LocalLife St Helens Edition
December 2017
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Holidays
are coming I
t’s here, the most festive time of year, and even the Scrooges among us can’t hide anymore. It’s time to pull out our Christmas jumpers, drink mulled wine, eat until our sides split, you know, before the old “New Year, New Me” mantra comes into play in January. Throughout the month, we have the usual Christmas markets here and there, the opportunity to sing carols around Christmas trees, lots of opportunities to eat and be merry, and there’ll even be a pantomime or two to enjoy. This month is all about spending quality time with friends and family, indulging a little (but we all know our festive purchases may come close to breaking the bank), and if we’re lucky, catching up on some much needed relaxing after a hectic few weeks or even months. Although ‘tis the season to be jolly, December also gives us time to reflect on the past year and think about the things we hope to achieve in the next. Whether that’s a new job, new home, the holiday of a lifetime, or living life a little better than before. From all of us at Local Life, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Let’s make 2018 a great year.
Niamh Ollerton, Deputy Editor
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In this issue WIN a £500
voucher
17 Win a Christmas
hamper
Regulars 13 Planning 34 Events2Go 16 Class From The Past 40 Jack’s Tracks 20 Puzzle Corner 45 Test Drive
Sections 6 Local News 23 Health 44 Gardening
45 Motoring 48 Home Services
Next issue - January 2018
Advertising deadline - Tuesday, 15 December Published - Friday, 12 January
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28 Jack’s Tracks visits
Appley Bridge 40 Test Drive
Renault Koleos 45 locallifemagazine247
LocalLife Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
Telephone: 01744 649 722 Publisher: Chris chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Sales: Clare sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: David, Niamh sthelensnews@locallife247.co.uk Design: Peter design@locallife247.co.uk Distribution: Sally sallyb@locallife247.co.uk Accounts: Sam accounts@locallife247.co.uk Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following areas on an alternate monthly basis. This issue is delivered to over 12,500 private homes and businesses in Rainhill, Eccleston, Prescot, Eccleston Park, Windle, Prescot Road and parts of Nutgrove and Sutton Heath. The next issue is delivered to over 12,000 private homes and businesses in Rainford, Billinge, Garswood, Moss Bank, Haresfinch, Carr Mill and selected areas of Haydock. 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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Park land sell-off mooted Some of Knowsley’s parks and green spaces could soon be lost to budget cuts.
has lost £86m from budget cuts, with further cuts of £14.8m possible by 2020. The council therefore claims it can’t continue to fork out the £1.3m per year maintenance bill.
Proposals have been unveiled to sell off around 10% over a 15 year period in a bid to plug a £1m budget black hole.
In an attempt to reduce possible losses, Knowsley Council created the Independent Parks and Green Spaces Review Board, who came up with the suggestion.
The plans also involve transferring the parks to a new charitable trust which will invest a £40m endowment from Knowsley Council. Bosses hope such an investment will generate approximately £1.3m a year to help continue funding the parks. No specific sites have been named as yet. The new funding arrangements are set to be in place by April 2019. Council chiefs say that, since 2010, the authority
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Their proposals were being considered by councillors as Local Life went to press. The review board denies the move will in effect “privatise” the parks, saying it will help preserve them for future generations. “The Board’s objectives are to identify a new and sustainable delivery model for preserving Knowsley’s public parks and green spaces for future generations. None of the options identified by the Board involve the privatisation of parks. Knowsley Council would need to sell up to 10% of Knowsley parks and green spaces – which could be whole sites, or parts of sites. “None of this 10% is allowed to come from Green Belt land. “While the review is on-going, there will be no reductions to what services, activities and facilities are available in the borough’s parks and green spaces. The Council will continue to fund parks to current standards up to March 31, 2019; it is after that date that all annual council funding ceases.” Asked whether a £40m endowment will be sufficient to ensure an annual return of £1.3m, the board said: “ This is the approximate figure that the Review Board has been working to and is based on the experience of endowment returns secured by The Land Trust. “The deliverability will need to be assessed as part of any future detailed business case development.”
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What an adventure! An Eccleston family dog who is recovering from a life-threatening illness has been immortalised in a children’s book. Nell, a springer spaniel, went from being a healthy dog to being just hours from death within just two days. Now on the mend, her owners Pauline and daughter Laura Davies have put pen to paper in The Adventures of Little Nell. Pauline said: “We first had the idea a couple of years ago while watching Nell playing and after talking about it for a few months decided to go ahead. In the story, Nell goes on magical adventures but during the process of trying to get the book printed the real Nell went from being a perfectly healthy dog to taking ill with a life threatening disease. She was rushed to a pet hospital in Manchester where we were told to prepare for the worst. She had three blood transfusions and things were not looking good, but thanks to the amazing team at the hospital she gradually started to pull through. “At one point we thought we would have to abandon the idea of the book because we couldn’t face going through with the project if Nell was no
longer here. It was a really hard and upsetting time. She is now home and although still on medication which we are gradually reducing, she is doing well. There is still a danger once the medication is stopped that she could relapse but we are hoping that everything will be OK. Now that she is on the mend we have decided to go ahead with the book and we are planning to launch it in time for Christmas. After everything that has happened we have decided to dedicate the book to the hospital team who saved her life.” The book is £5.99 and will be on sale at Inglenook Farm, Rainford Bypass, on the weekend of December 9 and 10. People can also email if they would like more information or to place an order - pauline@littlenellonline.co.uk or laura@ littlenellonline.co.uk
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Johnny says thanks TV funnyman Johnny Vegas recently joined over 130 guests at Willowbrook Hospice’s 20th Anniversary Dinner at St Helens Town Hall. Johnny, whose father Laurence Pennington (known as Lol) was cared for at the Prescot-based hospice in March, has recently praised the quality of care and support given to his dad and the rest of his family during interviews on chat show Loose Women and also Granada Reports.
night thanking Willowbrook Hospice for all they did for us as a family. There’s so much more to do now so others can rely on them in time of need.”
After the event, Johnny said: “It was a wonderful
The fundraiser raised over £4,000
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Controversial conversion A former child and adolescent mental health clinic in Eccleston could be converted into homes. The vacant hospital and annexe of The Elms, 50 Cowley Hill Lane could soon be converted into six self-contained apartments. But some locals are not happy. One resident said proper consideration was needed of the adverse environmental impact of the development and increased difficulties associated with parking. Drainage problems in the area have also been flagged up, which some claim could be worsened - leading for calls that the relevant body and the
council should undertake a full survey or inspection of the drains beforehand. The developer and council have been urged to ensure noise reduction technology like suitable sound proofing is used to reduce the risk of noise nuisance. This is because, according to the objector, flats can emit noise both within the neighbourhood and to other flats in the building. But most importantly, the resident wants to ensure the apartments will be used for private households and sold at full market price to individual persons or households and not used in connection with any other purpose. A final decision on the application is due soon.
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Fine dining
Tell Us Your Story! Local Life is always on the look out for news stories from the local communities we serve. Are you raising money for charity? Are you a member of a community group with something to shout about? Maybe you’ve got an unusual talent, or have a claim to fame? If so, let us know and you could be appearing in the next edition! Simply contact us on sthelensnews@locallife247. co.uk or call us on 01695 627999.
St Helens Libraries Service has introduced a food for fines scheme to support a local food bank. Running until Tuesday, January 2, the service will reduce your library fines – but only if you donate to St Helens Food Bank. The service will reduce your fines by £1 (up to a maximum of £50) for each item of food donated. And if your fine is less than £1, it will be wiped away. All libraries in the borough are taking part and donations can be made during normal opening hours. The food bank is short on UHT long-life milk, long-life orange juice, sugar, and jam. No fresh or perishable food can be accepted. The food bank provides a minimum of three days emergency food and support to people experiencing crisis. For more information go to http://sthelens.foodbank.org.uk
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For further details please contact: Alison Corkill Bleak Hill Primary School, Hamilton Road, Windle, WA10 6HG Email: alison.corkill@sthelens.org.uk Tel: 01744 678 190
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Planning Matters Eccleston 15 Howards Lane: Conversion of existing garage to habitable room with monopitch roof, along with erection of first floor side extension. (ref: P/2017/0877/HHFP). 21 Cranston Close: Single storey rear extensions to existing dwelling and detached garage. (ref: P/2017/0844/HHFP). The Elms 50 Cowley Hill Lane: Conversion of former hospital and annexe to 6 self-contained apartments. (ref: P/2017/0795/FUL).
Rainhill P And S Selfdrive Station Road: Change of use of vacant freestanding pre-fab building adjacent to the existing car repair garage to retail unit, along with new shop front alterations to east and west (front and rear) elevations. (ref: P/2017/0777/FUL). 2 Kingsdale Avenue: Erection of a single storey side extension along with the erection of a perimeter wall with new vehicular access onto Mossdale Drive. (ref: P/2017/0867/HHFP). 11 Owen Road: Demolition of existing conservatory, pool house, chimney and front entrance and erection of 2 two storey rear extensions, covered pergola and 2 front dormers. (ref: P/2017/0784/ HHFP).
Windle 7 Lawrence Road: Partial demolition of existing detached garage and single storey rear extension and erection of a new single storey rear extension projecting 5.4m from the rear, 3.775m high overall and 2.4m to the eaves. (ref: P/2017/0818/HHPA). For more information on these plans, visit www.sthelens.gov.uk
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Action over suicide rates The rate of suicide in St Helens is higher than both the national and regional. Fresh data shows that the number of people taking their own life has doubled since 2002. In just 10 months this year, there were 24 recorded deaths - 21 of them being males. 18 of the 24 were aged between 26 and 55 years old. A new action plan is being drawn up to tackle the growing problem. A presentation to St Helens councillors by Sue Forster, director of public health, said: “The ratio of deaths in males in St Helens is higher than Great Britain as a whole. More than half were unemployed at the time of death – 14 of the 24. The relationship
status of more than half of the people was single. Deaths (are) high in May and September - this is in line with national evidence - but also July. 34% were in the most deprived 20% areas with none in the least 20% deprived areas. A new Action Plan is being developed is greater ownership across the system. We would request scrutiny support especially around the action plan as it is in development.”
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Team in the running
Learning programme
St Helens Council’s Healthy Living Team has been
Current and budding volunteers, and members
shortlisted in the Public Health category at the 2018 LGC Awards. The Local Government Chronicle runs the awards, which is the most prestigious awards ceremony in the local government sector. The Oral Health staff provide training and resources to health visitors, nurseries, care homes, schools and more to promote oral health messages across the borough. But this isn’t their first accolade, as the Oral Health staff were presented with the National Patrons Prize Award from the National Oral Health Promotion Group earlier this year.
of community or charity groups are being offered the chance to take part in an upcoming leadership programme. Sessions are free for residents of St Helens aged 19+ who would benefit from the course and be able to make a difference in their community.
Winners will be announced on 21 March 21 at Grosvenor House on London’s Park Lane.
Looking to target new customers in 2018?
The programme is run by Adult and Community Learning (ACL). If you’re interested in the courses or would like information on other ACL courses available, please call ACL’s Park Road Centre on 01744 677315 or 01744 677328, email: adultlearning@sthelens.gov.uk or visit the website: www.sthelens.gov.uk/adultlearning
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Class from the past
This month’s Class from the Past is from Prescot Grammar School. It’s believed this photo was taken in the 1970s. Maybe you can spot a familiar face?
Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact us today by emailing sthelensnews@ locallife247.co.uk
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OAP driving course A free Merseyside Senior Road User event takes place in Rainford this December. St Helens Council is promoting a number of Merseyside-wide initiatives to tackle the growing problem of road users aged 60 and over being involved in road accidents. There’ll be a number of presentations by key stakeholders, including Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service. Attendees will be given advice on prescribed drugs and medicine driving, winter driving and the benefits of public transport. And they’ll also hear about the ‘Drive Safely for Longer’ course available to Merseyside drivers ages 60 and over. The event will be held at Rainford Village Hall on Thursday, December 7, from 10am-2pm. A free hot lunch and refreshments will be provided.
Christmas Competition
WIN £500 voucher for
Just answer this question: In which town are OD’s stores located?
If you’d like to attend, please contact St Helens Council’s Road Safety Team on 01744 673237 or email elainecross@sthelens.gov.uk
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To enter the competition, visit www.locallife247/ freestuff and click on competitions. The entrant must also follow one of ODs’ social media platforms, ie Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and then share the competition post, tag 3 friends and ODs into the status. This must be done before the draw on Friday 15th December 2017. The voucher must not be used in conjunction with any other offer. The voucher must be spent in one visit before 23/12/17 at any of OD’S stores (not online). Employee or families of Local Life 247 Ltd or OD’s are not allowed to enter this competition.
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LocalLife
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Competition
O
Win a
Christmas Hamper
ur popular Christmas hamper competition is back! Will you be the reader who takes home a luxury Christmas Hamper? Filled to the brim with luxury produce, this Christmas Hamper is perfect for an indulgent Christmas. Most of the food in the hamper is sourced from our local village farm shop, Windy Arbour in Billinge, and we thank them for supplying it at cost price. Windy Arbour carries a great range of tasty local and regional produce, particularly in the run up to Christmas. The finished contents of the hamper was still being finalised as we went to press, but we can tell you that each hamper will include Christmas cake, chocolates, mince pies, cheese, shortbread, wine, real ale, Christmas pudding, sweets and lots more besides. Even if you’re not a foodie, these expertly wrapped hampers would make a wonderful present for someone special in your life. To win one of these hampers simply visit our website (www. locallife247.co.uk), click on the ‘Free stuff’ header, then click on ‘Enter Competitions’, complete your contact details and answer the question:
Name one of Santa’s reindeer?
Your entry MUST be with us by Sunday 10th December, and the lucky winner will receive their hamper by the weekend of 16/17 December 2017. Competition Rules Only one entry per household. Entrants must be over 16 years of age. The winners will be notified within 14 days of the closing date. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot accept responsibility for entries that do not reach us. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd or their immediate relatives are not eligible to enter this competition.
Good luck to all who enter - and a Happy Christmas to all!
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Puzzle Corner Find the hidden words in the word search grid F
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PARTY SCROOGE SANTA KING WRAPPING
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WORD SEARCH
PUDDING TREE CRANBERRY STABLE ELVES
SUDOKU
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2 9 STEP ON IT
Fill in the missing words changing just one letter at a time from the first to the last word.
CLAYED
SNOWFLAKES ICICLES GOODWILL CHIMNEY PRESENTS
WORD MIX UP Unscramble the letters to make a word THORN LOPE
BLOWER
TEARWH REDCAN NEATDV
WIGGLE WORDS CLUE: JUST FO A MO
YETRUK REBSLUSS SOURTPS REDCATOONIS MEHLTHBEE
Trace a path through all the letters to find the word or phrase that fits the clue.
P D A F
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All the puzzle solutions are on page 38 of this magazine
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Health & Fitness
Wine allergy is no
joke
By Keeley Bolger
I
t’s party season - but while hangovers are an inevitable punishment if you overdo it with the vino, sometimes unpleasant side-effects from a glass or two are down to something a bit more unusual. We’d all sometimes like to blame our sickly morning-after-the-night-before state on a ‘wine allergy’, but for a very small amount of people, an allergy to wine is a real (and inconvenient) truth. Unlike a sensitivity or intolerance, an allergy is when the immune system reacts to a normally harmless substance. In this case, that normally harmless, though tasty, substance is wine. Fortunately, a true allergy to wine is extremely rare, though as anyone who has ever had a bit of a session will attest, it’s entirely possible to display symptoms of it without being allergic.
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WHAT ARE THE SIGNS? While many of us suffer diarrhoea, headaches and skin flushes after too many drinks, for some, these may be signs of an underlying intolerance to wine and the grapes involved in the production (though the jury is still out on whether skin flushing is indicative of an allergy). Those with the allergy may suffer cramps and difficulty breathing when they drink certain wines - though they may drink others and not have any reactions. WHAT CAUSES IT? It’s bad news for fans of red, as researchers found that those with the allergy tend to suffer more when they drink it as opposed to white wines or roses. Rarely is the reaction caused by alcohol, more often it is the chemicals used in the wine-making process - that’s the sulphites and histamines - to keep bacteria at bay and stop the plonk from going sour which are the culprits (though, again, it is very rare to be allergic to sulphites).
25 If you suffer from this allergy, you may also have a similar reaction to certain products that contain sulphites, like dried fruits, cider and pickled food. And while it is very uncommon, allergyuk.org reports that some people with asthma, urticaria and rhinitis might be more prone to allergies to alcohol than others. WHAT CAN YOU DO? Short of corking your bottles, if you think you might be sensitive to wine, look out for those made using less of the preservative sulphites and histamines. Bear in mind that white wines and roses generally have higher levels of sulphites - as do some lightbodied reds - while reds tend to have higher levels of histamine.
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WELLBEING NEWS Nearly half of festive party-goers dreaming of a sexy Christmas
Organic wines and biodynamic wines are a good starting point as these tend to be made with fewer chemicals, though many bottles do not display this info. Make a note of any drinks you’ve had including the type of wine, as well as what you’ve eaten, so you can pinpoint the problem bottles, and as always, it’s best to check with your GP if you have any concerns.
‘Tis the season to be merry - and get jiggy between the sheets. A new survey by Superdrug has revealed that 41% of Brits are hoping for more sex this season than any other time of year. However, the retailer’s research also found that not everybody’s preparing to play it safe: only 30% said they plan to carry condoms, with 20% saying they feel there’s still a stigma around doing so, as carrying a condom implies you’re ‘up for it’. Superdrug is working with condom manufacturers Pasante, Dr Pixie McKenna and Love Island’s Alex Bowen and Olivia Buckland to help remove the stigma and encourage people to ‘wrap it up’ this Christmas!
Prescot Chiropody Clinic They’ve created four festive condom prototypes (Festive Feast, Jingle Balls, Fur Lined and The Rudolph); visit onlinedoctor.superdrug.com/wrapit-up to vote for your favourite - and if demand’s high enough, the most popular will be produced next year. Meanwhile, some of the ‘non-festive’ condoms are currently on offer in Superdrug, from £3.49 (www. superdrug.com). Pasante marketing manager Louise Ball says: “Condoms are a must-have item for any Christmas night out, to keep you safe if the heat of the moment strikes! Although our festive condoms are prototypes, we offer a full range of condoms to fit all shapes, sizes and needs all year round, so you never have to go unprotected.”
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Crust for
laughs... I
It’s 10 years since St Helens band The Lancashire Hotpots first started out. Niamh Ollerton caught up with frontman Bernard Thresher…
t’d be rare to find performers who don’t take themselves too seriously and aren’t afraid to have a laugh. But for Bernard Thresher and the rest of the band, this couldn’t be more accurate.
and Bob Wriggles met while at St Helens College. “Bob and I have been partners for many years, but you know, not in an intimate way,” laughs Bernard. With this as an introduction I knew we would have some laughs.
As interviews go, it felt like I was speaking with an old friend rather than an entertainer.
Soon the duo became a trio when the pair met Dickie Ticker at St Helens College. But the band in all its glory wasn’t complete until fellow
The band’s local roots run deep, with four out of five of the members coming from the area.
St Helens lad Kenny Boyd joined and Billy McCartney became a part of the crew.
The group started off as a double act; B er nard
But with a 10th anniversary under their belt, it’s been a
29 great career hasn’t it. Bernard said: “Can you call it a career? I wouldn’t. It’s almost like a second job which is as much fun as it is work. “If we were doing it full time we probably would have killed each other.” The perfect mix for a band? A college lecturer, web developer, Bernard works in a factory that makes shiny things for cars, one in promotions and Billy is by all accounts a professional watcher of daytime TV. The name ‘Lancashire Hotpots’ just happened, and the same can be said for the lyrics. “When people say how do you come up with your words, it’s really not difficult. The lyrics are everywhere.
could expect. Bernard said: “It’ll be a good mix of songs from our first album.
“They’re things that made us laugh. It’s all about the humour, and finding things that relate to people and what they know.”
“We’re jumping on the band wagon and doing what all the other bands do playing the album from start to finish and end with some bangers.”
When it comes to audience participation, Bernard said: “Oh you’ve got to get the fans involved. You can spend £30 on a band that look miserable or you could pay £15 to watch the Hotpots and come away and think ‘I’ve really enjoyed myself.’
Do you get the same reaction down south? “There’s a lot of ex-pats knocking about you know.
“We try to keep booing to a minimum, and we like to get as many doing a conga line as possible.” With a sold out gig in London kicking off their 10th anniversary winter tour, I asked what the crowds
“They turn up dressed up giving it the biggun and get involved just as much.” But in an eclectic group of chaps, what are they really like? “We’re a mixed bunch. Kenny the drummer is a right fussy sod and he’ll not eat anything with mayo. But Billy, our professional TV watcher, will eat anything.
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“Dickie is the band dad and looks after us all. Me and Bob are uncontrollable at best.”
Their families have played a massive role too. “I’d like to say they’re proud but I can’t be sure.
But how old are the comedians? “You know I couldn’t tell you. How old am I? I’m 36 which must make Kenny 36 and Billy is about that. Do you know what, they’re all probably about 50, just put that.”
“When we first started they were keen, going to every gig, but after 10 years they have seen enough shows.
Speaking to Bernard only made me realise how much fun the band have together and the camaraderie is firmly set. The rest of the lads are still up north but Bernard has been in Coventry for about 12 years. Does he miss the north? “It’s only because I was swooned by a southern lass I made the move. “My travel schedule is rushed. I travel up the M6 with my passport on a Friday and get it stamped in mighty Warrington.”
“If we were doing a show in Wigan and I said to my parents ‘do you want tickets?’ They’ll probably be like ‘Nah, Strictly is on.’ “It sounds cliché but you cannot do it without your family supporting you.” But can we expect to be graced with the sounds of the Lancashire Hotpots in the future? “As long as people keep buying the CD’s we’ll keep getting on those motorways.”
Does he regret it? “Yeah, every day.” All in jest of course, but as they say, you can take the lad out of the north…
The Lancashire Hotpots play:
Is it different down there? “Oh yeah. Like when I order chips and peas or chips and gravy, they put the peas or gravy in a pot. And I think ‘you’re damaging the environment and angering me, I wanted my chips to be soggy that’s why I’ve ordered it’.”
St Helens Citadel on Saturday, February 17
Wigan Old Courts on Friday, December 8
More details at http://thelancashirehotpots.net/events
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events2go
Christmas Market
Coca-Cola Christmas Truck
Fri, Nov 10, to Thurs, Dec 21, 10am-9pm
Tues, 05 Dec - Wed, 06 Dec, 11am to 7pm
There’s nine zones including the European Christmas Market in Albert Square, and the fun fair and ice rink at Cathedral Gardens. For ice rink tickets visit ticketsource. co.uk/therinkatcathedralgardens or call 0333 666 33 66.
Take pictures of the truck and enjoy a free 150ml can of Coke. As well as an animation celebrating ‘the magic Coca-Cola brings to Christmas’. Liverpool ONE Official, 5 Wall Street, L1 8JQ
Manchester Town Hall, Albert Square, M60 2LA
Ice Festival Sat, November 17, to Sun, January 7 2018 Liverpool’s Christmas Ice Festival on the Pier Head is now a magical winter wonderland. There’s a supersize ice slide with three lanes, an ice bar, thrilling fairground rides, Santa’s grotto, Christmas market stalls, and an ice rink. Although it’s free to attend, there are ticket charges for skating, the ice slide and ice bar. For tickets and info visit icefestivalliverpool. co.uk Liverpool Christmas Ice Festival, Pier Head, Georges Parade, L3 1DP
Snow White Saturday, December 2, to Sunday, January 7 See Lucy-Jo Hudson at this year’s festive panto, as well as home-grown comedy legend Johnny Vegas and more! Tickets start at £11. For more info and tickets visit www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com/show St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St Helens, WA10 1LQ. Box Office: 01744 756 000
Christmas Fair Thursday, December 7, 5pm-8pm A massive selection of stalls with gifts, crafts, and a Christmas food court. Plus a special visit from Father Christmas who’ll be in the grotto all evening. Rainford High Technology College, Higher Lane, Rainford, WA11 8NY. Tel: 01744 885914
Lightwaves 2017 Friday, December 8, 12pm-10.30pm to, Sunday, December 17, 12pm-10.30pm Another programme of digital light art to take over the public spaces in Salford Quays. Free event. MediaCityUK, Salford Quays, City of Salford, M50 2EQ. Tel: 0161 886 5300
Christmas Party Dance Friday, December 8, 7.30pm Dance in class at the Christmas Party Dance, and get in the Christmas mood with festive fancy dress. There’ll be Ballroom, Latin American & Sequence, a little line dancing, fun games and more. Call Chris on 07791 156469 or visit www.danceinclass.co.uk Haydock Conservative Club, 3 Bellerophon Way, St Helens, WA11 0GT. Tel: 01744 454127
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Christmas Market
Community Market
Saturday, December 9, 10am
Saturday, December 9, 9am-1pm; Sat, December
Wander round 65 stalls filled with handmade crafts, art, award-winning local produce and regional producers. There’ll be music, dancing, live singing, mulled wine and spiced cider to get you in the festive mood. And Santa will be popping by too. Free entry and parking. Visit inglenook-farm.co.uk to find out more.
16, 9am-1pm; Sat, December 23, 9am-1pm
Inglenook Farm, Moss Nook Ln, Rainford, Saint Helens WA11 8AE. Tel: 01744 886812
Saturday, December 9, 10am-4.30pm to Sunday, December 10, 10am-4.30pm
St Helens Christmas Fair Saturday, December 9, 10am-4.30pm
This two-day event is sure to get you in the festive mood, with great food, entertainment, and lots of funky vegan stalls. And hosts Forgot the Eggs are very excited to get back to St Helens.
Everything on sale is cruelty free including arts and crafts, vintage, vinyl, vegan food & drink and more.
St Helens Town Hall, Victoria Square, St Helens, WA10 1HP. Tel: 01744 676789
St Helens Town Hall, Victoria Square, St Helens WA10 1HP Tel: 01744 676789
Bunny’s Christmas Cracker Saturday, December 9, 9.45-10.30am Hop along to Sunny Bunny’s Christmas Cracker and join in the Festive Fun. It’s a Christmas themed music, movement & sensory experience for little ones to enjoy with their grown-ups! For children aged 6 months – 5 years old. Your little one will get a Christmas gift pack too! Including magic reindeer food to sprinkle on Christmas Eve. There’s also a Baby Bunny’s Christmas Cracker from 12pm to 12.45pm. If your little one is 3-12 months old, you can bounce along to Baby Bunny’s Christmas Cracker to join in the Festive Fun. It’s a Christmas themed music, movement & sensory experience for little ones to enjoy with their grown-ups! Your little one will get a gift from Baby Bunny too.
Great for those Christmas treats. St Helens Town Hall, Victoria Square, St Helens, WA10 1HP. Tel: 01744 676789
Christmas Vegan Fair
Climb That Tree Saturday, December 9, 10am-12pm David Gibb presents a musical journey through his vivid imagination; bears live in the cupboard under the stairs, and he takes regular trips to the moon. Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are £5 or £7. For more info or to book call 01744 735 436, send an email to info@citadel.org. uk, or visit www.citadel.org.uk The Citadel Arts Centre, Waterloo Street, St Helens, WA10 1PX. Tel: 01744 735436
Fundraiser Bike Ride Saturday, December 9, 12pm-2.30pm
Tickets are £7.50 per child. To book email sunnybunnys@outlook.com, call 07511 792 031 or see Amanda in class.
Fundraiser bike ride to send two players (Danny and Jordan) to Russia to represent England in RFL. It starts at the Cock Inn Worsley at 12pm and will finish at the club pub in Haydock (13miles) where there’ll be food and karaoke all day. Adults and kids welcome.
Eccleston Village Hall, Kiln Lane, Eccleston, St Helens, WA10 4RA. Tel: 07511 792 031
Haydock ARLFC, King George’s Playing Fields, Haydock, St Helens, WA11 0TR. Tel:
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The Abominable Snowman
Children’s Christmas Party
Sun, Dec 10, 11.30am-12.30pm, and 2pm-3pm
Thursday, December 14, 4.30pm-7pm
A delightful blend of puppetry, live music and enchanting story telling in this charming tale of an unlikely hero. Tickets £5-£7 via www.citadel.org.uk
There’ll be a clown, lots of fun and of course a visit from Old Saint Nick himself. Tickets are £2.50 per child and can be purchased from the Windle Labour Club. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
The Citadel Arts Centre, Waterloo Street, St Helens, WA10 1PX. Tel: 01744 735436
Remembrance Service Sunday, December 10, 1pm-1.30pm A special service to remember loved ones at this special time of the year. You’ll place baubles and laminated cards with messages on the tree after carols and prayers, followed with mince pies and mulled wine (small donations are appreciated). Prescot Cemetery, 68 Manchester Road, Prescot, L34 1NQ. Tel: 0151 426 2767
St Helens Christingle Sunday, December 10, 10.45am-12.30pm This Christingle family gathering is raising money for The Children’s Society (www.christingle.org). Everybody is welcome to the celebration. For more information please contact Jess on families@ sthelensparishchurch.org St Helens Parish Church, Church Square, WA10 1AF. Tel: 01744 22909
The Last Jedi – St Helens Thurs, Dec 14, 9pm to Fri, Dec 15, 12am Staffs Imperial Stormtroopers will be attending the premier of The Last Jedi, courtesy of Dark Side Character Hire. Everyone is welcome to join, so grab your Jedi Robes and polish your armour Troopers. Adult tickets are £9.80; children (under 14) are £7.30; student and senior tickets are £7.80. Cineworld St Helens, Chalon Way West, WA10 1BF. Tel: 0871 200 2000
Windle Labour Club, Dentons Green Lane, St Helens, WA10 2QF. Tel: 01744 23053
Aladdin Thurs, Dec 14, to Sun, Dec 24 (show times vary) Aladdin’s wishes may just come true with help from the Genie of the Lamp, the Slave of the Ring and audience participation. Tickets are £12.50 opening night, then go up to £29.50pp or £68 for a family ticket www.ticketquarter.co.uk Echo Arena Liverpool, Kings Dock, Liverpool, L3 4FP. Tel: 0844 800 0400
Make A Difference Friday, December 15, 9am-12pm Organised by St Helens Council and Chocolate Orange Challenge founder, Chris Lamb, the Make a Difference Friday event will welcome a number of charities into in the town hall’s assembly room for a morning of fundraising fun, with musical entertainment too. St Helens Town Hall, St Helens, WA10 1HP. Tel: 01253 721222
Tree Service Saturday, December 16, 11am It’s time for the popular annual Christmas Tree of Remembrance Service. The Citadel Choir will sing a selection of carols and other songs while you remember your loved ones, and hang your personalised leaf on the Christmas tree in the Book of Remembrance building. St Helens Crematorium Chapel, Rainford Road, St Helens, WA10 6DF. Tel: 01744 677406
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White Christmas Party
Research Your Family Tree
Sat, Dec 16, 7.30pm to, Sun, Dec 17, 1.30am
Tuesday, January 2, 1pm-3pm
Celebrate the special time of year at Haydock Park Racecourse. On arrival you’ll be greeted with a White Christmas cocktail before entering the dressed dining room with sparkly dance floor. You’ll be served a sumptuous three-course meal, then dance the night away courtesy of the live DJ! Tickets start at £39 from http://haydock.thejockeyclub. co.uk/events-tickets/whats-on/white-christmasparty-16-december
Who were your ancestors? What did they do? This taster session is the introduction to a free five week course to help you start researching your own family tree. Suitable for beginners and all ages, but basic computer skills are required. To reserve your place (necessary) email adultlearning@sthelens. gov.uk or call 01744 677675. Eccleston Library, Broadway, St Helens, WA10 5PJ. Tel: 01744 677575
Haydock Park Racecourse, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 0HQ. Tel: 01942 725963
The Wizard of Oz Tuesday, February 13, to Sunday, February 18
WOW! Christmas Party
BBC’s Pitch Battle star Maddie Hope Coelho is Dorothy. It’s sure to put a smile on the faces of the meanest of munchkins. Regal Entertainments’ version of this family classic includes a hilariously funny script, dazzling costumes and sets, plus a brilliant songs and show-stopping choreography. Info and tickets www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
Sunday, December 17, 7pm-1am These famous tribute acts and party nights will have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree... Tickets are £25 per adult and include a three course meal, DJ and disco. For tickets visit https://village-liverpool. yapsody.com/event/index/86791/wow-christmasparty
St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St Helens, WA10 1LQ. Box Office: 01744 756 000
Village Liverpool, Fallows Way, Whiston L35 1RZ.
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Appley
Bridge by Niamh Ollerton
D
o you ever need an excuse to get out for a little while and enjoy an amble through the countryside? Myself and my colleague Peter both enjoy a good walk so heading over to Appley Bridge definitely didn’t feel like business. We booted up and parked up in Appley Lane North – which isn’t the easiest to do so keep your eyes peeled – and headed down the right hand side of the lane, made our way across the canal bridge and down towards the water. But be careful as you make your way down the bend towards the canal towpath as it’s very steep and, if there’s ice on the floor, you’ll be a goner. Keep walking along the canal towpath and admire
the canal water. There were no ripples in the water; it was clear as glass, with reflections of the trees and scenery you would only find in a mirror. We really did pick the most glorious day for a walk. I love walking along canals, as you never know the kinds of people you might meet, whether that’s families, cyclists or cheery ramblers with their energetic pups bounding along the path. There was a lot of activity at one of the lock gates with a handful of builders hard at work, where we noticed the brand spanking new lock gates waiting to be assembled. Carry on towards bridge 39 where you’ll leave the canal towpath, but prepare to lean forward. But do
41 take a second to admire the houses nestled close to the canal. These houses are dreamy if you like the peace and quiet. Continue over the bridge across the canal and head up Chapel Lane, until you get to the railway. We recommend waiting a minute and checking both sides of the track before crossing over just in case. But then again, train tracks interest me, so maybe that’s why I like to take it all in. Once the railway is behind you, you’ll continue up towards Wood Lane and this is where the first incline hits you. It’s not too bad, but this may be when you remove one of your layers on a sunny day. When you get towards the top you’ll need to go right and follow the lane which will take you towards Gillibrand House. Along the lane you’ll see Parbold church’s steeple, but you can also admire the rolling green landscape, which is the epitome of British countryside. Further on there’s a black Shetland pony in the field on your right and I jumped, or rather cantered at the opportunity the give it a stroke. Keep your eyes peeled. Passing Gillibrand House you’ll continue through the gates marking the right of way, carry on until you come to a gate with a no access sign on it. Here, the public footpath goes to the right and over a stile. This is where your walk will start to get slippery so keep your wits about you as you head over to the next stile. Said stile, might I add, is fine if you keep your feet to the steps, but don’t put all your weight on the floating bit of wood as I did, meaning Peter could have later had a mudpie for a passenger. Once over the dreaded stile, keep to the right hand side of the field and then straight across to the next. If there has been heavy rainfall, prepare for the muddy landscape as you search for the best spot to place your foot. Another comical fact; make sure your boots are laced tightly as you may lose one. Slow and steady wins the race here. These fields are used for livestock so if you have a dog with you please keep it on a lead. On the far side of the second field, you should be
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able to make out a tall post marking the stile that takes you up to Fairy Glen. And if you haven’t been into Fairy Glen before, you’re in for a real treat. Once you’re over the stile, follow the path going over the brook and take a minute to listen to the calming sounds as the water trickles underneath you. Continue to follow the path towards the main attraction of this walk – the waterfall. In such a lovely setting among the trees, this waterfall is worthy of a film location. I’m thinking the live action version of Tarzan in sunny Appley Bridge.
slog of your journey. Carry on walking along the footpath and cross the next two lanes. This will then bring you out at the top of Appley Lane North, where you’ll turn right and head down the lane until you’ve reached your starting point. Now you might want to give your shoes a good kick. As walks go, this is a comfortable walk, and on a clear day (with a little less mud), the sights of Parbold and Appley Bridge couldn’t be nicer.
Follow the track with the waterfall on your right and make your way up the numerous wooden stairs, and continue along the path past the top of the fall to reach Finch Lane.
Length of walk: 5 miles
Head down the lane towards the farm and see if you can spot an animal or two. At the farm entrance, take the footpath on your left as you reach the final
Accessibility: The route includes a number of stiles and gates. We did the walk after some prolonged rainfall and there was some very muddy sections.
Difficulty: Medium
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Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear while walking. While every care has been taken to ensure that the walk is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.
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Test Drive
Renault
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Koleos by Tim Barnes-Clay
he Renault Koleos won’t rock your world, but it’s a decent enough SUV. It looks a bit too like many other SUVs out there – most noticeably the Skoda Kodiaq, but it’s an impressive car, nonetheless. I got behind the wheel of the flagship trim level – the Signature Nav, which has a generous amount of Kit, comprising big 19-inch alloy wheels, a sat-nav, a touchscreen and leather-bound seats. The car’s infotainment system, accessed via the touchscreen is easy and self-explanatory to use, and the Renault is practical, offering cubby holes and four USB slots. What’s more, the Koleos is endowed with good quality soft-touch plastics and the hide wrapping the seats and steering wheel is top notch.
The layout is well thought out for driver and passengers, and room is more than respectable. The wheelbase is the same as the X-Trail’s at 2,705mm – and this equates to awesome legroom. Better still, the Koleos’ load area is 29 litres bigger than the Nissan’s – measuring 579 litres. Alas, take a tapemeasure to the similar-looking Skoda Kodiaq and the Czech-made car’s boot is 630 litres. Oh well, you can’t have everything. Strangely the Gallic car brand isn’t providing the Koleos with a sevenseat option, though. This could be a deal-breaker as Skoda’s Kodiaq does. Renault gets away with it, however, by explaining that you can always go for the Grand Scenic if you need all those seats.
The top-of-the-tree 2.0 dCi 175 AWD X-Tronic Koleos I drove really is the bee’s-knees, in terms of out-and-out technology and cabin refinement.
On the road, the Renault Koleos is well-behaved and easy to like. Zero to 62mph arrives in 9.5 seconds and the top speed is 125mph, so the car has plenty of ‘go’ for motorway commutes or for overtakes on lesser roads. The Koleos has 174 horses under its ample bonnet
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47 to provide such power, and this helps tug the car along, even with five-up and a fully laden boot.
Fast Facts
The auto ‘box isn’t bad, even though it’s a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This means the transmission shifts through a constant range of ratios. Alas, CVTs don’t always work as seamlessly as they should, resulting in a rather jerky driving experience. Nevertheless, I’m pleased to report Renault has stuck an advanced CVT into the Koleos that uses technology to copy a sequential ‘box. This makes the car painless to operate.
• 0-62 mph: 9.5 secs
The Koleos’ ride is super comfy, with its soft suspension making you all but forget the existence of potholes. But the squidgy springs don’t wreck the handling; if anything, the French SUV comes across as predictable and steady. The Koleos I drove had all-wheel-drive, so I also tested it off-road. Because the car has good ground clearance I could drive it over stones and hummocks without fear of ripping bits off the underneath of the Koleos. Furthermore, the Renault grips well in mud and anything not resembling tarmac. It’s no Land Rover, but it’s a great asset to have if you live in the sticks, or you plan on lugging a tin-tent to a grassy caravan park or suchlike.
The Koleos is a car that is roomy and well-appointed. It also flies the luxury SUV flag for Renault. This means it could attract fresh customers to the brand who are looking for an SUV with a bit of French flair.
Rainford Service and MOT Centre
FREE PICK UP!
• Combined mpg: 47.9 • Engine layout: 1995cc four-cylinder diesel turbo • Max. power (PS): 174 • CO2: 156 g/km • Price: £34,200
Mobile car valeting
Tel: 07803 053 715 e: cjvalet@yahoo.co.uk www.cjvaleting.net
Free pick up and drop off service available
Interim service and MOT from £95 inc VAT
MOT - £34.95 MOT Class 7 - £38.95 German Car Specialist Sandwash Close, Rainford, WA11 8LY
Call - 01744 895 333 or 01744 886 720 Mobile - 07918 138 231
£5 off
when you have a service and MOT at our garages Offer valid on production of this voucher Any make or model welcome
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Full service and MOT from £130 inc VAT
Treat your car touch to the professional
Rainford
Service and MOT Centre
Part of SGN Autos Ltd
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UPVC CLEANING
• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.
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• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning) • Glass roofs / Orangeries
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SPECIAL OFFER - 20% OFF ALL CLEANING PACKAGES Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
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MARDEC 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
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CALL PAUL LOCKSMITHS ESTABLISHED 2000
We don’t cut corners! we clean them
• UPVC & WOODEN DOOR SPECIALIST • Emergency Door Opening • UPVC Door Lock Repairs • UPVC Door Lock Changes
01744 644061
www.dailypoppins.com
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Call Paul for a Fast, Reliable, Professional Service
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Plus FREE special floor Cleaner
Worth £50
Specialists in boiler installations, repair & maintenance All work fully warranted
& get a carbon monoxide alarm (RRP £29) FREE!
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
01744 470 051 or 07834 241 642 www.jcstoneandtilecare.co.uk
Book a boiler health check for £65
Call the team on
Email ops@hotmail.co.uk
01744 892437
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M H Roofing
Established over 15 years Friendly advice and competitive rates No job too small
• High Performance Felt Flat Roof Systems • Storm Damage and Insurance Work • Slating and Tiling full roofs • Poiniting and Guttering • Fascia Boards
Call 01744 884117 or 07702 693225
Fully Insured & Insurance
www.mhroofingltd.co.uk
Backed Guarantees
Matthew Rigby Plastering & Damp Proofing Specialist Our expert plasterers can take on the biggest and most complex jobs Our clients are assured of an impeccable service boasting quality and cleanliness We use only the finest damp proofing products and apply the most modern techniques
Reliable, Friendly, Local Service Contact Matthew on
07840 096233 Based in St Helens
MultiSkilled Handyman Roofing & Roofline- repairs and replacement Decorating, Building, Gates supplied & fitted Plastering, Gardening For all your home improvements - No job too small
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07847 394040 ~ 01744 606938
NEED A FIX IT GUY ?
All aspects of DIY • Plumbing Repairs • Flat Pack Assembly • Landlord & estate agent services • CCTV fitting • Locks changing
All the jobs you hate - We’ll do! Fully Insured
Green House Group
M: 07947 425288
Mark Mitchell
Stained Glass & Leaded Lights • Traditional Leaded Lights & Stained Glass • Manufactured & Repaired • New Commissions • On-Site Repairs • 25 Years Experience
01744 602931 or 07756 274503
7 Albany Avenue, Eccleston Park, L34 2QN
Unit 15, Chalon Way Industrial Estate, St Helens, WA10 1AU Tel: 0151 426 2814 Mob: 07711 841735 www.markmitchellstainedglass.co.uk
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