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

LocalLife Wigan Edition

Duo Celebrate Bike Success Page 12

Education Special Pages 35 - 50

Restoring Rivington Pages 61 - 64

October 2018

News

Ashfield Park, Standish

£500,000

Beautifully presented and offering warm and spacious prestigious living accommodation, this five bed detached property has 2514 sq ft of space surrounded by ample private gardens.

Naburn Drive, Orrell

£425,000

This spectacular four bed detached family home, situated on a popular Orrell development, has been skilfully extended and offers 2513 sq ft of beautifully planned living accommodation.

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Cranleigh, Standish

£400,000

Back Brow, Up Holland

£325,000

This superbly presented five bed family home offers an abundance of well-appointed living space set out over three floors and occupies a generous plot of beautifully maintained gardens.

This stunning 4 bed character cottage offers a spacious 2355 sq ft of unique living space and is surrounded by beautiful mature gardens and a lovely courtyard.

Ashton Road, Golborne

Mossy Lea Rd, Wrightington

£300,000

Rarely do homes of the calibre of this stunning four bed detached family home come to market, offering gorgeous, spacious and prestigious accommodation with beautiful gardens.

£290,000

Outwardly a true bungalow, this mature four bed detached property affords ideal family accommodation over two levels and has an open plan kitchen/diner and a spacious conservatory.

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Earl Street, Swinley

£290,000

Elmfield Road, Whitley

£250,000

This unique seven bedroom detached residence, within walking distance of the town centre and Mesnes Park, is arranged over three levels and offers a very versatile layout.

Located just off prestigious Wigan Lane on an attractive tree-lined road is this gorgeous and secluded three bedroomed detached home with generous and beautifully maintained gardens.

Sheraton Close, Orrell

Knowsley Road, Wigan

£220,000

£160,000

This beautiful four bed detached family home with a conservatory is situated in a quiet cul-de-sac with wellkept gardens and offers neat and tidy presentation throughout.

This pretty 1930s three bed detached family home near the town centre has period features, two spacious reception rooms, a modern kitchen, and a lovely private rear garden.

Appley Lane N, Appley Bridge £160,000

Preston Road, Standish

This two bed quasi semi-detached home boasts an extra loft room, a very generous master bedroom and neat gardens to the front and rear plus off road parking.

This impressive two bed semi-detached home, located on a generous plot and with rural views offers modern, well presented accommodation just a short walk away from the village centre.

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£150,000

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Local Life

Big ideas The decision by Marks and Spencer to relocate to Robin Park undoubtedly sent shockwaves through the town and it begged the question, does the appetite exist amongst todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (and tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) shoppers to support local retailers in a town centre environment? As the local MP Lisa Nandy rightly says, the demise of the high street is a national problem. That doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean though that the solution must generated nationally too. There are initiatives already out there designed to help level the playing field and protect local town centres. During the summer I visited Totnes, in Devon, whose claim to fame is that it has had its own currency since 2008 which residents spend in over 160 local businesses registered in the scheme. Ten years later, the town is thriving and the vacancy rate of retail units in the town centre is just 2% compared to over 12% nationally. Still being developed is the HullCoin, which is a virtual currency which rewards volunteers for their work and enables them to discounts off their shopping in the 140 local stores in Hull who have signed up. Both schemes support local retail businesses but, and this is a big but, they require local residents to think about their shopping habits and commit to spending with independent local retailers rather than ordering from Amazon or visiting the Trafford Centre. So big ideas are needed, but support for those ideas from residents is paramount if Wigan town centre is to thrive in future. See you next time,

Chris Pearce, Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

Local Life

In this issue Restoring Rivington

Regulars 52 Puzzle Corner 91 Test Drive

95 Garden Diary

Sections 71 A Giant Finale

66 Health 72 Legal & Finance 74 Property 76 Business View

86 Events2Go 89 Food 95 Gardening 101 Home Services

Next issue - November 2018

Advertising deadline - Thursday, 11 October

26 Education

Published - Wednesday, 24 October

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

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Publisher: Chris chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Sales: Nicola sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: Jess wigannews@locallife247.co.uk Design: Peter design@locallife247.co.uk Distribution: Sally sallyb@locallife247.co.uk Accounts: Christina 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 13,025 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.

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events2go

News & Features

Exploring New Depths A Lancashire diving group have conducted an underwater commemoration of the sinking of the HMS Otranto. The ship sank off the west coast of Islay on October 6, 1918, causing the loss of 431 lives when she collided with the HMS Kashmir. Both ships were used by the Royal Navy during the First World War; the Otranto played a small role in the Battle of the Falklands in 1914. A second ship, the HMS Tuscania, also sank 6 miles off the Mull of Oa on Islay eight months earlier when it was torpedoed by a German U-boat. Over 200 lives were lost. Badlads Divers, including Wigan-based organiser

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Pete Kenrick, headed to Islay for the centenary of the sinking this year. In June, the divers planned their annual trip as an opportunity for remembrance, diving for around 54 hours in total. Pete was surprised that no underwater footage of the wreck existed and decided to rectify this, eventually compiling a 21-minute video of the cinematic highlights to be displayed in the Museum of Islay Life. 15 metres below the surface where the Otranto lay on Old Woman’s Reef, the divers cleaned the ship’s quick firing gun of excess kelp and hoisted flags of the USA and Great Britain. A salute was given in honour of the fallen soldiers, and the flags remained during the entirety of the filming, with a poppy left behind as tribute. Mike Armitage, from Appley Bridge firm Northern Divers, found a soldier’s boot resting on a strand of cordite. He said: ‘The boot was one of the most striking sights, because you see it and it really makes you wonder what happened to the owner – was he one of the lucky survivors? Was he one of the servicemen who perished? Seeing that made it very real for us divers.’ October 6 will see the official centenary of the sinking.

West Lancs Plan

Last Bank to Close

Local residents protested about plans to establish a new Local Plan at a recent meeting of the West Lancs Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cabinet meeting. The Council is preparing to publish their proposals for the new Local Plan, which guides how the borough develops over a specific time period over the next thirty years or so and covers issues such as new housing sites, employment sites and also new policies on transport, local services, energy and the environment.

Standishâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s final bank branch is set for closure early next year.

Appley Bridge residents face possible future housing development on Appley Lane North, whilst the major proposals in the plan include the creation of three new Garden Villages in the Lathom and Bickerstaff areas, a Logistics Park by the M58 and a new Knowledge Park and a Student Village on St Helens Road next to Edge Hill in Ormskirk Consultations regarding the new Local Plan will take place with the public during October and November, please visit www.westlancs.gov.uk for further details.

RBS has been the last bank standing in Standish since the closure of Lloyds Bank earlier this year, and this fresh blow comes after the Royal Bank of Scotland announced a total of 216 branch closures nationwide. These will result in the loss of 1050 jobs in total. The implications for Standish residents are clear. With the Parbold branch also earmarked for closure, people will be forced to travel into the centre of Wigan for the closest branch. Though the majority of banking can still be done online or at the Post Office, anyone who wants to speak to an advisor will have to navigate elsewhere to do so. In total, RBS are set to close 15 branches in the Cheshire and Greater Manchester areas by 2019, including Leigh and Pemberton. For more information, head to the RBS website.

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Orrell Armistice

Tourist Triumph

St. Luke’s Church on Lodge Road in Orrell is organising a special Remembrance evening to mark the Armistice centenary. A Proms Concert with the D.W. Brass Band will take place in the church on Friday, November 9. Tickets are £5 and can be booked by calling 01744 670140 or 01942 208748.

A Wrightington business has been announced as a finalist in the Lancashire Tourism Awards.

The usual Remembrance Service will also take place on Friday, November 9 at the War Memorial in Moor Road, featuring local schools. Finally, on Remembrance Sunday (November 11), two services will be conducted – one at church at 10:30am and another at the War Memorial at 12:30pm.

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JAK Hanson, an outlet department store based in Derby House, is celebrating its place in the Retail Experience Award category. The company offers a huge range of fashion, shoes and homeware at bargain prices, featuring big-name brands like Regatta, Weird Fish and Julian Charles. Launched in September 2013, JAK Hanson recently celebrated its fifth birthday at Derby House, which is also home to the Paddock restaurant, an expansive food hall and butchers. 103 finalists across 22 categories will compete in the 2018 Lancashire Tourism Awards. The winners are due to be announced in November with a blacktie dinner and ceremony, and voting is open from September 17 to October 21.

Santa’s Little Helpers Standish Library is looking for volunteers to help out with the Standish Christmas Market. The market, which takes place on Saturday, December 1, is sure to bring lots of festive fun to the village and attract visitors from far and wide. Library volunteers will help to make the day a roaring success, assisting with everything from selling bottled drinks to giving Santa a hand with his grotto presents. There are also opportunities to help children with the lucky dip, meet and greet families, and supervise the games going on in the library. The grotto will run from 10am-5pm on December 1, priced at £3 per child, with tickets on sale at the library in early November. If you’d like to become one of Santa’s little helpers, contact standishlibraryfriends@gmail.com or leave your details in-person. Just provide your name, contact telephone number, your availability and how you’d like to help. Under 16s require an accompanying adult.

Feet on the

Pedals

The Shevington Charity Bike Ride celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. The ride was founded in 1994 by Richard Currie and David Houghton in order to raise money for various local children’s charities. Both players for Shevington FC, Richard and David came up with the idea for a bike ride during the break of the football season, intending to raise money whilst keeping active. This year the funds raised go again to Kids and Sibs, an Appley Bridge-based organisation which assists families of children with special needs, but now Richard and David - aged 73 and 60 respectively - are hanging up their helmets and retiring from ride organisation. In its first year, the ride was set up by numerous members of the Shevington Football Club, and followed a route from Windermere to Wigan in order to raise money for Mere Oaks School. Since then, veteran riders Richard and David have organised further cycle routes including Stoke to Wigan and Cleethorpes to Southport, all in support of local children. Members of the Shevington community of all ages come together each year for the charity bike ride, and this year was no different. The 25th Shevington Charity Bike Ride went from Shevington to Southport, and took place on August 26. It saw the highest ever number of participants getting involved – 42 riders including 8 women made the journey from Shevington to Southport in appalling weather conditions. The ride, sponsored by Banks Windows and Finch’s Marble, is expected to raise anything from £5-7k in support of local charities, with the funds being presented at the Plough and Harrow in Shevington this November. For a while the ride’s future looked uncertain, says founding cyclist Richard Currie’s daughter. ‘It all depended on whether someone else wanted to take on the organisation after my dad and David retired.’ Luckily, it’s likely that someone will step up to the plate next year and that the bike ride will continue its successful run – and, with the ride having raised upwards of £120,000 since its conception, to lose it would surely be a blow to the Shevington community.

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Young Achievers Soroptimist International of Wigan is looking for nominations for its 2018 Young Achiever Award. Girls and young women aged 14-21 who have contributed something good to their community and who live in the Wigan borough (excluding Leigh, Atherton & Tyldesley) are eligible to win a £100 gift card. The first Young Achievers award was held seven years ago for the club’s 70th anniversary. It celebrates young women who have provided a service to the community, including young carers, budding entrepreneurs, or anyone who has triumphed over adversity. Nominees may also have strong academic attainment, sporting prowess, or success in the fields of art & culture. Along with the £100 gift card, the winner will have her name engraved on a trophy and receive a miniature award, presented by the Mayor of Wigan

in December 2018. The deadline for nominations is Monday, October 22. Application forms can be obtained from yaaward@ ymail.com or by visiting http://www.sigbi.org/wigan. They must be returned by post to Young Achiever Award, 10 Edinburgh Drive, Wigan, WN5 9ET.

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Autumn Rambles

Waste Not, Want Not

Haigh Woodland Park offers a wide range of nature walks to celebrate Autumn Walking Weekend on October 6th & 7th. From moth mornings to waggy tail walks with dogs welcome, you’ll get to explore the stunning grounds of the Park as the leaves start falling. There will also be family foraging events, bat walks and the incredibly popular pig tail trail, with the chance to meet and feed Haigh’s Saddleback pigs while learning about the Conservation Pig Project.

A new up-cycling shop might be the perfect place to reduce waste in Wigan.

The Haigh Explorer offer a slightly more vigorous 5-mile walk around the estate, covering hidden trails and paths, and will be hosted across the weekend. On the Sunday you can also enjoy Brass in the Park, with the Old Hall Brass Band performing two sets at 1pm and 2:30pm with a stunning autumnal backdrop. For more information, head to Haigh Woodland Park’s Facebook page. Some events are selling out quickly so be sure to book your place!

The store, on Market Street, encourages residents to drop in to chat about breathing new life into unwanted items. The shop offers advice on how to add value to things you’d otherwise throw away, and how they can be up-cycled into something brand new. Experts will be on hand to answer questions about where things go after being dumped and offer inspiration on how to get crafty with various products. The project’s aim is to reduce the amount of landfill waste and to support people in need, with products being passed on to The Brick, a Wigan charity taking action against poverty. Residents interested in hosting their own crafty workshops in the shop can also do so by contacting Alice Coren at alice@ thebrick.org.uk.

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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 stones. They also boast an impressive range of engagement and wedding rings as well as preowned luxury watches. Repairs & Alterations Rhodium Plating Cleaning & Polishing Design & Manufacturing Engagement & Wedding Ring Specialists Insurance Valuations Watch Servicing, Repairs, Refurbishing & Batteries “Now offering on-site rhodium plating within an hour, Wednesday to Sunday.

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Moving on By nature, we humans are great accumulators. So much so that we often move to larger houses just to accommodate all the stuff we collect whilst wandering on life’s long highway. Wouldn’t it be something if we could easily access a large storage space to securely stow away all our seasonal clothes, the kids’ old toys, Christmas decorations, camping

Dan Birkby joined Access4Lofts in the early years of the company’s growth and will now be looking after customers’ needs in Wigan. Dan said “We pride ourselves on providing exceptional service to all our customers and I can promise that we will be punctual, polite and will always tidy up at the end of the job.” Access4Lofts install loft hatches, loft ladders, loft boarding, lighting and insulation too if required, making it easy and safe for you to access your loft. This commitment is further emphasised with a minimum 5 year guarantee on all installations which is fully insurance backed.

gear, suitcases, books and all the other bits and pieces we rarely use but want to keep safe. You really don’t need to move house for more space. There is an easy answer to storage problems and it is, quite literally, under your own roof. In the average semi, a loft has 40-50 square metres of floor space yet is often dark, difficult to move around in and often hard to get to. To overcome these storage problems, all that’s needed is a quick call to Access4Lofts. This Lancashire-based family business was launched six years ago, and over 2,500 successful fits later, along with numerous awards from Lancashire Trading Standards Safe Trader Scheme, Access4Lofts has now officially expanded into Wigan.

If you need safe and easy access to your loft or extra storage space for your belongings then contact Dan on 01942 580323 or email wigan@ access4lofts.co.uk who will arrange a free survey which is quickly followed by a written fixed price quote. There is absolutely no high pressure, no hard selling, no small print, no hidden extras and above all, he will always turn up on time.

What an excellent company to deal with and what a huge difference the job has made to the tidiness of our home. Thank you Access4Lofts, you’re worth every penny! Mr Pearce - Wigan Arrived on time. Very friendly and polite. Brilliant job, husband and I are very pleased with the outcome. Even cleaned up after himself. Highly recommended! 10/10 Mr & Mrs Catterall - Wigan

U3A Meetings

Oktoberfest Roundup

Parbold, Newburgh and District U3A are always open to new members from Appley Bridge, Shevington and Standish.

October is the month of German beers and bratwurst, so what better way to celebrate than bringing a slice of Germany to Wigan? Haigh Hall is hosting an Oktoberfest from the 5-7, offering Oktoberfest beers in 2 pint steins, an Oompah band, delicious bratwurst and pretzels in a Bavarian-style beer hall.

The group meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at the Hut-on-the-Hill on Parbold Hill. They offer a huge variety of activities including bird watching, digital photography, singing for fun and Tai Chi, and hold outings on occasional Tuesdays. If you’re retired or semi-retired and looking to meet new people while taking part in some new activities, call 01772 300407 or visit the U3A website at www.u3asites.org.uk/parbold-newburgh.

Orrell RUFC and Winstanley Park Cricket Club are also running an Oktoberfest in order to fundraise for a new sporting hub. If a showcase of 40 different local beers, along with gin and prosecco plus live music appeals, come down to Holland Hall from the 20-22 of October. Wigan Central’s NOTtoberfest also runs from October 5-7, boasting some of the best beers Germany has to offer. Just no dancing on the tables please! If beer’s not your style, the Bloktoberfest Teletext Art Festival is also heading to Wigan this month. Check out Events2Go on page 86 for details.

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Where there’s a Will there’s a way! Here at McHale Baker we are currently offering a free review of your Will and any power of attorney that you have in place. To take advantage of this opportunity please give us a call on 01257 463672.

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Volunteer Opportunities

Bereavement Support

The Wigan and Leigh Carers Centre is looking for volunteers to fill several roles.

Losing a loved one is devastating, and can often lead to feeling isolated and lonely. If you’re grieving for someone, the Standish Bereavement Support Group might be able to help.

The Hindley-based centre provides a wide variety of support systems for carers in the area, who can often feel isolated or lonely. It provides companionship, transport and emotional support to improve wellbeing and mental health. The centre is currently looking for volunteers across a variety of positions. These include everything from Befriending and Buddying to social media roles and offering transport for young carers. Other roles include Trustee, Therapist and Outreach. Volunteers must be 16 or over. If you want to get more involved in the local community, or just have some spare time to lend a hand, get in touch today by calling 01924 705959 or email catherine@wiganandleighcarerscentre. org.uk.

The group offer a cuppa and a chat with likeminded people who have also known loss, in a relaxed and supportive setting. Sometimes just speaking to someone who understands can make things seem brighter. The group isn’t about professional counselling, but making friends with people who know what you’re going through. The group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 1:30pm in the Lychgate Tavern, Church Street. If you’ve lost someone and are feeling lonely, the group might be able to help. For more information, email George.fairhurst@ blueyonder.co.uk or call George on 01257 400251.

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Step up in style

A Giant

Finale

by Jessica Phillips Liverpool first played host to the Royal De Luxe Giants six years ago in 2012, to commemorate the 1912 sinking of the Titanic and its inextricable Liverpudlian ties with their Sea Odyssey display. Their return in 2014 for the centenary of the First World War saw over 1 million people turn up to greet the giant puppets as they forged through the city streets. The Giants really have found themselves a home away from home in Liverpool, and their October show - the last event the current Giants will ever perform - might be the most highly anticipated yet. Royal De Luxe, the company behind the Giants, originally hails from Nantes, France, where it was founded in 1979 by author-director Jean-Luc Courcoult. He’s now regarded as one of street theatre’s pioneers, boasting a long and varied list of

productions from shop window theatre to vibrant parades; but the giant puppets have become the undisputed face of the company. This year will see the impressive craftsmanship delighting an even wider audience as Royal De Luxe takes the Giants on a tour beyond the city centre. The whopping 20.6 mile route will explore parts of Wirral, encountering New Brighton and its Perch Rock Lighthouse, a stunning backdrop to the performance. The marionettes will also be continuing the trend of visiting Liverpool’s green space with a display in Princes Park during their walking tour, which takes place across three of the days (October 5-7). All the Giants will meet up on Sunday, October 7 to parade through Sefton Street and The Strand, bidding a final farewell to Liverpool at Canning Dock.

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28 Speculation is rife for the third and final event, dubbed Liverpool’s Dream. One thing is certain: the show once again promises to be spectacular. With marionettes as tall as 50ft being handled by puppeteers, Royal De Luxe have brought incredible sights to Liverpool’s city centre – from deep sea divers submerged in the Mersey to Xolo the puppet dog extending his head for petting. This year the giants return from the 4th to the 7th of October to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Liverpool’s European Capital of Culture title. Liverpool as the Giants’ destination of choice is certainly logical. As well as boasting a huge maritime history, the city’s architecture promises staging like no other. St. Luke’s bombed-out church, a Grade-II listed site which was badly damaged during the Blitz in 1941 and now stands as a ruin,

served as a backdrop for Xolo the giant dog in 2014, while the Diver made his watery ascent through the Albert Dock two years prior. The public are already rallying around for the Giants’ arrival, and it is that community spirit, according to Courcoult, which makes Liverpool feel like a ‘second home’. He says, ‘the welcome we receive from the people of the city warms our hearts and we are excited about not only bringing a brand new story to Liverpool, but also exploring beautiful Wirral for the first time.’ For more information on the final instalment of the Giants’ Liverpool trilogy, visit www.giantspectacular. com

the auction centre The leading Auctioneers and Valuers

• Modern saleroom at Manor Park, Runcorn • RICS and NAVA registered auctioneers and specialist consultants • Probate and Insurance valuation reports undertaken • Full house clearance service available • Regional valuations centres around the north-west St Helens Valuation Days

Wigan Valuation Days

4th Wednesday of Every Month St Thomas Church, Peter Street, WA10 2EB 9.30 – 12 noon Check website for Details Call 01744 881 477 for more information

2nd Tuesday Of Every Month Purposed Life Church, Turner Street, Wigan WN1 3SU 9.30 – 12 noon Check website for Details Call 01942 299 057 for more information

9 Berkeley Court, Manor Park, Runcorn, WA7 1TQ Telephone: 01928 579796 Email: enquiries@theauctioncentre.co.uk

www.theauctioncentre.co.uk

The Zumba

Phenomenon

Zumba isn’t just a fitness craze; it’s an international business with more than 12 million enthusiasts in its classes. A whole industry has developed around it. And with October being Cholesterol Month, it’s a great way to keep your cholesterol down and your heart happy. Zumba began in Columbia back in the 1990s, when dancer and choreographer Alberto Perez forgot his regular music for his aerobics class. The story goes that he searched his backpack and pulled out some salsa and merengue tapes. The rest, as they say, is history. Today Zumba has certified instructors in more than 125 countries around the world. For many members of my class it was their first taste of Latin music and dance steps. Yet while Zumba has brought Latin rhythms and steps to the exercise enthusiasts of the world it is not Latin dance. Each class uses salsa, cumbia, bachata, and other Latin

and international rhythms and there is plenty of overlap between Zumba and salsa classes; but there are plenty of differences too. For example, a Latin dancer would know that you never start a step on the right foot in Salsa - it’s not proper technique - but Zumba is an exercise class so students need to work both legs! It might not be authentic Latin dance, but it’s a great way to get moving. If you’re interested in starting Zumba, check out classes at your local leisure centre. Here are some good places to start: You can get your Zumba on in Standish, at the Community Centre (Mondays at 6pm) or at the Methodist Church Hall (Thursdays, 6:30pm). For more information or alternate times/locations, visit www.zumba.com. By Tracey Anderson

Chauffeured in

style

A Wigan community transport service is on the lookout for new volunteers. The volunteer-led service ‘Driven’ connects people who may be vulnerable or socially isolated to community activities. Driven was launched in July 2017 and the service currently has around fourteen volunteer drivers, but more are required, especially in the Standish and Shevington area, for it to expand.

From left, passenger Mrs Boydell with Joanne, a former volunteer driver

Amanda Caddick, office manager for Driven, said: “Passengers pay a contribution towards their journey, which covers the drivers’ costs. Drivers are paid expenses to cover fuel from leaving their house to returning.’ “The service is extremely popular. We have a waiting list of people wanting to use the service but to extend the service we need more volunteers. “A lot of the volunteers are retired so they appreciate that they’re helping other people, and it gets them out of the house and meeting new people.” Drivers can choose when they drive and can drive their own car (your insurance is generally

unaffected - Driven can check that for you); one of the accessible minibuses, or be a driver’s assistant. “I love my job, it’s probably the best job I’ve ever had, it’s very rewarding,” said Amanda. “If somebody contacts us and we cannot do that day, we always offer them an alternative day. “We have a 90 year-old passenger in Lowton and her daughter lives in a nursing home just outside Wigan town centre. “She’d need to travel for hours without our service, so this way she can maintain her relationship with her daughter.” Ian Tomlinson, who runs Driven, said: “The drivers get as much if not more than the passengers. They get a buzz out of it. “They’re using a skill they’ve already got and they get to be around new people too.” If you’d like to get involved, call Amanda for more information on 01942 409602 or email enquiries@ bedriven.org The service covers Wigan, Leigh, Ashton in Makerfield, Ince, Hindley, Astley, Atherton, Tyldesley, Standish, Orrell, Pemberton and nearby areas.

Education

Degrees of

learning 16 page education special

Meet the Teacher A secondary school guide to parents’ evening Parents’ evenings - love them or loathe them, they crop up with alarming regularity. They can cause a good deal of stress whether you’re the parent, child or teacher! As a parent this is your chance to speak to the teachers that spend all day with your children and to whom you are entrusting their education. The first thing to remember – and this might sound quite harsh – is that your child’s teacher has a lot of parents to see that night, in a relatively short space of time. The bottom line is, don’t be offended if they end the discussion, or if they suggest making an appointment for another time to come and discuss an issue. It is important to remember that you and the teacher both want your child to do their best and achieve. If there are problems then the teacher will most likely be looking for reassurance that you will support the school in whatever behaviour or homework policy they have. They know that students don’t always tell their parents what goes on at school and so parents evening may be their chance to make it clear if they are not meeting expectations. If you have existing concerns, don’t launch in with complaints. Let the teacher explain how they feel

your child is doing and respond to that. Don’t ask in Year 7 what the teacher thinks they will get in their GCSE, let your child enjoy school without pressure in those early years. Instead of asking how they are doing compared to other students, ask if they are where the teacher wants them to be. Above all remember that the teacher wants what is best for your child. Put your concerns to them but please listen to what they have to say too. By Willow Coby

Part-Time Professors Around eight out of ten students work part-time in order to help fund their studies. Having a part-time job in college or university can assist with living costs and is said to build character – but could it be taking away vital studying time?

Students will learn to be financially responsible. Which means relying less on the bank of mum and dad! Budgeting is an essential life skill, and parttime jobs can help alleviate the stresses of a student overdraft.

Part-time employment looks good on a CV. In today’s competitive job market, school-leavers and graduates need their CVs to stand out more than ever. Though this can be boosted with volunteering opportunities and work experience, working parttime shows they know how to prioritise and manage their time effectively.

Non-flexible shifts might mean skipping classes. Employers demanding compulsory overtime or arranging different shifts each week might lead to students missing out on contact hours, including classes and lectures.

There’s less time for studying. Revising for A-Levels or a degree can be stressful, with many universities saying their courses require as much dedication as a full-time job. Working part-time leaves less time for cramming in the library or attending lecturers’ office hours.

One solution is freelance work, which can be useful for gaining work experience in any chosen field and for making a bit of extra cash; although the frequency and amount of work can decrease during quiet spells. Tutoring is another way to get some pocket money going while reinforcing good study habits – just make sure to seek permission from the college or university before advertising your services!

Limited number of places available in most year groups Ofsted 2017: ‘This school continues to be good.’ ‘The curriculum provides a genuinely enriching experience for all pupils.’ SIAMS 2017: ‘The distinctiveness and effectiveness of Appley Bridge All Saints as a Church of England school are outstanding.’ Parent Quote: ‘A positive environment for children to learn. Led by approachable and experienced staff.’ Attainment in reading, writing and maths is consistently higher than the national average at both the expected and the higher standard. Email enquiries to: bursar@appleybridgeallsaints.lancs.sch.uk Visit our website at: www.appleybridgeallsaints.lancs.sch.uk

Appley Bridge All Saints’ CE Primary School Finch Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DT Telephone: 01257 252 647

AFTER SCHOOL PARTIES £60 for 12 children (just £5 per child) Available Monday - Friday, Term Time Only From 4:00pm - 5:30pm

Includes play, a selection of sandwiches, crisps, biscuits & juice. Upgrades available which include party games, party bags, pizza, slush, jelly & ice cream!

15 Minute Mile Primary schools across the borough have been getting involved with the Daily Mile. The initiative aims to keep children fit for life by encouraging them to run or jog for 15 minutes every day. Children get outside in the fresh air and can complete the ‘mile’ in their regular school uniforms. It’s a great way to encourage physical and mental wellbeing. St. Joseph’s in Standish have made good use of their new running track, with Woodfield Primary School also getting involved in the proceedings around their school grounds. For more information, visit https://thedailymile. co.uk/.

Off the Streets Abbey Lakes, Orrell Road, Orrell, WN5 8QZ T: 01695 229 923

www.pipsqueaksplaycafe.co.uk

E: pipsqueaksplaycafe@gmail.com

The Wigan Warriors Community Foundation run Off the Streets sessions every Wednesday for kids aged 6-11. The project aims to keep children out of trouble while having fun and meeting new friends. Coaching staff offer games of rugby and table tennis, as well as PlayStations and indoor activities from 4pm-5:30pm every Wednesday - perfect if you’re looking for something to entertain the kids after school.

“10th best performing school in the country, Daily Telegraph 2014”

Extra-curricular activities include: Guitar, Football, French, Spanish, Music, Dance, Sports

No booking is necessary for the sessions but places are limited – for further details, contact Reece on r.hampson@wiganwarriors.com or call 01942 762 880.

Hands On Please come and visit us: Duggies before/ after school club 7.30am-6pm

Parbold Douglas Nursery Ltd on site

“Teachers are friendly, interested in the children, ever helpful & always eager to help your child with anything”

01257 462007 admin@pda.lancs.sch.uk

Head: Mrs Natalie Watts

Claytive community group invite anyone aged 11 and up to get stuck in with some clay art and modelling. Hosted by Emily, the group will channel your inner sculptor and help you discover what you could make with clay. Sessions run on the first Saturday of every month at the Postcode Coffee House, The Edge, Wigan, WN3 5AB. To register for the group, email groups@tcclife. com or visit www.tcclife.com for more info.

Open Day Open Evening

Monday 5th November 1-3.15pm (HT Welcome at 1pm) Monday 12th November 4.30-7.00pm (HT Welcome at 4.30pm)

Together In God’s Love We are a successful, caring Christian school at the heart of the community where, through high expectations and strength of character, our children are determined to achieve their very best and develop resilience and confidence in becoming thoughtful citizens of the future

Ofsted Good 2014 “Pupils feel safe & happy because staff pay close attention to their welfare.” SIAMS Outstanding 2016 “Christian values…are lived out…which leads to excellent behaviour.”

Breakfast & after school club:

TCC The Children’s Club

Breakfast Club - 7.30 - 8.50 am After School Club until 5.30pm Contact the school for more information. For all enquiries or to arrange a tour of the school please contact the Office Manager, Mrs Lindsay Hargreaves Telephone: 01942 831310 or Email: enquiries@admin.saintdavids.wigan.sch.uk

St David Haigh & Aspull CE Primary School Copperas Lane, Haigh, Wigan, WN2 1PA

www.saintdavids.wigan.sch.uk

Study Programme to Apprenticeship Callum started his Plumbing Study Programme at ProCo after a recommendation from a friend. He had previously attended another training provider but found the bigger classroom environment wasn’t for him, as Callum said: ‘ProCo stood out because of the small class sizes – you get that personal one-to-one support from your tutor.’ It was his ambition to do a Construction Apprenticeship once he completed his Study Programme, and that is exactly what he has done! As part of his Programme, Callum did work experience with SMJ Joinery & Home Improvements. He showed that he was keen to learn and impressed the company so much that they employed him as an Apprentice. Having started with Level 1

Plumbing, Callum is now doing a multi-trade Level 2 General Construction Apprenticeship. Well done Callum! ‘A great thing about ProCo is how hard they work to find learners an apprenticeship… All of the staff are really friendly and supportive. I have made lots of new friends and I enjoy the course… I don’t think you would get the same opportunities at another college or training provider as you do here.’ Callum Buxton ProCo was established in 2003, and works with local businesses to deliver a range of training and qualifications to young people and adults. For more information about studying with ProCo, visit www.proconw.co.uk,

Starting a New School: 5 Top Tips Autumn is almost synonymous with Back to School. Shops are stocked with stationery and uniforms, and chances are there will be tears, excitement and apprehension too. By preparing your child, and yourself, the first steps in education needn’t be too scary. Be uniform savvy: Ensure you have a list of school uniform must-haves directly from the school office. Many schools sell standard items themselves that can save dragging grumpy children around shops. Be careful to label items with your child’s name to avoid losses in the PE changing rooms. Swot up on the rules: While you might be happy for your child to wear jewellery or a certain hairstyle, the school may not. Rightly or wrongly schools are

notoriously picky about the appearance of their students. So avoid unnecessary arguments for you and humiliation for your child by ensuring that you know the school rules and adhere to them. Be prepared: Even the most outgoing child is bound to feel more than a little worried about that big, scary place they call school. Try talking to them and telling them about your own time at school to ease some fears, and any older siblings should be called on to help. Don’t show fear: A new school is just about as terrifying as it comes for parents but your little one doesn’t have to know that. If you show positivity and happiness your child will follow suit, let them know you’re proud of them and believe they’ll love every minute of their new life at school.

Could you be one of tomorrow’s outstanding teachers? Join us at our open evenings at; St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, Hardybutts, WIGAN, WN1 3RZ

Individuals who have the potential to be outstanding teachers

Tuesday 9th October 2018, 4-6:00pm Tuesday 13th November 2018, 4-6:00pm

Individuals who are passionate about working with young children.

Tuesday 11th December 2018, 4-6:00pm Tuesday 15th January 2019, 4-6:00pm Tuesday 12th February 2019, 4-6:00pm

Accredited Study days will be at Liverpool Hope University leading to a PGCE and QTS in primary teaching.

For more information and updates visit

www.wcpsd.org.uk

Provider code 2A4 - Course code 2XT7

Helping Out Schools are generally very keen to foster a good relationship with parents and their wider community. Often people are well-intentioned and would like to help out, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how. Here are some ideas which might appeal. You could become a member of the Parent Teachers Association. Traditionally these were developed to foster better relationships between parents and schools, but they are now generally associated with fundraising.

Why not become a parent governor? Governors get involved with the strategic decision making of schools. They attend full governor body meetings and usually sit on committees dealing with various aspects of the school, such as staffing finance and curriculum. Parent governors are voted for by the parents of pupils at the school. Maybe you would like to be a classroom helper. Classroom helpers volunteer to assist teachers on a regular basis, usually in primary schools. They may be in school for half an hour a week, or perhaps up to half a day Senior schools often have events where parents and local business people come into school to talk about their careers, or to discuss anecdotes about taking part in a notable event or visiting an unusual place. Many school volunteers not only benefit from a sense of pride and fulfilment at having assisted, but also find that they improve their skills and enhance their CVs. By Susan BrookesMorris

Cyber

Bullying Although playground bullying is not new, its nature has changed with the advent of smart phones and social media. Now we see more cyber bullying, or rather we don’t see it as it tends to be hidden and carried out in secret. Almost half of all young people say they have been bullied online and more than 70% say they’ve seen it happening.

number it came from, as evidence to show teachers or police.

