Wigancourieronlineaug18th15

Courier

LOCAL WIGAN The BUSINESSES SUPPORT WIGAN AND LEIGH HOSPICE - PAGES 10&11 email: info@courier-online.net Contessa Hotels set to transform ailing iconic building

Hotel plan boost for Haigh Hall

DRAMATIC plans to turn the iconic Haigh Hall in Wigan into a boutique hotel and spa look set to go ahead this week.

The entire Haigh estate needs a multi-million pound makeover, with the main building on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk register.

Contessa Hotels’ plans will see the Grade 2 listed Councillors on the hall restored to its former Borough Council glory and transformed into committee a luxury four-star boutique planning were voting on a hotel, complete with 30 encomprehensive plan by suite bedrooms, a spa and Wirral-based Contessa a fitness centre. A new car Hotels, which own the park, access off Higher Hillbark Hotel at Franby Lane, landscaping and an and the Leverhulme additional ceremony room Hotel at Port Sunlight. located on the roof of the hotel are an integral part of

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

Haigh Hall - a building at risk that could be transformed by plans for a boutique hotel

the plans.

The £6m restoration of Haigh Hall is at the centre of a wider regeneration masterplan for the entire

Haigh Woodland Park, Europe’s biggest municipal park, which includes a new family adventure zone with a high ropes area and an innovative adventure golf course, improved footpaths and heritage trails, and a kitchen courtyard that will feature small artisan food outlets, within the existing Stables Courtyard.

Ahead of the vote, Councillor Paul Kenny, cabinet member for Leisure and Resources at the Council, said: “Haigh Hall is a major visitor destination and a place of significant historical interest. Without this investment, there’s a real danger that this building will go to rack and ruin.

bodies, Historic England and Georgian Group to develop plans which aim to protect and preserve the hall’s rich heritage.

Mr Craig Baker, Director of Contessa Hotels, added: “Our plans for Haigh Hall are progressing really well, and we’re really excited to hear the outcome from the committee meeting.

Facilities

“The Hall is steeped in history and our main priority is about restoring and transforming it back to its very finest. The Hall is one of the most iconic buildings of its type in the region and we are eager to get started on our plans."

Haigh Hall and Country Park is already a major visitor destination, “Wigan Council cannot attracting around 300,000 afford to carry out the visits each year. necessary repairs needed to However, research restore the building so this indicates that improving is a brilliant opportunity to the existing facilities could secure a viable future for attract even more visitors the hall for generations to and bring much-needed come.” revenue to Wigan.

Wigan Council’s For more information planning department has v i s i t : been working closely with www.wigan.gov.uk/Haig Contessa Hotels and hWoodland Park. consulting conservation

Repairs

The Good News Paper

August 18th 2015

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Issue no 258

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Courier

Friday 28th to Monday 31st August

‘THE BEER GOD’ Presents

JOIN THE BEER REVOLUTION!!

THERE’S MORE TO BEER THAN PINTS OF BITTER!!

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• Fruit Beers • Honey Porter • Strong Chocolate Mild • German Wheat Beer • Clear Wheat Beer • Saison • Farmhouse ale • Old Scotch ale

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Go Stateside Beer and Burger matching with ANDY & JACKS BURGER SHACK All our burgers are freshly made on site and served with salad garnish and choice of handcut chips, shoestring fries, skin on fries or east west chips THE COW IN BLANKET BURGER £9.95 Beef patty with a melting mozzarella centre wrapped in streaky bacon INSANITY BURGER £9.95 Beef patty coated in Tabasco and Worcester sauce glaze with gherkins, bacon, and fried red onions DRUNKEN COW BURGER £9.95 Beef patty with slow beer braised brisket, fried onions, melted cheese and beer gravy NEW YORKER BURGER £9.95 Beef patty with pulled pork, BBQ sauce, bacon, melted Monterey jack cheese and onion rings PIG DADDY BURGER £9.95 Ginger pork patty with apple fritter, pulled pork, bacon and crackling A & J’S ZINGER BURGER £9.95 Southern fried chicken breast, chipotle mayo, iceberg lettuce, homemade hash brown, melted cheese FALAFEL BURGER (V) £8.95 Homemade falafel patty with homemade tomato salsa, and goat’s cheese CLASSIC CHEESEBURGER £9.95 Beef patty, melted cheese, tomato and onion £ PERSIAN LAMB BURGER £9.95 Spiced lamb patty, humus, mint yoghurt, tomato and onion CAJUN CHICKEN BURGER £8.95 Cajun spiced chicken breast, mayo and tomato salsa

TAKE A TRIP TO FLAVOUR TOWN THIS WEEKEND

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Council 10k team hits the streets Courier

Lisa Nandy

Member of Parliament For Wigan Will be holding Advice Centres by appointment on the following dates from September to December 2015

ENERGETIC council staff will be putting themselves through pain to raise money for a great cause in this year’s Wigan 10k.

Wigan Council has a team of more than 20 employees who will be pounding the streets on Sunday 6th September when they take on the popular annual 10k.

The team will be raising money for the Mayor of Wigan Borough’s charity of the year Guide Dogs for the Blind.

The Mayor, Councillor Susan Loudon, met some of the team members and gave them her best wishes as they prepared for a training run.

Public health officer Joanne Taylor is part of the team and believes the 10k is a great way to help get people active.

She said: “After the first Wigan 10k more people started running as a direct result.

“The day is fantastic. The whole town comes out to support you and there are loads of activities going on. It’s a really fun day.

She added: “There’s something about running a 10k in your home town that is special.”

Councillor Loudon said: “I’m over the moon that the running team is raising money for the Mayor’s charity. I think it’s great.”

The Mayor’s charity activities have already raised £5,000 which is being used to sponsor two dogs, Warrior and Leigh, in their guide dog training.

It costs £40,000 to support a guide dog throughout its life. The 10k is organised by the Joining Jack charity and is now in its third year.

Earlier this year it was voted in second place in the National Running Awards. Joining Jack was established by Alex and Andy Johnson after their son Jack was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Matt, Andy’s brother, who organises the 10k, said: “It’s great to see the council’s employees getting behind the 10k again. “The people of Wigan have really taken the event to their hearts and are now coming back every year. “We are delighted there are a wide range of charities now involved in the event. It promises to be a fabulous day.”

To enter or find out more visit: www.wigan10k.co.uk Our photograph shows mayor of Wigan Borough Councillor Susan Loudon with members of Wigan Council’s 10k team (standing l-r) Bob Allen, Oliver Hesk, Alex Kay, Stuart Holding (front) Alison MckenzieFolan, Joanne Taylor

4th September Shevington Children’s Centre, Shevington Community Primary School, Miles Lane, Shevington, Wigan 14th September Wigan Life Centre North Site, The Wiend, Wigan 25th September St Cuthbert’s Primary School, Thorburn Road, Norley Hall, Wigan 2nd October Standish Library, Cross Street, Standish, Wigan 12th October Wigan Life Centre North Site, The Wiend, Wigan 23rd October Ince Clinic & Community Centre, Manchester Road, Ince, Wigan 6th November Beech Hill Children’s Centre, Beech Hill Avenue, Beech Hill, Wigan 16th November Wigan Life Centre North Site, The Wiend, Wigan 27th November Lamberhead Green Library, Abraham Guest High School Specialist Sports & Arts College, Greenhey, Orrell, Wigan 11th December Shevington Children’s Centre, Shevington Community Primary School, Miles Lane, Shevington, Wigan 14th December Wigan Life Centre North Site, The Wiend, Wigan

PLEASE RING 01942 242047 TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

Firefighters honoured for Courier Wharfside response TO CONTACT Courier

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THE bravery and determination of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service’s firefighters during a fire at an apartment building in Wigan Borough has been praised.

A thank you event for the fire service along with others who helped

e: info@courier-online.net residents of Wharfside apartments took place at Wigan Town Hall on Facebook and Twitter Monday, 10th August.

Suite 107 The Standish Centre, Cross Street, Standish, Wigan WN6 0HQ

The next Courier is published on Tuesday 8th September 2015

Deadline for advertisers: Monday 7th September 12 noon

No one was injured in the fire which hit in the early hours of Sunday 14th July.

Nearly 200 residents who were affected by the fire were temporarily rehomed in the aftermath and the community also sprang into action donating food, clothing and money.

At the height of the fire there were 100 firefighters and 25 fire engines tackling the blaze, all risking their lives in difficult conditions to reduce the impact on the buildin.

Speaking at the event Leader of Wigan Council, Lord Peter Smith, said: “When you are a leader of the council you hope there is never an emergency you have to respond to but when there is an emergency you hope the reaction will be effective - and it was.

“Thank you to the firefighters for the way they dealt with the fire. Council staff also worked effectively with their partners in Wigan and Leigh Homes to help people along with ALRA who had the premises used as a reception centre for those

affected, the Salvation Army and Greater Manchester Police.

“There was a terrific immediate reaction from the public of Wigan providing donations too and the kindness was what you would expect from Wigan people.

And none of those donations were wasted as the extra goods went on to The Brick homeless charity.

“We felt it important not to just say these words but to show we do appreciate all the efforts from those who helped.”

Councillor David Acton, chairman of Greater Manchester Fire Authority, added: “As chairman of the authority I’m really proud of the work that was carried out by our firefighters on the day.

“In situations like this you see the very best of the public sector where firefighters, police ambulance and councils come together. Everyone needs to recognise the work the public sector does whether it’s firefighters or council officers.”

Our picture shows The Mayor of Wigan Borough Councillor Susan Loudon at the civic reception honouring those who helped in the Wharfside fire

St. Peters Womens Guild

ST. PETER'S Women's Guild is holding fund raising events in September and request your support in making these events a success September 23rd they are holding a Macmillan Biggest Coffee morning, in the meeting room of St. Peter's church, from 10 am till 12 noon.

Please support these worthy causes, and hopefully meet new friends in the process.

Check out the web site on www.stpeters-church-hindley.org.uk

New members wanted for Art

THE Art Group meet on a Wednesday evening at 7-00pm at the Standish Community Centre, Moody Street, Standish and are wanting to welcome new members.

You can call the Community Centre on 01257 421048 for further details.

You can also get in touch with the Centre to see what else is going on.

They have a full lisitng of clubs, events etc going on regularly.

Youth Group celebrate end of season

WIGAN Little Theatre Youth Group celebrated the end of the 2014/15 season with a special performance recently.

They have had a great season taking part in many of the main stage productions such as Kes, Sleeping Beauty and Oliver. They also meet weekly to hone up their practical acting skills and have some fun learning which helps them stretch their skills and ambitions.

Their skills and expertise lie not only in drama, but also extend to the technical support and business side of the theatre.

They are always on hand to assist backstage and up in the lighting and sound gallery, as well as with the front of house activity such as the sweets and ice cream kiosk.

Leader of the Youth Group, Stacey Vernon, says, ‘I’m always amazed at the capacity these young people have to take part in theatre activity alongside their school and college commitments.

It is great training though, as they understand that taking part in a production is a huge responsibility and that their contribution is requires 100% if it is to be a

success. Importantly, they understand that the whole audience experience is about absolute team work from everyone, which is a great lesson for their working lives ahead, no matter what they choose to do.

I want to thank them all for their hard work this season and look forward to the 2015/16 season when we begin again’.

The group is now on a well-deserved summer break.

Wigan Little Theatre is a voluntary organisation run by and for anyone interested in providing high quality, wideranging, traditional and innovative theatre, accessible to all.

•For further information please contact Anne Woolley WLT Press Officer on 07799 061 558 or email akwoolley@blueyonder.co.uk

Pokerthon marathon 5

Courier

THE Charnley Arms poker team, on Sunday 9th August, held a 12 hour charity Pokerthon for The Geoff Carr Memorial Event in aid of Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Three Wishes charity.

This was always going to be a challenging event as concentrating playing poker for this amount of time is an arduous task.

The team of 9 strong competitors were well supported by the memorial event committee and the Charnley Arms staff, and the event raised a

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significant £750 in sponsorship alone on the day.

The winner, Alan Ainscough was presented with his winners trophy by Geoffs wife, Pauline at the close of the day; which actually ran beyond its intended 12 hours due to the nature of the game!

Alan was asked how he felt having just completed almost 13 hours of poker, his response very quickly was, “bring on next year, when I will be back to defend my title”. It has to be said that second and third place runners up were just on his tail, making it a very tense and interesting final game.

Standish Defibrillators may save lives!

COMMUNITY Advocate, Debbie Parkinson, a First Aid Trainer for NWAS Heartstart, has been working with the community and Friends of Standish Library to get external defibrillators for Standish.

Working with Yvonne Winstanley and Tiffany Whitter from Friends of Standish Library, Debbie helped with fundraising for 2 external boxes, also working with Steve Nicholls, the Community Paramedic for North West Ambulance Service.

NWAS provided the defibrillators free of charge, as part of their ongoing community programme, once the boxes had been purchased and fitted.

The first box, fitted at Aldi, went 'live' at the beginning of July, being linked to the 999 service. The second box, also now live,is sited at The Wiper Company on Wigan Road, Standish and was fitted

by Ian and Jonny Ashton of Ashtons of Standish. Debbie said "Ian and Jonny gave their time and services free of charge for the community which is fantastic. Both the Wiper Company and Aldi were keen to house the boxes to help the community."

The defibrillators can be accessed by anyone in need by dialling '999' when the location and access will be given to the nearest one. The locations were approved by NWAS and chosen for access and parking.

Debbie commented 'I want to thank everyone involved in helping me to get these defibrillators for Standish and I will be holding free 'Heartstart' first aid sessions in the Library shortly for anyone who wants to learn the vital skills needed to save lives.

I understand we, along with one in Ashton, are the first in Wigan to have defibrillators linked to the Ambulance Emergency Services for access to those in need.'

The bright yellow boxes can be seen at the Aldi Store near the main traffic light junction and on the corner of Wigan Road and Grove Lane at The Wiper Company.

Rotary singalong

WIGAN Rotary Club are inviting anyone to come and join in a one hour singalong every fortnight starting on Thursday 20th August at Standish Community Centre, Moody Street, Standish from 2.30 p.m.

Although the sessions are open to anyone, they are designed with people living with dementia and their carers in mind and are free of charge with tea/coffee provided. The cost being covered by a grant from Wigan Council following the creation of a Dementia Friendly Network for Standish and Shevington, with funding provided for a range of projects throughout the week.

Wigan Rotary President Keith Trencher explained ‘you don’t have to be a good singer, and you don’t need to be able to read music. If you can reasonably manage to sing Happy Birthday then you’re in!’ he continued ‘ the songs will be chosen by the singers and the sessions will be run by a retired music teacher, all we now need is for lots of people to come and enjoy some good company and a good singalong.’

Booking is not required and for any more details or queries please ring the Wigan Rotary Club number 07813 471000.

QUALITY KITCHENS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

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Award winning restaurant High Moor refurbished to very high standard

Asda colleague celebrates 90th

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Courier

THE award winning High Moor Restaurant has had a substantial make-over.

The former coaching inn which is situated in Wrightington has been welcoming travellers since 1642 and is still very popular with diners from all over.

The renovations now finalised keep the original character and style but the new soft furnishings, carpets and furniture give it a light and modern look inkeeping with the beamed ceilings, high windows and inglenook fireplaces.

The cosy lounge area is now furnished with modern and light colours and the elegant dining room brightly carpeted throughout to give it also a open and light place to dine.

The High Moor has been awarded with the 'Highest Quality Assured VisitEngland Taste Award Accreditation and Loves Local Award from Taste Northwest.

The assessment criteria for securing the award is based on the quality of food, the use of locally and regionally soured produce and ingredients, as well as excellent customer service. This restaurant certainly passed with flying colours in all categories.

I was invited along to have a look around the newly refurbished restaurant and dine along with my husband Gary.

We were invited to our table by the friendly and helpful staff who throughout the meal gave us full attention. Whilst we were deciding what the eat we were brought Walnut and Raisin Bread and Fresh Lemon Iced Water.

After deciding what from the many various dishes on the menu to choose from our order was taken and we were pleasantly surprised when our first course came.

Gary decided on the Salmon and Cod Fishcake in Panko Breadcrumbs served with chilli, lemongrass and coriander and a sweet chilli sauce. He said that he could taste all the flavours coming through and was very impressed with his choice. I ordered the Potted Chicken Liver Pate which came with crisp bread and chutney served with rocket salad which was equally as tasty.

Our main course was a bit more difficult to choose from as there was so many delicious sounding dishes on the menu.

They included High Moor Lamb, Three Bird Roast, Seafood Tagliatelle, Honey Roasted Pulled Pork Shoulder to name a few. I went for the Brisket of Beef which had been melting tenderly for six hours and was served with a homemade Yorkshire pudding, seasonal fresh vegetables and roast potatoes, again this was a good choice and my plate went back empty!

Gary went for the Panko Fried Chicken and BBQ Ribs served with red cabbage slaw and fries. The chicken in the Panko was really tender and the ribs just fell off the bone. Again another good choice by Gary, After leaving us for a while to digest our main course the staff came along with the offer of dessert. Again the choice had something for everyone but Gary went for the special which was Ginger Sponge Pudding with custard and I went for the Vanilla Cheesecake served with mixed berry compote.

The meal we had was off the Evening Market Menu which is available Tuesday to Friday 5.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. and Saturdays 5.30 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. The cost is £16.95 for 2 courses or £18.95 for 3 courses.

So if you are looking for somewhere to eat which is value for money, splendid tasting food and great service you need to get the The High Moor. It certainly got a 10 out of 10 from us.

For more information on the restaurant and the different menus have a look at the website www.highmoorrestaurantwigan.co.uk

A KEEN trolley attendant at Asda Wigan has celebrated his 90th birthday – and has no plans to retire any time soon!

Tom Brogan has worked at the Soho Street store for the last 20 years. Born in Wigan in 1925, he moved to Wales where he ran a post office and shop for 60 years, before moving back to his hometown to retire.

But, not long after his return the great

grandfather went shopping at Asda Wigan and was offered a job there three days a week – and has been there ever since!

His daughter Elaine Hemingway, 66, also works at the store in the George department. She said: "Dad had only been back in Wigan for three weeks before he got the job at Asda. Colleagues and customers love his sense of humour and always say what a lovely guy he is.

“I’ve always looked up to him and he’s a brilliant dad and great granddad – he still takes me to work on a Friday!

In honour of his landmark birthday, colleagues surprised Tom with a special birthday cake – featuring a minimodel of himself.

Elaine added: “Dad is a familiar face at the store, so we wanted to celebrate his special day. He loves working here, as the job keeps him fit and active.”

Fun at the Southport Fair! Register to vote

Southport Town & Country Fair Leisure Lakes, Mere Brow, PR4 6JX

29th-31st August 2015

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

DON’T

MISS OUT!!

FREE PARKING MUCH

BIGGER MORE

ENTERTAINMENT

KIDS GO FREE SAT & UP TO 12 P.M. SUN

www.garden-festivals.com

ONCE again it’s time for the Southport Town and Country Fair.

This year the three day event promises to be ever bigger and better with more entertainment than ever!

The main attraction is the Broke FMX Freestyle Motorcross which are a dangerous high flying motorbike acrobatics team and can be seen on the Sunday and Monday.

Also there will be the reptile house (reptiles, snakes and lizards), Alpacas (Mon), racing pigeons, daily goat/Indian runner duck racing (with fun betting with honest Joe the Bookie, maximum £1.00 bet),

Siberian huskies (Sat/Mon).

A dog show will be taking place where you can enter your own dog and this is taking place on Saturday and Sunday at 1.30 p.m.

There will be donkey rides, ferrets, chickens and ducks with gun dog demos and scurry, air rifle shooting range, musical horses and pony pirouette along with Shetland ponies and ferret racing.

There will be a large selection of craft stalls and a food hall with a bar and catering plus bouncy castles and childrens attractions and fairground.

It will be a great day out for everyone so please come and join us at the Fair!!

Opening Times: 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

Admission Prices: Adults £6.00 Child £2.00 Family £16.00 Senior Citizens/Disabled £5.00 Advanced (Cheaper) Tickets

Call: 01704 212734

or visit www.garden-festivals.com

reminder

A HUGE exercise to update the electoral register is under way in Wigan Borough – and residents are being urged to respond.

Letters have been sent to more than 140,000 homes in Wigan Borough, with details of who is registered at each address as part of the annual registration process.

People are being asked to confirm via text, online or by post if the information is still correct and to provide details of any changes. Anyone living at the address who is eligible but not already registered is being invited to register.

By law every household must respond to this form and anybody who does not could receive a visit from a council inspector and be liable to a fine of up to £1,000.

The General and local elections held this May were the first held under the individual electoral registration system.

This replaced a household registration system where one person could register everyone in the household to a system.

Now everyone has personal responsibility to make sure they are registered.

With the annual electoral register due to be published on 1st December this year, the process of updating the register must begin again.

Donna Hall, chief executive and returning officer at Wigan Council, said: “It is so important that everyone who is eligible makes sure they are on the electoral register. The number of people registered here can be a factor in everything from who can vote in elections and referendums to how many MPs represent the area in Government.

“It’s also vital for residents to make sure they are signed up as the electoral register is used for credit checks and if you are not on the register you may find it harder to get a loan, mortgage, finance agreement or even a mobile phone contract. Registering is a legal obligation and failure to do so can be punishable by a fine.

“But most importantly if you aren’t registered you won’t be able to exercise your democratic rights at the ballot box.”

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WIGAN and Leigh Homes (WALH) and Wigan Warriors have teamed up to recruit community warriors as part of the Deal for Tenants.

At the end of July over 100 residents came along to the launch of the Health and Wellbeing Warrior Project to take part in free activities, including personal training sessions and computer, employment and cookery workshops.

They were also given the opportunity to

Fur Clempt

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learn more about how they can put their new found skills to good use.

Pop up café Fur Clempt brought food along to the event to show residents how to turn their leftovers into a hearty meal.

Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet member for housing at Wigan Council, opened the event. He said: “I was particularly impressed with the food donation initiative.

Not only does it provide training and volunteering opportunities, but it reduces waste and landfill costs by increasing up-cycling of unwanted food, more importantly though it helps residents and their children who are

on a budget eat healthy at a very reasonable cost.”

Through the initiative, WALH and Wigan Warriors are hoping to recruit a range of community warriors, including fitness warriors, digital warriors, working warriors, eco warriors, food warriors and gardening warriors to share their skills with the rest of the community.

Janice Barton, chief executive of WALH, said: “I am really looking forward to watching our partnership with Wigan Warriors Community Foundation develop and grow for the benefit of the communities we serve.

Our first event saw over 100 people attend and take part we hope these numbers continue to increase at future events and actives, together we are building communities for everyone.”

If you’re interested in visiting Central Park or becoming a community warrior please email: community@wiganwarriors.com or phone 0800 3897652.

Our picture shows: (1) L- R Matt Roberts, director of asset management (WALH), Councillor Chris Ready, Wayne Joyce (Wigan Warriors director of community), Martin McLoughlin (Community Foundation General Manager) (2) Councillor Chris Ready with Fur Clempt volunteers.

Warriors wanted

Friends get 1 Million website hits!

Their webmaster Kevin Horrobin says this is a wonderful achievement he is very proud of this and so are the group.

THE Friends of Haigh Country Park have had over 1 Million hits on their website, not bad for a group that only set up a couple of years ago.

The group have had hits from all over the world on their website and the facebook site, people from Australia, New Zealand, America, Canada, Russia, and all over the world anywhere you find a Wigan Expat and even in some places you don’t.

People from all over the world seem to like what we are doing at Haigh and our Crazy Golf goes down a storm.

We have a very firm fan from Moscow

who says he would love to come over and play the course as he plays Crazy Golf a lot in his home city.

The FOHCP would like to say a huge thank you to everyone no matter where you hale from for connecting with them on both sites and we will continue to work to make Haigh Country Park the Jewel in the crown of Wigan.

Councillor Chris Ready said: "This is a brilliant milestone and well deserved getting recognised all over the world and so many people are grateful for the work done by the group."

29th, 30th, 31st August Many thanks to all our customers for your support

Courier

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What is a Hospice?

THERE are many misconceptions about Hospice Care. Many people believe patients only come to the Hospice for end of life care.

The reality is that most people are unaware of the wide variety of other services available; the modern, bright surroundings; the happy atmosphere; and the fact that the majority of Hospice patients never come inside the building!...

Did you know • In-patient Care is only one facet of Hospice Care • The are many reasons why people have a period of in-patient care • Over 60% of in-patients go home • The average length of in-patient stay is 10 days.

With care being provided free of charge to around 900 new patients every year. We rely on the generosity of people within the local community and beyond who have supported the Hospice over the past 25 years.

Since the Hospice first opened in 1983 many thousands of local people and their families have benefitted from Hospice care.

The Hospice relocated to modern purpose built premises in Hindley in 1997.

Supporting Wigan & Leigh Hospice Contact Claire Jackson 01942 674 144 Solicitors For Life

We are proud to support Wigan & Leigh Hospice

First Floor, 14 Beecham Court, Wigan, Lancashire, WN3 6PR

Tel: 01942 403600 Fax: 01942 403642 www.alkerinsurance.co.uk

Vincent & Co Conveyancing Family Law Landlord and Tenant Wills and Probate

We are proud to support

Wigan and Leigh Hospice

24 High Street, Standish WN6 0HL

Tel: 01257 425121

Not only do we provide a FREE prescription collection and delivery service, we will deliver other pharmacy items from our shop too!

We are proud to support the Wigan and Leigh Hospice

15 Preston Road, Standish

FREEPHONE: 0800 633 5517

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Donate items to our Charity Shops

IF you have any items that you wish to donate to the Hospice please take them down to one of our charity shops where volunteers will be pleased to receive them.

If you have furniture or items too bulky for you to bring then telephone us and we can arrange to collect the goods. Please note: furniture must comply with the latest fire regulations and have an appropriate fire retardent label attached.We will arrange to have good quality electrical items tested prior to sale. Please ask about Televisions. There are certain limitations on the TV's we can accept. We can only sell toys which have the CE mark clearly displayed.

Please can you make sure that any goods are clean and, where appropriate, in working order.

For further information, or to arrange a collection, please contact the Hospice on 01942 525566.

Giving to the hospice

A donation, no matter how large or small, helps us to continue to offer the special love and care that is so needed by our patients and their families.

Every year we need to raise over £1.5 million from voluntary sources. Over 90p in every pound goes directly to patient care.

If you or your family and friends, from anywhere in the world, want to donate to the Hospice online; or if you're are organising an event and wish to set up online support. Visit www.wlh.org.uk for more information.

A new way to donate is by simply sending a text.

For £5 - donation text ‘WLHT05 £5’ to 70070 Send a cheque payable to Wigan & Leigh Hospice to: Wigan & Leigh Hospice, Kildare Street, Hindley, Wigan WN2 3HZ

We are here to give you support & Care

We are proud to support Wigan and Leigh Hospice

Darlville, Manchester Road, Ince, Wigan WN2 2EA T: 01942 244712 F: 01942 496135 E: gary@vartys.co.uk

Celebrating over 100 years of Legal Services

PLATT & FISHWICK SOLICITORS

We are very proud to support Wigan and Leigh Hospice

47 King Street, Wigan. Tel: 01942 243281 11 Preston Road Standish. Tel: 01942 402430 www.plattandfishwick.co.uk

We are pleased to support the Wigan and Leigh Hospice • Pendant Alarms • 24/7 help at the touch of a button • Keeping loved ones safe and sound

TEL: 0345 603 4576 www.eldercare.co.uk

Dedicate a daisy at Bucks Head fun day

A DEDICATE A Daisy family fun day, in aid of Wigan and Leigh Hospice’s Counting on Care appeal, will be held at the Bucks Head in Abram on Saturday 29th August from 15pm.

Visitors to the pub, on Warrington Road, will enjoy a whole host of activities, including an It’s a Knock Out assault course, bouncy castles, a BBQ, cake and craft stalls and a disco among many other things.

Families will also able be able to Dedicate A Daisy to remember a loved one and plant it at the Bucks Head on the day.

In return for a donation, the name of a treasured friend or relative will be handwritten onto a wooden daisy which can be planted on the day, and will then be planted in the Hospice gardens until September, or can be taken home straight away.

The Hospice is currently raising £60,000 for the Counting on Care appeal to support the cost of modernising the 14-bed Inpatient Unit and making it dementia-friendly. All proceeds from Dedicate A Daisy will go towards the appeal.

Christine Edwardson, community fundraiser, said: “Dedicate A Daisy is a simple and meaningful way to support our Counting on Care appeal. A lot of people tell us that they would like some sort of memorial to their loved one at the Hospice so dedicating one of our

We are happy to support The Hospice

H. GREAVES & SON DESIGNER DRESS AGENCY

Quality Butchers

1 Chequer Lane, Upholland, WN8 0DA

01695 632212 www.hgreaves.co.uk

SEC

Standish Engineering Co Ltd

We are proud to support Wigan and Leigh Hospice

Mayflower Works, Bradley Lane, Standish Lancashire, WN6 0XF. Tel: 01257 422 838 www.standishengineering.co.uk

The Standish Unity Club

• Conveyancing • Family • Mediation • Wills & Trusts • Commercial • Litigation • Employment Proud to support Wigan & Leigh Hospice 61-63 Church Street, Leigh, WN7 1AY 01942 673431 www.dootsons.co.uk Offices at Leigh, Culcheth, Newton & Atherton

beautiful wooden daisies will give families that opportunity.

“The daisies will be planted together in our gardens in remembrance until September when everyone who has dedicated a daisy will be able to take it home with them to keep.”

Leah Carroll, from the Bucks Head, said: “We are delighted to be able to do something to support the Hospice’s appeal and came up with the idea of a Dedicate A Daisy Day so families can come and have a fun afternoon and support the Hospice at the same time. We’ll have loads of fun activities for the whole family and we hope everyone will come along to help us raise as much money as we can.”

All daisies will remain planted in the Hospice gardens until Sunday, September 6th when all those who have made dedications will be invited to a ceremony at the Hospice where they will be able to collect their daisy.

You can Dedicate A Daisy by filling the form available on our website or one of the leaflets which are available in the Hospice, in Hospice shops and in supporting businesses across the Borough.

You can also email the Hospice team on , telephone 01942 525566 or download one from .

Our picture shows The team from The Bucks Head in Abram.

The Standish Centre, Cross Street

All the staff and committee are proud to support Wigan & Leigh Hospice

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11

Volunteer

Courier

NEARLY 700 people like you, freely give their time and talents in support of Wigan & Leigh Hospice.

As well as serving your community you can...

• Meet new people • Make new friends • Be a valued member of a team • Learn new skills and develop new interests • Make a difference and help people in your community with a life-limiting illness.

• Improve your own self-esteem • Strengthen your CV and help to develop your career • Develop talents that employers and colleges value • Use skills 'hard-earned' over the years • Have fun and enjoy yourself!

• Am I old/young/experienced enough Whatever your age or experience, you can be sure there is some aspect of volunteering that will suit you.

You can help as much or as little as you like. There are no rigid committments. The time you give time is totally governed by you.

If you would like to know more, simply email the volunteers department or ring us on 01942 525566.

THE WIGAN COURIER - WIGAN’S ONLY FREE NEWSPAPER THAT COVERS LOCAL SPORT

The Importance of Being Earnest

Fundraising Events

EVERY year the Hospice has to raise over £1.5 million from the local community to maintain its existing level of specialist services.

You can support the Hospice by organising your own event or taking part in one or more of the Hospice's own fundraising initiatives such as: Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride. STAR TREKKERS. Light for a Life Appeal. Hospice Lottery. Business Support Group The Hospice arranges many other fundraising events including Golf Days, Fairs, the Hospice Ball and many more. Visit our website www.wlh.org.uk or call 01942 525566.

Cyclists celebrate success

memory of their dad Ray Ball who died at home in February.

“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.”

Jennie Collins, from Wigan Borough Clinical Commissioning Group, took part after losing 6.5 OVER 285 cyclists are stone in weight. Jennie now takes celebrating success after part in many sporting events and riding 63 miles from wanted to join the Bike Ride to Manchester to Blackpool in support the Hospice.

“As I work at the CCG, I know aid of Wigan and Leigh how hard the Hospice has to work Hospice on Sunday July to raise funds. They do a 12th. wonderful job supporting patients The riders set off in high spirits to die peacefully at home. It has from a drizzly Manchester at been a great day and I’ve really around 7.30am and cycled through enjoyed the ride and the fantastic Leigh, Aspull, Preston and Lytham atmosphere.” before arriving at Blackpool’s Trio Paul Wilson, Gary Cook south promenade. and Neil Stokes rode the 63 miles Caroline Baba and Nicola Ball in memory of Paul’s dad who died took part for the first time in four years ago after being cared for by Hospice nurses.

In Preston, the team enjoyed a rest and a pie or We are proud two before they to support set off on the Wigan & Leigh Hospice final leg to Blackpool.

Douglas Valley, Wingates Road, Christine Off Leyland Mill Lane, Wigan Edwardson, Telephone: 01942 242556 community

WIGAN RUGBY UNION CLUB

We are proud to support the Wigan & Leigh Hospice Unit 81 Bradley Hall Trading Estate Bradley Lane, Standish, WN6 0XQ

CHEETHAMS COAL Tel: 01257 422668

COAL MERCHANTS NORTH WEST Supporting Wigan & Leigh Hospice

Cheethams Coal Ltd, Unit 71B Bradley Hall Trading Est, Bradley Lane, Standish , Wigan , WN6 0YS TELEPHONE: 01257 427008

fundraiser, said: “From start to finish there was a buzz of excitement from all our riders.

Everyone has done so well and we are very grateful for all those who turned out to make this year’s bike ride such a success.

“We’d also like to thank all those who volunteered and to local businesses Neil Wild Transport and Wincanton, which each donated a lorry for the day, Waterfields for providing the fabulous barm cakes and to W Howard and Walmsley’s Insurance for their continued support – we couldn’t have done it without you all.”

Our pictures show Caroline Baba and Nicola Ball and Jennie Collins from Wigan Borough Commissioning Group.

Bravo Theatre Company St Michael’s Hall, Wigan OSCAR Wilde was the late 19th century equivalent of many of today’s pop culture icons: a brilliant intellectual, eloquent, creative with a real feel for the popular culture of his time.

Bravo Theatre Company, under the direction of James Dingwall, demonstrate just how relevant Wilde’s comedy of manners is to us now with their production of his tightly written three act comedy, The Importance of Being Earnest.

It’s a play full of comedic twists and turns as two lads-about-town in upper class London circles seek to extricate themselves from their fictional alter-egos and also win the hearts of the two girls they need to impress.

The play is, of course,

The Deal in Aspull

AS PART of Wigan Council rolling out The Deal in each area of the borough, residents are being invited to a ‘have your say’ afternoon in Aspull to discuss how the community can work with the council to improve the area.

Leader of the council, Lord Peter Smith, and Chief Executive, Donna Hall, will be holding two sessions at the British Legion, Sumner Street, in Aspull, on Thursday 20th August from 4:30-6pm and 6.30-8pm.

Doors will be open from 3pm and there will be stalls with lots of information about local services.

Stalls will include information from customer services, libraries, recycling, in bloom, Friends of Haigh, Carers Centre,Aspull Wrestling Club, Wigan Women’s Centre, British Legion, Wigan and Leigh Homes, lifestyle services, Aspull Methodist Church and more.

Lord Peter Smith, leader of Wigan Council, said: “I’m really looking forward to meeting residents in Aspull to hear their ideas for the area. The council needs people to stick to their part of The Deal by taking ownership for where they live, which we know many people already do. We have further savings to make and we can’t do it alone so I’d urge anyone with ideas for their area to tell us so we can work together for a better borough.”

The sessions are part of a week in Aspull, and surrounding areas Haigh, New Springs and Whelley, when the community and council will work together to spruce up the area and encourage people to get involved with and find out more about The Deal.

What would you like to talk to the council about at the sessions in Aspull? Tell us by e m a i l i n g 300voices@wigan.gov.uk or find Wigan Council Online on facebook or @WiganCouncil on twitter.

Theatre Review almost sewn into the English theatrical tradition - the familiar figures of Lady Bracknell, Miss Prism, Algie Moncrieff, Jack Worthing, Cecily Cardew and Gwendolyn Fairfax have provided us with many a quick quip or bon mot down the years.

And who can resist a smile at Lady Bracknell’s protestation when confronted with the news that her daughter’s intended was found abandoned in a handbag at Victoria Station as an infant?

"A handbag.....?????"

Credit then to the cast, who threw themselves gleefuly into the spirit of the play and the times.

Deborah Khalidi was a formidable Lady Bracknell, just the right amount of snooty outrage without

hamming it up and making the character into a caricature. The ladies were impeccable in character, Beth Leivers as the ever-soprecise Gwendolyn, Gemma Anderson as the flighty young Cecily Cardew. Both clearly expressed the underlying sophistication of Wilde’s characters: they were effortlessly comic whilst mantaining a dignity that a contemporary audience wold have come to expect.

The lads were equally lovable, James Mearns almost whisker twiddling in a Flashman fashion as the scheming louche Algy Moncrieff, and a special mention for Jenny McKeown who played Jack Worthing. Playing a man whilst a woman (and vice versa) is a testing challenge for an actor -

Jenny carried it off with aplomb.

There was a touch of the Margaret Rutherford about Anne Baron’s excellent Miss Prism she was made to play such a character.

David Swift’s Canon Chasuble was a treat, the poor confused and pursued clergyman bravely standing up to a barrage of confusing and conflicting Christening arrangements and raw human emotions, not the least those of his ardent admirer Miss Prism.

Great support from the domestic servants as well, deadpan Chelsea Clark and a puzzled Martin Spencer.

The venue was perfect, a spare and lean set and stage that let the words do all the talking…..I’m sure Oscar Wilde would love that line! (Mark Ashley)

Stunning Occasion Wear Fabulous Accessories

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New Autumn Fashions at Barbaras

BARBARA’S of Standish has been providing fashion, footwear and accessories now for 38 years and is now offering a new Autumn/Winter stock.

Over the years Denise along with her mum before her has supported many charities and organised numerous fashion shows.

The next event will be on September 14th at Tunley Reformed Church, Wrightington and the fashion show will be 7.00 p.m. for 7.30 p.m.

The tickets for this show will be £10.00 and this includes refreshments. There will also be a raffle.

You can obtain tickets by calling 01257 425330, 463407 or 426252.

You can always be assured of a personal shopping experience at Barbara’s. The staff are always on hand to assist and give advice, and you are able to browse at your leisure.

Denise is always on the look out for new fresh styles for both businesses whether it be for weddings, cruises, parties or other special occasions. There are also sale items still available.

12

Courier

Mesnes Park named as one of the best parks in Britain

THE WIGAN COURIER - WIGAN’S ONLY FREE NEWSPAPER THAT COVERS LOCAL SPORT

THE much-loved green space in the heart of Wigan Borough joins Pennington Hall Park, Jubilee Park and Alexandra Park as a Green Flag Award winner.

Cllr Kevin Anderson, Cabinet member for Environment at Wigan Council, said: “Achieving Green Flag status is a reflection on all the hard work that staff, Friends groups and other local volunteers put in to making our parks wonderful places to visit. It’s a great example of what can be done when people get involved in their local community, something we’re encouraging residents to do as part of The Deal.

“I’m particularly pleased to see Mesnes Park recognised this time around as it has gone such a transformation over the past few years - this is a much deserved reward.”

Mesnes Park was the focus of a £6.1m project – funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Big Lottery Fund, Wigan Council and site managers WLCT - which has seen it restored to its former Victorian glory. The work, completed back in 2013, saw many features reinstated including the Coalbrookdale Fountain and the Sir Francis Sharpe Powell monument; plus the refurbishment of the Pavilion which now houses a café.

A special flag raising ceremony is being planned at the park next month to mark this latest achievement.

The Green Flag Awards recognise and reward the best parks and green spaces across

the country. A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.

This year, a record breaking 1,582 parks and green spaces across Britain are receiving the award.

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme. All the flags flying this year are a testament to the efforts of the thousands of men and women, both staff and volunteers, who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.”

Our picture shows the award winning Mesnes Park.

Have your say on armed forces hub

HAVE your say and help shape plans for a new armed forces hub in Wigan Borough.

Wigan Council is working in partnership with Wigan Sea Cadets to create the new £500,000 hub which will offer a range of different services for serving and former armed forces members and their families.

A consultation is now under way and residents are being urged to fill out the survey online or in libraries and life centres across the borough to help inform the kind of services the armed forces hub will offer.

The hub will be a centre of excellence to give specialist support to the 22,000 veterans and their families currently living in Wigan Borough along with reservists and serving personnel.

The proposals include plans for a museum space, arts centre and café area as well as support and advice on a wide range of subjects such as housing and employment.

Leader of Wigan Council Lord Peter Smith said: “Like most people in the borough the council respects those who have served this country in the armed forces.

We are committed to looking after all of our armed forces members past, present and future along with their families.

“The armed forces hub will offer a wide range of services and support to those across the community and will make a real difference.

And as part of The Deal we want to encourage people to have their say on issues that matter to them and this is a perfect opportunity where your thoughts can help shape the work we do to improve the borough.”

The consultation closes on Tuesday 1st September and can be filled in online here: www.wigan.gov.uk/armedforceshubconsultation

13

A Day of a thousand treats Courier

THE WIGAN COURIER - WIGAN’S ONLY FREE NEWSPAPER THAT COVERS LOCAL SPORT

For further information on the event please contact The Charnley Arms or Alison on 07979 737778.

THIS coming Saturday, 22nd August, see’s the very first Geoff Carr Memorial Iron man and cycle event, combined with CharnleyFest 2015. This event celebrates the life of Geoff Carr, local Standish man, whilst raising money for The Three Wishes Charity.

The day has been billed as 1000 things to do in one day, as there really are so many fun filled things to do at the day! The event organisers are pleased to welcome Wigan Youth Zones PieFactor who will be entertaining the crowds throughout the afternoon. Spencer Parry from Wigan Youth Zone said, “this is a great opportunity for the youths of the area to entertain at a real venue”.

The event will have something for everyone during the day, Mountain monkeys will be providing their 8 meter climbing wall and archery, Kaleidoscope parties will have the children enthralled through the afternoon with children’s magic and balloon modelling.

For the adults professional close-up magician, Darren O’Neill, will be roaming the event and as always astounding all those who encounter his magic. Whilst Wigan Youth Zone take a break from the stage professional singer Amanda Hayes will bring a cultural tone with her performances from the musicals.

There will be a very special appearance on the stage mid afternoon from Frozen’s very own Elsa and Anna, and for the very lucky girl or boy who is chosen as best fancy dress; there will be a special gift presented to them by Elsa or Anna.

The Charnley Arms host venue have been able to secure an outside bar to ensure that all attendees can be catered for. During the summer holidays it can be stressful and coming to any event means you have to watch the children.

The mobile fun palace, double decker play bus will be on site to help ease this

pressure and ensure the children have a lovely time.

Children and adults alike will be in awe of the birds of prey in attendance on the day, who will be there with both ground and aerial displays.

We are pleased to be supported by our local North West Ambulance service with one of their front line ambulances and rapid response vehicles, and also, call-outs permitting our local Fire and Rescue Service.

As with all events such as this there will be a host of stalls from tombola’s, stocks, traditional side stalls, cake stalls, book stalls, jewellery and handbag stalls, and much more! Who would you nominate for a soaking?

The Charnley Arms will be open from 12noon as usual, and the event officially opened by the Lord Mayor and Geoffs wife, Pauline; alongside Carl Pastor, operations manager and event sponsor from Aintree Racecourse.

The Charnley Arms is also the finish line for the Triathlon and cycle event which will see competitors complete their 26 mile cycle ride, 26 mile walk, or 23 mile cycle ride, 3 mile kayak and 3 mile up-hill run for iron man competitors.

The fun day will run till 5.30pm when it is hoped that it will have reached its target raised for The Three wishes charity of £7000.

14

Courier

Standish Royal British Legion

Are organising a COACH TRIP TO YORK Saturday September 5th £10.00 per person

Coach leaves from Standish St. Wilfrids Church at 8.30 a.m.

Contact Nelly on 01257 401274

Standish Arts and Music Festival timetable THE WIGAN COURIER - WIGAN’S ONLY FREE NEWSPAPER THAT COVERS LOCAL SPORT

THE Standish Arts and Music Festival returns on Saturday October 10th. Listed below is a full event timetable.

Saturday 10 October – starting at 10:30am – in St Wilfrid’s Church, we have our very popular Church Tour, ably conducted by Mr Joe Bazeley or Mr Alan Stone. Let them lead you through the history of our magnificent Church which is the only Grade 1 listed building in th Borough of Wigan.

Admission is free/voluntary retiring

collection Saturday 10 October - Starting at 7:30pm, in St Wilfridf’s Church .

The Festival opens in spectacular style with PEMBERTON OLD BRASS BAND . This championship band’s formation dates back to the 19th Century, their reputation is renowned so you know you are in for a good night with some wonderful music, this is one Not to miss!

Refreshment will be available for a small donation during the interval. Admission £5.

Sunday 11 October – Starting at 6:30pm, in St Wilfrid’s Church, Patronal Festival Songs of Praise We will be joined by the Choirs of All Saints, Appley Bridge, and St Anne’s, Shevington. Followed by light refreshments Monday 12 October – Starting at 7:30pm, in St Wilfrid’s Parish Hall– A new venture for the festival Craft

Demonstrtions . We have a cookery demonstration presented by our very own Rector Andrew.

Come and see how David Johnson our church Warden makes his beautiful pens out of various types of wood. A floral demonstration by the highly talented Helen Green, a Parishioner but also a Lecturer in Floristry and Horticulture at Wigan and Leigh College and finally we will have some music from our Director of Music, John Walton whilst we enjoy some very nice Cheese & Wine. Admission £5.

Tuesday 13 October – Starting at 7:30pm, in St Wilfrid’s Church – The Ormskirk Ukulele Band – you’re in for a lively night of music and some may even dance in the aisle. Refreshment will be available for a small donation during the interval. Admission £5 Wednesday 14 October – Starting at

2:00pm in St Wilfrid’s Church. Children from our three local schools, St Marie’s, Wood Fold and St Wilfrid’s – we have a wealth of talent from these three schools and it is this is a joy to see and hear so come along and support our children, entrance is free with a voluntary retiring collection.

Then to end a lovely day we have commencing at 7:00pm The multi- talented senior pupils from St John Rigby 6th Form College and Standish Community High School, music from all genres presented in a most professional way and a delight to hear, admission is free again with a voluntary retiring collection.

Thursday 15 October – Starting at 2:00pm – in St Wilfrid’s Church.we have a further Church Tour so if you missed Saturday’s tour here is your chance again to visit

our beautiful Church, admission is free, but you can donate at the end if you so wish.

Thursday 15 October starting at 7:00pm, in Standish Library, Cross Street Standish, Someone’s Sons a production of a War Play.

Admission £3 from the Library, There are limited places so booking early is recommended. They can also be contact on 01257 400496 Friday 16 October commencing at 7:30, In St Wilfrid’s Parish Hall. another break from tradition when we will be having a Festival Dinner, this will consist of 5 courses of excellently prepared food, and good company. All proceeds from this Dinner will be donated to the Church Lighting Fund. There are limited places and so we recommend early purchase of tickets whch will be available from September onwards Ticket Price £25.00

Saturday 17 October starting at 7:30pm, in St Wilfrid’s Parish Church our Grand Finale and we close our week with our very own Wigan Youth Orchestras – this is always a very popular night with a much varied programme of music to suit all tastes and displays the wealth of talent we have in our town.

Admission £5 Contact: Tickets can be obtained for any of the above [with the exception of the Library event] from the Parish Office, opening hours are 10:00 – 12:00noon Monday – Friday, or call on 01257 422538 or you are able to pay at the door for events held in Church.

Also during this week Standish Art Group and Adlington Art Group will have displays on in Church and one of their representatives will be available.

Wigan Photographic Society will also have displays.

Bringing books to your doorstep

WHEN Florrie Dean was a baby, The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett was one of the most popular books in Britain.

That was 104 years ago. Now, with more than 90 years reading under her belt, the avid reader is well placed to act as an ambassador for Wigan Council’s library home delivery service.

Join a warm and friendly group near you today.....

Florrie started to read aged 11 when books were given out at school as prizes for good attendance and has continued throughout her life, with a little help from the delivery service over the past 10 years.

She said: “Everyone should read. I’m lost unless I’ve got a book – I love a good murder or romance story. The library service comes to me every three weeks and brings me books that I might like. I think this is a great service that people should be aware of and make use of.”

The delivery service is open to everyone in the Borough, making a particular difference to those elderly or disabled residents who are unable to get out to libraries themselves. Staff liaise with residents to find out what they enjoy reading and take a selection of books to their doorstep. The van is out every day and makes 600 visits a month.

Cllr Paul Kenny, Wigan Council’s Cabinet member for Resources, said: “We want to help people like Florrie continue their love of reading at a time of their lives when they may not be able to get to a library for whatever reason. It’s a great service that goes out in the community to make a real difference to people’s lives.”

If you’d like to find out more about the library home delivery service, call the team on 01942 486985.

Our picture shows Florrie Dean with Angela Grimshaw from Wigan Council

Strawberry afternoon for Guild

Thursday - The Community Centre, Standish - Karen Moody Street, Standish *New Time* at 9.00 a.m.

Wednesday Standish - Barbara Standish High School, International Language Centre Kenyon Road, Standish at 5.30pm and 7pm Tuesday Shevington - Barbara Shevington Methodist Church, Gathurst Lane 3.30pm, 5pm and 7pm Thursday Parbold Village Hall, Parbold - Carol at 6.00pm

THE Wigan Ladies Guild held a Strawberry Afternoon recently as part of their fundraising

for their nominated charity for 2015 `Winston`s Wish`, a charity that supports bereaved youngsters.

With lashings of strawberries and cream served with fruit scones and endless cups of tea, the afternoon proved to be a great success.

Everyone enjoyed themselves with members and guests also winning some excellent raffle prizes.

The photograph shows Wigan Ladies Guild members having a good time.

Anyone interested in joining ring Janet on 01942 708959."

Courier

15

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THE WIGAN COURIER - WIGAN’S ONLY FREE NEWSPAPER THAT COVERS LOCAL SPORT

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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

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V supermini-SUV.

But to maintain the momentum, the brand’s already working hard on the next Civic and attempting to put right what the current model got wrong – and our image shows how it could look.

The 10th-generation Civic will appear in 2017 with the aim of beating competition from the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf – a feat Honda hasn’t achieved for the past decade.

It’ll be more efficient, more spacious and boast market-leading safety technology. Even better, it’ll still be built in Britain.

The company is pumping more than £200million into its factory in Swindon, Wilts, for Civic production. CR-

V production is moving to Ontario in Canada so Swindon can focus on ensuring the Mk10 is the best it can be; it will become the hub for Civic production, building all models for Europe and a number of key markets globally.

Our image shows how the car should look, ditching the current version’s divisive design for something far sleeker and more stylish.

Honda dropped its biggest hint of how the next Civic was shaping up at April’s New York Motor Show.

The Civic Concept was a two-door coupé, and while the car previewed was for markets like the US, it gave strong indications of how the Europe-bound Mk10 five-door will look.

It features an aggressively styled front end with sleek headlights and a prominent Honda badge. It’s likely to get a more coupé-like roofline with a stubby rear end and distinctive tail-lights.

Inside, the current car’s cluttered layout should make way for a more ordered dashboard, with a large central touchscreen replacing the confusing split-screen arrangement.

But the distinctive dials will likely be carried over.

It should also be roomier, particularly in the back.

Under the skin, it will be built on a new platform which will spawn saloon and coupé models – but the UK won’t get these. A swoopy Tourer estate is likely to arrive in 2018 and a hot Type R model with over 350bhp should follow soon after, too.

Spies have captured the car out on development drives, and while the black model hints at the styling, it’s more of a test bed for the next Civic’s powertrain technology.

It’s expected to use Honda’s new 1.5-litre iVTEC petrol, which recently debuted in the HR-V, plus a British-built 1.6-litre diesel. There’ll also be the choice of sixspeed manual or CVT boxes.

A larger 2.0-litre turbo petrol could replace the current 1.8 and is set to form the basis of the next Type R. When the Civic goes on sale in 2017, it should start at close to the existing car’s sub£16,000 price tag.

risk of being targeted by delinquent tech experts.

Rumours of remote attacks on the computer systems within our vehicles have circled the automotive industry for years, but as modern cars feature more and more wireless connections, Bluetooth accessibility and other routes of electronic entry, the risks of car hacking attacks are only likely to increase.

Researchers Miller and Valasek reveal that most cars are hacked by accessing their Electronic Control Units (ECUs). All modern cars contain ECUs that control everything from infotainment to the ABS system. ECUs work together as a network – where one influences the other, and alter their functions in different driving modes.

The number of ECUs in modern cars ranges from 20 to 100, which in effect

means 100 different points of access for potential car hackers.

Accessing ECUs can now be done wirelessly, either through Bluetooth or even DAB radio connections, but assuming physical control of a car requires more than just a point of entry.

A common attack consists of the hacker sending a line of code that allows them to listen to the ECU – observing your driving patterns and choices of radio station, for example. To actually control the vehicle, however, the attackers would need to get one ECU to interact with others – thus influencing the system.

It is the latter stage of a successful hack, establishing a bridge of communications from one ECU to the next, wirelessly, that has caught auto manufacturers by surprise.

Fiat Chrysler identified a

potential threat to their noncritical vehicle safety systems as early as January 2014, but failed to acknowledge that hackers could use it to establish a bridge from one ECU to another and thus assume controls of safety critical systems.

What are manufacturers doing about car hacking?

Fiat Chrysler are looking to patch up their software to prevent further attacks, and while the attack on the Jeep Cherokee stirred a commotion, the men behind it point out that it required time, money and resources, all in abundant quantities, to pull off.

Manufacturers also continue to work with tech experts to highlight potential bugs in the network, and fund research to establish better security systems for their wireless systems.

Digital hackers now target cars

CAR HACKING is big news at the moment but should you really be worried about your car's electronic security?

Two US researchers recently contrived to elevate car hacking from an engineering anomaly to a widespread recall issue by wirelessly taking control of a 2014 Jeep Cherokee. They managed to remotely control the car’s air-conditioning, radio and, more worryingly, its brakes and engine.

Below, we’ve compiled a detailed breakdown of the car hacking issue looking at how hackers access modern cars and what manufacturers are doing to combat this new threat to car security.

While the media storm surrounding Fiat Chrysler’s car hacking vulnarabilities is centred across the pond, UK motorists could be at similar

McDonalds volunteers tackle litter

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MCDONALD’S franchisee Craig Renilson and crew from the McDonald’s on Standishgate have joined forces with Wigan Council and Wigan and Leigh Homes to help in the local community, as part of their commitment to ‘The Deal’, a council initiative.

Last month, a group of six volunteers from the restaurant spent the morning with caretakers from Wigan and Leigh Homes helping to spruce up Norley Hall during ‘Tidy Up Tuesday’.

Tidy Up Tuesday takes place every week from 8.30am – 12pm between March and November.

The initiative, set up by Wigan and Leigh Homes, aims to help keep neighbourhoods tidy by making environmental improvements.

In a further effort to improve the neighbourhood, Wigan Council and Wigan and Leigh Homes organised for the planted areas

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throughout the estate to be tidied, graffiti to be removed and skips to be provided for residents to dispose of their unwanted rubbish.

Janice Barton, chief executive of Wigan and Leigh Homes, said: “The Deal is about the community working together to make a real difference. It’s great to see local businesses, like McDonald’s, roll up their sleeves and lend a hand in the community.”

Diane Tierney, Business Manager at McDonald’s Standishgate who organised the event, said: “It was great to see everyone come together to take action against litter and I’d like to thank everyone involved for all their hard work. Participating in the ongoing Council clean ups in Wigan is a great way for McDonalds’s to get involved in contributing to the local community.”

Craig Renilson, local McDonald’s franchisee who owns and operates restaurants in Standishgate, Ormskirk and Skelmersdale said: “We as a business understand the important role we play in making the area a better place. Whilst

in the first instance we are keen to actively discourage littering, community events like this one help make a big impact on the local area.

When local businesses like mine and community members work together we are able to achieve so much more and this event is a perfect example of this.”

Aside from larger litter events such as these, McDonald’s restaurants patrol the streets at least three times a day to collect all litter that has been discarded, regardless of its origin. Crew members across the UK cover a total of 3,000 miles each week on litter patrols, which equates to 150,000 miles a year and the distance of five marathons each year per store.

In addition to the annual Keep Britain Tidy litter events and daily patrols, many restaurants have also now begun to get involved in events such as painting walls and replanting trees and flowers that improve local community areas.

Our picture shows McDonald’s franchisee Craig Renilson and crew from the McDonald’s on Standishgate.

On your marks, get set, glow...

RNIB invites local people to take part in fun run with a difference Following last year’s success, RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) is hosting another Glow Neon 3k Fun Run from 7pm on Saturday 10 October 2015 at Wigan’s Robin Park Arena. The event, sponsored by American International Group (AIG), is a 3km run with a difference.

Taking place after dark, the run is inspired by the colourful full moon parties of Thailand. Participants can run, walk or even dance their way around the track under the UV lights whilst being sprayed with luminous colourful paint.

RNIB’s Events Manager, Yvonne Harvey said: “We’re so excited about hosting another RNIB Glow run at Robin Park Arena this year. It’s such a fun and colourful event, for a great cause.

