Local Life - St Helens - August 2019 by Local Life 247 Ltd

LocalLife St Helens Edition

August 2019

WIN Wristbands To Blackpool Pleasure Beach Pages 48 - 49

Stuff For A Rainy Day Pages 29 - 32

Nicky Nook Walk Pages 38 - 41

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Local Life

Handy Contacts

Fantastic Summer

As our readers always remind me, trying to get hold of a good tradesperson at the best of times is sometimes tough. To be fair to tradespeople though, if you’re installing an aerial on a roof or in the process of plastering a wall, then the last thing you want to do is to stop and pick up your phone.

70%

That’s why we’ve developed our new Handy Contacts web directory, so you have a selection of local tradespeople on tap that you can refer to wherever you are, on your phone, your tablet, your laptop or your PC. Check it out at www.locallife247.co.uk/handy-contacts

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Handy Contacts is just another benefit you get from using our website, www.locallife247.co.uk. Did you know that you can download over 60 circular walks free from the site? Or that you can read our latest issues online? Enter competitions to win great prizes? And last but not least, if you’re stuck for something to do this summer, you can search our Events2Go calendar at www.locallife247.co.uk/events/ for local events. Event organisers can even upload their events here and, providing space permits, we’ll publish them in our magazines FREE! Have a great summer, see you in the autumn…

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Chris Pearce, Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

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In this issue

Regulars 26 Puzzle Corner 38 Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks

Garlic & Rosemary Lamb Shank

42 Test Drive 45 Events2Go

Sections

6 Local News 22 Food 34 Health

Stuff For A Rainy Day

42 Motoring 50 Gardening 53 Home Services

Next issue - October 2019

Advertising deadline - Friday, 20 September Published - Thursday, 3 October

LocalLife

Time To Face The Facts

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Nicky Nook Walk

Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following areas on an alternate monthly basis.. This 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

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Test Drive Honda CR-V Hybrid

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News & Features

Cinema on the Water A pop-up floating cinema heads to the Albert Dock in Liverpool this summer, offering a cinematic experience like no other. It takes place on the dock’s floating pontoon, and will show a range of classics – from family-friendly Matilda and Finding Nemo to award-winning Titanic and Dirty Dancing. The outdoor screenings will go ahead whatever the weather, with a cover provided in case of rain. Tickets cost £14 per adult and £8 per child. There’ll also be delicious foodie treats available. Screenings take place from Sunday, August 4 until Saturday, August 10 at various times. For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.albertdock. com/whats-on/cinema

Free Tennis Sessions A new scheme has launched at Queens Park, offering fun free tennis sessions for all ages and abilities. Coach-led sessions take place every Saturday from

1pm-2pm, followed by an open play session with the coach until 2:30pm. Equipment is available to borrow – all you need to do is register your place at www.tennisforfree.com

#NoMoreKnives The Daniel Fox Foundation will host a workshop this month to educate children about knife crime. Established after local bouncer Daniel Fox was stabbed in the town centre, the organisation aims to prevent further incidents of violent knife crime. So far it has been successful in introducing knife wands to several nightclubs in St. Helens. Now the charity heads to Momo’s coffee shop on Westfield Street to highlight the dangers inherent in carrying a knife. The workshop is aimed at children aged 10-12, and there are spaces for around 25 attendees. The workshop takes place on Saturday, August 3 at 3:30pm. Booking is required at Momo’s or on their Facebook page.

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Stepping Out

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Rainhill Garrick Society has announced its October play: Stepping Out.

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This rollicking comedy follows former professional dancer Mavis as she attempts to teach tap dancing to a motley crew of amateurs ahead of an upcoming concert. It takes place from Thursday, October 17 – Saturday, October 19 at Rainhill Village Hall. For more information and ticket enquiries, call 01744 813429. Tickets are also available to purchase at Rainhill Post Office and at the village hall.

Great Eccleston Bake-Off September sees the return of the Great Eccleston Bake-Off for its seventh year. On Sunday, September 15 there’ll be loads of old fashioned community fun at the Smithy Heritage Centre, judged by St. Helens WI. Entries will be blind-tasted by a panel of judges, with prizes awarded for an overall winner, runner-up, and best decorated cake. Submissions are accepted from 12pm-3pm on the day, with judging commencing at 3:15pm.

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Refill Stations St. Helens Council is encouraging people to help save the planet and stay hydrated as part of its Refill scheme. If just 1 in 10 people refilled their bottles just once a week, there would be 340 million less plastic bottles a year in circulation. You can access free tap water to refill your bottle at various venues across the town centre, including all Starbucks, Costas and Greggs. Refill points are also set up at the Boat House in Taylor Park and Momo’s coffee shop on Westfield Street. For more details, visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/refill

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Pub &

Grub

Ruskin’s 8th annual beer festival returns for August 2019 - once again bringing cask ales, international beers, and a huge number of flavoured ales and ciders to Sticky Wicket Bar & Grub. No matter what your palate, you’ll find a drink to tickle your taste buds across the weekend of August 2nd & 3rd. From Neapolitan Ice Cream Pale Ale – a sweet drink with hints of chocolate and strawberry - to cherry and pineapple ciders, it’s hard to believe the festival began with a small but select number of cask ales in the former Pavilion Bar eight years ago. Bottled beers come from all over the world, including the Hitachino Brewing Lab in Japan, Sierra Nevada in California, Czechia and Germany. Plus,

if you prefer something a little more traditional, a selection of wines and gins are available the weekend through. You can also expect live sport, a tag rugby competition, loads of live music and a great day out with friends. Proceeds from the beer festival help to raise money for St. Helens Autism Support, a charity which helps support people on the Autistic spectrum. The charity helps people find employment for people with Autism and raises awareness of the condition across the borough. The festival runs from 5pm-11pm on the Friday and 12pm-11pm on Saturday. For more information visit www.facebook.com/ ruskinsthelens/

Win a Car for Willowbrook You could drive away in a fabulous Suzuki Celerio as part of Willowbrook Hospice’s latest raffle and courtesy of Chapelhouse St. Helens. Raffle tickets cost £5 each, and money raised will go towards the new Make a Difference Appeal, which aims to upgrade and refurbish the hospice’s facilities. Head of Fundraising Nichola Saunders said: ‘After 22 years the Hospice needs a facelift to ensure that our facilities are of the highest quality, are dementia friendly and to improve the environment and experience for our patients and their families. Willowbrook has a well-earned reputation for the excellent standard of our care and we want to make sure that our facilities match this.’

You can buy tickets online at www. willowbrookhospice.org.uk, by calling 01744 453798 or via post. The draw closes on Friday, October 11.

Magic at the Library There’s loads going on at libraries across St. Helens this summer - starting with the appearance of dragons at Parr Library on Friday, August 2! Alfie and Anna are going camping, sharing stories about dragons as they go. In a production which blends puppetry and immersive storytelling, this joint endeavour between Altered Scale Theatre and Petite Ultaloom promises a magical experience for children and the young at heart. Tickets cost £3 per person or £8 for a family of four – they’re available from the library or online at Eventbrite. Two performances take place on the day; the first is from 10:30am-11:30am, and the second from 2pm-3pm.

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On Thursday, August 8, bestselling author Milly Johnson heads over to Chester Lane Library to discuss her latest novel The Magnificent Mrs Mayhew. Tickets cost £6, £3 concessions or £5 for library card holders. The event runs from 6pm-8pm. Finally, visit Haydock Library on Friday, August 9 for a mesmerising interactive experiences for all ages. You’ll generate complex patterns through movement and colour in this installation - get sucked into another dimension with Portals from 1pm-6pm, ahead of a special performance at 7pm which uses coloured lasers to generate a sweeping synth soundscape. Entrance to Portals is free.

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Record-Breaking Rock

Rock Choir is heading to the Theatre Royal this month – and with several Guinness World Records under their belt, you won’t want to miss this breathtaking performance!

for charity, including the official charity Nordoff Robbins which uses music therapy to help people facing a range of conditions including dementia, autism, and brain injury.

Rock Choir – often dubbed ‘The People’s Choir’ invites members of the local community to come together and sing, whether vocally trained or not. You don’t need to be able to read music, and no auditions are necessary. Better yet, the choir has broken not one but three Guinness World Records, including ‘the largest song and dance routine held at multiple locations’ which saw 7,914 members congregate across the UK to help raise over £10,000 for Refuge.

Now members of four Rock Choirs in St. Helens, Wigan, Chorley and Preston are coming together for a night of fabulous entertainment on Sunday, July 21 at 7pm. ! Tickets cost £11 and can be obtained from the Theatre Royal box office on 01744 756000 or at www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com

Impressively, the initiative has helped raise millions

If you’d like to get involved with Rock Choir, the St. Helens branch meets from 7pm-8:30pm every Wednesday at The World of Glass. Details about joining and how to book a place on a free taster session can be found at www.rockchoir.com

Postcard Project Heart of Glass is looking for insight into building a child-friendly St. Helens through a newly launched postcard project. Children and young people are encouraged to submit their views using a series of prompts on #DearStHelens postcards. In association with St. Helens Council, a lesson plan has been drawn up to be distributed to schools around the borough, with a themed artwork in the pipeline. Young people are asked what a child friendly St. Helens would sound like, look like, make them feel like, and give them opportunities to do.

Aimee Harrison, Young People and School’s Producer, said: ‘We are delighted to be beginning this process with young people in St. Helens that builds on our projects with young people and schools across the borough. It’s vitally important to St. Helens Council, St. Helens Youth Council and to Heart of Glass that the hopes for the future of our borough are created in collaboration with our youngest community members, and that this is [an opportunity] for young people to be listened to and to feel they can influence their own future, and the future of St. Helens.’

Pride Power St. Helens will host its inaugural Pride festival this August. A joint project between MD Productions and The World of Glass, the event will bring some muchdeserved recognition to various LGBTQA+ groups in the local area, promoting acceptance, integration and, most importantly, pride! World of Glass chief executive and St. Helens-born Ron Helsby, who is helping to organise the event, never imagined seeing Pride come to the town when he came out as gay in 1992. ‘I couldn’t be happier,’ Ron explained. ‘We welcome everybody to the World of Glass – it’s a safe place here.’ Representatives from St. Helens Mind, the National LGBT Police Network and St. Helens Council came together for a launch event held at the World

of Glass in June to brainstorm ideas. Planned for Saturday, August 10, the event will feature information stalls, live performances and a Rainbow Wall of people joining hands from the town centre to The World of Glass. For more information and updates, head to www. worldofglass.com

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Drivers Needed Willowbrook Hospice is urgently appealing for volunteer drivers and driver’s assistants to help with collections of donations and deliveries. Van drivers help distribute donations around the 16 charity shops in the St. Helens and Knowsley area, as well as delivering bulky items to customers. All money raised in Willowbrook’s shops goes back into the hospice to help them care for and support people with life limiting illnesses across the borough. If you have a few hours to spare, the position could help you boost your CV and develop new skills along the way – all for an incredibly worthy cause.

Summer Barbecue Rainford’ Parish Council’s annual summer barbecue takes place this month. The Parish Council Chairman’s barbecue offers a chance to get together with people and enjoy delicious food. It takes place on Sunday, August 25 from 2pm6:30pm at Rainford Village Hall.

AC U F TU N

DIR ER

E TH MA

For more information about volunteering, call Bev on 01744 766929 or email help@ willowbrookhospice.org.uk

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Volunteer driver Barry Lyon added: ‘I’m proud to volunteer for Willowbrook and have seen the fantastic work that the hospice does first hand. It’s an amazing organisation and offers so much help and support to people in our local community.’

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Food

Sally’s Specials by Marti of The Star Inn

The Star Inn

Sally’s at The Star Inn was launched in 2007 in homage to landlord and chef Marti’s mother Sally, who passed away in 1996. A great cook herself, it was Sally’s lifelong dream to have a restaurant in her name, and Marti wanted to honour that promise when he took the reins of The Star Inn at Roby Mill.

Garlic & Rosemary Lamb Shank This slow-roasted lamb shank recipe is a great and easy way to enjoy lamb. This lamb recipe has only a few ingredients, but thanks to the long, slow cooking, the results are an incredibly flavourful meal to remember.

Serves 1 Ingredients 16oz Shank, from your butcher or local supermarket Olive oil 2 cloves of garlic 2 sprigs of rosemary Seasoning 2 carrots 2 stalks of celery 1 small onion 1 pint of beef stock Splash of red wine

Method Preheat the oven to 170°c Start by rubbing a little oil, garlic, rosemary and seasoning into the Lamb Shank. Try to do this the day before cooking to ensure maximum flavour for the final dish. Prepare a small mirepoix of vegetables, this is a flavour base made from diced vegetables. To achieve this roughly cut the carrots, celery and onion. Heat a little oil in a deep roasting tray or casserole dish, ensure the tray is hot but not smoking hot. Next, seal the lamb on all sides and the bottom, until it’s a lovely golden brown. Add in your mirepoix but be careful not to burn the meat or vegetables. If the tray is too hot turn the heat down at this point. Right about now the smells and aroma of the lamb, garlic and herbs should be filling your kitchen up nicely Add in the pint of beef stock and a generous splash of red wine. Now it’s ready to go into the oven! Cover the meat with some parchment paper or baking paper to protect the meat from drying out. Cover again with tin foil and roast in the oven for approximately 3 hours. To check the lamb, open the foil and use a spoon to test the meat, it should be very soft and ready to fall off the bone. The lamb is best served with a red wine sauce, mashed potato and vegetables.

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Party in the

Garden

Southport Flower Show celebrates its 90th anniversary this year – and they plan to do it in style. The largest independent flower show in the country has been a staple of North West heritage since 1929, featuring the best and brightest in bloom with its Amateur Growers’ Competition, expert gardening tips and stunning show gardens. The Grand Floral Marquee is home to a treasure trove of bonsai, cacti, vegetables, trees and much more, while the Garden Theatre invites celebrity guests to give talks or entertain the crowds. Whether you’re looking to see floral art demos, witness dog displays or just bop to some live music, Southport Flower Show really does have it all. Running from August 15th-18th, this year’s theme is the suitably summery Garden Party, during which Victoria Park will be transformed into a huge spread. This year, expect to enjoy cookery demonstrations

from Hairy Biker Dave Myers, plus more from the award-winning TV chef Ellis Barrie. Opening the show is Strictly Come Dancing’s Bruno Tonioli, while This Morning’s Michael Perry and children’s entertainer and Cbeebies star Justin Fletcher. Gardener’s Question Time star Christine Walkden will also be on hand to share her advice with visitors. A 4-day pass for the show costs £60, with early bird day tickets available for £20 until August 14. Southport Flower show is open from 10am-6pm every day except Sunday, when it closes at 5pm. It takes place at Victoria Park in Southport – for more information, visit www.southportflowershow.co.uk Don’t forget, you can still enter to win a pair of tickets to the show on our Facebook page! Just head to @locallife247 on Facebook before July 31 and see our pinned post for details on how to get involved.

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Puzzle Corner WORD SEARCH

All the puzzle solutions can be found on page 47 of this magazine.

SUDOKU

Disney Characters Find the hidden words in the word search grid

ABU

GENIE

PLUTO

ALADDIN

HERCULES

PRINCESS

ALICE

JAFAR

ROBIN HOOD

ARIEL

MERLIN

SARAFINA

BAMBI

MICKEY MOUSE

SCAMP

DONALD DUCK

MUFASA

THUMPER

DUCHESS

PETER PAN

DUMBO

PIGLET

WIGGLE WORDS CLUE: To walk or run

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

H E P A

T P E V

D O M E

N U T N

NUMBER BLOCK

2 3

22 9 5 25 2 1 8 1 9 23 26 14 13 25 24 The numbers in each row add up to totals to the right. The numbers in each column add up to the totals along the bottom. The diagonal lines also add up the totals to the right.

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Stuff For A Rainy

Day

We’re all well aware that summer in Britain is no guarantee of sunshine. If the weather’s preventing you from getting out to the park or the beach, why not wait for the clouds to break in one of the North West’s many museums?

Harris Museum

World Museum Liverpool

Housing a vast array of historical artefacts, The Harris invites you to learn more about Preston’s history or view stunning artwork from its industrial background. Heading to The Harris in September is a multimedia exhibition about the internationally recognised Preston Bus Station, which combines photography, sculpture and film to capture the building’s colourful heritage.

From live bugs and tropical fish to a natural history centre where you can touch a hippopotamus skull, the World Museum is not to be missed. Wind through the dinosaur gallery and Ancient Egypt exhibit to find out more about the history of our planet.

Highlights: Catch one of the many planetarium shows to hunt for aliens, join the race to the moon and experience the birth of the sun. Tickets cost £3 per adult or £2 per child. Free entry www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/wml/

Highlights: Visit the museum during the summer holidays for its Fearsome Craftsmen event: this touring exhibition comes from the York-based JORVIK Group, and includes plenty of hands-on crafts. Free entry www.harrismuseum.org.uk/

Jodrell Bank

Spaceport & U-Boat

This Macclesfield-based observatory was just made a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is the perfect place to take any space enthusiasts. Home to the Lovell Telescope, which has been probing the depths of the universe since 1957, it’s well worth the slightly longer journey to immerse yourself in the science of space next to the huge piece of infrastructure. Try some hands-on science experiments or watch one of the many science shows held on the site.

Taking a ferry ‘cross the Mersey this summer? Why not stop at a Mersey Ferry attraction along the way? At Spaceport, located in Wallasey, allows you to interact with the stars at its very own observatory, or relax at a planetarium showing. The Cosmic Coaster takes you on a thrilling journey through the cosmos – just be sure to check it’s on before you visit.

Highlights: During the summer holidays, families can go along to get their hands on moon rocks and meteorites, and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the moon landing with crafts and activities. Adults £8.50, children £6.50, concessions £7.50

Highlights: See your favourite Star Wars characters at Spaceport – from BB-8 to Han Solo, you’ll be able to browse an impressive collection of icons and scenes from the films.

www.jodrellbank.net/ Adults £10, children £6.50, concessions £8.50

Catalyst Discovery Centre Perfect for little ones wanting to discover more about science, the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre in Widnes takes you through over forty hands-on exhibits. Investigate polymers, make giant bubbles and generate electricity in the Scientrific Gallery, or head up to the rooftop observatory for panoramic views of the River Mersey and Spike Island. There’s also a fun outdoor play area and picnic spot. Highlights: You won’t want to leave without catching a live chemistry demonstration – they can be rather explosive! Adults £5.95, children & concessions £4.95 www.catalyst.org.uk

www.spaceport.org.uk/ The U-Boat Story can be found at the Birkenhead ferry terminal, and allows you to experience life aboard a real German U-Boat – U-534. Explore the close quarters of the submarine and try out various interactive exhibits along the way. Entry to the U-Boat Story is free with a Mersey Ferries River Explorer Cruise ticket. Adults £8, children £5.50, concessions £7 www.u-boatstory.co.uk/

Maritime Museum

National Football Museum

Liverpool’s nautical past is well documented; home to the White Star offices, the city was prolific for its association with the ill-fated liner Titanic. The museum, based at the Albert Dock, offers a wealth of interactive experiences for the little ones. Spot signs of smuggling in the museum’s very own ship, take on the Morse Code Challenge or get crafty at the museum this summer.

Home to the first prominent sculpture of a female footballer – St. Helens-born Lily Parr – the National Football Museum in the heart of Manchester is packed with sporting fun. Head down the Football Walk of Fame, snap a picture with a virtual trophy and put your best foot forward at the penalty shootout.

Highlights: Throughout August, make some Titanicinspired crafts or make a Cutter Ship card; listen to the adventures of Polar the Titanic Bear (written by a survivor of the disaster for her son) and catch a performance of Titanic: A Race to the Rescue.

Highlights: The museum is hosting a range of Football Is Art exhibitions until autumn this year; create your own football artwork in virtual reality and browse collections of sporting sculptures and paintings.

Free entry

Adults £10, children £5, concessions £8, under-5s and Manchester residents free

www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/maritime/

www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

World of Glass Get to grips with the glass industry at the World of Glass. See what life was like in a Victorian town, discover the history of the coal mining industry in the North West or catch a glass-blowing demonstration with expert commentary. Kids will be enchanted by the huge glass chandelier and mirror maze. Highlights: Don’t miss the underground tunnels, which wind around the world’s first continuous regenerative glass-making furnace. You’ll need a hard hat for this one! Adults £8, children & concessions £6 www.worldofglass.com

Science & Industry Museum Still searching for the sun? Not to worry; Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum is hosting a brand new exhibition this summer where you can explore the incredible beauty and dangerous dark side of our nearest star. Try on sunglasses from different eras and cultures, visit an indoor beach and immersive solar storm – and see a prototype fusion reactor! The exhibition starts on July 20. Visitors can also see industrial delights like Stephenson’s Rocket up close, while the little ones take part in interactive experiments.

Museum of Liverpool Learn all about the history of Liverpool and its people at the Museum of Liverpool at the docks. Climb aboard a carriage from the old Overhead Railway, delve into local archaeology and follow the history of the King’s Regiment in the City Soldiers gallery. There are plenty of interactive displays throughout to keep everyone entertained!

Highlights: The museum’s Power Up event runs until September 1, and brings retro gaming back to the forefront. Get your game face on to play some of the most famous games from the last 40 years: from Pong all the way to Minecraft. Entrance costs £7 for a 90-minute session. Free entry www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk/

Quarry Bank Mill Quarry Bank Mill in Cheshire is an expertly preserved cotton mill founded by Samuel Greg. Become a factory inspector and explore the mill itself, and head through the Right of the Child exhibition to share the experiences of the hundreds of child labourers who worked at the mill. You’ll also have the chance to see a working water wheel! Head out into the beautiful gardens or take a guided tour of the Apprentice House where child workers lived – there’s something for everyone at Quarry Bank. Highlights: Create music along the River Bollin throughout August, and learn to connect with trees in the woods! Night-time bat walks are also a mustdo if you’re in the area. Adults £20.25, children £10, National Trust members free www.nationaltrust.org/quarry-bank

Highlights: This summer, little ones can immerse themselves in a hands-on fantasy world, creating their own Liverpool: a city where they are mayor. The activity is recommended for children up to 6. Free entry www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/mol/

Health & Fitness

Time to face By Abi Jackson

facts

If the eyes are a window to your soul, then the face can help identify some potential underlying health issues. Here are some of the more common issues and what you should do. Nose and cheek rash This may be a sign of lupus, a lifelong autoimmune condition which, among other things, causes joint and muscle pain and extreme fatigue. But not everybody gets the so-called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;butterflyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rash. Other skin changes include a widespread measles-like rash, patches of discoid lupus (inflamed sores) or small areas of bleeding into the skin. Thinning of the hair can also be seen at times of a flare of the disease. Lupus can have an impact on your quality of life, especially when multiple symptoms, such as joint pain, fatigue, mouth ulcers, headaches and many others, affect your daily life.

35 What should I do? Lupus often goes undiagnosed for years, due to lack of awareness and because symptoms can be misleading. If you’re concerned, speak to your GP. There’s no cure, but treatments and advice on managing lupus can make a real difference. Excessive hair Every woman has facial hair to some degree, but if this hair is excessive (known as hirsutism), most commonly affecting the upper lip/chin/sideburn area, it could be a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It’s characterised by multiple small cysts on the ovaries, though it’s important to note that not everybody with cysts has the syndrome and associated problems. What should I do? PCOS is linked to long-term health risks like heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, so if a woman has two or more of these symptoms, we’d recommend she talks to her GP. There’s no cure, but it can be managed and there is a lot of great information and support available. Dark patches “There are tons of different causes of dark patches,” explains Dr Adam Friedmann, consultant dermatologist at The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic “Sun exposure can give you freckles, or dark patches called melasma, and this can be made worse by birth control pills and pregnancy, then there are age and liver spots.” These are common and nothing to worry about unless they become malignant. “If a freckle starts to get bigger with irregular colours, and looks different from the others, even if it’s still flat, it could mean it’s becoming cancerous,” says Friedmann. Hyperpigmentation can also occur as a result of scarring, possibly from other skin conditions, like eczema and psoriasis. It’s rare for hyperpigmentation to be a sign of illness, but in some cases, it could be linked with Addison’s disease - a condition involving the adrenal glands, which also causes fatigue, weight loss, sickness, joint pain and low blood pressure. You normally notice this sort

of hyperpigmentation around the mouth and possibly the tongue, and acanthosis nigricans, dark, thickened patches that usually develop in armpits, groins and necks, can be a sign of underlying illness. What should I do? If you are concerned, speak to your GP, and any unusual changes in moles and freckles should always be checked. In most cases, dark patches are not a health concern, but if they’re causing distress or affecting your self-esteem, speaking to a dermatologist for advice could be really helpful. Redness The beauty industry and lay population often refer to a flushed complexion as rosacea, but for many people, rosacea is a real skin disorder which can have a big impact. “As dermatologists, we talk about acne rosacea,” says Friedmann. Though not every case is the same, symptoms include spots, thickening of the skin, sore, dry eyes and a rash-like flushing/redness. “Over time, if left untreated, the redness can become permanent and disfiguring.

Prescot Chiropody Clinic

36 You can also get dilation of the blood vessels, and in worse cases, dilated lymphatics which is associated with reddened, facial swelling like rhinophyma - an enlarged, swollen, red nose,” explains Friedmann. “But this is thankfully rare and happens after years of not seeking treatment.” Facial redness can also occur due to long-term sun exposure, mild eczema, dermatitis and scarring, or spontaneously with no underlying cause/ problem. What should I do? If you’re suffering from acne rosacea, speak to your GP or see a dermatologist; treatments and

advice can make a big difference. If permanent redness with no underlying cause is still causing distress, there may be things, like laser treatment or camouflage products, which could help. Bulging eyes Of course, some people’s eyes are naturally more bulbous, but if your eyes have started to protrude more than usual, and are bulging out of your eye sockets, it could be a sign of illness such as Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder and the most common form of overactive thyroid. Eyes may also become inflamed and painful, with possible double vision and increased sensitivity to light, too. Other symptoms of Graves include anxiety, weight loss, palpitations, hand tremor, frequent bowel movements and an enlarged thyroid gland, (where the front of the throat/neck bulges out. Other things that may cause eyes to bulge include injuries, infection and tumours. What should I do? Get things checked with your doctor so, if necessary, you can be referred for appropriate tests and treatment. If you’re experiencing other symptoms that may indicate thyroid imbalance, writing everything down in a diary might help build up a clearer picture.

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Leisure

Nicky Nook

by Chris Pearce

For this month’s Jack’s Tracks we visit Scorton, near Garstang, the gateway to the Bowland Fells, for an excellent and varied six mile walk with great views. The walk takes you gently downwards through the scenic Grizedale Valley and some rather pretty hamlets, before you’re then faced with the sharp shock of climbing Nicky Nook. It’s only when you reach the peak that you realise it’s a mere foothill amongst the other fells to the east, but nevertheless, the views over the Lancashire coastline were still pretty impressive. The starting point of Grizedale Bridge is a bit remote, but the GPS Waypoint is SD 535 490. If that doesn’t mean anything to you then take the road to Lancaster going out of Oakenclough. Once you go

over the first cattle grid and, shortly afterwards, a small bridge, park up in a small carpark-cum-layby on the left. Take the slate path leading away from the car park towards the woods. Once you have gone through two wooden gates in succession, take the path on the left and cross the wooden footbridge over the stream and go into Holme Wood. I’ve never been a big fan walking through woods; it’s often boggy, the poor lighting limits photo opportunities, and accurate mapping can be difficult. However, there are exceptions and Holme Wood, up near Scorton in Lancaster is certainly one. The well-defined path follows the stream all

39 the way through the woods with creative studded boardwalks over the boggy parts, and you’ll soon arrive at Grizedale Dock reservoir. The path bends to the right shortly afterwards, following the direction of an inlet and you come to a fingerpost by a gate. You need to take a left here towards Nicky Nook/Scorton and follow the inlet back in the direction of the reservoir. Ignore the uphill path on the right shortly afterwards (signposted Nicky Nook/Scorton) and carry on in the same direction – you’re going towards Higher Lane on a bridleway. The path continues on a meandering downward trend parallel to the stream for another ¾ mile until you reach a steel bar gate and fingerpost just before a wooden footbridge. Take a 90 degree right turn and follow the footpath (not the bridleway) to Higher Lane. Once you’ve crossed a short piece of open farmland, you’ll enter Peddars Wood and walk uphill until you reach a gate and a single track road. Turn right up the road for around 250 yards and take the footpath on the left after the farm. Walk on the left hand perimeter of the field for 75 yards or

so, and then cut across the field diagonally on the well-defined path. Go through a gate and head across the second field towards the steel circular gate in the distance. Once you’re through, turn left

Scorton

Snowhill Lan

Tithe Barn

Lane

JT-Nicky-Nook

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

e Da Griz

Nicky Nook

Oakenclough

Grizedale Bridge

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.

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

Wyresdale Park

Higher Lane

40 Leisure

41 and walk through this pretty hamlet.

fork off and follow the path to the cairn, but for the purposes of the walk we’re following the path right up to the white trig pillar at the peak

Approximately 200 yards before you’re due to go under the M6, there’s a footpath on the right. Take the footpath, then go through another stile and plunge into Ghyll Wood. You’ll cross a wooden footbridge and then clamber up the bank on the other side, walking along the top of the bank until you come to a gate. Take the path through the field and you’ll eventually come out on Snowshill Lane. Turn right and follow this road until you reach the entrance to Wrysdale Park.

After a breather, follow the path in the same direction down the hill. As the path bends downwards to the right, you’ll see a gate set in a dry stone wall straight ahead. Go through the gate and head for the brick structure directly ahead, and when you’ve arrived here, head downhill towards the green box at the bottom of the hill.

If you fancy a detour at the first-rate Applestore Café (open 9-4pm Weds-Sun) or a look at Wrysdale Lake then carry straight on. Otherwise, follow the road round to the right, across the bridge and uphill to Higher Lane. Turn left and then immediate right for the uphill trek up Nicky Nook. After a steep initial climb, the path will level off somewhat. After you pass the reservoir on the left, there is an option to

Follow the path round the green box and once you get to the track turn right and head into the woods once again. After a couple of gates, you’ll arrive at the fingerpost sign by a gate you encountered earlier on in the walk. Turn left here towards Grizedale Bridge and follow the pathway back through Holme Wood until you reach your starting point.

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HONDA

CR-V HYBRID by Tim Barnes-Clay

Diesel seems to be dying, and that’s a shame for a lot of people. There are a lot of good diesel-driven cars out there, and the scrapyard is where government leaders would like to see them. Therefore, it seems odd that automakers are still churning them out. Indeed, many of the car launches I go on include oil-burners. However, that’s not the case with Honda. The Japanese firm has committed itself to an electrified future and claims that by 2025 two-thirds of its

European transactions could encompass electrified vehicles (EVs). The brand aims to usher in a full urban EV later next year, but its first step towards this new age is a hybrid version of the CR-V. The model is in its fifthgeneration, and the hybrid powertrain is already housed within the Accord saloon in the United States. That means it’s a proven unit, so its debut in the CR-V over this side of the pond looks like a safe bet.

The system is named Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD), and it facilitates a trio of drive settings. All-electric can be selected in EV Drive, but only for limited amounts of time, due to the minuscule 1kWh battery bundle. Hybrid Drive utilises the clout of the 2.0-litre petrol engine, which runs at low revs to run one of the Honda’s electric motors. This then produces the muscle used by the other motor for momentum. Engine Drive shuts a clutch to allow the front axle to be propelled by the petrol motor, while the transmission is a single fixed ratio transmission. Both all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive versions are offered.

Fast Facts • 0-62 mph: 9.2 seconds • Combined mpg: 51.4 • Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder petrol + 2 electric motors • Max. power (PS): 184 • CO2: 126 g/km Price: £37,255

So, in Hybrid Drive, the simplest way to understand how the Honda powertrain works is to imagine it being akin to a hydrogen fuel cell car – but, instead, it’s using petrol to produce a charge for the electric motor. The CR-V Hybrid favours EV Drive or Hybrid settings when it’s not on the motorway. This means the engine is either not running, or it’s just trickling power to the battery pack. But the best bit is that the Honda automatically sorts through its trio of modes depending on what your driving is like - and the changes are virtually flawless. If driven conservatively, the CR-V Hybrid is a hushed and comfy car. The cabin is refined, and the switchgear falls easily to hand. The paddles behind the tiller enable you to change the intensity of the energy recuperation system, as well. There’s also a Sport setting, which is meant to give a quicker throttle response – but its influence is minimal. The ‘green’ Honda rides pleasantly and absorbs potholes well, but the heavy car does suffer from body roll in corners. Generally, it feels like a decent set-of-wheels, though, and that’s where most of its

44 This is because the environmentally-friendly power system cuts into the Honda’s boot space, slashing it from 561 litres to 497 litres. There’s a lot of handy room in the cabin, though - and leg and headspace in the rear are better than ever. Keep an eye out for the new CR-V Hybrid – you can order it now, but it officially goes on sale in the UK in February 2019.

allure lies. The CR-V Hybrid’s 51.4mpg fuel efficiency isn’t earth-shattering, but it’s comparable with most similarly-sized diesel-driven vehicles. It’ll be easier on the pocket than the standard petrol-propelled version, that’s for sure. Alas, practicality isn’t as good with the CR-V Hybrid.

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Rock Choir Live

Wigan Comic-Con

Sunday, July 21, 7:30pm-10:30pm

Saturday, August 3, 10am-4pm

A spectacular display of uplifting, feel-good pop and rock performed by Rock Choir. Tickets £11 bookable on 01744 756000.

Bring out your inner nerd and celebrate all things comic book, superhero movies, video games and more. Tickets from £8 per adult and £5 per child.

St. Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St. Helens, WA10 1LQ

Robin Park Arena, Loire Drive, Wigan, WN5 0UH

Bat Walk Friday, July 26, 9:30pm-11pm Join the Friends of St. Helens Cemetery and the Rangers for a guided walk through the cemetery using bat detectors! Booking available on friendsofsthelenscemetery@gmail.com St. Helens Cemetery, Rainford Road, St. Helens, WA10 6DF

Summer Fair

Town Show Saturday, August 3, 11am-5pm Newton-le-Willows present their annual town show, with local performers and entertainment, a classic car show, craft stalls, a family fun fair and art competition. There’ll also be free heritage bus rides. Mesnes Park, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 9TA

Race Night Saturday, August 3, 7:30pm

Enjoy tonnes of family stalls, crafts, games and entertainment at the family summer fair! Free entry.

Help raise money for the Oscar Jack Lawrence Scott Memorial Fund with a fun race night, including a charity auction, tombola and raffle. Tickets £2, under-16s free – bookable on 07805 182402.

Newton Community Centre, Park Road South, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 8EX

Sidac Social Club, Bude Avenue, St. Helens, WA9 4PJ

Ruskin Beer Fest

Bickerstock Festival

Friday, August 2, 5pm-11pm & Saturday, August 3, 12pm-11pm

Saturday, August 3 & Sunday, August 4, 12pm onwards

A cracking weekend of real ales, ciders and world beers, as well as live music and loads of live local sport. Proceeds to St. Helens Autism Support.

Enjoy a weekend of glorious live music across 2 stages from local bands and artists. Enjoy delicious food, great stalls and creative workshops if you feel like getting crafty! Proceeds to charity.

Saturday, July 27, 12pm-4pm

Ruskin Sports Village, Ruskin Drive, St. Helens, WA10 6RP

Bickerstaffe Parish Field, Hall Ln, Bickerstaffe, L39 0EH

60 Years of the Mini

Summer Streets Fest

Sunday, August 4, 11am-4pm

Friday, August 9 & Saturday, August 10, all day

Celebrate 60 years of one of the most iconic cars of all time, with refreshments and free heritage bus rides. Adults £4.50, children & concessions £2.50.

Come along to meet Titan the Robot and characters from Aladdin! There’ll be plenty of photo ops, with appearances from dinosaurs, elephants, interactive shows and stage entertainment, plus delicious food stalls.

North West Museum of Road Transport, Hall Street, St. Helens, WA10 1DU

St. Helens Town Centre

Cemetery Heritage Tour Sunday, August 4, 11am Learn about the history of the cemetery and see the graves of the rich and famous. £2 per walker, under-16s free – booking essential on friendsofsthelenscemetery@gmail.com St. Helens Cemetery, Rainford Road, St. Helens, WA10 6DF

Wigan Pride Saturday, August 10, 11am-5pm Show your support for local LGBTQA+ people at this year’s Pride event, with live entertainment from Merry Hell, Josh Robinson and many more! A free family event – more information at www. wiganpride.com Believe Square, The Wiend, Wigan, WN1 1PF

Evening with Milly Johnson Thursday, August 8, 6pm-8pm

Celebrity Bowls Challenge

Bestselling author Milly Johnson discusses what life as a writer is really like, and chats about her latest novel. Tickets £6, £5 for library members or £3 concessions, including refreshments and a free prize draw.

Saturday, August 10, 12pm

Chester Lane Library, Four Acre Lane, St. Helens, WA9 4DE

Ruskin Sports Village, Ruskin Drive, St. Helens, WA10 6RP

Midsummer Night’s Dream

Gruffalo Hunt

Thursday, August 8, doors at 6:30pm

Thursday, August 15, 1:30pm-3pm

Experience Shakespeare’s classic comedy in the beautiful outdoor setting of Knowsley Hall’s gardens. Bring a picnic and low-backed seating to enjoy the show. Tickets £15 for adults or £10 for children.

Come and search for the Gruffalo’s secret lair in the woods – if you dare! Have a play and make a clay Gruffalo to take home, finishing with a marshmallow around the fire. Tickets £6.88 on Eventbrite.

Knowsley Hall, Knowsley, L34 4AG

Fir Tree Farm Woods, Pimbo Road, King’s Moss, WA11 8RD

16 celebrities – including Johnny Vegas – get together to play crown green bowls in aid of the Steve Prescott Foundation. Donation requested on entry, barbecue food available.

The Sound of Music

Viking Market

Thursday, August 22 - Friday, August 23, 7pm & Saturday, August 24, 2pm & 7pm

Saturday, September 14 & Sunday, September 15, 11am-5pm

The Theatre Royal Youth Section present their annual musical: The Sound of Music, featuring classic songs like ‘Do-Re-Mi’. Tickets £17 per adult or £15 per child, available on 01744 756000.

Browse market stalls packed with Viking crafts and themed goods, with family activities and opportunities to dress up in Viking costumes! Refreshments available, free admission.

Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St. Helens, WA10 1LQ

Smithy Heritage Centre, Kiln Lane, Eccleston, WA10 4RA

Afternoon Tea Party

Paws in the Park

Wednesday, September 11, 1pm-3pm

Sunday, September 15, 11am-5pm

Enjoy a delicious range of sandwiches, scones and cakes and a chat, all while raising money for Willowbrook. Tickets £7.50 on 01744 453798.

Help raise money for Dogs for Good with a funfair, various stalls and of course, the famous dog show! For information, email info@frasersevents. onmicrosoft.com

The Living Well, Borough Road, St. Helens, WA10 3RN

Charity Golf Day Thursday, September 12, 11:15am-9:30pm Raise money for Willowbrook Hospice at the 13th annual golf day – a great day of golf followed by drinks and a 3-course meal. £70 per player or £250 for a team of four – call 01744 453798 to book. Blundells Hill Golf Club, Blundells Lane, Rainhill, L35 6NA

Sherdley Park, Marshall Cross Road, St. Helens, WA9 5DE

Cake & Coffee Afternoon Friday, September 20, 2pm-4pm Enjoy endless tea and coffee, delicious cakes, quizzes, games and a raffle in aid of Macmillan. Critchley Room, St. Ann’s Centre, View Road, Rainhill, L35 0LE

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Leisure

Win Wristbands to

Blackpool Pleasure Beach! School’s out for summer and we’ve teamed up with Blackpool Pleasure Beach to offer one lucky winner a ‘Family of Four’ Wristband. Family thrills and memories that will last a lifetime are assured and there’s plenty to keep all ages amused on the 42-acre attraction. If you have a head for heights, the UK’s tallest roller coaster, The Big One, offers high-speed drops and breath-taking views. If you like your world to be turned upside down take your pick from Infusion, Revolution or our newest addition to the line-up, ICON. Dare to ride ICON, the UK’s first double launch rollercoaster delivering an exhilarating experience as you’re catapulted forward at speeds of a Formula One racing driver, cutting through The Big

One and twisting around the Steeplechase and Big Dipper. Just when you think you’ve paused to catch your breath, you’re off again, projected forward at staggering speeds giving even the bravest of thrill seekers an unforgettable experience. Get ready to immerse your senses on Infusion the UK’s only suspended looping coaster completely over water with 5 incredible loops and rolls and a double line twist. Turn your world upside down and get ready to do it in reverse on the 360-degree Revolution. Up once, down once, halfway up and back again for an incredible hair-raising free-fall descent, that’s Ice Blast, a 210ft tower catapulting riders vertically up at 80mph. Be prepared to get wet on Valhalla, voted the best water ride in the world. Take a journey through blazing fires, breath-taking waterfalls, freezing mists, snow and ice and the storms of Thor.

49 Take a ride on Wallace & Gromit’s Thrill-O-Matic, the world’s only Wallace & Gromit ride. Step inside Wallace’s slipper for an adventure of a lifetime. With stunning scenery and amazing special effects, ThrillO-Matic is bound to be a right riveting ride. To win the Family of Four wristbands for Blackpool Please Beach, simply visit our website www. locallife247.co.uk, click on ‘free stuff’ and then on ‘competitions’. For your chance to win simply answer the question below: What’s the name of the double launch coaster?

For younger visitors, there’s the UK’s only Nickelodeon Land packed with 12 rides, Nickelodeon characters including PAW Patrol, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and SpongeBob Square Pants. Check out SpongeBob’s Splash Bash where you’ll have the opportunity to turn water jets onto your family and blast pesky jellyfish with water for a splashing good time. Take a spin as you hop aboard the Bikini Bottom Bus Tour or soar towards the sky on Diego’s Rain Forest Rescue.

The expiry date for the competition is Sunday 11th August 2019. Entrants must be over 16 years of age. Only one entry per household. Local Life 247 cannot accept responsibility for entries that do not reach us. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd and their families are not eligible to enter this competition. Winners will be contacted by 14th August 2019, and details will be publicised in our September magazines. For more information and online offers visit www.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com

Gardening

Name that

plant! by Angie Barker

What’s in a name? Well with regard to the Latin names of plants quite a lot actually. Part of my job as a garden designer is to think about the plants which will complement a design. This also means choosing those plants which will suit the particular location in the garden in terms of size, colour, texture, flowering season and growing conditions. (There is more to this garden design milarky than meets the eye). I am often asked why plants have such complicated names and at first sight they can be meaningless. We have history to thank for the continued use of Latin plant names in an otherwise ‘dead’ language, but when you delve deeper, you can actually begin to understand the properties of a plant and where it originates from, just by its Latin name. Below are some examples of Latin words used to describe plants - you may recognise some. Mollis means soft and/or hairy – hence Alchemilla mollis Bonariensis denotes that a plant originates from Buenos Aires, Argentina. As in Verbena bonariensis

Sempervirens means evergreen – so we have Buxus sempervirens (Box) Gracilis is graceful or slender – as in Deutzia gracilis Reptans means creeping – Ajuga reptans Angustus refers to narrow leaves and so we have Lavandula angustifolia Macrophylla means large leaves – Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’ for example Niger means black and so we have Sambucus nigra Nanu means dwarf so if you are looking for a smaller version of a Berberis you need to look for Berberis thunbergii ‘AtropurpureaNana’

Only those of a certain age (yes I include hubby and myself in this) will remember doing Latin at school, but far from being a dead language, it certainly lives on in the plant world. If however you would rather refer to Aquilegia vulgaris as Granny’s Bonnet, or Digitalis purpurea as Foxglove or Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’ as Black Lilly Turf, I wouldn’t blame you. On the other hand, if you find Latin derivatives as fascinating as I do, then “carpe diem”. (If you are not of a certain age – google it!) Whatever you’re up to this summer, whether holidaying abroad or staying at home and in the garden, enjoy.

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