St Helens Edition
July 2016
Once upon a
time...
Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health & Fitness What’s On Garden Diary... www.locallife247.co.uk
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Story
R
time eading my three year old son his bedtime story is my favourite time of the day.
Over the years, we’ve gone through phases of favourite characters (Peppa Pig) and favourite books which he can now read parrot fashion before I even get to the line (The Tiger Who Came To Tea). We sit on his bed, snuggle up and take our time looking at the illustrations. I’m extremely careful not to miss a page because he will tell me off if I do. For a few minutes, it’s quiet, calm and magical. Writing for children is a skill just as challenging as penning a novel or even writing a scientific paper. Which is why I take my hat off to Rainford’s Rachel Lyon who is juggling motherhood with crafting a successful career in children’s books. Rachel has just published her third book called Not Enough for Queen Fluff and is busy touring the country promoting it. And while it’s an achievement in itself to have written one let alone three books, her greatest pleasure comes from seeing the reaction of children as she reads it to them. “It’s the best job in the world,” she told me. In today’s fast-paced society when we treat a mobile phone as if it were a life support machine, let’s sit back and enjoy getting lost in a book and let our minds wander. Just like my three year old when he goes to sleep, wondering if that tiger will ever knock on the door at his house and ask to have tea with him.
Mark Taylor - Editor Next issue - August 2016
Advertising deadline - Tuesday 12 July Published - Friday 22 July
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In this issue Moss Bank
Bigging up
Gala
spuds
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43 Jack’s Tracks -
River
cruising
Brinscall
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46 Test Drive -
Once upon a
time...
Range Rover
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52
Regulars 22 Puzzle corner 40 What’s on
Telephone: 01744 649 722 45 Eating out guide
40 Leisure 50 Gardening 54 Home services
sthelensnews@locallife247.co.uk
Design: Peter Bretherton
design@locallife247.co.uk
Distribution: Sally Boon
sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
Accounts: Sam Garrahan accounts@locallife247.co.uk Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following edition areas on an alternate monthly basis. This issue is delivered to over 12,000 private homes and businesses in Rainford, Billinge, Garswood, Moss Bank, Haresfinch, Carr Mill and selected areas of Haydock.
Publisher: Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
Local Life Media
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk
Sales: Clare Glover, Nicola Gray sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: Mark Taylor
Sections 6 Local news 25 Health 32 Travel 43 Food & drink
Publisher: Chris Pearce
@locallifemedia
The next issue is delivered to over 12,500 private homes and businesses in Rainhill, Eccleston, Prescot, Eccleston Park, Windle, Prescot Road and parts of Nutgrove and Sutton Heath.
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.
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Mark’s American
dream
A former Rainford High Technology College pupil is hoping to win a place in a prestigious Microsoft competition being held in the United States. Nineteen year old Mark Brown who is now a St Helens College student, is on course for a place at the prestigious Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) World Championship in Orlando, Florida, a global competition that tests students’ skills on Microsoft Office applications. The computing student is the only Further Education student in the entire North of England who has secured a place in the competitive national finals after acing the regional tests. Mark successfully competed in the popular technology skills competition to demonstrate his mastery of Microsoft Office products and completed unique project-based tests to demonstrate his ability in PowerPoint. Microsoft Office Specialist Certification is offered to students at St Helens College alongside their fulltime course in order to boost their employability. The qualification gives students a way to become tangibly prepared for the world of work. Mark, a former Rainford High Technology College pupil said: “I am currently studying for my BTEC IT Level 3 Extended Diploma at the College. I decided to come to St Helens College after taking a shot of working in a full-time role in the sales industry and it wasn’t for me. When I lost that job I began looking at qualifications at St Helens College in
order to obtain a more enjoyable and rewarding career path.” Mark hopes to go on to a career within software robotics once he has completed his course. If successful at the national final, Mark will battle it out in a four-day final in Florida to scoop a $7,500 prize.
Fun day There’s a long list of attractions at St James the Great Church’s Fun Day on Church Road in Haydock on Saturday, July 16. Between 10.30am and 3.30pm, stalls will be set up in the field behind the church and the graveyard, and in the Parish Centre. Activities include bouncy castles, children’s rides, donkey rides and a five-aside competition for under 9’s. There will also be a car boot sale and stalls selling cakes, pies and books.
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St Aidan’s
celebrate
Pupils from nine primary schools across St Helens battled it out at the annual Wargrave Rugby Trophy tournament, where Billinge St Aidan’s overcame Bleak Hill 3-1 in afascinating final to be crowned champions. Now in its third year, the tournament – held alongside Wargrave Primary School’s
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Summer Fayre – attracted a large number of spectators including the Mayor of St Helens, Councillor Dave Banks – a school governor - and his wife, Councillor Jeanette Banks, the Mayoress of St Helens. Saints stars Jonny Lomax, Louie McCarthyScarsbrook, Shannon McDonnell, Lama Tasi, Jack Owens and Atelea Vea, were on hand to present medals and the winners’ shield. As well as the rugby on offer, visitors could enjoy various stalls including ‘hook a duck and ‘bat the rat’ games which proved to be popular with children and adults alike. More than £1,000 was raised from the event which will be used to purchase playground equipment.
Volunteer plea Willowbrook Hospice has launched an urgent appeal for 100 new volunteers. The ‘Put U in VolUnteering’’ campaign is looking for people to help at the charity’s 11 shops throughout St Helens and Knowsley. Each month, volunteers contribute about 6,500 hours of their time at Willowbrook Hospice’s shops, but some are only half staffed. For more information, contact Ian Turnbull on IanT@ willowbrookhospice.org.uk , call 0151 430 8736 or call into your local Willowbrook Charity Shop and have a chat with the manager.
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Gala’s
return
Now in its 39th year, the Moss Bank Gala promises to be another great day out for all the family on Saturday, July 9. The parade will be followed by the crowning of the Gala Queen and there will be children’s and adult’s competitions in baking, home-grown flowers and vegetables and miniature gardens. Local children’s dance and sports groups will be giving demonstrations and there will be a craft tent supported by St David’s church. Moss Bank Mission Art club will be hosting an exhibition and there will be the now traditional ‘end of Gala’ Tug of War. Children and adults alike need to get their
competition entries in by 1pm, then can join in the parade in fancy dress at 1.30pm. There’ll be lots of stalls and activities including face-painting, the Conservation Trust, bee keepers,
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guide dogs, gardening, local food stalls, Beavers and other local clubs and a bouncy castle. For a more relaxed approach, you can watch the world go by in the café, listen to the brass band, enjoy the Morris dancing and other demonstrations and listen out for the raffle prizes and competition winners at 4pm. There will be parking available on the field but spaces are limited. The organisers are looking for volunteers to help everything run smoothly on the day, so if you can spare a bit of time either call Christa on 07776 348277 or Helen on 07958 061119.
Distributors required Local Life magazine seeks distributors for delivery of this magazine and leaflets in the following area; Haydock
Taylor Road, Moore Drive, Rose Avenue, Westminster Drive, Buckfast Avenue
Blackbrook Wagon Lane, Windermere Road & Legh Road Laffak
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Planning is already underway for next year’s 40th anniversary show and the Gala hopes to celebrate this milestone with as many people as possible.
Good rates paid, delivery bags and maps provided. You will be at least 13, healthy, energetic and be prepared to work for 2/3 hours once every eight weeks.
To raise funds to run the Moss Bank Gala, car boot sales are held and the next ones are on Saturday, June 25 and on Saturday, September 17. To book a place, call Christa on 07776 348277.
If you’re interested, email sallyb@locallife247.co.uk with your name, address, a contact number and your date of birth.
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Player search Rainford Rangers FC are looking for new players under the age of 13 to join them ahead of the new season. Children must be in year 8 by September and able to play games on Sundays and train on Tuesdays in Rainford at the Jubilee Recreation Ground on Church Road. See www.rainfordrangers.com for more details.
Starsailor’s homecoming The Billinge-born lead singer of Starsailor, James Walsh, will be back on home turf when his band play Robin Park Arena on July 13. Best known for singles Good Souls, Silence Is Easy and Love Is Here, Starsailor have reunited to promote a new Greatest Hits album. The band got together while studying at Wigan and Leigh College and enjoyed critical and commercial success before going their separate ways in 2009.
Tickets for the concert are available from the website: www.ticketweb.co.uk
Hail King Kev Enjoy an evening in the company of Kevin Keegan at Langtree Park, St Helens on Friday, July 15. The former Liverpool and England player, who also managed Newcastle and England, is the speaker at a sportsman’s dinner to raise money for the Steve Prescott Foundation. MC for the night is Pete Emmett with entertainment from Britain’s Got Talent finalist Leslie Gibson. VIP tickets which guarantee you a meet and greet with Kevin plus a framed photo are also available at a cost of £1,000 for a table of 10. General tickets cost £65 per person or £600 for a table of 10. For more information, email info@ steveprescottfoundation.co.uk or call Martin on 07971 792859.
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Competition Winners Two lucky Local Life readers have each won a pair of tickets to see The Corrs, live at Haydock Park. The competition was run in our May edition of Local Life and the two winners were Steven Lenahan of School Brow, Billinge, and Mrs V Platt of Victoria Road, Garswood. Thanks to all who entered and a big well done to the winners!
Rainford showcase This year’s Rainford Show takes place on Saturday, September 3 between 1.30 and 4.30pm. Whether you are an experienced or new exhibitor or visitor, you will be receive a warm welcome to this friendly village event. It’s a showcase for the enthusiastic, hard work of the community. There will be classes for handicrafts, photography, confectionery, preserves, floral art, vegetables, fruit and flowers.
For all enquiries regarding the show, please contact the Chairman, Kevin Leigh, on 01744 883078, or Peter and Toni Reddington on 01744 883497.
New recruit needed The Rainford Band are looking for a top quality cornet player to complete their line-up. After an extremely successful start to the year, securing the opportunity to represent the North West at this year’s National Finals and also recently winning the Spring Festival Senior Cup, the Band are eager to recruit someone that will perform to the highest of their ability both on and off the contest stage. As this year also marks their 40th Anniversary, they have a number of exciting projects lined up. The band rehearses on Monday and Thursday evenings in Rainford so if you are interested in joining, send band manager Julie an email: bandmanagerrainford@gmail.com
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Players needed Rainford North End FC are forming a new team for next season (2016/2017). Any previous players will be welcomed back but the club will be looking to recruit a new young squad under a new manager. Players of all abilities who may be interested in joining this new venture should go to the team’s Facebook page – search Rainford North End.
Gardeners get-together Rainford Horticultural Society are looking for new people to attend their interesting programme of talks, demonstrations and slide shows. The group meet on the fourth Monday of each month in the North End Social Club on Bushey Lane at 8pm.
Members also qualify for discounted gardening supplies each year. For more details, call the secretary Don Hayes on 01744 884312.
Crank Gala Enjoy the best of what Crank has to offer at their annual Gala. Taking place between 2 and 4.30pm on Saturday, July 2 on the village field behind Crank Nursery, Crank Hill. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, listen to the band and indulge in strawberries and cream or a hotdog. Children are welcome to go along and enjoy a show from entertainer Terry de Maxim and have some fun on the bouncy slide and castle. Have a look around the village too as you may spot some scarecrows welcoming you to the event!
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Boost for mature
students
PEOPLE aged 19 and over wishing to return to education in St Helens can now apply for new loans. Following last year’s announcement by the Chancellor, tuition fee loans used by adult learners who want to study a Further Education course at college will now be accessible to even more people. New Advanced Learner Loans are now available to those aged 19 and above studying for qualifications at levels 3, 4, 5 and 6. Getting a loan doesn’t depend on your household income and there’s no credit check. You won’t have
to pay anything back until you’re earning over £21,000 a year. Once you earn over this amount you pay back 9% of the earnings you receive above this figure. The loan is written off entirely after 30 years. Some of the courses which are included under
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the new loan scheme include logistics, hair and beauty, catering and health and social care and more. St Helens College are set to host a series of information events as they launch the Advanced Learning Loan to adults who are considering embarking on some further study from September onwards. If you would like to know more, visit the information event on July 5 between 10am – 7pm or visit www.sthelens.ac.uk.
Get switched on Technology experts are being invited to help the older generation get up to speed with computers, smartphones and tablets. It’s hoped that there are some people willing to share their knowledge so an informal series of classes can be run at Bispham Methodist Church, Crank Road on Friday afternoons.
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 email us at sthelensnews@locallife247.co.uk
If you are able to lead or assist a group, call 07504016163 or email: christin75CH@gmail.com.
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Puzzle
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Health & Fitness
Need to see a
By Lisa Salmon
T
he shortage of NHS patients are facing a doctor’s appointment numbers are turning to a healthcare advice.
GPs means many lengthy wait for a - and increasing digital doctor for
GP?
getting longer, there is the potential for apps and medical devices to support health professionals explore alternative ways of delivering care to patients. “Anything that encourages patients to take an interest in their health is a good thing - and advances in technology bring enormous potential to support patients to care for themselves, and help them to foster active lifestyles.”
What’s available? From last month, all GPs have to provide patients with online access to detailed information in their GP records, and most also allow patients to book and cancel appointments, and order repeat prescriptions online. In addition, increasing numbers of online doctor services are available, where patients register and can then book paid-for video consultations or live online chats with qualified GPs. Figures released last month show the number of people waiting at least a week to see their GP rose by 500,000 in 2015, to 14.2 million patients, possibly because the number of GPs hasn’t kept pace with our growing, and ageing, population. But figures also suggest a growing trend for people turning to the web to consult doctors. A recent survey by Push Doctor found 62% of Brits have used online technology to access healthcare, either through online consultations, accessing medical records, booking appointments and ordering repeat prescriptions. Dr Maureen Baker, chair of the Royal College of GPs (RCGP), says: “With waiting times for appointments
One such service is Push Doctor (www.pushdoctor. co.uk), which charges £1 for the first consultation, and then £14 for each 10-minute video ‘appointment’ thereafter. Online prescriptions, referral letters and fit-for-work notes are also available at an additional cost.
Popular prescription Not surprisingly, younger age groups (those aged 18-24 and 35-44) are driving the adoption of online healthcare. The Push Doctor survey, which quizzed more than 1,000 adults, found ordering repeat prescriptions is currently the most popular way Brits use
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“Ultimately, this comes down to providing greater patient choice - enabling them to have more control over how and when they access their healthcare.”
History checks Services like Push Doctor take medical histories from the patients themselves, and Ozagir points out that this is the way it’s done in any private consultation. Eren Ozagir, CEO and founder of PushDoctor.co.uk. technology to access healthcare (29%), followed by communicating with a GP via live webchat (22%), and video consultations (17%). Nearly a third (30%) say they’d consult a GP via video if it meant they could have an appointment when and where they wanted, and 27% say they’d book a video consultation if they could have an immediate or same-day appointment. Push Doctor founder Eren Ozagir says video consultations encourage increased patient choice
However, Dr Baker says the RCGP has concerns about the patient-safety implications of services offering virtual consultations via smartphones. “Patients will be having consultations with GPs who are unfamiliar with - and won’t necessarily have access to - their medical history, or information about drugs they’ve been prescribed,” she stresses. “Medical histories provided by patients themselves will rarely be as comprehensive as those held by their family doctor. There are also many signs and symptoms that GPs look out for when making a diagnosis, that the patient might not think to raise.”
and make seeing a GP more accessible. “It’s a more practical and engaging way of consulting than a telephone appointment, and is allowing more timely care that works around the individual patient. The UK’s clinicians and patients are continuing to embrace technology and digital solutions in healthcare, from glucose monitors to video consultations, and they are doing so in increasing numbers. This is a positive move as it’s freeing clinician time, making health services more efficient and improving how we engage with and access healthcare.
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Fee concerns Furthermore, Dr Baker insists access to a GP should never be dependent on a patient’s ability to pay. “We are very concerned about devices that charge patients to see a family doctor,” she adds. “This is something that would fundamentally change one of the founding principles of the NHS - that healthcare is free at the point of need.” She says the focus should be on implementing aims to build the general practice workforce. “This way, we can provide more appointments and give all our patients the care they need and deserve, free of charge on the NHS,” she says. “Technology definitely has a place as part of a 21st century health service, but apps offering access
Dr Maureen Baker to GPs for a fee are not the solution to the intense pressures facing general practice, or for our patients who are finding it difficult to make an appointment.”
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Travel
Rise of the
rivers
R
iver cruising has seen huge strides in innovation in the past few years, both in terms of features on the ships but also a broadening appeal to both families and younger passengers. Whilst older river cruise boats were small with few cabins with balconies, limited dining options and poor entertainment, this situation has changed significantly with the new ships entering the market. One of the biggest differences between an ocean cruise and a river cruise is that the former takes you to countries, while the latter takes you through countries, making river cruising in many ways a more all-encompassing experience. Much of the beauty of France lies in its rustic countryside, away from the coast, where rivers and canals are the gateway to the lavender fields of Provence and the vineyards of Burgundy. Saga Holidays, as you would expect, are one of the leading river cruise operators and you can collect their 2017 River Cruise brochure now from Marken Travel in Billinge. One of the highlights of the Saga River Cruise programme is the quality of their boats and here we put the spotlight on just one of their many destinations – the South of France. With its place on the Eurostar Network, as well as an international airport, Lyon is a popular starting point for French river cruises. Often dubbed the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is the meeting place for the Rhone and Saone rivers. The city centre reflects 2,000 years of history and Lyon was also the centre of the 19th century silk
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trade. You can explore a Roman amphitheatre in Fourvière, medieval and Renaissance architecture, and perhaps follow some of the ancient traboules or secret alleyways used by the silk workers to traverse the city undetected. Sail north up the Saone and discover Macon, with its distinctly Mediterranean feel. Mâcon is famous for its wine, most coming from the Chardonnay grape with Pouilly-Fuissé, St-Véran and Mâcon-Villages Blanc the most well-known, whilst connoisseurs of red or rose can enjoy the juice from the Gamay or Pinot Noir grape. Further north is Chalon-sur-Saone, with its rich Roman and medieval heritage. The enormous Cathedrale St. Vincent and the surrounding place are the heart of Chalon. It was built between 1090 and 1522 and sits on a wonderful square with neat shops and restaurants. Head south down the Rhone and a popular venue for a river cruise stop is the historic walled city of
Viviers, with a majestic cathedral dominating the city that’s set between the Rhone and the hills beyond. Often excursions from the river cruises in this part of the world include trips to see places like Carmague, where you could see the wild horses, and the Ardeche Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of Europe. The narrow streets and squares of Avignon, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a pleasure to explore. This medieval city was, for seventy years, the centre of the Papal court and is known as the
Saga Holiday Night Explore the world with Saga Holidays
Tuesday, 5th July, 6.30pm A Saga representative will be on hand to answer your questions. Wine & nibbles served. Please call Marken Travel on 01744 893 291 to confirm attendance.
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French Checklist Language: French Currency: Euro Time difference: +2 hours Cost of a beer: €1.51 Cost of a bottle of wine: €5.00 3 Course meal (mid range restaurant): €25.00
‘City of Popes’ and the Papal Palace at night is a spectacle to behold. Further south atop a limestone hill beside the Rhone is Arles, founded by Roman soldiers and home to one of Van Gogh’s masterpieces, Café Terrace at Night. You can perhaps enjoy a coffee at the same restaurant, or explore the well preserved Roman amphitheatre. Arles captures the true charm of Provence and is well worth a visit.
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Port St Louis, on the shores of the Mediterranean is the port section of Marseille, the oldest and second largest city in France. Nearby are three beaches, the famous marshes and the cultivated plains where wild horses and flamingos roam. River cruising in the South of France is truly a trip to experience. The number of UK travellers choosing a river cruise hit an all-time high last year, so if you’re looking for something different next year, contact Marken Travel in Billinge who will enlighten you on the complete river cruise experience with Saga or come along to the Open Night hosted by Saga at Marken Travel – see below for details.
Free Hamper! ...when you book a Saga holiday before 12th July at Marken Travel
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Legal
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matters
ocal law firm I E Legal Solicitors in Prescot offer the full range of legal services from buying and selling property, business law, dealing with disputes through the courts, family law and wills, probate and powers of attorney. Whatever your legal needs, I E Legal Solicitors can help.
convenience for our clients, but without sacrificing any legal expertise or skill.”
Principal solicitor, Dominic Cooper explains how the firm works, “I E Legal aim to help you, no matter what your legal need is. Innovation and Expertise is our motto, and it drives everything Dominic Cooper that we do. We like to think of ourselves as a LOT more approachable than traditional legal firms, with friendly legal expertise.”
Delia Leyland-Cooper is the Office Manager as well as a paralegal law graduate herself. “Being based in a local town means that we can keep our costs low, and aren’t as expensive as for example, a large firm in the City Centre”, Delia advised. “We Deila Leylanddo whatever we can to make Cooper our services affordable. For wills, conveyancing, court cases worth less than £10,000, legal advice, solicitors letters, powers of attorney and business services, IE Legal offer fixed, low-cost fees.
Their office is in Prescot, an historic market town with a great range of local shops and historic architecture which is undergoing something of a revival. Plans to build a Shakespearean theatre in the town have been referred to by David Cameron referred to as “an excellent proposal”. “You can come to do your shopping in Prescot and simply pop-in to our office, on the main pedestrian High Street. It really is very convenient and with plenty of free parking it’s ideal.” said Dominic. “We know that people can sometimes find solicitors intimidating or stuffy, so we’ve made sure our legal team are approachable and accessible. It’s all about
Of course professional expertise can be expensive and many solicitors charge high fees. With cut-backs in legal aid, this can have an impact on being able to afford solicitors.
Delia further explains, “Wherever we can’t offer a fixed fee, we give an accurate estimate of cost and do not incur any fees without your up-front say so. Horror stories of people going to solicitors and then six months later getting an unexpected bill for thousands of pounds would never happen with us!” So whatever your legal needs, give I E Legal Solicitors a call today!
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38
Once upon a
R
time... By Mark Taylor
achel Lyon’s own story is just as captivating as the children’s books she writes.
The author has just published her third book, the charmingly titled Not Enough for Queen Fluff and has been busy promoting it at events across the country. Now living in Rainford, Rachel has strong links with the area having lived in Nutgrove and Eccleston before attending Rainhill High School. In between she studied Communications and English at Leeds University and worked in event promotions before moving to London to start a career in copywriting. But it was creative writing of a different kind which was always Rachel’s passion from being a schoolgirl. “I’ve loved writing since I was a little girl at Primary School,” said Rachel. “It was always my hobby, and I used to sit with my typewriter after school (how old does that make me feel!) and write poems. “I got lots of encouragement from teachers who sensed I had a talent for writing, but I didn’t think it was a realistic ambition, so I worked towards becoming a copywriter, which seemed like a real job. The writing dream never went away though, and in my mid twenties I moved from London back to St Helens and turned freelance so I could manage my own time, and give it a real go. “I spent a lot of time writing stories, which meant I was earning less than half what I was previously, but it was all worth it because I ended up with a publishing contract. I still don’t earn anything like as much as I did as a copywriter, but I‘m doing my dream job and that’s far more important.” The leap from copywriter to published author is still a big one to make, especially when you specialise in books for children. Her first two books were titled Childe of Hale and I Wish I‘d Been Born A Unicorn, and Rachel explained: “I’m a bit of a child at heart, really, so it’s not a stretch! And I love writing in rhyme, which is perfect children’s book territory. I do have lots of novels on the go though, so if I ever finish one, who knows.”
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Rachel draws inspiration from Gruffalo author Julia Donaldson though her literary hero is Jane Austen. “The Queen of rhyming children’s picture books is Julia Donaldson,” said Rachel. “ I am just in awe of her ability. My daughter’s bookshelf is full of her books, and they’re a joy to read, so she is a definite inspiration. Jane Austen is the writer I admire most though – bordering on obsession to be honest. My friends arranged a weekend in Bath at a Jane Austen Ball for my 30th – they know me so well!” Rachel still remembers the excitement of finding out she was going to be a published author. Rachel said: “The biggest thrill was getting the phone call from a publisher after I’d submitted the first story to say they loved the book and could they arrange a meeting to discuss a contract. “I literally danced around the house, jumping for joy. Being told I was going to become a published author - it was my dream come true. I don’t think anything will ever compare with that feeling, but I’ve had lots of lovely moments since, being short-listed for awards, or seeing the second book become a bedtime story on CBeebies - all icing on the cake. I’ve been very lucky.” Rachel is already looking forward to her next project because she finds it hard to just switch off and forget about writing for a while. “I’m always writing children’s books,” she said. “So hopefully there’ll be another one in the pipeline soon. I have more ideas than I can keep up with to be honest, so I need to pick a focus and work on it. My problem is each time I get a new idea I drop what I’m working on and start on that. It means I’ve got lots of things on the go but not many things get finished. So I’ve set myself the target to finish one of the novels I’m writing. “Even if it never gets published, I’d like to just finish one because I’ve started dozens and never seen them through. I’m 16,000 words in, which is much further than I’ve ever got before, so that’s something. I’m also working on children’s songs – and a musical, because writing music is my other big love. So if I can manage to complete just one off those projects in the next year I’ll be happy.” You can meet Rachel as she visits the following local venues in the coming weeks: Write Blend Book shop, Waterloo, Liverpool, Saturday July 2, 2pm; Waterstones Warrington, Golden Square Shopping Centre, Sunday July 3, noon-3pm; Waterstones Liverpool One, Saturday July 9, noon-2pm. Rachel’s books are published by Maverick Arts and you can visit her website: www.rachellyon.co.uk
40
Events & Leisure
What’s
on Rockprest Saturday, July 2 - Sunday, July 3
Symphony at the Tower Friday, July 1 - Sunday, July 3 Will Young and Joe Bonamassa top the bill at this year’s musical extravaganza at Hoghton Tower near Preston. After winning Pop Idol in 2002, Young has gone on to sell millions of albums as well as establishing himself as a stage performer and actor. He will headline the opening night of the event so expect to hear some of his big hits such as Leave Right Now, Evergreen, Jealousy and Light My Fire. A day later, US blues and rock musician Joe Bonamassa performs as part of only five UK dates in 2016. The influential guitarist will take to the stage on Saturday night. Sunday’s concert is being billed as the Symphony Spectacular with a feel of the Last Night of the Proms about it. All the family are invited along and enjoy a picnic while listening to some much-loved classical pieces. Call 01772 629171 for tickets.
A tribute act festival that brings you familiar sounding sets from the some of the best live bands on the circuit. Expect some of the biggest tribute acts in Europe on two stages, over two days of crowd-surfing, chorus-chanting and festival fun. There will be tributes to the likes of Guns N Roses, Queen and Led Zeppelin. Gates open at 11am on both days with the music going on till late. Moor Park, Preston Tickets are free - though you have to pay the booking fee – and you can claim them online: www.rockprest.com/tickets/
The Sound of Music 5 July 2016 - 9 July 2016 One of the greatest musicals of all time returns to the Winter gardens in Blackpool in a magnificent new production to enchant and enthral the young and the young at heart. Based on Baroness Maria von Trapp’s 1949 autobiography, this wonderfully lavish new staging of The Sound of Music tells the true story of the world-famous singing family, from their romantic beginnings and search for happiness, to their thrilling escape to freedom as their beloved Austria becomes part of the Third Reich at the start of WWll. Tickets start at £21.45 plus booking fee and are available by calling 0844 856 1111.
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Summer Days Festival Wednesday July 6, Friday, July 8 and Saturday, July 9 Simply Red are one of the top names appearing at this new three-day music festival held within the beautiful grounds of Clitheroe Castle. Described as a “boutique music and food festival”, there will be two live stages featuring more than 30 artists, a locally sourced gourmet food village and a dedicated real ale area. Other acts performing include The Christians, Roachford and Gabrielle. Tickets available from summerdaysfestival.com. You can buy a ticket for each day or a special VIP pass to cover the whole event.
Starsailor Wednesday, July 13 It might not be on the same grand scale as The Verve’s homecoming, but Starsailor will be back on familiar ground on Wednesday, July 13. The band whose members hail from Wigan and Chorley will perform at Robin Park Arena, showcasing many of the songs from their breakthrough album Love Is Here which featured the singles Good Souls and Four to the Floor. They first got together at Wigan and Leigh College and still have strong links with the area. Lead singer James Walsh has written for other artists in recent years and also performed on his own. But the band have reunited in support of their Greatest Hits album. Tickets, starting at £21 are on sale now. Robin Park Arena www.ticketweb.com
The Proclaimers Friday, July 29 From the booming chorus of (I’m Gonna Be) 500 Miles to the poetic beauty of Sunshine on Leith, The Proclaimers have the ability to lift you up or reduce you to tears. Twin brothers Craig and Charlie Reid have enjoyed global success and continue to tour relentlessly. Their live shows are famously good natured affairs and often they meet fans for a pint after the show. On Friday, July 29 they come to the Parr Hall and tickets cost £29.50 including booking fee. Parr Hall, Cultural Quarter, Palmyra Square South, Warrington, Cheshire WA1 1BL Contact 01925 442345
Chorley Flower Show July 30-31 Fans of floral displays will be able to enjoy a blaze of colour in Astley Park. Some of the best exhibitors from across the country will be in town after the success of the first ever Chorley Flower Show, which attracted 10,000 people to Astley Park. New elements for the 2016 show will include introducing show gardens to complement Chorley’s award-winning RHS Chelsea Flower Show exhibit ‘The Evaders’ Garden’ and increasing the variety of horticultural stands in the vicinity of Astley Hall. There are a range of ticket options and discounts for booking in advance. Call 01257 515151 for details.
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Lytham Festival August 1-7, 2016 Rock legend Bryan Adams and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds are the two headline acts for this year’s Lytham Festival. There will also be performances from pop stars including The Village People, Bay City Rollers and Earth Wind & Fire and a host of West End stars will take to the stage over three nights at Lytham Festival 2016. The headline act for Thursday, August 4 is Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds. It will be the first time he has played live on the Fylde Coast since October 1995 when his former band Oasis performed at Blackpool’s Empress Ballroom. On Friday, it’s Mix Tape night with live music from disco giants The Village People and Earth, Wind and Fire, Scottish rockers Bay City Rollers, 90s popstars Liberty X, Toploader and 911 and 80s chart-toppers 5 Star. Saturday night will see multi-platinum recording artist and Canadian rock giant Bryan Adams headline. With classic hits such classics as Summer of 69, (Everything I Do) I Do It For You and Run To You, Adams is sure to be a crowd favourite. The Traditional Last Night of the Proms showcase will be on Sunday August 7 and bring the festival to a colourful close. The programme will also include West End performers such as Jodie Prenger and Ruthie Henshall signing songs from such shows as Miss Saigon, Les Miserable and the Phantom of the Opera. Tickets for Lytham Festival are available from www.lythamfestival.com or by calling 0844 888 0200.
Blackpool Air Show August 7-8 Watch planes classic and modern take to the skies in Blackpool’s famous air show. Gasp at spectacular wing walkers and admire some beautiful flying machines form the past and present - a marvellous family day out for young and old.
Expect to see The Red Arrows along with appearances from the Typhoon, Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster Bomber. The free seafront show, which features a whole host of incredible flying machines and attracts tens of thousands of people to the Promenade each year, will take place on Sunday 7 and Monday 8 August. Call 01253 478222 for details.
Ormskirk Motorfest Sunday, August 28. See vintage and classic cars close up at the ever popular Ormskirk Motorfest. Around 10,000 people are expected to enjoy the free motoring extravaganza, which will feature between 250 and 300 vehicles on display. These include 1950s bubble cars, rally, racing and stock car competition vehicles, and classic, vintage and competition motorcycles. For further information see www.ormskirkmotorfest.com
The Who Wednesday, August 31 One of the biggest legends in rock history, The Who, bring their Back To The Who Tour 2016 to the Manchester Arena. With a string of unforgettable hits such as My Generation and Won’t Get Fooled Again, original members Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend remain at the top of their form. Tickets cost from £67.75 – see www.eventim.co.uk for more details.
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Food & Drink
Bigging up
spuds By Keeley Bolger
H
e might be known for his rare-breed pigs, but entomologist-turned-farmer Jimmy Doherty’s latest initiative lets their veggie sidekick - the humble potato - do the talking. “The Jersey Royal is an iconic food item and something we should celebrate,” the 40-year-old enthuses of his collaboration with the seasonal spud. “If the Italians or French had this, they would be going on about it all the time.” “As a kid, having Jersey Royals with your spring lamb was pretty important,” he muses. “I’m a big believer in seasonality.” Available from April until the end of June, Jersey Royals’ Protected Designation of Origin status means its five-generational farmers use 130-year-old techniques to ensure their nutty flavour, creamy consistency and flaky skins.
certainly practises what he preaches at home.
“I visited Jersey, and I arrived thinking, ‘I’m used to farming in the British Isles’, but I’ve never seen it like that before,” admits Doherty. “They’re all crackers, and the fields they hand-plant their crops on - cotils - are steep, so the planters have to be winched up!”
“The simplest way [to serve Jersey Royals] is freshly dug with butter, but I use them for my kids all the time as mini roast potatoes. Rather than peeling and chopping, I just put them straight in the roaster and they love them.
Delivered to supermarkets within 48 hours of being gathered up, the TV foodie is also a firm believer that these potatoes - and other varieties - should be a diet staple.
“My kids get excited about food. Understanding where food comes from is a very natural part of their life, and it should be the case for everyone.
“We forget potatoes are full of vitamin C, antioxidants and fibre, and we’re moving to other carbohydrates like rice and pasta,” he says. “We should go back to eating lots of potatoes.
“I wish we could emulate what Jersey does,” he continues. “ If all of the schools [across the UK] were excited by Jersey Royal season, and did little competitions where they grow the potatoes, it would show pride and respect for the environment.”
“It’s about portion control, that’s all,” he adds, in response to any spud critics, and the father-of-three
Try your hand at Doherty’s family-friendly recipes, specifically created for the iconic Jersey Royal...
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Sausage and Jersey Royal
bake
Serves 4 Ingredients 600g Jersey Royal new potatoes, scrubbed (not peeled) and cut in half lengthways 8 large herb sausages 2tbsp olive oil 1 medium red onion, peeled and cut into 8 wedges 1/2 red pepper, deseeded and cut into quarters 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and cut into quarters 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 10 large sage leaves, roughly chopped 200g cherry tomatoes 150g asparagus 2tbsp balsamic vinegar
Method Preheat the oven to 200C/180C fan. Cook the Jersey Royals in a medium pan of salted water for eight to 10 minutes until just tender. Add the sausages to a large roasting tin with two tablespoons of olive oil and roast for 10 minutes. Drain the Jersey Royals, and add to the roasting tin with the remaining ingredients, excluding the tomatoes and asparagus. Mix together and roast for 25 minutes until vegetables are slightly caramelised around the edges, stir occasionally.
Coarsely ground black pepper
Scatter over the tomatoes and asparagus, mix well and roast for a further 10 minutes until the sausages are golden and cooked through.
Crusty bread and mustard to serve
Serve hot with crusty bread and mustard.
Sea salt
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Eating out
guide Advertise
here £30 + VAT
Call 01744 649722
Sing Faye Restaurant 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
Quattro’s
Houghwood
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
In a perfect setting, Houghwood’s restaurant has panoramic views across the golf course and over to the Welsh hills. A modern British menu is served Wednesday to Sunday. 5 star food hygiene rating. 01744 894754 Crank Road, St Helens, WA11 8RL houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk
Plantation Restaurant Now Open! From wholesome breakfasts and a delicious lunchtime menu to traditional Lancastrian afternoon teas, the new Plantation Restaurant at Warbreck Garden Centre is the place to go. 01695 722960 Lyelake Lane, Lathom, L40 6JW warbreckgardencentre.co.uk
The Simms Road Inn Homemade pub food classics made with locally sourced produce - featuring our award winning Steak & Ale pie, supplemented with cask ales and quality wines from around the world. Food served every lunch and dinner. 01744 894246 Garswood, WN4 0XH burtonandrew55@yahoo.com
Rigby’s Coffee Shop Enjoy a trip out to Pimbo Garden Centre and tuck into a wide selection of delicious home cooked, locally sourced, food served seven days a week at Rigby’s Coffee Shop. 01695 622601 Pimbo Garden Centre, 32 Pimbo Lane, Up Holland, WN8 9QQ pimbogardencentre.co.uk
46
sponsored by
Beautiful
Brinscall by Chris Pearce
A
t just over 4 miles long, this must be one of the shortest Jack’s Tracks we have done, but despite that it’s a lovely walk for a warm summer’s day, with a good mix of shade and sun. The handsome Lancashire village of Brinscall is chockful of the stone terrace houses of yesteryear, but can boast many facilities such as a swimming pool, excellent play facilities and the reservoir which is popular with local fishermen. Overlooking the village is the brooding West Pennine Moors which is littered with the ruins of farms deserted by their tenants in 1902 when the land was acquired under compulsory purchase order.
We start off at the car park behind the swimming baths in Brinscall (PR6 8QU). Return to the main road and turn right onto School Lane. Within 50 yards the road bends and morphs into Railway Road. Don’t follow this road but instead go straight on up Butterworth Brow. Follow this road uphill until you reach a row of cottages on the right. About 50 yards after the cottages turn right up the path which takes you uphill behind the back of the cottages and onto the moor overlooking Brinscall. The path runs alongside a fairly dry brook and is a bit rough in places so you
47
need to watch your footing as you clamber up the hill. You’ll pass a wide green lane bordered by stone walling which leads up to the ruins of Cocker’s Folly, which is an interesting tangent from the walk. Even in bright sunlight, the moor’s a bit eerie, with remnants of old stone buildings and the odd metal structure protecting old mine shafts, but the views over Brinscall are pretty impressive. Follow the path until you reach a track by an abandoned metal tractor trailer. Turn right at this point and follow the track downhill until you reach a single track road (Well Lane). Turn right down Well Lane for 75 yards or so and then take the left turn into Brinscall Woods and follow the main track all the way through these pleasant woods for 0.6 of a mile until you reach a bridge by the Goit. The Goit is a small canal used to ferry drinking water and it stretches from Roddlesworth, initially underground, and opens up in Brinscall Woods until its final destination in Rivington. Cross the bridge over The Goit and then turn left down the footpath. Follow the footpath for a further 0.6 miles until you reach the cricket ground at White Coppice.
This venue is well known as probably the prettiest cricket ground in Lancashire, and has a popular café that opens at weekends during the cricket season. Walk past the café and exit the cricket ground to
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School L
d
oa
La
Start/Finish
an e
ur
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Brinscall
Lo dg
eB an
Dic
k
kL
r Ha
ane
ne
yR wa
il Ra
ll We ne
La
Wheelton Plantation
Trigg Lane
Heapey CP
White Coppice Cricket Club
The G
iot
Old Withnells Farm
the left. Once you arrived at the imaginatively named Heapey Reservoir Number 6, turn right and walk alongside the reservoir.
