Local Life - Wigan West - Nov/Dec 2013 by Local Life 247 Ltd

Wigan West Edition

Nov/Dec 2013

Your Local Bonfire Guide Take the Real Ale Trail Jack’s Tracks visits Dalton New! Class from the Past

Cover photo © Steve Allen

Win! Lanky Spoken Here book

www.locallife247.co.uk

It’s time to jump on the

Housing Ladder! ‘UK house prices rose at their fastest rate in 11 years and sales have hit a four-year high, pointing to a sustained recovery in the property market’.* There is now help available for all homeowners and potential homeowners who want to move but are struggling to fund large deposits. Borron Shaw, in conjunction with their sister company Lifestyle Financial Services, are now offering Help To Buy on all homes on sale with Borron Shaw. *Survey by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Sept 2013)

Call us today 2

for further detials.

Gathurst Road Orrell

Sandy Lane Orrell

£110,000

£122,000 2 bed terraced

3 bed semi-detached

Deposit needed

Dingle Avenue Up Holland

Higher Lane Up Holland

The Copse Orrell

Smithy Glen Dr Billinge

£160,000

£250,000

£549,950

£575,000

Deposit needed

2 bed terraced

£5,500

3 bed semi-detached

£8,000

£6,100

4 bed detached

£12,500

Orrell Gardens Orrell

£128,000

£6,400

5 bed detached

£27,498

Tarnside Road Orrell

£155,000

£7,750

5 bed detached

£28,750

2 Sefton Road, Orrell

01695 632123 www.locallife247.co.uk

www.facebook.com/borronshaworrell www.twitter.com/borronshaw www.borronshaw.co.uk

• YA R W O O D WAY •

Time is running out ...to buy your dream house on Yarwood Way Just THREE plots left! 1 ONLY

4 Bed Detached with sunroom, underfloor heating & large landscaped garden at rear

£250,000 2 ONLY

4 Bed Semi-Detached - from just

£180,950

Move in for Christmas! Yarwood Way is located directly opposite our sister development, Sandcross Gardens.

Call into our showroom – open Friday to Monday, at Sandcross Gardens, Sandbrook Road, Orrell WN5 7AL

Call

0844 774 4460

or email us at info@yarwoodway.co.uk

www.yar woodway.co.uk 4

College Court – Off Robin Park Road, Wigan, Lancashire WN5 0UU. Open: Thurs to Mon, 10am – 5.30pm

TIME TO BUY? HELP TO BUY IN WIGAN Pay only 80% of the full price of a new home up front and own 100% of it with just 5% deposit required

Visit today to find out more

...time to talk to

Traditional 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes available from £83,196* with Help to Buy

redrow.co.uk/collegecourt

01942 665951

Your mobile operator may charge data usage for scanning QR codes, please ensure you have the appropriate data plan. Images typical of Redrow homes. Price correct at time of going to print. Help to Buy is a Government backed initiative in partnership with housebuilders. *Shows price with 20% loan assistance. Available on selected plots, subject to status, terms and conditions. Help to Buy cannot be used in conjunction with any other scheme. It is highly advised, for a swift, smooth transaction that an IFA/Solicitor advised by Redrow Homes is used. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other Redrow offer. Image typical of Redrow homes. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. CHECK THAT THIS MORTGAGE WILL MEET YOUR NEEDS IF YOU WANT TO MOVE OR SELL YOUR HOME OR YOU WANT YOUR FAMILY TO INHERIT IT. IF IN ANY DOUBT, SEEK INDEPENDENT ADVICE.

www.locallife247.co.uk

www.reganandhallworth.com

Properties are selling at Regan & Hallworth.... We price correctly... Market widely... Negotiate the sale expertly Regan & Hallworth is an owner managed company with three local branches based in Wigan, Standish & Parbold village. Employing some of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most experienced estate agents, we are very much a results driven company who excel at selling and letting property. For the last 17 years people in and around the Wigan area have been trusting Regan & Hallworth Estate Agents to sell their property. Now more people in the area choose to sell their property with Regan & Hallworth than any other local estate agent. Despite a challenging property market our company is experiencing record sales. At present over 30% of all our clients have a sale proceeding on their property. This is many times better than the market average. We firmly believe no other local estate agent gets better results than ourselves. Our award winning advertising, professional photography and unrivalled internet marketing will really help set your property apart. We would love to hear from you if you are looking to sell or let a property in the Wigan area as we have many buyers and tenants waiting at all price ranges.

Wigan 01942 205555

4-6 Library Street, Wigan, WN1 1NN

Standish 01257 473727

7 High Street, Standish, WN6 0HL

Parbold 01257 464644

7 Station Road, Parbold Village WN8 7NU

www.locallife247.co.uk

Luxury Living

this Christmas

An exclusive gated courtyard development of just four large detached homes in Orrell. Three-storey family homes with four bedrooms. Luxury master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and large en-suite. Individually designed with fine attention to detail, and finished to an exceptionally high standard.

Just two homes left - Prices start at

Built by

ÂŁ179,000

www.harveyhomeswigan.com

Stamp Duty PAID INCLUDES All flooring Kitchen Appliances Choice of Tiling in bathrooms Block paved driveway Turfed rear garden

Indian Stone Patio Triple Glazing throughout Cavity Wall Insulation Composite Front Door Burglar Alarm

Wigan 01942 205555

4-6 Library Street, Wigan, WN1 1NN www.reganandhallworth.com

Show Home STUNNING

BEDROOM

OPENING EVENT

Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th October

You’re invited to attend an ‘Exclusive Launch Event’ celebrating the official opening of the new 4 bedroom show home at The Miners Lamp. A range of beautiful 3 and 4 bedroom homes from £154,950 to £169,950

THE MINERS LAMP PARK ROAD, ORRELL, WIGAN WN5 8HY. TEL: 01942 216926 OR 07909 523950. Marketing Suite and Show Homes open Thurs to Mon 10:00am - 5:00pm

Visit www.dorbcresthomes.co.uk Offer available on selected plots. Full terms and conditions available on request. Prices and information believed to be correct at time of going to press and are subject to change without notice.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Local. Valued. Trusted.

60 Days and Counting…

In this issue

As the clocks go back, the temperatures fall and the fuel bills rise I have a message for you that you’re not going to want to hear – Christmas is just 60 days away!

28 New! Class from the Past 32 Win a ‘Lanky Spoken Here’ Book! 36 New! Planning Ahead 56 Food and Drink Section 66 New! Where Are They Now? 68 Bonfire Guide 70 What’s On 72 Jack’s Tracks visits Dalton 76 Your Pets 78 Puzzle Corner 80 Motoring 84 Garden Services 86 Martin Lewis 87 Good Trader Guide 94 Useful Numbers

It won’t be long now til you hear the endless loop of festive songs in the shops whilst you’re busy edging your way round those awful gift sets that givers love so much, but receivers chuck on the ‘car boot’ pile come Boxing Day. Recent Christmas spending patterns show shoppers picking up bargains a few days prior to Christmas as retailers bring forward their New Year sales, but this year may be different according to a new report which predicts a 2.2% increase in Christmas spending. The survey, which was conducted by market research firm Verdict, also reckons that the average spend this Christmas will be an astonishing £3,300 per household! To ensure you enter 2014 without a debt mountain, take action now to cap your spending! Keep your eyes peeled for offers, think about buying presents in the sales for people you’re not going to see until after Christmas Day, try and make your presents (such as hampers), and suggest an ‘Only Kids get Presents’ pact to other family members. This is the last issue of Local Life before Christmas in our Wigan West distribution area, so we’d all like to wish you a very merry Christmas and to say a big thank you to our advertisers, our hardy distributors and, most of all, to you for reading and supporting Local Life all year round.

info@locallife247.co.uk W www.locallife247.co.uk

Design & Production: Peter Bretherton Accounts & Distribution: Sally Boon

sales@locallife247.co.uk design@locallife247.co.uk 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 12,500 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 12,500 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Parbold, Newburgh, Wrightington and Hilldale. Local Life is also published in the West Lancashire and St Helens areas.

Next issue - December

Advertising deadline - Thursday 7 November Published - Thursday 21 November

T 01695 627 999

Sales & Editorial: Chris Pearce, David Sudworth

You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan.

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

Local Life Media

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

@locallifemedia

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

When you receive the new edition of Local Life - remember to recycle the old one.

Joining Jack

St Andrew’s Fair

A fundraising evening is being held in a bid to tackle a terminal illness being battled by the son of exWigan star Andy Johnson. The event is being held by the Joining Jack charity, inspired by Jack Johnson, aged four, who was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) two years ago. The muscle wasting condition means that by the time he reaches adolescence, he will no longer be able to walk, and may need ventilation to help him breathe. Eventually, his heart and lungs will fail and he will die from DMD. The night takes place at Shaw Hill Golf & Country Club near Chorley on Saturday, November 2, starting at 7pm. Carriages at 1pm. It will be hosted by Granada Reports presenter Paul Crone, and includes a Champagne reception, four course dinner, auction, raffle and entertainment. Dress code is formal. Tickets are priced at £50 (tables of 10 people) and can be bought from Simon Smith on 07590 569444 or email simon.smith@worldleisureuk.com or from Andrew Grove on 07860 617447, email groveplatt@aol.com For more information, visit www.joiningjack.org

St Andrew’s Church & Parish Centre in Springfield will be holding a Christmas market on Saturday, November 9, from 10am-4pm. There will be craft stalls, a variety of games, gift stalls, books, tombolas and refreshments. Free Admittance to both buildings. If anyone would like to host a stall [craft or gift] at this event, please contact Jean 01942 741499 for a booking form.

Freelance Make Up & Hair Service

Hair Styling Colour Correction Occasion Make Up Spray Tanning Pamper Packages and lots more...

Friendly and professional service in the comfort of your own home.

Discount for group bookings

Qualified Unisex Hair Stylist & Specialist Make Up Artist

Sparkle

this Christmas

We now offer an in-store alterations/repairs service for ladies, gents and kids clothes

Aubergine Make Up And Hair By Lauren

MuahByLauren

E-mail lauren_muah@live.co.uk Telephone 07850 279063

www.locallife247.co.uk

www. a u b e r g i n e l a d i e s w e a r.c o .u k 721 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, WN5 8AQ

Free parking at rear | Closed Weds | Repairs & alterations

Call - 01942 212 520

It’s Santa Time Again Wigan Rotary’s carol float will be out and about again in the period leading up to Christmas. Although he’s very busy, Santa always tries to talk to the children to make sure he knows what presents they want. The float will tour different parts of Winstanley on December 2, 3 and 17, Almond Brook on December 6, Appley Bridge on December 1, Gidlow on December 4 and 16, Orrell on December 5 and 11, Shevington on December 8 and 20, Standish on December 13,14,15 and 21, Swinley on December 10 and Whitley on December 22. It will also be at Asda (Newtown) on November 30, December 1,, December 22 and December 23 – at Tesco Wigan on December 9, 12, 18, 19, and 21 December – at Standish Co-op(Somerfields) on December 14 or you can catch it in Wigan Town Centre December 7 and 20. Times and further details are available at www. wiganrotaryclub.org.uk

PLUS vision

To receive your £25 discounT presenT This AdverT To A member of sTAff

free single ith w sunglasses ! rt ve d a is th

HEPWORTH & HALL opticians 15 Church Street, Atherton M46 9DE

01942 876200

73 Ormskirk Road, Newtown WN5 9EA

01942 323162

BARNES-HAZEL opticians 102/104 Market Street, Hindley WN2 3AY

01942 255695

806 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton WN5 8AX

01942 225301

Terms and conditions apply, ask a member of staff for details.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Vicar’s Plea An Orrell church has launched a ‘Sponsor A Slate’ campaign to raise money for vital roof repairs. The Rev Peter Whittington, vicar at St Luke’s, is hoping big-hearted locals will step forward with a minimum suggested contribution of £5 to help towards the project for the south aisle roof, which has a final estimated cost of around £20,000. As well as this one-off cost, Mr Whittington says the church is facing an income shortfall of around £22,000 per year, which it is currently paying for out of its reserves. A package of savings has now been agreed by the Parochial Church Council (PCC) in an attempt to bridge the gap as much as possible. Mr Whittington, who has been at St Luke’s for eight and a half years, told Local Life: “We aren’t particularly unique as almost every church is facing a challenging financial situation. The roof situation came about as some minor works were being undertaken but as more tiles were taken off, the more it became apparent it needed completely replacing. People have been very generous over the years with legacies and other direct donations, which we are now using to balance the books. Our biggest income comes from wedding and funeral fees, which are set by the Church of England, and then from renting out the hall as well as our own social events. “At the end of August, general incomes has been £47,738 and expenditure £69,788. The financial

situation is very serious. Finding cost savings is hard. The church council has made some savings by reducing the amount of paid cleaning and trying to ensure anything bought is sourced as cost effectively as possible. The Church of England now has also negotiated a central contract for gas and electricity which will help reduce our costs.” To take part in the Sponsor A Slate campaign or to discuss leaving a legacy to St Luke’s, please contact the Rev Peter Whittington on 01695 623410 or email st.luke. orrell@btinternet.com

Concert for Ghana

Book-Cycle Groups

An evening of light music will be held at Bispham Methodist Church, at the corner of Crank Road and Upholland Road, Billinge, on Friday, November 1, at 7.30pm, to raise funds for a new schoolroom in a village in Ghana. Tickets are priced at £6, children for £3 and are available from Jill on 01744 893009. Everyone welcome.

Book-Cycle, based at the old Orrell Library, hosts a series of groups during the week. On Mondays, it has ‘Interior Design’ from 3pm-6pm. On Fridays, it holds Afternoon Tea between 2pm-4pm. On the second Saturday of the month, it holds a Book Club between 3pm-6pm.

Bird Talks Brian Anderson will give an illustrated talk on Petrels, Paddys and Penguins to Wigan RSPB members on Tuesday, November 12. The group’s final meeting of 2013 is on Tuesday, December 3, and will hear the talk Where Birds Draw Me, by the ever popular John Power . The meetings are held at St Anne’s Church Hall, Church Lane, Shevington, starting at 7.45 pm. Non-members are also welcome - £2 payable at the door. Further details of all events can be found at www.rspb.org.uk/ groups/wigan or via email on wiganrspb@outlook.com

www.locallife247.co.uk

The book for November is ‘The Lovely Bones’ and on Sundays there’s a Knit & Natter group from 12.30pm3pm. All groups are run by donation, and people are advised just to turn up and join in.

Autumn Fair Trinity Methodist Church, on Fleet Street, Pemberton, is holding an autumn fair on Saturday, November 9, from 11am to 3pm. On offer will be stalls with gift ideas for Christmas including handcrafted jewellery, handmade cards, sewn and knitted items, carpentry, Christmas decorations, toiletries, chocolates, cakes and raffle etc. Hot lunches will also be available. All are welcome to attend.

Transform your home this Christmas with Harmonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new soft furnishings service. Carefully co-ordinated collections to make decorating your home effortless and enjoyable

All of the style â&#x20AC;&#x201C; none of the stress! Visit our showroom now!

Window Fashions

Curtains Cushions Rugs Wallpaper Wall Art Bed Linen Blinds

Open: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 10am-4pm 685a Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8AQ Telephone: 01942 743 203 www.harmonyofwigan.co.uk

Towering feat! A local family raised more than £4,000 for a Marus Bridge school following a gruelling Paris-Blackpool charity bike ride. One-year-old Daisy Easton suffered brain injuries after being resuscitated following her birth in April 2012. Since that day, she has battled hard and now attends the Little Stars Group at Hope School. Her family and friends decided to thank the school for all their continued help by undertaking a 480 mile ‘Tower to Tower’ ride from the Eiffel Tower to Blackpool Tower, raising the impressive amount in the process. The ride was undertaken by Daisy’s uncle, Adam Walsh, and friends Alex Reeves and Andrew Brown. Adam’s wife Laura drove the support vehicle alongside Andrew’s fiancee, Suzanne Norcross. Adam, from Ashton, said: “I have been lucky enough to visit this wonderful school with Daisy. The impact the dedicated staff and amazing facilities have on children with varying disabilities is immeasurable. We, as a family, are under no illusions about the difficulties ahead. However it’s with the help of facilities like Hope School

www.locallife247.co.uk

that families like ours are offered help and hope for the future. After speaking with the headteacher, all money raised will go towards purchasing new equipment which will be available for both the Little Stars Group and the school. In these times of austerity and funding cuts, facilities such as these need all the help they can get. This is why we felt compelled this year to give something back to such an amazing school which has given Daisy and our family so much hope and joy.”

Pat’s Honour Wigan Warriors star Pat Richards was given a parting gift from his local doctor in Up Holland as he prepares to move back to Australia. Pat, one of Warriors’ top point scorers of all time, was given the honour of officially opening a new arm of the NHS Matthew Ryder Clinic on Dingle Road, Up Holland. A plaque now adorns the outside the building to mark the event. Pat, who has lived in Up Holland with his family for eight years, is due to move back home to Australia shortly having signed for Sydney club Wests Tigers. Speaking to Local Life at the official opening, Pat, 31, admits he will miss living in the area: “I’ve really enjoyed living in Up Holland. I like the village feel, the local countryside and the walks. Being a city boy from Sydney, I’ve really appreciated the open spaces around here and that’s something I will miss.” Pat was guest of honour at the launch of local GP Dr Patrick Ryder’s new arm of his practice offering a onestop shop of services to local patients. The ‘Your Clinic’ facility was made possible after he successfully attracted a £256,000 loan from NatWest as part of the bank’s participation in the Government’s Funding for Lending Scheme. Dr Ryder’s initial plan was to open a specialist diabetic centre, but eventually decided to rent the four additional practice rooms under the ‘Your Clinic’ brand to various private therapists. Additionally, ‘Your Mind’

will offer psychological and mental health services alongside his existing GP practice. Dr Ryder, who has 24 years’ experience and is also the stadium doctor at Wigan Athletic, said: “We wanted to do something positive for the community and ensure we offered a comprehensive range of private services alongside our NHS surgery. It means our patients can be seen and referred in one place.” David Hall, relationship director at NatWest who worked with Dr Ryder on his scheme, said: “The new clinic offers local patients a huge choice and we are delighted to have been able to support Dr Ryder.”

Great Offer!

10% off food Wednesday-Friday 12pm-2.30pm

This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer

Please pre-book your table prior to arrival Offer valid until Friday 29th November

Robin Hood 18

117 Sandy Lane Orrell WN5 7AZ 01942 511 859 www.robinhoodorrell.co.uk

ss Hire

re Fancy D

Hundreds of costumes available for your Halloween parties. Large range of accessories (fake knives, masks, fangs, wigs, fake blood and liquid latex) and costumes for sale. Also available ‘Fright Eyes’ coloured contact lenses, to further authenticate your look.

Call today - 01942 213 432

769 - 771 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton (Near Boots Chemist)

Mobile - 07837 278650 or 07980 144433

www.fancydressinwigan.co.uk

Coffee Morning

Luncheon Invite

A Christmas crafts coffee morning is being held at Billinge Family Church, Crank Road, on Saturday, November 23rd, from 10am-1pm. It is being organised in aid of the Storehouse, helping to support local families and Belarus children to fund respite holidays for children affected by the Chernobyl disaster. Stalls will include handmade crafts, bric-a-brac, gifts, bags, homemade cakes and lots more.

St Aidan’s Pensioners’ Luncheon Club in Winstanley extends a friendly welcome to those wanting to join them every Wednesday from 10.30am-2.30pm. Members meet at St Aidan’s Social Club and events include bingo and raffles plus hot meals. They also enjoy summer outings and Christmas parties. For more information call Pat on 01942 496770.

Social Dance

Sponsors Needed Sponsors are being sought for Pemberton Community Association’s children’s Christmas party which is being held on Sunday, December 15. Please contact the association direct on 07925 867070 if your organisation can help.

The Grange Monday Dance group is holding a social dance on Friday, December 13th, at Pemberton Masonic Hall, Chapel Street, Pemberton, at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 which includes a hotpot supper. Anyone wishing to buy tickets should contact Jacqui on 07927 665 546 or Carol on 07749 947 461

Tailormade trips

BEACH HOLIDAYS honeymoons cruises

As your Travel Counsellor, with extensive experience in the travel industry, I can tailor-make your perfect holiday from a UK break to a round-the-world trip. Available at a time to suit you, including evenings and weekends, I will provide an unrivalled level of personal service, taking care of all your travel needs down to the finest detail. Everything you book with Travel Counsellors is financially protected including hotels, low cost airlines and car rental.

CLARE OWENS Travel Counsellor T 01257 752510 E clare.owens@travelcounsellors.com W www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/clare.owens Travel Counsellors ensures complete financial protection on every booking

www.locallife247.co.uk

Seasonal Activities

Give It A Try!

Bispham Methodist Church in Billinge has announced its programme for the festive season. There’s an annual Christmas Fair on Saturday, December 7th, from 11am2pm with Santa’s Grotto, toiletries, jewellery, homemade cakes and jams, books, new gifts, gift wrap and bags, a cafe serving lunches and a raffle. A toy service will be held on Sunday, December 8th, at 10.30am, followed by tea and coffee in the Church Hall, where there is also a Children’s Corner.

Orrell RUFC is inviting new players to join its ranks. The Colts and Seniors training is on Mondays, 6.45pm-8pm, and Wednesdays at the same time at St John Rigby College. The Mini and Juniors training is on Wednesdays, 6.30pm-7.30pm, at Up Holland High School. For more information visit www.orrellrufc.co.uk , call Ian Hollis on 07903 806438 or email matt@orrelljuniors.co.uk

Christmas Concert

Got any unwanted electrical goods? The British Heart Foundation’s shop at The Concourse, Skelmersdale, will take old fridges, freezers, dryers, dishwashers, ovens, TVs, DVD players, hi-fis and other small electrical items. Call 0844 8489613 or book online at www.bhfr.org.uk/ collection

Wigan Music Society’s Christmas Concert takes place on Sunday, December 8th, and features Old Hall Brass Band. It starts at 7.30pm, St. Michael’s Church, Swinley Road. Tickets are £10 for visitors and £8 for members.

Artisan Framing Services

have moved

to Bolton Road in Ashton We frame pictures, photos, memorabilia & much more – great for personalised Christmas presents! Same people, same great service, same expertise, just a different location… with its own car park.

Our opening hours are; Mon-Thurs 9-5pm Fri 9-4pm Sat 9.30-12noon

Call - 01942 718602

25 Bolton Road, Ashton-in-Makerﬁeld, WN4 8AA (opposite the American Bar)

www.artisanframingservices.co.uk

Goods Wanted

bespoke fused glass design

glass morpheus

Open Studio Sale Need some inspiration for Christmas presents this year? Come along to our open weekend and choose from lots of lovely and unusual gift ideas, all work is handmade at the studio and many pieces will have upto 70% off for this weekend! Christmas decorations, bowls, jewellery, wall panels, mirrors, coasters and sculptures will all be on show at great discount prices. So come along on the 9th & 10th November 2013 open from 10-4 both days. Unit 11, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7XB t/f 01695 624182 w www.morpheusglass.co.uk e info@morpheusglass.co.uk splashbacks | panels | coasters | jewellery | hangings | sculptures | bowls

www.locallife247.co.uk

Prints Charming!

Two local businesses have teamed up to capture the area’s most beautiful scenes on canvas. Billinge Garden Centre, on Winstanley Road, now has works of art on the walls of its centre and brand new café supplied by MB Signs, based just half a mile down the road at Hewitt Business Park. Among the works of art on show in the new build café include a photo of Billinge Hill, Gathurst Woods and the windmill at Parbold. This is complemented by a new Weatherproof Garden Art section, again in conjunction with MB Signs, which offers images which customers can put outside in their own gardens.

R. BANKS

& SON (FUNERALS) LTD. Brian Halliwell Dip F.D M.B.I.E.

Independent Funeral Directors Monumental Masons

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

‘Safe Haven’

Andrew Smith, owner of Billinge Garden Centre for the past three-and-a-half years, said: “These are two great additions for us, and it’s great to be working with another local company. I think it gives us a distinct local feel and we’ve had some good feedback from it.” Mark Breheny, who started MB Signs over 25 years ago, added: “I took some of the photographs myself, and others are images of paintings from my friend John Higham. It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a while so it’s great to be working with Andrew on this . It’s a fantastic venue.”

Over a Century of Local Family Tradition

EDWARDS Funeral Directors

Pre Arrangement Funeral Plans and Memorial Plans available

24 hour service • Caring family firm

Branches: Coppull 01257 793880, Beech Hill 01942 829200, Standish 01257 422011, Scholes 01942 820526, Leigh 01942 261415, Bryn 01942 271392, Tyldesley 01942 887312, Upholland 01695 622099

Head Office: Halliwell House, 758/768 Ormskirk Rd

Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8BB www.rbanksandson.co.uk

T: 01942 222156

Holmwood, Dicconson Terrace, Wigan WN1 2AA

T: 01942 821215 www.edwardsfuneraldirectors.com

Visit a Winter Wonderland at

Baby Competition

Cafe Now Open!

Billinge-based Windy Arbour Farm Shop held a ‘Guess the Weight of the Baby’ competition recently to raise money for charity. Rachel and Geoff Rigby, who run the popular farm shop, ran the competition in the last few months of Rachel’s pregnancy. Their son, George, weighed in at 8lb 6oz and no fewer than nine customers guessed the correct weight. £220 was raised for Lancashire charity Miles of Smiles - www. milesofsmileslancashire.com The winning customers were Nicky Martin (who won a £20 voucher for Windy Arbour) and the runners-up were Dorothy Thompson, Ann Greenall, Neil Fanning, Margery Shaw, Catherine Marle, Becky and Andy Kay, Susan McCann, Anne Fanning, who all received a voucher entitling them to 10% off at the farm shop.

15% OFF

your 1st nail treatment*

MANICURES PEDICURES HOLLYWOOD/ TWINKLE TOES NATURAL NAIL OVERLAYS NAIL EXTENSIONS LASH PERFECT EYELASH EXTENSIONS CALL MAXINE FOR SALON QUALITY BEAUTY IN YOUR OWN HOME

d Decorations an n of Christmas io ct le se e rg La ailable! Lights now av ovember ailable mid-N Real trees av ns table decoratio , wreaths and es tre al y! ci la tiﬁ sp Ar e now on di and much mor

it Santa is v d n a e m o C ! in his Grottilso Visit website

for deta

Opening Hours Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. Sun 10am-4.30pm

Open til 7pm

TEL: 07727 858153

*On production of this advert – terms & conditions apply

www.locallife247.co.uk

on Thursday 5th, 12th & 19th December Winstanley Road (on the 2 mile stretch) Wigan WN5 7XG

01695 632317

www.billingegardencentre.co.uk

Cheque Mates!

extravaganza event in aid of Macmillan managed to raise £6,200 for the cancer charity.

A trio of local fundraisers have done it again! Kath McGuire, Edith Berry and Anne Hurst’s recent

This takes the total amount raised by the ladies since 2008 to a staggering £27,805. An official presentation of the money raised took place at The Mount, Orrell, recently and was gratefully received by local Macmillan fundraising manager Grace Higgins. The event was held at St James’s Catholic Club, Orrell. Entertainment included music by Old Hall Community Brass Band, a dancing display by The Chris Woolfenden School of Dance, Wigan Musical Theatre Group doing ‘Songs from the Shows’ plus various stalls. Anyone wishing to get involved in future events can contact Kath on 01695 721038.

Everyone needs HelpingHands Home Care

We can help the elderly and infirm get up in the morning, get ready for bedtime and help with shopping, cleaning and other tasks.

24 hour service - 7 days a week

Cleaning

When your life is frenetic and you need a helping hand to clean your home, call Helping Hands. We offer a daily, weekly or fortnightly service tailored for you.

Call us today for a friendly chat Wigan based

HelpingHands

0800 612 2594 E-mail: info@helping-hands.me.uk

Free Trees Residents in the Up Holland and Roby Mill areas are being offered free trees for their garden. West Lancashire Borough Council’s Free Tree Scheme, first introduced in October 2008, aims to improve the borough’s environment and attract more wildlife into local gardens by encouraging residents to plant more trees. Residents who take part this year can choose one of three different varieties of native fruit tree, which are Bramley Apple, Victoria Plum or Conference Pear. Trees provided under the scheme will be two to three years old and will be about 1.5 metres tall. For residents who don’t want a fruit tree this year, the council is also offering an option of a ‘wildlife/hedging’ pack. This will be a pre-packed bundle of 25 small whips made up of 10 hawthorn, five rowan, five blackthorn and five hazel. These can be used to create a short section of new hedge, close gaps in an existing hedge or create a wildlife corner in a garden. To find out more and apply, visit email dave.thornber@ westlancs.gov.uk or roland.jones@westlancs.gov.uk

Keep Fit Keep Fit classes are held at St Luke’s Church Hall, Lodge Road, Orrell, every Thursday, from 8pm-9.30pm. The cost is £2 a session. All welcome.

Perfect Nails at Great Prices All in the comfort of your own home!

Now Open! Now serving

Breakfasts • Lunches Afternoon Teas • Fresh Italian Coffee Opening Hours Mon-Sat 9.30am-4.30pm. Sun 10am-4pm

Enjoy a Free Cuppa! • Manicures • Nail Art • Shellac • Acrylic & Gel Nails and more...

Perfect Ten Mobile Nail Technician

Call Sam today and get 10% off your first session!

07926 199 689 / 01695 227 342 NVQ level 2&3 Qualified Based in Up Holland – all areas covered

www.locallife247.co.uk

Pop into Lime Tree Café and get a free cup of regular tea or coffee with this voucher Voucher valid until 31st January 2014 Winstanley Road (on the 2 mile stretch) Wigan WN5 7XG

01695 632317

www.billingegardencentre.co.uk

British Films

Musical Note

Films from the 1940s to 1980s will take centre stage at Up Holland & District U3A Film Group’s 2013 Film Festival. Starting on October 28, a number of classics will be shown under the title ‘Forgotten British Gems’. The programme is as follows:

The Old Hall Brass band are looking for a front row Cornet and third cornet player. The band has been in existence for just 25 years and was formed by Sue Sudworth and Neil Parkinson from the remains of the Orrell Silver Band. Originally based at Bispham Methodist Church, Billinge, in 2000 the band moved to Crow’s Nest, Windy Arbour, and now rehearse in Roby Mill. As well as looking for cornet players, if any other players are interested in the band, they are asked to contact Paul Sudworth on 07889 271291, or via debbie@oldhallbrass.com . You can also contact the band via www.oldhallbrass.co.uk

Monday, October 28: Opening Ceremony (1.30pm); Odd Man Out, starring James Mason (2pm) Tuesday, October 29: The Lavender Hill Mob, starring Alec Guinness and Stanley Holloway (7.30pm) Wednesday, October 30: Kes, starring David Bradley (2pm) Thursday, October 31: Sunday Bloody Sunday, starring Peter Finch and Glenda Jackson (7.30pm) Friday, November 1: My Left Foot, starring Daniel DayLewis (2pm) All viewings take place at St Teresa’s Club, College Road, Up Holland. A five day film ticket costs £10 or a single day ticket is £3. Phone 01744 611315 .

Parish Meeting The next full meeting of Up Holland Parish Council takes place on Tuesday, November 12, with public participation from 7.15pm. The meeting takes place in the Community Meeting Room at Up Holland Library in Hall Green. All welcome to attend.

Craft and Chat Up Holland Library holds a Craft and Chat group on Fridays from 2.30pm. Locals are invited to go along for a lively chat, with tea and biscuits available.

Support Services for the Elderly Home Help

Domestic & Commercial Cleaning

* t rs rs 2 Fihout £1 s apply 2 jus ondition c r fo erms &

Need a Helping Hand? Ironing & Laundry Dog Walking & Pet Care Shopping & Prescription Collection

Fully insured and CRB cleared

TELEPHONE 01942 511373 / 07827 962162 VISIT www.wellshine.co.uk 26

Comedy and Curry

Got Arthritis?

A Comedy and Curry Night is being held at St Aidan’s Social Club in Winstanley on Saturday, November 23.Topping the bill will be Liverpool comic Frankie Allen. The evening starts at 8pm with curry and then the show at 9pm. Dress code is smart casual. Tickets are £15 and are available from the club or call 07982 996423.

Tai Chi for arthritis is on offer to locals every Tuesday, 9.30am at St James Social Centre, Orrell. Tai Chi is an exercise session with slow and gentle movements suitable for beginners. It is practised throughout the world for its many health benefits as it strengthens and mobilises joints and muscles as well as improving physical fitness and mental relaxation. The cost is £3.50 per session. Contact Julie on 07792398326.

The Optimists A self-help group for the blind and partially sighted, called The Optimists, meet at Hallgate House, Wigan, every other Wednesday of the month from 1pm-3pm. During the year, they organise a variety of functions including speakers, outings, quizzes and other leisure activities. For further information, call Dave on 01942 239396 or Edna on 832586.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Tea Dance Pemberton Community Association is holding a tea dance on Saturday, November 23, between 4pm and 7pm at the Masonic Hall, Chapel Street. For more details contact 07925 867070 or Alison Glover on 01942 216033.

Class from the Past - St James’ Road Primary, Orrell

Welcome to our new column where we help Local Life readers rekindle memories of their school days by publishing your photographs. This photo of St James’ Road Primary (now Newfold) in Orrell, was kindly sent

in to us by Janet Alker (nee Robinson) who is on the second row, second from left. Janet says the photo was taken in 1974/75 and the teacher on the photograph was Mr Holmes.

Do you have a school photo to share? Send your photos via email with as much information as possible to editorial@locallife247.co.uk

Support Offered

Chocolate Tasting

Do you suffer from visual impairment? The Macular Society support group meets every first Wednesday of the month from 10.30am-noon at MS Coffee bar in The Galleries, Wigan. Contact Carole on 01257401834 for further details.

Orrell Post Methodist Chapel is holding a Chocolate Tasting Evening on Thursday, October 31, at 7.30pm. Entry is £2.50 including refreshments and a draw. On Sunday, November 30, it is holding its Christmas fair between 10.30am-1.30pm. Various stalls will be open and Father Christmas will be visiting at 11.30am.

Ladies Night Wigan and Leigh Hospice is celebrating 30 years of care to the local community by holding a Diamond and Pearls for Ladies and Girls fashion show/ladies evening in the Marquee Room at the DW Stadium. It takes place on Friday, November 1, from 7pm and there’s a DJ until 1am. Tickets are £15 including supper and can be bought from Dawn on 07725 889826 or email j.houston@wlh.org.uk

Music Magic The Rotary Club of Wigan hosts a Magic of the Musicals evening, performed by students from The Royal Northern College of Music. It is being held on Saturday, October 26, starting at 7.30pm at Trinity United Reformed Church, Milton Grove, Wigan. Tickets are £10. Call 07813 471000 or email enquiries@wiganrotaryclub. org.uk

Give the Giﬅ of Beaut� this Christ�as… From pampering skin care to beautiful Make up and feel good fragrance we have the perfect gift for everyone.

Choose 3 free super size essentials - worth £60* Yours when you buy two or more recommended products, one to be skin care. *Based on average retail value of standard size products.

see our website for full details

www.locallife247.co.uk

Join us for our pre-Christmas gettogether for a glass of bubbles and to choose from the best of clarins. Friday 1st November 5.45pm for a 6pm start.

Gift vouchers available Clarins Gold Salon of the Year winner

What the Dickens! Victoria Wood’s brother will be at Haigh Hall in December. Chris Foote Wood will be bringing some of Charles Dickens’ characters to life with animated reading as performed by the author himself. Chris’s performance is on Wednesday, December 4, and is part of Haigh’s ‘Dickens of a Christmas’ event - a family friendly evening where you can enjoy a performance by following Dickens throughout the hall for a candlelit Christmas to remember. Tickets are £6.95 adults, £4.95 children and £20 family ticket (two adults and two children). For more information contact 01942 832895 or visit www.haighhall.info

Chill Out Spa Day Use of facilities (Pool, Jacuzzi, Sauna etc) Relaxation Room with refreshments Robes, towels and slippers 2 course lunch, including glass of wine Choose one of the following treatments; • Back massage • Decleor Mini Facial • Tranquility Scalp Massage

Christ�as

Shopping Event

10% OFF Gift Vouchers & Christmas Gifts Taster Treatments only £15 each (Booking Essential) Wednesday 13th Novem ber & Monday 9th December 10am - 8pm

Only £49 per person Or

£95 per couple

Gift vouchers valid for 6 months

Call Vitality Spa today on 01257 472054

Vitality Spa The Wrightington Country Club, Moss Lane, Wrightington, WN6 9PB Tel: 01257 472054 www.vitalityspa.co.uk

Stylish Furniture at Crazy Prices! Leather/Fabric 3 Seater & 2 Chairs - £599 Leather Recliner - £299 Leather Corner Suite - £950 Fabric Corner Suite - £399 Fabric Wingback Chairs - £175

Large Range of Solid Oak Furniture Dining Tables & Chairs Sideboards & Occasional Furniture Tony’s Promise “I guarantee that you won’t ﬁnd furniture of this quality at a better price anywhere in the NW – and if you do, then I’ll beat the price!”

THE OAK SPECIALISTS All furniture can be delivered within 48 hours

www.locallife247.co.uk

01744 893 785 07710 487 977

Barrows Farm, Carr Mill Road, Billinge, WN5 7TX

(Carr Mill Road is next to the Texaco Garage in the village)

Call in today - we’re open 7 days a week!

Borderline Madness Almost 40 years of confusion over ‘Lancashire’ shows no signs of abating. David Sudworth reports…

It’s a date which is etched on the calendar of many a proud Lancastrian. Each year, on November 27, devotees of the Red Rose County gather in town squares, village halls and other community spaces to hear the Lancashire Day Proclamation, a rousing piece of script which aims not only to entertain, but perhaps more importantly, inform. The need for the educational part of the proceedings can be traced back to 1974. Almost overnight, , a large-scale reorganisation of local government took place with the old, two tier system of Lancashire County Council, supported by smaller urban and rural district councils, was abolished. In their places, new, larger, metropolitan authorities were created. Areas such as Rainford, Garswood, Crank, Newton-le-Willows and Billinge would now come under St Helens Council, overseen by Merseyside County Council. Wigan became an authority in its own right with the upper tier of governance coming from Greater Manchester Council. And so the idea of the residents of these areas being suddenly stripped of their ‘Lanky’ status began to grow. Although the Greater Manchester and Merseyside County Councils were themselves abolished in 1986, many who live in the ‘new’ areas still think they are no longer officially recognised as Lancastrians – a myth which campaigners say has been perpetuated by the media, the retention of the names of the local police forces and a redrawn Lancashire County Council area. Chris Dawson, founder of the Friends of Real Lancashire, explains: “New administrative counties were created, but these did not affect the boundaries of the ancient and geographical counties. The boundaries of Lancashire remained unaltered. However, because the media began to refer to these new administrative counties instead of continuing to use the names and identities

of the geographical counties, some people were misled into thinking that they had been moved over night into a new county.” This is backed up by the Government, which issued a statement at the time saying: “The new county boundaries are administrative areas, and will not alter the traditional boundaries of counties, nor is it intended that the loyalties of people living in them will change despite the different names adopted by the new administrative counties.” Government Ministers have subsequently reaffirmed this. However it’s fair to say the battle to preserve ‘Lancashire’ is not without its challenges, particularly as the 1974 reorganisation becomes an ever-distant memory.

David Monk is the Chairman of Rainford Parish Council. His village, nestled between St Helens and Ormskirk, became part of the Merseyside council area in 1974.

There’s also consternation from some quarters about the ‘new’ authorities’ seeming reluctance to officially recognise the area’s Lancashire heritage.

Despite this, David says Rainford still holds a fond place in its heart for Lancashire: “There is nostalgia among people who were born in Lancashire to identify themselves with the old county; they have never felt part of St Helens. The younger people, never having been involved in the change, would probably not have a strong opinion on the topic. Rainford’s demography has changed considerably over the last 40 years - a large part of the population have only known ‘Merseyside’.”

A spokesman for Wigan Council said: “We do not use Lancashire on our official documents or letterheads. We have not promoted Lancashire Day in the past and have no plans to this year.”

That’s not to say people who remained in the administrative area of Lancashire have been able to rest on their laurels. Only relatively recently, there was uproar at proposals from a Government quango to carve up West Lancashire and divide it between the Sefton and Wigan council areas.

However, the Friends of Real Lancashire say they can now actually see the benefits of the abolition of ‘Lancashire’ in the administrative sense.

In comparison, last year, many of the councils still in the administrative area of Lancashire held celebrations. Among those was Chorley Council which held cooking demonstrations of Lancashire food, using produce from Chorley market and local shops.

Chris Dawson, who set up the group in 1992, told Local Life: “There’s no

Win a copy of ‘Lanky Spoken Here’ To celebrate Lancashire Day this Wednesday, November 27, we’ve got four copies of Dave Dutton’s ‘Lanky Spoken Here’ to give away. To be in with a chance of winning, simply match the following phrases with their meanings. Send your answers to Lancashire Quiz, Local Life magazine, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7XB. The deadline for entries is Friday, November 29th, at noon. Usual competition rules apply and the editor’s decision is final.

a. Am gooin’wom

Name ...................................................................................................... Address ................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................... ............................................. Post Code ............................................... Phone ..................................................................................................... Email ....................................................................................................... Competition Rules

b. As forgeet baggin’/jackbit

1. Only one entry per household

c. Givvus th’ommer

2. Entrants must be over 16 years of age

d. As geet bellywarch

3. The winners will be notified within 14 days of the closing date.

e. Tha needsapow thee

4. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot accept responsibility for entries that are delayed or damaged in the post.

Pass me the hammer

5. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd or their immediate relatives are not eligible to enter this competition.

You definitely need a haircut

I’ve got stomach ache

Local Life 247 Ltd is registered under the Data Protection Act and abides by the guidelines of the act. We will never sell or pass your data to any third party company. However, we would like to contact you occasionally by email with news of great local offers and also to check our magazine distribution in your area.

I’ve forgotten my lunch

If this is acceptable to you, please tick this box.

I’m going home

www.locallife247.co.uk

chance now of Lancashire County Council going back to the time when its boundaries mirrored the old traditional boundaries as they did before 1974. The way things are going, the County Councils will be abolished which to some extent would help as there wouldn’t be a ‘boundary’ for people to get confused over.”

Chris Dawson, founder Whether this prediction of The Friends of Real will come true remains to Lancashire be seen. But regardless what happens, Local Life readers can say with 100% accuracy that no matter where they live – be it in the Wigan, St Helens, West Lancs or Chorley council areas – they are all in fact residents of the County Palatine of Lancashire.

Not enough hours in the day for you? Want to spend quality time with the family?

Then why not use

• Regular hourly rate only £9.25 • Hours to suit you (minimum 2 hours per week) • Most domestic duties provided • Reliable, friendly staff are fully vetted by Maid2Clean • One off spring cleans available • Insurance for workers provided

Every working home deserves a Maid2Clean Perhaps you have an elderly relative or friend who could use some help around the home? We can also clean your Office please phone for details

Call us now on 01942 203442 or 0800 043 0722 email - joanne.maid2clean@gmail.com website - www.maid2cleanwigan.co.uk Your friendly local family business

Reet On! Along with its culinary delights and stunning scenery, Lancashire is well known for its unique dialect. It’s one of the country’s most recognisable regional accents – and some of its words can be traced back to Viking times. Old Norse can be found in many ‘Lanky’ words, such as ‘nay’ and ‘nowt’. Even everyday English words such as ‘gate’ are still used today in Swedish, Danish and Norwegian. One of those fascinated by the dialect is Atherton-born actor Dave Dutton. Over the years, Dave has starred in Coronation Street, Brookside and Emmerdale. He’s also written a book, ‘Lanky Spoken Here’, which is billed as a comic guide to Lanky words, phrases, sayings and customs. Dave told Local Life: “My love of Lancashire dialect stems from my upbringing in Atherton where virtually everybody spoke it, and lots of people who live there still do today. My grandma, who was born in the late 19th Century, spoke broad Lancashire

Lanky dialect aficionado Dave Dutton, from Atherton

so it was natural that I picked up on it. I love it for its pithiness and its dry sense of humour which I have tried to encapsulate in all my Lancashire books; Lanky Spoken Here, Lanky Panky and Lancashire Laughter and Tears. It’s also an amazing link with our forebears with echoes of the Saxons and Vikings still lingering in our dialect words today. “It is tough, it is tender, it is beautiful and it is worth preserving. Long live Lanky – and a Happy Lancashire Day to all your readers!” For more information on Dave, visit www.davedutton.co.uk

Greats Stove at t Greas! Price

Lancashire Day Diary Proclamation Readings Standish: The Cutting, Wigan Road (11am) Ormskirk: Near the Clock Tower (Noon) Southport: Outside the Scarisbrick Hotel, Lord St (1pm)

Events Friday, November 22: West Lancashire Heritage Association lecture by Lizzie Jones “Twenty Years of Being Somebody Else” followed by a hot pot supper at New Church House at 7pm. Vegetarian option available if notified. Tickets £10 from Patrick Waite on 01695 573350. Saturday, November 23: Homestead Farm, Wiggins Lane, Holmeswood. A two course lunch with after dinner talk by David Lonsdale from Coronation Street. Tickets £2. For more details, call 01704 821358.

Come and see our new Live stove display!

ny stove We supply a ur! in any colo

gs, chimney linin d Stoves, ﬂues, an s ie or ss acce fuel, hearths, ks or w building e roof! All under on ends week all at nights or We even inst if required

www.locallife247.co.uk

Stoves & Flue

Suppliers and Installers of Quality Woodburning Stoves, Flues and accessories 639-641 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8AG

Open: 8am - 5pm Monday - Friday, 10am - 2pm Saturday

Call - 01942 216088 www.stovesandfluewigan.co.uk

Defence Role Local MP Yvonne Fovargue has taken a step up following a shadow cabinet reshuffle. She has been asked to join Labour’s defence team working with the shadow Secretary of State, Vernon Coaker MP. Yvonne was elected as Markerfield’s MP in 2010. A year later, she was promoted to the Whips Office and joined the shadow transport team last year. Yvonne said: “There is no greater responsibility facing politicians in Government or Opposition than the protection of our country and its people. My priority is and will always remain to put Makerfield first and I will give my all in the fight to secure prosperity for our area in Parliament. “

Planning Ahead Billinge Former Billinge Hospital, Upholland Road: Proposal to erect 37 dwellings consisting of 3, 4 and 5 bedroom detached and semi-detached dwellings (application reference A/13/78608). The neighbour consultation deadline is November 1. The Family Church, 31 Crank Road: Proposed single and two storey extension to existing church together with additional parking provision (application reference A/13/78590).The neighbour consultation deadline is October 27.

Highfield Tunstall House, 1 Campbell Street: Proposal to erect 9 residential dwellings, comprising of 6 semi-detached and a row of 3 mews, together with vehicle access, landscaping following demolition of existing buildings on the site (application reference A/13/78595). The neighbour consultation deadline is October 28. JSBEFIT, Billinge Road: Proposal to retain former garage unit as a training studio (application reference A/13/78570). The neighbour consultation deadline is November 2. 18 Derwent Road: Proposal to extend bungalow to side and rear (application reference A/13/78606). The neighbour consultation deadline is October 31.

Land at the corner of Beeford Drive and Moor Road: Proposal to erect a war memorial (application Reference A/13/78586). The neighbour consultation deadline is October 27. 1 Willard Avenue: Proposal to extend dwellinghouse - single storey to rear and two storey to side including pitched roof to garage and porch (application Reference A/13/78597). The neighbour consultation deadline is October 28.

Pemberton 15 Fairfield Street: Proposal to extend dwelling house two storey to side and single storey to rear (application reference A/13/78609). The neighbour consultation deadline is November 1.

More information on planning applications can be obtained from the Wigan Council website at www.wigan.gov.uk

Fairy tales can come true this Christmas

when you buy a brand new kitchen at genuine factory prices!

Traditional cottage kitchens or the latest contemporary designs – we have a kitchen to suit your style and budget. Kitchens, bedrooms and studies, individually designed and tailor made to your requirements – all at factory prices!

On a budget? Ask about our kitchen makeover service!

Made in Wigan

CABINET MASTERS NORTH WEST LTD

Visit your local factory shop in Appley Bridge 8 - 5 pm Monday - Thursday, 8 - 4 pm Friday 10 - 1 pm Saturday Unit 1, Conway Trading Estate, Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DW

Telephone: 0 1 2 5 7 2 5 5 8 3 1 www.cabinetmaster.co.uk

Book now for pre-Christmas ﬁtting!

www.locallife247.co.uk

Wigan Switch-On

Need new flooring for Christmas?

Choose from our extensive selection of carpets, laminates, vinyls & Karndean • Home Selection Service available • Many Exclusive Ranges • Open 7 days a week • Free Car Parking (Established 1982)

Flame House, Pennyhurst Street, Wigan, WN3 4AS (Next to Savoy Timber)

Tel: 01942 243 634 38

Wigan town centre’s Christmas Light Switch on Event takes place on Thursday, November 14, between 4pm and 7.30pm in Market Place. Live entertainment will be provided by a fabulous selection of acts and performers. Santa and his team of reindeer return to the town on Sunday 17 November, leading a huge parade from Mesnes Park to Market Place. The parade starts at 1pm from Mesnes Park, travelling via Mesnes Road, turning right onto Standishgate, arriving in Market Place at 1.30pm. Families will then have the opportunity of meeting Santa and his reindeers in Market Place and be entertained by the free performers until 4.30pm. Local organisations and groups are invited to join the parade, for further details, e-mail the events team on info@wiganchristmas.co.uk. For more information on Wigan Town Centre Christmas events, visit www.wiganchristmas.co.uk and join @wiganchristmas on Twitter.

