Local Life - Wigan North - Feb/Mar 2015

Wigan North Edition

Feb/Mar 2015

For The

Record

Wigan Casino

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All Change Ahead!

In this issue

It’s an exciting time here at Local Life HQ.

19 32 39 54 56 66 70 72 74 77 81 93 94

Not only are we delivering into Aspull and Haigh for the very first time this month, but we are also hard at work on a re-vamp of the magazine which will take place as from the next issue. You can expect some big changes to the look and feel of the magazine, but it’ll still be a proper good local read.

I won’t spoil the surprise too much but if you’re ever tempted, like one resident was recently, of having sex with the nearest post box, then a look at our new What’s On guide next month will hopefully steer you to activities which are slightly more exciting.

For the benefit of our new readers, this is how you can get to read Local Life; we publish the magazine monthly, but we have two separate distribution areas which gets the magazine in turn. So you’ll get the February, April, June, August, October and December magazines through your letterbox, and if you want to read the other issues then you can pick them up from Tesco Extra at Central Park or from Sainsburys at Marus Bridge.

But the best way to guarantee that you get Local Life each month is by visiting our website, www. locallife247.co.uk, and registering for an online copy.

We send you a link each month and you can read the magazine online, a few days before it hits the street.

It’s a totally free service for our readers, and it means that you can read Local Life wherever you are in the world as long as you have internet access.

And last but not least – please buy local and support our advertisers. Without them, there simply wouldn’t be a magazine to read!

Planning Matters Class from the Past For The Record - Wigan Casino Recipe Of The Month Tunnel Vision - Coppull’s Hic Bibi Jack’s Tracks visits Darwen Tower Puzzle Corner Test Drive - Toyota Rav 4 Motoring Services Garden Diary Home Services Useful Numbers A View From The Lump Next issue - March

Advertising deadline - Friday 13 February Published - Wednesday 25 February

Publisher: Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB T 01695 627 999 @ info@locallife247.co.uk W www.locallife247.co.uk

Sales : Chris Pearce, Nicola Gray Editorial: David Sudworth Design & Production: Peter Bretherton

sales@locallife247.co.uk editorial@locallife247.co.uk design@locallife247.co.uk

Distribution: Sally Boon

sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

Accounts: Sam Garrahan

accounts@locallife247.co.uk

Local Life is published every month. The magazine will be distributed into the following edition areas on an alternate monthly basis.

The Wigan West edition is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and parts of Pemberton.

The Wigan North edition is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan.

See you next time

Local Life is also published in the West Lancashire, Chorley and St Helens areas.

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.

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

Local Life Media

@locallifemedia

www.locallife247.co.uk

3

Since 1996 it has been Regan & Hallworth’s number one aim to achieve the best price for our customers in the shortest possible time scale. We are ranked by rightmove as the number one selling estate agent in Wigan, Standish & Parbold. Last year it took us an average of just 12 weeks to sell a property plus we achieved 97% of our asking prices.

Wigan 01942 205555 Standish 01257 473727 Parbold 01257 464644

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The area’s top selling estate agent.

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Quality homes.

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PLEASE SEE WEBSITE FOR CURRENT AVAILABILITY AND PRICES. For further information contact the Sales & Marketing Suites open Thursday to Monday inclusive 10 am – 5 pm or Tues & Wed please contact Head Office on 01925 859650 Prices correct at time of going to press. Photographs shown are for illustrative purposes only. *Offers subject to status, terms and conditions apply, full details will be provided on request.

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Volunteers Honoured Shevington’s community-spirited residents were honoured at an awards ceremony recently. Nominations flooded in for the Community Achievement Awards held by Shevington and District Community Association which are now in their fourth year.

Primary School’s 200th anniversary; Jim Rigby and Alan Mohring, local health walk leaders; and Sue Billington, Elaine Ellams, Morag Tebbit and Isobel Morris who have all gone the extra mile to help others.

The winners were the Green family who have between them given over 200 years to the Scouting movement; Margaret Carter, who has taken Shevington and District in Bloom to success at national level, and some of the hard-working Bloom team, Beryl Grady, Eric Redrobe and Mark Rogerson.

Awards also went to Louise Wade who has delved into the area’s history and shared it during recent World War I memorial events and at Shevington Community

Jennifer, Fred and Kevin Green with Community Association representatives Jim Maloney and Marlaine Whitham Marlaine Whitham, from the Association, said: “Volunteering in this community is so much a part of life but it is not taken for granted. The awards evening also raised £1,000 which is being donated to Wigan’s food bank and homelessness charity, The Brick.”

Over 25 years of local advice Now at High Street, Standish

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The Community Achievement Awards presentation will be repeated later this year. If you know, or know of, someone who makes a considerable contribution to the Shevington and district community and feel that they may deserve to be recognised, you are urged to put their name forward.

Contact Sheila Milnes on 01257 253735, Marlaine Whitham on 01257 253055 or email shevingtonanddistrictcommunity_association@hotmail. co.uk

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Brian’s The Business!

Take a break from cleaning

Wigan Borough Business Club welcomes Brian Sloan, the Bank of England’s deputy agent for the North West, to its February meeting. As part of his role with the Bank, Brian regularly meets with businesses and organisations to assess economic conditions affecting the area and provides information to the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee about trends and developments. The committee uses this information to form a view on the likely path of the economy and inflation.

Delegates will be able to put questions to Brian and an active discussion is anticipated.

It takes place at Haigh Hall, School Lane, on Tuesday, February 3, at 6.30pm.

We make life easier for you and your family with a range of housekeeping services

The cost is £5 per delegate. Please email info@ amcbusinesssolutions.co.uk with your name and organisation to register.

Discover History Aspull & Haigh Historical Society meets every second Thursday of each month at Our Lady’s RC Church hall, Haigh Road, Aspull, from 2pm-4pm. New members are made most welcome. For further details, call Anne Cremin on 01942 831392.

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Cleaning / Ironing / Laundry Collection Of Shopping, Prescriptions etc.

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Help For Parents

Freeze Planned

Parents who have young children can access help and advice at Standish Library, Cross Street, on Wednesdays from 9.30am-11.30am. Skittles Parent Group, which is free to attend, helps with free access to computers for job hunting or researching, free access to training online, coffee and chat, and a free crèche. There’s no need to book - simply turn up on the day.

Wigan households are set to have at least part of their Council Tax bills frozen. Councillors are set to vote on a proposed measure to peg the rate levied by Wigan Council to the same level for the next 12 months in March.

Haigh Meeting The next meeting of Haigh Parish Council takes place on Thursday, February 26, at 6.30pm. It will be held in the Tack Room, in the Stables Golf Complex at Haigh Hall. Members of the public are welcome to attend. For further details, contact the parish council clerk, Mike Barnes, on 01942 830823.

Council chiefs say their initiative The Deal, which helps tackle the reduction in central Government funding by asking the public to support and run community initiatives, has helped deliver the freeze. The council also receives a one-off grant from the Government for keeping their part of the tax at current levels.

The total Council Tax bill which residents receive is made up of charges levied by various public bodies, such as the fire service, police and parish councils. These organisations will also be looking at whether to freeze or in some cases increase their part of the Council Tax soon.

TUESDAY Shevington Methodist Church Gathurst Lane, Shevington 3.30, and 5pm and 7pm Barbara 01695 731343

THURSDAY - am Standish Community Centre Church Street, Standish 9am Karen 01942 720747

WEDNESDAY Standish High School (International Language Centre) Kenyon Road, Standish 5.30pm and 7pm Barbara 01695 731343

THURSDAY - pm Parbold Village Hall The Green, Parbold 6pm Carol 01695 340140

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11

CLASSES

PRICING

NEW COURSES

Tuesday STANDISH COMMUNITY CENTRE Moody Street, Standish, WN3 6TB 6.30-7.45pm

• PAY £5 MEMBERSHIP and £6.50 weekly class fee -weigh-in/workout.

HFT Weight Management Course 5 week course with Boot Camp Weight loss, fitness and motivation course

Wednesday OUR LADY’S RC JUNIOR & INFANT SCHOOL Holly Rd, Aspull, WN2 1RU 6.15-7.30pm Thursday ST ANNE’S PARISH CENTRE Church Lane, Shevington, WN6 8BD 6.30-7.45pm

FOR WEEKLY CLASSES

• FREE MEMBERSHIP OFFER *Pre-Pay £24 for 1st 4 weeks’ consecutive classes. *Includes starter pack with nutrition guide, weekly weigh and exercise session.

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Interval Training courses with Kettle Bells - 6 weeks Boot Camps (indoor in winter, outdoor in summer) - 6 weeks Fitness Pilates courses - 5 weeks A functional approach to traditional Pilates Call or email for further details.

More classes available in Winstanley, Orrell, Ashton and Garswood - please call for details 12

St Wilfrid’s Events

New Groups?

St Wilfrid’s on Church Street, Standish, is holding two events in February to help you beat the winter blues.

The first is on Friday, February 6, when it is holding a Lancashire Night in the Parish Hall with entertainment from Rob Mason. There will be a supper available - the Rector’s famous hot pot. Take your own drinks. The cost is £7 per person and it commences at 7.30pm. Tickets are available at the Parish Office.

Aspull Library wants users’ views on the possible setting up of new groups. The Oakfield Crescent facility already has a weekly painting group and a weekly card-making club, but wants to know if it should have more.

And on Saturday, February 21, the hall is holding a table top sale. Tables can be booked by calling 01257 424669 and will cost £7 per table. The doors will be open for stallholders to set up from 7.30am and for the public from 9am until 2pm. Bacon butties and warm drinks will be available to purchase.

Both events are in aid of the church’s Electrical and Lighting Fund.

New Year Offer!

50% off cuts when you have a colour

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Examples could be a Knit & Natter Group or a Junior Homework Club. To put forward your ideas, simply call in to the library.

All the latest

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Offer expiry date 28th February 2015

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Aubergine www. a u b e r g i n e l a d i e s w e a r.c o .u k 13-15 White Street, Pemberton, WN5 8JW Free parking | Closed Wednesday

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13

Parish Celebrations The Archbishop of Liverpool will lead a Shevington parish’s Golden Jubilee celebrations. The Most Rev Malcolm McMahon will be at St Bernadette’s on Sunday, February 22, for a special mass at 9.30am.

The Archbishop’s appearance comes in the middle of three days of celebrations, starting at 5.30pm the day before with a special mass. And on Monday, February 23, from 7.30pm, former priests of St Bernadette’s are being invited back to the parish for another celebratory mass.

More events are being planned during the rest of the year.

Before the 1960s, Catholics in Shevington would usually travel to St Marie’s in Standish to worship. In February 1961, a new Hall Chapel was opened on Wigan Road, and was dedicated to St Bernadette. The design and structure of the building was by Messrs Vic Hallam, the main contractors were Messrs R. & J. Bradley, of Ashtonin-Makerfield. Heating and lighting installations were by Messrs Corlett, and exterior and interior decoration by Pagett’s of Wigan.

It was blessed and opened by the Rev Dr G.S. Malone, Parish Priest of St. Marie’s. Reports from the time say Dr Malone appealed to all Catholics in Shevington to make full use of the facilities which the new building provided for them: “The joy and enthusiasm already shown by the people Archbishop Malcolm of Shevington gave full McMahon encouragement to the hope of a very zealous and happy community. They might well rejoice for now they could say with justifiable pride: ‘At last we have a Chapel of our very own’.”

It became an official church in its own right four years later.

For further information on the celebrations, call the parish office on 01257 423291 or email jointparishes@ gmail.com

*Aspray is paid by the insurer for all property reinstallments and repairs. Please note any excess stated in your insurance policy will still apply. ** Aspray will give you £100 towards your insurance excess when you instruct us to manage your claim and all reinstatement works have been completed.

Terms and conditions apply. Aspray is authorised and regulated by the Finanacial Conduct Authority for claims handling only.

