Local Life - Wigan - April 2015 by Local Life 247 Ltd

Wigan Edition

April 2015

Wigan’s forgotten

Jewish History

Jack’s Tracks visits

Hoghton

Local News Food & Drink Fashion Health & Fitness What’s On Business View... www.locallife247.co.uk

Cover photo courtesy of Hoghton Tower

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Tapestry

moments

o the annoyance of the rest of them here at Local Life HQ, my expression of the month is ‘tapestry moments’. These are the moments in your life which are likely to make it into your own particular tapestry of life. Mine usually revolve round food, family and walks. Recently we had a rare lie-in, followed by an English breakfast, an energetic walk with the daughter and dog up round picturesque Malham Cove, and ended the day in a quintessential country pub. Pure heaven! Here at Local Life, part of our job is to inspire you, in our own small way, to experience a few of your own tapestry moments and that’s why our new look magazine includes old favourites such as Jack’s Tracks, and new features such as the Food & Drink section, our inspirational Eating Out Guide and a new and fully comprehensive local What’s On. And finally, you’ll hopefully notice that the look and feel of the new magazine is superior to the old magazine – that’s because it’s cost us a few quid more to print. It’s only due to the fantastic support you give to our advertisers that makes this upgrade possible, so thank you very much for your patronage over the past few years. Do let me know what you think about the new look. See you next time

Chirs Pearce - Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

Next issue - May 2015

Advertising deadline - Friday 10 April Published - Wednesday 22 April Local Life Media

@locallifemedia

In this issue Bags of

Brownie

pudding

attitude

Wigan’s secret

Jack’s Tracks visits

history

Hoghton

Living with

Wigan’s good

dementia

traders

Regulars 22 Planning Matters 46 Class from the past 62 Puzzle Corner

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

74 What’s On 105 Useful Numbers 106 View from the lump

Sections 8 12 18 44 50 54

Property Local News Fashion & Beauty Children & Education Heath & Fitness Legal & Finance

Telephone: 01695 627 999 Sales: Chris Pearce, Nicola Gray sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: David Sudworth editorial@locallife247.co.uk Design: Peter Bretherton

design@locallife247.co.uk

Distribution: Sally Boon

sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

Accounts: Sam Garrahan accounts@locallife247.co.uk

60 64 74 84 91 94

Business View Food & Drink Events & Leisure Gardening Motoring Home Services

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 Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh. The next issue is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Ashton, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton. You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan.

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.

Step up in memory of

Geoff

Volunteers are being urged to step forward in memory of a devoted Standish father who died after thugs stole his van. Geoff, 67, from Green Lane, Standish, had been working at Aintree Racecourse ahead of the Grand National. He was on site as a contractor with the family firm, Rainford Plumbing & Heating, when a gang attempted to steal his van. In the events which followed, he was crushed against a tree. He died around an hour later from a heart attack. Noone has been charged with directly causing Geoff’s death, although a 19-year-old was locked up after he admitted being a passenger in the stolen vehicle. Geoff was well-known in Standish. His wife, Pauline was a local Brownies leader and a hospital volunteer for around 25 years. At the Queen’s Jubilee, Geoff helped arrange activities such as It’s a Knockout on the local playing field. The public service ethos flows through the family. Geoff’s two children, Darren and Alison, work as a police sergeant and in nursing respectively. Alison’s husband, Dave Chadwick, is a former Royal Engineer and served as a paramedic. He was one of the first on the scene at IRA bombings in Warrington. The family is now planning an annual memorial event, the first being a charity trek from the Red Rum statue at Aintree back to Geoff’s local, the Charnley Arms, on Almond Brook Road, on Saturday, August 22. They now want people who can volunteer on the day to get in touch. Fundraisers before then are also being held (see the yellow box on the right). Geoff’s son-in-law, Dave, told Local Life: “Geoff was a fantastic person but he always understated what he did. As a family we have given so much to society and this will continue, but are so devastated about this chain of events. We’re determined to do something positive in Geoff’s memory so this year we will be

Geoff with wife Pauline on daughter Alison’s wedding day raising money for the Three Wishes Charity. The event will predominantly be along the canal path, a total of 23 miles. Within the normal race will be an Iron Man event for those who want to take part, this will be 20 mile cycle, three mile Kayak, and a final three mile run. As you can imagine, putting on an event like this is huge operational task. “Aintree Racecourse are fully involved and are approaching their sponsors involved with the Grand National, but we need any help we can get to organise the event on the day, and time before.” To volunteer, call Dave on 07917 832613 or email dave.chadwick@ctrassociates.co.uk

Fundraising events Sunday, April 5: Easter Egg Raffle, children’s toy tombola and facepainting at the Charnley Arms, Almond Brook Road, from noon. Saturday, May 23: Mega Charity Fun Day at The Silver Tally, Shevington Moor, from noon. For a stall, contact Alison on 01257 472733.

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Alison’s got

soul

The pin-up girl for Wigan Casino gives her first ever interview about that famous photo and her love of Northern Soul by David Sudworth

t’s an iconic image of Wigan’s Northern Soul heyday.

Taken on the crowded Casino dancefloor more than 40 years ago, the youngster is oblivious to the photographer’s presence. Like many there that evening, the only thing she’s concentrating on is the music. That split second emotion, frozen in time, now adorns Wigan Casino memorabilia the world over, including a massive version in the Casino Cafe at the Grand Arcade Shopping Centre where the venue itself once stood. Despite its fame, the identity of the woman on the picture has remained a mystery. Only a few of her closest friends and family knew it was her, and she’s never given an interview about it - until now. But when the last edition of Local Life dropped through her daughter’s door in Shevington, with the famous photo on the cover, she knew the time was right. We can exclusively reveal that the woman on the cover is Alison Sanders, a mum-of-four from Newtonle-Willows. Alison, née Barlow, was a regular at the Casino between 1973 and 1975 and around 19 years old when the photo was taken. So why has Alison, who turned 60 in January, never talked publicly about the photograph before? “It was mainly due to my job because I worked with young offenders, and also worked at Red Bank secure children’s unit in Newton. I’ve seen the photo quite a few times but only really in the past 20 years. Up until the mid-1990s, I never knew it existed. I don’t remember it being taken and that’s partly why it’s one

of my favourite photos, because it looks natural. “I got into Northern Soul through someone I knew through work. I absolutely hate ‘70s music’, I was a mod at 13 and we used to meet up on Leigh Market and there would be all the scooters. People definitely came from far and wide to visit the Casino - I knew one guy who lived near Northampton and he’d come up every week. “It was a busy place and I remember it mostly smelling of Brut, talcum powder, which they put on the dance floor to make it slippery, patchouli oil and sweat!” Nowadays, Alison lives with her daughter Kate, 23, and is semi-retired. Her other children are Sarah, 34, who lives in Shevington, Claire, 24, who lives in Warrington and Andrew, 32, who is in London. And like many former Casino-goers, Alison still Keeping The Faith. “I still absolutely love Northern Soul. I burn more calories dancing than I do at the gym!”

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SUPPORT WORKERS WANTED SALARY: ÂŁ6.50 per hour North West Community Services are a domiciliary care provider, providing high quality services that are flexible and responsive to the needs of the people we support. We are now recruiting Support Workers who can demonstrate compassion and empathy in their approach to caring for disabled people, either through previous roles in social care or in other roles. You will be providing personal care and support to people with disabilities living in their own homes. You will need to show us that you will treat the people we support with the dignity and the respect they have a right to expect. Applications packs can be obtained by calling 01942 709210 / 0151 524 3606 or download from our website: www.northwestcommunityservices.co.uk Due to the nature of our work all applicants will require an enhanced DBS check and two satisfactory references.

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Grand gestures for hospital Big-hearted locals have raised an impressive £7,009 for Wigan Infirmary’s neo-natal unit which looks after premature babies. The money was raised through a host of different events such as Tough Mudder, Snow Ball as well as parachute jumps, via Medequip4kids. Founded in 1985, the organisation exists to improve healthcare for children and babies across the north of England by providing specialist paediatric equipment for hospitals and community health teams. The money raised for the neo-natal unit is going towards SIPAP machine, which provides non-invasive venilatory support for babies with respiratory distress. The machine will also be used for young babies in the Rainbow Children’s Ward who may be admitted suffering from bronchiolitis. Ex-Standish High pupil Ben Gray, father of Evie who was born at the unit in 2013, took part in Tough Mudder and raised around £3,000. He said: “If any motivation whatsoever was needed to complete the Tough Mudder event it was the memories we have of the first four weeks of Evie’s life. Knowing first-

unit

hand how the neo-natal ward operates and how critical each piece of equipment is, along with the determined efforts from all the staff, shows how the much needed funds will contribute to success stories for future babies that need special care. We would like to say a big thank you to all the staff and we hope to raise more funds for the ward in future events.” Toni Johnson, mother of the Ella Jo, who was the smallest baby to be born in Wigan in 35 years, said : “ I am proud to be supporting this amazing charity. Without the special medical equipment and the amazing nurses and doctors I strongly believe my daughter would not be here today. “ Sarah Suthers, community fundraiser at MedEquip4Kids, said: “We’d like to say a very special thank you to the staff on the Neo Natal unit at Wigan Infirmary and the fabulous community supporters of Wigan.” Future fundraising events include a duck race on April 3, Go Ape on June 17, the Great Manchester Run on May 10 and the Pier To Pier Trek on June 6. Log onto www.medequip4kids.org.uk or call 0161 798 1600 for more information.

Fashion

Bags of

attitude by Katie Wright

ith new drops landing in stores at a rate of knots, and sub-zero temperatures starting to subside, we’re right on the cusp of the big spring fashion transition.

And though it’ll be a while before we can cast off our overcoats and knitwear completely, accessories are another matter. In fact, choosing a handbag can help set the direction of your new season style, a precursor of the clothes to come. Drawn to flippy, fringed suede satchels or saddle bags? Then you’ll soon be hankering after the hippy-dippy dresses and peasant blouses. Something more minimal caught your eye? You’ll love the cool and calm utility trend. From buckets to backpacks, get a flavour of spring’s most delicious arm candy...

Bucket list The undisputed star of SS15? That’ll be the bucket bag - but not as we know it. Gone are the slouchy pouches of seasons past; this year’s reinvention is sleek, structured and anything but fussy. The resurgence is in part down to American design duo Mansur Gavriel, whose limited production leather drawstring bags have been selling out faster than Beyonce concert tickets. Don’t despair, though - there are plenty of bucket beauties in the shops right now that don’t have a waiting list. Even better, this is a bag that transcends most trends, looking at home hanging beside a silky tea dress or with ripped jeans and a bomber jacket.

On the fringe Far and away the biggest focus for SS15 fashion is the Seventies, running the gamut from disco decadence to blue-jeaned bohemia. To bring the latter to life, a sizeable fringeembellished shoulder bag is essential. Whether leather or suede, stick to brownish or stoney hues that will work with a subdued Seventies colour palette.

And we’re not talking delicate flapper tassels here. Look for heavy, long fringing that shimmies as you walk, and don’t be afraid to pair with a fringed jacket for a double hippy whammy. Fiorelli Asher Large Grab Tan Tassle Bag, £79 (www.fiorelli.com) - pictured below

Bags of fun At the other end of the style spectrum are the most fun and frivolous bags we’ve seen for seasons, and we’ve got Karl Lagerfeld to thank. For his Chanel SS15 collection, Kaiser Karl sent a whole supermarket’s worth of grocery-inspired accessories down the catwalk, and now the high street has followed suit with cutesy juice cartons and cartoon-prints galore. Now obviously - these playful purses aren’t going to get daily wear, and you can’t fit a whole lot in them - but as conversation pieces, they can’t be beaten. Accessorize Apple Juice Bag, £29 (www.accessorize.com) - pictured above

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Standish

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Standish’s roadworks misery is set to continue for some time to come, according to highways chiefs. Details of forthcoming works in the area are as follows: Monday, March 30-Wednesday, April 1: BT works from opposite 12a Chorley Road to opposite the junction with Water Drive.

junction of Rectory Lane before moving to near the junction with Devon Drive. Tuesday, April 7-Thursday, April 9: BT works at the junction of Chorley Road and Red Rock Lane. Tuesday, April 17: BT works on Wigan Road near Mere Oaks. Temporary lights will be in operation.

Until Friday, April 3: Electricity North West works from outside 99 to 285 Bradley Lane.

Tuesday, April 21-Thursday, April 23: BT will be carrying out work near Boar’s Head roundabout. Sunday, May 24: United Utilities works at Avondale Street/Preston Road.

Sunday, April 5: BT works on Chorley Road at the

For more information, call 01942 489306.

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Planning matters Aspull 105 Scot Lane: Single storey extension to rear of existing detached garage together with new brick wall and fence enclosure and evacuated area to provide sub floor void with decking above (ref: A/15/80276/HH). A decision is due soon. 209 Wigan Road: Two storey extension to side/front with canopy roof to front (ref: A/15/80423/HH). A decision is due soon. 6 Holly Road: Two storey extension to side and single storey to rear (ref: A/15/80450/HH). A decision is due soon.

Wrightington Fairfield Stocks Farm, Mossy Lea Road: Change of use of land from agricultural use to equestrian use (exercising and grazing horses). Ref: 2015/0250/COU. The consultation deadline is April 2. Barn at South Tunley Hall, Tunley Lane: Change of use of part of an existing barn to a teaching kitchen (ref: 2015/0073/COU). A decision is due soon.

For more information on the Aspull, Haigh, Shevington and Standish plans, visit www.wigan.gov.uk For the Wrightington application, visit www. westlancs.gov.uk

Haigh Land adjacent to The Vicarage 5 Copperas Lane: Erection of one, two-storey detached house (ref: A/15/80510/FULL). The consultation deadline is March 30. 18 Woodlands Park Close: Single storey side extension (ref: A/15/80482/HH). A decision is due soon. Shevington with Lower Ground Site Of 186 Wigan Lower Road: Residential development of eight townhouses ( and 2.5 storeys) with associated estate road and landscaping - ref: A/15/80335/FULL). A decision is due soon. 37 Park Avenue: Single storey rear extension (ref: A/15/80533/PDE). The consultation deadline is April 2. 11 Yewdale: Plan to extend dwellinghouse - first floor to side, single storey to rear, following demolition of existing conservatory (ref: . A/15/80465/HH). A decision is due soon. Standish with Langtree 56 Moores Lane: Two storey side extension (ref: A/15/80489/HH). The consultation deadline is March 30. 51 Sterndale Avenue: Single storey rear extension (ref: A/15/80469/PDE). The consultation deadline is April 1.

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Competition

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reenThumb Wigan is ten years old this year, and to celebrate this anniversary, local owners Ian and Andrea Johnson (pictured) are giving ten lucky Local Life readers the chance to win 12 months worth of treatments and services to improve the look of their lawn! GreenThumb is Europe’s leading provider of lawn care services and has been providing UK customers with healthier, greener lawns for over 28 years. Using their unique NUTRAGREEN mix fertilizers and specialist herbicides, pesticides and other lawn enhancing products, they carry out in excess of 2 million treatments on UK lawns every year! 1st Prize - Complete Programme worth over £200 Four unique seasonal treatments, PLUS hollow-tine aeration, PLUS scarification treatment, PLUS the Oasis water conserver, PLUS SlowMow treatments. Prize also includes treatment of any unexpected pests or diseases in your lawns.

To enter; Simply complete the entry form below and return to; GreenThumb Wigan, Unit 3 Barrows Farm, Carr Mill Rd, Billinge, WN5 7TX or - e-mail the answer along with your name, address & telephone number to; wigan@greenthumb.co.uk or - call our office on; 01695 627578 Closing date for entries is Friday 24th April 2015

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Saraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Touch World Cup

call-up

A former All Saints Appley Bridge Primary pupil has been called up to play touch rugby for England in the World Cup. Sara Hatton, 22, who went to Winstanley College, is off to Australia where a total of 25 countries will compete against each other for the international title. Sara, who lives in Lathom, started to play touch rugby four years ago at Wigan Touch Warriors. Through hard work and dedication, she has progressed through the training sessions into representing Wigan and the North West in both national and regional competitions. It was at a regional tournament when Sara was asked to play for the England Mixed Open Team.

The former Shevington High pupil told Local Life: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Touch World Cup happens every four years and this year it will be held in Coffs Harbour, Australia. Touch is very popular in Australia with more registered members than rugby league and union combined. For this reason Australia is considered to be the home of touch.

E-

who have been selected are expected to self fund and raise money themselves for both England kit and the tournament costs which are approximately £2,500. I have paid for my return flights and I still need to raise money towards the final payment.” To help pay for the trip, Sara has organised a coffee morning and bric-a-brac sale at Dalton St Michael’s School, Higher Lane, Dalton, from 9am to 1pm on Saturday, March 28. If you cannot make the event but would like to donate or find out more information please email: sarahatton@hotmail.co.uk If you would like to get involved in touch rugby, Wigan Touch Warriors’ training sessions are held at Standish High School, Kenyon Road, Standish, on Mondays 7pm-8pm and Thursdays 8pm-9pm. All genders, welcome. Contact wigantouch@yahoo.co.uk

“Unfortunately, the sport is less popular in the UK and in common with other amateur sports the players

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Crackdowns

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Police have unveiled their latest priorities for the area following complaints from local residents.

area in the evenings. High-visibility patrols are to be conducted and youths will be advised about acceptable behaviour and the consequences of their actions.

Officers are pledging a crackdown in Ashfield Park, Standish, following reports of criminal damage and arson on evenings and weekends. They have confirmed there will be increased patrols and action taken against anyone causing a nuisance.

And in Aspull, police have seen a large increase in the use of off-road motorcycles. A spokesman said: “Greater Manchester Police’s off road unit are actively patrolling local areas for off road bike misuse, and issuing tickets to those caught.”

The police have also reported a significant rise in antisocial beaviour at various locations in the Shevington

To contact the neighbourhood team, call 0161 856 7124 or email wiganwest@gmp.police.uk

Wigan’s secret

history David Sudworth meets the woman who uncovered the story of the town’s lost Jewish heritage

or a town which isn’t afraid of shouting about its home-grown successes, the regular omission of one name from Wigan’s Roll of Honour is curious to say the least.

“There should be a blue plaque there,” says Hilary Thomas. “It’s amazing there isn’t one as most other places would do it.” The mum-of-two is talking about Marks & Spencer, whose co-founder Michael Marks moved here from Leeds in 1891 with wife Hannah and lived at 152 Great George Street, Wallgate. A year later, he opened a distribution warehouse at 57 Darlington Street. He also had stalls at the old Market Hall and a Penny Bazaar at 29 Makinson Arcade. By 1909, he had premises at 56 Market Hall. The couple’s third child, Miriam, was born in the town, yet the Wigan link to what would become a High Street behemoth is somewhat undersold. Perhaps it is because Marks only spent a short time in town. Within three years, the family had moved on to Manchester. Yet, as Hilary knows, the pace of movement wasn’t unusual among the local Jewish community, of which Marks was a member, at the time. Indeed, the sudden congregating, and then upping sticks around 25 years later, of Wigan’s forgotten Jewish community is covered in Hilary’s new book, The Marks & Spencer shop in Makinson Arcade

From Wolkowisk To Wallgate. Hilary, 71, grew up in north Manchester and now lives in Bowden, near Altrincham. The semi-retired speech and language therapist became interested in researching Wigan’s Jewish heritage having already written a book on Bolton’s own community. “In 2007, I became interested in family history and joined the Jewish Genealogical Society. I got talking to a man called John Cowell who had just done a book on Preston, and that’s where I got the idea of looking at Jewish communities in different towns.

“They started settling in Wigan around 1866 and my theory is these families had originally come from Russia, Poland, Czechoslovakia and so on. These were places Jews were literally hounded out of, and they came to England’s big cities. Over time, the cities became over-crowded so started looking at larger towns. Don’t forget, these were mostly artisans; tailors, drapers and so on, so they wanted places to set up businesses. “Wigan was a very welcoming place. Through all the things I read and studied, there was never any mentions of anti-Semitism. Wigan people didn’t care where people came from, they just accepted them for who they were.” During her research, Hilary didn’t find any official records kept by a synagogue, but she did discover that a congregation had been set up in 1886 and the first minister was Myer Bercovitz, who lived at 19 Great George Street, Wallgate. Hilary Thomas with the book We worked together on a book about Bolton, because not only did I find some connection to there in my

The first mention of a synagogue as such was in 1902. Apparently, it was at 22 Bold Street, Scholes, and had 28 members. Neither the building or the street, which was behind Wigan Little Theatre, remains.

family tree, but it was also easy to get to from my home. “While doing the Bolton book, I noticed there were a few connections with Wigan so decided to focus on the town for my next project. It meant putting out appeals and spending hours at the Museum of Wigan Life.” The research was painstaking as much of the information was buried deep in local archives, so much so that even experienced museum staff never knew there was a Jewish community in Wigan. There were also a few red herrings. For instance, Hilary noticed a number of Cohens living in the town at the time. It transpired that most of them were not Jewish, but had actually originated from Ireland and settled in the Wallgate area.

“In reality, these were probably just rooms in houses, rather than what we imagine as a synagogue today,” says Hilary.

However, she did manage to pinpoint a number of Jewish families living in town at the time. But why did they choose Wigan?

As was the case with Michael Marks, of M&S fame, many families were attracted to Wigan as a place where they could start up or grow a business: “Land would have

Michael Marks

been cheap and there were good transport links. One thing the families all had in common is that they were grafters. They didn’t live off the state, what little there was back then, they would work hard and all live in a relatively small area. However, they were also fiercely competitive and there were a number of falling out among themselves “When I was researching the book I went down many of the streets where Jewish businesses once were, like Great George Street, King Street and Darlington Street, which was very popular. They would live over the shop.”

sold in 1984 and Sam’s son, Basil, is still in contact with some of the ex-staff. Another closure in 1984 at Royal Arcade was Mrs Mendelsohn’s Sweet Shop. An additional aspect of Wigan’s Jewish links covered in the book is how, at the outbreak of war, local families took in kindertransport children - Jewish children evacuated from Nazi persecution in Europe. One of them was Liane Regenbogen, who came to Wigan in 1939 from Vienna, Austria. She spent two years in town living with Raye and Harry Abrahams, and their children in Holme Avenue, Swinley.

Many of the families, having done well for themselves, soon moved out of Wigan, mostly to Southport, but kept their businesses here. Many endured into living memory. For instance, Niman’s jewellery and fancy goods was a regular fixture on Standishgate for 70 years until its closure in 1962. The building is now occupied by the sandwich chain Subway. Sam Herwald opened Regal Textiles in the Royal Arcade in 1959, selling curtains. The business was

The front of Regal Textiles in the Royal Arcade

Sam Herward

Liane (right), with Jean Woodhall (front), Dorothy Clarke (left) and Tony Swallwell, October 1939 in Green Heys Avenue, Swinley

“Meeting Liane, who now lives in London, was one of the highlights of writing this book,” says Hilary. “The Abrahams acted as guarantors and gave a home to her. Liane attended St Michael’s school and instead of going into prayers she was allowed to go and look after the flowers in the school garden. Everyone was very kind. She knew no English when she arrived in Wigan, but eventually picked up the language.

She loved playing out with the local children in the street and in the park, an activity which had been banned for Jews in Vienna. Tragically, none of Liane’s grandparents were able to get out of Austria. All perished in the Holocaust.

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“It was said that the local people regarded the children as members of their own families. A reporter at the time said: ‘Everyone in Wigan - from the girls with heavy clogs to Mayoress with heavy chain - gave the kiddies a welcome that will make Wigan a place to be respected always’.” Nowadays, Wigan’s Jewish community is comparable in size to that from the late 19th Century, but the key difference is that it is now much more disparate. Recent census figures show there are 71 people living in Wigan who professed to be of the Jewish religion. The highest concentrate is in Astley (8) followed by Pemberton (6), and then Aspull (5). Shevington, Orrell and Standish have just one registered follower of the religion each.

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For Hilary, her next task is compiling a book looking at Oldham’s Jewish links, but she says Wigan will always be a special place for her. “People were so lovely and helpful, especially the staff at the Wigan Archives such as Alex Miller, Rita Musa and Stephen Knott. They’d be pulled out ledgers with dust on them which had been there since the 1800s! I can’t thank them enough. “Making contact with descendants of the early Wigan families was most enjoyable. People from Australia, California, Israel and all parts of England have helped bring the past to life by sharing their memories and providing photographs, letters and documents. Their contribution played an important part in the telling of this forgotten story.” From Wolkowisk To Wallgate is available from the Museum of Wigan Life, Library Street, priced £8.99.

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BEFORE AFTER

Community cash up for Wigan Rotary Club is again looking to donate cash to local community groups with a Dragons’ Den-style event. Following the success of the last few years, groups based in postcode districts WN1, WN3, WN5, WN6 are invited to submit their request. Following initial consideration those groups selected will be invited to put their case to ‘the dragons’ in a three minute presentation. Bids of up to £400 can be considered.

grabs

were successful. We don’t expect the presentation to come from a person trained in public speaking - we want to hear from members of the group. Last year groups ranging from Over 60s to mother and toddler came away with a donation.” To apply, visit www. wiganrotaryclub.org.uk or call 07813 471000. The deadline is Monday, April 13.

Wigan Rotary Club President Jim Rawson said: “In these difficult times, I am sure there are local groups in the Wigan area who could really use a donation of a few hundred pounds to help them with a project or event they wish to undertake. Last year 12 groups

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in the Vestry at St Wilfrid’s Church, Rectory Lane, Standish.

If you don’t fancy embarking on long cycling jaunts by yourself, Wigan Borough Community Cycling Club is looking for members. They meet at various locations depending on where the ride is planned for, such as Trencherfield Mill, Three Sisters, Plank Lane or Robin Park. It has easy paced rides suited to the whole group, qualified and experienced ride leaders and suitable for people over 16.

Organisers say if you are aged 18 or over and enjoy singing, come along you will be most welcome. Just turn up or email Neil for further details at Neilheyes13@gmail.com

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With their professional approach and trustworthy reputation it’s no surprise that family run business Gleaming Fresh Clean have established themselves as one of Lancashire’s leading cleaning companies. From their base in Wigan they provide a wide range of specialist cleaning services. Put simply, they excel at those hard to tackle jobs that we hate to do. At this time of year, their work moves from inside (cookers, extractors & carpets etc) to external cleans. As the evenings start to get longer we all look forward to spending more time outdoors – that’s where the team from Gleaming really come into their own… Patios & Driveways – made to look like new, moss and weeds eliminated PATTERN IMPRINTED CONCRETE re-sealed and re-coloured BLOCK PAVING DRIVEWAYS re-sanded and re-sealed

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Free publicity for YOU! Are you in a local community group? Do you want to publicise a talk, school fair or charity fundraiser? If so, get in touch with us today! Local Life is distributed to over 100,000 homes across Wigan, St Helens, Chorley and West Lancashire. Each edition is crammed with stories for local events, and your group could be appearing in our next edition. The types of events we publicise are as follows: - Charity fundraising events - Local school, church or community fairs - Amateur concerts or performances by community groups - Talks which are open to the public

- Pleas from community groups or associations for new members - We’re also on the look out for old school photographs, street scenes from yesterday and want to hear from you if your group is celebrating a special milestone. Simply contact our Editor David Sudworth with the details - what, where, when, why, who for, how much - and anything else you want to tell our readers. The earlier you can provide the information, the better the job we can do. So don’t delay – contact David today by emailing him directly at editorial@locallife247.co.uk

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Bowling for

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One of Wigan’s oldest bowling clubs has issued a plea for new members in its 90th year. Boar’s Head Bowling Club was founded in April 1925 at Boar’s Head Inn, Wigan Road, Standish, and has operated without a break since. Members play in various local leagues in the Wigan area and members are entitled to enter up to seven club cup competitions during the season. During the bowling season (April–September) members meet at Boars Head Inn, for regular games

on Wednesday afternoons, Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons, while during the winter months they still get together socially, usually on Thursdays from 9-30pm to discuss bowling matters plus a drink and a chat. Frank Johnson, from the club, said: “If you have bowled in the past and wish to get back into the game or you are new to crown green bowling please come along and join us, you will receive a very warm and friendly welcome.” For more Information contact: David Willcock 01942 241660 or Frank on 01257 425585.

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Library’s 50th

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Standish Library is 50 years old in May - and its friends group has organised a host of events to celebrate Judith Worthington, secretary of Friends of Standish Library, said: “It was officially opened in May 1965, and we plan to celebrate the Golden Anniversary in style. Many events and competitions are already taking place, involving schools, uniform groups and the Standish community as a whole.”

will hold aloft scarves knitted by members of the community, to give the library a hug! Also on Saturday May 9, there will be a Bake Off competition, musical performances, craft workshops for children and adults, and other fun events. The raffle draw will take place at 2pm: tickets are on sale at the library. For more information, check the notice board in the library or call 07772 058133 for further details.

Events confirmed are as follows. On Saturday, May 2, the Haigh Hall owls will be flying at the library between 10.30am and noon. On Saturday, May 9, a Grand 50th Anniversary Celebration will be taking place at the Cross Street library, starting at 10am. Local dignitaries will attend, and one of the highlights will be a ‘Hugging of the Library’ - children and adults

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Tom set to scrum on

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A 17-year-old student from Standish is celebrating after signing a one-year deal with Wigan Warriors. Tom Davies, who goes to Wigan & Leigh College, impressed Wigan U19 coaches during a trial period in which he scored an impressive try against Warrington Wolves, racing 50 meters to score under the posts. Tom’s news comes amid a successful spell for the college on the sporting front, after it emerged 18-yearolds Joe Lorimer (loose forward), Chris Meredith (second row) and Jack Burdon (prop), together with Ryan Gray (wing), 17, have all been selected for the initial 33 man North West squad for the Regional Rugby League Championships in May. . The quartet, who study on the College’s Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, impressed the NW & Cumbria Management Team following a competitive trial process held at Chorley Panthers. Rugby Development Programme coach at Wigan & Leigh College, Gareth Hayes, said: “I’m delighted for Tom, who has already impressed in the Warriors U19 squad. He certainly has a bright future ahead of him.

Standish student Tom Davies selection process involved the best players from every college and sixth form in the North West “So far we have had a fantastic season, winning all our league games, and we hope to finish the season off in the same way. Our Centre of Sporting Excellence at

“All the lads who have been selected for the North West & Cumbria side should also be very proud. The

Leigh Sports Village is going from strength to strength and I would urge any year 11s, who are looking to continue playing rugby at College, to get in touch.”

Brownies wanted

St Wilfrid’s to extend?

Is your daughter or granddaughter bored in the

Plans to extend St Wilfrid’s Primary School on Rectory

evenings? Perhaps they are looking for a new hobby or want to make more friends?

Lane, Standish, have been unveiled.

St John’s Brownies are looking for girls aged seven to 10 to join on Monday night at St Johns Church, Kirkless Street, New Springs from 6pm—7.30pm. Please contact Caroline Cuisick on 07835425082 for more information.

The school governors want permission from Wigan Council for a signal storey extension at the side of the school. If granted, it would be used for classrooms, a resource area and as an extension for storage. A decision on the plan is due soon.

Class from the

past

This month’s Class from the Past is from All Saints Appley Bridge. It’s believed this photo was taken in the early 1990s. Maybe you can spot a familiar face? Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact David Sudworth today by emailing editorial@locallife247.co.uk

No cuts to lollipop patrols School crossing patrols in Wigan will not be cut in the coming year. That’s the pledge from Wigan Council despite the authority facing making savings of £12m in the next 12 months.

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Bards back at

college

Two former Winstanley College students cycled their way back into college recently to perform their Shakespeare-inspired theatre show. Paul Moss and Tom Dixon, both 24, left in 2009 and went on to complete science degrees. But their passions lay in the performing arts, so they reunited to set up ‘The HandleBards’. This unique theatre group combines a love of cycling with a passion for performing, producing and, of course, Shakespeare. Paul, from Orrell explains: “Tom and I were involved in all the extra-curricular performing arts activities even though we both went on to complete science degrees: The thought of working in a lab didn’t appeal to either of us so we decided to set up our own business, which represents everything we love.” Paul and Tom produce and perform their shows along with two other male colleagues with their slogan ‘4 men, 4 bikes and some pretty extreme Shakespearean adventures’.

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Health & Fitness

A problem we mustn’t

forget

By Lisa Salmon

he movie Still Alice hasn’t just scooped Julianne Moore a Best Actress Oscar, it has also put dementia in the spotlight.

The story, about a doctor who discovers she has early-onset Alzheimer’s, will no doubt resonate with millions - and for British composer Ilan Eshkeri, who wrote the film’s haunting soundtrack, it was also a chance to express his own experience of the illness. Eshkeri’s grandmother has Alzheimer’s, and he says her battle, and the fact that two of his friends lost family members to the condition (director Matt Whitecross and Ash lead singer Tim Wheeler, whose fathers both had Alzheimer’s), was behind his decision to create the score for Still Alice. “The subject matter for me was very important. My grandmother has old age dementia, which has been hard for my family,” says Eshkeri, 37. “It really connected with me and I knew I had to do it. “Emotionally, I found it quite a cathartic experience,” he admits. “Some of the lines in the film really hit me, and the process did take me to some dark places.” The condition is touching more and more lives - more than 856,000 people in the UK now have it, and numbers are rising steadily, with one in every 14 people aged 65 and over affected. “People with dementia can go downhill very fast, or they can stay well for as long as possible,” explains Professor June Andrews, director of the Dementia Services Development Centre at the University of Stirling, whose new book - Dementia: The One-Stop Guide - aims to help improve the quality of life for people with dementia, and make life easier for those close to them.

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“Going downhill fast is expensive and unpleasant, and this book gives the information you need if you’re seriously attempting to stay as well as possible for as long as possible,” she explains. She points out that many people with dementia don’t get a proper diagnosis, and if they do, they’re often not given any useful information about how to help themselves. “This is getting a little better, but it’s a lottery,” she warns. There are many lifestyle changes that can help keep symptoms at bay a little longer, Andrews says, stressing that one of the most important of these is exercise, which appears to protect the brain.

But, she advises: “You should always assume that they are with you right to the very end. They may not be able to communicate with you like they used to, but chances are you’re communicating with them, and they can tell from your touch or your smile or the tone of your voice that you’re there, and they’re safe.” Dementia: The One-Stop Guide by Professor June Andrews is published by Profile, priced £9.99. Available now. For more information about dementia, visit www. alzheimers.org.uk

Professor Andrews’ top tips for keeping an active mind If you don’t use it, you lose it - keep thinking and doing. Meet other people and talk; gossip is good. Join a book group and read new things. Learn how to do a new dance; exercise helps your brain. Bingo, crosswords - whatever hobby you’re most likely to stick with, keep it up.

Stay well with dementia Exercise - whatever you enjoy, you will be more likely to keep up. Mental stimulation is also vital for people with dementia, from simply doing crosswords to playing bingo. Other potentially worthwhile approaches include not smoking, only drinking in moderation, eating a healthy diet, taking vitamins, getting good quality sleep and socialising. Andrews warns that while some medication for Alzheimer’s can temporarily delay the disease process, other dementia treatment is for symptom control and keeping well. There is currently no cure, and if/when the dementia gets to the later stages, and the patient no longer even recognises family and friends, it can be heart-breaking.

Hydrate - people who are dry get confused, and also get infections. Socialise - it makes a real difference, make phone calls or get a pet. One glass of red wine or champagne a day is said to work but don’t ever get drunk - it destroys brain cells and you need to conserve them. Stop smoking - the sooner the better because the benefits start on day one. Make design changes in your house to increase light and avoid falls.

Financial planning

Radical changes to

pensions by David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP)

lexible access to pensions from age 55

From April 2015 most pension investors aged at least 55, with a defined contribution pension scheme will have total freedom over how they take an income from their pension. New restrictions on how much you can contribute to private pensions Pension contributions are subject to a £40k annual allowance and specific contribution rules. If, after April 2015, you make withdrawals from a defined contribution pension in addition to tax-free cash, contributions to defined contribution plans may be restricted to £10k. 55% pension ‘death tax’ to be abolished From April 2015 this tax charge will be abolished. The tax treatment of any pension you pass on, which you do not use to purchase an annuity, will depend on your age when you die. Death after buying an annuity - tax cut When you buy an annuity, you can choose for the income to be paid to your spouse or partner after you die (a joint life annuity). You can also choose a guarantee period or value protection .If you buy a 10 year guarantee and die after 2 years, the annuity will be paid for another 8 years to your spouse, partner or beneficiaries. The Chancellor has announced it will become tax free if you die before age 75. A joint life or dependant’s annuity will be able to be paid to anyone after you die, subject to any

restrictions. On their subsequent death any value protection or remaining guarantee period can be paid to anyone. Anybody with a joint life, value protected or guaranteed annuity who died on or after 3 December 2014 before turning 75. The first income payment to your partner, spouse or beneficiaries must be made after 5 April 2015, otherwise it will be taxable. Transferring a defined benefit pension Most people with a final salary pension will be able to make unlimited withdrawals if they have to transfer to a defined contribution pension (e.g. a SIPP). But as you could lose very valuable benefits, you will have to receive appropriate independent advice first. It will no longer be possible to transfer from most public sector pension schemes. Retirement ages to increase You can currently draw your pension at the age of 55, but this will increase to 57 from 2028. Thereafter it will increase with rises in the State Pension age, constantly remaining 10 years below the State Pension age.

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Net

gains...

Roy Tunks, Wigan Athletic goalkeeper (1981-1988), talks to David Sudworth about his life-long love of the game

omplete concentration - that’s what you need to be a goalkeeper. 89 minutes of heroics can be undone in a split second error of judgement. So keeping your mind firmly on the game is all-important.

with white mini bus, registration number so-andso, please come to reception.’ I couldn’t believe it. I thought it may have been a wind-up at first. Maybe it was the manager’s way of saying he wanted to sub me, but I think I’d just parked it in the wrong place.”

That said, even the most razor-sharp, focused brain may have been momentarily distracted by what happened to Roy Tunks at Manchester City’s old Maine Road ground one day.

However, as far as Latics faithful were concerned, Roy Tunks was in exactly the right place for the vast majority of the 1980s. Born in the Germany city of Wuppertal near Dusseldorf, due to his father Roy’s posting in the British Army, Roy spent his formative years in a number of different locations before settling in Sussex at the age of 13, where he attended the fee-paying Lancing College.

The ex-Wigan keeper takes up the story: “Our original fixture had been called off for some reason but we managed to get a friendly in against City. We had to get over there sharpish so someone said: ‘Here Tunksy, you drive the mini-bus.’ A couple of hours later, the game had started and I was in goal. Then, over the stadium’s tannoy the announcer said: ‘Can someone

Roy in action at Springfield Park

“Originally, I was a striker but when I went for Sussex County trials, the goalkeeper didn’t turn up so I said I’d go in nets.”

Upon leaving he had three apprenticeship offers from West Ham, Crystal Palace and Rotherham. He chose the Yorkshire club, starting on £5 a week. He was given his professional debut by the legendary Tommy Docherty, who later went on to manage Manchester United, aged 17 in 1968 in front of 15,000 at home to Birmingham. Aside from a brief loan spell, he went on to play 138 times for The Millers before moving to Preston in 1974. “I was out of contract and at the time the clubs still owned you, there was no Bosman ruling where you can leave on a free transfer like today. Rotherham valued me at £30,000 but Gordon Banks, the 1966 World Cup winning goalkeeper, had just been sold for £50,000 so I appealed to the Professional Footballers’ Association. Terry Venables, who went on to manage Tottenham, Barcelona and England, was my representative.

“I’d often sit there until the water was cold”

Latics in the early 1980s with Bobby Charlton In 1985, Wigan won the Freight Rover Trophy at Wembley by beating Brentford 3-1, with goals from Mike Newell, Tony Kelly and David Lowe. It made for an exceptionally rare ‘double’ for the town as Wigan Rugby also lifted silverware there by disposing of Hull Kingston Rovers. “It was a great feeling to win at Wembley. The atmosphere was fantastic and obviously, many of the Wigan fans knew the way to Wembley anyway because of the rugby, so we had good support. Bryan Hamilton was there by then and he really knew how to get the best out of players.”

“Bobby Charlton was managing Preston at the time so I went there. The difference was obvious as it was a bigger club, and aside from Bobby, they had other ex-Man Utd players such as Francis Burns and Nobby Stiles. Sitting in the communal baths after training and listening to all their stories was fabulous. I’d often sit there until the water was cold!” 277 games later and Roy found himself at Springfield Park: “Larry Lloyd was manager at the time, plus there was also Ken Bates and Freddie Pye who were the directors, as was Bobby Charlton. It was a lot different from Preston probably because it didn’t have as much history. In 1981, Wigan had only been in the Football League for a couple of years. We had a good group of lads, we were very tight, very solid who knew how each other played. When Harry McNally came in as manager, he brought some really good players like David Lowe, Paul Jewell, Graham Barrow and Tony Kelly. “The scouting set up was practically non-existent by today’s standards though.”

Collecting the Freight Rover Trophy in 1985 Having made 245 appearances for Latics, by 1988 Roy found himself being given a free transfer to Hartlepool: “Ray Matthias had come in and signed Phil Hughes so I went to Hartlepool. I only played about five games though because I broke my hand. I rang up John McGrath who was at Preston and asked him if I could do some coaching, but he said he wanted me to play as well, which was great.”

Roy during his time at the FA, alongside a young Frank Lampard, Michael Owen, Rio Ferdinand and Emile Heskey

Roy finally hung up his gloves in 1990 and since then has worked for the FA, bringing through players such as Frank Lampard, Michael Owen, Rio Ferdinand and Emile Heskey. He also worked at Blackburn then followed manager Graeme Souness, to Newcastle. He’s now the head goalkeeping coach at Manchester City. The irony of Roy, as a former Wigan player, seeing his old club denying his current employers FA Cup glory in 2013 and knocking them out of last season’s cup, is not lost on him. “Do you know what, when Latics won the FA Cup, I was especially delighted for Graham Barrow because when we won in 1985, it was a really hot day and by the end Graham was suffering from exhaustion, so it was great to see him go back there. “I was really pleased to see Wigan doing well. I’d never have believed in a million years when I was there that one day Wigan would have won the FA Cup. Dave Whelan deserves a knighthood for what he’s done for the club.”

Roy Tunks today at Manchester City

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J27 Standish

Business view

Make the most of online

accounting by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy

here there’s WiFi, there’s work! With the use of mobile devices, dongles and hotspots, working remotely and ‘on the go’ is now the norm. So why not take advantage of being able to access your books whilst on the go, too? No matter how large or small your business, keeping a close eye on your accounts is vital in today’s economic climate. Cloud-based accountancy software is the perfect way of conveniently managing your business’ finances at the push of a button, wherever you may be.

• Low cost & Pay As You Go – There are no contracts involved, you just pay a small monthly fee to access the software. • Real-time collaboration with CMA – We can help you with your ‘live’ finances and advise you using the latest financial information. • Smart reports – The software can instantly generate reports to help you manage your finances at the push of a button.

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Puzzle

corner

Guess where? Photo courtesy of Wigan World

Sudoku

Wordsearch Hairstyles

Answers are on page 100 of this magazine

Quiff Rachel Pageboy Waves Mohawk Razor

Dreadlocks Crew Bob Mullet Bowl Afro

Bun Beehive Perm Blunt

New tenants for Retail giants New Look and Clarks are moving from The Galleries in Wigan town centre to the Grand Arcade..

Arcade great addition to the diverse mix of tenants already established at Grand Arcade.”

The move will see them taking almost 11,600 square feet of retail space between them. New Look has signed an agreement to take a 8,108 square foot store which is due to open in late April. Meanwhile, Clarks has agreed to rent a 3,584 square foot unit which is expected to begin trading sooner Owned by Redefine International and anchored by Debenhams, Grand Arcade has an annual footfall of 6.1 million. The centre reported a 5.9% increase in footfall in the first month of 2015. Nick Gregory, senior asset manager at Redefine International, said: “Both New Look and Clarks are a

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Food & Drink

Great American

bake off by Kate Whiting

f Mary Berry is the reigning queen of baking, then Tarek Malouf is surely next in line to the throne. The founder of the exceedingly good Hummingbird Bakery brought cupcakes back into fashion, when he opened the first of his six bakeries back in 2004, and is about to publish his fourth - and eagerly-awaited - cookbook, Life Is Sweet. It’s the result of a three-week road trip around his spiritual baking home, America, which took him from New York to Atlanta, New Orleans and Dallas. He stayed with friends and relatives, and demanded one thing: that they show him the best desserts in town. “Many of the recipes are regional or known in an area in the US, but not known here in the UK,” he says. “Because American bakery is not too familiar to British people, it’s the equivalent of me writing a book on Indian cookery or Thai cookery - you’re teaching a new audience about something that’s already in existence that’s amazing, and you want them to experience it yourself.” They all feature names that defy your mouth not to water; Gooey Butter Cake, Molasses Pecan Crumb Cake, Red Velvet Ice Cream and Alabama Little Layer Cake. “The rise is home baking is really nice to see,” adds Lebanese-born Malouf, who moved to London when he was two. “People are rediscovering the fun you can have making things yourself” For Malouf, the roots of American baking are steeped in traditional British recipes, but with added ingredients from the country’s rich melting pot of natives and immigrants. “We used to visit the US once a year, and I have a couple of aunts and cousins who live there, so we used to stay with them. “I developed a real taste for American desserts and cakes.” Fancy American-inspired cake? Here are a few of Malouf’s new recipes for inspiration. The Hummingbird Bakery: Life Is Sweet: 100 Original Recipes For Happy Home Baking by Tarek Malouf is published in hardback by Fourth Estate, priced £20.

FOR GREAT FOOD

& GOOD TIMES

SPRING OFFERS SOuP, SANDwIch & hAND cuT chIPS

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OPENING EARLy APRIL NEw IcE cREAM PARLOuR & OuTSIDE BAR Perfect for walkers, boaters or drivers – whatever the weather

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01257 252456 Mill Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DA www.appleybridgeboathouse.com

Open 12pm-late Tuesday-Saturday and 12pm-9pm Sunday

Brownie

pudding This baked pudding ends up with a soft brownie-like texture and is incredibly easy to make, as it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really require much in terms of assembly and mixing. Once itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ready, the top will be firm to the touch, but the middle will still be soft and gooey, so the skewer test shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be used here.

Makes a 23 x 32cm tin Ingredients For the pudding: 245g plain flour 31/2tsp baking powder 3/4tsp salt 295g caster sugar 30g cocoa powder 250ml evaporated milk (unsweetened) 2tsp vanilla extract 50g butter, melted 200g chopped pecans For the topping: 275g soft light brown sugar 60g cocoa powder 750ml hot water (boil then let cool slightly)

Method Preheat the oven to 175C/Gas 4. Grease a 23 x 32cm tin with butter. To make the pudding, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar and cocoa in a bowl. Using a freestanding electric mixer with the paddle attachment or a hand-held electric whisk, beat the evaporated milk, vanilla and melted butter into the dry ingredients until smooth. Fold in the pecans by hand and spread the mixture evenly in the tin. To make the topping, mix the brown sugar and cocoa together and sprinkle over the mixture in the tin. Pour the hot water over the entire pudding. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is firm to touch. Leave to stand for five minutes before serving.

Happy Easter

Enjoy Easter Sunday with a family celebration lunch

1 course - £9.95

Kids under 10

2 courses - £13.95 3 courses - £15.95 Early booking essential to secure your table - Please mention Local Life offer when booking.

EAT FREE

and also get a Free gift! Don’t miss Steak Night on Thursdays 5pm-9pm Buy one steak, get one half price!

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01695 624 426

www.hollandhallhotel.co.uk • info@hollandhallhotel.co.uk

Kids eat FREE & get a FREE gift Child under 10 years entitled to free child main course when adult buys a main course from the Easter Sunday menu Valid only on Sunday 5th April 2015

HOLLAND HALL

Taste test

When in

Rome

by Nicola Gray

f you’re looking for a smidgen of old school Italian charm when it comes to dining out, then make sure you say ciao to Quattro’s Restaurant on the Rainford by-pass. That is exactly what we did one Tuesday afternoon and I was really looking forward to my meal as we made our way down the slip road of junction 3 on the M58 – this traditional Italian does exactly what it says on the tin, but boy does it do it in style! The spacious interior has been stripped back to exposed brickwork with some striking interior design features. The walls are whitewashed and the exposed beams lend a rustic feeling to the building; cleverly punctuated with contemporary lighting and a high quality finish. The restaurant is very roomy and is perfect for couples and parties alike. We are here for one thing and one thing only - the authenticity of the food. Okay maybe two things; because I can’t live without Tiramisu! As we take our time to scour the menu, there are plenty of instantlyrecognisable Italian classics; pizza, pasta, risotto and garlic bread, all with a dash of culinary flare. Stuck for choice, we decided to ask the staff for some help on which starters to pick and the decision was unanimous – go for the AntiPasto. This dish is usually a colourful offering of marinated vegetables and fresh meats; and when done right is the perfect way to savour some of the very best flavours of Italy. Our sharing platter arrived and the dish was visually exciting and the perfect starting point for our meal. The plate was packed with Parma ham, salami, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, pickled chestnuts, salty olives, rustic artisan

bread and rich cheeses. The fresh flavour of the meat was complimented by a peppery salad, which cut through the sweetness of the chestnuts and roasted peppers. The different textures made for a very satisfying starter- a real taste of Italia. After a short break our mains arrived, I ordered the Quaglie Al Cognac, which I can reliably inform you was oven roasted Quails with a chestnut, garlic and veal stuffing in red wine and cognac sauce. The Quails were beautifully cooked; with none of their delicious gamey tenderness lost in the cooking process. This

type of meat can sometimes end up dry, but the chef obviously knows his way around a kitchen and produced a mouth-watering dish. The richness of the veal stuffing was offset by the gutsy red wine gravy – all in all one of the finest plates of food I have eaten. My colleague decided on the Pollo Ripieno - pan fried chicken breast filled with garlic, Parma ham, spinach and taleggio cheese. This dish looked like a design masterpiece, with each layer carefully enveloped inside the next. The chicken was tender and succulent and was the perfect casing for the generous filling. The soft and creamy taleggio cheese was the perfect counter point of the salty Parma ham. Both dishes were served with a generous portion of roast potatoes and seasonal greens. The meal isn’t over in Italy until something sweet hits the tongue and the desserts at Quattro’s are definitely worth a second look. You should have guessed by now that I indulgenced in the Tiramisu – when in Rome! I was served a very generous helping of homemade Tiramisu that was worlds away from the bog-standard supermarket creations.

The liqueur and coffee soaked sponge was topped with creamy mascarpone and dusted with chocolate. The sponge was light, air-whipped and melt-in-themouth delicious; and as all self-respecting Tiramisu’s should be – gloriously boozy. As my usual restaurant benchmark, this dessert passed with flying colours. My colleague opted for the Chocolate Coronet Pavlova. Beautifully presented with meringue, fondant and ice cream, this was a veritable feast for the eyes as much as the taste buds. Encased in a tower of wafer thin chocolate the meringue pieces perched on top

hiding the delicious fondant and chocolate ice cream. He was raving about the glorious chocolate surprise and described it as ‘the dessert that just kept on surprising me’. Between the sophisticated Italian cuisine, the chic setting and the restaurant’s growing popularity, it is clear that Quattro’s is on to a winning formula. We left with full stomachs and a real desire to shout about just how affordable and refined Italian dining can be. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Quattro’s to anyone who loves good food and a great night out! Quattro’s Italian Restaurant 54 Rainford Road, Bickerstaffe, Ormskirk, L39 0HF 01695 720800 www.quattros.co.uk

Eating out

guide The Corner House

Fifteens @ The Fox

Fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere - perfect for any special occasion or a casual get together. Our traditional menu sources local produce. See our website for special offers. 01257 451400 9, Wood Lane, Wrightington Bar, Wigan, WN6 9SE cornerhousewrightington.co.uk

With real fires burning, local fresh food and great cask ales, Fifteens @ The Fox offers a perfect combination of a traditional pub with relaxed fine dining, seven days a week. 01695 628178 Roby Mill, Up Holland, WN8 0QF fifteensatthefox.com

Advertise

here £48 + VAT

Call 01695 627999

Delph Tavern

The Cherry Tree

Award-winning CAMRA freehouse with a fast growing reputation for excellent quality food at reasonable

Creating classic dishes with a modern influence using only fresh local produce, the Cherry

prices. Traditional British classics served, plus some exotic surprises too. Food served Wed-Sun only. 01695 622239 Tontine, Orrell, WN5 8UJ facebook.com/TheDelphTavern

Tree aim to delight guests with an experience that brings them back time and time again. 01257 481 234 A6, Chorley Rd, Blackrod, BL6 5LA cherrytreeblackrod.com

Miller & Carter

The Wayfarer

We know a thing or two about steak. Once you’ve tasted our handcut, 30-day aged British steaks you’ll appreciate that only Miller & Carter offers that unique steakhouse experience. 01257 462318 Parbold Hill, Parbold, WN8 7TG millerandcarter.co.uk

If you fancy dining in a country pub, an a la carte restaurant or a stylish Italian, this award winning pub/ restaurant in picturesque Parbold is a perfect choice for you. 01257 464600 Alder Lane, Parbold, WN8 7NL wayfarerparbold.co.uk

The Paddock Informal dining in Wrightington. Locally sourced, freshly made food served daily. Theme nights with live entertainment. In house butcher and fruit & veg shop. 01257 426514 Derby House, Mossy Lea Rd, Wrightington, WN6 9RE thepaddockrestaurant.co.uk

The Rigbye Arms This pretty pub with its low beams, quirky rooms and real fire, has centuries of hospitality steeped into its timbers. Offering a variety of fresh local produce and local game, there is something for everyone. 01257 462354 2 Whittle Lane, Wrightington, Wigan, WN6 9QB rigbyearms.com

Advertise

here £30 + VAT

Call 01695 627999

rigby’s Coffee Shop

Winstons Traditional British pies, tasty Goosnargh chicken, delicious steak, fresh fish, Chef’s Specials, Sunday carvery and so much more. Winston’s – Award Winning Pizza. 01695 627692 190, Upholland Road, Billinge, WN5 7DJ winstonspizza.com

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

The High Moor Restaurant From set menus to a-la-carte meals and a traditional Sunday lunch, The High Moor Restaurant has an enviable reputation for superb food, outstanding wines and genuine hospitality. High Moor Lane, Wrightington, Wigan, WN6 9QA 01257 252364 highmoorrestaurantwigan.co.uk

Rigby’s Coffee Shop

The Stocks Tavern

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

Warmest and friendliest of welcomes with award winning chef Mike Heap, who uses only the finest, freshest, local ingredients to ensure you leave completely satisfied. 01257 462874 16, Alder Lane, Parbold, WN8 7NN thestockstavern.co.uk

Advertise

here £48 + VAT

Call 01695 627999 Lovels Bistro Tasty food, happy times and great value - you’ll not be disappointed with the quality, taste and service. We’re more than just a great wedding venue. 01695 624 426 Holland Hall, Lafford Lane, Up Holland, WN8 0QZ hollandhallhotel.co.uk

Gallimore’s Fine Restaurant Contemporary dining served in the heart of Wigan. At Gallimore’s you will find fine food, a great atmosphere and a wide-range of drinks to suit all tastes. 01942 492100 13, The Wiend, Wigan, WN1 1PF gallimores.com

Advertise

here £30 + VAT

The Boathouse At the Boathouse we offer an excellent seasonal menu, freshly prepared and sourced from local suppliers. Our team can cater for every occasion, from a relaxed evening meal to your next special event. 01257 252456 Mill Ln, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DA appleybridgeboathouse.com

Call 01695 627999

Lily & Arthurs The perfect place to take your family and friends. Try a light lunch or sample some fabulous homemade cake and coffee. This popular café serves simple, authentic, locally-sourced food. 01942 665950 37 Mesnes Rd, Wigan, WN1 2DF lilyandarthurs.co.uk

La Cava Restaurant Italian restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine, seven days a week. Whether it’s an intimate meal for two or a party to celebrate something special, La Cava offers everything you need. 01942 234712 174, Wigan Rd, Hindley, WN2 3BU lacavarestaurantltd.co.uk

Olive Garden Visit our little piece of Italy for a genuine Italian dining experience. Open all day, every day, our comprehensive and authentic menu has something for everyone. 01257 421144 489, Preston Road, Standish, WN6 0QD ogstandish.co.uk

Thyme & Plaice

Summat to Ate

This family-owned restaurant, converted from an old traditional pub in 2001, serves excellent quality modern British food in relaxed yet stylish surroundings. Open evenings only Wednesday-Sunday. 01257 480287 37, Wigan Lane, Coppull, PR7 4BN thymeandplaice.co.uk

Summat To Ate is a state of the art, fine dining restaurant offering a unique night out. If you love steak, you just can’t beat the Hot Rock dining experience. 01942 255150 48-50, Market Street, Hindley, WN2 3AN summat-to-ate.co.uk

Earl grey tea

pie

Tea in the US South is drunk often, but almost always iced and sweet. We have used Earl Grey tea to give added flavour to this recipe, but any black tea of your choice can be used. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not using Earl Grey, which is flavoured with bergamot, you can omit the grated fruit zest.

Method Preheat the oven to 175C/Gas 4.

Makes a 23cm pie

If using shop-bought pastry, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it is about 5mm thick and line a 23cm pie

Ingredients

dish. Crimp the edges to suit your decorative style and

500g block shortcrust pastry, or 375g ready-rolled shortcrust pastry

Using a freestanding electric mixer with the paddle

225g unsalted butter, softened

chill in the fridge for one hour. attachment or a hand-held electric whisk, cream the butter and sugar together for around five minutes on a

430g caster sugar

medium-high speed until light and fluffy.

8 large egg yolks

Add the egg yolks, one at a time, on a lower speed,

175ml strong Earl Grey tea, lukewarm

scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition.

1tbsp fresh lemon juice

Carefully add the tea, lemon juice and mandarin zest to

1tsp grated mandarin zest (or clementine, tangerine or orange zest)

cornmeal and salt - donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overbeat at this stage.

2tbsp plain flour 11/2tsp yellow cornmeal (polenta) 1/2tsp salt

the mixture and mix in well. On a low speed, add the flour, Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for about 45 minutes. The pie should be quite firm, but still have a little wobble when you move the dish. Cool completely before serving - it will set as it cools down.

Events & Leisure

What’s Charity Easter Family Fun Day Saturday, March 28

hunt, homemade foods, crafts, live music and a bouncy castle.

Held between 10am-2pm at Wigan Library, Library Street. Activities inclide facepainting, treasure hunt, egg and spoon race and raffle. Under fives story time is from 10.30am-11.30am. Under eights must be supervised. All monies to the Cancer Care Appeal.

Secondhand Bookfair Saturday, March 28 Antiquarian and secondhand bookfair with over 40 exhibitors from 10am to 4pm at Haydock Park sports bar, Lodge Road, Newton-le-Willows. £1 entry and free parking. Contact Ben Kelsall 01706 370244 or email ben@bgk1967b.plus.com

Flower Arranging Thursday, April 2 Develop your talents between 1pm-2.30pm at Standish Library, Cross Street. Cost £7 to cover the materials. Places are limited - call into the library to book your space.

Live Music In The Park Easter Saturday & Sunday (April 4 and 5) At Haigh Hall, starring Wigan band Chonckinfeckle and lots of other local talent. Stalls, donkey ride, barbecue and egg hunt from 11am-5pm. All monies from the crazy golf, coconut shy and throw ball goes to Wigan homeless charity The Brick.

Spring Fair Saturday, April 4 Starts at midday at Book-Cycle, the old library, Buckley Street West, Beech Hill. Attractions include an Easter

Blue At The Apollo Friday, April 3 All rise - Blue are back! The boyband-turnedmanband will be at the O2 Apollo on Stockport Road, Manchester, as part of a 16-date UK tour. The lads, Lee Ryan, Simon Webbe, Antony Costa and Duncan James, got back together after a six year hiatus, and they’re sure to be playing all your favourite hits! Starts at 7pm and under 14s must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets from £28.95 via www.o2apollomanchester.co.uk

Meteorite Talk Easter Saturday (April 4) Shevington man Russell Parry gives a talk on his book about the Appley Bridge Meteorite, which fell 100 years ago this year. Talk is at Shevington Library, Gathurst Lane, from 10.30am. Signed copies of Russell’s book will be available to buy.

Family Day Easter Sunday (April 5) Easter Egg Raffle, children’s toy tombola and facepainting at the Charnley Arms, Almond Brook Road, Standish, from noon in aid of the Geoff Carr Memorial.

Children’s Easter Party Easter Monday (April 6) Organised by Pemberton Community Association from 1pm-4pm at Lamberhead Green WMC, White Street, Pemberton. As well as an entertainer providing fun and games for the kids, there will be food available and best prizes for fancy dress, designed easter egg and easter bonnet. Entry 50p. Tickets available from Pemberton Lighting and Plan It Party on Ormskirk Road. Contact Alison Glover on 01942 216033 or Helen on 07925 867070 for more details.

What’s on @ The Paddock Pie & A Pint at The Paddock

A weekend of beer, food and entertainment Cask beers & a selection of pies Friday 24th & Saturday 25th April Open all day until late.

Attractions Include; BBQ - Taylors burgers and sausages, Free Raffle & Live entertainment on Friday & Saturday. Bouncy castle & Face painter on Saturday.

Last Night At The Proms Easter Monday (April 6) Featuring the Greater Manchester Police Band and supporting acts at Haigh Hall. Stalls, road train and other fun from 11am. Proms is from 5pm-7pm. All monies from the crazy golf, coconut shy and throw ball goes to Wigan homeless charity The Brick.

Easter Eggstravaganza Tuesday, April 7, and Thursday, April 9

Friday 8th May

ABBA Tribute night A fab night out for family and friends

3 course meal & a full night of entertainment

£24.95

Join Museum of Wigan Life staff to make bunny ears and create your own springtime masterpiece to take home. From 1pm-2.30pm. Cost £2.50. Booking essential please call 01942 828128.

Egg Hunt Thursday, April 9 Starting at 2pm, this Easter trail takes place at Beacon Country Park, Beacon Lane, Dalton. Booking is necessary by calling 01695 622794.

T: 01257 426 514 The Paddock, Derby House, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, Wigan, WN6 9RE www.thepaddockrestaurant.co.uk E: bookings@thepaddockrestaurant co.uk

Mrs Brown’s Boys Saturday, April 11 The award-winning Mrs Brown’s Boys returns to Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, with their brand new tour. Doors open at 6pm and there’s a matinee at 12.30pm. Tickets from £22.50 via www.manchesterarena.com

Quiz Night Saturday, Aprill 11 Held in St Luke’s Church Hall, Lodge Road, Orrell from 7.30pm. Tickets available from Margaret Heaton on 01695 622380.

Plight of the Humble Bee Tuesday, April 14 An illustrated talk by Rick Hall at Wigan RSPB Local Group’s monthly meeting. Starts at 7.45 pm. Free to members. Non-members welcome £2. Takes place at St Anne’s Parish Centre, Church Lane, Shevington.

WANT A DJ FOR YOUR FUNCTION? Dance classics from all the decades Call Chris for details on 07884 310941 Or email djchriswright.nwp@gmail.com

NWP AGENCY & EVENTS

20 years experience * Public liability insurance * PAT tested

of Christie’s and Macmillan Cancer Support. Tickets £5, available from 01257 423291 or 07896 770093.

Grand Vegas Tribute Night Saturday, April 18 A charity event to raise funds for Jack, the son of “Drummer” Lee Rigby who was murdered in London. Tickets are £25 per person and takes place at The Banqueting Suite, Leigh Stadium, Leigh Sports Village, WN7 4GY, from 7pm. Call Garry on 07944 444860 or the Sports Village 01942 487823.

Workshop for Beginners Friday, April 17 From 2.30pm-4.30pm at Standish Library, Cross Street. They will look at Ancestry and other websites, along with resources available in Wigan Archives & Local Studies. Free entry - for further information telephone 01257 400 496.

Tennis Weekend Friday, April 17 & Sunday, April 19 Taking place at Winstanley Tennis Club, off Hall Lane. Friday, 5pm-8pm, there’s a family night costing £5 where you can go down and have a go at playing. On the Sunday, from 1.30pm-4.30pm, there’s an open day with drinks and snacks available in the clubhouse.

Charity Concert Saturday, April 18 St Bernadette’s Church Fundraising Group hosts St Helens & Wigan Gospel Choir from 7.30pm at St Anne’s Parish Church, Church Lane, Shevington, in aid

The Hollies Saturday, April 18 The Hollies perform their classics including The Air That I Breathe and He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother. Takes place at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, and starts at 7.30pm. Tickets from £23.50 via www.liverpoolphil.com

Great War Exhibition Monday, April 20, - Saturday, April 25 Takes place at Haigh Hall, School Lane, there will be a replica trench scene and WW1 ward diorama illustrating the invaluable work of auxiliary hospitals such as Haigh Hall. This is a free event presented by the Friends of Haigh Country Park. Call 01942 254219 or email wendyb6@btinternet.com

WI Anniversary Wednesday, April 22 To celebrate 100 years of the Women’s Institute, Shevington WI is holding an event starting at 7.30pm. Visitors are invited to the methodist church hall, Gathurst Lane, and take a journey with ‘Fatima’ to a “land of Eastern promise!” Tickets £6 including buffet entrance by ticket only via 01257 472662.

The Odd Couple Thursday, April 23 - Saturday, April 25 St Michael’s Amateur Dramatics Society production at St Michael’s Parish Hall, Shaw Street, Swinley. Tickets are £6 for adults and £5 concessions. Start time is 7.30pm. Call June on: 01942 236260 or 07806 787250.

Houghton Weavers Friday, April 24 Coppull Folk proudly presents this evening held from 8pm at Standish Unity Club, Cross Street. The support act is singer-songwriter Jon Budworth and local singers. Tickets are £8 in advance or £9 on the door. Call Kevin on 01257 400650.

Quadrophenia Night Saturday, April 25 Featuring a set from The Atlantics, who are playing all the hits from the film live with a big screen film show of the movie. DJ Drew Stansall, formerly of The Specials, will be spinning the Mod, Ska, 2 Tone and Soul tunes before and after the band. Takes place at The Citadel, Waterloo Street, St Helens. Doors open at 9pm. To check availability of seated tickets, please call the box office on 01744 735 436.

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Charity Day Saturday, April 25 Standish Quilters host this event from 10am-2pm at the community centre, Moody Street. Attractions include stalls with craft items, a raffle and a small exhibition of the quilters’ work. Entry is £1 in aid of Pancreatic Cancer Action.

Reach an estimated 75,000 readers in Wigan Ad prices start from £39 + VAT Call 01695 627 999 for details

Doors Alive

Trencherfield Heritage Day

Saturday, April 25

Monday, May 4

The Doors tribute band with support from John the Baptist & the Second Coming and Deep Shade.Enjoy a twist on Jim Morrison’s best songs, such as Light My Life and the legendary Break On Through.

Celebrate Wigan’s past at Trencherfield Mill. Alongside a traditional fairground there will be music, demonstrations, a craft fair and canal trips. Small charge for some attractions but there will be free parking at Wigan Investment Centre, WN3 5BA.

Tickets are £11 on the door at The Old Courts, Crawford Street, Wigan.

Gift and Craft Fair Sunday, April 26 Held at the Beeches Hotel, School Lane, Standish, from noon-4pm. Free admission. Contact Christine on 07834 226684 or email handcrafts82@gmail.com

Family Fun Day Sunday, April 26 Family

Walk of Memories Sunday, May 3 A Wigan & Leigh Hospice fundraising walk through Pennington Flash Country Park in Leigh from noon. Open to everyone with a choice of a 5K or 10K route. £10 per adult or £5 per child to take part. A family ticket for two adults and two children is available priced at £25. A minimum sponsorship of £25 per person will apply. Call 01942 525566 or email fundraising@wlh. org.uk

Event at Kirkless Nature Reserve, Belle Green Lane, Higher Ince, to celebrate the site becoming the latest location in Wigan’s Greenheart. Kirkless Friends Group will be there with Wigan Council and Lancashire Wildlife Trust between 10 am-4pm with free activities, games for kids and a series of nature trails and stalls.

Cricket Club Beer Festival Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3 First ever Standish Cricket Club Beer festival with 15 guest ales hosted in a marquee on the Green Lane ground. Sunday is family fun day with a fairground, music, bouncy castles and slides, great fun, bring the kids. Entry £5 per adult for a weekend pass, children go free. Pay on the day or contact Ste Critchley 07702 710304 or email beerfestival@standishcc.co.uk for tickets.

Haigh Owls Saturday, May 2 Get your photo taken with a Haigh owl at Standish Library, Cross Street, from 10.30am-noon. Photos £2 each. All welcome.

Gregory Porter Wednesday, May 13 Southport Theatre & Convention Centre, on The Promenade, welcomes this award winning jazz artist. Californian-born Porter won the 2014 Grammy for best jazz vocal album, Liquid Spirit. Starts at 7.30pm. Tickets from £28.90 via www. atgtickets.com

Coffee Club Friday, May 8 Regular event at Mossy Lea Village Hall, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, from 10am-1pm. All proceeds to Cancer Research UK.

50th Anniversary Saturday, May 9 Standish Library, on Cross Street, celebrates half a century of serving the public. To mark the occasion, there’s a range of activities planned from 10.30am2pm including Stalls, arts/crafts, special guests, a choir and competitions. Free event - contact 01257 400496 for more details.

Wigan & Leigh Hospice’s Heritage Ball Saturday, May 16 Held at Kilhey Court, Chorley Road, Standish. Tables of eight, 10 and 12 are available. Tickets priced at £50 each, and include a champagne reception, three course meal, entertainment and dancing until the early hours. Call 01942 525566 or email fundraising@ wlh.org.uk

Mega Charity Fun Day Saturday, May 23 Held at The Silver Tally, Shevington Moor, from noon in aid of the Geoff Carr Memorial/Three Wishes Appeal For a stall contact Alison on 01257 472733.

U3A Birthday Saturday, May 30 10 year anniversary celebrations for Up Holland & District U3A at St Teresa’s Church grounds in College Road, Up Holland, Events will be taking place from 11am to 3.30 pm, inside and out.

The Pit in Pictures Tuesday, June 2 A talk by Alan Davies looking at photographic records. of coalmining in Lancashire. Takes place from noon1.15pm at the Museum of Wigan Life, Library Street. Entry is £2.50 including tea/coffee. Booking essential please call on 01942 828128 or email wiganmuseum@ wigan.gov.uk

Community Showcase Al Murray Pub Landlord Thursday, May 14 Join the nation’s favourite guv’nor for a 20 year anniversary of his straight-forward approach to life, holding back a tide of bottled beer, nanny state nonsense and political correctness. Starts at 7.30pm at Parr Hall, Warrington. Tickets from £25.50 via 01925 442345.

Thursday, June 11 Wigan & Leigh Carers’ Centre holds an event at Wigan Youth Zone, Parson’s Walk, from 10am-2pm. Go along to find out what local organisations and activities are available in your area. Call 01942 705959 for more information.

Jack’s Tracks

Hoghton

Bottoms by Chris Pearce

t’s been on our list of proposed walks at Local Life HQ for a good while now, so on the first decent weekend in March we headed north to try out a scenic trek around Hoghton. There are plenty of landmarks on this easy-to-follow route to interest all the family and at just over 4½ miles, it wasn’t too demanding either. Don’t forget to take the camera; this walk incorporates some fascinating and varied views of the rolling Lancashire countryside. Enjoy! Exit the A675 at Junction 3 of the M65 and take the first left at the roundabout. After a 1/3 of a mile, you’ll pull into the Boat Yard Inn car park on the right (postcode PR5 0SP). There is a sign saying walkers are welcome, but do check with the pub staff first. Once you’ve parked up, exit the car park and turn right on to the main road, go over the canal bridge and then take an immediate right turn down the canal towpath. Follow the canal towpath for 1.2 miles and just before the third bridge (No.93) and the mill chimney, you’ll leave the towpath and almost double back on yourself, following a public footpath that runs downhill parallel to a green metal fence. Follow the green fence all the way downhill around the perimeter of an old paper mill. When you reach the end of the green fence, you’ll find yourself standing on a concreted area. Head over in the direction of the newish housing estate on high ground. Once you reach the stream below the houses, head left walking on the path alongside the stream for 200 yards until you reach the main road (A6061). Turn left on the main road, cross the border from Blackburn into Chorley and look out for the public footpath sign at the end of the row of terraced houses on the right. Turn here and head uphill up the dirt

track. On your way up the hill, you’ll pass Hawthorn Cottage on your left, but you turn off to the left further on when you reach the 7 bar metal gate shortly before the entrance to the large farm house. Head straight on this public footpath, keeping to the right hand perimeter of the field, and look out for the wooden gate with a public footpath symbol. Once through the gate turn left and stick to the left hand perimeter, until you cross into the next field, where you’ll walk straight down the middle of the next field looking out for the wooden gate on the right hand side upon which you enter a wooded area. Once you are though this gate into the wooded area, turn left. You’ll be following this path downhill all the way through the wooded area, for approximately 300 yards, jumping over little brooks as you go as you descend to the banks of the River Darwen. Once you’ve passed through the gate at the end of the path, you’ll enter a meadow running parallel to the Darwen. Once you’ve walked through the meadow, you’ll have a choice of paths to follow; take the option to follow the path running alongside the river.

You cross a couple of wooden bridges, and then you’ll arrive at the handsome weir, and then almost directly afterwards, you’ll walk under the Hoghton Viaduct and into the delightful little enclave of Hoghton Bottoms. Keep to the left and once you arrive at the Old Counting House, fork left and head uphill along the track. Once you’ve climbed the hill, the track runs parallel to the railway line.

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Hoghton Tower

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Look out for the opening which takes you across the railway, and once you get there, cross carefully, taking care to look both ways. Head up hill, through the old railway bridge and go straight on until you come to the walled boundary of Hoghton Tower. Bear right and follow this path, taking in some fabulous views of Preston and the Lakes, around the perimeter for just over half a mile until you reach the main driveway to the Hoghton Tower. After a breather to take in the majestic view of the Tower, cross the driveway and go through the metal gate opposite. Climb uphill on the left hand perimeter of the field and hop over two wooden stiles in quick succession. Take the path straight across the field, looking over your shoulder for a farewell view of Hoghton Tower. As the hill dips, head towards the wooden stile in the distance. Once you’ve crossed this stile, head straight on down the well-defined path towards the stile in the far corner of the field next to the farmhouse. This brings you onto a track, which you follow towards the Royal Oak pub at Riley Green in the distance. Turn right at the pub and then take the immediate left turn down Bolton Road. Follow the road for 500 yards and you’re back at The Boat Yard Inn.

Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear whilst walking. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the walk is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.

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Attention all fair weather Award Winner

gardeners by Angie Barker

pril is the month when you can almost hear the buds opening and leaves unfurling on the plants and trees in your garden. So if you have not ventured outside in your garden since the onset of winter – then now is your last opportunity to get the garden into shape for the summer months. There is an incredible surge of growth in the garden at this time of year - warmer, longer days coupled with rain is guaranteed to kick start your garden into life so get outside at every opportunity. I guarantee you will feel good and be enthused with thoughts of summer months to come - even Hubby is getting giddy at the thought of summer evenings spent on the decking with a glass of white wine - or two!

• Prune out frost damaged shoots and stems

Giving the garden a good tidy up will immediately give it a makeover and it will look a lot better - and make you feel better. Try the following for your instant makeover:

Be aware that frost is still around at night time so whilst the garden centres will be tempting you to splash out on summer bedding plants, remember that anything tender will need protection until well in to May.

• Pick up the last of the winter debris, leaves and twigs which have fallen onto borders and lawns

Happy gardening - and by the way - Hubby has the wine chilling already!

• The taller grasses such as Miscanthus sinensis will have started growing now so if you haven’t already trimmed away last years dead stalks, this is your last chance • Give the lawn a hair cut and tidy up the edges to give a crisp finish • Mulch your borders with compost or bark chippings • Plug any gaps in borders with hardy summer flowering perennials. Rudbeckias, Astrantias and hardy Geraniums are all lovely and require little maintenance. Try Geranium ‘Rozanne’ in a sunny border and Geranium nodosum in a shady spot

• Cut back and tidy dead perennial leaves to reveal new growth

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.

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In good

company Local Life editor David Sudworth reports from the 6th Wigan Good Traders Awards ceremony

t’s the culmination of nine years’ hard work for Shevington father and son team Bob and Ben McWilliam. And the pair, who joined together to form Manor House Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, are now the toast of the town after scooping the Wigan Good Trader of the Year Award 2015. The ceremony, held at Summat To Ate in Hindley, saw 40 tradesmen, who are part of Wigan Council Trading Standards’ Good Trader Scheme, honoured. Among those whose outstanding service was recognised were Expert Computers, Westdene Landscapes, Angie Barker Garden Designs for All Seasons, Hobson’s Roofcare, Andy Hidden electricals, Paul Burns Handyman, CL Bathrooms, PH Profiles conservatories and A Top Coat decorating service. After each receiving certificates, the main awards - Highly Commended, Best Newcomer and Good Trader of the Year - were presented for both Wigan and also for Leigh. Bob and Ben, of Manor House, were overjoyed at securing the top Wigan award: “It’s just brilliant. We are really pleased and we’d like to thank our customers who said such kind things about us.” The company began when former Shevington High pupil Ben, 26, left his job at the old branch of Halifax in Ashton-inMakerfield in 2006. He teamed up with his father, Bob, 54, and they haven’t looked back since. Bob said: “It’s Ben who goes out, sees the customers and does the hard grafting but I supported him because at the time he was very young. We called it Manor House because there are a few places in Shevington called Manor House, it’s part of a local theme, so we carried it on. “We joined the National Carpet Cleaners Association and shortly afterwards started advertising in Local Life. We were among the first to join the Good Trader Scheme and it is excellent. Not only does it give a company credibility, but more importantly it gives

Winners: Bob and Ben McWilliam, of Shevington-based Manor House Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning the customer peace of mind.” The event was hosted by Julie Middlehurst, group manager for Wigan Trading Standards and Licensing. Addressing a packed room, Julie praised the 40 companies who had been hand-picked to be honoured for their achievements, before going on to stress the important role the Good Trader Scheme

plays in driving cowboy firms and scammers out of town. “We’ve got 220-plus traders on the scheme and believe me it is not easy to get as far as you have. You are the very best of the best, the crème de la crème. One of the reasons we set up the scheme is because we were contacted by people asking if we

Some of the award recipients on the evening with Julie Middlehurst of Wigan Trading Standards

It was a full house for the Good Traders Awards could recommend companies. It’s also a great way of

Andy said: “I didn’t know much about this scheme

protecting vulnerable people from companies who rip people off. The profile of someone who suffers from doorstep crime is an 81 year old female living on her own. It is very sad there are people out there who, far from being ‘good traders’. actually go and target vulnerable people. It happens in Wigan and everywhere else. It is a fact that any elderly person who becomes a victim is two-and-a-half times more likely to go on live in residential care. But with people like you, we can keep people safe.”

before I joined but once I did the phone started ringing and I’ve never looked back. I’m proud to be associated with it.”

The room also heard from Kathy Cooper, of Age UK, which works with Wigan Council on the scheme. The audience then heard from Trevor Knight, of Direct Blinds Wigan, Andy Hidden, of Andy Hidden electricals and Dave Hobson, of Hobson’s Roofcare, about what being a member of the Good Trader Scheme means to them.

Speaking after the event, Julie said: “It was a fabulous night and my congratulations go to all the award winners. Every business which attended is an excellent ambassador for the scheme and they are deserving of their success.”

Trevor said: “It’s about trust and confidence - the people of Wigan deserve this service. It’s great.”

And Dave added: “We’ve been members since the early days, when it was just myself, my nephew and a van. Since then my son has joined, having done his City & Guilds in roofing, we now have two vans, storage and recently moved into a new office. We are gaining from the scheme and so are the good people of Wigan.”

For more information on the scheme, visit www. wigan.gov.uk/Business/Trading-Standards/GoodTrader-Scheme/index.aspx

Test drive

Nissan

Qashqai by Tim Barnes-Clay

he latest Nissan Qashqai, which went on sale in January 2014, is available in four time-honoured grades: Visia, Acenta, Acenta Premium and Tekna. The model tested here comes in flagship Tekna trim. But we’ll come to that in a bit.

Firstly, here’s some background. The second generation, family oriented car is now longer, lower and wider, giving it a more imposing stance while maintaining a raised driving position. The vehicle under review is front-wheel drive, the set-up which Nissan says will account for most sales, but all-wheel drive is available too. The Qashqai’s exterior looks modern and there’s a better quality feel to the cabin - perfect for many years of hardcore family use. The rangetopping Tekna model features an array of technologies that highlight the Japanese motor manufacturer’s lead in the crossover market. But hang on, what is a crossover vehicle? Well, it’s a motor built on a car platform, combining characters of a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) with elements from an estate or a hatchback. The crossover mixes SUV design cues such as tall interior packaging, lofty seating, high centre of gravity and elevated ground-clearance with car-like handling and good fuel economy. Anyway, back to the Tekna trim Qashqai under review. The Nissan benefits from darkness piercing Bi-LED headlamps and it excels when it comes to kit. The car comes equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, part-leather seats, a large glass roof, heated seats,

and front and rear parking sensors. There’s also a seven-inch touchscreen display, DAB digital radio, and smartphone connectivity.

from the dummies used in tests, the Qashqai scored maximum points for its protection of an 18-month old infant.

The Qashqai is available with a petrol or diesel engine; the review car came with turbocharged petrol power. But it turns out that the Nissan doesn’t need anything huge under the bonnet to deliver a first-rate drive.

On that basis alone, I’m sold on the car – but then I do have an 18 month old and two other small children to take to school. I can definitely see the appeal – and so, it seems, do other parents. Yep, buy this car and your offspring will be safe from harm – even if it means you lose all individuality amongst the sea of Nissan Qashqais outside the school gates.

Motoring through a six-speed manual transmission, the 1.2-litre engine packs a punch, offering sharper acceleration and greater flexibility than the first generation Qashqai’s 1.6-litre unit. Despite its modest size, the engine’s low weight and more fuel-efficient operation also mean it’s cleaner and more economical than the model it replaces. The 1.2 engine emits just 129g/km of CO₂ (15g/km less than the outgoing 1.6-litre petrol unit), and has an average fuel consumption figure of 50.4mpg.

Fast

facts

Max speed: 115 mph 0-62 mph: 10.9 secs

Being a family car, you’d expect safety to be a priority for the Qashqai – and you’d be right. The Nissan features a host of innovative safety features which helped it confidently pass all Euro NCAP’s tests to record the maximum five-star rating.

Combined mpg: 50.4

Engineered to offer the best possible levels of protection for children, the fresh Qashqai particularly shone in the Child Occupant tests. Based on readings

CO2: 129 g/km

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J27 and Breth Y Book on of Crost your FREE me! R for all residents you needsurvey me until k @ Studio 84 andhome E Keep h Chec we’ll provide Healt you with a Cardetailed SRoad, Billinge 84 Rainford WN5 7PG FREE on report showing the nowreturns Book your A5209

Natalies

Standish

Shevington

Telephone: 07814 619 400

Call

01772

Open: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10AM - 7PM, Saturday 10AM - 6PM orEngineers Closed ThursdayTwinLakesMot & Sunday

available from your own solar panels

603923

DIN & WEL REPAIR

Uwww.dglwindows.co.uk Slash your electricity and S water heating bill TProtect your household from future energy price rises T Y R E R S S of ST. HEL ENS Reduce your household’s impact on the environment

Call us now

(10% typical return)

Visit our showroom at Unit 4a, Cricket Street Business Park off Miry Lane, Wigan. WN6 7TP

HUGE SELECTION OF CHRISTMAS PARTY WEAR FOR MEN AND WOMEN Open 7 days a week til Christmas Monday - Saturday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm Sunday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

We also provide a cost effective leaflet distribution service.

1 4 - 1 6 B r i d g e St re e t , St He l e n s , WA 1 0 1 N R 01744 26551 w w w. t y re r s . c om

0843 224 9555 07595 420237 or

For more information call

Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk

01695 627 999

we make it our business to help yours

Flyers, Postcards, Posters and more!

Wind Turbines Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...

Mossy Lea Road

normally

Saving money is the clear beneﬁt!

A49

We also provide a design and print service; from 5000 single colour flyers to the design and production of a full colour glossy magazine; we can meet your needs.

Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories, Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors

B5250

Did you know that Local Life isn’t just about publishing great little magazines?

Gel s Nail

WINDOWS DOORS

SUPPLIED & FITTED

• ALL ASPECTS OF UPVC • FAILED SEALED UNITS REPLACED • WILL NOT BE BEATEN ON PRICE OR QUALITY • LOCAL AND RELIABLE FRONT DOORS FROM

£380 Fitted

BACK DOORS FROM

COLOURED COMPOSITE DOORS FROM

£350

£580

Fitted

Don’t replace your windows or doors until you get a free quote from me! Ring Paul : 01942 871 631 Certificate of excellence 2015 Mobile: 07900 985 699 Best newcomer for Leigh 2015

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning • traditional service, state of the art results •

Wigan Good Trader Of The Year 2015

5 star rating with Wigan Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme

plus, Awarded the Certificate of Excellence in recognition of consistently high standards of feedback from customers in 2009/10/11/12

Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote

Call - 01257 251221

Mobile - 07908 770808

www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk

Providing professional carpet & upholstery cleaning since 1993 Carpets Leather

Upholstery Curtains Oriental Rugs Hard Floors

For more information call:

01942 470 081 Visit our website and check out the testimonials.

www.alliancechemdry.co.uk

Professional Carpet, Leather & Upholstery The Cleaning Bees Knees! Carpets~Rugs~Sofas~Leather • Qualified FREE • Fully Insured deodoris er • Stain Removal worth £20 • Odour Removal • Reliable Service • Quick Drying

Prices start from £30

Call NOW for a FREE No Obligation Quote

07976 248105

info@BeesKneesCarpets.co.uk www.BeesKneesCarpets.co.uk

Shevington E l ect ri cal S erv ic e s NAPIT part ‘P’ registered JIB Approved Technician 30 Years Experience

Local. Honest & Reliable Domestic Industrial & Commercial

Covering all North West Areas.

Call: 0800 6446100 or 07904 127663 www.shevington-electrical-services.co.uk

ANDY HIDDEN Domestic Electrician

No Job Too Small!

• • • • • • •

Re-Wires Additional Sockets / Lights Home Safety Tests Fuse Board Upgrades Security Lighting Alarms CCTV

Good Trader Of The Year Winner in the Wigan Trading Standards Best of the Best Awards 2013/14.

• Rewires & Upgrades • Interior & Exterior Lighting • Alarms & CCTV • Extra Sockets & Lights

07531 765 529 / 01695 628 150

Certificate of Excellence Winner in the 2012/13

Award Winner 2012/13/14

07946 844 904 08000 842 394 Email: andy@ahde.co.uk

All electrical work undertaken • Rewire specialists • Extra sockets & lights fitted • Mains board upgrades

Free quotations

Advertise

A.J.S.

BAILEYS ELECTRICAL

01942 215 769 07739 709 005

here

Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

Ian Martland

Painter & Decorator Established 1990

• All aspects of Decorating • Interior & Exterior • Free Estimates

01695 632 477 | 07748 195 809

H AT E D E C O R AT I N G ? We don’t - we enjoy it so much that we make a living out of it! We are a husband and wife team, CRB cleared with references available. Awarded a Certificate of Excellence by Wigan Council Trading Standards

• City & Guilds Qualified • Plastering services available • Competitive Rates • Fully Insured • Standish based

Call Alice or Neil on 01942 740232 or 07810 753062

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

PAINTING & DECORATING From interior to exterior - we do it all!

• High Quality • Superb Value • Outstanding Service

Create your Dream Home today… 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. Call Derek today for a free consultation & quote

Call 07831 505 672

email franklindecorators@gmail.com

Call today for your free quotation

01257 402045

or 07702 360597 www.ParkinsonDecorators.co.uk

www.wigandecorators.co.uk

Lady Decorator

Professional Interior Decorating Service Reduced rates for Pensioners Clean, tidy and conscientious Tel: 01942 366996 or 07962 422856

Just Imagine

Decorating - Interior Design - Soft Furnishings

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C &D

Plumbing and Heating

Heating & Bathroom Specialist Chris Heaton M.I.P.H.E.R.P 07973714222 01695625171

PETER RODAN LTD • All Heating & Plumbing work • Full Heating Installations • Boiler Servicing & Repairs • Boiler Conversions • 20 year experience

Tel: Mob:

01257 472 385 07971 631 709

Standish based

221213

Plumbing & Heating Specialist Complete Bathroom & Tiling service Free programmable room thermostats fitted with new Combi Boilers!

John Bailey - 01942 495785

or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238 Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan

Advertise

here

Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

Puzzle

brand New bathrooms

boiler Installations

Central Heating Repairs servicing & Maintenance

Freephone 0300 3030121 Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809 21 Naburn Dr Orrell wN5 8sb

Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk

www.orrellheating.co.uk

506515

solutions

The photo on page 62 is of High Street, Standish.

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Central Heating Engineers & Installers • Boiler Servicing & Repairs • Full Central Heating Installations • Kitchen & Bathroom Plumbing 554021

Domestic & Commercial Work undertaken 30 years experience – Quality workmanship

07853 826 411 07853 071 961

www.beltinco.co.uk

APPLY BRIDGE HEATING & PLUMBING • BOILER replacement • SERVICE and repair • FULL system installations • BATHROOM replacements • SHOWERS • TILING and ELECTRICS

Landlord Gas Safety Certificates Call Dave now for a free quote... Telephone

201323

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

Finance available

WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!

Telephone:

01942 504 429 Registration No.

88604

TEL: MOB:

07814 639 430

01257 421 660 07931 766 684

www.fgwelch.co.uk

Handy Home We’ll fix a leaky tap or install a new kitchen or bathroom or anything in between! Call Tony on

• Fully insured • All mess tidied away • No job too small

01257 464548 or 07794 232168 T 01744 892 385 H E AT I N G E N G I N E E R S

W rghheating.co.uk E info@rghheating.co.uk

Breakdown, Service & Repair Central Heating Installation Gas Safety Inspections Boiler Replacement Power Flushing Based in Billinge, covering all of Wigan & St Helens

Paton Plumbing and Heating Ltd A friendly reliable service

Full central heating installations Complete bathroom renovations Boiler servicing and repairs Landlord’s gas safety certificates Tony Paton

542856

T: 01942 568 184 M: 07825 323 711 E: patonplumbing850@gmail.com

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Hobson’s ROOFC

EST 1990

WIGAN’S AWARD-WINNING ROOFING FIRM Call us for a free, no obligation quote for;

Advertise

here

Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

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

• Roofing Repairs • New Roofs • Re-Roofs • Roof Windows Apollo House, Healey Street, Wigan, WN1 2HN

07831 764 798

Wigan Good Trader of the Year

www.hobsonsroofcare.co.uk

2010 2013

• 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

103

3 Maggotts Nook Road, Rainford

104

Arley Cabinet Company Ltd • Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •

Fix my conservatory! • Conservatory, window and door repairs • Misted double glazing replaced • Replacement conservatory roofs • Solid roof upgrades • Window and door installations • ALL work guaranteed

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.arleycabinets.com tel: 01942 246190

Call Mark now for a free quote

01942 737 381 (office) 07763 151 720 (direct)

e-mail: conservatoryrepairs@gmail.com

www.fixmyconservatory.com

Great Value Bathrooms!

Full Bathrooms & En-Suites Showers, Trays & Cubicles Relocation of Bathroom Suites 25 years bathroom experience Call Chris now for a free quotation

C L Bathrooms

01942 749085 or 07801 295483 www.clbathrooms.co.uk

Are you looking for replacement Windows, Doors, Conservatories, Facias or Gutters? You’ll get a better deal and a quality product at From just

£620

01942 226677 | 07841 923230 | www.phprofiles.co.uk

105

Useful Numbers sponsored by The co-operative funeralcare Councils and Councillors (Wigan) Wigan Council Wigan Council (out of hours) Cllr Conway (Aspull & Haigh) Cllr Hilton (Aspull & Haigh)

01942 244 991 01942 404 040 01942 486 853 01942 736 215

Cllr Ready (Aspull & Haigh) Cllr Collins (Shevington) Cllr Crosby (Shevington) Cllr Edwardson (Shevington) Cllr Debbie Fairhurst (Standish) Cllr Gareth Fairhurst (Standish) Cllr George Fairhurst (Standish) Cllr Davies (Wigan Central) Cllr Hunt (Wigan Central) Cllr McLoughlin (Wigan Central)

01942 736 218 01942 487 684 01942 486 860 01942 487 674 01257 423 212 01942 487 671 01257 407 078 01942 486 864 07766 478 296 01942 487 686

Councils and Councillors (West Lancs) West Lancs Council 01695 577 177 Lancashire County Council 0300 123 6701 Cllr Baybutt (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge) 01257 255 501 Cllr Evans (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge) 01695 624 683 Cty Cllr Fillis (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge) 07876 844275 Funeral Directors The co-operative funeralcare Local Life Magazine

01257 425 447

Libraries Aspull Library Standish Library Shevington Library Medical

01942 831 303 01257 400 496 01257 252 618

Beech Hill Medical Practice Boston House Concourse Walk-in Centre Linacre Centre Ormskirk Hospital Aspull Surgery Shevington Clinic Shevington Surgery Standish Clinic Standish Medical Practice Wigan Infirmary NHS Direct Emergency Dental Repairs

01942 821 899 01942 482 000 01695 554 260 01942 244 000 01695 577 111 01942 831 263 01942 483 100 01942 483 777 01942 481 380 01257 421 909 01942 244 000 08 45 46 47 01695 623 334

Police Greater Manchester Police Wigan Policing Team Lancashire Police West Lancs Local Team

01618 725 050 01618 567 124 01695 566 134 01257 462 239

Advertising & Editorial 01257 498329

Accounts & Distribution 01695 627 999

106

A View From The Lump Local gossip, gripes and goings-on When I’m Claiming Compo Thanks to Americans, ambulance chasing solicitors and daytime telly, Britain has gone compo crazy. Even the hitherto stout Wigan folk have gone all mard in the search for a few quid. Apparently, one woman took Wigan Council to court for over £70,000 recently after falling over in the street. She claimed the pavement was “defective”. The incident proved so traumatic to the poor luv she claimed to have started boozing immediately afterwards. It must have been a reet sesh as she was still tired and emotional three hours later. M’Lud saw through her brass neck and found in favour of Library Street’s finest.

And in another recent case, another woman tried (and failed) to relieve the Metro of £39,500 for falling off a chair while cleaning window ledges at a school. Can you imagine the fun dear old George Formby would have had with that if he was still alive? I guess When I’m Claiming Compo doesn’t have the same ring to it though...

number one everywhere in the world... including number five in America.” I always thought of the America as being on another planet at times, but still. Not to bother though; the contributor got his tenner, Private Eye readers had a chuckle and our Chris, sorry Limahl, got another slither of national publicity.

Out of this world

Brand recognition

Despite their feeble protestations, celebrities love a bit of publicity. That said, there are certain publications luvviues universally avoid as they aren’t deemed derential enough towards their egos. One of them is the magnificent Private Eye, the scourge of the pompous and prententious for 54 glorious years and counting.

We’re now into the final countdown towards the General Election. Unlike many columnists, I’m not going to tell you how to vote. You’re all grown ups and don’t need me to tell you how useless they all are. Of course, I am joking. They aren’t all useless, no... just some of them, but if you can’t figure out which then you probably don’t deserve to have the vote anyway. Sorry, another joke. No more. I promise, and by that I mean a real promise, not a politician’s promise which as

Recently, Wigan’s very own 80s pop prince Chris Hamill, aka Limahl - an anagram of his surname - featured in its hallowed pages after he got into a numerical muddle on the BBC when talking about his chart successes. He’d apparently told the presenter: “Too Shy and Neverending Story were

we know isn’t a promise at all. But whatever you do decide, please do vote. Because if you don’t, it will only encourage the likes that latter-day Citizen Smith, the multimillionaire ‘revolutionary’ Russell Brand, to share more of his pearls of wisdom on national telly. And that’s in nobody’s interests, least of all his...

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