White Coppice
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.
Hop over the stile next to the weir and bear left uphill until you reach another stile. Cross that and head across the field in the direction indicated on the sign. Once you’ve crossed the field you’ll go over another stile and land on a concrete path. Turn right, walk 200 yards or so and bear left just before you reach Lowe Fold Cottage. You’ll then arrive at a stile with an option to
49
go left or go straight on. Go straight on and you’ll go over a number of stiles in quick succession as you exit a wooden area and the path opens up onto a field that overlooks the moorland on the opposite side of the Goit. Follow the path on the left hand of the perimeter all the way downhill to Old Withnells Farm via a muddy exit and a tight squeeze through a gate. Negotiate your way through the farm buildings and you’ll see that the path improves as you exit the farm. Once you hit a three way junction, hop over the stile and go straight ahead across the field. It’s a bit boggy in places but the worst of it is negated by a wooden walkway in the centre of the field. Once you exit the field through a wooden structure and cross over a brook, you’ll need to take the well-
defined path which runs diagonally across the next field, which leads to the disused Lancashire Union railway line which ran between Blackburn and St Helens, most of which closed in the 1960’s. Once you reach the line, turn right either along the line itself or on the path running parallel to it. Follow the line for 300 yards or so and your path will be barred by a steel gate, so divert to the left and follow that single track road in the same general direction past the derelict houses on either side of the track. Follow the track for approximately ¼ mile. Look out for Coach House on the left (with Brinscall Hall behind it) and then, 25 yards on, turn right down Dick Lane. Follow this straight lane for 1/3 of a mile until the exit on School Lane. Turn right and walk downhill to your starting point.
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We’re ALL going on
holiday
Award Winner
by Angie Barker
R
egular readers may recall that I acquired my first ever greenhouse towards the end of last year, having wished for one for many years. I have enjoyed it tremendously. I have over wintered tender plants which previously I would have thrown out, having no means of getting them through the winter and I’ve grown tender annual plants for the garden this summer for the first time. My grandaughter has also been involved as we shared a packet of seed and she has enjoyed watching seeds turn to seedlings and seedling to plants which can then be planted in the garden. However... I have realised that this owning a greenhouse milarky comes at a price. What happens when we go on our summer holiday to Anglesey? Who will tend my plants and crops, nurtured lovingly over many weeks and months. The best bet, I thought, is my daughter although, god bless her, she has not inherited her mothers green fingers and would consider trekking up every night to my house to water the greenhouse plants a real chore.
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.
Beside that she works long hours and so it seems a big ask. Then I thought, I’ll take my precious potted plants to her house where she can look after them, but then of course there is Evie and Percy. Their two very naughty, mad cats who would destroy the plants within 5 minutes of them being there. Whilst my grandaughter is showing very promising signs of developing an interest in gardening, I’m not sure I could entrust my precious cargo to a five year old. I could of course move them to outside in the garden with the hope that there is enough rainfall to keep them content, however in my experience, even when it is pouring with rain in Anglesey, it will be cracking the flags in Wigan. No, there’s only one thing for it. Hubby will have to leave room on the back seat – they’re coming with us. I have never been on holiday before with four tomato plants, two courgettes, two cucumbers, three chillies and a red pepper. Yes I know, Hubby thinks I’m barmy too.
Call Angie now for your free consultation! Angie Barker Dip GD (Inst GD) BA (Hons) Garden Design For All Seasons Tel: 01942 522 405 Mob: 07857 008 383 www.angiebarker.co.uk
Award Winner
51
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Test drive
Range Rover 3.0 TDV6
Vogue SE by Tim Barnes-Clay
T
his car is big – and it never lets you forget that. Even behind the wheel you are aware that you’re in charge of a two-tonne luxury machine.
even if you are predisposed to moments of motoring madness, the Range Rover 3.0 TDV6 Vogue SE does its best to placate you. It brings out the gentleman in you and makes you feel good. Not superior – just good.
I think that’s a good thing. It keeps you on your toes and stops you driving like a fool. Mind you,
But with every positive, there tends to be a negative. And in the Range Rover’s case it seems that unfortunate false impressions can quickly be born. For example, when parking at the beach with my family, a guy commented that it was “alright for some” to have enough money to buy such a car. And while wafting along the M1 in the fast lane I was greeted with a one finger salute. The fact that the possessor of the digit had been hogging the middle lane for the last five miles didn’t seem to matter to him. I don’t get those kind of reactions when driving smaller test cars, so the Range Rover does seem to be the common denominator here. But, if there’s one thing I’ve learnt in life: you can’t control what other’s think. So it’s best to let them
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get on with it and enjoy what you’re doing. And when you’re driving a Range Rover, it’s hard to be anything other than happy. Inside, it’s tastefully minimalistic with all the key functions controlled through straightforward switchgear. Even the touch-screen infotainment system is clear and uncomplicated to use. Better still, the driving position is first-rate and offers a commanding view of the road. Quite frankly, cabins don’t get much more sumptuous than the Range Rover’s. The workmanship is of a very high standard, meaning the whole kit and caboodle looks and feels good enough to eat. From a handling perspective, the luxury Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), is astonishingly nimble for its size. It feels accurate and self-assured on the straights; but sophistication is the Range Rover’s most obvious characteristic. Particularly remarkable is the way the car insulates you from the world when you’re hustling. There’s barely any wind noise, and the erudite thrum of the V6 diesel soothes, rather than irritates. The Range Rover is just as accomplished off-road, literally crushing any non-tarmac terrain under its huge wheels. And back on the blacktop, it only starts to tell you “enough is enough” when pushed hard around twisty ribbons of road. The large car expresses its distaste like a stallion. But rather than bucking and whinnying, it lurches and squeals. All versions, including this mid-spec Vogue SE, have all the equipment necessary for happy motoring, and the power unit under the bonnet is hooked
Fast
facts
0-62 mph: 7.9 secs Combined mpg: 40.9 Engine layout: 2993cc V6 turbo diesel Max. power (bhp): 255 CO2: 182 g/km Price: £81,850
up to computerised gadgetry to keep things shiny side up, whether on asphalt or over the rough stuff. Indeed, the car scored the full five-stars when tested by safety body, Euro NCAP. All things considered, the Range Rover is a wonderfully relaxed and utterly competent machine on and off-road. It’s even relatively economical with a V6 oil-burner under the bonnet. Just be aware of other motorists who may judge you due to their inverted badge snobbery. But that’s their problem, right?