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15

Association AGM

Volunteers Wanted

Shevington and District Community Association’s annual general meeting takes place on Tuesday, February 24, at the Methodist Church lounge, Gathurst Lane. It starts at 7pm and all are welcome to go along. For more details visit www.shevingtonpc.gov.uk/community

If you’d like to play a part in one of Wigan’s most successful community run projects, Book-Cycle would like to hear from you. The charity, which is based in the old Beech Hill library in Buckley Street West and at the old Orrell library in Orrell Road, helps to promote a love of reading, both in the local community and via their literary donations to partner organisations working in the third world. Book Cycle are looking for volunteers at both centres, to help serve customers, process books and make up book parcels to be shipped overseas. You’ll be physically active and be able to work as part of a team, and shifts are for as little as 3.5 hours .

Society Talks Ex-Central Park star Bill Ashurst is giving a talk on his rugby career at the next meeting of the Wigan & District Family History Society Wednesday, February 11. Inceborn Bill, now 66, played for Wigan between 1968-1973 and again from 1977-1978. He’ll be talking about his career and sharing his thoughts about the modern-day game.

At the family history society’s following meeting on Wednesday, March 11, Alex Miller, the archivist manager for Wigan & Leigh Archives, will give a talk about his job.

Both meetings are being held at St Andrew’s Parish Centre, 120 Woodhouse Lane, Wigan, from 7.15pm. Entry is £2.50 for both members and visitors.

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Vintage Fair

Arts On Display

Haigh Hall’s vintage fair is being held on Sunday, March 22, from 10am-4pm. It has a wide range of stalls selling vintage and retro clothing, accessories, home wear, collectables and china dating from 1920s–1980s, as well as handmade jewellery, gifts, cupcakes and chocolate.

There will be live entertainment throughout the day from various entertainers including Bexi Owen and Vintage Vocals. Entry is £1 but under 12s go free.

Artists from Standish’s Cross Street Arts are exhibiting in St Helens until Saturday, February 28. Their works will be on display at The World of Glass, Chalon Way East, St Helens, WA10 1BX, from 10-4pm on Mondays to Saturdays. For further details, call 01744 22766.

Foundation Fundraiser A charity pageant takes place on Sunday, March 15, to raise money for the Warriors Foundation.

Four winners will be crowned on the evening at the DW Stadium; one from the following categories: Miss Wigan Warriors (17-plus); Miss Teen Wigan Warriors (13-16); Junior Miss Wigan Warriors (4-12) and Junior Mr Wigan Warriors (4-12)

Lions Fundraiser A fundraiser in aid of New Springs Lions ARLFC takes place at Aspull Rugby Club’s Woodshaw Park ground, on Woods Road, on Friday, February 6. It will be an evening of clairvoyance with Karen Berrey, which starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are £6 per person including a hot pot supper. Private readings will be available afterwards at a cost of £10 each, although places are limited.

Contact Norma on 07928 409464.

There’s a £25 entry fee and the minimum amount you have to raise is £40, but organisers encourage you to raise more than this. Every contestant on the night of the final will win an award, complete with crown or sash.

To enter, email misswiganwarriors@outlook.com with a picture, name and age. For further details, visit www. facebook.com/officialmisswiganwarriors

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Coming Soon...

Sat 14th February - Valentine’s Meal 3 course meal with live entertainment £19.95 per person

Fri 6th March – Wine & Tapas evening Meal with live entertainment £19.95 per person

Sun 15th March – Mothering Sunday 2 courses £14.95 3 courses £18.95 Bookings Only

Every Friday live pianist playing from 12.30pm

Picnic at The Paddock Just £25.00 for 2

There are limited places available at our dining events - please call today to reserve your table

Opening Times Monday - Saturday Sunday

9 - 5.30pm 10.30 - 4.30pm

Planning a Function in 2015?

Location Did you know that The Paddock is available to hire in the evening for your own exclusive party?

Catering Did you know that our catering team can provide catering, either at The Paddock or at a venue of your choice?

For details and a brochure please call 01257 426514

E: bookings@thepaddockrestaurant.co.uk T: 01257 426 514 The Paddock, Derby House, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, Wigan, WN6 9RE www.thepaddockrestaurant.co.uk

18

Planning Matters Appley Bridge 29 Glenside: Certificate of Lawfulness - Proposed detached garage (ref: 2014/1346/LDP). A decision is due

by March 5.

18 Glenside: Application for determination as to whether prior approval of details is required - Extension of house (ref: 2015/0018/PNH). Consultation deadline: February 5.

Aspull

18 Ash Grove: Single storey extension to the rear (A/15/80294/PDE). Consultation deadline: February 5.

3A Hawthorn Avenue: Part change of use of house for use as an adult day care centre (A/14/80134/CU).

Consultation deadline: February 1.

Wigan 88 Holme Terrace: Plans to extend house, two storey to side, single storey to rear and canopy to front (ref: A/14/80123/HH). A decision is due by January 31.

111 Mesnes Road: Plans to extend house single storey to rear (ref: A/14/80180/HH). A decision is due by January 29.

76 Bolton Road: First floor rear extension (ref: A/14/80239/HH). A decision is due by February 17.

Haigh 1 and 2 Pendlebury Lane: Proposal to convert two dwellings into one (ref: A/15/80260/LUCP). A decision is due by March 10.

Shevington

97 Mesnes Road: Plans extend house - part two storey, part first floor to side, together with single storey at rear (ref: A/14/80206/HH). A decision is due by February 5.

Wrightington 4A High Moor Lane: Re-construction and extension of existing house (ref: 2014/1402/FUL). A decision is due

by March 11.

16 Calico Wood Avenue: Proposal to extend the house, single storey to side and rear, creating new roof and dormer to rear to provide first floor rooms (ref: A/15/80273/HH). Consultation deadline: February 2.

Further details on the Aspull, Haigh, Shevington, Shevington Moor, Standish and Wigan applications are available via www.wigan.gov.uk.

Shevington Moor Open land east Of 20 Cressell Park: Outline application for residential development (ref: A/14/80232/OUT). Consultation deadline: January 29.

For Appley Bridge and Wrightington, please visit www.westlancs.gov.uk

Standish 1 Malt Kiln Mews: Two storey to side of house (ref: A/14/80193/HH). A decision is due by early February.

Aldi, Preston Road: Increased delivery hours and installation of an acoustic fence along with western site boundary (ref: A/14/80231/VAR). Consultation deadline: January 31.

69 Green Lane: Two storey extension to rear following demolition of existing single storey extension together with replacement dormers to front and new dormer to rear (ref: A/15/80281/HH). Consultation deadline: February 6.

5 Chisholm Close: Application for a Lawful Development Certificate for a proposed loft conversion and installation of dormers to rear of dwellinghouse (ref: A/15/80283/LUCP). A decision is due by March 6.

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19

Sportsman’s Dinners

Beer Of Note

Some of football’s biggest names will be heading to Aspull this year. Aspull Civic Hall/ Village On The Green have secured ex-Arsenal player Paul Merson, former Southampton striker Matt Le Tissier and the ex-Manchester United and England Ex-Manchester United captain Bryan Robson for skipper Bryan Robson a series of sportsmen’s dinners. Merson, who is now a Sky Sports pundit, will be at the Wood Road venue on May 22, while Le Tissier and Robson will be making appearances later on in the year, on October 2 and November 20 respectively.

Wigan band Chonkinfeckle are having an ale named after them! Martland Mill Brewery, have come up with the Chonkinfeckle Real Ale, and to launch the new drink are hosting a night with the lads, Tim Cooke and Les Hilton, on Saturday, February 7, from 7.30pm. The cost is £10 each and there will also be a hot pot supper.

Contact Paul at Martland Mill Brewery on 01942 665656 or 0797 1664271.

All events are priced at £30, including a four course meal, and open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. For more information, contact Trevor on 07947 510659 or Rebecca on 07425 606584. Alternatively, email bookings@villageonthegreen.co.uk

Enter The Dragon Kung Hei Fat Choy! That’s Chinese for Happy New Year, and to celebrate the start of the festivities, the Museum of Wigan Life on Library Street is holding a special event on Saturday, February 14.

Organisers invite you to join them for activities and fun for all the family with a day of Chinese dragon dancing, drop in sessions, the chance to get up close to original objects and lots more. The day is supported by the Confucius Classroom at Wigan and Leigh College.

It lasts from 11am-3pm and there’s no booking required.

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The Fuchsia’s Bright...

Do you like fuchsias? Are you interested in finding out more about them and all the latest varieties? Wigan & Districts Fuchsia Society is holding a talk on pests and diseases at its Thursday, February 26 meeting, which starts at 7.45pm at the United Reformed Church hall, Church Street, Orrell.

On Thursday, March 26, at the same time and venue, Dr Les Smith will be giving a talk to the society on Fuchsias My Way. Many of the society’s monthly meetings are fuchsiarelated, however it also has talks from speakers in other fields of horticulture. It has a sundries shop at

Wedding Fayre Sunday 8th March 2015 12pm - 4pm Holiday Inn Haydock M6, Jct23 Lodge Lane, WA12 0JG 01942 868 330 events@hihaydockm6j23hotel.co.uk www.hihaydockm6j23hotel.co.uk

22

which members can purchase items at trade prices each month. During the year, it holds two shows; a mini show at its July meeting at which there are two sections, one for the more experienced growers and one for novices. Its Annual Show is held on the second Saturday in August.

For more information, contact Chris Bright on 0151 423 2979 or Ian Strawson on 01695 420834.

Winter Warmer A fab night out is being promised at Standish Unity Club’s Live Lounge on Thursday, February 5. The Lankykats presents their Winter Warming Rock show with acts including The Media, The Rocking 60s, the Sue Raymond Band and Durty Hands. It’s £1 admission and the fun starts at 8pm at the Cross Street venue. Call 01257 424007 for more details.

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Let’s Eat Meat and uk seem grating when counter-intuitive.

Sunday, November 30 chieftain of the background, it could it Tuck into the ‘great ed that with his privileged A wide range of stalls, with raffles and urced grub. But when He also is conscious The Star’s renown a visit from TV quality, ethically-so puddin’ race’ at y. to pay more for better celebraties. Followed by an afternoon on 25th Januar he implores others concert from deterred.

Burns Night supper is not one to be easily 2pm to 3pm. to eat meat every comes to food, he and fantastic that you don’t have Piper, wee dram wiser, and you realise Chorley United Reformed Church, bit little a their two young and and teed!

Hollinshead Sara “You get older lives with his wife atmosphere guaran Street, from 11.30am to 1.30pm.

Parker Bowles, who single day,” reasons Freddy. in front of children, Lola and to be a slab of protein Served day, it doesn’t have every better meat buy can afford to “Even if you are eating y-Friday meat, it means you Sunday, November 30 12-2.30pm Monda if you eat a little less you. I do believe that ay - there are Not for the faint hearted lighting effects, cuts that are cheaper. you love at 5-9pm Monday-Thursd it, but eat less and use more of the date with the one a areas of low lighting & you will need meat, love it, worship eat is ry.

Make point, any Februa to be reasonably m Friday if there is 5-6.30p Night on 15th “The point of this book, physically fit. s, smiling. and preferences.

The Star’s Lovers requirements changing Saturda s and meat,” he summarise pm are £15 pery of it and eat better shows how to use 12-6.30Tickets including scallop person or £19 this type as well as one which Gourmet menu live Generally speaking, two decades ago, including a hot a meat-free chapter, traditional cuts of bubbly to start, pot supper, or concessions at £10 The book includes with recipes where to sporty and £15. Times steak, free glass and is also packed of car was regarded as a substitute t for the lady. are allocated on booking. meat as a seasoning, is music and a presen hatchbacks and coupes. Today its popularity and offal are the stars.

Heskin Hall, on Wood Lane, Heskin. radio on, just multicar over Visit kitchen with the www. among families wanting a more fun is a Saturday in the heskinhall.com for more details. have lots of and “For me, happiness fast very estates.

I talk purpose vehicles (MPVs) and “It relaxes me. I know out cooking,” he says. are likely to sell me, it’s very cathartic.” hard to keep the actually fully relaxes Over the years, Toyota has worked These popular nights avoid energy, but cooking Parker Bowles’ book today to three recipes from heart of its segment, without model firmly at theSaturday, quickly, so please you too, here are December nt.

6 If cooking relaxes disappointme home. the entertaining-to-drive quality that forfeiting Brindle Brass new book to try at Band Concert. Tickets are £6 including

by Tim Barnes-Clay RAV4. original the defined apple pies and tea. the latest model, Toyota 0QQ Brindle came to creating it Community When Hall, Water Street. The bar opens Top, Roby Mill, WN8 The Star Inn, Bank customers around the at 7pmtoand existing talked the RAV4 25 33 55 concert starts half an hour later.

For Prime Cuts, Telephone: 01257 Let’s Eat Meat: Recipes was best about their car. whaton Contact to understand Susan Burgess obymill. co.uk globe Scraps Of 01772 311418, Susan www.the starinnr Cheap Bits And Glorious ease of access, manoeuvrability, Horrocks on its They named 01254 Bowles, is 852173 or Eileen Bannister on Meat by Tom Parker ion Room!

01254 of the road ahead, ingenious packaging, by 852713. lofty view about our Funct ire published in hardback enqu to even when the capability, versatility and reassuring Call us now Pavilion, priced £25. going gets tough. an even As a result, 2014’s RAV4 points towards is a car that stronger focus on family use. The result styling, a more is more refined with better exterior and airy cabin and load-space, greater comfort higher levels of safety. is the RAV4 current the with The only drawback wrong, it’s not old-fashioned interior. Don’t get me the same. a major issue – but it is noticeable all in especially luxurious, The car is undoubtedly the cabin still ‘Invincible’ 2.2 D4D Auto guise, but the arrival of a new kind of The 1994 Geneva motor show signalled quality or looks at least a decade old. It’s not poor the world motor market. At the time It’s vehicle, one that would revolutionize anything. In fact it all looks very hard-wearing. effect the Toyota RAV4 would make. few people could have predicted the dated. mainly the switchgear that looks really up opened RAV4) with 4-wheel drive (hence once The initial Recreational Activity Vehicle Behind the wheel, much of that is forgotten sport utility vehicles (SUVs).

The RAV4 a new sector for compact, manoeuvrable the pure pleasure of driving takes over. sales for its new car, expecting worldwide Toyota had unpresumptuous aspirations automaker 8,000 orders swamped the Japanese of only around 4,500 models. When volumes had to be doubled.

FAST FACTS in the first four weeks alone, production engine as a three-door with a 2.0-litre petrol • Max speed: 115mph To begin with, it was available only just automatic transmission. Measuring and either five-speed manual or four-speed • 0-62 mph: 10.0 secs else at the Toyota Yaris), it was unlike anything 3.96m long (little more than today’s • Combined mpg: 42.2 time. turbo diesel • Engine: 2231cc 4 cylinder 16valve kid on the block, however, and in 1995 The public had an appetite for the new 148 at 3600 rpm (bhp): it as the • Max. power 6,800 were sold, quickly establishing RAV4’s first full year on sale – almost • Max. torque (Ib/ft): 250 at 2800 rpm British line-up. fourth best-selling car in Toyota’s 14-strong • CO2: 176 g/km unrecognisable. That’s because the Twenty years on, and the RAV4 is almost and matured in line with customers’ compact SUV marketplace has evolved

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Haunted Heskin

Fox Jumper, £28 (in stores only), Izabel London (www.izab Sunday, November 30 el.com) Not for the faint hearted - there are lighting effects, areas of low lighting & you will need Black Lace Blouse, to be reasonably £24, Dorothy Perkins including refreashments. (www.dorothyperkin s.com) Heskin Hall, opens at 7pm and the concert starts half an hour later. Contact Susan Burgess on 01772 311418, Susan Horrocks on 01254 852173 or Eileen Bannister on 01254 852713.

Coppull and Standish Band at Tunley United Reformed Church. Tickets are £7, which includes tea/coffee and cakes.

Tunley United Reformed Church, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, from 7.30pm Call 01257 463407/425330/426252.

Croston Spring Fair Sunday, December 14

As well as a Land Train there will be brass bands, singers, Morris dancers, a ukulele band, archery, a climbing wall and much more.

Croston Village from 1pm to 5.15pm.

For more information visit www.crostonfestivit ies.co.uk

Houghton Tower Fayre Saturday, December 6

Spring Concert Saturday, December 13

Coppull and Standish Band at Tunley United Reformed Church. Tickets are £7.

Tunley United Reformed Church, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, from 7.30pm Call 01257 463407/425330/426252.

Eccleston Garden Fair Sunday, December 14

As well as a lots of plants an dideas for your garden there will be brass bands, singers, Morris dancers, a ukulele band, archery, a climbing wall and more.

Eccleston Village from 1pm to 5.15pm.

For more information visit www.eccleston.co.u k

St Agnes Church Fair Sunday, November 30

Plenty of attractions, including tombola, fancy goods, books, cakes, cards and much more.

St Agnes Church, on The Green, Eccleston, from 2pm. All welcome.

NOVEMBER

Saturday 2nd HALFWAY TO PARADISE The Billy Fury Story Thursday 7th GO WEST, HUE & CRY, THE CHRISTIANS Live in Concert Saturday 9th JOE LONGTHORNE

Monday 11th - Wednesday 13th Direct from the West End...

THRILLER LIVE Featuring the songs of Michael and the Jackson 5 Friday 15th THE RAT PACK IS BACK Friday 22nd JANE MCDONALD Saturday 23rd KEN DODD

Monday 25th STEELEYE SPAN

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Thursday 28th SIXTIES GOLD Gerry & the Pacemakers, The Searchers, P.J Proby, The Fortunes, Brian Poole & Chip Hawkes

DECEMBER

Thursday 5th REMEMBER WHEN Festive matinee nostalgia (Floral Hall) Pre-show meal available Saturday 7th SLADE AND SWEET

Friday 13th - Tuesday 31st This year’s fantastic family pantomime!

Starring Kim Woodburn (How Clean is Your House) Lee Latchford-Evans (Steps)

Haigh Fair

As well as a a farmers market there will be brass bands, singers, Morris dancers, a ukulele band, archery, a climbing wall and much more. Brindle Brass Band Concert. Tickets are £6 including mince pies and mulled wine.

The grounds opens at 10am and the concert its allstarts punchy. Indeed, gracefully and smooth is half an hour later. Contact Susan Burgess on than 01772 capability is more sophisticated wheel drive 311418, Susan Horrocks on 01254 852173 or Eileen ever before.

Bannister on 01254 852713. has been Toyota’s Integrated Active Drive System “sport” mode, developed to offer a more engaging the amount with gadgetry to automatically adjust the front of twisting power distributed between and rear axles. is, such a hit.

It’s easy to see why the RAV4 was, and that the SUV It is undoubtedly thanks to this car a vital market developed from a niche to become feature of the motoring majority.

Sunday, November 30

As well as a lots of plants an dideas for your garden there will be brass bands, singers, Morris dancers, a ukulele band, archery, a climbing wall and more.

Tickets are £15 per person or £19 including a hot pot supper, or concessions at £10 and £15. Times are allocated on booking. Tickets are £6.

Haigh Hall, Haigh, Wigan. The fair starts at 10am and the concert starts at 2pm. Contact Russ Weaver on 01772 311418 or Alice Ball on 01254 852713.

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The pair, who live in Wigan, became full time professional artists in April 1974. Over the years, their careers have taken them to many varied venues around the world including Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Brunei, Oman, the Falkland & Ascension Islands, Belize, Cyprus, Sardinia and several European Countries.

Instrumentation includes guitar, piano accordion and concertina.

The fun starts at 8pm and tickets are £10 including Lancashire hotpot. Take your own drinks. Tickets are available from the community centre on 01257 421048 or by calling 07904 267254/07502 221870.

Gary and Vera Aspey

Harry Potter Night

Lanky Neet

It’s guaranteed to be a ‘wizard’ of an event! Wigan Library, on Library Street, is holding a Harry Potter book night on Thursday, February 5, from 5.30pm-6.30pm.

It’s open to families with children aged five and over, and is free although you do need to book. Fancy dress is encouraged. For more information and to book, call 01942 827621 or email wigan.library@wigan.gov.uk

Lancashire Day may be a good 10 months off, but that’s not stopping Standish folk celebrating all things associated with the Red Rose County. On Friday, February 13, the community centre, on Moody Street, is hosting A Reet Grand Lanky Neet with veteran folksinging duo Gary and Vera Aspey.

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The regular Carolyn’s Coffee Club at Mossy Lea Village Hall in Wrightington is back up and running again after the festive break. The next coffee morning is on Friday, February 13, following by another on Friday, March 6.

It is held at the Mossy Lea Road venue from 10am-1pm and also on offer is a book and gift sale, and a raffle. All proceeds go to Cancer Research UK.

Did you leave Abraham Guest High School in 1981? A reunion is being planned for those who left 34 years ago for this summer. Details are still being arranged but organisers say plan is for a get-together on Friday, June 5, at Pemberton Masonic Hall, Chapel Street.

Ex-pupils or teachers can find more information on the official website at www.facebook.com/ groups/1468185690129614

Active Aspull Get active in Aspull every Monday at 10am. That’s when free health walks take place, starting from Aspull Surgery on Haigh Road, meeting outside the main reception. The treks are up to an hour long and billed as a great way to get active. Participants are asked to wear comfortable clothing and footwear. For more information, call Tracy Morris on 01942 488481.

Indoor Car Boot Fancy a good rummage through other people’s castoffs? The Old Courts, on Crawford Street, Wigan town centre, is holding an indoor car boot sale on Sunday, February 8. It lasts from 8.30am-2pm and entry is £1.

Pitches are available at £10 - take your own table. Call 01942 375859 to book in.

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Blues With Mark Tickets are now on sale for a concert featuring one of the UK’s greatest blues musicians. Mark Harrison will be in concert on Friday, April 17, at Wigan Parish Church on Crawford Street in Wigan town centre.

Mark’s unique songs are attracting a lot of attention and he has established a growing reputation for the individuality of his music.

He takes elements of blues and folk, adding his own twist to produce something totally original. His music, with its memorable tunes and strong and compelling rhythms, has been going down very well with audiences of all kinds and ages.

Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. The evening will be opened

by Susie Jones with her own self-written Americana influenced songs Tickets are £10 and available by calling 01942 824291, emailing dtcartlidge@gmail.com or at Symphony Music, Market Street, Wigan.

Alternatively, log onto www.wegottickets.com/event/304645

Mark Harrison is appearing in Wigan

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Corking Idea!

Birding Britain

Do you know your Sauvignon from your Shiraz? If not, maybe a trip to Wigan Wine Festival would be in order.

The event takes place at Haigh Hall on Sunday, March 15, from 4pm. There will be two floors of reds, whites, rose and champagnes on offer. There will also be live music on both floors. Admission is £2 in advance via 01942 832895 or £2.50 on the door.

Wigan RSPB is holding two talks in Shevington. Birding Around Britain - an illustrated talk by Alan Stamford takes place on Tuesday, February 10, from 7.45pm at St Anne’s Parish Centre, Church Lane.

And on Tuesday, March 10, an illustrated talk by Brian Anderson on Galapagos wildlife takes place at the same time and venue Both talks are free to members, but non-members are welcome at a cost of £2.

Details of all the group’s events can be found at www. rspb.org.uk/groups/wigan

Aspull Films Aspull Methodist Church, on Wigan Road, is embarking on a new venture - bringing films to the village!

From now until June, and again from September to November, it will be showing features on the third Wednesday of the month from 1.30pm onwards.

Entrance is £3 a head to help cover the cost of tea, coffee and biscuits which are being made available before the films start at 2pm.

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visit our new showrooms at 232 Woodhouse Lane Wigan’s premier central heating and stove showroom 6 live stove displays, solid fuel & link-up heating systems chimney lining and twinwall flue specialist we also offer the most competitive finance available for supply and installation of new ‘A’ rated boilers - call into the showroom for more details and terms. hei are established local installers.

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Shape Local NHS People who live and work in Wigan Borough and care about health are needed to help health chiefs shape and improve local NHS services.

NHS Wigan Borough Clinical Commissioning Group (WBCCG) is the statutory body responsible for commissioning local health services, assessing the health needs of the Wigan population, buying health services and monitoring the quality of those services.

The CCG is led by local GPs who work with them to plan, review and improve the quality of local health services.

A spokesman said: “We need the help of patients, carers and local people to develop and review the services we buy. The best way to do this is to join our Shape Your NHS Community. Our community members tell us how services work for them, how they can be improved

and made more efficient, more effective and most importantly, more patient-friendly.

“You don’t have to be currently using NHS services nor do you have to commit to anything to become a member. Information will be sent to you and opportunities given to complete surveys, attend events and workshops, or be involved in patient groups. You choose how you want to be involved and how much time you want to give.”

To become a member, email susan.fairhurst@ wiganboroughccg.nhs.uk, call 01942 482711 or write to Shape Your NHS, Wigan Borough CCG, Wigan Life Centre, College Avenue, Wigan WN1 1NJ. Alternatively, complete the online form at www. wiganboroughccg.nhs.uk

For a top quality deep clean carried out by experienced specialists Traditional service - state of the art results Shevington based family business 5 star rating with Wigan Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme plus Awarded the Certificate of Excellence in recognition of consistently high standards of feedback from customers in 2009/10/11 The most thorough clean, or it’s free!

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Infirmary Plans More car parking could be created at Wigan Infirmary.

Wrightington, Wigan & Leigh NHS Foundation Trust is applying to create 15 extra car spaces on the site of the now-demolished clinical office block at the infirmary’s Wigan Lane site. If passed, it would take the total number of car parking spaces from 595 to 610.

A decision is due by early March. More details can be viewed at www.wigan.gov.uk - the application reference is A/14/79949/FULL.

Dementia Sessions Contented dementia sessions are being held in Wigan.

The topic for the Wednesday, February 4, session is ‘working life’ while on Wednesday, March 4, the topic will be ‘home life’. These are free, relaxed sessions with films, picture bingo and sing-a-longs. It takes place from 1.30pm-2.30pm each time at Central Day Centre, Sullivan Way, Scholes.

Refreshments will be provided. To book, call 01942 828128.

Heart Fundraiser An Evening of Mediumship with Howard Davison is being held in Wigan town centre on Wednesday, February 25, to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation. It takes place at The Boulevard, 17a Wallgate, and is for over 18s only. Tickets are £6 if paid in advance or £7 on the door.

In aid of the British Heart Foundation.

Contact Shona 0795 278 7049 or scentsofshona@gmail. com for details and tickets.

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Class from the Past - Shevington Junior & Infants

This month’s Class from the Past is from Shevington Junior & Infants. It’s believed this photo was taken in 1969. Among those pictured are Mark Turner, James Shovelton, Janet Ashurst, Lesley Gibbons, Lorraine Proffitt, Lorraine Gaskell, Stephen Taylor, Malcolm Hindle, John Colee, Miss Davenport, Bernard Mullaney, David Chadwick, Janet Robinson, Sharon Yarwood,

Wendy Smith, Kevin Ball, Ian Pegler, Jean Shaw, Sarah Booth, Elisabeth Johnson, Gail Myers, David Oakes, David Clayton, Dawn Vidler, Susan Holt, Jean Lowerson, Gail Emberton, Gordon Sudworth and Caroline Parkinson. Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact David Sudworth today by emailing editorial@locallife247.co.uk

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Wigan Borough Clinical Commissioning Group

Don’t let Norovirus ruin the winter season Norovirus is often called the winter vomiting bug; its really nasty and unpleasant but its not dangerous. If you get it stay away from your GP and local hospital. Please don’t risk sharing it with other, more vulnerable people.

Norovirus, sometimes known as the winter vomiting bug, is the most common stomach bug in the UK. The virus is highly contagious and can affect people of all ages causing serious vomiting and diarrhoea. There is no specific cure for Norovirus, you just have to let it run its course and stay in bed. It may take between 12 and 48 hours and during this time you will be highly infectious so it is better to try not to come into contact with anyone else during this time.

To find out more visit www.wiganwinterhealth.co.uk

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Distributors Wanted

Spuds You’ll Like!

Local Life requires distributors aged 13 and above for this edition of our magazine. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every eight weeks. The areas we currently require distributors for is as follows:

A Wigan organisation which rehomes formerly caged farm hens is holding a Potato Day on Sunday, February 8. Lucky Hens Rescue North West says it has so far saved more than 14,000 hens from slaughter by finding new homes with families who want a taste of the Good Life.

Aspull & Haigh – All areas Springfield - St Andrews Drive area If you are interested, please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@ locallife247.co.uk

Side Effects Wigan Little Theatre’s next production - Side Effects - starts from Wednesday, March 4. Written by Rising Damp and Duty Free writer Eric Chappell’s, the story focuses on Frank Cook, who having been taken ill with a rare complaint, and has been booked into a private nursing home by his wife June for a week’s respite.

While there, he encounters the Rev Paul Latimer who is recovering from a heart transplant and whose odd behaviour is beginning to alarm his wife, Sarah.

The Potato Day will be held between 11am-2pm at its HQ at Amberswood Common, Manchester Road, Hindley, and among the attractions will be seed potatoes, onion sets and strawberry plants available, expert advice from J. Maher Ltd, candle making with Wigan Allotment Network, an opportunity to have a photo taken with Little Jake the pony or a hen, a bouncy castle, fundraising tombolas and refreshments.

For more information, visit www. luckyhensrescuenorthwest.weebly.com

Performances start at 7.30pm and to book, visit www. wiganlittletheatre.co.uk or call 01942 242561.

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“I suffered with back pain for years until I called Wigan Family Chiropractic Clinic.”

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There’s no need to live with the discomfort of muscle, joint and nerve pain.

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Blowing Hot & Cold Stop blowing hot and cold - make 2015 the year when you convert your conservatory into real living space!

Before

After Here to help you is HomeSafe Roof Solutions, a 5 star rated conservatory roof replacement company based in Hindley. They don’t believe in high-pressure sales techniques, but instead HomeSafe offer low prices all of the time. The company has recently been featured on the BBC’s Crime Scene Rescue and DIY SOS. HomeSafe Roof Solutions will replace your existing polycarbonate or glass conservatory roof with a fully insulated lightweight roof, that will keep the heat in during winter months and prevent the sun from overheating your conservatory during the summer months.

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FOR THE RECORD… David Sudworth meets the Whitley man who brought Northern Soul to Wigan 42 years ago, and is still Keeping The Faith...

On the morning of December 6, 1981, Russ Winstanley got in his car and drove the eight miles to Rivington. When he got to the water’s edge, he pulled up and simply burst into tears. It would be an hour before the 29-year-old could regain his composure.

“I was just completely and utterly heartbroken. It had been eight years of my life, playing three times a week, every week, and now it was over. It was dreadful, and what made it worse that the building stood there empty for months before it caught fire and was eventually demolished.”

Russ is, of course, talking about Wigan Casino - the venue which put the town on the musical map and is feted to this day. The council-owned building, which stood almost opposite the old Ritz Cinema, was knocked down in 1982. The street it stood on, Station

Wigan Casino stood near the Ritz on Station Road Road, is now buried under the millions of tonnes of concrete used to build the Grand Arcade shopping centre in 2007. The arcade pays homage to the Casino, with an eponymously-named cafe on the first floor, complete with archive images. But the music and experiences there live on inside people like Russ and the thousands who passed through its doors from 1973-1981.

Since leaving school, Russ has worked in a number of places such as Foscolor dyes in Abram, Edmunds Walker car parts on Wallgate and then, during the bulk of the Casino years, had his own record shop, Russ’s Records, at 33 Hallgate.

Two Casino regulars waiting at Wigan North Western train station

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I meet Russ at his home on Mesnes Road, Whitley, where he’s lived since 1980. Now aged 62, Russ is still keeping the Casino flame alive with regular reunions, and

...call us now on 01695 627 999

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features regularly in the media. Indeed, interest in the Casino was heightened last year with the release of lowbudget film, appropriately titled Northern Soul, which became a surprise Top 10 box office cinema hit.

Much has been written since the Casino closed, but I’m keen to know the real story of the man who started it all.

Born at 10 Baytree Road, Beech Hill, on October 18, 1952, Russ grew up with parents Betty, who worked at Baker’s Jewellers in the town centre, and Bert, who was an overlooker at Eckersley’s cotton mill. Russ also has an older sister, Val, who now lives on St Clements Road, off Wigan Lane.

“I saw The Beatles play in Wigan but couldn’t hear a thing!”

“We could see Springfield Park from our house, it was quite rural then - not even St John Fisher School had been built,” says Russ, who went to Beech Hill Primary and then onto Wigan Grammar.

“As a kid, I loved The Beatles and even went to see them when they came to Wigan. I distinctly remember the date, October 13, 1964. They were on at the ABC Cinema, which was later The Ritz, and I couldn’t hear a thing because of all the girls screaming. They only had these little guitar amplifiers and I remember thinking I wish these girls would shut up because I’d paid four and six for it!” laughs Russ.

“I started DJ-ing and got a slot at Wigan Rugby Club, at Central Park, which was run by ‘The Committee’. They were quite puritanical and remember we had go-go girls with us. One time I was playing something and all of a sudden a big roar went up from the audience.

Apparently, one of the girls had ‘popped out’ of her top and hurriedly ran off. Afterwards I was approached by one of the old fellas from ‘The Committee’ and I thought I was going to get a right rollicking. Instead, he said that if I could get her to do it again there’d be a couple of quid in it for me!”

Not that Russ’s sets on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sunday afternoons needed any impromptu stripteases to create a stir; they were becoming more popular in their own right, and he noticed he’d started getting more requests for soul music.

“The Beatles were always talking about being influenced by black music, so I started looking into that.

Then I remember hearing My Girl by The Temptations. It’s a brilliant song and works over every age and generation.

I then started listening to Radio Luxembourg and the pirate stations where you’d hear all this soul and Motown music.

“I was the drummer in a Wigan band called The Kibbos for a while. We’d go to places like Llandudno in a battered van which would take us five hours to get there. I remember one time asking a guy for directions and as I wound the window down the door came off - it was that bad!

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Russ today with some Casino memorabilia

“It was then I approached the owner of the Casino, Gerry Marshall, about running a Northern Soul night.

He wondered what the heck I meant but he had a manager who was my age and he convinced him. For the first night, we agreed entry would be 75p a ticket and it would be split. So when 652 people showed up I thought I’d be in for a fair bit of money, not forgetting the average wage then was about £200. So I wasn’t surprised that after Gerry saw how popular it was, for the following week the ticket price went up to £1 and I got a smaller share.

“The reason it started at 2am was because Gerry had his normal night on before that and he didn’t want to lose that custom to something which he was, in his mind, taking a chance on. But the late start meant it was afterhours for serving alcohol.”

career he caused outrage by targeting gay people who frequented bars in Manchester’s Canal Street.

From that moment on, word about Wigan Casino spread like wildfire. Its famous 3 Before 8 - the final three songs of the night before coming to a close at 8am - have made stars of soul artists Tobi Legend (Time Will Pass You By), Jimmy Radcliffe (Long After Tonight Is Over) and Dean Parrish (I’m On My Way).

Russ recalls: “James Anderton sent two busloads of officers to the Casino to bust it for drugs, but they found nothing. Everyone thought that because it wasn’t mainstream, it was some den of iniquity. But why on earth would I want to be associated with something where, if it went wrong, everyone would blame me?

On its final night, Russ played the 3 Before 8 three times but nobody would leave. To break the hysteria, he plucked a 7 inch at random from his box and played that. This final Casino song, Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)

by Frank Wilson became one of the most famous of all time.

“Over four million people went there in eight years and not one of them was ever prosecuted. That’s a record which will be broken on King Street in one night this weekend. We even had plain-clothed police officers in and after they’d finished their shift, they’d come back because they loved it so much. One of the main deterrents was that if you were convicted of possessing drugs, you’d find it difficult to get a visa to

It’s said that at its peak, there were over 100,000 members and 90% of those were from outside the Wigan area.

A bit like the Cavern in 1960s Liverpool, many people claim to have visited the Casino, but archive photos show people who went on to become big names at the venue. Among them include newsreader Anna Ford, the late Manchester music impresario Anthony Wilson, and 1980s star Limahl, who grew up in Pemberton.

On the Casino site during demolition works in 1982

At the time, it was looked on as an ‘alternative’ scene which drew suspicion from many. Very few could believe that youngsters would travel hundreds of miles to dance all night in a northern venue to obscure music with no alcohol on offer.

One of those who was mistrusting of the scene was Wigan-born James Anderton, who in 1976 became the chief constable of Greater Manchester Police.

Anderton was known for his stridently religious views - he was known as ‘God’s Copper’ - and later on in his

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41

visit America, which is where people went to hunt for the sorts of records they wanted to hear but weren’t available in the UK back then.”

One thing Russ laments is that, with the Casino’s demolition, Wigan lost a large music venue which even today hasn’t been replaced: “Back in the 70s, we’d have big acts like Jackie Wilson. He’d usually charge up to £7,000 but as Wigan is between Manchester and Liverpool, and as he was nearby anyway, he’d accept our limit which was £2,500. It had a capacity of 3,500 but to didn’t go be honest we’d squeeze in 5,000. out you’d be stuck at home, “These days, people like Paul Weller and Ocean Colour in front of the TV Scene, who were influenced by Northern Soul, ask me with your parents where they can play in Wigan. Unfortunately I have to watching a limited tell them nowhere because we haven’t got a venue big enough. That’s really sad considering the sort of musical number of channels. pedigree Wigan has.”

I wonder whether, having talked about the Casino perhaps every day for the past 42 years, whether Russ ever gets fed up of it: “No, not at all. It was a great part of my life. Back then, people had to go out to see their friends and socialise. Don’t forget that most of us didn’t even have phones at home until the late 1970s, so if you

“We didn’t want to listen to the stuff the mainstream was spoon-feeding us, we wanted something different.

That’s why it was a real community, and why it was so awful when it closed.”

Nowadays, Russ is still Keeping The Faith through his DJ work and collaborations with record companies. When he’s not working, he spends time with his partner, Claire Rodgers. He also has two daughters; Jodie, 29, who lives in Winstanley and works as cabin crew for First Choice Holidays, and Dionne, 26, who works for Wigan Council and lives in Poolstock.

So with pension age now looming, I ask whether Russ is getting ready to play his final 3 Before 8. He smiles: “I still love the music. Retirement is something you do from a job you don’t enjoy. That’s not the case with me. I’ve been very lucky. In fact, you could say that I’ve been retired since 1973...”

A young Limahl (right), who went on to be a singer in the 80s, pictured at Wigan Casino

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MP Surgeries

service leaves at 9.30pm, getting to New Springs at 9.40pm and into Aspull at 9.50pm.

Wigan MP Lisa Nandy is holding surgeries across the area in February and March. On Monday, February 16, she’ll be at Wigan Life Centre, The Wiend, while on Friday, February 20, she’s at Standish Library, Cross Street. On Monday, March 16, she’s back at the Wigan Life Centre and on Friday, March 20, she’ll be at Shevington Children’s Centre, at Shevington Community Primary School, Miles Lane. To book a specific time to see the MP on these days, please call 01942 242047.

Although the service is free, there’s a 50p entry into Wigan Youth Zone itself. A consent form must be filled in and a place reserved in writing. Email your name, required pick up point and date to bus@ wiganyouthzone.org or text the details to 07400 411113.

Free Bus A free bus service to the new Wigan Youth Zone on Parsons Walk is now being offered to local youngsters.

The service is being run on Saturday evenings.

It leaves Woodnook Road, Appley Bridge, at 4.30pm, before picking up at the Plough and Harrow in Broad o’th Lane, Shevington, at 4.45pm, the Silver Tally, Shevington Moor, at 4.55pm, the Globe Inn and High Street, Standish, at 5.25pm, It also has a service from Aspull Methodist Church, Wigan Road, at 5.45pm, calling at Holly Field, New Springs, at 5.55pm and getting to the Youth Zone at 6.05pm.

The return journey leaves at 8.30pm, getting to Standish at 8.40pm, Shevington Moor at 8.50pm, Shevington at 9pm, and Appley Bridge at 9.10pm. The return Aspull

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Beer Fest Is Back Wigan Beer Festival is back from Thursday, March 5. The three-day event, the 28th beer fest in total, will once again be held at Robin Park Indoor Sports Centre, Loire Drive, Wigan. As usual, there will be over 60 real ales, ciders and foreign beers for folk to try out.

Times are as follows: Thursday (5.30pm-11pm), Friday (noon-11pm) and Saturday from 11.30am-11pm.

Visit www.wigancamra.org.uk for more details.

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Money & Investments - by David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP)

New Year Resolutions!

Firstly, happy New Year to all Local Life readers, let’s hope you will all “Prosper” throughout 2015.

Apologies for the plug but it’s the only time of year I can get away with it. With a brand new year now underway, it’s the time for New Year’s resolutions and amongst the favourite are, more exercise, dieting and less drink. Sadly, all these involve pain and deprivation, and even the most committed of us struggle to keep those promises going until mid-February.

One resolution that you may want to retrospectively add to your list, one which importantly involves very little pain but can have significant benefits is to have an investment health check. Every January I notice a significant increase in the number of enquiries from Local Life readers wanting to review their investments.

What prompts this increase?

Possibly taking time off at Christmas, end of the tax year worries or the general New Year feeling of optimism.

Whatever the trigger though, reviewing and revamping your portfolio now could make a significant difference to your portfolio value. Apart from weeding out the poor performing funds and checking you’re still on track, you might find your finances could be arranged more taxefficiently.

I recently chatted to a friend who was moaning about the amount of paperwork he was receiving from all his different investments and his ability to keep on top of this. Potentially the problem was costing him money, because he didn’t know how his investments had been performing.

So I asked him what his “ideal” would feel and look like and this is what he said; He wanted to; • Retake full control of his investments rather than getting swamped with paperwork and information • Have “peace of mind” knowing that an expert was also keeping an eye on his investments • Invest in a wide choice of leading companies without being tied in to a single company/fund • Just deal with “one firm” for all of his different investments rather than having to speak to different companies for his various funds • Have access to his entire portfolio valuation 24/7 without any lengthy telephone calls to numerous call centres, no wading through paperwork or need to wait weeks for an out of date valuation to arrive by post.

It probably does not come as a great surprise to learn that Prosper’s Wealth Management Service has the solution to all these issues and more besides. Indeed one of our clients described the difference between the old way of managing investments and using Prosper’s Wealth Management Service as “an absolute revelation”.

If you would like to know more about our Wealth Management Service then visit our website www. prosper-ifa.co.uk or email us to request a brochure. The cost for the initial consultation is met by us and you are under no obligation.

If you invest in the stock market the value of your investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount invested.

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Are you looking for a new independent financial adviser?

Due to changes introduced by the Financial Services Authority there has been a reduction in investment and pension advisers.

Consequently, there are now even more “orphan” clients than ever that need to seek out a financial adviser that they can trust to look after them over the long term.

Orphan clients?

“Orphans” are those investors that have invested capital into pensions and investments a number of years ago who are no longer receiving ongoing advice/guidance.

How can this happen?

We are based locally (on the High Street in Standish) and have been looking after the investment needs of local clients for over ten years.

Our business is designed around the long term interests of our clients and not the short term interest of our advisers.

As a result we now review in excess £75 million on behalf of 350 individual and corporate clients throughout the Wigan area and beyond.

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• High Street Banks no longer offering financial advice • Advisers moving offshore i.e. Cyprus, to avoid the new tougher regulatory regime.

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Whilst we do not require a minimum investment level for our services you would ideally have at least £75,000 liquid funds to invest or have existing investments at this level?

If you feel that we can be of assistance please do not hesitate to get in touch. The initial meeting is at our expense and is without obligation.

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Brush Up

Ramblers’ Activities

Standish Art Group is looking for new members. The long-established group has a few vacancies for people who are interested in various types of artistic media, such as pastels, watercolour, oil or acrylic. You don’t need to be experienced to join as the group also caters for those who are just starting out. The meetings take place at Standish Community Centre, on Moody Street, from 7pm-9pm every Wednesday. For further information contact the group’s general secretary, Geoff Grint, on 07514 801285 or email gcgonr@gmail.com

Wigan & District Ramblers Group has a busy February and March planned - and locals are invited to join them.

On Saturday, February 7, they are off to Charlesworth in Glossop. A coach will be picking up at 8.45am at Standish Co-Op car park at 8.45am, at Library Street, Wigan, at 9am and in Golborne at 9.15am.

Lipreading Group Standish Lipreading Society has vacancies in the class for anyone who is hard of hearing or deaf and would like to learn to lipread and develop strategies on managing their hearing loss. The class is held at Standish Community Centre, Moody Street, on Mondays from 1pm-3pm. There is a car park and the centre is just a few minutes away from a bus stop. The class is free of charge. If anyone wants to attend regularly, there is a £10 annual membership charge that covers some of the group’s expenses.

On Saturday, February 21, they’ll be going on a footpath walk around Appley Bridge, meeting at 2pm on Appley Lane North (postcode WN6 9AE).

On Saturday, March 7, they’re off on another coach ramble, this time to Ribchester. Coach pick up times are the same as on the Glossop trip.

And on Saturday, March, the footpath walk will be around Aspull - meeting at 2pm at the Civic Hall, Woods Road, WN2 1PJ. All local footpath walks are about 4 miles to 4.5 miles and finish about 4.30pm For information contact Frank Atherton on 01942 831566. To book on a coach ramble trip, ring Geoff Stanley on 01204 699231 or 07775 660642.

Contact worthingtonwendy7@gmail.com, Olwyn Preston on 01257 424249 or Stanley Riley on 01942 223092.

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Accountancy - by Chris Alcock ACMA

How to get the most out of your business in 2015 As we find ourselves already a month into 2015, your planning for the year may already be well under way in regards to holidays, weekends away, fitness goals and so on.

If you are a business owner, now is the perfect time to also have a think about what you want your business to be doing this year and for you to start to pull your thoughts into a plan.

Business planning is a vital step for successful business people. You may still do well without a plan, but your business’ development will be in fate’s hands as opposed to being in your hands.

So why not take firm control of your company’s future with a simple business plan?

How to start a business plan: Financial and business planning can seem tricky at first, especially if you haven’t done a similar exercise before.

So here are three relatively easy questions to ask yourself.

Simply jot down your answers and they will instantly form the basis of your business plan: > Where is your business at right now? Make an assessment of your business and look at your strengths and weaknesses and think about what you need to build on to improve any weaknesses and how you can utilise your strengths more.

> Where do you want your business to be? Think about any new products or services you can offer your customers, or ways of expanding your existing offering to new customers. Set targets and goals. > How will you get there? Look at what resources you will need to ensure your aims and goals are achieved. Look at the key areas in which your business needs to perform and start to measure them, (KPIs) what gets measured gets managed!

What to do next: It is a great idea to talk through your answers with someone outside of your business, who is impartial and has a good business understanding.

Here at CMA, as well as making sure your businesses finances are in the best shape, we are also experienced business advisers and provide assistance to help you grow. We go the extra mile and work with you to understand your current position and business goals.

We help you to devise a full plan to ensure your business succeeds in achieving its desired outcomes.

We offer a free advice service / initial consultation.

Talk to us about your business today To see how we can help you please get in touch:

CMA is a proactive accountancy firm based in Appley Bridge. We provide the usual services such as accounts and payroll services. We can also help you with your bookkeeping if you hate doing this!!

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Chris Alcock ACMA CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR Tel: 01257 255521 Email chris@cma-accountancy.com www.cma-accountancy.com

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Taste Test - by David Sudworth

Heap of Flavours

There’s no shortage of places to eat out in Parbold, but when the opportunity arises to dine with friends I find it difficult not to choose the Stocks Tavern.

aspect is the variety of dishes on offer. From traditional to continental, carnivorous to vegetarian, there really is something for everyone. People with special dietary requirements will also be pleased to know they also have vegan and gluten-free options.

Perched on the corner of Alder Lane and Mill Lane, the Stocks has, in recent years, been transformed into a top eating venue with a fantastic head chef, Michael Heap.

I met my friends Peter and Sophie there recently for an evening meal. The first thing we noticed was how it seemed bustling without being full. There’s no getting away from the fact that the Stocks is on the smaller side, as are many buildings from 1810, but the tasteful decor, recently updated, makes it feel so much bigger. Ample car parking on each side of Mill Lane also makes it a big attraction.

For starters, I opted for the jerk marinated chicken wings with a Cajun five-bean salad, Peter fancied the goats’ cheese, red onion and leek tart while Sophie, who is a fan of Italian food, chose the oven baked ciabatta topped with blue cheese and spring onion rarebit.

On to the food, and because it had been a while since I’ve visited the Stocks, it was interesting to see what changes had been made to the menu. One striking

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Presentation-wise, these dishes deserve high marks even before we sank our pearly whites into them. I was pleased that the flavour of my chicken matched the elegance of its ‘kerb appeal’. I’m not usually a fan of wings; being usually a breast man, but these were succulent and the jerk marinade was extremely pleasant.

The salad beneath had some fulsome flavours which, when accompanied with the chicken, made a good choice for a starter.

Peter’s tart came with a red pepper coulis and micro herbs, which gave it an air of culinary sophistication.

Peter was especially pleased with how the red onion worked with, rather than dominated, the other ingredients to give an all-round satisfying flavour.

Sophie, being a dainty thing, doesn’t eat much normally but consumed her ciabatta with gusto. For her, the small flecks of spring onion provided yet more proof of how relatively simple ingredients, when put together, can provide something special.

For the main course, I simply had to try the beef bourguignon while Peter went hook, line and sinker for the fish special - a duo of fish and chips, breaded plaice goujons, beer battered haddock and chunky chips with minted crushed peas and tartar sauce. Sophie, who is veggie, chose the mixed vegetable jambalaya, and what a choice it was too. It’s not often I have food envy, but this dish looked superb. And I knew from our starters that if it looks good at the Stocks, it’s bound to taste good. Being an all-round good egg, Sophie allowed me to sample a few mouthfuls. The fusion of tastes is an authentic tribute to this Creole dish made which lends heavily from the Spanish favourite paella. Peter is a man of few words, so it was a surprise when he started waxing lyrical about his haddock, which he says was cooked perfectly.

As for myself, despite what some supposed know-it-alls say, bourguignon isn’t simply a Lancashire hotpot with half a bottle of plonk thrown in... although admittedly that does sound nice! To get a bourguignon just right, the sauce has to form an almost velvety coat around the mushrooms and the beef has to be cooked very slowly.

And also, you have to watch the salt, because too much and it ruins the dish completely. Happily, head chef Michael knows his onions (and other foodstuffs come to that) and the bourguignon - served to me on a table next to a roaring coal fire - was the epitome of a gastronomic winter warmer.

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Not only is the location, venue and food great, the Stocks holds a number of events, including a Chinese New Year celebration (February 19) and a Lancashire Tapas Night (March 26). On both evenings there’s a great deal of two courses for £14.95. Peter, Sophie and I were extremely pleased to renew our acquaintance with the Stocks; great company, great food and a great venue - no wonder it’s ranked so highly on TripAdvisor.

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So far so good, but what of the desserts? I’ve had countless meals where the starters and mains have been fantastic, but

the desserts have been an utter let down. Not these - my homemade cheesecake, Peter’s chocolate fudge cake and Sophie’s homemade apple and cinnamon crumble were absolutely splendid. They knocked the wall-to-wall mass-produced puddings served up by far too many places into a cocked hat.

Speaking to Michael after our meal, it became clear why our food was so good. Not only does he have immense pride in what he produces, he sources produce locally.

The veg comes from Rufford, the meat from Greaves’ butchers in Up Holland and the fish is sourced via a Skelmersdale business.

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Recipe of the Month

Lancashire Hotpot Serves 4

Method

Ingredients

Preheat the oven to fan 160C/325F/Gas 4.

• 200g boneless lamb shoulder, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 4cm pieces • 50g lamb leg steaks, cut into 4cm pieces • 150g lamb neck fillet, cut into 4cm pieces • Pinch of caster sugar • Sea salt and freshly ground b black pepper • 25g plain flour • 4 lamb loin chops (100g each) • 2tbsp olive oil • 50g salted butter, melted • 4 onions, thinly sliced • 500g Golden Wonder or other floury potatoes, peeled and cut into 2mm thick slices • Pinch of ground white pepper

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Season the shoulder, steaks and neck fillet with the sugar, half a teaspoon of salt and some black pepper. Toss with the flour and arrange in a heavy hotpot or casserole.

Season the loin chops. Heat the oil in a pan and sear the chops on all sides for three to four minutes, or until golden brown. Put them on top of the raw meat.

Heat one tablespoon of the butter in a clean pan over a medium-low heat until foaming, add the onions with one teaspoon of salt and cook for two to three minutes, or until soft but not browned. Spread the onions evenly over the lamb.

Put the potatoes in a bowl, add the remaining butter, season with one teaspoon of salt and a pinch of white pepper, and mix well. Layer the sliced potatoes on top of the onions. Bake the hotpot, covered, for two hours, removing the lid for the final 30 minutes. To serve, divide among four bowls, making sure there’s a chop in each bowl.

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Tunnel Vision David Sudworth meets the Shevington man who is shining a light on the area’s underground history

Only in Britain could there be whole articles and books written about strange place names. Perhaps it’s because we have so many of them. For instance, in Lancashire we have the likes of Courage Low Lane (Wrightington) and Ralph’s Wife’s Lane (Banks). Look further afield and they become a bit bizarre; Squeeze Gut Alley (Kent) or Wham Bottom Lane (Rochdale) anyone?

Hic Bibi Lane in Coppull could also qualify as being among the more unusual names. But as with most, there is a fascinating story behind them . In Hic Bibi’s case, we have to go back to 43 AD and the Roman invasion of Britain.

Before the Empire’s army made its way onto these shores, Britain’s road system was a jumble of unpaved tracks of extremely poor quality. However, once Rome had staked its claim on Britannia, the network underwent a massive expansion to allow the speedy movement of military supplies and personnel. Crucially, they were also paved - and one of these was Hic Bibi Lane, which is said to have formed part of a 27 mile stretch from Wilderspool in Warrington to Walton-leDale.

However, once the Romans started to withdraw from Britain in 410 AD, many of the hitherto Latin names, such as Coccium (Wigan), Calunium (Lancaster) and Bremetenacum (Ribchester), eventually became Anglicised. So why did Hic Bibi endure?

The clue is in an event which is said to have taken place over 1,000 years later, in mid-August 1648. Legend has it that Oliver Cromwell stopped there to quench his

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thirst while advancing south after the Battle of Preston at Walton-le-Dale.

Cromwell’s New Model Army won the three day battle against the Scots, led by the Duke of Hamilton.

Hubert Walsh, in his 1978 book, A History of Coppull, explained: “There would probably Oliver Cromwell is said to have been a notice by the have rested at Hic Bibi well to inform travellers on this ancient highway that the water was fit to drink.

Hic Bibi well was one of three Holy Wells in the ‘Layland Hundred’ and the Seeing that the land surrounding the well was Monastic land, it is most likely that the Latin name was given by the Monks.”

This little story in itself is an impressive tale, given its link to a man who was named as the third Greatest Briton ever, behind Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Winston Churchill. However, in 1838, track for the WiganPreston railway was laid just east of Hic Bibi Lane. This necessitated the building of a culvert underneath the line to ensure the continuation of Hic Bibi Brook.

With a new line now in place, this brought new mineral lines and by 1860, the area was swept along with the new industrial revolution. Hic Bibi Colliery - originally called Coppull Hall Colliery - was opened in this decade

by Thomas Rymer Bourne. A number of companies worked the site, including Red Moss Coal and Canal Co Ltd, Hic Bibi Coal and Canal Co Ltd and latterly Ellerbeck Collieries Co Ltd. Although mining stopped in 1887, clay extraction began and was continued by Ellerbeck until the closure of the brickworks in 1959.

Following this, the site lay virtually untouched until the 1990s when Chorley Council secured a 999 year lease to develop it as a nature reserve.

Reclamation work began in 1997, when rubbish was cleared, trees were planted and ponds were created. Hic Bibi is now seen as an important Bricks from the old works, oasis for wildlife, which closed in the 1950s including the Great Crested Newt and Sedge Warblers.

The net result is that there are now precious few obvious signs of its history... unless you’re prepared to get a bit mucky. That’s what intrepid explorer and keen photographer Mark Chapman, from Shevington,

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decided to do, by literally wading into Hic Bibi Brook to get up close with the Victorian engineered culvert which made the laying of the railway, now part of the West Coast Main Line, possible.

Heavy goods driver Mark, 49, told Local Life: “Being an amateur photographer and very Intrepid Mark Chapman interested in underground getting ready to wade into photography, I’ve Hic Bibi Brook culvert researched and been in most of the local culverts in this area and beyond.

“Hic Bibi is very well built, but then again it had to be as it carries the Mainline over the stream. This meant they had to use reinforced buttresses, which create a good

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mixture of reflected light and shadow. The depth of the water is just below welly height so your feet remain dry if you’re careful, which is always a bonus!

“If you went in there with just a torch, it would just seem pretty dark. But my photos don’t show that because it’s done with on a tripod with a long exposure, anything up to 30 seconds, and I use torches to light up the paint.

The idea of producing a beautiful image in pitch black filthy damp conditions is quite challenging but very rewarding.”

© Hic Bibi Tunnel photos by Mark Chapman

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Time Running Out

Ponds Planned

Time is fast running out to enter the impending Standish Hall Trail Race. It takes place on Saturday, February 21, from 2.30pm. Organised by Wigan Phoenix Running Club, the course is approximately 10 kilometres long and runners from across the area will be battling it out on Saturday, February 21, from 2.30pm. The starting post is on a footpath just off Arbour Lane and the majority of the route takes in the pathways and bridle ways around Mill Dam Wood, also known as Elnup Wood.

Plans to protect wildlife from the development of green space in Standish have been unveiled. HIMOR Group Ltd wants permission for the creation of two newt ponds with associated habitat development and an amphibian underpass on land west of units 135-140 at Bradley Hall Trading Estate.

Registration is available by sending an A5 stamp addressed envelope to Paul Carroll, 21 Pilgrims Way, Standish, Wigan, WN6 0AJ, by February 14. Pre-entry fees are £6 and £8 for unattached runners, with cheques made payable to Wigan Phoenix. You can also enter online at www.runnersworld.co.uk before February 18.

Papers submitted to the council by the HIMOR’s agents state: “The creation of the two ponds is part of a wider scheme of mitigation measures related to Great Crested Newts.

Entries on the day are also welcome, at a cost of £7 and £9 unattached. Registration is from 1pm at the Britannia Hotel, Almond Brook Road, and the minimum age is 16.

For further enquiries, email paul.carroll@wiganphoenix. org.uk or call 07950 074173.

It is hoped the plan will off-set any disruption to wildlife in the area following Wigan Council’s decision to grant planning permission for up to 150 homes nearby back in October.

“The scheme will be complementary to Bradley Hall Trading Estate and will provide ecological benefits through the creation of a new habitat for a Europeanprotected species in a location close to the edge of the settlement.”

A final decision is due by March 6.

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BEFORE AFTER

Boston Fundraiser

course some sumptuous crepes. The entry cost is £2.

A fundraiser to help erect a statue of Wigan rugby legend Billy Boston is taking place at the DW Stadium on Saturday, March 21. Wigan Warriors head coach Shaun Wane and ex-Central Park favourite Bill Ashurst will be speaking on the night. The Master of Ceremonies will be BBC commentator Dave Woods and entertainment comes from 1960s band T’Others. Tickets are £35 and available from Barbara Thompson on 07798 900913 or by emailing kat712@blueyonder.co.uk

Flippin’ Great!

Shevington Women’s Institute is holding its own Pancake Day at Shevington Methodist Church, on Gathurst Lane, on Tuesday, February 17, from 10amnoon. The community is invited to go along to sample its offerings, which include a cake stall, a raffle and of

The WI branch meets every fourth Wednesday of the month at the church at 7.30pm. It has speakers every month, lunches out, walks, theatre visits and much more.

Contact Mavis on 01257 472662 to find out more.

Celebrating Libraries Kiddies are being invited to help celebrate National Libraries Day on Saturday, February 7. Standish Library, on Cross Street, is holding a celebration at 10.30am where those aged between four and 11 are invited to go along and write a short story for them. The themes to choose from are What I Love About My Library or My Favourite Book/Book Character and Why. All materials will be provided - no need to book, simply go along on the day.

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Have Your Say Residents in Wrightington and Appley Bridge are being urged to have their say on a plan drawn up to promote prosperity in West Lancashire. The draft Economic Development Strategy 2015-2025 is now out for public consultation, and includes a series of proposed action points. These include supporting the rural and visitor economy, better transport connections and marketing the borough. The full document can be viewed at www.westlancs.gov.uk/yourviews - the deadline for comments is Wednesday, February 25.

Community Focus Author and historian Elizabeth Roberts is giving a talk at the Museum of Wigan Life on Saturday, February 7. She will examine how neighbours got along with each other in the early 1900s; how they supported each other and

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how they stuck together in times of need. There will also be a part on what happened if people fell below the strict social standards of the time.

The Library Street venue is holding the talk from noon, and entry is ÂŁ2.50 including tea and coffee. Book via 01942 828128 or email museumofwiganlifebookings@ wlct.org

Gill Returns An author who is originally from Wigan is heading back to the town for a story reading and book signing. Gill Torres will be reading her illustrated children’s book, The Girl Who Could See Stories. It was written to inspire children to love themselves and the planet by choosing a healthy lifestyle. Gill, who now lives in Liverpool, will be at Nooch, at 21 Hallgate, Wigan on Sunday, February 8, from 2pm.

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65

Jack’s Tracks

Darwen The sun was shining for once, so we loaded up the dogs in the car and set off on a 30 minute drive to the West Pennine Moors. Today, we were about to tackle a walk which includes an historical landmark that celebrates the public’s right to roam those moors – the Darwen Tower – which overlooks the Lancashire town of Darwen.

The good news is, at just over 3½ miles long it’s probably the shortest Jack’s Tracks we have ever published, but the bad news is that most of the walking seemed to be of a somewhat vertical nature! However, once you get to the top of Darwen Tower, you are amply rewarded with amazing views stretching, on a clear day, as far as the Isle of Man! Darwen Hill stands at a height of 1225 feet and the paths leading up to it are extremely steep in parts. If you do have mobility problems, this isn’t a walk for you.

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To get to the starting point take the M6 North, and then head east on the M65 to junction 3. Take the third exit on the roundabout, heading south to Bolton.

Follow that road for 4 miles and then take a left turn into Tockholes Road. The Royal Arms pub (BB3 0PA) is 1½ miles down that road on the right hand side.

Royal Arms – Fine Peters Farm Park up near the Royal Arms pub, either in the public car park near the bus-turning area or in the car park adjacent to the Royal Arms private car park. Cross over to the other side of the road, heading for the bridleway sign and negotiate your way through the wooden barriers. Ten yards further on, turn right at the wooden sign for the woods and water trail and head downhill.

The path bears to the left, and you’ll go down some steps and then head downhill for approximately 350

yards. As you reach the end of the path where the wooden fences are, you’ll see Upper Ruddlesworth Reservoir through the trees in front of you. Turn right at the wooden fence and go immediately down a small dip and as you are heading back up the hill, take the small path that forks off to the right.

The path bears uphill through the woods, generally winds to the right, and you’ll eventually reach a wooden gate, beyond which is the main road. Go through the gate and turn left and head towards a farmhouse in the distance. Once you’ve passed the farmhouse (Fine Peter’s Farm), which dates back to 1757, turn right where the bridleway sign is and head up the path at the side of the farmhouse.

Fine Peters Farm – Water House At this point you’ll clearly see Darwen Tower, sometimes known as Jubilee Tower, in the distance on the right.

The path takes you uphill and then you’ll drop in the direction of Earnsdale Reservoir down below. You’ll come to a junction at the bottom of the path; go straight on down the cobbled pathway. A few yards later you’ll emerge out of the wooden area. In front of you is the entrance to Sunnyhurst Wood, but you’re going to turn right at this point in the direction of the reservoir.

Walk along the straight path with the reservoir on the right hand side. Once you reach the other side of the reservoir, the path turns into a dirt track and bears round the left and then the right and uphill. Once you

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67

along the way to rest and enjoy the fantastic views of Darwen. Follow the main track which starts to wind right in the direction of the Tower until, just before the Tower you’ll reach a crossways of paths – take a deep breath and go straight on and up towards the Tower.

Upon your arrival at the crest of the hill, you can actually (if you have enough energy that is!) go up the stairway to top of the tower. Once you’ve finished taking in the majestic views and have got your breath back, head away from the Tower down the path located on the left hand side of the white pillar. 50 yards further on you’ll arrive at another path; turn left at this point and follow this path for 475 yards. Ignore the downhill dogleg path on your right hand side at this point and carry straight on for a further 200 yards.

Once you’ve passed a bench and the path swings to the left, take the second opening in the fence on the right hand side. Head across the middle of the field and when you reach the other side the path bears to the right and you go down quite a steep stony path. Go over the wooden stile, and take a direct left turn and head down the stone steps.

Higher

reach the cattle grid when the path bends to the left again, you’ll see a wooden gate; go through the gate and head up the very steep hill.

Jump over the stile at the top of the hill onto a wide track. Turn left and go downhill until you reach a house on your left called Water House. Opposite Water House there is a concrete path that forks away from the track – head up this concrete path.

Water House – Royal Arms

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Roddlesworth Reservoirs

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Go through the gate where’s there’s a Darwen Moor sign and head up hill. Within a few yards you’ll reach a fork in the path; take the left hand fork. Here’s where the going starts to get really hard and you’ll follow this upward path for 1/3 of a mile, but there are plenty of benches

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.

Hill

Bolto

The concrete path has steel barriers running alongside the left hand side of it. Once you’ve reached the second gap in that barrier – just by the wooden telegraph pole – turn left, leaving the concrete path. As you walk on the left hand perimeter of that field the pathway forks; go down either path and you’ll end up at the same destination – a disused quarry. Turn right and head up toward the metal bar gate.

When you reach the path at the bottom of the steps turn left here and follow the path as it swings back to the right and into the a wooden area.

You’ll soon reach a pair of wooden gates - go through the one on the right hand side. Follow this path for almost ½ a mile until you reach a wooden gate on the left hand side of a row of terraced cottages. Go through the gate and you’ll be back at your starting point near the Royal Arms.

Darwen Tower Darwen Tower is a Grade II listed structure which was built in 1897/98 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, but to the people of Darwen it symbolises something more fundamental – the right to access to Darwen Moor. Back in the 1870’s, the Lord of the Manor, a Reverend called Duckworth who lived in Somerset, instructed his gamekeepers to block the ancient rights of way onto the Moor.

Coal supplier William Ashton took exception to this move, he had to supply farmers who lived on the Moor, and when Duckworth’s gamekeepers blocked his way, he unblocked it. After a few bloody skirmishes, the issue went to court and by 1896 the townspeople had regained the right to use the moorland footpaths. Ashton had died a couple of years earlier, but his three sons led a celebratory

procession up on to the moors to the spot where the Tower now stands.

The victory coincided with the town’s desire to celebrate Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee.

An anonymous letter to the local paper suggested a landmark be built on the Moor to commemorate the Jubilee and also to celebrate the freeing of the Moors. The townspeople rallied behind the idea and the tower was opened in September 1898 by the Reverend William Duckworth himself.

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Answers are on page 92 of this magazine

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Test Drive - by Tim Barnes-Clay

Toyota

The 1994 Geneva motor show signalled the arrival of a new kind of vehicle, one that would revolutionize the world motor market. At the time few people could have predicted the effect the Toyota RAV4 would make.

The initial Recreational Activity Vehicle with 4-wheel drive (hence RAV4) opened up a new sector for compact, manoeuvrable sport utility vehicles (SUVs).

Toyota had unpresumptuous aspirations for its new car, expecting worldwide sales of only around 4,500 models.

When 8,000 orders swamped the Japanese automaker in the first four weeks alone, production volumes had to be doubled.

72

To begin with, it was available only as a three-door with a 2.0-litre petrol engine and either five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Measuring just 3.96m long (little more than today’s Toyota Yaris), it was unlike anything else at the time.

The public had an appetite for the new kid on the block, however, and in 1995 RAV4’s first full year on sale – almost 6,800 were sold, quickly establishing it as the fourth best-selling car in Toyota’s 14-strong British line-up.

Twenty years on, and the RAV4 is almost unrecognisable. That’s because the compact SUV marketplace has evolved and matured in line with customers’ changing requirements and preferences.

Generally speaking, two decades ago, this type of car was regarded as a substitute to sporty hatchbacks and

RAV 4 coupes. Today its popularity is among families wanting a more fun car over multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) and estates.

Over the years, Toyota has worked hard to keep the model firmly at the heart of its segment, without forfeiting the entertaining-to-drive quality that defined the original RAV4.

When it came to creating the latest model, Toyota talked to existing RAV4 customers around the globe to understand what was best about their car. They named its manoeuvrability, ease of access, lofty view of the road ahead, ingenious packaging, versatility and reassuring capability, even when the going gets tough.

As a result, 2014’s RAV4 points towards an even stronger focus on family use. The result is a car that is more refined with better exterior styling, a more airy cabin and load-space, greater comfort and higher levels of safety.

The only drawback with the current RAV4 is the old-fashioned interior. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a major issue – but it is noticeable all the same. The car is undoubtedly luxurious, especially in ‘Invincible’ 2.2 D4D Auto guise, but the cabin still looks at least a decade old. It’s not poor quality or anything. In fact it all looks very hard-wearing. It’s mainly the switchgear that looks really dated.

Behind the wheel, much of that is forgotten once the pure pleasure of driving takes over. The RAV4 is smooth and gracefully punchy. Indeed, its all-wheel drive capability is more sophisticated than ever before.

Toyota’s Integrated Active Drive System has been developed to offer a more engaging “sport” mode, with gadgetry to automatically adjust the amount of twisting power distributed between the front and rear axles.

It’s easy to see why the RAV4 was, and is, such a hit. It is undoubtedly thanks to this car that the SUV market developed from a niche to become a vital feature of the motoring majority.

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© M93 / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-3.0 (DE)

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Gary Mulvaney

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76

Garden Diary - by Angie Barker

Patience is a virtue!

Here we are again at the start of another gardening year – or almost. February is the month I get very excited about the garden, on the verge of implementing new projects I have dreamed up over the winter months (this is when Hubby asks me “how much?”) and new planting opportunities. However, February can be the coldest month of the year and so I have to be cautious about not getting too far ahead of myself.

It is fine to plant containerised shrubs and perennials at any time of year as long as the ground is not too wet or frosty but seeds (annuals and vegetables) need some warmth to propagate and so outdoor sowing is not viable at this time of year and I have to remind myself that patience is a virtue.

Instead I try and relax and enjoy the garden as it is, with the first signs of spring bulbs appearing and even some foliage on trees and shrubs. And my two favourite plants 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.

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for scent – both evergreen shrubs – are now at their peak. Daphne odora ‘Aureomarginata’ and Sarcococca confusa. The latter is planted next to our front door so that we can enjoy its sweet perfume every time we leave the house. The Daphne is planted next to our deck in the back garden and when the weather allows, entices me outside to enjoy its gorgeous perfume.

One gardening task I can get on with this month is cutting back the perennial grasses (Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’, Miscanthus sinensis ‘Kleine fontane’, Miscanthus ‘Zebrinus’ and Imperata cylindrica ‘Rubra’.

Whilst these grasses have brought fabulous winter structure to the garden, now is the time to cut them back to ensure the old foliage doesn’t get in the way of the new shoots which will start appearing shortly.

Of course, whilst I am busy thinking about the gardening year ahead, Hubby is thinking about different things. For example, which team is likely to win the Premiership and how Wigan and Bolton will fare this season in the Championship. For those of you who don’t share his interest, these are what I refer to as the newfangled first and second divisions of the football league.

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Business Review

Knight ‘n’

at the Wharf Shining Aga! their oven so that it’s virtually as good as new. In fact, people are so impressed with the results that even those who have never had their ovens professionally cleaned before usually become regular customers.” “ It’s a wonderful business when customers can’t thank you enough – quite honestly, I’ve never been so popular! ”

For your free estimate with no obligation, please contact Simon on

0800 840 7127 Simon Duffy has become something of a hit with the locals since he launched his new business Ovenclean; a service that restores even the dirtiest ovens to pristine condition within only a few hours.

“My customers say I’m a Godsend!” he smiles. “I don’t know about that, but I know cleaning the oven is a chore most people hate; they have busy lives and enough to think about without worrying about the state of their oven!”

Simon travels to customers’ homes in his fully equipped Ovenclean van. Using a powerful, yet eco-friendly system, he provides whatever cleaning services are required - from regular visits to keep the oven up to scratch to thorough cleans for ovens encrusted with grease and cooked on food deposits.

“There’s no typical customer,” he reflects. “Some are very house proud and want to keep their oven immaculate, others are simply too busy to fit in cleaning the oven until it gets to a point where they can’t put up with it any longer. No matter how dirty, I’m able to transform

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ANDY HIDDEN Domestic Electrician

No Job Too Small!

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K Stone Building Services All types of building work undertaken 25 years experience

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www.fixmyconservatory.com Arley Cabinet Company Ltd • Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •

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APPLY BRIDGE HEATING & PLUMBING • BOILER replacement • SERVICE and repair • FULL system installations • BATHROOM replacements • SHOWERS • TILING and ELECTRICS

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Brand New Bathrooms

Boiler Installations

Central Heating Repairs Servicing & Maintenance A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff

SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES

Belvedere Barn Estate, Crank Road, Billinge

01744 893957

Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809 506515

ll y te Ca oda uo t eq us fre ra fo

Accredited Installer & Ser vice Partner • Annual Boiler Servicing • Landlord & Home Owner Gas Safety Checks • Gas Fire & Cooker Installations • Under Floor Heating Specialists • Home Efficiency Control Upgrades

10 YEARS

EXTENDED WARRANTY ON SELECTED BOILER INSTALLATIONS

Finance available

WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!

Telephone:

01257 421 660 Registration No.

88604

TEL: MOB:

01942 504 429 07931 766 684

www.fgwelch.co.uk

Paton Plumbing and Heating Ltd

• Boiler Installation • Maintenance & Servicing • Central Heating Installation • System Upgrades • Power Flushing Don’t pay more for new boilers!

We’ll beat any like-for-like quote by £100 – guaranteed!

Pay 0% interest on your new boiler!

Prices start from just £25 per month 8 year guarantee on Worcester Bosch boilers!

Subject to a filter being fitted

We accept all major credit cards

A friendly reliable service

Full central heating installations Complete bathroom renovations Boiler servicing and repairs Landlord’s gas safety certificates Tony Paton

Your Local Installer

Established 1998

542856

T: 01942 568 184 M: 07825 323 711 E: patonplumbing850@gmail.com

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Address: 434 Ormskirk Rd, Wigan, WN5 9DF Tel: Email: Web:

01942 207800 / 01942 221221 eco@premiergas.com www.premiergas.com

...call us now on 01695 627 999

186237

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3 Maggotts Nook Road, Rainford

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Hobson’s ROOFC

EST 1990

RE

WIGAN’S AWARD-WINNING ROOFING FIRM Call us for a free, no obligation quote for;

• Roofing Repairs • New Roofs • Re-Roofs • Roof Windows 22 Barnsley Street, Wigan

07831 764 798

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 ROOFING & REPAIRS

Wigan Good Trader of the Year

www.hobsonsroofcare.co.uk

2010 2013

Advertise here Advertise your business in this section for £39 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

we make it our business to help yours

01695 627 212 MOBILE: 07774 943 706

52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND Established Over 30 Years

• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985

Roofing & Roofline Specialists • All aspects of maintenance & repair • Fascia & soffit installation • Guttering and felting services Call us now for a free estimate

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

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- Solutions

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R. BANKS

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Brian Halliwell Dip F.D M.B.I.E.

Independent Funeral Directors Monumental Masons

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A local family run business, R. Banks & Son are one of the largest independent funeral directors in the Wigan Area

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& SON (FUNERALS) LTD.

Golden Charter Pre Arrangement Funeral Plans and Memorial Plans available

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FINANCE NOW AVAILABLE on Funerals & Memorials Subject to status, written details on request

24 hour service • Caring family firm

Branches: Coppull 01257 793880, Upholland 01695 622099 Standish 01257 422011, Scholes 01942 820526, Leigh 01942 261415, Beech Hill 01942 829200, Bryn 01942 271392

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Head Office: Halliwell House, 758/768 Ormskirk Rd

Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8BB

www.rbanksandson.co.uk

T: 01942 222156

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Over a Century of Local Family Tradition

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The photo on page 70 is of Market Place, Standish.

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EDWARDS

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Funeral Directors

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Accident Witness ?Cameras ? ? ? ? ?

Holmwood, Dicconson Terrace, Wigan WN1 2AA

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T: 01942 821215

www.edwardsfuneraldirectors.com

Protect Your Licence!

Stop Insurance Scams

GPS Mapping HD Cameras in stock

For friendly advice, innovative products and first class installation

Visit Wigan’s in-car technology specialist today!

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SEVEN STARS BRIDGE, WIGAN

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01942 820174 WWW.KANDMACOUSTICS.CO.UK

The UK’s leading funeral director

Call 01257 425447 (24 hours) The co-operative funeralcare 100 High Street, Standish, WN6 0HG www.co-operative.coop/funeralcare standish@letsco-operate.com

Useful Numbers Councils and Councillors (Wigan) Wigan Council Wigan Council (out of hours) Cllr Conway (Aspull & Haigh) Cllr Hilton (Aspull & Haigh) Cllr Ready (Aspull & Haigh) Cllr Collins (Shevington) Cllr Crosby (Shevington) Cllr Edwardson (Shevington) Cllr Debbie Fairhurst (Standish) Cllr Gareth Fairhurst (Standish) Cllr George Fairhurst (Standish) Cllr Davies (Wigan Central) Cllr Hunt (Wigan Central) Cllr McLoughlin (Wigan Central)

sponsored by The co-operative funeralcare 01942 244 991 01942 404 040 01942 486 853 01942 736 215 01942 736 218 01942 487 684 01942 486 860 01942 487 674 01257 423 212 01942 487 671 01257 407 078 01942 486 864 07766 478 296 01942 487 686

Councils and Councillors (West Lancs) West Lancs Council 01695 577 177 Lancashire County Council 0300 123 6701 Cllr Baybutt (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge) 01257 255 501 Cllr Evans (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge) 01695 624 683 Cty Cllr Fillis (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge) 07876 844275 Funeral Directors The co-operative funeralcare

01257 425 447

Libraries Aspull Library

01942 831 303

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Standish Library Shevington Library Medical Beech Hill Medical Practice Boston House Concourse Walk-in Centre Linacre Centre Ormskirk Hospital Aspull Surgery Shevington Clinic Shevington Surgery Standish Clinic Standish Medical Practice Wigan Infirmary NHS Direct Emergency Dental Repairs

01257 400 496 01257 252 618 01942 821 899 01942 482 000 01695 554 260 01942 244 000 01695 577 111 01942 831 263 01942 483 100 01942 483 777 01942 481 380 01257 421 909 01942 244 000 08 45 46 47 01695 623 334

Police Greater Manchester Police Wigan Policing Team Lancashire Police West Lancs Local Team

01618 725 050 01618 567 124 01695 566 134 01257 462 239

Local Life Magazine All departments

01695 627 999

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A View From The Lump Local gossip, gripes and goings-on Disco Infernal Waking on winter mornings has been a challenge ever since Selina Scott broke the hearts of a million middleaged men and left BBC Breakfast Time. However, the other day I had to be on the road by 7am - and what an eye-opener it was, in every sense of the word. For it seems many motorists find the dark mornings a reason to treat fellow road users to an impromptu mobile disco. Waiting patiently behind a BMW at Standish traffic lights, the person in front of me was sat there tapping one foot on the brake seemingly in sync with Let It Go from Frozen while the indicator was flashing leftwards. My eyes are a trifle bleary any time before The Wright Stuff kicks in, but this cocktail of light pollution wakes me from any lingering stupor faster than you can say ‘more Channel 5 dross’.

Roll on March 29, the official start of British Summer Time...

Livin’ La Vida Loca Speaking of summer, this year I have decided to break with tradition and try foreign shores for a holiday. I confess to being nervous; the last time I set foot abroad, it was a fortnight on a building site on the Costas. Sharing our accomodation was a stag party from Coventry with a penchant for swigging San Miguel, singing songs about World War II and discarding their Union Jack shorts before divebombing into the pool au naturel.

I swore I’d never return so this year I’m heading for somewhere sold to me by

my neighbour’s 19-year-old grandson as ‘a popular destination with long sandy beaches and a wide variety of evening entertainment venues’. I think he said it was somewhere called Magaluf, but I couldn’t make the name out precisely as, for some reason, he was sniggering at the time.

I’ve now bought a book on my destination to bone up on local culture and customs. I’m only into the first few pages and I’m already flummoxed.

Does anyone know what a Jaegerbomb is? Answers on a postcard please.

Muchas gracias.

Back Down To Earth Sales of those new-fangled drones, aka flying cameras, have quite literally taken off. So when Local Life’s publisher announced he was splashing out a tidy sum on one, it was raised eyebrows all round.

The reason, he claimed, was ‘to improve the standard and variation of photography of the magazine’. So when giving a demo in the warehouse, expectation was high. Sadly the aforementioned piece of kit did an Apollo 1 and crashed to the floor in an almighty heap. Orrell has never heard as much sniggering since Dave Whelan explained his views on racial stereotyping to a friendly journalist. Alas the drone is in the intensive care department, also known as Mr Publisher’s shed, awaiting repairs. Out with the sticky backed plastic methinks.

We’ve Bin Had A minor to-do in sleepy Appley Bridge during a recent Bank Holiday.

Residents heard the council bin lorries in the next street, and dashed outside to grab their wheelie bins. The residents later discovered the sounds were from the West Lancs side of the village.... and that the bins in the Wigan part weren’t due for another few days. As one villager sagely noted: “What a load of rubbish!”

Mum’s The Word Finally, congratulations to Wigan MP Lisa Nandy, who is set to become a mum in April. It’s a great privilege to be a parent. And having spent the past five years in the House of Commons, Lisa will be well equipped to deal with all the late nights, tantrums and incomprehensible babbling to come...

Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7XB 01695 627 999 www.locallife247.co.uk

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Established 1999

We’ve got it covered!

Roofing Emergency Repairs General maintenance Full re-roofs Flat/pitched Roof Conversions Velux Windows Roofline Fascias & Soffits Cladding Gutters

10 YEAR

INSURANCE-BACKED GUARANTEE

NO CALL OUT FEES Call today for a free quote

01942 665 270 0774 876 7845 or 0770 221 8867 www.protecroofingnw.co.uk

The Old Coach House, George Street, Ashton in Makerfield, WN4 8QD

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