Wigan Edition
January 2017
Green Belt
grab
Jack’s Tracks visits Hale Talking shop with MP
Yvonne Fovargue Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health & Fitness What’s On Business View... Photo by Peter Bretherton
2
3
FULL MARBLE SUITES from £690 including fire FITTED FREE
Telephone:
01942 583 558
721 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8AQ (FREE parking to the rear)
wiganfiresandfireplaces.co.uk Follow The Fireplace Wigan on Facebook & Instagram
4
Once
T
more
he New Year is a time when many of us see the opportunity to ‘ring the changes’, but some are left dreading the future should the changes in Green Belt development planned in Wigan and St Helens go ahead. Our main feature this month illustrates the scale of these planned developments on both sides of the Wigan/St Helens border. If successful, we can look forward to more pressure on our roads and our schools, and more of the pleasant area where we live being buried under acres of concrete. What is surely more disturbing though is the way that plans for developments in Winstanley and at The Bell have come back into play five years after being dropped after high profile campaigns against these developments. Why? Because council leaders and officials are motoring along on the devolution highway, determined to boost council tax and business rates revenues by allowing Green Belt development. Devolution might be a noble aim, but it has little value if it allows those who are either unaccountable (or those who believe that they are untouchable) to circumvent democracy in this manner. To their credit, those same residents, councillors and MPs who protested against the development last time have dusted off their campaign banners and are once more generating residents’ support against the planned developments. Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more…
Chris Pearce - Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk
5
In this issue Style that’s SEW
cool
Regulars 44 Puzzle Corner 50 Planning
84 Garden Diary 86 Test drive
78 Eating Out Guide
98 The Lump
Sections 20 Northern
powerhouse 61
You should have
fun
6 Property 14 Local News 20 Fashion 26 Education 52 Health 56 Travel
66 Finance 68 Business 72 Food & Drink 84 Gardening 86 Motoring 88 Home Services
Next issue - February 2017
Advertising deadline - Thursday, 19 January Published - Thursday, 2 February Local Life 247 Ltd Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
Telephone: 01695 627 999
72 Jack’s Tracks visits
Hale 80 Test Drive
Kia Niro 86
Publisher: Chris chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Sales: Clare, Lisa sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: David wigannews@locallife247.co.uk Design: Peter, Dylan design@locallife247.co.uk Distribution: Sally sallyb@locallife247.co.uk Accounts: Sam accounts@locallife247.co.uk Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following areas on an alternate monthly basis. This issue is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton. The next issue is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh. You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan, or read online at www.locallife247. co.uk
Local Life Media
@locallifemedia
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
7
8
Distributors required Local Life magazine seeks distributors for delivery of this magazine and leaflets in the following areas; Billinge
Upholland Road, Crank Road, Coppice Drive, Cheltenham Drive, Wordsworth Avenue & Winchester Road.
Hawkley
Navenby Road & Whitecroft Road.
Winstanley
Melrose Drive, Costessey Way & Falstone Close.
Good rates paid, delivery bags and maps provided. You will be at least 13, healthy, energetic and be prepared to work for 2/3 hours once every eight weeks. If you’re interested, email sallyb@locallife247.co.uk with your name, address, a contact number and your date of birth.
The perfect time to think about a funeral plan is today Did you know the average funeral costs 92% more than it did 11 years ago? With a 50+ Funeral Plan from Golden Charter you can freeze the cost of your funeral directors services included in your plan at today’s prices. Take a look at the benefits of 50+ Funeral Plans • Protection against rising funeral costs. • Peace of mind. • Reassurance for your family. • Flexibility to choose the funeral you want.
Will included within your plan
Call Paul Lawrence anytime on 0748 693 161 to find out more or to arrange a free no-obligation home consultation. Alternatively email: mail4paullawrence@gmail.com Source: The Sunlife Cost of Dying Report 2015*
Action
station People power is set to transform Orrell Station - and locals are needed to help get the project on track. A new group, Friends of Orrell Station, is being set up in a bid to get the facility blooming. The plan is to tidy up the grounds, install planters and eventually get local schools involved. Former Orrell Rugby Union captain Bernard Lundy, who has lived in the area for 47 years, is one of those behind the push. “I’m one of those people who has a tidy garden and tidy house, so I want to see Orrell looking good as well. “When you walk past, it doesn’t look its best so I got talking to a few people who have agreed to help. “We’re meeting a representative from Northern Rail soon but we’d like as many volunteers to come forward as possible. Once we get an idea of who is interested, we’ll probably have a meeting. “For spring, we’d like to get the platforms looking better with some planters but longer term, we want local schools involved.” If you are interested, email bernard.lundy@ blueyonder.co.uk or annemarsh24@hotmail.com
9
10
PINEWOOD VILLAS, ORRELL ROAD, ORRELL £199,950
www.reganandhallworth.com
SOLD
1 TRACKS LANE, BILLINGE £215,000
SOLD
4 ASHFIELD CRESCENT, BILLINGE £229,995
SOLD
50 NABURN DRIVE, ORRELL £239,950
SOLD
11A HIGHMEADOW, UP HOLLAND £240,000
SOLD
SOLD
11
27 TONTINE, ORRELL £99,950
Wigan town centre showroom
01942 205555
12
Get a FREE
valuation of your home visit our website for your instant property valuation today!
www.borronshaw.co.uk
t up no se or Fees F ry Janua Look out FoR MoRE 40th AnnivERsARy oFFERs thRouGhout thE yEAR! 2 Sefton Road, Orrell
01695 632123
www.facebook.com/borronshaworrell www.twitter.com/borronshaw www.borronshaw.co.uk
13
Serving the local community for
40 Years
1977 - 2017
As Your Local Property Experts
Telephone: 01695 632123 Email: orrell@borronshaw.co.uk
14
Everyone’s a
winner
It’s smiles all round for these lucky Local Life readers. Margaret Siddell of Dorchester Road, Up Holland; Vanessa Derbyshire of Merton Road, Highfield, and Joan Lawson of Moor Road in Orrell each received tickets to watch Simply Red after entering our recent competition. And John Owen, of Marus Bridge, had a bumper
festive season after winning a Christmas hamper. Mr Owen, who is pictured with his guest Kathleen Kelly, won the hamper in a raffle at Makerfield MP Yvonne Fovargue’s seventh Christmas Veterans’ Lunch, which was held at St Matthew’s Church hall in Highfield in early December. Remember, for more great competitions, don’t forget to keep reading Local Life!
15
16
Bin changes on the The consultation deadline is fast approaching over plans to cut black and green bin collections. Cash-strapped council bosses want to scrap fortnightly collections for garden waste between November and March in favour of collections every three weeks. The plan also includes a three week cycle all year round for normal household waste. Other bins would continue being collected every two weeks as normal. Wigan Council says it needs to save £45m by 2020. The bin collection proposal would save £2m per year. If passed, the changes would start this September.
way?
This comes after residents in Up Holland and Roby Mill were told that, in future, they’d have to pay West Lancs Council for green waste collections. Wigan Council leader Lord Peter Smith says the only other option is to raise Council Tax: “We understand the financial hardship that families in the borough are facing so don’t want to increase Council Tax. “We also want to keep libraries open and keep our frontline staff, such as school crossing patrols, who we know are so valued in their communities. “Our proposed changes focus on delivering our financial savings as well as increasing our recycling rate. We face fines in the future if we don’t recycle.” The public consultation into these proposals ends on Friday, January 27. Have your say via www. wigan.gov.uk
Mori Lee
Prom Event! Sat, 21st Jan, 10am - 5pm No appointment required – just pop in! Additional Exclusive Gowns available at the Event. Refreshments available Largest Mori Lee prom supplier in the area You want your prom gown to be as unique as you are, so at Romancia our team will ensure the same dress is not sold twice by our store for any prom event.
Beautiful gowns, elegant surroundings, personal friendly service, with over 17 years experience 209-211 Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PB 01744 894 443 romanciaprom www.romanciabridal.co.uk
17
Crutch amnesty
Farmers’ Market
An amnesty on crutches and other walking aids finishes soon. Wigan Infirmary says unreturned walking aids cost the hospital almost £60,000 last year. Drop-off points have now been set up at the following locations:
Greenslate Farm, on Tracks Lane, Billinge, kicks off 2017 with a Vintage Farmers’ Market on Sunday, January 15, from 10am-2pm. The market is held on the third Sunday of every month, and organisers say it is packed with great local produce. Hot food and refreshments are also available. Free entry.
•
Leigh Hospital - Area 5 Reception
•
Royal Albert Edward Infirmary, Wigan Volunteer desk near to Entrance 2 of the hospital (next to Christopher Home Building)
•
Wrightington Hospital – Therapy Department
Drop offs can be made at these locations any time between 9.30am and 4pm, Monday to Friday until January 6.
Spring ball A charity spring ball is being held at St James Social Club, Orrell, on Saturday, February 25, in aid of Billinge-based The Storehouse Project. Doors open at 7pm for an evening of food, music, DJ, auction and a raffle. For more information and ticket prices, please contact 07816 623612.
FREE DEMOS Thursday, 26th January Limited space available - call ASAP to confirm attendance
NEW CACI SYNERGY - exclusively used in the Wigan & St Helens areas by Expressions of Beauty
Expressions Of Beauty
161-171, Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PA
01744 894 214 www.expressionsofbeauty.co.uk
18
Funding up for
grabs
The Saturday Breakfast Community Fundraisers raised £2,200 in the autumn, and the group have now invited groups and organisations in the Billinge and Orrell area to bid for the funding. The initiative runs every week for eight months a year (closed December, January, July & August) at St Luke’s Church hall in Orrell, and consists of a pop up breakfast café, commercial stalls and a
host charity group. The initiative was co-funded by Wigan Council’s The Deal and magazine publisher Local Life. Pictured are some volunteers from the Saturday Breakfast team enjoying a recent night out at the Robin Hood. Committee member Michael Winstanley said: “Thanks to the support of our Saturday Breakfast customers, we raised £2,200 in the autumn session of Saturday Breakfast, and we are delighted to open up this funding to those Orrell and Billinge based groups who are looking to plan projects
LONGSWAY DANCE CENTRE Group Ballroom & Latin Dance Classes Ladies Dance - Fusion (Dance Fitness to Ballroom & Latin Rhythms)
Private Dance Lessons | Wedding Dance Programme
CLASSES START W/C 9TH JANUARY 2017 Monday 6.30pm Improvers Ladies Dance – Fusion (Dance for Fitness) 7.30pm NEW STARTERS Ladies Dance – Fusion (Dance for Fitness) 8.30pm NEW STARTERS Absolute Beginners Ballroom / Latin / Salsa Tuesday 6.30pm Advanced Ladies Dance – Fusion (Dance for Fitness) 7.30pm Improvers Ladies Dance – Fusion (Dance for Fitness) 8.30pm Improvers level 2 Ballroom / Latin / Salsa Thursday 6.30pm Improvers Ladies Dance – Fusion (Dance for Fitness) 7.30pm Improvers level 1 Ballroom / Latin / Salsa 8.30pm Improvers level 3 Ballroom / Latin / Salsa (All Classes 60 minutes)
Trinity Church Hall, Fleet Street, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 0DS
Classes hosted by Tony and Margaret Long, British and International Dance Champions. Private lessons for all levels available on request.
E-mail: LongsWayDance@me.com
Dancers of all ages and abilities welcomed
The Longsway Dance Centre offer: classes, private tuition, practice sessions, party nights, weekend breaks & dance holidays ...for dance lovers of all levels.
Call: 07763 465569
www.LongsWayDance.co.uk
19
for 2017. We are especially interested in helping those groups who want to plan community events, help the area’s young people, improve the environment or improve access to educational courses�. Please email Michael to ask for a bidding form at mwinstanleym@aol.com or pop into the Local Life office at Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell. The closing date for bid applications is February 28. If you would like to help out at Saturday Breakfast
or you want to help with organisation of this community fundraising team then please email Mary Forrester at forresterm@sky.com.
20
Latest fashions
Style that’s SEW
cool by Katie Wright
G
lamorous, gorgeous and opulent - the heavily embellished frocks that floated down the Alexander McQueen and Dolce and Gabbana AW16 catwalks were truly out of this world, and those shows have gone on to fuel one of autumn’s biggest trends. Embroidered detailing is now EVERYWHERE, and, luckily for us, the high street has taken that after-dark decadence and given it round-theclock potential. Here’s how to work the edgy embroidery trend into your winter wardrobe...
Butterfly by Matthew Williamson Black Winter Bird Embroidered Shift Dress, currently £187.50, down from £250 www.debenhams.com
21
Sportmax Code Fiacre Sleeveless Ribbed Floral Top, £160, House of Fraser www.houseoffraser.co.uk
Glamorous Black Embroidered PU Bomber Jacket, £25 www.glamorous.com
Monsoon Abel Dress, £169 www.monsoon.co.uk
New Look Black Floral Embroidered A-line Skirt, £24.99 www.newlook.com
Miss Selfridge Black PU Embroidered Mini Skirt, £45 www.missselfridge.com
Joy Fortune Embroidered Pocket Pinafore Dress, £39
Fenn Wright Manson Miranda Black Dress, £169, John Lewis
www.joythestore.com
www.johnlewis.com
22
GET THE LOOK Millie Mackintosh embraced this season’s velvet vibes at the Red Women of the Year Awards, pairing her pyjama-style belted black suit with dark red lips and nails. Simple but very chic indeed.
Next Black Embroidered Maxi Dress, £85; Gold Ankle Wrap Sandals, £35 www.next.co.uk
Jules Bridal Boutique your perfect day starts with us
Standish
Join us for our Prom Extravaganza Events: Fri 20th Jan – 10am - 7pm Sat 21st Jan – 10am - 5pm Sun 22nd Jan - 10am-4pm Monsoon Vivienne Velvet Jacket, £79, and Wideleg Trousers, £69 (www.monsoon.co.uk)
FREE modern easy read Bible Discover for yourself the real God, - without the religion or hassle. Available now. You’re under no obligation and won’t get pestered! Contact wiganchristadelphians.wordpress.com/bible-study/ or post to 66 Dicconson Street, Wigan, WN1 2AT
Late night appointments available
Stockists of wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses & designer prom gowns
School exclusivity on gowns is offered 35, Preston Road, Standish
01257 424624
www.julesbridalboutique.co.uk enquiries@julesbridalboutique.co.uk
23
Next Embroidered Sweat Top, £34 (www.next.co.uk) Monsoon Simone Embroidered Bomber, £69; Vivienne Velvet Wideleg Trousers, £69 www.monsoon.co.uk
SportsSpa Sports Therapy, Holistic and Rehabilitation Treatments
Call for Special Offers FULLY D QUALIFIE
S) BSC (HON IN SPORTS THERAPY
Clinics in Bryn + Appley Bridge
£5 OFF in January with this advert
Bring a friend
in January and friend gets
50% off cut Extensions
Full head of Weft extensions
from £140
16 Upper Dicconson Street Wigan WN1 2AD
01942 820 333
Call Alison 07815 568 129
167 Appley Lane North. Appley Bridge. WN6 9DX
Email: sportspa@outlook.com
www.bijouhairsalon.co.uk
24
Party
time
The holidays came early for 20 local children, when Orrell Cricket Club hosted a Christmas party at their Winstanley Road clubhouse. The festivities began with fun and games including pass the parcel and a game of Musical Mannequins. Local musician Richard Hart was on hand to accompany the games and dancing. A party tea followed, donated by local bakery The Muffin Man. The children, all aged between two and 11, were then treated to a show by Ricardo the Magician. After carol singing from Orrell Cricket Club members, Santa and Mrs Claus called in for a visit. Party organiser Spencer Angelsea said: “This is the second year we have organised a party for disadvantaged children from our community. “We’re grateful to club members who have given up their time to decorate the clubhouse and help out at the party but a huge thank you also goes to the community itself for the way they have supported money-raising events at the club. “The Orrell Proms, held in September, in particular enables us to direct some of the proceeds into
activities like the party. It’s our way of showing our gratitude for the way local people have supported the club.’
25
Orrell roadworks Motorists are being warned of potential disruption in Orrell. United Utilities will be undertaking works outside 42 St James’ Road on Tuesday, January 3, between 9:30am and 2.30pm. Highways bosses say that to undertake these works safely, temporary traffic signals will be in operation during these works. The following weekend, on Sunday, January 8, Transport for Greater Manchester will be undertaking works at lights on Moor Road/Orrell Road. Again, temporary traffic signals will be in operation.
Bespoke Timeless Treasures
For more information, and to view all forthcoming roadworks across the Wigan area, visit www.wigan. gov.uk
SHRINK EVERYTHING BUT YOUR SMILE Julie Moss 07789 387 502
juliemouse@hotmail.co.uk
Let the music free your body. The ultimate dance-fitness party will groove you into shape. MONDAY 19.00 - 20.00 & 20.00 - 21.00 Upholland Methodist Church, Alma Hill, Upholland. WEDNESDAY 19.00 - 20.00 Billinge Chapel End Labour Club, Main Street. THURSDAY 19.00 - 20.00 Lamberhead Green Working Men’s Club, Pemberton
All levels of fitness welcome zumba.com £5.00 per class. Come along and shake what ya mamma gave ya!
Jewels May is a gorgeous independent jewellers shop nestled amongst 50 small rural retail business in Heskin Farmers Market and Craft Centre. This little treasure trove of sparkle boasts an amazing collection of antique, vintage and modern precious luxury jewellery items. The owner has a passion for old cut diamonds and precious stones in amazing unique settings, and the shop also specialises in pre-owned luxury watches.
Treat yourself to an affordable extravagance! Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, PR7 5PA T: 01257 450 448 E: info@jewelsmay.com www.jewelsmay.com
26
Brownies help homeless 3rd Upholland Brownies and Guides lent a helping hand following a visit to The Brick homeless project in Wigan. They collected packets and tins to help feed the homeless, and are planning more events to support them this year. Ellen Shores, Brown Owl, at 3rd Upholland (Alma Hill Methodist) Brownies and Guides said: “We learned that the project provides many services for homeless people ranging from non-judgemental advice to hot showers. They also run a food bank, providing food parcels to families in need. The girls were amazed to learn that around 100,000 cans of food are handed out in Wigan each year. At the end of the session one of the Brownies commented that she ‘didn’t feel as scared of homeless people anymore.’.” For more information, visit thebrick.org.uk
27
28
Applications now open Wigan parents are being reminded that the application process for primary school places is now open. The deadline is January 15 with places to be confirmed in mid-April. Education bosses say parents who apply after the closing date will only find out which school their child has been offered a place at much later in the year and will be less likely to get a place at one of their preferred schools. Parents can apply online by registering at www. wigan.gov.uk/schooladmissions to give their three preferred schools in priority order. Alternatively parents can collect an application form from a primary school or contact the School Organisation Team on 01942 489013 who can post a form out.
Daniel’s delight A student who started college with no qualifications is now on his way to university. Daniel Kaplan has completed an Access to Health programme run by Wigan & Leigh College. The course enables adults to progress onto degree programmes such as health, nursing and midwifery. Daniel, who now has four conditional offers on the table, is thrilled: “I joined college with no qualifications so it’s been a real achievement. The course has been intense and highly regarded by universities due to its intense nature.” To find out more information on Access to Higher Education courses and funding options visit www. wigan-leigh.ac.uk
29
30
Idea’s the
business
Students at a Winstanley school have launched their own not-for-profit enterprise.
The bespoke, handcrafted wooden hut at Hope School, on Kelvin Grove, will be run by the students as part of their personal development. Acting on years of experience struggling to find
Class from the
suitable local work experience placements, Hope decided to take matters into their own hands. This led to local craftsman Stephen Hughes creating a retail outlet, Hope Hut, which will be touring local events. The items on sale there will change during the year. To find out more about the Hope Hut project, email enquiries@admin.hope.wigan.sch.uk
past
This month’s Class from the Past is from St John’s School in Pemberton and is believed to have been taken in 1951/2. Maybe you can spot a familiar face? Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, email wigannews@ locallife247.co.uk
31
32
Check out our brand new
website! Win a £25 M&S voucher
in our monthly draw! Don’t miss a single copy of Local Life – register NOW for your free monthly copy. Upload your pics and we’ll display them FREE in our magazine* or on our website FREE downloads of over 40 Jack’s Tracks Promote your forthcoming event for FREE via magazine*, online and via events2go *where space permits
LocalLife
33
Want your business
to succeed? Download our Media Pack today to see how Local Life can help you in 2017
Introducing
Events2Go The FREE weekly newsletter with stuff to do in Wigan – register NOW Starts March 3rd.
Enter our exclusive
competitions locallifemagazine247
It’s all happening at locallife247.co.uk
34
Mum said I liked an
argument! Amos Wynn talks national and local politics with MP Yvonne Fovargue “I’m not a Blairite, I’m not a Corbynite, I’m Labour”. So says Makerfield MP Yvonne Fovargue, was one of many Labour front benchers who resigned from their role in what was a turblent year for Jeremy Corbyn.
considered resigning due to feeling ‘unsupported’ in her role as she was unable to even arrange meetings with the leader. The bullying of MPs was another problem she said she found. She says these are the reasons behind the mass resignations and not that the “MPs were in some strange way out to get Jeremy.” She also believes Corbyn has created his own problems by bringing up sensitive subjects: “There was no need to say the Falklands could go back to Argentina, it’s not something that comes up on the doorsteps; saying there would be discussions made it an issue.”
I interviewed Yvonne recently, where all manner of subjects - national and local - cropped up. First, we start with last year’s leadership election, where Fovargue supported Corbyn’s rival Owen Smith.
One of the many issues she believes she’ll have to deal with is making sure the people who voted to leave the EU in Wigan “get what they want and that they deserve the best deal for this area.”
“He’s a better communicator on the television and that’s important in the unfortunate rise of more presidential style of politics.”
“I don’t think there was any crystallised idea of what it would look like to be outside”. When the terms are clear we need to ask the people ‘is this what you meant when you said Brexit?’
Even before her resignation, the former Shadow Minister for Consumer Affairs and Science said she
When asked if the referendum result would have been different if 16 and 17 year olds were allowed
35
36
to vote, she replied: “It was fairly overwhelming but I really don’t know. 17 year olds should be allowed to vote at all elections.”
there needs to be access to things such as drug and alcohol reduction and mental health services so that it was not an enforced choice.
When asked if she would ever accept another ministerial role, she says: “I feel I would do better from the backbenches carrying on campaigns like consumer and debt rather than from the front bench.”
“I think certainly in city areas like Manchester and London you see a lot more than you do in Wigan. But it’s the ones you don’t see - they are the problem, the ones who are sleeping on people’s
One thing she does enjoy focusing on is the work in her constituency, She’s keen on tackling issues such
“I can’t do three answers - I’m a politician!”
as homelessness and mental health. “I think we need to see the reasons why people are homeless - one group of people who are affected are veterans. They come out the army and can’t cope with the transition into day to day life. “The government has to look to see if there’s a part of the system that is disadvantaging people or whether it’s the issue that they can’t get help with their mental health. Being homeless can be a choice for a very, very few number of people, so
PATTERN IMPRINTED CONCRETE SPECIALIST
Check out our display area at: Botany Bay Chorley
sofas. There’s a lot more the government can do.” Fovargue has been MP Makerfield since 2010, but she admits her career in politics was by accident than design. She worked at the Citizens’ Advice Bureau and pursued social policy issues and would comment when the laws where disadvantaging other people.
FREE PICKUP & DELIVERY
37
She then took on a role in the local council in 2004, while continuing in her job at the Citizen’s Advice Bureau, before winning the Makerfield seat that had been left vacant by Ian McCartney. “Although becoming an MP was accidental, the role does suit me - my mum would always say I was argumentative anyway!” she laughs. “Working for CAB for 23 years, brings a different perspective on things as I’m the only person in Parliament who has been a chief executive at a local Bureau. “It’s a challenge having to understand Parliamentary procedure, which is very bizarre at times but it’s been very rewarding as well.” Like everyone, even MPs enjoy time to unwind. She listens to Barenaked Ladies, David Bowie and The Smiths. She even jokes that she’s already had a song chosen for her funeral and her grandson has enquired as to whether people live past 60 (she
passed that milestone in November). To end, I asked if she could describe the Labour Party in three words. “I can’t do three... I’m a politician,” she smiles, before adding: “All I’ll say is we are as much needed now than ever.”
38
Stylish Oak Furniture
at Great Prices! Large Range of Solid Oak Furniture
Dining Tables & Chairs, Sideboards & Occasional Furniture
W O N E ! L SA ON Tony’s Promise “I guarantee that you won’t find furniture of this quality at a better price anywhere in the NW – and if you do, then I’ll beat the price!”
THE OAK SPECIALISTS www.billingefurniture.co.uk
01744 893 785 07710 487 977
Barrows Farm, Carr Mill Road, Billinge, WN5 7TX
(Carr Mill Road is next to the Texaco Garage in the village)
Call in today - we’re open 7 days a week!
39
Business profile
Say goodbye to Stress &
W
igan hypnotherapist, Ian Guest, went to his first hypnotherapy training session with a healthy level of scepticism. “Although I was keen to learn how hypnosis can help people, a part of me was doubtful if hypnosis really worked,” he explained. 5 years later, and with hundreds of hypnotherapy sessions under his belt, Ian is a firm believer. “I’ve seen first-hand how effective hypnosis can be. I’ve had clients whose lives have been totally transformed.” At First Step Hypnosis, Ian has helped clients to overcome a range of issues, including addictions, IBS, weight loss and smoking, but he specialises in treating clients for stress and anxiety. “Stress and anxiety affects so many people, very often through work or the anxiety of social situations. When clients first arrive they are overwhelmed by negative thoughts and emotions but hypnosis is great at helping people to relax, feel calmer and become more confident. It is really rewarding to watch clients as their resilience grows and they get their life back on track.” However, Ian understands that hypnosis sometimes has a poor image. “I’ve watched the TV hypnotists make fools of participants and I understand people’s concerns. The treatment I offer is far removed from what you see on TV. I use cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy, which is an evidence based approach, built on published research and studies.” If you suffer from stress or anxiety, and are uncertain if hypnotherapy is right for you, here are Ian’s top 5 mythbusting hypnosis facts: 1. Hypnosis is safe and natural - Ian will help you to use your imagination to change the way you think and behave. 2. Hypnosis isn’t sleep - If you fall asleep the hypnotic suggestions just won’t work.
Anxiety
3. You are always in control - You are aware of everything that Ian says and he can’t make you do anything you don’t want to do. 4. You can’t get stuck in hypnosis - You can open your eyes and stop the session whenever you want. 5. Hypnosis is collaborative - Hypnosis isn’t a passive process. You work in partnership with Ian to develop hypnotic suggestions that are best for you. Arrange a FREE telephone consultation call Ian on: 0161 298 7070 or ianguest@firststephypnosis.co.uk www.firststephypnosis.co.uk Hypnotherapy sessions take place at The Bridgeman Centre at 18 Bridgeman Terrace, Wigan
Is stress & anxiety stopping you living the life you want? Are you overwhelmed by negative thoughts and emotions?
FREE Initial Consultation! First Step Hypnosis offer a treatment for stress and anxiety that is: • Safe • Effective • Natural • Tailored to your needs Book your FREE telephone consultation today email ianguest@firststephypnosis.co.uk
or call 0161 298 7070
40
Songwriting
weekend
A family of Pemberton musicians are helping to cultivate the songwriters and performers of the future. Bob, Virginia and John Kettle (pictured), from the band Merry Hell, have joined forces with Healthy Arts and The Music Projects on Ormskirk Road to offer a weekend songwriting course. On the Friday night, attendees will hear Bob, Virginia and John each explain the writing process behind their own Merry Hell song, then have the opportunity to ask them questions about any of their back catalogue. On Saturday, musicians will have a 10 minute consultation with either Bob or Virginia about their own song ideas and receive individual personal
and written feedback. They will then spend the rest of the day writing a group song before spending the evening with John Kettle in his studio, where Merry Hell’s latest CD, Bloodlines, was created. It takes place on February 17-19 inclusive and the cost is £150 per person. For more information contact Martin Green, Healthy Arts project manager on 07542 114383 or email contactus@healthyarts.org
Quality Kitchens & Bedrooms at Factory Prices January Sale Now On
10% OFF
wroom New Sheno ing days op
turday 21st Friday 20th & Sa
January
all orders placed in January
open 6 days a week
CABINET MASTERS NORTH WEST LTD
Trade Customers welcome
Showroom Open: 8 - 5 pm Monday - Thursday; 8 - 4 pm Friday; 10 - 2 pm Saturday Unit 4, Conway Trading Estate, Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DW ‘2 minutes from M6 J27’
0 1 2 5 7 2 5 5 8 3 1 masterofcabinets@gmail.com www.cabinetmaster.co.uk
41
42
Women’s pension
plight
Women affected by the changes to the state pension are being invited to join a support group. WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) group is raising awareness of plans to increase the state pension age for women to 65. Although the group agrees with the move, they say the two years’ notice of the change is unfair. They claim the changes affect women born after April 5, 1951. Wigan Council is supporting their campaign for fair transitional arrangements aimed to support the two million women across the United Kingdom currently waiting up to an extra six years for their
state pension, including 12,000 in Wigan. For more information on your local WASPI group and how to show your support visit waspi.co.uk or contact waspigroups@gmail.com .
43
Puzzle
Sudoku Answers are on page 68 of this magazine
44
corner
45
Cheers! Festival hits
30
Real ale aficionados are invited to raise a glass to 30 years of Wigan Beer Festival.
Opening times are as follows:
The annual event, organised by the Wigan Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) is celebrating three decades of keeping Wiganers up to date with the best beers and sumptuous ciders in the vicinity.
Friday evening: 6pm to 11pm - admission £3.
This year’s festival is held from Thursday, March 2, to Saturday, Match 4, at Robin Park Sports Centre on Loire Drive.
Thursday: 5.30pm to 11.pm. Free Admission. Friday afternoon: Noon to 6pm - admission £1.
Saturday 11.30am to 10pm - admission £2. Admission for card-carrying CAMRA members is free. As usual, there will be a free shuttle bus running at regular intervals from Wigan town centre to the festival venue. For further details, visit http://beerfestival. wigancamra.org.uk
Your one stop landscaping company Flexible Payment Options Available
1st for referrals
A Professional, affordable artificial lawn
Call now for a FREE survey 01204 598885 email northmanchester@lazylawn.co.uk
or visit www.lazylawn.co.uk lazylawnmanchester
Yours could be like this in
one day
46
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 email us at wigannews@locallife247.co.uk
Buzzing over award Volunteers and rangers at Beacon Country Park are buzzing after scooping an honour. They won a Bees’ Needs Award for 2016 from Keep Britain Tidy for their work with Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s Plan Bee Project to improve habitats for wild bees and other pollinators. As a result of this work, over 600 new records of bees and other important pollinators have been made in the last three years in West Lancashire. Conservationists say creating good habitats for bees is vital to aid movement of populations. According to the British Bee Keepers Association one third of the food we eat would not be available without pollination from bees. In the UK about 70 crops are dependent on or benefit from bees.
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning • traditional service, state of the art results •
• Carpets • Rugs • Fabric & Leather Upholstery The most thorough clean, or its free! Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote
5 star rating with Wigan Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme
Have your carpets cleaned the only thorough way Shevington based family business
Wigan Good Trader Of The Year 2015
47
In stitches
Parish meeting
Calling all needle workers - a local group is looking for your talents. Serendipity patchwork and quilters meet each Tuesday from 9.30am-12.30pm at Bispham Church Hall, Upholland Road. The group members make cushions, bags, toys and quilts. Refreshments and help and advice are all available for beginners and experienced sewers. New members are now being welcomed. Please contact Chris Parker on 01695 632117.
The next meeting of Up Holland Parish Council will be held on Tuesday, 10 January, starting at 7.30pm in the Community Meeting Room, Up Holland Library, Hall Green. An agenda for the meetings will be published at least three days prior to the meeting and can be found at www.uphollandpc. gov.uk. A public participation session will be held from 7.15pm to 7.30pm. All welcome.
New member call Norley Art Group meets every Tuesday from 10am to noon and from 1pm until 3pm. In the Masonic Hall, Chapel Street, Pemberton. New members welcome - call Dorothy Moulson on 01942 247653.
T FROM
AC U F TU N
DIR ER
EC
R
E TH MA
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: 01695 589 207 Lady Green Garden Centre Ince Blundell, Nr Formby, L38 1QB Telephone: 01695 589 210 Head Office, 10 Greenhey Place, Skelmersdale WN8 9SA Telephone: 01695 51442 High Legh Garden Centre, Knutsford, WA16 0QW Telephone: 01695 51442
www.solidsheds.com
Dementia award Wigan has been crowned the most dementia friendly town in the UK. The prestigious Dementia Friendly Awards, hosted by The Alzheimer’s Society, named the town as the winner of Dementia Friendly Community of the Year in the town category.
48
Snap-py
memories Mention motorways these days and you just get groans about traffic and congestion. But back in 1963, the opening of the M6 at Orrell was such a great occasion, that one local resident recorded the works for posterity. David Cannell, 73, dug out these snaps, taken on his old Kodak camera, for us to share with Local Life readers. David, who went to Lamberhead Green School, said: “I just thought people would be interested in seeing them - after all you’d never see the M6 this quiet nowadays! “It was quite a thing at the time; we used to ride to Charnock Richard Services... it was a big adventure.” Built as an extension to the Preston Bypass, the route through Orrell was completed 55 years ago this year. By 1968, the M58 was open to service the New Town at Skelmersdale. Do you have any old photos of the area you’d like to share with us? Email wigannews@locallife247. co.uk
49
WINTER SALE NOW ON!
CONSERVATORY TOO HOT? TOO COLD?
Transform your room with an Eco Roofing System • 10 year system guarantee • 3-4 day fast installation time
20% OFF Please quote promotion code LOCAL 16
• Add value to your home • Unbeatable prices with a friendly service • Save on energy bills with a very low 0.18 U vale system • No moss growth with 50 year warranty on roof tiles
CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTATION Office: 364
Prescot Road, St Helens, WA10 3BE
Office: 01744
607 977 Mobile: 07788 422 497
Email: info@ecosolidroof.com Facebook: ecosolidroof
www.ecosolidroof.com
50
Planning Matters Orrell
Pemberton
166E Orrell Road: Plan to replace existing wooden windows with UPVC on front and side elevations (ref: A/16/83248/HH) Decision due soon.
Vacant land west of 73 Smethurst Lane: Plan to erect 2 semi-detached dwellings and a detached bungalow with associated access and parking (ref: A/16/83345/FULL). Decision due soon.
Land to be severed from 24 Moss Avenue: Plan to erect detached dwelling with associated detached double garage (ref: A/16/83287/FULL) Decision due soon. 18 Moss Road: Outline application for the erection of a pair of semi-detached bungalows on land to be severed from 18 Moss Road, Billinge (ref: A/16/83391/OUT). Decision due soon. 18 Coniston Avenue: Retrospective application to retain detached garage in rear garden (ref: A/16/83342/HH). Decision due soon.
Winstanley 30 Woodbrook Drive: Plan to extend dwellinghouse - two storey to side (ref: A/16/83368/HH). Decision due soon. 10 Cleveland Avenue: Plan to extend dwellinghouse - porch to front (ref: A/16/83394/HHRET). Decision due soon. For more information on these plans , visit www.wigan.gov.uk
51
Hours cut Opening hours at West Lancashire Health Centre, in Ormskirk Hospital, and at Skelmersdale WalkIn Centre have been cut because of staff sickness and vacant posts. The last booking to see a nurse at Ormskirk is now 7.30pm, not 9pm. Skelmersdale Walk-in Centre is now opening an hour later at 8am with the last booking to see a nurse changing to 7.30pm, instead of 9pm, from Monday to Friday.
St John’s panto St John’s Dramatic Society’s pantomime - Mother Goose - will be held at St John’s Day School, Church Street, Pemberton, from Friday, January 27-Sunday, January 29, inclusive, and then from Thursday, February 2, to Saturday, February 4. Performances
are at 7.30pm on weekdays, 3.30pm and 7pm on Saturdays and 4pm on the Sunday. Tickets are £7 for adults and £5 for school children. They are available by calling 01942 621701.
Burns Night supper The Thistle Society is hosting a Burns Night supper on Friday, January 27, at St Teresa’s Catholic Church Hall, College Road, Up Holland at 7.00pm for 7.30pm. The meal will consist of Cock-a-Leekie soup, haggis (there are alternatives of chicken or vegetarian bake) tatties and neeps, and Scottish trifle, apple pie or cheese and biscuits. A gluten-free meal is also available on request. There will speeches, singer, dancing and bagpipes. Tickets are £22 for adults, £15 for under 12s. Call 01942 247403 or 01942 680008.
Considering A New Boiler? It pays to choose a name you can trust
We’ll beat any like-for-like quote by £100 – guaranteed!
186237
Pay 0% interest. Prices start from just £25 per month For only 5 Years
Call us today for a free quote
When you’re thinking of investing in something as crucial to your everyday comfort as a new central heating boiler, you want to be absolutely sure you’re making the right choice .
We accept all major credit cards Your Local Installer
Worcester have been awarded a Which Best Buy? award for the most reliable boiler brand and most satisfied customers across the entire gas boiler range Established 1998
Address: 434 Ormskirk Road, Wigan, WN5 9DF Phone: 01942 221 221 Email: info@premiergas.com Website:
www.premiergas.com
52
Health & Fitness
How to beat
norovirus By Abi Jackson
N
orovirus has been in the headlines a fair bit lately - there have been hospital ward closures due to outbreaks, 300 people reportedly fell ill following a suspected eruption of the virus at the Wahaca restaurant chain, and cases are said to be 45% higher than this time last year, according to Public Health England. And that’s only official lab reports; many more will have been struck with the dreaded ‘winter vomiting bug’ but not gone ‘on record’. But what exactly does it mean, and what should you do if you or your family gets norovirus? GP and media medic Dr Roger Henderson coughs up some expert advice... IT CAN BE NASTY Norovirus can knock you for six, often starting with an achy fever and nausea, usually one to two days after exposure to the virus. Virus particles enter
the body through the nose or mouth, travel to the stomach, but it’s only when they hit the small intestine that they start multiplying and irritating the gut lining - then the vomiting and watery diarrhoea strikes. “This is the body saying, ‘Get it out, clear it, clear it, clear it!” says Henderson. You might have stomach cramps and a headache too. The good news is it passes quickly and you should be fine in a few days, though some people do suffer worse than others. “That’s probably linked to the viral load you’re exposed to,” notes Henderson. “If you’re exposed to a very heavy viral load, you might feel worse.” THERE’S PROBABLY NO NEED TO SEE YOUR GP “There’s no cure for norovirus, it’s just a case of treating the symptoms,” Henderson stresses, which means a trip to your GP’s probably going to be futile - and put other people at risk. “It’s a miserable thing to get, but the vast majority of people will bounce back quite quickly. What they should not do, if they can, is walk into a doctor’s surgery because we’re going to say, nicely, ‘Go away’ and give them general advice. But in the meantime, they’ll have sat there spreading their germs left, right and centre.”
53
BUT DO SEEK ADVICE IF YOU’RE CONCERNED Like flu, norovirus can be “more risky in the very young and very old”. While it’s highly unlikely to be a threat to the majority of people, with a vomiting and diarrhoea bug, the biggest risk is often linked to dehydration, which can quickly become serious - particularly for, as well as babies, young children and older people, those with preexisting conditions like diabetes or a heart or kidney condition. “The dangers [of dehydration include] reduced levels of consciousness, impact on your kidney function, altered confused states, and more prone to falls in the elderly,” says Henderson. “In children, you will get lethargy and weakness.” If anyone’s showing worrying signs, or if symptoms don’t clear after a few days and you’re concerned, phone your GP surgery or local out-of-hours or NHS helpline (of course, if somebody’s very unwell and losing consciousness, call 999).
54
DON’T RUSH BACK TO WORK, EITHER There’s lots of pressure to ‘battle through’ and not take time off sick, but while you may feel fine once the sickness stops, Henderson notes you may still be contagious for up to two days after symptoms have passed. “It’s variable, but I always say assume you remain infected for about 48 hours after your symptoms have cleared,” he says. STOP THE SPREAD SELF-CARE AND TLC “In terms of treatment, fluid replacement is the main thing,” says Henderson. “You can take paracetamol and ibuprofen for aches and pains if you want to, and avoid certain foods - spicy foods, oily foods most people won’t want them anyway,” he adds. “Little and often” is often the best approach with eating. “Some toast, dry biscuits - everything is fine, to keep your sugar levels up, but the most important thing is fluids.” If you’re vomiting lots, Henderson notes that “if fluid stays down for at least five minutes, at least half of it will have gone into your system.
The other key factor - to avoid spreading and catching the bug - is “scrupulous hygiene”. The virus spreads via droplet transmission and infected droplets can remain ‘live’ for “at least an hour” on hard surfaces, which is how it spreads so widely through touch. To minimise risk, Henderson suggests practical steps like “using hand gels, always washing your hands after the loo, obviously, keeping hard surface areas clean and using antibacterial wipes in those areas. And [don’t forget] things like handles, and making sure your toilet is kept clean with disinfectant”.
“A lot of people worry if they take a drink and vomit 10, 20 minutes later, they’re not getting any benefit from the drink, but they are. It’s when you vomit it straight back out that it can be a problem” - or if somebody’s reluctant, too poorly, or just not aware how important it is to take on fluids. If this is the case, “fluid replacement products and sachets like Dioralyte [£3.79 for pack of six, Boots; suitable infants, children and adults] can be really helpful, because they stop you from getting low in certain salts”, notes Henderson. Aside from that, it’s a question of resting and waiting it out.
Dr Roger Henderson
55
56
Travel
The hills are
J
alive...
ulie Andrews found the landscape of Austria so exhilarating, it became the lead song from The Sound of Music.
50 years on and the hills are still alive with much more than just a few tunes. For unspoilt valleys, the Niederau and Oberau areas in western Austria are perfect. Billinge-based Marken Travel has teamed up with Inghams to offer an experience of a lifetime in this beautiful part of Europe.
57
Niederau and Oberau are superb areas for walking, with miles of marked trails through lovely, rolling hills - and there’s also free use of all lifts! Wildschonau, meaning ‘wild and beautiful’, is one of the most glorious valleys in the Tyrol, with a special, rural character, rustic mountain alms and the spectacular Kundl Gorge to explore at the end of the valley. Picturesque Niedera houses a pretty church, friendly cafes and the central Markbachjoch gondola. Further into the valley, fairytale Oberau comprises of a magnificent church, a handful of shops and some fine, old buildings. Wherever you stay, a regular bus serves the whole valley, enabling you to make the most of this scenic region. Speaking of lodgings, the fine Hotel Tirolerhof, in
Oberau, enjoys lovely meadow and hillside views. It’s a family-run hotel, with Martin Erharter and so assuring you of a warm, Austrian welcome. Facilities include lounge and bar, restaurant, cafe and terrace, small indoor pool, sauna and steam room, horsedrawn buggy rides (pay locally), lift and free wi-fi. Single rooms have a shower and there’s no single supplement payable. All rooms have a balcony, TV, radio, telephone and hairdryer.
Marken Travel & Inghams present
Hotel Tirolerhoff – Oberau 3* hotel - 7 nights half board Indoor pool No single room supplements Free resort card (worth $60) Free excursion to Salzburg Free guided walks Free packed lunches Great flight times
Just £693 on 26/8/17 (other dates available)
Call Marken Travel today for more details
Independent Travel Specialist 200 Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PE
Telephone: 01744 893291
www.markentravel.co.uk
58
Explore Austria Presentation night by Wednesday 11th January at 6.30pm Call
01744 893 291 to confirm your place
By going with Marken Travel and Inghams, you will benefit from a package of savings which includes a free excursion to Salzburg, free use of all lifts in the Wildschonau and Alpbach Valley (with resort card), free guided walks (with resort card), free packed lunches at selected hotel and an Inghams representative based in the resort. The resort card is free to all guests from May 13, 2017, is provided by your hotel upon arrival and gives you free use of the tennis courts, entrance to the outdoor swimming pool, entrance to the silver mine and museums, free children’s activity programme (Monday-Friday) and discounted rates on many other attractions. If, however, you want a bit of hustle and bustle, the delights of Austria’s capital city, Vienna, await. The capital of Austria is known for its history, from the Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral to the art nouveau splendour of the Secession. By day, you can enjoy a
Austria Checklist Language: Austrian German Currency: Euro Time difference: +1hour Cost of a beer: €3.50 Cappuccino : €3 3 Course meal: €25
walk around the Ringstrasse, the circular road that will take you past many of Vienna’s attractions. St Stephen’s 343 steps seem daunting at first, but reach the summit and you will be rewarded with spectacular views. You could also follow in the footsteps of Orson Welles, who starred in the film The Third Man, and take a ride in one of the ornate gondola carriages of the giant Ferris wheel at the Prater, another of the city’s most famous landmarks. But don’t be fooled into thinking there aren’t other attractions to enjoy. It’s truly an historic old town filled with a vibrant modern atmosphere. To enjoy this, head to head into the ‘Inner Stadt’, the historic old town. And treat yourself to an einspanner, Viennese coffee topped with cream, and a slice of sachertorte, chocolate cake with apricot jam, at the iconic Cafe Central. Vienna boasts one of the world’s most famous culinary traditions. A diverse yet delectably harmonious range of dishes reflects the city’s mix of nationalities and food cultures through the centuries, and inspires visitors from all over the globe. Why not try the iconic Wiener Schnitzel, which is deep fried breaded veal and said to have been a staple of Austrian cuisine for almost 200 years. Whether you’re a seasoned visitor, or are looking to explore the country for the first time, Marken and Inghams can help you unlock the delights of Austria.
59
Going on your Hols? Manchester & Liverpool airports Comfortable & clean vehicles Can seat up to 16
Billinge Mini Travel
Beautifully furnished
01744 894 533
Established 1990
Incorporating H&I Travel 01744 609691 Owned & Operated by Brian Scott
Local Life is now welcomed into 130,000 quality homes in;
Stone Cottage Holiday Let
Situated near Sedbergh, in the Yorkshire Dales, and also within easy reach of the Lake District
– sleeps up to 4
Children & pets welcome
Call 01942 216 058 / 07792445257 E-mail janemillthrop@yahoo.co.uk www.millthropcottage.co.uk
Taking you wherever you need to go…
SWH Travel
Wigan, Chorley, Leigh, Warrington, St Helens & West Lancashire
SWH Travel •Weddings • Airport Transfers • 8 Seater Minibus • Reliable & Friendly • Private Hire Only
Little mags, BIG reach
01942 222646 / 07930 243322 E-mail: haigh591@btinternet.com
60
We can modernise your stairs in just 2 days! Nothing distinguishes the quality of a house more than a well-designed, well-built staircase and balustrade. Whether it be from exotic hardwood, sleek chrome or contemporary glass, your staircase should make a statement of elegance for your entire home and provide a welcoming, timeless, grand entrance.
FREE SURVEY WITH NO OBLIGATION
Download our brochure from www.moderniseyourstairs.com
ASK
5
YEAR GUARANTEE
R ABOUT OU RS AI UNDER ST STORAGE S SOLUTION
Contact us today
01942 246553
“Vale of Wigan produce a stunning oak staircase with glass balustrades.... you could not pick a better company to work with.”
David H – Frodsham
Step up in style!
BEFORE
Visit our NEW showroom at...
Rear Mill, Wood Street, off Chapel Lane, Wigan, WN3 4HL
CALL US todayON
01942 246553
www.moderniseyourstairs.com info@moderniseyourstairs.com
61
Welcome to Wigan
2050...
The Northern Powerhouse has arrived, but at what price for local communities? David Sudworth investigates...
G
eorge Osborne may have left front line politics, but his legacy lives on.
Across Orrell, Winstanley, Billinge and Haydock, vast swathes of open space could be sacrificed for 1,500 new homes and factories. Residents have formed protest groups, and even some councillors are crying foul at what they perceive is a lack of democratic accountability. This is the former Chancellor’s ‘Northern Powerhouse’ come to life at a local level. The idea isn’t new though. For almost 50 years now, there has been regular calls - and promises - about devolving more power from Whitehall down to a local level. And so after years of false starts, city region elected Mayors were brought in, with powers over health spending and planning. And thus the Northern Powerhouse was born. Local council leaders, eyeing up an opportunity to get some serious money for their local areas, lapped it up. The first Greater Manchester Mayoral election takes place this May. Leigh MP Andy Burnham
62
is the Labour candidate, and widely seen as a shooin for the job.
residents have been left wondering why the future of these two pieces of land is back under question.
However, even before a vote has been cast, Greater Manchester’s eager council leaders, Wigan’s own Lord Peter Smith included, have set about having a plan ready for when the successful candidate is elected. The Draft Spatial Strategy Framework is hardly the most sexy title, but there’s plenty in it to get people hot under the collar.
Residents in both of these areas have started campaigning against the proposals, and public meetings have been held. However, the sense of anger isn’t limited to just members of the public councillors are also seemingly aghast at how there is seemingly little input at a grass roots level.
One of the drivers for devolution is boosting local
One Wigan Town Hall insider told Local Life: “Councillors aren’t happy. They see this as a plan
economies. And for politicians, that means jobs and houses - and lots of them. 226,000 new homes to be precise.
which has been cobbled together by the 10 Greater Manchester council leaders, with the
Wigan’s own contribution is two chunks of land adjacent to the M6 at Orrell and Winstanley/Bryn. In Orrell, the proposal is to build factories on land known as The Bell. Access could possibly be off the current junction at Ormskirk Road. It is claimed the development could provide 3,447 jobs, as well as an extra 170 homes on land east of Latham Lane, Kitt Green.
“11,000 jobs for Orrell and Winstanley”
In Winstanley, the idea is to provide 7,652 jobs on farmland either side of the Junction 25 slip road (pictured below). This would connect to Wheatlea Industrial Estate. There would also be around 80 new homes off Castlemere Close. Ironically, both sites have both been looked at in the past for inclusion in Wigan’s own Local Plan, but neither of them made the final cut. This is why
help of civil servants. Usually, when Wigan Council puts together its Local Plan, local councillors have a say on what sites are put forward for potential development. With this, there has been none of that. “The problem is that a lot of these council leaders have been around for a long time and, even though most of them are Labour, they felt let down that the last Labour government didn’t devolve power to local communities. So when George Osborne did it, the leaders grabbed it with both hands and aren’t for listening. The thing is, this will eventually
63
THE BELL, ORRELL Industrial estate - 3,447 jobs & 170 homes
WIGAN PEMBERTON 26
ORRELL
JUNCTION 25 WINSTANLEY / BRYN
WINSTANLEY
Industrial estate - 7,652 jobs & 80 homes
BEACON RD, BILLINGE 163 homes
SIMMS25 RD, GARSWOOD
BRYN
419 homes
BILLINGE GARSWOOD STRANGE RD, GARSWOOD 83 homes
ASHTON-IN-MAKERFIELD 24
PEWFALL Industrial estate & 502 homes
HAYDOCK
HAYDOCK ISLAND Industrial estates & 520 homes
23
64
become the plan for the new Mayor of Greater Manchester, but that person - whoever it is - will not have had any input into it. I have no idea why they couldn’t have waited until he or she is in post.” For his part, Andy Burnham says he has “concerns” about the amount of Green Belt at risk: “More work should be done to see if the amount of loss can be reduced.” His Labour colleague, Makerfield MP Yvonne Fovargue is less forgiving: “I am not prepared to see the communities I represent subjected to this proposal and am calling on residents to join me in the fight to protect our Green Belt.” However, Wigan’s planning officers believe they have everything more or less in place to convince a planning inspector to give Orrell and Winstanley plans the green light. Even the dreaded words CPO (Compulsory Purchase Order) has been mentioned. “These sites came up some time ago when the country was still in recession. There is now a
Wigan with the Orrell and Winstanley sites. In terms of new homes, St Helens Council says it needs to release Green Belt around Garswood and Billinge to ensure it has the mandatory five year supply of housing. Privately, politicians admit to one uncomfortable truth about house building - that developers prefer green field sites. The reason is because not only are the clean up costs, compared to contaminated brownfield sites, practically zero, they also tend to be located in better off areas, where they can command a high price tag.
“Fight to protect our Green Belt”
Set against that, it’s unsurprising the sites up for grabs include land north and to the rear of Simms Road pub, Garswood and land at the back of Beacon Road/Main Street, Billinge.
pressing and demonstrable need for development land, and we believe we now have the evidence base to convince an inspector,” said one.
Some sites could be developed by 2018. Others, including at Strange Road and the site north of Simms Road pub, would be taken out of Green Belt but ‘safeguarded’ for development sometime between 2033 and 2048.
The plans for homes and factories across Billinge, Garswood and Haydock fall under a different project, the St Helens Local Plan, although it is inextricably linked to the creation of a directly elected Mayor for the Liverpool City Region. As with Greater Manchester, elections for this take place in May. Both St Helens and Wigan are salivating at the possibilities touted by the Liverpool Superport, which is undergoing a £1billion-plus investment. And with the M6, M58 and East Lancs Road all in close proximity, both areas want a slice of this potentially lucrative cake. This is why St Helens Council has earmarked land off the East Lancs Road at Haydock for new warehouses and factories. Ditto
The St Helens plan is currently out for public consultation until the end of January. The Wigan proposals could become a reality as early as next year. But locals like Kitt Green resident Brian Mercer (pictured above) would be happy to see the plan ditched. Brian, 74, lives off Bell Lane and regularly walks across the fields towards Orrell Post: “I like to walk around the area - it keeps me fit. I don’t agree with this development at all. I know they have to build somewhere, but why here?” To read the consultation documents, visit www. wigan.gov.uk and www.sthelens.gov.uk
65
66
Financial planning
New Year
Resolutions by David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP),
Chartered Financial Planner and Managing Director
At the heart of the problem was that “everything was all over the place” - for every investment he was dealing with a different company and no action was being taken by his adviser, potentially costing him money. I asked him what his “ideal” would feel and look like.
H
appy New Year to all Local Life readers, let’s hope you will all “Prosper” throughout 2017. Apologies for the plug but it’s the only time of year that I can get away with it. With 2017 underway, the New Year’s resolutions are now normally firmly in place, but the usual ‘more exercise’, ‘more dieting’, ‘less drink’ all involve an element of pain and deprivation and most of us tend to fall by the wayside within a week or two. One resolution that you may want to retrospectively add to your list, one which involves very little pain but can have significant benefits, is to have an investment health check. Every January I notice a significant increase in the number of enquiries from Local Life readers. What prompts this increase? Perhaps time off over Christmas, completion of tax returns, whatever the trigger, reviewing and revamping your portfolio now could make a significant difference to your portfolio value. Apart from weeding out the poor performing funds, you might find your finances could be arranged more tax-efficiently. I was recently talking to a prospective client who was having a moan about the amount of paperwork he was receiving from all his different investments.
He wanted to….. • Retake full control of his investments rather than getting swamped with paperwork and information • Have “peace of mind” knowing that a single expert was also keeping an eye on his investments • Invest in a wide choice of leading companies without being tied in to a single company/fund • Obtain portfolio valuations immediately It probably does not come as a great surprise to learn that our Wealth Management Service delivers on all the points above. Indeed one of our recently engaged clients described the difference between the old way of managing investments and using the Prosper Wealth Management Service as “an absolute revelation” If you would like more information please feel free to get in touch on 01257 423800. Alternatively visit our website www.prosper-ifa.co.uk or email us to request a brochure. The cost of the initial consultation is met by us and you are under no obligation to take things further. If you invest in the stock market the value of your investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount invested.
67
Looking forward to retirement? Enjoy a bright future with Prosper - the local firm with a national reputation for excellent financial management and outstanding service.
Why should you choose Prosper? We already look after over £110 million on behalf of 500 local clients We were the first independent financial adviser in Wigan to be awarded Chartered Financial Planner Status back in 2012 and remain the only firm to achieve this accreditation
Wealth Preservation Investments Pensions Long term Care Solutions
You will have your own dedicated IFA to help you achieve your financial goals
Whether you’re already retired or you’re planning to retire soon, make positive plans and prosper. Call us today for a friendly consultation
01257 423 800 Prosper Independent Financial Advisers Ltd. Prosper House, 99a High Street, Standish, WN6 0HD
www.prosper-ifa.co.uk
68
Mary’s memorable
day
She’s leaving Billinge after 20 years, but this local got a send-off she’ll never forget! Mary May left Beacon Road just before Christmas to settle in Southport with husband of 43 years, Bob. She sold her house with Orrell estate agents Borron Shaw, and entered a prize raffle to win a £500 holiday voucher courtesy of Marken Travel. Luck was on Mary’s side so she and Bob are now planning to put the voucher towards a cruise. She received her prize from St Helens players Kyle Amor and Matty Smith. Also pictured are Ste Tickle and Ste Ball, from Borron Shaw, and Carla Hesketh, from Marken Travel.
Puzzle
solutions
Mary, who is originally from Parr, St Helens, told Local Life: “I was really pleased to win - I didn’t expect it at all. “We were sad to leave Billinge as we’ve been here for 20 years but we just love Southport. There’s so much to do there and also we have a boat so it’s handy for that.”
69
Foxy
fundraiser
For the third consecutive year, the Foxy Ladies, a group of big hearted patrons of Fifteen’s at The Fox in Roby Mill, held a fundraising day for Cancer Research UK. A total of £5,290 was raised on the day and was presented to Katie Hesketh from the charity by Lisa Langton, Fiona Scriven, Pauline Wheeler & Sammy Sheridan. The day consisted of a 3 course meal at Fifteen’s at the Fox, a raffle with over 130 prizes, an auction and many other activities deemed too rude to mention in a family magazine! During the day, the Foxy Ladies released pink memory balloons, marking someone they have lost
or who is battling cancer. Over the last three years the Foxy Ladies have raised an incredible £15,190 for Cancer Research UK. Tickets for next year’s event are already on sale and are selling quickly – contact Fifteen’s at the Fox on 01695 628178 for details.
Free, no obligation discussion for all your bookkeeping needs Contact Petra on Telephone Mobile
70
Business view
Your Hands On, Pro-Active &
Friendly Accountant by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy
C
MA Accountancy provides dynamic, value for money accountancy services and work alongside business owners to implement cloud based solutions that enable them to work efficiently and achieve their personal and business goals.
goods is less than 2% of your gross turnover then your FRS VAT % will increase to 16.5%. This will impact contractors and other service style limited companies. Call us now for help with changes in time for April.
Self Assessment Deadline - 31 January!!
And finally, some good news! If you run a business and employ staff, the cost of giving trivial gifts to staff is allowable for tax as long as; the amount spent per employee is £50 or less. (However
Remember, those who miss filing their tax return by deadline face an automatic penalty of £100 and after 3 months this increases to £10 per day! As a reminder, the following are the some of the main reasons you may be required to completing a return: • Anyone who is self-employed. • If you receive rental income from a property. • Company directors must complete a return. • You have Capital Gains Tax to pay as you have sold an asset. Company directors should watch out for new tax charges on dividends from April 2016! Contact CMA for advice on this. Changes for VAT flat rate scheme The flat rate VAT scheme (FRS) is used by many small businesses to simplify their VAT reporting. If you gain a cash advantage from the scheme, you need to know that significant changes are being made from 1st April 2017. If your expenditure on
Trivial Benefits
multiple amounts are allowed in a given year), the item is question is not either cash or a cash voucher (High street vouchers are allowable though), and the benefit cannot be given in reward for good performance or exceeding targets. If you are a director of a limited company then you are restricted to £300 in trivial benefits in a given year but this amount is TAX FREE! There are further rules that must be applied to qualify for this benefit and you must keep separate records of these expenses. Please call us if you would like to discuss anything in this article. Alternatively you can drop by our office where we can discuss any accountancy issues over a coffee. There will be no charge for the initial meeting.
CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DR 01257 255521 info@cma-accountancy.com www.cma-accountancy.com
71
SA
de
ad
Benefit
lin
s
e
AE VAT
Do you need help and guidance with;
SA
Company Accounts? Auto Enrolment? Self Assessment? Cloud-based Software? Payroll Services?
Call CMA Accountancy today www.cma-accountancy.com info@cma-accountancy.com Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge. 01257 255521
72
Food & Drink
You should have
fun! By Gemma Dunn
H
e’s been branded one of the trailblazers of new British cooking, but at the heart of Glynn Purnell’s success is his refusal to take himself too seriously. If he’s not cracking jokes and reeling off witty anecdotes, the ‘Yummy Brummie’ is referring to himself as the Roger Federer of Birmingham’s imploding culinary scene. “I’m always going to be remembered as something that broke the mould; the one who was awarded the first ever Michelin star in Birmingham [which happened in 2005, while he was head chef at Jessica’s in Edgbaston],” says the forward-thinker. “I’m still in the mix, so I like to see myself as a Roger Federer: I won’t be No 1 all of the time, but it’s great,” the 41-year-old adds, chuckling. “Competition is great!” And having achieved his childhood goal - “I never had any interest in passing GCSEs because I knew I was going to be a chef” - it seems Purnell has plenty to smile about. His latest venture is the brilliantly-titled cookbook Rib Ticklers & Choux-Ins, a follow-up to 2014’s Cracking Yolks & Pig Tales, and a tome he says was inspired by the more down-to-earth dishes served at his bistro, or “takeaway food at home”. Written with trademark wit, chapters range from ‘This little piggy went to market’ to ‘A moment on the lips’. It’s infused with brunch, fish, meat and knockout dessert recipes, and peppered with yarns about perfecting his skills through years of reading women’s magazines at the dentist, and why he has such a vendetta against sprouts.
“It’s important as a chef to have your own personality, but then to be able to put that personality onto the page makes you different,” reasons Purnell, who credits his publishers with giving him the creative freedom to put out a book that “sounds as if I’m talking to you”. “When I stop running restaurants, and when I stop doing what I’m doing, I want people to look back and go, ‘Oh look, that’s a Glynn Purnell dish’, or when they come to the restaurant and eat a dish, they know they’re not going to get that anywhere else in the world. “It’s important to keep hold of your personality,” he continues. “I’ve been cooking in Michelinstar restaurants nearly all of my career, and chefs always want to perceive themselves as being a bit aggressive. I’ve moved on from that. “I don’t need to push my chest out and act like some sort of big grumpy chef that throws plates at people, because times have changed. For me, food is fun; you should have fun. “Some chefs should smile a bit more - it wouldn’t kill them!”
Rib Ticklers & Choux-Ins by Glynn Purnell, photography by Peter Cassidy, is published by Kyle Books, priced £19.99.
73
Sweet spicy sticky
Serves 7 Ingredients 2tbsp vegetable oil 1 onion, thinly sliced 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 4 cloves 1/2 cinnamon stick 1tsp black onion seeds 1tsp ground ginger 1 rack of pork belly ribs, cut into individual ribs 150g caster sugar 50ml white wine vinegar 50ml dark soy sauce 1tbsp (large) tomato ketchup 2 medium-hot chillies, roughly chopped 1tbsp chopped coriander Squeeze of lime juice
ribs
Method Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened but only lightly coloured. Add the cloves, cinnamon, onion seeds and ginger to the pan and then add the ribs. Cover all the ingredients with two litres of cold water (or enough to cover the ribs), then simmer for 30-40 minutes until the meat is tender. Drain the ribs (you can reserve the cooking liquid to make a sauce for another dish). Heat a large frying pan, add the sugar, vinegar and soy sauce and boil the mixture until reduced to a thick consistency. Add the ketchup to the pan, then stir in the ribs, coating well with the glaze. Add the chillies, coriander and a squeeze of lime juice, then serve. The ribs can be served with egg noodles or jasmine rice. A little tip - instead of ribs, buy pork belly on the bone. That way you get free ribs and probably the best part of the pig.
74
Taste test
Shining
star
T
he season of overindulgence is drawing to a close and our digestive systems can collectively breathe a sigh of relief. You can guarantee that 50% of the western world is about to enter a strict diet/fitness regime, whilst the rest of us sensible folks are just dialling it back a bit, choosing quality over the gluttonous quantity that epitomises Christmas. Thankfully, with the Star in Roby Mill on our doorstep, we don’t have far to go. To start I opt for the Sizzling King Prawns. King prawns and chorizo go together hand in hand; the plump succulent flesh of the prawns, mixed with the spicy and chunky chorizo, served with peppers and onions, and pulled together by an absolutely scrumptious creamy and garlic sauce meant that this dish is a very late contender for my dish of the year award 2016. My dining partner Nicola, heavily pregnant and very risk-averse, can only look on in frustration I hold forth about the quality of this dish. Instead she opts for shallow fried Goats cheese parcels, served with mango chutney. These dainty packages of crispy filo arrived at the table and only a few seconds passed before she eagerly cut into them, and the warm melted goats cheese oozed out on to the plate. I managed to pinch half a parcel before she made an effort to stab me with her fork and I can confirm that beautiful taste of salty goats cheese was the perfect partner to the sweet mango chutney. Pesto punched through the garnish cutting through the sweetness of the other accompaniments. Overall, it made for a very moreish starter indeed. Barring a variation of goose or duck (or a godforsaken modern hybrid like tuducken), we all basically eat the same over Christmas; that’s a turkey on the 25th and turkey sandwiches for the next week or so. It’s been a while since I have enjoyed a pie, so I opt for the home made steak and ale - and what a whopper it is! Built like a Russian Olympic weight lifter, (but without the ‘medication’ that goes with), this is a chunky humdinger of a dish. Served with roast potatoes and a selection of winter vegetables, the quality of the steak and the gravy was just mouth-wateringly amazing.
75
Whilst I was doing culinary cartwheels over the pie, my dining partner was as similarly enthusiastic about the Barbary duck à l’orange, served with orange segments, glace cherries and winter vegetables. As she explained later, the duck breast was perfectly cooked but she raved at the lightness of the sauce, saying that it lifted the dish into memorability. I agree, too often the sauce on the dish is often jam-like, but this orange sauce was delightful. Unlike me, she is not a gravy fan, but she
genuine mistake ordering the Assisette of Desserts; this is actually a dessert to share. This trio of desserts all shared similar characteristics – lightness and delicacy. The profiteroles were as tasty as I’ve ever enjoyed, the lovely texture of the chocolate brownie was superb and the exquisitely fluffy strawberry cheesecake was a joy to behold. It’s said that the real challenge in the world of food isn’t hitting culinary heights; it’s being able to maintain that quality service after service, week after week; and that’s what The Star has managed for the last ten years with aplomb. 2017 sees the 10th anniversary of The Star under the current ownership, but as long as this popular pub/ restaurant maintains those high expectations, it will continue to shine! actually said that she could drink a pint of this! After a bit of a break between courses, Nicola was faced with a vital choice; to leave immediately in order to make her appointment with the midwife, or to stay and have dessert. At that point, her Eton Mess arrived and her staying then became a foregone conclusion. The Eton Mess is made with whipped cream, meringue and strawberries and, to her surprise, raspberries too. ‘Indulgent dessert heaven at its very best’ was the phrase she uttered! My eyes aren’t what they used to be, so I made a
The Star Inn, 60 Bank Top, Roby Mill, Up Holland WN8 0QQ 01257 25 33 55
76
Cheese and potato pie
Gratin
Method Preheat the oven to 180C/gas mark 4. Sprinkle the salt onto a baking tray and place the potatoes on top. Bake the potatoes for one-and-a-half hours, or until they are soft.
Serves 4 - 8 Ingredients 200g white rock salt 6 medium-large baking potatoes, skin on, washed Splash of vegetable oil 1 medium onion, chopped Knob of butter, plus 60g 310g hard mature Cheddar cheese, grated 100ml double cream 100ml milk 1tbsp chopped parsley 1tbsp chopped spring onions
Remove the potatoes from the oven and leave to cool slightly, then cut in half, scoop out the potato into a bowl and beat until smooth. Reserve the skins. Heat the oil in a flameproof casserole dish, add the onion and cook over a medium heat for two to three minutes. Add the knob of butter and cook for a further two minutes, then remove from the heat. Add the potato, 250g of the cheese, the remaining 60g butter, the cream, milk, parsley and spring onions, then mix together and spread out in the casserole dish, smoothing the surface. Cut the potato skins into strips and scatter over the potato mixture, then cover with the remaining 60g of cheese. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve with a salad or as a side dish for meat or fish.
77
10% off
on production of this advert Management reserve the right to make changes without prior notice
533 Scot Lane, Wigan, WN5 0PS
78
Eating out
guide Divino Restaurant Traditional Italian homemade cuisine. Enjoy the friendly warm atmosphere, where you can relax or celebrate any occasion with our outstanding wine and food. See our website for more information. 01942-386140 4, Orrell Road, Wigan, WN5 8HD divino-italian.co.uk
The Star Inn The award-winning Star Inn is renowned for scrumptious food and quaffable ales. Its success has been built on a great reputation for fresh cooked, fresh produce, at reasonable prices. 01257 253355 60, Bank Top, Roby Mill, WN8 0QQ thestarinnrobymill.co.uk
Advertise
here £30 + VAT
Call 01695 627999
The Simms Road Inn Homemade pub food classics made with locally sourced produce - featuring our award winning Steak & Ale pie, supplemented with cask ales and quality wines from around the world. Food served every lunch and dinner. Gluten Free options. 01744 894246 Garswood, WN4 0XH simmsroadinn.co.uk
Rigby’s Coffee Shop
Fifteens @ The Fox
Plantation Restaurant
Enjoy a trip out to Pimbo Garden Centre and tuck into a wide selection of delicious home cooked, locally sourced, food served seven days a week at Rigby’s Coffee Shop. 01695 622601 Pimbo Garden Centre, 32 Pimbo Lane, Up Holland, WN8 9QQ pimbogardencentre.co.uk
This quirky and popular pub dates back to the 17th century and offers fabulous home cooked food using recipes developed by our chefs. The real ale selection is superb too. 01695 628178 Fifteens @ The Fox, Roby Mill, Up Holland WN8 0QF fifteensatthefox.com
From wholesome breakfasts and a delicious lunchtime menu to traditional Lancastrian afternoon teas, the Plantation Restaurant at Warbreck Garden Centre is the place to go. 01695 722960 Lyelake Lane, Lathom, L40 6JW warbreckgardencentre.co.uk
79
Our services include: • Dog walking • Home visits • Pet checks • Holiday care • Pet photography
Call Silke Klingenhagen for more details
FurEverFriends
17 Ormskirk Road, Upholland, WN8 OAH
07530 119263 / 01695 228306
www.fureverfriendsdogwalking.co.uk
No time to visit tHe groomers? We wash and groom your dog at your home in our converted van. Covering areas WN3,4,5 & WA9,10,11,12
Call Phil 07840 741 713 or visit;
www.dialadogwashwigansthelens.co.uk email:pmdadw@gmail.com
Gary Mulvaney
Dog Trainer Train for Fun – Skills for Life • Puppy/Dog Training • 1-2-1 Instruction • Behavioural problems
Over 40 Lancashire walks
07754 003 021 or 01257 252232
www.garymulvaney.co.uk
Leader of the Pack Dog Services “Let me lead your pack”
FREE to download at www.locallife247.co.uk
Dog Walking Dog Sitting/Boarding Small Pet Holiday Visits/Boarding Pet Taxi/Bathing Service Telephone: 07801 455266 or 01942 620417 www.facebook.com/leadmypack
Advertise
here
Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month
n When ca k to I go bac arn Dukes B Farm?
Boarding kennels for all breeds of dogs. Heated accommodation.
For more information please phone
01695 627 999
Recommended by vets & clients for over 35 years.
Design & Print
Local authority licensed & approved.
Flyers, postcards, brochures and distribution service
DUKES BARN FARM
£20
no
Saving money is the clear benefit!
Solar Thermal & Solar PV
1 w£
Wind Turbines
Animal care at its best
Heat Pumps
Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved
forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect
LED Lighting
...and general NG SERVICI
every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding
VAN CAR & motorcycles too es E ...and Lash Tan Book X y your FREE Spra H ils home survey eds A k Sunb & GeTl Na Health ChecTelephone: 01257 427 000 ic Car U rton Acryl and Brethe Don’t forget, we also offer all of theseEnergy services daily... Savings
Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Same Day Service, Safety Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced
FREE Dennis Goulding
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RS (Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)
and we’ll provide you with a detailed report showing the returns
A49
Mossy Lea Road
01695 627999
Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories, Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
ally
rm
no
B5250
For more information call
l Geails N 5
Open 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday Closed to customer visits on Sunday
available from- 12:00 yournoon Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am
own solar panels Y S 84 of Crostonwww.dglwindows.co.uk (10% typical return) J27 dio residents me! R Stu T @ for all7PG me until you needCheck E e WN5Keep S HealthVisit our showroom at , Billing 400 FREE Car on - 6PM Unit 4a, Road S 4 619 your ford ay 10AM now Book Cricket : 0781
s
Natalie
A5209
Standish
Shevington
Saturd hone : 84 Rain - 7PM, Open Telep 10AM y
Call
, Friday & Sunda ngineers esday Thursday TwinLakesMotorE ay, Wedn Closed
ay, Tuesd
Mond
01772
REPAIR
603923
Street Business Park off Miry Lane, Wigan. WN6
DING 7TP & WEL
Slash your electricity and water heating bill
Protect your household from future energy price rises Reduce your household’s impact on the environment
Call us now
0843 224 9555 07595 420237 or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
we make it our business to help yours
Brook Lane, Pemberton, WN5 8JQ
Call - 01942 217752
80
sponsored by
Hale by David Sudworth
I
f you want to raise someone’s blood pressure in Hale, tell them they live in Merseyside.
The temptation is obvious, given that it is perched on the side of the Mersey, and also at the end of Liverpool John Lennon Airport runway. But not only is this geographical pigeonholing patently untrue (pub bore alert number one: Merseyside hasn’t existed since 1986 when the old Merseyside County Council was abolished) but Hale is in fact part of the Halton Council area, which has come under Cheshire since 1974. Only for local government purposes you understand, because (bore alert number 2) technically Hale remains part of the County Palatine of Lancashire. Also, don’t confuse it with the other Hale, which is near Altrincham and has always been part of Cheshire.
Flummoxed? Don’t be, because none of it really matters when you are enjoying this splendid five mile stroll. We start our walk from the car park at Hale Park (postcode L24 4EA). Having parked up, we head back out of the car park onto High Street and take a right heading in to Church End. Here, we get a first glimpse of some truly beautiful old houses with thatched roofs. On the day we visited, the air was wintery and crisp. Against the clear, blue sky backdrop, we saw the odd chimney pot bellowing out plumes of smoke. A sight sure to warm the cockles of even the coldest walker. A little further on, we happen upon an imposing statue of John Middleton, formerly of this parish, who by some accounts grew to a staggering 9ft 3ins
81
tall. Little wonder he was hired as a bodyguard to the Sheriff of Lancashire. Once past the statue, we take a left into Within Way from where you’re soon enjoying open views towards Widnes and Runcorn - the railway bridge stands proudly to the left alongside an endless parade of factories. By contrast, on our side of the Mersey, there is nothing apart from green fields and some winter broccoli crops for company. History enthusiasts will enjoy knowing that this was the point where the first Mersey crossing was situated by way of a ford, which is a mile long. During the Civil War in 1644, troops crossed with their horses and there were skirmishes to take control of what was a major crossing point. As late as the 19th century, a local vicar used to take his horse-drawn buggy across. However, pollution was becoming a big problem, and this led to the construction of the Transporter Bridge in 1905. This was replaced in 1961 by the Silver Jubilee Bridge, which remains in use to this day. As an interesting aside, ‘Mersey’ is derived from the Old English words ‘Mæres’ meaning boundary or border, and ‘Ea’ meaning river.
With the history lesson now over, we follow the route all the way down to the bottom, where it continues to the river as a footpath. When you reach the river go right and continue along the path. After a short while Hale Head Lighthouse will come into view. Built in 1906, it was decommissioned in 1958 and is now a private residence. You’ll go straight through the gates passing the lighthouse as you cross Lighthouse Road and on along the river bank. Shortly after this you go over a wooden footbridge that crosses Lady Pool, a brook that runs out from Hale Park. The path continues for a good while, passing Icehouse Plantation, before you eventually reach a house, where the path goes down some steps to the left. This then crosses
82
Hale Head
With in
Way
John Middleton ‘Childe of Hale’ Statue
Lighthouse
Hale
Town Lane
Road
d
En
ane
Hig
hS tree
t
P
Postcode: L24 4AF
ch ur
Ch
Carr L
Pool FB
Lady
e
FB
Hale Cliff
il Ba
e
y’s
n La
e
Hale Ro
ad
Icehouse Plantation
an
on Lane
Dunge
Oglet
t le Og
ne La
kL
roo
sb
m Ra
Liverpool John Lennon Airport
Having done these walks for a few years now, I can honestly say this was possibly the most interesting and enjoyable. There’s just something about the river, its vastness, which creates a sense of calmness, even with the slow chug of industry in the background.
d
Roa
ouse
Just before you reach the yellow post that support the airports landing lights, you take a right into Bailey’s Lane. Follow this until it emerges on Hale Road, a smart route with some very grand homes with thatched roofs. Continue to go right and follow it back into the village and then take a right back in to the car park.
rch
Chu
Lighth
At this point we go right and the path soon emerges onto Dungeon Road, right again the boundary fence to Liverpool John Lennon Airport. Here you get some good views of planes taking off or landing. We managed to hang around long enough to see a private plane jet off to a destination unknown, followed shortly afterwards by an easyJet 12.15pm service to Barcelona. Plan your route carefully if you want to see this, as sometimes there can be an hour’s gap in between take-offs.
Decoy Marsh
another brook, before steps take you back to the top of the river bank. Keep going along the river until the path emerges onto a new tarmac path.
83
A tall story
The Mersey is synonymous with Liverpool but it is more than just a reference point for the Liver Buildings, the Albert Dock and so on. Also, from this vantage point, there’s no chance of overhearing the cringingly obvious warblings of Gerry & The Pacemakers as the Birkenhead Ferry comes in to dock. And for that, we should all be grateful...
John Middleton was born in 1578 in Hale and, according to folklore, is one of the tallest men in history. A towering man, he is believed to have been between 7ft 9ins and 9ft 3ins tall – official records don’t exist to confirm one way or the other. It is said that when King James I learnt about the ‘Childe of Hale’s’ great height, he invited him to his court to fight the King’s wrestler. Middleton won and was given £20, a massive amount at that time. He is also said to have been recruited as a bodyguard for Gilbert Ireland, the landlord and Sheriff of Lancashire who was also a member of Brasenose College Boat Club. Middleton died in 1623, aged 45, and is buried in St Mary’s churchyard. A portrait of Middleton hangs in Brasenose College and the rowing team’s first VIII sometimes wear Middleton’s colours; red, purple and gold. A blue plaque denoting Middleton’s home in Hale adorns a whitewashed cottage on Church End, just a stone’s throw from his statue.
Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear while walking. While every care has been taken to ensure that the walk is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.
Thinking of taking a break?
With Barking Mad, your dog will be individually cared for by one of our local, carefully selected families in their home.
For more information call Andrea Gupta
01942 316472
andrea.gupta@barkingmad.uk.com
www.barkingmad.uk.com
84
It wasn’t raining when Noah built
the ark!
I
saw this caption outside a Methodist church recently and I thought what a brilliant way to illustrate the concept of planning ahead. And when it comes to our gardens, planning ahead is a necessity if you want a truly seasonal garden with year round interest and colour and this is particularly true of the winter months. Winter can be a drawn out, dreary affair so injecting some colour and structure into our gardens can really lift the spirits at this time of year. Some excellent plants for the winter garden include: Buxus sempervirens or Box. Fantastic evergreen structure. If you are worried about Box Blight (a fungal disease which is becoming more prevalent) then Euonymus japonicus ‘Jean Hugues’ is an excellent substitute. Daphnes are brilliant for providing winter flowers which are scented. Two of the best are Daphne odora ‘Aureomarginata’ and Daphne bholua ‘Jacqueline Postill’. Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald ‘n’ Gold’. Bright lime green and yellow leaves cover this small shrub
by Angie Barker
Award Winner
throughout the year and when the temperatures fall, they turn pink. Miscanthus sinensis ‘Kleine Fontane’ is a tall grass which keeps its structure all winter and looks stunning with a sprinkling of frost. Sarcococca confusa -a small evergreen shrub with amazing scent in winter which will knock your socks off and is also really useful for a dark, shady corner. Christmas or Lenten Roses (Hellebores) are lovely small perennials which although don’t offer much in the way of colour and structure throughout the year, really come into their own in January and February. Helleborous x hybridus provide some of the best colours. So if you think your garden lacks interest at this time of year, start planning now for next winter and take a trip to the garden centre. Bypass the sale of left over Christmas decorations and head outside for the plants. As for Hubby, well he is busy planning too. He wants to know when is the best time to open that vintage bottle of wine I bought him for Christmas! Happy New Year everyone.
Angie is a qualified award-winning garden designer who will plan your garden to your needs from start to finish, supplying reputable contractors and the ideal plants.
Call Angie now for your free consultation! Angie Barker Dip GD (Inst GD) BA (Hons) Garden Design For All Seasons Tel: 01942 522 405 Mob: 07857 008 383 www.angiebarker.co.uk
Award Winner
85
Want a beautiful garden without all the hard work? At GreenHills we don’t just treat your lawns, we offer a complete service all year round. • • • • •
APPLICATION OF LAWN TREATMENTS GARDEN MAINTENANCE WEEDING & BORDERS HEDGES & SHRUBS MAINTAINED WEED SPRAYING OF PATHS & DRIVEWAYS
Professional Lawn Treatment & Garden Maintenance
01942 200 039
~ Est. 2001 ~
or
07950 651 956
Garden maintenance ~ General tidy ups Hedge cutting ~ Pressure washing ~ Fencing
Call - 01942 225711 or 07773 296880 Eton Way, Orrell
Our aim is to deliver a creative, personal service adhering to our customers requirements and within budget. Large projects or small makeovers are all carried out with the same commitment and dedication. We take great pride in completing all projects to the highest possible standards. w w w. p d h o m e a n d g a r d e n . c o . u k
07946 751308
01942 206503
SMN
Tree and Landscape Management West Lancashire District Council approved contractor
Day: 07970 521 692 Eve: 01942 214 121 www.smntrees.co.uk
steve@smntrees.co.uk
Garden Design & Quality Landscaping Quality work & reliability at competitive prices Call today for a FREE quote
01942 510 986 07710 405 214
Qualified Tree Surgeon NCA RFS NPTC All types of Tree and Hedge Work Fully Insured Felling, Reducing, Pruning, Shaping
Visit our website to see previous projects
www.ashlandscapingandmaintenance.co.uk Established 1994
•
•
• Gates and railings • Repairs and restorations • Ironwork and welding • Traditional forge work
ALL ASPECTS OF TREE WORK UNDERTAKEN
over 20 years experience TELEPHONE:
Tel: 01695 721877 Mobile: 07951 764202 The Barn, 286 Ormskirk Road, Upholland
01695 623 909 07903 290 878 QUALIFIED & INSURED
FREE ESTIMATES
86
Test drive
Kia
T
Niro
he all-new Kia Niro hybrid is propelled by an orthodox 1.6-litre GDi petrol engine, paired up with a 32kW electric motor. There’s also a lithium-ion polymer battery where energy is saved. This layout is like the one in Toyota’s Prius, and manages an official combined mpg of up to 74.3mpg, alongside CO2 emissions starting from 88g/km. The new Kia Niro’s body is rectangular, but it’s not at all disagreeable. The Niro has a simple, fetching form, that has hints of Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) about it. At the front, the Sportage’s genetic material comes through – most markedly around the headlights. What’s more, the rump of the allnew Niro is easy-on-the-eye, with a conventional tailgate decorated with touches of silver trim. The Niro will seat four-adults comfortably, or five at a squeeze. The load area is a decent size – certainly large enough for a regular sized family’s needs. The steering wheel is pleasingly thick to grasp and the switchgear and dials are intuitive and clear to use. The only difference between the Niro and a conventionally powered car is an energy flow meter replacing the rev counter. There’s also a drivetrain pictorial showing the energy stream between the Kia Niro’s engine, battery and wheels.
performer, the additional power the petrol engine receives from the electric motor is appreciable. The all-new Kia Niro also feels planted and deals with the straights contentedly. It’s only on more blemished B-road surfaces that the Niro’s firm suspension results in a bit of jitteriness. The Kia Niro has to have a stiff set-up, though, to cope with the extra heft of the hybrid assembly. This firmness means that body lean is hardly noticeable in corners. The all-new Kia Niro hybrid comes in four levels of trim, categorised ‘1’, ‘2’, ‘3’ and ‘First Edition’. All are well-appointed with driver assistance, comfort, and connectivity features. Every Kia Niro has a lane-keep assist system, hill-start assist control, cruise control and a speed limiter. The new car also comes factoryfitted with support smartphone connectivity, music streaming and a DAB radio.
Save £££’s
Pick U p Drop O & ff servic e availa ble
on repairs, servicing and diagnostics at Wigan’s leading independent BMW & Mini Specialist.
On start-up, the all-new Kia Niro sounds like it’s not turned on. That’s because, as with all hybrids, the engine under the bonnet doesn’t cut in instantly. Instead of any tick-over sounds, you hear a chime, signifying that the Niro is running. It’s not long before the 105PS petrol powered unit makes its presence known, though.
184 Wallgate, Wigan, WN3 4AL (Next to Better Bathrooms)
On the road, the Niro delivers even-tempered performance, thanks to a six-cog automatic gearbox. And, while the Kia Niro is no out and out
01942 820 378 www.bndynamix.com
Our staff have over 40 years experience at the Northwest’s largest BMW dealership. Other makes and models welcome too.
Free secure parking at rear
87
Car Paintwork Repairs
I’ll repair your:
We’ll fix your; Paintwork Scratches Bumper Scuffs Alloy Wheel Damage Minor Dents
No VAT charged!
Quality repairs with a lifetime guarantee.
Mobile Service – we come to you! For your free estimate, call Dave on
07970 915 504
c/o JW Gaskell Garages, Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge WN6 9DR
Bumper scuffs Vandal scratches Alloy wheel repairs Minor dents
No VAT charged!
We’ll beat any quote! Call Chris on
01942 215 111 or 07969 357 751
www.cosmeticar.co.uk
88
Home Services
- sponsored by
as seen
ON TV
Stone, Tile & Grout Cleaning experts Tile and grout cleaning in your bathrooms & kitchen
• Limestone/Travertine floors • Swimming pools • Terracotta & Slate floors • Victorian tile floors • Laminate/vinyl floors Call Clint for a free no obligation quote;
01942 470 089 or 07834 241 642
www.jcstoneandtilecare.co.uk
Ovenclean will transform your oven and put the sparkle back into your kitchen!
• • • •
Ovens Grills Extractors BBQ’s
• • • •
Hobs Ranges Microwaves AGA’s
Call today to book your oven clean
0800 840 7127 or 07724 694337 www.ovenclean.com
89
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning • traditional service, state of the art results •
Providing professional carpet & upholstery cleaning since 1993 Carpets Leather
Wigan Good Trader Of The Year 2015
Upholstery Curtains Oriental Rugs Hard Floors
5 star rating with Wigan Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme
• Carpets • Rugs • Fabric & Leather Upholstery
For more information call:
01942 470 081
Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote
Call - 01257 251221
Visit our website and check out the testimonials.
Mobile - 07908 770808
www.alliancechemdry.co.uk
www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk
Telephone: 07881 816839
FREE *
GUTTER
CLEARIN
G
*with any cleani or painting packagng e purchased
UPVC CLEANING
• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.
Carroll’s Carpet & Upholstery offer a professional and reliable cleaning service. We clean all types of Carpet, Rugs and Upholstery including leather all at an affordable price.
www.carrolls-carpetandupholstery.co.uk
CONSERVATORIES
• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning)
JETWASHING
• Driveways & Patios etc.
EXTERIOR PAINTING
Domestic Cleaning Oven Cleaning Carpet Cleaning Ironing Service Dry Cleaning 07739 754432 3 Station Road, Parbold, WN8 7DA
www.dreamcleanswigan.co.uk
• Fascias, Rendered Walls etc.
SPECIAL OFFER - 20% OFF ALL CLEANING PACKAGES Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
01942 470 089 / 07834 241 642 www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com
Advertise
here
Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month For more information please phone
01695 627 999
90
Quality Security systems for your home or business • Burglar Alarms • Digital CCTV • Wireless Alarms
Highest Standards of workmanship & aftercare
Systems serviced
0800 069 9350
from £45
Call us today
www.northernalarms.co.uk info@northernalarms.co.uk
Hewitt House, Winstanley Road, WN5 7XB
Wireless Alarm System ONLY £345 1x Live LED GHE Bell box 1x dummy GHE bell box 1x Mains panel with battery back up 1x wireless door contact 2x Wireless PIR Motion detectors 2x Wireless setting fobs Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est. Cale Lane Wigan
01942 836 937 or 07557 914 788 www.ghewigan.co.uk
Want your business to grow in 2017? Advertising packages start from
£39 + VAT per month
Call 01695 627999 for details.
• Conservatory repairs • Locks, handles and hinges • Replacement glass • Windows and doors installed • Replacement conservatory roofs Call MARK now on 01942 737 381 / 0776 315 1720 conservatoryrepairs@gmail.com www.fixmyconservatory.com
Little mags, BIG reach
91
J.Dillon Electrical Call: 01257 424918 or 07821 139826 www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk
• All types of electrical work • 20+ years experience • Friendly, fast and reliable • 24 hour call out service
• All aspects of electrical work welcomed • From new sockets to full re-wire - no job too small • CCTV/Alarms/Security Lighting a speciality Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est. Cale Lane Wigan Contact Us: 01942 836 937 / 07557 914788 www.ghewigan.co.uk
All electrical work undertaken • Rewire specialists • Extra sockets & lights fitted • Mains board upgrades
Free quotations
Garage and entrance doors in matching styles
Is your garage door broken ? Call us today for a free estimate to Repair or Replace it
24 hour Call Out Service
A.J.S.
BAILEYS ELECTRICAL
01942 215 769 07739 709 005
TV Aerials installed & repaired Sky, Freesat, Talk Talk & BT Setup Service Telephone/Broadband repair Tv Wall mounting & CCTV
Ring Paul on www.wiganaerials.com 01942 514532 - 07709 490095 GARAGE DOOR
REPAIRS
All GARAGE DOORS REPAIRED : Springs, Cables, Locks, Rollers etc. Doors of all ages repaired
CJM Garage Doors Ltd, Unit 10, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB t: 01942 738347 w: www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk
01744 894939 07891 330214 NO FIX, NO CHARGE! www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk Strawberry Cottage, Pimbo Road, Upholland WN8 9QL
92
Create your Dream Home today…
Advertise
here
Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month
Our Master Craftsman Derek and his friendly team will help you create your dream home. All aspects of decorating - from simple painting or wallpapering to complex murals. 50 years wallpapering expertise. 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
For more information please phone
01695 627 999
Sg
Call Derek today for a free consultation & quote
Call 07831 505 672
PaiNtiNg & decORatiNg
email franklindecorators@gmail.com
Interior painting & decorating Specialise in standard wall coverings, extra wide vinyl, lincrusta & coving Free estimates. References available upon request
07714 363 377 / 01942 749 971 www.wigandecorators.co.uk
Sefton Road Orrell WN5 8UP
Need a new look for your home?
Skilled interior and exterior work undertaken at reasonable prices! Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator
01942 518126 or 07545 065119 Orrell based business
Ian Martland
Painter & Decorator • All aspects of Decorating • Interior & Exterior • Free Estimates
MOORCROFT
01695 632 477 | 07748 195 809
Award Winner
Exterior & Interior Decorating Domestic & Commercial work undertaken Competitive rate Call Graham now - free estimate provided
01257 426 234
J&P
LTD
Established 1990
www.topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk
Professional Painting and Decorating • Domestic & Commercial Work • Interior & Exterior work welcomed • Old/listed buildings a speciality
Call us today for a free quotation Home Service available
Choose from 1000s of paint & paper samples in the comfort of our own home
01942 212096 07831 102 511 www.jpmoorcroft.com
93
Arley Cabinet Company Ltd • Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •
We measure we make we fit and have done for 60 years. Visit our showroom or call us today for a FREE estimate
Arley Cabinet Co. Ltd 214a Gidlow Lane Wigan WN6 7BN Mon-Fri: 8am - 4.30pm Sat: 9am - 12pm
www.expertcomputers.co.uk ‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner
www.arleycabinets.com tel: 01942 246190 • Re-upholstery • Repair • Large range of materials to choose from • Domestic & Commercial work undertaken
Master Upholsterer with over 30 years experience
Call - 01942 238 427 email: ken@oldfieldupholstery.co.uk
Want your business to grow in 2017? Advertising packages start from
£39 + VAT per month
Call 01695 627999 for details.
Little mags, BIG reach
94
Elite Bathrooms Installation & Tiling • Bathrooms • Wall Tiling • Floor Tiling
Plumbing & Heating Specialist Complete Bathroom & Tiling service
John Bailey - 01942 495785
07703 448890 FREE Estimates 01942 208926
or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238 Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan
Great Value Bathrooms! • Bathroom Installation, Full Bathrooms & En-Suites • Plumbing Services • Wall & Floor Tiling • Ceiling Panelling
01942 225771 / 07803 057940 Eton Way, Orrell, Wigan WN5 8PN www.ljplumbingandbathrooms.co.uk
Full Bathrooms & En-Suites Showers, Trays & Cubicles Relocation of Bathroom Suites
Design & Print l Geails N 5
Flyers, postcards, brochures and distribution service
£20
25 years bathroom experience
Saving money is the clear benefit!
Solar Thermal & Solar PV
1
w£
no
Wind Turbines Heat Pumps
Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and
embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working
LED Lighting
with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding
...and general NG SERVICI
VAN CAR & motorcycles too es E ...and Lash Tan Book X y your FREE Spra H ils home survey eds A k Sunb & GeTl Na Health ChecTelephone: 01257 427 000 ic Car U rton Acryl Y n and Brethe S Crosto Don’t forget, we also offer all of theseEnergy services daily... Savings
Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Same Day Service, Safety Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced
FREE Dennis Goulding
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RS (Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)
and we’ll provide you with a detailed report showing the returns own solar panels
A49
s
Natalie
R @ E S
Mossy Lea Road
01695 627999
ally
rm
no
B5250
For more information call
Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories, Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
available from- 12:00 yournoon Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am
84 of dio residents
for all Stu A5209
J27
www.dglwindows.co.uk (10% typical return)
need me! until you
me 7PG Check e WN5Keep HealthVisit our showroom at , Billing 400 FREE Car on - 6PM Unit 4a, Road 4 619 your Shevington 10AM ford ay Book Cricket Street Business Park : 0781 Call now Saturd hone : 84 Rain - 7PM, Open Telep 10AM y 603923 off Miry Lane, Standish
, Friday & Sunda ngineers esday Thursday TwinLakesMotorE ay, Wedn Closed
ay, Tuesd
Mond
01772
REPAIR
Wigan. WN6
DING 7TP & WEL
T S
Slash your electricity and water heating bill
Protect your household from future energy price rises Reduce your household’s impact on the environment
Call us now
0843 224 9555 07595 420237 or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
we make it our business to help yours
Call Chris now for a free quotation
C L Bathrooms
01942 749085 or 07801 295483 www.clbathrooms.co.uk
95
IAIN LOWE 01695 623236 • Central Heating • Plumbing • Gas Appliances • Gas Safety Checks • Landlord’s Certificates • Maintenance/Breakdowns
brand New bathrooms boiler + Central Heating Installs, servicing + Repairs Extended warranties available 24 Hour Call-out Domestic + Commercial
Freephone 0300 3030121 Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809 No call out fee
A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES
Accredited Installer & Ser vice Partner • Annual Boiler Servicing • Landlord & Home Owner Gas Safety Checks • Gas Fire & Cooker Installations • Under Floor Heating Specialists • Home Efficiency Control Upgrades
10 YEARS
EXTENDED WARRANTY ON SELECTED BOILER INSTALLATIONS
21 Naburn Dr Orrell wN5 8sb
Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk
www.orrellheating.co.uk
• Central Heating Installations • Boiler Installations • Maintenance & Servicing • Power Flushing
434 Ormskirk Rd, Wigan, WN5 9DF
01942 221221
info@premiergas.com / www.premiergas.com
C &D
Plumbing and Heating
Finance available
WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!
Heating & Bathroom Specialist Chris Heaton M.I.P.H.E.R.P 07973714222 01695625171
Specialists in boiler installations, repair & maintenance All work fully warranted
01942 504 429 88604
TEL: MOB:
186237
Your one stop shop for central heating
Telephone:
Registration No.
506515
& get a carbon monoxide alarm (RRP £29) FREE!
01257 421 660 07931 766 684
www.fgwelch.co.uk
Book a boiler health check for £65
Call the team on
Email ops@hotmail.co.uk
01744 892437
96
House Extensions New Kitchens & Bathrooms Garage Conversions Full Refurbishments All our work is fully insured & guaranteed References available on request Call now for a free quotation
01942 561 848 | 07725 909 257 www.freshbuildconstruction.co.uk
01257 422317 or 07852 202867
Ashurst Building & Roofing Services
Home Improvements
All types of building and roofing work undertaken including;
E: 01942 Extensions 832747 & Conservatories 07747 725999 New roofs & Roof repairs
www.mtjoiner y.co.uk
• Fitted Kitchens & Bedrooms • Garage & Loft Conversions • Floors, Doors & Windows For all your home improvement needs call David on...
01942 203 804 DS Joiner 07851 225 876
Family run business with 25 years of experience
Call David today for a free quotation TELEPHONE: 01942 832747 Mobile: 07747 725999
K Stone Building Services
All types of building work undertaken 25 years experience
• Brickwork • Pointing • Garden Walls • Patios • Joinery • Flagging • Alterations • Plastering
01942 495412 / 07974 496676
Advertise
here
Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month For more information please phone
01695 627 999
97
M H Roofing Ltd
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
First Class Workmanship • All types of re-roofs • Strip & re-slate or re-tile • Built up felt/flat roofs, dormers etc. • Insurance work undertaken • Roofline uPVC fascias, soffits & guttering
• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985
Roofing & Roofline Specialists • All aspects of maintenance & repair • Fascia & soffit installation
W.Newman ROOFING & REPAIRS
01695 627 212 MOBILE: 07774 943 706
52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND Established Over 30 Years
• Guttering and felting services Call us now for a free estimate
01695 633173 Colin: 07958 302 166 Brian: 07760 160 988 www.wilson-bros.co.uk
98
A View From The Lump Local gossip, gripes and goings-on Axe ‘Green Belt’ John Prescott, former Prime Minister and chief mangle machine of the English language, once proclaimed: “The Green Belt is a Labour achievement, and we intend to build on it.” Guffaws all round but ol’ Two Jags wasn’t far wrong, especially where Wigan is concerned. Orrell and Winstanley/Bryn are the latest areas to be targeted by the money men. So what’s my solution? Easy - get rid of ‘Green Belt’. Before you reach for the red ink, allow me to explain. The term has become so misunderstood over the years that it is now being taken to mean that nothing would ever be built on it; that it is sacrosanct. Politicians and civil servants would have you believe this, but it is misleading. Green Belt is a post-war construct merely to protect land for a certain period in time, usually throughout the duration of a council’s Local Plan. It is not a guarantee of greenness in perpetuity. It’s a fact that every single home, shop and factory was built on land that was once green fields. And guess what? It will happen time and again in the future. It’s a belt, see...
and just like the one around your waist, it needs slackening when under pressure. So by all means call it something else - Safeguarded Land may be a more accurate description. But we need to get rid of the term Green Belt. Because, much like Prezza’s vocabulary, the true meaning is lost on most normal people.
Special K Talking about misunderstandings, I do hope the new Friends of Orrell Station do something about the ‘Trains to Kirby’ sign at the entrance. Whichever idiot wrote that forgot the second ‘k’. What’s more irritating that, further down, Kirkby is spelt correctly. For those who are interested, the nearest place called ‘Kirby’ happens to be in America. And I somehow think Northern Rail’s track maintenance budget doesn’t stretch that far...
Fat chance Unless you’ve been living on Mars for the last few months, you will be aware we have a new £5 note in circulation which has apparently upset vegans because it contains animal fat. One snooty cafe, which caters for this niche market, has even refused to accept them.
Shame really, as apparently if you let these fivers glide against a vinyl LP on a turntable, they start playing the music. Which got me thinking... animals.... music... which artists could I find in my collection with a connection to both? Meat Loaf, Def Leppard, Steppenwolf, The Monkees. Maybe playing my Meat Is Murder LP by The Smiths would be the ultimate irony though...
The West Whinge So, as I (sort of ) predicted may happen in my last column, Donald J. Trump is now leader-elect of the Free World. I’m pleased to see however that the impending responsibilities which will be placed upon his shoulders hasn’t stopped him acting like an embarrassing drunk uncle on Twitter. Not only has he been holding forth about the big issues of the day, such as whether he’ll present the US version of The Apprentice again, he’s been moaning about the media coverage of his victory like a tinfoil hat-wearing conspiracy theorist who has just lost a very dull and unimportant parish council byelection. That should make the next four years interesting then...
99
WHY MOVE WHEN YOU CAN IMPROVE First for quality • First for service First for reliability No contractors • No salesmen Just a smile and a honest price From a family run business
Want to feel safe in your own home? Want a door that provides ultimate style & security?
® Rockdoor Approved Installer Reg No 02767596
Quality installations of windows, doors, fascia’s, soffits and gutters
SISTER COMPANY OF FOXWELLS BUILDERS Established 16 years
Call us for a Free Quote Office Number: 01942 871 777 Free Phone: 0800 7566 616
Office & Showroom: Unit 1, Bag Lane, Enterprise Centre, Bag Lane, Atherton, M46 0JN
warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk • info@warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk