Local Life - Wigan - May 2018 by Local Life 247 Ltd

LocalLife Wigan Edition

May 2018

The Billinge

Ten Years Old Pages 38 - 39

Burscough Walk Pages 78 - 81

split...

Pages 28 - 30

Local News Motoring Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks Garden Diary Event2Go Home Services locallife247.co.uk

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No magic

buttons

trl+Alt+Del are the buttons you press to reset your computer, but sadly I’ve discovered that, in life, there are no magic buttons to press as I try to reset my relationship with food. I’m now a fully-up member of the DT2 gang, a person with diabetes type 2. Which means for me that, instead of pies, pizzas and the morning pastry, it is nuts, leaves and berries at least for 8 weeks as I attempt to turn back the clock, along with my blood sugar levels, with a 800 calories a day diet. Luckily for me, a defect in my eyes was spotted early doors by the opticians Hepworth & Hall who used their state of the art retinal scanner and told me to get to the Doc, post haste. So the lesson here is if you ever get the chance to get a health check-up of any sort, do grab it even if you think, like I did, that you’re in fairly good nick. You might regret it if you don’t. Anyway, on a more positive note (!), Local Life turns 10 this month. That happened quickly didn’t it? Our first issue was produced in a bedroom on Sandy Lane, Orrell, and we are now based a few hundred yards away producing magazines for Wigan, St Helens, Chorley, West Lancashire and Leigh each month. Sincere thanks from all at Local Life go to our loyal advertisers, our wonderful distributors and to you, the readers who value our magazines for what we bring to your life. Local Life was launched to inform and inspire our readers, and hopefully we can manage that for the next ten years too! See you next time

Chris Pearce, Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

In this issue The Billinge

split...

Regulars 35 Planning 44 Puzzle Corner 48 Class from the past

73 Garden Diary 82 Test Drive

Sections 28 Make May

purple

42 Property 50 Health 54 Travel 58 Legal & Finance 60 Business View

68 Events2Go 73 Gardening 81 Pets 85 Home Services

Next issue - June 2018

Advertising deadline - Thursday, 10 May

50 10 items no kitchen should

be without 64 Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks visits

Burscough

78 Test Drive

DS 7 Crossback 82 locallifemagazine247

Published - Wednesday, 23 May

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

Telephone: 01695 627 999 Publisher: Chris Sales: Nicola Editorial: Niamh Design: Peter Distribution: Sally Accounts: Sam

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

Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following areas on an alternate monthly basis. This issue is delivered to 13,299 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton. The next issue is delivered to 13,025 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh. You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

@locallifemedia

events2go

Uproar in Haigh Haigh Hall is starting to look a little different, and it’s safe to say a lot of locals aren’t happy about it. There’s a lot of upset felt towards Contessa, the new owner of Haigh Hall and the way the hotel is said to be taking away the historic value of the building. Locals are angry about the white lines in the carriageway leading up to the hall and some have said it now ‘looks like an airport runway.’ The lines were painted on Thursday, March 29, and neighbours voiced their annoyance immediately, with some stating cars are now speeding near the hall. On Sunday, April 22 from 12pm, a peaceful mass

picnic has been scheduled in the grounds. Denise Honor said: “The new owners have been asking visitors to the woodland areas surrounding the hall to ‘move on.’ “When they took the lease for the hall, public access was guaranteed so they have no right to do this.” Lucy Derbyshire posted on the ‘Aspull as we know it’ Facebook page about new gates which block access to the hall near the golf shop. With many residents stating how difficult it is for those with disabilities, pushchairs, and prams to visit Haigh Hall. Denise continued: “The hall was a lot better when it was in the hands of Wigan Council.

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Chequer these out Up Holland will soon be home to over a hundred new properties as planning permission is given the green light. West Lancashire Council’s planning department gave plans the go ahead for the proposed development in on Chequer Lane, Upholland. The proposed 116 homes will be constructed by Morris Homes on a 4.96 hectare site on Chequer Lane, at the junction with Tower Hill Road by the M58 bridge.

Wainhomes will also be laying bricks on the land as they plan to construct 66 new homes at the site, meaning the new proposal will spike the number of properties on the land to 182. Proposed plans include the construction of 18 three bedroom semi-detached houses, 21 three bedroom detached houses, and 77 four bedroom detached houses. It’s safe to say neighbours aren’t happy, as Chris Gradwell said: “Upholland can not support another 116 dwellings in a small area with such bad roads and poor publlic transport.”

Literary Star A Winstanley student soars to literary success with two national prizes. Lucie Stanfield, 17, had been awarded first prize in two national creative writing competitions. Lucie, who is studying English Literature, Creative Writing and History at Winstanley College, was picked as the overall winner in the youth category from hundreds of entries for The Army’s poetry competition. Her poem, ‘Truce’, entwines two different perspectives of Dunkirk, one from real soldiers and the other from young boys playing soldiers. On Tuesday, April 24, Lucie will attend the awards ceremony at London’s National Army Museum where she will also read the poem. The writer also won Chester University’s Flash Fiction competition, with a short story being no more than 360 words. Her story ‘The Mermaid’s Purse’ was partly inspired by her own childhood memories and love of the beach but has a deliberately shocking ending. Gareth Twose, Lucie’s English teacher, is understandably extremely proud commenting: “Lucie has an amazing talent for writing, combined with a fantastic imagination which is a winning formula.” Lucie added: “When I found out I had won two competitions I was surprised but very happy. “I’m especially looking forward to going to the awards ceremony in London next month.”

In loving memory A new community garden on Tracks Lane, Billinge, has been dedicated to Ellen Higginbottom. Local volunteers with the help of Wigan Council have created a community garden in memory of Ellen Higginbottom who was murdered in Orrell Park last year. After her death, the garden area became a focal point for floral tributes to the popular Winstanley College student. Corin Lomax, a local volunteer involved in the

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LocalLife

garden project from the beginning, said: “It was the obvious spot to leave floral tributes to Ellen, so transforming the entire area into a memorial garden inspired by her was a natural progression.” A bench complete with memorial plaque and a box hedge has been installed by volunteers from Wigan Council’s greenspaces team, and Moss Bank Nurseries in Leigh donated bedding plants which will be replenished by Moss Bank as the seasons’ progress. The locals who have volunteered to maintain the site hope visitors will use Ellen’s garden as a place of quiet reflection and contemplation. Organisers and volunteers also hope the garden will eventually become eligible to enter the Wigan in Bloom competition. And local artist, Vikky Crompton, plans to make big mosaic stepping stones for Ellen’s Garden alongside anyone who is interested. To get involved with the mosaics or help with garden maintenance, please contact Joe Taylor on 01942 700060 or email joe41@blueyonder.co.uk

For Nathan A family fun run is being held in memory of Nathan Christy who sadly lost his life to suicide in 2016. The event, held at Haigh Woodland Park, will raise awareness of the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Sunday, May 6 would have been Nathan’s 27th birthday, and so it is fitting the fun run will be held in his honour. Arrive at 8.30am for a 9am start, and run or walk 1km or 5km and raise awareness for mental health.

Organisers said: “We are encouraging people to start talking about their mental health issues with the aim of stopping the stigma surrounding mental health issues and preventing loss of life by suicide. Entry fees are £3 for children (up to 16 years) and £5 for adults (17+). Participants can sign up at https:// bookitzone.com/noreen_christy/RN2FFX

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Ambitious art Wigan Borough’s cultural future is set for a boost thanks to Arts Council England (ACE) funding.

Donna Hall, chief executive of the council and lead officer for arts and culture in Greater Manchester said: “We have a significant cultural offer in Wigan Borough thanks to council-led opportunities.

The council has secured £10,000 from ACE to go towards creating a new cultural strategy with the help of three experts with more than 40 years’ experience between them.

“Having a diverse cultural offer is something we’re proud of and want to grow. “We want to put Wigan Borough at the forefront as a culturally thriving district and are looking forward to Sue, Debbie and Maria engaging with local people, businesses and organisations to see how the borough’s offer should be shaped.

Sue Potts, Debbie Chan and Maria Brewster were awarded the contract and have a long, credible history working with local authorities.

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“This strategy will allow us to focus our efforts and will benefit the local economy and the wellbeing of residents.” The trio said: “We are very excited about working to raise Wigan Borough’s profile. “We hope that the strategy will help the borough’s cultural ambitions to flourish, enabling local talent to be recognised and developed and make the arts available to everyone.” Locals will be updated in upcoming weeks on how to be involved in the consultation.

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Pamper package winner! Congratulations to Louise Swadkins from Winstanley who was the lucky winner of the pamper package for two at Venus Beauty Studios. To celebrate the expansion of the Salon, Venus Beauty Studio gave readers the chance to win a half hour treatment and use of the GYM ETC facilities. Louise, of Costessey Way, received her voucher and told Local Life that she would be treating her mum to the spa day. Louise added, “I have wanted to treat my Mum for a while now and when I saw the spa competition I thought that was a perfect idea. “We are so excited and can’t wait to book our treatments.”

Louise is pictured with Clare Roughley, owner of Venus Beauty Studios. Remember to be in with a chance of winning one of our great prizes, keep reading Local Life!

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Eveyon’es invited to Bispham Methodist Church for their Summer Fair.

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

Local families are welcome to enjoy a fun filled day together in the community on Saturday, May 12, from 10.30am-1.30pm. There’ll be a car wash if your motor needs a little TLC, plants to buy, nearly new baby clothes, as well as cakes and crafts. Why not try your luck at the tombola and raffle? Children can enjoy the activities including Ladybird habitat houses. Lunch will be provided at the cafe with a special barbecue to get you in the summer mood. For more info, call Brenda on 01942 203772.

Simply email us at wigannews@locallife247.co.uk

Be our Guest Ex-pupils of the old Abraham Guest School in Orrell are invited to a reunion. The reunion was originally publicised for the 2002 class, but organiser Chris Parkinson opened the event to all ex-pupils as he wanted it to feel like ‘more of a celebration than a reunion.’ Originally based on Orrell Road, Abraham Guest was demolished in 2010 and the school moved to Greenhey, off City Road, and changed its name last year to Dean Trust Wigan.

reminders on FB to make sure people are aware. “I was a bit nervous at first wondering if people would turn up, but a lot of people are looking forward to it. “The DJ is going to put pictures on a screen, and I’m having a dance off with my old head of year Mr Jeff Balmer.

Chris said: “Everyone was on about organising a reunion, so I thought I’d put something together.

“I thought it was a good thing to do. It’s where I grew up and the school holds some special memories. I’m definitely looking forward to it.”

“But a lot of people were thinking ‘Oh I might not see anyone I know,’ and I didn’t want anyone to miss out, so I thought we should open it up to everyone.

The reunion will be held at the Masonic Hall, Pemberton, on Saturday, April 28 at 7pm.

“Quite a few tickets have been sold at the pub, and I’ve sold quite a few personally. I keep putting

If you’d like to attend, tickets are £7.50 and can be purchased from the White Swan pub in Pemberton.

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Once you’ve meandered around the newly developed plant area and gift shop, why not take some time out to visit The Plantation Restaurant in its country colonial setting. Discover a delightful selection of delicious homemade meals, using the freshest of locally sourced ingredients. This is a great food venue, from breakfast through to afternoon tea. Garden centre owner, Richard Allison says, “We pride ourselves on offering a great range of quality gardening, lifestyle and giftware products supported by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable team. Our experienced buyers are continuously sourcing exciting new products to inspire our customers.” The future really does look bright for Warbreck. The whole team should be proud of what they have achieved, their energy and flair are making this an exceptional destination. The garden centre is conveniently situated near Ormskirk, less than a 20 minute drive from Southport, Formby, St Helens, Wigan and Maghull, close to junction 3 of M58.

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Caffeine fix One of Orrell’s longest running coffee mornings will soon be at a new venue. The Orrell & Billinge Community Network’s event is held on the last Friday of each month at the Methodist Church on Church Drive, and will soon move to the church hall behind the new Living Faith church on Church Street. On Friday, May 26, 10am, the first coffee morning will be held at the new location, where in addition to hot drinks, toast and teacakes, there is also a brica-brac stall and a popular home-made cake stall. The profits from the coffee mornings pay for the Over 75’s Christmas party, and donations are also made to charity and to the Orrell & Billinge Community Network.

Organiser Joan Winstanley said “We’re delighted to be moving to the church hall as it’s a lovely building and we’d like to thank the Living Faith church for making us so welcome at their new home. “All of the volunteers are looking forward to welcoming customers, old and new, to the first coffee morning at the Living Faith church”. The last coffee morning at the Methodist Church on Church Drive will be held on Friday, April 27.

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Funky Figures, Wigan presents its popular Comic Con at Robin Park Sports Centre once more. For the little and big kids of Wigan, the event is on Saturday, May 26, 10am-4pm. Special guests include John Challis, John Altman and Harry Smith “Davey Boy Smith Jr,” alongside artists/authors A.S. Chamber, Dave Windett, and Sam Johnson “Geek Girl.” There’ll be trade stalls selling all kinds of geeky merchandise, as well as a Cosplay competition, and photo opportunities. Attendees can enjoy retro gaming and arcade machines, with a chill out area for younger children too. Funky Figures said: “We love our Wigan show. This

is our home town and where our journey started.” If you’d like to attend the exciting event, family pass tickets are £20; ages 16 & over are £7; ages 15 & under are £5; kids under 5 go free! Tickets are available at www.funkyfigures.co.uk or pay on the door from 11am.

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Wigan’s Den The Rotary Club in Wigan hopes to donate cash to local community groups at its next ‘Dragons Den’ event. Local groups based in postcode districts of WN1, WN3, WN5, WN6 are invited to submit requests for funding, which if selected, will be invited to put their case to ‘The Dragons’ in a three minute presentation. The funds granted to community groups in the ‘Dragon’s Den’ initiative come directly from money

raised by Wigan Rotary’s Santa Float operation in December. Wigan Rotary Club President Gwyneth Millard said: “In these difficult times, I’m sure there are groups in the Wigan area that could use a donation of a few hundred pounds to help with their project or event. “Twelve groups were successful last year, but the Dragons had to decline a number of applications.” “Last year’s groups ranging from an Over 60’s group to a mother and toddler group entered ‘The Den’ and came away with a donation.” Bids of up to £500 can be considered, but the closing date for entries is Sunday, April 29. Full details and an application form are available via www.wiganrotaryclub.org.uk or by ringing 07813 471000.

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Helping the community Wigan will hold its own Stroke Awareness Day thanks to members of Wigan Rotary Club. On Saturday, April 21, 10am-4pm Wigan Rotary alongside the Stroke Association UK will hold a Stroke Awareness Day. The event is named in honour of the services that Rtn. Dr Venk Mani, who sadly passed away in 2016, gave to Stroke Awareness. His Worship the Mayor of Wigan, Cllr. Bill Clarke and the Mayoress will be in attendance. Rotary President Gwyneth Millard said: “The event will be held at Tesco super-market off Central Park Way where medically trained members of club are offering free blood pressure checks.

“The Rotary Club of Wigan wants to encourage people to take this opportunity to have a free check and help themselves in the prevention of strokes in our community. “We will also be presenting Tesco with a Certificate in recognition of their community work and the help given to the Rotary.”

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Gold Star Wigan Council received a gold certificate for its positive involvement in Transport for Great Manchester. The council is one of twenty businesses that have been celebrated for inspiring thousands of people to opt for more sustainable journeys to work. Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM’s) Travel Choices team awarded companies gold, silver or bronze certificates for encouraging employees to walk, cycle, carshare or take public transport.

Rebecca Heron, director for economy and skills at Wigan Council said: “We’re delighted to have been awarded the gold award from TfGM as we have worked extremely hard to encourage employees to think about their travel arrangements over the last two years as part of the Staff Deal. “We have introduced a car sharing initiative in a bid to lower carbon emissions with the added bonus of reserved parking spaces and reduced fuel costs. “We also kick-started a bike-pooling programme, allowing staff to travel to nearby meetings or site visits on either an electric or hybrid bike, which is great for both the environment and health and wellbeing. “We look forward to continuing this work and encouraging more people to travel green.”

The Billinge

split... With Local Elections imminent, David Sudworth discovers the story behind Billinge’s split

t’s possibly one of the most bizarre Parliamentary speeches ever committed to Hansard.

But just before 9pm on July 6, 1972, MP Gordon Oakes stood up in the House of Commons and gave his reasoning as to why part of Billinge was soon to join Rainford and Haydock in the new county of Merseyside. “They are all Lancashire towns, based on heavy industry, glass making, formerly on coal mining. The people there speak with a clear and distinct Lancashire

29 accent. The people there, for example, watch Rugby League, not Liverpool or Everton. The people in those areas eat tripe and onions, not Scouse.” Oakes’ speech may have seemed, in the context of local government reorganisation, a bit bizarre. But in fact, he was arguing that although there was nothing wrong with those places joining together, he did have grave reservations about them becoming part of a greater Merseyside area. He explained: “They talk differently, work at different occupations. The problem is of urban renewal. That type of problem is totally different from the problems of Huyton, Kirkby, Halewood and Whiston, which are new, expanding towns, where they have basically

“Totally different to the problems of Huyton” light industry and support Liverpool or Everton with equal vociferousness, while poor little Huyton can hardly get a team going at all. Sport is important in the constitution of an area, just as important as the problems of youth facilities, schools, social services, and things of that kind.” Within two years, the deed had been done. Part of Billinge, along with Rainford, Haydock, Crank, Moss Bank, Kings Moss and other areas, had become part of a new St Helens borough within the County of Merseyside.

Despite it being 44 years since the changes, they still rankle, especially in Billinge where some feel the village was unnecessarily divided. Many of those blame Edward Heath’s Government, who were in power at the time. However, a dig into the archives reveals that in fact Billinge’s administrative divorce from Wigan predated the local government changes of 1974 by over 100 years. Billinge as a whole was part of the Deanery of Wigan up until February 2, 1837, when the Wigan Poor Law Union came into force. The law divided Billinge into two different townships; Chapel End and Higher End. By the end of that century, Billinge Urban District Council had been formed. In 1927, it joined Winstanley township to become Billinge & Winstanley Urban District Council. It’s important to stress though that, at this point, they were not ‘part’ of Wigan - Billinge & Winstanley UDC was an authority in its own right. Fast-forward to 1974 and townships up and down the country were allocated into different ‘new’ areas. Some of the original suggestions survived; some fell by the wayside (there was talk at one point of Ashton being part of St Helens). However, scanning the newspaper coverage at

Billinge & Winstanley Council’s final meeting in 1974

the time, there’s very little in the way of any concerns about loss of civic identity. Indeed, local MP Michael McGuire said in a Parliamentary debate that he’d had no complaints about the situation from constituents.

30 Most of the concerns centred around more basic matters; namely pounds and pence. “Rate Shock - 61p in the £ for New Metro” cried one local newspaper, reporting on the housing rates being set. Locals in the Merseyside part of Billinge were equally unimpressed. One said: “I have got a free bus pass but can only use it to go to St Helens or Liverpool, but not Wigan or Orrell. I can go to Southport, but only if it is via St Helens. Why could they not have joined the whole of Billinge to Wigan? To me, this is just another case of planning with no consideration for human beings.”

“Local politics? They are a joke... ” Life wasn’t plain sailing for those who worked for the new councils either. Almost 8,000 workers were paid the wrong amounts in the first few weeks. Although one cleaner at Wigan Metro wasn’t too fussed - her normal wage of £2.50 shot up to £25! And even those areas which, on the face of it, weren’t massively effected, weren’t happy. At the final meeting of Orrell Urban District Council, councillors slammed the Metro as being ‘arrogant’ for wanting to tear down their Council Chamber and turn it into offices.

Orrell Urban District Council’s final sitting Councillor John Fitzpatrick stormed: “Local politics? They are a joke if this is the way they are going to carry out their business.” However, Wigan’s first ever Mayor, Cllr Bob Lyons, sought to soothe divisions: “I appreciate the fears of many people that there will be a feeling of isolation and loss of contact. I would like to assure people that I and all my colleagues will be available for interview and advice. I know the new members will serve to the best of their ability.” 44 years on and it’s fair to say that, while the financial grumbles still rumble on, the sense of civic loss has grown. But perhaps it is unfair to push the blame onto those who made the 1974 decision. Since then, any new local government reorganisation plans have been mostly about making areas bigger, rather than going back to the pre-1974 model. Moreover, regardless of what area of Billinge you live, both parishes are ultimately controlled by the same ruling party (Labour) in their respective town halls. As for (since deceased) MP Gordon Oakes’ pronouncements; pigs’ innards are no longer consumed in the same quantities as it was in the early 1970s; accents have grown more fluid along with occupations, but football is still not as popular as rugby.

Billinge just before it became part of Merseyside

Just goes to show that MPs talking tripe isn’t a wholly new phenomenon...

Ruff play Wigan Bulldogs ARLFC is on the lookout for the members to join the ranks. The amateur rugby league club play games at Bulldog Park, Scot Lane playing fields, and are looking for new players. Darren Lindley, Chairman of the club said: “I’ve been here for 20 years and I took over nine years ago, when we only had an open age team.

“There are a lot of clubs in Wigan, so you’re almost fighting to recruit. But all our kids are new to the sport, so they’re learning the game with us.

“I turned it around, and now we’ve had a juniors team for five year. We’ve also had national lottery funding that has helped a lot.

“One of our players two years ago went to Canada with the England Lion Hearts. It’s a big thing for any amateur player. And we’ve got another player going to Italy with them in July.

“The open age team is in the NW Men’s League Division 3 and the kids are in the NW Junior League.

“We’re on the up this year. We’re getting more notice now, and we’re getting recognition for all the hard work.” The team trains and plays at Scot Lane playing fields on Stadium Way. Open age training is Thursday, 6.30pm and kids training is on a Saturday morning at 10.30am. For more information about the club please call Darren on 07761 361816 or Natalie on 07921 506719.

Sailing away Eager kids can try something new with a water course at Scotmans Flash.

complete the beginner course will recieve free membership to the Tuesday evening activity club.

The six week Junior Beginners Sailing, Windsurfing & Kayaking courses will begin on Saturday, June 9, 1pm-4pm and finish on Saturday, June 30, 1pm4pm.

The course is £60, which also includes logbooks and certificates where applicable.

Participants will follow RYA and BCU training schemes for beginners, and all students who

For more events, please check out our E2G on pages 68-72.

To book, email outdooradventure@wlct.org or telephone 01942 828508 for more information.

Planning Matters Billinge

Orrell

Winstanley College, Winstanley Road: Two storey extension and alterations to social science block to create additional classrooms and associated facilities (ref: A/18/85238/FULL).

57 Moor Road: Change of use from A2 (Financial and professional services) to A3 (Cafe) together with installation of extractor flue to rear (retrospective application)(ref: A/18/85305/CU).

Kitt Green

Up Holland

H J Heinz Co Ltd, Walthew House Lane: To construct a new detached substation and associated works (ref: A/18/85133/FULL).

86E Ormskirk Road: Change of Use from residential to mixed use of residential and dog grooming business (Class A2)(ref: 2018/0299/FUL).

For more information on these plans, visit: www.wigan.gov.uk

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Changing lanes TransPennine Express customers in Wigan are being asked to prepare for a major timetable change from May.

Other operators including Northern Rail will continue to provide services between Wigan and Manchester.

Train times and services between Edinburgh, Glasgow, Motherwell, Lockerbie, Carlisle, Penrith, Oxenholme, Lancaster, Preston, Wigan and Manchester will soon look quite different.

Leo Goodwin, Managing Director for TransPennine Express said: “This is one of the biggest timetable changes the North has seen and will deliver real benefits. “Customers are already benefitting from free on-board Wi-Fi and entertainment system, Exstream. Our Nova 2 trains will be introduced on the route from early 2019 as part of a £500million investment which will deliver an extra 13million more seats a year.”

From Sunday, May 20, customers are asked to plan ahead the changes which are part of the Great North Rail Project (GNRP). Services to and from Scotland will run direct between Preston and Manchester Piccadilly meaning the journey will no longer call at Wigan North Western and Manchester Oxford Road.

Full details of all train times and fares can be found at www.tpexpress.co.uk

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Turning

Local Life is 10 years old this month!

ounded in a back bedroom on Sandy Lane, Local Life now produces five magazines a month (Wigan, St Helens, Chorley, West Lancs and Leigh & District) from our offices at Hewitt Business Park on Winstanley Road. We also deliver over 750,000 leaflets a year too. We’re proud of the fact that many of our customers stay with us, year after year, so here’s what our advertisers have to say about Local Life.

Previous to advertising in Local Life, just 10% of our work came from Wigan itself and now, two years after advertising in Local Life, over 50% of our work is local. We get lots of enquiries every month from Local Life, it’s a great magazine which people read and use.

I’m pleased to say that every customer we have introduced to Local Life has had a direct and noticeable response. Both us, and our clients, love the publications and they are now one of the first types of local advertising we suggest when putting together promotional campaigns. Elaine Rimmer – Platinum Advertising & Design Ltd It’s been a pleasure being part of your magazines 10 year growth, long may it continue. Bob McWilliam - Manor House Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning It’s a great pleasure to be associated with your magazine. I advertise my brickwork company in Local Life and feel it offers me great value. Marc Mulligan Brickwork

Shane Wilson – Vale of Wigan Local Life covers areas that we just can’t reach with any other publication. We know when it has been delivered as our phone never stops ringing. It’s always our first choice for advertising. Sharon Lee – Expressions of Beauty I have advertised in Local Life for over 8 years now and it has consistently been my main source of new business. It is a fantastic, quality magazine which, as well as supporting local businesses, gives its readers an interesting and informative read. I would thoroughly recommend it. Angie Barker Garden Design

As a frequent advertiser and reader of Local Life, it has made a big difference to my business with a vast number of customers coming from looking at the magazine, here’s to another 10 years! Graham Collier- Top Coat Decorating Service We love that little magazine. It makes a difference to customers visiting our showroom and our sales. Andrea Hampson - Cabinet Masters

39 We continue to move forward and have taken on another person to help with the workload generated from the advertisement in Local Life. Chris Linnet – CL Bathrooms Having worked with other advertising mediums over the last 15 years the Local Life publication remains our partner of choice and continues to generate extremely positive responses from clients, both existing and new. David Barton – Prosper Wealth Management Local Life is the best local print advertising media around, without a doubt, and it’s the only publication we advertise in. We also use the leaflet distribution service on a regular basis and it’s very reliable and also quite cheap compared to other distribution companies. Ian Johnson – GreenThumb Wigan

I’ve been advertising with Local Life for most of the last decade. It’s the only advertising I need to do and it reliably brings me good quality local jobs every single month. Chris Banks – Cosmeticar Around 80/90% of our work comes from Local Life and it’s all local work, we don’t have to waste hours sitting in traffic each day. As of today (10th April), we’re already booked up until August; that’s how successful Local Life is. Colin Wilson – Wilson Bros. Building and Roofing In my view, Local Life offers my company the most comprehensive coverage of Wigan’s strongest housing areas and I’m delighted to be able to offer my customers the chance to display their homes in this popular local magazine. Alan Batt Estate Agents

If you’d like to promote your company in Local Life magazine or use our leaflet distribution service, call Nicola or Chris on 01695 627999 or pop into our offices at Unit 8 - Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell WN5 7ZB. www.locallife247.co.uk

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Property

First time

joy

by Alan Batt

ositive news from the Wigan Property Market this week for the town’s first time buyers as recently released data shows that the number of local first time buyers taking out their first mortgage in 2017 increased more than in any other year since the global financial crisis in 2008/2009. The data shows there were 723 first time buyers in Wigan, the largest number since 2006. It might surprise readers to know that it is actually cheaper to buy than it is to rent at the ‘starter home’ end of the housing market, as long as you have the required funds for a deposit and select a good value fixed-rate mortgage. Many of you can remember mortgage rates at 12% ... even 15%. Today, at the time of writing this article, I found a 3 year fixed mortgage from a reputable High Street bank at 2.49%, with only a 5% deposit required. Conversely, the same study showed that the buy-tolet investment market in Wigan was subdued over the same period, with only 148 buy-to-let properties being purchased with a mortgage. However, you

Alan Batt Alan Batt is a member of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and has worked within the Wigan property market for over 30 years.

need to bear in mind that some buy-to-let properties were bought on a hard cash basis, and there is no hard and fast data on the total numbers of buy-tolet properties bought, though HM Treasury believes approximately only 30% to 40% of buy-to-let property is bought with a mortgage. So, what does all this mean for the Wigan Property Market? Well, whilst the stats paint a picture, they don’t inform us of the whole story. The upper end of the Wigan property market has been weighed down by the indecision around the Brexit negotiations and rise in stamp duty in 2014. The middle part of the Wigan property market has been affected by the lack of good properties to buy, as selling prices have reached the limit of what buyers can afford under existing mortgage regulations. The lower to middle Wigan property market has been hit by tax changes for buy-to-let landlords, although this has been offset by this increase in first time buyers. If you currently have a house for sale, you’ll need to be 100% realistic with your pricing in order to achieve a sale, and you might not get as much as you thought you’d get, but the house you want to buy will probably be cheaper too. If you are thinking of selling your Wigan property, don’t ask the agent out a few days before you want to put the property on the market; get them out now and ask them what you need to do to ensure you get maximum value in the shortest possible time. I, like most Wigan agents, will freely give that advice to you at no cost or commitment to you.

Caveat Emptor -

buyer beware W

ith readers seeing a rise in outgoings this month due to a rise in council tax, I’m going to take this opportunity to address one of the most popular misconceptions about council tax bands; Adding extensions and improving your home will NOT change the home’s council tax band. However, the government’s Valuation Office Agency does reserve the right to re-value the extended property,if and when the property gets sold. So if you are a potential buyer, you should beware of this as the VOA could change the council tax band, and therefore the amount of council tax you pay will increase as a result. This does not necessarily mean that the banding will jump one band, this depends on the extent of the improvements and where the property lies within its existing valuation band. More often than not – it isn’t an issue and the banding stays the same.

By the way, if you disagree with your own home’s council tax band, you can apply for it to be reassessed, but let me warn you that if you do this then your band could be moved up as well as down.

Anyone can check the banding of any property by visiting www.gov.uk/council-tax-bands

do get in touch. You can email me on alan@alanbatt. co.uk or call me on 01942 233999.

If you have any questions relating to property, then

For more of Alan’s tips, guidance and analysis on the Wigan property market, check out www.wiganpropertynews.blogspot.co.uk

Puzzle Corner WORD SEARCH - Local History

SUDOKU 2

Find the hidden words in the word search grid C

CARVING BRONZE REMAINS ABBEY MOSAIC

STONE COIN WEAPON ANCIENT RUINS

WORD MIX UP - Local History Unscramble the letters to make a word

WALK CASTLE CHURCH ARTEFACT DIG

1 3

8 7 9

NUMBER BLOCK

9 9 2 3

0 5

8 28 15 5 14

24 10 12 19 14 The numbers in each row add up to totals to the right.

LEACHAGOORY

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

NYDW REACHVI YETTOPR

totals to the right.

WIGGLE WORDS CLUE: Brings Good Luck

LOANG NASOX TABLEFIDLET NORMA ROBOHC

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

F R E V

O U R O

A E L L

F E D C

All the puzzle solutions are on page 98 of this magazine

46 ADVERTISEMENT

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hether you are a student just finishing your GCSEs or someone wanting a change of career pathway, TMP College is the place to be! TMP College, based in Pemberton, is a specialist college for Music, Media, Games and Digital Technologies. With outstanding achievement rates, the best

music facilities around and staff working within the creative industries, this could be your opportunity to kick-start a new and exciting career. You will work with established bands, gain experience of live events and come out with a great CV as well as qualifications for university or employment. Career pathways are more diverse than ever before. The entertainment, creative and digital industries are growing rapidly and so too are the careers in the industry, with skills gaps growing year after year. At their centres in Pemberton and Hindley, TMP College offers a dedicated music and media learning experience and students can study a wide range of qualifications with Diplomas at levels 1 and 2 and Extended Diplomas at level 3.

TMP is a specialist college for anyone wanting a career in the entertainment, creative and digital industries. Delivering excellence in 9 courses; Music Performance, Composition, Technology, Business, Creative & Digital Media, TV and Film, Live Events/Event Management and Games Design & Development and IT/Digital Technologies; with outstanding success rates and destination outcomes. Achieve a level 3 on one of these courses and it’s worth 3 ‘A’ levels and will carry full UCAS points for students to progress to university. The experienced staff at TMP College are passionate about music and media and so are their students, who thrive in a friendly and creative environment with similarly like-minded people. The courses are based on the achievement of coursework rather than exams, which means that students can achieve through the completion of practical real-life projects, rather than tests of knowledge and memory. Bursaries are available too – so students can earn whilst they learn! TMP College offers students the opportunity to work alongside inspirational tutors currently working in the music industry and performing with other industry experts. TMP College also offers a wide range of facilities including venues, rehearsal rooms, commercial recording studio run by the well-known producer John Kettle, technology suite and small group music tuition from our experienced tutors. So if you have a passion about making a career in media, music, and/or game design and development, call TMP College on 01942 212 607 for more details and a tour of their facilities. TMP College, 830 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8EX www.music-projects.com

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Class from the past

This month’s Class from the Past is from Abraham Guest. It’s believed the photo was taken in the early 1960s. Maybe you can spot a familiar face?

Do you have an old class photo you’d like to share? If so, why not email it to us on wigannews@ locallife247.co.uk

Community day All local community groups, charities and good causes are invited to Wigan’s Community Day 2018. Back for the fifth year, the people of Wigan and their causes are welcome at the free event on Saturday, July 7 from 10am-4pm. Locals can raise their profile, recruit new members and volunteers, raise funds, promote their cause, provide information and advice, and sell merchandise to thousands of local people who will be at the event. Participants will be given a 9ft wide frontage along Standishgate to advertise their group as they see fit.

Organisers Wigan Rotary Club have obtained the necessary licences; all you have to do is turn up and join in! There’ll be a huge stage featuring performances from the Wigan Jazz Orchestra and talent from the local community providing entertainment throughout the day. All you have to do is pay a £10 deposit, which is returnable if you turn up, and observe a few simple rules. To find out more, visit Wigan Rotary Club’s website at www.wiganrotaryclub.org.uk

Health & Fitness

Make May

purple By Niamh Ollerton

n England, one in six people will have a stroke in their lifetime. And in the UK, strokes occurs approximately 152,000 times a year – that’s one every 3 minutes 27 seconds. First-time incidence of a stroke occurs almost 17 million times a year worldwide; one every two seconds. It is estimated around 30% of people who have a stroke will go on to experience another. Strokes are a leading cause of death and disability in the UK, with around 32,000 stroke-related deaths in England each year. Most people who have strokes are over 65, but one in four strokes happen in younger people. That’s nearly 40,000 people a year including several hundred children.

Deaths related to strokes have declined by 49% in the past 15 years, and this is down to better prevention, earlier treatment and more advanced treatment. It’s important to act quickly as you could save your own or someone else’s life, or help limit the longterm effects of strokes, by learning to think and Act F.A.S.T. What is a stroke? A stroke is a brain attack. It happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is cut off. Without blood your brain cells can be damaged or die. This damage can have different effects, depending on where it happens in your brain.

Photos courtesy of the Stroke Association

There’s no denying that a stroke can be fatal, but it’s worth noting there are over 1.2 million stroke survivors in the UK.

51 A stroke can affect the way your body works as well as how you think, feel and communicate. What causes a stroke? As we age, our arteries become harder and narrower and are more likely to become blocked. But, some medical conditions and lifestyle factors can speed up this process and increase your risk. Different types of stroke Most strokes are caused by a blockage cutting off the blood supply to the brain. This is an ischaemic stroke. But they can also be caused by a bleeding in or around the brain. This is a haemorrhagic stroke. A transient ischaemic attack (TIA) is also known as a mini-stroke. It’s the same as a stroke, except symptoms only last for a short amount of time, as the blockage stopping the blood getting to your brain is temporary. Can you recover from a stroke? For some people the effects may be relatively minor and not last long, but others may be left with serious health problems that make them dependent on other people. Know the signs of a stroke F.A.S.T. or Face-Arms-Speech-Time is easy to remember and will help you to recognise if you or someone else is having a stroke. Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile? Arms – can they raise both arms and keep them there? Speech – is their speech slurred? Time to call 999 if you see any single one of these signs of a stroke. Other symptoms that can be due to a stroke also include: Sudden loss of vision or blurred vision in one or both eyes; Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body (including your leg);

52 At school Get the whole school to dress in purple for the day, or turn your sports day into a purple extravaganza. There could even be purple activities for parents too! At home Invite your friends round for a purple dinner and have purple food and drink. Get everyone to wear purple and play purple games. The possibilities are endless.

Sudden memory loss or confusion; Sudden dizziness, unsteadiness or a sudden fall, especially with any of the other symptoms. Why act F.A.S.T? If you notice any sign of a stroke, call 999. The faster you act, the better the chance of recovery.

Purple May And to raise awareness for this worthwhile cause, it’s time to Make May Purple – Go Purple for Pounds during the Stroke Association’s annual awareness month. Friends, families and communities are invited to show their support for people who have been affected by a stroke. The Stroke Association helps stroke survivors regain their independence, but they need our help. All you need to do is wear purple and every penny raised will help provide support for stroke survivors. Wear purple to work, school or outside in your community – wherever you are, the association hopes you’ll turn all your activities purple during May. Every purple event you take part in will really make a difference to stroke survivors. Go purple at work Get everyone to dress in purple for the day and even host a purple bake sale.

Tony Rudd, National Clinical Director for Stroke with NHS England and stroke physician at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Thanks to improved NHS care, stroke survival is now at record high levels. “Urgent treatment for strokes is essential, so friends and family can play a key part in making sure their loved ones receive care as quickly as possible.” Juliet Bouverie, CEO of the Stroke Association, said: “As the UK’s leading stroke charity, we have said time and again that stroke devastates lives in an instant. “Almost two thirds of stroke survivors leave hospital with a disability, but it doesn’t have to be this way. “The faster you seek and receive emergency specialist treatment for stroke, the better your chances of making a good recovery. Knowing the signs of stroke and being able to Act FAST could save a life – your life.” If you’d like to find out more about the Stroke Association and get involved, please visit https:// www.stroke.org.uk/

Travel

All Quiet on the

Western Front If I should die, think only this of me: That there’s some corner of a foreign field

That is forever England.

his excerpt from Rupert Brooke’s poem, The Soldier, springs to mind whilst driving through the pretty Belgian countryside. It’s a peaceful rural backdrop with neatly uniform fields full of crops and it’s hard to imagine it as it was a century ago; a desolate landscape of mud, burntout trees and barbed wire, with shattered men crouching in trenches with the roar of heavy artillery overhead.

increasing number of visitors of all ages, and in this month’s travel feature we take a look at a few main sites and attractions in Belgium and France.

As the 100th year anniversary of the end of the Great War comes to pass, visiting the battlefields of the period remains a fascinating and moving experience. These visits brings history alive for an

Ypres today is known as the city of peace and war graves cover the landscape around the area, including the Tyne Cot Commonwealth war cemetery which houses the graves of 11,954

During the Great War, Ypres occupied a strategic position standing directly in the path of Germany’s plans to invade France from the north. One in three of British deaths on the Western Front happened in the Ypres area and during the course of the war the town was all but obliterated by artillery fire.

55 soldiers, but the most popular site for visitors is the Menin Gate Memorial to the Missing. The memorial is dedicated to the 54,395 Commonwealth soldiers who died in the Ypres Salient but whose bodies have never been identified or found. Every night at 8pm since 1927, except when the Germans occupied the area in World War 2, buglers sound the ‘Last Post’. Just two miles east of Ypres is Sanctuary Wood, home of the Flanders Field Museum, and one of the most popular destinations for the battlefield visitor. The museum manages to blend wartime artefacts with multimedia presentations to create a first-person view of life in the bleakest of conditions, whilst the trenches behind the museum give a very good feel for what it must have been like to experience the mud and misery of the trenches.

No visit to the battlefields would be complete without a visit to The Somme, to see the area where the infamous Battle of the Somme began on a summer’s day in July and ended in a snowstorm 4½ months later. The excellent Historical Museum of the Great War, which is housed within a medieval castle in Peronne, provides visitors with not only a vision of what life

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was like for the soldiers at the front but also that of the civilians of the town, which was occupied by enemy troops for two separate periods during the Great War. This absorbing museum follows the chronology of the war and uses carefully selected artefacts to illustrate military, cultural and social life. There arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t many places in the Somme area where the ground has been undisturbed since the end of the Great War, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why the Newfoundland Memorial Park is a popular choice for battlefield visitors. Shell-holes and the trenches of both sides can still be clearly seen and even walked along. The Newfoundland Regiment suffered appalling losses here in July 1916 and after the War ended, Newfoundland purchased the land, and the area is now a Canadian National Historic Site. One of the most impressive sites to visit is the Wellington Quarry in Arras, which tells the story leading up to the battle of Arras on April 9th, 1917.

After a series of losses in Arras, the decision was taken to tunnel under Arras in the chalk quarries that were originally dug out centuries before, in order to hide 24,000 troops near the German front lines in readiness for a new attack. This work, mainly undertaken by Maori miners, took a whole six months and a chapel, power station, light railway, communications room, a hospital and a well were all created in the pale, flickering electric light and visitors can experience an unforgettable underground tour illustrating the horrors and futility of war. There are number of tour operators who offer Battlefield coach tours including Leger Holidays, who are the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading provider of escorted tours. You can pick up a Leger Holidays brochure at Marken Travel, 200 Main Street, Billinge WN5 7PE or just call 01744 893291 and a brochure will be posted out to you.

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Step up in style

Expansion at

Prosper Wealth Management

mongst the local gossip recently was news that Prosper Wealth Management had bought a property next door to their offices on the High Street in Standish, so I popped up to see the company’s owner David Barton David Barton to find out what his future plans were for his business. CP Why did you need to buy the house next door? DB We didn’t (laugh…) As this wasn’t available we got permission from the council to extend to the side and rear of the existing premises. We’re growing really quickly as more and more prospective clients are engaging with us for financial planning services, both for investment and for retirement planning, and we needed the space for extra staff that will strengthen our research and administrative functions. CP Was it easy recruiting the extra staff? DB In a word, no! We really needed to invest in additional high quality staff with a particular skill set and a high level of technical competence to ensure that our new and existing clients benefit from both our initial planning advice service as well as our ongoing guidance. We started looking for staff in May 2017 but it wasn’t until February this year that we secured three new experienced professionals, two Para-Planners/Researchers and a Senior Administrator.

CP Why didn’t you just move to a bigger place? DB All of us at Prosper Wealth Management live locally and the majority of our clients live within a 5 mile radius, so we didn’t want to inconvenience them by moving out of the area. More importantly, I live 5 minutes away from the office and I like the sandwiches at Kaz’s kitchen… CP How will the changes affect you in the short term? DB The build is scheduled to start in May with a view to finishing by the end of summer. Don’t be put off by the scaffolding; we will still be open and working hard. The interior designer’s brief is to create a contemporary space with a relaxed, yet confidential feel, so we’re all looking forward to working in the new offices. CP So what are the plans for the future? DB Well, we’re currently attracting £2m to £2.5m of pension and investment money per month from local clients and our business plan is to grow the funds under management from £140m to £250m within the next three years. CP And how confident are you that will happen? DB We were the first Independent Financial Adviser in Wigan to achieve Chartered Financial Status, and people know that they can depend on us for quality advice in the areas of investments and, more specifically, pension planning, so yes, I’m quietly confident we can achieve that target. CP Good luck David, all the very best!

Counting

Sheep

Pemberton-based retailers Land of Beds hopes to give customers an even better night’s sleep with its new collection. The Sleep Council’s latest research found one fifth of Britons sleep poorly most nights, and an additional five percent sleep ‘very poorly.’ Pemberton-based retailers Land of Beds wanted to tackle this problem, and partnered up with British bed makers Dunlopillo to offer the sleep-improving Signature Bed Collection.

“We are proud to be official stockists of all three award-winning mattresses at our Pemberton store.”

In an industry first, the collection includes three mattresses that have all recently won a Which? magazine ‘Best Buy’ award.

The Millennium and Orchid mattresses are first-time Which? award winners, while the Royal Sovereign retains its status for the third consecutive year.

Mike Murray, Managing Director at Land of Beds said: “It’s a feat that no other mattress manufacturer has ever achieved.

Mike added: “We’re an award-winning family-run business working with award-winning bed brands – making us the ideal local retailer to speak to for advice if your sleep quality needs improving.”

‘For Dunlopillo to win three 2018 ‘Best Buy’ awards, is a real testament to the premium quality of the products.

To view the Signature Bed Collection online, visit www.landofbeds.co.uk/Dunlopillo

And they’re off! Haydock Park Racecourse’s next event features a lot more than furlongs and jockeys as the Business Fair comes to town.

It’s free to attend, and participants will be able to connect with local businesses, make new contacts and hear from inspirational guest speakers.

The racecourse is used to hosting events of a competitive nature, but the participants at the next event will be in suits and not silks.

Keynote speakers include Alana Spencer, 2016’s winner of BBC’s The Apprentice and owner of Ridiculously Rich, and also Lawrence Kenwright, owner of the Signature Living hotel group.

On Thursday, April 26, the St Helens Chamber Business Fair will be open for business from 10.30am-3pm for local businesses and individuals to shine. According to St Helens Chamber, it’s the largest business to business networking event in the North West, with last year’s event attracting over 500 companies.

Business people can also visit the company showcase featuring a wide variety of business sectors, a programme of free business seminars and enjoy lots of networking opportunities. For more details visit www.sthelenschamber. com or email Rachel Wellens on rachel.wellens@ sthelenschamber.com

Success in

trade

The Good Trader awards winners for 2018 have been announced. Wigan Council’s Good Trader Scheme was set up in 2008, and each year local traders are recognised for their excellent service to residents. There are now over 200 companies and individuals in the scheme who are trusted in their field of work. Members of the scheme come from different sectors and are judged on customer feedback generated over the last 12 months. By using the scheme, residents are able to avoid uninvited traders and reduce doorstep crime risk. Overall winners for 2018 are: Winner (Wigan) KDM Electrical; Winner (Leigh) Ferris Electrical & Ferris Property Maintenance; Highly Commended (Wigan) Royal Home Improvements; Highly Commended (Leigh) Gary Sanderson Carpets & Vinyls; Best Newcomer (Wigan) Case & Young Limited; Best Newcomer (Leigh) Grimshaw Autos.

Councillor Kevin Anderson, Wigan Council cabinet member for environment, said: “It’s extremely important to recognise the traders who work hard to provide a high quality service to residents. “Congratulations to all the winners and runner ups but also not forgetting every single one of our registered traders of the Good Trader Scheme.” To find out more about the Good Trader Scheme visit www.wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader

Successful partnership Wigan Pier’s regeneration will be overseen by a Manchester developer. Step Places has been chosen by Wigan Council, in partnership with the Canal & River Trust to lead the project. The company plans to transform the derelict 18th century industrial site into a fresh multi-leisure destination for the people of Wigan and beyond. Three buildings have been chosen for the regeneration including The Warehouse, The Orwell public house, and the Education Centre. Harinder Dhaliwal, managing director of Step Places, said: "We are excited to be part of a partnership delivering such a world-class venue and bringing life back to Wigan Pier, respecting its

past and heritage." Councillor David Molyneux, deputy leader of Wigan Council, added: "Wigan Pier is one the most iconic locations in the North West. We have had long-held ambitions to create a new purpose for Wigan Pier as a destination and leisure attraction. "We will support Step Places throughout the process and look forward to its plans being realised and Wigan Pier become a popular destination for people in the borough and beyond once again." Ian Sprott of the Canal & River Trust said: "The Canal and River Trust is proud to have been a partner in securing a new future for the Wigan Pier Quarter and we are excited by the developer's vision for the area."

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Keeping it in the

family

by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy

e often get asked about paying your child from the business. You can pay your son or daughter from your business, but they must do some real work for that money, work which is worth what you pay them. The work need not be performed at your business premises. Skills which could be used to promote your business online or to design marketing materials could be applied remotely, perhaps while away at university. However, you need to be able to prove that adequate work was performed for the rewards. Where work is done in between studying and is not supervised, there needs to be an accurate record such as a timesheet. Also, there are rules on how many hours a child under sixteen is legally allowed to work, during school term time and during the holidays. Where the pay is more than £113 per week, you must put it through the payroll as you would for any other employee. On the subject of payroll, the national minimum wages, NMW, rates rise on 01 April 2018. The NMW depends on each employee’s age and the top rate for those aged 25 and over will rise from £7.50 to £7.83 per hour. There are different rules for company directors and we are happy to advise on these. If you are employed then you should be receiving your tax code notices for the 2018/19 tax year. You should carefully check these to ensure they accurately reflect your income position. If you believe the figures are incorrect you can ask for an amendment using your personal tax account; ask us how.

Here at CMA we always offer a free consultation for any sole trader business, landlord or companies that would like to speak to us about their finances. We provide dynamic, value for money accountancy services and work alongside business owners to implement cloud based solutions that enable them to work efficiently and achieve their personal and business goals. Alternatively drop by the office on Skull House Lane in Appley Bridge and we can discuss these further over a coffee. There will be no charge for the initial meeting. Contact Details Chris Alcock ACMA CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR Tel: 01257 255521 Email info@handsonaccounting.co.uk web www.handsonaccounting.co.uk

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Food & Drink

10 items no kitchen should

be without

o you’ve spent good money on creating the perfect space in which to create the perfect meal. The problems is, no matter how much you’ve forked out on that oven, those cabinets and cupboards, a good workman or woman is only as good as the tools at their disposal. Not that we would ever advocate blaming your kit when things go wrong, of course.

possibilities in terms of what you can cook. Imagine inviting friends over for penne and porcini mushrooms, and then revealing you made the pasta yourself. Or frying up some sirloins, complete with griddle marks. Few things are more satisfying than serving properly made dishes, so here’s a checklist of essentials you should always have to hand before you start showing off any culinary expertise.

Having a variety of quality equipment at your disposal in the kitchen will open up countless

Ladle In layman’s terms, this is really just a large spoon with a bent handle and deep serving cup. Ideal for soups, obviously, it’s difficult to perfect a Vietnamese noodle pho without one of these. Chef’s knife and sharpening block Ideally you should be looking for an 8-10” blade with a thick bolster to act as a finger guard, and the knife itself should sit comfortably in your hand. A sharpening block is essential too, otherwise preparing meat will be rather troublesome after a few months.

65 Grater and microplane Most of us have a grater somewhere in the home, but we recommend looking for one that also allows you to microplane- you’ll need that for zesting lemons, grating Parmesan, herbs and spices, which is important in more complex dishes. Paring knife You won’t be able to make fine cuts - for example coring tomatoes, other fruits and vegetables without one of these. One word of advice; if the blade doesn’t extend into the handle put it back on the shelf and look for another. Cerated bread knife Let’s face it, your weekday morning toast is fine from a loaf of pre-cut bread, but if you’re sitting down to a hearty winter stew and want a crusty baguette you’ll need a suitable knife to carve it up. Can opener Look for a bulky plastic can opener that has a twist knob on top, rather than the more old school allmetal version. Wire mesh colander If you’re cooking pasta then this is a key purchase, even if that pasta is shop bought. Try to find one with a foot at the bottom, thus meaning your spaghetti won’t be left sitting in a puddle of water. Pasta maker There are almost as many pasta makers on the market as there are types of pasta, and so it can get a little confusing. Our preference would be to choose on that offers between three and five settings for various pasta shapes - any more and chances are it will be a jack of all trades, master of none. Wok Although no longer the exotic pan it once was, woks are probably the best investment you can make for the kitchen. Ideal for stir fry dishes and other oriental meals, there’s also nothing to stop you using this for a plethora of other offerings. Griddle pan Last, but definitely not least, is the griddle plan.

This is the best possible way to fry meat and fish with aesthetically pleasing griddle marks. Look for the heaviest you can, which is usually a good sign of quality, and one where the metal runs into the wooden handle.

Austrian Pancakes Totally different to our traditional pancakes, but these Austrian versions are tasty enough to be served at a dinner party. Serves 4

Ingredients

Method

2 tbsps raisins

Add the rum and raisins to a bowl and soak for 30 minutes before draining. Whisk egg yolks, sugar and salt until pale yellow and fluffy. Stir in milk and vanilla extract before gradually stirring in the flour. Stir in the raisins. Whisk the egg whites until very stiff and fold into the pancake batter. Heat a tablespoon of the butter over a low heat in a deep pan (about 20cm across) and pour in half of the batter. Heat for 4 minutes until the batter has risen and the underside is lightly browned. Remove from the pan, add another tablespoon of butter to the pan, flip the pancake and cook the other side for 4 minutes. Repeat with the rest of the batter. Break they cooked pancakes into 6-8 pieces then fry again in the remaining butter for about 2 minutes. Serve dusted with icing sugar and some stewed fruit, if desired.

2 tbsps rum 4 egg yolks 50g sugar 1 pinch of salt 500ml milk a drop of vanilla extract 150g plain flour, sieved 5 egg whites 60g melted butter, divided Icing sugar

Baked Camembert Enjoy one of the best-known French cheeses in a delicious way, bursting with flavour and coated in breadcrumbs. Make sure the cheese is not too ripe and freeze before cooking to ensure the centre melts when baking. Serves 4

Ingredients

Method

4 individual Camemberts or one large Camembert cut into approx 80g/3oz wedges, frozen for 1 hour

1. Preheat oven to 200C/400F/Gas Mark 6

25g plain flour

3. Dip the coated Camembert in the egg mix and coat with breadcrumbs, then repeat both steps. Pat well to help the crumbs stick, then place in the fridge for 30 minutes.

1 egg beaten with 1tbsp water 25g breadcrumbs 50ml sunflower oil Raspberry coulis or cranberry sauce to garnish

2. Remove the Camembert from the freezer and carefully cut the white skin from the top, while leaving the bottom and sides in tact. Coat well on all sides with the flour.

4. Heat the oil over a medium heat. Remove the cheeses from the fridge and fry lightly on each side until light golden brown - approximately 1-2 minutes. Make sure the cheese does not begin to melt. Remove and drain excess oil on paper towels. 5. Place the lightly-browned cheeses on a lined baking tray and bake in the oven for 5-10 minutes or until the top is slightly puffed.

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

events2go

Music Society

The Pajama Game

Saturday, April 21, 7.45pm

Tuesday, April 24, 7.30pm-9pm, to Saturday, April 28, 7.30pm-9pm (daily)

Parbold Douglas Music presents the annual Young Musician’s Showcase concert featuring young talented musicians from the local area. Young singers and musicians from across the Northwest region aged between 13 and 21 years old will be playing a variety of instruments on the evening. Auditorium, Parbold Village Hall, 2 The Green, WN8 7DN. Tel: 01257 463878

Artisan Market Sun, April 22, 10am-4pm; Sun, May 20, 10am-4pm

Wigan Musical Theatre group present “The Pajama Game,” a musical based on Richard Bissell’s novel 7½ cents. Call 07598 508004 or email Ticketswmtg@ gmail.com for tickets which are £9 each. St Michael’s Parish Hall, Shaw Street, Wigan, WN1 2BQ. Tel: 07806 787250

Ladies Lunch / Fashion Show Thursday, April 26, 11am

Haigh’s monthly artisan market rocks back to the park and there are monthly dates available until December 2018! There’ll be more than 80 art, food, craft, and drink artisans, as well as street food, live music and great community atmosphere.

Ladies Lunch with Fashion Show by Barbara’s of Standish, with all proceeds to be donated to Cancer Research. There will be various stalls available to browse from around 11am. Tickets are £26, for more information or to purchase tickets, please contact Barbara’s of Standish on 01257 425480.

Haigh Woodland Park, Haigh, WN2 1PE. Tel: 07789 181677 (organiser)

Woodland Suite, Ribby Hall Village, Ribby Road, Wrea Green, PR4 2PR. Tel: 0800 085 1717

Townswomen’s Guild

Beyond Wigan Pier Musical

Monday, April 23 & Monday, May 14, 7.30pm

Friday, April 27, 7pm-10pm

Come along to the Winstanley & Highfield Townswomen’s Guild and learn something new. On Monday, April 23, ‘Can you use a defibrillator?’ Now you can find out how as this could save a life. And on Monday, May 14, the Guild’s favourite Ian Morris is back and this time he’s a real Saxon.

Beyond Wigan Pier is Wigan’s West End reply to Orwell – written, produced and performed by Wiganers. The performance will show Wigan is a cultural force, that arts should be available to all and that we’ve come a long way from the Wigan depicted in the Road to Wigan Pier.

St Pauls Church Hall, Clapgate Lane, Goose Green, Wigan, WN3 5LH. Tel: 01942 242984

The Edge, Riveredge, Wigan, WN3 5AB. Tel: 01942 244460

Farmers Market & Crafts Fair

Family Fun Day

Sunday, April 29, 9am-3pm

Saturday, May 5, 11am-4pm

A special fair in aid of Wigan and Leigh Hospice. There’ll be food, drink and crafts to enjoy at the free event. Organisers are looking for food, drinks, crafts and plant stalls – own gazebo needed and £20 fee. For more info email fundraising@wlh.org.uk

Over 20 stalls, arts & crafts, bouncy castle, outside catering plus the venue’s first Beer & Cider Festival. Join the fun, all to raise awareness and funds for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity - North West.

Wigan and Leigh Hospice, Kildare Street, Hindley, Wigan, WN2 3HZ. Tel: 01942 525566

Steaming Sundays Sunday, April 29, 1pm-4pm Visit Trencherfield Mill and experience it working as it did all those years ago. There will be an informative multimedia presentation by engineers about the Mill engine’s history. Tickets are £4 for adults and £2 for children under 12 and concessions. For more info and to book call 01942 828128. Trencherfield Mill, Wigan Pier Quarter, Wigan, WN3 4EF. Tel: 01942 777566

Family Nature Walk Sunday, April 29, 10am-12pm Walkers will be looking out for spring wildlife. Suitable footwear, waterproof clothing and binoculars recommended. For more information, contact Jeff on 07922 453908. Free event. Meet at the Kitchen Courtyard, Haigh Woodland Park, School Lane, Wigan, WN2 1PE

Haye V Bellew II Saturday, May 5, 6pm-11.55pm

The Sir Tom Finney, Central Drive , Penwortham, Preston, PR1 0NL. Tel: 01772 471477

Family Fun Run Sunday, May 6, 8.30am Raise awareness about mental health in memory of Nathan Christy who died by suicide in 2016. Run or walk 1km or 5km on what would have been Nathan’s 27th birthday. Entry fees: £3 for children (up to 16 years), £5 for adults (17+). Sign up via https://bookitzone.com/noreen_christy/RN2FFX Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, Wigan WN2 1PE. Tel: 01942 828280

Local Family Festival Day Monday, May 7, 10am-5pm (gates open 9am) Enjoy a day of bikes, cars, drifting and karting. Various activities will be available for both children and adults with local stalls and refreshments. £5 entrance fee for 16+ and under 16s go free. Three Sisters Circuit, Three Sisters Rd, Ashton-inMakerfield, Wigan, WN4 8DD. Tel: 01942 719030

Artisan Market Sat, May 12; Sat, June 9; Sat, July 14, 10am-4pm

The Rematch! There are 70 inch LCD’s as well as the big 4K screen, it’s the best place to see this Monumentous Showdown! The bar is open until midnight with food until 10pm.Download the GK sports app for even better deals, it’d be crazy not to!

Wigan Auction House invites Artisan fans to its monthly market day on the second Saturday of each month. There’ll be stalls selling organic meat & dairy, homemade artisan pies & cakes, arts & crafts, bespoke handmade children’s’ clothes, vintage traders, vinyl records and more. Free entry.

Hungry Horse (Mount, Wigan), Orrell Road, WN5 8HQ. Tel: 01942 219740

Wigan Auction House, Miry Lane, Wigan, WN6 7TG. Tel: 01942 230460

Fairport Convention

Fashion Show

Tuesday, May 15, 7.30pm-11.30pm

Monday, May 21, 7pm-9.30pm

Fairport Convention has been making music for over 50 years and are credited with originating British folk-rock music. Tickets are £21.40 in advance or £23 on the door www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/fairportconvention-tickets-39688154338#tickets

Fashion Show and supper in Standish Methodist Church Hall. 7pm for 7.30 pm finishing around 9.30pm. For further details please contact Barbara’s of Standish on 01257 425480

The Old Courts, entrance 4: The Theatre, Crawford Street, Wigan, WN1 1NA. Tel: 01942 375859

‘Goal for Ghana’ Concert Friday, May 18, 7.30pm After last year’s success the ‘T’Others are back to present ‘A Lancashire & Sixties Night.’ All proceeds go towards building a school/church in the village of Obinyimnda in Ghana. Tickets £5 (including tea/ coffee biscuits) from: Bill Parkinson on 0782 441245 or Beryl Gleaves on 01695 624303. Trinity Methodist Church, Pemberton, WN5 0DS

Royal Wedding Tea Party Saturday, May 19, 10am-12pm Celebrate the royal wedding at the Red Robin Wacky Warehouse. There’ll be a buffet; create your own crown activity; kids are encouraged to dress up as a prince/princess; there’ll be a special guest appearance. It’s £8.50 per child and is a ticket only event. The Red Robin, Robin Park, 1 Anjou Blvd, Wigan, WN5 0UJ. Tel: 01942 218965

Standish Methodist Church Hall, High Street, Standish, WN6 0HA. Tel: 01257 422598

Bazaar and Rummage Wed, May 23 - Sat, June 2 (7.30pm showings) Gwenda, an ex-agoraphobic, leads a self-help group of three who have been unable to leave their homes. She forces them to help at a local bazaar, and while sorting through the rummage their individual fears erupt. Tickets vary from £10£12 www.wiganlittletheatre.co.uk/performances/ bazaar-and-rummage/ Wigan Little Theatre, 44 Crompton Street, Wigan, WN1 3SL. Box Office: 01942 242561

Race for Life 5k Wednesday, May 23, 7pm-8.30pm Walk, jog or run, and raise valuable funds for research to beat cancer. Entry fees: children £10; women £14.99; young women £14.99; under 6 entry (girls and boys) free and no registration needed. To register visit https://events.cancerresearchuk.org/ events/signup/start/5aa6925b8707e Haigh Hall, Haigh, Wigan, WN2 1P

The Wigan Rendezvous

Appley Bridge Canal life

Sunday, May 20, 12.30pm-1.30pm

Thursday, May 24, 7.30pm-9pm

Leigh District Access Group invites you to the Wigan Rendezvous. Rides from Amberswood Hindley, Pennington Flash and Smith lane Bickershaw with a circular ride from the venue. Rosettes for all. Entry fee £10. Refreshments available. For more info email Terrin on barefrills@hotmail.co.uk

Bill Froggatt and Sam Marine from Canal & River Trust are giving an interesting and informative talk about the history of the Leeds-Liverpool canal and its influence on Appley Bridge. No ticket required.

Bickershaw Country Park, Edna Road, WN7 5ES

Appley Bridge Community Centre, Appley Lane North, Wigan, WN6 9AQ

Wigan Comic Con 2018

Creepy Crawly Critter

Saturday, May 26, 10am-4pm

Monday, May 28, 11am-1pm

Funky Figures presents Wigan’s Comic Con. Collectibles, cars and cosplay will be featured alongside celebrity guests from TV film and comics. There’ll be a retro gaming area and arcade machines with a little chill out area for younger kids. Tickets available from http://funkyfigures.co.uk/

Come and meet our critter friends. There’ll be snakes, spiders, snails, lizards and more. £10 per child including a picnic box.

Wigan Comic-Con, Loire Drive, Robin Park, WN5 0UH. Tel: 07772 201119 (event planner)

Vintage Tea Dance

Car Boot Sale

Elderly Dementia/Alzheimers sufferers across Wigan and their loved ones are invited to a free vintage tea dance. Spend the day in the 1940’s, indulge in vintage treats, sing wartime tracks and have a good old’ jive. For reservations, please email us at chantelle@personal-careservices.co.uk

Sunday, May 27, 9am-2pm A car boot sale at the hospice. It’s £10 per car. To book your pitch please call the fundraising team on 01942 525566 or email fundraising@wlh.org.uk Wigan & Leigh Hospice, Kildare Street, Wigan, WN2 3HZ. Tel: 01942 525566

May Market Monday, May 28, 12pm-5pm Join in the fun with stalls, live music, DJ, BBQ, kids’ attractions and more! Supporting Macmillan. Free Entry. If you’d like to book a stall just give them a call. Hungry Horse (Mount, Wigan), Orrell Road, WN5 8HQ. Tel: 01942 219740

The Red Robin, Robin Park, 1 Anjou Blvd, Wigan, WN5 0UJ. Tel: 01942 218965

Monday, May 28, 1pm-5pm

St Anne’s Church Shevington, Standish Lower Ground and Crooke, Church Lane, WN6 8BD. Tel: 07968 021641

Midweek MTB Madness Wednesday, May 30, 6.30pm-8.15pm Popular midweek grassroots MTB series, expect rooty climbs, fast sections and maybe a bit of mud. Racers, Enthusiasts, Youth, Juvenile all race in one event. Entry fees range from £5-£15. Details on British Cycling www.britishcycling.org.uk/ Haigh Woodland Park, Haigh, Wigan, WN2 1PE

Half Term Holiday Karting Monday, May 28 until Friday, June 1 Family Arrive ‘n’ Drive karting sessions for ages 8+, Junior Arrive ‘n’ Drive karting sessions for ages 8-15 years and Sisley Kart School sessions for ages 8-15 years. Prices start from £25. Visit www. threesisterscircuit.co.uk or contact the sales team to find out more. Three Sisters Circuit, Three Sisters Rd, Ashton-inMakerfield, Wigan, WN4 8DD. Tel: 01942 719030

Storybook Yoga Friday, June 1, 1pm-2pm and 3pm-4pm Join the team for classic stories, yoga and creative play. Stories are brought to life while learning a little yoga too. The Gruffalo is at 1pm and Green Eggs & Ham is at 3pm. Cost: £10 Suitable for one adult and one child, £5 for additional children via www. studiooneyoga.net/standishschedule Studio One Yoga, 1B, High Street, Standish, WN6 0HA. Tel: 01257 424855

Junior Beginners Sailing

Wigan Summer Baby Rave

Saturday, June 9 to Saturday, June 30, 1pm-4pm

Sunday, July 8, 10am-11am

The 6 week courses follow RYA & BCU training schemes for beginners in Sailing, Windsurfing and Kayaking. New participants will get free membership to the Tuesday evening activity club. To book, email outdooradventure@wlct.org or call 01942 828508 for more information. Cost: £60.

There’ll be free glow sticks, UV face painting, dance routines, bubbles, multi-sensory play and huge dance anthems. Get your neon gear on and glow crazy!! Tickets £4 per person. Minimum of 1 child ticket per booking. Tickets are available at www. littleravers.co.uk/book-tickets

Scotmans Flash, Rushdene, Wigan, WN3 5HJ. Tel: 01942 324870

Pemberton Masonic Hall, Chapel Pemberton, WN5 8JP. Tel: 07858 604590

Summer Fair

Barking Mad Dog Festival

Saturday, June 23, 11am-2pm

Saturday, July 14, 10am-6pm

There’s lots planned including: guest appearances (including Lightning McQueen), barbecue, bouncy castle and slide, donkey rides, face painting, Morris dancers, penalty shoot-out, plus many more stalls and games to play.

Displays, an agility race for you and your pooch, Flyball, dog show, Microchipping and health checks with one of the on-site vets. Grab a drink at the bar and your favourite food. Kids can spend their time on the fair and bouncy castle and slide.

Marus Bridge Primary School, Kelvin Grove, Marus Bridge, WN3 6SP. Tel: 01942 248129

Thompson House Equestrian Centre, Pepper Lane, Standish, WN6 0PP. Tel: 01257 422618

Community Fete

Wigan Bike Ride 2018

Saturday, June 30, 11am-4pm

Sunday, July 22, 9.30am

With stalls, rides, games, live music, food, craft fair, community info and more. Games, tug ‘o’ war, races and entertainment will be held on the Recreation Ground. For more info on how to get involved, email elaineellams@aol.com or for stall bookings shevingtonfete@outlook.com

The organisers of the inaugural Wigan Bike Ride are delighted to confirm the event has returned with a 50 mile main ride and a 5 mile family ride. For more info and to register, please visit http:// wiganbikeride.co.uk/

Street,

Mesnes Park, Wigan, WN1 1TU.

Gathurst Lane, Shevington, Wigan, WN6 8HW

Midsummer Ball Saturday 30th June 2018, 7.00pm for 7.30pm

Wigan Pride 2018 Saturday, August 11, 11am-5pm

Wigan MS Therapy Centre Ltd., a registered charity based in Marsh Green, will be hosting a Midsummer Ball to raise funds for their projects. Bar until 1am, Carriages 1.15am. Live entertainment + DJ. Three Course Meal. Tickets are £30 each. Call 07702025280 or 07759735301 for details and tickets

Wigan Pride is back. It promises to be a free, fun, family friendly event jam packed with artists and local talent on the main stage and a range of different market stalls. This year it’s celebrating equality and diversity whilst encouraging everyone to get involved in their communities. It’s inclusive, diverse and tolerant for all. Autism Friendly.

The Marquee, DW Stadium Wigan

Market Place, Wigan, WN1 1PJ

Small really can be

beautiful

Award Winner

by Angie Barker

o many of us have small gardens these days but any outside space is a wonderful addition to a home which is why we should make the most of every inch of space and make our gardens attractive, as well as practical, outdoor rooms. Small gardens need extra consideration however and here are a few pointers when thinking about the design of a small space: Decide what style you are going for and stick to that theme. So a contemporary garden, choose plants which will complete the look – Phormiums and Bamboos for example and go with straight lines. A courtyard garden should use Buxus sempervirens (Box) hedges and topiary. A more traditional style can use sweeping curves and circles. Don’t try to cram too much into a small space – less is more! Plants need to earn their keep so choose specimens which have long seasons of interest and a good balance of evergreens. Also limit your colour palette because too many colours in a small garden will make the borders appear cluttered

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.

If your garden is shady make the bold decision to remove the lawn as it will always struggle. There is a fantastic range of paving products available now and small cobble setts really suit a small space You should incorporate a focal point - a large pot (unplanted) can do the trick perfectly. Similarly a bird bath, sun dial or sculpture Use the walls and fences to grow climbers which will green up the space and make it feel larger There are lots of clever storage solutions available these days like benches with hinged seats and screening ideas to hide away those dreaded wheelie bins. And one of the best things about a small garden is that you can get close up and personal with your plants and really look at their beautiful detail. One of the best for May must be Dicentra spectabilis (Lamprocapnos spectabilis is the new name) or Bleeding Heart. There is a white form called ‘Alba’ which is simply stunning. I’m always telling Hubby that the best things come in small packages – he is not very tall at 5 feet 8 inches – but what there is of him is perfectly designed !

Call Angie now for your free consultation! Angie Barker Dip GD (Inst GD) BA (Hons) Garden Design For All Seasons Tel: 01942 522 405 Mob: 07857 008 383 www.angiebarker.co.uk

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garden maintenance fertilising & moss control weed control to lawn & turfing & landscaping driveways tree surgery hedge cutting one off jobs or regular garden tidy ups maintenance

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Burscough

Bridge A

ccording to www.lancashire.gov.uk, 71% of the North West’s fruit and vegetables are grown in the West Lancashire area and it is those flat fertile fields that we visit today on our latest Jack’s Tracks, which clocked in at just over 6 miles long. Most unusually for a village, Burscough has not one, but two railway stations, and it is from the Burscough Bridge station that the walk starts. Go north of the station on the A59 and turn left into Red Cat Lane. Within 75 yards turn left into the road

by Chris Pearce leading to the old station house. There, on the right, lies the pathway that eventually leads to Martin Mere; this is the path you need. The path soon opens up and runs alongside the railway line for a further 600 yards until you arrive at Crabtree Lane. Turn right and within a minute or so you’ll see a yellow girder set in the ground next to a track. Turn left down the track which soon opens up into a field; stay on the right hand boundary of the field.

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

JT Burscough Bridge

79 Once you reach the fence which encloses Monk’s Farm, bear left and then follow the fence round a right hand bend until you reach a fingerpost. Take a 90 degree left turn towards Martin Mere and walk the 750 yards across the big open fields to Marsh Moss Lane. Cross the single track lane and go through the fence directly opposite. Follow the path to another fingerpost, in front of the metal fence enclosing the Martin Mere estate and turn left though the gate with a ‘Caution Deep Water’ sign on it. It’s very noticeable that the noise

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Brandreth Farm

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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.

80 of chirps, tweets and the honking of the seemingly kamikaze Canada Geese increases, as you make your way round the tall reed beds surrounding the wetlands. Those with the foresight to have brought binoculars may want to linger in the bird hides, but with a thirsty dog in tow I push on round the reed beds until I come to a track. Cross the track to the secondary pathway opposite and go through the gate; bear right and cross the stream and then take an immediate right down a slight gradient. Follow that path past the ponds and then once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve rounded a right hand bend youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll arrive

81 at another fingerpost. Take a 90 degree left turn towards a derelict barn, and take another left turn towards the railway. Cross the rails with great care and as soon as you’re across, turn left on a path that runs parallel to the railway line. Take a 90 degree right hand turn at the fingerpost towards ‘The Farm Tea Shop’, and then when you’ve swerved round a fir copse and walked round a field you’ll come to Martin Lane. Turn left and within 75 yards you’ll come to the aforementioned tea shop. Carry on Martin Lane in the same direction, through the junction with Merscar Lane. Just before the crossing over the canal, follow the path on the right which leads to the towpath, then turn left under the canal bridge towards Burscough. Follow the canal for almost two miles past two swing bridges (31New Lane and 32-Crabtree Lane) until you exit the canal at bridge 32a – Burscough Bridge. You are right by Burscough Wharf and the village centre. Turn left and go through the centre for 325 yards until you get to the finish point of Burscough Bridge rail station. For those with the OS Maps app on your phone, this walk is named ‘JT Burscough Bridge’.

Over 40 Lancashire

walks

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7 Crossback by Tim Barnes-Clay

im Barnes-Clay, is back from his latest car launch. This time he was invited to Windsor to

sample the all-new DS 7 Crossback. At first sight, the DS 7 Crossback shows off conservative, rather than cool, characteristics. Yes, yes, I know beauty is in the eye of the beholder. But this is my opinion, and someone needs to have one. On the move, body lean is kept to a minimum, even though the steering is spongy and dead - and it isn’t perked up by changing the DS into its Sport mode. Don’t let me rain on the DS7 Crossback’s parade too

83 much, though. The French motor is best kept in its Comfort setting, so that you can make the most of its respectable ride quality. This car isn’t all about the zero to 62mph sprint, it’s far happier as a laid-back cruiser. But it can still pull okay, with the 2.0-litre diesel model doing the 0-62mph in just under 10 seconds. The DS marque is launching the Crossback with four different trim levels, and the Performance Line DS 7, as driven here, is likely to be the model to please the masses. This car gets 19-inch alloys, a gloss black grille, and LED lights. In the cabin, leather and Alcantara abound, while a 12inch touchscreen infotainment screen hogs the limelight. Playing second fiddle to the big display is a large analogue clock, perched above the ignition button. The infotainment system itself is intuitive and responsive and is supported by a bunch of touch sensitive switches for the cabin controls. But more remarkable in this car segment is the adding of an infrared night vision camera that projects a vivid picture onto the driver’s display. It picks out pedestrians and animals ahead of you, and, as I found out driving around Berkshire’s unlit backroads, it works! The only drawback is that the clever driver aid is an option costing £1600. Room in the cabin is good for five-up and it’s a very comfortable car fore and aft. Indeed, the DS 7 Crossback’s flat floor means that a rear seat occupant sitting in the middle will still have space. What’s more, the car’s boot is generously proportioned with 555 litres of cargo capacity. The all-new DS’ weak point is its price-tag. At over £30,000, other more established premium brands may seem more attractive. The BMW X3 and Volvo

XC40 are examples of the stiff competition the upto-the-minute French machine is up against. Still, being different is quite appealing, so it’ll be interesting to see what 2018 holds for the DS 7 Crossback. Watch this space!

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Book your FREE home survey VICING SER Telephone: 01257 000 and we’ll VAN provide 427 toowith you a cycles CAR & detailed motorreport showing the Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RS

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01695 627 999

money is the clear beneﬁt!

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

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01942 355 993 07712 352 411

Call Joe for a free quotation on

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We can also revive your old drive! Ask about our sealing service

(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)

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ReduceE your household’s ...andreturns available impact on the environment from your www.dglwindows.co.uk own solar panels X (10% typical return) Call H us now A k ChecVisit our showroom at T Car84 Health U or Unit 4a, rton dio Cricket Street Business Park Brethe Y n and S @ Stu Miry Lane, Crosto of off 7PG Wigan. e WN5 R for all residents WN6 Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk need me! T 7TP , Billing you 400 6PM Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk Road 4 619 ford ESaturday 10AMKeep me until : 0781 Check S hone : 84 Rain Health - 7PM, Open Telep 10AM yS FREE Car on , Fridayay & Sunda now Book your A5209

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01772

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DING & WEL

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Call Mike Darbyshire on

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PLASTERER Re-skims Dot & dab Rendering 2 coat work Unwanted artex

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or 07958 695 116

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01942 203 804 DS Joinery 07851 225 876

• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985

B.A. Berry

Roofing & Roofline Specialists

Building & Roofing Specialists

• All aspects of maintenance & repair

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01695 633173 Colin: 07958 302 166 Brian: 07760 160 988 www.wilson-bros.co.uk

Your local fully qualified tradesman with

30 years experience

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PLANS TO IMPROVE • Plans drawn and submitted. • Extensions, conversions, structural alterations. • Structural calculations.

E mail info@stuartsplans.co.uk Call Stuart on 07973143289

Building Services

All types of building work undertaken 25 years experience

• Brickwork • Pointing • Garden Walls • Patios • Roof Repairs • Flagging • Alterations • Driveways

01942 495412 / 07974 496676

• Brickwork, Extensions, Re-pointing • Garden Walls, Decorative Walls • Platform Steps, Paths & patios

28 Years Experience

T: 01942 248 537 M: 07749 806 566

Easy Mix

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Ready Mixed Concrete

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01695 627 212 MOBILE: 07774 943 706

52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND Established Over 30 Years

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Made in Lancashire Established over 25 years

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

01204 590 499

• Conservatory repairs • Locks, handles and hinges • Replacement glass • Windows and doors installed • Replacement conservatory roofs Call MARK now on 01942 737 381 / 0776 315 1720 conservatoryrepairs@gmail.com www.fixmyconservatory.com

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Rockdoor Approved Installer Reg No 02767596

SISTER COMPANY OF FOXWELLS BUILDERS Established 16 years

Call us for a Free Quote Office Number: 01942 871 777 Victoria Industrial Estate, Victoria Street, Leigh, WN7 5SE warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk • info@warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk