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Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride Sunday 10th July 2016
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The WIGAN
Trust on target! REGISTER NOW See page 4
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WIGAN’S Health Trust has achieved the 95% Accident and Emergency target for 2015. It is the only Acute Trust in Greater Manchester to do so and has produced one of the best performances in England.
The target means that at least 95% of patients arriving at an A&E Department must be seen, treated, admitted, transferred or discharged in under four hours. WWL achieved 97.9% in quarter 1, 96.2% in quarter 2, 94.0% in quarter 3 and 92.4% in quarter 4, giving it an average of 95.1%. The department has also shown the best results in the Friends and Family Test for every month this year, with a recommended score of 97% for February-March, another testament to its staff dedication and commitment. Mary Fleming, WWL Director of Operations and Performance, was thrilled with the news: “This
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strong performance is a reflection of how well the hospital, Social Care, mental health, North West Ambulance and many other services work together successfully as a team for the benefit of patients. As a Trust we are very proud of this achievement, and continuously aim to improve our quality and performance.”
magnificent A&E Department for its effort and hard work, and acknowledged the internal teamwork that made the target possible: “Our achievement is also the result of the massive internal teamwork between A&E, bed managers, discharge teams, nursing and medical staff, admin and clerical staff, corporate communications, porters, domestics, Teamwork catering, pathology, The WWL Chief pharmacy, sterile Executive, Andrew services, radiology, Foster, applauded the theatres, phlebotomists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, other therapists, bereavement staff, palliative care staff, managers, volunteers TO THE STARS and everyone who contributes to the great
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team spirit of WWL.” He added, “This is also the result of the collaboration with and support from our external colleagues. “The CCG, Wigan Council social care staff, 5-Boroughs mental healthcare staff, Bridgewater community care staff, NWAS ambulance staff and various volunteer groups have all contributed by helping to either direct people to the correct services, and so avoiding the hospital, or assisted with the safe discharge of patients from hospital.” Pictured above: WWL A&E staff celebrating their achievement of reaching the 95% threshold.
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TO CONTACT Parking plans for Standish
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A PARTNERSHIP between Wigan Council and Standish residents has begun work on increasing the amount of parking available in the village. Standish Voice and Wigan Council are already seeing progress being made on the issue, which was raised as a priority by residents at the council’s Deal In Action week in January. Standish Voice, the neighbourhood forum for Standish, raised the issue with the council about the lack of available parking in Standish for both residents and visitors. At a ‘Have Your Say’ session, the group handed a 1,300 signature petition to council Leader Lord Peter Smith and chief executive Donna Hall calling for more public parking spaces. The first meeting between Standish Voice and council officers has now been held on the issue and immediate steps are being taken to alleviate the lack of parking in the village. The initial focus is on making better use of existing car parks to increase the number of available spaces in Standish. Steps agreed include: Maximise parking spaces on Quakers Place but still retain the mature trees. Enable the public to park on the
car park at The Globe pub for free between 8am and 6pm. Investigate if Smalley Street car park is an option to increase the number of parking places available to the public. The council is also committed to providing a new council-owned car park in Standish and is working on specific sites. Other options were also discussed including a Community Parking Scheme and increasing capacity on Market Place. Updates will be shared in the coming months. Donna Hall, Wigan Council’s chief executive, said: “At the Standish Deal in Action we heard a lot of residents tell us the lack of parking in Standish was causing the community problems. “We listened and promised to act. We are now delivering on that promise. “Along with Standish Voice we are looking at a wide range of options that will contribute to improving this issue for both residents, businesses and visitors to Standish. “We are fully committed to supporting the residents of Standish and investing in Standish so that the high quality of life experienced by residents is maintained.” A spokesman for Standish Voice said: "We are looking at a range of options with Wigan
Council to maximise the current parking space and are also investigating sites for a new council car park. "We hope residents and shoppers will be patient while this work is being finalised and carried out. We will also be approaching private car park owners to try to come up with a scheme to allow more public parking on their land. "The council is currently working positively with Standish Voice to solve the parking problem in the village once and for all." During the Deal in Action week, which encourages local people to get involved with their community, Wigan Council also announced a £150,000 upgrade a key pedestrian and cycle route into the village. ‘The Line’, a key route into the village and to Standish High School which is not used to its full potential, will undergo a £150,000 upgrade, so it can be used all year round by local pupils, dog-walkers, shoppers, cyclists and pedestrians, providing an accessible way to travel into Standish village and encouraging more people to leave the car at home. Standish Voice is currently working on a neighbourhood plan which will be a blueprint for change in the village to 2030.
Wigan Ladies’ Guild support for Winston’s Wish
WIGAN LADIES Guild has presented Claire Richards, the Fundraiser for Winston’s Wish charity for bereaved children, with a cheque for £1,250.
This branch of the charity, which has been based in Wigan for just over 12 months, has already helped 200 bereaved children who have lost either a parent or sibling.
Claire was impressed with the amount we had raised in only nine months through ‘Bring and Buy’ stalls, cake and plant sales, raffles and strawberry teas. In March saw Alex Miller the Archivist for Wigan & Leigh Council give a talk on ‘The Edward Hall Diaries’. These diaries and journals had been collected by Hall over the years and give an insight into individual lives. In particular the journal
of Ellen Wheaton, a school mistress from Upholland, along with prison journals and travel diaries. The following week Keith Trencher presented ‘A Heart Still Beating’ detailing the rise of Warsaw following the devastation of World War Two. This, the sprawling capital of Poland, with its varied architecture reflects the city’s long turbulent history - from gothic churches and neo-classical palaces to soviet-era
blocks, and modern sky.scrapers. As Poland’s cultural hub, and after near total destruction in WW2, the old town has been faithfully restored to its pre-war appearance. If you are interested in joining the WLG, or want to know more, phone Janet on 01942 708959. Our picture shows Claire (left) with some of the fundraisers for Winston’s Wish.
Wigan Rotary’s sound of music
THE MILL at the Pier will be alive with the sound of music when it hosts the Last Night of the Proms concert on Saturday 18th June at 7.30pm. Organised by Wigan Rotary Club the concert, sponsored by Countryside Properties Ltd, will feature the award winning Pemberton Old Wigan DW Band and Shevington based mezzo soprano Vicky Little who will lead the audience through all the usual traditional favourites as well as performing a solo item with the band in the first half. Wigan Rotary President Keith Trencher said ‘The Proms is probably the most famous celebration of classical music, with the 'Last Night' being the most famous of all, thanks to its exuberant and celebratory atmosphere that is quite literally guaranteed to get everyone smiling and singing along. Flags will be supplied on the night so all we need is for you to come and join in what promises to be a great night of music.’ He continued ‘ all the profits from the concert will go into the clubs charities account and will be donated back into the local community.’ This is a seated concert and tickets priced £10 are available on line at www.ticketsource.co.uk/alra there will be a licensed bar. Don’t miss out on this guaranteed fantastic evening of entertainment.
News In Brief
ST WILFRID'S Social Committee are presenting a fashion show by Barbara's of Standish on Tuesday May 3rd at 7.30 p.m. in St. Wilfrid's Parish Hall. The cost of a ticket is £7.50 which includes wine and light refreshments. A SPONSORED Fancy Dress Walk will be taking place at Orrell Colgate Primary School on Friday 13th May, and Non-uniform day at the school will be Thursday 26th May.
ON Thursday 19th May at 7 p.m. there will be a talk about bee-keeping and honey and bee products entitled "Beehive Power". This event also costs only £3. All events are supported by the Friends of Standish Library who provide free refreshments and a friendly welcome. To book a place for one of the events contact Standish library on 01257 400496 or email Standish.Library @wigan.gov.uk. WIGAN Rotary Club is proud to support the 31st International Wigan Jazz Festival this summer, and particularly the More Jazz at the Rotary Community Day in central Wigan on 9th July between 8am and 4pm. It's free for all, and for more details contact Wigan Rotary on 07813 471000 or visit the website.
THE summer fair at Orrell St James Catholic Primary School will be held on Saturday June 11th starting at 12 noon.
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Mayor’s visit to Wigan College
Courier
THE MAYOR of Wigan, Cllr Susan Loudon, visited Wigan & Leigh College’s Confucius Classroom to explore the cultural work of the College.
She was welcomed to the Confucius Classroom, a worldwide organisation which promotes Chinese culture and language, to learn of the classroom and College’s joint initiatives and to gain an exclusive insight into Chinese culture. The Confucius Classroom, which is based in the College’s Parson’s Walk Centre, provided the Mayor and students with a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, buffet and Tai Chi performance. Current and alumni students also discussed their unique learning opportunities with the Mayor, before showcasing their excellent knowledge of Mandarin Chinese. Nan Wei, Manger of the Confucius Classroom also informed the Mayor of the diverse range of opportunities available to students, including all expenses paid trips to China. Nan Wei, says, “The classroom provides not only Wigan & Leigh College students with cultural learning opportunities but local communities too. Our work is carried out in schools across the borough, as well as in community groups. Our work is fully support by Wigan Council and the College, we sincerely hope the classroom will continue to provide local people with unique learning opportunities and cultural experiences.” Louise Brown, Vice Principal of Wigan & Leigh College added, “The College has pledged its commitment to the Confucius Classroom and the work the organisation delivers to local communities, schools and colleges. Our students have really benefited from the Confucius Classroom; learning and developing a range of new skills and a greater understanding of the culture.”
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SJR’s fundraiser for The Brick 4
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Standish school’s summer fair invitation
ST. MARIES Catholic Primary School on Avondale Street in Standish is extending a warm invitation to the local community to the school’s Summer Fair.
FOUNDATION Learning students from St John Rigby College put on an action packed fundraiser for The Brick homeless foundation in Wigan.
The day began with a bake sale made up of an array of treats to tempt those taking a morning coffee break, as well as stalls selling tombola tickets for much sought after Mothers’ Day themed prizes. The activities continued into the afternoon as the students served soup for lunch and were joined by Performing Arts students, who staged a poignant dramatic performance about the widespread misconceptions held around homelessness. Year 12 Music student Jamie Wooding also performed a cover of Ed Sheeran’s ‘The A Team’. This reminded the audience of the outstanding work The Brick does to support vulnerable people in the local community, which is what inspired the students to host the event. A grand total of £280 was raised, a testament to the students’ hard work and commitment. Staff at St John Rigby College are proud of our Foundation Learning group’s efforts and are delighted to see a worthy cause benefit.
This will take place on Saturday July 9th between 12 Noon and 4.00 p.m. with free entry.
The fair will be full of Summer fun including tombola, donkeys, food van, fairground swings, various stalls, zorbing, hook a duck, beer tent and lots lots more. Some local businesses will also be present. Everyone is very welcome to come along!
Ray and Graham’s litter appeal
STANDISH In Bloom administrator Graham Ball recently asked Ray Whittingham, the Conservative Candidate for Standish with Langtree ward in the May election, to help organise a litter pick in the village.
Ray had acquired high visibility vests, litter grabs, gloves and refuse bags, and even organised the disposal of the waste. Ray assisted Graham Ball on the trial litter pick between Viola Close and the kissing gate near the old railway line and down the line for a short distance: they were pleased with the results! More folk have volunteered for a second go
which will be on a convenient weekend shortly. Graham and Ray collected six large refuse bags: they would like to thank Aldi in Standish for supplying the litter bags and accepting the full bags for disposal when they completed the pick, also thanks to the Co-Op in Standish for supplying litter bags. If any litter pick volunteers need grabbers/gloves/ or high visibility-vests, please contact Tony Jones, Standish in Bloom, on 07941 371906 or Ray Whittingham, Standish Community Forum, on 07773 562978. Our pictures show the area before and after the litter pick.
Hospice appeals for cyclists to ride from the City to the Sea
REGISTRATION is now underway for this year’s 63-mile Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride and cyclists looking for a challenge are being urged to sign up in support of Wigan and Leigh Hospice.
Over 280 riders took part in 2015 and the Hospice is hoping that this year 500 riders will sign up for the ride on Sunday 10th July. The bike ride is one of the Hospice’s biggest annual fundraising events and since it began in 1996 participants have raised over £700,000 for the Hospice. Caroline Baba and Nicola Ball took part for the first time last year in memory of their dad Ray Ball who died at home a few months earlier. “We decided to take part in the bike ride to raise money for the Hospice in recognition of the support they gave to our dad and to us as a family.” At the finish line, the sisters said they really enjoyed it: “It has been a fantastic day. The organisation of the ride and the support of the Hospice have been amazing. We’ll definitely do it again next year.” Christine Edwardson, Community Fundraiser, said: “The bike ride is a great event and our riders always tell us afterwards how much they’ve enjoyed it. There’s a fantastic atmosphere from beginning to end and we make sure our riders are really looked after
along the way. “Last year, nearly 300 people did the ride for us but, this year, we want to step it up and break the 500 barrier. It’s a chance to enjoy an incredible day while raising money to support local people with a life-limiting illness.” The route starts off in Manchester and proceeds through Leigh and Aspull where riders can rest and enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks provided by the Hospice. Cyclists then ride through Wigan before a second rest stop in Preston followed by Lytham St Annes and finally Blackpool. Riders are asked for a £20 registration fee which covers
the cost of the refreshments and optional transport to Manchester from Wigan and back to Wigan from Blackpool. The fee also includes back-up support, a tshirt and a medal at the finish line. All those taking part are asked to raise a minimum of £100 sponsorship.
Sign-up online at www.wlh.org.uk/events. Alternatively call the fundraising team on 01942 525566 or email: fundraising@wlh.org.uk to register your interest and receive an application form. Pictured are (l-r): Nicola Ball and Caroline Baba from last years race.
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Gathurst Golf Club’s £175K investment Courier
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GATHURST GOLF Club in Shevington having celebrated its centenary in 2013, has recently invested £175,000 in re-designing its course.
DAR International Ltd, a well known Golf Club design and construction company were given a remit to make the course more and 11 and five new greens will be playable by and Society bookings are interesting and winter greens laid. May 2016. Also that the up. challenging. Our pictures show Daniel Tyrell, Head standard of workmanship
The results being that the greens on holes 5, 8 and 10 were completely redesigned and rebuilt to exacting standards. Also the greens on 2 and 13 significantly were upgraded in their layout. Two new Tees were also constructed on holes 6
Greenkeeper is proud to have been involved with the work that has been carried out and is sure that members and visitors alike will enjoy the new course. Greens chairman, Dougie Pickering has worked closely with DAR and says that the new
carried out was first class and in many ways has changed the personality of the course. In anticipation of the changes the current membership is excited and cannot wait to play the course. Membership is already on the increase
Five Stars for Kaz’s Kitchen
STANDISH business owner Karen Roby of Kaz's Kitchen has just been awarded the top mark of a 5 in the food hygiene rating by the Foods Standards Agency. Karen’s business which is in the heart of Standish on Market Street, is said to be the smallest shop in the Borough.
Karen, who moved to the premises in July 2014, is now a popular figure in the community for cooked breakfasts, lunches which include a daily carvery and afternoon snacks which include delicious cup cakes. Karen also supplies buffets for special occasions. Karen’s love of catering started when she left school and did a course at
catering college in hotel management. She then went on to become the cook for the Charnock Richard service station, and then became the supervisor. She then left to start a family, but returned once again to the food industry by working as supervisor for the Chinese Delight in Standish for 7 years. From there she moved to Mo's Cafe in Bradley Lane, before it closed due to planned building work. It was then that Karen decided to start her own business, which has become a huge success in the village with a stream of regular customers, as well as new ones who pass by but always return! Our picture shows Karen outside 'Kaz's Kitchen' proudly showing off her 5 star achievement.
work being done on one of the greens and the finished green after the work had been done.
www.standishmedia.co.uk 01257 400026
The GCME (Geoff Carr Memorial Events) team are once again in full swing for 2016, their Easter Egg Hunt at the Charnley Arms raised a huge £750 in one day thanks to lots of parents and children taking part, and entertainment from Adam Reid and Kaleidoscope Parties, and for the adults close up comedy magician Darren O'Neill. This week sees a new event added to the calendar, the STANDISH STARLIGHT STROLL. This is a LADIES and children ONLY walk around Standish on a route taking them 6 miles. It takes place this Friday, 29th April starting at 7pm for adults with children, and 7.30pm for LADIES only walk (the start is the Charnley Arms, Almond Brook). The theme is walk in your "Onesie," the route takes in Standish High Street and ends up coming back into the village via Rectory Lane, so if you're out and about watch out for the
DISCO. Why not kick off your Bank Holiday weekend and have some fun, either join the STROLL or come to the Charnley? The events team will have no time to catch a breath as the Silver Tally spring fair is at the end of May when we have our second bank holiday weekend in the same month. After May’s events it’s onwards and upwards to the 2nd annual Pokerthon and the main event the STANDISH Triathlon / IRONMAN and cycle ride, which this year is 20th August 2016. This year's GCME is fundraising for two charities, Derian House childrens hospice and Wrightington Wigan and Leigh Three Wishes Cancer Care appeal. This stroll is extremely special to Hayley Croft, pictured, who's new to the fundraising team, but whose Mum, Vicky lost her personal battle with cancer earlier this year. The GCME team have dedicated this walk to her memory. For more information, or contact numbers to take part go to WWW.GCME.UK you will find the Entry Form and Sponsorship form there or contact Dave or Alison via the website.
Charity team in full swing for 2016 walkers and why not throw some change into their collection buckets. After the stroll, everyone is meeting back at the Charnley Arms, where the venue's management and Greene King have donated a HOTPOT supper for all participants, and then finishing the night off with an 80's
For new ideas in Kitchen & Design
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TV star Adrian gets permanent contract Courier
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WIGAN BIN man Adrian Speakman has inspired people across the UK after appearing on a national BBC1 TV series. Adrian appeared on BBC1’s Call the Council, series which featured the work of Wigan Council officers on daytime TV.
The show followed Adrian on his daily job as a refuse collector – a job he has aspired to do “Despite his difficulties the bin round – Brian secured his dream job on a since he was nine years Rigby and Ian Macmillan permanent contract. he has worked so hard to old. Adrian also promoted achieve his dreams and – were also singled out for
Adrian, who has mild learning difficulties, struggled to get employment until he got a place on Wigan Council’s Confident Futures scheme to help young people into work. Adrian successfully completed the scheme and achieved a year-long placement as a bin man. His positive, friendly and helpful attitude to his job, residents and his colleagues shone through the TV screens and led to the council receiving compliments from across the nation. Adrian’s colleagues on
high praise by viewers for how they supported and encouraged Adrian. Graeme Thorner, from Reading, said: “Adrian visited a school and worked with year 6 pupils who at the age of 11 can be a challenge in itself, but he got all the children interacting and engaged. “I feel he showed a great passion for sorting the front end of waste recycling so that people like himself on the back make a difference.” The show was filmed while Adrian was on a temporary contract - but since filming Adrian has
the importance of residents recycling correctly – which helps make his job collecting the waste easier. Donna Hall, chief executive of Wigan Council, said: “Adrian is a shining example of what it means to be an employee of Wigan Council. “His positive and cheerful attitude really brightens up your day and he is hugely valued by colleagues and residents alike.” Adrian’s mum Lynne said: “I’m so very proud that my lovely son Adrian has captured the heart of the nation.
loves working at Wigan Council. He’s done this himself.” Adrian said: “I’m very pleased that people have enjoyed seeing what I do and the messages they have sent. “I’m thankful to Wigan Council for giving me my dream job. I love working for the council.” The Call the Council series can be viewed on BBC iplayer. Our picture shows Adrian with Wigan Council Chief Executive Donna Hall and his mother Lynne.
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REBECCA Bryan, former Standish High School student currently in Y12 at St John Rigby College studying Graphics, Art, Photography and Media Studies has won a local competition to design an emblem which will become the official logo for Wigan Pride 2016. Rebecca has been invited to the Wigan Pride launch event on May 17th, where her design will be unveiled to the public and used in marketing materials to be circulated throughout the borough to promote the event set to take place Saturday 13th August. Rebecca’s logo was selected by the Pride Committee, made up of representatives from local organisations and young people from BYOU, Wigan’s youth action group for LGBTQ young people. Mayoress Susan Loudon will be meeting with Rebecca at the launch event, Rebecca said, “I will be presented with an award by the Mayoress at the launch event, which I’m both nervous and excited about!” The inspiration for the design was drawn from iconic Wigan images, Rebecca explained, “I was inspired by Northern Soul badges and colour schemes related to Wigan Athletic and Wigan Council.” Rebecca initially entered the competition as part of her Extended Project on Graphic Design and is delighted to have her work recognised on such a public platform. We will have to wait until May to see the end result of Rebecca’s creative talents, though we’re sure this is a firm step in the right direction towards her future career aspiration to become a Graphic Designer. All of the staff at SJR would like to congratulate Rebecca on her fantastic achievements and can’t wait to see her winning logo revealed next month!
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WIGANER Nik Puttnam, pictured, will be taking on the Prudential Ride London - Surrey 100 this July for Blind Veterans UK, the national charity for vision-impaired ex-Service men and women.
Nik, 51, has not missed a year on the ride since it started in 2013 though this will be the first time he will be doing it for charity. He is aiming to beat his personal best of six hours by at least 15 minutes.
Nik says: “I am a really keen cyclist and the opportunity to cycle 100 miles on closed roads through the heart of London and through some great countryside is a great experience. I thought it would be great to combine that with raising money and awareness for Blind Veterans UK.” Blind Veterans UK was
founded in 1915 and the charity’s initial purpose was to help and support soldiers blinded in the First World War. But the organisation has gone on to support more than 35,000 blind veterans and their families, spanning the Second World War to recent conflicts including Iraq and Afghanistan. Nik says: “I cannot imagine having to do some of my day to day tasks without sight. It makes me appreciate what I have but also that these blind veterans need any support we can give them.” “No two Ride London challenges have been the same so far. On a sunny day it draws out the crowds, which is great to see. One year there was torrential rain and they shortened the route to avoid Leith Hill and Box Hill. I look forward to see what this year has in store.” Blind Veterans UK has guaranteed places available for the Prudential RideLondon – Surrey 100, which will take place on 31 July 2016. To join the team they ask for a registration
Nik takes on 100 mile ride fee of £25 and a sponsorship pledge of £450. If you secured a place through the ballot, Blind Veterans UK would love you to join their team. All cyclists receive a free exclusive Blind Veterans UK cycling jersey to wear during the ride.
Please visit blindveterans.org.uk/rid elondon to secure your place before 27 May 2016. To support Nik as he cycles 100 miles for Blind Veterans UK, please visit justgiving.com/NikPuttnam.
Thumbs up for the Council from Community Centre
OF late it seems to be the norm to have a go at local councils for cuts and getting jobs done. So it makes a change to actually congratulate the council on the promptness of a repair.
Standish Community Centre has two concrete bollards outside its premises, both were damaged but one was extremely dangerous to the public.
Councillor George Davies, Wigan Central Councillor happened to come into the centre for refreshments and in conversation it was mentioned to him so he looked at the bollard in question and agreed it was very dangerous and rang the Highways Department. That same evening the bollard had a safety fence around it and by the following morning both bollards had been replaced by new composite ones which are very much safer. Bill Tabiner, Chairman of the Community Centre on behalf of the who committee would like to thank Wigan Council for their
prompt action which may very well have saved a future insurance injury claim. Also our thanks also to Councillor Mr George Davies. Debbie Parkinson, Standish Activist who is pictured with colleague Councillor George Davies, Ivy Tabiner, Bill Tabiner Chair of the Community Centre, Glenn Benson and Pat Crosby, committee members said: "Safety should always be given priority and we were delighted to put residents concerns first."
Councillor George Davies added "The two new bollards are now in place at the entrance to the Standish Community Centre and we thank the Centre management team who brought this to our attention." Bill also said: "Due to parking in front of the fire exit at the Centre the Standish In Bloom have kindly set up two planters and a herb trough to prevent this from happening in the future. Many thanks go to the team."
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Courier facebook page and more information about Smiths Academy can be found at www.smithsacademy.co.uk
Join in the fun at the tea party
SMITHS Academy are holding a 'Mad Hattters Tea Party' family fun day on Sunday 15th May from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at St. Matthews Cricket Club, Highfield.
On the day there will be face painting, crafts, raffles and auction, acoustic singers, soloists and their very own
This event is to launch their brand new project 'Living with Life' which will be working with people who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness and also with their family and friends. All profits made will go towards supporting people with life threatening and terminal illnesses. To find out more about the fun day please visit the Wigan
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All sizes available including 2’6”, 3’6” and 4 ft 3/4
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Unit 1-3, Behind Bygone Times, The Green, Eccleston, PR7 5PH. TELEPHONE: 01257 453152
OPENING HOURS: Mon-Sat 9.30am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm www.ecclestonbedcentre.com
OLD BED RECYCLING SERVICE
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1/2 Price Sale
On all Gas and Electric Fires
FREE FITTING When buying a full suite & fire “You won’t find any pushy salespeople here, just friendly, experienced & professional staff who will try to advise you best for your circumstances” ‘GENUINE ROCK BOTTOM PRICES ALL YEAR ROUND’
BESPOKE MADE TO MEASURE SERVICE AVAILABLE
721 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan, WN5 8AQ wiganfiresandfireplaces.co.uk
Tel: 01942 583558. Call for opening hours
• Conditions apply ask for details | Pictures for illustration purposes | FREE parking for 200 cars
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Wigan bids for digital honours
WIGAN COUNCIL is in the running for yet another national award for its pioneering work in getting residents and businesses online and services delivering digitally.
Courier
council payments and interact with council services digitally. Reporting environmental problems to the council, such as fly-tipping and dog fouling, has been brought into the digital age though the ‘Report It’ app. The council has also helped hundreds of residents, Wigan Council is one of including the elderly, access 10 councils vying for the the web through its ‘Get title of ‘Digital Council of Online’ courses and tablet the Year’ in the Digital training at venues across the borough, and has boosted the Leaders 100 Awards. An online public vote, availability of internet access along with expert judges’ in public spaces. Supporting businesses is opinions, will decide who central to the council’s wins the award. The public vote will also digital strategy which decide where the council includes delivering superfast appears in the overall top broadband cabinets across the borough, funding digital 100. and Wigan Council now has apprenticeships new digital 49,000 residents signed up to attracting its online MyAccount, which business and talent to the helps residents manage their area.
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The shortlisting follows the council winning the ‘Digital Council of the Year' award at the Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Awards last month. Alison McKenzie-Folan, deputy chief executive at the council, said: “We are incredibly passionate about the many benefits embracing digital technology can bring to our residents and businesses throughout the borough. “For the council to once again be highlighted as being among the very best in the country for doing things digitally is a huge endorsement of what we do. “We are now encouraging as many people as possible to vote for us to win the title of Digital Council of the Year and get us as high as possible in the top 100!” The council has
successfully worked with public and private sector partners such as Agilisys, Wigan STEAM, Leigh Hackspace and the NHS to deliver its digital strategy. The award winners will be announced in June. Last year more than 79,000 votes were cast. To vote for Wigan Council please visit: www.digileaders100.com/vo te/ For more information about how to get online, or to find out where your local courses take place, visit: www.wigan.gov.uk/getonlin e. To find out more about MyAccount and the Report It app, see: www.wigan.gov.uk/myacco unt Our picture above shows officers who work to help deliver Wigan Council's digital strategy.
www.standishmedia.co.uk 01257 400026
Oli’s
mountain journey
FORMER St Peter’s High School pupil, 25-year-old Oli France, is currently somewhere along the mountainous spine of Asia on a solo expedition from Hong Kong to Istanbul.
Rotary puts books on the shelf for kids
FOLLOWING its very successful Christmas Float collections for charity, Wigan Rotary Club is now able to donate to more worthwhile causes and recently presented Whitley Playgroup with a library of books. Members of the group can take books home with them, and share them with their children. Rotary President Keith Trencher told the Courier: "It is so important for children to grow up surrounded by books, and to become book lovers at an early age. We are very happy to support the Playgroup in this way and hope the books will bring many hours of shared enjoyment for both children, parents and grandparents". Pictured with the children and some of the books are Aukje Clegg, Chair of the Rotary Club’s Vocational Committee, whose idea this was, President Keith Trencher, playgroup helper Mrs Claire Insje, and some of the young children.
Titled "Tale of the Mountain Folk", Oli, a seasoned adventurer having spent the last few years travelling around the world on various expeditions, began his adventure in January this year setting off across the mountains of Asia where he will cross ten countries experiencing all manner of terrain and many cultures.
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
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HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Make your home your castle
APRIL Home Improvement Month
www.orrellroofline.co.uk www.ghewigan.co.uk
www.getplastered.biz www.sjcollier.co.uk
www.jpmoorcroft.com
www.candsplastics.co.uk
www.bpsmaintenance.co.uk
www.double-glazing-wigan.co.uk www.majesticwindowsnw.co.uk www.ghewigan.co.uk
www.kitchenschorley.net
www.pembertonlighting.co.uk
We specialise in seamless aluminium gutters clean, stylish and guaranteed for 25 years • Facias • Soffits • Cladding • Dry Verge and Gutters CALL US NOW FOR ALL YOUR ROOFING REQUIREMENTS
01942 735515 or 047917 352182 www.orrellroofline.co.uk
Is your family
safe & secure?
Trust GHE to keep you safe Intruder alarms and CCTV for all budgets Call us today for a free security consultation
Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est. Cale Lane, Wigan
01942 836937 or 07557 914788 www.ghewigan.co.uk
• NO JOB TOO SMALL • FREE ESTIMATES • Local Business • Offering friendly, reliable service at honest rates • All types of interior plastering work
WITH the arrival of Spring and longer and warmer days, many of us will be thinking of home improvement projects. This time of year, the to-do lists may seem endless. Beyond the basic projects, such as getting the garden ready and spring cleaning around the house, some springtime undertakings may be much bigger — renovating your home, adding onto it or even building a new house.
Our local businesses advertised in this feature are offering all the improvement services you may need. As April Home Improvement month comes to an end there is still plenty of time to sort out those jobs that you have been planning for. With our advertisers you need look no further than our feature because we have everything covered. Orrell Roofline specialist in facias, soffits, cladding and all other roofing work. GHE Electrical and Security take on all electrical work domestic and commercial including intruder alarms. If its plastering you need then ring Able Plastering who offer all types of plastering work and no job is too small. If it is a design and build project you want S J
J&P MOORCROFT PAINTING AND DECORATING CONTRACTORS
Telephone: 01942 212096 Mobile: 07831 102511 www.jpmoorcroft.com
46 Valley Road Pemberton, Wigan WN5 9HN
S J Collier have transformed hundreds of homes by efficient use of loft space in the roof, providing families with more space or a home office.
Telephone: 01257 251534 Mobile: 07973 143289
Whatever your requirements S.J. Collier can design a solution E: enquiries@sjcollier.co.uk | www.sjcollier.co.uk
Collier who have transformed hundreds of homes by efficient use of loft space in the roof. A new lick of paint or maybe redecorating throughout J & P Moorcroft have years of experience as painting and decorating contractors. C&S Plastics for facias, soffits, windows and doors, they are a well-known local firm, based in Wigan. Established in 2003 and going from strength to strength. BPS NW Ltd for all your improvement needs including extensions, garages and construction work. Howarth and Winnard are a long established company for all UPVC windows and doors, and have also just opened a new showroom on the High Street in Standish. For all your plumbing and heating and complete bathroom service call John Bailey who is also giving £100 off a new combi boiler supplied and fitted. Majestic are now advertising offers for new doors supplied and fitted. For the full building service with more than 25 years experience is Platinum Building Services who gives free estimates on all work needed. If you are replacing your kitchen or bedroom and want quality and affordable look no further than Sundown Interiors which is based in Chorley. For all your new lighting for living area, bedroom, bathroom etc Pemberton Lighting have a great range for every room. If its electrical experience you are looking for you can call John who is an ex norweb electrician with over 37 years experience in rewires etc. No job is too small for all our advertisers so get ringing and get those quotes coming in.
SHOWROOM NOW OPEN • UPVC Double glazed Rock Doors • UPVC windows • Roofline • Doors • Conservatories
John Bailey - 01942 495785 or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238 Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan
T: 01942 203118/07526793690
AFTER
01942 836937 or 07557 914788 www.ghewigan.co.uk
PLATINUM
BUILDING SERVICES
Windows & Doors
New Combi Boiler Supplied & Fitted
www.bpsmaintenance.co.uk
BEFORE
Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est. Cale Lane, Wigan
Howarth & Winnard
£100 OFF
• Extensions • Orangeries • Garage Conversions • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Traditional Plastering • Electrical • Roofing • Damp Proofing • Structural Works
AFTER
M: 07799 495865 | T: 01942 213902
Plumbing & Heating Specialist Complete Bathrooms & Tiling Service
Free No Obligation Quotations
BEFORE
• All electrical work undertaken • Domestic and commercial • Free quotes • Intruder alarms, wireless plus hard wired, SSAIB certificate Insurance discount
• Garage Conversion • Insurance Work • Roof Repairs • Joinery • Brickwork • Patios • Blockpaving • Drainage • Driveways • Landscaping • Decking • Turfing • Fencing • All Work Guaranteed
01257 473188
01942 239534
24 hour Call Out Service
Free Estimates | No job too small More than 25 years experience
37 High Street, Standish, WN6 OHA
Telephone 07838 251505 www.getplastered.biz
Building Contractors & Design and Build Specialists for Loft Converstions
www.standishmedia.co.uk 01257 400026
This door
£699 fitted
Others are available
0800 0853 987
www.majesticwindowsnw.co.uk
SUNDOWN INTERIORS
QUALITY | AFFORDABLE | VALUE FOR MONEY • Manufacturers and installers of Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms • All hand made in the workshop • FREE home visit to discuss design Unit 6, East Chorley Business Centre, Eastway, Chorley, PR6 0BJ.TEL: 01257 249888 www.kitchenschorley.net
Pemberton Lighting Your lighting shop specialist in Wigan and have been trading for over 30 years Stockists of: All types of lighting and accessories 808 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton Wigan, WN5 8AX
EX-NORWEB ELECTRICIAN Tel: 01942 216033
sales@pembertonlighting.co.uk | www.pembertonlighting.co.uk
• 37 Years Experience • Rewires • Showers • Alarms • Security Lights • No job too small
Tel JOHN: 01942 234454 Mob: 07950 756305
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Shaun’s challenge
SEPTEMBER 2016
Little Joey’s Pre-School at St. Joseph’s Wrightington • 15 hours free funding for 3-4 year olds. • Register your child now
01257 423092
NHS WIGAN’S Foundation Trust has teamed up with Primary Woodfield School in Wigan for their “Race to Rio” challenge.
The aim of the project is to promote health and wellbeing
amongst some of the younger residents of the Wigan Borough. It is also to encourage the children to keep fit, whilst also getting them in the Olympic spirit, ahead of the Rio Olympic Games to be held this summer. Launched by Wigan
Warriors Head Coach, Shaun Wane, pupils from the school and staff from the Trust, will attempt to walk the accumulative distance from Wigan to Rio, via an assigned country. It is being done through a step-by-step challenge. To help them do this,
Woodfield School have purchased pedometers for the children so that they can measure the steps they make each week. They will record the number of steps they make each week in a grid provided in their Reading Record Books. This will enable them to determine how much of the distance they have covered. In addition to the physical exercise that the pupils will enjoy, they will also get to learn a great deal about the country they have been assigned. For their part, the school have extended the challenge to all parents, carers and grandparents of children at the school, so that they can get involved. .WWL’s Social Responsibility Group will work closely with staff at the school to provide them with
information packs about the countries that they have been assigned. The countries each year has been given are; Reception: Spain, Year 1: Turkey, Year 2: Australia, Year 3: New Zealand, Year 4: Iran, Year 5: Ukraine and Year 6: Syria and India. All classes have additionally been given Greece as an additional country. There are also a number of fun-filled events at Woodfield
School planned to support this project. These include; a visit from the Wigan Warriors, a basketball tournament (to be held on Monday 20th June) and a Rio Carnival (to be held on Friday 1 st July). Our picture shows Wigan Warriors Head Coach, Shaun Wane, poses with pupils from Woodfield Primary School when launching the project.
Play Along Pre School Millbrook Primary School Elmfield, Shevington, Wigan, WN6 8DL Telephone: 01257 401030 Play Along is a fully inclusive setting, registered to take 24 children, age 3/4yrs old.
WE HAVE FULL AND PART TIME PLACES AVAILABLE FROM SEPTEMBER 2016.
For further information call: 07795 831958
Nursery Places
Email: adavies@shevingtonvale.wigan.sch.uk Shevington Vale Primary School, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9JP
for 3 years old still available for
September 2016
St. Wilfrid’s Church of England Primary Academy, Rectory Lane, Standish, Wigan, WN6 0XB
Telephone: 01257 423992
St. Wilfrid’s Church of England Primary Academy (formerly St. Wilfrid’s CE Primary School) is a very successful and dynamic school and was judged outstanding by Ofsted in September 2007 and in subsequent interim assessments. Our nursery offers flexible sessions and optional top-up to full school day with before and after school care also available. Provision at our school is wide and varied with a range of out of school activities which enhance academic and social development.
Achieve, Believe, Care...at St. Wilfrid’s Church of England Primary Academy..we can Please contact the school to discuss the options available
www.saintwilfrids.wigan.sch.uk
Parents can access free 15 hours of government funding for children for the term after the child’s third birthday, (additional hours can be bought). Opening hours Morning sessions 9.00am – 12.00pm Afternoon sessions 12.00 – 3.00pm Or full days 9.00am – 3.00pm Any children attending Play Along can access the schools Before & After school club from 8.45am – 9.00am and 3.00pm – 5.15pm.
Canon Sharples
Church of England Primary School and Nursery
Telephone 01942 776188
Nursery Places
For 3 year olds still available for
September 2016
Our purpose built nursery offers high quality early years learning for 3 and 4 year old children. We offer flexible sessions and optional top-up to full school day. Provision at our school is wide and varied with a range of out of school activities which enhance academic and social development.
Please contact the school to discuss the options available
www.canonsharples.wigan.sch.uk
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HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Specialist Builders
STANDISH CLEANING SERVICES • Industrial • Commercial • Domestic • Windows • Walls • Daily & Weekly Office Cleaning • Dry Foam Carpet Cleaning • Reliable Staff
• Alterations • Extensions • Refurbishments • Garage and Loft Conversions • Windows • Doors • Conservatories • Replacement Conservatory Tiled Roofs • Fascias • Soffits • Guttering • Kitchens • Bathrooms
01942 521400 www.htibuilders.co.uk
LANDSCAPING
T: 01257 422977 M: 07801 695447 ELECTRICAL
EX-NORWEB ELECTRICIAN
My Life show a success
THE MY LIFE transport show held at Thompson House Equestrian Centre in Standish last month was a huge success!.
The glorious weather helped to attract a huge crowd of over 3000 people, keen to see an array transport on display, and witness the launch of the community model railway, called “Standish Junction”. Visitors were treated to, amongst other things: the Southport Model Airplane Club’s display; Wigan Road Safety team encouraging bicycle safety amongst younger wannabe cyclists; classic cars courtesy of Lancashire Vehicle Club and a whole host of private and commercial vehicle owners; the Mr Phoebus magical Penny-farthing experience; and over 30 stalls selling artisan crafts, home made cakes and jams, as well as the My Life fruit and vegetable stall which provided a healthier alternative to all those home-made delicacies on offer. Live music was provided by local volunteers and students from Rishton Community High School.
To keep up-to-date with My Life events, visit the facebook page at facebook.com/mylifecic or their website at In the meantime, My Life is launching a new service on April 19th, called Kid Fit. It will run every Tuesday from 10am to 12 noon at Thompson House Equestrian Centre (except in the school holidays) and is aimed at younger children and their parents/carers. It’s going to be a fun-filled morning of gentle exercise, music and dance, where families can improve their health and wellbeing and share healthy recipes. Regular sessions for toddlers will still take place on Mondays from 10am to 12 noon, where kids get the chance to feed the farm’s animals and take part in soft play, arts and crafts, and planting and growing. Group bookings for both sessions are welcome from nurseries and childminders. For enquiries, phone 01257 472900 or email info@my-life.org.uk.
Wigan maternity team award
• 37 Years Experience • Rewires • Showers • Alarms • Security Lights • No job too small
Tel: 01942 234454 | Mob: 07950 756305
FITTED BEDROOMS
ROOFING
SKIP HIRE FITTED KITCHENS
WINDOWS
TO ADVERTISE IN OUR CLASSIFIED SECTION PLEASE CALL MICHELLE HAFEZ ON 01257 400026
THE MATERNITY Team of Wigan’s Health Trust was the proud recipient of a National Friends and Family Test Award last month.
