April
Home Improvement Month
Courier The WIGAN
Family’s £3,000 gift to Rainbow Ward See page 10
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A FAMILY from Shevington has made a big donation to the Gillian and Paul Molyneux came along to the ward to present what they had bought. They were accompanied childrens’ Rainbow Ward at Wigan Infirmary. The Molyneux family had raised the incredible sum of £3000 by producing a magnificent festive lights display at Christmas time at their house.
HAIR BY Vision
Once they had raised the money, they then contacted staff on the Rainbow Ward to find out what was needed, so they could then go out and buy what was required. Our staff gave them the information and the Molyneux family duly obliged.
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by their three young boys, Ethan, Alfie and Theo. The sheer number of gifts they had brought to the infirmary was highly impressive. Among the items they provided were; a microwave for the parent’s room, prams to push young children around the ward, a whole host of toys, a Playstation 3 for the play room, special needs seating and a whole new set of soft play toys. Both staff and patients alike were stunned to receive such a huge donation. However, Paul Molyneux was decidedly modest when commenting, despite the vast amount of items in their hugely generous, charitable donation. He said, “Basically the boys have been patients on the ward a few times and this was just a way of giving something back.” Both he and Gillian are satisfied with what they’ve achieved. Gillian described the feeling as, “Ace,” whereas Paul simply said, “It feels very good to have got the work done.” It is hoped that the new toys and equipment can benefit our patients on Rainbow Ward. Spending time in hospital is a stressful time for any patient, but especially for a child. It is hope with extra toys available, their wellbeing will be improved. Diane Swindlehurst, WWL Head of Midwifery, Children’s & Patient Services, was thrilled with the donation. She said, “On behalf of WWL, I would like to give huge thanks to the Molyneux family for their thoughtfulness and outstanding generosity. The toys and equipment that they have provided us with will really benefit both patients and staff on Rainbow Ward.” Our picture above shows Ethan, Theo, and Alfie Molyneux with some of the gifts they brought to Rainbow Ward.
We will transfer: Your LP collection to CD Your special videos to DVD Your old Cine films to DVD Standish Video & DVD 26a High Street, Standish 01257 426937 / 07774 775877
The Good News Paper
APRIL 12th 2016
Issue no 270
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t o t h e E d i t o r . . . L e t t e r s t o t h e E d i t o r News In Brief
becoming an Academy
From: Mrs Debbie Parkinson Sir,
George Osborne is, we are told, Chancellor of the Exchequer. Yet last Wednesday, he announced that ALL schools in England were to be forced to become Academies, surely a decision for the Secretary of State for Education? Academies were set up for a limited specific reason, to help poorer schools team up with better schools to become better themselves. However, there are huge drawbacks, which is why they are not suitable for the vast majority of schools. There is no requirement for an Academy to have a Parent or a representative from the local area on their Governing body. Local accountability and involvement in the community, which built the school and pays the teachers and staff, is severed. After-school use of the sports facilities and classes is at the whim of this unrepresentative body of governors, more
interested in raising money than serving the local area. Ofsted inspection reports on a number of academies have found many faults, and no evidence that they improve our children’s education any more than mainstream schools do. Standish High School is proposing to go down the Academy route. I and the Standish Labour Party oppose this. We call on parents, and all those in Standish who want to see our school remain responsive to the needs of Standish, and to oppose any move which will take our rights as parents and residents to have a say in our school from us. It is our school, we have built it, we pay for it, it is our children who go to it, and it is our future. We demand the right to continue to have our say in how it is run. Yours, Debbie Parkinson Prospective Labour Party Candidate, Standish Ward.
Blooming lovely in Aspull
COLOURFUL planters and hanging baskets are being installed in Aspull thanks to the village’s flourishing In Bloom group. Aspull ward councillors have used their Brighter Borough funding to pay for three new planters outside the row of shops in Scot Lane. The planters will be maintained by local businesses Truly Scrumptious, Aspull Racing
and PD Wogan Butcher’s. The In Bloom group which consists of ward councillors, members of Aspull Methodist Church and residents - has encouraged a total of 14 businesses to install and maintain hanging baskets in the area. Councillor Ron Conway said: “We wanted to use some of our Brighter Borough money to support the community in improving its
environmental quality, as well as linking in with the wider In Bloom programme, which is such a successful programme across the borough.” Sarah Ward, owner of Truly Scrumptious in Aspull, said: “We’re really pleased that the councillors have decided to fund these planters in the area. Myself and other businesses have said that we will support the scheme by maintaining the planters. Aspull is a beautiful village
and these are going to help make it more beautiful.” Aspull In Bloom was set up in October 2015 following one of the council’s Deal in Action events, which involve Wigan Council staff, councillors, community groups and local residents coming together to look at ways to create a better borough. Cllr Kevin Anderson, Cabinet member for Environment, said: “It’s great to have this new group set up to help enhance the quality of Aspull’s green spaces and bring in as many partners as possible. This is a great example of The Deal in action in the community.” If you are interested in taking part in in Bloom projects or in starting a new in Bloom group up in your area, please contact Nick Burdekin, Wigan Borough in Bloom Coordinator on 01942 489325 or e-mail: n.burdekin@wigan.gov.u k. Our picture shows Councillors John Hilton and Ron Conway with members of the Aspull Bloom team.
St.Maries Easter daffodil surprise
WIGAN Little Theatre's latest production, on until April 16th, is Sign of the Times, written by Tim Firth and directed by Bill Collins. It's a comedy about the aspirations and thwarted ambitions of two men, the philosophical Frank and his resentful trainee, Alan. Frank, played by John Churnside, is an aspiring spy novelist and Head of Installation at Forshaws, a commercial lettering factory. Alan, played by James Patrick, is his reluctant trainee, more interested in listening to music and designing album artwork for his band "Lizard", than Frank's beloved bracketing systems. We follow their fortunes at work with plenty of laughs and witty observations. This amateur production of ‘Sign of the Times’ is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French Limited.
THE REGIONAL Finals of the Schools' Senior Public Speaking Competition took place last month,and the Year 10 speakers of St Peter's High School did the school proud once again an even bigger achievement considering they were the youngest contenders in the competition. The team were singled out for praise as they have done so well throughout the competition, especially as this is their first year of competing.
GREENFEST 2016 at Greenslate Community Farm on Greenslate Road, Billinge, will take place on Saturday 6th August and there will be much more information to come in the near future as we confirm details. More info at www.greenslatefarm.or g.uk
WIGAN BAPTIST Church Friendship Centre is open every Friday from 10am until 12noon. Come and join us for tea, coffee, toast and a time to get to know and chat to others. Entry is via Charles Street and in the Primary room on the first left.
AS part of the Cooperative Funeralcares Community support Jane Davenport from the Standish branch surprised the Reception class at St. Maries Primary School before Easter. Jane arrived at the school with bunches of Daffodils for all the pupils in the Reception class to take home as Easter gifts. Our picture shows Jane with the children.
STANDISH Branch of the Royal British Legion meets at 7.30pm on the second Tuesday of each month at The Unity Club, Cross Street, Standish.New members made welcome, you don't have to be an exservice person.
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Armed Forces base gets £400K boost
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WIGAN’S ARMED FORCES facility, 4 Our Forces, has received another £400,000 cash injection and is likely to be built on the land next to Trencherfield Mill, it has been confirmed.
The build is a collaborative project between Wigan Council and Wigan Sea Cadets, and will be a facility for the local and regional cadets to meet, whilst also being a central point for armed forces families to access a range of services including advice about housing and employment, education, health and well-being support and much more. The council has already committed £500,000, but the project has now received an extra £400,000 from the Ministry of Defence to go towards the build and services, including an outreach vehicle, which will be deployed across the borough. Lord Peter Smith, leader of Wigan Council said: “4 Our Forces will be a fantastic resource for Wigan and there will be services benefiting everybody, from mental health advice to a café for the public to enjoy. “In addition, this ideal site will also help to lift the Wigan Pier Quarter and kick-start the regeneration process that we believe will increase the borough’s profile as a place to invest, live, work and visit. “By offering a specialised service to this community of residents, we hope to ensure that everybody is given all of the support they need as finding this support isn’t always as straight forward for armed forces families.” Linda Fisher, assistant director and lead officer for the armed forces at Wigan Council and the facilitator behind this project said: “There’s a huge armed forces community in Wigan, so there’s a strong demand for these specialist services and Wigan Council is passionate about supporting our armed forces families. “By having a more central and engaging base for Wigan Sea Cadets, we are investing in our young people, giving them a fantastic opportunity to learn new life skills, which also coincides with the council’s Deal for Children and Young People.” Our picture shows Council leader Lord Peter Smith, Deputy Leader Cllr David Molyneux, Cllr Paul Kenny, Cmdr Phil Russ, and Linda Fisher on the proposed site with a number of veterans, cadets and standard bearers.
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Wigan’s legal eagle...
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WIGAN COUNCIL lawyer Andrew Lee has been shortlisted for a regional award.
Andrew, 32, who works as a child protection lawyer has been shortlisted in the Young Lawyer category of Business Insider’s Young Professional Awards. Andrew, who has worked at Wigan Council for 18 months, said he was “humbled” to have been short-listed. Heworks on cases where children who are being harmed or abused are taken into care or adopted. He described his role as both rewarding and challenging”: “I can’t imagine doing any other area of law. It’s a hugely rewarding area. It’s the one area that has the biggest impact on the lives of the people in the borough. We are involved in placing children in a safe environment.” Andrew praised the effective partnership working in Wigan Borough which protects vulnerable children, especially his colleagues in Wigan
Rotary Club’s Charter
THE 2016 Wigan Rotary Charter Night was held at Haigh Hall last month. Pictured are President Keith Trencher who welcomed guest of honour Her Worship the Mayor Cllr Susan Loudon, along with 90 guests, made up of members of the Wigan Club, representatives of the Rotary district and area clubs and friends.
Leaving party for Rev. Simon Glynn
THE REV Simon Glynn will leave All Saints to become Vicar at St John the Baptist’s Church, Burscough, after his last service atAppley Bridge on June 5th at 10.45 am
On Thursday 26th May there will be a Leaving Party for Simon in All Saints’ School Hall starting at 7pm, when church
members will wish Simon and his family well with a bring and share buffet, raffle and talent show! Church members are asked to contact Diane Green if willing to take part in the show or to donate a raffle prize. Simon's Licensing at St. John’s, Burscough, is on Tuesday 28th June at 7.30 pm.
Join a warm and friendly group near you today..... SHEVINGTON - MORNING GROUP
Tuesdays at 9.30 a.m. Shevington Methodist Church, Gathurst Lane, Shevington also other groups here on Tuesdays at 3.30, 5.00 and 7.00 p.m.
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STANDISH - NEW VENUE - FROM APRIL 13TH
St. Wilfrids Parish Hall, Church Street, Standish Groups on Wednesdays at 5.30 and 7.00 p.m.
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Council’s social care teams as well as the police, health services and probation. He added: “I was really proud to be nominated for the award by the team. To be short-listed is very humbling.” Linda Fisher, the council’s assistant director of legal services, said: “Since joining us Andrew has proven to be an invaluable member of the legal team. He has extensive knowledge of his area of law, a keen eye for detail and is very calm under pressure. Andrew previously worked for Lancashire County Council, and said he is enjoying working in Wigan: “When I joined Wigan I couldn’t believe how friendly everybody was. I hope I can continue to contribute to the work of the council in the future,” he said.The Young Professional Awards celebrate the best in law, accountancy, media, manufacturing and other professions across the North West. The awards take place on 21 April at the Lowry Hotel in Salford. Our picture shows Andrew with Assistant Director Linda Fisher.
For new ideas in Kitchen & Design
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VAILLANT COMBI BOILER Courier
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HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Is your home your castle?
Home Improvement Month April 1st to 30th
Is your home truly your castle yet? Unless you were fortunate enough to buy a new build, decorated entirely to your specifications, chances are you've got a rapidly growing list of things to fix, change or eradicate. The "home honeymoon" period of relaxing and enjoying your new surroundings soon gives way an irrepressible urge to change everything, starting with that ghastly pink wallpaper in the bedroom which is beginning to give you night tremors. To be honest though, if the interior decoration is your biggest pending home improvement you are one of the lucky ones. Buying a home usually involves getting a survey done to check the condition of the building and chances are it will throw up one or two problems that will need your attention, and your wallet. Damp Rising damp is one of the most common culprits in British homes. Tell-tale signs include flaking plaster, peeling wallpaper, mould or a salty tidemark on walls inside the house. Or on the exterior either the appearance of white powder, or disintegrating mortar from the brickwork. Local contractors can come and investigate the problem and offer a variety of damp-proofing treatments. Roof One of the costliest problems you may have to deal with is repairing or re-laying your roof and, sadly, in our typical British climate you won't survive a year with a sub-standard roof. But if the job's got to be done then make sure it's done properly. Roof construction is a complex game, so you will have to bring in local experts Drainage When it comes to keeping your house watertight the simplest and cheapest way to avoid future problems is to keep your guttering in good working order. Clear out leaves in the autumn and then all that winter rain will go right where you want it, down the drains instead of into your walls. Guttering replacement, especially if your gutters are
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older, probably wooden, both protects your home from water damage and improves the resale value. Utilities Plumbing, gas and electrics are next on the list, and although you may feel like your new home is fast becoming a money pit, these areas are not the place to cut corners. Once you're living in the house you'll quickly know if you have a problem in one of these areas. For plumbing keep an eye on slow drains and leaky taps, and for electrics one tell-tale sign your house needs an electrical MOT is if your trip switch goes every time a light bulb dies in the house. There are local plumbers and electricians, look for NICEIC approved electricians and likewise for plumbers or gas engineers that they are Corgi registered. You can't be too careful when it comes to Gas appliances, they should be checked regularly, particularly fires. Fire Another tip for improving your home safety-wise, is to fit smoke alarms and a carbon monoxide detector. Both can be fitted by a local contractor and are an invaluable investment in your family's safety. Planning Once you've attended to all the above your home should be in good working order, hopefully running more efficiently which in turn should bring down your monthly household bills. Remember to do your homework before starting any major work, particularly if the changes you wish to make mean getting planning permission. Just talk to a contractor who wil be able to advise you on the options available to you Broadly speaking any changes to the external structure of your building, however minor you may feel they are, could be subject to planning permission from your the council. Proceeding without permission could be a costly mistake as the council can legally force you to change the building back at your own cost.
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LANDSCAPING
Over 60’s Club Easter treat
THE STANDISH Over 60's Club held a celebration buffet to mark Easter at their meeting on Monday March 21st. The group meet at the Standish Community Centre every Monday afternoon at 1.30 p.m. until 3.30 p.m. and Thursday evening at 6.30 p.m. until 8.30 p.m. The volunteers at the Community Centre put on the spread of sandwiches and cakes and this was followed
by a game of bingo and a raffle. Each member was also given an Easter egg. This group is a chance for people to get together for a chat and a cup, along with the occasional game of bingo. They also organise days out and social events along with parties to mark special occasions. New members are most welcome. Our pictures above and below show the ladies celebrating Easter.
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FITTED BEDROOMS
ROOFING
California based Company Sponsors Standish Cricket Club
SKIP HIRE STANDISH Management, a company headquartered in San Francisco, California.
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The company was named after Myles Standish, who was born in
WINDOWS
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Lancashire, and was hired by the Pilgrims to help them establish a colony in America. Myles Standish served as sort of a 17th century “consultant” to the Pilgrims and was instrumental in the success establishment of the first successful English colony in Plymouth, Massachusetts. One of the managing directors Robert Raynard got in touch with the club through an internet enquiry. Paul Hassan, Vice president for Standish Cricket Club emailed back to introduce himself and thanked him for his interest and they decided to arrange a conference call with Raynard’s business partner, Judy Tyler (Pictured) and Steve Critchley, Club Chairman. It was not until a conference call was arranged by Standish Management that Paul realised that they were based in California.
Paul said: "Robert explained something of the ethos of the company and Judy explained that she was from North Norfolk." Standish Management offered to Sponsor the Club for £500 per year over 5 seasons. As a not-for-profit organisation, and as we have often struggled to obtain any grant funding, we were delighted to accept their generous proposal. Paul said: "Judy is due to come over to England in July of this year, and we hope to see her at the club, where she will be made very welcome. The Committee members and players from the club would like to thank Standish Management for this sponsorship.
Bowling club donation to hospital
WWL, were delighted to receive a very generous donation to their dementia services by the Wigan ladies Church Unity Bowling League.
Ann Gaskell, the chairperson of the league, presented a cheque for £150 to WWL Lead Nurse for Older Persons/Dementia, Jean Ramsdale, at a recent league committee meeting held on Wednesday 23 March. The meeting was held at St Mary’s Church Hall, Warrington Road, Lower Ince. The league had raised the money through various collections held over the past year and had nominated local dementia services as their chosen cause to donate to for 2016. Our picture shows WWL Lead Nurse for Older Persons/Dementia, Jean Ramsdale, (left) pictured with Ann Gaskell (right), Chairperson of Wigan ladies Church Unity Bowling League.
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SKODA HAS gained a reputation for building sensible, practical and good-value cars – but distinctive ones? Not really. Now, to appeal to the more youthful end of the market, the Fabia supermini range has gained vibrant new Colour Editions. Buyers have the choice of a white, green, blue or black body, with contrasting black or white roof, wing mirrors and wheels. Our blue and white test car may not be to everyone’s taste, but there’s no doubting it helps the smart yet understated supermini stand out. Compared with the straight-laced Volkswagen Polo, it’s refreshingly different and colourful, but
Motor-Diag DIAGNOSTIC & SERVICE CENTRE
Servicing to any make or model Service lights reset Timing Belts Brakes Engine Management & A.B.S. faults Service inc. parts/labour & VAT from £70.00 Timing belts supplied and fitted from £90.00
Call Mark on 01942 498444
Chapel Street, just off Queens St. Wigan All major credit cards accepted
OSPEC
Price: £13,360
Engine: 1L 3cyl petrl
Power: 74bhp Torque: 95Nm Transmission: 5 speed
manual, front-wheel drive
0-62mph: 14.7 seconds Top speed: 107mph
Economy: 58.9mpg CO2: 108g/km
sitting right down in group three. As you’d expect, the composed ride and handling of the regular Fabia is unchanged. A Ford Fiesta is more engaging, but the Skoda’s steering is direct, with plenty of grip and well contained body roll. It’s great around town, too, with excellent allround visibility and slick controls. Road noise isn’t as well isolated as in a Polo, though.
Rigby ST JOHN College had a fantastic week of fundraising for Sport Relief, with staff and students getting involved in a range of activities and challenges.
Peter McGhee was the quickest member of staff, with a time of 1 minute 55 seconds. He even brought
Each day there was a staff vs. student t-shirt challenge, in which two contenders went head to head – or sleeve to sleeve – to see who could put on 20 t-shirts in the fastest time. Year 13 Music student Callum Povey was the winner, completing the challenge in 1 minute 51 seconds, while Principal
AR AG
61 Audi A3 Convertible Sport 1.6 TDi grey metallic, with door trim, 1 owner vehicle, with dealer service history, 45,000 miles, from new, great car at ........................................................................ £10,995
63 Honda Civic 1.4 SE 5 dr,
finished in dark blue, 1 owner vehicle,
covered
34,000
miles.............................£8,495
62 Mazda 3 Venture 1.6 finished in metallic grey with grey alloy wheels, 1 owner vehicle covered 23,000 miles, with lots of extras including sat nav................................£8,995
63 Toyota Yaris 1.3 Icon+ 5 dr, finished in metallic black with dark trim, 15,000 miles from new, with lots of features, including reverse camera.........................£7,695
63 Mazda 2 Tamura 5 dr,
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10 Ford Fiesta 1.4 Zetec i5 door in silver, with dark trim, alloys, air conditioning, RCL, e/windows and mirrors, 41,000 miles, great car at ...................................£5,395
Vauxhall
Astra
1.6
Active in metallic grey with
dark trim, 26,000 miles, from new, in excellent condition
......................................£7,995
grey metallic, 1 owner vehicle, 14,000 miles, alloy wheels, air
con etc.........................£6,995
13 Kia Picanto 2 silver, 5 dr, 9,0000
miles,
in
excellent
condition, with alloys wheels, air
con,
blue
tooth,
...................................£5,995
07 Honda Jazz 1.4 SE in grey
metallic, 60,000 miles, with lots of
service
history.........................£2,995
DUE IN: 62 Citroen DS3, white £7,495 - 09 Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec £4,600 13 Vauxhall Adam Jame, red £6,695 - 59 Citroen C2 VTR, silver £2,995
R TY E CENTRE SA E V
COMPETITIVE PRICES ON ALL TYRES
Family run business with over 40 years experience
BRADLEY LANE, STANDISH. WN6 0XF
Tel: 01257 423337
All vehicles come with: FULL SERVICE, MOT & WARRANTED. P/X WELCOME ANY VEHICLE SUPPLIED TO YOUR REQUIREMENTS
www.prospectgaragecarsales.co.uk
M.O.T.
ST. JOSEPH’S Catholic Primary School, Wrightington has achieved the prestigious Gold Standard award in
Our pictures show Principal Peter McGhee with student Callum Povey and some of our fundraisers.
award for St.Josephs primary school
CAR OF THE MONTH
e
competitive run. Donations were made along the route and everybody got into the spirit of the day by donning sports wear and fancy dress. The week’s events culminated in a tense staff vs. students football match, for which some took their preparation extremely seriously! In the end the staff won 3-1 which we’re sure they will be bragging about for a long time to come… Thanks are due to all those who donated and contributed, for being such good sports and making this fundraiser one to remember!
Gold
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Skoda Fabia Colour Edition
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PR
Garag
not too over the top. The Colour Edition Fabia is based on mid-spec SE trim, and on top of that car’s rear parking sensors, DAB radio and Bluetooth, it brings LED running lights, cruise control and 16-inch alloy wheels for £540 extra. Sat-nav is a reasonable £500 option, too. As with every Fabia, the dash is easy on the eye, solid and simply laid-out, although you won’t find any soft-touch plastics. There’s also plenty of space for four adults and a roomy 330-litre boot. Building momentum at motorway speeds is a struggle, so you won’t be doing much overtaking. At least it’s smooth, nippy and refined around town, plus keeping it up to speed is accompanied by the familiar three-cylinder rumble. Crucially for young buyers, the car is very cheap to insure,
his own personal collection of Manchester City themed t-shirts to compete in! Students stormed the canteen to take part in a mass game of sports themed bingo, with Easter egg prizes up for grabs. The Music and Performing Arts departments also put on an action packed concert, with SJR’s Concert Band performing an upbeat rendition of Earth, Wind & Fire’s ‘September’. Year 13 Music student Sarah Marrow sang Carly Simon’s ‘Nobody Does It Better’ and the dance department staged an electrifying routine to Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’. On Friday, the entire College community took part in a sponsored walk around the campus, while some made this a
the school’s latest working ethos that they and staff. Well done children! Behaviour Quality all share. Our picture shows On Monday March Mark assessment. This gives credit to the behaviour of the children in the school, and of the
21st, the School Council some of the children with received the award on the award at the schools behalf of all of the school ‘Buddy Bench’.
Prizewinner at St Maries
BUDDING young artist Claire Brownsey is the winner of a competition to decorate a bag promoting Wigan Borough as a great place to live. Her colourful picture of Mesnes Park has been printed on the sustainable ‘bags for life’ produced as part of the borough’s Britain in Bloom campaign. Nick Burdekin, Wigan Borough in Bloom Coordinator, said: “We asked pupils from local primary schools to create designs on the theme of ‘why we like living in Wigan’and had some fantastic entries, but Claire’s picture of Mesnes Park really stood out. “Key parts of The Deal are also printed on the bags, encouraging residents to believe in the borough, get involved in their community and recycle more, recycle right.” Claire, a pupil at St Marie’s Catholic Primary School in Standish, was chosen as the winner following a public vote at a ‘have your say’ session when The Deal in Action visited Standish.
Liz Somers, Headteacher, said: “We were very pleased to take part in this competition to promote all the good aspects of living in Wigan and we are delighted that Claire’s design was chosen.” The bags will be handed out at a series of events across the borough over the next few months.
To find out more about In Bloom please contact Nick on 01942 489325 or e-mail: Our picture left shows Headteacher Mrs Somers, class teacher Miss Harrison, Claire Brownsey, Nick Burdekin and Samantha Cross from Wigan Council.
14
Sport In Brief
STANDISH Panthers Junior FC are looking for more Year 3 children to form a new Panthers football team over the summer, if you are interested and want to join a family club please get in touch by our online using enquiry service, or by e m a i l i n g t.barnes@standishpant hersjfc.co.uk or by making contact via our twitter feed @standishpanther.
HOLES at FOUR Gathurst Golf Club have been totally rebuilt and a fifth hole has had additional drainage added to improve the putting surface. Three of the four greens have been redesigned and bunkers remodelled. 1 of the 4 greens has had a reconstruction and new drains added. Four temporary greens have also been constructed using the reclaimed rootzone and turf from the greens being rebuilt. The work follows the wettest November and December on record for the club.
Courier
E: info@courier-online.net
Courier SPORT
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Stephanie gets County call STEPHANIE Moran, 14, has been selected to be part of the Lancashire Junior Archery squad.
Stephanie has been shooting for 5 years as a member of Wigan & Orrell Archers club, based at Wigan RUFC and Aspull RFC during the summer and Nugent House School, Billinge serving as shooting venue during the winter. When not shooting, Stephanie can be found helping out at Junior Rugby sessions on Sundays at Wigan's Douglas Valley ground, where she works in the kitchen helping prepare food and drinks for players and spectators. The Lancashire archery squad meets for one to one coaching once a month, and when Stephanie reaches 15, she will compete against the best archers in the country. Stephanie has shot in competitions throughout the North West of England and North Wales over the last two years. She
WIGAN HOCKEY Club, based at Wigan Sports Club on Bull Hey, welcomes new members regardless of ability or age to take part in training matches, sessions, festivals and tournaments. If you would like to join the club, why not try out our free of charge training sessions: Junior Training Sessions – Wednesdays 6pm-7pm Adult Training – Sessions 7pmWednesdays 8.30pm Juniors are welcome to stay and practice with the adults if they wish to do so. More info PICTURED is the squad from a t : Orrell Anvils touch rugby that http://www.wigansports played in their first DTS .co.uk/hockey. tournament under England Touch WIGAN Harriers have Rugby rules, at Widnes RUFC’s enjoyed another ground, the home of Halton fantastically successful Thunder. season: Ladies Division The team came third in their league, One status retained, and then beat Chester Cheetahs -last Ladies V35 League winners, Ladies V45 season’s winners- in a play off game, League winners, Men a great achievement. Division 2 runners up and RUGBY UNION ROUNDUP promotion, Men V40 Wigan 27 Winnington Park 22 Division One status South Lancs and Chehsire Div 1 retained, Men B Team Saturday April 9th 2016 Division Three status FOLLOWING an enterprising start by retained. A fantastic haul, both teams Wigan took a 3-0 when Andy and well done to Whittle hit a difficult penalty after 6 everyone who raced or minutes. Winnington then pressed the supported. A brilliant Wigan line before Danny Mason led the Harriers performance. breakout and Mike Rigby was unlucky
has been placed in all competitions and won the Lady Paramount Award. Wigan & Orrell Archers is a well established Target Archery Club founded in 1987 as Orrell Archers. New members are always welcome with a beginners' course of six lessons including all equipment. The Club is friendly and welcoming and will always try to help anyone in the sport. Help is always on hand from our qualified coaches and from our current members. The club has
had many achievements and successes, including Junior and Senior Lancashire squad members, and hosting LAA and Northern Counties Shoots. This year, five junior members have been selected including Stephanie, a big reward for coaches Dave Clayton, Jeff Segar, and Dale Hurst. For more contact information Our eileenhigham@ymail.com. picture shows Stephanie being presented with one of her medals.
Anvils’ touch successes
2016 MEMBERSHIP fees at Haigh Golf Club are unchanged as follows: Ordinary Men and Ladies : £95, Senior - 65 and Over : £80, Intermediate - 17 to 21 years old : £40, Junior Up to 16 years old : £30, 5 Day Affiliate - 50 to 65 years old : £80, Student - In full time education : £40. ORRELL St James primary school hockey team took part in the Greater Manchester Winter Games at Sport City in Manchester. The team performed with great credit winning 7 and drawing 2 of their 10 matches, even beating the eventual winners! Well done to all concerned!!
to be called back.
The pacy flanker was soon back in the action as he finished some great support work by Mike Cox and James Jones to stretch the margin to 8-0 with a try. Wigan then piled on the pressure and were held up over the line twice. With the break approaching Wigan gave Winnington a lifeline as an interception allowed them to touch down under the posts for a converted try. Buoyed by this success Winnington came strong after the break and, as Wigan invited pressure by failing to clear their lines, squeezed over debatably in the corner to take a 12-8 lead. This was short lived as Mike Cox showed good strength, scattering the defence, and touching down under the posts leaving Whittle with a simple conversion. Again Wigan dithered and failed to clear but this time Winnington managed only 3 points from a straight penalty to level up at 15-15. The former responded immediately and some straight running from John Foster resulted in Wayne Bullough battling over in the corner. Wigan then suffered another power failure giving Winnington a third try which was converted. As the clock wound down Wigan then claimed their 4th try as Matt Jeffrey chipped into the in goal area, Winnington failed to gather, and Martin Gambles pounced on the ball . Whittle converted for a bonus point win which, in combination with Liverpool Collegiate's 31-5 reverse at Glossop, exorcised the relegation paranoia which had permeated the Douglas Valley faithful since before Christmas. (Martin Rigby)
The Anvils train every Friday night at John Rigby college, 6.15 to 7.30pm. ROB Byrne and Niall Povall, pictured right, members of Orrell Anvils touch rugby, are currently training with their respective England teams, Rob with over 45s and Niall with the under 18s, hoping to make the international squad for matches this season around the country. Orrell 0 Littleborough 12 North Lancs League Saturday April 9th 2016
LITTLE BOROUGH started by putting Orrell under pressure in the opening minutes of the game by keeping most of the play in Orrell’s half and they were eventually awarded a penalty on Orrell’s 10 metre line which they kicked to opening the scoring, just under 10 minutes of the game. Less than 5 minutes later, the visitors ran an Orrell clearance kick back into Orrell’s half and obtained another penalty which they converted to double their lead to 6 points to nil. Due to a wet pitch most of the play was in the forwards and Orrell had to defend, but under pressure from Littleborough they gave away a number of silly penalties. Good work by the visitors forwards enabled their backs to mount a number of attacks. The Littleborough Fly Half was having a good game before he retired injured 10 minutes before Half Time. Just before Half Time good work by Littleborough looked as if the would score the opening try, but they knocked on short of the line. A few minutes later a clearance kick by the opposition, form a line out in their own half went into touch well inside the Orrell half. A quick throw in to Full Back Matt Stott enable him to run the ball back into the visitor half and good work by both the forwards and backs took the ball to just short of Littleboroughs line, were the visitor conceded a penalty. The penalty kick went just wide. Orrell ran the ball back from the 22 metre restart, but the initial good work only resulted in a knock on leaving the score Orrell 0 Littleborough 6 at the break. Gary Nicholson came on from the bench to Full Back and Matt Stott moved from Full Back to wing. Orrell started the second half well and a good break by centre Martin Glesson, was eventually stopped by
Littleborough. Orrell however continued to try and run the ball, but poor handling in the wet conditions enable the visitors to keep their line intact. Midway through the half Carton Bramwell replaced James Pearson at no.8. Littleborough eventually started to come back into the game, but a good effort by the forwards in a 5 metre scrum enable Orrell to clear their line. Further good work by the forwards resulted in Orrell turning a scrum at a Littleborough put in. However the visitors continued to come back into the game and with less than 15 minutes remaining in the game they went further ahead when they kicked their 3rd penalty. Kyle Herbert came on to replace John Slatter in the front row. In the last few minutes of the game Littleborough again got into the Orrell half of the field and they drop kicked a goal from about 30 metres out to make the final score Orrell 0 Littleborough 12. Next Saturday 16th April Orrell are away at Didsbury Toc H. Kick Off 3pm. (Graham Winstanley)
Aspull 1sts 25 Oldham 2nds 0 Raging Bull div 3North Saturday April 9th 2016 ASPULL’s bid for automatic promotion was given a huge boost as they outclassed and outfought leaders Oldham at Woodshaw Park to secure a famous win and take over in pole position at the top of Raging Bull division three north. With two games to play, home to Ormskirk and away at Leigh the title is within their grasp to secure back-to-back promotion and confirm the resurgence of the club in the union game. Raging Bull div 5North Saturday April 9th 2016 Orrell 2nds 14 Colne & Nelson 2nds 0 Aspull 2nds conceded their game at Blackpool
We’re short of attacking options...
THE TOP OF the Super League certainly has an unusual look at present. With Leeds and Huddersfield both seemingly in freefall, there is no West Yorkshire interest in the table higher than Castleford Tigers, who sit seventh. Warrington and Catalan are first and second respectably, while Hull are third. Wigan are still in the top four, but only just, and in terms of points difference are the only team above seventh who are currently in negative equity. This is pretty embarrassing for a team like the Warriors. Of course, it’s mainly down to the 62-0 mauling they received last weekend at the hands of Wakefield Trinity Wildcats. There isn’t much point overanalysing this result. We all know what happened. The Wildcats, who are looking completely rejuvenated under former Wigan favourite Chris Chester, totally hammered a Cherry and Whites outfit missing 10 first-team regulars. If you’re one of these for whom the citing of an injury list is never more than an excuse, then, frankly, you need to get real. Because the Wigan line-up last Sunday was almost unrecognisable. Juniors Joe Bretherton and Jack Wells have never played first-team rugby before in a serious match. In addition to that, Wigan’s two most dangerous backs – Dom Manfredi and Anthony Gelling – were absent. There is still no sign of Sam Tomkins to take the full-back reins, and the pack was massively depleted. On top of that, after a virus decimated the club last week and prevented any real training, many of those who did take the field were walkingwounded. All that said, to lose by 62 points to a team who are ninth in the table is quite a humiliation, and actually being nilled is particularly galling, though it won’t surprise many Wigan watchers given that the team’s overall try-scoring exploits this season have been notably sparse. Wigan’s pivots have been especially disrupted. This is no criticism of young utility star Nick Gregson, who stepped into the stand-off role last Sunday and
did his absolute damnedest, but throughout this first part of 2016, the injuries to George Williams and Michael McIlorum have been a real headache for Shaun Wane. His team’s attacking edge has definitely been blunted. One might have thought that now would be an opportune time to see Ryan Hampshire recalled from Castleford. The fact that he hasn’t been is surely down to one of three things: either Wigan’s deal with Cas doesn’t permit this (which I did not think was the case); or Wigan feel that recalling Hampshire for a couple of weeks from a club where he’s been settling down nicely will do him no good; or maybe – just maybe – Hampshire doesn’t fit into Wigan’s plans any more. If it’s the latter – and that’s an ‘if’, you’ll note – we just have to assume that the Wigan staff know what they are doing. Hampshire would not be the first schoolboy sensation to fail to make it in the big time. But of course the shadow of Sean Long hangs over Wigan in this regard. You may remember that in 1997, Long, Wigan’s most promising young halfback, left the club for Widnes as part of an exchange deal for prop forward Lee Hansen. A bit of business by Wigan, which, with the benefit of hindsight, looks like one of the worst in the club’s entire history. We can only hope that if Ryan Hampshire does leave Wigan permanently, and I for one hope that he doesn’t, then good use is made of the Salary Cap space this will open up. As I’ve already intimated, Wigan still look short of attacking options even when at full strength. And this is only going to get worse at the end of 2016, when Dan Sarginson and Josh Charnley leave for pastures new. Unless you’ve been on another planet, you’ll be well aware that Sarge is off to Gold Coast Titans and Josh is going to play Rugby Union at Sale. The normal response from fans when news like this breaks is to mutter something churlish and irritable, like: “They’re no good anyway.” But that obviously wouldn’t be true in either of these cases. Both are massive losses from a backline that is already a bit thin, and there is surely no way that Wigan will seek to
replace them both internally. The Warriors do have two ready-make replacement wingmen in their ranks. Young full-back Lewis Tierney has already proved that he can play out wide, while Oliver Gildart has the pace and defensive skills as well. But of course if you move Gildart, and with Sarginson no longer inside him, you’ve got a blank space in the centres. So what are the club’s replacement options? I must stress that I don’t have any inside info here – this is just a theory – but I’d be dead keen to see Wigan try and recruit Salford blockbuster, Justin Carney. Carney, the ‘tank on the flank’, who is officially still a Castleford player but is currently at the Red Devils on loan, is a muscular striker who terrorises the opposition when he’s got ball in hand. He can play either centre or wing, and with his much-publicised troubles over in Yorkshire, it seems highly possible that Wigan could snap him up for 2017. Would such a deal maybe involve the permanent departure of Ryan Hampshire? It’s not a pleasant thing to contemplate, but it must be a consideration. Wigan will surely also consider enquiring about young Joe Burgess, who at this stage in 2016 appears to have exchanged first-team action for Wigan and probable regular call-ups for England for a place in the Reserves at Sydney City Roosters. Okay, I’m sure the Sydney lifestyle is very intoxicating and all that, and the money no doubt will be great, but I can’t help wondering if a player like Budgie – who is now 21 and in normal terms would be on the verge of firmly establishing his credentials as one of the British game’s top threequarters – needs to be playing regularly in the big arena. I reiterate that I’m not party to any additional info on this, but surely it’s worth Wigan at least enquiring about the young flyer’s current status? All this fun gossip aside, it’s a stressful time to be a Wigan fan, with the team still woefully short of numbers and general form up and down. It’s usually the case that the best antidote to a bad defeat is an immediate victory. Graham Lowe once said that he started planning Wigan’s next win the moment the final whistle went when they’d lost. And just such an opportunity is already on the horizon. Castleford roll up at the DW this Friday evening (April 11). Cas are never a pushover, and this time of course they’ll likely have Ryan Hampshire in their ranks. Talk about high drama.
Wigan RUFC World War 1 commemoration repeat
FOLLOWING the success of the WW1 Commemoration match last year, Wigan RUFC is repeating the match this year against Trafford MV2 on Saturday 16th April 2016. The purpose of the match is to pass on the batten of remembrance to the next generations. We can not do anything for those who gave their lives but in their memory can help those affected by recent conflicts. The match is therefor being used to raise funds for BLESMA, The limbless veterans charity. Entry to the match is free however any donations on the day would be gratefully accepted. Anyone wishing to make a donation before can give to local BLESMA fundraiser Kelly Aspey-Frost at MHL Estate Agents.
Special commemoration shirts have been made. These have a four petal poppy to represent the four seasons lost and they have the names of fallen soldiers on the back. The names are below the number to show that they are lost soldiers. Some shirts still require soldiers’ names and anyone wishing to forward a relative’s name should contact Adrian Goulding. We would like to hear from anyone who would like to join in the event including local veteran associations, service groups or anyone who would like to bake a cake or pie, or offer to be the evening DJ, please feel free to contact Adrian Goulding on 07523 569621.