West Lancashire Edition
June 2015
University challenge...
Edge Hill Win tickets to see
Kaiser Chiefs Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health & Fitness What’s On On Your Plot... www.locallife247.co.uk
2
3
Visit ay & us tod our ty suppor den ar local g . t n ce re
Hanging Baskets A Speciality!! 100’s to choose from.
Coffee Shop Open 7 days a week. Traditional Afternoon Tea For Two.
Great selection of plants on display
Top Quality Compost 3 for £12.00 - Summer Bedding Plants 5pks for £10.00
FREE Delivery Service. Road
n sL an Bli
ort
nd m
thp
ne
La
Great value & home grown.
Sou
Asmall
9
A5
01704 841121 Ormskirk Asmall Lane, Halsall, Ormskirk, L40 8JL
9
A5
www.primrosehillnurseries.co.uk
4
Let’s Evolve Business Networking Email: amanda@letsevolve.co.uk Check us out here:
@letsevolve Let’s Evolve Business Networking
www.letsevolve.co.uk Or call 01695 660 750
Chain
reaction
W
hen I was interviewed for this job, one of the questions was about how I would be getting around in my quest to bring the round up of news, events and interesting interviews to Local Life readers. “I have my own car - you won’t catch me cycling anywhere!” I laughed. Thankfully, so did everyone else but I’m now eating my words because, the other week, I was given, yes you’ve guessed it, a bicycle. The reason is simply; my daughter is now off her stabilisers so is wanting to be off everywhere on her bike. I took her to the park recently and quickly discovered that running after a youngster on two wheels for 45 minutes is not my idea of fun. So needs must. I confess to being nervous about getting back in the saddle. The last time I was in one was around 25 years ago, and very comfortable it was too on my Raleigh Chopper. But with summer now here, I have no excuse not to get outdoors on my new acquisition, or anywhere else for that matter. If you are similarly wanting to blow off the cobwebs, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in this month’s magazine, from a free offers to paid-for events. As for me, I think you can guess what I’ll be doing this summer. I just hope I didn’t throw away those stabilisers... they may come in handy.
David Sudworth - Editor
Local Life Media
@locallifemedia
5
In this issue Loving
Jack’s Tracks
summer
Limbrick
24
41
Focus on
Win tickets to see
Edge Hill
Kaiser Chiefs
28
44
Potato & chorizo
On your
tortilla
plot
32
46
Regulars 14 Class from the past 19 Planning Matters 22 Puzzle Corner
Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
36 What’s on 51 Useful Numbers
Telephone: 01695 627 999 Publisher: Chris Pearce Sales: Lisa Jackson, Nicola Gray Editorial: David Sudworth
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk sales@locallife247.co.uk editorial@locallife247.co.uk
Sections
Design: Peter Bretherton Distribution: Sally Boon
sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
6 14 24 31
Accounts: Sam Garrahan
accounts@locallife247.co.uk
Local News 36 Leisure Children & Education 46 Gardening Heath & Fitness 48 Home Services Food & Drink Next issue - July 2015
Advertising deadline - Wednesday 3 June Published - Monday 22 June
design@locallife247.co.uk
Local Life is published every month. The magazine will be distributed into the following edition areas on an alternate monthly basis. This edition will be edition is delivered via Royal Mail to every home and business in the L39 postcode district and also to the L40-6 postcode sector - that’s a total of 12,625 copies. The next edition will be delivered via Royal Mail to every home and business in the L40 postcode district and also to the PR4-6 and WN8-7 postcode sectors - that’s a total of 13,209 copies.
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.
6
New health
centre?
Bold plans for a new medical centre, pharmacy and retail unit in Aughton have received a mixed response.
for medical care and retail, for both proposed and existing housing, within this area. It would impact upon public visual amenity as it is a large and overbearing development.”
McComb Property Company Ltd submitted plans to build on land at the junction of Long Lane and Aughton Park Drive.
A Long Lane resident wrote: “Parking at the moment is awful due to commuters using Aughton Park train station. The proposed development of parking spaces would be all taken up by train users before any additional shoppers, or people going to the doctors, which would just create more parking havoc.”
According to paperwork lodged with the application, the proposed medical centre would facilitate the re-location of the existing GP practice, Aughton Surgery, which presently operates from Town Green Lane. Agents on behalf of the applicants claim: “The size of the existing practice and the needs of a growing local population have far outgrown the capacity of the existing building, which is in need of modernisation. The proposed new medical centre would be modern, purposebuilt and of quality design that would meet the needs of the community and would allow for the provision of a full range of services.” A number of residents have now written to the council to make observations/representations. A Rose Place resident told West Lancs Borough Council planners: “There is already ample provision
However, some residents support the plan. A Beaumont Crescent resident said: “Citizens of Aughton will have more choice of goods available to consume which would arguably be of a higher quality than those available in walking distance to Aughton residents.“ And an Aughton Park Drive resident said: “I am in agreement with this application as there is a need for these facilities. It will also enable ease of collection of medical supplies in one trip. The convenience store will also be a welcome addition.” A final decision on the application is due soon.
7
8
Decade
celebrations
A local organisation which helps people with disabilities lead a fulfilling life is celebrating its 10th birthday. West Lancashire Positive Living marked the milestone by holding a celebratory evening at
Skelmersdale Cricket Club, Blaguegate Lane, Lathom. The evening included a buffet and disco for all the people who use West Lancs Positive Living, their parents/carers and all the support staff. There was a fundraising raffle too. Some of the support staff had made an interactive display based on the West Lancs Positive Living Logo, everyone had to write something about what they like and admire about Positive Living. The evening, which was attended by Halsall councillor Doreen Stephenson in her capacity as Mayor of West Lancashire. Alison Tupling, chairman, said: “Since our inception, we have used a Person Centred Approach which was unique at the time and we continue to do so.”
AUGHTON BLINDS & SHUTTERS (Formerly Cane & Table)
Over 30 Years Of Quality & Service
• FREE MEASURING & FITTING • FREE QUOTATIONS & HOME VISIT Call for a quote child safe
Tel: 01695 422947 • Mob: 07719 742984 www.aughtonblinds.co.uk Aughton Blinds
9
Carnival time in
Westhead
One of West Lancashire’s biggest crowd-pullers is back! Summer wouldn’t be the same without the Westhead Carnival, which draws in people from right across the borough. Now in its 41st year, the three day event is run by a dedicated committee of local volunteers. The fun starts on Thursday, July 2, with a car boot on School Lane field from 4pm. The following evening, there’s a ticket-only fancy dress in the marquee from 7pm. Saturday is the main event, with a procession
starting from Cross Hall Brow at 12.30pm and making its way down to the school field. Awaiting carnival-goers will be the usual stalls, fun dog show, Ormskirk Ukelele Club, Punch & Judy, vintage cars and music. Admission on the Saturday is £1 for adults and 50p for concessions. Tickets to the fancy dress dance on the Friday cost £10 (the theme is Americana), and are available from either Moira on 01695 575397 or Peter on 07764 233311.
• Conservatories • Orangeries • Garage Conversions • Porch & Composite Doors • UPVC Specialist’s • Conservatory Re-Roof’s
Garage and entrance doors in matching styles
Office space - Student Study - Children’s Playroom Classroom - Music Room - Gym Space No Planning permission required* *See website for further details.
Wide variety of finishes from Cedar wood to render or brick to match your house. Full turnkey service including flooring, insulation, electrics, plastering and decoration. Visit our new garden Rooms display site at Warbreck Garden Centre, Lathom, L40 6JW. We are a family run business who specialise in conservatories, garage conversions and all aspects of glazing.
For more information or a free quote please call
CJM Garage Doors Ltd, Unit 10, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB t: 01695 633322 w: www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk
10
Basketball team’s net
gains
Ormskirk Saints Basketball Club are celebrating receiving private funding from local businesses. The junior club is currently based at St Bedes High School in Ormskirk and provides community basketball sessions on a Saturday morning to boys and girls aged 6-18. Liverpool based investment manager and stockbroker Blankstone Sington and local topsoil producer R Draper Ltd have provided sponsorship that will support the club’s development. The aim is for the club to start offering regular competition for their players but much depends on the support from local businesses such as these. The club are actively seeking new sponsors and players from across West Lancashire,
Free, no obligation discussion for all your bookkeeping needs Contact Petra on Telephone Mobile
as well as potential volunteers with background and enthusiasm for the sport. If you are interested in getting involved, email ormskirksaints@gmail.com
11
Rural speed cuts Campaigners are celebrating after speed cuts were agreed on roads in Aughton and Bickerstaffe. Mill Lane, Cut Lane and Shepherds Lane in Aughton will now become 40mph, as will Stopgate Lane; the main route from Bickerstaffe to Simonswood. A report to Cllr John Fillis, cabinet member for highways, stated: “Requests to reduce the speed limit on Mill Lane were received from local residents, who complained about inappropriate traffic speeds on this narrow country lane, which currently has a
victory de-restricted speed limit of 60mph. Following site inspections and discussion with the police, it is considered a 40mph limit would be appropriate.” Regarding Cut Lane and Shepherds Lane, it said: “In the past 12 months a new 40mph speed limit was introduced on Narrow Lane, which necessitates signing to be erected on Cut Lane and Shepherds Lane. Due to insufficient highway land at these junctions to accommodate the signing, it is necessary to reduce the current de-restricted speed limits on a short stretch of Cut Lane/Shepherds Lane to 40mph to enable the signing to be provided.”
With a children’s adventure play area and delicious new dining menu with our new ‘Plantation’ retaurant is now open. Warbreck is a great destination for all the family.
12
Hospital bus
battle
Bus bosses have promised to review the re-routing of a hospital bus. Arriva’s 375 and 385 services from Ormskirk used to stop at Southport Hospital’s main entrance, but those routes were changed recently. This left passengers having to get off at a side entrance on Scarisbrick New Road, and walk the remaining distance. West Lancashire’s newly re-elected MP, Rosie Cooper, met with Arriva Merseyside’s managing director Howard Farrall along with representatives from Lancashire County Council and Merseytravel
seeking a U-turn on the changes. She said: “I am very concerned about the rerouting of the bus service which takes many residents from West Lancashire to Southport Hospital. The change in route causes difficulties to many users of the hospital, particularly the elderly and disabled. “Having met with Arriva Merseyside, I have been promised they will relook at the routing of the 375/385 bus and at the problems being experienced especially by elderly and disabled patients. I will keep an eye on this situation and push for a quick response.”
Are you fed up with clutter? Need EASY ACCESS to your loft? Do you want to: • De-clutter Your Home • Create Up To 1/3rd More Space • Have Safe & Easy Loft Access We supply and fit: • Loft Ladders & Loft Hatches • Boarding, Lighting • Insulation We guarantee: • Professional & Friendly Service • No Mess • 5 Year Full Parts & Labour Guarantee
2013 & 2014
CALL NOW TO BOOK YOUR FREE, NO OBLIGATION SURVEY & QUOTE
www.access4lofts-preston.co.uk
email: access4lofts@aol.com
01772 811611
13
Geoff saddles
up
When Geoff Dermott got a bike for his 50th birthday, he set himself a challenge. One year on and, as Local Life went to press, Geoff, who owns Premier Wear on Aughton Street, Ormskirk, was busy pedalling his way between Lands End and John O’Groats. Geoff said: “My 50th birthday present was a bike and I set myself a challenge to cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats in 12 months’ time. Having four teenage children of my own has inspired me to
carry out this challenge and in doing so I hope to to raise awareness and funds for Teenage Cancer Trust and Stepping Stones, so anything people are able to donate will be gratefully received.” To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/geoff-dermott
14
Schools are on
target
West Lancashire’s community and voluntary-controlled schools are providing the correct number of places for new pupils, a report has claimed. Admission numbers for 2016/17 have now been set by education chiefs following a meeting at County Hall in Preston. The largest primary intake in the area is set at 60 for Ormskirk CE Primary School on Greetby Hill, while the smallest is Pinfold in Scarisbrick, which is set at seven. For secondaries, Ormskirk School’s admission is 250.
Class from the
A report to Lancs County Council’s cabinet member for education, Cllr Matthew Tomlinson, said: “During the autumn term in 2014, the County Council consulted with the governors of community and controlled schools on the proposed arrangements for admission, and they were invited to comment on the proposed admissions policy and admission number for their school. Further parties, including other admission authorities within the relevant area for each community and controlled school, were also consulted on the proposals.” The admissions process for 2016/17 starts later this year.
past
This month’s Class from the Past is from Cross Hall School, Ormskirk. It’s believed this photo was taken in the mid 1980s. 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
15
16
Choral director wanted
Take a break from cleaning
Ormskirk Music Society is on the hunt for a new choral director. Their current director is leaving the post soon so they need someone new from September onwards. Call Margaret on 01257 463632 or Diane on 01695 624253.
Design Awards There is still time for you to nominate your favourite building or development for West Lancashire Borough Council’s design awards. The deadline for nominations has been extended to Friday, May 29, and awards will be given for designs which contribute to the overall quality of the borough. Designs must have been completed after June 2013 to be eligible for entry. Nomination forms are available from local libraries, the Customer Service Points in Derby Street, Ormskirk, or by emailing ian.bond@westlancs.gov.uk or calling 01695 585167.
We make life easier for you and your family with a range of housekeeping services
Cleaning / Ironing / Laundry Collection Of Shopping, Prescriptions etc. Support Services For The Elderly One-Off Cleans Our prices are only ÂŁ9.75 per hour (minimum 2 hours a week) Our reliable, friendly and honest cleaners are fully insured to work in your home. Domestic & Commercial enquiries welcomed Please call for more details or visit our website
01942 369 316 03330 124 642 Charged at Local Rate including mobiles!
www.acleanbreak.co.uk stephen@acleanbreak.co.uk
Cleaning locally since 2006
17
Look Beautiful Feel Great Here at Amor hair and beauty Aughton we offer a wide variety of beauty treatments using some of the finest products in the beauty industry. All our therapists are fully qualified and take pride in the services we offer.
• • • •
NON SURGICAL FACELIFTS • Anti-ageing Microdermabrasion Targets lines and wrinkles • Lip plump • Brow lifts LED light therapy
Buy a course of 3 Get 4th free
Semi Permanent Lashes • • • • •
Weightless semi permanent lashes Different length’s to get desired length and thicknesses Long lasting with regular infill’s No damage to natural eyelashes Party lashes
We offer gift vouchers, L’Oreal gift sets and pamper packages tailored to your needs.
Hair
• L’OREAL stockist and colour salon • Cover all aspects of unisex hairdressing • BALMAIN, GLAMOURS LENGTH and PERFECTRESS hair extensions,fitted by micro beads, fusions bonds and micro wefts to add length, thickness and volume.
Nails • • • • • •
Entity acrylic for nail enhancement Tip overlay and sculpting techniques Natural, French manicure and glitter acrylics CND shellac and rockstar Gel and OPI polishes Nail art
• • • •
100% active organic natural ingredients Different shades to suit all skin tones Lasts 5 to 7 days Fast drying and non-stick
Nouvatan Beauty
• Waxing • Lash and eyebrow tinting • Manicures
Monday- Thursday special prices for over 60s Thursday - Saturday student discounts (ID required)
• Pedicures • Facials • Massages
130 Liverpool Rd Aughton L39 3LW 01695 421 866 Find us on Open: Monday - Wednesday - 9.00 till 5.30; Thursday - Friday - 9.00 till late; Saturday - 8.30 till 5.00; Sunday - on request
18
19
Planning Matters Aughton Birches Brow, Formby Lane: Conversion of 5 bedroom house into 9 serviced guest rooms. (ref: 2015/0411/COU). Decision due by June 25. 3 Cut Lane: Demolition of swimming pool, conservatory, summer room, double garage and outbuildings. Conversion of front games room into garage and erection of single storey bungalow (ref: 2015/0374/FUL). Decision due by June 19.
Ormskirk Site of former Westec House, Derby Street: Outline application for residential development. (ref: 2015/0383/WL3). Decision due by July 16. 12 Holborn Hill: Two storey and single storey extensions, removal of car port and garage (ref: 22015/0389/FUL). Decision due by June 12. BP Service Station, County Road: Installation of two 50,000 litre steel tanks (ref:2015/0386/FUL). Decision due by June 18. Scarisbrick
51 Long Lane: Two storey extension to rear (ref: 2015/0351/FUL). Decision due by June 15.
91a Hall Road: Two storey rear extension. (ref: 2015/0375/FUL). Decision due by June 23.
Eastwood Farm, Narrow Lane: Retention of mobile home for use as a temporary workers dwelling (ref: 2015/0371/COU). Decision due by June 19.
For more information on these plans, visit www. westlancs.gov.uk
20
ALL NEW REPLACEMENT CONSERVATORY ROOF SYSTEM Too HOT in the Summer or too COLD in the Winter? ConveRt youR old ConseRvAtoRy Into
• Choice of tile & slate colours • 40 year guarantee • Choice of internal ceiling finishes • Easy to install to any existing conservatory • Giving U-Values down to 0.18
FInAnCe oPtIons AvAIlABle to sPReAd tHe Cost oF youR RooF
A usuABle All yeAR Round solutIon!
AFTER
BEFORE
d visit Come an m roo o sh r ou w n se and e a on installati
CALL US NOW FOR A FREE SURVEY
0800 328 8749
8 Cocker Avenue, Poulton Le Flyde, FY6 8JW A division of Blackpool Industrial Roofing
Call us now for details - 01744 884820 rainfordwindows@yahoo.co.uk
RAINFORD WINDOWS LTD
Holly Farm, News Lane, Rainford
www.rainfordwindows.co.uk
21
Could your bathroom benefit from a Touch of Magic We supply and fit:
Tragic
Magic
• UPVC Ceilings (no more maintenance) • Flooring: Vinyl, Tile and UPVC • Shower Cubicles and UPVC Wet Wall (no more mouldy tile grout) • Bath Panels, Taps and Showers • Tile and Grout Cleaning, Sealing and New Precision Silicone
to ‘its former glory’ We can restore your bathroom brand new bathroom! at a fraction of the price of a “The bathrooms now look better than when they were first done over 13 years ago.” (Mrs Gannon, March 2014)
Call now for further information
01695 228021 0800 803 0990 www.TotalBathroomRestoration.co.uk
22
Puzzle
corner
Guess where? Wordsearch Sudoku
Holiday Essentials
Answers are on page 40 of this magazine
Passport Vaccination Tickets Camera Insurance Visa
Bikini Sunglasses Flipflops Lotion Plasters Shorts
Towels Lilo Bucket Spade Goggles Trunks
23
24
find using antibacterial wipes so easy and quick makes it less of a chore!”
Health & Fitness
Loving
summer T By Abi Jackson
here’s something magical about summer that lifts spirits, boosts motivation levels, relieves tensions and generally makes everything seem happier and more fun. For many of us, it means spending more time outdoors, topping up our minds, bodies and souls with a good dose of nature, fresh air and sunshine. Yet ‘summer dread’ can crop up too. If your countdown has been spent fretting over the thought of having to bare more flesh, put up with another bout of sweat rashes and chafing, or cope with the intensified social pressures. Summer though, like everything else in life, doesn’t have to be ‘perfect’ - and you don’t have to have a ‘perfect’ bikini body, or ‘perfect’ social life to enjoy it. You just need some expert tips on how to make the most of a few months of sunshine. Lucy Paltnoi, an energy healer and guide, says: “Each year, I clear the winter energy out of our home. I go through every room and decide what stays, goes or needs to be repaired, and store away blankets, jumpers, coats and boots, and take out lighter layers, T-shirts, cardigans and jackets. Cupboards are cleaned and tidied.I finish with some vases of fresh flowers or plants and light some candles, inviting new, sparkly energy into our home for the year ahead.” Sioned Quirke, NHS and media dietician, likes to have a serious fridge clear out: “I usually find several items that have been sitting there for a while that I won’t use again, or may have passed the recommended storage time - especially sauces and conserves. I give my fridge a good clean too and I
Anna Magee, women’s health expert and editor, is a huge fan of small changes: “I give the house a ‘skinny makeover’. The average person makes a staggering 200 food decisions a day, according to research by Cornell University, so I change a few things about the way we eat to subliminally increase my willpower. These include drinking out of tall glasses (proven to lead to drinking less), covering healthy leftovers in cling-film so I can see them, and Sunday’s chocolate cake remainders in foil so I can’t. It also means setting the scene with soft jazz at dinner - in another Cornell University study, people in a fast-food restaurant listening to soft jazz ate 18% less than those listening to rock’n’roll!”
25
Care in your OWN Home ASK AMANDA! Amanda Barlow is the Registered Care Manager for Right at Home – she answers your questions.
Can you take mum “out and about”? YES. A common image of “home care” is that we only look after people who are housebound. However, many of our customers can still get around - even if they need a little help. We take people to essential appointments such as the doctors, dentist and local hospitals - Chorley, Preston and Ormskirk. If customers have a “disabled badge” this can make parking much easier.
Now the weather is improving we can take customers to leisure activities – the garden centre, supermarket shopping, meals out, trips to Southport or Botany Bay and sporting events. If people want we can take them further afield – christenings, funerals – nationwide if requested! In the past we accompanied a young man to a nightclub, a customer to her apartment in Spain and my mum went with a lady on a cruise! As a responsible company all our carers have adequate car business insurance and we have a company insurance policy. If you do want taking abroad we do have to upgrade our insurance policy whilst you are away – but it can be done!
If you do want to get “out and about” please call Amanda on 01695 333 007
EUER TR FURRHO
FO
Quality Care & Companionship in the comfort of your own home
Support & Companionship Outside Your Home Days & nights out, appointments, holidays etc
L
IA
7pm ‘til 7am Emergency Respite & Care during the night Hospital to Home Quality Care following time in hospital
Cancer Care in your own home Right at Home in partnership with St Catherine’s Hospice
Right at Home carers are reliable, friendly and well trained - many are Dementia & Parkinson’s specialists.
Call Amanda or Nicky on 01257 696 050 to arrange your free, no obligation 4 hour trial
01695 333 007
or visit rightathomeUK.co.uk
Locally based
Registered with the Care Quality Commission. Each Right at Home office is independently owned and operated.
26
Fairfield’s added
dimension David Sudworth discovers how a local, independent hospital is using 3D printers to change people’s lives
T
im Collier is a man back on his own two feet again - and it’s all thanks to a pioneering service provided by Fairfield Independent Hospital.
The 52-year-old osteoarthritis sufferer couldn’t walk very far or stand for long periods of time. The pain restricted him doing things many take for granted. He then turned to Fairfield, based in Crank, St Helens, who is now using 3D printing technology to create and fit bespoke knee implants. The technology, designed by ConforMIS, uses a CT image to capture a patient’s individual bone structure. ConforMIS then use the information to create a bespoke implant. Bespoke implants ensure that there is no overhang as the implant is custom made for the patient’s knee. Compared with standard ‘off-the-shelf’ replacements, there is no exposed bone; where the implant is either too big or too small. Both can cause pain and discomfort, which has led to increasing demand for tailor-made solutions. For Tim, the operation has transformed his life: “Two of my sons are involved in IT and when I showed them on the website what I was going to have done they were all over it like geeks! I have been making good progress and there’s quite a lot of bend in my knee. I’ve been told to start walking again without my crutches which I wouldn’t be able to do under normal circumstances. I feel like a bit of a pioneer.”
Tim Collier with Mr Ravindra Gudena
Fairfield, just a short distance from the East Lancs Road, is one of the very few remaining charitable hospitals in the country. Established in 1979, the site was originally the Pilkington family home and was purchased by the charity. Since 1986 it has been run as an independent hospital. Fairfield Independent Hospital is now known across the region for its high standards of care and determination to, where possible, use the latest technology to benefit its patients.
27
Fairfield’s ambition is to be one of the leading centres for joint replacement in the North west, as it has more ConforMIS trained knee surgeons there than anywhere else in the UK.
“For each surgery we receive a surgical plan which works like a map of your knee, providing us with information that typically we can’t see until we are in the operating room.
ConforMIS say their goal is to give patients the most natural-feeling knee they possibly can. They believe that the more an implant mimics the natural shape of a patient’s knee, the more likely it is to move more naturally and feel more natural.
“They provide up to 27% more bone preservation and therefore a thinner implant, which results in less bone being cut during surgery. The implants are also designed for single use to reduce risk of infection. It is very exciting that Fairfield Independent Hospital and Mr Gudena are leading the field in the use of this technology locally.”
Mr Ravindra Gudena, who performed the first operation on Tim, the first of this kind at Fairfield,
“Unique advantages” said: “ConforMIS Patient-specific knee replacement has its own unique advantages, including bone preservation, reduced blood loss and a quicker recovery. The patients can get to the activity levels they used to with no limitation as the ConforMIS Knee replacement has a natural knee feel.
Currently this service is only available to privately insured and self-paying patients. You will need to speak to your GP and ask for a referral to one of Fairfield’s ConforMIS trained orthopaedic consultants. For more information about booking an appointment, call 01744 746 425 or email enquiries@fairfield.org.uk
g in iv L r o f is e Lif
FAIRFIELD INDEPENDENT
HOSPITAL
St. Helens
High quality affordable healthcare Fairfield Independent Hospital
ry our revolutiona knee pain – try ith w r . ffe ts su an ’t pl on im D g 3D ent surgery usin knee replacem ation call For more inform
01744 746 425
Crank Road Crank Nr Rainford WA11 7RS 01744 746 425 www.fairfield.org.uk
Hip Preservation Surgery | Private MRI | Pain Management | Cosmetic Surgery
28
Degrees of
recognition David Sudworth meets the man who, over 36 years, has become the public face of Edge Hill University
J
ohn Cater’s rugby playing days may be well behind him, but the reason he stopped when he did provides a fascinating insight into his own leadership philosophy.
“I injured my ribs. I could have carried on but actually, if I’d have done that, I could have seriously been hurt. Rugby is a game which the only way it can be played is with full intensity.” One could say the same ethos applies when you’re heading up West Lancashire’s biggest employer. Having been at Edge Hill since 1979, and now the longest serving vice chancellor in the country at 22 years and counting, John knows the Ormskirk institution inside out. I meet him in his office, just a short walk from the main reception area – a slightly surprising location given that most jobs at this level come complete with a plush retreat far away from the hoi polloi. But more of that later.
29
The university’s rapid £250 million expansion in the past 10 years has brought brickbats and bouquets from across the spectrum. It is a winner of The University of The Year title, with John Gill, editor of The Times Higher Education, praising Edge Hill as “a great success story that improves and impresses year after year.” However, closer to home, it has its detractors. Letters complaining about pressure on housing, fields given over to development and on-street disorder are a regular feature in the local papers. But when negative comments appear, John doesn’t sit back and let others do the explaining, he leads from the front by doing it himself: “I don’t crave publicity but the fact is I’m the best paid person here and as a result it’s my job to take responsibility, not shirk it. If it is fair criticism, I will accept it but when you get biased accusations, then it’s important to correct it with the facts. I do get recognised when I go into Ormskirk and some people do stare, but with some I think it’s more of a ‘I recognise you from somewhere’ look. I’m not going to say everything is perfect but where we know someone is causing trouble, we will always seek to act. The problem is if someone rings up three days later and says there
“We always seek to act”
My father kept chickens which were trying to avoid Christmas - I still don’t eat that meat! One of the reasons I came to Ormskirk was that in many ways it was like Towcester in terms of the size and scale of it,” says John, now 62. “Also, there was a link because my grandfather worked for the Hesketh Estate and the Heskeths had owned Rufford Old Hall. I was interviewed by Cambridge but decided to come to Edge Hill instead - I’m probably one of the very few people to do that!” he laughs. He arrived in West Lancashire having studied at the University of Wales in Lampeter, spent some time working at Liverpool Polytechnic and, around the time of the 1979 general election, worked in a policy unit under Angela Rumbold, who went on to be a minister in the Thatcher and Major governments: “At the time she was a senior councillor on Kingston
was some trouble down their road, identifying the persons involved can be difficult.” It can be a tricky path to tread but as someone who has written papers on social policy - and Ormskirk is one area which has arguably changed more than any other in West Lancs in recent years - it’s a subject John finds endlessly interesting. Born on February 3, 1953, he was brought up in the small market town of Towcester, between Northampton and Milton Keynes: “We lived in a 1920s council house. We had no bathroom, no indoor loo and no hot water but a large garden.
John at home with his late sister, Susan
30
Council. My salary was paid for by the council. It was surreal at times because one minute she’d be asking for a policy paper of education or social care, and the next it would be ‘can you go and get me 20 Embassy?’ “I knew Ormskirk anyway because while at Liverpool I’d played rugby and cricket against Ormskirk. That late 70s cricket team were brilliant.” Having arrived at Edge Hill, his initial posting was as lecturer in geography but then rose through the ranks, eventually succeeding Ruth Gee in the top job in 1993. However, during his time at St Helens Road, there have been occasions when Edge Hill’s future was far from certain: “It all started really when teacher training colleges were abolished in the 1970s. In 1982, Lancashire County Council actually voted to close Edge Hill altogether. We ran a campaign to save it and I know at the time there were private discussions about what the site may be used for, such as for young offenders, a psychiatric hospital or simply raze it to the ground. We did a lot of lobbying and they rescinded their decision. However, in 1988, an Act of Parliament released the polytechnics from local authority control so in 1989 we were basically set adrift. By 1992, many of the old polys had become universities but we couldn’t because we had 178 too few students. The expectation was that Edge Hill would disappear so, for 10 years until 2003, we had a period of trying to stabilise. The government then produced a White Paper on Higher Education which gave the bigger colleges the right to bid to become universities. We got degree-awarding powers and that set us on the road to becoming a university.”
One of the bugbears from local residents is the amount of Green Belt land in Ormskirk which has been released for Edge Hill’s expansion. John believes the reason for the disquiet emanates from the local council’s stance on the issue at the time: “With 20/20 hindsight, from 2003 there should have been a gradual release of land to meet the gradual demand. All it did was create a greater demand for accommodation in Ormskirk town centre. The difficulty is also that once a house goes to being a private rent, it’s difficult to turn back. We have no desire to grow bigger than we are right now. We have an idea of what the market will take. We’ve seen universities grow too big.”
“We have no desire to grow bigger” Speaking about his own tenure, John is quite candid about the reason why he’s remained at Edge Hill for so long: “I’m not very ambitious to be honest. I came here in 1979, married a Lancashire lass in 1981, had children in 1986 and 1988, played club cricket at Newburgh and live on the outskirts of Parbold.” On the way out, I ask John why his office is so close to the main reception, in the oldest part of the campus, and not in some swanky new-build part, of which there are plenty. I venture whether it’s so he can keep an eye on who is coming in and out. He laughs: “No, nothing like that. I just think that the best facilities should go to the people who are paying us to be here. Tuition fees make up a massive part of our funding now. So to take that money and not give these future teachers, doctors and nurses the best would, for me, be morally wrong.”
31
Food & Drink
Blanc
canvas by Jeananne Craig
O
n a recent trip to France to visit his 92-year-old mother, Raymond Blanc was woken by a noise in the garden. “It was 6am, I opened the shutters and who did I see? Maman Blanc,” the chef recalls. “That little woman had already hoed about 10 square metres of earth, and she was going fast. I said, ‘Maman, can you stop? You’ll break your back!’” The father-of-two, who grew up in Besancon, eastern France, adds: “My sons call her Mother Teresa on speed. She’s still working 10 times faster than me.” Blanc’s father was also a keen gardener, and while his school friends were playing football, he and his four siblings would be digging soil and harvesting food for his mother to cook, bottle or pickle to store for the cold winter months. “It gave me an understanding of seasonality, of heritage,” says the 65-year-old. “For me, it was the strongest part of my philosophy, and it still is today.” Blanc’s culinary big break came when, after moving to England in 1972 to work as a waiter, the eatery’s chef fell ill, and he ended up being required to take over in the kitchen. By 1984, the two-Michelin starred chef had opened hotel and restaurant Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire. “The first thing I did at Le Manoir was create an immense garden. Before I even considered the foundations or the roof, I did the garden.” His passion for gardens hasn’t abated, and he can currently be seen on the BBC Two series Kew On A Plate. “This programme doesn’t try to educate, it wants to share knowledge,” says the food star, who has an expansive understanding of fresh produce, and its nutritional value. “I wish we could tell the whole world about the importance of eating well, and fresh food. The fresher your food is, the more nutrients it has.” Want to get fresh in the kitchen? Here are two Kew On A Plate recipes to try at home. Kew On A Plate With Raymond Blanc: Recipes, Horticulture And Heritage is published in hardback by Headline Books, priced £25. Available now.
32
New potato and chorizo
tortilla
Serves 4 - 6 Ingredients 400g Jersey Royal potatoes, quartered
Method Preheat the oven to 170C/Gas 3.5. In a medium sautĂŠ pan with a lid, over a medium heat, sweat the potatoes, onion and garlic in the oil with
1 onion, diced
the bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, Espelette pepper
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
or smoked paprika and salt for 13-15 minutes. Stir
3tbsp olive oil 2 bay leaves 1 thyme sprig
regularly to avoid any colouring. Add the chorizo and continue to sweat for five minutes with the lid on so the flavours mingle. Finally, add the parsley and spinach and stir them into the vegetables
1 rosemary sprig
for 30 seconds, then remove from the heat, add the
Pinch of Espelette pepper or smoked paprika
eggs and stir everything together until evenly mixed.
Pinch of sea salt
Pour the egg mixture into a 20cm non-stick ovenproof
120g chorizo, cut into small dice
frying pan and place in the oven for 15 minutes. Once
15g flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped 80g spinach, chopped 8 eggs, whisked
cooked, remove from the oven and leave to rest for five minutes before turning out on to a board or a large serving dish. Using a serrated knife, cut the omelette into four to six wedge-shaped slices and serve warm.
33
Carrot
cake Method Preheat the oven to 170C/Gas 3.5. Line two 26 x 9 x 8cm terrine moulds, or 900g loaf tins, with baking parchment, leaving an overhang of paper.
Prepare the cake batter. In a food mixer on a medium
Makes 2 loaves Ingredients For the carrot cake: 300g light brown sugar
speed, whisk together the sugar, eggs, marzipan and vanilla puree or extract for about four minutes, until smooth and light. Continue mixing and pour in the sunflower oil in a steady stream. Mix together the flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking powder, salt and spices and sift. Fold into the wet mixture until fully incorporated. Lastly, fold in the
3 medium eggs
sultanas and carrot, then pour the mixture into your
100g marzipan
lined terrine moulds or tins.
1tsp vanilla puree or good-quality vanilla extract
Bake the carrot cakes in the oven for 45 minutes. To
300ml sunflower oil 300g plain flour, sifted
check if the cakes are cooked, insert a sharp paring knife into each and touch it to your lips; it should feel hot. For greater accuracy, insert a probe into the centre
1tsp bicarbonate of soda
of the cake - it should read 76-82C. At this temperature,
1tsp baking powder
all the ingredients will be cooked through.
1/2tsp sea salt
Remove the cakes from the oven, take them out
1tsp ground cinnamon
of the moulds and leave to cool on a cooling rack.
1tsp ground ginger
It is important to turn them out of their moulds immediately so that they don’t steam inside the
100g sultanas
moulds. Of course, the cake can be eaten just as it is,
300g carrots, grated
but for more of a celebration, ice it.
For the icing and topping (optional):
To make the icing, briskly beat the cream cheese,
75g cream cheese
butter and icing sugar together in a large mixing bowl.
25g unsalted butter, softened 75g icing sugar 30g pecan nuts/walnuts, toasted, to decorate
Once the cakes are completely cool, use a palette knife to spread the icing on top of each loaf and finish by scattering over a few whole toasted pecan nuts or walnuts.
34
Eating out
guide Advertise
Fifteens @ The Fox
here
With real fires burning, local fresh food and great cask ales, Fifteens @ The Fox offers a perfect combination of a traditional pub with relaxed fine dining, seven days a week. 01695 628178 Roby Mill, Up Holland, WN8 0QF fifteensatthefox.com
£30 + VAT
Call 01695 627999
Infusions Café Bistro Infusions is a family run Café Bistro, serving fresh, cooked to order food, using locally sourced products whenever possible. Visit our website or Facebook page to see an up to date menu. 4, Orrell Lane, Burscough, Lancashire, L40 0SQ 01704 893356 www.infusionscafebistro.com
Saracens Head
Town Green Brasserie
Beside the canal at Halsall, diners come from miles around to visit this popular venue which has a proud reputation for serving locally grown produce and fresh seasonal food. 01704 840204 100 Summerwood Lane, Halsall L39 8RH thesaracensheadhalsall.co.uk
This new venue serves food all day, seven days a week, with a lunch club menu, and coffee and cake, preceding an exciting evening menu with fresh seafood a speciality. 01695 420 883 Town Green Ln, Aughton, L39 6SE seafoodpubcompany.com
Advertise
here £48 + VAT
Call 01695 627999
35
Plantation Restaurant Now Open! From wholesome breakfasts and a delicious lunchtime menu to traditional Lancastrian afternoon teas, the new Plantation Restaurant at Warbreck Garden Centre is the place to go. 01695 722960 Lyelake Lane, Lathom, L40 6JW warbreckgardencentre.co.uk
The Blue Mallard Michelin Guide 2015:- “Beside the towpath you’ll find a restored Victorian wharf filled with small artisan businesses and this unfussy first floor restaurant. Cooking is fresh, local and flavoursome, with a modern edge; the set menu offers great value.” Burscough Wharf, L40 5RZ 01704 893 954
Royal Oak A handsome, well-kept traditional pub serving classic great value British pub food seven days a week from 12 noon. Quiz night Mondays and music night Fridays from 9pm. 01695 422121 134 Liverpool Road, Aughton L39 3LW royaloakaughton.co.uk
Advertise
The Plough Inn
here
Dating back 400 years, this traditional family-friendly country pub in Lathom is a family run business serving a a wide selection of quality food and beverages, including a country carvery. 01695 722322 Spa Lane, Lathom, L40 6JG theploughinnlathom.co.uk
The Ship Inn Built in 1750, The Ship Inn near Haskayne is situated in a picturesque canalside location. This dog-friendly pub offers a great range of food and drink, and a beer garden. 01704 840077 6, Rosemary Ln, Haskayne, L39 7JP theshipinnhaskayne.co.uk
Quattro’s A family run Italian restaurant situated on the Rainford By-pass at Bickerstaffe. Being just off the slip road of the M58 makes this an ideal location for meeting friends and business lunches. 01695 720800 54 Rainford Road, Bickerstaffe, Ormskirk L39 0HF quattros.co.uk
£30 + VAT
The Cricketers In elegant yet cosy surroundings near Ormskirk centre, you can enjoy simple pub classics or a range of innovative daily specials. Famed for its delicious selection of Lancashire Tapas. Fantastic value set menu every Sunday. 01695 571123 24 Chapel St, Ormskirk L39 4QF thecricketers-ormskirk.co.uk
Call 01695 627999 The Stocks Tavern Warmest and friendliest of welcomes with award winning chef Mike Heap, who uses only the finest, freshest, local ingredients to ensure you leave completely satisfied. 01257 462874 16, Alder Lane, Parbold, WN8 7NN thestockstavern.co.uk
36
Events & Leisure
What’s
on
Half Term Tennis Camp Tuesday, May 26-Friday, May 29 The new season has started at Ormskirk Tennis Club on County Road, and a half term tennis camp for juniors aged 5 to 16, will be held from 9.30am-1pm. The cost is £46 for 4 days or £12 per day for non members. For more details or a chat about what’s on offer contact Chris on 07768 733190 or email tennis@radiantliving.co.uk
Southport Country Fair Friday, May 29-Sunday, May 31 Held at Leisure Lakes, The Gravel, Mere Brow, there’s a range of family attractions from ferret racing, duck herding, fairground rides and Motorcross displays on the Sunday. Enrtry is adults £4 and children free on the Friday, or £6 and £2 respectively on the Saturday/Sunday. Book online at www.gardenfestivals.com
Summer Fair Saturday, May 30
Chorley & District Carnival Friday, June 5-Sunday, June 7 Astley Park is once again the venue for the annual event. Friday night is half price Fun Fair night. Saturday is carnival day with parade through the town, from 11.30am. Admission is £4 for adults, £3 for children at the gate, or with a carnival programme bought in advance for £3 which allows one adult and one child in on any one day. For more information visit www.chorleycarnival.org
Rick Astley and guests
At Ormskirk Parish Church, Southport Road, from 1pm-4pm. The many activities will be in the church, New Church House or the surrounding grounds. Stalls willl include plants, cakes, books, crafts, tombola and many more. Organ Recitals will take place in Church at 1.15pm, 2.15pm and 3.15pm.
The 1980s star is back at the Guild Hall, Lancaster Road, Preston, to perform favourites such as Never Gonna Give You up. Tickets from £29 via 01772 804444.
Open Bowls Session
Aughton-Ormskirk Circular
Saturday, May 30 A chance for you to have a go at bowling at Ormskirk town centre’s Coronation Park between 2pm and 4pm. Booking is essential via 01695 570 258.
Saturday, May 30
Sunday, May 31 Aughton Community Together has organised a circular walk from the village hall, Winifred Lane, to Edge Hill campus on St Helens Road, Ormskirk. It starts at 2pm and is approximately five miles. It’s free but a small donation to Queenscourt Hospice
37
would be appreciated. No need to book, simply turn up.
Countryside Walk Wednesday, June 3 3-4 mile walk organised by West Lancs Footpath Group. Meet at the Farmers Arms, New Lane, Burscough, at 7pm. For more information call Ann Robinson on 01695 521303.
Holly Johnson Thursday, June 4 See the former Frankie Goes To Hollywood frontman in this homecoming concert at Liverpool Philharmonic, Hope Street. Tickets priced from £21.50 and available via www.liverpoolphil.com
Sevens Tournament Saturday, June 6 The annual Jonathan Skofic Invitational Sevens Rugby Tournament held at Tarleton Rugby Club, Carr Lane. First matches start at 10am and entry is adults £2, children £1.
Elvis Costello Monday, June 15 Elvis Costello returns to Liverpool Philharmonic with Detour a solo concert. Costello’s solo shows have been some of the most adventurous of his illustrious career. This past year has seen him hit the stage of the legendary Paris venue, l‘Olympia and the Bela Bartok National Concert Hall in Budapest. Tickets from £37.50 via www.liverpoolphil.com
Promote your event
here! Reach an estimated 75,000 readers in West Lancs Ad prices start from £39 + VAT Call 01695 627 999 for details
Open Day Sunday, June 7 At Gorse Hill Nature Reserve, off Gaww Hill Lane, Aughton. Woodland walks are from 10.30am4pm and there’s a guided walk from 1.30pm-3pm. Admission is free and refreshments are on sale all day. Contact 07761 212636 for more information.
Eat to the Beat Sunday, June 7 See Ormskirk’s Coronation Park transformed into a music and food extravaganza. Halifax Bank will be hosting a Big Lunch for all ages and families to enjoy. The event includes local bands and community groups performing and providing activities for you to take part in. Held between noon-4pm. The event is free and booking is not required.
38
Hobnobs Club Wednesday, June 10 Coffee morning at Aughton Village Hall, Winifred Lane, from 11.00am. A further coffee morning takes place on Wednesday, June 24. Organised by Aughton Community Together.
Ormskirk Beer & Pie Festival Friday, June 12, and Saturday, June 13 From noon at Ormskirk Rugby Club, Green Lane. There will be fancy dress and touch rugby sevens on the Saturday as well as Les Benton & His Men In Shorts Oompah Band (lederhosen optional!)
Transport Rally Saturday, June 13, and Sunday, June 14 In aid of Macmillian Cancer Care and takes place at Elim, Hundred End Lane, Hesketh Bank, from 10.30am-4.30pm. All sorts of transport, from lorries, tractors, classic and vintage cars, motorcycles and even prams! Entry is by minimum donation of £2.
Classic Car Show Sunday, June 14 The 32nd Classic Car and Motorcycle Show at Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, from 10am- 4pm. Admission: adults £7, children £3 (7-14), under 7s free. Free parking. House and gardens open for tours. Admission for house tours: adults £8, children and concessions £6, under 5s go free.
Jasper Carrott Saturday, June 20 Jasper’s Stand Up And Rock does exactly what it says on the tin... mic in hand regaling the audience with his new stand up routines. Supported by Bev Bevan and Trevor Burton. Starts at 7.30pm at Southport Theatre. Tickets from £28.90 via www. atgtickets.com
Midsummer Piano Festival Saturday, June 20-Sunday, June 21 A celebration of music-making by some of the world’s finest musicians and pianists at Parbold
Taylor Swift Wenesday, June 24 Seven-time Grammy winner Taylor Swift will bring The 1989 World Tour to Manchester on Wednesday 24 June – her first live show in the city since her sold-out date at the Arena on the Speak Now tour in 2011. Doors 6pm Under 14s with an adult in seated only. Call 0844 847 8000 to book tickets. Village Hall, The Green. Adult weekend pass is £30.50. For a full list of performances, visit www. parbolddouglasmusic.org
The Quest for Orcas Wednesday, June 24 Anno Brandreth talk starting at 7.15pm and held in Room B003 in the Business School Building, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk. Full details including location map at www.westlancswildlife. org.uk Admission is members £1.50, non members £2.50
Richmond Park Fun Day Sunday, June 28 A family event is planned for the park, off Junction Lane, Burscough, from 11am-4pm. Among the attractions will be a fun fair, bouncy castle, tennis, open bowling, five-a-side football, dog show, dancers and bands. To book a stall, contact ranger Jess Britch on 01695 570258 or email jessica. britch@westlancs.gov.uk
39
Jacqui’s Rhythm Katz Sunday, June 28 Nine-piece swing band with male and female vocalists playing numbers from the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra at Briars Hall Hotel, Briars Lane, Lathom. Starts at 8pm and admission is £3.50.
Halsall Sunshine Committee Tuesday, June 30 Day out to the Lake District with lunch at Carnforth, a sail on Windermere and a visit to Grasmere. Free to all residents of Halsall aged over 60, or limited spare seats are available at £25 per person. To book or reserve a space, call Eleanor Wroe on 01704 841187 or Betty Knowles on 01704 840611.
Beer Festival Friday, July 3-Sunday, July 5 The Rotary Club of Southport Links holds its annual beer festival at Tarleton Bowling Club, Sutton Lane. Starts at 4pm on the Friday until 8pm on the Sunday.
Westhead Carnival Saturday, July 4 Takes place on Lathom St James’ school field, School Lane. Starts with a procession from Cross Hall Brow from 12.30pm. All the usual attractions including Punch & Judy and fun dog show. Admission £1 for adults and 50p concessions.
Charity Night Saturday, July 4 In aid of Cancer Research UK. Go along for what organisers say will be an entertaining night of cabaret and dancing with local group 2nd Generation Held at the Stanley Club, Liverpool Road North in Burscough, from 7.30pm. There will be a raffle and you can take your own light bites Tickets are £10 Ring 01704 895186/892492
Wigan International Jazz Festival Thursday, July 9, to Sunday, July 12 Celebrating its 30th year, a 10-day programme packed with top artists. Most concerts take place at Robin Park Sports Centre, Loire Drive. On the Saturdays there will be free music in Wigan town centre from 11am and on the Sundays there will be jazz in Mesnes Park, off Mesnes Road, from noon. Full gig guide available at www.wiganjazz.net - call 01942 828 271 for tickets or book online.
Ormskirk Dance Festival Saturday, July 4 Held from noon to 4pm at Coronation Park, Park Road, Ormskirk. Includes a funfair, bouncy castle and face painting. Along with a variety of stalls from craft and community to food and drink. There will also be music and entertainment. Free event.
Parbold Village Festival Saturday, July 11 This family event takes place on Alder Lane Playing Fields from 1pm-5pm. Attractions include music, dancing, singing, displays, games, stalls, food and drink. The theme for this year’s Festival
40
is ‘Around the World’ and there will be children’s arts workshops and fancy dress. Entry is adults £2, children go free.
Ormskirk Tennis Festival
Take a walk through the working woodlands and watch with wonder as a variety of talented woodland crafts people manipulate natural materials to create a variety of useful and beautiful objects and pieces.
Saturday, July 11, 2015 A one day, free family tennis event from 2pm4pm at Coronation Park, Park Road, which offers a chance for you to try the game, take part in fun competitions.
Mere Brow Methodist Church Open Gardens Sunday, July 12 Takes place between noon and 5pm. Up to 12 gardens available to visit. Vintage bus will run between the church and gardens. Admission is £5 for adults, children go free. Proceeds go to Mere Brow Methodist Church and a nominated charity.
The Green Fayre Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26 Held from 11am until 5pm each day at Beacon Country Park, Beacon Lane, Up Holland. This free event is a celebration of the countryside and is the biggest event of its kind in West Lancashire.
Puzzle
Black Grape Sunday, July 12 After 20 years, ex-Happy Mondays frontman Shaun Ryder brings you Black Grape’s 2015 comeback tour, and it’s coming to Parr Hall in Warrington. Starts at 7.30pm. Tickets from £22. Box Office & General Enquiries: 01925 442345.
solutions
The photograph on page 22 is of the shops on Town Green Lane, Town Green
41
Jack’s Tracks
Limbrick by Chris Pearce
W
henever we go walking in Chorley and District, it always surprises me how quickly the hubbub of the town is quickly left behind and this walk is no exception. Although it’s only 6½ miles, it packs a lot of scenic views in, with the majesty of Angelzarke quickly followed by the chocolate box scenes of White Coppice, and, on the home stretch, some glorious views of the North West coastline from the Nab. Park in the vicinity of the Black Horse pub in Limbrick and head down Back Lane. Go under the motorway bridge and head uphill. Just before the left hand bend, take the signposted footpath on the right and head downhill through the wooden area. Cross the step stile and take the defined path across the meadow. Cross the next stile and carry on in the same direction, keeping to the left hand side of the meadow. Look out carefully on the left for a waymark post and, beyond that, a small flight of steps and take a 90 degree left turn off the footpath at the waymark post and climb the steps. Follow the path up through a wooded area, cross the stile into a field and follow the indistinct path diagonally through the field towards a stile-cum-plank bridge. Follow the path on the right hand side of the field to another stile-cum-plank bridge. Cross this and bear left to a step stile with a decking platform. Cross this and head right towards a gate and stile; once you’ve crossed this stile, you emerge in Back Lane once more. Turn left along the lane but leave it within 100 yards for a track on the right which is signposted Heath Folds Farm. Just before the entrance to the farm there’s an enclosed path on the left. Follow this path, which evolves into a track (Heapy Fold Lane) and offers glorious views of Anglezarke to the right and over Chorley and beyond on the right. After approximately ½ mile and just before the track starts
42
climbing, you’ll reach a gate that’s set back on the right hand side of the track. Head over the stile by the gate in the direction of the reservoir and cross another stile before dropping quickly down though a wooded area on the banks of Anglezarke. Follow the path through the woods for almost ½ mile, taking in the magnificently tranquil views of this stretch of water, until you exit at Anglezarke’s northern tip. Turn right and follow the road around perimeter of the reservoir. Walk past Heapey Waterman’s Cottage and then cross the Goit, a fast moving waterway, and then take the public footpath by a wooden gate on the left directly afterwards. This opens up to a picturesque track, popular with walkers and cyclists alike, and skirts round the western edge of the Stronstrey Bank and eventually Black Coppice.
hand turn, take a 90 degree right turn (do not take the public footpath that’s directly opposite). This track takes you to Higher Healy and the Nab. Follow the track around the right hand side of Higher Healy and start the climb uphill to the Nab, drinking in the fantastic views to of the entire north west coastline. Once you enter the Nab take the lower right hand fork and follow this broad track right through the Nab for approximately ¼ mile. Nearing the end of the wood, you’ll encounter a flight of steps to the right; just ignore these and head on straight over
Follow this track for approximately ¾ mile, and directly after the aqueduct on the right, take a left turn which leads to what is probably the most picturesque cricket ground in the whole of Lancashire, White Coppice. Seating is plentiful and, on weekends and Bank Holiday, the café is open serving tasty bacon and sausage butties and other food. After a welcome rest, exit the cricket ground via the path that runs past the pavilion. Follow that track for 1/3 mile through this picturesque village of White Coppice, keeping to the right. Once you’ve crossed Wrath Brook via the bridge, look out for a wooden sign post on the left hand side of the road near wooden benches. Cross the brook, hop over the stile and follow that path, which was a bit muddy in parts at the time of our walk. After approximately 175 yards, you’ll reach another reservoir. Walk along the banks of the reservoir for 50 yards, but when the path forks shortly afterwards, take the left hand fork away from the banks of the reservoir. Cross a stile shortly afterwards and carry on in the same direction on the path that runs diagonally across a field. Cross the sile onto Higher House Lane and then turn right for 150 yards. When you reach a sharp left
the step stile straight ahead. It can be muddy in parts, but there is some latitude to navigate round the worst parts. Once you exit the Nab, you’ll cross two stiles in quick succession and, once again, on the right you’ll enjoy some fabulous views of Chorley and beyond from this high vantage point. Head towards White House Farm in the distance via a path and then a track. On the right, just before you reach the farm, you’ll spot a gate leading to a single track road. Hop over the stile next to it and head downhill on the road. This road is (or becomes) Crosse Hall Lane and you’ll follow this for ¾ mile, over the M61 and through the pretty enclave of Crosse Hall until you reach the bridge over the canal. Cross the bridge and then turn left down the canal tow path. Follow the canal to the next bridge (75a), and then
43
exit the canal via the steel gates just before the bridge. Turn left onto Cowling Road and go over the canal bridge, and then head uphill towards the Spinners at Cowling pub. Turn left at the public footpath that runs directly down the left hand side of the pub. Once you get past the pub, the path has been blocked off by barbed wire, but don’t let this deter you, just negotiate your way round this and follow the rather indistinct path downhill alongside
a
y pe
He
the right hand perimeter of the field. Just before you reach a junction at the bottom right hand corner of that field; you’ll need to take a right turn and jump over the stile into the next field. Follow that path in the same direction for ¼ mile past the Gillett Playing Fields and you’ll emerge near a row of cottages on Back Lane. Turn right and then 75 yards later, take a left turn and the Black Horse is up the hill on the left hand side.
ad
White Coppice
Ro
Cricket Club
gh Hi er eL us Ho
yL le an
e an
gg Ba e an
Healey Nab
d Lane
Heapey Fol
M61
Chorley Ha
ad
se
r Ro Moo
Cr os
ll L ane
g
lin ow Br
Liverpool Ca
w Co
Leeds &
Anglezarke
nal Back Lane
Limbrick Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear whilst walking. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the walk is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.
44
Win a pair of tickets to see
Kaiser Chiefs I
t’s hard to believe their first number one, Ruby, was eight years ago.
doubt that kind of surrounded you guys when Nick left?
But for Leeds band Kaiser Chiefs, it’s their longevity which has cemented their success. Their debut album, Employment, reached top spot in the UK charts. Its edgy guitar sounds and fluid rhythms made for a fantastic body of work, which included I Predict a Riot, released as a single in 2004/2005, and Modern Way.
Simon Rix (bassist): Yes. I think we lost our way a little bit and definitely felt the tour and everything, like, we went to South America with Foo Fighters, was great. We used to always do Arena tours and then we stopped, and then we did one again and it was like ‘yes, we’re back’.
2007 saw the release of their Yours Truly, Angry Mob with the catchy single Ruby, which became the 10th biggest selling single of that year. They are playing Haydock Park on Friday, August 7, but things have changed a bit since those heady days. The departure of founder member and drummer Nick Hodgson caused them to re-evaluate. They are now back with a new member, Vijay Mistry, and their latest album, called Education, Education, Education & War, went to number one last year. Q: With a number one album and the Arena tour you’ve just finished, does it seem like the band is in a better place after all the
Q: You’ve done some race course shows before. Do they differ much from your normal kind of tours you do or like the festival performances? Simon: They are different, but that’s not to say it’s bad, just different. Everyone’s quite dressed up and they’re all on a big night out and it’s all very good. But there’s no support band, it’s just sort of, we’re kind of the main event I guess, which is nice. Ricky Wilson (lead vocals): It’s kinda like a wedding, because you’ve got guys with their ties around their
45
heads going mental. I really enjoy it, it’s a different vibe to anything else we’ve done but we’re coming back to do more so we must enjoy it. Q: do you catch any of the racing while you are there? Ricky: It’s hilarious - I’m watching this lot all day betting and I don’t bet because I know it would be a problem if I started, Q: are you normally into your horse racing then?
Q: you’re coming to play at Haydock in the summer, have you got any good memories or stories from when you have played in the past in the North West? Ricky: Oh, some of my favourite gigs of all time have been in the North West. One in particular, the second night at Manchester MEN was the best gig, I don’t know why, I still say it but it was my favourite gig ever. I came off and it was like ‘that was a moment’. It’s funny, over the Pennines you expect there to be a rivalry because we’re from Leeds. People there don’t show their emotions as much to us as they do on the other side of the Pennines because we go down and like, invade and we have a good time. Local Life has six pairs of tickets to give away. To win a pair to see the Kaiser Chiefs at Haydock Park on Friday, August 7, simply complete the crossword on the right and return your entry to: Kaiser Chiefs Competition Local Life 247 Ltd Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7XB Or email you answers along with your name, full address and contact number to crossword@ locallife247.co.uk Your entry MUST be with us by Tuesday, June 30.
#
Simon: No not at all. Not every single one but most of them just go and put a couple things on, see what’s going on, try and win some money because that’s part of the fun. One of our crew guys, it’s his favourite gig of the year because he loves it. He stayed out doing all sorts of things all day, not setting anything up just betting.
Across 4. Chief’s debut album 5. 2007 number one hit
Down 1. 2. 3. 5.
Venue of Kaiser Chiefs 7th August concert, _ Park Chief’s new band member, Vijay _ Yorkshire city, home of Kaiser Chiefs 2004/05 number one hit, I Predict a _
Name
....................................................................................................
Address
....................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................... ..................................
Post Code ............................................................
Phone
......................................................................................................
...................................................................................................... Crossword Competition Rules
1. Only one entry per household 2. Entrants must be over 16 years of age 3. The winners will be notified within 14 days of the closing date. 4. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot accept responsibility for entries that are delayed or damaged in the post. 5. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd or their immediate relatives are not eligible to enter this competition. Local Life 247 Ltd is registered under the Data Protection Act and abides by the guidelines of the act. We will never sell or pass your data to any third party company. However, we will contact you occasionally to check our magazine distribution in your area.
46
On Your Plot
Expand your
horizons Every year it amazes me how the plants respond so dramatically to the arrival of the warm weather. Anything sown or planted out in May seems to positively leap out of the ground and shoot skywards, in many cases quickly catching up with earlier sowings! Of course the lawn is no exception and if you don’t already have a composting system in place then why not set one up now and make use of some of those endless grass clippings? Ideally you want to have two (or even three) compost bins so that when one is ready to use for the garden you have another filling up and rotting down. You can buy allsorts of nifty looking, ready made, compost bins - some even have clever devices that make it easy to turn the whole bin to help the waste break down - but you don’t need anything fancy. June is also the time of year when it is easy to start to run out of space on your plot. Everything puts on amazing growth spurts and you are suddenly left wondering where you are going to plant out those tomatoes that you’ve been nurturing in the greenhouse, or finding you’ve no room for the cabbages that you’d like to be eating later in the year. Time to expand your horizons and make full use of containers and of your borders. Look at the different varieties of lettuce and salad crops - many
of these, along with cabbages, can add a splash of decorative, coloured foliage to your borders (and be eaten too!). Grow bags are wonderful for crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers. They’ll be happy in a sunny spot on your patio but do remember to water and feed regularly. Larger pots can house courgettes and pumpkins, with the exotic looking flowers adding a bright splash of colour. Even hanging baskets can get in on the grow your own act! Look for suitable strawberries or tomatoes and you could be treated to a bumper crop of luscious fruit tumbling down from above.
Jobs for June
• Take off the side sho ots from tomato plants to avoid them becom ing too bushy and overburdened with frui t. Water regularly. • Garlic that was plante d in the Autumn should be maturing now. Lift wh en the leaves start to shrivel and leave to dry in a warm spot. • Keep planting - the moist soil, higher temperatures and long days are ideal growing conditions. French bea ns, courgettes and salad crops can all be sow n now. • Watch out for pests! Think about protecting brassicas before caterp illars start to become a problem.
47
Want to promote your business to an estimated Âź million readers? West Lancashire
Chorley Wigan
St Helens
Call 01695 627999 The little magazine with a big reach
locallife247.co.uk
DIR ER
E TH MA
Full range of Cordless handheld garden machines
Lea Farm, Wiggins Lane, 01704 821 338 Ruff Holmeswood, Nr Ormskirk, L40 1UJ
www.redblademowers.co.uk
Advertise
here
Advertise your business in this section for ÂŁ30 + VAT a month For more information please phone
01695 627 999
T FROM
AC U F TU N
R
EC
Full range of ATCO Lawn Mowers & Garden Tractors
Sheds Log Cabins Workshops Wendy Houses Summer Houses Free delivery Free 100% pressure treated Free erection
See our show sites at;
Trebaron Garden Centre Southworth Road, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 0BS Telephone: 01925 220858 Lady Green Garden Centre Ince Blundell, Nr Formby, L38 1QB Telephone: 0151 929 2800 Head Office 10 Greenhey Place, Skelmersdale WN8 9SA Telephone: 01695 51442
www.solidsheds.com
48
Home Services
Decorators, plumbers, builders... ELECTRIC GATE REPAIR All Makes Installed, Repaired & Serviced Local Family Business
REPAIRS
We can even automate your existing gates
• Cables • Springs • Rollers • Locks • Motor Units • Handsets... ALL MAKES REPAIRED, SERVICED & INSTALLED SAME DAY RESPONSE NO FIX, NO CHARGE! Established 30+ years
01704 833332 07891 330214
Unit 3, Stephensons Way (next to Paul’s Tyres), Formby Business Park, Formby, L37 8EG
www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk
Telephone:
01704 543311 / 07870 586307
Automatic Gates Installation • Service • Repair Telephone
07768 314 082 or 01257 795 242
Need an Upholsterer? Upholstery & Re-Upholstery Services Curtains & Blinds supplied and fitted Contract polishing
Willco Interior Furnishings
07826 599 599 Domestic & commercial work welcomed
Advertise
Based in Eccleston Based in Appley Bridge
here
40 years Experience
All types of tiling work welcomed;
Bathrooms Conservatories Kitchens Ensuites
Advertise your business in this section for £30 + VAT a month
Call Harry McNally for a FREE estimate
For more information please phone
01744 739176 or 07947 802641
01695 627 999
49
Taylor Made Taylor Made Handyman The complete A to Z of Home Improvements
Contact:
Darren Taylor
01704 840 373 07791 291 743
Inside and Out
Full Public Liability Insurance.
From Cleaning Gutters to Full House Refurbishments / Buy to Lets
Experienced, Local and Honest.
‘We love the jobs you hate’
Does your home need extending or adapting? • Bedroom and shower room extensions • Seamlessly add space to your home
HYBRO LIMITED
General Building & Maintenance Work • General Joinery • Fascias, Gutters, Roofing • Plastering & Texture Rendering • Double Glazing • Flagging Driveways & Patios Check out my 5 Star reviews at www.traderregister.org.uk Call Paul for a free quotation on
01695 578495 or 07944 550268 www.precisionbuildingservices.org.uk
SPECIALISTS IN HOME EXTENSIONS
email: hybro.ltd@aol.com
01695 581 489
d e e n u o y o D a plumber? k undertaken
All types of wor
es list Burst Pip a ci e p S m o irs Bathro ks And Repa General Lea adiators Taps sR Outside Tap No Job Too Small ins Showers Dra
HEATING & PLUMBING ENERGY EFFICIENT HEATING SOLUTIONS Biomass and Oil Heating Specialist Biomass Boilers offer an alternative source of heating to provide warmth and hot water for any property. We also provide a central heating repairs service to both domestic and business clients. • Grant Oil Boilers - 5 year warranty
CALL NOW FOR A FREE QUOTE Call now for a free quote. or
01695 577981 07809 120262 Westhead based company
Shevington E l ect ri cal S er v ic e s NAPIT part ‘P’ registered JIB Approved Technician 30 Years Experience
Local. Honest & Reliable Domestic Industrial & Commercial
Covering all North West Areas.
Call: 0800 6446100 or 07904 127663 www.shevington-electrical-services.co.uk
Info@wolfheating.co.uk
0800 924 7037 www.wolfheating.co.uk
50
Housework & Ironing Housework
Regular & One-Off Cleans at your home or office
Ironing
We’ll collect & deliver your ironing, or you can drop off & pick it up within 48 hours Providing quality cleaning services since 1996, all our staff are professional, reliable and properly insured
71 Burscough St, Ormskirk L39 2EL
• Interior & exterior SAVE conservatory M ONEY • Interior & exterior windows all cleaning pa ckages • Fascias and gutters etc.
20% OFF until 31st March 20
15
JETWASHING
• Driveways and patios etc.
Call us today to make your life easier!
01695 578 900
UPVC CLEANING
poppies-wls.co.uk
More than a cleaning service!
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
01695 372 371 or 07834 241 642 www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com
Grace’s Home Services
Caters for all home & garden maintenance
Cleaning - Ironing - Painting Decorating - Gardening All work guaranteed & fully insured www.boutiquedomesticservices.co.uk Call now for a FREE no obligation quote
Telephone: 07968 816526
CLEANING LAUNDRY IRONING • Quick Turnaround • Town Centre Location
(main bypass ideal for drop offs)
• Competetive Rates (lowest prices around)
• Collection, Delivery Service Available
• High pressure water jetting
• Drains unblocked
• Gullies & Interceptors emptied
• Drains traced
• Septic tanks emptied • CCTV drain surveys • Wincan Reporting
• Site drain surveys
sAfIsfACtION GUARANtEED www.boutiquedomesticservi ces.co.uk 3 Church House, Park Road, Ormskirk. L39 3AJ
FREEPHONE - 03333 202189 www.cj-lyon.co.uk email – info@cj-lyon.co.uk
51
Save £1000’s on your new kitchen!
Solid rigid built units 18mm solid back, base & wall unit Soft close doors & drawers 2mm colour matched edging Over 35 years experience We have recommended fitters Call John today for a free estimate
07703 833 016 Crawford Road, Up Holland
...see our online brochure at
www.theksc.co.uk
Useful Numbers Medical Ormskirk & District Hospital 01695 577111 Southport & Formby General Hospital 01704 547471
Councils, Councillors and MPs West Lancs Borough Council Lancashire County Council
01695 577177 01772 221600
Skelmersdale Walk In Centre Aughton Surgery Stanley Street Surgery Parkgate Surgery The Elms Railway Road Surgery West Lancs Health Centre Ormskirk Medical Practice County Road Surgery Police Ormskirk Skelmersdale
Rosie Cooper MP
01695 570094
Primary Schools Aughton Christ Church C of E Aughton St Michael’s C of E Aughton Town Green Bickerstaffe C of E Downholland/Haskayne C of E Halsall St Cuthbert’s C of E Ormskirk Primary Ormskirk Asmall Ormskirk St Anne’s Catholic Ormskirk West End Pinfold School, Scarisbrick Westhead Lathom St James C of E
01695 421391 01695 423295 01695 423688 01695 722957 01515 260614 01704 840253 01695 574027 01695 576654 01695 574697 01695 574375 01704 840338 01695 574078
Secondary Schools Burscough Priory Ormskirk School St Bedes
01704 893259 01695 583040 01695 570335
Libraries Ormskirk Skelmersdale Burscough
01695 588640 01695 422384 08444 778680 08448 731211 01695 588710 08444 778680 01695 588800 01695 588808 01695 572714 01695 566444 01695 566501 03001 236 703 03001 236 703 03001 236 703
Local Life Magazine all departments 01695 627 999