Local Life - West Lancashire - October 2018 by Local Life 247 Ltd

LocalLife West Lancashire Edition

October 2018

A Giant Finale Pages 17 - 20

Woodvale Walk Pages 47 - 49

Halloween Special Pages 40 - 43

Local News Features Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks Health Events2Go Home Services locallife247.co.uk

Local Life

Future Plans The balancing act of providing housing for future residents and enhancing the local economy, whilst preserving the rural nature of the West Lancashire area is a thankless task, as the local council is finding out. Some will applaud them for being pro-active and recognising the need to drive West Lancashire forward whilst others will be concerned at the scale of the plans. The plans are ambitious and innovative with much of the housing plans forecast to be met by garden villages rather than urban sprawl. The argument against urban sprawl is that it changes the very nature of the area and often comes with very little meaningful change in the infrastructure and facilities. Whilst garden villages, with the appropriate investment in infrastructure put in place early doors, can add vitality to the local economy, can provide housing for local people and they upset relatively fewer people. Buckshaw near Chorley was built from scratch on the site of an ordnance factory and currently has approximately 4,000 homes. Its train station, bus routes, schools, medical centre and community centre were put in place very early on in its development and this infrastructure and those facilities, especially the rail station, have benefitted residents for miles around. It canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be emphasised enough how important these decisions are for the future of West Lancashire and residents are invited to have their say in the consultations, which are being held throughout the area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; see the local press for details or visit www. westlancs.gov.uk. See you next time,

Chris Pearce, Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

In this issue A Giant Finale

Regulars 33 Puzzle page 44 Events2Go

47 Jack’s Tracks

Sections 17

6 Local News 26 Education 36 Health

42 Food 50 Gardening 52 Home Services

Education Next issue - November 2018

Advertising deadline - Friday, 5 October Published - Monday, 29 October

26 Blame It On The Beatles

30 Halloween: Make a Perfect Pumpkin Lantern

40 Jack’s Tracks: Woodvale

47 locallifemagazine247

LocalLife Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB

Telephone: 01695 627 999 Publisher: Chris Sales: Lisa Content: Jess Design: Peter Distribution: Sally Accounts: Christina

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk sales@locallife247.co.uk westlancsnews@locallife247.co.uk design@locallife247.co.uk sallyb@locallife247.co.uk accounts@locallife247.co.uk

Local Life (West Lancashire) 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 in the L39 postcode district and also to the L40-6 postcode sector - that’s a total of 12,751 copies. The next edition will be delivered via Royal Mail to every home in the L40 postcode district and also to the PR4-6 and WN8-7 postcode sectors - that’s a total of 13,594 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.

@locallifemedia

events2go

News & Features

Votes For Women The Chapel Gallery in Ormskirk will host a heritage exhibition to celebrate the centenary of women getting the vote. ‘Opening the Gates’ appears against a First World War backdrop, telling the story of ordinary women in West Lancashire who were thrust into occupations previously occupied by men and how this, combined with Suffrage, led to those women gaining the vote. Women who served abroad as nursing and army auxiliaries will have their war efforts commemorated, including Bickerstaffe resident Ellen Preece, who was killed working in a munitions factory. Local Suffragist Harriet Mahood, who was in contact with members of the Pankhurst family, plays a central role in the exhibition, with many of her letters on display. The exhibition will focus on stories and characters with local connections, including a series of illustrations by Ormskirk-based artist Gill Smith,

costumes and uniforms, large scale photographs and archive artefacts. The project will also feature talks by the Ormskirk and District Family History Society and free education workshops for four local schools, as well as a creative writing project by upand-coming Edge Hill students. ‘Opening the Gates’ runs from Oct 6 to Jan 19.

Painting Rainford Pink Now in its third year, Paint Rainford Pink aims to raise money for Prevent Breast Cancer, supporting men and women at Wythenshaw Hospital in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The project will see local businesses and organisations getting involved with themed collection boxes, as well as a village-wide scarecrow competition with a £50 prize. It’s £5 to enter a

Paint Rainford Pink 13th October

for PREVENT BREAST CANCER

scarecrow or £3 for children. A hair & beauty evening will also take place on Wednesday, October 24 from 7:30pm in the Rainford Scout Hut.

Movie Madness Burscough Cinema Group is planning to show Hollywood blockbusters at discounted prices. Taking place in the large room at the Stanley Institute, the film schedule kicked off with Ocean’s 8 in September, and looks set to continue with Mission Impossible: Fallout in October. Tickets are £5, and limited to 100 people due to space constraints. For more information, see the posters around the village.

Tell Us Your Story! Local Life is always on the look out for news stories from the local communities we serve. Are you raising money for charity? Are you a member of a community group with something to shout about? Maybe you’ve got an unusual talent, or have a claim to fame? If so, let us know and you could be appearing in the next edition! Simply contact us on westlancsnews@locallife247. co.uk or call us on 01695 627999.

Wherever you need your flowers to go, call Wendy’s Flowers to make it so. Telephone orders welcome and same day delivery, where possible, within a 15 mile radius. ...maybe a little more notice for weddings etc.

01744 885 363

National & International

29 Church Road, Rainford, WA11 8HE Open: Monday - Saturdays, 8.30am - 5.30pm www.wendysflowers.co.uk

A Laughing Matter The Southport Comedy Festival returns for its eighth year this October. From the 4th to the 21st, TV personalities and comedians will flock to the seaside town for a huge calendar of events. This year’s star-studded line-up features Phill Jupitus, Zoe Lyons, Hal Cruttenden and ITV’s The Chase star Paul (The Sinnerman) Sinha. Stand up isn’t all the festival boasts; there’s also comedy pub crawls, bingo, theatre, and a Comedy Trail organised for children. The festival aims to ‘raise money while raising a smile’, with proceeds going towards charities such as Community Link Foundation, When You Wish Upon A Star, and Duchenne UK.

October also sees the grand final of the New Southport Comedian of the Year. The competition has seen 30 of the most promising budding local stars go head-to-head, and the winner will be crowned at the Potting Shed on October 11. The Southport Comedy Festival uses local venues and works with local businesses to deliver comedy for everyone. Ticket prices start at £5 for certain shows, and if you buy tickets directly from the venue you won’t incur any booking fees. For more information, visit www.visitsouthport. com/whats-on/the-southport-comedyfestival-p360521

We Have Summer Covered Come and see our nursery showroom We stock a wide range of Car Seats, Prams, Furniture, Strollers, Buggies, Umbrellas and accessories from all the leading brands

8 Langley Place, Burscough, L40 8JS

www.direct4baby.co.uk

Think ahead as summer

slips away

Summer is nearing its end. After the long warm sunny days we have all enjoyed, sadly our lawns have been extremely challenged due to the drought conditions. The grass has been under severe stress this summer therefore it is important keep feeding whilst the grass is growing as the plants have been starved of nutrients due to the dry soil over the summer. Indeed some areas may have developed a condition called “Dry Patch” when the soil will not absorb moisture (See below). It is essential to maintain your lawns as we move towards the cooler autumn and winter months.

to remove surface debris and keep removing the leaves each week. This allows maximum sunlight to the grass as the daylight hours shorten. Layers of leaves left on the lawn starve the grass of sunlight and vital air circulation causing dieback which is unsightly and may result in the need to re-seed localised areas. Between Autumn and Spring is the best time to carry out Hollow Tine Aeration and Scarification on the lawn. Aeration breaks up the compacted layer of soil exaggerated by the drought and cuts through sub-surface thatch by pulling out thousands of cores. This allows nutrients and water passageways to the root zone. Also promoting improved surface drainage, Scarification removes the surface debris and allows air and moisture to the plants. After this summer many lawns are covered in dead blades of grass which need removing by raking or scarification as soon as the lawn has recovered following substantial rain. Having prepared your lawn

Keep mowing the lawns whilst they are still growing. If they are looking a little “tufty “ as they recover, mowing frequently, but removing only a small amount each cut will stimulate growth. Your final cut before the winter should leave the lawn at 3.5cm (1.5 inches) to allow protection from frost. In preparation for winter give the lawn a good rake

for winter its time to take a break, or, if you need help, call the professionals. GreenThumb (Lancashire West) has been operating locally since 1999 and can draw on a wealth of experience to offer advice and undertake lawn care treatments using qualified staff, specially prepared additives and professional equipment. Just call 01704 823220 for a free Lawn Analysis and quotation. We are always happy to help.

National Trust Supporters The Ormskirk and District National Trust Supporter Group have announced their exciting programme of autumn and winter events, open to ODANTM members. A series of talks about art, heritage and culture kick off the events schedule, and include speakers such as Janet Edwards and Colin Franklin. Janet will present the history and heritage of Bank Hall at Bretherton and the campaign to save the Grade-II listed building on November 7. Budding antiquarians also have the chance to head to O’Briens Tea Room in Ormskirk on October 19 at 7pm to test their skills at valuing antiques while enjoying a light buffet. Entry for ‘Curious and Curiouser’ costs £13. For anyone looking for a historical weekend break, the group has organised a London getaway in November. The trip leaves on Thursday, November 8 and returns on Sunday, November 11, and includes a

visit to the Globe Theatre, Sir John Soane’s Museum, the Cumming Museum and Borough Market. Finally, a Christmas social will take place on Thursday, December 13 at the Ministry Centre. Feast on mince pies and punch while enjoying an evening of entertainment from the local Rock Choir. Tickets cost £12, and the social begins at 7:30pm. Tickets for all events are available from Pat Dixon on 01257 464 440. ODANTM offers local people the chance to meet socially while learning more about history. If you’re interested in joining, contact Stan Bryan on 01695 421 463 or come to any of the talks from October to April. Meetings take place at the Ministry Centre, Christ Church, Aughton, at 8pm every first Wednesday of the month. Membership costs £10 for a single or £15 for a double, and you don’t need to be a member of the National Trust to sign up.

Poppy Cafe An Ormskirk café is running a series of events to commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War. Dempsey’s Café, located on Burscough Street, are encouraging anyone to visit up until Friday, November 9, to knit, crochet or make a felt poppy. Inspired by the Royal British Legion’s ‘Every One Remembered’ project, each of these poppies will be commemorated with the name of a soldier who died in the war. Dempsey’s plan to mount the poppies made on a large wreath, which will be laid at the cenotaph on November 11, carried by different parts of the local community.

For updates and more information, visit Dempsey’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ dempseysoformskirk/ or pop in-store.

DIR ER

AC U F TU N

T FROM

Joanne Bober, who runs the café, says she also plans to set up a donation page in order to fundraise for the printing of a memorial book for exhibition in Ormskirk Library. She said: ‘the idea of having two months to make the poppies was to ensure that those who have fallen are at the forefront of Ormskirk’s mind at the time of the commemorations’.

Sheds Log Cabins Workshops Wendy Houses Summer Houses Garden Offices

October 11 to November 12, provided by Ormskirk Bygone Times. The display will provide details of the local people who lost their lives during WW1, allowing visitors to learn more about Ormskirk’s historical contributions to the war efforts. The café didn’t want to forget the contributions of animals during the war, and will be constructing a war horse from Ormskirk gingerbread in remembrance of the equine lives lost.

E TH MA

Dempsey’s Café will also house a wall display from

Free 100% pressure treated Free erection Free delivery Up to 48 months low cost finance available

See our show sites at; Lady Green Garden Centre Ince Blundell, Nr Formby, L38 1QB Telephone: 01695 589 210 Avant Garden Centre Wigan Road, Leyland PR25 5XU Telephone: 01772 433777

www.solidsheds.com

The only way

is up

You really don’t need to move house for more space. There is an easy answer to storage problems and it is, quite literally, under your own roof. In the average semi, a loft has 40-50 square metres of floor space yet is often dark, difficult to move around in and often hard to get to. To overcome these storage problems, all that’s needed is a quick call to Access4Lofts. Access4lofts is all about creating space the easy and affordable way. That’s what they do and with customer service at the heart of the company, they have proven to be one of the great success stories of the region. This Lancashire-based family business was launched six years ago, and over 2,500 successful fits later, along with numerous awards from Lancashire Trading Standards Safe Trader Scheme, Access4Lofts has now officially expanded into West Lancashire and Merseyside. Access4Lofts install loft hatches, loft ladders, loft boarding, lighting and insulation too if required, making it easy and safe for you to access your loft. This commitment is further emphasised with a minimum 5 year guarantee on all installations which is fully insurance backed. They never sub-contract work and they ensure that you get the very best installation, service and after care at all times. The company has recently become proud members of the ‘Which Trusted Trader’ scheme after successfully passing the rigorous assessment process. The nationally

15 recognised endorsement scheme is designed to help the general public recognise reputable & trustworthy traders, giving them piece of mind that the job will be done right. “We are delighted to have been accepted into such a fantastic scheme. Our reputation and customer service are what we value most at Access4Lofts and for this to be recognised by ‘Which’ along with the quality of our work we do is a huge achievement and shows how far we have come in such a short space of time.” says Josh Norgate who owns Access4Lofts. Josh has worked for the company for almost 5 years in Lancashire , carrying out hundreds of installations. His aim is to now branch out further into the West Lancashire and Merseyside areas to help more people solve their storage problems and to bring the satisfaction and success he’s already delivered to so many people into your home. In short, Access4lofts care about what they do. No high pressure selling, never letting anyone down, working within customer’s budgets, always turning up on time, finishing a job in the shortest time possible and clearing up afterwards are basic undertakings for the team. If you need safe and easy access to your loft or extra storage space for your belongings then contact Josh on 0151 594 0730 who will arrange a free survey which is quickly followed by a written fixed price quote.

Call now to book a FREE survey & quotation

0151 954 0730

Living in PR4-6? Call 01772 811 611

WWW.ACCESS4LOFTS.CO.UK

TRANSFORM YOUR HOME & GARDEN with low-maintenance PVC building products

MODERN FENCING

STYLISH DECKING

STRONG & STURDY. MANY COLOURS AVAILABLE

NO SANDING, PAINTING OR STAINING REQUIRED

SMART ROOFLINE

CONTEMPORARY CLADDING

SOFFITS, FASCIAS & BARGEBOARDS

BATHROOMS/KITCHEN WALLS & CEILINGS

ALSO IN STOCK

• Loft Doors • Timber • Sand, Cement & Stone • Roofing Materials • Gutters & Rainwater Pipes • Underground Drainage • Soil & Waste Pipes • Manhole/Inspection Chambers • Tools & Accessories • Sealants & Fixings • Cleaners and more...

WE SELL TO TRADE & PUBLIC

MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME Prima Court, Sandwash Close (off Mill Lane) Rainford Industrial Estate, Rainford, St. Helens.

Telephone: 01744 885100 / 885300 • www.primapvc.co.uk. Open: Monday-Friday 8.00am - 5.00pm, Saturday 8.30am - 12noon

A Giant

Finale

by Jessica Phillips Liverpool first played host to the Royal De Luxe Giants six years ago in 2012, to commemorate the 1912 sinking of the Titanic and its inextricable Liverpudlian ties with their Sea Odyssey display. Their return in 2014 for the centenary of the First World War saw over 1 million people turn up to greet the giant puppets as they forged through the city streets. The Giants really have found themselves a home away from home in Liverpool, and their October show, which ends the trilogy, might be the most highly anticipated yet. Royal De Luxe, the company behind the Giants, originally hails from Nantes, France, where it was founded in 1979 by author-director Jean-Luc Courcoult. He’s now regarded as one of street theatre’s pioneers, boasting a long and varied list of productions from shop window theatre to vibrant

parades; but the giant puppets have become the undisputed face of the company. The vivid detail and craftsmanship that goes into each marionette, as well as the use of props like cars and ships, ensures that the Giants blend seamlessly into their real-world stage. There is incredible attention to detail in the Giants’ costumes, from the buckles and laces of an enormous boot to the Diver’s vintage helmet. This year will see such craftsmanship delighting an even wider audience as Royal De Luxe takes the Giants on a tour beyond the city centre. The whopping 20.6 mile route will explore parts of Wirral, encountering New Brighton and its Perch Rock Lighthouse, a stunning backdrop to the performance. The marionettes will also be continuing the trend of visiting Liverpool’s green

18 space with a display in Princes Park during their walking tour, which takes place across three days (October 5-7). All the Giants will meet up on Sunday, October 7 to parade through Sefton Street and The Strand, bidding a final farewell to Liverpool at Canning Dock. Speculation is rife for the third and final event, dubbed Liverpool’s Dream. One thing is certain: the show once again promises to be spectacular. With marionettes as tall as 50ft being handled by puppeteers, Royal De Luxe have brought incredible sights to Liverpool’s city centre – from deep sea divers submerged in the Mersey to Xolo the puppet dog extending his head for petting. This year the giants return from the 4th to the 7th of October

to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Liverpool’s European Capital of Culture title. Each of their theatre productions tells a different story, using magical realism and the local landscape to articulate sweeping, emotional plots of family, intrigue and loss. Liverpool’s previous events - Sea Odyssey and Memories of August 1914 – illustrated selections of the city’s history. Sea Odyssey told the story of a time-travelling Giant on his way to meet his daughter, who plummets 12,000 feet down with the Titanic and has to drag the ship’s mail all the way back to Liverpool. Memories of August 1914, meanwhile, introduced the Grandmother Giant, and told the story of the soldiers who left Liverpool with the King’s Regiment in 1914.

Liverpool as the Giants’ destination of choice is certainly logical. As well as boasting a huge maritime history, the city’s architecture promises staging like no other. St. Luke’s bombed-out church, a GradeII listed site which was badly damaged during the Blitz in 1941 and now stands as a ruin, served as a backdrop for Xolo the giant dog in 2014, while the Diver made his watery ascent through the Albert Dock two years prior. The public are already rallying around for the Giants’ arrival. Thousands of children aged 3-16 across Liverpool and Wirral will become ‘Dream Catchers’, encouraged to think about their own dreams for inspiration for a humongous picnic blanket which will form part of the show in the New Brighton area. Youngsters who design their own t-shirts, football shirts and pyjama tops will also have their pieces

featured during the event, with garments remaining on display until the end of October. It’s that community spirit, according to Courcoult, which makes Liverpool feel like a ‘second home’. He says, ‘the welcome we receive from the people of the city warms our hearts and we are excited about not only bringing a brand new story to Liverpool, but also exploring beautiful Wirral for the first time.’ Liverpool’s Dream appears in association with Liverpool City Council and a network of volunteer stewards, production & media assistants, French translators and physiotherapists. Some residents are also taking centre stage as Lilliputians, who will quite literally be walking with giants. Deputy Mayor Wendy Simon said: ‘This is the final time our Giant visitors will ever walk our streets so we want to give as many people as possible the chance to be

20 part of this event which is set to go down in Liverpool history.’ The third instalment of the Giants’ Liverpool Saga couldn’t come at a more perfect time. Liverpool 2018 marks the ten years since the city was awarded the European City of Culture title, with a year-long schedule of cultural events including the Liverpool Biennial and Terracotta Warriors exhibit. The theme of Liverpool’s Dream is fitting, says Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson, as ‘at the turn of the millennium the city could only dream of the cultural transformation it was about to embark upon.’ Liverpool’s City of Culture award was a great boost to the local economy, as well as its cultural and artistic scenes. More people now visit its museums and galleries, with new developments cropping up all the time, such as the Museum of Liverpool in 2011. The Royal De Luxe visit seems set to continue that trend 10 years later with their final Saga instalment, which promises to draw a giant crowd.

For more information on the final instalment of the Giants’ Liverpool trilogy, visit www.giantspectacular. com

Planning Outrage Local residents protested about plans to establish a new Local Plan at a recent meeting of the West Lancs Council’s cabinet meeting. The Council is preparing to publish their proposals for the new Local Plan, which guides how the borough develops over a specific time period over the next thirty years or so and covers issues such as new housing sites, employment sites and also new policies on transport, local services, energy and the environment.

of a new Knowledge Park and a Student Village on St Helens Road next to Edge Hill in Ormskirk, the creation of three new Garden Villages in the Lathom and Bickerstaff areas, a Logistics Park by the M58 and extra housing in the Parrs Lane/Prescot Road area of Aughton. Consultations regarding the new Local Plan will take place with the public during October and November, please visit www.westlancs.gov.uk for further details.

Major proposals in the plan include the creation

Rambling Free

Parkinson’s Support Group

The West Lancashire Footpath Group continues to run guided rambles this October.

The ParkinsonUK Ormskirk Group encourages Parkinson’s sufferers and their carers to get together to socialise and meet like-minded people.

The first walk takes place on Sunday, October 14, exploring Mawdesley and meeting at Cedar Farm. The second will take the group to Scarisbrick, meeting at the Village Hall on Tuesday, October 30. For further information, please contact Ann Robinson on 07443 533354, or visit www.westlancashirefootpathgroup.org.uk

The group encourages people to come and see if it suits them. They meet at 2pm the second Friday of every month at St. Michael’s Church Hall, Church Lane, Aughton, L39 6SB. For more information, email vc.north2@parkinsons.org.uk or call Emma Hughes on 0300 123 3683.

Education

Meet the Teacher A secondary school guide to parents’ evening Parents’ evenings - love them or loathe them, they crop up with alarming regularity. They can cause a good deal of stress whether you’re the parent, child or teacher! As a parent this is your chance to speak to the teachers that spend all day with your children and to whom you are entrusting their education. The first thing to remember – and this might sound quite harsh – is that your child’s teacher has a lot of parents to see that night, in a relatively short space of time. The bottom line is, don’t be offended if they end the discussion, or if they suggest making an appointment for another time to come and discuss an issue. It is important to remember that you and the teacher both want your child to do their best and achieve. If there are problems then the teacher will most likely be looking for reassurance that you will support the school in whatever behaviour or homework policy they have. They know that students don’t always tell their parents what goes on at school and so parents evening may be their chance to make it clear if they are not meeting expectations. If you have existing concerns, don’t launch in with complaints. Let the teacher explain how they feel

your child is doing and respond to that. Don’t ask in Year 7 what the teacher thinks they will get in their GCSE, let your child enjoy school without pressure in those early years. Instead of asking how they are doing compared to other students, ask if they are where the teacher wants them to be. Above all remember that the teacher wants what is best for your child. Put your concerns to them but please listen to what they have to say too. By Willow Coby

Helping Out Schools are generally very keen to foster a good relationship with parents and their wider community. Often people are well-intentioned and would like to help out, but don’t know how. Here are some ideas which might appeal.

Maybe you would like to be a classroom helper. Classroom helpers volunteer to assist teachers on a regular basis, usually in primary schools. They may be in school for half an hour a week, or perhaps up to half a day

You could become a member of the Parent Teachers Association. Traditionally these were developed to foster better relationships between parents and schools, but they are now generally associated with fundraising.

Senior schools often have events where parents and local business people come into school to talk about their careers, or to discuss anecdotes about taking part in a notable event or visiting an unusual place.

Why not become a parent governor? Governors get involved with the strategic decision making of schools. They attend full governor body meetings and usually sit on committees dealing with various aspects of the school, such as staffing finance and curriculum. Parent governors are voted for by the parents of pupils at the school.

Many school volunteers not only benefit from a sense of pride and fulfilment at having assisted, but also find that they improve their skills and enhance their CVs. By Susan Brookes-Morris

Could you be one of tomorrow’s outstanding teachers? Join us at our open evenings at; St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, Hardybutts, WIGAN, WN1 3RZ

Individuals who have the potential to be outstanding teachers

Tuesday 9th October 2018, 4-6:00pm Tuesday 13th November 2018, 4-6:00pm

Individuals who are passionate about working with young children.

Tuesday 11th December 2018, 4-6:00pm Tuesday 15th January 2019, 4-6:00pm Tuesday 12th February 2019, 4-6:00pm

Accredited Study days will be at Liverpool Hope University leading to a PGCE and QTS in primary teaching.

For more information and updates visit

www.wcpsd.org.uk

Provider code 2A4 - Course code 2XT7

Blame It On the

Beatles

by Jessica Phillips Aughton-based author John Winter’s first work of fiction is due to hit the shelves this October. The novel, entitled Blame It On The Beatles… And Bill Shankly, takes place in 1960’s post-war Liverpool, when Liverpool FC seem to be stuck in Division Two and Tony and his teenage friends are bored of their dull, grey lives. Then The Beatles and Bill Shankly come along. And everything goes crazy. John Winter was born in Liverpool, and tells me though the characters are fictional, much of the novel is based on fact. A student during the sixties, John was lucky enough to meet Paul McCartney himself during a secret visit to the Cavern Club. ‘Paul was showing Linda around for the first time in the October of 1968. The press had no idea about it, and Paul was in disguise. He came over to the piano where I was sitting and writing, introduced himself, and then played Hey Jude at Linda’s insistence. It was like meeting God!’ John continues: ‘I was a songwriter for a while too. I got to meet some of the musicians who were making Liverpool famous at the time – Faith Brown actually recorded one of my songs, and I was good friends with Mike McCartney, Paul’s brother’. Blame It On The Beatles… And Bill Shankly translates John’s personal experiences into a compelling tale of life as a teen in such a turbulent era for the city, while exploring the intersection between music and football in Liverpool. ‘They were closely interconnected’, John tells me, ‘they were both what put Liverpool on the map. The 60’s were a seminal era for the city really – Bill Shankly turned Liverpool FC around; they went from the Second Division to being European champions. And before that, The Beatles had become world famous. Football and

music are what really turned the city round – but more than that, turned Liverpool’s people round’. The novel takes place across the vibrant, dynamic Liverpool of the sixties, from pubs and clubs like The Casbah and The Jive Hive, to the iconic Penny Lane. John says: ‘Many books have been written about the Beatles and the effect the band had on Liverpool, but I don’t think anyone has written anything about how the lives of ordinary teenagers were affected during that era’. The novel is available in most major bookshops and on Amazon, RRP £8.99. You can listen to selected songs from the book at www.blameitonthebeatles. com.

Puzzle Corner

SUDOKU

WORD SEARCH - Library Find the hidden words in the word search grid B

A R

BOOKS SHELF LIBRARIAN QUIET REFERENCE

FICTION ARCHIVES OVERDUE CARD BORROW

DESK ENCYCLOPEDIA RESEARCH INDEX AUTHOR

WORD MIX UP - Library Unscramble the letters to make a word

NUMBER BLOCK

5 1 15 7 1 15 8 3 17 2 12 19 16 13 11 17 The numbers in each row add up to totals to the right.

EDAR

The numbers in each column add up to the totals along the bottom. The diagonal lines also add up the

DUSTY LUGTEACOA MAZEINGAS

totals to the right.

WIGGLE WORDS CLUE: Hard Work

CROPMUTE WEEDY LACEDIM PROGHIABY SISTCOALNICAFI

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

L I I N

E K L G

P U L T

H T E E

All the puzzle solutions are on page 49 of this magazine

Health & Fitness

One in three women don’t check for

breast cancer

This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and with figures from a recent YouGov survey revealing that a third of women do not check their breasts regularly for symptoms of breast cancer, could be the perfect time to get tickled pink and start getting to know your breasts.

You should also know which symptoms to look out for. Inverted nipples or nipple discharge can be indicators of breast cancer, as well as constant

With 1 in 8 women affected by breast cancer in their lifetime, it’s incredibly important to perform regular boob checks. It can be a daunting process - but it could save your life. The survey of 2,126 UK adults also revealed that a fifth of women (20%) say their main reason for not doing so is because they don’t know how to check. Breast Cancer Care is urging women of all ages to get to know their breasts – ideally checking every 4-6 weeks - so they can spot any unusual changes quickly, whether they are attending screening or not, as early detection of breast cancer can save lives.

unusual pain in the breast or armpit. You should also look out for a change of breast shape, strange puckering to the skin, or any rashes/crusting around the nipple area.

Breast cancer charity CoppaFeel has put together a handy guide for the signs you should look out for.

Visit https://coppafeel.org/ or call Breast Cancer Care’s Nurses free on 0808 800 6000 for information and support from day one.

It’s first important to know what’s normal for you. Look and feel around your breasts, including the collarbone and armpits, which also carry breast tissue – this applies to both men and women.

If the symptom doesn’t disappear within a week, it’s recommended you get checked out.

How Old is Your Heart? A new online test can determine whether you’re at increased risk of a heart attack or stroke. Public Health England are calling for adults nationwide to take the Heart Age Test, which provides an instant assessment of their ‘heart age’. If this number is higher than your actual age, there is an increased risk of heart problems including cardiovascular disease: the leading cause of death for men and the second for women. 80% of cardiovascular-related deaths in people under 75 are preventable with lifestyle changes – that’s around 50 deaths per day. The most common causes are high blood pressure (which affects one in four adults) and high cholesterol, and with this October being National Cholesterol Month, what better time to evaluate your heart health and make some changes? The Heart Age Test asks a series of simple questions to provide an estimated heart age, and gives suggestions on lifestyle changes such as losing

The 6 most common words we hear;

“I thought it would go away?’’ It’s not about aches & pains, it’s about your LIFE! What are you waiting for ?

01695 574999 Chiropractic Excellence

Behind the Styles Bar, off Church Walks

www.ormskirkchiropractic.co.uk

weight, quitting smoking or cutting back on alcohol. It has already been found that four out of five people have a heart age higher than their actual age. Professor Jamie Waterall of Public Health England said: ‘Millions are at risk of cardiovascular disease but don’t know it, putting themselves at real risk of suffering ill-health or dying younger… Taking a Heart Age Test is something you can easily do at home, but it could be one of the most important things you do to help you live a healthy, longer life.’ The test is a simple way to get feedback on your own lifestyle and find out handy tips for change. To take the test, visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhshealth-check/check-your-heart-age-tool/ or talk to your GP.

Stop Smoking with

Hypnosis

It’s easy to be put off the idea of hypnosis by its Hollywood reputation, but it could be the perfect solution this Stoptober. If you want to quit smoking for good, hypnotherapy (hypnosis used to promote healing or positive development) could be just the thing. Contrary to popular belief, hypnosis is not a state of deep sleep and patients cannot be made to do anything they would not ordinarily do. Totally safe, patients stay in control and can terminate the

hypnotic state at any time. In fact, most people can’t tell the difference between a hypnotised and ‘waking’ state. Although different for everybody, a hypnotic trance may feel like daydreaming, or simply a feeling of relaxation or lethargy. In order for hypnosis to work, the patient must be highly motivated to change some behaviour or habit. The readiness and ability of patients to be hypnotised varies considerably, and hypnotherapy generally requires several sessions in order to achieve meaningful results. However, selfhypnosis can be learned and practised at home to reinforce formal therapy sessions. In fact, it is common for patients to be given a recording of their hypnotherapy session to listen to at home. It is generally accepted that all hypnosis is ultimately self-hypnosis and that a hypnotist merely helps to facilitate the experience. Hypnotherapy is not about being made to do things - it is about empowerment. If you’re looking to quit smoking in the West Lancashire area, Ormskirk Quit Squad holds drop-ins on Mondays from 5pm-7:30pm at West Lancs Health, Ormskirk Hospital. No appointment required.

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

Health & Fitness

Over 40 walks FREE to download at locallife247.co.uk

Nordic Walking

Home visits also available in: Southport, West Lancs & surrounding areas

A great all-round exercise that is sociable, fun and easy to learn. Classes in Leyland, Chorley and surrounding areas - ÂŁ5 per session. Poles provided so booking essential. Fully qualified Instructor.

Call Loren on: 07808 157 718 www.southlancashirenordicwalking.co.uk

Promote your business in our

NEW Health & Fitness

section

Reach over 104,000 homes throughout the North West Prices start from ÂŁ35 & VAT per issue

Call 01695 627 999 for details

LocalLife

www.locallife247.co.uk

Make the Perfect Pumpkin

Lantern

Carving Jack O’ Lanterns didn’t always mean pumpkins - Celts used turnip lanterns before the Irish migrated to America and found the pumpkins grown there were much easier to carve. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from some great tips. Start with the right pumpkin. It should be fresh with a sturdy stem, no bruises and a flat bottom so it won’t roll. If you can find one with a flatter ‘face’ – even better. If art isn’t your calling, not to fear - you can download patterns online. Just tape it to the pumpkin (make little cuts around the edge of the pattern if the pumpkin is a bit too round, and that way it will fit better). Then use a pin or small nail to puncture the paper and the outer skin of the pumpkin at intervals of around 1/4 inch / 0.5 cm, or even closer for intricate designs. If it’s difficult to see your poked-out pattern, rub a little cornflour or baby powder into the dots. The dots will turn bright white and your design will magically appear. Rather than cutting all the way through the pumpkin, try removing some of the skin. The yellow flesh underneath will glow when lit up from inside. Spread Vaseline on the cut edges to seal in moisture. If you have to carve it a few days in

advance and it shrivels you can revive it with a facedown soak in cold water. If you’re looking for some pumpkin-spiration around West Lancashire, check out these spooktastic events near you: There’s pumpkin picking going on at Windmill Animal Farm, Burscough, from October 13-27, 10am-6pm, which costs £7.50. For children aged 5-12, head to Coronation Park, Ormskirk, for an afternoon of free pumpkin carving from 2pm-4pm. Don’t forget to visit our Events2Go guide on page 44!

Historic

Halloween Halloween dates back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of a dark winter. Celts believed that on October 31 the ghosts of their dead returned to the world of the living for a night. Reports of hauntings are relatively common; orbs caught on camera, the feel of a ghostly presence in a musty room. The question is, how legitimate are these ‘ghost’ sightings? And could there be any spirits lurking around West Lancashire?

Heskin Hall This Tudor estate was built in 1545, and originally belonged to Edmund Dudley, Minister for King Henry VII. The Grade-I listed building is said to be home to many spirits who still trawl the house today, including a young Catholic girl called Matilda, who was hanged by a Priest as evidence of his conversion to Protestantism. The priest was later executed in the same spot by Cromwell’s unconvinced soldiers. Along with being a popular wedding venue, Heskin Hall hosts regular ghost hunts.

Ince Blundell The woods around the village of Ince Blundell, Crosby, are an infamous accident black spot. Sightings of the Grey Lady are often blamed, as she has been seen along Cross Barn Lane and the main road, or standing among the trees. The Lady was said to have been killed in the woods, and now stands in the road to frighten drivers into joining her…

Birkdale Palace Hotel Though demolished in 1969, Birkdale Palace Hotel in Southport was notorious for its ghosts - and its haunted lift. Paranormal activity at the hotel seemed to begin during its demolition. The hotel’s elevator began travelling between floors as though to drop off guests, and kept stopping on the third floor – despite it having no power. Eleven murders are rumoured to have happened within the hotel, and its coach house (now the Fisherman’s Rest pub) was used as a temporary graveyard for fourteen deceased lifeboatmen; as sound an explanation as any for lingering ghosties. The site is now a housing estate, though the old pub is still open to the public. What will you discover this Halloween? Don’t miss our Events2Go guide on page 44 for some great spooky goings-on. by Jessica Phillips

Food & Drink

Stuffed Peppers Serves 4 ~ Preparation time: 20 mins + Cooking time: 25 mins

Ingredients

Method

4 Orange peppers

For the pepper lanterns

200g Cooked brown rice

Preheat the oven to 180C / Gas Mark 4. Use a sharp knife to slice the top off each pepper horizontally. Don’t discard these tops as they will ne the little hats for the pepper lanterns. Deseed the peppers. Rinse and pat dry with kitchen towel. Use a small paring knife to cut holes into the exterior of the peppers to make pumpkin-lantern style faces. If the peppers don’t stand upright, slice a small amount from the bottom to flatten the surface.

1 tbsp Sunflower oil 450g Minced beef or turkey 1 Medium onion finely chopped 225g Mixed mushrooms, chopped 350g jar roasted red pepper sauce

Cook rice according to package directions. Lightly oil a baking tray. Arrange the peppers and their tops on the tray and cook in the oven for 20 minutes, or until peppers are cooked, but still are still firm. They mustn’t collapse! Remove peppers from oven and allow to cool while you make the filling.

1 tsp Dried oregano

For the filling

¼ tsp Chilli flakes

Heat 1 tbsp oil in large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the mushrooms have softened and reduced in size. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add mince, herbs and chilli flakes and continue to cook, stirring occasionally until browned.

Salt and pepper to taste

Drain the excess oil. Reduce heat to low, then add the pepper sauce and cooked rice. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 more minutes, or until mixture is heated through. Fill each pepper to the brim, allow the mixture to spill over slightly. Place a top on to each stuffed pepper and serve with green salad.

Chocolate Spider Cupcakes Perfect for Halloween! Makes 12

Ingredients

Method

For the cakes

Preheat the oven to Gas 3 / 175C

100g plain flour

Place the flour, cocoa powder, caster sugar, baking powder, salt and butter into an electric mixer (or use a handheld whisk) and beat on a slow speed until the mixture looks grainy, like sand.

20g cocoa powder 140g caster sugar 1 1/2 tsp baking powder Pinch salt 40g unsalted butter (room temp) 120ml whole milk 1 egg 1/4 tsp vanilla extract For the icing 300g icing sugar (sifted) 100g unsalted butter (room temp)

In a separate jug whisk the milk, egg and vanilla extract together. Pour half into the flour mixture. Beat well to combine and make sure you get rid of any lumps. Add the second half of the egg and milk mixture and beat until the mixture is smooth (about two minutes). Spoon the mixture into 12 paper cupcake cases and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until cooked. Set aside to cool. To make the icing: Beat the icing sugar, butter and cocoa powder together by hand or in an electric mixer. Add the milk a little at a time then beat well until the mixture is light and fluffy. Use this to cover the cooled cakes.

40g cocoa powder

To finish the spiders: Pour the chocolate sprinkles on to a saucer. Take each iced cake and dip the icing into the sprinkles to make the hairy

40ml whole milk

spider’s body. Place two ‘eyeballs’ on each cupcake.

For decoration

Use a skewer to poke 4 holes on opposite sides of each cupcake; insert liquorice strips into each hole.

Pot of chocolate sprinkles Sweets for eyeballs Black string liquorice - cut into 5cm strips

Leisure

Upload your event for FREE at www.locallife247.co.uk/events Follow us on Facebook

events2go

Venus Voices

Fantastical Chocolate

Thursday, October 4, 1pm

Saturday, October 13, 11:30AM - Sunday, October 14, 3:30

Meet pioneering, inspiration author/life coach Vera Waters. Free tickets available from Ormskirk library – for more information contact ormskirk.library@ lancashire.gov.uk or call 0300 123 6703. Ormskirk Library, L39 2EN

The Last Hundred Days... Friday, October 5, 5:45pm-7pm

A day of delectable confectionery, singalong live music and chocolatiers. With your ticket you get a cotton Chocolate Festival bag to collect your goodies, a mug, and a sweet or savoury dipping skewer for the chocolate fountains. Many food and drink stands, themed photo booths, characters and story corners, arts & crafts, and chocolate sculpting. Tickets from £6.90-£17.25.

Richard Houghton presents an illustrated talk to commemorate the World War 1 Armistice centenary. Free to attend, no tickets required.

Liverpool Olympia, West Derby Road, Liverpool, L6 9BY

Ormskirk Library, Ormskirk, L39 2EN

Tai Chi in the Park

WLLR Working Engines Sunday, October 7, 10:30am-4:30pm See steam and diesel locomotives at work or ‘drive a diesel’ stationary engine! Free entry to site, train fares applicable. Station Road, Hesketh Bank, PR4 6SN

Gangsta Granny Karaoke Saturday, October 13, 8pm-late Head down to The Bridge for a karaoke night, with a disco and live music! There will also be a raffle with tons of great prizes and Granny’s delicious hotpot, all in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society. Free entry. The Bridge, 73 Liverpool Road, Burscough, Ormskirk, L40 0SA

Saturday, October 13, 10am-11am Free sessions in the ancient martial art of Tai Chi, revered for both its defence training and health benefits. Bowling Green, Coronation Park, Ormskirk, L39 3LB

Social Dance Saturday, October 13, 8pm George McDonald hosts a social evening of ballroom, Latin American and popular sequence dancing, along with a charity raffle. Tickets £7. For more information, call George on 01704 894035. Ormskirk Civic Hall, Southport Road, Ormskirk, L39 1LN

Apple Weekend

Curious and Curiouser

Saturday, October 13 & Sunday, October 14, 11am-4pm

Friday, October 19, 7pm

Just in time for the apple harvest! Tours of the heritage orchard and apple pressing demonstrations, as well as the opportunity to taste and purchase some apples. Refreshments available in the Cabin Café. Free admission and parking.

light buffet! The Ormskirk and District National Trust Supporter Group are hosting this event – contact Pat Dixon on 01257 464440 for details. Entry £13. ODANTM members only.

Gorse Hill Nature Reserve, Aughton, Ormskirk, L39 7HB

Parbold Duathlon Sunday, October 14, 8:30am 150 competitors will run a 5k lap over a 2-loop course, then cycle for 18 miles through a 3-lap course. Challenge yourself to climb Parbold Hill three times! Entry costs £30, entries close on Thursday, October 11 or when the event fills. Medal and t-shirt included in entry fee.

Test your skills at valuing antiques while enjoying a

O’Briens Tea Rooms, Park Road, Ormskirk, L39 3BY

Shine Showcase Friday, October 19, 7pm Performers across Knowsley can sign up for a live audience showcase. Whether you’re a singer, dancer, comedian or poet, head on down to Shine! If you want to take part, send a 2-minute audition video to 07717888530 via WhatsApp, or go to www. knowsley.gov.uk. Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park, Huyton, L36 6EG

The Farmer’s Arms, Bispham, Parbold, L40 3SL

Scarecrow Festival

3K Fun Run

Saturday, October 20 – Sunday, November 4, 11am-5pm

Sunday, October 14, race at 10:30am, registration open from 9:30am

Come and see a wonderful display of scarecrows made by the staff, volunteers and local community of Rufford. This year’s theme is Inspirational Women. If your group is interested in taking part, email catherine.hazley@nationaltrust.org.uk before Monday, October 15.

Run, jog or walk a 3k route and receive your medal! There’s also fun and entertainment on the Edge Hill campus, with refreshments and photo opportunities on the winner’s rostrum. The Sports Centre, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, L39 4QP

Car Boot & Artisan Market Sunday, October 14, 10am-3pm £8 per car, £10 per table. Grab yourself a bargain or bespoke goods! For table bookings, contact Sue Ellis on 01772 816834. Hesketh Bank Community Centre, Station Road, PR4 6SR

Rufford Old Hall, Rufford, Ormskirk, L40 1SG

WW1 Memorial Gardens Project Wednesday, October 24, 7:30pm-9:30pm The Ormskirk and District Family History Society welcome guest speaker Elaine Taylor, who will discuss the Lancashire Garden Trust’s work on the WW1 Memorial Gardens. £1 donation requested from non-members, tea and biscuits available. Guide HQ, Moorgate, Ormskirk, L39 1QR

Beer & Cider Festival

Vocal Workshop

Thursday, Oct 25 – Saturday, Oct 27, various times

Sunday, October 28, 2pm-4pm

Expect to see over 60 real ales and ciders, including old favourites and brand new beers. Both local ales and award-winning national beers and ciders available. Refundable festival glasses, hot and cold food. Tickets £4 per day, refunded to CAMRA members as beer tokens.

Sing songs from The Greatest Showman and learn vocal techniques! Nobody will be asked to sing alone and lyrics are provided. Refreshments served in the interval. Tickets from £8-£11.25.

St. John Hall, Wright Street, Southport, PR9 0TU

Halloween in Ormskirk

Southport Halloween Festival

Wednesday, October 31, 6pm-9pm

Thurs, Oct 25 – Sun, Oct 28, various times Southport Halloween Festival returns this year with great performances and spooky surprises including a spooky maze at the Town Hall Gardens. For details, visit Southport Halloween Festival on Facebook.

Rufford Village Hall, Ormskirk, L40 1SW

Ghosts and ghouls dance around the bandstand and creepy crawly creatures lurk in the woodlands of Ormskirk at Halloween. An evening of fright, mystery and scary stories awaits you this October. Coronation Park, Ormskirk, L39 3LB

Southport Town Centre

Halloween Charity Night

Reptiles at Rufford

Friday, November 2, 7:30pm

The North West Reptile Club is once again bringing some cold-blooded friends to Rufford! Come and meet them and find out some interesting facts.

An amazing night of live music from local artists including Mark Coyle, Alyssa & Holly and Boneshaker, plus DJ Steve Kool. Hot food provided, and a prize for the best costume. Tickets £12, proceeds go to Lifting Louis and the NSPKU.

Rufford Old Hall, Rufford, Ormskirk, L40 1SG

The Stanley Club, Burscough, L40 5TN

Pumpkin Carving

WW1 Anniversary Evening

Sunday, October 28, 2pm-4pm

Friday, November 2, 7:30pm

Discover top tips about pumpkin designs and carving techniques this Halloween, and enter your creation in the Best Pumpkin competition! Ideal for children aged 5-12. Pumpkins are provided, booking required on 01695 622794.

Come down to the Civic Hall for a talk on John Westhead – ‘the man who shod war horses’. Born in 1872, the local blacksmith was killed in France in 1916 – hear his family story told through original documents and letters, followed by a hotpot supper and singalong of wartime songs. Tickets £10, call 01695 580 755 to book.

Saturday, October 27, 11am-4pm

Coronation Park, Ormskirk, L39 3LB

WLLR Halloween Sunday, October 28, 5:30pm-7pm The West Lancashire Light Railway operates a limited number of Halloween trains after dusk has fallen. For more information, call 01772 815881. Station Road, Hesketh Bank, PR4 6SP

Ormskirk Civic Hall, Southport Road, Ormskirk, L39 1LN

Woodvale

by Chris Pearce

Mention Formby or Ainsdale in a walking context and people automatically think of the beaches, but there more to these areas as this 6 mile walk clearly shows. This walk, ideal for even the wettest Sunday afternoon, takes a flat, circular route around Woodvale Airfield and takes in, not one, but two nature reserves on route.

Woodvale, which was opened during World War 2 as a defence measure when Liverpool and its docks were bombed. Nowadays the Station’s role is largely training and the 611 Squadron stationed there prepares Volunteer Reservists to support RAF operations in the UK and overseas.

Park up near Freshfield Rail Station (L37 7DD) and take leafy Montague Road 600 yards to its conclusion, where you follow a shale path going in the same direction running parallel to the railway line. Follow the path for a further 400 yards and then, taking great care, cross the railway line at the level crossing and enter Formby Golf course. The path that cuts through the fairway of the par 5 third hole, watching out for errant shots coming from the left as you do so and follow the path as it winds to the right towards the pine woods.

Eventually you’ll arrive at a metal bar gate besides another information board. Go through this and take the tarmac path following in the same direction. Almost immediately you’ll need to take a right turn, down a path (the main Sefton Coastal path) that heads underneath a road bridge. 50 yards under the bridge, you’ll need to take a left turn off the path towards the road and then turn left and use the bridge to cross the path you’ve just walked under.

When you enter the woods, you’ll reach an informative noticeboard which tells you all about the Ainsdale Sand Dunes, which is a national nature reserve, home to over 450 plant species including 33 which are rare and also residing here is the natterjack toad, red squirrels, sand lizards and great-crested newts. You need to trun right at the notice board and follow the Woodland Path. Follow this through the pine woods until you reach a T junction and turn right again, through the open common area and eventually, the path returns to running parallel to the railway line. At the other side of the railway line you’ll see RAF

Follow the road for just over ½ a mile and after you’ve crossed the main road turn right towards Formby and 150 yards later take a left fork down Formby Old Road. Listing a house sale on Formby Old Road must be the fantasy of many a Formby estate agent and the bigger properties are protected by walls, privacy fencing, barbed wire, CCTV and even guard dogs. I half expected a Bugatti Royale to sweep by at any moment carrying Mr Burns and Smithers, but it was sadly not to be on this occasion.

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

Dunes

JT Woodvale

Co a

sta

A5 y-P ass Fo rm

or t thp

Sou

Freshfield Dune Heath Nature Reserve

by B

RAF Woodvale

Old

Brewery Ln

ad Ro

A56

Montagu Road

Victoria Road

Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve

Freshfield

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.

49 Once you’ve reached the end of Brewery Lane, take the path to the right hand side of the road leading to the high school. A worthy diversion almost at the end of the walk is Freshfield Dune Heath nature reserve and this is easily accessible from the path. Freshfield Dune heath is the single largest lowland heath site in Lancashire and whilst budding botanists can search for specialist plants, the rest of us can look out for the red squirrels, which live in abundance alongside lizards, stoats, weasels, and the amazing Emperor moths, which have a wingspan of up to 8cm and fly during the day.

Altogether you’re on Formby Old Road for just over a mile and after the well-defined ‘S’ bend, you’ll arrive at a series of huge glasshouses on the right. Just after the glasshouses, take a right turn down a tarmacked path called Eight Acre Lane (near Arsitocat Cattery). Cross the Formby by-pass with care and follow the path in the same direction. Eight Acre Lane becomes Sixteen Acre Lane and 650 yards later you’ll arrive at Paradise Lane. Turn right and 50 yards further on take Little Brewery Lane which transforms into Brewery Lane almost immediately.

And if you haven’t turned into Freshfield Dune Heath, just follow the path to the end where you’ll meet Montague Road once again and turn left down this road to Freshfield Rail Station and the end of your walk.

Full Grooms Scissor Cuts Hand Strip Bath & Tidy Dog Grooming Service

Tel: 07739 383120

Email: j9@live.co.uk J9K9Burscough The Farm, Burscough, L40 0RT

Puzzle Solutions B

WIGGLE WORDS:

LIKE PULLING TEETH

11 5 4 8 2

5 7 2 2

1 3 3 6

4 1 4 2

15 15 17 12

19 16 13 11 17

WORD MIX UP: READ, STUDY, CATALOGUE, MAGAZINES, COMPUTER, DEWEY DECIMAL, BIOGRAPHY, CLASSIFICATION

Gardening

A host of golden

Daffodills Garden centres, nurseries and catalogues are full of daffodil bulbs now and I think I get asked more questions about daffodils than any other plant, apart from roses. I think it’s because they are ubiquitous in the spring and so we assume they are easy to grow. They are...and they aren’t, so I’ll answer the most common questions; How do I get my daffodils to flower more than one year? It’s a good question. It’s tempting to think that the only thing you have to remember about planting daffodil bulbs is to set them pointy side up, but it’s a bit more complicated than that if you want them to flower every year. The trick is to set them deep enough. If you plant them just below the surface, as so many of people do, they dry out, which means they lack the food and moisture to get them through until the following year. The result is an uninteresting clump of leaves rather than a host of golden daffodils. You can plant daffodils any time now, to the end of October. Sooner is better.

when you are dropping them in but it’s worth the effort for the repeat flowering. Choose the biggest firmest bulbs you can find for each variety. When can I cut down the foliage after flowering? I would suggest waiting for 6 weeks. If you have a very small garden and can’t bear to have untidy foliage lying around you might be better treating the bulbs as annuals (daffodil bulbs aren’t that expensive.). Or you can plant them in an aquatic basket, and after flowering you can dig the basket up, water the bulbs regularly then replant in the autumn. Alternatively, you can buy dwarf varieties of daffodil which have daintier flowers and foliage, so you can have pretty flowers without the resulting foliage posing a problem. Whatever you decide, remember plant deeper than you think and… Happy gardening! By Rachael Leverton

How far apart should I plant the bubs? They should be planted about 3 inches / 8cm apart in holes about 10 inches / 25cm deep. It looks deep

JOBS FOR OCTOBER • Prune your climbing roses and tie in the stems before autumn winds cause damage

TOP TIP Autumn is the ideal time to plant out your Clematis Plants. These can give fences, walls and trellis the ‘wow’ factor or simply screen any unsightly areas of your garden. Make sure they have a framework to scramble over.

• Harvest apples, pears, grapes and nuts • Mow the lawns and trim hedges in mild areas • Lay new turf where needed • Plant out your spring cabbages • Move tender plants into a greenhouse or conservatory

Garden Services

Garden need a little

LTC?

• Tree Surgery • Flagging & Fencing • Landscaping & Design • Garden Clearances • Logs For Sale Wood chipping & stump grinder services

Call Lloyd today for a free estimate

01942 367170 / 07900 738637

Garden Machinery & Equipment Sales, Service & Repair Garden Tractors & Lawn Mowers Chainsaws & Hedge Trimmers Brush Cutters & Strimmers Equipment Servicing & Sharpening Pick-up & delivery service Moss View, Nipe Lane, Nr Skelmersdale, WN8 9PY

01695 722999 & 07918 618126/7 Cricket St, Wigan, WN6 7TP www.ltcgroup.co.uk

Creative Garden Construction

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, Saturday 9am-2pm

www.mowermen.co.uk

Award-winning, local family run business offers:

Garden Landscaping (lawn laying, planting, fencing)

Garden Maintenance

(weeding, mowing, trimming, hedges)

Regular or one off visits

scope2scape

Plants & Planting

(wide range of plants available with advice and planting service)

Call now for a friendly, no obligation quote

scope2scape.co.uk T 01257 464221 M 07761 808413 / 07900 224849

01257 401193 / 0771 077 2732 www.newleafgardenservices.co.uk

52 Home Services

CALL PAUL LOCKSMITHS ESTABLISHED 2000 • UPVC & WOODEN DOOR SPECIALIST • Emergency Door Opening • UPVC Door Lock Repairs • UPVC Door Lock Changes • UPVC Door Lock Upgrades • Wood Door Lock Changes • All Work Guaranteed A Registered Insured NCFE Certified Company

Call Paul for a Fast, Reliable, Professional Service

Mr Soot

CHIMNEY SWEEP

Woodburners

Open fires

Stoves

mr-soot.com 07724 311 992

GARAGE DOOR

REPAIRS

All GARAGE DOORS REPAIRED : Springs, Cables, Locks, Rollers etc. Doors of all ages repaired

01704 833332 07891 330214 NO FIX, NO CHARGE! www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk Unit 3 Stephensons Way, Formby, L37 8EG

ELECTRIC GATE REPAIR All Makes Installed, Repaired & Serviced Local Family Business We can even automate your existing gates Telephone:

07870 586307 TELEPHONE

01744MOBILE 526 589 07932 718 362 WWW.CALLPAULLOCKSMITH.CO.UK

Want to promote your company in

LocalLife Call Lisa: 01257 498 329 - Chorley 01695 627 999 - West Lancs locallife247.co.uk

LocalLife

Do you have Failed Double Glazing Units? Don’t pay £££’s to replace the frame, we’ll replace the glass panes. We also replace; Window locks, Door locks, Hinges & Handles. ...and we do conservatory repairs. Call us now for a free quotation on

0151 426 6987

www.northwestwindowrepairs.co.uk

UPVC CLEANING

• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.

CONSERVATORIES

• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning) • High pressure water jetting • Drains unblocked • Gullies & interceptors emptied • Drains traced • Septic tanks emptied • CCTV drain surveys • Wincan reporting • Site drain surveys

ROOF CLEANING • Moss Removal & Treatment

www.cj-lyon.co.uk

CLEAN FOR CHRISTMAS

20% OFF I

CLEAN

SPECIAL OFFER

email: info@cj-lyon.co.uk

• Driveways & Patios etc.

FREEPHONE 03333 202189

JETWASHING

PA C

Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.

01695 372 371 or 07834 241 642 www.justcleanpropertycare.co.uk

M H Roofing

Established over 15 years Friendly advice and competitive rates No job too small

• High Performance Felt Flat Roof Systems • Storm Damage and Insurance Work • Slating and Tiling full roofs • Poiniting and Guttering • Fascia Boards

Call 01744 884117 or 07702 693225

www.mhroofingltd.co.uk

Fully Insured & Insurance Backed Guarantees

COMPLETE HOME SECURITY A local family business.

SHOWROOM

Intruder Alarms • CCTV • Fire • Access Control • Safes 57, Cottage Lane, Ormskirk, L39 3NF Tel: 01695 578040 www.complete-homesecurity.co.uk

BIG

Commercial & Domestic Gas Engineers

ENERGY EFFICIENT HEATING SOLUTIONS

202783

Gas Appliances repaired & serviced Homes, schools, churches, offices & factories

Call on 07778

80 40 60

HEATING www.bigHheating.co.uk

Suffering from poor reception? SK Installations are accredited experts in Aerial & Satellite work We also install & wall mount TV’s, phone extensions, home entertainment systems & CCTV

Fast response and quality work guaranteed!

T: 01704 89 40 89 M: 07812 21 82 82

www.sk-installationsltd.co.uk

HEATING LTD 10 YEAR WARRANTY ON OIL BOILERS Includes Parts & Labour

Specialists in Oil & LPG Central Heating • Grant Oil Boilers - 5 year warranty. • Honeywell connect specialist. We also provide a central heating repairs service to both domestic and business clients.

CALL NOW FOR A FREE QUOTE 0800 924 7037 / 0788 099 3847 Email: sales@wolfheating.co.uk

www.wolfheating.co.uk

Shevington E l ect ri cal S e r v ic e s L td NAPIT part ‘P’ registered JIB Approved Technician 31 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

General Building & Maintenance Work • General Joinery • Fascias, Gutters, Roofing • Plastering & Texture Rendering • Double Glazing • Flagging Driveways & Patios Call Paul for a free quotation on

01695 578495 or 07944 550268

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’

Transform your home with a brand new driveway

20% DISCOUNT

Resin Driveways

Depending on the size of area. Offer ends 31st October 2018.

Made in Lancashire

Tarmac Driveways

J.P.Surfacing www.jp-surfacing.co.uk

Established over 25 years

42, Seymour Road, Astley Bridge, Bolton, BL1 8PT

01204 590 499 Ltd

Proud stockists of

Full design service available from qualified interior designers

Millan Interiors, 5/7 Mill Lane, Parbold WN8 7NW

T: 01257 46 34 77

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10.00am - 4.30pm, Saturday: 10.00am - 2.00pm