The Friends and Family Test is an initiative used across the NHS to allow for patient feedback to be given on healthcare. Results of the test are used to bring positive improvements to the way we provide care. The team was presented with the award at a national Friends and Family Test and Insight Conference, held at the Queens Hotel in Leeds. To win the award, the Maternity team
used a number of innovative ways to raise awareness of the FFT to patients visiting the Maternity and Labour wards. One such measure was distributing both labour and postnatal cards together so mother and baby could enjoy uninterrupted bonding time after delivery. Another was adding completion of the FFT to the discharge list for patients, ensuring that their voice was heard. Perhaps most inventive of all was the establishment of a “checkout” system, similar to a hotel, whereby patients were asked to “check out” by posting their FFT cards into a box when leaving the ward.
Andrea Arkwright, Head of Engagement said, “Our Maternity Team has done an outstanding job in offering opportunities for our patients to provide feedback.” Head of Midwifery Diane Swindlehurst, added: “We are always looking to improve our patient services. The Friends and Family Test enables us to heed our patient’s opinions and put their feedback into positive action. Our Maternity team have been incredibly creative in their ways to ensure patients are aware of the initiative. Maternity team members are pictured with their award.
Music for charity at SJR STUDENTS on St John Rigby College’s Music Maestro Elective Programme staged a fantastic evening of musical performances and raised more than £220 for Macmillan and Cancer Research. The event was organised by Year 12 Music student Rhiannan Wheeler, as part of her Maestro project in Concert Management. She spoke to the audience about her tutor’s initial incredulous reactions to her ambitious plans to put on such a large-scale event, who were full of praise to see the evening play out in such a professional and enjoyable manner. There were acts to suit all musical tastes, ranging from piano and flute ensembles, to covers of Rihanna and
Black Sabbath. David Wall, who teaches the Maestro Programme said, “The one word that describes our department perfectly is eclectic and I wouldn’t have it any other way!” He went on to express his admiration of Rhiannan’s efforts, as well as congratulating all of the performers who received rapturous applause and standing ovations throughout the evening. We look forward to seeing what else our Music department have in store for the remainder of the academic year and are sure to see Rhiannan’s concert management skills flourish after a thoroughly successful first event! Our picture shows Rhianna at the concert.
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STANDISH Cricket Club’s 2nd Beer Festival will take place on Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday 30th April & Sunday 1st May. The Club is asking for volunteers to help out to make this years event bigger and better than last year’s, any help at all g r a t e f u l l y accepted. S T A N D I S H Womens’ Institute Forthcoming Events: 5th May 2016 Lunch club meeting at Leyland golf club,12-30 for 1pm, two courses £8-95. 12th May 2016, an afternoon of Interior design and afternoon tea, a free event by Redrow Housing at Pepper Lane Standish 2-30pm to 4-30pm.
ST MICHAEL’S Amateur Dramatic Society presents at the Parish Hall, Shaw Street, WN1 2BQ its Spring Play, Thursday 28th - Saturday 30th April, 7.30pm, a thriller "Trap for a Lonely Man" by Robert Thomas, directed by Ian Field. £6 & £5 concessions. Also on Friday 20th May, 7.30pm, another ever popular murder night. Book your place for "The Curse of the Willoughby Diamond", an interactive murder night. Just £6 pp (including hot pot asupper, or vegetarian option if requested). Bring your own drink (alcohol is allowed!) and enjoy! Please book in advance as the Society has to order the food!! Ring 01942 236260, or r i n g / t e x t 07806787250 for either show
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IT IS NO exaggeration to say that Wigan Warriors have gone through a difficult patch. In fact, it could be argued that various events – many beyond their power to control – have conspired to almost prevent them coming out of the blocks this season.
And yet, Wigan are sitting pretty on 18 points, and are third in the Super League table. In the old days, before Super League, there was an argument that once you’d made it to 20 points you were almost certainly safe from relegation. Well, that doesn’t hold water any more, but getting to 20 points is still massive for a team’s morale, and to be almost there before the end of April is really quite remarkable. Especially, as I say, given the problems that Wigan have faced.
Aplethora of serious injuries have stricken the team in the last couple of months, but it wasn’t just the quantity of the absentees, it was the quality. Just look at the roll-call of unavailability in the last few weeks: Sam Tomkins, Joel Tomkins, Michael McIlorum, Liam Farrell, Sean O’Loughlin, George Williams, Dom Manfredi, Anthony Gelling, Dom Crosby … That’s all of Wigan’s pivots bar Matty Smith, and in Dom Manfredi and Anthony Gelling, their two deadliest strikers. It’s little wonder they’ve struggled to get points on the board. But then add to that devil’s brew the further ingredient of illness. Only now is it becoming plain the full extent of the virus that struck the Wigan squad the week before the away fixture at Wakefield. I PROMOTION FOR ORRELL ST JAMES, ASPULL ALMOST THERE…
Wigan 19 West Park 34 South Lancs & Cheshire Div 1 Saturday April 23rd WIGAN paid dearly for fifteen minutes of defensive frailty either side of half time which allowed West Park to cross for three tries and take command of an entertaining derby at Douglas Valley. With wind advantage West Park were first on the board as they touched down from a five metre scrum which was converted. Wigan then applied pressure and levelled things up when skipper Kilian Wallace muscled his way over following good work by man of the match Mike Cox. Andy Whittle converted. It was then West Park's turn to dominate and regain the lead as they drove over from close range. The deficit then increased by a further 5 points in 1st half injury time as some woeful defence allowed West Park to score again. The 2nd half began with players from both sides despatched to the bin and tries exchanged. First West Park crossed before Wigan replied when good interpassing saw John Foster put Mike Rigby over. Any hopes of a Wigan revival were then dashed as West Park stretched their lead to 34-12 with 2 further tries. As the clock wound down Wigan rallied and forced a succession of penalties which allowed Martin Gambles to dart through a gap for a consolation try which Whittle converted.
Orrell 29 Garstang 22 North Lancs League Saturday April 23rd 16 IN THE opening minutes of the game, Orrell too often lost the ball in rucks and mauls or knocked the ball on.. Mid way through the first half, Orrell had a line out on their own 22 metre line. Garstang won the line out and after a couple of drives with the ball, crossed the line to score a try which they converted. A few minutes later Orrell gave away a penalty, which Garstang converted to extend their lead to 10 points. Orrells game started to improve and good work got them a lineout 15 metres from the visitors line. They won the lineout and moved the ball across the field to outside centre
www.standishmedia.co.uk 01257 400026
Sitting pretty despite wading through a difficult patch
have it on good authority that several players who did turn out that day were in no condition to represent the club. But the simple truth was that there was nobody else. The first team squad had literally been floored. It was standing room only in the club doctor’s surgery. Several who watched the game – a brutal 620 drubbing, you may recall – afterwards commented that they had never seen a Wigan team as unmotivated, as sluggish or as weary as they were in the second half of that match. In hindsight, the apparently disastrous result was no surprise whatsoever, or really that much of an embarrassment. Okay, a few keyboard heroes have been online since attempting to ridicule this explanation, as if the plain truth is simply that the Wildcats are 60-odd points better than Wigan, but the majority of the Wigan faithful now know the real story.
Admirable
With all this in mind, Wigan’s current position in the table is very admirable. Of course, a lot of that is down to two monstrously hard-fought victories in the last couple of weeks. Castleford have long been a bogie side for Wigan, from the days when Wheldon Road, as it was then, was an annual graveyard for Cherry and White hopes, to the more recent vintage, the Tigers, who have often been victorious at the DW. As always, the Cas class of 2016 are wellcoached and possess a number of talented players. When they turned up at the DW on April 15, their ranks boosted by the inclusion of Wigan loanee Ryan Hampshire, a young lad whom many home fans expected would have a point to prove, and the home team were still badly understrength, it was an alarming prospect.
Rugby Union Roundup
Scott Robinson, who drove over the line to score Orrell first try, which he converted , to reduce Garstang lead to 3 points. After some good work by Jon Pegg, Orrell again got a lineout in their opponents half. They won the ball and although initially they attacked the line close to were the lineout took place, they then moved the ball out, and 2nd row Andy Stott came into the line and passed the ball to his brother, winger Matt Stott, who scored Orrells 2nd try. The conversion was missed, but Orrell were in the lead 12 – 10 at the break, Five minutes into the second half, Orrell gave away a penalty which resulted in a Garstang line out. Orrell then gave away another penalty at the lineout. Garstang took a quick tap of the ball and moved the ball across the field to score in the corner. The conversion was missed but the visitors were back in the lead 12 -15. Orrell continued to give away silly penalties, some of which took them back 80 metres. 10 minutes later, however the won another lineout in their opponents half and after a series of pick up and drives, Captain and Prop John Statter scores between the posts. The try was converted to give Orrell back the lead 19 – 15. A few minutes later Orrell were penalized for holding on in a ruck. Garstang took another quick tap, this time close to the half way line and scored in the corner. The referee award Garstang a penalty try for a high tackle on the Garstang player just before he touched down, giving them an easy conversion in front of the posts and putting them back in the lead 19 – 22. Five minutes later Orrell levelled the score with a Scott Robinson penalty. 10 minutes from the end of the game Orrell had a scrum just inside the visitors half. After initially, picking the ball up and driving, Jon Pegg from the back of a ruck made a break of 10/15 metres and then passed the ball to John Preshoe
But what a game followed, and what a Trojanlike performance from Wigan second rower, John Bateman, who is really cementing himself this year as a crowd favourite. I remarked afterwards that this 26-12 win was what in Victorian military terms was referred to as ‘a soldier’s battle’ – Rorke’s Drift, Inkerman etc – when strategy had been cast aside and the whole result came to rely on individual courage. And yet, only a week later, when Huddersfield Giants showed up, and Wigan, who still shorthanded – though the return of Anthony Gelling was a welcome boost – found themselves facing another team who have often given them a torrid time and who, though they this year, very bizarrely, occupy the bottom of the table, are still chocka with talent. It was another epic struggle, neither side giving an inch, Huddersfield determined to regain their lost dignity in 2016, Wigan equally keen to hang onto the near pole-position they’d somehow clawed their way to despite all their recent setbacks. As you all no doubt know, the result finally went 26-19 to the Warriors, but not without a grandstand finish, Dan Sarginson scoring the winning try something like one minute from time.
Understrength
The only really disappointment on an exhilarating night was the 10,900 attendance. The Giants are well-known for not bringing many with them, but last year this fixture attracted nearly 13,000. And this is typical of 2016 thus far. Only the Brisbane game at the DW has this year drawn a respectable figure (19,103). In explanation, there has been an awful lot of public talk about understrength teams – Wigan aren’t the only SL outfit with lots of injuries.
with only the full back to beat. John wrong footed him to score Orrell’s fourth try for a bonus point. Scott converted to give Orrell back the lead 29 -22. A few minutes later Orrell had the chance of extending their lead, but were held up over the line. However a series of mistakes by Orrell gave Garstang possession of the ball inside the Orrell 22 metre line and Orrell had to defend in the dying minutes of the game to hang on to win their last game of the season 29 -22. Aspull 1sts 38 Ormskirk 2nds 19 Raging Bull Div 3 North Saturday April 23rd 16 ASPULL will see their bid for a second successive promotion go right to the wire after a comprehensive victory over Ormskirk 2nds at Woodshaw Park. Title and promotion rivals Clitheroe went top of the table after thrashing previous leaders Oldham 42-8, to leave the promotion and title deciders between three clubs, Aspull, Clitheroe and Vale of Lune. On Saturday April 30th Aspull travel to bottom club Leigh with a win guaranteeing the side promotion.
Orrell St James 36 Bolton 4ths 25 Raging Bull Div 5 North Saturday April 23rd 16 IN RAGING Bull Div 5 North, Orrell St James confirmed their promotion in fine style with a 36-25 home win in the derby match against Bolton 4ths, to take the Bankes Avenue team top of the league with one game left to play and confirm their promotion to division 4 North in the club’s very first season as a rugby union / rugby league dual code club. The championship beckons as their last match is at home to Preston Grasshoppers 6ths on Saturday, and a win would secure the trophy. ALSO in Div 5North, Orrell 2nds recorded a 21-15 away win over Preston Grasshoppers 6ths away, and Aspull 2nds beat Colne and Nelson 2nds 44-34 in a free scoring game at Woodshaw Park. WIGAN 2nds conceded their game away at Aldwinians in Raging Bull div 2North
Alternatively, it could be that standards are deemed to be sagging right across the Super League spectrum. I’ve said before that the British game is starlight at present, and I stand by that. There are far too many of our most exciting and attractive players competing in the NRL. But it is beyond Wigan’s powers to fix that on their own. The Thursday night fixtures don’t help either, of course. When all said and done, Thursday is a week day. People are busy or are away. Plus, when you still have to get up in the morning, folk are less likely to go out and make a night of it.
Significant
But at the end of the day, the Wigan fans who didn’t turn up for these last two games were the main losers. They missed some breath-taking action, and would do well to revise this stay-athome policy this coming Thursday, if they can. The opponents that night are Warrington Wolves, who are currently sitting comfortably at the top of the table. Wigan are finally expected to have a significant number of players back in harness, but it will still be a very testing clash against a team who are absolutely dead-set on winning the title this year. They’ve met already in 2016 of course, Wigan going down at the DW by 16-28. But this will be a crucial game not just because it gives the Warriors a chance to even the score or because the top spot is up for grabs, but because it gives Wigan a chance to put a marker down. They’ve got where they are thus far in 2016 through grit and determination, but this is a chance to show they can play some great football as well.And who better against than the league-leaders and current title favourites?
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