As parents it can be difficult to know what to do if your child is being bullied, or conversely is a bully. Here are some tips: Discuss bullying with your child from an early age. Discuss netiquette. Adults sometimes behave more aggressively when they are behind the safety of a computer screen, and it’s the same for children, who are still learning to navigate the online world. Make it clear that being a target is not their fault. Make it clear that whether it’s in real life or online bullying is never acceptable. Advise your child to protect their phone number by only giving it out to trusted members or family members. Tell them to keep track of who they have given it to. If your child has received a bullying message, tell them to screenshot it and send it to you. Make a note of the time and date it was sent and the

Do not respond to the message. The phone number or email will probably identify the source. If the bully gets no response then they tend to stop doing it. Don’t panic if your child is the bully. It doesn’t mean they will grow into a terrible human being. But bullying behaviour can often be a cry for help. Perhaps they are finding the teen years more stressful than they are letting on. Maybe they are struggling to negotiate friendships and schoolwork. Make time to talk with them, not only about their own issues but about the impact they might be having on someone else’s life. By Sarah Davey

Diary dates

2018

October: Location

Event Date

St Helens College

Open Evening

Wednesday 3rd October (From 5.30pm)

Winstanley College

Open Evening

Wednesday 3rd October (6-8pm)

Open Event

Monday 8th October (4.30-7.30pm)

Open Evening

Tuesday 9th October (4-6pm)

Wigan & Leigh College (Wigan Campus) WCPSD (Held at St Patrick’s School, WN1 3RZ) Merchant Taylors’

Open Evening

Thursday 11th October (5-7pm)

Bolton School

Open Morning

Saturday 13th October (9.30-1pm)

Merchant Taylors’

Open Morning

Saturday 13th October (9-12.30pm)

Open Event

Monday 15th October (4.30-7.30pm)

Open Evening

Monday 15th October (5.30-8pm)

Wigan & Leigh College (Leigh Campus) St John Rigby College

November: Location St John Rigby College St David Haigh & Aspull CE Primary School St David Haigh & Aspull CE Primary School WCPSD (Held at St Patrick’s School, WN1 3RZ)

Event Date Open Evening

Thursday 1st November (5.30-8pm)

Open Day

Monday 5th November (1-3.15pm)

Open Night

Monday 12th November (4.30-7pm)

Open Evening

Tuesday 13th November (4-6pm)

St Helens College

Open Evening Wednesday 14th November (From 5.30pm)

St John Rigby College

Open Evening

Thursday 15th November (5.30-8pm)

Open Event

Wednesday 21st November (5-7pm)

University Centre St Helens

Puzzle Corner

SUDOKU

WORD SEARCH - Library Find the hidden words in the word search grid B

A R

BOOKS SHELF LIBRARIAN QUIET REFERENCE

FICTION ARCHIVES OVERDUE CARD BORROW

DESK ENCYCLOPEDIA RESEARCH INDEX AUTHOR

WORD MIX UP - Library Unscramble the letters to make a word

NUMBER BLOCK

5 1 15 7 1 15 8 3 17 2 12 19 16 13 11 17 The numbers in each row add up to totals to the right.

EDAR

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

DUSTY LUGTEACOA MAZEINGAS

totals to the right.

WIGGLE WORDS CLUE: Hard Work

CROPMUTE WEEDY LACEDIM PROGHIABY SISTCOALNICAFI

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

L I I N

E K L G

P U L T

H T E E

All the puzzle solutions are on page 104 of this magazine

New home for Local solicitorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s firm RJT has had an exciting few weeks after recently relocating the practice to Standish High Street. Having spent the last 12 months based in Atlas House in Marus Bridge, Rachel Taylor, Solicitor and Director, is delighted to have moved into the new premises in the bustling village of Standish. As a local resident, and ex Winstanley College student, Rachel is especially excited to have her new office at the heart of the village and she is looking forward to meeting and helping local people with their legal issues. Having qualified as a solicitor in 1995, Rachel has gained a wealth of experience across all aspects of high street practice. After her youngest child started high school, Rachel decided

RJT! to take the plunge and open her own firm and RJT was born.

Working alongside Rachel, is Donna Gamble, who qualified as a solicitor in 1998. Donna has worked in several offices around the North West, and like Rachel, she has gained invaluable experience dealing with many aspects of legal practice. Both Rachel and Donna are passionate about providing excellent customer care whilst delivering sound and meaningful legal advice, in order to achieve the best possible outcomes for their clients in all aspects of the practice. They advise and represent on Matrimonial Law, including divorce, finances, separation and child arrangements. They have years of experience in dealing with matters in a sensitive and practical

Rachel Jane Taylor Solicitor & Director

expertise results in solutions and support that are tailored to your individual needs. They offer a free 30 minute consultation to allow you to meet and feel comfortable with the solicitor who will guide and support you through the legal process. The firm also offers advice and assistance for all aspects of Personal Injury matters including Road Traffic Accidents, Accidents at Work, Slips, Trips and Falls where it was not your fault. They operate on a no win no fee basis ensuring that your claim is risk free. They can also help with clinical negligence claims where you have suffered an injury by reason of a medical practitioner failing in their duty of care to you. In addition, the firm offers advice on Wills and Probate and Lasting Powers of Attorney.

manner. As members of Resolution, they ensure that all cases are handled professionally in a nonconfrontational way. They understand that every family law case is different and their experience and

Both Rachel and Donna pride themselves on being approachable and would like to invite anyone in need of legal advice, to pop in or give them a call on 01257 228027 to book an appointment for a free 30 minute consultation at a time that is convenient for you.

Donnna Gamble Solicitor

Specialists in: • Family Law • Personal Injury • Wills & Probate Call us today to arrange a free 30 minute consultation RJT Solicitors 44 High Street, Standish, Wigan, WN6 0HF

01257 228027 / 01942 409154

www.rjtsolicitors.co.uk

Get Crafty

Friendship Cafe

St. Wilfrid’s Church in Standish is hosting an arts and crafts festival this October.

Olive Tree Café offers a safe place to meet new friends in your community.

On Friday, October 5 there will be an organ recital by John Walton, with an opportunity to hear the restored parish organ while enjoying fizz and canapes. Entrance is £7. Saturday, October 6 sees an arts and craft fayre taking place in the church, with art work, craft stalls and displays available for your

The café, which takes place every Tuesday from 9am-12pm in Up Holland Methodist Church, Alma Hill, is a joint venture between three Up Holland churches. It encourages people to get together to have a laugh with good company in a safe, supportive environment. It’s a great opportunity

perusal. Refreshments will also be served.

to learn what’s going on in your local community and meet people - there’s a good chance you’ll hear about something new to get involved in too!

Services run as usual on the Sunday, with Songs of Praise at 6:30pm. All are welcome to attend, and all proceeds go to the Organ Fund. For more information, see our Events2Go guide on page 86.

Tea and coffee is free, and there is no charge to attend.

Be as Warm as Worcester If you’re replacing your boiler, there’s really only one choice

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premiergas.com

#GetOnlineWeek

Fundraiser Needed

October 15-21 is Get Online Week, seven days dedicated to helping people of all ages learn more about the Internet and how it can benefit them. This year the campaign concentrates on getting everyone to Try 1 Thing – doing just one new activity as a step to improving digital skills.

Age UK Lancashire are looking for an experienced volunteer fundraiser to play a key role in supporting their fundraising strategy, achieving targets and enabling them to support older people in the Lancashire area.

Wigan Library offers free drop-in sessions to help anyone access the Internet, send emails, search for jobs, and much more. These run every Tuesday from 10am-12pm. Skelmersdale Library and Coppull Library also offer drop-in sessions during Get Online Week so you can Try 1 Thing. For more details, visit www.lancashire. gov.uk/events or pop in for the full schedule.

The role involves supporting fundraising activities and events, recruiting and coordinating volunteer community fundraisers, and playing an active role as a co-opted member of the Business Development Committee. The role is voluntary, with flexible hours. Full training and support is provided. If you’re passionate about charity work and have some experience in fundraising, email your cover letter and CV to Sue Bailey at sbailey@ageuklancs. org.uk, or visit https://www.ageuk.org.uk/lancashire/ work-for-us/volunteering/.

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Wigan Good Trader Of The Year 2015

Topiary with aTwist Shevington-based garden firm New Leaf Topiary struck gold at this year’s Southport Flower Show. Their Formal Twist show garden impressed the judges, awarding Carl and Bozena Shaw a Gold award in the Professional Landscapers category for their topiary-inspired ‘Formal Twist’ garden. Better yet – television gardening expert Monty Don was there to give their creation the thumbs-up. ‘The main features of our garden were the topiary twists – we had one of these spinning around by a water feature. We also used a lot of reclaimed steel, just to give our garden a little something extra,’ Carl says. ‘As our business specialises in topiary we wanted to keep the garden quite formal, with structured paths and walkways.’ Topiary, the ancient art of styling evergreen trees into various intriguing shapes, was predominantly placed in formal gardens or the grounds of stately homes. It dates back to Ancient Rome, but in spite of its ancient roots, topiary can give any garden a modern feel.

Bozena and Carl’s garden certainly managed to stick to the art form’s origins while introducing unique, ultra-modern elements like the reclaimed steel patio and water features which spiked the judges’ interest. Monty Don even commented that the garden was one of the most original he’d seen. New Leaf Topiary has attended the Southport Flower Show three times in recent years, coming away with two Gold awards and a Silver Gilt. ‘It took us around three weeks to put the garden together this year. I asked the kids if they’d like to help out and they sacrificed half of their summer holidays to get involved – they helped out with a bit of everything really,’ says Carl. New Leaf Topiary offers a huge selection of topiary and plant supplies, as well as general garden maintenance, at competitive prices. For more information visit www.newleaftopiary.co.uk or call 01257 401193.

Beautiful Kitchens at Affordable Prices

KITCHEN MAKEOVERS WE CAN SUPPLY AND FIT REPLACEMENT DOORS, WORKTOPS, END PANELS & APPLIANCES TO COMPLETELY TRANSFORM & UPDATE YOUR EXISTING KITCHEN. PLEASE GIVE US A CALL TO ARRANGE A SURVEY & QUOTE.

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701 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan • 01942 213327 • www.makitchens.co.uk

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Restoring

Rivington by Jessica Phillips The end of a long summer sees a peaceful silence settling across Rivington Pike. With the heatwave finally fading out into an autumnal hush and the last of the sun’s rays filtering through the trees that surround the Lever Bridge, it’s difficult to feel stressed here. I’ve been at Rivington Terraced Gardens for less than an hour, and I’m already swayed by their tranquillity– not to mention the stunning forest and architectural spirit. It’s difficult to imagine these gardens were recently threatened by raging flames that came within 10 inches of their border – in fact, the only reminder of the Winter Hill fire I get is the still charred grass at the edge of Rivington as I descend the hill.

The fire burned for 41 days over 7 square miles of moorland. The inferno first broke out on June 28, thwarting firefighting efforts and rainfall until it was finally extinguished fully at the beginning of August. It reached its peak when two separate fires at Winter Hill and Horrocks Moor merged, posing a threat to local land and lives. Within arm’s reach of the raging flames were the Rivington Terraced Gardens. The Grade-II listed site, which originally belonged to Lord William Leverhulme, Bolton philanthropist and founder of Port Sunlight, was a prime target for the flames. The Gardens were designed by acclaimed landscape artist Thomas Hayton Mawson, who later went on to lay out the Peace Palace gardens at The Hague, between 1906 and 1922. During Leverhulme’s residency at the turn of the twentieth-century, the Gardens experienced many shifts and changes; perhaps the most significant was the arson attack

on Roynton Cottage in 1913 by Suffragette Edith Rigby and its subsequent replacement with The Bungalow, a more sizeable residence for Lord Lever. This building was repurposed during World War II as a billet for the wounded, with Nissen huts installed across the grounds for wartime use, before being demolished in 1947.The remains of its tiled floors can still be seen today. The Gardens sadly fell into disrepair after Leverhulme’s death, with nature reclaiming pathways and features. Fortunately, plans for a full renovation were accepted in August 2016, and a £3.4 million grant awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund to begin improvement works. The project is still underway, with completion scheduled for spring 2019. Improvements are taking place on a staggered basis, keeping different areas closed periodically to ensure as much of the Gardens as possible is open to the public at any one time. Groundwork, the company behind Rivington’s improvement works, says its main aims are to

safeguard structures while keeping the spirit of Thomas Mawson’s original design alive, to improve access to the Gardens to allow more people to visit, and to capitalise on the park’s unique features with a series of volunteer and skills development programmes. Andrew Suter, project manager for the restoration, discussed the effects the recent fire had on the Gardens, and the team’s future plans for the site. He said: ‘the fire actually got as close as 10 inches from our border. It took volunteers three and a half weeks to ensure the safety of the Gardens and that it was okay for the project to continue’. Volunteers had to cut down 300 trees after the burning peat underground destroyed their roots. Luckily, Belmont Road acted as a fire break between the flames and the Gardens, so most of the renovation efforts so far could be salvaged. Luckily really is the word. ‘The Rivington Terraced Gardens are home to some irreplaceable plant species which Lord Lever had imported into the

63 country’, Andrew told me. The Gardens house rare ferns and mosses, as well as liverwort, which have all contributed to the area’s SSSI (Sites of Special Scientific Interest) designation. If lost, visitors would

it takes to reach the crest of the hill – although it’s currently undergoing restoration work, the Gothicstyle tower originally housed ornamental doves and pigeons. Its top floors included a sitting room used

no longer have the opportunity to see the flora in all its glory in Rivington. Andrew continued: ‘Lord Lever went on to establish the Unilever brand, so the Gardens really are integral to both our industrial and environmental heritage.’

by Lady Leverhulme, who could look out over the boating lake while she practised music or sewing.

However, Rivington’s architectural diversity is what really makes it stand out. The Terraced Gardens host eleven listed structures, including the eponymous Lever Bridge. Built in 1910, the seven-arch bridge crosses the Gardens’ main path and was allegedly modelled on a similar structure in Nigeria. Considering the bridge has been standing for over a century, it’s still a spectacle to behold – you’d be forgiven for mistaking the stone steps leading up to the bridge’s platform for the entrance to some mystical jungle temple. The Pigeon Tower (otherwise known as the Dovecote Tower) is also definitely worth the climb

Andrew recommends a visit to the Japanese Lake, which boasts several ornamental species of fish and other pond-life. The lake was originally surrounded by various features inspired by Leverhulme’s trip to Japan, including tea houses, lanterns and exotic

64 On September 1 a huge event was held to say thank you to the firefighters and volunteers who assisted during the Winter Hill fire. The Big Thank You boasted live music, food and crafts, with free admission to the volunteers, agencies and firefighters who helped combat the flames. Acts like James Holt and Toria Wooff flocked to Rivington for an afternoon of fun, with tons of local food, craft beers and gins available on-site. The event wasn’t all fun and games, though – it was also about promoting safe practice, with CPR and rescue rope demonstrations offered throughout the day, as well as appearances from Greater Manchester Police and the North West Ambulance Service.

plants, with two waterfalls feeding into the pool. Now only the stone bases of the tea houses remain, but the lake itself is shrouded in a beautiful leafy green canopy. Fire spreading to these areas of the Gardens would have been a tragedy, and could have potentially resulted in structural as well as environmental losses. I asked Andrew why people should visit the Gardens this autumn in particular. ‘The restoration project is setting the Gardens up to look their best and offer a great visitor experience. They were named in Britain’s Top 10 Lost Gardens by Countryfile, and their Grade-II listing is there for a reason. We also have a huge event schedule planned for the upcoming months, including a mushroom festival on October 13’. As if the Gardens’ wild and wonderful history wasn’t enough, Rivington’s event schedule certainly seems like a massive draw for visitors during the autumn months. Its FungiFest will celebrate and explore the different variations of fungi growing in the Terraced Gardens, with guided walks, woodcraft demonstrations, mushroom spotting, stalls and music. In November, the Gardens also offer a lantern parade and bonfire, with lantern-making workshops occurring in the run-up. Food and drinks will be served on the Great Lawn, with plenty of treacly treats available.

This summer saw an unusually high number of wildfires break out across the UK. Saddleworth Moor was also hit by fires in June this year, along with areas of Wales. Some experts blame climate change for the blazes, which spread so quickly on the moors using peat as a fuel source, but warn human interferences – even something as small as leaving behind a smoking barbecue - can lead to fires breaking out, especially during the heatwave conditions. Rivington Terraced Gardens were lucky, but other national heritage sites might not be so fortunate in future…

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Health & Fitness

One in three women don’t check for

breast cancer

This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and with figures from a recent YouGov survey revealing that a third of women do not check their breasts regularly for symptoms of breast cancer, could be the perfect time to get tickled pink and start getting to know your breasts.

You should also know which symptoms to look out for. Inverted nipples or nipple discharge can be indicators of breast cancer, as well as constant

With 1 in 8 women affected by breast cancer in their lifetime, it’s incredibly important to perform regular boob checks. It can be a daunting process - but it could save your life. The survey of 2,126 UK adults also revealed that a fifth of women (20%) say their main reason for not doing so is because they don’t know how to check. Breast Cancer Care is urging women of all ages to get to know their breasts – ideally checking every 4-6 weeks - so they can spot any unusual changes quickly, whether they are attending screening or not, as early detection of breast cancer can save lives.

unusual pain in the breast or armpit. You should also look out for a change of breast shape, strange puckering to the skin, or any rashes/crusting around

Breast cancer charity CoppaFeel has put together a handy guide for the signs you should look out for.

Visit https://coppafeel.org/ or call Breast Cancer Care’s Nurses free on 0808 800 6000 for information and support from day one.

It’s first important to know what’s normal for you. Look and feel around your breasts, including the collarbone and armpits, which also carry breast tissue – this applies to both men and women.

the nipple area. If the symptom doesn’t disappear within a week, it’s recommended you get checked out.

How Old is Your Heart? A new online test can determine whether you’re at increased risk of a heart attack or stroke. Public Health England are calling for adults nationwide to take the Heart Age Test, which provides an instant assessment of their ‘heart age’. If this number is higher than your actual age, there is an increased risk of heart problems including cardiovascular disease: the leading cause of death for men and the second for women. 80% of cardiovascular-related deaths in people under 75 are preventable with lifestyle changes – that’s around 50 deaths per day. The most common causes are high blood pressure (which affects one in four adults) and high cholesterol, and with this October being National Cholesterol Month, what better time to evaluate your heart health and make some changes? The Heart Age Test asks a series of simple questions to provide an estimated heart age, and gives suggestions on lifestyle changes such as losing weight, quitting smoking or cutting back on alcohol. It has already been found that four out of five people have a heart age higher than their actual age. 34% have a heart age over 5 years their actual age, and 14% over 10 years. Professor Jamie Waterall of Public Health England said: ‘Millions are at risk of cardiovascular disease but don’t know it, putting themselves at real risk of suffering ill-health or dying younger… Taking a Heart Age Test is something you can easily do at home, but it could be one of the most important things you do to help you live a healthy, longer life.’ Dr. Matt Kearney of NHS England said: ‘The heart age test has the potential to help millions of people.‘ It fits in with the NHS’s long- term plan, which ‘prioritises saving lives through improved protection against cardiovascular disease’. The test is a simple way to get feedback on your own lifestyle and find out handy tips for change. To take the test, visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhshealth-check/check-your-heart-age-tool/ or talk to your GP.

Stop Smoking with

Hypnosis

It’s easy to be put off the idea of hypnosis by its Hollywood reputation, but it could be the perfect solution this Stoptober. If you want to quit smoking for good, hypnotherapy (hypnosis used to promote healing or positive development) could be just the thing. Contrary to popular belief, hypnosis is not a state of deep sleep and patients cannot be made to do anything they would not ordinarily do. Totally safe, patients stay in control and can terminate the hypnotic state at any time. In fact, most people can’t tell the difference between a hypnotised and ‘waking’ state. Although different for everybody, a hypnotic trance may feel like daydreaming, or simply a feeling of relaxation or lethargy. During hypnosis, the analytical left-hand side of the brain is turned off, whilst the non-analytical right-

hand side is made more alert. The conscious mind becomes suppressed, and the subconscious mind more aware. In order for hypnosis to work, the patient must be highly motivated to change some behaviour or habit. The readiness and ability of patients to be hypnotised varies considerably, and hypnotherapy generally requires several sessions in order to achieve meaningful results. However, selfhypnosis can be learned and practised at home to reinforce formal therapy sessions. In fact, it is common for patients to be given a recording of their hypnotherapy session to listen to at home. It is generally accepted that all hypnosis is ultimately self-hypnosis and that a hypnotist merely helps to facilitate the experience. Hypnotherapy is not about being made to do things - it is about empowerment. By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

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After putting up with chronic lower back and neck pain for far too long, I was introduced to Mike and after my consultation and x-rays I chose a 24-appointment plan which saved me a lot of money. Every visit is a pleasure and the receptionists bend over backwards to meet my appointment requirements. My treatment is 1st class and I am currently pain free. THANK YOU!

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Arnie – April 2015 I can highly recommend Wigan Family Chiropractic, Dr Mike and the girls are so kind and caring, and at the same time very professional. I’ve only been having treatment for 3 weeks but have already seen brilliant results. I have suffered with pain in my hands, wrists and arms which was coming from my neck for the last 15 years, I am now almost in no pain. I am absolutely delighted with these results. Elaine - August 2018 Mike and the Wigan Family Chiropractic Clinic were recommended to us following the birth of our new born son. Mike was fantastic at explaining the stresses that a baby is subjected to during childbirth and how beneficial Chiropractic care is to helping children grow and develop. Mike is very calm and gentle while undertaking the adjustments and our son is unfazed by the experience. I mentioned my on-going sciatica problem to Mike and after x-rays Mike identified 3 areas that were causing issues. After an initial course of treatment my sciatica reduced its frequency of occurrence and I am currently undergoing a second course of treatment to maintain this. The team at Wigan Family Chiropractic Clinic are so welcoming and the relaxed atmosphere of the clinic makes the experience positive. Andrew – September 2017

Heal better, Feel better, Live better Call 01942 498 480 for further details or visit us at www.ChiroHospital.com or on Facebook: wiganfamilychiro WIGAN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC, 27 BRIDGEMAN TERRACE, WIGAN, WN1 1TD

Mindful

Motivation

Mindfulness refers to the psychological technique of focusing on the present moment. It perhaps finds its roots in the Buddhist tradition, especially in terms of meditation, but in recent years has come to be recognised by modern psychology. It’s now commonly used as a tool to combat anxiety and stress, and with October 10 being World Mental Health Day, could be effective this month in changing your psychological outlook. Here are some tips to start you off: Meditation Matters – If you’ve never meditated before, don’t worry. You don’t need to find the nearest rocky outcrop and start saying ‘ohm’ just yet. Meditation can take place anywhere you feel comfortable – your bedroom floor, the sofa, or even in the back yard.

It’s important to start with a full body scan: sitting or lying, stay very still and concentrate on breathing. Take note of how each individual part of your body feels, from the toes to the face. This heightens the awareness not only of your body but of your external environment, taking you away from everyday stresses. Look Natural – Observation is key to establishing focus. Choose something natural, like a flower or a cloud, to watch for a while. Don’t worry about anything except relaxing into it while keeping your concentration, and allow yourself to become more connected with the natural world as a result of this object. Immerse Yourself – Mindfulness is about increasing concentration in your daily life. When you’re completing a daily task – such as doing the dishes or laundry – make sure to notice every aspect of what you’re doing. Concentrate on each motion and which part of your body is moving during the task. The idea is to relieve the monotony of a task and get creative with it instead, maybe even developing more efficient methods of completing it. Relax – This can be tricky, especially if you’re new to mindfulness. But the aim is to alleviate stress, not cause more! If you’re feeling self-conscious about going through these exercises, try doing them when you’re alone and unlikely to be disturbed. Listening to an ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) or guided meditation video can also be useful, and some can guide you through techniques you’re unfamiliar with. The key is to have fun with it, and discover more about yourself in the process. If you need some help getting started or want to learn new relaxation techniques, Parbold Library is hosting a Relax and De-Stress session on October 11, 2pm-4pm.

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Legal & Finance

Choosing A

Financial Adviser A good financial adviser is like gold dust. Like your most influential teacher at school, they should inspire as well as reassure you in order that you can enjoy a better financial future. A poor adviser will put their interests before yours and could sell you a product you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really need and have no interest in your future. Worryingly both advisers will be FCA registered, both have at least a Level 4 qualification (it is now the minimum standard to trade as a financial adviser ), and both will sound plausible. So how do you select the right adviser for you? Qualifications You want an adviser who takes professional knowledge and development very seriously and is completely independent. Look for an adviser who is a Chartered Financial Planner or a Certified Financial Planner - or is actively working towards these qualifications. These are Level 6 qualifications - equivalent to a university degree and are the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gold Standardâ&#x20AC;? amongst financial advisers. Advisers who have achieved this level of technical competence have demonstrated that they are capable of dealing with clients that perhaps have more complicated financial planning requirements. Plan A good adviser will ask challenging questions and map out a plan to achieve your goals. They will

listen to you and ask questions to help you define your short, medium, and long-term objectives. Your adviser will create a financial plan to meet your objectives, ensuring that account is taken of tax-efficient planning such as pensions, and estate planning, if that is a priority. A financial plan is a living plan and your adviser should review and update the plan on a regular basis. Relationship Your relationship with your adviser is absolutely key. They are an important professional person in your life so it is essential that you get on well. Ask yourself whether the adviser really cares about you, genuinely wants you to reach your goals, and is willing and able to challenge you along the way. Fees Fees should be open, transparent, fair and good value for money. Given that a good adviser could potentially make a difference of many thousands of pounds to your financial position over time, we suggest that you base your decision primarily on qualifications, approach and relationship as opposed to price alone. Should you wish to have a chat with one of our qualified financial planners please feel free to give us a call on 01257 423800. We are on the high street in Standish and have client parking. The initial meeting is at our expense and of course is without any obligation.

Property

North vs South -

Property Update by Alan Batt I was recently reading a Properties for Properties for Change Type report by Rightmove that Sale 12 months ago Sale Today a North/South split has Detached Property in Wigan 153 140 -8% started to appear in the Semi Detached Property in Wigan 289 279 -3% UK property market. In Terraced/Town House in Wigan 258 215 -17% the North, there are 7.12% Apartments in Wigan 60 81 35% less properties on the (NB There are a handful more Building plots and other types of property that can’t be placed into the market than 12 months four category’s ... and it’s those that make up the total numbers in the paragraph above the table) ago, whilst in contrast, in How does Wigan fall in line with these trends? the South, there are 14.7% more properties on the market than 12 months ago. What this means is that Overall, the number of properties and building plots the North is much more of a sellers’ market than the for sale in Wigan has decreased by 8%, going from South, which shows signs of a buyers’ market, which 803 properties for sale a year ago to 742 properties can lead to price reductions. for sale as I write this article, meaning Wigan does in This trend appears to be confirmed by the average asking prices of ‘new to the market’ properties in the North West. Again according to Rightmove, prices are 4.9% higher than 12 months ago and 1.1% higher over the last month. Now I must stress, this is asking prices – not what is happening to actual property values.

fact match the regional trend. Looking at the individual types of Wigan property, you can quite clearly see the different markets within Wigan. The two sets of figures that stand out are the increase in Apartments for sale, rising 35% and the decrease in Terraced/town houses by 17%. What does this mean for buying and selling homes in Wigan?

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

If you are planning to sell your home or buy to let investment, the key for determined sellers is to set your asking price correctly from the start. Compare your property against similar ones using Rightmove, On the Market and Zoopla. When you do search these portals, make sure you ask the website to show properties that are sold subject to contract as well to check what properties are selling for in

75 your neighbourhood. Unless you have something highly unusual or unique, this perhaps isn’t the best market to set an optimistic asking price in hoping to find someone who would pay that silly price.

We live in a 21st century society that is “time-poor” so nobody is wanting to even view a house, let alone pay over the odds, if they believe the asking price is too high. So, if you are buying, do your

And if you are buying in Wigan? The numbers of buyers are lower than a few years ago, although those buyers that are in the market have become quite serious but only want to buy at the right price.

homework, ask plenty of questions of the agent, find out the motivation of the sellers and the real reasons behind why they are moving ... and you might just bag a good deal?

Carrots and Over the last twenty years, there has been a shift in the way the Wigan (and the UK’s) property market works. In the 1960’s, 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, a large majority of twenty somethings saved up their 5% deposit, went without life’s luxuries of going out and holidays etc., for a couple of years and then bought their first home with their hard earned savings. By 2000, 54.9% of Wigan 25 to 29 years owned their own home and 76.7% of Wigan 30 to 34 year olds owned their own home. Fast forward to 2018, and those levels of homeownership have slipped dramatically and now only 29.3% of Wigan 25 to 29 year olds own their own home and 51.4% of Wigan 30 to 34 year olds own their own home. There has been concern in Government that this shift from homeownership to private renting wasn’t good for the well-being of the Country and they have introduced a carrot and stick policy to make easier for first time buyers. First time buyers have had the carrots of the Help to Buy Scheme, Stamp Duty Exemption and contributions to their deposit by HMRC. Whilst landlords have been punished in the way they are able to offset the tax relief of their

Sticks mortgage payments against income change, an increase in Stamp Duty and additional costs as the Government will be phasing out fees to tenants in the next 12 to 18 months. So, what does this all mean for the 2,831 Wigan landlords? The days of making money in Wigan buy to let with your eyes closed are long gone. It’s all about looking at your Wigan portfolio (or getting a property professional to do so) and ascertaining if your current portfolio, mortgage and gearing are designed to hit what you want from the investment (because that is what it is – an investment) in terms of income now and income in the future, capital growth and when you plan to dispose of your assets. Yes, there will be a gentler growth in property values linked with a restrained Wigan property market, but if you put in the time, there will be deals and great bargains to have. The bottom line is, private renting will continue to outgrow first time buyers in the next 5 to 10 years and as we aren’t building enough homes in the UK, which means rents can only go in one direction – upwards!

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

Business View

Starting the

Journey by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy The journey of starting your own business can be very challenging and you’ll need to prepare yourself for a massive undertaking and have the right positive attitude to deal with any setbacks that you may meet along the way.

Ensuring these are set up from day one will enable you to track your numbers and monitor your performance from the beginning, efficiently invoice your customers and help you stay on top of your cash flow.

Preparation is the key for success. As the saying goes, if you fail to prepare, you should prepare to fail. We have helped many successful businesses through the startup phase and based on this experience I have pulled together a short checklist of the main things all new businesses should consider.

• Track your key numbers – All businesses will have key numbers that should be measured and recorded. This could be the number of customers, value of sales etc. Keeping track of these will ensure that you are on target and can make changes quickly if things aren’t quite going to plan.

• Create a business plan – This should cover your vision of what you want to do and how you are going to get there. If you are looking for financial support via a loan or other funding options then we can help you prepare the financial projections you’ll need to provide. • Set up your business structure – Should you trade as a sole trader or set up a Limited Company from the beginning? Advice you should be taken to assess which structure is best for you as this can impact on the way tax is paid and how your existing assets are protected. • Register for taxes – There are a number of different business taxes that need to be considered and these need to be registered from the start of the business. These would include VAT, Payroll and Personal taxes • Set up your accounting software – There are many options available for startup businesses including Xero, QuickBooks and Kashflow.

There are many more things to consider when starting out in business. We have extensive experience with start-up companies and we offer a free consultation for anyone that would like to speak to us about this. Feel free to drop by the office on Skull House Lane in Appley Bridge and we can discuss this 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@cma-accountancy.com Web: cma-accountancy.com

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Historic

Halloween by Jessica Phillips Halloween dates back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of a dark winter. Celts believed that on October 31 the ghosts of their dead returned to the world of the living for a night. Reports of hauntings are relatively common; orbs caught on camera, the feel of a ghostly presence in a musty room. The question is, how legitimate are these ‘ghost’ sightings? And could there be any spirits lurking around Wigan?

The White Lion Pub This public house is reportedly home to George Lyon, better known as the Upholland Highwayman, who was arrested in the pub whilst enjoying a pint before being later executed at Lancaster Castle on April 22, 1815. An infamous thief, Lyon was buried at St. Thomas’ churchyard in Upholland in his daughter’s grave, which can still be visited today. Visitors have reported violent poltergeist manifestations, as well as seeing the Highwayman’s apparition.

Rectory Lane

Villagers have reported sightings of Rector Hutton around the grounds and on the eponymous Hutton Lane, citing a silhouette wearing a trilby disappearing in the face of car headlights. One woman said she felt hot and cold spots like a ‘blast furnace’ when walking along Rectory Lane.

Haigh Hall This listed country house was built between 1827 and 1840 for the Lindsay family on the site of an old 12th century manor house. Many apparitions have been seen around the Hall, with hysterical laughter and crying heard around the corridors, terrible smells, and malevolent doppelgangers causing mischief. One particular spirit is Lady Mabel, who allegedly spent her last days being punished for the crime of bigamy. There are numerous legends reporting that Lady Mabel Bradshaw remarried after her husband’s lengthy absence, assuming he had died in the Crusades. When her husband eventually did return home, Lady Mabel was forced to walk, barefoot, from Haigh Hall to a stone cross in Wigan every week for the rest of her days as penance. There are various accounts of this story and the truth remains elusive, but one thing is certain – Mab’s Cross, dating from the 13th century, still stands in Wigan to this day.

Photo by Rev David Long

Rectory Lane in Standish used to be home to Standish Rectory, which stood until Rector Charles Hutton’s death in 1937 when it was demolished. The expansive estate used to be complete with stables, tennis courts and a lake, but is now the site of The Owls restaurant.

Trencherfield Mill Wigan’s most famous cotton spinning mill was constructed in 1907, and stands by the LeedsLiverpool canal. As a Grade II listed building, the mill still worked up until 1950, but fell into disrepair after the cotton industry’s fall following World War 2. It remained semi-derelict until 2005, when the Wigan Pier regeneration project turned it into commercial and retail space, with working mill engine demonstrations every Sunday morning. Trencherfield’s ghostly past actually began when the mill was still in operation. Workers reported cotton reels being moved in front of their eyes, and hearing children playing across the floors. A man who lost his life in a tragic accident in the 1950s was also said to linger in doorways, and faces have been seen in the windows. Nowadays, staff report seeing strange lights and mist around the mill, and regular ghost hunts take place at Trencherfield. What will you discover this Halloween? Don’t miss our Events2Go guide on page 86 for some great spooky goings-on.

Make the Perfect Pumpkin

Lantern

Carving Jack O’ Lanterns didn’t always mean pumpkins - Celts used turnip lanterns before the Irish migrated to America and found the pumpkins grown there were much easier to carve. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from some great tips. Start with the right pumpkin. It should be fresh with a sturdy stem, no bruises and a flat bottom so it won’t roll. If you can find one with a flatter ‘face’ – even better. If art isn’t your calling, not to fear - you can download patterns online. Just tape it to the pumpkin (make little cuts around the edge of the pattern if the pumpkin is a bit too round, and that way it will fit better). Then use a pin or small nail to puncture the paper and the outer skin of the pumpkin at intervals of around 1/4 inch / 0.5 cm, or even closer for intricate designs. If it’s difficult to see your poked-out pattern, rub a little cornflour or baby powder into the dots. The dots will turn bright white and your design will magically appear. Rather than cutting all the way through the pumpkin, try removing some of the skin. The yellow flesh underneath will glow when lit up from inside. Spread Vaseline on the cut edges to seal in moisture. If you have to carve it a few days in

advance and it shrivels you can revive it with a facedown soak in cold water. If you’re looking for some pumpkin-spiration around Wigan, check out these spooktastic events near you: Haigh Hall is hosting Pumpkin Carvin’ and Crafts from Friday, October 26-Sunday, October 28 in their Craft Marquee. You can also pick your own pumpkin that same weekend. Don’t forget to visit our Events2Go guide on page 86!

Food & Drink

Stuffed Peppers Serves 4 ~ Preparation time: 20 mins + Cooking time: 25 mins

Ingredients

Method

4 Orange peppers

For the pepper lanterns

200g Cooked brown rice

Preheat the oven to 180C / Gas Mark 4. Use a sharp knife to slice the top off each pepper horizontally. Don’t discard these tops as they will ne the little hats for the pepper lanterns. Deseed the peppers. Rinse and pat dry with kitchen towel. Use a small paring knife to cut holes into the exterior of the peppers to make pumpkin-lantern style faces. If the peppers don’t stand upright, slice a small amount from the bottom to flatten the surface.

1 tbsp Sunflower oil 450g Minced beef or turkey 1 Medium onion finely chopped 225g Mixed mushrooms, chopped 350g jar roasted red pepper sauce

Cook rice according to package directions. Lightly oil a baking tray. Arrange the peppers and their tops on the tray and cook in the oven for 20 minutes, or until peppers are cooked, but still are still firm. They mustn’t collapse! Remove peppers from oven and allow to cool while you make the filling.

1 tsp Dried oregano

For the filling

¼ tsp Chilli flakes

Heat 1 tbsp oil in large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the mushrooms have softened and reduced in size. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add mince, herbs and chilli flakes and continue to cook, stirring occasionally until browned.

Salt and pepper to taste

Drain the excess oil. Reduce heat to low, then add the pepper sauce and cooked rice. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 more minutes, or until mixture is heated through. Fill each pepper to the brim, allow the mixture to spill over slightly. Place a top on to each stuffed pepper and serve with green salad.

Chocolate Spider Cupcakes Perfect for Halloween! Makes 12

Ingredients

Method

For the cakes

Preheat the oven to Gas 3 / 175C

100g plain flour

Place the flour, cocoa powder, caster sugar, baking powder, salt and butter into an electric mixer (or use a handheld whisk) and beat on a slow speed until the mixture looks grainy, like sand.

20g cocoa powder 140g caster sugar 1 1/2 tsp baking powder Pinch salt 40g unsalted butter (room temp) 120ml whole milk 1 egg 1/4 tsp vanilla extract For the icing 300g icing sugar (sifted) 100g unsalted butter (room temp)

In a separate jug whisk the milk, egg and vanilla extract together. Pour half into the flour mixture. Beat well to combine and make sure you get rid of any lumps. Add the second half of the egg and milk mixture and beat until the mixture is smooth (about two minutes). Spoon the mixture into 12 paper cupcake cases and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until cooked. Set aside to cool. To make the icing: Beat the icing sugar, butter and cocoa powder together by hand or in an electric mixer. Add the milk a little at a time then beat well until the mixture is light and fluffy. Use this to cover the cooled cakes.

40g cocoa powder

To finish the spiders: Pour the chocolate sprinkles on to a saucer. Take each iced cake and dip the icing into the sprinkles to make the hairy

40ml whole milk

spider’s body. Place two ‘eyeballs’ on each cupcake.

For decoration

Use a skewer to poke 4 holes on opposite sides of each cupcake; insert liquorice strips into each hole.

Pot of chocolate sprinkles Sweets for eyeballs Black string liquorice - cut into 5cm strips

Leisure

Woodvale

by Chris Pearce

Mention Formby or Ainsdale in a walking context and people automatically think of the beaches, but there more to these areas as this 6 mile walk clearly shows. This walk, ideal for even the wettest Sunday afternoon, takes a flat, circular route around Woodvale Airfield and takes in, not one, but two nature reserves on route.

Woodvale, which was opened during World War 2 as a defence measure when Liverpool and its docks were bombed. Nowadays the Station’s role is largely training and the 611 Squadron stationed there prepares Volunteer Reservists to support RAF operations in the UK and overseas.

Park up near Freshfield Rail Station (L37 7DD) and take leafy Montague Road 600 yards to its conclusion, where you follow a shale path going in the same direction running parallel to the railway line. Follow the path for a further 400 yards and then, taking great care, cross the railway line at the level crossing and enter Formby Golf course. The path that cuts through the fairway of the par 5 third hole, watching out for errant shots coming from the left as you do so and follow the path as it winds to the right towards the pine woods.

Eventually you’ll arrive at a metal bar gate besides another information board. Go through this and take the tarmac path following in the same direction. Almost immediately you’ll need to take a right turn, down a path (the main Sefton Coastal path) that heads underneath a road bridge. 50 yards under the bridge, you’ll need to take a left turn off the path towards the road and then turn left and use the bridge to cross the path you’ve just walked under.

When you enter the woods, you’ll reach an informative noticeboard which tells you all about the Ainsdale Sand Dunes, which is a national nature reserve, home to over 450 plant species including 33 which are rare and also residing here is the natterjack toad, red squirrels, sand lizards and great-crested newts. You need to trun right at the notice board and follow the Woodland Path. Follow this through the pine woods until you reach a T junction and turn right again, through the open common area and eventually, the path returns to running parallel to the railway line. At the other side of the railway line you’ll see RAF

Follow the road for just over ½ a mile and after you’ve crossed the main road turn right towards Formby and 150 yards later take a left fork down Formby Old Road. Listing a house sale on Formby Old Road must be the fantasy of many a Formby estate agent and the bigger properties are protected by walls, privacy fencing, barbed wire, CCTV and even guard dogs. I half expected a Bugatti Royale to sweep by at any moment carrying Mr Burns and Smithers, but it was sadly not to be on this occasion.

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

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Freshfield Dune Heath Nature Reserve

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Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve

Freshfield

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.

85 Altogether you’re on Formby Old Road for just over a mile and after the well-defined ‘S’ bend, you’ll arrive at a series of huge glasshouses on the right. Just after the glasshouses, take a right turn down a tarmacked path called Eight Acre Lane (near Arsitocat Cattery). Cross the Formby by-pass with care and follow the path in the same direction. Eight Acre Lane becomes Sixteen Acre Lane and 650 yards later you’ll arrive at Paradise Lane. Turn right and 50 yards further on take Little Brewery Lane which transforms into Brewery Lane almost immediately. Once you’ve reached the end of Brewery Lane, take the path to the right hand side of the road leading to the high school. A worthy diversion almost at the end of the walk is Freshfield Dune Heath nature reserve and this is easily accessible from the path. Freshfield Dune heath is the single largest lowland heath site in Lancashire and whilst budding botanists can search for specialist plants, the rest of us can look out for the red squirrels, which live in abundance alongside

lizards, stoats, weasels, and the amazing Emperor moths, which have a wingspan of up to 8cm and fly during the day. And if you haven’t turned into Freshfield Dune Heath, just follow the path to the end where you’ll meet Montague Road once again and turn left down this road to Freshfield Rail Station and the end of your walk.

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Jonah’s Memory Walk

Hop & Grain Ale Trail

Sunday, September 30, 12pm

Saturday, October 6, 12pm-11pm

A 5-mile walk to celebrate Jonah’s 5th Birthday. The route starts at the White Crow and continues through Haigh to the Cherry Gardens. This isn’t just about Jonah, but is an opportunity for everyone to remember loved ones and share friendship. The White Crow, Chorley Road, Standish, WN1 2XL

Visit 8 superb real ale pubs on the Trail, including: The Twisted Vine Ale House (Ashton), The Boars Head and The Hoot (Standish), Formby’s (Hindley), Doc’s Symposium (Wigan), plus The Holts and The Delph (Orrell). For more details or to buy tickets (£13.66) please visit www.ticketsource.co.uk

Crochet Workshop

Arts and Crafts Fayre

Wednesday, October 3, 6:45pm-9:45pm

Saturday, October 6, 10am-4pm

A small group session will cover how to hold the hook and yarn, basic stitches and basic pattern reading. A starter kit and refreshments are included. Tickets £12, booking essential on the Crochet Bee Facebook page.

St Wilfrid’s Church present an arts and crafts fayre with art work, craft stalls and lots of displays. Refreshments available.

St. Wilfrid’s Parish Hall, Standish, WN6 0JT

Charity Rugby Match

Night at the Races Friday, October 5, 7pm Come and experience the thrill of the races on the big screen to raise money for Standish Panthers JFC. Tickets are £3 for adults or £1 for under 16s. Standish Labour Club, Smalley Street, WN6 0JN

St. Wilfrid’s Church, Standish, WN6 0XA

Sunday, October 7, kick-off 2:30pm Ambulance workers against the fire brigade. All proceeds go to the NW Air Ambulance and the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation. There may also be a few surprises from Wigan players. Aspull Rugby Football Club, Woodshaw Park, Woods Road, Aspull, WN1 1PG

Appley Bridge Meteorite Talk Haigh Oktoberfest

Monday, October 8, 12pm-1pm

Friday, Oct 5 – Sunday, Oct 7, various times

A fascinating insight into the fall and discovery of the Appley Bridge meteorite in 1914, with signed copies of ‘The Appley Bridge Meteorite’ book available. £2.50 per person, includes tea and coffee. Booking essential on 01942 828128.

Why travel to Munich when the spirit of Oktoberfest comes to Haigh? A specially erected marquee offers the best of Germany, with tickets available from £11. Haigh Hall Stables, Haigh, WN2 1PE

Museum of Wigan Life, 59 Library St, WN1 1NU

Charity Chocolate Party Thursday, October 11, 7:30pm Enjoy a chocolate party in aid of Cancer Research. Sample some of the finest chocolate around and give your tastebuds a treat with some unique flavours and textures! Entry costs £5 per person. For more information call 07825 021895 or email denisebentley@live.co.uk. The Unity Club, 2-4 Cross Street, Standish, WN6 0HQ

Quilters Charity Day Saturday, October 13, 10am-2:30pm There will be lots of ready-made quilting gifts on sale and DIY quilting kits to make perfect Christmas presents! This year’s event is in support of North West Blood Bikes, and a representative will be available for a chat on the day – you can even snap a picture sitting on his bike.

Upcoming events:

Standish Community Centre, Moody Street, Standish, WN6 0JY

The Stylistics - 25th October

Heart to Heart Festival Saturday, October 13, 5pm-11:30pm, doors at 4:30pm A host of bands and acoustic acts will be playing at the Boulevard in support of the Freeman Hearts & Lung Transplant Association. Entrance is £3 on the door, and the event is child-friendly until 8pm. The Boulevard, 17A Wallgate, Wigan, WN1 1LD

Meet the Makers: Cuckoo Gin Saturday, October 13, 11am Come along to Derby House for a gin tasting event with Cuckoo Gin! Sample one of Lancashire’s best tasting and multi award-winning gins and find out more about the company. Derby Hall Food Hall, Wrightington, Wigan, WN6 9RE

Foster & Allen - 10th November

The Stars From The Commitments - 23rd November 1000 capacity Onsite parking Additional event spaces Postcode Coffeehouse Contact: Annette Burton Tel: 01942 244460 The Edge, Riveredge, Wigan, WN3 5AB Email: events@theedgeconferencing.com www.theedgewigan.com Twitter: @theedgewigan

1U Fitness Charity Evening

October Coach Ramble

Friday, October 19, 6:30pm-9pm

Sunday, October 21, 8am-6pm

Come along for a fun aerobics session and a talk on meditation and wellbeing from a life coach, all in support of Macmillan. Refreshments and stalls throughout including a tombola and a raffle. Entry £5, contact Annette Brown for further info on 07762300621.

