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

LocalLife Wigan Edition

August 2018

Winning

hearts & minds Pages 43 - 46

School’s Out Pages 35 - 40

Cooking For Kids Pages 56 - 57

New Brighton Walk Pages 61 - 63

Local News Motoring Jack’s Tracks Garden Diary Event2Go Home Services locallife247.co.uk

Milton Grove, Orrell

£325,000

Cranleigh, Standish

£300,000

This stunning 5 bed detached home is in excellent decorative order throughout and has a beautifully landscaped private south facing rear garden.

This beautiful 4 bed home is nestled in prime position of a peaceful cul-de-sac, with low maintenance gardens and a spacious driveway and detached double garage.

Miles Lane, Shevington

Milton Grove, Wigan

£220,000

£200,000

This attractive bay-fronted 3 bed semi of beautifully presented accommodation with 2 large receptions, a fully fitted kitchen and private rear gardens.

This 1920’s 3 bed semi home with generous reception rooms and period features sits within a generous and mature plot near to Marylebone Park & Haigh Hall.

Chapel Lane, Coppull

Wigan Road, Standish

£200,000

A large 3 bed semi family home with a stunning open plan kitchen/dining room extension with integrated appliances and a large, low maintenance, rear garden.

£190,000

One of Wigan’s premier developments, this 2 bed lower ground floor apartment with extensive views has quality fixtures throughout.

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Miles Lane, Shevington

£190,000

Smethurst Lane, Pemberton

£160,000

This attractive two bed detached bungalow, with wellpresented living accommodation, is situated on a spacious plot with rural views and a large rear garden.

Located near shopping areas and the M6, this lovely 4 bed, semi house property has a spacious courtyard garden to the rear along with a generous workshop.

Sandpiper Road, Highfield

Miles Lane, Appley Bridge

£160,000

£150,000

This beautifully presented, 3 bed semi home has a large lounge, a fully fitted kitchen/diner, a spacious conservatory, an office and a low maintenance garden.

This beautifully presented 3 bed semi house has been extended, offers a layout ideal for families and features a superb dining kitchen & spacious lounge.

Old Lane, Shevington

Poolstock Lane, Poolstock

£130,000

This spacious semi 3 bed true bungalow, occupying a generous plot in Shevington, is in need of some general modernisation throughout but offers great potential.

£115,000

This newly built 2 bed terraced house, with front/ rear gardens and parking spaces offers immaculately presented accommodation perfect for first time buyers.

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Shades Of 76

here is a rule when you write magazine ‘intros’– don’t write about the weather. The magazine takes seven days to be printed, and in the UK, a lot can happen in seven days. I’m going to break this taboo now because really, apart from the World Cup, is anyone talking about anything other than the weather? For anyone of a certain age or above, 1976 was the benchmark for hot summers. Back then, we’d just voted to stay in Europe (eh?), and we had an official Minister for Drought, Dennis Howells, who advised us all to “take a bath with a friend”. So how does 1976 compare to 2018? Well, in 1976 there were highs of more than 28C for a record-breaking 22 days. And this was before global warming was a ‘thing’. The tarmac on motorways melted, people queued at standpipes and there were reports of swarms of ladybirds ‘attacking humans’, though it was pointed out that they were simply trying to rehydrate by drinking people’s sweat. Not that we kids were that fussed about the weather; we were more bothered about getting a go on the new Raleigh Chopper, but they were few and far between where I lived and we had to make do with the odd go on a Spacehopper instead! In the last week of August 1976, the weather broke, severe thunderstorms hit, and Dennis had his job title changed to the Minister for Floods. No-one remembers the rain though, we just remember those hot sunny days when we had the time of our lives. Hopefully, 40 years from now, kids today may well reminisce just as fondly about the summer of 18. Have a good summer,

Chris Pearce - Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

In This Issue Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Out

Regulars 21 Class From The Past 58 Events2Go 26 Planning 64 Garden Diary 34 Puzzle page

Sections 34 Changing

attitudes

6 Local News 48 Legal & Finance 50 Health 54 Business View

56 Food & Drink 64 Gardening 71 Home Services

Next issue - September 2018

Advertising deadline - Thursday, 9 August

43 Pedal

power

50 Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks visits

New Brighton

61 Test Drive

Hyundai i30N

68 locallifemagazine247

Published - Wednesday, 22 August

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

Telephone: 01695 627 999 Publisher: Chris chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Sales: Nicola, Sally sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: Niamh, Gemma wigannews@locallife247.co.uk Design: Peter design@locallife247.co.uk Distribution: Sally sallyb@locallife247.co.uk Accounts: Sam accounts@locallife247.co.uk Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following areas on an alternate monthly basis. This issue is delivered to 13,039 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh. The next issue is delivered to 13,299 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton. You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

@locallifemedia

events2go

Bye Beeches,

`Allo Alberts

The former Beeches Hotel and restaurant in Standish is set for big changes. Google Maps

A Manchester restaurant chain has been granted planning permission to make changes to the former Beeches Hotel on School Lane. Once part of the Standish Hall estate, the Victorian villa (Beeches) has been closed since last year. The firm behind Albert’s in Manchester city centre, Worsley and Didsbury – Elle R Leisure – will takeover the site.

site’s floor space by 25 per cent, as well as a larger car park.

All members of Wigan council’s planning committee voted in favour of the transformation bid that will include single storey extensions, increasing the

The plans feature a private dining room, two function rooms and the existing extensions to the two storey red-brick building will be demolished.

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Elle R Leisure’s managing director James Ramsbottom said: “We wanted to retain the house because we saw it as something that is important to the heritage of Standish - even though it is not a listed building.” The new restaurant will hopefully be opening in the late summer of 2019, with work possibly starting later this year. Councillor Janice Sharratt, committee member and Labour representative for Ince ward, said: “To my mind this is a good thing. One thing we do need back in Standish is an upmarket restaurant as the Beeches used to provide. “I welcome this and the fact that it’s a good source of jobs for local people.” On Standish Voice’s Facebook page, many locals seem happy with the news. Sharon Darby-Purcell said: “Excellent place to eat, fantastic! Just get on with it!” Louise Halliwell Moss said: “Looking forward to this place opening.”

Housing

Havoc

Extra homes on a controversial Standish development site have been approved. Despite concerns the development will add to the village’s congestion crisis, Bloor Homes North West’s planning permission has been granted. The firm already had planning permission for 300 homes on land south of Pepper Lane, with phase one of the scheme concerning 47 units already under construction. Wigan council’s planning committee approved a revised application for 304 homes making the total 351.

Adam Marsh, Conservative ward councillor for Standish thinks the latest development ‘may well be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.’

Standish village has seen permission granted for more than 1,600 houses in recent years.

Councillor Marsh said: “While this increase may seem like a drop in the ocean in relation to existing planning permissions for developments in Standish, every small addition may well prove to be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. “Standish is more congested than ever before and residents are moving away because going through the centre of the village at rush hour every day is having such a negative impact on their lives.”

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Table top sale Come one, come all, to Wrightington’s table top sale. On Saturday, August 11, 9am-1pm (stall holders set up at 8 am), everyone’s invited to have a browse at the sale. Tables cost £10 if pre-booked & £12 on the day (if any space available). Pre-book to avoid disappointment. Refreshments will be served throughout the day. Tunley United Reformed Church Hall, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, Wigan WN6 9RW. Tel:- 01257 463407/425330/426252.

Content Manager Wanted We are looking for a highly organised and hardworking creative, trained to NCTJ/degree standard. The role will include; Planning editorial content for our community magazines and social media channels. Writing engaging copy, and also editing and managing copy from a wide number of other sources. As the strategic driver of our editorial output, you’ll need to have strong planning and organisational skills and a high level of written English. The role would suit someone already working in content management or in a journalism /PR role. A full driving licence and own car is a must. Does this sound like you? If so, we’d love to hear from you! To apply, simply send your CV to chrisp@locallife247.co.uk The closing date is 27/07/18 although an appointment may be made before that date if a suitable candidate is found.

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Best Get

Diggin’

The annual Wigan Diggers’ Festival makes a return for its eigth year. On Saturday, September 8, 11am-9.30pm, Believe Square, Wigan will come alive for the free annual festival. The Wigan Diggers’ Festival festival commemorates the life of locally born pioneer socialist thinker and 17th century Diggers’ movement leader Gerrard Winstanley. The event will start with a symbolic digging reenactment in Gerrard Winstanley Gardens, with guest actor Brendan Delaney playing the role of the Wigan born radical, who repeats some of his famous words from April 1649. As on previous occasions, he will be accompanied

by members of the Bolton Clarion Socialist Choir who will lead the singing of Winstanley’s “Diggers’ Song” and “The World Turned Upside Down” by Leon Rosselson, a song which tells the story of The Diggers, made famous by Billy Bragg. The Blockheads, Merry Hell and Barnstormer 1649 (featuring Attila The Stockbroker) will top the bill at this year’s festival. And if that isn’t enough, other acts include: The Commoners’ Choir, Bard Company, The Amber List, Gerry Ffrench, Jupiter Hollow Blues Band, Rare Oul’ Times, Joe Astley and Eliza P & The Disco Misfits. There will also be a range of other activities including entertainment for children. Please visit our E2G section on pages 54-56 for more local events.

the auction centre The leading Auctioneers and Valuers

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Cherry Go Land adjacent to the Cherry Gardens Hotel is under threat from developers. The pub on Wigan Lane is no longer owned by the brewery, but by an offshore development company registered in Jersey. Wigan Council currently has ownership of the land thanks to a 999 year lease signed in 1953. The land is in a conservation area and is a green, open space with protection orders on the trees. There is also a covenant on the land which states it is to be used as an ornamental garden for the people of Wigan, and that it cannot be built upon. However, Wigan Council may dispose of the land to the development company, who plan to turn the garden into retail outlets/supermarket.

Round The Save the Cherry Garden Action Group said: “The entrance and exit will be situated on a very busy roundabout, causing even more traffic congestion. “We want to work with the council to find a solution, to reclaim the garden for the people of Wigan. “We aim to do this by using the ‘The Deal’ so it can become a community garden once again. “If it is disposed of to the development company, it will become private land, forbidden to the public.” Find out more via Facebook: Save the Cherry Garden Action Group, or sign the petition at www. thepetitionsite.com/en-gb/520/414/004/save-thecherry-garden-in-wigan-from-retail-developers/

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Business Mum Local Life caught up with the Shevington mum who reached the finals of The Mpower National Business Awards. Claire Taylor founded ‘Taylor Made With Love’ which focuses on up cycling furniture. She was shortlisted for the Courage category and was in with a chance of winning Mpower’s Woman of the Year title for 2018. She said: “The awards were amazing. I didn’t win my category but I was so happy to have made it as a finalist that winning didn’t matter on the night. “I met so many inspirational people. “It’s given me even more drive to succeed now. “The future is looking very exciting!”

Jewels May is a wonderful independent jewellers. The shop has recently expanded so as to offer customers more on site specialist services, one-to-one consultation, specialist design and re-modelling advice and manufacturing. Their jewellery range is extensive from antique and vintage to modern and one-off bespoke luxury pieces, set with diamonds and precious

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LocalLife

Summer

Sizzler

Wigan Rotary Club’s last event of the year was a squeal. On Sunday, June 24, Rotarians and friends met for a hog roast fundraiser in the garden of Rtn Lesley Hargraves’ son Giles. 97 people attended the event which started at 1pm for the football fans and The Tenna Ladies gave their services for free and entertained the crowd. Retiring President Gwyneth Millard said: ‘It was a fabulous afternoon spent eating, drinking, chatting and of course raising money.

“This was the best way I could imagine to spend my last official function.” The event raised £1,400 which the Rotary Club is delighted with. Although the funds have not been earmarked yet, the money will go into Wigan Rotary Charities Account and will be shared among local and international charities. Retiring President Gwyneth Millard said: “Good food, good friends and good fellowship were the order of the day.”

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Budding

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An Appley Bridge resident has published her first novel which is available now. C J Openshaw was born and raised in Appley Bridge village, and attended Shevington High, leaving in 1996. C J Openshaw’s debut novel, ‘The Secret Solitaire’, is a piece of adult, historical fiction that documents the turbulent life of a young girl working in service during the early 20th Century. Set in Manchester, in the fictitious town Madalena, she said: “I think I came up with the concept when I was watching Downton Abby (possibly later than everyone else) and I was captivated with the era and lifestyle.

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“In total, it probably took a couple of years to finish. I’ve had a baby and I work as well, so it was a matter of fitting it in. “None of my family and friends apart from my husband knows about it.” Although C J is looking forward to friends and family reading her novel, she said: “If people outside my friends and family read it and enjoy it, that’s the point when I’ll achieve my success.” The Secret Solitaire will be released on Amazon on Friday, July 13, published by 2QT Limited.

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Class From The Past

This month’s Class from the Past is of St John’s New Springs. It’s believed the photo was taken in 1949. Maybe you can spot a familiar face?

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

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Forever

Remembered

Wigan Golf Club will hold a charity golf day in memory of a Wigan lad. On Friday, July 20, Wigan Golf Club will welcome 164 golfers to a charity golf day in memory of David Hughes, 32, who passed away on Tuesday, May 8. In February Dave received a new heart, but due to complications he remained in the Freeman hospital in Newcastle – the specialist unit for Dave’s condition. Carl Robinson, director from Wigan Golf Club said: “Tony Sedgwick, Dave’s father-in-law and his brother-in-law Danny Sedgwick are well respected

members of WGC. “We hope the day brings awareness of the tragic condition families have to face and showcase the amazing hardworking, dedication of the medical team at the Freeman Hospital.” Louise wants the day to celebrate Dave’s life and promote the importance of organ donation. Accompanied by son George, she will ensure he’s proud of his daddy and Dave’s legacy will continue for years to come. She’d also like to thank Wigan Golf Club for closing the golf course for the day, to everyone attending,

23 as well as the companies who have donated items. Organiser Tony Sedgwick (Louise’s father), said: “When I was approached about hosting a charity golf day in memory of Dave I didn’t have to think twice. “We want everyone to have a great fun round of golf and hopefully raise as much funds as possible. “The kindness of people is overwhelming as we are hosting a silent auction, with gifts like a weeks accommodation in Tenerife, an executive box at York Races, signed sports memorabilia including a signed hat and towel by golfer Ian Poulter plus a Manchester United shirt signed by Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.” Funds raised will be split between The Freeman Heart and Lung Transplant Association and a family fund for Louise and George. To donate or bid for the silent auction prizes, please contact Tony Sedgwick tony.sedgwick@bshg.com

Open Day Shevington Village Bowling Club are having an Open Day and everyone’s invited. There’ll be an afternoon of fun on Sunday, July 22, 12pm-4pm at Forest Fold Bowling Green, off Miles Lane, Appley Bridge for all ages. Have you ever tried crown green bowling? Here’s your opportunity to try a sport that will open the doors to a pastime for the whole family and will provide much needed exercise whatever your age. There are also teams which play in local leagues for the competitive attendees to join too. This has led many to find new friendships and has revitalised many a social life. You don’t need your own bowls as these will be provided. The cost of entry is £1 per person. There is a free car park and light refreshments will be available.

Prom At Home One group of Standish High School students celebrated their prom in a special way. Students were left devastated at the end of last year when they were told their prom on Thursday, June 28, at the DW Stadium wouldn’t go ahead. Parents and students alike were left angered when the prom was pushed back to Friday, July 6, at Kilhey Court in Standish, as many had already booked summer holidays coinciding with the new date. The school head Mr Pollard explained in a letter that Wigan Warriors had a home fixture and the stadium is within its rights to cancel any events, as written in the small print of each contract. Stadium events staff offered the school another room for the same night, but it wasn’t large enough to cater for all the students. But for one group of girlfriends from Standish High and their doting mums all was not lost.

The eight friends celebrated their non-prom with a meal at the Wayfarers in Parbold, followed by a twinkling tepee camping experience in the garden of Julie and Paul Connor and their daughter Mia in Standish. Jackie Russell, mother of Charlotte said: “We didn’t want the girls to miss out. We’d already paid for the limo so we thought they should have their own prom anyway. “It’s a real shame Charlotte and some of her friends can’t go as we already booked our holiday. “But I think the girls being together tonight with their best friends is even better than the prom.” Julie Connor said: “Only Mia and two of her other best friends can go to the new date. “But they’re all together tonight and that’s all that matters.” For this group of innovative Cinderellas at least, they made it to the ball.

Summer Holiday St Wilfrid’s holiday club makes a return for 2018. From Monday, August 13, to Friday, August 17, children are invited to attend a summer holiday club at St Wilfrid’s. The kids will do craft work, listen to stories, activities like musical statues and lots of games. There’s all sorts of things they might be interested in. A volunteer said: “It’s really a lovely time, they come a bit apprehensive on the first day, but then they’re

Club

eager to get in on the second.” Children will get refreshments including healthy snacks, and there’s usually a goody bag for them to take home at the end of the week filled with the things they’ve done. To enrol please call in at the Parish Office for a form. It’s £25 per child or £35 if enrolling two siblings. St Wilfrid’s Parish Hall, Church St, Standish, Wigan WN6 0JT. Tel: 01257 422538

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Planning Matters Aspull

Shevington

Former Hovis Bakery, Cale Lane: Reserved matters application for 141 residential units, including details of appearance, landscaping, layout and scale in accordance with Outline A/17/83721/OUTMAJ (ref: A/18/85455/RMMAJ).

Open land north of Vicarage Lane: Erection of building for recreational use including changing rooms, function room, toilets and kitchen (ref: A/18/85577/FULL).

Standish 24 Chorley Road: To construct permanent vehicle crossing (ref: A/18/85542/HH). 29 Duddon Close: To erect detached dwellinghouse in land to be severed from 29 Duddon Close (ref: A/18/85549/FULL).

Wigan Lane 53 Wigan Lane: Change of use of ground and first floor to A4 Cafe/Bar together with installation of new shop front and external alterations (ref: A/18/85481/CU). For more information on these plans, visit: www.wigan.gov.uk

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Made In

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instanley couple Gary and Shelley Parrish have been selling blinds and shutters in the Wigan area for over 25 years, trading as Harmony Blinds of Wigan. Their showroom, opened in 2003 and based at 685a Ormskirk Road in Pemberton, closed recently for a full refurbishment, and has now opened its doors again, open six days a week for customers to browse a wide choice of blinds and shutters. With just a small difference though â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the company are in the process of changing the name of the company to Signature Blinds. Harmony Blinds is quite a common name for

33 blind companies in the North West, and the couple wanted to make sure that they stood out from the other Harmony Blinds businesses out there. “We don’t just sell and fit blinds now, we make them too!” says Gary, “Approximately 80% of all our blinds are now made in our new manufacturing facility, which is based on Hawkley Brook Trading Estate in Marus Bridge.” Shelley adds, “It was important to us to take this step so that we had full control over the quality of our blinds”. And Kate chips in, “Over 85% of our business comes from customers’ repeat orders and recommendations, so that gives you an idea of the quality of our products and the level of customer care you can expect at Signature Blinds and Shutters”. From modest beginnings, the company now has four vans on the roads, and Gary and Shelley have been joined in the business by daughters Kate and Abby, son-in-law Aaron and three other staff, with more recruitment to follow later this year. The choice of blinds and shutters at the company is enormous. The blind selection alone encompasses rollers, pleated, wooden, verticals, venetians, vision, senses and Romans. Not forgetting of course, Perfect Fit® blinds, which are stylish and innovative blinds that clip to window frames and are very popular with homeowners, particularly those with conservatories. Window shutters complement both contemporary and traditional homes and are an excellent way to change the look and feel of a room. Plantation shutters, in particular, are elegant and timeless, enabling you to alter your décor and colours around the shutters as time goes by. If you work full time Monday to Friday, you’ll be pleased to hear that the showroom is open late until 8pm on Thursday and also from 10am-3pm on Saturdays. Or you’re having trouble getting to their showroom, Signature will bring a selection of blinds and shutters to you so that you can choose your new décor in the comfort of your own home.

Creating beautiful interiors has never been easier; call into the Pemberton showroom at 685a Ormskirk Road, call 01942 743203 or visit the website at www.signatureblindsandshutters.com Open Mon, Tue, Fri 9-5pm Thurs 9-8pm Sat 10-3pm

Puzzle Corner WORD SEARCH - Yorkshire Day

SUDOKU

2 5

3 2

Find the hidden words in the word search grid

8 6 9 5

3 1

8 5 3

2 5 7

4 8 NUMBER BLOCK MOORS HAREBELL COUNTRYSIDE CITY YORKSHIRE

WHARFEDALE RIDINGS PENNINES WHITBY OUSE

CHEESE STEEL WENSLEYDALE MINSTER DALES

WORD MIX UP - Yorkshire Day Unscramble the letters to make a word

7 1 2 6 6

7 10 8 5 16 6 3 13 4 15 17 10 9 16 18 The numbers in each row add up to totals to the right.

THWIE SROE

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

HELDFIEFS REETRIR DIGNUPD

totals to the right.

WIGGLE WORDS CLUE: Young Forever

SEWAL PITSNOK LEADRC HOGRATEAR

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

L E C R

K I T E

N W N A

I R A M

All the puzzle solutions are on page 40 of this magazine

School’s

out!

he kids have skipped out of the school gates with beaming smiles ready for their six-week summer break. We realise that’s a long time to try and keep the kids entertained, so to make the holidays more bearable (and to ensure parents and grandparents retain their sanity) we’ve compiled a bunch of suggestions we hope you will enjoy.

Acorn Farm

Blackpool Zoo

Depot Road, Kirkby, L33 3AR

East Park Drive, Blackpool, FY3 8PP.

0151 548 1524

01253 830 830

www.acornfarm.co.uk

www.blackpoolzoo.org.uk

An award-winning, family friendly attraction in Kirkby where you can meet a wide range of animals, many of which you can feed and stroke. There is also horse rides throughout the summer holidays and many special events throughout the year. The farm also has two outdoor play areas, a woodland walk, plant sales centre and a farm shop, where you can

Blackpool Zoo is still going strong and is home to more than 1,000 animals plus birds and reptiles.

buy many items produced on the farm.

Apple Jacks Adventure Farm Stretton Road, Warrington, Cheshire WA4 4NW 07980 973 475 www.applejacksfarm.co.uk A family farm on the outskirts of Warrington with attractions aimed at children with the addition of rides and zip-wires for older children. There’s also a massive maize maze (subject to availability) to challenge your powers of direction. The park has a big free car park and places to eat but feel free to being a picnic with you if you prefer.

Providing fun and education for all ages, the zoo is a short ride from the Promenade. The scenic 32 acre park is set amongst mature trees, lakes and spacious lawns where the kids can burn off their excess energy. The elephants are always a big draw and there are also giraffes, sealions, gorillas, orangutans, camels, zebras and many, many more. The Orangutan Outlook allows visitors to get up close and personal with the apes.

Botany Bay Canal Mill, Botany Brow, Chorley PR6 9AF 01257 261 220 www.botanybay.co.uk Botany Bay has some wonderful family days out awaiting you. Parents can explore the variety of shops while children adventure through Puddletown Pirates play area. To conclude the summer holidays join Botany Bay as they host their annual Canal Fest. Relax over the August Bank Holiday weekend with entertainment and festivities such as boat rides, classic car displays, hook a duck, birds of prey and much more.

Blue Planet Aquarium

Chester Zoo

Longlooms Road, Cheshire Oaks, CH65 9LF

Moston Rd, Upton-by-Chester, Chester, CH2 1EU

0151 357 8804

01244 380280

blueplanetaquarium.com

www.chesterzoo.org

Home to one of Europe’s largest collections of sharks, Blue Planet offers the chance to get up close and personal with a world of underwater action.

There’s so much to see. There are over 15,000 of the world’s most exotic and endangered animals to discover in 125 acres of award-winning gardens.

Bowland Wild Boar Animal Park

Chill Factore

Chipping, Preston, PR3 2QT 01995 61075 www.wildboarpark.co.uk This family run animal park has something for the whole family. You can discover and learn about animals while hand feeding them; enjoy walks, tractor and barrel rides and even stay overnight in one of their camping pods.

Brimstage Maze Behind Brimstage Hall Courtyard, Brimstage Road, Brimstage, Wirral, CH63 6JA 07709 339490 www.gregorysfarm.co.uk The maze is a three dimensional puzzle and offers an exciting new design every year. As you find your way around the maze you will discover clues and puzzles to help you get out.

Cedar Farm Back Lane, Mawdesley, L40 3SY 01704 822038 www.cedarfarm.net There’ll be multiple workshops, events and demos throughout the summer for all the family to enjoy. . There are many friendly farm animals for children to feed including goats, sheep and chickens.

Trafford Quays Leisure Village, Trafford Way, Stretford, Manchester M41 7JA 0161 749 2222 www.chillfactore.com Enjoy thrills and spills of an indoor snow park which has age specific attractions to ensure nobody is left out. There are also other activities such as a climbing wall, indoor skydiving, shops and restaurants.

Crocky Trail Cotton Abbotts, Waverton, Chester, CH3 7PH 01244 336084 www.crockytrail.co.uk Get the whole family outdoors and enjoy a mile long adventure of pure adrenaline drenched fun as you run along the famous Crocky Trail scrambling through trees, climbing over crooked bridges and swinging over the fast flowing Crocky Stream.

East Lancashire Railway Bury Bolton Street Station, Bolton Street, Bury, BL9 0EY 0333 320 2830 www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk The East Lancashire Railway is an immaculately preserved slice of British history. Trains run every weekend and Wednesday to Friday until September along the 12-mile route from Rawtenstall to Heywood.

Farmer Ted’s

Legoland Discovery Centre

Worrall House Farm, Flatman’s Lane, Downholland,

Barton Square, Trafford, Manchester, M17 8AS

Ormskirk, L39 7HW

0871 222 2662

0151 526 0002

manchester.legolanddiscoverycentre.co.uk

www.farmerteds.com

If you’re a Lego fanatic, the Legoland Discovery Centre provides you with the ultimate playground.

With special summer events such as Birds of Prey, sheep racing, archery, Farmer Ted’s Agility Trail, an adventure maze, and free tractor rides. Make sure you plan a day out to Farmer Ted’s.

Greenslate Greenslate Road, Billinge, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7BG 01695 632290 greenslatefarm.org.uk

Martin Mere Fish Lane, Burscough, L40 0TA 01704 895181 www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/martin-mere Join Dusty Duck and team for lots of exciting adventures this summer. There’ll be GIANT Bionic Bugs invading Martin Mere this summer too.

Greenslate Farm is an up and coming community farm with its very own Straw Bale Café. Come and meet the animals that live at the farm and learn many new skills too. With special events going on throughout the summer months there is lots of fun to be had down on the farm.

There is 3,000 hectares of wetland with some of the rarest birds in the world.

Gulliver’s World

Liverpool Road, Castlefield, Manchester, M43 4FP

Shackleton Close, Warrington, WA5 9YZ 01925 444888

Museum of Science & Industry 0161 832 2244 www.mosi.org.uk

Designed for families with children aged two to 13. The rides and attractions make Gulliver’s one of the best days out for toddlers and older children.

Fantastic, free day out with plenty of interactive activities to keep the kids entertained. They can trace the history of communication, experience the deafening noise of working cotton machinery or even watch their own skeleton ride a bike!

Haigh Hall Woodland Park

National Football Museum

School Lane, Wigan, WN2 1PE 01942 828280

Urbis Building, Cathedral Gardens, Todd Street, Manchester, M4 3BG

www.haighwoodlandpark.co.uk

0161 605 8200

Haigh Hall has it all. There’s Adventure Golf and the Kitchen Courtyard is complete with brewery,

www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

www.gulliversfun.co.uk

bakery, chocolatier and even their own ice cream maker. Adults can relax while the kids climb their way to the top in the adventure playground.

The National Football Museum is the biggest football museum in the world. The unique museum brings the history of the sport to life across four floors of interactive games and displays. More than 2,500 objects are on display.

The Old Courts

Singleton Maize Maze

Gerrard Winstanley House, Crawford Street,

Mount Farm, Carr Ln, Singleton, Blackpool FY6 8LG

Wigan, WN1 1NA

01253 895154

01942 834747

www.singletonmaizemaze.co.uk

www.theoldcourts.com

The maze at Mount Farm will be open from July 21 until September 2; this year’s is safari themed, entitled ‘Wild Maze.’ Activities in and around the maze will include searching for furry and feathered friends. There is also a large indoor play area with pedal go-karts, basketball, trampolines and pedal tractors. Please check website for more details.

Find something to enjoy this summer at The Old Courts. There’s art exhibitions, regular music, dance and exercise classes and of course the oneoff music events in the Grand Vault. The venue ensures a range events and activities that the whole community can take pleasure from.

Red House Farm

NW Transport Museum

Red House Lane, Dunham Massey, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 5RL

The Old Bus Depot, 51 Hall Street, St Helens, WA10 1DU

0161 941 3480

01744 451681 (voicemail during weekdays)

www.redhousefarm.co.uk

www.nwmort.co.uk

The Red House Farm maze will be in full swing from mid-July. The site is open 7 days a week all year round. It’s always free to access the site, including the free play area, tea rooms and deli shop, and it is free to park. Please check the website for prices and opening times.

The museum houses a large collection of historic road transport vehicles including buses, cars, lorries and motorbikes. Take a journey back in time and enjoy a free ride on one of our heritage buses on the first Saturday and Sunday of each month. With classic shows and events throughout the year.

Puzzle Solutions 1 5 8 6 4 3 2 9 7

6 9 2 8 7 5 3 4 1

4 3 7 1 2 9 6 5 8

9 4 6 3 8 1 5 7 2

2 8 3 9 5 7 4 1 6

5 7 1 4 6 2 8 3 9

8 6 9 5 1 4 7 2 3

7 1 5 2 3 8 9 6 4

3 2 4 7 9 6 1 8 5

WIGGLE WORDS: ANTI WRINKLE CREAM WORD MIX UP: WHITE ROSE, SHEFFIELD, TERRIER, PUDDING, SWALE, SKIPTON, CALDER, HARROGATE

14 1 8 4 4

0 5 0 5

2 3 6 0

7 0 3 6

10 16 13 15

17 10 9 16 18

Summer Reading Challenge Libraries nationwide https://readingagency.org.uk/children/quickguides/summer-reading-challenge/ The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4-11 to read six library books during the summer holiday. The Summer Reading Challenge 2018 is called Mischief Makers, inspired by the much-loved childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s title Beano, which celebrates its 80th anniversary. Children will explore a map of Beanotown to find buried treasure and become ultimate mischief makers! Dennis, Gnasher and friends will help them solve clues and collect stickers too. The annual challenge helps get three quarters of a million children to keep up their reading skills and confidence. If youngsters aged 13-19 want to get involved, the summer challenge always needs volunteers!

Tatton Park Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6SG 01625 374400 www.tattonpark.org.uk Set in 1,000 acres of open parkland, the former Egerton family home is regarded as one of the most complete historic estates in the country. You can uncover centuries of history at the Tudor Old Hall and wander through the impressive gardens as well as the working farm. In the stable yard there are shops and restaurants, and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty of space around for picnics, cycling, and sailing. There are more than 100 events each year at Tatton with many of them during the school summer holiday period. Meet the newly-hatched chicks in the hatchery and learn more about where your food comes from with the Field to Fork story. Or you could enjoy one of the Traditional Tales like Cinderella â&#x20AC;&#x201C; little boys and girls can meet the princess!

Winning

Hearts & Minds Gemma Sherlock speaks to the man behind Wigan Pride as it celebrates its third year

or two years the streets of Wigan have been awash with colour and celebration.

