Local Life - Wigan - December 2019

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LocalLife Wigan Edition

December 2019

Santa Experiences Pages 38-41

Styling Your Home This Christmas Page 48-51

WIN a Luxury Christmas Hamper Pages 14-15

Local News Motoring Jack’s Tracks Health Events2Go Home Services


IMPROVE YOUR MATHS AND ENGLISH There are lots of benefits to improving your life through English and maths. Each year we transform the lives of hundreds of adults by helping them gain essential skills and qualifications. Most of the time we don’t think about English and maths, but we use these skills all the time: • At home - paying for bills, reading letters, or recipes, or even booking holidays. • At work - communicating with colleagues, customers or calculating wages. • In our social life - paying for shopping or petrol, sharing a bill in a restaurant, or reading a menu. With a range of courses, including Entry Level, Level 1 and Level 2 Functional Skills and GCSE, we can offer the right pathway for you to improve your skills.

FREE GCSE Maths and English You may be eligible for full funding if you do not already have GCSE Maths and English at A* - C grade, regardless of the level of other qualifications you may hold. If you would like to enrol for GCSE English to improve on your current grade, book an assessment and enrolment appointment to find out your options. Bring the certificates you already hold, so that our staff can help you towards the right pathway.

ESOL Enjoy learning the English language at our successful and popular ESOL department. We will help you to improve your English reading, writing, speaking and listening skills, in classes with students from all over the world. Become more confident in English and use your language skills to integrate into life in the UK. Our classes are fun, interesting and our experienced teachers will help and support you as you learn, meet new people and gain skills which will help you in your work place.

ESOL students must bring the following to enrolment: • Home office documentation or endorsed passport (also marriage/civil certificate/birth certificate if a dependant). • ARC Card or Local Authority confirmation (for learners aged 16-18 or 19+ if in care of local authority). • ARC Card dated within six months and post office receipt of support, dated within the month (19+).

To book your assessment and enrolment appointment email: applications@wigan-leigh.ac.uk or call 01942 761 111

ADULT COLLEGE COURSES STARTING IN JANUARY 2020 ART & DESIGN, PHOTOGRAPHY & FASHION BEAUTY THERAPY & HAIRDRESSING BAKERY, CATERING & HOSPITALITY COMPUTING & IT CONSTRUCTION & CIVIL ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT & PROFESSIONAL TEACHING ASSISTANTS TEACHER EDUCATION


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Local Life

So Here It Is… It’s seemed a long time coming, but the big day is just around the corner. Of course I’m referring to the general election but once that is out of the way, we can stick Noddy & Co. on loop and get on with enjoying Christmas. Why is it so difficult for a morally upstanding, vigorous and dynamic leader, ideally with a bit of life experience, to rise to the top job in this country? Did you know that in Bhutan, Dr Lotay Tshering, one of the most accomplished surgeons in this Himalayan country only practices on a Saturday, as he is busy during the week running the country? So that’s a bit of an extreme example, but you get my point surely? We’ll put politics to bed now and get on with sending you into December with a cracker of a Christmas issue. Don’t miss the Santa Experience feature on pages 38-41, the definitive guide to enhance your children’s/grandchildren’s Christmas, we’ve got a comprehensive festive Events2Go guide on pages 74-77, ideas for Christmas presents, festive recipes and much more. And to thank you readers for allowing us into your homes for another year, we’ve been shopping and pulled together an amazing luxury Christmas Hamper for one lucky reader! Check out the hamper competition on pages 14-15 and don’t forget to enter online by midnight on Monday 16th December. And my wish for Christmas? That whatever the outcome of the election is, that we all accept it with good grace, embrace the belated season of goodwill, and resolve not to mention politics again until the New Year hangover recedes! All the very best,

Chris Pearce, Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk


Local Life

In this issue

Regulars 62 Puzzle Pages 74 Events2Go 21 Jack’s Tracks

Happy Hens

14 Competition 79 Garden Diary

Sections 36 Food 68 Business View 70 Health 74 Leisure

12 WIN a Luxury Christmas Hamper

82 Motoring 79 Gardening 85 Home Services

Next issue - January 2020

Advertising deadline - Friday, 6th December Published - Thursday, 2nd January

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LocalLife

Santa Experiences

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

Telephone: 01695 627 999 Publisher: Chris chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Sales: Nicola sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: Jess wigannews@locallife247.co.uk Design: Mary Anne design@locallife247.co.uk Distribution: Sally sallyb@locallife247.co.uk Accounts: Christina accounts@locallife247.co.uk

38 Decorate Your Christmas Tree

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.

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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.

Small Business Saturday

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.

66 locallifemagazine247

@locallifemedia

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Standish Cards

In Bloom

Fancy sending Christmas cards with a local twist this December? Greetings cards designed by Standish residents and businesses are on sale at Standish Library for just £5 per pack, which will help fundraise for the Friends of Standish Library.

This year’s RHS Britain In Bloom Awards have been announced: and the Wigan borough was bloomin’ brilliant.

Orders must be made before Sunday, December 1 at the library.

Winter Warmers Help keep homeless people warm this winter by donating knitted or crocheted squares, helping to sew them together, or providing hats, scarves, gloves and socks. The BFTH Wigan Pod are looking for anyone to assist in making winter woollies for local homeless people, along with any supplies that might help craft them. They meet on the second Saturday of the month at Orrell Book-Cycle – for more information, email Hazel at knit_natter@yahoo.co.uk

Shevington Memorial Park was awarded the Gold Award in the National Distinction for Parks, while organisation Edible Appley Bridge was awarded a Level 4 (Thriving) award. Meanwhile, Wigan & Leigh Hospice’s garden achieved a Level 5 (Outstanding), and Orrell Station was awarded the much-coveted Best Railway Station in the North West award after putting in more than 1,600 hours of work. Haigh Woodland Park also achieved a Silver Gilt Award for Large Tourist Attraction.

Earn extra

cash!

Local Life require distributors for the following areas;

Over 25 years of local advice High Street, Standish

Mortgages, Re-mortgages, First Time Buyers, Buy To Let, Equity Release* Wigan, Standish & surrounding areas Free home visits any time to 8.00pm or visit us in Standish. *Referred to specialist

01257 424 999

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Standish Trevore Drive estate Standish Centre School Lane, Arbour Lane area Preston Road, Kenyon Road estate Bentham Rd/Pl area Shevington Elnup , Elmfield & Christleton Appley Bridge Back Ln, Miles Ln & Finch Mill Ave Haigh Toddington Ln, Haigh Road area Interested? Please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

LocalLife


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Tell Us Your Story! Local Life is always on the look out for news stories from the local communities we serve. Are you raising money for charity? Are you a member of a community group with something to shout about? Maybe you’ve got an unusual talent, or have a claim to fame? If so, let us know and you could be appearing in the next edition! Simply contact us on wigannews@locallife247. co.uk or call us on 01695 627999.

Licensing Act 2003

Notice of Application to Wigan Council An application for a New Premises Licence has been made by H & H Properties (Standish) Ltd t/as Dish for the premises known as /situated at 232 Almond Brook Road, Standish WN6 0SS. The application seeks to Sell alcohol between the hours of 09.00 and 22.30 Monday – Friday and 09.00 and 19.30 on Sunday and play recorded music between the hours of 09.00 and 23.00 Monday – Friday and 09.00 – 20.00 on Sunday. The application may be inspected at the Licensing Section, Wigan Life Centre, College Avenue, Wigan, WN1 1NJ between the hours of 09.00 and 17.00 Monday to Friday inclusive. Brief details can also be obtained from the Council’s website www.wigan.gov.uk. Any person or responsible authority may make representations about the application no later than 4th December 2019. All representations must be made in writing by the above date. Representations should be sent to the Licensing section, PO BOX 100, Wigan WN1 3DS or can be emailed to licensing@wigan.gov.uk It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for making a false statement is a Level 5 fine on the standard scale.

Galleries Update The Galleries shopping centre is set to benefit from renovation efforts from Wigan Council. Potential plans for the site, though still at an early stage, may include an upmarket cinema, bowling alley, restaurants, bars and apartments in the space, along with office spaces for start-ups. Nothing is set in stone as of yet, but the future of the struggling shopping centre looks bright, with more people expected to move to the town centre in coming years.

Friendship Club There’s no need to be lonely this Christmas, as the Ladies Don’t Be Lonely Friendship Club have plenty going on to keep you entertained. The group meet on Thursday afternoons (barring the first Thursday of the month) at Penson Street Community Centre for talks, presentations, quizzes and games. Meetings run from 1:30pm-3:30pm. November 28th will see the group meet to enjoy Christmas organ music, while a one-off meeting on December 5th introduces members to festive flower decorations. Finally, on December 12th, the Friendship Club will enjoy a Christmas lunch out. For more information about the group, call Margaret on 01942 247403 or Nancy on 01942 497108.

Standish United First established in the 17th century, the Standish United Charity works to give help and assistance to those in need in the local area. What began as a group of several charities was amalgamated into one in 1907, and set up by affluent residents wanting to help relieve poverty locally. What began as an initiative to hand out cloth and bread has evolved into offering financial grants, providing facilities, services or goods. Anyone who might benefit from the help of the charity can submit an application to the Trustees at Standish Community Centre on Moody Street, or by email to standish.charity@mail.com


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All I want for

gorgeous unique gifts (and great food too!)

Love It Gallery, Winstanley Road, Billinge WN5 7XG Open: 9.30am-5pm, Tuesday-Saturday; 10am-4pm, Sunday

Telephone:

01695 622 332

christmas gifts | light lunches | jewellery | afternoon tea | bespoke glass | coffee & cake


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Standish Live Standish Live Festival is back on Friday, November 29 and Saturday, November 30.

For updates on performance times and artists, keep an eye on the Standish Live Festival Facebook page.

The festival brings live music from local artists and bands to various pubs around the village, with free entry to all venues. This year, the festival will be taking place at The Black Bull, The Globe, Albion Ale House, The Lychgate, The Charnley Arms, Alberts of Standish and Potters Bar. Each venue will boast at least 4 artists, with maximum capacity estimated to be reached early on! All donations received from this year’s event go towards Macmillan Cancer Support.

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, Greenhough Street, 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


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Santa Sprints What better way to get in the Christmas spirit than one of the Santa Dashes taking place around the Wigan borough this festive season? We promise, the run will leave you ruddy-cheeked and yearning for a mince pie at the finish line. The Wigan Christmas Dash is a 5K Santa Fun Run and 1K family fun run taking place in Mesnes Park on Sunday, December 8 from 11am. Don your Santa suit and head off around the park! Entry costs £20 per adult, £15 per U16 and £8 per U10, bookable at www.christmasdash.co.uk Meanwhile, the Wigan Samaritans Santa Stroll offers a more leisurely pace around Haigh Plantations from 10am the same day. Entry costs £10 including a Santa suit, and is bookable on Eventbrite. Finally, Beacon Country Park’s Santa Dash takes place from 10am-1pm - entry costs £5 per person or £10 per family of four, including some festive refreshments at the finish! To enter, visit www. discoverormskirk.com/events/

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.

Beautifully furnished

Stone Cottage Holiday Let

Situated near Sedbergh, in the Yorkshire Dales, and also within easy reach of the Lake District

– sleeps up to 4

Children & pets welcome

Call 01942 216 058 / 07792445257 E-mail janemillthrop@yahoo.co.uk www.millthropcottage.co.uk

SPECIAL READER OFFER Rhodium plating of 2 rings for £50 (normally £60), just quote Local Life 247”

Heskin Hall Shopping Village, Wood Lane, Heskin, PR7 5PA

Tel: 01257 450448 Etsy: Jewelsmayuk

www.jewelsmay.com


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Happy

hens

LuckyHens Rescue on Manchester Road in Hindley has released a 2020 calendar celebrating its rescue efforts over the past year, and to encourage more people to rescue ex-battery hens in the area. Though steps have been taken to improve the quality of life for battery hens, LuckyHens worker Clare says all is not rosy in the egg industry. So-called ‘battery cages’ are banned in the UK, but have been replaced with ‘enriched cages’ which still afford little room to move around and no access to sunlight. Even ‘free-range’ hens are often kept in barns their whole lives, without ever seeing the sun. These hens are then slaughtered at 72 weeks old, when egg production slows down. LuckyHens is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming as many of these hens as possible. Their centre can hold up to 450 hens at a time, which are then given space to roam and live freely before going to a loving home.

The newly released 2020 calendars will go towards the centre’s efforts, with proceeds going into rescuing as many hens as possible in the coming year. Fans of the centre sent in photographs of their own rescued hens to feature, making the perfect Christmas gift for any animal lover. Calendars are priced at £9.50 and are available from the LuckyHens website at https://luckyhensrescuenorthwest. weebly.com/ LuckyHens is also hosting two rescue days in December and January – the first of these takes place on Saturday, December 14, and the second on Saturday, January 25. Rescue days give people the opportunity to collect up to 20 hens at a time from the centre. A minimum donation of £4 per hen is requested, and a minimum of 3 hens should be collected on the day.

For more information about LuckyHens or its rescue days, call 01942 233375.


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Win a

Christmas Hamper! To thank our readers for allowing us into your homes for another year, we’ve been shopping and we’ve pulled together four amazing luxury Christmas Hampers for our latest competition! A lucky reader in each of our magazine areas (Wigan, Chorley, St Helens and West Lancs & Coast) will win a luxury hamper. Just read the blurb below and answer the question online. Launched back in 2008, the Wigan edition of Local Life is now delivered to over 26,000 Wigan homes on a regular basis, and readers are also able to pick up a copy each month from Sainsbury’s in Marus Bridge and at Tesco Extra in Wigan. In addition to our Wigan magazine, we also publish A5-sized magazines each month for St Helens and Chorley, and we also produce a premium B5sized monthly magazine for the West Lancashire, Southport and Formby area. In addition to our magazines, we also design, print and deliver leaflets alongside our magazines too. All this is pulled together by a small team of lovely people (see below) who are based at our offices and

distribution unit at Hewitt Business Park in Orrell, with assistance from our amazing distribution team. In 2019 alone, 483 local businesses and organisations, big and small, advertised their services and products in Local Life. We know that many of these businesses do not advertise anywhere else than in the pages of Local Life, and we are grateful to them for their support. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to produce your magazine, so if you value Local Life then do keep a hold of your copy when you have read it, and please do make a conscious effort to call Local Life advertisers should you require their products or services. That’s enough of the blurb! To enter the competition to win a luxury Christmas hamper, simply visit our website, www.locallife247.co.uk, click on ‘free stuff’ and then on ‘competitions’ and then answer the following question;

In 2019, how many businesses and organisations advertised with Local Life? The expiry date for the competition is midnight on Monday 16th December 2019 and the winners will be notified within five working days. Entrants must be over 16 years of age. Only one entry per household – any multiple entries will be void. Local Life 247 cannot accept responsibility for entries that do not reach us. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd and their families are not eligible to enter this competition.

Hamper Contents

Prosecco, Mulled wine, Black Sheep real ale, gin, Booth’s Christmas pudding, brandy butter, mince pies, shortbread, tin of Whittard’s biscuits, fudge, Lancashire Bomb cheese, Carrs crackers, selection of chutneys, tub of smoked salmon pate, box of Beech’s chocolates, tin of Uncle Joe’s, Whittard’s luxury drinking


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WIN

a

Christmas Hamper

chocolate, and a luxury Christmas cake – all contained with a Hobbycraft wooden crate that you can use again and again.

Good luck, and a very merry Christmas from all at LocalLife


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See Santa The bells really are ringing out for Christmas, as Wigan Rotary Club invites you to follow their festive float for Christmas 2019! Santa will make his rounds in the borough each evening from 5pm during the week and 6pm at weekends, as well as heading to Tesco, ASDA and Orrell Water Park during the day. Here’s when you can expect to see Santa in your area: Nov 30 - Shevington South: Vicarage Lane, off Gathurst Lane, Oak Meadow Estate Dec 1 - Standish East: Copeland Ave & Rectory Lane Dec 2 - Shevington South: Harrington Park Dec 3 - Shevington North: Old Lane, Elnup Ave

Dec 4 - Standish Central: Cranleigh, Silsbury Dec 7 - Appley Bridge: Post Office, Miles Lane & Mill Lane


17 Dec 9 - Springfield: St. Andrews Crescent, Norfolk Street, Sacred Heart Church Dec 10 - Swinley: Mesnes Road, Danesway, Swinley Lane, Holme Ave Dec 11 - Standish North: Zoe’s Beauty Parlour, Preston Road, Bloor Homes Primrose Lane Dec 12 - Almond Brook: Wain Homes Estate, Old Pepper Lane Dec 13 - Standish West: Almond Brook Road, Woodhouse Drive Dec 14 - Standish South: Boars Head Ave, Hartingdon Drive Dec 21 - Whitley: Walter Scott Ave, Hazelwood Road Dec 22 - Whitley Crescent: Spencer Road, St. Malo Road, Romney Way

The Rotary Choir will also be performing carols in the Grand Arcade on Saturday, December 7 from 10:30am-2:30pm! Rotary Club President Mervyn Reeves said: ‘This is a special time of year leading up to the ‘big day’ and we enjoy seeing the happy faces on children and adults alike as Santa travels around. ‘All the money raised goes to Rotary Charities, with over 40 different organisations benefitting last year alone from the money the people of Wigan donated.’ For more information about this year’s float, and to find out where it will be during the day, call 07813 471000 or email wiganrotary1924@virginmedia.com


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The Best Beauty

Gift Sets

Beauty gift sets are not all created equal. There are the ones you buy in a panic on Christmas Eve – guaranteed to either end up in a charity shop or forgotten in a cupboard somewhere – and then there’s this little lot… Chocolate lovers will rejoice with this Nature’s Kitchen Double Indulgence Chocolate Gift Box (£24.99, www.lovelula.com). It features the Dark Chocolate Cleansing Butter Fudge.

Mask and Chocolate Mocha Polishing Scrub, both of which are packed with nourishing natural ingredients, such as raw organic cacao, organic Italian roasted coffee beans and organic avocado, and smell delicious. Fragrance fans will enjoy creating their own perfumed body oil with this Neal’s Yard Remedies Aromatherapy Bespoke Blending Kit (£32, www. nealsyardremedies.com). There are three organic essential oils to choose from – orange, lavender and palmarosa, along with a base oil, mixing bottle and the Little Book of Essential Oils. Know

someone

who

could

do with a bit of a break over Christmas? Treat them to the Fearne Cotton Calming Collection (£18, Boots). They’ll get a body wash, body mist, bath bomb, body lotion and candle – all with a fragrance designed to calm the mind and soothe the senses. And, as a bonus, there’s a rather pretty gift bag. It can be tricky to choose skincare or make-up for someone. If in doubt, stick to a pretty new cosmetics bag or a new brush set. The No7 Ultimate Brush Collection (£27, Boots) is a good bet. There’s an uber-soft brush for every makeup requirement, and a pot to keep them all in. Lip gloss fans will love Bobbi Brown’s Glossy Lip Duo (£16, w w w. b o b b i b row n . c o. u k ) . Choose from Rosy and Pastel shades, or Bellini and Buff. Or buy both sets to get all four shades, and keep three for yourself! Frequent travellers will welcome Green People’s Skin Retreat – Comfort & Clarity Collection.

There’s a 30ml Neutral Scent-Free Cleanser & Make-up Remover, a 30ml Neutral Scent-Free Light Day Moisturiser and a 10ml Neutral Scent-Free Anti-Ageing 24 Hour Cream. All for the bargain price of £15 (www.greenpeople. co.uk). The products are aimed at people with sensitive skin, but they’re great all-rounders that will suit most skin types. The 50ml version of the moisturiser is usually £19.50, so you’re pretty much getting the cleanser and 24-hour cream for free.

Need some small gifts for teachers, colleagues or friends? The Champneys Bubble Heaven Gift Set (from £16 at Boots) contains three of its bestselling bath soaks. It’s ideal for splitting up into three smaller gifts. Looking for a male grooming gift set? The Mr Festive Gift Set at White Stuff features a Christmasthemed body wash and soap for just £12.50…


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Pick a Panto There are plenty of pantomimes going on in the area to keep the whole family booing, hissing and cheering all winter long. Not sure which to go for? Try these for size: The Old Courts present the age-old tale of Dick Whittington and His Cat from Wednesday, December 18 until Monday, December 23. Join Dick and his cat as they unite forces against the wicked King Rat! Tickets cost £16 per adult and £12 per child on 01942 834747. Jack & the Beanstalk heads to Wigan Little Theatre from Thursday, January 9 until Saturday, January 25. Join Jack as he sells his cow in exchange for magic beans, and evokes the wrath of a terrifying giant. Tickets cost £10/£12 on 01942 242561. Finally, why not take the family off to enjoy Beauty & the Beast, which heads to Leigh Cricket Club for one day only on Saturday, January 11? The show runs from 1:30pm-3pm and brings romance to life as Beauty is imprisoned in the castle of a mysterious Beast, who might not be what he seems... Tickets cost £7.50 per adult and £5 per child at www.leighcc. org

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Dick Whittington at The Old Courts, image by Zak Bretherton

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21

Worsaw Hill by Chris Pearce

Distance: 3½ miles Difficulty: Easy/Medium One of the biggest frustrations walkers face is the erratic quality of the weather forecasts and this trek up to the Ribble Valley some weeks back was a case in point. After a favourable forecast the night before the walk, I packed my hat and sun cream before setting off at 7am. Sadly, the early morning mist stubbornly refused to shift, but don’t let the gloomy pictures put you off tackling this lovely walk. The walk starts at the Assheton Arms pub (BB7 4BJ) in olde-worlde Downham, where you take the footpath down the left of the pub until you reach Croft Cottage. Go through the gate at the side of the cottage and head uphill. Once you’ve gone though another gate further on, you’ll drop downhill to another gate after which you’ll cross Green Lane.

until you reach a very small enclosure with footpath sign – go through the enclosure and carry on in the same direction, through a gate and down an overgrown track until you reach the railway bridge. Go under the bridge and carry on in the same direction until you reach a stone building.

Go through the green metal gate situated opposite and follow the path to the left-hand side of the field

Bear left in front of the stone building, following the track right through to the next field. Go into the


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enclosed pathway on the left-hand side of the field, and the path eventually crosses the railway line and you follow the path through woodland on the opposite side of the track. After reaching a gate go in the field beyond, up the hill and through the log stacks. Once you reach the road, turn right over the A59 and into Chatburn. Once you reach the mailbox on the left turn into Kayley Lane and follow the path all the way downhill.

When you can see the wooden bridge, take a 90-degree right turn and then, at the end of the path, hop over the stile set into the stone wall. Follow this path until you reach the busy A59. Take care crossing the A59, and when you have safely crossed, go though the gate and head uphill through the field. Pass through the small gate set into a stone wall and carry on up a steep rocky path. Visibility was down to around 40 yards at this stage, otherwise I’d have clambered up the Worsaw Hill for some better pics, but things being what they were, I stuck to the path which wound its way between the hill and its smaller sibling Warren Hill. After a slow descent, the path works its way round the back of Worsaw Hill. Worsaw End House comes into view, but stay on this side of the stone wall and follow the clearly defined path as it winds its way though the next four fields, passing by Longlands Wood en-route. Once you emerge from the final field and can see the teashop on the right, take a 90-degree turn and go though the car park, across Downham Beck and onto Main Street. Turn left uphill towards your starting point at Assheton Arms.


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

ck Tra

Saw

Gr ee

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La

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Ro

ad

A59

Green Lane Farm

rn Road

Chatbu

Assheton Arms Downham

Dow

Chatburn

nha Beck m

ook Heys Br

Lower Hall Farm West Lane Farm

Cat Gallows Wood

A5 9

White Croft Wood

We st

Lan

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Longlands Wood

Trac k

Worsaw Hill

Worsaw End House

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


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Cathedral Classics Manchester Cathedral will be hosting beautiful candlelit performances of classical scores this winter. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening in a beautiful setting, or just want to relax with some classics, concertos from The London Concertante of Bach, Haydn, Vivaldi and more will have you moved by spectacular playing and gasping at virtuosity. The next concerts take place on Sunday, November 24 and Friday, January 3 from 7:30pm.

on Saturday, December 28 with a stunningly gentle candlelit backdrop. Tickets cost £19-£29 and are available at feverup.com or on 02036 086975

A Hand Up Wigan-based homeless charity The Brick is looking for volunteers to help run group sessions, serve lunch and evening meals, help out with the night shelter and provide mentoring and listening sessions for vulnerable people.

Ticket prices range from £19-£32, and can be booked on 0333 666 3366.

Just sparing a few hours a week can really help the charity, which provides support for anyone facing homelessness, poverty or debt crisis.

Meanwhile, pianist Daniel Grimwood will bring Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata, along with selected pieces from from Henselt, Chopin and Liszt to life

If you’re interested in helping out, call 01942 417290 or email fiona@thebrick.org.uk

Care Costs Seminar We are local and friendly, and specialise in the following • Inheritance Tax • Lasting Powers Of Attorney • Trusts • Wills • Probate • Care Fee Advice • Funeral Plans

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26

‘Tis the season Join us this December for delicious food, lots of fizz & bubbles.

Set in the heart of Shevington village with a cosy and relaxed atmosphere, Juniper Bar and Kitchen is the perfect place to eat, drink & socialise.

Festive Menu Our festive menu is available from the 27th of November through to Christmas Eve. Our festive menu has lots of delicious festive dishes, made with fresh local produce.

Party Menu Our party menu has been specifically designed with large groups and parties in mind. With a range of options from sit-down, canapé and finger food, we can help you create the perfect catered event with us.

New Year’s Eve Bring in the New Year early with our New Year’s Eve pre party. Arrive from 3.30pm with our celebrations finishing at 8.00pm. Be welcomed with a complimentary drink on arrival. Enjoy a delicious hot and cold buffet, lots of fizz and bubbles, mocktails and drinks offers. Tickets - adults £19.95 children £5.95 under 5s free. To book your place call 01257 253979 or email info@juniperbarandkitchen.com

For more information visit our website

www.juniperbarandkitchen.com To make a reservation call

01942 253979 or email

info@juniperbarandkitchen.com @juniperbarandkitchen @juniperbarandk @juniperbarandkitchen

7 Church Lane Shevington Wigan WN6 8BD


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Food & Drink

Sally’s Specials by Marti of The Star Inn

The Star Inn

Sally’s Cracked Peppercorn and Brandy Cream

The perfect accompaniment to almost any meal and one of my personal favourites

Method Grab a thick bottomed pan or pot and start by warming up a little pomace oil. Once the oil is warm (not roasting) add the whole black peppercorns, lightly softening them in the warm oil. Now add a sprinkling of the cracked black pepper, a tablespoon will be enough. Make sure you are stirring all the time to stop them sticking. The pan should be warm enough now to add the brandy to flambé, a generous splash of Brandy is ok. Be careful and watch your eyebrows!

Ingredients Pomace Oil 10-15 whole black peppercorns Cracked black pepper Brandy 1 pint of double cream 1 pint of beef stock

Once the flame has gone the alcohol has cooked out and you can now add the pint of double cream. Bring this to the boil but pay attention as the cream will rise and boil over if not supervised. Once the cream reaches boiling point, turn the heat down and add a good pint of beef stock (this is where Sally’s secret ingredient takes place, but I’m keeping that under lock and key I’m afraid) Reduce for 20 minutes until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency, gradually add more cracked black pepper to taste and salt and pepper to finish it off. This sauce is amazing and will go with almost any dish you are making. It can also be frozen in batches for the cold winter nights.


29 Sally’s at The Star Inn was launched in 2007 in homage to landlord and chef Marti’s mother Sally, who passed away in 1996. A great cook herself, it was Sally’s lifelong dream to have a restaurant in her name, and Marti wanted to honour that promise when he took the reins of The Star Inn at Roby Mill.

Hogmanay Raspberry Cranachan Serves 2 Ingredients Handful of oats 1 pint of double cream 100g castor sugar Vanilla extract Clear honey 1 orange Whisky 1 punnet of raspberries

This is a very simple but effective dessert, traditionally using oats, cream and whisky

Method Start by lightly toasting a handful of oats under a hot grill. When golden brown remove from under the grill and leave to one side. Whip together the double cream, adding the castor sugar to taste, a splash of vanilla extract, a capful of clear honey, a little grated orange peel and a dash of whiskey. Beat the ingredients together until just about whipped, add in the raspberries and the toasted oats and continue to fold it through until stiff peaks form. A word of warning; be careful not to overwhip or the mixture will curdle, and you’ll have to start again! The raspberries will turn the mixture a light pink, so don’t worry here. Put the mixture into a piping bag and pipe into suitable glasses and refrigerate for 1 hour. Garnish with fresh raspberries, and shortbread for dipping. Heavenly!


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Christmas Eve Boxes

George at

ASDA, £2

Planning a Christmas Eve box this year, but can’t decide what to put in it? Maybe we can help…

efrugi.com www.welov

Pyjamas Many of us give out the Christmas PJs right at the start of the month – to get as much wear out of them as possible. If you haven’t, then you may well be able to pick up a bargain in the days leading up to the 25th, as retailers often reduce their Christmas stock.

Slippers Cosy slippers will prove popular long after Boxing Day. If you’re splashing out, Moccis are a good choice. These hand-sewn moccasin slippers are ethically made in Sweden and available for babies right up to adults.

A Christmas Day outift

A book There are numerous Christmas tales to choose from. ‘The Jolly Christmas Postman’ is usually a winner with children under six, as it comes complete with extra mini-gifts, including a game and jigsaw. Then there’s ‘The Girl Who Saved Christmas’ and ‘A Boy Called Christmas’ for older children.

A small toy, game or activity

£12.99

Choose a game you can all play together as a family, such as Dobble, or an activity to keep them quiet for five minutes while you prepare for the big day.

A memento

If you’re planning a special Christmas Day outfit for your child, add it to their Christmas Eve box. Try supermarkets, as they’ve really upped their game in recent years.

Why not add a Christmas-themed memento to be brought out again year after year? This could be a small decoration to hang on the tree, a mug to drink that hot chocolate from, or a plate for Santa’s mince pie.

A sweet treat

Other little gifts

Whether you go for a packet of sweets, a gingerbread figure or a sachet of hot chocolate, a sweet treat is likely to prove the most popular gift. And let’s face it, your child isn’t going to get to sleep early anyway, so a bit of sugar won’t make too much difference.

If your Christmas Eve box is still looking a bit empty, you could pop in some trinkets, stationery or accessories. We love the notebooks and badges from The Kindness Co-op.

Left to right: F&F cardigan, Tesco. Moccis, from £25, www.moccis.co.uk.com. Santa dress up mug, £8. River Island. Badge, £2, www.thekindnessco-op. Gingerbread man, £9.95, www.biscuiteers.com. Notebook, £4, www.thekindnessco-op.com, Father Christmas decoration, £5, www.nationaltrust.org.uk


33

Road Renovations

A Nightingale Sang

A number of Wigan roads are set to benefit from renovation work from November and branching into 2020. Upcoming improvement schemes include:

Follow one family’s relationships, troubles and joys along the course of WWII in a story about human resilience in the face of adversity. The stoic Helen tells as her grandfather Andie recruits mourners to

• Central Drive in Shevington • A49 Wallgate • A577 Darlington Street • Scot Lane in Aspull

attend the burial of his dog; her father serenades the audience with songs of the period; her younger sister Joyce can’t decide whether to accept a marriage proposal from a man about to be deployed.

• Smethurst Lane in Pemberton • Warrington Road in Ince • Wigan Road in Billinge For updates on expected roadworks, visit www. wigan.gov.uk/Residents/Parking-Roads-Travel/

UP

TO 4

0%

The Douglas Drama Group will perform wartime drama ‘And A Nightingale Sang’ from Thursday, November 28 until Saturday, November 30 at Parbold WI Hall.

Tickets cost £7.50 and are available from DIY Centre in Parbold. Doors open at 7pm on the night of each performance.

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36

Beat the

Burglar! The nights are drawing in, and that brings the burglars out. Burglaries rise in the autumn months as the extended periods of darkness give criminals more cover to carry out their crimes, but there is plenty you can do to protect your home, your belongings and your loved ones. Security consultant Michael Fraser, host of TV’s Beat The Burglar, is well placed to offer advice as he used to be a burglar before turning straight. Here Michael shares seven tips on how to keep your home safe this winter. Watch Your Back Burglars love dark back gardens as they provide them with plenty of cover. Install a motion-sensitive outdoor light to send out a clear security signal. Love your Loft Burglars hate lofts. Most won’t venture up there for fear of being trapped if someone returns unexpectedly. So, lofts are the ideal place to store precious items you don’t need to display. Out of Sight, Out of Mind Burglars will often peep through letterboxes to scope a property. Don’t leave anything on display that can be seen through yours, especially keys! Better still, get a grill or cover for your internal letterbox. Lock the Shed If you have a shed – lock it. Burglars dislike coming armed with tools to a property because it raises the risks of being stopped by Police. Sheds often have a

range of things criminals can use to break into your home, so keep it locked. Beware of the Pets Do you have a sign up saying ‘beware of the dog’? Bad move. As burglars will know this means you are unlikely to have a movement-sensitive alarm as pets trigger these. Make it Hard Work Burglars want an easy life, and many are callous opportunists, so don’t make their lives easy. By having an alarm on show, window locks in place and signs saying you are part of a Neighbourhood Watch or that you have your property security marked, you are signalling your property isn’t an easy touch. Shut Up In the nicest possible way of course. Always ensure your front gate and back gate are closed. This is a small but significant psychological thing. Burglars are hard-wired to look for the easiest option. The good news is by following these, and the many other security tips available online you dramatically reduce the risk of your home being targeted. This blog is sponsored by Alan Batt. For more of Alan’s tips and guidance on your home, visit www.alanbatt.co.uk/blog/ or check out his analysis on the Wigan Property market here; www.wiganpropertynews.blogspot.co.uk

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.

Alan Batt

For more of Alan’s tips, guidance and analysis on the Wigan property market, check out

www.wiganpropertynews.blogspot.co.uk


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We bring you the latest trends in the UK’s housing market, with a detailed focus on WN6 area. House prices The average price of a home rose by 1.2% in August compared to a year ago, according to the official UK house price index. This is the highest level of annual growth recorded since April.

Economy At 0.3% growth in the UK economy in the three months to August was slightly higher than expected. Analysts expect growth of 0.5% over quarter 3, and 1.3% over 2019, down slightly from 1.4% in 2018 and 1.9% in 2017.

Transactions Sales level in September were at their highest monthly level since August 2017 according to the HMRC. 101,740 sales completed, up 2.3% year on year. Quarter on quarter sales volumes rose 1.8%.


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Santa Experiences Manchester’s Ice Village www.icevillage.co.uk Until December 24 Grotto tickets £7.50 per child Cathedral Gardens, Manchester, M4 3BG Get in the festive mood this season with Manchester’s Ice Village! Not only can the kids go and meet Santa, but grown-ups can head to the unmissable Ice Tiki Bar, while families show off their skills at the ice skating rink. Meet a giant ice dragon in the Ice Cavern, sit in a regal ice carriage, see if you can escape a giant ice block and get a real frozen experience! There’ll also be festive market stalls to browse and delicious food on offer.

Knowsley Safari Park www.knowsleysafariexperience.co.uk/whatson/events/enchanted-christmas-event/ Selected dates until December 23 Tickets £7.50 (under-3s go free). Santa’s Grotto must be booked separately at £7.50 per child. Prescot, L34 4AN Get Enchanted at Knowsley Safari Park after dark! Your path will be lit with magical lights and illuminated animals as you traverse the foot safari – plus, enjoy festive food, music and meet Santa at his grotto! You’re really in for an enchanting experience with charming animals, and the chance to make wonderful memories in time for Christmas.

Santa’s Enchanted Forest Until December 21 Tickets £10 per child, £3 per adult (under-1s go free) Shorrocks Hill, Formby, L37 2EB www.santasenchantedforest.co.uk On cold, crisp winter nights, you’ll find Santa and his elves tucked away in the enchanted forest. Explore the Formby woodlands, discover a giant candy house, and a mini locomotive travelling through Santa’s mini village. Families can try dancing with Dancing Davina in a purpose-built studio, write letters to Santa at elf writing school, and visit Father Christmas himself in his log cabin. Finally, capture beautiful pictures in a giant human snow globe!


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Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk Dates until December 22 Grotto tickets £6.50 per child, £7 per adult (admission to Christmas Mansion £10 per adult, £7 per child) Mereheath Drive, Knutsford, WA16 6SG The fairy godmother is waiting to lead you on an enchanting journey through magical woodlands to Tatton Park’s Christmas Mansion. Follow the sweetie trail through the forest and to the servants’ quarters, where you’ll enter the Witch’s gingerbread house. Meander through grand staterooms in the mansion itself, see Cinderella’s magnificent pumpkin coach and beautiful Christmas trees bedecked in lights! Children can meet Santa Claus and make reindeer food at the farm, and there’ll be festive brass, choral concerts and delicious seasonal food available, as well as plenty of opportunities to stock up on stocking

fillers! Pose for a selfie on Santa’s sleigh, enjoy storytellers, face painters and a traditional live nativity – the magic really does come alive for the festive season at Tatton.


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Farmer Teds

Dunham Massey

www.farmerteds.com/farmerchristmas

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunham-massey/

Dates until December 23 Tickets £20 per child, £9.75 per adult, £7.50 per under-1 Flatman’s Ln, Ormskirk, L39 7HW

Until December 30 Tickets £17.50 per adult, £11 per child (under-3s go free) Altrincham, WA14 4SJ

Farmer Ted’s is transformed into a winter wonderland each December – visitors can stroll down magical high street Candy Cane Lane to discover an animated reindeer and donkey show or enjoy a performance from the resident elf band. Nearby, the Reindeer Food Factory will help you make the perfect treat to leave on your lawn for Santa’s reindeers.

Dunham Massey’s winter trail is one of the most anticipated family attractions of the season. The grand avenue will be replanted with gigantic flowers, brought to life with light projections. Head through vortex tunnels, see reflections made by fire on water, and watch in awe as lights tumble from the undergrowth in a spectacular show of illuminations.

Later, meet Santa in his workshop, write a postcard with your festive wishes on at Elf School, build a snowman and post for a picture in the Christmas carriage! A 4D cinema will show Boris’s Christmas Adventure, there’ll be real reindeer for you to meet, and so many photo opportunities along the way.

Your walk under the stars will be finished off with spiced cider, mulled wine or hot chocolate as you gather around the fire-pit to toast marshmallows. For the little ones, a traditional funfair with a helter skelter, Victorian carousel and more awaits; if you’re lucky, you might even spot Santa and his helpers.

Wayfarers Arcade www.wayfarersarcade.co.uk Dates until December 24 Tickets £5 per child (£14 x 3, £18 x 4) Lord Street, Southport, PR8 1NY Make Christmas truly magical in the traditional Victorian shopping arcade at Wayfarers, Southport. Santa will be in residence to hand out gifts to the children in the stunning setting of the arcade.


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Traford Cenrte www.intu.co.uk/traffordcentre/events/ peter-rabbits-christmas-grotto Until December 24 Tickets £8.50 per child, £5.50 per adult Stretford, Manchester, M17 8AA The wonderful world of Beatrix Potter comes to Manchester this Christmas with the immersive Peter Rabbit Grotto. Meet Squirrel Nutkin, decorate elf biscuits with Mrs Tiggy-Winkle, and keep your eyes peeled for the sneaky Mr Tod in his lair. Actors bring the world of Beatrix Potter to life as you travel to meet Santa and receive a special Christmas gift.

Delamere Forest www.forestryengland.uk/forest-event/eventsdelamere-forest/santas-grotto Until December 15 Grotto tickets £8 per child, £2 per adult Whitefield Car Park, Oakmere, Frodsham, WA6 8LH Feel the crunch of winter leaves under your wellies as you follow the Christmas trails at Delamere Forest! Whether you’re picking up your real Christmas tree, enjoying steaming cups of hot chocolate, or visiting Santa in his woodland grotto, there’s something for everyone this Christmas. Children will receive a baby tree to take home and a small gift from Santa.

Ellamora www.ellamora.co.uk Dates between December 7 & 24 Tickets £12 per child Church Road, Rainford, WA11 8HD Ellamora is bringing back the magic of the Tyrers Grotto this Christmas! Featuring the original Santa Claus from St. Helens’ most famous department store, children can visit the man himself in his traditional annexe and receive a magical Christmas gift.

Holland Hall www.hollandhall.co.uk December 15, 12:30pm-3:30pm Tickets £12 per child, £18 per adult Lafford Ln, Up Holland, WN8 0QZ Don’t forget your letters to Santa, because he’s appearing at Holland Hall for a Family Santa Carvery this month! Children can meet the man himself to receive a gift, play games with the elves, and enjoy a delicious 2-course carvery and music from resident DJ Col.

The Star Inn www.thestarinnrobymill.co.uk December 24 Roby Mill, WN8 0QQ Enjoy a delicious festive lunch with Santa and his elves! Families can sample some of Marti Cameron’s star dishes before paying a personalised visit to Santa and receive a gift in the Stables Bar - book on 01257 253355.


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Serves 4

Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup Ingredients

Method

750g large ripe tomatoes

1 Preheat the oven to 200C, 180C fan, gas mark 6. Score a cross in the top and base of each tomato and place in the roasting tin with the peppers, shallots, garlic cloves, olive oil and Italian herbs. Season with salt and freshly ground black

4 red peppers 4 shallots, peeled and halved 2 garlic cloves 2 tbsp virgin olive oil 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato puree 400ml vegetable stock 1 tsp sugar Crème fraiche, roasted pumpkin seeds and shredded fresh basil leaves, to serve

pepper and roast for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes are soft with charred, peeling skins and the peppers have blistered and blackened skins. 2 Carefully place the hot peppers in a large freezer bag and leave until cool enough to handle (this will help to make peeling them easier). Leave the tomatoes and shallots to cool in the roasting tin. 3 Peel the peppers, discarding the seeds and pith, and remove the skins and any tough core from the tomatoes. Place both in a food processor or blender with the shallots and any juices from the roasting tin. Process until very smooth – you may need to do this in two batches. 4 Transfer the pepper and tomato mixture to a large pan and stir in the sun-dried tomato puree, vegetable stock and sugar. Slowly bring to the boil then simmer for 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning, to taste. 5 Ladle the soup into warmed bowls, top with a swirl of crème fraiche and some pumpkin seeds and basil.


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Winter

reads

Whether you’re buying for someone else, looking for ideas for yourself, or plan to buy a book, read it and then wrap it up (we won’t tell), there’s plenty to choose from this month. Banksy You Are an Acceptable Level of Threat Gary Shove & Patrick Potter

Little Robin Red Vest Jan Fearnley

This is so much more than just a coffee-table-worthy photography collection. For a start, it’s snort-out-loud funny. It’s been updated for 2019 and now spans Banky’s career, from the early 90s to 2018. There are anecdotes, irreverent biographical references and a few hundred photos to pore over.

This classic picture book is now 20 years old. It tells the story of how the robin got his red vest. (Spoiler: Father Christmas gave it to him as a reward for the robin giving away his own woolly vests.) A great story, beautiful illustrations and a feel-good message. What more could a young child want from a book on Christmas morning?

The Testaments Margaret Atwood

Burn After Writing (Teen Edition) Rhiannon Shove

The Testaments picks up a few years after The Handmaid’s Tale ended. It weaves together the stories of three women – Daisy, born in Gilead but raised in Canada; Agnes Jemima, who’s desperate to escape the life set out for her by her step-parents; and the infamous Aunt Lydia. Perfect for fans of The Handmaid’s Tale (book or TV series).

A journal with a difference, Burn after Writing invites teens to answer a series of questions to paint a picture of who they are, from ‘The song that makes me want to dance’ to ‘If I had a brainwashing machine, I would use it to’ and ‘Something I do that makes me feel proud of myself’. Perfect for 11 to 14 year olds.

The Corset Laura Purcell Ruth Butterham is on trial for murdering her mistress. She confessed to the crime, but is she guilty or delusional? The more that wealthy prison visitor Dorothea Truelove hears of the beaten and broken Ruth’s tale, the less sure she is of who the real villain is in the story. Is Ruth the killer, is there another murderer at large or, as Ruth seems to believe, is the real culprit something far more unlikely? Gripping historical crime fiction sure to appeal to fans of Sarah Waters.

Veg Jamie Oliver Buying for a vegetarian? Or just someone who enjoys healthy food that tastes great and doesn’t take hours to prepare? This book is for them. There are twists on new classics, such as Veggie Moussaka and Vegan Lasagne, and plenty of more inspired dishes, like Masala Stuffed Peppers, Pulled Mushroom Sandwich and Crispy Cauliflower Katsu. Some take a few minutes to make from scratch, while others are more suitable for chilled-out Sunday brunches.


45

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46

Legal & Finance

Pregnant Employees:

A Practical Approach Pregnancy and Maternity Leave can be a difficult variable for both employer and employee to consider and so it is important that all parties know where they stand, legally speaking. One of the core issues to be aware of is that of discrimination. It should be understood that under the Equality Act 2010, Pregnancy/Maternity is one of the 9 protected characteristics (others include race and sexual orientation by way of example). Any discrimination on this ground is strictly prohibited. An Employer must not: 1. Discriminate by treating a pregnant woman unfavourably because of the pregnancy or a consequential illness (so this would cover ‘morning sickness’); 2. Discriminate by treating a woman unfavourably because she is on compulsory maternity leave or because she is exercising her right to additional or ordinary maternity leave. Following Notification of the pregnancy to an employer, the expectant mother is within a ‘protected period’ for the purposes of employment law. As soon as the employer becomes aware of the pregnancy, they are bound by strict Health and Safety requirements. These include the carrying out of risk assessments as well as altering the working conditions and hours of work of the woman in question. The latter is a cause for countless claims to the Employment Tribunal, where employers have failed to alter the working conditions to a point where a risk is posed to the health of the mother or the baby. This can be problematic in high-pressure or fast-paced jobs, and so is an aspect that needs

to be handled with care to avoid the issuance of proceedings. In these situations, employers must take care to offer suitable alternative work. It may come as a surprise that if this is not possible, the employee should be suspended on full pay. On return to work, the question of whether the employee is entitled to return to the same job, or simply a suitable alternative is complex and specialist advice should be sought. Many issues can arise on return to work, including the recent rights to flexible working (for any reason), which must be considered by an employer, and questions over whether a refusal to allow breastfeeding or time off to breastfeed could constitute indirect sex discrimination. Our employment team are on hand and readily available to assist you should you have issues relating to pregnancy in the workplace or employment matters more generally. We can advise on Employment Tribunal proceedings, appeals to the EAT as well as the navigation of Settlement Agreements. Please call us on 01942 246 241 to discuss further. James Ford, Solicitor & STEP Affiliate


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Our lawyers are familiar with the needs of the people & businesses in the area and our full range of services includes:

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48

Style your home this Christmas Our top tips will help you create a warm and welcoming look.

A wreath on the front door A front-door wreath provides a wonderful festive welcome. There is an enormous variety of readymade wreaths to choose from, or make your own, using leaves, flowers and seed heads from the garden.

An impressive tree Britain’s most popular Christmas tree is the Nordmann fir, while the Norway spruce is cheaper but drops needles unless watered frequently. When buying a cut tree, sawing half an inch off the trunk will help it absorb water. Remove unneeded lowdown or interior branches, and position your tree away from sunny windows and radiators. Wind with an even distribution of lights and garlands and add ornaments, hanging them in the centre of branches and at the tips to create depth and interest.

Mantelpieces, balustrades and pictures Drape fir, ivy, holly and lush green foliage along mantelpieces and the tops of pictures, and wind among balustrades. Add pine cones, baubles, strings of LED lights and battery-operated candles for a gorgeous display.

Candles everywhere Nothing says Christmas like warm, flickering candlelight, but keep them away from decorations and extinguish them before going to bed or leaving the house. Better still, use battery-operated LED candles in the form of tea lights, pillars or bridge decorations.

Piles of presents Presents look better when colour-coordinated and criss-

crossed with ribbons and bows. Inexpensive paper looks lovely with a hand crafted label, or why not consider wrapping in fabric or employing a reusable box. Finish with a tiny pine cone, small bauble or home-made iced biscuit.

Setting the table Set out a special runner and your best crockery, perhaps with plates that layer in colour or have gold edging. Add glassware and cutlery then finish with greenery, pine cones, candles, baubles and other small-scale decorations, plus hand-written place settings.

Hang up stockings Both children and adults can hang stockings, and if you don’t have a handy mantelpiece try a peg rail, branch, coat hooks or stocking hooks.

Card arrangements Christmas cards are a lovely way to decorate your home. Display them in neat rows on a shelf or mantelpiece, tucked into mirrors and picture frames, stapled to ribbons and hung alongside the staircase (weighted with a bauble or pine cone) or from rows of string using mini wooden pegs.

Decorative displays Use illuminated ornaments or a few poinsettias in pots, some bowls of clove-studded oranges and a few baubles or fairy lights in a glass bowl or vase for a sparkly effect.


49


50 A bit more than a bauble, this pineapple decoration is made from hand-blown glass.

Decorate your

Christmas Tree

Pineapple bauble, £16, The Shop Floor Project.

A three-in-one treat, this 19cm glass bauble offers elegant impact.

Who doesn’t love hanging the baubles on their festive tree? Choose an array of the most glamorous and eye-catching ones around and the scene will be set for festive sparkles and joy.

Genielle ornament, £18.75, The Taylor.

This decorative glass bauble is also illuminated. It costs £11.99 from Lights4fun.co.uk.

Photograph: Oliver Perrott


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Beautiful Baubles • Tempting though it is to throw everything at the This acorn made from sequins and pearls is both cute and glamorous. Acorn Bauble, £4.95, Annabel James.

tree, an elegant, unified look is best achieved by limiting your colour palette to just a few different, but co-ordinating, shades. The rest can go back in the box for use in future years. • Hang your nicest baubles around the middle of the tree where they can be seen most easily. If you need to pad them out with cheaper or less interesting ones, hide these at the bottom or at the sides. • Larger baubles are best placed at the centre of branches, where they will add depth, and lower down on the tree. Smaller baubles can go on the ends of branches and at the top. • While you are hanging, stand back regularly and assess how the tree as a whole is looking. The aim is to spread your baubles evenly around, from top to bottom, with a pleasing variety of shapes and sizes.

Chic and sophisticated, this etched glass bauble gives an iridescent rainbow of colours. Hanging iridescent feather glass bauble, £4.50, The Farthing.

Traditional yet glitzy. Set of four nutcracker decorations Go for gold with this 80mm clear bauble with gold ball garland filling, £2, B&Q.

You can’t get more decadent than a glass chandelier bauble, £6.99 each, Dobbies Garden Centres.

£25, Marquis & Dawe. Stick to a simple colour scheme and add a variety of shapes and sizes, as demonstrated by this selection of Lene Bjerre ornaments, from The Taylor.


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54

Broken

Plan

Despite the allure of large, bright spaces, it is not necessarily convenient to live in an open-plan home all the time. Hence the development of ‘broken plan’ design. Although everyone loves open-plan living, sometimes we need a quiet, separate space. Huge open spaces can be difficult to heat, too, and noise can sometimes be an issue. ‘Broken plan’ is a practical evolution of open plan, retaining the elements we love, particularly good light and a feeling of openness, but with subtle elements to divide large spaces into more manageable ones, with different zones for different activities. Spaces may even be opened up or closed off as desired. Broken plan aims to be the best of both worlds. One way to achieve the broken-plan effect is with differences in floor levels, perhaps with a step between the sitting room and the dining room. A ceiling can be lowered in one area of a large, open room to enhance a sense of intimacy. And in homes with very high ceilings, a mezzanine level, perhaps chaplins.co.uk

as an office, snug or guest bedroom, combines open-plan feel with practicality. Other solutions include internal glass walls or floor-to-ceiling steelframed windows to subdivide a space. More typically, especially where two ground-floor reception rooms have been knocked through, a great way to add flexibility is to add glazed or timber

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double doors. Ideally the doors would slide and fold away, or else be hinged so that they fit against the walls when open. Alternatively, connect/separate two rooms with pocket doors, which slide into the slim walls on each side – great for, say, a dressing room off a bedroom. Temporary dividers are convenient and less expensive: a screen, for example, a large floorstanding bookcase, or even simply a slender console table. They can be relatively easily moved around or removed as necessary. An open-plan space can be divided visually, using simple tricks such as changes in paint colour or floor finish and mini ‘rooms’ are easily created by grounding furniture arrangements on a rug or on an area of contrast flooring. Finally, employ lighting as a powerful tool to delineate space. Form zones of different lighting types, including pendants and wall lights, and carefully position floor and table lamps. If possible, install different circuits (controlled by switches or dimmers) to break down the spaces and illuminate different parts to suit your needs, whether it be a living area or bedroom, a kitchen or a dining area. By Katherine Sorrell


55


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Appley Bridge Remembers More than 300 people turned out for Appley Bridge’s annual Remembrance Service at the war

attendees observed a minute’s silence at 11am in memory of the sacrifices made for our freedom.

memorial on Sunday, November 10. Residents visited the war memorial outside the village community centre on Appley Lane, with families, uniformed organisations and the Police Force paying tribute to those who lost their lives during the Great War. The service was led by local ministers Fr Phillip Tuite from St. Joseph’s RC Church in Wrightington, Rev John Hilton from The Vale Methodist Church, and Rev John Mountain and Reader Diane Green from All Saints Appley Bridge. After Bible readings, prayers, and the laying of the wreath,

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58 A decorative lamp can come in all shapes, sizes, materials and colours. This is a selection from Woods Furniture.

An on-trend, metallic cagelike base is teamed with a pretty cotton shade, making this distinctive lamp ideal for classic, contemporary and industrial-inspired interiors. Maui LED table lamp, ÂŁ79, Atkin

Brighten Up

Your Evenings

and Thyme.

Adding some good-looking illumination is a great way to introduce both a decorative focal point and increase atmosphere in any room. Bring on some Hollywood glamour with a gold and feather lamp (the feathers are ethically sourced, by the way). Mini feather lamp by A Modern Grand Tour, ÂŁ1,900, Sweetpea & Willow.


59 A minimal table lamp from Lene Bjerre would make the perfect accent for a contemporary home. Metta table lamp, £90, Sweetpea & Willow.

This textural, informal lantern would add fashionable interest in an understated, modern space.

Lined with a navy cotton interior, this lampshade uses nautical imagery from a series of 18th century hand-coloured prints, depicting ships in

Antique brass knitted lantern, large, £48, Rose & Grey.

dramatic ocean conditions.

Let there be light

Sleek and sophisticated, this large glass and metal lamp would add a touch of modern classic style to any room.

• When you are seeking an inexpensive update, simply remove any dull, old, less-than-stylish table lamps and plug in your new, on-trend, up-to-the-minute choices and voila! an instant change of look. • Use a table lamp to create a welcoming reading corner in a living room, or simply to introduce a cosy pool of light in a dark area. They look great on a hall console or a small table on a landing, and are, of course, both practical and beautiful either side of a bed. • Lanterns are even easier than lamps, as they don’t need a nearby plug. If you are wary of using candles for safety reasons, substitute battery-operated LED candles instead. • Buying more than one lamp for a room? Identical pairs look smart and traditional, but you don’t have to buy them all the same. A range of styles can create interest and work in different areas. It is, however, worth choosing styles that have colour, pattern, material or shape in common, in order to give the room a sense of overall cohesion This sturdy modern lantern would be great inside or out. Autumn wooden lantern, £24.99, Lights4fun. Image: Simon Hylton

Shipwreck lighthouse lampshade, £58, Cream Cornwall.

Cranmer table lamp, £369, Pepper Sq.


60

Standish Speaks Wigan Rotary Club got involved with sponsoring this year’s Junior Speaks competition: a chance for primary school pupils to present informative and engaging talks on various topics. This year’s winners were students from St. Wilfrid’s Primary School in Standish, who performed their talk on Gender Equality in Sport to Rotarians and guests. Five young people and their teachers headed to the Rotary’s Thursday lunch at The Owls in Standish to present the confident speech that assured the Club the future is still in safe hands! Judge Dianne Hawkins from the Bolton Speakers Club was ‘delighted and encouraged’ by the standards of public speaking the young students had achieved.

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64

Crystal Ball Required?

Most people’s hopes and expectations for retirement nowadays are very different from those who were retiring in the past. Retirees now have much grander plans. Travelling the world, spending more time on hobbies, spoiling the grandchildren or just plain taking it easy. In order to enjoy all the things on their wish list, they need to have the income to afford them. For most people, the state pension isn’t enough to allow them to achieve their vision of a comfortable and active retirement. And increasingly, income from other pensions is not enough either.

after you retire is far more problematic, because you have no set end date; you could check out early or you may join the increasing number of names on Her Majesty’s birthday card list. Key risks to your retirement pot There are a number of specific risks that need to considered when deciding how to generate an income from retirement savings; • Living longer than expected • Inflation: rising prices will eat into the value of savings

Building (and keeping) your retirement pot

• Will the mix of investments be the right ones

Recent advertising campaigns have focused on encouraging people to save more for their retirement. Whilst this is important, it’s equally as vital to make those savings last throughout retirement, both for those approaching retirement and for those who have already retired.

• Withdrawal risk: taking too much, too soon

Ever since the global financial crash in 2008, interest

How can we help?

rates on saving accounts have been low and standard annuities have offered poor value. This has led to the situation where, for many people, the state pension and other individual pension arrangements that pay a guaranteed income for life simply aren’t enough to fund a comfortable retirement. In order to achieve a comfortable retirement then, people may have to depend to a large extent on sources of income which are not guaranteed for life in the way traditional pensions are. When you’re saving for retirement, the objectives are clear; to accumulate a large a pot as possible before the day you retire. Managing that pot effectively

• Will you need long term care funding Planning for retirement when considering all of the above risks can be a daunting task. Sadly, the lack of a crystal ball means that the future can be very difficult to predict.

Whilst we do not have a crystal ball, we do have many years’ experience of dealing with clients approaching/or in retirement who require strategies to enable them to achieve their retirement dreams. If you find yourself in this position please do not hesitate to give us a call on 01257 423800. The initial meeting will be at our expense and of course is without obligation.

David Barton APFS Cert CII (MP) Managing Director & Chartered Financial Planner


65

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66

Small Business

Saturday Grassroots campaign Small Business Saturday returns this month, uniting small businesses across the UK and encouraging shoppers to support independent traders in their local area. On Saturday, December 7, the focus will be on the successes and achievements of these local companies. Not only do you help out the local economy when you shop local, but you help to create more jobs locally and are often getting something more original than heading to the high street. Shopping locally even helps the environment, with products often locally sourced and fewer miles travelled to the store for customers too. Last year, an estimated £812 million was spent in small businesses across the UK on Small Business Saturday. In Haigh, sisters Angela Tickle and Julie Robinson have been running their floristry business for 25 years. They opened up in the old tearooms at Haigh Hall back in 1994, moving to the Courtyard 9 years ago after the refurbishment took place. The duo joined the Small Business Saturday group three years ago, and say it has helped them gain more hits online and boosted their social media account. Angela said: ‘We joined the group to gain some support from like-minded businesses within the area, and we haven’t been disappointed. It is a great network of people and we are always in contact with other businesses and the group themselves, helping out and sharing resources. ‘With the high street in decline I think it’s important for small businesses to not only stick together, but

to shout about what they have to offer. With an independent business you are getting bespoke services and personal customer care. The Small Business Saturday group really tap into this and help us to get the word out there.’


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Business View

Improving CashflowThere’s an App (or two) for that! by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy Cashflow is the lifeblood of any business. Many seemingly profitable businesses go bust every year simply because they are owed money. So, well planned credit control practices must be put in place before you start giving credit terms to customers. You’ll know by reading our previous articles that we are a big advocate of online accounting solutions such as Xero and Quickbooks. These programmes allow you to focus on growing your business and they also integrate with certain Apps which help you keep cash flowing in. Using these apps in conjunction with Xero or Quickbooks, you’ll be able to; • Set up customisable templates to automatically send to customers • Schedule these templates to be sent out at different points before and after an invoice’s due date • Set the timing of when reminders are sent out • Create multiple schedules with different chasing approaches for different groups of customers • Provide insights into your customers credit history so that you make the best decisions These apps work for any size of business, whether you are a one-man band electrical or plumbing company or a larger organisation employing 10’s of staff, then the process can be adapted to suit your requirements. By using modern cloud-based software such as Xero in conjunction with these apps, you can make the whole accounting process for your company as slick and efficient as possible. You can integrate your online banking, send your sales invoices electronically, scan your invoice and receipts via

your mobile phone and then let the software automatically chase your outstanding invoices. In addition to these features, Xero is fully compliant with Making Tax Digital and therefore submitting your VAT returns via the software ensures that you are staying on top of the changes being introduced by HMRC. CMA can assist you in several ways; • We can help you set up the software and train you and your staff to get the most from it • We can take a more active role, process your bookkeeping and send you a report at the end of each month so you can see how your business is performing. If you have any questions regarding Xero, Credit Control, Making Tax Digital or switching to an online accounting system please do get in touch.

Special Offer For a limited period we are offering all new clients Xero software free of charge for 6 MONTHS if they sign up for our services before the end of December.

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70

Health & Fitness

Six Tips for a

Healthy Winter The shorter, darker, colder, wetter days of winter can leave even the fittest and chirpiest of us feeling mentally and physically run-down. To keep you feeling better through the winter:

1: Reduce your infection risk Colds and flu are rife at this time of year, and while being cold cannot give you a cold (only a virus can do that) it can stress your body and lower your immunity. Take extra care with hygiene and take antibacterial hand gel with you when you go out. If you’re eligible for a free flu vaccine, or are in an atrisk group for whom the vaccine’s recommended, make sure you get it early, before flu season gets underway. Ignore those who claim the vaccine gives you flu; it can’t, as it contains no live viruses. People who get flu after the vaccine may have a rarer flu strain not covered by the vaccine or may have already had a flu virus before their vaccination became fully active (10-14 days after vaccination).

2: Keep exercising Exercise can boost your immune system, release endorphins that make you feel better and warm you up, too. Bundle up and stay safe by avoiding exercising when its icy and wearing bright, reflective clothes if you’re out in the dark. If the winter weather does put you off, consider indoor alternatives: swimming, indoor climbing, exercise classes, a local gym, a new exercise DVD or some home gym equipment like an exercise bike. The NHS has some great free exercise routines. Check out www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise and click on ‘fitness guides’ for a range of ten-minute workouts and exercises, or www.nhs.uk/conditions/ nhs-fitness-studio for online exercise videos. The range covers yoga, Pilates, strength exercises,

aerobic workouts and more, so there’s something for everyone.

3: Get enough daylight, fresh air and vitamin D supplements! Tempting as it might be, hibernating indoors isn’t great for your health. Your body uses sunlight to regulate your body clock and create vitamin D, an essential vitamin for building strong teeth, muscle and bone. However, while daylight helps, between October and early March in the UK there’s not enough of it for you to make sufficient vitamin D, even if you regularly spend time outdoors; nor can you make up the deficit by eating vitamin D-rich foods like oily fish (e.g. salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel), red meat, liver, egg yolks and fortified foods like fat spreads and breakfast cereals. So while getting some winter sun and eating vitamin D-rich foods can help, the NHS recommends that everyone should top-up with a daily 10mcg vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter.

4: Stay warm Being too cold puts stress on your body. When the temperature drops below 8°C, some people are at increased risk of mental or physical illness, especially if they’re over 65, disabled, pregnant, have young children (under school age), have a mental health condition or have a long-term health condition. Low temperatures increase vulnerability to heart attacks, stroke, flu, pneumonia, hypothermia, falls and injuries, and can worsen mental health conditions like depression and dementia. It also increases the symptoms of Raynaud’s Disease, a relatively common condition that interrupts blood supply to the extremities, causing symptoms such as pain, numbness, stiffness and pins and needles.


71 It most commonly affects the fingers, and you may notice them go white or even blue and then turn red as blood flow returns. Keep your home heated to at least 18°C and use hot water bottles, heat packs or electric blankets. Try a hot bath, have hot drinks and eat for warmth (hot cereals, soups and stews). Pre-warm clothes on a radiator or in your airing cupboard, and once you’re outdoors try to breathe through your nose, as this warms air before it reaches your lungs. Wear layers, warm gloves and a hat. If you have Raynaud’s Disease, use hand dryers for warmth, wear an extra pair of gloves and socks, and avoid heavy carrier bags that restrict blood flow to your fingers.

5: Eat healthy comfort food Comfort food doesn’t have to be unhealthy. Stews and soups are great winter foods, but watch your fat and salt intake and include plenty of vegetables. Homemade soups are easily made with a cheap, simple blender, and cooked fruit with low-fat custard makes a great winter pudding. The NHS website has

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some healthy, warming recipes. Just visit www.nhs. uk/live-well/eat-well and click on recipes.

6: Finally, look after your mental health Stay active, warm and sociable: exercise, time spent outdoors and the company of others can all help stave off winter blues. However, if you think you may have full-blown SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), see your GP for help. Don’t suffer in silence.


72

Festive

Food Swaps After weeks of festive foodie temptations, it’s easy to start the New Year a few pounds heavier and feeling far from fit. But the alternative isn’t avoiding treats altogether: it’s choosing the swaps you can live with. Start as You Mean to Go On If you must have a starter, keep it small and light. SWAP creamy soups or cheese laden dishes for: • A small prawn cocktail with fresh lettuce and a little low-fat dressing (if you must add bread, stick to half a slice of wholemeal). • A small fresh fruit cocktail. • A small bowl of cream-free soup. The Main Event SWAP • Duck or goose for turkey or a lean cut of red meat. • Butter-basting your turkey for removing the skin (reducing the calories by nearly a third and fat by more than half ).

• Sainsbury’s Mixed Berry Trifle Desert (171 calories, 21g sugar, 7g fat) SWAP • Elmlea double cream (351 calories, 4g sugar, 36g fat per 100ml) for • Sainsbury’s low-fat yogurt (62 calories, 7g of sugar, 1g fat per 100g) Raise Your Glass – Not Your Blood Pressure

• Sausage meat for vegetarian sausage mix in stuffing.

Alcohol is usually high in sugar and calories: consider swapping 175ml glasses of some alcoholic drinks for these delicious alternatives.

• Goose fat or lard etc. for a low-fat vegetablebased oil or spray oil.

Bollinger champagne (133 calories) for

• Some of your roast potatoes for crispy jacket potatoes (not mash: the added milk and butter is its downfall). • Roasted vegetables for steamed ones. Your Just Desserts 113g (a quarter) of a standard Christmas pud usually has 375-400 calories and 40-50g of sugar, although they are relatively low in fat. Fancy something healthier? Try 113g of: • Morrison’s Very Berry Strudel (287 calories, 18g sugar, 13g fat)

• J2O Spritz watermelon (35 calories) Dry River Pinot Grigio (158 calories) for: • Welch’s White Grape, Pear and Apple Juice (35 calories) Echo Falls Merlot (125 calories) for: • Asda Grape, Apple and Raspberry Juice (100 calories)

Choose your swaps wisely and you could save pounds of both kinds. Merry Christmas!


73

Health & Fitness

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74

Leisure

Upload your event for FREE at www.locallife247.co.uk/events Standish Christmas Fayre

And A Nightingale Sang

Sunday, November 24, 11:30am-1:30pm

Thurs, Nov 28 – Sat, Nov 30, 7pm

Lots to buy and enjoy, including craft and gift stalls, homemade cakes and bacon butties. Free entry.

Douglas Drama Group present CP Taylor’s play set in WWII, which follows a family through the heartbreak, nostalgia and surprising humour of the era. Tickets £7.50 from DIY Centre Parbold.

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

Parbold WI Hall, Station Road, Parbold, WN8 7NU

Haigh Lights Switch-On Sunday, November 24, 12pm-4:45pm

Christmas Bingo

See the Christmas lights switched on in the Courtyard, with a festive firework finale! There’ll be music from the Golborne Brass Band, family entertainment and a visit from Santa. Free entry.

Friday, November 29, 5pm

Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, Haigh, WN2 1PE

St. James the Great Wrightington, WN6 9SP

Love Song

Xmas Ceramics Workshop

Weds, Nov 27 – Sat, Dec 7, 7:30pm

Friday, November 29, 6:30pm-8:30pm

A look into the lives of a couple over their long marriage, telling the story of growing old together. Tickets £10-£12, bookable on 01942 242561.

Create a set of personalised ceramic tree decorations in time for Christmas. Tickets £10 on Eventbrite, including a glass of fizz and mince pie.

Wigan Little Theatre, Crompton Street, Wigan, WN1 3SL

Wigan STEAM, The Galleries, Wigan, WN1 1QF

Festive Extravaganza Thursday, November 28, 5:30pm-7:30pm

Enjoy festive bingo games for the whole family! Tickets £2 from the venue including refreshments, then bingo books cost £1 each on the night. Church,

Church

Ln,

Festival Fundraiser Friday, November 29, 8pm

Enjoy a festive shopping extravaganza with exclusive offers and discounts, plus more than 13 local producers exhibiting food, wines, gins and more!

Singer/songwriter and guitarist Ken Nicol, with Wigan duo Kim & Wayne perform blues and folk songs to raise funds for Coppull Folk Festival. Tickets £8 from Ken on 01942 732728 or Kevin on 01257 400650.

Derby House, Mossy Lead Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RE

Standish Unity Club, Cross Street, Standish, WN6 0HQ


75

Tunley Christmas Fair

Winter Makers Market

Saturday, November 30, 11am-1pm

Saturday, November 30, 11am-3pm

Browse stalls offering homemade cakes, Christmas gifts and toys, bric-a-brac and more. There’ll also be plenty of competitions, raffles and games, plus a Santa’s Grotto. Light lunches available.

Local artists and makers offer bespoke goods with a festive theme, plus make your own Santa plate or Christmas card.

Tunley URC Hall, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RW

All Saints Xmas Fair Saturday, November 30, 11am-2pm

Wigan STEAM, The Galleries, Wigan, WN1 1QF

Standish Christmas Market Saturday, November 30, 11am-8pm Festive fun across Standish, with plenty of stalls to browse, a Santa’s Grotto, food, drink, dancing & more!

Browse stalls offering everything from Christmas plants to books and cards, visit Santa in his grotto, submit a Christmas prayer request and enjoy tasty refreshments.

Standish Village Centre

All Saints Appley Bridge Church, Finch Ln, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DT

Saturday, November 30, 12pm-4pm

Christmas Fayre Wigan & Leigh Hospice are hosting a Christmas fayre packed with stalls, raffles and tombolas, plus a Santa’s Grotto for the little ones. Free admission. The Monaco, Atherton Road, Hindley, WN2 3EU

Christmas in Standish The ever-popular Standish Christmas Market returns on Saturday, November 30, and excitement is already mounting. Featuring the usual wealth of stalls spread across Market Place, Cross Street, St. Wilfrid’s Church, Standish Methodist Church and Standish Library. Expect tasty food offerings, live music from local artists, and so many stalls you won’t know where to head first! Santa once again heads to his grotto in Standish LIbrary to hand out gifts for the little ones, with lots of festive activities going on around him. Hosted by Standish Voice, the market will be great fun for all the family, and bring the festive cheer to the village in full force.

For more information and updates about the market, keep an eye on the Standish Christmas Market Facebook page or visit www.standishvoice.co.uk


76

Prom Weekend

Carols around the Tree

Sat, Nov 30, 10am-5pm & Sun, Dec 1, 10am-4pm

Wednesday, December 4, 6:30pm

Hundreds of gowns to choose from for your Prom Princess, including top brands like Morilee, To The Nines and Gino Cerutti. Refreshments available.

Join the Red Admiral Band, Sing4Fun and local schools to sing Christmas carols around the tree. Dress warmly and bring a torch! Traditional refreshments available, more info on 01257 464431.

Romancia, Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PB

Parbold Village Hall, The Green, WN8 7DN

Mulled Wine Walk Sunday, December 1, 12:30pm-2:30pm Enjoy a free guided wintery walk around Haigh Woodland Park and enjoy a glass of mulled wine! Haigh Woodland Park, School Ln, Haigh, WN2 1PE

Pemberton Xmas Market Sunday, December 1, 12:30pm-6:30pm

Xmas Wreath Workshop Thursday, December 5, 6:30pm-9pm Create a traditional foliage wreath with beautiful flowers, with a delicious food spread and welcome drinks. £45 including materials, bookable at www. oliveowl.co.uk Love It Gallery, Winstanley Rd, Billinge, WN8 0AA

Browse stalls, meet and greet favourite characters, see a birds of prey display, a giant snow globe, delicious food and more! There’ll be a funfair and visit from Santa for the children.

Once upon a Pantomime

Pemberton Masonic Hall, Chapel St, WN5 8JP

Swing into Xmas

Mawdesley Amateur Dramatics present a family pantomime written by Emma Meen. Tickets £8 per adult or £4 per child at www.madsociety.co.uk or SPAR.

Sunday, December 1, 7:30pm

Mawdesley Village Hall, Hurst Green, L40 2QT

Join Andy Prior and the Swingtime Big Band for a night of Christmas swing music! Tickets £20 from Peter on 07848 818276.

Festive Wreath Workshop

Village on the Green, Woods Road, Aspull, WN2 1PJ

Light for a Life Tuesday, December 3, 6:30pm Join Wigan & Leigh Hospice as 5,000 Christmas lights are switched on to celebrate special occasions, loved ones and more. Show your love with a light of your own on the tree, to be entered into a Book of Dedications. Wigan & Leigh Hospice, Kildare St, Hindley, WN2 3HZ

Thurs, Dec 5 - Sat, Dec 7, 7:30pm (2pm matinee on Sat)

Friday, December 6, 6:30pm-8:30pm Impress friends and family with your own handcrafted Christmas wreath. Tickets £10 including materials, bookable on Eventbrite. Wigan STEAM, The Galleries, Wigan, WN1 1QF

Family Christmas Party Friday, December 6, 7pm-midnight Festive fun for all the family, featuring a disco, raffle, buffet and visit from Santa himself! Tickets £3 per adult or £2 per child from Shawna on 07962 321803. Highfield Cricket Club, Billinge Rd, WN3 6BL


77

Christmas Fayre

Beacon Santa Dash

Saturday, December 7, from 12pm

Sunday, December 8, 10am-1pm

Book-Cycle is hosting a festive fayre complete with craft and gift stalls, a Santa’s grotto and mulled wine.

Take part in a 5K Santa Dash or a 1 mile family fun run – entry £5 per person or £10 per family, including a Santa hat, medal and post-race mince pie. Prizes awarded for the best dressed Santa – more info at www.discoverormskirk.com/events/

Book-Cycle Beech Hill, Buckley St, Wigan, WN6 7PQ

Reg Meuross

Beacon Country Park, Up Holland, WN8 7RU

Saturday, December 7, doors at 7pm

5K Santa Dash

Acoustic Roots welcomes master songwriter Reg Meuross for a night of folk music – tickets £14 from WeGotTickets, just search Acoustic Roots Wigan. St. Michael & All Angels Church, Higher Lane, Dalton, WN8 7RP

Sunday, December 8, 11am Don your Santa suit and take off on a 5K route around Mesnes Park. Entry £20 per adult, £15 per U16 and £8 per U10 at www.christmasdash.co.uk Mesnes Park, Wigan, WN1 1TU

Nativity Festival Sat, Dec 7 & Sun, Dec 8, 1pm-4pm Enjoy a display of Nativity scenes old and new donated by local families and churches, and tie a knot in the Advent branch. Refreshments available. St. Peter’s Church, High St, Mawdesley, L40 3TD

Aladdin Saturday, Dec 7 – Sunday, Jan 12, various times A larger than life family pantomime – join the hero Aladdin as he battles the evil Abanazer and his dastardly plan to rule the world, helped out by a special genie. Tickets bookable on 01744 756000.

Greenslate Christmas Fair Sunday, December 8, 11am-3pm Loads of fab Christmas activities to enjoy and plenty of festive food, plus enough stalls to fill any stocking! Kids can meet Santa and have a go on the bouncy castle. Free entry. Greenslate Farm, Greenslate Road, Billinge, WN5 7BG

Family Fun Day Sunday, December 8, 12pm-4pm

St. Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St. Helens, WA10 1LQ

A free Christmas fun day for all the family, with live music, a pantomime, festive circus skills workshops, a treasure trail, golf tasters and more. Little ones can meet Santa or decorate festive lollies.

Santa Stroll

Haigh Woodland Park, School Ln, Haigh, WN2 1PE

Sunday, December 8, 10am

Brass Concert

Raise money for Wigan Samaritans with a 7K family walk around Haigh Plantations. Entry £10 including a Santa suit, under-3s free, bookable on Eventbrite. Haigh Woodland Park, School Ln, Haigh, WN2 1PE

Sunday, December 8, 7pm-10pm Join the Pemberton Old Wigan ‘B’ Band for a Christmas concert under the direction of Alistair Burrows. Tickets £6 on the door. Pemberton Band Room, Enfield St, Wigan, WN5 8DZ


78

Kenyon’s Xmas Concert

Intrada Brass

Sunday, December 8, 6:30pm-9pm

Friday, December 20, 7:30pm

Join the Pemberton Old Wigan DW Brass Band to raise money for The Christies Charity. Tickets £10 in advance or £12 on the door, including mulled wine and mince pie, bookable on 01695 624426.

The Music Continuum presents a night of festive music with Intrada Brass. Tickets £10 from Peter on 07848 818276.

Holland Hall Hotel, Lafford Ln, Up Holland, WN8 0QZ

St. Michael & All Angels Church, Duke Street, Swinley, WN1 2BJ

Christmas Concert

Jack & the Beanstalk

Friday, December 13, 7:30pm-9:30pm

Thurs, Jan 9 – Sat, Jan 25, 7:30pm (2:15pm matinees available)

An evening of festive music with the Coppull and Standish Brass Band. Tickets £8 including refreshments on 01257 463407/425330/426252. Tunley URC, Mossy Lea Rd, Wrightington, WN6 9RW

Jack sells his cow in exchange for magic beans – what happens when he attracts the wrath of a scary giant? Tickets £10/£12 on 01942 242561. Wigan Little Theatre, Crompton St, Wigan, WN1 3SL

Santa Hunt Sunday, December 15, 10am-3pm

Beauty & the Beast

Santa has lost the password to his sleigh’s supercomputer – can you find the clues hidden around Beacon Country Park and piece it together? Trail maps cost £2 from the Ranger Office, and prizes are available!

Saturday, January 11, 1:30pm-3pm

Beacon Country Park, Up Holland, WN8 7RU

Leigh Cricket Club, Beech Walk, Leigh, WN7 3LH

Stockists of designer prom gowns including Jora & Mascara • Bespoke styles available • Excellent aftersales service & full range of alteration services for any occasion • School exclusivity lists • Late night appointments Sample prom/occasion dresses from £50-£80

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A fun family pantomime comes to life as Beauty is imprisoned in the castle of a mysterious Beast – watch the tender romance unfold between them! Tickets £5 per child/£7.50 per adult at leighcc.org


Gardening

79

Planning your

Christmas garden by Angie Barker

Award Winner photo: James H. Miller, Wikipedia

I had a strange conversation with Hubby the other day. I mentioned I wanted to buy our grand daughter the Twirlywoos and their Big Red Boat for Christmas. You can probably imagine his reaction – and if you don’t have small children or grand children, you too are probably wondering what on earth I’m talking about! If Christmas shopping is making you feel stressed, try escaping to the peace and quiet of your garden for 5 minutes. Being outside in the fresh air and close to nature is now recognised as a great stress reliever. I often retreat to the garden at this time of year with a cup of tea and a throw to keep me warm – after all I’ve not even had the conversation with Hubby yet about the Ninky Nonk!! I know it sounds a strange thing to say when really all you’ve got on your mind is your Christmas shopping, gardens should still hold interest and look good even in the depths of winter and the best way to achieve this is to use plants for structure and

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.

colour. Here are some good examples: Viburnum tinus ‘Eve Price’ grown as a half standard. They bring height and evergreen structure and have small white flowers in the winter months – and they look great wrapped with fairy lights. Bergenia ‘Bressingham Beauty’ or Elephants Ears. A low growing evergreen with rounded leaves which colour up red during the cold weather. Sarcococca confusa or Christmas Box. A medium sized evergreen shrub with highly scented white flowers in winter. Skimmia ‘Rubella’ is a hardy evergreen shrub with reddish/pink bud like flowers around Christmas time. They do prefer acidic compost so I’ve got mine planted in a pot by my front door. Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald ‘n’ Gold’. This small shrub will brighten even the darkest winter border If you are stuck for a gift idea, why not buy your loved one a plant which is performing at its best at this time of year and which will give them pleasure for many years to come. After all, garden centres aren’t just for Christmas decorations! Have a very lovely Christmas everyone and see you next year.

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

Award Winner

photo: Dominicus Johannes Bergsma, Wikipedia


80

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82

Motoring

Lexus

Luxury

The Lexus UX 250 will certainly turn heads, and not from the noise. Its striking looks and angles make for

Below that sits F-Sport, which boasts features such as sports suspension, sports seats and a black grille,

a distinctive and arresting aesthetic. Not everyone will like it, but it’s far more interesting than a BMW or Audi.

bumpers and side sills.

The rear lamps connect in a full-width strip, giving it a hi-tech appearance. Triggered by ambient light levels, the auto-illuminating front LED lights give the aggressive front end a poised stance; then there’s that huge front grille that almost wraps around the front, unlike anything else on the market.

Interior The front of the UX’s cabin is where Lexus excels. The space feels generous and welcoming, material quality is excellent, and features nice touches like the optional dashboard covering that resembles textured Japanese washi paper.

The Premium Plus Pack includes leather seats, privacy glass, bigger 18in alloy wheels, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, keyless entry and a powered tailgate. The Tech and Sound pack includes the parking sensors, electric seats and high-end hi-fi. The seats are comfortable for short or long rides, while rear space is slightly below average for additional passengers. Passenger storage is reasonable, but not superb. There’s a smallish glovebox and front door bins, along with a decent cubby under the central armrest and a couple of cup holders. Rear-seat passengers are served with a couple of map pockets but no door bins.

The Drive

As usual, Lexus touts its superior craftsmanship – called Takumi – and named the top-end trim

On the open road the UX combines precise steering

package after it. Takumi spec is equipped with a larger 10.3in infotainment screen and DVD player, an upgraded sound system, heads-up display, leather upholstery and sunroof.

with good body control and resilient grip to feel quite keen in corners. It doesn’t flop around the way a tall SUV might, due to its lightweight aluminium and composite panels which give it a lower centre


83 of gravity. This combined with a seating position lower than other SUVs, the UX feels more car-like to manoeuvre. While unintended for off-roading, an all-wheel-drive version with a separate dedicated electric motor generator integrated into the rear differential offers more traction on slippery surfaces. The brake pedal can feel awkward, owing to the hybrid system trying to balance regenerative braking to charge the battery with conventional deceleration.

panel of physical buttons below the dash offer

Speaking of the hybrid system, it features a new

intuitive ways to interact with it.

four-cylinder 176bhp 2.0-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain with direct-shift continuously variable transmission (CVT). It is self-charging and benefits from regenerative braking, so there’s no plug to worry about. When there’s enough battery energy it’s possible to pull away on electric only (EV) power. However, at about 1,600kgs, pulling away on electric alone means being very gentle with the pedal. Often the engine will take over as is required for faster acceleration. But in a car park, or heavy traffic, you could easily stick to electric alone. All this results in economy estimates of 68.9-65.7mpg and emissions of 96-103g/km CO2 (for the 17- and 18-inch wheel front-wheel drive models).

Infotainment System Lexus prides itself on forging its own path, but in some instances this hasn’t been successful. Take the sat nav, for example, which is awkward and notoriously fiddly. It’s an older postcode-based system, which makes searching by house or road number first impossible, and a limited database prevents some destinations from being entered. There’s no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto either, despite there being two USB ports available. The remote is a mousemat-like controller, which is touch-sensitive and used to select options on screen. Its high sensitivity makes using it, especially while driving, a tricky proposition. Luckily, the UX’s

more conventional controls for climate and more. Overall, the Lexus UX doesn’t lack the tech itself, just In a tax (and social) environment increasingly concerned with emissions, the UX hybrid offers a unique solution and silhouette in a crowded segment, but some of the creature comforts leave something to be desired.and more.

Key Specs • Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl, twin electric motor • Transmission: CVT automatic, front-wheel drive • Power: 179bhp • 0-60mph: 8.5 seconds • Top speed: 110mph • Economy/CO2: 53.3mpg/97g/km

For • Very comfortable seats make for great long or short drives  • Hybrid powertrain helps keep tax cost and emissions down  • Peppy drive from a CVT gearbox  • Low CO2 Emissions 

Against • Cramped rear seat and storage space  • Poor towing ability  • Difficult to use on-board tech  • No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto 


84

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ngineers

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 5 star rating with Wigan Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme

or

Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk T you need Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk me until Check

helen@carrolls-cleaning.co.uk

LocalLife

X

Call H us now

0843 A224 9555 U rton Brethe 07595S 420237 me!

Health FREE Car Book your Call now on

• Professional Carpet - Rug - Upholstery Cleaning • Leather Cleaning & Restoration • FREE Pre-Inspection Visit & Quotation

Call Sally: 01695 627 999

Slash your electricity and water heating bill Protect your household from future energy price rises ReduceE your household’s impact on the environment

(10% typical return)

k h ChecVisit our showroom at

Healt Car84 dio

Providing professional carpet & upholstery cleaning since 1993 Carpets Leather

Upholstery Curtains Oriental Rugs Hard Floors

For more information call:

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

www.alliancechemdry.co.uk


87

Wigan’s premier domestic cleaning service

Cleaning in the Wigan area for 10+ years

We only use reliable, vetted staff • £11.95 per hour - minimum 2 hrs • Same cleaner each visit • All domestic duties provided

Call or email Joanne 01942 203442 joanne@acleanbreak.co.uk / www.acleanbreak.co.uk/wigan

PB

Power Washing

PROFESSIONAL EXTERNAL CLEANING • Driveways - Cleaning & Sealing • Patios & Decking • Walls & Brickwork • Conservatories - Internal & External • Gutters, Fascias & Soffits • Gutter Vacuuming

Call Paul today to arrange a free quote

01257 402 113 ~ 07736 396 374 www.pbpowerwashing.co.uk

Over 60 walks FREE to download at locallife247.co.uk

UPVC CLEANING

• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.

CONSERVATORIES

• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning)

POWER WASHING • Driveways & Patios etc.

ROOF CLEANING

• Moss Removal & Bio-Treatment • Softwashing / Low Pressure

SPECIAL OFFER - 20% OFF

ALL CLEANING PACKAGES Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.

01942 470 089 / 07834 241 642 www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com

Fires & Stoves Swept Certificates Issued HETAS Approved Sweep Professional & Reliable


88

Whatever your electrical needs,

GHE have the answer! Complete re-wires

CCTV systems

New/moving sockets

Security Light installations

All lighting needs

PAT testing & inspections

Burglar Alarm systems

No Job too Small

Domestic and commercial work welcomed

Call us today for friendly advice and a free quote. Suite 1A, Kirkless Industrial Estate Cale Lane, Wigan, WN2 1HF

01942 836 937

Electrical & Security Specialists All aspects of electrical work plus; CCTV Installation Burglar Alarm Installation Outdoor/Security Lighting SMART systems Installation Automated Gates

EMERGENCY ELECTRICIAN SERVICE

24 HOURS NO CALL-OUT CHARGE

For a no-obligation quote call

07470 655 925 STANDISH BASED Email: E4S_enquiries@outlook.com Website: www.E4Systems.co.uk Facebook: StandishElectrician

Orrell based

www.ghewigan.co.uk

Having computer problems? • We come to you! • Computer repairs and upgrades • Internet and wireless problems fixed • Quality new systems built to specification • Virus removal from £35 • Domestic and commercial work welcomed Call us now for FREE computer advice.

Call - 01942 863448

www.expertcomputers.co.uk ‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner

No Fix? No Fee!

DF

ALARMS

a Installation & Maintenance a CCTV & Alarms a Inspection & Testing a Nest Pro Installer

Installations, Upgrades & Repairs New systems 10 years experience from £350

Tel: 07738 117712

For a friendly & reliable service call Dean on

07506 518 646 DF Alarms

58 Chapel St, Pemberton, Wigan


89

Shevington E l ect ri cal Se r v ic e s L td NAPIT part ‘P’ registered JIB Approved Technician 36 Years Experience

Local. Honest & Reliable Domestic Industrial & Commercial

Covering all North West Areas.

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

W.Hurst & Son Ltd

Jon Wright Electrical Ltd

ELECTRIC CONTRACTOR

All types of Domestic & Commercial work undertaken • Inspection & Tests • Repairs

• Solar PV • Alarms

www.whurstandson.co.uk

• • • •

Call now on: 07983 387448

Email: jonwrightelec@live.co.uk

All types of electrical work 35+ years experience No job too small Friendly and reliable

Certificate of excellence winner 2017 & 2018

All electrical work undertaken

• Friendly reliable service • Mains board upgrades • Extra sockets to full rewires

Free quotations

A.J.S.

BAILEYS

For a free quote & advice call Jeff

01695 622 191 07850 622 191

Services Ltd J.Dillon Electrical

ELECTRICAL

Call: 01257 424918 or 07821 139826

01942 215 769 07739 709 005

• All types of electrical work • 30+ years experience • Friendly, fast and reliable • 24 hour call out service

www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk

FREE HandyContacts web listing when you advertise in LocalLife magazine Prices start from £39+ VAT per issue Free artwork Monthly payments Call us today on

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90

Want to promote your company in Local Life? Call Sally: 01695 627 999 locallife247.co.uk

LocalLife

CALL PAUL Garage and entrance doors in matching styles

Is your garage door broken ? Call us today for a free estimate to Repair or Replace it

LOCKSMITHS ESTABLISHED 2000

• UPVC & WOODEN DOOR SPECIALIST • Emergency Door Opening • UPVC Door Lock Repairs • UPVC Door Lock Changes • UPVC Door Lock Upgrades • Wood Door Lock Changes • All Work Guaranteed A Registered Insured NCFE Certified Company

Call Paul for a Fast, Reliable, Professional Service CJM Garage Doors Ltd, Unit 10, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB t: 01942 738347 w: www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk

GARAGE DOOR

REPAIRS

ALL GARAGE DOORS REPAIRED : Springs, Cables, Locks, Rollers etc. Doors of all ages repaired

01744 894939 / 07891 330214 NO FIX, NO CHARGE! www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk Strawberry Cottage, Pimbo Lane, Upholland WN8 9QL

TELEPHONE

01942MOBILE 901103 07932 718 362 WWW.CALLPAULLOCKSMITH.CO.UK


91

AGBathrooms.net

Quality bathrooms at reasonable prices Complete bathroom installations from design to completion. For free quotes, call Adrian on 07816 394 292 Check out our work on www.AGBathrooms.net

Elite Bathrooms & Wet Room Installation

• Bathrooms • Wet Rooms • Wall & Floor Tiling Please call for a FREE Estimates

07703 448890 / 01942 208926

Bespoke Tiling WALL & FLOORING SPECIALISTS Top class work guaranteed For a free quotation, call Oliver on

01942 741789 07387 376 530

Des Pilling Plastering Plastering – Skimming – Artexing Coving & Cornice work also welcomed Orrell based – Established 1986

Call Des on 07787 513 235 www.lakelandplastering.co.uk www.despilling.org.uk

Great Value Bathrooms!

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

C L Bathrooms

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


92

• Central Heating Installations • Boiler Installations • Maintenance & Servicing • Power Flushing

A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff

186237

SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES

Your one stop shop for central heating 434 Ormskirk Rd, Wigan, WN5 9DF

01942 221221

info@premiergas.com / www.premiergas.com

STOVES by Andy Save £££’s on your install INSTALLATIONS • MAINTENANCE • SERVICING For a free quote and expert advice call Andy on

01257 369 685 07899 752 225 stovesbyandy@gmail.com

C &D

Telephone:

01257 421 660

Plumbing and Heating

Registration No.

88604

l Geails N 5

For more information call

Typical price

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

£20

£1800

Wind Turbines

1

£ ow

Heat Pumps

cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding

LED Lighting

...and general Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...

Energy Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Savings Same Day Service, Safety Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced

es Lash Tan y Spra ils eds Sunb & Gel Na ic Acryl

Dennis Goulding A49

Mossy Lea Road

LocalLife

Walk-In Shower

money is the clear benefit!

embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that

B5250

01695 627 999

Convert your bath to a

Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and

ally

n

01942 504 429 07515 505 501

www.fgwelch.co.uk

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

rm

TEL: MOB:

Design & Print no

• Annual Boiler Servicing • Landlord & Home Owner Gas Safety Checks • Mechanical Power Flushing • Thermostatic Valves/Radiators Fitted • All-in-One Air Conditioning & Heating Units for Home & Work

WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!

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

Flyers, postcards, brochures and distribution service.

Accredited Installer & Ser vice Partner

A5209

s

Natalie

Book Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6FREE 9RS your home survey VICING SER Telephone: 01257 000 and we’ll VAN provide 427 toowith you a cycles CAR & detailed motorreport showing the (Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)

Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon

...andreturns available

from your www.dglwindows.co.uk

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Fully guaranteed One day installation No mess - no fuss Easy to clean & maintain

Call H us now

0843 A224 9555 U rton n and Brethe 07595S 420237 of Crosto residents me!

k ChecVisit our showroom at Health

Unit 4a, Cricket Street Business Park off Miry Lane, Wigan.

TwinLakesMotorE

or

Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk need WN6 you T 7TP Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk me until Check

Health FREE Car Book your Call now on

ay, Tuesd

Mond

Slash your electricity and water heating bill

Protect your household from future energy price rises ReduceE your household’s impact on the environment

(10% typical return)

Car dio Y @ Stu Shevington

ngineers

01772

REPAIR

S

603923

DING & WEL

Call Anthony on • Bathroom Installation, Full Bathrooms & En-Suites • Plumbing Services • Wall & Floor Tiling • Ceiling Panelling

01942 397173 / 07803 057940 Douglas Drive, Orrell, Wigan www.ljplumbingandbathrooms.co.uk

AJC WALK IN SHOWERS

07919 876 825 Workshop address: Bulldog Tools Ind. Est. Darlington Street East Wigan WN1 3BT

We also fit full bathrooms!


93

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN at 19 Preston Road, Standish WN6 0HP

All plumbing services including services & repairs

BOILER SERVICING

• Bathrooms/Wet Rooms designed and fitted • Specialists in Disability Installations & Conversions

FROM

£60

• Emergency Call outs welcome

No Obligation Quotes – Call Mark on

01257 473026 07515 894281

527090

www.gphwigan.co.uk

Installation ~ Repairs ~ Service

No call out fee

Central Heating Systems Boilers & Gas Appliances General plumbing Gas Safety Certificates

597379

Call Andy for a free quote on

01942 564 226 07397 391 935 acampbellheatingandgas

Plumbing & Heating Specialist Complete Bathroom & Tiling service

John Bailey - 01942 495785

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

Want to promote your company in Local Life?

FINA

NCE Brand New Bathrooms OPTIONS AVAILABLE Boiler + Central Heating Installs, Servicing + Repairs Extended warranties available 24 Hour Call-out Domestic + Commercial

Freephone 0300 3030121 Call Sally: 01695 627 999 locallife247.co.uk

LocalLife

Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809 21 Naburn Drive, Orrell, WN5 8SB

Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk

www.orrellheating.co.uk

506515


94

Need a new look for your home?

AJH DECORATORS Painting and Decorating

Skilled interior and exterior work undertaken at reasonable prices!

Quality work assured

01942 518126

Mob: 07784 876 338 Email: ajhdecorators@sky.com

Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator

or 07545 065119

Over 30 years experience Free quotes

Quality work at a competitive price

SG

PAINTING & DECORATING Specialise in standard wall coverings, extra wide vinyl and lincrusta. Free estimates. References available upon request

07714 363 377 / 01942 749 971 Sefton Road, Orrell, WN5 8UP

Award Winner

Exterior & Interior Decorating Domestic & Commercial work undertaken Competitive rate Contact Graham now - free estimate provided

01257 426 234

graham@topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk www.topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk

J&P

LTD

Orrell based business

MOORCROFT Professional Painting and Decorating • Domestic & Commercial Work • Interior & Exterior work welcomed • Old/listed buildings a speciality

Call us today for a free quotation Home Service available

Choose from 1000s of paint & paper samples in the comfort of our own home

01942 212096 07831 102 511 www.jpmoorcroft.com

Handy Andy Building / Joinery Plastering / Tiling Plumbing / Roofing Flatpack Assembly

Call Handy Andy on ALL JOBS considered

01257 369 685 07899 752 225 tradesbyandy@gmail.com

HANDYMAN SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS & PROPERTY REPAIRS

ALL JOBS CONSIDERED

Fascias/Soffits/Gutters Painting Inside & Out, Plumbing, Joinery & Plastering Gates, Fencing & Flagging Complete Bathrooms & Kitchens - Fitted & Tiled

Competitive Prices, Local & Reliable Call Martin 07812 810382 or 01942 392118

01942 392398 or 07707 321383


95

Home Improvements • • • •

Fitted Kitchens & Bedrooms Garage & Loft Conversions Floors, Doors & Windows Garden Gates

28 Years Experience

For all your home improvement needs call David on...

01942 203 804 DS Joinery 07851 225 876

Extensions & Refurbishments Kitchens & Bathrooms Conservatories & Orangeries Windows & Doors Roofs & Fascia Boards Decking & Balustrading All aspects of building works - No job too small

Call Peter for a free quotation

• Home improvements • Loft conversions • Garage conversions & Extensions • Staircases • Windows & Doors

Day: 07961 516 677 Eve: 01942 745 428 Cambridge Road, Orrell

JJ Driveways

Imprinted Concrete Specialists

01257 422317 or 07852 202867 www.mtjoiner y.co.uk

GDR Driveways • Flagging • Block paving • Indian Stone www.gdrdriveways.com

Call Gareth for a FREE quotation

Huge range of colours & patterns

• Resin Driveways • Block Paving • Indian Stone • Flagging We can also revive your old drive! Ask about our sealing service

Call Joe for a free quotation on

01942 621 959 / 07867 697 972 www.jjdriveways.co.uk

01942 217 113 | 07715 177 754

Promote your business

from just £6 a month

HandyContacts only £72+ VAT per annum in advance Call us today on

01695 627999

www.locallife247.co.uk/handy-contacts/

LocalLife


96

P P

Building services Joinery Specialists

Your Reliable, Friendly, Professional & Honest Building & Joinery Specialists • Conservatories & Orangeries • Extensions • Refurbishments & Alterations • Fencing & Decking

• Garage & Loft Conversions • Kitchens & Fitted Bedrooms • Doors & Windows • All aspects of joinery work

“Attention to detail is second to none. Can’t recommend Phil enough” Facebook Review, July 2018

ALPINE LTD Roofing & Building Services

SERVING CHORLEY, W EST LANCASHIRE & WIGAN

OAP

DISCOUNTS

Your local roofing company from repairs to re-roofs, fascia’s, soffits & gutters. • Flat roof specialists • Damp proof specialists • Quality workmanship • Affordable pricing • Quick response to all repairs FULLY INSURED

• All aspects of home improvements • One stop for all the trades you require • Joinery, Building, Kitchens & Bathrooms WE DESIGN AND MANAGE YOUR PROJECT FROM START TO FINISH

Call Jonathan for a free quotation TEL: 01257 401 243 / MOB: 0777 602 4045

SpeakmanpropertyServiceS.com

Tel: 01942 410989 Mob: 07730 351523

K Stone Building Services

All types of building work undertaken 25 years experience

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

01942 495412 / 07974 496676


97

Facias, soffits, cladding, dry verge and gutters - call us now for all your roofline requirements! We specialise in seamless aluminium gutters. Clean, stylish and guaranteed for 25 years!

01942 735 515 / 07917 352 182 / 07917 352 183 www.orrellroofline.co.uk

First Class Workmanship • All types of re-roofs • Strip & re-slate or re-tile • Built up felt/flat roofs, dormers etc. • Insurance work undertaken • Roofline uPVC fascias, soffits & guttering

W.Newman

All aspects of roofing & roofline

NEW ROOFS REPAIRS FASCIAS, SOFFITS & GUTTERS

ROOFING & REPAIRS

01695 627 212 MOBILE: 07774 943 706

52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND Established Over 30 Years

Rubber Cover Roofing Specialist Guaranteed 50 years

Dormers and Garages

Call for free quote

M: 07894 687 384

B.A. Berry

• WILSON BROS •

Building & Roofing Specialists

Roofing & Roofline Specialists

•All building work undertaken. • From a broken tile to a full re roof. • Flat roofs renewed and repaired. • Extensions, Alterations, Structural repairs including Lintels.

• All aspects of maintenance & repair

Your local fully qualified tradesman with

30 years experience

Call us now for a free, no obligation quote

01695 622 704 / 07968 652 320 www.baberry.co.uk

Est. 1985

• Fascia & soffit installation • Guttering and felting services Call us now for a free estimate

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


98

Puzzle Solutions CROSSWORD ACROSS: 3. Red giants, 8. Seer, 9. Stallion, 10. Rattle, 13. Chafe, 14. Besiege, 15. Pus, 16. Species, 17. Aries, 21. Arnica, 22. Taxation, 23. Once, 24. Zeitgeist DOWN: 1. Ostracise, 2. Meltwater, 4. Easel, 5. Glasses, 6. Axle, 7. Thou, 11. Deficient, 12. Newspaper, 14. Bus, 15. Pensive, 18. Banns, 19. Date, 20. Fast

WORDSEARCH

SUDOKU

WIGGLE WORDS Start from scratch

NUMBER BLOCK 11 3 7 2 6

4 4 1 2

2 1 3 9

3 8 5 4

12 20 11 21

18 11 15 20 14

Want to promote your business in

LocalLife? Keep in touch with the LocalLife Team! locallifemagazine247 @locallifemedia Read all our magazines online at

locallife247.co.uk

01695 627 999 www.locallife247.co.uk


99

Come and visit the largest showroom in the North West

® Quality installations of windows, doors, fascias, soffits and gutters First for quality • First for service • First for reliability No contractors • No salesmen Just a smile and a honest price from a family run business

NEW Generation Rockdoor now available

SISTER COMPANY OF FOXWELLS BUILDERS Established since 1999

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

Conservatory Roof Conversion System Transform your conservatory into a comfortable living space


100

Tomorrow’s Home Improvements Today!

Quality ~ Choice ~ Value Windows

Bi-Fold Doors

Thermally-efficient conservatory roofs expertly fitted by accredited installers

Orangeries

©

Don’t just lock it, Rock it!

Conservatories

Manufacturers and installers since 2004

Contact us on 01744 891717 for a no obligation quote

28544

Visit our showroom/factory at; Crows Nest, Ashton Road, Billinge, WN5 7XX (near Windy Arbour crossroads)

www.orrellwindows.co.uk


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