The coach trip for October is to Bakewell in Derbyshire and costs £14 pp. There are three levels of walks from an 8 mile to a 13 mile. For more details visit www.wiganwalkers.com. Booking is required. Mesnes Park, Mesnes Park Terrace, Wigan, WN1 1SU. Tel: 07583 544220

Standish Methodist Church Hall, High St, WN6 0HA

Leigh Short Film Festival Saturday, October 20, 7pm Leigh’s fifth annual short film festival. Tickets are £3 for students and £5 for adults. Over 16yrs only. Visit www.leighshortfilmfestival.com or call 07969 647466 for info and tickets.

Fashion Show Tuesday, October 23, 7:30pm-9:30pm Barbara’s of Standish host a fabulous fashion show! If you have a passion for fashion, you don’t want to miss this. Tickets £7.50 inc. a glass of wine and cakes. St. Wilfrid’s Church Hall, Standish, WN6 0JT

The Turnpike Centre, Civic Square, Leigh, WN7 1EB. Tel: 01942 404469

Nick Sharatt’s Drawalong

Bloktoberfest: Teletext Art

Tracy Beaker illustrator Nick Sharatt will be showing you how he brings characters to life, sharing ways to invent your own crazy creatures, and giving loads of top tips as you draw along with him. Bring pencils, paper and something to lean on. There’ll be time for book signings and Q&A afterwards. Tickets £9-10.

Sat, Oct 20, 12pm-4pm & Sun, Oct 21, 10am-4pm Britain’s premier teletext festival ventures up North to Wigan STEAM for a weekend of VBI, Videotext and Viewdata fun. Suitable for all the family, come and meet teletext artists from around the globe, see some great teletext art, and take part in arty activities. Admission is free, but a £2 donation is recommended for crafting activities.

Friday, October 26, 12:30pm-2:30pm

The Old Courts, Crawford Street, Wigan, WN1 1NG

Bat Walk

Wigan STEAM, 33-53 Library St, Wigan, WN1 1NU

Friday, October 26, 5pm-8pm

Octoberfest

Join ‘Batman’ Jeff for a night-time woodland safari, exploring the sights and sounds of Haigh’s nocturnal world using bat detectors.

Sat, October 20 – Mon, October 22, 12pm-9pm Orrell RUFC and Winstanley Park Cricket Club have teamed up to fundraise for a new sporting hub. The Beer, Gin and Prosecco Festival showcases 40 different local beers, along with gin and prosecco. Live music on both days from local bands, kid’s activities including a bouncy castle, and BBQ food. £12 per ticket, includes commemorative glass & 6 drink tokens. Holland Hall, Lafford Ln, Up Holland, WN8 0QZ

Haigh Woodland Park, Wigan, WN2 1PE

Colliers Arms Halloween Friday, October 26, 7:30pm-late The Colliers host a spooktacular fancy dress evening. Entertainment by Jordan King followed by karaoke, and a prize for the best fancy dress. Tickets £5 including a drink and hotpot supper. The Colliers Arms, 192 Wigan Road, Wigan

Zombie Apocalypse

Autumn Fair

Fri, October 26 – Sat, October 27, 9am-4pm

Saturday, October 27, 10am-3pm

Lots of pop-up stalls filled with handmade gifts and lots more! There will also be funfair rides outside – a great way to get in the Halloween mood.

The Living Faith Church fair has plenty of stalls to

Wigan Markets, Wigan, WN1 1PX

Pumpkin Carvin’ and Crafts Friday, October 26 – Sunday, October 28, all day Learn to make lanterns and table decorations! £3.50 entry per child with own pumpkin or £5.50 with pumpkin provided. Haigh Woodland Park, Wigan, WN2 1PE

Pumpkin Pickin’ Friday, October 26 – Sunday, October 28, all day Pick your own pumpkin in Haigh Hall grounds with a number of child-friendly live ghosts and ghouls. £4.50 per child including a pumpkin, parents go free.

get your Christmas gifts, with bargain buys and children’s activities in the Church Hall. There will also be coffee, tea and cakes available. Living Faith Church, 25 Church Street, Orrell, WN5 8TG

Halloween Trail Saturday, October 27, 10:30am Grab your best Halloween fancy dress and trick or treat your way around the shops in Ashton-inMakerfield. Start at The Card House and Balloon Room and collect your map and goody bag to fill with sweet treats! Free to take part. The Card House and Balloon Room, Gerard Street, Ashton-in-Makerfield, WN4 9AE

Haigh Woodland Park, Wigan, WN2 1PE

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Ghostbusters

Serial Killer Cruise

Saturday, October 27, 7:30pm-9:30pm

Wednesday, October 31, 7pm-10pm

Catch the 80s family classic in the Haigh Hall

Renowned FBI criminal profiler and author Paul

courtyard! Free to attend but booking required from box office on 01942 828508.

Harrison explores the murderous mind on a 3-hour cruise. Each guest receives a Murder Mocktail or Killer Cocktail. Fancy dress welcomed with prizes! Q&A with Paul and a serial killer quiz will finish the night. 18+ only. Tickets £26.

Haigh Woodland Park, Wigan, WN2 1PE

Apple Day Sunday, October 28, 12pm-4pm

Kittywake Canal Cruises, Wallgate, Wigan, WN3 4EU

A day of apples takes place in the Walled Gardens! Join in with apple bobbing, apple juicing, toffee apple making and more! Free admission (charges apply for toffee apple making), donations welcome.

Craft and Gift Fayre Saturday, November 10, 10am-3pm All your Christmas shopping needs under one roof! Various craft and gift stalls, Fairtrade, local handicrafts and refreshments/light lunches.

Haigh Woodland Park, Wigan, WN2 1PE

Wacky Halloween Party Wednesday, October 31, 6pm-8pm

St. Anne’s Parish Centre, Church Lane, Shevington, WN6 8BD

Ghoulish games and plenty of fun, with prizes for the best fancy dress – even the grown-ups can get involved! £6 per child.

Standish Christmas Market

Red Robin Wacky Warehouse, Wigan, WN5 0UJ

Victorian Death Talk Wednesday, October 31, 12pm-1pm Charlie Guy MA dispels the myths of death in Victorian times, and shines a light on some forgotten funeral practices, traditions and superstitions. Booking essential – call 01942 828128 or email wiganmuseum@wigan.gov.uk. £2.50 per person, includes tea and coffee.

Saturday, December 1, 11am-8pm A free-to-attend family day of Christmas festivity in the centre of Standish, the Christmas Market includes two indoor craft markets with the best local traders, streets lined with outdoor stalls, a beer tent, and live music through the day. Santa’s Grotto is held in the village library, with a Christmas Trail offering the kids a chance to win great prizes. Market Place Standish, WN6 0HN

Museum of Wigan Life, 59 Library St, WN1 1NU

Over 40 walks FREE to download at locallife247.co.uk LocalLife

Motoring

Toyota

C-HR by Tim Barnes-Clay

The Toyota C-HR is a car you quite easily may not even have heard of. It’s very much in the shadows of its rivals, like the Nissan Qashqai. You can pick up a new C-HR for £21,595, which is more than £2,300 than the entrylevel Qashqai, but the model we have on test here is the hybrid version with Dynamic trim – the top of the range. It costs £28,615 – so it had better be worth it. Whilst the car is a similar shape and size to the Qashqai, its roof slopes towards the rear far more so than the Nissan (think BMW X4/X6) and that means there’s less room inside. But it’s got very aggressive styling and even the entry-level models have a lot of kit with it. The Dynamic comes with rear camera, touchscreen, DAB radio, adaptive cruise control, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, sat-nav, smart entry and pushbutton start, park assist – and that really is skimming the surface. The C-HR shares a lot of its DNA with the Toyota Prius, so it’s only to be expected that the C-HR is available as a hybrid version which cuts fuel consumption to 72.4 miles per gallon. Its electric motor blends with a 1.8 litre four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 122 PS and gets from a 0-62 mph in 11 seconds.

Fast Facts • 0-62 mph: 11.0 secs • Combined mpg: 72.4 • Engine: 1798cc four-cylinder petrol (with electric motor) • Max. power (PS): 122 • CO2: 87 g/km • Price: £28,615

It also comes with a one-speed gearbox and, if that’s raised your eyebrows, don’t worry – it’s CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and its use is on the increase. That said, the lack of a traditional engine rev will take some getting used to, unless you’re used to driving electrics or hybrids. In the C-HR, it does feel a little sluggish, even though its performance is comparable with the Qashqai and other rivals.

Whilst the C-HR is very well designed for a comfortable ride, the hybrid models are heavier, meaning you’ll get a more relaxed ride in the nonhybrid models. Nevertheless, Toyota has done a good job. The extra weight of the hybrid also means it doesn’t handle quite as well as the purely-petrol-powered models, but this won’t be noticeable most of the time, unless you’re really looking to throw it round corners. If you are, the chances are you’ll be looking at a performance model and you won’t be after a hybrid. The interior improves Toyota’s reputation of dullness and it’s a nice place to be, though you won’t struggle to find better interiors elsewhere. There’s plenty of room in the front, but the sloping roof means you won’t want to be in the back if you’re tall. Boot space is also disappointing in comparison with its rivals, with the folding seats not as convenient. To sum up, the hybrid is great for fuel saving but adds plenty of drawbacks. And, coupled with the Dynamic trim, it makes it rather too expensive. The sheer amount of equipment means one of the lesser models should suffice for most. And, unless your focus is fuel economy, so too should the petrol engine – without the hybrid.

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Gardening

Box Award Winner

clever! by Angie Barker

After a few disappointing summers at last we can say that we’ve had a good one. The warmest and driest summer since 1976 and it was great to be able to use our gardens as outside rooms for relaxing, entertaining and cooking. (I believe the latest trend is the pizza oven – not for us though, Hubby is not a fan of pizza – fish and chips, preferably wrapped in newspaper, would be his preference). Having reflected on summer now is the time of year to be giving some thought to winter structure in your garden because there is nothing more disheartening than seeing plants disappear below ground, with nothing left standing. So here’s an idea – visit the garden centre over the next few weeks for plants – not for Christmas decorations! One of my favourite plants for winter structure is Buxus sempervirens - or Box. Low hedges and topiary look lovely with a dusting of frost or snow. Box balls – or spheres to use designer parlance – look particularly good along a path in numbers of three, five or seven. I have five either side of a curved, cobbled path and in winter when all the

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.

plants around them have died down, they really catch the eye and bring some structure. They make brilliant focal points, accentuate entrances and can look very contemporary or contrast beautifully with softer planting in a cottage garden scheme. They are not cheap plants because evergreens are slow growing – but you can always buy a smaller, less expensive Box plant and nurture it yourself into whatever shape you like. You can even buy wire structures to help you. Another great investment for winter interest is the Daphne group of shrubs. They come in a range to suit all gardens and locations, shape and size but they all have wonderful scent during the winter months. Two of the best are Daphne bholua ‘Jacqueline Postill’ which grows to around 4 metres and, if you are looking for a smaller version, Daphne odora ‘Aureo-marginata’ which has the added attraction of being evergreen. So now that’s the garden sorted I can turn my attention over the next few weeks to my Christmas list – but just what do you buy for the man who has everything?

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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