Bringing the community together has been at the forefront of the Wigan Pride Festival which aims to celebrate diversity across the borough. Zak Bretherton, one of the organisers of Wigan Pride, explains how the town has come a long way with changing attitudes towards the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. “As a group we felt there was a big issue with social isolation in Wigan, our aim was to get rid of that,” said Zak, 23. “I remember watching a documentary with Trevor McDonald, a social experiment in Wigan. It showed two male actors holding hands with hidden cameras and the response from the public was disappointing - it wasn’t a good representation of our town. “So it was a pivotal moment when we brought the first pride festival to Wigan, people didn’t have to travel to Manchester, they had somewhere to go. “We are a family, friendly inclusive pride that is free. Manchester Pride is great but it has a lot more adult content, don’t get me wrong it does portray the LGBT community in a good way but we had people thinking that Wigan Pride was going to be half-naked people, it wasn’t.” For Zak it all started when he attended an event as part of BYOU- a council project which consists of an action group that campaigns for positive change for young

44 people LGBTQ. At the event he met a very special guest, fellow Wiganer, actor Sir Ian McKellen. “I asked him what he thought about Wigan having its own pride festival and he said ‘go for it’,” said Zak. Zak soon formed a committee and approached the council and others for support, and plans were set in motion. “We had amazing support,” said Zak, who lives in Wigan and works at The Old Courts. “We didn’t realise there was people like us in the community, it produced some backlash with people thinking it wasn’t worthwhile but it was.” The first festival was a huge success, with live music and stalls spread out in the town centre. Many businesses and organisations were present, showing the community their support for LGBT. From then Zak set up BYOU+ - similar to BYOU but catering for people 18 and over. As things progressed it was the second event which gained the most prominence, with an addition of a parade and a visit from Sir Ian McKellen. “We have a really great relationship with him, he was happy to come and people realised it was a big deal when he came,” said Zak. There are more additions to this year’s festival, which takes place in the town centre on August 11, a second acoustic stage, more things to do for families and an autism friendly zone in the Life Centre, which will include a live stream to entertainment outside. The theme is floral which represents growth within the community. “In this year’s event we have introduced an autism friendly zone, which is an extra step up we took. A lot of people are autistic and LGBT, and we are constantly trying to benefit everyone,” said Zak. Wigan Pride is a not-for-profit organisation; organisers don’t receive any money from the event. Funding for the festival is done through business and community support. But why has Wigan not had a pride festival before? “People have tried,” said Zak.

“I think it didn’t take off because of how they advertised and maybe how they’d gone about it. There are some people who are against the pride community, some of it is based on religious values, not all religious people are, there is a lot of faith groups who are among the LGBT group. Fifty years ago pride was more like a protest.

“I was gay all through school, in year eight I knew. I remember watching the programme Skins and I really fancied the character Maxxie and he was gay and then it all made sense.”

“Now we have the opportunity to educate people so people can see there are LGBT views in our community that people are not alone, that it can be accepted.”

“Before I came out it was that fear, I spent a lot of time reading other people’s coming out stories, I was trying to take the pressure off myself,” said Zak.

It was only seven years ago when Zak told his parents and his younger sister, Holly, about his sexuality. Just after leaving school (Parklands High School in Chorley), Zak wrote a letter to his mum and left it on his bed whilst he was at work with his dad. Zak said: “There was a huge pressure, for some people it is really easy, there is a lot of anxiety that builds up in coming out.

Fear of rejection was the cause of the delay in Zak telling his parents, but he soon realised he had nothing to be afraid of.

“I told my mum not to tell my dad straight away because I thought my mum would accept it first, she ended up telling him that night. They said they loved me no matter what but the reason I came out to them was because I felt I was drifting away. “When I was away from home I was a homosexual, I got into fights at school because of it and I was worried they would find out, so it was a relief for me when I told them.

“They have both been really supportive. My dad was in the parade last year, somebody didn’t make it so he stood in for them, and he had these butterfly wings. Thinking back to it, it was great to see my dad getting involved and being so supportive.”

Zak has been with his partner, Daniel, whom he met at BU, for six years and they live together in the centre of Wigan.

But expressing his sexuality wasn’t without its hardship.

“Pride gives us all that opportunity to come out, it is a talking point, and some people come out at pride which is crazy and dramatic but great.

“I would camp up in school, I felt like I had to, I was really flamboyant and would come back home to being quite reserved,” said Zak. “There were a few incidents at school because of my sexuality. I was quite tall in school and one guy was quite short , he came charging into me in the hall, he was trying to get me on the floor, he was saying I brought shame on the name Zak, I think he had a relative with the same name. I knew he was just uneducated.”

“Daniel has been so supportive, he is full of ideas,” said Zak.

“I don’t think there is a need to be in everyone’s face but visibility is important, that is the whole reason for us, here and queer, got to get used to it.” Wigan Pride takes place on August 11 from noon6pm in the town centre. For more information and for a full line-up visit www.wiganpride.com To find out more about the BYOU+ group please visit www.byoupluswigan.com.

The Retirement

Challenge

ost people’s hopes and expectations for retirement are very different from those who were retiring in the past. Retirees now have much grander plans, such as travelling the world, spending more time on hobbies or spoiling the grandchildren. In order to achieve these things though, they need to have the income to afford a comfortable and active retirement. For most people, the state pension isn’t enough, and increasingly, income from other pensions is not enough either. Pensions have been hitting the headlines in recent years, but the focus has generally been encouraging people to save and build a fund for retirement. Not enough attention has been given to an equally pressing retirement challenge - making savings that have been built up over the years last all the way through retirement, and this challenge is harder than ever to achieve because of low interest rates and poor value annuities. In short, there is a good chance that financial wellbeing in retirement could depend to a large extent on sources of income which are not guaranteed for life in the way that traditional pensions are. Whilst saving for retirement is relatively simple as most people have a fixed retirement date, managing a pot of money and ensuring it lasts for the rest of your life is an altogether more difficult challenge. Here are the risks you face when managing your pot of money;

Key Risks 1 Will I live longer than expected? 2 How much will inflation eat into the value of my savings? 3 Will my investments be the right ones? 4 What if I take out too much, too soon? 5 Will I need long term care funding? Planning for retirement when considering all of the above risks can be a daunting task. Sadly the lack of a crystal ball means that the future can be very difficult to predict. How can we help? Whilst we don’t have a crystal ball, we do have many years’ experience of dealing with clients approaching/in retirement who were looking for strategies to enable them to achieve their retirement dreams.

If you are moving into retirement please do not hesitate to give us a call on 01257 423800. The initial meeting will be at our expense and is without obligation.

Health & Fitness

Pedal

Power

here are so many reasons for us to ensure we keep active. Whether it’s swimming, running, or cycling, there are lots of health benefits that come with exercising. But, mark Wednesday, August 15, on your calendar, because it’s time to get physical.

By Niamh Ollerton

But why cycle? Cycling is one of the easiest ways to fit exercise into your daily routine because it’s also a form of transport. It burns calories, gets your heart pumping and works your legs and abs. It can also lift your mood, put a smile on your face and improve your general health and wellbeing. We all know the best way to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle is to try and be active: • Cycling is proven to raise your metabolic rate, which can help to keep weight off • Moderate pedal-pushing burns up to 500 calories per hour, which is more than walking or swimming • A 20-minute bike ride to work could use the same amount of calories as a cappuccino, a bar of chocolate or a 175ml glass of wine Cycling can also save you money and helps the environment. You can’t say no to hopping on your bike now can you? The low-impact exercise is easier on your joints than running or other high-impact aerobics activities, but it will still help you shift the pounds and get in shape.

Every year since 2012, Cycle to Work Day has been the UK’s biggest cycle commuting event, and thousands of enthusiastic riders have hit the streets to celebrate everyday cycling. It’s a free event that everyone can join in.

The best way to build your cardiovascular fitness on the bike is to ride for at least 150 minutes every week. For example, you could do a couple of shorter rides during the week with a longer ride at the weekend, or cycle to work a few days a week.

51 And that’s where Cycling to Work Day comes in. The annual event further demonstrates the benefits of cycling to work, including: 1) You’ll sleep more deeply – An early morning ride might tire you out in the short term, but it’ll help you catch some quality shut-eye when you get back to your pillow. 2) Beat illness – Forget apples, cycling will keep the doctor at bay. “Moderate exercise makes immune cells more active, so they’re ready to ﬁght off infection,” says Cath Collins, chief dietician at St George’s Hospital in London. 3) Live longer – King’s College London compared over 2,400 identical twins and found those who did the equivalent of just three 45-minute rides a week were nine years ‘biologically younger.’ 4) Increase your brain power – Cycling helps build new brain cells in the hippocampus — the region responsible for memory, which deteriorates from the age of 30.

52 How to get involved with Cycle to Work Day. All you need is a bike – new or old – and the desire to ride. You can go solo or be the change your workplace needs and organise an event for you and your colleagues. Whatever you do, however far your ride – have fun! If you don’t have a bike yet, there’s no need to worry. The scheme’s website offers exclusive deals with a big saving from www.cycletoworkday.org/ save-on-a-bike/ Pledges make prizes Every year, the Cycle to Work Day organisers track how many miles the Cycle to Work Day cyclists pledge to ride. And this year, 369,627 miles pledged so far, and counting… Since the event began over 2 million miles have been ridden! All you need to do is contribute your saddle time for the 2018 event and pledge your miles. To make it worth your while, everyone who pledges has the chance to win some incredible prizes. When you get on your bike on Wednesday, August 15, you could secure your place in the huge prize draw. To win, tell organisers how many miles you’re planning to ride and pedal like the wind. And as it’s Cycle to Work Day, who better to get involved than employers? Add the health and wellbeing event to you HR calendar and get employees in the saddle. Employees can give cycle commuting a go, with support and advice on the way, and you can discover how cycling is great for business. To find out everything you need to know about Cycle to Work Day, please visit https://www. cycletoworkday.org/

Will Your Business

Be Ready For MTD? by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy

rom April 2019, businesses that are registered for VAT and have a turnover above the VAT registration threshold of ÂŁ85,000 will be required to keep digital records and submit their VAT return to HMRC through Making Tax Digital (MTD) compatible software. MTD is a major change in the level of information being sent to HMRC and businesses should start preparing ASAP as the roll out is less than 12 months away. The way forward for business is to implement a cloud accounting solution that will be compatible with MTD. CMA are online accounting experts, and are also Xero and QuickBooks partners, so we can put you in a good position to help you choose which software is best for your business. Many of our clients have already made the switch to online accounting and are enjoying the benefits that it brings. These include more efficient systems, increased accuracy, smart business tools, better security and all round improved accountancy services. What if I use Spreadsheets? HMRC have been persuaded that those businesses that do keep their VAT records on a spreadsheet, will be able to continue to do so. However, the final solution for these businesses will still involve making changes to their current spreadsheets so that they can link to HMRC possibly by some bridging software. There are lots of tools and Apps being developed that can help businesses. For instance, receipts and invoices can be scanned using your mobile phone

and these receipts are then sent automatically for processing in your accounts software and matched to a record that has been imported from your bank account. This dramatically reduces the time spent on bookkeeping and improves accuracy. The amount of changes being implemented means that it is difficult to stay abreast of all these and therefore speaking to a professional will help and may not cost as much as you think. If you have any questions regarding Making Tax Digital or switching to online accounting systems please do get in touch. For a limited period we are offering all new clients Xero or Quickbooks software free of charge for 6 MONTHS if they sign up for our services. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget, we also offer full accountancy and tax services for individuals, sole trader and landlords. We offer a free consultation for anyone that would like to speak to us about these changes. Feel free to drop by the office on Skull House Lane in Appley Bridge and we can discuss these further over a coffee. Of course, there will be no charge for the initial meeting. Contact Details Chris Alcock ACMA CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DR Tel: 01257 255521 Email: info@handsonaccounting.co.uk Web: www.handsonaccounting.co.uk

Making Tax Digital Do you have a business thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s VAT-registered and has a turnover of ÂŁ85,000+? Are you aware of the Making Tax Digital changes due to start next April? Would you like your business to enjoy the benefits of online accounting? Plan NOW for the 2019 changeover and call us today for a free consultation.

Free software for 6 months when you use CMA Accountancy.

Call CMA Accountancy today www.cma-accountancy.com info@cma-accountancy.com Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge. 01257 255521

Cool for It’s that time of the year again... yep, soon the kiddies will be off school for their summer holidays. And as sure as night follows day, by day seven most will have said “I’m bored” at least once. Fear not though - here’s your ever-dependable Local Life to the rescue!

During the school year, it’s hard to find time to bake with the kids, so now is the perfect opportunity to dig out your apron. To inspire you, here are some recipes you can use to keep the little ones from climbing the walls.

Banana Muffins Ingredients

Strawberry Lollies Ingredients

• 200g plain flour • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder • 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda • 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 350g strawberries

• 3 large mashed bananas

• 4 tbsp strawberry jam

• 150g caster sugar

• 200 ml double cream

• 1 egg

• 6 tbsp Greek yoghurt

• 75g melted butter

Method

Take the tops off the strawberries and slice them into a bowl.

Preheat the oven to 180°c/Gas 4 and pop 12 paper baking cases in a muffin tin.

Add the jam.

Mix together the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and salt in a bowl.

Mash them with a potato masher. Whisk the cream in another bowl until it makes stiff peaks. Fold in the yoghurt. Stir the two mixtures together and put in the lolly moulds. Put them into the freezer and enjoy once they’re solid.

In another but larger bowl, mix together the bananas, egg, sugar and melted butter. Fold in the flour mixture and stir until smooth. Spoon the mixture evenly into the baking cases. Carefully put the muffins into the oven and bake for between 25 and 30 minutes. Allow to cool a little and then enjoy!

Kids Apple Pancakes Ingredients • 1 beaten egg • 2tsp baking powder • 100g plain flower • 3tbsp caster sugar • 25g butter • 150ml milk • 2 thinly sliced apples

Method Pop the flour and baking powder into a mixing bowl. Make a dip in the middle with a spoon and pour in a bit of the milk and all of the egg. Mix it up to make a smooth paste.

Choccy Coconut Ball Ingredients for 5 servings • 250g digestive biscuits

Slowly add the rest of the milk and beat the mixture so that it makes a soft liquid (this is the batter).

• 45g desiccated (dried) coconut, plus a bit extra for rolling the balls in

Stir in 1 tablespoon of the caster sugar.

• 5 tablespoons cocoa powder

Heat a little bit of oil in a frying pan and put a large tablespoon of the batter into the hot pan. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s golden brown underneath and almost set on top. Then flip it over until the other side is cooked.

• 1 tin condensed milk (397g)

Keep the pancakes warm in some kitchen roll while you’re cooking the others.

Method Crush up the biscuits in a food bag (you can bash them with a rolling pin) and pop into a mixing bowl. Add the cocoa and coconut and stir together.

Then melt the butter into the pan and fry the apple slices until they’re nice and golden. Add the remaining sugar and stir until dissolved.

Pour in the condensed milk.

Put some of the apple slices inside two of the pancakes for a super sweet treat!

Keep making balls until all the mixture is gone then pop into the fridge for 30 minutes to set.

Scoop out a small handful of the mixture and roll into a ball then roll in the extra coconut.

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Barking Mad Dog Festival

Wildflower Walk

Saturday, July 14, 10am-6pm

Sunday, July 15, 2pm-4pm

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

Take a walk around Wigan Flashes to look out for the flowers that are in bloom. Expert Dave Winnard will be on hand to help with identification.

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

Wigan Schools Gala Concert

Disney Singalong Breakfast

The Wigan Schools Orchestra performs Hoedown by Copland and In the Hall of the Mountain by Grieg. The Youth Orchestra will perform Peter and the Wolf by Prokofiev and The Sorcerer’s Apprentice by Dukas. Contact 01942 776169 for more info. Tickets available on the door.

Saturday, July 14, 10.15am-12.15pm With very special guest Elsa; includes breakfast banquet, magical meet and greet and photo opportunity, Disney singalong with songs from Frozen, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, Trolls and Moana. Just £8 per child. Pipsqueaks Play Café, Orrell Road, Orrell, WN5 8QZ. Tel: 01695 229923

Wigan Flashes Nature Reserve, Poolstock Lane, Wigan WN3 5HL

Monday, July 16, 1.30pm

Robin Park Indoor Sports Centre, Loire Drive, Newtown, Wigan, WN5 0UL. Tel: 01942 828550

Wigan Flower Club

NGS Open Garden

Wed, Jul 18, 7.15pm; Wed, Aug 15, 7.15pm; Wed, Sept 19, 7.15pm; Wed, Oct 17, 7.15pm

Sunday, July 15, 10am-4pm

Wigan Flower Club meets every third Wednesday of the month. Floral demonstrations are done by a qualified NAFAS demonstrator. There is Tea and Coffee on sale, a raffle and a trash and treasure stall. There is always a warm Wigan welcome to both members and non-members.

The gardens have colourful flower beds, three ponds and a Chinese bridge donated by the Whitworth Art Gallery. The Dedicate a Daisy memorial garden and two courtyards also feature as the gardens are adjacent to Amberswood Common which are a haven for wildlife. £3 entry. Wigan & Leigh Hospice, Kildare Street, Hindley, WN2 3HZ. Tel: 01942 525566

St Michael’s Hall, Shaw Street, Wigan, WN1 2BQ.

Eating Disorders Workshop

Lakeside Summer Fayre

Thursday, July 19, 6.10pm-8pm

Saturday, July 21, 1pm-4pm

Learn about Anorexia, Bulimia and EDNS; skills to support recovery and to notice the signs of refeeding syndrome. There’s a self-help guide to take away, and online group to meet other parents like you. £20pp from www.blueresilience.co.uk/

There’ll be a bouncy castle, raffle, face painting, hook-a-duck, tombola, barbecue and music.

Wigan Central, No.1 Railway Arch, Queen Street, Wigan, WN3 4DY. Tel: 01942 246425

Free Self Defence Workshop Fri, Jul 20; Fri, Jul 27; Fri, Aug 3, 6pm-7pm The training features basic self-defence and break away techniques. The training is low to medium intensity. To register your interest, visit www. impactselfdefence.co.uk/group-classes/ Impact self-defence and Ju Jitsu, Appley Bridge Community Centre, Appley lane North, WN6 9AP. Tel: 07545 640722

Orrell LIVE

Proudly sponsored by

Lakeside Care Home, Chorley Road, WN1 2XN

Green Fayre Saturday, July 21 & Sunday, July 22 This FREE countryside festival is a great family day out, with wood crafts, dog displays, birds of prey, jousting, archery, funfair, live music and lots more! Beacon Country Park, Upholland, WN8 7RU

Wigan Bike Ride 2018 Sunday, July 22, 9.30am A 50 mile main ride or a 5 mile family ride. For info and to register, visit http://wiganbikeride.co.uk/ Mesnes Park, Wigan, WN1 1TU

9 to 5

Family Nature Walk

Wed, Jul 25 to Sat, Jul 28, 7.30pm-10pm

Sunday, August 12, 10am-12.30pm

Orrell Musical & Dramatic Society are performing the popular musical 9 to 5. Tickets £8 and concessions £7 from the Box Office on 01695 622713.

Enjoy the landscape and nature of Wigan Flashes on this family-friendly beginners’ walk. Appropriate footwear, clothing and binoculars recommended. Any queries contact Jeff on 07922 453908.

St Michaels Hall, Shaw Street, Wigan, WN1 2BQ

Meet at Greenheart Flashes car park,WN3 5DX.

ARC Annual Country Fair Saturday, July 28 and Sunday, July 29, 10am-6pm

Holiday Club

The second annual country fair with lots to see and do, there’ll be quad bikes, bouncy castles and more.

Mon, Aug 13; Tues, Aug 14; Wed, Aug 15; Thurs, Aug 16; Fri, Aug 17, 9.15am-12.15pm

Charity Farm Fisheries, Charity Farm, Smithy Brow, Wrightington, WN6 9PP. Tel: 01257 451326

Holiday club is back for 2018. To enrol please call in at the Parish Office for a form. It’s £25 per child or £35 if enrolling two siblings.

Peter Rabbit & Friends

Church of St Wilfrid, 13 Rectory Lane, Standish, Wigan, WN6 0XA.

Tues, July 31, 12pm-2pm (11.30am gates open) This musical adaptation follows some of Beatrix Potter’s favourite characters in their adventures. Tickets £7.50, family of 3 £15, under 3s free. Book at www.haightickets.co.uk or call 0800 788 0526. Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, Wigan, WN2 1PE. Tel: 01942 828280

Parbulele Ukulele Festival

Plant Based Saturdays Sat, August 18 & Sat, September 29, 6pm-10pm There’ll be plant-based street food, live music and bars. Wigan Vegan Society will be there sharing info and a chance to meet with like-minded people. Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, WN2 1PE. Tel: 01942 828280

Fri, Aug 3, 6.30pm-late; Sat, Aug 4, 11am-5pm and 6.30pm-late; Sun, Aug 5, 11am-5pm

Family Barbecue Fun Day

The festival features lots of musical events. Tickets available from Gary Smith gs.svs-ltd@live.co.uk or phone 07495332770 or pay on the day. Entry is £3 per day or £5 for the weekend, and concerts are £15.

Sunday, August 26, 12pm

Village Hall, 2 The Green, Parbold, WN8 7DN

Olive Garden Standish, 489 Preston Road, Standish, WN6 0QD. Tel: 01257 421144

Garden Party Saturday, August 4, 12pm-4pm Pick up a bargain, enjoy a burger and win prizes in the raffles, tombolas and more. Free entry. Wigan & Leigh Hospice, Kildare Street, Hindley, WN2 3HZ. Tel: 01942 525566

There’ll be two outside bars, live music, bouncy castles, face painting and more. There’s an all you can eat barbecue for just £5. Kids eat free.

Proms in the Park Saturday, September 1, 6pm-10pm A fantastic evening of open air band music for the whole family to enjoy. Mesnes Park, Wigan

New Brighton by Gemma Sherlock

nowing the Wirral like the back of my hand, I jumped at the chance to do the latest Jack’s Tracks in this beautiful part of the north. With stunning sunsets and views of the striking Liverpool skyline across the River Mersey why wouldn’t you want to spend a hot summer’s day taking it all in? However I must shamefully admit that the 15-mile Wirral Coastal Walk is not something I have ever completed. But I and my colleague Niamh decided to have a fair go at it and managed a good six miles, give or take (it was a hot day). The scorching sun made the relative easy flat stroll somewhat arduous, making it imperative to carry those water bottles and top up that sunscreen. We parked the car at the starting point at Seacombe Ferry Terminal - opposite the £10m space-themed attraction, Spaceport. The free parking here made the walk ahead less stressful.

With our jackets tied firmly around our waists and our sunglasses poised for action we set off midmorning to begin the coastline walk and beat the sun before it entered its hottest time of the day. On paper the North Wirral section of the Circular Trail takes you from Seacombe Ferry Terminal to West Kirby, via the rejuvenated New Brighton Resort with its Floral Pavilion, Fort Perch Rock, Lighthouse, Marine Lake and new Retail Park. The route continues along the promenade to Wallasey Beach and into North Wirral Coastal Park. The route then turns inland at The Gunsite, the location of World War II gun emplacements, to follow the Birket Cycle Route. Pedestrians can if they wish carry on along the embankment past Leasowe Common where in 1864 the oldest skeleton in Merseyside was found.

Lighthouse

Marine Lake

Perch Rock Fortress

Cafés

New Brighton The Black Pearl Pirate Ship

We did a section of this from the terminal - once parked we headed towards the opening of the walk, to the left of the River Mersey ferry terminal. Then it’s a straight route along Egremount, Magazine and Tower Promenade, towards Tower Grounds and New Brighton. Don’t worry, it’s difficult to miss points of interest along the route – it’s straight, flat and easily accessible for both pedestrians and cyclists. The gorgeous views to the right of you are enough to fulfil your interest, and the colourful houses to the left change appearance as the cascade down the promenade.

Vale Park & Vale House Café New Brighton War Memorial

Promenade

A554

River Mersey

Wallasey Egremont The Ferry (Pub)

Wallasey Town Hall A554

Kingsway Road Tunnel Ventilation Building Seacombe Ferry Terminal

Spaceport

P M ry er yF

Mersey Ferry

Seacombe

Wallasey Town Hall greets you in its grand glory, a quarter of the way down the promenade. The hall was built to replace the old Town Hall and its foundation stone was laid into position by means of electricity, by King George V in 1914, while 9,000 school children sang in the choir. Its nickname ‘back-to-front’ town hall arose as it was built to face the river and has a fine flight of steps leading up from the promenade. Situated at the entrance are the memorial gardens, commemorating the 96 Liverpool FC fans who lost their lives in the Hillsborough disaster. Walking past the hall you are then treated to Guinea Gap Baths, the oldest pool in the Wirral. Between 1908 and 1957 no fewer than 205 world and national swimming records were achieved here. Its name is derived from the days before the promenade was built where there was a break in the riverbank known to locals as Guinea Gap. This was a popular place for anyone wishing to go for a swim as it was free from dangerous currents that lurk in the river itself.

63 Carrying past Guinea Gap Baths you shortly come to a black post sign, pointing to areas north, east, west and south – head for Vale Park and New Brighton.

bustle of the main area of New Brighton. The area is where the Tower Ballroom and New Brighton Tower itself used to be.

Before you come to the entrance of Vale Park along Magazine Promenade you will notice the war memorial which sits proudly to your left. Once you come to the signs for Vale Park take a welcome break – the café in the park sells homemade ice cream and cakes – plenty of tempting treats.

The tower was completed in 1900, 10 years after Blackpool Tower and, at 567ft (173m), was 49ft (15m) taller. It was modelled on the Eiffel Tower, attracted more than 500,000 visitors a year in its heyday and featured one of the largest ballrooms in the world. Sadly, due to the First World War, the Tower became neglected and was finally dismantled in 1921.

The area surrounding the park was established in the 1750s when the Port of Liverpool set up the major gunpowder and weaponry storage magazines in the local sand dunes. Opened in 1889, Vale Park became a public park in 1899 and was one of the best small parks in the north. With its excellent acoustics and striking appearance the bandstand is the main feature of the park. Come back out from the park through its entrance and turn left, you will be back on the promenade heading for New Brighton.

Now nearly halfway through the walk you will reach another tourist attraction in New Brighton, Fort Perch Rock. Located to your right on the beach, Fort Perch Rock was completed in 1829 as a permanent fortification to protect the Port of Liverpool in times of war. Inside today lies a cornucopia of exhibits ranging from World War II aviation to naval history displays of the doomed submarine HMS Thetis, the Lusitania and the Titanic. Even Beatles and Elvis Presley memorabilia is on show inside this unusual fortress at the mouth of the Mersey Estuary. You will now find yourselves in the heart of New Brighton, a seaside resort for nearly 200 years. It was created and named by Liverpool merchant, James Atherton in 1830 as a seaside retreat for the gentry. You can also take a trip to the arcades over the road to your left, or check out what’s on at the Floral Pavilion theatre before turning back around for the walk back along the promenade. All in all, a lovely way to spend a hot summer’s day, with plenty of stops and welcome distractions on the way.

Along the way you may notice a pirate ship on the beach – don’t worry this hasn’t washed up from afar rather it’s a piece of interactive artwork enjoyed by all age groups. The permanent tourist, known as The Black Pearl, was originally made from a local man using a single piece of driftwood which washed ashore. Carrying on walking and you will find yourself in the Tower Grounds area, just before the bustle and

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.

Name That by Angie Barker

Plant

Award Winner

hat’s in a name? Well with regard to the Latin names of plants quite a lot actually. Part of my job as a garden designer is to think about the plants which will complement a design. This also means choosing those plants which will suit the particular location in the garden in terms of size, colour, texture, flowering season and growing conditions. (There is more to this garden design milarky than meets the eye). I am often asked why plants have such complicated names and at first sight they can be meaningless.

Gracilis is graceful or slender – as in Deutzia gracilis

We have history to thank for the continued use of Latin plant names in an otherwise ‘dead’ language, but when you delve deeper, you can actually begin to understand the properties of a plant and where it originates from, just by its Latin name. Below are some examples of Latin words used to describe plants - you may recognise some.

Only those of a certain age (yes I include hubby and myself in this) will remember doing Latin at school, but far from being a dead language, it certainly lives on in the plant world. If however you would rather refer to Aquilegia vulgaris as Granny’s Bonnet, or Digitalis purpurea as Foxglove or Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’ as Black Lilly Turf, I wouldn’t blame you. On the other hand, if you find Latin derivatives as fascinating as I do, then carpe diem. (If you are not of a certain age – google it!)

Mollis means soft and/or hairy – hence Alchemilla mollis Bonariensis denotes that a plant originates from Buenos Aires, Argentina. As in Verbena bonariensis

Reptans means creeping – Ajuga reptans Angustus refers to narrow leaves and so we have Lavandula angustifolia Macrophylla means large leaves – Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’ for example Niger means black and so we have Sambucus nigra Nanu means dwarf so if you are looking for a smaller version of a Berberis you need to look for Berberis thunbergii ‘Atropurpurea-Nana’

Sempervirens means evergreen – so we have Buxus sempervirens (Box)

Angie is a qualified award-winning garden designer who will plan your garden to your needs from start to finish, supplying reputable contractors and the ideal plants.

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

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South Korean motoring giant, Hyundai, has created a brand new ‘N Division’, which has sparked the awesome new i30 N.

The regular variant gets a 251PS petrol turbo unit, but it’s the 275PS Performance Package i30 N that I was handed the keys to. This car gets bigger brakes to scrub the extra speed off. At the front of the model, there’s also a no-nonsense electronic differential, which decides all sorts of smart things to keep the front wheels biting into the bitumen. The i30 N’s chassis is electronically damped - and the arrangement has been designed to supply all-out precision. At the same time, the system doles out a good dose of refinement, meaning comfort is not in short supply. What’s more, the car has state-of-the-art electronic dampers at each corner that empower it to do things some other challengers can’t even consider - both on tarmac and on track. The i30 N also belts out a banging tune of its own. Seriously, the car sounds incredible. And when the pedal is pushed to the metal in third gear, all sorts of crackles and pops fire from the tailpipes. What’s most extraordinary, however, is how the i30 N handles, turns and comes to a halt. The steering is outstandingly precise, and the car doesn’t feel edgy at the rear

69 whatsoever. This is some feat, considering that it takes the Hyundai a mere 2.2 turns from lock to lock. The handling is unreservedly razor-sharp, even in ‘Normal’ setting. Things get spicier in ‘Sport’ mode, and there’s a ‘Custom’ choice in which you can alter the car’s specific characteristics. The i30 N also has, perhaps unsurprisingly, an ‘N’ mode. This is only meant for using on a track really, so the ride quality is stiff and hard-nosed. But if you’re in the right frame of mind and the weather and road conditions are okay, then it is a grin-inducing system. The throttle map and exhaust become zestier, while the dampers become more unyielding. Furthermore, any interruption from the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) is played right down. Out and out performance is heavy-duty from the 2.0-litre petrol turbo powerplant in all settings. It never feels too much, though - and the six-speed manual transmission hops through the cogs satisfyingly. The hot Hyundai’s straight-line talent is blisteringly impressive, but it is the i30 N’s chassis that blows you away. This is the feature that remains indelibly etched on my mind. It’s my ‘take-away’ memory of the car if you like. Sure, this isn’t the fastest hatchback ever made – but the point is, not many cars in this segment will have such an excellent chassis set-up. And, here’s the occasionally thorny bit – the price. Well, with this Hyundai there is no issue. The South Korean firm knew it had to chip away at the main competition to give itself authority in the hot-hatch market. Therefore, an on-the-

road price-tag of £27,995 is more than respectable, bearing in mind how capable the 2.0 T-GDi 275PS N Performance is behind the wheel. Moreover, the car is jam-packed with kit, and it feels well screwed together.

Fast Facts • 0-62 mph: 6.1 secs • Combined mpg: 39.8 • Engine layout: 1,998cc four-cylinder petrol turbo • Max. power (PS): 275 • CO2: 163 g/km • Price: £27,995

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