Orangeries Orangeries & & Home Home Extensions Extensions • Bespoke designs to suit your home • Full Installation from design to lanscaping • All our highly skilled tradesmen employed by us • Over 45 years of experience N0 quibble insurance backed

GUARANTEE

USE YOUR CONSERVATORY IN COMFORT 365 DAYS A YEAR Install revolutionary NEW replacement conservatory roofing

from only

ask for details

£3900

EXTENSIONS•GARAGE & LOFT CONVERSIONS NEW BUILD PROJECTS•DRIVEWAYS & GARDEN PATHS HARDSCAPES•SPECIALIST STONEWORK•REFURBISHMENTS ORANGERIES / SUMMER HOUSES / CONSERVATORIES

www.majesticbuildingservices.co.uk

Foundrygate

CALL TODAY FOR FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE

for a more MAJESTIC way of living

Freephone: 0800 0853 987

Part of the Foundrygate Group

SHOWROOM/HEAD OFFICE/FACTORY: 95 Newton Rd, Billinge, Wigan WN5 7LB

www.locallife247.co.uk

Starr Performance! Well done to Matthew Webster, from Orrell, who won two tickets for Circus Starr’s performance at the DW Stadium in aid of Derian House. We offered the tickets via a competition on our Twitter feed and Matthew was the first to answer the question correctly. Pictured with their tickets are Matthew’s children, Katie, aged nine, and James, aged five. For more great Local Life competitions, keep your eyes peeled in future editions and on our Twitter page @LocalLifeMedia

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! Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote

re nsu ting! e to as fit w o tm ln Cal -Chris e a pr

First impressions count… So what do your visitors think when they step into your hallway? Vale of Wigan can transform the look of your hall and staircase. We can replace or modernise your existing staircase with a traditional oak staircase with wooden spindles, a more contemporary staircase with glass and chrome or a bespoke design of your choice. Call Vale of Wigan now for a free no-obligation survey.

• Add instant value to your home • A typical install takes 2/3 days • Fully guaranteed for 10 years • Family run business est.1998

Made

in Wig

Rear Mill, Wood Street, off Chapel Lane Wigan WN3 4HL

Call - 01942 246 553 or email - info@modernisemystairs.co.uk

www.modernisemystairs.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

Up Holland U3A

Allotments Available

Up Holland & District U3A is continuing to welcome new members. Membership is open to anyone no longer in full time employment, including those in part-time employment. There is no lower age limit and there are no other entry qualifications.

New allotments will be allocated at a local project in the New Year. Greenslate Community Farm in Billinge now has pigs which are currently helping to nourish and clear the area of land where the allotments are to be sited. It is anticipated that, initially, there will be 20 half-size allotments available at a cost of £50 a year. The farm is now collecting details of local people who are interested in renting an allotment or sharing an allotment at the site.

A meeting for all members is held on the third Tuesday of each month, at St Teresa’s Club in College Road between 10am and noon, when they have refreshments and a chat with friends. This is also an opportunity to talk to group leaders and get an update on events, followed by a speaker/presentation on a particular subject. The annual subscription is £10 per person for anyone joining at the start of the financial year (April). Anyone joining after January 1 pays only £5 for the balance of that year. More information is available from www.uphollandu3a.org

The closest you’ll get to the perfect garage door

Interested parties are advised that as these allotments are part of a larger project, Billinge & Orrell Transition Group, which aims to reduce the effects of climate change by using sustainable, local solutions, allotment holders will be asked to grow without the use of artificial chemicals, to minimise fossil fuel use and to engage with the larger project – this may include donating excess produce to the scheme, helping out with open days or workshops. For further details email info@billingeorrelltransition.org.uk or log onto www. billingeorrelltransition.org.uk

MP’s Surgery Local MP Yvonne Fovargue holds a surgery at St Luke’s Church Hall, Lodge Road, Orrell, on the third Saturday of every month from 12.30pm. To make an appointment, call 01942 824029.

The Carpet Showroom Direct to your Door 1000’s of carpet and vinyl samples to choose from Free Estimates 30+ years experience Fitting service available from time served craftsmen Choose in the comfort of your own home! CJM Garage Doors Ltd, Unit 10, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB t: 01942 738347 w: www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk

01257 251009 07970 269409 Based in Appley Bridge

68 mm x D 115 mm Advert - SeceuroGlide (additional logos) 5 YR04/07/2013 Warranty AW.indd 10:17 1

PERSONALISED EMBROIDERY & PRINTING SERVICE

Halloween Party A Halloween fancy dress party is being held at The White Swan pub, Pemberton, on Sunday, October 27, between 12.30pm and 4pm. The event is being held by Pemberton Community Association and there’s a prize for the best fancy dress children and adults, as well as a prize for the best pumpkin. Also on offer will be a children’s entertainer, disco and party games as well as face painting, various stalls, lucky dip and tombola. Limited free tickets are available from Pemberton Lighting or telephone 01942 216033.

PERSONALISE Your Clothing Embroidery & Printing

Take a look at our website for our full range of garments & accessories

Volunteers Sought Lancashire Community Car Scheme is looking for volunteer helpers in the local area. If you have a car and an hour or so to spare each week, they need your help in assisting people in the community. For further details call Julie on 01772 516208.

YOUR LOGO HERE

WORKWEAR CORPORATE WEAR SCHOOLWEAR SPORTSWEAR & ACCESSORIES STAG/HEN PARTIES

Hospice Volunteers The Pemberton shop for Wigan and Leigh Hospice is looking for volunteers. If you have a few hours to spare and would like to find out more, contact Irene on 01942 525566 or email volunteers@wlh.org.uk

YOU CAN NOW ORDER SCHOOL UNIFORMS ONLINE

Prices start fro

£per1w 00

YOUR TEXT HERE

eekend

Beautifully furnished

Stone Cottage Holiday Let – sleeps up to 4

Situated near Sedbergh, in the Yorkshire Dales, and also within easy reach of the Lake District Children and pets welcome Call 01942 216 058 E-mail janemillthrop@yahoo.co.uk www.millthropcottage.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

EMBROIDERY 284 Church Road, Haydock, St Helens WA11 0LF

01942 375940

ALSO AT 35 Lynton Way, Windle, St Helens WA10 6EQ T: 01744 26977 F: 08435 150156 E: sales@topazembroidery.co.uk

www. topazembroidery.co.uk

CALL TODAY FOR A COMPETITIVE QUOTE

Field Arson Police in the Orrell and Billinge area are reassuring the public that the perpetrators of recent fires started in local farmers’ fields have been traced. Officers say there has been a recent spate of blazes started by youths, all of who have been spoken to in front of their parents. Police say the behaviour will not be tolerated as it not only risks injury but also can affect people’s livelihoods. Elsewhere, there have been three burglaries in the Orrell area over the past month and two cars stolen. Locals are being asked to ensure they keep their properties and vehicles secure, keep doors and windows locked and any valuable items out of sight.

Wind Turbine Missing Cat Bobby is a small/medium, grey cat who has gone missing from his home in Billinge . He is 16 months old and has been neutered and micro chipped but doesn’t wear a collar. Bobby has always had access to the fields near Billinge Lump and Billinge Woods, but he always stayed close to home. His owners are hoping someone is looking after Bobby, unaware of the fact he is missing from home. Contact Joy Woosey on 01744 603024 or 07810 647506.

A 102 metre high wind turbine could be erected at a family business in Up Holland Ward. J & B Woodcock And Sons have applied to West Lancashire Borough Council for a 500kw turbine with a hub height of 75 metres and a maximum height to the blade tip of 102 metres to be sited at Yew Tree Dairies, on Pit Hey Place, West Pimbo. The dairies were started by the Woodcock family in 1904 and still owned by them today. A decision is due to be made in early December. The deadline for representations is November 5.

Don’t miss our Xmas Events!

Award Winning BABY SENSORY

Breakfast with Santa Breakfast visit from Santa plus gift (8th, 14th & 22nd Dec 9am – 10am)

Babies have an amazing capacity to learn and at Baby Sensory we don‛t waste a moment!

Designed for babies birth-13 months

£1 OFF CHRISTMAS

Christmas Eve Parties Food, games, visit from Santa, party bag. (24th Dec 10-12.00 & 1-3pm)

Valid until 31/12/13

Toddler Christmas Party Food, games, visit from Santa plus gift. (17th Dec 10.30-12.30 & 1-3pm, 19th Dec 1-3pm)

ALL

EVENTS with this voucher!

Music, puppet shows, massage, water play, baby signing, light shows, brain games, ideas for home, songs and rhymes & so much more…Stimulate baby‛s senses & have fun!

Weekly classes now in your area Loraine 07786 530 570 westlancs@babysensory.co.uk

Play • Party • Great Food & Coffee! Abbey Lakes, Orrell Road, Orrell, WN5 8RD 01695 229 923 www.pipsqueaksplaycafe.co.uk

www.babysensory.com Baby Sensory West Lancs

Top Class Education Concerns about larger class sizes have been growing for years. Indeed, recent figures show that across England, more than 2,000 classes of five to seven year-olds were above the government’s guideline of 30 pupils. However, at one local school near Wigan, there are no such worries. Roby Mill CE Primary School, situated on School Lane in the heart of the picturesque West Lancashire village, has a total school population of 31, with the children in two Key Stage classes. The school itself dates back to 1875, with an extension added on 18 years ago and has a total of 12 staff, including non-teaching staff. Under the

such positive comments from independent Ofsted inspectors. As a small, village school, we can really give our pupils the help and support they need to develop their full potential with skills, knowledge, attitudes and values which relate to our ever changing world. It is a much more personalised and so the children benefit in the type of education they receive. Our curriculum opportunities ensure that all children can develop through their own individual abilities and personalities.” The school prides itself on providing a wide range of experiences for pupils , with after school clubs, educational visits, extended music and swimming throughout Key Stage Two, celebratory church services and performances. And even though the school is very much rooted in the community it serves, it draws a large number of children and families from right across the surrounding area, including Orrell and Winstanley, as well as neighbouring Up Holland.

leadership of headteacher Mrs V. Riordan, the school believes it provides a unique educational offer to local families – and has been rated as ‘good with outstanding features’ by Ofsted at its last inspection. Ofsted said: “It is welcoming and inclusive as, as a pupil rightly said, ‘we are one big happy family here’. Pupils are well motivated and keen to learn. They say they feel extremely safe knowing there is always an adult ready to listen and attend to their needs. Mrs Riordan is proud of her school: “It was great to get

www.locallife247.co.uk

Mrs Riordan continued: “We only have an intake of eight places a year, so parents who are interested in sending their children here need to express an interest now. “We understand that choosing a school for a child can be one of the most important decisions a parent can make, and one they will want to get right. There are many factors to consider, not least of which is the happiness of their child.” To register your interest in your child attending Roby Mill CE Primary School, please telephone 01695 622536, email head@robymill.lancs.sch.uk or visit www.robymill. lancs.sch.uk

One Voice

Flu Vaccine

Are you a West Lancashire parent or carer of a child with additional needs? One Voice West Lancs is a parent-led voluntary organisation providing regular term time meeting places where experiences, information, advice and support can be shared.

Wigan folk are being urged to get the flu vaccine. Dr Kate Adern, Wigan Council’s director of public health, is supporting the campaign on the subject which is being championed nationally by the chief medical officer, Public Health England and NHS England. People being offered the vaccine - including those who are most at risk and all two and three year-olds – are being encouraged to protect themselves. For the first time, a nasal spray vaccine will be offered to healthy two and three year old children. This marks the first step in an extension to the national flu vaccination programme, which will eventually include yearly vaccination of all two to 16 year olds.

Regular meetings are held at the following venues: Hesketh Bank Children’s Centre, Shore Road, every first Tuesday of the month between 12.30pm and 2.30pm; Park Children’s Centre, Barnes Road, Skelmersdale, on the third Tuesday of every month between 9.30am and 11.30am, and The Grove, Station Approach, Burscough, on the first Thursday of every month from 12.30pm to 2.30pm. For further information, contact Victoria on 07423 392694 or Sue on 07584 217661. Alternatively, email onevoicewl@hotmail.co.uk

Same day denture repairs Pick up & drop off service available

Dr Ardern said: "While flu is an unpleasant illness for most people, it can pose a greater risk for some groups and become very serious. These groups include older people (aged 65 plus), people with a long standing illness such as heart disease, respiratory disease, liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, etc. People with a weak immune system either due to disease or because they are on medication are also considered an at risk group, as are pregnant women. People in the ‘at risk’ categories will be invited for immunisation by their GP, however, if you do not receive an invite but believe you are in a risk group, do contact your GP. The flu vaccine used does not cause flu and most people have no or mild side effects."

Professional & Effective Physiotherapy Hewitt House Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road Orrell Wigan WN5 7XA

Appointments 01695 682 168 Mobile 07772 315 535

FLEXIBLE APPOINTMENTS & HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

www.jcphysiotherapy.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

Visit Disneyland® Park and you’ll be enchanted by Sleeping Beauty Castle and thrilled by Frontierland, while it’s lights, camera and action at Walt Disney Studios® Park. You’ve got so many ways to add extra magic to your stay at Disney! Mosey on down to an exciting Wild West Show featuring Mickey and friends. Then share special memories and picture-perfect moments at breakfast, lunch or dinner with Disney Characters, to ensure you avoid disappointment, book before you go with Jet2holidays.

DISNEYLAND DISNEYLAND PARIS PARIS SALE SALE DAY DAY SATURDAY SATURDAY TH NOVEMBER ND 9 2 NOVEMBER

Marken Travel 200 Main Street, Billinge Telephone: 01744 893291 www.markentravel.co.uk

Free Child Places Jet2holidays’ famous free child places offer just got even better! We’re now offering completely free child places to Disneyland Paris. This means that children can now stay, play and even fly for FREE! These amazing Free child places can now even be combined with other spectacular offers such as Up to 2 DAYS & 2 NIGHTS (subject to availability, terms and conditions apply)

There’s an endless world of fun to be had inside the magical ® kingdom of Disneyland Paris! DISNEY’S HOTEL NEW YORK Disney’s New York Hotel recreates the iconic city of New York where dreams are made, from soaring skyscrapers to sporting heroes combined perfectly with the vibrant atmosphere of Manhattan where the possibilities are limitless and the energy endless. Take a bite and enjoy the taste of the Big Apple.

DISNEY’S SEQUOIA LODGE Getting back to nature with a fun filled break in Disney’s Sequoia Lodge. Inspired by the great American national parks you will be greeted by a friendly park ranger and a warm comfortable atmosphere with a cosy fire and that mountain lodge feel. With a peaceful and tranquil setting you will find your self surrounded by luscious pine trees and located next to Lake Disney, a magical setting for any lover of the great outdoors.

DISNEY’S HOTEL SANTA FE Disney’s Hotel Santa Fe brings New Mexico to life with its bright light Navajo theme combined with traditional monumental landscapes worn by time. There is a real fiesta atmosphere at this fantastic hotel which combines the iconic sites of route 66 with a traditional New Mexico feel of Cacti and fun trails for all the family.

www.locallife247.co.uk

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

Look before you Leap! It is a common misconception amongst new clients that I talk to that you can only purchase your annuity from your existing pension provider. You don’t have to and you are free to take your pension pot to shop around the market and get the best annuity for you. This is commonly known as taking the Open Market Option More than half of people take an annuity with their existing pension provider and this can mean missing out on potentially thousands of pounds in lost income. Exercising your right to shop around means you don’t have to accept what your pension provider offers when you receive your pension statement. It also gives you the option to buy an enhanced annuity. Enhanced annuities are a type of conventional annuity in the same way as with a conventional - or standard annuity, the company providing it takes on all the risk of providing you with a guaranteed income for life. However, enhanced annuities take into consideration detailed information about your health and lifestyle to provide you with a more personal annuity. Increased income in retirement Qualifying for an enhanced annuity could mean an increase in your retirement income of up to 40% compared to the lowest standard annuity. Just Retirement (one of the UKs leading specialists in this area) estimate that 60% of people at retirement may

qualify for an enhanced annuity. The importance of disclosing medical and lifestyle conditions

David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP)

When an annuity provider quotes for an enhanced annuity, they will pay close attention to all the factors that will affect your life expectancy. This includes where you live, whether you smoke and drink, your lifestyle and your medical history. They can then build a more accurate picture of your life expectancy on which they base their calculations. Unlike in the case of life insurance, where health problems cost you more in premiums, in the case of enhanced annuities health problems can mean a higher income in retirement All you need to do is answer 3 questions before you commit to signing up to draw your annuity. Q1 Do you smoke? Q2 Do you, or have you ever taken prescription medicine? Q3 Have you ever been hospitalised for a medical condition? If you answer yes to one or more of these questions the probability is that you will qualify for an enhanced annuity and in turn a higher level of pension income. If you do not have your own Independent Financial Adviser please feel free to give us a call. The initial meeting is at our expense and is without obligation.

Entrust your financial future to Wigan’s only Chartered Financial Planners. Call us today to arrange a consultation with one of our friendly experts…

01257 423 800

Prosper IFA are the FIRST firm of financial advisers in Wigan to be awarded the prestigious Chartered Financial Planners Status.

Prosper Independent Financial Advisers Ltd. Prosper House, 99a High Street, Standish, WN6 0HD

www.locallife247.co.uk

www.prosper-ifa.co.uk

Need building & roofing supplies? We supply a great range from top brand names Roofline Accessories Timber Roof Battens Aggregates PVC Fascia Soffit Gutter And Downpipe PVC Bathroom Cladding and much More...

EFP BUILDING & ROOFING SUPPLIES LTD Opening hours: 7.30 - 4pm Monday - Friday

Unit 5&6, (Rear of) 82 Preston Road, Standish, WN6 0HS (opp LIDL)

01257 472 323

Free delivery within Wigan area

disco% on all d unt

complete rives db Christma efore s Resin Driveways - The Latest in Surfacing Technology Can Be Applied Over Existing Concrete and Tarmac Surfaces Highly Durable with a 10+ Year Lifespan Weed Resistant & UV Protected Can Be Laid At Any Time Of Year Virtually No Maintenance Non Slip Properties Green Option Using Only Natural and Recycled Aggregates

UP TO 50% CHEAPER THAN BLOCK PAVING

“ Very competitive quote and my new driveway looks absolutely amazing! A very professional company and I’ve already recommended to friends and family” Marie - St Helens

Tel: 01744 304040

Email: enquiries@theultimatedriveway.co.uk

FULLY INSTAL L IN USU ED ALLY 2 DAYS

Web: www.theultimatedriveway.co.uk

Accountancy - by Chris Alcock ACMA

Improving the Numbers Hello and welcome to the latest article from CMA, a proactive accountancy firm based in Appley Bridge. We provide the usual services such as annual accounts, payroll services, help with your VAT return and of course the dreaded self-assessment tax returns. In fact the 31 Jan 2014 deadline for the 2013 SA returns is approaching fast so if you still need help please contact us and we can help you out. When it comes to working with companies we love to work with business owners who are passionate about growing their businesses. Our approach is different to traditional accountants; we want you to pay more tax by helping you to increase your profits. However, at the same time as helping you increase your profits (and the amount of tax you pay) we want you to keep the percentage of tax as low as possible. To do this we have developed a comprehensive tax planning approach which covers everything from the basics for PAYE and VAT to advance tax planning for higher rate tax payers. For a business to be successful it is vital that they have complete clarity over their business numbers. To start off we can help you set up an online accounts system, complete with regular management accounts and KPI dashboards, meaning you’ll have the best and most up to date information to base your business decisions on.

We also can show you ways to streamline your business and take advantage of new technologies that are available to make things easier. We can also help business owners to take a step back from the day to day hassle and think strategically. With our free consultation for all business owners you can have your questions answered and determine whether we would work well together without spending any money. Please contact us if you would like to discuss anything in this article. Alternatively drop by the office on Skull House Lane in Appley Bridge and we can discuss these further.

Tax Tips of the Month The recent changes to the Child Benefit system means that any household with someone earning more than £50,000 lose a proportion of the benefit. Households where the highest earner has a salary of £60,000 lose the benefit entirely. Parents who are in this situation must register with HMRC and complete a tax return before 31 Jan 2014. If you need any help with this we can complete your SA Return for a special rate of £99 + vat if you contact us before 30 November. 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!!

www.locallife247.co.uk

Chris Alcock ACMA CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR Tel: 01257 255521 Email info@handsonaccounting.co.uk www.handsonaccounting.co.uk

The Winter means more accidents –

What you need to know.

As the weather changes for the colder and wetter conditions for driving and walking also deteriorate. The number of accidents on the roads dramatically increase at this time of year. Whether it be because of icy or wet roads, darker nights or drivers being more distracted you are more likely to be involved in a road trafﬁc accident during the winter months. If you are unlucky enough to be involved in such an accident this unfortunately tends to lead to a period of stress and worry when you may not have your vehicle and even end up losing time and money with absence from work due to injury. All because of an accident that was not your fault.

The next step is to report the accident to your insurance company, it is a clause in every insurance policy that all accidents must be reported. A failure to do this may ultimately result in them not assisting you or even accepting the version of events as presented by the other motorist. Finally if you are injured visit your GP or the hospital, whiplash and neck injuries can be very painful and trip to the doctor may result in a quick referral to physiotherapy or exercises which will ultimately result in a speedier recovery.

We have all heard stories of people leaving the scene of the accident without giving their details or it later being discovered that they were not insured at all, making the whole incident even more stressful than necessary and ultimately resulting in the innocent party being out of pocket. This need not always be the case, there are some simple guidelines that you can follow to prepare for the worst should it happen while you are driving. The last thing that anybody wants is to lose their no claims discount on top of the stress of dealing with an accident.

At Craig and Co we specialise in personal injury claims of all types.

It is essential that the person at fault for the accident is correctly identiﬁed, if they are not there will be no person to pursue for any losses you may suffer and you will ultimately end up footing the bill.

We guarantee that your claim will only be dealt with by an experienced member of staff who will listen to your concerns and deal with your claim as quickly and efﬁciently as possible.

To prevent this always keep a pen and paper in your car. Write down the full name, telephone number, address and registration number of the at fault driver and car. It is also useful to note a brief description of the person driving the at fault vehicle.

We act on a “no win no fee” basis. If you have been involved in an accident call us on 01942 211670 to discuss any potential claim with our local, experienced team.

Although the person responsible for the accident may initially accept responsibility for the accident this often changes when they realise that this accident will affect their own no claims bonus. It is therefore important that you obtain evidence of the circumstances and damage to all vehicles and names of any witnesses to the accident. If anyone gives you their details as a witness take as much information form them as possible, also look around you. Is there a shop or garden near by in which someone may have witnessed your accident. If you have any concerns about either of the above telephone the police and report the accident immediately. Do not worry you are not wasting police time in doing this.

Call - 01942 211670 19 Queens Court, Wardley Street, Wigan WN5 8BF

victoria@craigandcolaw.co.uk www.craigandcolaw.co.uk

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. Are our services suited to you?

• Your adviser has now retired and sold out resulting in you becoming a client of a much larger firm with typically no local presence. • High Street Banks no longer offering financial advice • Advisers moving offshore i.e. Cyprus, to avoid the new tougher regulatory regime.

Entrust your financial future to Wigan’s only Chartered Financial Planners. Call us today to arrange a consultation with one of our friendly experts…

01257 423 800

About Us?

• Do you want someone to advise you rather than being sold to? • Are you about to retire or have you already retired and need an adviser to manage your financial wellbeing throughout retirement? • Have you been orphaned by your previous adviser and been left with investments and pensions that you think may need reviewing? 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.

Prosper IFA are the FIRST firm of financial advisers in Wigan to be awarded the prestigious Chartered Financial Planners Status.

Prosper Independent Financial Advisers Ltd. Prosper House, 99a High Street, Standish, WN6 0HD

www.locallife247.co.uk

www.prosper-ifa.co.uk

Ale and Hearty! Local pubs which embrace real ales are thriving. David Sudworth pops in for a pint… It’s been a worrying time for the local pub. Latest figures suggest that, across the country, they’re closing at a rate of 26 per week. Even those offering televised sports and cut price drinks in a bid to lure in the punters are finding they are no longer viable. As a result, many have either been converted into new homes and apartments, or been razed to the ground. However, there’s one group of watering holes seemingly bucking the trend, and drawing in customers from across the nation. Their secret? A well-stocked cellar of cask ales and a mention in the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Good Beer Guide – the ‘Bible’ for any serious ale-quaffing gent and, as I discovered, an increasing number of ladies. The recently published 2014 guide, just shy of 950 pages, is crammed with listings of CAMRA-approved hostelries spanning the length and breadth of England, Scotland and Wales. One of those mentioned is the Delph Tavern in Tontine, near Wigan, which is run by Ian Roscoe. Ian has deep roots in the licensing trade; his parents John and Linda worked in pubs across the area, including in Blackpool, Manchester and the old Horse Shoe pub in Wigan, since the 1960s. They arrived at the Delph in 1986 and Ian succeeded them nine years ago. Not long afterwards, he started to take a keen interest in cask ales. “I saw it as a growth market and breweries were offering a very diverse range of real ales. It was a nice, little project and it’s grown since then,” says Ian. “As a pub we’re very old school with our values, very community driven but with professional business acumen. We do a lot with Orrell Rugby Union, Wigan Rally Club, Orrell St James and so on. However, we get people coming from all over the country. When Wigan

Athletic were in the Premier League, we’d have West Brom and Chelsea supporters coming in to have a few pints of real ale before going to the match, purely because of the Good Beer Guide. Cask ale used to be an old man’s drink but now the younger ones are drinking it. You also have younger women drinking it in half pint glasses. We also offer real ales in glasses which are a third of a pint so people can try them.” Part of real ale’s attraction is that, unlike the major brands, they are easily identifiable as being ‘local’. And in the case of The Wayfarer pub in Parbold, that’s very much the case - with some it brewed less than 50 yards away from the bar pump. Husband and wife team Jonny and Rachel Birkett, from The Wayfarer, started Problem Child Brewing in June. With literally years in the planning stages, they now produce three lines; Scallywag, Scoundrel and Rapscallion. “We called it Problem Child because when I was younger I was called that so it sort of stuck,” jokes Rachel, 40. “The microbrewery is now in what was our house. We moved into Parbold Village and the living room now houses the brewing equipment. However, we are determined to keep a variety of ales on offer in the bar, not just our own.”

TASTE TEST Name: One Twenty (4% ABV) Brewery: Prospect, Wigan Price: £2.35 a pint Location: The Delph Tavern, Tontine Background: Part of Propsect’s core range. Named after 120 Wigan Road in Standish, which housed the original Prospect Brewery. Brewed in memory of head brewer Patsy’s mother-in-law, Beth Slevin, who lived at 120. Taste: Delicious, refreshing ale full of flavour. Very pleasing hints of barley and flowers with a crisp taste. Our Verdict: An excellent Prospect! Name: Scallywag (3.7% ABV) Brewery: Problem Child Brewing, Parbold Price: £3 a pint Location: The Wayfarer, Parbold Background: First ale brewed by its creator, Jonny Birkett, at their microbrewery, which opened in June 2013. Taste: Easy drinking, good creamy head and not too hoppy. Good flavour and firm bodied. Our Verdict: No ‘Problem’ with this one – top of the class! Jonny, 42, is delighted with their success in a relatively short space of time: “I only started in June and I can’t produce it quick enough. We’ve produced more than 11,000 pints since we started. It’s a quick process though, you can start brewing on the Monday it can be ready for serving the following week. We’re now hoping to offer them for sale in bottles.” From the new to the old, the Mason’s Arms in Billinge is also listed in the guide. With its 18th Century charms, friendly locals and quite frankly the best smoking shelter I have ever seen – complete with comfy chairs, a wood burning stove and even a piano – it is a thriving venue. It was taken over by John Ruffell, his late wife Sue, and Gill and Ian Smith, in 2007. Despite the changing social attitudes, the Mason’s seems to have no problem pulling the punters in. John explains: “We only used to have two hand pumps on but then we started hearing about cask ale. We decided to see what all the fuss was about so we went to the Turks Head in St Helens and couldn’t believe it – the place was packed and it was only 4 o’clock on a Tuesday afternoon. There and then we knew what we had to do. Now, we get people in from all over.”

www.locallife247.co.uk

Name: Norman’s Conquest MM (5% ABV) Brewery: Cottage Brewing, Somerset Price: £2.90 Location: The Mason’s Arms, Billinge Background: Originally launched winter 1999 (hence the MM), it is brewed to the exact same recipe as the original 7% ABV Norman’s Conquest, however this has a lower ABV version. Taste: Full bodied, deep ruby beer with hints of chocolate, orange peel and fruit. Perfect Christmas/ winter ale. Our Verdict: A corking Conqueror! Name: Cumberland Ale (4% ABV) Brewery: Jennings, Cumbria Price: £2.80 a pint Location: Rose & Crown, Chorley Background: Jennings’ best-selling brand outside the Lake District. Traditionally brewed using pure Lakeland water drawn from the brewery’s own well, and won silver in 2009 and bronze in 2010 International Beer Challenge Taste: Full flavoured with a delicate hop character. Great ‘half way house’ between lighter and darker ales. Our Verdict: Cumbrian class in a glass

Unlike a lot of pubs, the Mason’s doesn’t serve food, except for an order of pies from Birchall’s, St Helens, on a Friday.

For the final stop off, I headed to the Rose & Crown on St Thomas’s Road, in Chorley town centre. Even for a mid-afternoon, there were a number of people around enjoying a quiet drink. The one thing which struck me almost straight away was how knowledgeable the barmaid was about real ale, and even offered me small samples of a few before I made up my mind. In the end, I opted for Jennings Cumberland ale, poured expertly by the same barmaid who clearly knew how the locals like their beer. Roger Protz, editor of The Good Beer Guide, believes this local, knowledgeable approach is sparking a resurgence: “Despite all the problems besetting pubs, the beer outlook could not be more promising. Real ale continues to out-perform other types of beer and is the only area of growth in a sector that, overall, continues to decline. Many new breweries have opened in the past year and Britain can boast it has the biggest number of breweries since the 1930s.

CAMRA-APPROVED PUBS “We even encourage walkers and hikers to stop off here and eat their sandwiches… if they buy a drink of course,” smiles John. “I think we are quite unique but we want to be a traditional pub and because of that, we have a good mix of regulars and visitors.”

Sir Thomas Gerard, Gerard St, Ashton-in-Makerfield Hare & Hounds, Upholland Road, Billinge Masons Arms, Carr Mill Road, Billinge Starr Inn, Church Road, Rainford The Anvil, Dorning Street, Wigan town centre Berkeley, Wallgate, Wigan town centre Boulevard, Wallgate, Wigan town centre Royal Oak, Standishgate Brocket Arms, Mesnes Road, Swinley Standish Unity Club, Cross Street The Delph, Sefton Road, Tontine Hop Vine, Liverpool Road North, Burscough Ring O’Bells, Ring O’Bells Lane, Lathom Ship Inn, Wheat Lane, Lathom Stocks Tavern, Alder Lane, Parbold The Wayfarer, Alder Lane, Parbold Farmers Club, Burscough Street, Ormskirk Hesketh Arms, Liverpool Road, Rufford Red Lion, New Street, Mawdesley White Lion, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington Malt ‘n’ Hops, Friday Street, Chorley Potters Arms, Brooke Street, Chorley Railway Inn, Steeley Lane, Chorley Rose & Crown, St Thomas’s Road, Chorley White Bull, Market Street, Chorley Red Lion, Blackburn Road, Wheelton

Enjoy s a m t s i r Ch ms r A s t l o H e Th

FREE

bottle of win e

for parties

of 4+

g taken in e b w o n s Booking Fayre menu s a m t is r h C for our

Party Nights with DJ every Friday in December Sunday 22nd December Carol Singers from 3.30-4.30pm followed by a visit from SANTA to our Grotto from 5pm-7pm. Tuesday 24th December

Night before Christmas Party with DJ from 8pm till late. Tuesday 31st December

See in The New Year at your favourite local Partying till the early hours with DJ & Hotpot served at 10pm. Tickets available at the bar for £4 each.



Don’t miss!

Quiz night, followed by ‘Play your Cards Right’ every Wednesday from 9pm Free food for quiz teams! Live Music every Friday night in November

Keep an eye on our social pages for upcoming events Holts Arms (The Foot)

@HoltsArms

Holts Arms the

Crank Road, Billinge, WN5 7DT

www.locallife247.co.uk

01695 628 006

www.holtsarms.co.uk

Christmas by the Glass - By Sarah Davey Christmas Day in our house starts with a leisurely family brunch, complete with a cheeky little cocktail. Cocktails at breakfast might not suit everyone, and I certainly wouldn’t recommend them as part of your usual healthy diet, but at Christmas you can indulge without guilt. A Bloody Mary is a good accompaniment to a late breakfast.

Bloody Mary Ingredients Ice cubes Vodka, double shot ½ lemon, juice only 6 dashes Worcestershire sauce 3 dashes Tabasco sauce 150ml/5fl oz tomato juice Pinch salt and freshly ground black pepper Method Place the ice into a tall glass and add the vodka. Add the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce and tomato juice. Stir well. Adjust the seasoning to taste with salt and pepper and serve straightaway.

Before lunch, it’s nice to serve champagne with a festive twist.

Champagne with Cranberries Ingredients Champagne (or any good quality sparkling wine) Dried cranberries Method Simply pop 5 dried cranberries into each glass and pour the champagne over. The cranberries ‘dance’ in the bubbles and look very Christmassy.

And finally, no Christmas Day is complete without a tumbler or two of mulled wine.

Mulled Wine Ingredients 400ml / 14fl oz red wine (Shiraz is fantastic) 400ml / 14 fl oz water 400ml / 14 fl oz good quality orange juice 80ml / 2½ fl oz brandy 4tbsp dark brown sugar ½ tsp ground ginger ½ tsp cinnamon ½ tsp nutmeg 3 cardamom pods Clementine 6 cloves (to pierce the Clementine) Method Make up a spice bag using muslin or a piece of thin cotton, with the ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom. Place the red wine, water, brandy, orange juice and sugar in a large pan; add the spice bag, and clovestudded Clementine. Heat slowly and simmer over a very low heat for at least 30 minutes. Serve with mince pies in front of the fire to round off a perfect Christmas day.

Make Merry at the

Robin Hood!

Celebrate Christmas with friends and family at the Robin Hood, and choose from our indulgent and imaginative festive menu which is available Weds to Sun from the 4th to 22nd of December Starters Hot Breaded Camembert Two breaded Camembert wedges served with our very own plum jam and a crusty roll

Bruschetta Slices of ciabatta topped with freshly diced tomatoes, onions, basil, olive oil and a balsamic reduction

Smoked Trout Tender smoked trout finished with fresh beetroot salad and horseradish dressing.

Chicken Liver & Smoked Bacon Pate Chef’s homemade pate with fresh onion marmalade, hot toast and crisp salad.

Serrano Ham & Melon Juicy pieces of melon topped with wrapped Serrano ham and decorated with raspberry coulis

Winter Vegetable Soup Homemade soup of the day with crusty bread & butter

Mains Roast Turkey Traditional Roast Turkey with all the seasonal trimmings

Salmon & Prawns A pan fried salmon fillet topped with fresh garlic prawns and asparagus, and also new potatoes.

Rack of lamb Rack of lamb served on a bed of chomp mash and coated with a blackberry and port reduction

Beef & Bacon Casserole Chunks of beef slowly cooked with crispy bacon, large chunky carrots and shallots, and served with mash

Duck Breast Pan fried duck breast served with sautéed cabbage and mushrooms and finished with a port jus.

Parsnip & Rosemary Risotto Oven roasted parsnips tossed in a creamy risotto, with rosemary and parsnip chips, and fresh rocket

Christmas Pudding

Desserts

Don’t miss our New Year’s Eve party Fancy Dress, FREE Hot Pot at 10pm and our ‘Around the World’ drinks promotions!

Lemon Drizzle

Apple, Cinnamon & Sultana Crumble

Mince Pie

Sticky Toffee Pudding

Cheeseboard (£2 supplement)

2 courses £14.95 3 courses £17.95 Having a Works Do? Private dining room available Mondays & Tuesdays in December – will seat up to 30 Call Paul on 01942 511859 for details.

Robin Hood www.locallife247.co.uk

117 Sandy Lane Orrell WN5 7AZ 01942 511 859 www.robinhoodorrell.co.uk

Recipe of the month

Granny’s Christmas Pudding The stout in this recipe will add the moisture to the pudding and the cocoa powder makes the pudding look dark

Ingredients

Method

• 1oz mixed peel

Place all the dry ingredients in a large bowl and mix together.

• 1oz ground almonds

Add the eggs and the brandy and mix then pour in the stout gradually and keep stirring until your mixture is the consistency of a loose cake mix.

• 2 medium sized eggs • ¼ teaspoon almond essence • 2 teaspoons brandy • 1 can of stout • 2 teaspoons cocoa powder • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg • ¼ teaspoon baking powder • ¼ teaspoon mixed spice • 4oz plain flour • 4oz breadcrumbs • 4oz beef suet • 4oz brown sugar • 4oz raisins

Grease your pudding bowl (2 pint pyrex bowl) with a little butter and pour in the pudding mix. Cover with foil and then a tea towel or pudding cloth and tie it to the top of the bowl, this is to prevent any water getting in. Place in a large boiling pan and fill with water ¾ of the way up the side of the bowl. Boil on a moderate heat for 6 hours keep topping up the water with boiled kettle water if the level starts to drop. When the pudding is ready turn it out and leave to cool. These puddings can be stored wrapped in foil from now until Christmas, to reheat just place the pudding back in the bowl and boil for another 2 hours on Christmas day. Can be served with a sprinkling of icing sugar on the top or pour on ¼ brandy and light for a flaming Christmas pudding.

• 4oz sultanas • 4oz glace cherries • 1 grated lemon rind • ½ apple grated • ½ carrot grated

Recipe courtesy of chef Lindsey Crozier & photograph by Nigel Maisey

At your local hotel which is owned, managed and staffed locally that uses the finest local suppliers and producers wherever possible.

Disco Mania -

Friday 29th November £26

Casino Night -

Friday 6th December £37

Live Soul & Motown Live Disco Diva -

Saturday 7th December £38

Thursday 12th December £37

Prohibition Night -

Friday 13th December with Casino and live Soul &

Motown £45 - strictly smart dress, tuxedos at the ready!

Live Soul and Motown Disco Mania -

Saturday 14th December £38

Thursday 19th December £26

Live Rat Pack -

Friday 20th December £39

All events include our 4 course festive menu and resident disco till late, prices per person

Holland Hall - Lafford Lane - Upholland - Lancashire - WN80QZ 01695 624426 www.hollandhallhotel.co.uk info@hollandhallhotel.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

The place to be for authentic Thai food!

THE TAVERN Bar & Thai Restaurant 2 course special lunch £6.95 2 course all days fixed price £10.95

not available Friday & Saturday after 6:30pm

À la Carte menu also available Food served all day at Tavern bar ground floor

Restaurant Opening Hours Monday 5 - 11pm Tueday - Sunday Lunch 12 - 3 pm Dinner 5 - 11pm www.thaitavernhouse.com

Tel 01942 375 413

37 Mesnes Street, Wigan, WN1 1QP

THE TAVERN Bar & Thai Restaurant

drinkaware.co.uk

for the facts about alcohol

20%

OFF

Why not try the best little club in the N.W.

Bispham Hall Recreation Club Rear of 12 Smethurst Road, Billinge, WN5 7DW

01695 622350

Extensive range of beers, wines and spirits Also, Cask Marque Approved real ales Darts, dominoes, pool and bowls teams Beer garden for families and friends Live sports shown on large flat screen TVs Private functions can be accommodated Ring Phil on 07956 638432 Tuesday night bingo with a jackpot of up to £500 Saturday Night Acts see our website for details

www.bisphamhallclub.co.uk



your food bill when you select from the a la carte menu. Not available on Saturday after 7pm Only one voucher per booking Voucher does not include drinks. Valid until 3o November 2013

en t Un de r Ne w M an ag em

Take another look at The

Delph Tavern

Indulge yourself, family, friends and workmates this December with our fabulous Christmas Menu!

Just £13.95 for three courses Starters Ham Hock Terrine with roasted croutes piccalilli purée & rocket salad

WHITE LION Up Holland Village

Food is back!

We offer good home made pub food from Thursday to Sunday

Fantastic Value!

Main courses are £4.95 or less!

Great Entertainment!

Sun Dried Tomato, Mozzarella & Basil Bruschetta Pan Fried Chicken Livers with blue cheese sauce & toasted brioche Winter Vegetable Broth with crusty bread and butter

Mains Roast Topside of Beef with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, new potatoes & vegetables Roast Turkey Breast with stuffing, roast potatoes, new potatoes & vegetables Grilled Plaice with new potatoes and salad Goat’s Cheese & Pesto Pasta with basil pesto, pine nuts, garlic bread & salad Rump steak - Grilled to your liking with mushrooms & roasted tomato, and a choice of chips, jacket, or new potatoes

Desserts

Live music every Saturday night (60s, 70s and 80s music) Bingo once a month Sky and BT Sports Quiz Night every Thursday

We are a family friendly village pub Church Street, Up Holland, WN8 0ND Telephone: 01695 363 236

www.locallife247.co.uk

Christmas Pudding Chocolate Brownie Eton Mess Menu served Weds-Sun, 4th to 22nd December Tables must be pre-booked in advance and space is limited – please call us today to secure your table The

Delph Tavern

Tontine, Orrell

01695 622 239

Where Are They Now?

Simon Farnworth, Wigan Athletic (1993-1996) There’s an old saying that to be a goalkeeper, you’ve got to be crazy. That’s particularly true if you’re between the sticks at a struggling club with an ageing ground and languishing in the lower reaches of the English leagues. That’s where Simon Farnworth found himself in the mid-1990s. An experienced player with more than 300 appearances under his belt, Simon joined Latics in 1993 having spent the previous decade with Bolton, where he started out, Stockport County and Tranmere Rovers (both on loan), Bury and latterly Preston North End, where he turned out 81 times. Despite Latics’ relatively unappealing position at the time, in the days shortly before Dave Whelan arrived and began his ultimately successful quest to propel the Springfield Park outfit to the dizzy heights of the Premier League, Simon found a club in good spirits. He hung up his gloves in 1996, having played 126 times for Wigan. Local Life has now managed to catch up Chorley-born Simon to talk about what he’s being up to since retirement. Now aged 49 (he turns 50 on October 28), Simon is the first team physio at League Two promotion hopefuls Morecambe. However, he still has close ties with Wigan, he lives in Orrell, his wife works at the DW Stadium and he has fond memories of his playing days at Wigan. “I had a great time at Latics, the banter in the dressing room was great and there was a good atmosphere at the club. I still bump into old Latics players such as Colin Greenall, who is a Billinge lad, and we chat about our time there with great affection.” Although progress eventually meant the demise of the old Springfield Park ground, many Latics fans still have fond memories of it. Simon admits it did have a certain

charm: “It was a very open ground and it some ways that was strange at first but you got used to it. I always remember how the crowd used to congregate at certain points on the terraces depending on the time. Because there was only one way in and one way out, the fans used to swarm around my goal, edging closer to the exit as it got closer to 4.45pm! “While I was playing, I started thinking what I wanted to do afterwards. I had my A-levels and at that time the Professional Footballers’ Association were pushing players to do Open University courses so I enrolled for one. There were a few players on my course such as Nigel Adkins, who is now manager at Reading. I was eventually asked to join the backroom staff as a physio which was a bit strange at first because I went from being one of the players, getting involved in all the banter, to being one of the staff. “It was around the time Dave Whelan came in but at that time we had no idea that it was the start of a journey. If you’d have told us back then that Latics would be FA Cup winners we’d have laughed because it seems a million miles away, but as we know it did happen.” After Latics, Simon joined the backroom staff at Liverpool and in 2009 headed to the coast to join Morecambe as the physio. : “It’s a great club and it many ways, they’re in a similar position to what Wigan were in when I joined them. The club has a very forward thinking manager in Jim Bentley and has a very good future ahead of it.” Simon Farnworth was talking to David Sudworth

Take another look at The

Delph Tavern

Orrell’s finest and friendliest freehouse now offers freshly cooked food served in a private dining section!

Food Fresh home-cooked seasonal food now available 12-8pm Wednesday to Sunday New menu available November Christmas Menu just £13.95 for three courses (pre-booking nessecary)

Beer The finest selection of hand-pulled cask ales are always available at this CAMRA awardwinning free house

Entertainment All the big football & RL matches screened on Sky Sports Don’t miss our legendary Wednesday Quiz night, followed by our Play your Cards Right! Make a date with The Delph today – Orrell’s finest and friendliest freehouse! The

Delph Tavern

Tontine, Orrell

www.locallife247.co.uk

01695 622 239

Local Bonfire Guide

Remember, remember Saturday, November 2

Tuesday, November 5

Rainford Fireworks Event

Community Family Bonfire & Firework Spectacular

The event is organised by the Rotary Club of St Helens and held at the Church Field and Rainford Cricket Club. Bonfire is lit at 7.15pm and the fireworks start at 7.45pm. Admission - Tickets are £3 in advance or £4 on the gate (under 5s go free). Tickets can be bought from All Saints Primary, Brook Lodge Primary, Corpus Christi Primary, Houghton’s newsagents and Wendy’s Flowers.

Bonfire & Fireworks Extravaganza (Ticket only) The Holts Arms (aka The Foot), on Crank Road, Billinge, hold their regular and hugely popular event. Last year, 1,600 people turned up so this year is ticket only. Doors open at 5pm, Bonfire lit at 7pm and fireworks 7.45pm. Full bar available inside and a well-stocked bar with draught lager and bitter outside, as well as a selection of bottles and soft drinks. Sweets,chilli, hotpot, hot dogs, toffee apples and sparklers also available outside. Admission - £3 for adults, £1 for children. Admission is strictly by ticket only, available from the bar now.

Sunday, November 3

Haigh Hall Bonfire Supper Haigh Hall once again plays host to one of the Borough’s largest and best bonfire and firework events. This year, bring the family into the warmth of the Hall. Enjoy a hot supper before stepping outside and enjoying the evening’s celebrations. Supper served from 4pm. Bonfire lit at 6pm. Fireworks 7pm. Reservations essential. For further information telephone 01942 832895. Admission - £12 adults. £7 children. £34 family ticket (2 adults and 2 children). (Advanced ticket sales. Bonfire only: £7 adults. £5 children. Family ticket £20. On the day ticket sales - Bonfire only: £8 adults. £6 children. No family tickets on the day.

Held at YMCA Orrell Cricket Club, off Winstanley Road, gates open at 5.30pm, the bonfire will be lit at 6.30pm and the fireworks start at 7.15pm. On offer will be a burger van, treacle toffee, a children’s fun house, a bar and hot and cold drinks. Admission - £3 adults, children go free if accompanied by an adult

Roby Mill Bonfire Event held at the Don Orione Centre, Cardinal Heenan House, on School Lane, Roby Mill. Fireworks, face painting, tombola, raffle prizes and refreshments served. Starts at 6pm. Admission - £1 for adults, children go free

Highfield Bonfire & Fireworks Event held at Highfield Cricket Club on Billinge Road. Starts around 6pm, bonfire lit at 6.30pm and fireworks start around 6.45pm. Full bar and hot refreshments will also be available. Admission - £3 for adults and £2 for children.

Wigan RUFC Bonfire Night Hosted by Wigan RUFC, Wingates Road, Leyland Mill Lane. Starts at 6pm, the fire is lit at 6.45pm and fireworks at 7.30pm. Parking is extremely limited on site - cost is £20 per car for parking. Hot and cold refreshments are available, a barbecue, a fully licensed bar and tuck shop are also available. Further details are available from Stuart Jones on 07944002032. Admission - £5 adults, £4 children under 16, £15 for a family of four and car parking is £20 per car.

the 5th of November! Spark in the Park This year’s St Helens Council organised, bonfire and firework display at Sherdley Park is expected to be one of the biggest and best displays yet. The display starts with a children’s display and the main event, the grand firework and bonfire display, starts at 8pm. Silcocks fair will also be there (open from 6pm to 9pm) and stalls selling hot food and drinks to keep everyone warm.

Visitors are asked to arrive at the event in plenty of time as the event gets very busy. Free secure, stewarded and fully lit car parking will be available at nearby Sherdley Primary, Robins Lane Primary, Chester Lane and Chester Lane Centre. Secure, chargeable, stewarded and fully lit car parking is available (£5 per car) at Lea Green Station, Mere Grange, Sutton Leisure Centre and Sherdley Park. For further information, call 01744 675492. Admission - Free

YMCA ORRELL CRICKET CLUB ‘Proud to be part of Local Life’

Community Family

Bonfire & Firework Spectacular

Tuesday 5th November Gates Open: 5:30pm Bonfire Lit: 6:30pm Fireworks: 7:15pm Burger Van, Treacle Toffee, Children’s Fun House, Bar and Hot & Cold Drinks Entrance £3.00 Adults Children FREE when with parents Supported by your Local Councillors and Brighter Borough Located off Winstanley Road, opposite Hewitt’s Business Park

www.locallife247.co.uk

What’s On in the North West Ghost Tour at Hoghton Towers

Chester Arts Fair

Are you brave enough to tackle what is reputedly the third most haunted house in Britain? Silent torchbearers are ready to guide you through the darkened halls of Hoghton Tower, where you will encounter spectres from the past who regale you with ghostly happenings from across the centuries. Venture, if you dare, through the underground passages where footsteps from another time may echo alongside your own. Whatever happens, you’ll have a frightfully good time! You are advised to wear warm clothing and sensible shoes as there are uneven steps, staircases and very cold underground passages.

Returning to the city for its second consecutive year, the fair is held at Chester Racecourse and expected to draw over 5,000 visitors. A high calibre of local, national and international artists and independent art galleries will be featuring at the event, including Sir Peter Blake, Kerry Darlington, the number one best selling published artist in the UK 2012 and Nick Elphick, who was commissioned to sculpt the Queen for the Jubilee last year as well as the Olympians, with work by artists such as Antony Gormley and Michael Bennett also featuring. International guests will include talented German artist Patricia Pastore and the acclaimed Egyptian cinematographer Ramses Marzouk.

When: Cost: Details: Where:

Fri 15 November, between 7.10pm and 9.50pm £25 plus booking fee www.hoghtontower.co.uk PR5 0SH

Snow White by Vienna Festival Ballet

Featuring a wealth of paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, ceramics and original prints, all shown in a friendly and relaxed environment, the Chester Art Fair is seen as an event which has something for everyone. When: Cost: Where: Details:

Friday 15 November, - Sunday 17 November £10, and £6 for concessions CH1 2LY www.chestertartsfair.co.uk

Manchester Christmas Market

Join Vienna Festival Ballet on a magical journey with their brand new production of Snow White at St Helen’s Theatre Royal. World premiere choreography propels this timeless fairytale and answers the question: “Who is the fairest one of all?” Based on the traditional Grimm’s Brothers story, this ballet incorporates all the important elements, an enchanted mirror, a beautiful girl, a shiny red apple and Prince Charming. This spellbinding ballet promises to entertain and dazzle the whole family Sunday 10 November £18.50 adults, £17 concessions and £12.50 for children up to 14 years Where: WA10 1LQ Details: www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com When: Cost:

If you want to get in the mood for Christmas, a visit to the Manchester Christmas Market is a must. With chalet-lined streets, colourful displays and the smell of mulled wine in the air, it’s an event which all the family will enjoy. This year the market will be celebrating its 15th year and the array of over 300 stalls is mind-boggling. The choice is getting bigger and bigger and includes gifts, crafts, jewellery, clothes, toys and an array of food and drink. When:

Friday 15 November - Sunday 22 December

Cost: Free Where: Manchester City Centre: Albert Square, Brazennose Street, King Street, St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, Exchange Square, The Corn Exchange, Corporation Street Details: www.manchester.gov.uk/info/500241/ christmas_markets

North West Bird Watching Festival

Victorian Christmas Weekends Tis the season to be jolly... and now you can have some festive Fun at Speke Hall, Victorian style! How much do you know about our Christmas traditions and where they came from? Lots of family activities and crafts to try. Have you been naughty or nice? Father Christmas would love to meet you in his Grotto! Saturday 30 November, Sunday 1 December, Saturday 7 Decmber, and Sunday 8 December Cost: Free, but normal admission prices apply Details: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/speke-hall/ Where: L24 1XD When:

Titanic & Liverpool The Untold Story It’s eyes to the skies in West Lancashire as the North West Bird Watching Festival arrives at Martin Mere. The reserve will be open from 8am to allow visitors the opportunity to view the reserve and the wildlife as the day begins. Among the activities will be guided walks, guest speakers, workshops and exhibitors. When: Saturday 23 November & Sunday 24 November Cost: Free to WWT members Details: www.wwt.org.uk/visit/martin-mere/

Vibrant Vintage Fair at Haigh Hall This vintage and retro fair will be held at Haigh Hall in Wigan. Taking place over two floors, there will be a wide selection of stalls selling vintage and retro clothing and accessories as well as collectable items, cupcakes, homemade chocolate and fab retro craft items. When: Cost: Details: Where:

Sunday 24th November, from 10am-4pm £1 www.vibrantvintage.co.uk WN2 1PE

The Magical Christmas Fair You can get into the Yuletide mood with a trip to Manchester’s Magical Christmas Fair. Held at Manchester Central, its organisers say you will find hundreds of stands full of products not easily found in the high street. However, it’s not just about buying gifts; there will be entertainments throughout each day to get you in the Christmas spirits, such as live music, spectacular decor, surprises appearing around the venue, a chance for kids of all ages to meet Santa and his friends, plus licensed bars and restaurant areas to enjoy a warming Glühwein, a glass of champagne and festive food with your friends or family. Friday 29 November - Sunday 1 December From £6.50 upwards. Children £3 each (under fives are free) Details: www.magical-christmas.co.uk Where: M2 3GX When: Cost:

www.locallife247.co.uk

Commissioned to mark the centenary of the sinking of the Titanic, this exhibition explores Liverpool’s central role in the Titanic story. The exhibition features previously unseen collections of international significance including material from Merseyside Maritime Museum’s extensive archives – for example a tragic letter from local girl May Louise McMurray that was never delivered. It complements the museum’s existing permanent gallery, the hugely popular Titanic, Lusitania and the Forgotten Empress. Told from perspectives of key personalities in the drama, the exhibition gives a unique insight into events surrounding the launch, voyage, the sinking and its aftermath. Among the many featured personalities are: J Bruce Ismay, chairman of the White Star Line, who controversially survived the disaster in one of the last lifeboats to leave the stricken liner, former Crosby resident Captain Edward Smith, the veteran master approaching retirement when he went down with his ship, Fred Fleet, abandoned as a child in Liverpool, was the lookout who spotted the iceberg. He survived after taking charge of a lifeboat and passenger Gladys Cherry, who survived the sinking and gave a moving first hand account of the moment the liner struck the iceberg. Entry is free and the exhibition is on until the end of 2013.

Jack’s Tracks

Dalton Autumn is possibly the best time of year to pull on the walking boots. The leaves are turning a golden colour, the weather is mild and nature’s bounty is in full flow, with conkers, acorns and fir cones covering the ground. So it was in high spirits we headed towards Ashurst’s Beacon near Up Holland for this month’s stroll. It’s an area I know well from my days working on the local paper but perhaps, like many people, I spent my leisure time exploring places miles away rather than what was on my own doorstep, which made this walk extra special. No sooner had we parked the Local Life charabanc and Jack, as per usual, was raring to go. We chose a car park just opposite The Beacon pub, fronting onto the golf course, which gave us a sneak preview of the views to come, as well as giving Jack a few minutes to find his ‘fetch’ stick from the undergrowth. Walking boots on and armed with copious energy-boosting chocolate bars, we crossed the road and headed toward Ashurst’s Beacon. The pathway towards the monument is just to the left of the pub and not signposted. Once at the top we had an early treat; stunning 180 degree views from Cheshire in the south to Blackpool Tower in the north. The wind was blowing quite a bit, and had a distinctive autumnal chill, but it wasn’t enough to distract us. To give some perspective of distance, Dalton Parish Council’s 100 year centenary stone, just a bit further up, advises that standing at the top of the Beacon, we are five miles from Wigan Parish Church, 27 miles to the Bowland Fells and 84 miles to the Isle of Man.

We started the walk from the Beacon itself, but you need to have your wits about you as the paths aren’t immediately obvious. We had to walk in a north westerly direction towards the woodland. As a rule, If you can see Blackpool Tower, basically you need to head towards that, and the informal pathway will become apparent. Once in the woods, we were greeted with a floor scattered with pine cones. Having picked up a few for my six-year-old daughter, we headed westwards and eventually hit a cobbled footpath with fields on either side. Around five minutes later, continuing eastwards, we cross a stile onto a bit of a grass clearing and an old stone house, complete with a rather large, solid wooden gate. If you turn around you should see some sort of rusted farm machinery at the boundary of the grassland. We bore left down the side of the house and carried straight on. What greeted us at the end of the path was a beautiful 17th Century stone dovecot, which as we discovered was restored by the North West Buildings Preservation Trust in 1985. Alongside this was a small pond and trees groaning with conkers and

acorns. Suffice to say, being a big kid at heart, I started hoovering these up in anticipation of being able to use my haul to stage a mass conker challenge back at Local Life Towers. However, Jack being a dog and therefore having no interest in conker fights was in no mood to hang around so headed off towards the car park of the magnificent St Michael & All Angels Church. The church faces the equally impressive and historic Ashurst’s Hall, a

Grade II listed building which was originally the seat of the Ashurst family. Coming out of the car park, we took a right past the primary school and down Higher Lane. Before long, the pleasing sound of acorns crunching underfoot was ringing in our ears – they were all over the place and to be honest my heart sank a little when I saw the street sweeper a little further down the road. Before I became too disheartened, we peeled off rightwards onto a tree-lined Dungeon Lane, where we came across some very colourful wild, but I am advised highly poisonous, mushrooms. As a seasoned walker, Jack didn’t pay much attention to the various fungi on display but for a novice like myself, I couldn’t resist whipping out my lens for a quick photo op. At the end of the lane, we turned left and then around 50 yards down we turned right. Now admittedly, at first we were hesitant as it looked very much like a private driveway (signage says Blackbird’s Farm/Lees Lane Nursery/Mobility Store) but according to our trusty Ordnance Survey map, it was a public footpath so went down it. Towards the rear of the property, we saw the

Ashurst’s Beacon Ashurst’s Beacon is one of the area’s most prominent landmarks. Predominantly overlooking the 1960s Liverpool overflow new town of Skelmersdale, the Beacon dates back to 1798 and is believed to be one of a chain of Lancashire beacons stretching from Liverpool up to Lancaster. Archives suggest it was built by Sir William Ashurst to serve as an early warning system against invaders ahead of the Napoleonic wars.

all-important way markers and a stile so headed over it. Eventually we came to a field and spotted a bridge over the River Douglas in the distance. However, before that, we had a challenge we just couldn’t avoid – a field full of cows. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love animals but these cows were a bit too friendly for my liking. Jack didn’t seem to mind them and pleasantly sauntered off like he was on a Sunday stroll. I, on the other hand, was

www.locallife247.co.uk

It attained listed status in 1967 and is owned by Wigan Council. Despite being targeted by vandals and graffiti artists over the years, the Beacon remains a popular spot locally due to its views spanning as far as the Welsh Hills.

breaking into what became a rather brisk walk/slow jog. This only seemed to intensify the cows’ interest in us and they eyed us far too keenly as we hot-footed it towards the bridge. Once safely out of harm’s way, I looked back and to my horror saw that the preponderance of cows masked the fact that, in the middle of them, was the largest bull I had ever seen. Gulp.

Wood and started to get some lovely views towards Standish, with Winter Hill in the distance. We continued heading southwards before taking a right onto Long Heys Lane. It’s at this point the walk becomes quite steep so, in anticipation of the energy sapping gradient I was about to embark upon, I cracked open one of my choccie bars and steeled myself for the challenge. I’ve no idea how Jack – at this point on his lead due to the frequency of vehicles using the road - managed it without refuelling but he did. After about 10 minutes or so, we spotted a small path off to the right and headed down it. Cross the driveway to Bradshaw Farm and Bradshaw Barn and head off again into the wooded area which adjoins the properties. Before long, the pathway comes out near the Beacon and, five miles later, the walk was complete. All in all this was a very enjoyable afternoon. Due to the informal nature of some of the pathways, and some possible confusion which can arise due to lack of signage, you do need to keep your wits about you. But the rewards are plentiful; beautiful buildings, historical points of interest, stunning views. And If that doesn’t grab you, then there’s always the lure of a pocket full of free conkers…

After thanking my lucky stars, we headed off towards the Leeds-Liverpool canal via the Douglas. We went over a stile and ended up at what felt, again, to be like private property with some well- tended grass and bushes adorning the landscape. Just to the right was a rather pleasant and unexpected feature of this walk, a memorial stone showing the site of the Old Douglas Chapel, which existed for 400 years before being demolished in 1875. The memorial cross is carved from the old church’s threshold stone, and erected in 1906 as a lasting memory of somewhere which was clearly an important focal point for this rural community. Once past the stone, and a cluster of old dwellings, we carried on, taking the towpath on the Dalton side heading towards Wigan. Although he maintained his usual ice-cool exterior throughout, I suspect the recent bovine drama must have caused Jack some anxiety as he decided to crouch down by the canal and take some hearty slurps to quench his very sudden thirst. Once suitably refreshed, we started to head back, over the Douglas and headed towards Keckle Hey Wood. The pathway went past a few barn conversions on the right, before emeging on to Lees Lane. Going left, it was a short walk before we turned up the track opposite Lower House Farm. We headed up through Wigan Lane

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.

Parbold

H Parbold

ill

A5209

Lee d

& Li

verp

ool

Can a

Old Douglas Chapel Cross

River Do

uglas

Blackbird’s Farm

Lan e

Le e

nge

Lower House Farm Lees Lane

Dalton her

Hig e

Lan

L ys

e gH

Lon Deacon Lane

Ashurst’s Hall

aco

ane

Ashurst’s Beacon

Start/Finish

Skelmersdale www.locallife247.co.uk

Your Pets - by Dr Shams Mir

BVSc&AH,MVSc,DrMedVet,MRCVS

There is more to bad breath than what meets the nose The inconvenience of bad breath of a dog or cat heralds a more significant problem than a mere unpleasant feeling. Appreciating the causes and implications of bad breath might well determine how we may respond to the problem. A surprising 700 species of bacteria have been identified that resides in human mouth. Lacking matching studies, it may not be illogical to presume that bacterial species of similar magnitude may be present in the mouths of dogs and cats. The teeth provide a stable surface for the bacteria in the mouth to colonise; combined with proteins they form a sticky film on the teeth, which gradually thickens to become visible as light yellow Plaque. As the plaque formation continues, deposition of minerals from saliva and food leads to production of thick hard deposits on the teeth called dental Tartar or Calculus. The bacteria in the plaque trigger an inflammatory reaction in the gum, leading to margins of the gum turning red and easy to bleed. The worsening plaque and calculus impinge under the gum and let infection seep into the tooth root ligament, the tough fibrous structure which surrounds the tooth attaching it firmly to the bony socket. With the decay of the ligament infection reaches tooth root, leading to so called Periodontal Disease, eventually leading to abscess formation around tooth roots. The earliest symptom of gum disease is a sweet smell from the mouth, which may be associated with the red line appearing along gum margins. As the disease progresses obnoxious bad breath follows with the pet showing some difficulty eating hard food. Abscess formation sometimes leads to swelling of the face and even pus draining from the face.

A painful mouth can change a friendly pet to an apprehensive or even aggressive one. But, the impact of periodontal disease is far reaching. The continual trickling of the bacteria and bacterial toxins into the blood stream from the broken down barriers in the mouth lead to infection depositing in organs like heart and kidneys. The bacteria colonising on the valves of the heart can cause their scarring and shrinkage, leading to chronic heart failure. Infection of kidneys can damage them leading to chronic kidney insufficiency or failure. The liver, body’s main detoxifying plant, the immune system and indeed the whole body is overburdened with the persistent infection and bacterial wastes. At Sunrise, we take time to examine your pet every time you visit us, including gums and teeth. We facilitate our clients to proactively prevent dental problems. Where dental problems impact a pet’s health, our advanced anaesthetic and dental surgery facilities ensure that the procedure is carried out safely, no matter what their age, giving them a new lease of life! Dr Shams Mir BVSc&AH,MVSc,DrMedVet,MRCVS Veterinary Surgeon Sunrise Veterinary Surgery 6 The Common Parbold WN8 7DA Tel: 01257 463 142 www.sunrisevets.co.uk

A well trained dog is a happy dog! Jo Pay is a fully qualified Dog Trainer who offers:

Agility classes UK Rally Obedience classes Puppy classes One to one training Puppy socialisation parties Give Jo a call today on 01257 423726 or email her on jo@standishdogtrainer.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

Wordsearch Sudoku

Puzzle Corner

Guess where? Photo courtesy of Wigan World www.wiganworld.co.uk Answers are on page 92 of this magazine Armagh Bangor Bath Belfast Bristol Canterbury Derby Derry Durham Ely Exeter Leeds Lisburn Manchester Newport Newry

Norwich Nottingham Oxford Perth Preston Ripon Salford Sheffield St Albans Sterling Swansea Truro Wells Wolverhampton Worcester York

Specialist Services

Chimney Sweep, Locksmith, Stained Glass Artist, Upholsterers & more...

No Mess, No Fuss, No Dust

Call Dean Today For A Free Estimate

T: 01942 223 517 M: 07817 500 564 S TA I N E D G L A S S R E PA I R S

Restorations & repairs • New Commissions welcomed Stained glass craft workshops – ask for details

Mike Allen Glass

The Old Stables, Mill Lane, Burscough, L40 5TJ Call: 0750 212 0453 E-mail: mikeallenglass@hotmail.co.uk www.mikeallenglass.co.uk

Specialists in Replacement Double Glazed Units Ring with sizes for FREE estimate

Open 7 days 8am - 8pm Established Local Family Company

01942 470 085 / 0800 328 8573

Advertise here

Advertise your business in this section for £37 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

www.bodtree.co.uk

www.steamywindows.net

COMPUTER PROBLEMS? Broadband broken, computer slow, printer packed up, virus/spyware or your keyboards gone kaput

Bodtree Systems fix all types of PC problems in the comfort of your own home

Call Catherine Now 07540 222787

we make it our business to help yours

www.locallife247.co.uk

Test Drive - by Tim Barnes-Clay

The Volvo XC70

...rugged and refined Volvo cars paved the way for a totally new segment with the V70 Cross Country in 1997 – and then came the less long-winded moniker: the XC70. The Swedish company’s focus in the continuous development of the XC70 model has been to create a well-heeled on-road car with competent, off-road ability. The rugged and refined present-day look reflects the vehicle’s underlying strength and competence. Volvo says to think of it as an “exclusive goose down jacket, designed around those who like their adventure with a true feeling of sophistication”. Pretentious marketing spin? Not really. You see, as well as All-Wheel Drive, Hill Descent Control is a further boost to the XC70’s go-anywhere potential. And these days, fresh exterior design cues sharpen its road presence. If truth be told, the XC70 would look at home in any environment, whether it’s in the middle of the open country or at your place of work.

As with the V70 estate car, the rear seats can be folded down in three 40/20/40 sections. Collapse all of the seats flat and the load space swells from 575 litres to 1,600 litres. Another handy function is the poweroperated tailgate. What’s more, the outer rear seats can be fitted with integrated child booster cushions that offer children from the age of three and upwards a cosy and safe ride height. That’s a massive tick in the box for any parent of youngsters. On the road, IntelliSafe, - Volvo’s umbrella name for all its active safety systems - is a vital part of the drivercentric approach in the XC70. City Safety technology is fitted as standard, and this advanced technology works at speeds of up to 31 mph. You can also fit Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake. This watches out for people strolling into the car’s path and automatically put the anchors on the vehicle if there’s an imminent collision. In addition, Road Sign Information supports you by displaying road signs on the instrument panel. The XC70’s seats are certainly amongst the most comfortable of the many cars I’ve driven – and the Volvo feels one of the best rides for keeping your children

protected. Everything about the vehicle feels tank-solid – from the reassuring ‘thud’ the closing doors make to the quality cabin materials and thick, padded, leather seats. Still, a heavyweight, high-centre-of-gravity car like this has its downsides – it’s not amazingly nimble and all four corners tend to squeal if you take bends at speed. The steering also feels slightly lumpy around town. But get it on a long commute or off-road and it’ll fare very well. The six-speed geartronic transmission makes especially light work of any distance driving and acceleration is brisk. Granted - off-road, it’s not as heroic as a pure mudplugger, but the XC70’s talented enough to take the family into the rough – or up a snow covered hill if you need to.

Professional quality paintwork repairs at a fraction of traditional body shop costs  Quick  Convenient

Bumper scuffs Alloy wheels Paintwork scratches Minor dents

Unit 20 Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road Orrell WN5 7XB

Take my word for it…

I’ll get your car looking as good as new – or your money back! I visit you at home or work when it suits you

Specialists in; • Bumper scuffs • Vandal scratches • Alloy wheel repairs • Minor dents No VAT added!

For your free estimate visit

www.chipsaway.co.uk or call 0800 028 7878 or 07584 684 856

REPAIRS FULLY GUARANTEED

www.locallife247.co.uk

Billinge &

Rainford Service and MOT Centre

£5 off

Free pick up and drop off service available

Offer valid on production of this voucher Any make or model welcome



Interim service and MOT from £95 inc VAT

when you have a service and MOT at our garages

Billinge &

Full service and MOT from £130 inc VAT

Rainford

MOT - £34.95

Service and MOT Centre

MOT Class 7 - £38.95 84 Rainford Road, Billinge, WN5 7PG and Sandwash Close, Rainford, WA11 8LY

check out our reviews on www.goodgaragescheme.co.uk

Call - 01744 895 333 or 01744 886 720 Mobile - 07918 138 231

FastPass

Driving School • Friendly & Professional • DSA Approved Instructor • Lesson Diagrams on iPad • Based in Orrell

Call Fergal on: 01942 204036 or 07963 380298 www.fastpass-driving-school.co.uk

Save £££s now on servicing costs for your German car! Experienced ex-Mercedes and Volkswagen Audi Group technicians will service your car at a fraction of main dealer costs! We even pick up and drop off your motor free! All repairs, exhausts, tyres, clutches, diagnostics, MOT work. NOW AT: Unit 19, Tatton Court, Kingsland Grange, Warrington, WA1 4RR

01925 818 180 or 07918 138 231 84 Rainford Road, Billinge, WN5 7PG

01744 895 333 or 07918 138 231

check out our reviews on www.goodgaragescheme.co.uk

Garden Diary - by Angie Barker

Don’t give up on the garden just yet! Many people assume that come November there is nothing more that can be done in the garden. When actually you can make a beautiful garden during the winter months, just be careful not to plant when the ground is very wet or frosty, then you’ll be ready to enjoy your new garden next year. In spring any reputable contractor will already be booked up for months ahead so now is the perfect time to start planning your garden transformation. Even if you feel your garden just needs an injection of colour and interest to enliven winter borders, you can still plant now. Bare root trees and shrubs are available for planting now and they are often cheaper than container grown plants because they come straight from the nursery’s ground where they have been raised. There are some wonderful shrubs that produce scented flowers in the colder months and here are just a couple of my favourites. Sarcococca confusa (Christmas Box) is a small evergreen shrub, which produces sweetly scented white flowers during the winter months and grows well in

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.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Award Winner

shade. If you can, plant it near a door so you can benefit from the wonderful perfume.

Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ is also evergreen, producing yellow scented flower spikes and can get to around 4 metres so you need room for this one. Perhaps not the best choice if you have young children as its leaves are prickly.

Shrubs like these are invaluable in the garden at this time of year not only to cheer up us humans but for wildlife too. And give a thought to next spring as well by planting some Tulips. There is an incredible range available now but I prefer the subtler shades like ‘Queen of Night’ which is a single late tulip with deep purple petals and looks fabulous teamed with white tulips – very elegant. (Oh, that’s nice - Hubby says just like me… hmmm what is he after ...) So as well as starting to think about your Christmas shopping list, please do give some thought to your garden at this time of year - next year you will be so glad you did.

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

Award Winner

Dalton Tree Services & Log Supplies Expert • All tree and hedge work • Branches removed or chipped friendly advice • Free estimates Call Peter on 07973

380 074 or

01257 252 781

Advertise here

Advertise your business in this section for £37 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

we make it our business to help yours

•

• Gates and railings • Repairs and restorations • Ironwork and welding • Traditional forge work over 20 years experience

Tel: 01695 721877 Mobile: 07951 764202 The Barn, 286 Ormskirk Road, Upholland

Design & Print Did you know that Local Life isn’t just about publishing great little magazines? We also provide a design and print service; from 5000 single colour flyers to the design and production of a full colour glossy magazine;we can meet your needs.

Gel s Nail

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

normally

£20

now £1

Saving money is the clear beneﬁt!

Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working

with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding

VICING Lashes VAN SER CAR & motorcycles too ...and Spray Tan Sunbeds k Acrylic T& GelHeal Nails th Chec

Flyers, Postcards, Posters and more!

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

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

(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)

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

erton

Breth Y on and of Crost me! R for all residents you needsurvey me until k @ Studio 84 andhome E Keep h Chec we’ll provide Healt you with a Cardetailed SRoad, Billinge 84 Rainford WN5 7PG FREE on report showing the nowreturns Book your

Natalies

Shevington

Telephone: 07814 619 400

Call

01772

Open: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10AM - 7PM, Saturday 10AM - 6PM orEngineers Closed ThursdayTwinLakesMot & Sunday

E X H 01257 427 000 A Uwww.dglwindows.co.uk Slash your electricity and S water heating bill TProtect your household from future energy price rises T Y R E R S S

Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RS

FREE

Car

available from your

23solar panels 6039own

DIN & WEL REPAIR

(10% typical return)

Visit our showroom at Unit 4a, Cricket Street Business Park off Miry Lane, Wigan. WN6 7TP

of ST. HELENS Reduce your household’s impact on the environment

Call us now

HUGE SELECTION OF CHRISTMAS PARTY WEAR FOR MEN AND WOMEN Open 7 days a week til Christmas Monday - Saturday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm Sunday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

We also provide a cost effective leaflet distribution service.

1 4 - 1 6 B r i d g e St re e t , St He l e n s , WA 1 0 1 N R 01744 26551 w w w. t y re r s . c om

0843 224 9555 07595 420237 or

Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk

we make it our business to help yours

The party never stops!

For more information call

01695 627 999

.co.uk award winning garden design construction and maintenance

Driveways Patios & Pathways Block Paving & Brickwork Garden Furniture Gutters

...sparkling clean!

Call today for a free quote! 01942 204 264 / 07535 782 445 www.myjetwashing.co.uk www.locallife247.co.uk

AC U F TU N

E TH MA

We’ll leave your;

DIR ER

T FROM

07722 8999 26 01942 820 158

Call for a free design consultation

Sheds Log Cabins Workshops Wendy Houses Summer Houses Free delivery Free 100% pressure treated Free erection See our show sites at;

Trebaron Garden Centre brand new showsite Southworth Road, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 0BS Telephone: 01925 220858 Lady Green Garden Centre Ince Blundell, Nr Formby, L38 1QB Telephone: 0151 929 2800 Head Ofﬁce 10 Greenhey Place, Skelmersdale WN 8 9SA Telephone: 01695 51442

www.solidsheds.com

Money Saving - by Martin Lewis Online auction site eBay may seem a relatively simple beast. But it’s all too easy to get sucked into bidding wars, with your finger quivering on the mouse, and then just overpaying at the last minute. Yet a host of hidden tools and websites allow you to hone in on hidden deals overlooked by rival bidders. Here are my top eBay buyer’s tricks… Exploit spelling mistakes Typos and errors on eBay are incredibly common. A host of mistake spotting sites, such as www.fatfingers.co.uk, www.goofbid.com and www.bargainchecker.com trawl eBay for all possible spelling combinations which have lower prices. Find collection only bargains near you From designer sofas to skis and scooters, sellers often specify items are ‘collection only’. This means fewer competing bidders and serious local bargains. Bag no-bid 99p items Often sellers start auctions at 99p or less, hoping a tug of war will break out between buyers. Many items go unspotted and stay at these super-low prices. It’s possible to scour eBay just for these with 99p spotter www.lastminute-auction.com Buy stolen goods on the cheap Well, nearly, but great headline, you must admit. This one isn’t actually eBay, but is worth checking - it’s legal via police auction site www.bumblebeeauctions.co.uk

Be an eBay sniper… Spotted something you want to buy on eBay? Bid too early and rival buyers bid back, forcing the price upwards. Sniping tools auto-bid for you in the last 10 seconds to seal cheaper deals. Top free auction snipers include Goofbid.com and www.gixen.com A word of warning though - you need to give sniping sites your eBay password for them to work, which is a security concern. If you do sign up, never use the same password for eBay as you do for other accounts such as banks or email. Don’t assume it’s cheapest because it’s on eBay Never assume it’s a bargain until you’ve checked prices elsewhere first. Use shopbots (shopping robots), that whizz to scores of internet retailers to find the cheapest price. My MegaShopBot.com tool auto-searches the best of these for each category. Reclaim 14 years of lost music Buy CDs/vinyl from Amazon and its auto rip services mean you can not get the MP3s for nothing. Yet did you know this works for anything bought since 1999? So you can recover years’ worth of music from CDs you may have lost or damaged. To check for lost music, just log on to Amazon.co.uk’s Cloud Player to see what music’s in there - you can then stream or download it. In 10 minutes, one member of my team found 150 albums going back 13 years. Free translation Android app for 50 languages There’s a handy trick to turn an Android smartphone into translator for free. Just download Google Translate from the Google Play store. Do this in the UK before you go, and you won’t need data to use it overseas. There are 50 languages to choose from, including French, Spanish, Greek and Thai.

Each month, Martin will be writing a feature for Local Life - advising our readers how to save thousands of pounds every year! Don’t miss it! Martin Lewis, Money Saving Expert, is an award-winning campaigning TV & radio presenter, newspaper columnist and a best-selling author. An ultra-specialised journalist, focusing on cutting bills without cutting back, he runs and founded the UK’s biggest money site, www.moneysavingexpert.com with 13 million monthly users.

Get Martin’s FREE tips and money-off vouchers emailed directly to you each week by signing up to www.moneysavingexpert.com/tips

Home Services - sponsored by

ADER SC TR

rd s

W ig a

Find the borough’s best online at www.wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader or phone 08454 040506 and ask for Wigan Council’s Good Trader Scheme.

E EM H

Trading Standards has a directory of local traders you can rely on.

GO O

Looking for a

S n ci l Tra din g

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning • traditional service, state of the art results •

5 star rating with Wigan Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme plus, Awarded the Certiﬁcate of Excellence in recognition of consistently high standards of feedback from customers in 2009/10/11/12

Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote

Call - 01257 251221

Mobile - 07908 770808

www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985

Roofing & Roofline Specialists • All aspects of maintenance & repair

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

• 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

W.Newman ROOFING & REPAIRS

01695 627 212 MOBILE: 07774 943 706

52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND Established Over 30 Years

Number One for House Maintenance! • UPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & ROOFLINE • BROKEN LOCKS & MISTED WINDOWS • GUTTERS AND UPVC CLEANING SERVICE • FLAGGING, FENCING & POINTING • GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE

No job too small! Call Mike Darbyshire on

01942 513 584 / 07917 352 181 Orrell based

House Extensions New Kitchens & Bathrooms Garage Conversions Full Refurbishments All our work is fully insured & guaranteed References available on request Call now for a free quotation

01942 216 735

07725 909 257

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

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

• Brickwork • Pointing • Garden Walls • Patios • Joinery • Flagging • Alterations • Plastering

01942 495412 / 07974 496676

www.locallife247.co.uk

All electrical work undertaken • Rewire specialists • Extra sockets & lights fitted • Mains board upgrades

Free quotations

A.J.S.

BAILEYS ELECTRICAL

Need a new look for your home?

Skilled interior and exterior work undertaken at reasonable prices! Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator

01942 215 769 07739 709 005

Ian Martland

Painter & Decorator Established 1990

• All aspects of Decorating • Interior & Exterior • Free Estimates

01695 632 477 | 07748 195 809

01942 518126 or 07545 065119 Orrell based business

Lady Decorator

Professional Interior Decorating Service Reduced rates for Pensioners Clean, tidy and conscientious Tel: 01942 366996 or 07962 422856

Just Imagine

Decorating - Interior Design - Soft Furnishings

Great Value Bathrooms!

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

C L Bathrooms

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

A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff

SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES

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

C &D

Plumbing and Heating

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

7 YEAR

EXTENDED WARRANTY

ON ALL NEW WORCESTER BOILER INSTALLATIONS

WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!

Telephone:

01942 504 429 Registration No.

88604

01257 421 660 MOB: 07931 766 684 TEL:

www.fgwelch.co.uk

ANDY HIDDEN

Domestic Electrician Award Winner 2012/13

07946 844904 andy@ahde.co.uk www.ahde.co.uk

• • • • • • •

Re-Wires Additional Sockets / Lights Home Safety Tests Fuse Board Upgrades all! Security Lighting Sm o o Alarms T Job CCTV No

www.locallife247.co.uk

Fix my conservatory!

• Misted/broken panels replaced • Leaks solved and sealed • Conservatory roof replacements • Warm roof upgrades Call Mark now for a free quote

01942 737381 (office) 07763 151720 (direct)

e-mail: conservatoryrepairs@gmail.com

www.fixmyconservatory.com ARLEY FITTED KITCHENS & BEDROOMS • Manufacturers & Fitters of built-in Bedroom & Kitchen Furniture • Bathroom Units • Replacement Tops & Doors Visit or ring showroom to arrange for FREE estimates

Arley Cabinet Co. Ltd 214a Gidlow Lane Wigan WN6 7BN Mon-Fri: 8am - 4.30pm Sat: 9am - 12pm

www.arleycabinets.co.uk tel: 01942 246190

Does your home need a facelift? For a free quote to replace your; Fascias & Gutters Windows & Doors Conservatories Call Paul at PH Profiles now!

01942 226677 / 07841 923230 www.phprofiles.co.uk

Your one stop solution to a clean, tidy home and garden! Cleaning & Ironing | Garden Maintenance Handyman Services | Carpet Cleaning Call us now for a free quote

01942 22 58 55 / 07969 151 287 www.greenandcleanwigan.co.uk

Puzzle Corner - Solutions The picture on page 78 is of Pony Dick, Highfield.

For Roofing & Roofline we’ve got it covered! Roofing Emergency repairs General maintenance Full re-roofs Strip and re-slate Flat/pitched roof conversions Installation of Velux windows Roofline Fascias Soffits Cladding Gutters including Seamless Aluminium Gutters Supply only service available

Domestic & commercial work undertaken Flat roof problem? Don’t felt it, GRP it! This new ﬂat roof treatment will last 30+ years!

Protec Roofing is a long established roofing company that serves domestic and commercial customers throughout the North West. Whatever your roofing requirements are, from emergency roofing repairs to new roofs to roofline, Protec Roofing are there to help you. We promise our customers; • No emergency call out fees • Emergency repairs done asap • Free consultation & estimates • Day and evening appointments • Free advice from experienced roofers • A 10 year insurance-backed guarantee If you’re thinking of improving the appearance of your property by installing new roofline, please give us a call. We can supply and fit a huge range of quality products including our revolutionary new aluminium seamless gutters. Because when it comes to roofs, we’ve got it all covered!

CALL TODAY TO GET A FREE QUOTE

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

www.locallife247.co.uk

Restore your bathroyo! m to its former glor At a fraction of the price of a new bathroom After

Before

• Grubby Grout Returned to Ice White • No More Scrubbing at Mouldy Silicone • Tiles Polished to Perfection • Screens Returned to Crystal Clear • Give Your Bathroom the “Wow” Factor with a Mini-Makeover • Experts in Baths or Shower Cubicle Restoration

Useful Numbers

Call Now for Information & Your Quick Pack Quote

www.TotalBathroomRestoration.co.uk