Wigan Edition
July 2015
Ian’s 30 years of
Cover photo by William Ellis
all that jazz Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health & Fitness What’s On Business View...
Cover photo © Mark Chapman
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Leap of
faith T
his month’s Local Life is jam packed with local events such as school fairs, village fetes etc (check out our What’s On section on pages 79-86 for details). Some of these events have been running for years and others are brand new; but they all have one thing in common. At some point someone, somewhere has had the idea for an event and then has had the courage to say – yeah, I’m gonna do this! One such event is Orrell Live (see page 37) which is an event that will hopefully not only raise money for a long established sports club, but which could, with the right support (and some decent weather!) be one of the highlights of the local social calendar for years to come. Do give your support by going along to a few of these events because, somewhere down the line, you may come up with your own idea to raise money for your chosen good cause, and you’d want as many people as possible to support you, wouldn’t you? So this month, let’s salute those people who take that leap of faith - and also their helpers – for without their ideas and hard work the world would be a drab place. See you next time!
Chirs Pearce - Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Next issue - August 2015
Advertising deadline - Friday 26 June Published - Thursday 9 July Local Life Media
@locallifemedia
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In this issue All that
Potato
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72
jazz
gnocchi
Time to face
Jack’s Tracks
facts
Wigan Flashes
56
87
Up Holland
Win Tickets to
memories
Southport Flower Show
62
96
Regulars
Publisher: Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
42 Class from the past
79 What’s On
48 Planning Matters
114 View from the lump
Editorial: David Sudworth editorial@locallife247.co.uk
44 Puzzle Corner
Sections
Design: Peter Bretherton
design@locallife247.co.uk
Distribution: Sally Boon
sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
Accounts: Sam Garrahan accounts@locallife247.co.uk
8 Property
70 Food & Drink
15 Local News
79 Leisure
38 Children & Education 91 Gardening 54 Heath & Fitness
98 Motoring
60 Legal & Finance
102 Home Services
66 Business View
Telephone: 01695 627 999 Sales: Chris Pearce, Nicola Gray sales@locallife247.co.uk
Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following areas on an alternate monthly basis. This issue is delivered to over 14,000 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Ashton, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton. The next issue is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh. You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan.
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.
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Lucky
Linda
Keen gardener Linda Higgins is off to see ‘80s band Madness - thanks to Local Life! The Hawkley Hall resident, who lives on Bransfield Close, was among the lucky winners picked out of the hat. She’s pictured right celebrating with dog Maise. Other winners from the local area were David Gardner, of Roby Mill, and Christine Wilson, of Bowland Avenue, Ashton-in-Makerfield. Remember, for more great competitions, keep your eyes peeled for Local Life!
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Orrell Townswomen’s Guild members at Derby House, Wrightington
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TG’s 20th birthday The ladies of Orrell and District Townswomen’s Guild have celebrated their 20th anniversary.
Autumn/Winter stock now arriving
They enjoyed celebratory lunch with a Picnic in The Paddock at Derby House, Wrightington. The Guild meets on the first Monday of the month, or the second Monday following a Bank Holiday, at 7.30pm at St.Luke’s Church Hall, Lodge Lane, Orrell. This year they are supporting the Eve Appeal as their chosen charity and will be running a coffee morning with stalls on Thursday, September 24, from 10am to noon. For further information, contact the secretary Margaret Case on 01942 701716.
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Growing
church
Modernisation plans for a Winstanley religious hub have been unveiled. Living Faith Church, on Antrim Close, want permission from council planners to extend the building, almost doubling its footprint. The proposals include a sweep glass face, consisting of solar glazing, which will act as the entrance to the foyer. Inside there are proposals for a Sunday School/multi functional room, kitchen, toilets and storage. In papers lodged with the council, architects on behalf of the church say: “The appearance of the extension is to match the existing building in some ways but also modernise it by adding a more contemporary and inviting glass facade.
The proposed building will be accessed from the existing car park. There will still be the same amount of parking spaces.” A decision is due by the end of July. Background documentation is available at www.wigan.gov.uk reference A/15/80792/FULL.
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Carnival in
jeopardy A bid to resurrect the old Wigan Carnival is hanging in the balance. Event organiser Bill Clarke says that talks with the council over the potential use of Mesnes Park as a venue are in danger of collapse. And unless a new location can be found for the two day event, scheduled for the weekend of August 1 and 2, then it will have to be cancelled. Event organiser Bill Clarke at Mesnes Park
Bill, who lives on Dicconson Terrace near Wigan town centre, told Local Life: “Mesnes Park now looks to be out
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of the running as a venue. We need somewhere fairly central and are now hoping that some local landowner or organisation will step forward.” The Wigan Carnival has been an intermittent feature of the town over the years. Around 35 years ago, Bill, along with Derek Fuller, manager of the ABC Cinema at the time, decided to revive Wigan Carnival after a gap of 25 years. They formed a committee and staged the first carnival on playing fields in Darlington Street which is now St Patrick’s. Bill, who is involved in the successfully resurrected Chorley Carnival, recalls: “It was a hot sunny day in June and the procession from the town centre arrived at what was called Carrington Park followed by thousands. The gates could not cope with the volume of people it was a huge success. It seems strange after all that time that while talking to a bunch of friends and reminiscing about that original revival of the carnival I find myself back in the chair doing it all again. “Carrington Park is no longer available and we have
The carnival at the turn of the 1900s. Photo courtesy of Wigan World been searching for a suitable venue as close to the town centre as we could find which I think we have been able to do. We have devised a parade route and started to book entertainers. The date is getting close and we’re now at the point where if it doesn’t go ahead, we’ll still have to pay the acts because they’re under contract.” If you have a venue which may be suitable, call Bill on 01942 496855.
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Take a break from cleaning
Water Park crackdown Police say they are determined to crack down on anti-social behaviour at Orrell Water Park. It’s claimed teenagers have been flocking to the area, and in one incident, the police had to remove a heavily drunken teenage girl. Councillors are now hoping to get some temporary CCTV installed for the area, while police say recent incidents at the Lodge Road site are “completely unacceptable.” To report incidents, call police on the non-emergency 101 number.
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Help for veterans Armed services veterans in Wigan could access financial help through a new fund. A Wigan branch of Our Local Heroes Foundation has recently been set up in the area. Eligible applicants could receive help with alarm systems for your home, white goods, showers, grab-rails, wheel chair ramps, minor repairs, home improvements, training courses, rent bonds, dental and opticians’ costs. Drop in sessions take place on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 10am-3pm, at Sunshine House, Wellington Street, Scholes. Alternatively, email kelly@ourlocalheroes. org.uk
Pub application The Fleece pub on Warrington Road, Ashton, has asked Wigan Council for permission to open longer. It wants to have the option of opening Mondays, 10am1am, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10am-12.30am, Thursdays to Saturdays 10am-5.30am and Sundays 10am-midnight. A decision is set to be made soon by the council.
Oar-some idea Wigan stroke charity Think Ahead is urging people to take part in its Dragon Boat Race. The annual event takes place on Friday, September 4, at Leigh & Lowton Sailing Club, Green Lane, Leigh. For more information visit http://www.think-ahead.org.uk/events or call Think Ahead’s office on 01942 824888.
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Fun of the
Fayre
Up Holland is once again playing host to one of the area’s premier rural attractions. The Green Fayre, organised by West Lancashire Borough Council’s countryside rangers, takes place at Beacon Country Park, Beacon Lane, over the weekend of Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26, from 11am-5pm on both days. It’s a free event and billed as a celebration of the countryside life, and is the biggest event of its kind in West Lancashire. One of this year’s big attractions is four-times BBC Radio 2 folk award nominee Hannah James (pictured), who will be appearing in the Folk Marquee. For further information, visit www.westlancs.gov.uk/countryside
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A ‘smart’ idea for
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A mast beaming signals from new ‘smart’ electricity and gas meters could be installed in the heart of Roby Mill’s green belt. Communications firm Arqiva wants permission to erect the 12m pole on land at the back of 63 Ayrefield Road. The firm has been appointed by the Department of Energy & Climate Change to develop the smart meter coverage network in the north of England and Scotland.
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Papers lodged with West Lancs Borough Council explains: “Smart meters are the next generation of gas and electricity meters. They will offer a range of intelligent functions and provide consumers with more accurate information, bringing an end to estimated billing. Like all communications networks, it will need to be supported by an infrastructure. In this case, there was no option to install it outside of designated Green Belt.” A final decision is due by the end of July. Full details can be viewed at www.westlancs.gov.uk - ref 2015/0576/PNT
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Meet the
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It’ll be ‘all for one and one for all’ at a popular Wigan cafe soon! Staff at Krumbs, on Rodney Street in the town centre are raising money for Cancer Research. Not only have they signed up for the Pretty Muddy Race For Life on July 4, but before then they’re also holding a fun day at the cafe on Saturday, June 27, from 10am-2pm - dressed as The Three Musketeers (or the Krumbeteers as they’ve called themselves!) Jade O’Malia, from Krumbs, said: “So far we have done a raffle which has raised quite a bit of money but we know we can do better. That’s why we’ve decided to organise the fun day. Customers will be able to purchase freshly homemade cakes, hot beverages, snacks such as teacakes, toast and
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Charity cash
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Derian House is the latest recipient of funds raised by Wigan Rotarians. The Chorley-based organisation received £500 from Wigan Rotary Club at a recent meeting where community fundraiser John Rullo gave members an update on its vital services provided by dedicated staff who care for the children and give help, support and advice to parents, family and carers. A Rotary spokesman said: “The club has enjoyed a close relationship with Derian House over the last 10 years. The £500 will help the hospice continue providing the excellent levels of care.”
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Nominations
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Soroptimists have now opened nominations for their Wigan Young Achiever Award 2015. Now in its fourth year, it aims to recognise achievements encompassing academic attainment, community service, act of heroism, triumph over adversity, young carer, entrepreneurial skill, sporting prowess, and success in the fields of art or culture. Anyone can make a nomination - the age range for nominees is 14– 21 years and they must come from the catchment area of the club, which
is the majority of Wigan borough excluding the Leigh, Tyldesley and Atherton districts. The winner will have their name engraved on a trophy, and will receive an engraved miniature trophy together with a £50 gift card. The award is scheduled to be presented by the Mayor of Wigan in December. Nomination forms can be obtained on request from yaaward@ymail.com or via http://sigbi.org/wigan/ Forms, when completed and signed, should be returned by post to Young Achiever Award, 15, Havenwood Road, Whitley, Wigan, WN1 2PA. The deadline for applications is Monday, September 28.
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Travel
Magical
Mallorca David Sudworth discovers that, for a taste of real Spanish life, Mallorca has plenty to offer...
T
Nestling in the middle of the Balearics, Mallorca has everything the independently-minded traveller would want.
Classic architecture, stunning landscapes, inviting beaches and mouthwatering food, it’s little wonder Billinge-based Marken Travel has teamed up with Classic Collection Holidays to offer you the chance to experience the island for yourself. Mallorca is renowned as a world-class destination which has, time and again, proved able to cater for a broad range of visitor. It’s the largest of the three Balearic Islands, and its diversity is evident. No other European island boasts more contrasting terrain, from the fertile plains of the centre to the almost alpine peaks of the Tramuntana Mountains in the North East. its 500 km coastline offers ample coves, sandy beaches and secluded bays, which all have protected status. Due to its geographical location at a crossroads in the Mediterranean, the islands were constantly colonised by the Greeks, Romans, Moors and Turks. In the 13th Century,
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Catalan settlers from the eastern part of Spain settled, and the language is spoken throughout the island today, alongside conventional Spanish. English is widely spoken and understood, but if you can manage a few basic words in Spanish (or better still in Catalan!), it will be very much appreciated. The capital Palma is now widely seen as an allyear-round city break destination to rival the best in Europe. As well as the magnificent Gothic Cathedral, Palma is home to a beautifully restored old town where cobbled streets are lined with designer shops, boutique hotels, trendy bars, shaded restaurants and a stunning contemporary art gallery, Es Baluard. The concentration of top, international designer names and stores in Palma make it an idea destination for those out for a bit of retail therapy. You’ll find the likes of Burberry, Versace and Cartier all available to browse, even if it is just window shopping!
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One of the best things about going abroad anywhere is trying the food. All too often though, it’s a disappointing array of plates on offer; but not in Mallorca. Locals eat very late here – lunch can be between 1pm-4pm while it’s not uncommon for dinner to
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start at 10pm. Traditional island food is, like the language, heavily influenced by Catalan tastes. Pork is a staple part of the diet, whether it’s a sausage (try the delicious sobrasada) or in a hearty stew. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try rabbit or snails. Desserts in Mallorca are simply divine, particularly those based on honey, almond and figs. If, like me, you have a tendency to indulge too much, then there’s plenty of opportunity to work off the calories. On an island surrounded by so much blue sea, it’s no surprise sailing is very popular. Courses are run in sailing, scuba diving, canoeing, swimming and water-skiing in many different parts of the island, Aided by good weather, cyclists enjoy the mountain slopes while the more adventurous may prefer some paragliding. If gentler exercise is the order of the day, Mallorca boasts 19 golf courses, the largest amount of all the Balearic Islands. Distance is never an issue as Classic Collection Holiday’s hotels are never more than an hour’s drive away and some are located right beside their own courses. You can, of course, stay at any of their hotels to play golf, five-star hotels such as Castillo Hotel Son Vida, The St Regis Mardavall, Bendinat and Mon Port Hotel & Spa are highly recommended. Families are always welcome in Mallorca; indeed locals just love children and they involve them in every aspect of their lives. Whether you’ve got a toddler or a teenager, they are guaranteed to have a great time. Getting to Mallorca is easy, with it being just over two hours’ flying time away from the UK. And
don’t feel restricted by the time of year; Mallorca enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate in high summer with top temperatures moderated by a cool sea breeze. It is warm and sunny from March to November, and only a bit cooler from December to February. Don’t forget that booking through Marken Travel means peace of mind as the money you pay for your flights and package holiday will be fully protected until ABTA and ATOL rules. So if you are looking for some Mediterranean sunshine, escapism and a touch of class, the beautiful island of Mallorca awaits you… Marken Travel, 200 Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PE. Call 01744 893291.
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Fred Latham (left) and Spencer Anglesea at Orrell Cricket Club, where the Proms event will be staged
Orrell does the
Proms!
Get your flags ready - Orrell is holding its very own Last Night At The Proms. The event, supported by Local Life, will take place at Orrell Cricket Club, off Winstanley Road, on Saturday, September 12. Gates open at 1pm, it’s billed as a family day out where people will be encouraged to take their picnics and flags along. Music starts at 2pm with a DJ, and live performances kick off at 2.15pm with Crawford & Brown followed by the legendary Houghton Weavers at 3.30pm. Andy Crawford will be on stage from 5pm and from 6.30pm there will be a live Take That tribute. It concludes with a two hour performance from 8pm by Golborne Brass Band. The show aims to raise money for the cricket club, which is hoping to reignite the community spirit fostered through the now-defunct Orrell Carnival. Fred Latham, club chairman, told Local Life: “We want this to be Orrell’s biggest family outdoor musical event. As a club, we are doing OK but we only really make money during the cricket season. However, between September and March, the bills
still come in and they’ve got to be paid. We have about 100 people in the middle of summer coming along to watch a game of cricket, and we are hoping to get those people plus many more coming to the Proms event.” Club committee member Spencer Anglesea says Orrell’s local councillors have already pledged to use Brighter Borough Funding to support us, and now wants everyone to get on board: “This is something we’ve wanted to do for a few years. I’ve been to a Proms event at the Albert Hall myself and it’s just fantastic. The date is the same as the official Last night of the Proms this year so we thought it’d be good to have our own version. As a nation, we are quite patriotic so I’m sure people will support it.” Tickets are £20 for adults, £7.50 for 14 to 17 year olds (or free if with a fee-paying adult), and it costs £5 for a gazebo space. No barbecues are allowed and there will be no car parking at the site, although drop offs will be allowed until 12.30pm on the day. Tickets available from the cricket club bar, online at www.orrell-live.co.uk or by calling 07545 501447. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.
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Holgate’s £9k
boost
Orrell Holgate Primary is £9,000 better off thanks to the fundraising efforts of parents, staff and friends. The school’s PSTA committee members handed over their cheque to headteacher Mike Wilson at the recent Celebration Assembly. Lisa Carroll-Hall, a teacher at the school and chairman of the Association, said: “I would like sincerely thank the people who have contributed time, commitment and hard work to achieve such a goal. A special thanks to the children of the school without who it could not have been possible.
Nichola Unsworth, Mike Wilson, Lisa Carroll-Hall and Lindsey Seddon with the £9,000 cheque
“The PSFA committee have worked hard all year, together with valuable help from the children of Holgate, their parents and family members as well as members of staff at the school and their family members to raise this sizeable sum, by generating
events and activities that the children have enjoyed taking part in. These include discos, a fancy dress walk, recycling activities and summer and Christmas fairs.”
Class reunion A date for Up Holland High School’s Class of ‘77’82 reunion has now been set. It takes place on Saturday, November 14, at Squires Bar, Main Street, Billinge, from 8pm. There will be food, a charity raffle and dancing. Tickets cost £10 - to book email sharonrowe1976@gmail.com or janemil1@yahoo. co.uk
Calling Year 5s! Year 5 boys and girls are being urged to sign up for Highfield Grange FC’s under 10s team. Places are available for both a goalkeeper and outfield players. Training is currently at Oldham’s Fold pitches in Pemberton on Tuesdays from 6pm-7pm, but in winter it moves to Hawkley Hall High, from
7pm-8pm. Matches are in the Warrington League and take place on Saturdays. For more information contact the manager Steve on saw5@blueyonder. co.uk or call 07804 597786.
Pre-school excels A pre-school in Marus Bridge has been rated ‘good’ in its latest Ofsted inspection. Highfield Grange PreSchool, on Highfield Grange Avenue, was praised for how its provision meets the needs of children, contributes to their wellbeing, and the effectiveness of the leadership and management. Inspector Lisa Bolton said in her report: “Staff know individual children extremely well. They observe children carefully to plan for their learning needs and engage them by following their interests.”
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Holly Tree branches out Orrell and Billinge are both areas where parents move to in order to take advantage of excellent state schools, but are these areas served equally well by pre-school establishments? Meet Lorraine Conroy, a woman on a mission to ensure that local children have the best possible care and education in those precious early years. Lorraine has always had a passion for childcare and has wanted to work in this area ever since childhood. Orrell born and bred, she went to Newfold Primary and Abraham Guest High School, and for the past four years has owned and managed Holly Tree Children’s Day Nursery. Lorraine (along with her husband and business partner Andrew) literally lives on the job, as the
popular nursery is tucked away at the back of their house on Tracks Lane in Billinge. So successful has Lorraine’s tenure been at Holly Tree, that the business is undergoing a massive transformation this year and will become a two-site operation. And where better to branch out to than a building historically associated with children and education since 1848; the former St James School building, which is situated next to the current school, church and social club on St James Road. Work is currently underway to refurbish the new site, which will open in September. Once the new building is open, the 3-11 year old children will move in. Every child is now entitled to 15 hours free childcare, which is available from the
41
school term after they turn three, and these hours can be ‘topped up’ by parents. The children will follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework on a daily basis and are also offered French on a Wednesday afternoon. Both the pre-schoolers and after-schoolers are offered swimming lessons at Ashton Leisure Centre on Tuesday evening and Monday morning. A Before and After School Club is available here for three local schools; Newfold, Holgate and St “It’s a very exciting time,” says Lorraine. “This expansion is down to the fact that over the past few years, we have worked hard to provide a good quality service which comes highly recommended from the parents of the children in our care. We’ve created a homely environment with a relaxed atmosphere ensuring the children are at the heart of the business.” With two great locations, exciting educational programmes and a staff who are entirely CRB checked and fully qualified, your child can really kick start their future at the Holly Tree sites. For an appointment to discover more about the Holly Tree story and how it can benefit your child, call Lorraine today on 01695 625780. James’, and the central position of the new building ensures that your child will be safely ensconced here just minutes after leaving school at the end of the day. During the school holidays the new building will also play host to the Holiday Club, which will be available to all children age 4-11 years old offering a variety of different activities and day trips from 7.30am until 6.00pm. The 0-3 years will remain at the nursery on Tracks Lane and this will allow for the expansion of the Toddler Room, which will enable Lorraine to create more sessions for 2 year olds (both Funded and paid places). Mini Maestros is an outside company that offer an optional music and movement session to our younger age group on a Wednesday morning.
9 Tracks Lane, Billinge WN5 7BL. 01695 625780 www.hollytreechildrensnursery.co.uk hollytreenursery@hotmail.co.uk
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Foster carers
needed
The hunt is on for more foster carers in Wigan as the number of children going into care reaches record levels. Council chiefs say they need to recruit 25 more foster carers in Wigan Borough, and are asking residents if they have the skills to make a positive change to the lives of children and young people. Latest figures show there are 515 children and young people in care in Wigan Borough and another 19 children (eight teenagers, four children aged between nine and eleven and
Class from the
three sibling groups) still need fostering. Between April 2014 to March 2015, 17 new carers were approved. Cllr Joanne Platt, cabinet member for children and young people at Wigan Council, said: “Every year five per cent of foster carers leave the service due to retirement or to pursue other avenues of work and so there is a constant need to recruit new foster carers. “There are many myths about who can become a foster carer, but what really matters is that someone has the commitment, skills and ability to look after children.” For more information, visit wigan.gov.uk/fostering
past
This month’s Class from the Past is from Highfield CE. It’s believed this photo was taken in 1960. Maybe you can spot a familiar face?
Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact David Sudworth today by emailing editorial@locallife247.co.uk
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44
Puzzle
corner
Guess where? Wordsearch Sudoku
Ice cream flavours
Answers are on page 107 of this magazine
Pecan Chocolate Chip Vanilla Mint Neapolitan Pistachio
Strawberry Tutti Frutti Coffee Ginger Passion Fruit Rum
Coconut Mango Raspberry Ripple
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Free publicity for YOU! Are you in a local community group? Do you want to publicise a talk, school fair or charity fundraiser? If so, get in touch with us today! Local Life is distributed to over 100,000 homes across Wigan, St Helens, Chorley and West Lancashire. Each edition is crammed with stories for local events, and your group could be appearing in our next edition. The types of events we publicise are as follows:
We’re also on the look out for old school photographs, street scenes from yesterday and want to hear from you if your group is celebrating a special milestone.
by
- Talks which are open to the public
Simply contact our Editor David Sudworth with the details - what, where, when, why, who for, how much - and anything else you want to tell our readers. The earlier you can provide the information, the better the job we can do.
- Pleas from community groups or associations for new members
So don’t delay – contact David today by emailing him directly at editorial@locallife247.co.uk
- Charity fundraising events - Local school, church or community fairs - Amateur concerts community groups
or
performances
Gravestones recorded Family history enthusiasts are being made aware of recorded gravestone inscriptions which are now available in CD format. Members of Liverpool and South West Lancs Family History Society have recorded names on the graves at St Thomas’ Graveyard on Warrington Road, Ashton. The CD is available for £6.30 including postage. Also available are the records for the Lower Ground Graveyard in Heath Road, Ashton, a CD of which is available for the same price, or both for £11.70 including postage. Call 01942 729559. FREE PICKUP & DELIVERY
New leader named An Up Holland councillor has been named as the new leader of West Lancashire Borough Council. Postman Ian Moran, who is also a village parish councillor and a former member of the Armed Forces, took the reins following Labour’s victory in the local elections.
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Planning matters Ashton
A/15/80779/FULL). A decision is due soon.
Open land at Princess Road: Erection of nine dwellings (ref: A/15/80883/HH). A decision is due soon.
Winstanley
Orrell 293 Orrell Road: Plan to extend dwellinghouse single storey to rear (ref: A/15/80861/HH). A decision is due soon. 8 Spencers Lane: Plan to extend dwellinghouse single storey to side and rear (ref: A/15/80908/HH). A decision is due soon. Pemberton Land adjacent to 43 Orrell Road: Change of use of land to incorporate into garden curtilage (ref:
66 Tan House Drive: Proposed single storey shower/utility room to side elevation and replace dormer roof with pitched (ref: A/15/80802/HH). The consultation deadline is June 25. 1 Sycamore Drive: Plan to extend dwellinghouse single storey to side (ref: A/15/80899/HH). The consultation deadline is June 25. Up Holland 4 Heathland: Proposed single storey rear extension, rear dormer, installation of three. rooflights, conversion of integral garage into living space. (ref: 2015/0480/LDP). Decision due by the end of July.
For more information on the Ashton, Orrell, Pemberton and Winstanley applications, visit www.wigan.gov.uk. For details about the Up Holland proposal, visit www.westlancs.gov.uk
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Ashton
arts
A new art group has celebrated its first birthday. Ashton Phoenix Art Group (pictured), which meets at Ashton Scout Hut, on Woodedge every Friday, began last year. They would like to invite new members to their regular meetings, from 9.45am11.45am. They have regular workshops and resident artists who provide guidance for beginners. For more information contact Betty on 01942 715697 or Eileen on 01942 720521. Meanwhile, another local organisation, Ashton Art Group, which was formed in 1966, is holding its summer exhibition between Saturday, August 1, and Saturday, August 8, at St Thomas’ Church hall, Warrington Road, Ashton. Opening times are 10am–
6pm each day except Sunday when it will be open 11am–2pm. The group meets in the YMCA, Hilton Street, Ashton, each Tuesday from 8pm–10pm. New members welcome. For further information, visit www.facebook.com/AshtonArtGroup
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All that
jazz
David Sudworth meets the Wigan man who, 30 years ago, started what has become an internationally-renowned festival
A
s an event organiser, temporarily losing one of your star turns is bad enough, but almost drowning them is worse
That’s the fate which almost befell Ian Darrington, founder of Wigan International Jazz Festival, when the man regarded as a US music legend visited Wigan at his invitation. “Dave Brubeck was a legendary piano player and had just finished putting in a star performance at the Mill at the Pier,” recalls Ian. “At the time, I had a Mercedes automatic and I gave the keys to a colleague so he could drive Dave back to the hotel. Unfortunately, instead of putting it in ‘drive’ he put it in reverse, so the car shot back towards the canal. Thankfully, he slammed on with about 3ft to spare, otherwise my car and this music legend would have gone right into the Leeds & Liverpool.” Such scrapes are par for the course when you’ve been running an event for the past 30 years, as is the case with Ian. This year’s four day extravaganza marks three decades since the town was put on the map for something other than sport. Ian, who plays trumpet and piano, came to Wigan in 1977 when he got a job at an instrumental teacher with Wigan Council. A few years later, through his work with Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra, he persuaded town hall bigwigs to put on a jazz festival. The rest, as they say, is history. Ian giving one of his talks. Photo: Fred Little
“I came here straight from college in 1977 from Leeds. I’d had a choice of a few jobs, one of them was working in a village at the foothills of the Himalayas. But my dad, who was a semi-professional singer, knew about Wigan and was friends with a man called Dickie Waring, who had a butcher’s
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in Standish Lower Ground, so he said it’d be a good place to live. I’ve never regretted it - the people are wonderful. “The jazz orchestra had started the year before I joined the council and in the mid 1980s, there was a real push to develop Wigan Pier. We wanted to put the town on the map for something other than rugby, which was dominant at the time, so I was chatting to a colleague, David Davies, the assistant director for education, and we came up with the idea of holding a festival. The council management’s attitude was ‘go for it’ so we did.” Far from having to introduce the concept of Wigan as a jazz town, Ian says it has a history of jazz music: “There used to be a jazz club in the Park Hotel, which was next to the old bus station, where The Galleries is now, in the 1950s. Also, before Wigan Casino, it was called The Empire and there used to be a lot of big bands who played there. I think Leigh also had a festival in the 1960s, which again doesn’t surprise me because jazz was big across the North West in general.” Over the past 30 years, there was been plenty of star acts visiting Wigan to play at the festival, including
Ian with Marion Montgomery Acker Bilk, Kenny Ball & His Band, George Melly. Georgie Fame and Marion Montgomery. It’s now recognised as one of the finest in Europe, although further afield, Ian admits there are still some who still think of the town as all flat caps and brass bands. “When we were out in Singapore with the youth orchestra, one woman was overheard saying: ‘I didn’t know people in Wigan did this kind of thing’. I’m using that line as the title of my talk which takes place on the Saturday during the festival.”
Ian with his family having just recieved his MBE
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As well as his festival duties, he has been awarded a Master of Arts Degree from Liverpool University and in December 2004 was awarded a Ph.D at the same University. The subject of his thesis was partly about ‘An Investigation in to the Evolution of Trumpet Mouthpiece Design and the Relationship Between the Effects of Design’.
Ian believes that over the years, more people have got into jazz because it is no longer seen as niche: “Jazz is a very wide spectrum of music from Latin to vintage. It’s far less defined and that is down to the artists who have fused more styles. For instance, you’ve got the likes of Caro Emerald, who has had a number one album in the UK, and she mixes jazz with pop, swing and so on. As a result, it’s more accessible to people who may not have been interested in the past.”
In 2000, he was awarded the International Association of Jazz Educators’ Humanitarian Award. The following year, was received an MBE from the Queen for his services to music.
Wigan International Jazz Festival takes place from Thursday, July 9, to Sunday, July 12, across three venues; Robin Park Indoor Sports Centre, Wigan town centre and Mesnes Park. A roving ticket, giving admission to all talks, afternoon and evening concerts costs £110. Alternatively, tickets are available for individual shows, ranging from £15 upwards. Call 01942 838271 or visit www. wiganjazz.net
In March 2011, Ian retired from the council after 34 years’ service. Along with his wife of 38 years Monica, he now splits his time between the family home on Wigan Lane and Ireland, where he recently bought a property. The couple have two daughters Amanda, 45, and Standish High teacher Sally, 35, who are both saxophone players, and one son, Benjamin, 31, who plays bass.
Festival At A Glance Thursday, July 9 Andy Prior and His Big Band
8pm at Robin Park (£20) Friday, July 10
Breakfast with Alan Barnes Talk Alan Barnes Quintet
9.30am at Robin Park (£6) noon at Robin Park (£15)
Echoes of Ellington
7.30pm at Robin Park (£20) Saturday, July 11
Ian Darrington Talk
9.30pm at Robin Park (£6)
Town centre concerts
From 11am (free)
Dan’s In With A Shout (pictured)
2.45pm at Robin Park (£12)
Clifford Brown with Strings feat. Ryan Quigley, Stan Getz with Strings featuring Paul Booth and Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra 7.30pm at Robin Park (£20) Sunday, July 12 Pete Long Talk
9.30pm at Robin Park (£6)
Jazz In the Park
1pm in Mesnes Park (free)
Oscar Peterson Meets The Big Band
7.30pm at Robin Park (£20)
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Fairfield’s added
dimension David Sudworth discovers how a local, independent hospital is using 3D printers to change people’s lives
T
im Collier is a man back on his own two feet again - and it’s all thanks to a pioneering service provided by Fairfield Independent Hospital.
The 52-year-old osteoarthritis sufferer couldn’t walk very far or stand for long periods of time. The pain restricted him doing things many take for granted. He then turned to Fairfield, based in Crank, St Helens, who is now using 3D printing technology to create and fit bespoke knee implants. The technology, designed by ConforMIS, uses a CT image to capture a patient’s individual bone structure. ConforMIS then use the information to create a bespoke implant. Bespoke implants ensure that there is no overhang as the implant is custom made for the patient’s knee. Compared with standard ‘off-the-shelf’ replacements, there is no exposed bone; where the implant is either too big or too small. Both can cause pain and discomfort, which has led to increasing demand for tailor-made solutions. For Tim, the operation has transformed his life: “Two of my sons are involved in IT and when I showed them on the website what I was going to have done they were all over it like geeks! I have been making good progress and there’s quite a lot of bend in my knee. I’ve been told to start walking again without my crutches which I wouldn’t be able to do under normal circumstances. I feel like a bit of a pioneer.”
Tim Collier with Mr Ravindra Gudena
Fairfield, just a short distance from the East Lancs Road, is one of the very few remaining charitable hospitals in the country. Established in 1979, the site was originally the Pilkington family home and was purchased by the charity. Since 1986 it has been run as an independent hospital. Fairfield Independent Hospital is now known across the region for its high standards of care and determination to, where possible, use the latest technology to benefit its patients.
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Fairfield’s ambition is to be one of the leading centres for joint replacement in the North west, as it has more ConforMIS trained knee surgeons there than anywhere else in the UK.
“For each surgery we receive a surgical plan which works like a map of your knee, providing us with information that typically we can’t see until we are in the operating room.
ConforMIS say their goal is to give patients the most natural-feeling knee they possibly can. They believe that the more an implant mimics the natural shape of a patient’s knee, the more likely it is to move more naturally and feel more natural.
“They provide up to 27% more bone preservation and therefore a thinner implant, which results in less bone being cut during surgery. The implants are also designed for single use to reduce risk of infection. It is very exciting that Fairfield Independent Hospital and Mr Gudena are leading the field in the use of this technology locally.”
Mr Ravindra Gudena, who performed the first operation on Tim, the first of this kind at Fairfield,
“Unique advantages” said: “ConforMIS Patient-specific knee replacement has its own unique advantages, including bone preservation, reduced blood loss and a quicker recovery. The patients can get to the activity levels they used to with no limitation as the ConforMIS Knee replacement has a natural knee feel.
Currently this service is only available to privately insured and self-paying patients. You will need to speak to your GP and ask for a referral to one of Fairfield’s ConforMIS trained orthopaedic consultants. For more information about booking an appointment, call 01744 746 425 or email enquiries@fairfield.org.uk
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Health & Fitness
Face
I
f the eyes are a window to your soul, then the face can help identify some potential underlying health issues. Here are some of the more common issues and what you should do.
facts By Abi Jackson
disease. Lupus can have an impact on your quality of life, especially when multiple symptoms, such as joint pain, fatigue, mouth ulcers, headaches and many others, affect your daily life. What should I do? Lupus often goes undiagnosed for years, due to lack of awareness and because symptoms can be misleading. If you’re concerned, speak to your GP. There’s no cure, but treatments and advice on managing lupus can make a real difference. Excessive hair Every woman has facial hair to some degree, but if this hair is excessive (known as hirsutism), most commonly affecting the upper lip/chin/sideburn area, it could be a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It’s characterised by multiple small cysts on the ovaries, though it’s important to note that not everybody with cysts has the syndrome and associated problems. What should I do?
Nose and cheek rash This may be a sign of lupus, a lifelong autoimmune condition which, among other things, causes joint and muscle pain and extreme fatigue. But not everybody gets the so-called ‘butterfly’ rash. Other skin changes include a widespread measleslike rash, patches of discoid lupus (inflamed sores) or small areas of bleeding into the skin. Thinning of the hair can also be seen at times of a flare of the
PCOS is linked to long-term health risks like heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, so if a woman has two or more of these symptoms, we’d recommend she talks to her GP. There’s no cure, but it can be managed and there is a lot of great information and support available. Dark patches “There are tons of different causes of dark patches,” explains Dr Adam Friedmann, consultant dermatologist at The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic “Sun exposure can give you freckles, or dark patches called melasma, and this can be made
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worse by birth control pills and pregnancy, then there are age and liver spots.” These are common and nothing to worry about unless they become malignant. “If a freckle starts to get bigger with irregular colours, and looks different from the others, even if it’s still flat, it could mean it’s becoming cancerous,” says Friedmann. Hyperpigmentation can also occur as a result of scarring, possibly from other skin conditions, like eczema and psoriasis. It’s rare for hyperpigmentation to be a sign of illness, but in some cases, it could be linked with Addison’s disease - a condition involving the adrenal glands, which also causes fatigue, weight loss, sickness, joint pain and low blood pressure. You normally notice this sort of hyperpigmentation around the mouth and possibly the tongue, and acanthosis nigricans, dark, thickened patches that usually develop in armpits, groins and necks, can be a sign of underlying illness. What should I do? If you are concerned, speak to your GP, and any unusual changes in moles and freckles should always be checked. In most cases, dark patches are not a health concern, but if they’re causing distress or affecting your self-esteem, speaking to a dermatologist for advice could be really helpful. Redness The beauty industry and lay population often refer to a flushed complexion as rosacea, but for many people, rosacea is a real skin disorder which can have a big impact. “As dermatologists, we talk about acne rosacea,” says Friedmann. Though not every case is the same, symptoms include spots, thickening of the skin, sore, dry eyes and a rash-like flushing/redness. “Over time, if left untreated, the redness can become permanent and disfiguring. You can also get dilation of the blood vessels, and in worse cases, dilated lymphatics which is associated with reddened, facial swelling like rhinophyma - an enlarged, swollen, red nose,” explains Friedmann. “But this is thankfully rare and happens after years of not seeking treatment.” Facial redness can also occur due to long-term sun
exposure, mild eczema, dermatitis and scarring, or spontaneously with no underlying cause/problem. What should I do? If you’re suffering from acne rosacea, speak to your GP or see a dermatologist; treatments and advice can make a big difference. If permanent redness with no underlying cause is still causing distress, there may be things, like laser treatment or camouflage products, which could help. Bulging eyes Of course, some people’s eyes are naturally more bulbous, but if your eyes have started to protrude more than usual, and are bulging out of your eye sockets, it could be a sign of illness such as Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder and the most common form of overactive thyroid. Eyes may also become inflamed and painful, with possible double vision and increased sensitivity to light, too. Other symptoms of Graves include anxiety, weight loss, palpitations, hand tremor, frequent bowel movements and an enlarged thyroid gland, (where the front of the throat/neck bulges out. Other things that may cause eyes to bulge include injuries, infection and tumours. What should I do? Get things checked with your doctor so, if necessary, you can be referred for appropriate tests and treatment. If you’re experiencing other symptoms that may indicate thyroid imbalance, writing everything down in a diary might help build up a clearer picture.
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60
Financial planning
Avoiding investment mistakes in
retirement by David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP), Chartered Financial Planner and Managing Director
D
o you manage your own investments? Are you happy that they are invested into the right areas? Whilst investors have endured challenging conditions over the last few years, investment fundamentals have remained unchanged. Here are some common errors that self-investors make. Length of Life Usually investors are far too conservative which can be a problem when planning their futures. With medical treatment becoming far more effective, most people now live longer lives, so their funds could run out before their lives are over. Investment Objectives and Portfolio Strategy Aligning your objectives with your portfolio strategy is critical to determining your long term investment success. Generally, the longer the investment time horizon, the more risk one is able to take on. Too many investors focus on short term volatility rather than the long term probabilities of achieving their objectives. Overlooking Unintended Risk Factors Too often self-investors fail to recognise certain risk factors. Quite often two different securities that appear to be different can have similar correlation, and consequently market factors such as interest rate movements or commodity price changes can affect both holdings in the same way. Too high a concentration of any of these is risky.
Ignoring Global Markets As a result of globalisation there are a significant number of investment opportunities to take advantage of. If you suffer from a home country bias (even with diversification across different sectors) the returns are still in part linked to the overall economic performance and political climate of the home country. Geographical diversification is a key part to building a well constructed portfolio that will grow your assets. Over Confidence It is only natural to experience emotional fluctuations as you watch the ups and downs of the market each day. Many self-investors focus on their successes and forget the mistakes they have made, and this breeds over confidence, which can lead to taking on excessive portfolio risk. That is why it is vital to create an environment that is detached from emotion, one that relies on data and impartial analysis to make the right decisions. It is very difficult to avoid all of the investment pitfalls, and many self-investors simply do not have the time or resource to process the vast amount of data available and then to apply it to their personal investment requirement. If you need help with your pensions and investments please do not hesitate to give us a call. The cost of the initial consultation is met by ourselves and is without obligation.
The value of investments, and the income derived from them, can go down as well as up and you can get back less than you originally invested.
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My Up Holland
memories Former Casualty actor Ian Bleasdale talks to David Sudworth about growing up locally and his days at Wigan Tech
F
or someone who has been stabbed, strangled, shot at, taken hostage, trapped in quicksand and lost their entire family in a fire, Josh Griffiths is remarkably chipper.
Of course, all this didn’t really happen, and Josh Griffiths isn’t his real name. But when Up Holland-born Ian Bleasdale pulled on his character’s paramedic uniform in 1989 for an episode of BBC One’s hit drama Casualty, little did he know it would be the start of a remarkable 18 year run. And even though it’s been eight years since he left the show, Ian knows it’s something he will be forever associated with. “The only snag is that I don’t get any repeat fees,” laughs Ian. “But if I’m perfectly honest, I’ve never had a career, it’s been more like a series of jobs.” Born in the family home in Ormskirk Road in the early 1950s, Ian was the son of the local bobby, Ernie Bleasdale.
Ian Bleasdale today
“It was a police house because dad was covering Up Holland and the surrounding rural beat at the time. He was originally from Lostock Hall and in his youth had trials as a goalkeeper for Wolverhampton Wanderers and Bury. Mum was originally from Preston but when he got the Up Holland post they moved to the village, where they had me and my sister Barbara, who now lives in Croston. “As it was a rural beat, dad would go round on a motorbike to do his patrols. He’d seen quite a bit of devastation during the war as he’d been sent to the cities to dig people out of the rubble from bombed out houses, but he never talked about it.
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“I do remember the Beacon and the fact that Skelmersdale was just a tiny village back then. In the 1970s, I went back to visit ‘aunties’ and ‘uncles’ and I saw how the area, particularly Skelmersdale, was growing towards Up Holland.” Although he only spent the first six months of his life in the village, he was to renew his acquaintance with the area in his late teens when he enrolled at the old Wigan Technical College, now the town hall building on Library Street, to study art. “I absolutely loved my time at college in Wigan. It was a fantastic place, and still is. I learned a lot there and made some good friends but later went to art school in Liverpool and realised it wasn’t for me.”
TV roles started to come his way, including in Take The High Road, Crown Court, Emmerdale Farm and he even tussled with Mike Baldwin when he played a photographer in Coronation Street in 1982.
“What they go through is amazing” In 1989, he landed the part in Casualty. Little did he know it at the time, but he was to go on to be the second longest serving character in the show’s history. During that time, he had several harrowing storylines, but Ian is pretty much rooted about
Between leaving Up Holland and returning to Wigan, the family had lived in Leyland. Ian attended Balshaw’s CE and Farrington schools, and considered places such as Euxton as his stomping ground, as many of his school pals lived in the area. However, with education now out of the way, the world of work beckoned. And Ian’s parents weren’t short of advice. “My mum and dad always instilled it in me that I needed a good, solid job. That’s why dad joined the police, because of the job security, and that’s what he drilled into me. That’s when I decided to be a teacher, so went down south for a year to Bedfordshire. However, by the end of it, I’d pretty much decided I wanted to be an actor. “I joke that mum took to her bed for a week when I told her. I remember dad saying to her: ‘I don’t know where he gets it from, but it’s not our side of the family...’ “Even when I was married with kids, they’d still send me ‘real’ job adverts in the post. “I ended up going to The Everyman in Liverpool, but that was in the days before it became posh.”
As Josh Griffiths in Casualty
the whole thing: “I used to do 12 hour shifts with real ambulance crews and what they go through is amazing. I mean, I’m only pretending to be them, and yet I’m paid more than those who are doing it for real. I’m only pretending really.” I wonder what he thinks about typecasting, given that it’s a regular complaint from those who have spent many years playing one character: “If I’m being really honest, it’s brilliant that people want to talk to me about it. I never get bored. I mean, all these actors, especially the American ones, talking about their ‘craft’, I just think: ‘Oh shut up - you’re an actor, that’s all. You’re not important’. “After all, it’s flattering. You’re there to entertain
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people, not complain about what is basically your job. I’ve done so many things and I still think I’m 18.” Although known for his role on Casualty, there was a time when Ian relied on real-life paramedics to save his eyesight. While in his teens, Ian was involved in a car crash with friends while out for the day in the Lake District. Ian was a passenger in the car when it crashed in a rural lane. He remembers waking up in an ambulance hours later, with cuts all around his eyes. He later had 30 stitches, the scars from which have now disappeared.
With the cast of Casualty
“My family weren’t too shocked when they saw me – with dad being a policeman, he’d seen much worse!”
“It’s still a wonderful place and we should keep it that way,” says Ian. “Ever since I saw what happened in Up Holland with large-scale house building I’ve been worried about the effects on our green fields.
“Worried about our green fields”
Ian’s home is now picturesque Haworth in West Yorkshire
Aside from Casualty, he’s also had parts in Inspector Morse, The Brittas Empire, Soldier Soldier, All Creatures Great and Small and Andy Capp. At the point he left Casualty, Ian was one of the longest-serving cast members, alongside Derek Thompson who plays his friend Charlie.
“It’s the same here in Haworth, as indeed it is all over the country. I’ve recently been urging locals here to have their say on the local neighbourhood plan. It’s important to all of us. “I’’ve also presented a short video, available on You Tube and called Haworth Area Neighbourhood Development Plan, which spells out the importance of public participation. We at last have a real chance to say what sort of new houses we need, how many and what sort of new businesses we want. This is important to all of us.”
“I’ve been very lucky but then again I’ve always been a jobbing actor, or at least that’s how I’ve thought of myself. “ Now in his 60s and living in Haworth, between Burnley and Leeds, Ian enjoys walking and painting but often comes back to Lancashire to visit friends and family. And despite residing in rival Yorkshire, he’s still a proud Lancastrian at heart.
Ian in Inspector Morse
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66
Business view
Managing
cashflow by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy
How to collect more money and keep on top of cashflow
I
f you own or run a business, you will know the importance of positive cashflow. Many businesses go bust each year simply because they are owed money, so it is vital that you collect your payments when they are due. Here at CMA Accountants, based in Appley Bridge, we offer much more than the usual accountancy services such as bookkeeping, payroll, VAT help and self-assessment tax returns. We ensure our clients’ businesses run as smoothly as possible by providing them with the right tools, such as cloud based accounting software and regular management accounts.
How to manage your customers to ensure you get paid on time? The following tips can help you stay in the black: • Set out your terms and conditions - Clearly state when payment is due and what will happen if not received • Get to know your customer – Check references and research the background of the person you’re dealing with so you can decide what credit limit to set, or whether to steer clear.
• Invoice on a timely basis – Credit control starts with the invoice. Send it out promptly, accurately and to the right person. The quickest way to do this is to send it via an email and ask for a read receipt. • Payment chasing should be a tight operation - Use a good system such as Xero to send reminders when payment is due. Be sure to make a telephone call or send a letter as soon as an invoice becomes overdue. • Employ a credit controller - If you have the resources, employ a credit controller, or outsource to a company with expertise. • Promote flexible payment methods – Make it as easy as possible for your customers to pay you; credit card, PayPal, direct debits, standing orders and other online / automated payment methods. These are just a few tips that we give to our clients to help them stay on top of their cashflow. Every business is different and some methods work better than others depending on circumstances. Want to learn more? We offer free consultations to new and existing businesses, including sole traders, who want to improve their credit control or find out how cloud accounting can help improve their business. 01257 255521 info@cma-accountancy.com www.cma-accountancy.com CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DR
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68
Store signs
up
An anchor tenant has been confirmed for the next 15 years at a soon-to-be rejuvenated commercial complex. The Hollins Murray Group, which purchased the Winstanley Centre on Holmes House Avenue, back in 2012, have commenced development works on site. This includes creating additional units at the site. Additional parking has been made available at The Poacher pub next door while works are carried out. The Manchesterbased firm were granted planning permission back in December 2013. Recently, Hollins Murray confirmed that a 15 year pre-let agreement had been agreed with the Co-Operative Group Food Limited that will see them relocate to a newly built 4,000 sq ft retail unit in the redeveloped centre. Nick Casson, chief exectuive of HMG,
confirmed that they’ve secured a rent agreement with the Co-op of £55,000 a year, which will be reviewed at five year intervals. He added: “Co-op already occupy a unit at the Winstanley Centre which trades very well. Following our purchase of the scheme from receivers in 2012, we identified a redevelopment strategy which involves us building a new convenience store along with three other new units and at the same time, we will remodel the existing scheme. The new convenience store will be particularly prominent and Co-op quickly grasped the opportunity to strengthen their position here.”
Jamie’s DW date
Holland Hall application
Leeds Rhinos star Jamie Jones-Buchanan is to address the Business Men’s Fellowship in Wigan on Monday, June 29. He will be the guest speaker at the event at the DW Stadium, Loire Drive, Robin Park, from 7.15pm. The Business Men’s Fellowship aims to encourage men in the Christian faith through personal testimony at dinner events, breakfast meetings, conferences, golf days and training events.
An Up Holland hotel is planning to turn one of its newer buildings into private residential apartments. Holland Hall, on Lafford Lane, has applied to West Lancashire Borough Council, to convert one of the structures, granted permission in 2007, into 10 selfcontained homes. Papers lodged with the council explain that the building has never been brought into use as originally envisaged and there is now no need for additional hotel accomodation. It adds: “The existing building is superfluous to the requirements of the hotel. While initially conceived
Tickets are £13, payable on the night. Contact Stuart Jones on 01942 495316.
by previous owners as a development which would help sustain the business, this is no longer the case and new owners have now been able to stabilise the business.” A decision is due by mid July.
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Morpheus
move
A husband and wife team whose business celebrates its 10th anniversary this year are moving into the vacant Billinge Garden Centre site. Ian and Stephanie O’Brien, who run Morpheus Glass, are hoping to have completed the move by autumn. They leave their current premises at Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, at the end of July. To mark the event, the Winstanley couple are having a moving sale at the beginning of the month. Glass artist Stephanie, who is originally from Lathom and went to Cross Hall High in Ormskirk, added: “We want to make it a real destination for people, with a gift shop, handmade jewellery, cards and wrapping paper, home accessories as well as our bespoke, fused glass service. It’s great we’ve found a place close to our current premises – less than a mile down the road – so customers can still easily access our services.” Ian, who went to Up Holland High, told Local Life: “It’s a very exciting move for us. There is a lot of space in the new premises, dedicated car parking and a cafe area which we will be hoping to open at some point. It’s a lot of work but we’re up for the challenge!” The moving sale takes place at Morpheus Glass, Unit 11, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, on Saturday, July 4, and Sunday, July 5, between 10am-4pm on both days. For more information, visit www.morpheusglass.co.uk
Meets at 6pm on Tues 7th July at Room 4 Conference Venue 58 Legh Street, Golborne, WA3 3PA
Networking and support in a friendly and informal atmosphere for all Wigan Borough-based businesses.
Admission £5 Please pre-register your attendance at
www.wiganbbc.org.uk
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Food & Drink
Vegging
A
out
by Jeananne Craig
s challenges go, temporarily turning veggie is hardly up there with trekking the Great Wall Of China. As a lover of all things meaty, however, it’s a task that fills me with some trepidation. Adopting a meat-free diet brings plenty of benefits to animals and the environment, not to mention your bank balance, once you’ve taken costly meat and fish off the shopping list. But will veggie food give me all the nourishment and flavour I need, or will I be reaching for a Big Mac by day three? Luckily, I have a fool proof meal plan devised by online supermarket Ocado and nutritionist Anita Bean, to see me through the week and ensure I get a balanced and varied diet. I sometimes struggle to come up with exciting dishes when cooking for veggie friends, but there are a wide range of tastes and textures in Bean’s recipes, from the super-simple bean and quinoa salad to the gnocchi, pesto and roasted veg, and the goat’s cheese and tomato frittata. What’s more, they’re surprisingly filling.
It’s all about getting the balance right, according to Bean - ensuring you get enough protein, iron, vitamin B12 (from eggs, dairy products and fortified breakfast cereals), omega-3 (try chia, pumpkin and flax seeds and dark green leafy veg), and vitamin D. “Vitamin D can be a problem if you don’t get much sun exposure or consume oily fish. The best vegetarian sources are egg yolk and fortified margarine, plant milk and breakfast cereals,” says Bean. “Make vegetarian versions of your favourite meals: replace the meat in stews, curries and casseroles with tinned beans, lentils or tofu.” If you’re missing your meat fix, you might like to try meat substitutes such as seitan (a gluten used in stir fries and Chinese dishes) and Quorn meat-free chicken fillets. By the end of my week, I’m feeling great - healthy, clear-skinned and with more energy than usual. I’ve been getting about seven portions of fruit and veg a day, and from now on, I’ll definitely be more imaginative when it comes to planning meals. Want to try out some vegetarian dishes? Here are three tasty meat-free recipes to try at home from Ocado and Anita Bean.
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Potato
gnocchi
with roasted vegetables and pesto
Serves 1 Ingredients
Method
1/2 red pepper, sliced
Pre-heat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas mark 6.
1/2 courgette, sliced
Place the chopped vegetables and whole tomatoes in a
1/2 small onion, sliced 50g cherry tomatoes whole 1tbsp olive oil
large roasting tin with the garlic. Toss lightly in olive oil so that the vegetables are well coated, and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes. Cook the gnocchi in boiling water for three minutes,
1 garlic clove, crushed
drain and return to the pan. Add the pesto and warm
200g potato gnocchi
through for a further minute.
1tbsp pesto (Ocado recommends Zest Vegan Basil Pesto)
Combine the cooked gnocchi and pesto, mix with the roasted vegetables and serve.
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Taste test
Ship Shape at the
Boathouse by David Sudworth
S
uccessful eating establishments rely on two things; consistency and quality. Compromise on either and you’re sunk. When the Boathouse at Appley Bridge opened last year, I was one of the first through its doors and raved about the quality, but ever since I have wondered whether it could keep up its high standards. So for lunch recently, my colleague Sally and I parked ourselves in the outside dining area of this Mill Lane eatery, nestling aside the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, to find out. Fortunately, the sun was out so spirits were high anyway, but when the starters came, they were sent into orbit. On my last visit, I remarked how the Boathouse managed to get me eating things I wouldn’t have normally dreamed of ordering. Well, their culinary maestros managed to do it again. This time, Sally and I went for a sharing starter of three separate dishes; soft shell crab and chilli salad, black pudding fritters with chilli jam and duck spring rolls. Although a seafood fan, I’ve never been wholly taken with crab, but let me tell you that I fell hook, line and sinker for this dish to the point where I finished it all. There was a lovely, slightly salty taste from the dressing and beautiful tones coming through from the pea shoot leaf. The fritters went perfectly with the chilli jam and the duck spring rolls rounded off an excellent starter. For the main course, Sally had the truly scrumptiously-sounding pan fried chicken breast with sun-blushed tomatoes, goats’ cheese pesto potatoes and tomato relish while I had the barbecue pork belly with corn on the cob, sweet potato and crackling. Again, pork belly is one of those dishes which I’m indifferent towards, probably because it hardly sounds appetising, but there’s no way I couldn’t have an opinion on the Boathouse’s version. I was treated to a wonderful fusion of senses, from the brilliant presentation to subtle tastes, giving this most unsexy cuts of meat its rightful place in the culinary kingdom. Sally’s chicken was also cooked expertly; I’ve always been a fan of pesto and goats’
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cheese so when added with potatoes it provides a well-chosen accompaniment. At this point, I must make a special mention of the scenery. From our table, we had not just beautiful views of the waterway, but the surrounding countryside. Narrow boats glided past, people ambled along the towpath and the air was filled with the quiet buzz of families enjoying an afternoon in the sun. Say what you want about Spain, Italy and so on, but there’s nothing quite like being able to dine al fresco in Britain. Choosing dessert isn’t easy at the Boathouse as there are so many options, so Sally and I got a chocolate and hazelnut brownie with Tootsie ice cream and fruit spherification (yes, I had to look it up as well). Basically, they are small liquid spheres which visually and texturally resemble roe. They pop in the mouth and are a sophisticated addition to the dish. I was particularly impressed by the hazelnuts, which were abundant and tasty. Even if you were just stopping by for a coffee, I’d recommend ordering one of these.
All this made me feel glad we dropped anchor at the Boathouse again. As I said at the outset, if a restaurant cannot deliver consistency and quality, it will never be successful. Almost a year on from my last visit, I can vouch for the fact that both of these important facets are now well and truly in place. As we were leaving, I overheard one couple sat close by saying: “Aye, we’ll have to tell our Emma about this place.” Obviously, I’ve no idea who Emma is, but if like all good children, she follows her parents’ advice, she won’t go far wrong. Especially at the Boathouse...
Free carafe of Wine! Available when ordering a minimum of two courses between Tuesday and Thursday, lunchtimes or evenings. Maximum of 1 voucher per table. Bookings only, please mention when booking Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer ends on Thursday, July 30.
Mill Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DA Telephone 01257 252456 www.appleybridgeboathouse.com
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Eating out
guide The Star Inn
The Wayfarer
The award-winning Star Inn is renowned for scrumptious food and quaffable ales. Its success has been built on a great reputation for fresh cooked, fresh produce, at reasonable prices. 01257 253355 60, Bank Top, Roby Mill, WN8 0QQ thestarinnrobymill.co.uk
If you fancy dining in a country pub, an a la carte restaurant or a stylish Italian, this award winning pub/ restaurant in picturesque Parbold is a perfect choice for you. 01257 464600 Alder Lane, Parbold, WN8 7NL wayfarerparbold.co.uk
The High Moor Restaurant From set menus to a-la-carte meals and a traditional Sunday lunch, The High Moor Restaurant has an enviable reputation for superb food, outstanding wines and genuine hospitality. High Moor Lane, Wrightington, Wigan, WN6 9QA 01257 252364 highmoorrestaurantwigan.co.uk
The Boathouse At the Boathouse we offer an excellent seasonal menu, freshly prepared and sourced from local suppliers. Our team can cater for every occasion, from a relaxed evening meal to your next special event. 01257 252456 Mill Ln, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DA appleybridgeboathouse.com
The Stocks Tavern Warmest and friendliest of welcomes with award winning chef Mike Heap, who uses only the finest, freshest, local ingredients to ensure you leave completely satisfied. 01257 462874 16, Alder Lane, Parbold, WN8 7NN thestockstavern.co.uk
Advertise
here ÂŁ48 + VAT
Call 01695 627999
77
Delph Tavern Award-winning CAMRA freehouse with a fast growing reputation for excellent quality food at reasonable prices. Traditional British classics served, plus some exotic surprises too. Food served Wed-Sun only. 01695 622239 Tontine, Orrell, WN5 8UJ facebook.com/TheDelphTavern
The Rigbye Arms This pretty pub with its low beams, quirky rooms and real fire, has centuries of hospitality steeped into its timbers. Offering a variety of fresh local produce and local game, there is something for everyone. 01257 462354 2 Whittle Lane, Wrightington, Wigan, WN6 9QB rigbyearms.com
Advertise
here £30 + VAT
Call 01695 627999
The Corner House Fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere - perfect for any special occasion or a casual get together. Our traditional menu sources local produce. See our website for special offers. 01257 451400 9, Wood Lane, Wrightington Bar, Wigan, WN6 9SE cornerhousewrightington.co.uk
Lovels Bistro
Rigby’s Coffee Shop
Tasty food, happy times and great value - you’ll not be disappointed with the quality, taste and service. We’re more than just a great wedding venue. 01695 624 426 Holland Hall, Lafford Lane, Up Holland, WN8 0QZ hollandhallhotel.co.uk
Enjoy a trip out to Pimbo Garden Centre and tuck into a wide selection of delicious home cooked, locally sourced, food served seven days a week at Rigby’s Coffee Shop. 01695 622601 Pimbo Garden Centre, 32 Pimbo Lane, Up Holland, WN8 9QQ pimbogardencentre.co.uk
rigby’s Coffee Shop Fifteens @ The Fox
Winstons
With real fires burning, local fresh food and great cask ales, Fifteens @ The Fox offers a perfect combination of a traditional pub with relaxed fine dining, seven days a week. 01695 628178 Roby Mill, Up Holland, WN8 0QF fifteensatthefox.com
Traditional British pies, tasty Goosnargh chicken, delicious steak, fresh fish, Chef’s Specials, Sunday carvery and so much more. Winston’s – Award Winning Pizza. 01695 627692 190, Upholland Road, Billinge, WN5 7DJ winstonspizza.com
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Bean and quinoa
salad
Serves 1 Ingredients 125g ready to eat quinoa 1/2 tin (200g) mixed beans (drained) 4 baby plum tomatoes, halved 1/4 yellow pepper, deseeded and chopped 5cm cucumber, sliced 50g feta cheese, crumbled 1tbsp pomegranate seeds Juice of 1/2 lemon 1tbsp olive oil
Method Combine the ready to eat quinoa (or boil and simmer for around 15-20 minutes if not using ready-made), beans,
tomatoes,
pepper,
cucumber,
pomegranate seeds. Dress with a splash of olive oil and a dash of lemon juice.
feta
and
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Events & Leisure
What’s
on
Wedding Open Evening Friday, June 19 Join Holland Hall’s wedding advisors from 5pm9pm for a tour of the Up Holland venue on Lafford Lane, including its function suites and bedrooms. Call 01695 624426 or visit www.hollandhallhotel. co.uk
Afternoon Tea Saturday, June 20 From 2pm-4pm at Tontine Methodist Church, opposite the Delph Tavern pub, Tontine. Various stalls on offer - all welcome.
Midsummer Piano Festival Saturday, June 20-Sunday, June 21 A celebration of music-making by some of the world’s finest musicians and pianists at Parbold Village Hall, The Green. Adult weekend pass is £30.50. For a full list of performances, visit www. parbolddouglasmusic.org
Annual Fair Saturday, June 20 St. Matthews Church, Highfield, are holding their annual Summer Fair from 1pm-3pm in the vicarage garden (weather permitting). If wet it will be held in the Parish Rooms , opposite the church car park). There will be all the usual stalls including handmade cards, a flower stall, groceries and cake stall. Refreshments will be available.
Armed Forces in the Park Sunday, June 21 From 1pm-7pm at Leyland Park, off Park Road, Hindley. This annual Friends of Leyland Park event
Mary J Blige Thursday, July 2 The American singer-songwriter returns to the UK for a performance at Manchester’s O2 Apollo arena. Starting as a backing singer, Blige released her first album, What’s the 411?, in 1992, and has released 11 studio albums since and made over 150 guest appearances on other albums and soundtracks. Doors open at 7.30pm. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets via www. ticketmaster.co.uk celebrates our Armed Forces. Free admission. Visit www.friendsofleylandpark.org.uk or for further information contact Darren Rogers on 01942 828530 or Andy Allen 01942 489370.
Taylor Swift Wednesday, June 24 Seven-time Grammy winner Taylor Swift will bring The 1989 World Tour to Manchester on Wednesday 24 June – her first live show in the city since her
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sold-out date at the Arena on the Speak Now tour in 2011. Doors 6pm Under 14s with an adult in seated only. Call 0844 847 8000 to book tickets.
Ladies’ Charity Fashion Show Friday, June 26 In aid of the Storehouse Project from 7.30pm at St. Mary’s Catholic Club, Trent Road, Billinge. There will be a fashion show with all the latest high street fashions from top brands and an opportunity to buy clothes on the night at 50% or more discount. Tickets are £5 and to buy or for more information, call Julie/Rachel on 07816 623612.
Charity Dancing & Cabaret Friday, June 26 Event at St James’ Club, St James’ Road, Orrell, in aid of the Neuro Muscular Centre in Cheshire. Entertainment from Irish comedian Dusty Young and DJs. Doors open at 7pm, starts at 8pm. Tickets are £7 and available either at the club on 01695 623902 or from Frank on 01744 309760.
Brazilica Festival Friday, July 17, to Sunday, July 19 The increasingly popular annual event returns for 2015 will once again cover the city of Liverpool in colour for the eighth consecutive year. The spectacular Carnival Parade which features Samba bands from across the UK and overseas will also remain as the main festival highlight. More information at www.brazilicafestival.com
The Rainford Band proudly presents
‘The Summer Pops’ Gala concerts featuring
The Last Night of the Proms 9th, 10th, 11th July 2015
Special Appearance –Thursday 9th - Rainford Ladies Choir White House Farm, Off Higher Lane, Rainford, WA11 8NL
Tickets £12
Bring your own Food & Drink
Available from David Grice on
01744 884633
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School Fair Saturday, June 27 St Teresa’s School, College Road, Up Holland, holds its summer fair from 12.30pm. Traditional games such as welly throwing, archery, tombola. First prize in the raffle will be a £100 Marks and Spencer summer hamper along with a day raffle which has numerous prizes to suit all ages.
Orrell Holgate Summer Fair
WEST LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER COUNTRYSIDE EVENT
Saturday, June 27 This popular event, held between 11pm – 1pm, at the Moor Road school, is billed as a fun-filled, action-packed family day out. There will be stalls galore including: children’s face painting and hair braiding, new and used items, cakes, ice-cream, chocolate/teddy tombola, fun rides and much, much more.
Gift and Craft fair Sunday, June 28 Held at The Beeches, School Lane, Standish, with all proceeds to Macmillan Cancer Care. Free admission. To book a table, please contact Christine on 07834 226684 or email handcrafts82@gmail.com
Afternoon Tea On The Lawn Sunday, June 28 Held from 2pm at Orrell Methodist Church, Church Drive. Tickets are £5 and available from Rosalind on 01695 624550, Ann on 01695 622654 or Susan on 01695 627313.
A Potter’s Tale Until July 4 Join the Museum of Wigan Life staff for a journey through time with this fun and fresh new exhibition exploring craft traditions in Wigan Borough over 2,000 years. Free event, suitable for all ages. No booking required. Telephone 01942 828128 or email wiganmuseum@wigan.gov.uk
ENTERTAINMENT INCLUDES: Arena Events | Craft Demonstrations Live Music | Children’s Attractions Animal Displays | Refreshments; including craft beers and ciders ...and much more! www.westlancs.gov.uk/countryside
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T
urners atering C Services
* Weddings * Conferences * Corporate Days * Birthdays
Domestic & Commercial events catered for.
Every occasion individually designed for you.
For more details email: turnerscatering@gmail.com
Information Sessions Thursday, July 2 & Sunday, July 5 Summer recruitment drive at Wigan Samaritans, 73, Dicconson Street, Wigan, at 7pm on the Thursday and 1pm on the Sunday.
Summer Concert Friday, July 3 Wigan Community Choir event at Trinity URC Church, Milton Grove, Wigan. The concert starts at 7.30pm and includes a wide variety of songs including Vivaldi’s Gloria, the local song Liverpool Lou, sea shanty Sloop John B, and more modern numbers including Best Day Of My Life. Tickets, costing £7 and £5, are on sale on the door.
WANT A DJ FOR YOUR FUNCTION? Dance classics from all the decades Call Chris for details on 07884 310941 Or email djchriswright.nwp@gmail.com
NWP AGENCY & EVENTS
20 years experience * Public liability insurance * PAT tested
Saturdays there will be free music in Wigan town centre from 11am and on the Sundays there will be jazz in Mesnes Park, off Mesnes Road, from noon. Full gig guide available at www.wiganjazz.net - call 01942 828 271 for tickets or book online.
Family History Workshop Friday, July 10 Booking is essential for this free event, held between 2pm and 3pm, at Ashton Library, on Wigan Road. Call 01942 404559 to reserve a place.
Medieval Fair Saturday July 4 Annual event held from 1pm-4pm in the grounds of the ancient church of St Thomas the Martyr, Church Street, Up Holland. Musicians the Tapestry of Music will be playing throughout the afternoon and there will be a host of unusual stalls including fancy goods, a tombola, plants and a local produce market. Afternoon teas will be served in the church and outside there will be a barbecue. Children’s attractions include a bouncy castle, archery, hooka-duck, a treasure hunt and lots more. Free entry.
Wigan International Jazz Festival Thursday, July 9, to Sunday, July 12 Celebrating its 30th year, a 10-day programme packed with top artists. Most concerts take place at Robin Park Sports Centre, Loire Drive. On the
The Tiger Who Came To Tea Wednesday, July 29, to Friday, July 30 Following a smash-hit West End season, the teaguzzling tiger is back on the road in this delightful family show at Preston Guild; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! For audiences aged three and above. Performances are at 10.30am and 1.30pm on selected days. Tickets £11 via www.prestonguildhall.com
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Cricket Club Open Day Friday, July 10 Winstanley Park Cricket Club, off Winstanley Road, extends a warm welcome to everyone to go down and see the club’s facilities. It currently runs three senior teams and four junior teams at under nine, 11s, 13s, and 15. The club will be open from 5.30pm and the new net facility will be opened at 6pm. For more information, visit www. winstanleyparkcricketclub.co.uk
Summer Concert Saturday, July 11 Parbold Chamber Choir event at Parbold Village Hall, The Green. Audience members can take their own drinks. A buffet supper will be included in the ticket price of £10. Booking in advance is advisable. Please phone 01704 821303 or 01257 464653 or book via www.paroldchamberchoir.co.uk gardens available to visit. Vintage bus will run between the church and gardens. Admission is £5 for adults, children go free.
Black Grape Sunday, July 12 After 20 years, ex-Happy Mondays frontman Shaun Ryder brings you Black Grape’s 2015 comeback tour, and it’s coming to Parr Hall in Warrington. Starts at 7.30pm. Tickets from £22. Box Office & General Enquiries: 01925 442345.
An Evening With Jon Brindley and Chonkinfeckle Friday, July 10 Takes place at the Unity Club, Cross Street, Standish, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 each and available from Symphony Music, 56 Market Street, or online for £5.50 at www.ticketsource.co.uk/chonkinfeckle
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Parbold Village Festival
Bird Watching
Saturday, July 11
Wednesday, July 15
This family event takes place on Alder Lane Playing Fields from 1pm-5pm. The theme for this year’s festival is ‘Around the World’ and there will be children’s arts workshops and fancy dress. Other entertainment includes music, dancing, singing, displays, games, stalls, food and drink and much more. There will be two marquees and the Show Arena, with a full programme of Entertainment inside and out. Entry is £2 for adults while children go free.
Join Wigan RSPB Group for an opportunity to visit bird sites with an experienced member. No experience required. Venue will be decided a few days before the event in the light of the latest bird reports - meeting point in Standish - please telephone Tom Morton 01942 832383 for details. Meeting time is 9.15 am and booking is essential.
Jess and the Bandits Monday, July 13 An evening of music from Texan singer/songwriter Jessica Clemmons and her band The Bandit with special guest Wigan born Chris Bannister. Doors: 6.30pm, concert 7.30pm-10.30pm at Robin Park Arena, Loire Drive. Tickets £15. Call the box office: 01942 828271 (Mon-Fri 9-5) or buy in person at the Visitor Reception & Golf Complex at Haigh Country Park, Copperas Lane, Wigan.
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Cherry Gardens Walk Saturday, July 18 Wigan & District Ramblers meet at 2pm at the Cherry Gardens Hotel, Wigan Lane, for this local footpath walk which will be around four miles long. For more information, call Frank Atherton on 01942 831566 before 9pm or visit www.wigananddistrictramblers. org.uk
Charity Social Dance Saturday, July 18 Held at Pemberton Masonic Hall, Chapel Street, at 7.30pm. Line dancing, modern sequence and a little bit of ballroom. Organised by Grange Monday Night Dance group . Tickets are £6 and this includes supper. Available from Jacqui 07927 665546 or Carol 07749 947461.
Carousel Wednesday July 22 - Saturday July 25 Orrell Musical & Dramatic Society are performing this classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical at St Michael’s Parish Hall, Shaw Street, Wigan. Includes songs and chorus numbers including You’ll Never Walk Alone. Start time 7.30pm. Tickets priced £8 (concessions £7 Wednesday and Thursday only) are available by calling 01695 622713.
John Power Acoustic Show Thursday July 23 The former Cast and La’s singer comes to The Old Courts, Crawford Street, Wigan. Acoustic show consisting of John’s solo rootsy set followed by all the hits from Cast. Buy your ticket £8 in advance or £10 on the door. Visit www.theoldcourts.com
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The Green Fayre Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26 Held from 11am until 5pm each day at Beacon Country Park, Beacon Lane, Up Holland. This free event is a celebration of the countryside and is the biggest event of its kind in West Lancashire. Watch Viking battles, dog display teams and birds of prey demonstrations in the show’s arena. Learn more about agriculture and get hands on with a variety of farm yard animals in the show’s petting zoo. For more information, visit www. facebook.com/wlbc.rangers or to request a stallholder application form email greenfayre@ westlancs.gov.uk
Shevington Fete Saturday, August 1 From 10am on the Recreational Field, Gathurst Lane. Celebrity guest Sherrie Hewson (Coronation Street, Benidorm, Loose Women) is lined up to open the event and local bands Dukes Road and Pemberton Brass Band will provide live music in the marquee. The Gardening Club Show, will take place in the Youth and Community Centre on Highfield Avenue: open to the public from 1pm after the judging. The Methodist Church on Gathurst Lane will house community information stalls, while the Dance Hut and St Anne’s Parish Rooms on Church Lane will host craft and charity stalls. All welcome.
Indoor Car Boot Sale Saturday, August 1 Held at Up Holland Methodist Church, Alma Hill, from 10am–1pm. Refreshments will be available. £10 per table. Please contact Linda to book on 01695 622414 or email linda.w@talktalk.net
Greenslate Summer Festival Saturday, August 1 This event , held from 11am-11pm at the Tracks Lane site in Billinge, is billed as a celebration of local talent with several bands confirmed Big Foot , Red Eyed Jedi and Chockinfettle to name a few with lots more to follow, playing live at the farm and an open
Sentenced to Soul All-Nighter Saturday, August 29 Eight DJs and eight hours of rare, underplayed & in demand 1960s/70s northern soul, from 10pm-6am at The Old Courts, Crawford Street, Wigan. Guest DJ team is John Poole, Ginger Taylor (pictured), Rob Smith, Tony Clarke and up-and-coming soul DJ Owen Bolton along with resident DJs Jordan Wilson, Ben Hindley, Nicolé Gordy Blacklaws. Tickets advanced purchase for £12 from http://sentencedto-soul-all-nighter.eventzilla.net/ mic session for budding musicians. Local foods and regional ales will be on sale plus craft stalls and activities for all the family. Entry is a voluntary £1 donation. All enquiries please call Dawn on 07434 977 663.
Summer Exhibition Saturday, August 1, to Saturday, August 8 Ashton Art Group artists show work in a variety of media and with a wide range of subject matter to suit every taste. Most of the work is for sale and there is no charge for admission. Held at St Thomas’ Church Hall, Warrington Road, Ashton. Opening times are 10am–6pm each day except Sunday (11am –2pm).
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Newton Town Show Saturday, August 1, Held at Mesnes Park, Park Road North, from 11am. Organisers the Newton and Earlestown Community Group say show will be packed with attractions for all ages, various stalls and the return of the arts and crafts competition. More details at www. newtontownshow.weebly.com
Royal Lancashire Show Friday, August 7- Sunday, August 9 This historical, annual event at Salesbury Hall, Ribchester, is a fabulous celebration of our great British countryside and a brilliant family day out to boot. There’ll be magnificent livestock displays, wonderful food and drink, marvellous crafts, a huge country life area, and lots of traditional entertainment and avenues of trade stands offering a wealth of goods. For further information, visit www.royallancs.co.uk
Simon Weston: My Story Sunday, September 6 The Falklands War veteran tells his life story at Warrington’s Pyramid venue on Palmyra Square South. Tickets priced from £13-£14.50 and the event starts at 7.30pm. For more information, visit www.pyramidparrhall.com
Lovehunter Saturday, August 15 Europe’s number one tribute to US rockers Whitesnake at The Old Courts, Crawford Street, Wigan town centre., from 8:30 pm-11pm. Playing all the old and new classics Tickets are £5.50 and available from www.seetickets.com
Southport Flower Show Thursday, August 20, to Sunday, August 23 The UK’s largest independent flower show at Victoria Park, Rotten Row, is back and promises to be a great day out. Attracting around 70,000 visitors, the event will feature stunning show gardens, the finest flower and vegetable displays, specialist foods and books, celebrity guests and much more. Tickets from £18-£22.50 via www. southportflowershow.co.uk
Wigan Live Festival Friday, August 28, and Saturday, August 29 Wigan Live will be host to over 50 bands in Wigan over two days at over 10 different venues. There will be music from all kinds of styles to suit every taste. Confirmed acts include pop punkster Calvin Snape, hip-hop/soul act The Kaptivators, acoustic rockers Father And Son and blues/Americana act Maybe Frank. Further details can be found at www. wiganlivefestival.co.uk
Ormskirk MotorFest Sunday, August 30, From 11am-4pm. Put yourself in pole position to enjoy the North West’s premier free motoring spectacular and a fantastic day out for all the family. A fabulous array of cars and motorcycles from all eras of motoring will be on display, and many of these will join in the parade laps around Ormskirk town centre. This free event takes place around Moor Street, Aughton Street, Coronation Park, and Ormskirk town centre.
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Jack’s Tracks
Wigan
flashes by David Sudworth
T
he legacy of industrialisation looms large over the North West, none more so in the town of Wigan.
Yet the stereotypical view of rusting pit heads, derelict mills and acres of weedstrewn land is far from accurate. Most have been regenerated, providing alternative employment or even leisure facilities. Wigan Flashes are wetlands which have been constructed from past mining activity in the area, covering about 620 acres, and is now a dedicated Local Nature Reserve. In its heyday, around one millions tonnes of coal was extracted per year from the collieries. They closed in the late 1960s. A number of flashes make up the Reserve, including Scotsman’s, Pearson’s, Bryn, Turner’s and Ochra. The Flashes now play an important part in supporting species such as the skylark, which are declining nationally, and the lapwing.
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We parked up at the bottom of Carr Lane, next to Hawkley Hall High School, WN3 5NY, and proceeded to make our way into the woodland. From here, we headed eastwards towards the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, a fairly straightforward, well-marked out route. After about five minutes, we arrived at the beautiful stone bridge, which we crossed, and joined up with the towpath snaking south-eastwards. Walking down the path, it struck me just how busy it was, with cyclers, walkers and runners. It’s nice to know that more than 230 years after it was constructed, the canal still plays its part in getting people from A to B.
Soon, we got to a railway bridge, which carries the Wigan-Liverpool line. We passed under the bridge and then took a sharp left up the embankment to follow the path. On the right, we had Horrocks’ Flash, which is a renowned for its fantastic wildlife. Indeed, we stopped off at a bird hide and instantly wished we’d brought our binoculars with us. Considering it’s sandwiched between two train lines, the other being the West Coast Main Line, it is remarkably peaceful. Onwards, we veered clockwise, following the West Coast line southwards until we met back up with the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. At this point, the distance we’d travelled may not have been massive on foot,
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Pearson’s Flash
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Springview
Scotsman’s Flash
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Turner’s Flash
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Hawkley
Hawkley Hall High School
Postcode: WN3 5NY
Orchra Flash Bryn Flash
but we’d essentially gone from one side of Wigan to the other as I could see parts of Platt Bridge in the distance. Turning right at the towpath, we started making our way back down towards the starting
Horrock’s Flash
Hide
point. This is perhaps the most satisfying part of the walk because we not only saw a few narrow boats, but we also came across some fairly tame swans who almost expected us to take photographs
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of them. They lined up like pouting models on a Milan catwalk while our fearless cameraman Peter snapped away like a latter-day Lord Lichfield. I know I said earlier that images of industrial wasteland don’t apply in this area, but there are a few minor exceptions. These mostly revolve around bridges, or rather a lack of them, as many were torn up when mining ceased in the area. What’s bizarre is that the supports (i.e. the steps) still exist but the crossings themselves have gone. Certainly for walkers, it would be advantageous to have these restored. So if anyone from the Canal & River Trust is reading this, take note! Once, we got back to the stone bridge, we simply retraced our route back to the car. On the way, we
Gary Mulvaney
Dog Trainer
noticed a section of reed beds which apparently attract a wide cross-section of wildlife, from the broad-bodied chaser and bittern to the smooth newt and reed warbler. All in all, this 3.7 mile walk is good for those who don’t generally do much walking as it is flat and fairly easy to follow. For the more experienced walker though, it provides an interesting history lesson coupled with some decent wildlife-spotting opportunities. There’s also the opportunity to go further afield, varying the walk, although the presence of the rail lines does restrict this. 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.
Train for Fun – Skills for Life • Puppy/Dog Training • 1-2-1 Instruction • Behavioural problems 07754 003 021 or 01257 252232 Email garymulvaney@btinternet.com
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Agility classes KC Rally Obedience classes Puppy classes One to one training Puppy socialisation parties Give Jo a call today on 01257 423726 or email her on jo@standishdogtrainer.co.uk
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I like gardening but I’m Award Winner
rubbish by Angie Barker
W
hen visiting peoples’ gardens, the two comments I hear most often are “nothing will grow there” and “I like gardening but I’m rubbish at it”. The former comment usually relates to a shady spot in someone’s garden and because they have tried to grow something there before which has not flourished, they assume that this area is doomed to be boring and unable to support plant life when in fact nothing could be further from the truth. A shady spot in your garden is an opportunity to grow a wonderful range of plants. The first thing you need to assess is whether your shade is dry shade or moist shade as this will determine which plants you can grow successfully. For example ferns such as Polystichum munitum (Sword fern) and the Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis) thrive in moist shade. Some hardy Geraniums such as Geranium nodosum do well in dry shade as well as Dicentra formosa (Bleeding Heart) and Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis). Now to address the “I like gardening but I’m rubbish at it” comment. First and foremost gardening
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.
should be about having fun, about enjoying a healthy pursuit out in the open air. Just have a go at it and through trial and error you will be amazed at how rewarding it can be. There is a wealth of practical information out there and one of the best publications is the Gardeners World magazine. Produced in conjunction with the BBC’s Gardeners World programme aired on a Friday night during the summer months, it provides masses of useful information and tips. And if you subscribe to it, there are lots of special offers available, including some free plants – what could be better! If flowers don’t float your boat (as the young ‘uns say) get inspired and grow some veg. Potatoes, lettuce and carrots are some of the easiest to grow and there really is nothing more satisfying than eating fresh produce from your own garden. Children love getting involved too and it keeps them away from the computer screen and gets them interested in nature. Even Hubby takes an interest in the garden – although of course I am firmly in charge. So there you have it – no excuses – get gardening!
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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Win Tickets to
Southport Flower Show T
he largest independent flower show in the country returns to Southport’s Victoria Park from 20th-23rd August. Southport Flower Show is a four day celebration of the very best in garden design, arts and crafts, shopping, family entertainment and food. The theme for this year’s show is ‘China’ with oriental styles being reflected across all aspects of the event, including the floral marquees, food and entertainment.
For gardening lovers this year’s show will boast stunning show gardens and displays created by some of the best landscapers and designers in the country. There will also be a host of stalls and shops selling unique plants and flowers and advice sessions from experts in the “Garden Roadshow.” Live music will be a key element of the show with the bandstand featuring performances from male voice choirs, brass bands, swing bands and singers.
We’ve got our hands on TWELVE pairs of tickets to this year’s show, and you can win a pair of tickets by completing the crossword on the right and returning your entry to; Southport Flower Show Competition Local Life 247 Ltd Unit 8 – Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road Orrell Wigan WN5 7XB Or you can email your answers along with your name, full address and contact number to crossword@locallife247.co.uk Your entry must be with us by Friday 31st July 2015. Ray Roukin, general manager of Southport Flower Show said: “This summer’s event will be a real treat for the senses with so much to explore, it’s set to be a great day out. Visitors can experience everything from stunning floral displays and show gardens, guaranteed to inspire your creativity, to tasty treats that will tantalise your taste buds. There will also be masterclasses and demonstrations on offer, where visitors can pick up plenty of tips and advice from the experts.”
At the centre of the show ground will be a purpose built arena boasting a range spectacular entertainment including flying birds of prey, dog displays and circus acts including the world famous Vander Quad Wheel of Death. There is plenty of entertainment for the family to enjoy too from award winning clowns Sonny and Rainbow to Liverpool’s Underwater Street discovery group, which will be hosting informative and exciting science and art/craft workshops for kids. The show also hosts what has been termed the
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The Food festival will be a big feature of the show this year, where visitors will have the opportunity to try delicious delights from some of the region’s finest artisan food producers and watch live cookery demonstrations from celebrity chefs including, this year, Jean-Christophe Novelli .
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“Shopping Village,” one of the biggest independent shopping experiences in the North West, with over 350 stalls offering everything from craft wares to items for the home and garden.
Across 3. Theme for this year’s show 5. Dates of show, 20th-23rd _ 6. Celebrity Chef, Jean-Christophe _
Down The nation’s favourite French chef Jean-Christophe is known for his successful career as a TV personality which took off after hosting a series of the popular Hell’s Kitchen TV show. Jean-Christophe will be touring the show on the Thursday and be performing three cookery demonstrations at the food festival. He will also be a special guest at the show’s black tie Gala Preview Evening, on the Wednesday 19 August. There will also be a host of other celebrities attending the show over the four days from TV stars to leading gardening experts including Channel 4’s ‘Landscape Man’ Mathew Wilson, Joe Swift of BBC Gardeners World, Jim Buttress, expert on BBC 2’s Big Allotment Challenge and Christine Walkden, the BBC One Show resident gardening expert and panel member on BBC Radio 4’s Gardener’s Question Time. Tickets for the show can be purchased at www. southportflowershow.co.uk or call 01704 547147. Phone orders incur a £1 handling fee and children under the age of 16 go in for free.
1. Show ground attraction, Wheel of _ 2. Venue for Flower Show, _ Park 4. General Manager of Show, _ Roukin Name
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Address
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Crossword Competition Rules 1. Only one entry per household 2. Entrants must be over 16 years of age 3. The winners will be notified within 14 days of the closing date. 4. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot accept responsibility for entries that are delayed or damaged in the post. 5. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd or their immediate relatives are not eligible to enter this competition. Local Life 247 Ltd is registered under the Data Protection Act and abides by the guidelines of the act. We will never sell or pass your data to any third party company. However, we will contact you occasionally to check our magazine distribution in your area.
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Test drive
Mercedes
CLA-Class by Tim Barnes-Clay
S
ometimes a pair of new shoes feels just right. No blisters ever appear and they soon become your go-to choice of footwear. Others cause you a little discomfort at first – but, once worn in, you feel as though you’d never sauntered in anything else. The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 AMG Sport I drove was very much the latter example. It took me a while fine-tuning the seat to give me the best driving position. I then had to adjust the steering wheel several times – and then get the lumbar support right. For the first day I just couldn’t nail it and, squirming uncomfortably, I was convinced this car wasn’t for me. But, by the second day of my week with the Merc, I felt it was made with my name on it. Some car seats just require a quick twiddle here and there and you’re all set up. I think the CLA’s sports seats with integral headrests simply take some getting used to. They’re sculpted in a curve-forwards position, and make you feel like your head needs to go back more – although that could have been me being fussy on the day the car was delivered. Anyway, enough of the seats and my hair-splitting; let me explain why, on the whole, the CLA is an excellent piece of German machinery.
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Aesthetically, its proportions and dynamic design give the compact four-door salooncum-coupé an unmistakable appearance. The vehicle’s striking features include the bonnet embedded in the front end with power-domes and a diamond-look grille. The light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to create a characteristic “flare effect” for the daytime driving lights and indicators. This light signet defines the car’s energetic form and shapes a new, youthful Mercedes face. The width-emphasising rear end exudes muscle and athleticism, featuring an interplay between convex and concave surfaces. The gently sloping roof contour and the pronounced, hallmark curvature of the rear window, provide the CLA 250 AMG Sport with a coupé-style character from the rear, too. The exterior’s progressive, sporty appearance is continued inside the Benz. All trim surfaces are galvanised in silver shadow, resulting in a cool-tothe-touch metallic finish. The instrument panel incorporates five large round vents and there’s a prominent free-standing display screen that features a black piano-lacquer-look front panel with a flush-fitting silver frame. In the back, the seats, once again, become a sticking point. They are cramped for adults and not even the best fit for two child seats, but my eight and five year old coped without too much squabbling. On the plus side; boot space is good for this type of car. On the road, the CLA 250’s turbocharged fourcylinder engine rocks for most situations. The car has excellent grip when pushed through corners and its seven-speed automatic transmission climbs and descends excellently under pressure. Especially
noteworthy is the Mercedes’ direct steer system, which offers precise feedback in comparison to conventional power steering. Safety hasn’t been overlooked either, with numerous driving assistance systems offering support and reducing your workload behind the wheel. Standard-fit features include drowsiness detection and radar-based collision prevention assist with adaptive brake assist, which helps to protect you from collisions from a speed of only 4mph.
Fast
facts
Max speed: 149mph 0-62 mph: 6.6 secs Combined mpg: 42.8 Engine: 1991cc 4 cylinders 16 valve turbo petrol Max. power (bhp): 208 Max. torque (lb.ft): 258 CO2: 154g/km Price: £33,440
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Motoring Services
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FastPass
Driving School • Friendly & Professional • DSA Approved Instructor • Lesson Diagrams on iPad • Based in Orrell
Call Fergal on: 01942 204036 or 07963 380298 www.fastpass-driving-school.co.uk
101
Good as New I’ll get your car looking as good as new - or you’ll get your money back! Paintwork repair specialist -we visit your home or work
Specialists in; • Bumper scuffs No VAT charged • Vandal scratches • Alloy wheel repairs Any written quote beaten! • Minor dents
Pick U p Drop O & ff servic e availa ble
Mini? Drive a BMW or
Save £££’s on repairs, servicing and diagnostics at Wigan’s leading independent BMW & Mini Specialist. We can do repairs and services at a fraction of the cost of a main dealer, using the latest BMW & Mini diagnostic software. Our staff have over 40 years experience at the Northwest’s largest BMW dealership. Other makes and models welcome too.
184 Wallgate, Wigan, WN3 4AL (Next to Better Bathrooms) Free secure parking at rear
01942 820 378 www.bndynamix.com
Save £££s
on servicing costs for your German car!
Experienced ex-Mercedes and Volkswagen Audi Group technicians will service your car at a fraction of main dealer costs!
We even pick up and drop off your motor free! All repairs, exhausts, tyres, clutches, diagnostics, MOT work. 84 Rainford Road, Billinge, WN5 7PG
01744 895 333 or 07918 138 231 19 Tatton Court, Kingsland Grange, Warrington, WA1 4RR
01925 818 180 or 07918 138 231
Part of SGN Autos Ltd
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Home Services
- sponsored by
Garage and entrance doors in matching styles
Is your garage door broken ? Call us today for a free estimate to Repair or Replace it
REPAIRS • Cables • Springs • Rollers • Locks • Motor Units • Handsets... ALL MAKES REPAIRED, SERVICED & INSTALLED SAME DAY RESPONSE NO FIX, NO CHARGE! Established 30+ years
CJM Garage Doors Ltd, Unit 10, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB t: 01942 738347 w: www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk
01744 894939 07891 330214
Strawberry Cottage, Pimbo Road, Upholland WN8 9QL
www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk
Advertise
here
Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month For more information please phone
01695 627 999
103
Arley Cabinet Company Ltd
Great Value Bathrooms!
• Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •
Full Bathrooms & En-Suites Showers, Trays & Cubicles Relocation of Bathroom Suites
We measure we make we fit
25 years bathroom experience Call Chris now for a free quotation
Arley Cabinet Co. Ltd 214a Gidlow Lane Wigan WN6 7BN
C L Bathrooms
and have done for 60 years. Visit our showroom or call us today for a FREE estimate
www.clbathrooms.co.uk
www.arleycabinets.com tel: 01942 246190
01942 749085 or 07801 295483
Mon-Fri: 8am - 4.30pm Sat: 9am - 12pm
Save £1000’s on your new kitchen!
Solid rigid built units 18mm solid back, base & wall unit Soft close doors & drawers 2mm colour matched edging Over 35 years experience We have recommended fitters Call John today for a free estimate
07703 833 016 Crawford Road, Up Holland
...see our online brochure at
www.theksc.co.uk
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House Extensions New Kitchens & Bathrooms Garage Conversions Full Refurbishments All our work is fully insured & guaranteed References available on request Call now for a free quotation
K Stone Building Services
All types of building work undertaken 25 years experience
• Brickwork • Pointing • Garden Walls • Patios • Joinery • Flagging • Alterations • Plastering
01942 495412 / 07974 496676
ANDY HIDDEN
Electrical & Construction Building Projects from Conception to Completion
01942 216 735
|
07725 909 257
• • • • •
Extensions & New Build Conservatories & Orangeries Fitted Kitchens & Bedrooms Garage & Loft Conversions Garden Walls, Driveways & Patios Award Winner 2012/13/14
For a no obligation quotation call us today
08000 842 394 07946 844 904 www.ahde.co.uk
01257 422317 or 07852 202867
ing & Joinery Jobs The Complete Answer to Build
www.mtjoiner ynorthwest.co.uk
• Extensions & New Builds • Conservatories & Sun Rooms
Home Improvements
• Loft & Garage Conversions • Fitted Kitchens & Bathrooms
• Fitted Kitchens & Bedrooms • Garage & Loft Conversions • Floors, Doors & Windows For all your home improvement needs call David on...
01942 203 804 DS Joiner 07851 225 876
• Other building & joinery works If you plan to improve your home, call Gareth today for
a free quotation Billinge Based
01744 603 231 / 07501 270 436
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Are you looking for replacement Windows, Doors, Conservatories, Facias or Gutters? You’ll get a better deal and a quality product at From just
£620
01942 226677 | 07841 923230 | www.phprofiles.co.uk
Number One for House Maintenance! • UPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & ROOFLINE
Fit n Fix North West
• BROKEN LOCKS & MISTED WINDOWS
Installation, Repair or Replace Windows, Doors & Conservatories
• GUTTERS AND UPVC CLEANING SERVICE • FLAGGING, FENCING & POINTING • GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE
No job too small! Call Mike Darbyshire on
01942 513 584 / 07917 352 181 Orrell based
For a free quote, call us on 0800 232 1825 or 07737 314 905
PH Visit us at: www.fitnfixnorthwest.co.uk
Orrell Based
PH
WINDOWS DOORS
SUPPLIED & FITTED
Specialists in Replacement Double Glazed Units Ring with sizes for FREE estimate
Open 7 days 8am - 8pm Established Local Family Company
01942 470 085 / 0800 328 8573 www.steamywindows.net
• ALL ASPECTS OF UPVC • FAILED SEALED UNITS REPLACED • WILL NOT BE BEATEN ON PRICE OR QUALITY • LOCAL AND RELIABLE FRONT DOORS FROM
BACK DOORS FROM
Fitted
Fitted
£380
£350
COLOURED COMPOSITE DOORS FROM
£580 Fitted
Don’t replace your windows or doors until you get a free quote from me! Ring Paul : 01942 871 631 Certificate of excellence 2015 Mobile: 07900 985 699 Best newcomer for Leigh 2015
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T 01744 892 385 H E AT I N G E N G I N E E R S
W rghheating.co.uk E info@rghheating.co.uk
Breakdown, Service & Repair Central Heating Installation Gas Safety Inspections Boiler Replacement Power Flushing Based in Billinge, covering all of Wigan & St Helens
Paton Plumbing and Heating Ltd A friendly reliable service
Full central heating installations Complete bathroom renovations Boiler servicing and repairs Landlord’s gas safety certificates Tony Paton
542856
T: 01942 568 184 M: 07825 323 711 E: patonplumbing850@gmail.com
• Central Heating Installations • Boiler Installations • Maintenance & Servicing • Power Flushing
186237
Your one stop shop for central heating 434 Ormskirk Rd, Wigan, WN5 9DF
01942 221221
info@premiergas.com / www.premiergas.com
PETER RODAN LTD • All Heating & Plumbing work • Full Heating Installations • Boiler Servicing & Repairs • Boiler Conversions • 20 year experience
Call Mike 01942 581 385
Or
07707 124 020
Tel: Mob:
01257 472 385 07971 631 709
Standish based
221213
Plumbing & Heating Specialist Complete Bathroom & Tiling service Free programmable room thermostats fitted with new Combi Boilers!
John Bailey - 01942 495785
or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238 Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan
C &D
Plumbing and Heating
Heating & Bathroom Specialist Chris Heaton M.I.P.H.E.R.P 07973714222 01695625171
brand New bathrooms boiler + Central Heating Installs, servicing + Repairs Extended warranties available 24 Hour Call-out Domestic + Commercial
Freephone 0300 3030121 Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809 21 Naburn Dr Orrell wN5 8sb
Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk
www.orrellheating.co.uk
506515
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Puzzle
solutions
A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES
Accredited Installer & Ser vice Partner • Annual Boiler Servicing • Landlord & Home Owner Gas Safety Checks • Gas Fire & Cooker Installations • Under Floor Heating Specialists • Home Efficiency Control Upgrades
10 YEARS
EXTENDED WARRANTY ON SELECTED BOILER INSTALLATIONS
Finance available
WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!
Telephone:
01942 504 429 Registration No.
88604
TEL: MOB:
01257 421 660 07931 766 684
www.fgwelch.co.uk
Want to promote your business to an estimated ¼ million readers? West Lancashire
Chorley Wigan
St Helens
Call 01695 627999 The little magazine with a big reach
locallife247.co.uk
The photo on page 44 is of the old Timberlakes car showroom on Library Street, Wigan
108
www.expertcomputers.co.uk ‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner
• Rewires & Upgrades • Interior & Exterior Lighting • Alarms & CCTV • Extra Sockets & Lights
07531 765 529 / 01695 628 150
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• All aspects of electrical work welcomed • From new sockets to full re-wire - no job too small • CCTV/Alarms/SecuritynLighting a speciality Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est. Cale Lane Wigan
24 hour Call Out Service
Contact Us 01942 836 937 07557 914788
J.Dillon Electrical Call: 01257 424918 or 07821 139826 www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk
• Rewire specialists • Extra sockets & lights fitted • Mains board upgrades
Free quotations
Alarm & CCTV specialist Security Lighting Telephone Extensions CALL NOW FOR A FREE HOME SECURITY ASSESSMENT Part P Certified
• All types of electrical work • 20+ years experience • Friendly, fast and reliable • 24 hour call out service
All electrical work undertaken
KEEP YOUR FAMILY OR BUSINESS SAFE WITH MAP SECURITY
T: 01942 273396 | M: 07970 185302 www.mapsec.co.uk A.J.S.
BAILEYS ELECTRICAL
01942 215 769 07739 709 005
• Rewires & Upgrades • Interior & Exterior Lighting • Alarms & CCTV • Extra Sockets & Lights
07531 765 529 / 01695 628 150
ANDY HIDDEN Domestic Electrician
• Fully fitted • 12 months Guarantee • Free Maintenance • No Contract Obligation Wireless Alarm System • No Cables, No Mess EN50131 / PD Compliant, Grade 2 • Easily Expandable, if required Alarm system
For Only
£360
Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est. Cale Lane Wigan
Call Graham today for a friendly, no obligation, chat about your home security requirements
Contact Us 01942 836 937 07928 050 611
No Job Too Small!
• • • • • • •
Re-Wires Additional Sockets / Lights Home Safety Tests Fuse Board Upgrades Security Lighting Alarms CCTV
Good Trader Of The Year Winner in the Wigan Trading Standards Best of the Best Awards 2013/14. Certificate of Excellence Winner in the 2012/13
Award Winner 2012/13/14
07946 844 904 08000 842 394 Email: andy@ahde.co.uk
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Lady Decorator
Professional Interior Decorating Service Reduced rates for Pensioners Clean, tidy and conscientious Tel: 01942 366996 or 07962 422856
Just Imagine
Decorating - Interior Design - Soft Furnishings
Need a new look for your home?
Skilled interior and exterior work undertaken at reasonable prices! Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator
01942 518126 or 07545 065119 Orrell based business
Ian Martland
Painter & Decorator Established 1990
• All aspects of Decorating • Interior & Exterior • Free Estimates
01695 632 477 | 07748 195 809
Create your Dream Home today… Our Master Craftsman Derek and his friendly team will help you create your dream home. All aspects of decorating - from simple painting or wallpapering to complex murals. 50 years wallpapering expertise. 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
Want to promote your business to an estimated ¼ million readers? West Lancashire
Chorley Wigan
St Helens
Call 01695 627999
Call Derek today for a free consultation & quote
Call 07831 505 672
email franklindecorators@gmail.com
www.wigandecorators.co.uk
Design & Print no
Saving money is the clear benefit!
Solar Thermal & Solar PV
1 w£
Wind Turbines Heat Pumps
Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved
forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect
LED Lighting
...and general NG SERVICI
every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding
VAN CAR & motorcycles too es E ...and Lash Tan Book X y your FREE Spra H ils home survey eds A k Sunb & GeTl Na Health ChecTelephone: 01257 427 000 ic Car U rton Acryl and Brethe Don’t forget, we also offer all of theseEnergy services daily... Savings
Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Same Day Service, Safety Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced
FREE Dennis Goulding
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RS (Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)
and we’ll provide you with a detailed report showing the returns
Mossy Lea Road
available from- 12:00 yournoon Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am
own solar panels Y S 84 of Crostonwww.dglwindows.co.uk (10% typical return) J27 dio residents me! R Stu T @ for all7PG me until you needCheck E e WN5Keep S HealthVisit our showroom at , Billing 400 FREE Car on - 6PM Unit 4a, Road S 4 619 your ford ay 10AM now Book Cricket : 0781
s Natalie
A5209
Standish
Shevington
Saturd hone : 84 Rain - 7PM, Open Telep 10AM y
Call
, Friday & Sunda ngineers esday Thursday TwinLakesMotorE ay, Wedn Closed
ay, Tuesd
Mond
locallife247.co.uk
£20
A49
01695 627999
Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories, Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
ally
rm
no
B5250
For more information call
The little magazine with a big reach
l Geails N 5
Flyers, postcards, brochures and distribution service
01772
REPAIR
603923
Street Business Park off Miry Lane, Wigan. WN6
DING 7TP & WEL
Slash your electricity and water heating bill
Protect your household from future energy price rises Reduce your household’s impact on the environment
Call us now
0843 224 9555 07595 420237 or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
we make it our business to help yours
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UPVC CLEANING
• Interior & exterior SAVE conservatory M ONEY • Interior & exterior windows all cleaning pa ckages • Fascias and gutters etc.
20% OFF
JETWASHING
until 31st July 20 15
• Driveways and patios etc. Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
01942 470 089 or 07834 241 642 419 Newton Road, Lowton, Wigan www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com
Advertise
here
Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month For more information please phone
01695 627 999
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning • traditional service, state of the art results •
Wigan Good Trader Of The Year 2015
5 star rating with Wigan Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme
plus, Awarded the Certificate of Excellence in recognition of consistently high standards of feedback from customers in 2009/10/11/12
Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote
Call - 01257 251221
Mobile - 07908 770808
www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk
Providing professional carpet & upholstery cleaning since 1993 Carpets Leather
Upholstery Curtains Oriental Rugs Hard Floors
For more information call:
01942 470 081 Visit our website and check out the testimonials.
www.alliancechemdry.co.uk
112
• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985
Roofing & Roofline Specialists • All aspects of maintenance & repair • Fascia & soffit installation • Guttering and felting services Call us now for a free estimate
01695 633173 Colin: 07958 302 166 Brian: 07760 160 988 www.wilson-bros.co.uk
Hobson’s ROOFC
Call us for a free, no obligation quote for;
• Roofing Repairs • New Roofs • Re-Roofs • Roof Windows Apollo House, Healey Street, Wigan, WN1 2HN
www.hobsonsroofcare.co.uk
here
Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month
RE
WIGAN’S AWARD-WINNING ROOFING FIRM
07831 764 798
Advertise
EST 1990
Wigan Good Trader of the Year
2010 2013
First Class Workmanship • All types of re-roofs • Strip & re-slate or re-tile • Built up felt/flat roofs, dormers etc. • Insurance work undertaken • Roofline uPVC fascias, soffits & guttering
For more information please phone
01695 627 999
W.Newman ROOFING & REPAIRS
01695 627 212 MOBILE: 07774 943 706
52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND Established Over 30 Years
113
3 Maggotts Nook Road, Rainford
114
A View From The Lump Local gossip, gripes and goings-on Sign of the Times Email may be a modern-day curse, but they do provide an insight into the over-inflated egos of some folk. Each week I fire up the Commodore (ask your parents, kids) and go through the various rambling offers of untold riches in return for me sending my life savings to a bank account somewhere in the southern hemisphere. Every so often though, I get correspondence from people whose signatures are longer than the actual message. You know the sort: John Smith, BA (Hons) PH.D. CBE, VC, BBC, ITV, QED, CID and so on. What is it with these people - do they have such low self esteem that they feel it
necessary to emblazon every achievement on their sign-offs for all to see? Contrast that to the legendary Ian McKellen, who was brought up in Wigan and came back to town recently for the unveiling of his star in his honour on our very own Believe Square. Rumour has it that despite being a knight of the realm and a MBE to boot, he asked that the star simply contained his first and last names. Good on him - after all, there’s no need for vanities when you’re a bona fide somebody.
Power To The People Around 16 years ago, just before the world was about to end, there was a new bogeyman in town; the mobile phone mast. At one point, you couldn’t open a local paper without being greeted by a photo containing pensioners with furrowed brows, yummy mummies and toddlers wth placards saying: ‘If you put this mast here, I will die of a nasty and incurable disease’. Of course, the masts went up and, as far as I’m aware, there was no 3G genocide. But I wonder whether those sorts of pics
will start making a comeback. I hear a fresh wave of masts (no pun intended) are needed to service the new ‘smart’ gas and leccy meters. Indeed, one is planned for Roby Mill and it’s possible others are in the pipeline across the area. I’m not sure if the location is the best but if it stops me having to plunge the depths of my cubbyhole every six months because someone from Putin Power is at the door, then I could be persuaded.
The Weighting Game Tissues all round at Lump Towers as my treasured Ford Anglia has taken a turn for the worse. Going up to the Beacon the other day, the suspension took a seemingly fatal hammering on the numerous craters which litter Mill Lane. This is a vehicle which, lest we forget, has seen off seven Prime Ministers, foot and mouth and Pat Sharp, yet it came a cropper while I was tootling along on a leisurely Sunday afternoon. I’m awaiting a call from the garage, but when the owner takes one look at it and starts estimating its weight, it’s never a good sign. I may end up having to get something newer, like an Austin Allegro...
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Established 1999
We’ve got it covered! Roofing Emergency Repairs General maintenance Full re-roofs Flat/pitched Roof Conversions Velux Windows Roofline Fascias & Soffits Cladding Gutters
10 YEAR
INSURANCE-BACKED GUARANTEE
NO CALL OUT FEES Call today for a free quote
01942 665 270 0774 876 7845 or 0770 221 8867 www.protecroofingnw.co.uk
The Old Coach House, George Street, Ashton in Makerfield, WN4 8QD