival in Rainford Village will be a great kick-off to summer. John Coghlan’s Quo, Shane Nolan, Ultra 90’s, Black & Gold, Black Cat Bone, Days Above and Girl Talk will all be in attendance to get you rocking. My head is very much getting geared up for the encroaching summer months, and I’m sure many of you are hoping for a warm and sunny British summer too. A girl can dream. See you next time!

Niamh Ollerton, Deputy Editor

In this issue Local Life

turns 10

16 Rainford

Festival

Regulars 32 Class From The Past 59 Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks 36 Puzzle Corner 63 Garden Diary 55 Events2Go 66 Test Drive

Sections 6 Local News 30 Education 44 Health

48 Travel 63 Gardening 69 Home Services

Next issue - June 2018

Advertising deadline - Tuesday, 22 May

22 The Billinge

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Published - Thursday, 01 June

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Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following areas on an alternate monthly basis. This issue is delivered to over 11,000 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 14,500 private homes and businesses in Rainhill, Eccleston, Sutton, Eccleston Park, Windle, Grange Park, Nutgrove, New Bold and Waterside Village. 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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Celebrating young artists St Helens youngsters have showcased their artistic talent in a Youth Open Art competition. Hundreds of young people have taken part in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Youth Open Art competition, with the winners honoured at a recent World of Glass presentation. The annual competition is open to anyone aged 16 or under, who lives or studies in St Helens. There are categories available for nursery-aged children right through to Year 11, as well as specific awards for those who chose digital and graphic design pieces. Judges from St Helens Council and the World of Glass praised the quality of the 557 submissions.

World of Glass, where a public exhibition of 244 selected submissions will feature until Friday, May 4.

Winners received glass awards hand-made at the

This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competition helped to celebrate the

7 borough’s 150th anniversary by offering entrants the chance to win a one-off special award, under the theme “Out of the Earth Came Light.” The award went to Louise Tickle from De La Salle School, whose composition was thought to encapsulate the borough’s landmarks, heritage and ethos. Residents can still view the collection at the World of Glass until Friday, May 4. In July, those aged 16 or over can try their artistic talents in the Open Art Competition. Artists can enter their works in late June/early July for judging, and the works will be exhibited from July-September. head to www.sthelens.gov.uk/ openart or call The World of Glass on 01744 22766.

Tell Us Your Story! Local Life is always on the look out for news stories from the local communities we serve. Are you raising money for charity? Are you a member of a community group with something to shout about? Maybe you’ve got an unusual talent, or have a claim to fame? If so, let us know and you could be appearing in the next edition! Simply contact us on sthelensnews@locallife247. co.uk or call us on 01695 627999.

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St Helens 150 In its 150th anniversary year, St Helens is celebrating the milestone with a bustling year-long cultural programme. There are numerous events throughout the year, including an International Food and Drink Festival, and a heritage weekend St Helens day. Other activities will build on established events such as Westfield Street Music Festival and Summer Streets. The programme of artistic events is led by the Heart of Glass and cultural partners St Helens 150. Cllr Gill Neal, cabinet member with responsibility for arts and culture, said: “These celebrations are all

about the borough’s heritage and innovation, and as such it is right that everyone can get involved. “These celebrations not only look back at our illustrious past but to our future and showcase the talents of our young people. “This programme of events promises to have

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9 something for everyone – and it would be great if local people got behind this, got involved and made 2018 a year to remember.” St Helens Day on Saturday, June 30, will feature a citizen’s parade. Find out what makes the borough tick by acknowledging the characters, the wisdom and the idiosyncratic individuals and communities in St Helens. For more info on St Helens 150, please visit www. sthelens150.co.uk To see what else is happening in St Helens, visit our E2G section on pages 55-58.

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LocalLife

A new community garden on Tracks Lane, Billinge, has been dedicated to Ellen Higginbottom. Local volunteers with the help of Wigan Council have created a community garden in memory of Ellen Higginbottom who was murdered in Orrell Water Park last year. After her death, the garden area became a focal point for floral tributes to the popular Winstanley College student. Corin Lomax, a local volunteer involved in the garden project from the beginning, said: “It was the obvious spot to leave floral tributes to Ellen, so transforming the entire area into a memorial garden inspired by her was a natural progression.” Councillor Kevin Anderson, cabinet member for environment at Wigan Council said: “The whole town was rocked by the news of Ellen’s passing last year and despite the extremely difficult circumstances, it’s humbling to see the community pull together in this way. “We’re honoured to support such an important cause and be a part of a project to commemorate Ellen. “The garden will be very peaceful and I’m sure members of the public will enjoy spending time here.” A bench complete with memorial plaque and a box hedge has been installed by volunteers from Wigan Council’s greenspaces team, and Moss Bank Nurseries in Leigh donated bedding plants which will be replenished by Moss Bank as the seasons’ progress.

11 The locals who have volunteered to maintain the site hope visitors will use Ellen’s garden as a place of quiet reflection and contemplation. Louise Tipping, principal at Winstanley College said: “This is a lovely tribute by the community to Ellen which we will treasure. “Ellen loved nature and people and so a garden inspired by her is a fitting tribute to a much missed student, friend and daughter.” Organisers and volunteers also hope the garden will eventually become eligible to enter the Wigan in Bloom competition. Local artist, Vikky Crompton, is planning to make big mosaic stepping stones with any interested members of the community for Ellen’s Garden. If

you’d like to get involved with making the mosaics or helping with the ongoing maintenance of Ellen’s Garden please contact Joe Taylor on 01942 700060 or email joe41@blueyonder.co.uk

Getting served Rainford Tennis Club has a brand new Head Coach ready to train hopeful sportspeople. Eduardo De Sousa has followed suit of fellow Portuguese coaches to the UK, but while José Mourinho manages Man U and Carlos Carvalhal struggles with Swansea, Eduardo has landed the Head Coach position at Rainford Tennis Club. He is a former professional tennis player, once ranked as the number eight player in Portugal, and has over 30 years’ experience coaching players

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He runs weekly coaching sessions for existing players and players of all standards on the Club’s allweather courts at the Jubilee Recreation Ground. Children aged 5-11 can try the mini Tennis sessions at the club and Secondary School children can attend Junior Squads. But all is not lost for the grown-ups, as adults can enjoy weekly group sessions in the evenings and at the weekends. Club Chairman, Ron Hamilton said: “We are delighted to have secured the services of such an experienced and high quality coach.” “Eduardo has brought his enthusiasm and vast experience to Rainford and everyone who has come along so far has really enjoyed the sessions.” To view a full timetable, visit the Club’s website at www.RainfordTennisClub.co.uk

Fore charity Houghwood golfers recently raised vital funds for local charities in an all day challenge. 20 avid golfers took on four rounds of golf in a day in the first of its kind at Houghwood to raise money for Willowbrook Hospice and the local branch of the MS Charity. The men set off for their first round at 4.20am, and only finished their final round at 9.45pm. But they didn’t use their buggies and walked for the duration. But they were not alone in their efforts; partners, wives and families were also in attendance, driving the buggies to carry the clubs. Past Captain Marian Rigby said: “The atmosphere

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was amazing because they had done it. They were filled with such adrenaline. “It was a massive feat, and they went beyond their expectations. And when they came in they just about collapsed. “They were outside all that time without stopping apart from comfort breaks.” The golfers, led by Spencer Anglesea who organised the event, were all sponsored individually and raised £6,500 for the charities. An obvious success, the local golfing lads will be taking on the challenge once more in June this year.

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Beating the Bounds The 2018 Beating the Bounds event will also celebrate the 150th anniversary of St Helens. St Helens residents Ste Lingard has organised the challenging 42.5 mile walk around the whole of the Borough boundary. It starts and finishes at Haydock Park, and follows the Borough Boundary (as near as public rights of way and road safety permit) anti-clockwise, around Billinge (including Billinge Lump), Rainford, Eccleston, Rainhill, Bold, Parr, Earlestown, Newton-le-Willows and Haydock. But for such a gruelling task, the schedule isn’t kind with a 4.15am meet at Haydock Park before starting at 4.30am. Contenders will be beating the pavement until about 8.15pm when the walk is set to finish at Haydock Park (via Lowton entrance). Many, many years ago there was a custom known as ‘Beating the Bounds’. Come springtime, a motley assortment of local officials, children and people alike would walk the boundaries of their parish.

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The purpose of the event was to teach participants – especially young ones – the boundaries of their parish. The ceremony also served a social purpose, helping bring the local community together in a convivial experience. Ste revived the tradition on Sunday, May 21, 2017. Ste said: “We had a thoroughly enjoyable day and raised almost £2,000 for St Helens Mind. “The day was such as success that there was no doubt about doing it again.” This year, he will be raising funds for St Helens Mind, the local mental health charity, once more. If you’d like to donate please visit https:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SteLingard St Helens Mind aims to promote and preserve good mental health and to assist those experiencing mental distress to regain their full potential, and play an active part in community life.

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Turning

Local Life is 10 years old this month!

ounded in a back bedroom on Sandy Lane in Orrell, Local Life now produces five magazines a month (St Helens, Wigan, Chorley, West Lancs and Leigh & District) from our offices at Hewitt Business Park on Winstanley Road. We also deliver over 750,000 leaflets a year too. We’re proud of the fact that many of our customers stay with us, year after year, so here’s what our advertisers have to say about Local Life.

Local Life covers areas that we just can’t reach with any other publication. We know when it has been delivered as our phone never stops ringing. It’s always our first choice for advertising.

It’s a great little mag; I’ve been advertising with you since you started the magazine and I don’t advertise anywhere else. As you know I’m always busy, often too busy to come and pay you for my adverts! Jimmy Murphy – Garswood Gates Just to say thank you for helping to grow our business over the years, I know the day of the month that the magazine goes out by the rise in telephone enquiries that day, we really appreciate the quality of enquiry that your publication brings in. Steve Hadikin. Aabron Landscaping. Local Life has been a great platform for the College to reach people. It has always been a quality publication, with great features. We know that it is picked up and read.” Lisa Cooke, Head of Marketing, St Helens College

Sharon Lee – Expressions of Beauty, Billinge Our adverts always look good in the magazine and the content is well balanced with interesting articles and not too many adverts. I find the staff at Local Life very pleasant to deal with and I always get a quick response to my emails. We will definitely continue to advertise with Local Life. Sarah O’Donoghue - Marketing Manager, Carmel College I’m pleased to say that every customer we have introduced to Local Life has had a direct and noticeable response. Both us, and our clients, love the publications and they are now one of the first types of local advertising we suggest when putting together promotional campaigns. Elaine Rimmer – Platinum Advertising & Design Ltd

Local Life has proved to be a great way to showcase my new shop in Rainford. I have increased my bookings to cover new areas and feel confident that the people who enjoy reading Local Life are likely to be a good match for my business too. Ali Tyrer, ellemora

17 I started my carpet and upholstery cleaning business in 2016 and advertising in Local Life was one of the best business decisions I’ve made to date; the staff are really helpful and I’m now working flat out. Helen Carroll, Carroll’s Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Services I’ve been advertising in Local Life since 2009 and the magazine never fails to bring me new customers each month. Even most of the repeat business and recommendations I get, I can trace back to Local Life and the magazine has helped me establish my business in quality housing areas like Rainford and Rainhill. Shaun Fairhurst – Garswood Decorating Services I have advertised in Local Life for over 8 years now and it has consistently been my main source of new business. It is a fantastic, quality magazine which, as well as supporting local businesses, gives its readers an interesting and informative read. I would thoroughly recommend it. Angie Barker Garden Design Around 80/90% of our work comes from Local Life and it’s all local work, we don’t have to waste hours sitting in traffic each day. As of today (10th April), we’re already booked up until August; that’s how successful Local Life is. Colin Wilson – Wilson Bros. Building and Roofing Local Life is the best local print advertising media around, without a doubt, and it’s the only publication we advertise in. We also use the leaflet distribution service on a regular basis and it’s very reliable and also quite cheap compared to other distribution companies. Ian Johnson – GreenThumb Billinge Local Life magazine always works for me and brings me lots of local customers which is just what I want John Callaghan - Focus Building and Roofing Ltd

Local Life provides my company with a very effective form of advertising and I would certainly recommend the magazine to any business looking to expand. Matthew Rigby – Property Maintenance If you’d like to promote your company in Local Life magazine or use our leaflet distribution service, call Clare or Chris on 01744 649722 or pop into our offices at Unit 8 - Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell WN5 7ZB. www.locallife247.co.uk

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New leadership The new leader of St Helens Council has asked councillors to “work together” moving forward. Cllr Derek Long was appointed the new council leader following Barrie Grunewald’s resignation due to allegations of a WhasApp data breach involving St Helens councillors. The new leader represents the West Park ward, starts the position with immediate effect after receiving a unanimous vote at the full council meeting in the town hall chamber.

The Labour councillor was previously cabinet member for Liverpool City Region engagement. In his first speech as leader, Cllr Long said: “I do not underestimate the importance of the task in front of us. I hope we can all work together in the spirit it takes to take St Helens forwards. “When I open cabinet meetings I always make reference to the fact that we are stewards of 150 years of unbroken accountability looking after the people of St Helens and I’m sure we’re all committed to making sure that goes forward in the future as well.”

Booted up

Even after his death in 2013, Steve’s family and the Steve Prescott Foundation ensured the event would continue to be held each year, and is now a staple of the St Helens calendar.

The eight annual St Helens 10k was a roaring success once more.

Linzi was joined by their 16-year-old son Taylor this year too. She said: “It’s quite a special event for me because eight years ago when Steven thought this up, it was the only thing he came up with that I thought I could take on.

Over 1,600 runners took to the streets of St Helens streets on Sunday, April 15 to take on the annual GPW Recruitment St Helens 10k. Many runners do their bit for a myriad of causes, to help raise funds and awareness to organisations and charities close to their heart. Linzi Prescott ran in memory of her husband Steve Prescott MBE, who set up the event eight years ago in Birchley Street car park.

“From Christmas you can see people running in the street and it always reminds me of Steve. It really is his legacy.” Steve’s wish to give the people of St Helens and Rugby League community a vehicle to get fit and healthy has certainly been fulfilled.

Rainford rocks Rainford is all set to rock again this summer with the return of the Picnic in the Park Music Festival on Saturday 2 June. This year it promises to be bigger and better says organiser Phil Thomas, who, just over twelve months ago, together with his wife Tara, inspired the collaboration between four of the village’s sporting and youth organisations to raise much-needed funds. Phil takes up the story, “Our family is actively involved in Rainford Rangers Football, the Tennis club, the Cricket Club and the Boys Brigade and Girls Association and we could see at first hand the brilliant opportunities they were providing for youngsters as well as the big costs involved in running them.” said Phil. “As the manager for Rainford Rangers U-15’s, I was forever raising money for the club and I knew the other clubs were constantly having to raise funds too”. This year’s headline act is John Coghlan’s Quo with the Quo’s drummer and his band getting ready to rock Rainford all over the World. Back by public demand is the Shane Nolan Band after their tremendous success at the Festival last year. A non-stop procession of acts throughout the day with music, songs and dancing to suit all tastes, includes Ultra 90’s, Black and Gold, Black Cat Bone, Days Above and the newly formed Girl Talk, a group of Liverpool girls who sing rap and dance. As well as music there are lots of other sideshows and community stalls to keep the family entertained on a relaxed fun-filled day. Last year’s inaugural festival was a spectacular success and the four community groups shared a total profit of £6,000.

Ron Hamilton, Chairman of the Tennis Club, explained that last year’s proceeds have been used to refurbish and redecorate their clubhouse. “Without the event last year, little or none of this would have happened. The acts last year were great, everyone enjoyed themselves and we look forward to a fantastic festival again this year” he said. Ian Harrison, Secretary of Rainford Cricket Club described the benefits brought to the club by the festival, “The proceeds have been used to undertake repairs to and the repainting of the sight-screens and we’re also refurbishing the home and away dressing rooms at the club”. Already ticket sales for the festival have topped last year’s actual attendance, and organisers are hoping to attract a capacity crowd of 1,800. If you haven’t yet bought your tickets, please visit www. rainfordfestival.co.uk or call in at PT Kitchens, 12 Ormskirk Road in Rainford. If you run a local business and you’d like to advertise at next year’s Festival, please visit www. rainfordfestival.co.uk to register an enquiry. The banners are one of the main sources of income for the Rainford Festival and are positioned round the perimeter of the Festival site for an entire year.

The gang together St Helens 64th annual Gangshow is coming to St Helens Theatre Royal very soon. From Wednesday, May 2, to Friday, May 4, St Helens members from the Scout & Guide organisations, from aged 6 upwards will be performing their annual variety show. Jennifer Tickle said: “Members take part with singing, dancing, and performances in our family show that’s suitable for everyone! “It’s a very good show. This is our 54th show at the Theatre Royal, and our 64th show in total. It’s one of the gentleman’s 60th show. He’s 68 and joined St Thomas’ Cubs aged 8! “We do the show to promote our Scout and Guides

organisations. You should see some of them at the beginning of the year, they’re so timid and the confidence they’ve now gained is wonderful.” For tickets and info, please contact Jennifer on 07742 383176. Tickets are £8 and one in every 10 is free! For more local events take a look at pages 55-58.

Prevention is key During Diabetes Prevention Week from April 16-22, St Helens residents were urged to reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes. St Helens residents were prompted to make some lifestyle changes by healthier eating and being more active to reduce their risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Over 17,000 people in St Helens are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which can lead to other serious conditions including strokes, heart disease, limb amputation and early death. The Diabetes Prevention Programme is for people who are pre-diabetic, and helps them make small changes to their lifestyle which will in turn reduce

their risk. One of the first groups have seen great results, with reduced blood sugar levels, weight loss and increased awareness of how to make lifestyle changes. One participant said: “I was wary at first to sit in a group but felt comfortable from day one. Casper (the facilitator) was polite, helpful and cheerful and taught me many ways of eating healthy.” Another added: “My experience on this programme has made a big difference to my life and I have learnt a lot.” Find out if you are at risk of type 2 diabetes at diabetes.org.uk/risk. For advice from the Healthy Living Team visit www. healthysthelens.co.uk or call 0300 300 0103.

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“My lawns have never looked better since Rob took over the maintenance and lawncare. Highly recommended.” James Roby - St Helens RLFC

Rob says, At Premier Lawn Care we know every lawn is different. We don’t have a one size fits all programme, nor do we keep applying the same products week in week out. Also, we don’t do treatments or renovation work when the grass is dormant, over the winter months, as this can be detrimental. Neither do we scarify in the winter, as the grass needs to recover after, (the gaps produced by scarifying can be filled by weeds in the none growing season), and be either seeded then fertilised, or as a minimum, fertilised to aid recovery.

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100 years The 14th Annual Prescot Festival of Music & the Arts is right around the corner, with a special performance planned. More than 100 singers are expected to join the Prescot Festival Chorus to commemorate the centenary of the end of World War One this June.

Robert said: “Six thousand soldiers were stationed at Prescot before leaving to fight in the Great War, and many of the town’s sons gave their lives.

The ‘Come & Sing’ choir will perform Gabriel Fauré’s stirring Requiem under conductor James Luxton, of Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral on Saturday, June 16.

“It is only right that a century later we remember them in this way.

Festival director Dr Robert Howard’s short work Fauré’s Cantique de Jean Racine and Ave verum corpus will also be featured.

“We regularly attract a hundred or more choristers for the yearly ‘Come & Sing,’ and you’re welcome whatever your ability or experience.”

In the second half of the programme, Haydock Male Voice Choir will continue its varied programme with wartime songs too.

More details about the festival from Friday, June 15 to Sunday, June 24 in Prescot are online at www. prescotfestival.co.uk

“All soprano, alto, tenor and bass singers are invited to join us for this special occasion.

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Planning Matters Billinge 188 Main Street: Proposed new replacement refrigeration plant and cage storage compound to rear elevation (ref: P/2018/0259/FUL). Haydock 121 Penny Lane: Change of use from vacant land to private garden (ref: P/2018/0286/FUL). Rainford 94 Church Road: Conversion of existing dwelling into 2no self-contained dwellings with external

alterations to form new entrances, and the removal of front dwarf wall to form shared driveway (ref: P/2018/0268/FUL). Rainford Orthodontic Practice, 13 Church Road: Creation of a first floor to extend existing orthodontic practice to a two storey building with pitched roof (ref: P/2018/0188/FUL). Rainford CofE Primary School, Cross Pit Lane: Creation of new school entrance (ref: P/2018/0151/ FP3).

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

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Raising the bar More parents and guardians of primary school children are given their first choice according to the latest statistics. St Helens Council released data which showed a steady increase in the number of parents and guardians securing their first preference primary school for their child ahead of the 2018 academic year. This year, 92.74 per cent of applicants were given their first choice primary school compared to 88.99 per cent the previous year, which means an increase of 3.75 per cent.

Overall, 98.24 per cent of applicants were given one of their preferred schools. Commenting on the news, Jo Davies, Senior Assistant Director for Schools’ Services said: “Every year we work exceptionally hard to ensure that parents and guardians are allocated one of their preferred school places primary schools –and I’m delighted to see that this is the case for September 2018. “If any parent or guardian has any questions about their application, or if their child will be 4 years old before 1 September, 2018, and have not yet applied - I would ask them to contact the School Admissions Team on 01744 671035/1029.”

Class from the past

This month’s Class from the Past is of English Martyrs’ School in Haydock. The photo is from the late 1950s, so those pictured will be in their 60s

now. Maybe you can spot a familar face? Do you have an old class photo you’d like to share? Email sthelensnews@locallife247.co.uk

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hether you are a student just finishing your GCSEs or someone wanting a change of career pathway, TMP College is the place to be! TMP College, based in Pemberton, is a specialist college for Music, Media, Games and Digital Technologies. With outstanding achievement rates, the best

music facilities around and staff working within the creative industries, this could be your opportunity to kick-start a new and exciting career. You will work with established bands, gain experience of live events and come out with a great CV as well as qualifications for university or employment. Career pathways are more diverse than ever before. The entertainment, creative and digital industries are growing rapidly and so too are the careers in the industry, with skills gaps growing year after year. At their centres in Pemberton and Hindley, TMP College offers a dedicated music and media learning experience and students can study a wide range of qualifications with Diplomas at levels 1 and 2 and Extended Diplomas at level 3.

TMP is a specialist college for anyone wanting a career in the entertainment, creative and digital industries. Delivering excellence in 9 courses; Music Performance, Composition, Technology, Business, Creative & Digital Media, TV and Film, Live Events/Event Management and Games Design & Development and IT/Digital Technologies; with outstanding success rates and destination outcomes. Achieve a level 3 on one of these courses and it’s worth 3 ‘A’ levels and will carry full UCAS points for students to progress to university. The experienced staff at TMP College are passionate about music and media and so are their students, who thrive in a friendly and creative environment with similarly like-minded people. The courses are based on the achievement of coursework rather than exams, which means that students can achieve through the completion of practical real-life projects, rather than tests of knowledge and memory. Bursaries are available too – so students can earn whilst they learn! TMP College offers students the opportunity to work alongside inspirational tutors currently working in the music industry and performing with other industry experts. TMP College also offers a wide range of facilities including venues, rehearsal rooms, commercial recording studio run by the well-known producer John Kettle, technology suite and small group music tuition from our experienced tutors. So if you have a passion about making a career in media, music, and/or game design and development, call TMP College on 01942 212 607 for more details and a tour of their facilities. TMP College, 830 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8EX www.music-projects.com

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Puzzle Corner WORD SEARCH - Local History

SUDOKU 2

Find the hidden words in the word search grid C

CARVING BRONZE REMAINS ABBEY MOSAIC

STONE COIN WEAPON ANCIENT RUINS

WORD MIX UP - Local History Unscramble the letters to make a word

WALK CASTLE CHURCH ARTEFACT DIG

1 3

8 7 9

NUMBER BLOCK

9 9 2 3

0 5

8 28 15 5 14

24 10 12 19 14 The numbers in each row add up to totals to the right.

LEACHAGOORY

The numbers in each column add up to the totals along the bottom. The diagonal lines also add up the

NYDW REACHVI YETTOPR

totals to the right.

WIGGLE WORDS CLUE: Brings Good Luck

LOANG NASOX TABLEFIDLET NORMA ROBOHC

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

F R E V

O U R O

A E L L

F E D C

All the puzzle solutions are on page 62 of this magazine

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Spring into

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pring is a time for new beginnings. Everywhere you look the garden buds are opening, new shoots are pushing through and plentiful supplies of cheery flowers are bursting forth. This freshness is echoed throughout Warbreck Garden Centre as it continues its transformation into one of the most inspirational centres for both the avid gardener and interior lifestyle shopper. Warbreck Garden Centre is a family run business, located in Lathom near Ormskirk. Not surprisingly, it’s really growing on people! With stunning new giftware products, ranging from beautiful jewellery to classic hand bags, gorgeous children’s gifts including Jellycat to Rufus Rabbit and tasteful home interior brands such as Sophie Allport, Gisela Graham, Voyage Maison and Walton & Co to name just a few. This year’s garden furniture range showcases one of the widest selections in the North West. With displays portraying great value and best quality brands including Kettler and Katie Blake, and prices always matched to internet retailers, there’s always a great deal to be had! Warbreck is a garden centre for gardeners, with a huge choice for everyone. If you’re looking for fabulous plants or garden lifestyle inspiration, this really is the place for you. If you have green fingers, you’ll love the quality and range of trees, shrubs, bulbs and seeds spread across the five acre landscaped site. All of this is supported by an expert team of friendly horticulturalists bursting to share their passion for plants.

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Once you’ve meandered around the newly developed plant area and gift shop, why not take some time out to visit The Plantation Restaurant in its country colonial setting. Discover a delightful selection of delicious homemade meals, using the freshest of locally sourced ingredients. This is a great food venue, from breakfast through to afternoon tea. Garden centre owner, Richard Allison says, “We pride ourselves on offering a great range of quality gardening, lifestyle and giftware products supported by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable team. Our experienced buyers are continuously sourcing exciting new products to inspire our customers.” The future really does look bright for Warbreck. The whole team should be proud of what they have achieved, their energy and flair are making this an exceptional destination. The garden centre is conveniently situated near Ormskirk, less than a 20 minute drive from Southport, Formby, St Helens, Wigan and Maghull, close to junction 3 of M58.

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The Billinge

split... With Local Elections imminent, David Sudworth discovers the story behind Billinge’s split

t’s possibly one of the most bizarre Parliamentary speeches ever committed to Hansard.

But just before 9pm on July 6, 1972, MP Gordon Oakes stood up in the House of Commons and gave his reasoning as to why part of Billinge was soon to join Rainford and Haydock in the new county of Merseyside. “They are all Lancashire towns, based on heavy industry, glass making, formerly on coal mining. The people there speak with a clear and distinct Lancashire

41 accent. The people there, for example, watch Rugby League, not Liverpool or Everton. The people in those areas eat tripe and onions, not Scouse.” Oakes’ speech may have seemed, in the context of local government reorganisation, a bit bizarre. But in fact, he was arguing that although there was nothing wrong with those places joining together, he did have grave reservations about them becoming part of a greater Merseyside area. He explained: “They talk differently, work at different occupations. The problem is of urban renewal. That type of problem is totally different from the problems of Huyton, Kirkby, Halewood and Whiston, which are new, expanding towns, where they have basically

“Totally different to the problems of Huyton” light industry and support Liverpool or Everton with equal vociferousness, while poor little Huyton can hardly get a team going at all. Sport is important in the constitution of an area, just as important as the problems of youth facilities, schools, social services, and things of that kind.” Within two years, the deed had been done. Part of Billinge, along with Rainford, Haydock, Crank, Moss Bank, Kings Moss and other areas, had become part of a new St Helens borough within the County of Merseyside.

Despite it being 44 years since the changes, they still rankle, especially in Billinge where some feel the village was unnecessarily divided. Many of those blame Edward Heath’s Government, who were in power at the time. However, a dig into the archives reveals that in fact Billinge’s administrative divorce from Wigan predated the local government changes of 1974 by over 100 years. Billinge as a whole was part of the Deanery of Wigan up until February 2, 1837, when the Wigan Poor Law Union came into force. The law divided Billinge into two different townships; Chapel End and Higher End. By the end of that century, Billinge Urban District Council had been formed. In 1927, it joined Winstanley township to become Billinge & Winstanley Urban District Council. It’s important to stress though that, at this point, they were not ‘part’ of Wigan - Billinge & Winstanley UDC was an authority in its own right. Fast-forward to 1974 and townships up and down the country were allocated into different ‘new’ areas. Some of the original suggestions survived; some fell by the wayside (there was talk at one point of Ashton being part of St Helens). However, scanning the newspaper coverage at

Billinge & Winstanley Council’s final meeting in 1974

the time, there’s very little in the way of any concerns about loss of civic identity. Indeed, local MP Michael McGuire said in a Parliamentary debate that he’d had no complaints about the situation from constituents.

42 Most of the concerns centred around more basic matters; namely pounds and pence. “Rate Shock - 61p in the £ for New Metro” cried one local newspaper, reporting on the housing rates being set. Locals in the Merseyside part of Billinge were equally unimpressed. One said: “I have got a free bus pass but can only use it to go to St Helens or Liverpool, but not Wigan or Orrell. I can go to Southport, but only if it is via St Helens. Why could they not have joined the whole of Billinge to Wigan? To me, this is just another case of planning with no consideration for human beings.”

“Local politics? They are a joke... ” Life wasn’t plain sailing for those who worked for the new councils either. Almost 8,000 workers were paid the wrong amounts in the first few weeks. Although one cleaner at Wigan Metro wasn’t too fussed - her normal wage of £2.50 shot up to £25! And even those areas which, on the face of it, weren’t massively effected, weren’t happy. At the final meeting of Orrell Urban District Council, councillors slammed the Metro as being ‘arrogant’ for wanting to tear down their Council Chamber and turn it into offices.

Orrell Urban District Council’s final sitting Councillor John Fitzpatrick stormed: “Local politics? They are a joke if this is the way they are going to carry out their business.” However, Wigan’s first ever Mayor, Cllr Bob Lyons, sought to soothe divisions: “I appreciate the fears of many people that there will be a feeling of isolation and loss of contact. I would like to assure people that I and all my colleagues will be available for interview and advice. I know the new members will serve to the best of their ability.” 44 years on and it’s fair to say that, while the financial grumbles still rumble on, the sense of civic loss has grown. But perhaps it is unfair to push the blame onto those who made the 1974 decision. Since then, any new local government reorganisation plans have been mostly about making areas bigger, rather than going back to the pre-1974 model. Moreover, regardless of what area of Billinge you live, both parishes are ultimately controlled by the same ruling party (Labour) in their respective town halls. As for (since deceased) MP Gordon Oakes’ pronouncements; pigs’ innards are no longer consumed in the same quantities as it was in the early 1970s; accents have grown more fluid along with occupations, but football is still not as popular as rugby.

Billinge just before it became part of Merseyside

Just goes to show that MPs talking tripe isn’t a wholly new phenomenon...

Memorial service A memorial service was held at Saints’ stadium towards the end of March for those affected by suicide.

Speakers including Danny Sculthorpe and Ian Smith from the world of rugby league, and Anne Cunliffe from the SOBS service also shared their stories of how suicide has affected them.

Saints RLFC chaplain Paul Johnson led the service, hosted by Listening Ear’s AMPARO service for the 130 attendees remembering their loved ones.

Anne said: “It has been a long journey for me and my family since the loss of my son Andrew 17 years ago.

Attendees shared their personal stories, a memorial wall displayed photos of lost loved ones and a gospel singer sang poignant songs to commemorate their lives.

“I hope that by sharing my own experiences and some of the happy memories I have of Andrew, I have helped others to in time remember the life that their loved ones lived and the happier times.”

The Mayor and Mayoress of St Helens, SOBS (Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide), State of Mind (a charity that promotes positive mental health for sportsmen and women), Suicide Bereavement UK and the Healthy Living Team were all in attendance.

Please contact Nattalie Kennedy on 01744 671056 if you left your photograph(s) on the wall. If you have been affected by suicide the following services are available: AMPARO: www.listening-ear. co.uk/amparo and SOBS: https://uksobs.org/

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Health & Fitness

Make May

purple

By Niamh Ollerton

n England, one in six people will have a stroke in their lifetime. And in the UK, strokes occurs approximately 152,000 times a year – that’s one every 3 minutes 27 seconds. First-time incidence of stroke occurs almost 17 million times a year worldwide; one every two seconds. It is estimated around 30% of people who have a stroke will go on to experience another.

one in four strokes happen in younger people. That’s nearly 40,000 people a year including several hundred children. There’s no denying that a stroke can be fatal, but it’s worth noting there are over 1.2 million stroke survivors in the UK. Deaths related to strokes have declined by 49% in the past 15 years, and this is down to better prevention, earlier treatment and more advanced treatment. It’s important to act quickly as you could save your own or someone else’s life, or help limit the longterm effects of strokes, by learning to think and Act F.A.S.T. What is a stroke? A stroke is a brain attack. It happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is cut off. Without blood your brain cells can be damaged or die. This damage can have different effects, depending on where it happens in your brain.

What causes a stroke? As we age, our arteries become harder and narrower and are more likely to become blocked. But, some medical conditions and lifestyle factors can speed up this process and increase your risk. Strokes are a leading cause of death and disability in the UK, with around 32,000 stroke-related deaths in England each year. Most people who have strokes are over 65, but

Different types of stroke Most strokes are caused by a blockage cutting off the blood supply to the brain. This is an ischaemic stroke.

Photos courtesy of the Stroke Association

A stroke can affect the way your body works as well as how you think, feel and communicate.

46 But they can also be caused by a bleeding in or around the brain. This is a haemorrhagic stroke.

Arms – can they raise both arms and keep them there?

A transient ischaemic attack (TIA) is also known as a mini-stroke. It’s the same as a stroke, except symptoms only last for a short amount of time, as the blockage stopping the blood getting to your brain is temporary.

Speech – is their speech slurred?

Can you recover from a stroke? For some people the effects may be relatively minor and not last long, but others may be left with serious health problems that make them dependent on other people. Know the signs of a stroke F.A.S.T. or Face-Arms-Speech-Time is easy to remember and will help you to recognise if you or someone else is having a stroke. Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?

Time to call 999 if you see any single one of these signs of a stroke. Other symptoms that can be due to a stroke also include: Sudden loss of vision or blurred vision in one or both eyes; Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body (including your leg); Sudden memory loss or confusion; Sudden dizziness, unsteadiness or a sudden fall, especially with any of the other symptoms. Why act F.A.S.T? If you notice any sign of stroke, call 999. The faster you act, the better the chance of recovery.

Purple May And to raise awareness for this worthwhile cause, it’s time to Make May Purple – Go Purple for Pounds during the Stroke Association’s annual awareness month.

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Friends, families and communities are invited to show their support for people who have been affected by a stroke. The Stroke Association helps stroke survivors regain their independence, but they need our help. All you need to do is wear purple and every penny raised will help provide support for stroke survivors. Wear purple to work, school or outside in your community – wherever you are, the association hopes you’ll turn all your activities purple during May. Every purple event you take part in will really make a difference to stroke survivors. Go purple at work Get everyone to dress in purple for the day and even host a purple bake sale. At school Get the whole school to dress in purple for the day,

47 or turn your sports day into a purple extravaganza. There could even be purple activities for parents too!

loved ones receive care as quickly as possible.”

At home

time and again that stroke devastates lives in an instant.

Invite your friends round for a purple dinner and have purple food and drink. Get everyone to wear purple and play purple games. The possibilities are endless. Tony Rudd, National Clinical Director for Stroke with NHS England and stroke physician at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Thanks to improved NHS care, stroke survival is now at record high levels. “Urgent treatment for strokes is essential, so friends and family can play a key part in making sure their

Juliet Bouverie, CEO of the Stroke Association, said: “As the UK’s leading stroke charity, we have said

“Almost two thirds of stroke survivors leave hospital with a disability, but it doesn’t have to be this way. “The faster you seek and receive emergency specialist treatment for stroke, the better your chances of making a good recovery. Knowing the signs of stroke and being able to Act FAST could save a life – your life.” If you’d like to find out more about the Stroke Association and get involved, please visit https:// www.stroke.org.uk/

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Travel

All Quiet on the

Western Front If I should die, think only this of me: That there’s some corner of a foreign field

That is forever England.

his excerpt from Rupert Brooke’s poem, The Soldier, springs to mind whilst driving through the pretty Belgian countryside. It’s a peaceful rural backdrop with neatly uniform fields full of crops and it’s hard to imagine it as it was a century ago; a desolate landscape of mud, burnt-out trees and barbed wire, with shattered men crouching in trenches with the roar of heavy artillery overhead.

month’s travel feature we take a look at a few main sites and attractions in Belgium and France.

As the 100th year anniversary of the end of the Great War comes to pass, visiting the battlefields of the period remains a fascinating and moving experience. These visits brings history alive for an increasing number of visitors of all ages, and in this

Ypres today is known as the city of peace and war graves cover the landscape around the area, including the Tyne Cot Commonwealth war cemetery which houses the graves of 11,954 soldiers, but the most popular site for visitors is the Menin

During the Great War, Ypres occupied a strategic position standing directly in the path of Germany’s plans to invade France from the north. One in three of British deaths on the Western Front happened in the Ypres area and during the course of the war the town was all but obliterated by artillery fire.

49 Gate Memorial to the Missing. The memorial is dedicated to the 54,395 Commonwealth soldiers who died in the Ypres Salient but whose bodies have never been identified or found. Every night at 8pm since 1927, except when the Germans occupied the area in World War 2, buglers sound the ‘Last Post’. Just two miles east of Ypres is Sanctuary Wood, home of the Flanders Field Museum, and one of the most popular destinations for the battlefield visitor. The museum manages to blend wartime artefacts with multimedia presentations to create a first-person view of life in the bleakest of conditions, whilst the trenches behind the museum give a very good feel for what it must have been like to experience the mud and misery of the trenches.

without a visit to The Somme, to see the area where the infamous Battle of the Somme began on a summer’s day in July and ended in a snowstorm 4½ months later. The excellent Historical Museum of the Great War, which is housed within a medieval castle in Peronne, provides visitors with not only a vision of what life

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was like for the soldiers at the front but also that of the civilians of the town, which was occupied by enemy troops for two separate periods during the Great War. This absorbing museum follows the chronology of the war and uses carefully selected artefacts to illustrate military, cultural and social life. There arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t many places in the Somme area where the ground has been undisturbed since the end of the Great War, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why the Newfoundland Memorial Park is a popular choice for battlefield visitors. Shell-holes and the trenches of both sides can still be clearly seen and even walked along. The Newfoundland Regiment suffered appalling losses here in July 1916 and after the War ended, Newfoundland purchased the land, and the area is now a Canadian National Historic Site. One of the most impressive sites to visit is the Wellington Quarry in Arras, which tells the story leading up to the battle of Arras on April 9th, 1917.

After a series of losses in Arras, the decision was taken to tunnel under Arras in the chalk quarries that were originally dug out centuries before, in order to hide 24,000 troops near the German front lines in readiness for a new attack. This work, mainly undertaken by Maori miners, took a whole six months and a chapel, power station, light railway, communications room, a hospital and a well were all created in the pale, flickering electric light and visitors can experience an unforgettable underground tour illustrating the horrors and futility of war. There are number of tour operators who offer Battlefield coach tours including Leger Holidays, who are the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading provider of escorted tours. You can pick up a Leger Holidays brochure at Marken Travel, 200 Main Street, Billinge WN5 7PE or just call 01744 893291 and a brochure will be posted out to you.

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Food & Drink

10 items no kitchen should

be without

o you’ve spent good money on creating the perfect space in which to create the perfect meal. The problems is, no matter how much you’ve forked out on that oven, those cabinets and cupboards, a good workman or woman is only as good as the tools at their disposal. Not that we would ever advocate blaming your kit when things go wrong, of course.

possibilities in terms of what you can cook. Imagine inviting friends over for penne and porcini mushrooms, and then revealing you made the pasta yourself. Or frying up some sirloins, complete with griddle marks. Few things are more satisfying than serving properly made dishes, so here’s a checklist of essentials you should always have to hand before you start showing off any culinary expertise.

Having a variety of quality equipment at your disposal in the kitchen will open up countless

Ladle In layman’s terms, this is really just a large spoon with a bent handle and deep serving cup. Ideal for soups, obviously, it’s difficult to perfect a Vietnamese noodle pho without one of these. Chef’s knife and sharpening block Ideally you should be looking for an 8-10” blade with a thick bolster to act as a finger guard, and the knife itself should sit comfortably in your hand. A sharpening block is essential too, otherwise preparing meat will be rather troublesome after a few months.

53 Grater and microplane Most of us have a grater somewhere in the home, but we recommend looking for one that also allows you to microplane- you’ll need that for zesting lemons, grating Parmesan, herbs and spices, which is important in more complex dishes. Paring knife You won’t be able to make fine cuts - for example coring tomatoes, other fruits and vegetables without one of these. One word of advice; if the blade doesn’t extend into the handle put it back on the shelf and look for another. Cerated bread knife Let’s face it, your weekday morning toast is fine from a loaf of pre-cut bread, but if you’re sitting down to a hearty winter stew and want a crusty baguette you’ll need a suitable knife to carve it up. Can opener Look for a bulky plastic can opener that has a twist knob on top, rather than the more old school allmetal version. Wire mesh colander If you’re cooking pasta then this is a key purchase, even if that pasta is shop bought. Try to find one with a foot at the bottom, thus meaning your spaghetti won’t be left sitting in a puddle of water. Pasta maker There are almost as many pasta makers on the market as there are types of pasta, and so it can get a little confusing. Our preference would be to choose on that offers between three and five settings for various pasta shapes - any more and chances are it will be a jack of all trades, master of none. Wok Although no longer the exotic pan it once was, woks are probably the best investment you can make for the kitchen. Ideal for stir fry dishes and other oriental meals, there’s also nothing to stop you using this for a plethora of other offerings. Griddle pan Last, but definitely not least, is the griddle plan.

This is the best possible way to fry meat and fish with aesthetically pleasing griddle marks. Look for the heaviest you can, which is usually a good sign of quality, and one where the metal runs into the wooden handle.

Baked Camembert Enjoy one of the best-known French cheeses in a delicious way, bursting with flavour and coated in breadcrumbs. Make sure the cheese is not too ripe and freeze before cooking to ensure the centre melts when baking. Serves 4

Ingredients

Method

4 individual Camemberts or one large Camembert cut into approx 80g/3oz wedges, frozen for 1 hour

1. Preheat oven to 200C/400F/Gas Mark 6

25g plain flour

3. Dip the coated Camembert in the egg mix and coat with breadcrumbs, then repeat both steps. Pat well to help the crumbs stick, then place in the fridge for 30 minutes.

1 egg beaten with 1tbsp water 25g breadcrumbs 50ml sunflower oil Raspberry coulis or cranberry sauce to garnish

2. Remove the Camembert from the freezer and carefully cut the white skin from the top, while leaving the bottom and sides in tact. Coat well on all sides with the flour.

4. Heat the oil over a medium heat. Remove the cheeses from the fridge and fry lightly on each side until light golden brown - approximately 1-2 minutes. Make sure the cheese does not begin to melt. Remove and drain excess oil on paper towels. 5. Place the lightly-browned cheeses on a lined baking tray and bake in the oven for 5-10 minutes or until the top is slightly puffed.

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

events2go

Classic Car Show

St Helens Gangshow

Sunday, April 29, 10.30am-3pm

Wed, May 2 - May 4, 7.15pm

If you’re mad on classic cars, this event is said to be one of the Mansion House’s more popular events. The Bistro will also be open for snacks and refreshments.

St Helens Gangshow presents its ‘We’ve Been Making Memories’ variety show for the whole family to enjoy. Featuring Scouts, Guides, Cubs, Brownies and more! Tickets are £8 (1 in every 10 free) from Jennifer Tickle on 07742 383176.

The Mansion House St Helens, Victoria Park, St Helens, WA10 2UE. Tel: 01744 752644

Diabetes UK Wednesday, May 2, 7.30pm This St Helens & District Group of Diabetes UK meeting will feature Jan Cardwell, a Diabetes Nurse Consultant from the Specialist Diabetes Unit in St Helens Hospital who will talk about ‘The importance of Diabetes Patient Education.’ For more details call C Bowmaker on 0151 480 0821. St Helens United Reformed Church, King Street, WA10 2JZ

Health Walk Wednesday, May 2, 1.30pm start St Helens Ranger Service invites you to their 4 miles long health walk at Mesnes Park. For more information, contact Mesnes Park Ranger on 01925 229021. Meet at the Visitor Centre, Park Road, Newton-leWillows, WA12 9TA

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

Memorial Service Saturday, May 5, 2pm A Celebration of the Cowleians who fought and died in World War 1. In this centenary year, join together to remember the brave men who lived the Cowley motto “Not for himself but for all.” Cowley International College, Hard Lane, St Helens, WA10 6LB. Tel: 01744 678030

Beer & Gin Festival Saturday, May 5, 12pm-11.30pm Everyone’s welcome at this brilliant annual beer & gin event. It’s £3 entry, and there’ll be live entertainment and food and snacks. The Mansion House St Helens, Victoria Park, St Helens, WA10 2UE. Tel: 01744 752644

Family Fun Day

WIBN St Helens

Saturday, May 5, 12pm-4pm

Tues, May 8; Tues, June 12; Tues, July 10, 12pm-

The HoneyRose Foundation will be hosting a jampacked afternoon of family fun. Bring your friends and family for entertainment, activities and a chance to buy some awesome items! The Foundation grants special wishes to people suffering from cancer and life threatening illness.

2.15pm

Haresfinch Rugby and Community Club, Haresfinch Road, WA11 9NS. Tel: 01744 609020

Gerard Arms, Dentons Green Lane, Saint Helens, WA10 6SD. Tel: 01744 28894

Classic Car Show

Spoiler Alert

Sunday, May 6, 11am-4pm

Wednesday, May 9, 8pm-10pm

The North West Casual Classic Show, a gathering of cars from the last 70 years or so on display. Cherished cars, old and new! Free heritage bus rides, model railways and light refreshments. Tickets: Adults £4.25, Over 60s £3.25, two adults together £8, children aged 5-17 are £2.50.

Is life that bad or have we good reason to complain? In short, are we spoiled? Watch as Ed Byrne takes this question, turns it upside down and shakes it until the funny falls out. Go on, spoil yourself. Tickets are £26.90 available from www1.ticketmaster.co.uk/ event/1F0053048EF918B4

The Old Bus Depot, 51 Hall Street, St Helens, WA10 1DU. Tel: 01744 451681

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

Local Family Festival Day

Event Networking Expo

Monday, May 7, 10am-5pm (gates open 9am)

Thursday, May 10, 2pm-8pm

Enjoy a day of bikes, cars, drifting and karting. Various activities will be available for both children and adults with local stalls and refreshments. £5 entrance fee for 16+ and under 16s go free.

Do you organise events? Are you an events supplier? Bring as many people as you like to the free event. Visit https://ticketpole.co.uk/product/st-helensevent-expo/ to get your free ticket or purchase an exhibitor space at £40.

Three Sisters Circuit, Three Sisters Road, Ashtonin-Makerfield, WN4 8DD. Tel: 01942 719030

Health Walk Tuesday, May 8, 1.30pm start St Helens Ranger Service welcomes you to their 4.5 mile lone health walk at Sankey Valley. For more information, contact the Sankey Valley Ranger on 01744 677772. Meet at the Visitor Centre on Blackbrook Road, St Helens, WA11 9AB

The Women in Business Network is an International networking organisation that supports all business women. Every woman can give a 60 second pitch, and there are spotlight sessions each month. Regular guest speakers too.

The Clock Face Pub and Restaurant, 408 Clock Face Rd, Clock Face, WA9 4QS. Tel: 01744 602306

Quiz Night Friday, May 11, 7.30pm Rainford United Reform Church presents a Friday night quiz night for the whole family to enjoy! Rainford United Reform Church hall, Higher Lane, Rainford, WA11 8AL. Tel: 01744 883677

Beating the Bounds 2018 Sun, May 13, 4.30am-8.15pm This year’s Beating the Bounds will be part of St Helens’ 150th anniversary celebrations. Take part in the challenging 42.5 mile walk. Starts/finishes at Haydock Park, and goes anti-clockwise, around Billinge, Rainford, Eccleston, Rainhill, Bold, Parr, Earlestown, Newton-le-Willows and Haydock. Haydock Park, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 0HQ

Gin & Whisky Evening Monday, May 14, 7.30pm Rainford Heritage Society is hosting a Gin & Whisky evening. Tickets are £10 and there will be a large choice of gins and whiskeys to taste as well as nibbles. Everyone is welcome. Buy tickets in advance from Ray Waring on 01744 885547, or pay on arrival. Junction Pub, 102 News Lane, Rainford, WA11 7JU. Tel: 01744 882868

Phil Thompson Golf Classic Thursday, May 17, 9am-9pm Nugent Patron and LFC legend Phil Thompson hosts our annual Golf Classic to raise funds to help support adults living with dementia. It’s £395 per team of four. Email Marie.Reynolds@nugentcare. org or call the Fundraising Team on 0151 261 2000 to book. Houghwood Golf, Billinge Hill, Crank Road, WA11 8RL. Tel: 01744 894754

Plant sale Saturday, May 19, 9.30am-2.30pm/3pm Sell bedding plants and baskets at the plant fair. Free entry. St Paul’s Church, 75 Chain Lane, Saint Helens WA11 9QF. Tel: 01744 453181

Church in the Square

Big Band Night

Sunday, May 20, 11am-3pm

Saturday, June 2, 8pm

This event gets all churches to gather together on Pentecost Sunday. The cross denominational celebration service at 11am, is followed by a free lunch and an afternoon programme of activities for all ages. Find out more at www.churchinthesquare. co.uk/ or contact info@churchinthesquare.co.uk

The Easy Street Big Band will be performing in aid of Willowbrook Hospice. There’ll also be a prize raffle and tea & coffee available. Tickets are £10 from Willowbrook – The Living Well (Borough Road, St Helens, tel 01744 453798), and Frank on 01744 345073.

Church Square, St Helens, WA10 1AF

St Helens Town Hall, Victoria Square, Saint Helens, WA10 1HP. Tel: 01744 676789

Health Walk Tuesday, May 22, 1.30pm start St Helens Ranger Service welcomes you to their 4 mile long health walk at Bankes Park. For more information, contact Sankey Valley Rangers on 01744 677772. Meet at Bankes Park car park on Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7HR

May Half Term Karting Monday, May 28 until Friday, June 1 Family Arrive ‘n’ Drive karting sessions for ages 8+, Junior Arrive ‘n’ Drive karting sessions for ages 8-15 years and Sisley Kart School sessions for ages 8-15 years. Prices start from £25. Visit www. threesisterscircuit.co.uk or contact the sales team to find out more. Three Sisters Circuit, Three Sisters Road, Ashtonin-Makerfield, WN4 8DD. Tel: 01942 719030

Picnic in The Park Saturday, June 2, 12pm-10pm A family music festival in the heart of Rainford Village. John Coghlan’s Quo, Shane Nolan, Ultra 90’s, Black & Gold, Black Cat Bone, Days Above and Girl Talk will all be in attendance. Tickets are £20 - visit www.rainfordfestival.co.uk Jubilee Recreation Playing Fields, Church Road, Rainford, WA11 8HE

Westfield St Music Festival Sunday, June 3, 11am-6pm The fifth Westfield St Music Festival coincides with the 150th Anniversary of St Helens. There’ll be live music in all the pubs and bars and kids are welcome too. There will be lots going on outside with unusual acts taking place during the day. Westfield Street Music Festival, Westfield Street, St Helens, WA10 1QF

Summer Fair June 9, 11.30am-2pm Typical church summer fair, cake, plants, toys, stalls, light lunches. All manner of things. Free entry. Fun for all the family. St Paul’s Church, 75 Chain Lane, Saint Helens WA11 9QF. Tel: 01744 453181

14th Annual Prescot Festival Friday, June 15 to Sunday, June 24 Prescot Festival - Knowsley Cultural Organisation of the Year & Prescot Community Group of the Year 2017/2018. 10 days of arts, music, heritage, entertainment and culture in the historic Lancashire town. Visit www.prescotfestival.co.uk to find out more. Prescot

Burscough

Bridge A

ccording to www.lancashire.gov.uk, 71% of the North West’s fruit and vegetables are grown in the West Lancashire area and it is those flat fertile fields that we visit today on our latest Jack’s Tracks, which clocked in at just over 6 miles long. Most unusually for a village, Burscough has not one, but two railway stations, and it is from the Burscough Bridge station that the walk starts. Go north of the station on the A59 and turn left into Red Cat Lane. Within 75 yards turn left into the road

by Chris Pearce leading to the old station house. There, on the right, lies the pathway that eventually leads to Martin Mere; this is the path you need. The path soon opens up and runs alongside the railway line for a further 600 yards until you arrive at Crabtree Lane. Turn right and within a minute or so you’ll see a yellow girder set in the ground next to a track. Turn left down the track which soon opens up into a field; stay on the right hand boundary of the field.

60 Once you reach the fence which encloses Monk’s Farm, bear left and then follow the fence round a right hand bend until you reach a fingerpost. Take a 90 degree left turn towards Martin Mere and walk the 750 yards across the big open fields to Marsh Moss Lane. Cross the single track lane and go through the fence directly opposite. Follow the path to another fingerpost, in front of the metal fence enclosing the Martin Mere estate and turn left though the gate with a ‘Caution Deep Water’ sign on it. It’s very noticeable that the noise

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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.

61 of chirps, tweets and the honking of the seemingly kamikaze Canada Geese increases, as you make your way round the tall reeds beds surrounding the wetlands. Those with the foresight to have brought binoculars may want to linger in the bird hides, but with a thirsty dog in tow I push on round the reed

Lan

beds until I come to a track. Cross the track to the secondary pathway opposite and go through the gate; bear right and cross the stream and then take an immediate right down a slight gradient. Follow that path past the ponds and then once you’ve rounded a right hand bend you’ll arrive at another fingerpost. Take a 90 degree left turn towards a derelict barn, and take another left turn towards the railway. Cross the rails with great care and as soon as you’re across, turn left on a path that runs parallel to the railway line. Take a 90 degree right hand turn at the fingerpost towards ‘The Farm Tea Shop’, and then when you’ve swerved round a fir copse and walked round a field you’ll come to Martin Lane. Turn left and within 75 yards you’ll come to the aforementioned tea shop. Carry on Martin Lane in the same direction, through the junction with Merscar Lane. Just before the crossing over the canal, follow the path on the right which leads to the towpath, then turn left under the

For those with the OS Maps app on your desktop, mobile or tablet, this walk is named:

JT Burscough Bridge

canal bridge towards Burscough. Follow the canal for almost two miles past two swing bridges (31New Lane and 32-Crabtree Lane) until you exit the canal at bridge 32a â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Burscough Bridge. You are right by Burscough Wharf and the village centre. Turn left and go through the centre for 325 yards until you get to the finish point of Burscough Bridge rail station.

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Small really can be

beautiful

Award Winner

by Angie Barker

o many of us have small gardens these days but any outside space is a wonderful addition to a home which is why we should make the most of every inch of space and make our gardens attractive, as well as practical, outdoor rooms. Small gardens need extra consideration however and here are a few pointers when thinking about the design of a small space: Decide what style you are going for and stick to that theme. So a contemporary garden, choose plants which will complete the look – Phormiums and Bamboos for example and go with straight lines. A courtyard garden should use Buxus sempervirens (Box) hedges and topiary. A more traditional style can use sweeping curves and circles. Don’t try to cram too much into a small space – less is more! Plants need to earn their keep so choose specimens which have long seasons of interest and a good balance of evergreens. Also limit your colour palette because too many colours in a small garden will make the borders appear cluttered

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

If your garden is shady make the bold decision to remove the lawn as it will always struggle. There is a fantastic range of paving products available now and small cobble setts really suit a small space You should incorporate a focal point - a large pot (unplanted) can do the trick perfectly. Similarly a bird bath, sun dial or sculpture Use the walls and fences to grow climbers which will green up the space and make it feel larger There are lots of clever storage solutions available these days like benches with hinged seats and screening ideas to hide away those dreaded wheelie bins. And one of the best things about a small garden is that you can get close up and personal with your plants and really look at their beautiful detail. One of the best for May must be Dicentra spectabilis (Lamprocapnos spectabilis is the new name) or Bleeding Heart. There is a white form called ‘Alba’ which is simply stunning. I’m always telling Hubby that the best things come in small packages – he is not very tall at 5 feet 8 inches – but what there is of him is perfectly designed !

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Test Drive

DS 7

Crossback by Tim Barnes-Clay

im Barnes-Clay, is back from his latest car launch. This time he was invited to Windsor to sample the all-new DS 7 Crossback. At first sight, the DS 7 Crossback shows off conservative, rather than cool, characteristics. Yes, yes, I know beauty is in the eye of the beholder. But this is my opinion, and someone needs to have one.

67 On the move, body lean is kept to a minimum, even though the steering is spongy and dead and it isn’t perked up by changing the DS into its Sport mode. Don’t let me rain on the DS7 Crossback’s parade too much, though. The French motor is best kept in its Comfort setting, so that you can make the most of its respectable ride quality. This car isn’t all about the zero to 62mph sprint, it’s far happier as a laid-back cruiser. But it can still pull okay, with the 2.0-litre diesel model doing the 0-62mph in just under 10 seconds. The DS marque is launching the Crossback with four different trim levels, and the Performance Line DS 7, as driven here, is likely to be the model to please the masses. This car gets 19-inch alloys, a gloss black grille, and LED lights. In the cabin, leather and Alcantara abound, while a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment screen hogs the limelight. Playing second fiddle to the big display is a large analogue clock, perched above the ignition button. The infotainment system itself is intuitive and responsive and is supported by a bunch of touch sensitive switches for the cabin controls. But more remarkable in this car segment is the adding of an infrared night vision camera that projects a

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vivid picture onto the driver’s display. It picks out pedestrians and animals ahead of you, and, as I found out driving around Berkshire’s unlit backroads, it works! The only drawback is that the clever driver aid is an option costing £1600. Room in the cabin is good for five-up and it’s a

Fast Facts • 0-62 mph: 9.9 secs • Combined mpg: 57.6 • Engine layout: 1997cc four-cylinder turbo diesel

very comfortable car fore and aft. Indeed, the DS 7 Crossback’s flat floor means that a rear seat occupant sitting in the middle will still have space. What’s more, the car’s boot is generously proportioned with 555 litres of cargo capacity.

• Max. power (PS): 180

The all-new DS’ weak point is its price-tag. At over £30,000, other more established premium brands may seem more attractive. The BMW X3 and Volvo XC40 are examples of the stiff competition the up-

to-the-minute French machine is up against.

• CO2: 128 g/km • Price: £36,335

Still, being different is quite appealing, so it’ll be interesting to see what 2018 holds for the DS 7 Crossback. Watch this space!

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Call us on... 01744 600074 Mobile: 07867 592460 13 Hawes Ave, Carr Mill, WA11 7EA

M H Roofing

Established over 15 years Friendly advice and competitive rates No job too small

• High Performance Felt Flat Roof Systems • Storm Damage and Insurance Work • Slating and Tiling full roofs • Poiniting and Guttering • Fascia Boards

Call 01744 884117 or 07702 693225

www.mhroofingltd.co.uk

Fully Insured & Insurance Backed Guarantees

Facias, soffits, cladding, dry verge and gutters - call us now for all your roofline requirements! We specialise in seamless aluminium gutters. Clean, stylish and guaranteed for 25 years!

01942 735 515 / 07917 352 182 / 07917 352 183 www.orrellroofline.co.uk

Come and visit the largest showroom in the North West

® Quality installations of windows, doors, fascias, soffits and gutters First for quality • First for service • First for reliability No contractors • No salesmen Just a smile and a honest price from a family run business

Rockdoor Approved Installer Reg No 02767596

SISTER COMPANY OF FOXWELLS BUILDERS Established 16 years

Call us for a Free Quote Office Number: 01942 871 777 Victoria Industrial Estate, Victoria Street, Leigh, WN7 5SE warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk • info@warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk