St Helens West Edition
Murphy’s Law Interview With Saints Legend Class From The Past Rainhill High Jack’s Tracks visits Westhead & Lathom
Dec 2014/Jan 2015
WIN A
CHRISTMAS HAMPER
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Step into Christmas
In this issue
I have a confession to make – I’m actually looking forward to Christmas. I realise this is a very un-blokey thing to say, but it happens to be true.
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As a kid, I loved Christmas, but as a teenager I did the usual sulky stuff. Then, as an adult with a young child, it was more manic than anything else and I didn’t have time to stop and think. But this year is a tad different. The little ‘un is more grown up and would, if truth be told, rather sit in her bedroom with the iPad. As I write this, I can hear the voices of thousands of parents murmuring in agreement. The other night, my beloved and I even cracked open a bottle of mulled wine - I’m not ashamed to say that, yes, it was on a school night too. I’m not quite ready for Fairytale of New York just yet, but I sense it won’t be long before my best Irish accent will be murdering the line: “It was Christmas Eve babe, in the drunk tank…”
Puzzle Corner Class From The Past Planning Matters Murphy’s Law Win A Christmas Hamper What’s On Jack’s Tracks visits Westhead & Lathom Motoring - Hyundai i30 Tourer Home Services Useful Numbers Recipe of the Month Next issue - January
Advertising deadline - Friday 12 December Published - Friday 9 January Publisher: Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB T 01744 649 722 @ info@locallife247.co.uk W www.locallife247.co.uk
I suspect this happens to many of us who have young kids in our lives, whether they be children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren. Once they reach a certain age, Christmas becomes about all of us again rather simply focused on the kids.
Sales: Chris Pearce, Nicola Gray
That said, I know I’ll spend the vast majority of Christmas morning prising toys from their packaging (why are those plastic ties so damn tricky?) and hunting round for a pair of AA batteries. But once that’s done, they’ll trundle off to their rooms, their heads buried deep in their pressies from Santa. At least that’s the plan.
Local Life is published every month. The magazine will be distributed into the following edition areas on an alternate monthly basis.
And while they do that, we may just find time to open another bottle of mulled wine… Merry Christmas
Editorial: David Sudworth Design & Production: Peter Bretherton
sales@locallife247.co.uk editorial@locallife247.co.uk design@locallife247.co.uk
Distribution: Sally Boon
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Accounts: Sam Garrahan
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The St Helens West edition 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. Copies are also available to pick up free from Tesco Extra Stores in Peasley Cross and Prescot. The St Helens edition is delivered to over 12,000 private homes and businesses in Rainford, Billinge, Garswood, Moss Bank, Haresfinch, Laffak and selected areas of Haydock. Copies are also available to pick up free from Tesco Stores in Haydock and Peasley Cross. 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.
David Sudworth - Editor editorial@locallife247.co.uk
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Railway Show Rainhill Model Railway Club is holding its annual pre-Christmas Model Railway Show from 10am-5pm on Saturday, November 29. Organisers say this show is designed to be more of a family-themed event as opposed to the club’s main annual, two day exhibition which is more enthusiast-based and will also take place at the same venue, Rainhill Village Hall, Dane Court, over the weekend of March 7 and 8, 2015. Peter Hughes, publicity officer, told Local Life: “We will have layouts on show covering all the popular gauges as well as free admission to the Merseyside and South West Lancashire 009 Narrow Gauge Group Exhibition. We will also have Show You How modelling experts on hand to share their expertise, as well as our club shop, and independent traders to maybe sell a train set or other items to fill someone’s Christmas stocking.” Admission prices are £2 for adults and £3 for children, which includes a visit to Santa and a small gift. Peter says that Santa himself will be flying in from Lapland for the day to meet as many youngsters as possible!
Village Yuletide Rainford Village is holding a Christmas fair on Saturday, December 6, from 11am-3pm. The village centre will be free of traffic that day, so everyone is invited to go along and experience the sights, sounds and smells and the rapidly approaching festivities. Organised by Rainford Hub with the support of the parish council and local businesses, there promises to be something for all the family. Christmas music will be provided by local schools’ choirs, Rainford Band, the church choir and bell ringers. There will also be a host of market stalls and a Santa’s grotto, not to mention children’s roundabouts and fun fair, donkey rides, a raffle and tombola and a balloon race. For more information call 07790 962681, email info@ rainfordhub.com or visit www.rainfordhub.com
Artisan Market
Distributors Wanted
Inglenook Farm, on the Rainford Bypass, is holding a Christmas artisan market over two days on Saturday, December 13, and Sunday, December 14, from 10am.
Local Life requires distributors aged 13 and above for this edition of our magazine. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every eight weeks. The areas we currently require distributors is as follows:
Organisers say there will be over 60 stalls selling items such as handmade gifts, seasonal produce, mulled cider and there will also be music and dancing as well as a visit from Santa. For more information, visit www.inglenook-farm.co.uk
Rainhill – Old Lane, Calder Drive, View Road, Lowther Drive, Mossdale Drive, Deepdale Drive, School Lane, Bartholomew Close, Warrington Road, Kendal Drive and Stoney Lane Eccleston – Broadway, Springfield Lane, Hawthorn Drive and Knowsley Road
Afternoon Social The St Helens branch of the National Trust is holding an afternoon social from 2.30pm on Thursday, January 15. It will be held at St Thomas Church, Westfield Street, St Helens town centre. Entry is £1 for non-members.
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Christmas Songs
In Memory
St Helens Choral Society’s Christmas concert is being held on Saturday, December 13, at 7.30pm in United Reformed Church Ormskirk Street, St Helens town centre. The choir will be led by conductor Peter Kwater, and will also feature organist Michael Wynne with mezzo soprano Vicky Little. Tickets are £10, or £1 for under 16s, on 01695 625500 or via info@ sthelenschoralsociety.org
The Friends of St Helens Cemetery are once again hosting their Christmas Tree of Remembrance Service at St Helens Crematorium at 11am, on Saturday, December 13. Remember your loved one this Christmas at the service which will be in the Crematorium Chapel, Rainford Road. The Citadel Choir will sing a selection of carols during the ceremony. A tree will be placed in the Book of Remembrance building where you can hang a personalised leaf in memory of your loved one.
Great Concert
Everyone is welcome to attend this celebration which has become an annual event. Refreshments will be provided after the ceremony. Come and join us on this date you will be made most welcome.
Warrington Male Voice Choir is performing its unique programme of Christmas music on Friday, December 5, at St James The Great Church, Church Road, from. 7.30pm. Tickets cost £8 and are now on sale. To obtain tickets please ring 01744 24159 or 01942 727956.
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For more details email hello@friendsofsthelenscemetery, ask for details at the Crematorium Office or visit www. friendsofsthelenscemetery.co.uk
"I want to be valued for what I can do, not judged for what I can't.�
Disability Hate Crime is unacceptable. No one deserves to be targeted. Report it to Stop Hate UK on 0800 138 1625 or Merseyside Police on 101 For more information visit: www.safersthelens.org.uk
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Trust Course
Business Funding?
The Prince’s Trust in St Helens is recruiting for activities from January 6 onwards. It’s a 12 week personal development programme for 16-25 year olds; which helps learners to work on barriers that may be preventing them from achieving in employment or education. Learners can work on identified areas such as confidence, self- esteem, motivation, people skills, group work skills, leadership skills or behavioural difficulties.
A public meeting is being held over possible grant funding opportunities for businesses within Rainhill Conservation Area. The parish council, in conjunction with borough councillors Joe De’Asha, Stephen Glover and Barrie Grunewald, has arranged the event for 7pm on Monday, December 8, at the village hall on Dane Court.
In addressing their personal development the students will work towards a Level 1 Prince’s Trust Certificate in Teamwork, Employment & Community Skills. St Helens College says the course is ideal for a wide variety of people who may not currently be in education, training and employment. For more details, contact Paula Rowlett via email prowlett@sthelens.ac.uk or call 01744 623357/07796 479444.
At the meeting, an explanation will be given of the process of applying for cash from the Heritage Townscape Funding pot, which helps meet the costs of building works for premises situated in conservation areas. Examples of works which can be included in the scheme are new, external windows and doors, general repairs to the outside of buildings, such as roofing, help to retain original features and new shop frontages which are in keeping with the heritage theme. To find out more, simply turn up on the evening.
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Ho-ho-ho... Santa’s Here! It’s that time of year again - and Santa will be checking who in the local area has been naughty or nice! The Rotary Club of Prescot has secured Father Christmas to ride on their carol float for a number of ‘tours’ leading up to the big day. A breakdown of some of these are as follows: Monday, December 8: Eccleston Park from 6pm. From the fire station on Delph Lane, through the Sandstone Drive Estate and Scotchbarn Lane areas. Tuesday, December 9: Rainhill from 6pm. Area around the Holt Hotel bounded by Warrington Road, Cartmel Road, Chatsworth Road, Holt Lane, Two Butt Lane and Sandhurst Road. Wednesday, December 10: Whiston from 6pm. From Windy Arbor Road, through the streets around Cronton Lane, including Willis Lane, Long Hey, Halton Hey, Nicholas Road, Halsneed Avenue and Bishop Drive.
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Thursday, December 11: Rainhill from 6pm. From the Rocket, Warrington Road,, crossing at Ivy Farm Road and through Longton Lane, King Edward Road and Ellerslie Avenue to Rainhill Road.
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Friday, December 12: Whiston from 6.30pm. Starting at the Green Dragon Pub, Dragon Lane, and visiting the areas bounded by Cumber Lane, Milton Avenue, and Cedar Road, Cross Lane and returning via Dragon Lane. Sunday, December 14: Fundraising with Santa a Tesco, Cables Retail Park, from 1am-4pm. Carol float in Eccleston Park from 4pm-8pm. Starting in St James Road and neighbouring streets, including Bretherton Road and Maryville Road, Hawthorn Road and neighbouring streets including Laurel Road. and Derwent Avenue areas. Then from Central Avenue to Portico Lane via Elm Grove, Forest Grove, Gorsey Croft, Fairholme Avenue and Park Avenue areas. Monday, December 15: Prescot from 6pm. From Warrington Road, through Ash Grove, Kingsway, Bryer Road and Shaw Lane to Dragon Lane. Tuesday, December 16: Prescot from 6pm from St Helens Road through the new estate and then on to Knowsley Park Lane, Park Road, Stanley Crescent, Hope Street, Moss Street, Evans Street, Pratt Road, Driffield Road, Mitchell Road and Manchester Road. Christmas Eve: Fundraising with Santa in Eccleston Street, Prescot, from 9am-1pm.
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Crying Out Loud! Oyez! Oyez! Liverpool Town Crier Terry Stubbings (pictured) will be giving a talk about his role to members of the 89 Society during their meeting at the Lester Drive Centre in Eccleston in January.
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Terry was appointed to the role in October 2011, having previously been made Town Crier to the City of Lincoln in 1994 and then the Town Crier to the Ancient Port of Gainsborough in 2005. In 2008, he resigned his post in Lincoln and moved to his hometown of Liverpool. Find out more about Terry’s role at his talk, which starts at 8pm on Thursday, January 8. For further information, contact 01744 26813.
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Prescot History Society’s first meeting of 2015 will be on Thursday, January 22. That’s the date when Mrs Kath Williams will give a talk on Norton Cross Priory, from 7.30pm at Prescot Parish Church Hall, Church Street. Annual membership is £10 or £1.50 per meeting for visitors. Tea is served from 7pm and all are welcome.
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Cholera Cure Chris Jones is giving a talk on Dr Hawthorne’s Infallible Cure for Cholera at St Helens History Society’s meeting on Monday, January 19. Dr George Stuart Hawthorne was a 19th Century doctor from Liverpool who claimed to have a treatment for an epidemic which swept the city between 1848-9.
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Find out more at the talk, which starts at 7.30pm in the Friends Meeting House, Church Street, St Helens town centre.
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For further details, contact secretary Mary Presland on 01744 23141 or treasurer Norma Cresswell on 01744 754962.
0871 222 4596 CallS to 0871 numbers cost 10p per minute plus network extras.
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COME visit...
November December
Monday 1st Tuesday 2nd Wednesday 3rd Thursday 4th Friday 5th Saturday 6th Sunday 7th Monday 8th Tuesday 9th Wednesday 10th Thursday 11th Friday 12th Saturday 13th Sunday 14th Monday 15th Tuesday 16th Wednesday 17th Thursday 18th Friday 19th Saturday 20th Sunday 21st Monday 22nd
2pm - 5pm 2pm - 5pm 2pm - 5pm 2pm - 5pm 2pm - 5pm 9.30am - 5pm 11am - 3.30pm 2pm - 5pm 2pm - 5pm 2pm - 5pm 2pm - 5pm 2pm - 5pm 9.30am - 5pm 11am - 3.30pm 2pm - 5pm 2pm - 5pm 2pm - 5pm 2pm - 5pm 9.30pm - 5pm 9.30am - 5pm 11am - 3.30pm 9.30pm - 4pm
Y ONDERFULL
TIC AND W
AL TION I L D A D R T BIG AN SMAL R CHILDREN
AN AUTHEN
Saturday 29th 12 noon - 5.00pm Sunday 30th 11am - 3.30pm
EXPERIENCE
T Y R E R S of ST. HELENS
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TICKETS can be purchased in the menswear department only (lower ground floor). For more information on our grotto phone 01744 20261, or see website. 1 4 - 1 6 B r i d g e St re e t , St He l e n s , WA 1 0 1 N R
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Charity Concert
St Anne’s Event
The Mayor of Prescot’s charity Christmas concert takes place on Thursday, December 11, from 7pm-8.15pm, at Prescot Parish Church, Church Street. The concert features Neston Brass Quintet, Evelyn Community Primary School and staff choirs, St Mary & St Paul’s Primary School Choir and Prescot Parish Church Choir. Tickets £5 on the door, while accompanied under 16s go free. All proceeds go to mayoral charities.
Organisers of a Rainhill Christmas fair are promising a fun evening of shopping and exhibitions showcasing the best arts. crafts and talent. That’s the rallying cry for the event to be held at St Anne’s Millennium Centre, View Road, on Friday, December 5, from 7.30pm9.30pm. Admission is £1 per adult with children going free.
Christmas Unwrapped
Prescot Fair Prescot Parish Church’s Christmas fair is being held on Saturday, November 29, from 11am-2pm at the meeting room adjacent to the Church Street building. Entrance is 50p for adults and children go free. All proceeds in aid of church funds.
Rainhill Musical Theatre Company presents its festive play, Christmas Unwrapped, on Friday, December 19. It starts at 7pm in Rainhill Village Hall, Dane Court. Tickets are £6 for adults and £5 for concessions, including refreshments. Call 0151 292 4458 or email sephtons@ hotmail.co.uk
Disney Frozen Party Sunday 30th November Enjoy a 3 course carvery lunch and children’s buffet with a surprise visit from the Frozen Princesses • Signed autograph picture from Anna & Elsa • Performing 3 iconic songs from the hit movie Frozen • Photo opportunities with the Princesses • Face Painting (not included in Price)
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From Grot To Hot! Wasteland in Rainhill has been transformed into a communal garden thanks to hard-working volunteers. Members of the Rainhill Eco group dug in to turn the space, behind the shops on Exchange Place, into a wildlife haven. A focal point built with reclaimed sandstone from the redevelopment of Shaw Street Station was officially unveiled by former soldier Andy Reid, who lived on St Thomas Close, Windle, before moving to Rainford. Andy lost both legs and an arm after stepping on a homemade bomb while on patrol in Afghanistan five years ago. Volunteers hope visitors to the garden, created as much as possible from recycled and refurbished materials, will think about their own recycling choices
from Cory Environmental Trust in Britain and includes a human mosaic sundial, created by Longton Lane Primary School with help from local artist, Bernadette Hughes. Another artist, Adrian Moakes ran a number of community workshops, and designed a piece of sculptural artwork for the garden from recycled steel.
The scheme was funded from various organisations including a £20,000 grant from the Merseyside Recycling and Waste authority and a £17,500 grant
Old street benches donated by St Helens Council were refurbished by young offenders led by interventions worker, Steve Barlow.
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Willowbrook Events The race is on to join the scores of Santas who will be dashing for cash through the streets of St Helens on Saturday, December 6, as part of the town’s third annual Santa Dash. Organised by Willowbrook Hospice and the Steve Prescott Foundation, the festive fun run will set off from Church Square at 11am, following a route which is nearly 4km and includes crossing the Steve Prescott Bridge and a lap of the Saints stadium, Langtree Park. Nicky Saunders, Willowbrook Hospice’s Fundraising Manager, said: “The Santa Dash is a great way to celebrate the season of goodwill, have some fun and help us raise funds for two very worthy causes.” Martin Blonde, general manager of The Steve Prescott Foundation, said “We are elated the Santa Dash has come back to its original route. We would like to thank St Helens RFC for allowing all Santas to run around the Langtree Park pitch and take in the stadium. We have also been working with St Helens Council events team and St Helens Parish Church to stage festive entertainment throughout the day.”
Entry for the St Helens Santa Dash is £12 for adults, £6 for five-16 year olds with under 5s free. Adult entry includes a free Santa suit while children will receive a free Santa hat. All Santas will also receive a Marks & Spencer mince pie. Register at www.sthelenssantadash.co.uk or simply complete the form opposite and return with your entry fee to Santa Dash, Willowbrook Hospice Fundraising Office, 54/56 Claughton Street, St Helens, WA10 1SN
Lights Of Love Willowbrook’s Lights of Love services are also taking place in early December. All services start at 7pm and on Monday, December 8, it will be at Prescot Parish Church, Church Street. The following day, it will be at The Church of the Holy Spirit, Dovecot Avenue, Dovecot, and the final one will be on Wednesday, December 10 St Mary’s Lowe House, North Road, St Helens. For more information on the Lights of Love, contact the fundraising team on 01744 453798.
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Rouse Of Applause
War Memories
A comedian who has starred in Celebrity Juice, 8 Out Of 10 Cats and Grown Ups is heading to Rainhill. Rob Rouse is appearing at the Friends of Oakdene Primary School fundraiser on Saturday, December 6, at Rainhill Ex-Services Club, on Warrington Road.
Rainhill Civic Society has produced a booklet telling some fascinating stories of local events and people during World War I. Rainhill Remembers: The First World War is on sale at Rainhill Library, View Road, for £3.
Before becoming a comedian, Rob was a geography teacher. Since winning Channel Four’s prestigious So You Think You’re Funny competition at the Edinburgh Festival in 1998, an award previously won by the likes of Peter Kay and Lee Mack, he has been a regular performer at major venues on both the London and national circuit.
Alzheimer’s Service
Rob will be joined on the bill by Tim Bradbury, of Key 103, and Kevin Dewsbury, who tours with top acts such as Russell Howard and Michael McIntyre. The doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8pm. Tickets are £7.50 and available from the school reception or on 01744 678410.
Wreath Making Join the St Helens Rangers and volunteers from Friends of St Helens Cemetery for their annual wreath making event. Locals are being encouraged to take the family along on Sunday, December 7, to St Helens Cemetery, Rainford Road, for a 10am starts. It’s £3 per wreath to cover the cost of the materials. For more information, call 07910 131 369 or email hello@ friendsofsthelenscemetery.co.uk
Eyes Down It’s eyes down at St Anne’s Millennium Centre, View Road, Rainhill on Friday, December 12, when a Christmas bingo will be held at the venue. It starts at 7.30pm and entry is £4, which includes the first book. Tickets are available by calling into the centre.
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While researching the War, members of the society have made links with the villagers in France where an airman is buried, a family in Canada who had come into possession of a nurse’s autograph book, and a photographic studio in Australia as well as many other contacts in this country and abroad. For more information visit www.rainhill-civic-society.org.uk
The Alzheimer’s Society on Dragon Lane, Whiston, has a number of events for people who want to access help and advice. The Carers’ Support Group meets on the first Monday of the month from 6pm-8pm while the Maintaining Skills Group meets on the last Tuesday of the month from 1.30pm-3.30pm. Singing for the Brain sessions take place on the second and fourth Thursday of the month from 11am-1pm and the Memory Café, Prescot, is on the second and fourth Friday of the month, 10am-noon. For further details, call 0151 426 4433 or email gaye. williams@alzheimers.org.uk
Do you feel stressed or anxious? Please don’t suffer in silence – talking to a trained professional can help you take back control of your life.
Isis Counselling & Psychotherapy Your first step to a brighter tomorrow
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Class from the Past - Rainhill High
It’s believed this photo was taken in 1980. Among those pictured are Mike Grundy, Jeremy Spencer, Paul Connolly, Caroline Birch, Karl Waine, Phil Collins, Alan Orme, Dawn Williams, Mark Turner, Debbie Unsworth, Lesley Welsby, Karen Saunderson, Mr Hawes, Janet Robinson, Tony Orme, Keith Denny, Ian Hall, Ray Causer,
Diane Sloan, Sonia McGuinness, Stephen Jones, Karl Free, Jan Wallbank, Shikha Saksena, Sheila Rees and Alison Davies. Maybe you can spot a familiar face? Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact David Sudworth today by emailing editorial@ locallife247.co.uk
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Village hall committee members with family and friends of Warren and Helen Ryland
Legacy Tree A memorial tree has been planted at Rainhill Village Hall to celebrate the lives of Warren and Helen Ryland, who were active members of the local community. Warren, who died in October 2013, was instrumental in obtaining a Lottery Grant to improve and extend the hall, on Dane Court. He also served on the Rainhill Village Hall Management Committee and helped with general maintenance. Helen, who died last April, was a member of the Townswomen’s Guild who meet regularly at the hall. As well as the silver birch tree, which was planted in the hall’s grounds, the Ryland family donated a plaque which is displayed in the Hall.
Staff Wanted!
Healthcare & Support Staff required to cover St Helens, Warrington, Knowsley & Halton areas. We are looking for professional & caring staff to work in a variety of settings. 6-12 months experience is required but full training will be given. Drivers preferred. Call us today for more information
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Snap Happy Calling all snap happy youngsters - your work could see you crowned Young Photographer of The Year. The competition, organised by Rainhill Rotary Club, is now open until March, and there are a number of categories available. These include people, places, wildlife, animals, landscapes and sport. There are also three age groupings; juniors (up to 10 years), intermediate (11-14 years) and seniors (15 to 18). For an entry for and competition rules, write to The Rotary Club of Rainhill c/o 6 Stone Cross Drive, Widnes, WA8 9DL.
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Festive Times
Mistletoe Tinsel Gift Wreath Decorate Turkey
Black tie Fireplace Family Stockings Mince pie Snow
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Photo courtesy of Rainhill Library
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Rudolph Santa Claus Holly Angels Bauble Tree
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Blurred Vision
Blurred vision can be an important indicator of eye disease. It can affect one eye (unilateral blurred vision) or both eyes (bilateral blurred vision), and whether it occurs often or rarely, it should never go untreated. Blurry vision can mean any of a number of different things, ranging from dry eyes or glaucoma to migraines or retinal detachments. If you experience blurry vision, regardless of your age, you should visit your local i-Care Opticians Optometrist for a checkup because it could be a warning sign of something more serious. Want to advertise in Local Life?
The Symptoms In some cases blurred vision may be accompanied by additional symptoms. These symptoms may affect one or both eyes, and there is usually some other underlying cause. Symptoms can include: • Photophobia (sensitivity to light) • Floaters or spots • Eye pain • Discharge from eye • Loss of peripheral vision • Loss of central vision • Dry eyes • Itchy eyes • Increased tear production • Poor night vision • Red bloodshot eyes • Bleeding from eye • Poor near vision
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The Causes There is a long list of possible causes of blurry vision - here are just a few; • Refractive Eye Conditions: Indicates the need for corrective lenses, or a new lens prescription • Myopia: Nearsightedness • Presbyopia: A diminishing ability to focus • Dry Eyes: Blurry vision is a symptom of this syndrome • Migraines: Some people experience blurry vision before the onset of a migraine • Cataracts: Causes the lenses to become cloudy • Contact Lenses: Dirty or damaged contact lenses can cause blurry vision Sometimes medications cause blurry vision. There are many prescribed drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements that can cause blurry vision, including some blood pressure medications, oral contraceptives, cortisone, some antidepressants and some heart medications too.
Prevention If you are experiencing blurred vision, you should visit your i-Care Opticians Optometrist as soon as possible for an eye examination. If your eye exam does not uncover any problems, you may only need to try lubricating drops to relieve dry eyes. Your i-Care Opticians will advise on your eyes needs.
Regular eye examinations are extremely important, especially if you are over the age of 60, or if you have a health condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
In some cases blurry vision is inevitable. In most cases, however, blurry vision can be corrected or prevented. For example, wearing sunglasses will decrease sensitivity to light, which reduces the chance of developing temporary blurry vision. Also avoid drinking alcohol, which is known to alter vision.
If blurred vision is accompanied by the symptoms listed above, you should contact your i-Care Opticians Optometrist for a check-up as soon as possible.
For blurriness caused by cataracts, there are surgical options to replace the old lens with a new one.
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If medication has caused the blurry vision, do not discontinue or switch medications before seeing your Optometrist who may send a report to your GP.
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Planning Ahead
Rainhill
Eccleston 51 Daresbury Road: Flat to hipped roof on existing side extension (ref: P/2014/0821). The consultation deadline is November 28. 38 Lester Drive: Demolition of existing detached garage and erection of part two storey, part single storey side extension (ref: P/2014/0799). A decision is due soon.
Eccleston Park 132 Portico Lane: Demolish and replace existing single storey rear extension, demolition of existing outside WC and installation of two conservation style roof lights to the rear roof plane (ref: P/2014/0798). A decision is due soon. 1A Albany Avenue: Erection of a detached, three car garage (ref: P/2014/0807). The consultation deadline is December 1.
Land to the rear of 29-35 Ellaby Road: Erection of two semi-detached dwellings (ref: P/2014/0819). The consultation deadline is November 28. 6 Nottingham Close: Single storey rear extension along with first floor side extension (ref: P/2014/0803). A decision is due soon.
Whiston 16 Bishop Drive: Single storey rear extension (ref: 14/00765/PDE). A decision is due soon. 30 Fisher Avenue: Two storey side extension together with single storey extension to rear and to part of the front (ref: 14/00727/FUL). A decision is due soon. For more information on the Eccleston, Eccleston Park and Rainhill applications, visit www.sthelens.gov.uk. For more on the Whiston applications, visit www. knowsley.gov.uk
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199 Warrington Road, Whiston 0151 431 0696
Tight Fit Rainhill folk are being invited to step inside what is possibly the world’s smallest art gallery. The St Helens Tight Modern Tour arrives in the village’s library, on View Road, on Thursday, December 18. The touring miniature is replica of London’s iconic Tate Modern Gallery which showcases 60 marginalised artists, many of who are from St Helens. It is currently at Chester Lane Library, and moves from there on Wednesday, December 3, to Parr Library between December 4 and Tuesday, December 16.
Another unit will provide “improved” facilities for William Hill bookmakers, which current trades from the existing site, while the third unit will be the KFC drive-thru. In papers lodged with the council, it states: “The applicants have owned and operated the premises for some considerable time. The premises has had a chequered history and struggled to remain viable for some considerable time. This is due to the site’s poor trading history and the number of other licensed premises in the vicinity. “The former bowling green to the rear is overgrown, unused and serves no purpose as a recreation area. It is apparent the existing bowling green fell into disuse along with the waning popularity of the pub as younger generations of drinkers have chosen to visit town centre locations. There is no evidence of a continuing need for this type of facility.”
From there, it finishes up at Rainhill, and will be there until Tuesday, January 13.
Pub Demolition Plan A Whiston pub is set to be demolished and replaced with retail units and a KFC drive-thru. The Green Dragon, on Dragon Lane, could be razed to the ground if a planning application submitted by Punch Taverns is successful. In their submissions to Knowsley Council, Punch’s agents say one of the units will be occupied by a “major, national, multiple convenience goods retailer” but declined to name them at the moment as talks are still underway.
However, some local residents have objected. One said: “This would be a loss of a major community asset. In Whiston in recent times five pubs have closed permanently and therefore the village is slowly losing its sense of community. There are also many fast food outlets in the vicinity and therefore there is no need in the local area to have any more.” A decision is due before Christmas. For more information, visit www.knowsley.gov.uk - the application reference is 14/00638/FUL.
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Murphy’s Law David Sudworth talks to the Saints legend about his upbringing, his admiration for miners, and why he punched his boss… Alex Murphy isn’t one to duck a challenge. During his 10 years in a Saints shirt, he had a habit of getting stuck in. The Thatto Heath lad could give as good as he got - after all, he isn’t called Murph The Mouth for nothing. So it comes as a surprise when the Knowsley Road legend confides in me about one time he was well and truly beaten - the day he was sent down the pits. “Me and Jackie Edwards, whose son Shaun I later signed when I was at Wigan, went down Alex and Alice at their home in Bold because you’d get three months’ holiday pay. We went on this course and at the minute of it. After the first day I told them I didn’t want end of it you had to decided which pit you wanted to to go back - I couldn’t face doing that eight hours a day work at. Most of my family was at Lea Green but it was forever but I had to work out my notice, which was a full so I was sent to one at Haydock. week. It turned out to be the longest week of my life and gave me a lifelong respect for people who worked “I was sent down this shaft with about 20 others and it down mines because it’s something I couldn’t do.” was my job to push the massive bogies along the lines. The conditions down there were awful and I hated every
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wife Alice, a former teacher at Holy Cross and St Alban’s schools, since 1969.
“Alice knows more about rugby than me!” “She’s a former Notre Dame pupil and we met on the bus going from the Savoy Cinema to Rainhill. Being a Jack the Lad, I offered to pay her fare - I don’t think she was that impressed! We got married at St Austin’s Church in Thatto Heath 54 years ago, and she probably knows more about rugby than me!” Before being thrust into the limelight as a 16 year old Saints signing, Alex was like most children in his neighbourhood. Born on May 22, 1939, Alex lived at 25 Sunbury Street, Thatto Heath, with three sisters Annie, Nellie and Jean and older brother Billy. His dad worked at Rainhill Mental Hospital, stoking the building’s six boilers: “It was my job to take dad his lunch up to Rainhill and as I made my way up the drive, I’d scour the bushes for patients. That’s where I learned to run although I rarely spilled dad’s plate. “My mum, Sally, worked at Pilkington’s and had possibly the hardest job I’ve ever seen a woman do. She’d have to push pallets with between eight and 12 massive panes of glass on them. When she retired, they had six men doing her job.”
Landers, at the age of 11 although he was told, during a trial at Everton, that he could have easily had a career in football. “They thought I was mad in wanting to pursue rugby instead, but that’s what felt right. I signed for Saints at midnight on my 16th birthday. We did it after a match - I went up to the boardroom before being whisked around to director Joe Harrison’s house on Millbrook Lane. What I didn’t know at the time was that there were a load of other clubs all interested in me as well but they weren’t allowed upstairs at Knowsley Road, and the St Helens directors took me away before I knew anything about it. “I don’t think it would have made much difference, it was my dream to sign for Saints. They got me for £80, and that was paid in two instalments. I got £40 when I was 15 and the rest when I turned professional. I remember being given it and being told to go and look after my mother. With that amount, I could only have afforded to take her on holiday to Thatto Heath!” Rotten money aside, Alex got the chance to learn the game from a man he considered the master, Jim Sullivan: “He’d have me running and running backwards and forwards 30 yards between bits of silver paper. He said the reason was that I’d never forget how to play rugby, but if I couldn’t run I’d never get the chance to show how good I could be, and he was right.
School for Alex was St Austin’s, a small building with fewer than 100 pupils, but it had a reputation for churning out some big names, including Austin Rhodes, who played for Saints in the 1950s and ‘60s. Alex’s rugby talents were spotted by the headteacher, Gerry
Alex (front row, centre) in the St Austin’s school team
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Murphy gets stuck in with the help of Tom Van Vollenhoven
“If I was a sub, I’d sit next to him on the bench and he’d teach me to be able to read the game, asking what was going to happen next. Sully was a great man-manager and that was invaluable once I started coaching.” In 1966, Murphy left Knowsley Road and had spells at most notably Leigh and Warrington. But it’s his two years as a coach at arch-rivals Wigan, and his sensational bust-up with its chairman, Maurice Lindsay, which has gone down in rugby league folklore.
Things came to a head two years into his stint, in 1984 ,when, following a charity tournament, Murphy punched Lindsay. The right hook left Lindsay in a heap on his own office floor, and Murphy being handed his P45. There’s varying accounts of what actually happened, ranging from Murphy throwing a telephone at Lindsay to the claim that Murphy had actually tried to strangle his boss with the handset cord, which he denies: “Let me put it this way, if that were true he’d be dead by now!” says Murphy. “After the tournament, I went to look for Maurice as neither I nor the players had been paid, and the money was going to charity. I went up to the office and he was there. I said the lads were waiting for their money, and that I wanted my money.” At this point, Murphy gets out of his front room armchair, where he has been sitting since our interview began, and physically demonstrated what happens: “Not forgetting he was a bookie by trade, this is my lasting memory. He stood up and pulled a massive wad of notes out of his pocket, peeled a few of them off, counting them, and then threw them on the floor. “I told him to pick it up and then he accused me of being a money-grabbing little b*****d. Again, I told him to pick the money up from the floor or he’d soon be joining it. Now, I was always taught as a lad that if you make a threat,
Turning out for Great Britain
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Alex in action in the 1970s
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After leaving in 1990, he’s had spells back at Leigh, Huddersfield and Warrington. Now aged 75, he does corporate match day entertainment at Leigh and Warrington as well as attending sportsman’s dinners.
Maurice Lindsay you’ve got to be prepared to carry it out. I’d never been humiliated like that. He refused to pick it up so I leaned over to grab him, and he grabbed me so I punched him. “He went toppling and his telephone shot up into the air and landed on top of him. As I went to leave he put his arm around me but I knew that was it for me as Wigan coach.
“I said if he does it again, I’ll kill him” “When I went to the board meeting I remember one of the directors, Jack Hilton, saying they couldn’t have me hitting the chairman. I replied that if he does that again, I will effing well kill him. “It has followed me around and I’m sad about that, especially if you look at what I’ve achieved in the game. Everyone thought I was the baddie. Maurice Lindsay knew nothing about rugby league. Before him, businessmen were in the game but they’d have a low profile. Then they started talking to the press even though they knew nothing about rugby. They even started wanting to sign players, and 90% of managers, including me, would never have allowed that. “I’ve spoken to Maurice since that incident back in 1984 but if I ever met him in the next life, I guarantee I’d do exactly the same thing. “The funny thing is I never did pick up the money he threw on the floor. I just left it lying there on the office floor. I hope it went to a good home…” His departure from Central Park, saw his return to Knowsley Road after a 20 year hiatus. In 1988, he guided Saints to a Regal Trophy win but the following year saw his old side, Wigan, beat Saints in the notorious 27-0 match at Wembley.
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It’s fair to say the grandfather-of-two has gone from being a thorn in the side of the rugby establishment to being a bona fide legend of the game. He was awarded an OBE over 15 years ago and next summer a statue of him, Martin Offiah, Billy Boston, Eric Ashton and Gus Risman is to be erected outside Wembley Stadium. The occasion ties in neatly with the 60th anniversary since Murphy signed for St Helens. “That will be a very proud moment, I just wish that people like my mum, dad and Mr Landers could be there to see it. I often think it’s amazing how a little kid from Thatto Heath got to do all this. Not that I made any money when I was playing, that’s why we all had day jobs. I worked at Pilks for a while then got a job as a joiner at St Helens Corporation at their Hardshaw Brook depot. I’d go around the new houses in places like Clinkham Wood with a man called Bert Swindles who was absolutely brilliant. We also did the window boxes at St Helens Town Hall, and I think they may even still be there. “You couldn’t make a living on just rugby alone. For a loss we got £7 less tax. At Wembley in 1966 when we played Wigan, almost 100,000 were watching that and we got £75 for a win while Billy Boston, having lost, got £10 less tax.
“We were working lads – the money meant something”” “We wanted to win not only for the pride, but because we were all working lads and the money meant something.” He also contends that the players of today would be given a big run for their money against those who played in the 1960s: “Modern players might be better at lifting weights or climbing trees in ‘bonding’ camps, but it was a different time when we were playing. I remember Vince Karalius used to have a scrap dealers in Widnes, and he’d run 14 miles after working, do the training, and then run back – all after putting in a full day at work. How many players could do that today?”
Merry go active and a Happy New You! Treat yourself or someone else to the perfect gift this winter
Your starter for 10
Go Active VIP Card
If you are thinking about getting fit for life - come and give our facilities a try. For only £10 you will get a full day’s access to one of our 3 swimming pools, enjoy a great range of exercise equipment and classes and your own personal trainer for a relaxed welcome to the gym facilities. You can finish your day off forgetting all of your stresses in our fantastic Sauna and Steam room at Queens Park Health & Fitness or Selwyn Jones Sports Centre. Sign up now at your local leisure centre or call 01744 671726.
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Competition
Win a Christmas
Our popular Christmas hamper competition is back and this year, we’ve got TWO Christmas hampers to be won by readers of our St Helens magazine. Each Christmas hamper will be filled to the brim with luxury produce, much of it made in Lancashire. Our main supplier is our local farm shop, Windy Arbour Farm Shop in Billinge, which is located just down the road from our office. Windy Arbour carries a great range of tasty local and regional produce, particularly in the run up to
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Christmas. For more details about their store, visit their website www.windy-arbour.co.uk. We would like to thank Windy Arbour for supplying these goods at cost price. The finished contents of the hamper was still being finalised as we went to press in mid-November, but we can tell you that each hamper will include Christmas cake, chocolates, mince pies, cheese, shortbread, wine, real ale, nuts, sweets and lots more besides. The goods are packaged in an attractive and sturdy wicker basket, and expertly wrapped in cellophane and ribbons. Even if you’re not a foodie, these hampers
Hamper! To win one of these hampers, simply complete the Christmas Carol crossword on the right and return your entry to us at; Local Life 247 Ltd Unit 8 – Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell Wigan WN5 7XB
Across 5. O Little Town of _ 6. Silent _ 7. Ding _ Merrily on High 10. Once in Royal _ City
Or email your answers along with your name, full address and contact number to crossword@locallife247. co.uk
Down 1. Away in a _ 2. Hark, The Herald _ Sing 3. We Three Kings of _ Are 4. Whilst _ Watched Their Flocks 8. _ King Wenceslas 9.
Your entry MUST be with us by 5pm on Monday 15th December, and the lucky winners will receive their prizes on the weekend of 20/21 December 2014.
The Holly and the _
Name ................................................................................................ Address ............................................................................................
Crossword Competition Rules 1. Only one entry per household
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2. Entrants must be over 16 years of age 3. The winners will be notified within 14 days of the closing date.
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4. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot accept responsibility for entries that are delayed or damaged in the post.
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5. 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! Want to advertise in Local Life?
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would make a wonderful present for someone special in your life. Each hamper is full of luxury items and it will bring a little extra to their Christmas.
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Christmas
Now ‘til Sunday, December 14
Friday November 28 to Sunday November 30
Chester Victorian Christmas Market
Vintage & Handmade Christmas Event
Shoppers will be able to revel in the choice of stalls at the free Christmas Market with over 70 traditional wooden chalets. The market will offer a variety of quality local and regional products including crafts, clothing, jewellery, giftware and local food and drink from carefully chosen suppliers. New for this year is the 40ft sparkling Christmas Tree on Town Hall Square, which will provide a magical centrepiece to the market. Visitors will be able to enjoy delicious hot food and drink, including hog roasts, mulled wine and hot chocolate; the perfect way to keep warm whilst enjoying the market. Library Square, St Werburgh Street and other central locations in Chester, CH1 2HJ. 10am-6pm, seven days a week. Admission free. More information on 01244 405631. Now ‘til Friday, December 19
Liverpool Christmas Market
Travel the world this Christmas on just one street! Featuring more than 50 of the finest craft and food stalls from across five continents, Liverpool’s new and improved Christmas Market is offering treats from as far as China and South America. There’s also a Food & Craft Village in Williamson Square. Lord Street and Paradise Street, Liverpool. Admission free. For more information, visit www. visitliverpool.com Now ‘til Sunday, December 21,
Manchester Christmas Market
Don your Santa hat, dust off the mulled wine glass, and get into the festive spirit - it’s time to head down to Manchester’s world famous Christmas Market. Attracting shoppers from all over the UK and beyond, the market has put Manchester city centre firmly on the Christmas map – the Christmas Market has become not just a fabulous place to shop but also a hugely popular leisure destination in its own right. No winter is complete without a wander through the chalet-lined streets of the markets. Manchester City Centre: Albert Square, Brazennose Street, St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, The Corn Exchange and Corporation Street. 10am-7.30pm in November, 10-8pm in December, apart from Sundays, when it closes at 6pm. Admission: Free. More information: www. christmasmarkets.com
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You are invited to a magical Vintage & Handmade Fair with over 40 stalls. This year’s event has been themed to commemorate World War I and offers retro, vintage inspired, true vintage and handmade goods, plus warm mulled wine and artisan foods. Across the weekend, there’ll be free activities for children, live music and competitions with retro hair and make-up styling plus craft demonstrations. Friday - noon to 8pm, with a special event from 6pm8pm. Saturday and Sunday, 10am-4.30pm Chapel Gallery, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, L39 4QR. 01695 571328. Sunday, November 30
Samlesbury Hall Christmas Fair
Samlesbury Hall showcases a wonderful array of traditional and contemporary crafts - a wonderful family day out. Food and craft stalls, Father Christmas, Christmas lunches, hot mulled wine and mince pies, hot turkey sandwiches and lots more. Samlesbury Hall, Preston New Road, Samlesbury, PR5 0UP. 11am-4pm. Admission: adults £3, children £1. More information: www.samlesburyhall.co.uk Saturday, November 29, - Sunday, December 21
Father Christmas at the Farm
Take the family down to Tatton Park Farm to greet Father Christmas and his rare breed farmyard friends, some of who are the star attractions in the nativity scene. Once the children have received their free gift from Father Christmas there is so much to keep them occupied :- an outdoor play trail and den-building area, an indoor playbarn with ride-on tractors and music from brass bands or choirs. Families will love milking the wooden cow in the shippon, story-telling and visiting Aunt Mary in her cottage. Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6QN. Saturday and Sundays, 11am-4.30pm. Last entry 3pm. It’s free to enter, but car entry charge applies. More information: www.tattonpark.org.uk
...Merry
Events Guide Saturday, November 29, December 6 and 13
Friday December 12 to Saturday January 3
Grassington Dickensian Festival
Sleeping Beauty
For three Saturdays before Christmas, Grassington travels back in time for the annual Dickensian Festival. Visitors are treated to a glorious array of sights, tastes and smells from a bygone era. The village is adorned in Christmas lights, the square and streets come alive with a traditional market with shopkeepers and villagers dressed in Victorian costume. Visitors can revel in delight at the musicians, dancers, street entertainers and exhibitions of traditional country crafts. Grassington town centre, North Yorkshire. The Postcode for the Park and Ride at Threshfield Quarry (for sat nav users) is BD23 5PA. There is no car parking in Threshfield or Grassington on the day of the event. 11am-5pm. Admission free. Email dickensian@grassington.uk.com Friday December 5 to Sunday January 11
Jack And The Beanstalk
Jack is a young lad living with his widowed mother and a milk cow who is their only source of income. When the cow stops giving milk, Jack’s mother has him take her to market for sale. On the way, he meets an old man who offers “magic beans” in exchange for the cow and Jack makes the trade... Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St.Helens. Merseyside. WA10 1LQ. Booking and general enquires - 01744 756 000
This year, for the first time, pantomime is brought to Southport by one of the country’s top pantomime producers, Imagine Theatre, with a script written by the BAFTA Award winning writing team of Iain Lauchlan & Will Brenton. Southport Theatre, Promenade, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 0DZ. For more details and tickets visit: www.liverpooltheatres.com/southport.htm Sunday, December 14,
Croston Christmas Fair
The Croston Christmas Fair is a beautifully traditional village Christmas celebration organised by local people for the village. This traditional fair recommenced in 2008 following the decision by a number of villagers to put together Croston Village Festivities Group to plan, organise and run the day. Croston Village, 1pm-5pm. For more information, visit www.crostonfestivities.co.uk Sunday, December 21
Merchant of Hoghton Christmas Market
Hoghton Tower is the venue for a Christmas Farmer’s Market from 10am to 2pm. There will be lots of lovely food for your Christmas celebrations. Admission is £1 per car to the market. Pedestrians 50p. Tea room and gift shop open. Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, near Preston, PR5 0SH. For more information visit www.hoghtontower.co.uk or call 01254 852986.
Christmas!
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Jack’s Tracks
Westhead & Lathom Maybe it’s a sign of age, but the overuse of some words really seems to grate these days. Take ‘historic’ for example. It’s totally unnecessary, particularly when bolted onto place names. After all, given the fact it’s now zillions of years since some gas and rocks had a heated argument one day and created this place we now call Planet Earth, doesn’t everywhere have a history? I suppose it’s what happens though when you let loose sharp-suited marketing bods, probably called Hugh and Tabitha, on unsuspecting identikit towns to do a ‘rebranding exercise’... Of course, Lathom has a bona fide history which doesn’t need any such hard sell. Indeed, it’s in front of your very eyes at regular intervals during this six mile walk. And because its history is far from dull, I’ll excuse the use of ‘Historic’ on its local signage.
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We started by parking up on Vicarage Lane. Word of warning here though - be aware that next to Ruff Woods there are time limits of two hours. As we knew it would take around three hours to complete, we parked up further down the lane where there were no prohibitions. Once booted, we headed down the path towards Ruff Lane before taking a sharp right just before the gates which directed us around the boundary of the property. The Right of Way took us down to Crosshall Brow, at which point we made a right and followed the A577 down into Westhead Village. As a settlement, it has managed to retain its charm despite the fact it is on an increasingly busy route. Keep an eye out for some of the old buildings, particularly the Old Post Office and the black-and-white Grapes Cottage, built in
1746. Carry straight along until you reach Greenacre, at which point you turn in. As you walk down Greenacre, there’s a bit of a drop on your right which is signed as Meadowbridge Close. Go down here and follow the path. A point of interest here is that had you gone down this road 60 years ago, you’d have been walking across the old railway line which ran from Ormskirk to Rainford via Skelmersdale. Rail buffs will remember this is the line the old Skem Jazzer train, so called because of the humming noise it made on the tracks, used to run. Carrying on, the path sweeps round to the right and then goes past a house with private paddock at the side. The left turn off which takes us over the field was a bit hidden, but we eventually discovered a small sign on the post holding the electrical cables. So if in doubt, follow the pylons. Hobcross Lane
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Again, it’s a straight route across to Lodge Farm, at which point you take a straight right towards Hall Lane. This is now where the area’s ‘historical’ tag is wellearned. But first, we pass on the right the Pilkington research laboratory. Pilks, as they are referred to locally, have been here since 1960 and the facility is set within 50 acres. Although it’s slightly odd to see such a large site of this kind in a rural area, it does blend in reasonably well. Just a bit further down, opposite the junction of Cranes Lane, is the entry to Lathom Park. This is the site where hundreds of thousands of horses were trained ahead of being sent to the fields of conflict in France. In fact, Cranes Lane was used as the main route to transport the mules to and from Ormskirk Train Station. Although Steven Spielberg has given their story the Hollywood treatment in his 2011 film War Horse, the area seems more popular for resting drivers than film buffs. Indeed, while we were there a Dutch family parked up with their caravan to have a flask of Douwe Egberts and some Edam butties. Probably. After stopping for a few photos (of the park entrance, not the Dutch family), we carry on down the unadopted Cranes Lane before veering right across the fields in a north-westerly direction. Once at the top there are a variety of directions but if you are following this exact route, follow the path which to all intents and purposes, gives the appearance of a private driveway. It is in fact a route which services a number of dwellings but of course is a public right of way. We come out at Blythe Lane, directly opposite the imposing gates to Blythe Hall. This impressive, Grade II listed pile was built somewhere between the late 16th Century or the early 17th Century. It was remodelled by the 3rd Earl of Lathom as a residence to replace Lathom Hall, and apparently used in the 1920s for entertaining his theatrical friends such as Ivor Novello and Noel Coward. Before we start making our way back, we head to the junction of Abbey Lane to take a quick look at the site of the Ancient Priory Cross. The cross was only reinstated recently, and it’s believed the original cross could have been an ancient boundary marker or a place where funeral processions rested on their way to the nearby abbey. Back over Abbey Bridge, we follow the sign which sees us follow the brook. For this part of the walk, it can be a little bit daunting for those who aren’t used to informal paths. There is no clearly defined path for this, indeed,
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the only way we could fathom it out was by some recent cutting back of the vegetation. Again though, the overhead electrical cables provided a useful guide as they more or less followed the route. We headed over a stile and through a small copse before we ended up facing a tennis court. We were convinced we’d taken a wrong turning as we now appeared to be in someone’s back garden. Indeed, we were but said garden contained a public right of way. Mercifully for us, someone (presumably the owner) was out weeding the path and not only helped guide us, but cheerfully asked where we’d come from and then ended up wishing us well for the rest of our walk. I don’t think I’d have been as jovial to find two stranger trampling over my neat lawn, but this gent was joviality personified. If you are reading this, many thanks! I recognise though that not everyone will be as lucky as we were so, if you find yourself in the same spot and can’t seem to find a way out past the locked gates, the following tip should help. Next to the gates, there is a small cluster of trees. Walk into the cluster and ahead of you will be some wire fencing which you follow, and will eventually lead you out at the side of the gates, and onto the formal driveway. Once at the end, you come to a crossroads where you need to take the road ahead (Lathom Lane). Bear left at the first public footpath you come to and you’ll be on the concrete access towards Charlesbye Farm. Whereas the farm route veers leftwards about a quarter of the way down, the public access carries on over the fields, so don’t take your eye off the ball here. From here to is a now virtual straight line up to Crosshall Brow, across the road and into the path into Ruff Woods. Once in the woods, turning left and keeping to the path which adjoins the wood boundary will take you straight out onto Vicarage Lane and, once you take a final left, back to the car. Otherwise, there’s a few other paths where you can explore the woods, if your aching feet can take it. The beauty of this walk is that is can be taken in either direction, it’s fairly flat and it presents a few challenges which, although puzzling at first, aren’t insurmountable. Also, a perhaps most importantly, it gives you a proper sense of the area’s history rather in a way which Hugh and Tabitha could only dream of…
Test Drive - by Tim Barnes-Clay
Hyundai i30 If looks could kill then you’ve got no worries if you drive the Hyundai i30 Tourer.
Like its slightly older hatchback sibling, the latest generation Hyundai i30 Tourer, launched two years, offers excellent levels of comfort, refinement and efficiency.
Put it this way; the car’s practical, but it’s no oil painting. Harsh of me? Probably. And let’s face it, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
What’s more, the car adds a greater load-carrying capability to the i30’s overall package. Space is amongst the best in the class, with the Tourer boasting a larger luggage capacity than the majority of its key rivals.
It doesn’t look like a bulldog chewing a wasp, but it has a bland, characterless presence – especially from behind. The ‘face’ of the South Korean produced model is only saved by the smart LED daytime driving lamps. Enough of my shallow thoughts about the i30’s appearance, let’s take a deeper journey into what the motor is all about.
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But who’s it aimed at? Well, the i30 Tourer is able to meet the demands of both retail and fleet customers as it offers versatility along with a range of clean and fuel efficient engines. Running costs are also low, not only compared with the older pre-2012 i30 Estate, but with major competitors too.
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There is a choice of two engines in the range, with motorists able to choose either the 120PS petrol unit, or alternatively the 1.6 CRDi diesel in the form of a 110PS or a higher-powered 128PS variant. Both engines are coupled to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The car on test here is the flagship ‘Style Nav’ 1.6 CRDi 128PS version, with a manual gearbox. Like the hatchback, the i30 Tourer comes specified with a generous list of standard features. The catalogue of kit includes: Bluetooth connectivity and voice recognition, multi-function steering wheel and air conditioning, body coloured door handles and mirrors, along with those aforementioned LED daytime running lights.
Slip behind the wheel, and there are no major complaints apart from the lack of a lumbar support adjustment. That said, the seats are moulded nicely and it’s easy to achieve a good driving position. The binnacle houses clear and simple dials and the car’s fuel gauge takes forever to shift from full. It’s just a shame some cheap looking cabin plastics are in keeping with the car’s unexceptional exterior.The touch screen navigation system isn’t that intuitive and therefore
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frustrates, but, like all things, once you get the hang of how the gadgetry works, it’s fine. There’s more technology to spice things up on the steering wheel too. Unlike the satnav, there’s a simple button you can push that changes the steering feel from normal to sporty. I kept it in ‘sport’ mode because in an otherwise bland, albeit practical and efficient vehicle, it offers a welcome spark of dynamism to the drive.
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The photo on page 30 is of Warrington Road, Rainhill
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Recipe of the month
Granny’s Xmas Pudding
The stout in this recipe will add the moisture to the pudding and the cocoa powder makes the pudding look lovely and dark.
Method
Ingredients 1oz mixed peel
4oz plain flour
1oz ground almonds
4oz breadcrumbs
2 medium sized eggs
4oz beef suet
¼ teaspoon almond essence
4oz brown sugar
2 teaspoons brandy
4oz raisins
1 can of stout
4oz sultanas
2 teaspoons cocoa powder
4oz glace cherries
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 grated lemon rind
¼ teaspoon baking powder
½ apple grated
¼ teaspoon mixed spice
½ carrot grated
Equipment 2 pint pyrex bowl, pudding bowl, clean tea towel or pudding cloth.
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Place all the dry ingredients in a large bowl and mix together. Add the eggs and the brandy and mix then pour in the stout gradually and keep stirring until your mixture is the consistency of a loose cake mix. Grease your pudding bowl with a little butter and pour in the pudding mix. Cover with foil and then a tea towel or pudding cloth and tie it to the top of the bowl, this is to prevent any water getting in. Place in a large boiling pan and fill with water ¾ of the way up the side of the bowl. Boil on a moderate heat for 6 hours keep topping up the water with boiled kettle water if the level starts to drop. When the pudding is ready turn it out and leave to cool. These puddings can be stored wrapped in foil from now until Christmas, to reheat just place the pudding back in the bowl and boil for another 2 hours on Christmas day. Can be served with a sprinkling of icing sugar on the top or pour on ¼ brandy and light for a flaming Christmas pudding.
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