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No Call Out Charges • Local Company • PC Experts Tel: 01744 778381 - 01942 418763 - Mobile - 07540 222787
Mark Mitchell
Stained Glass & Leaded Lights • Traditional Leaded Lights & Stained Glass • Manufactured & Repaired • New Commissions • On-Site Repairs • 25 Years Experience Unit 15, Chalon Way Industrial Estate, St Helens, WA10 1AU Tel: 0151 426 2814 Mob: 07711 841735 www.markmitchellstainedglass.co.uk
FITTED BEDROOM FURNITURE DESIGNED FOR FREE IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME By our experienced craftsman at a fraction of the cost of other manufactures. MANY STYLES AND COLOURS
ALL WORK GUARANTEED Call Today on 01744 821390 www.matthewgreendesign.co.uk
GARAGE DOOR
REPAIRS
All GARAGE DOORS REPAIRED : Springs, Cables, Locks, Rollers etc. Doors of all ages repaired
01744 894939 07891 330214 NO FIX, NO CHARGE! www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk Strawberry Cottage, Pimbo Road, St.Helens WN8 9QL
Advertise
here
£20
Saving money is the clear benefit!
Solar Thermal & Solar PV
1 w£
ally
Wind Turbines
no
Heat Pumps
Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working
For more information call
01744 649722
LED Lighting
with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding
NG...and general SERVICI Savings
VAN CAR & motorcycles too es E ...and Lash Tan Book X y your FREE Spra H ils home survey eds A Sunb & GeTl Na Health Telephone: Check 01257 427 000 U ic Car rton Acryl and Brethe Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services Energy daily...
Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Same Day Service, Safety Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced
FREE
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RS
Dennis Goulding Mossy Lea Road
01744 649 722
Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories, Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
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no
(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)
A49
For more information please phone
l Geails N 5
Flyers, postcards, brochures and distribution service
B5250
Advertise your business in this section from £35 + VAT a month
Design & Print and we’ll provide you with a detailed report showing the returns your
available from Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon
own solar panels Y n www.dglwindows.co.uk S 84 of Crosto (10% typical return) dio residents me! R J27Stu T @ for all7PG me until you needCheck E e WN5Keep Health Visit our showroom at S , Billing 400 FREE Car on - 6PM Unit 4a, Road S 4 619 your ford ay 10AM now Book Cricket : 0781
s Natalie
A5209
Standish
Shevington
Saturd hone : 84 Rain - 7PM, Open Telep 10AM y
Call
, Friday & Sunda ngineers esday Thursday TwinLakesMotorE ay, Wedn Closed
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Mond
01772
REPAIR
603923
Street Business Park off Miry Lane, Wigan. WN6 7TP
DING & WEL
Slash your electricity and water heating bill
Protect your household from future energy price rises Reduce your household’s impact on the environment
Call us now
0843 224 9555 07595 420237 or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
we make it our business to help yours
Need a declutter?
CLE
• Out and about appointments • Shopping • Cleaning Service • Walking the Dog • Organising your home and much more
Ring Aunty Pat on 07922 841661 / 01744 453584
We don’t cut corners! we clean them
01744 644061
www.dailypoppins.com
A
Aunty Pat’s Home Help Service
UPVC CLEANING
CK
20% OFF N
LL
Then call
A
Moving house?
AG E S
55
I N G PA
• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.
CONSERVATORIES
• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning)
JETWASHING
• Driveways & Patios etc.
EXTERIOR PAINTING • Fascias, Rendered Walls etc.
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
01744 470 051 or 07834 241 642 www.justcleanpropertycare.co.uk
Sadie .… The Cleaning Lady • Domestic Cleaning • Quality Cleaning & Ironing • One Off Cleans • Weekly / Fortnightly • Free Estimates • Flexible to Individual Needs
Over 40 local
walks
01744 635977 07954 139821
FREE to download at www.locallife247.co.uk
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MultiSkilled Handyman Roofing & Roofline- repairs and replacement Decorating, Building, Gates supplied & fitted Plastering, Gardening For all your home improvements - No job too small
PlC MAINTENANCE
07847 394040 ~ 01744 606938
PLASTERER
Improving your home? • Fitted Kitchens • Loft Conversions • New Bathrooms • Conservatories If you plan to improve your home in 2016 call Gareth today for a free quotation Billinge Based
Re-skims Dot & dab Rendering 2 coat work Unwanted artex
For a free quote, call Ian Ridley on
01942 218 160
or 07958 695 116
Advertise
The Complete Answer to Building & Joinery Jobs
01744 603 231 / 07501 270 436
here
Advertise your business in this section from £35 + VAT a month For more information please phone
01744 649 722
MARDEC
01744 602931 or 07756 274503
7 Albany Avenue, Eccleston Park, L34 2QN
Painters & Decorators
Internal and external work Domestic or commercial jobs welcomed Free inspirational advice & quotes No job too small Established 1992
01744 894 431 07931 282 896
A.J.Davies
Painter & Decorator • Paper hanging a speciality • Friendly & very reliable service • City & Guilds qualified • Both domestic & commercial • Trading for over 25 years
Call Adam on 01744 755005 e-mail ajdaviesdecorator@hotmail.co.uk
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M H Roofing Ltd
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
Our Focus Is Quality & Price
LOCAL FAMILY FIRM
Fully Insured & Insurance Backed Guarantees
From a Loose Slate to a Complete Construction
Extensions & Alterations Specialists
All aspects of Building & Roofing UPVC Rooflines References Available
Call us on... 01744 600074 Mobile: 07867 592460 13 Hawes Ave, Carr Mill, WA11 7EA
• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985
Roofing & Roofline Specialists • All aspects of maintenance & repair • Fascia & soffit installation • Guttering and felting services Call us now for a free estimate
01744 892732 Colin: 07958 302 166 Brian: 07760 160 988 www.wilson-bros.co.uk
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A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES
Accredited Installer & Ser vice Partner • Annual Boiler Servicing • Landlord & Home Owner Gas Safety Checks • Gas Fire & Cooker Installations • Under Floor Heating Specialists • Home Efficiency Control Upgrades
Domestic + Commercial Boiler + Central Heating Installs, Servicing + Repairs Extended warranties available 24 Hour Call-out Brand New Bathrooms
Freephone 0300 3030121 Finance available
10 YEARS
WE REPAIR EXTENDED ALL MAKES WARRANTY ON SELECTED BOILER OF BOILERS! INSTALLATIONS
Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809 21, Naburn Drive, Orrell, WN5 8SB
Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk
www.orrellheating.co.uk
506515
Telephone:
01744 649 676 Registration No.
88604
MOBILE:
07931 766 684
www.fgwelch.co.uk
Puzzle
solutions
The photo on page 22 is of West End Road, Haydock
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