“As the run is only 3k long, it’s suitable for anyone and an excellent starting point for people who want to get fit.

Alternatively, people can just take part as a fun start to their weekend.

“Last year proved to be a real success and we’re expecting this year to be even bigger and better!”

RNIB Glow is open to anyone over the age of 10 and is fully accessible to blind and partially sighted participants. Guide runners are available to support any blind or partially sighted people.

It costs £10 to register, and all participants are asked to raise a minimum of £25 sponsorship (£15 for students, £10 for children). Visit www.rnib.org.uk/glow to find out more and register.

RNIB Glow events are taking place across the UK every weekend in October.

Every 15 minutes someone in the UK begins to lose their sight, it can happen to anyone at any time. All money raised from RNIB Glow will help RNIB provide practical and emotional support to everyone affected by sight loss.

Our Photograph shows ladies participating in one of last year’s Glow events. Find out more about the 3km fun run with a difference at www.rnib.org.uk/glow

Orrell St James becomes Lancashire’s first dual code rugby club Courier

18

Trailblazers!

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every success in the forthcoming season.”

Orrell St James will have two captains, the first team captain for rugby league is Sean McHugh and the first team captain for the rugby union side is the experienced Andy Lewis, who continues as captain following the move from Wigan.

“There’s a real sense of optimism about the direction our club is moving in,” said Sean, “And

THE NEW OSJ rugby union squad pictured at Bankes Avenue with the club’s Head of Rugby Sean McHugh (front right) and skipper Andy Lewis (4th right back row) A SMALL piece of rugby history has been made in Wigan following the recent announcement that G Open Seven Days The Best Back To School the amateur Rugby and Bank Holiday Shoe Shop in Wigan League club Orrell Monday!

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WE HAVE a lot of essential maintenance to carry out at Bankes Avenue and we are looking for Volunteers to help out on Saturday 22nd August 2015 from 9am to 1pm.

At 2-30 that day the Open Age first team will be playing Leigh Miners which is a top of the table clash, and could determine the league winners.

Bar and kitchen will be open and we hope to see as many as possible down to help out and then support the first team. Jobs include:

we are looking forward to playing our part in both codes in the seasons to come.“ RU skipper Andy Lewis added: “This club is all about its community, and it’s rugby for everyone. We are looking forward to our first season in the League together.”

lClearing out the storage containers lCutting the over grown grass sidings lWeatherproofing the Club House lPainting containers lMarking pitches lLitter picking lPaving/flagging If anyone has petrol strimmers it would be great if you could let us know and bring them with you.

Likewise if anyone is a paver/flagger and can help out please let us know. Also wheelbarrows and paint brushes.

A successful application was made by the Bankes Avenue outfit in June for the club to join the rugby football union and the new Orrell St James Rugby Union side will begin life in September in Division Five North of the Raging Bull leagues.

The club’s head coach Sean McHugh told the Courier: “We are all very excited by the prospect of playing both league and union at Bankes Avenue in the future.

“Our club already has a substantial number of players at all levels in the league game, two senior teams, junior teams all age groups and mixed age and mixed sex masters and touch rugby.”

The bulk of the players for the new rugby union side have emegrated across town from Wigan Rugby Union Club, were they comprised the Douglas Valley outfits Third team.

Commencing on the move, the team’s manager Paul Cattle said: “A number of the players have strong links with Orrell St.

James, and indeed head coach at the club Sean is a former skipper of the Wigan Third team side. The players feel that there is a greater opportunity for development across the two codes at Banks Avenue and thats why there was general agreement amongst them to make the move.”

“There is a real community feel to the Orrell St James club - there is sport here for everyone whateve your age, sex or level of ability, and we are sure that the new rugby union

ORRELL ST JAMES RUFC 1 FIXTURES 2015/16

Sept 5th Sept 12th Sept 19th Sept 26th Oct 3rd Oct 10th Oct 24th Nov 7th Nov 21st Dec 5th Dec 12th Dec 19th Jan 9th Jan 16th Jan 23rd Jan 30th Feb 20th Mar 5th Mar 12th Mar 19th Apr 9th April 16th April 23rd 30th April

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OSJ’s rugby league squad pictured before training at Bankes Avenue with the club’s Head of Rugby Sean McHugh (right).

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section will be a welcome addition to the club’s life.”

Training for Rugby League at Banks Avenue takes place on Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6 p.m. and the Rugby Union side will train on Thursdays at the same time.

“There is a four week overlap between the Rugby League and Rugby Union seasons,” said Sean, “And it is our intention to allow players to ‘mix and match’ between the two codes to maximise their participation in the sport.” The new club was given an instant endorsement by the committee of the Raging Bull leagues and the Lancashire RFU, and Sean said that there had been no objections to the formation of the new Rugby Union side from the Wigan, Orrell, Aspull or league clubs all of which are technically in the catchment area.

“We are really pleased at the positive reception we’ve received for the new side,“ said Paul Cattle, “After all, anything that increased the numbers of people participating in the sport of rugby has got to be welcomed, and we particularly wish the third team at Wigan

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Courier SPORT Give Caldwell some time to build Courier

19

AFTER SEVERAL weeks staring at the list, fixture researching potential new signings and finding alternative things to do on a Saturday afternoon, the new season has finally arrived after a barren summer without any football.

Despite Wigan Athletic having only played three games at the time of writing, initial results haven’t exactly gone according to plan. Only one point picked up out of six, just one goal scored, an exit from the League Cup and several disgruntled Latics fans have made for a tentative start the new campaign.

Sunday’s home 0-0 draw with Doncaster was a big disappointment.

All in all, it’s not been the start David Sharpe had in mind when he said the Latics would “smash League One with 100 points” and be champions by the end of the season.

Despite the pessimism, in some quarters, it’s very early days to judge Gary Caldwell and the performances of his new recruits.

With ten new players arriving and nine leaving the club during the summer, the team will obviously take time to adjust to each other and Caldwell’s tactical setup.

I’m confident Will Grigg will become a success at Wigan as he has proven goalscoring potential at this level. He’s seemed isolated in the games so far and has needed more support,

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Opinion straight from the goalmouth

By our Latics columnist Sam Oliver

leading many fans to question Caldwell’s ‘oneman-striker’ approach – the same tactic Uwe Rosler and Malky MacKay used to minimal effect.

Using two strikers in the starting eleven would make much more sense. Fellow new signing Craig Davies would be an ideal partner for Grigg.

Given time and support, I’m also confident young defenders Donervan Daniels and Reece James will become big players for Latics.

I’m pleasantly surprised at the start David Perkins has made to his Wigan career, running himself into the ground in the first few games. Michael Jacobs and Richard O’Donnell have also looked solid.

An early League Cup exit to Bury, despite being less than ideal, might be a blessing in disguise as it allows us to concentrate on the league.

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It was sod’s law that Leon Clarke, a loanee at Latics last season who failed to perform, would come back and almost single-handedly knock us out of the competition.

Anyway, everyone knows the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy is the cup we’d really like to win at some point!!

I said pre-season I’d be happy with a solid midtable position at the end of this campaign and that hasn’t changed.

We need this season to rebuild and inject a feelgood factor back into the DW, something that was obviously missing last season.

Yes, it’ll take time, but stick with Caldwell for the long-term and results will start to come our way.

First touch rugby session hosted by Orrell club

By Geoff Lightfoot TOUCH RUGBY made its debut at St. John Rigby college hosted by Orrell RFC in partnership with the RFU, the first of five consecutive venues within the borough.

Touch rugby is a new fully inclusive adaptation which welcomes newcomers with open arms from 14 years upwards, male or female.

More than players turned out on the first night, a great number having never played before.

There were four father and son combinations, a mother, son and daughter in another team and a full family all turning out proving this game is for all.

Each team played three games of twenty minutes well refereed by two girls from Wigan Touch Warriors, Mel Ratchford and Johanna Edgerton. There were tries a plenty with some great rugby played.

Congratulations to the Aspull side on winning the opening competition.

Surewill is a surefire winner!

SUREWILL, the show cob owned by the owners of the White Crow in Worthington, Helen and Stuart Birch, is having another very successful season on the show circuit, culminating in qualification for the Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead in 2016, and the Horse of the Year Show.

Surewill, ridden by the experienced Andrew Collins, has triumphed with first places and champion at the Devon County Show, first placed and Champion in the maxi cob and coloured classes at the Derbyshire

Festival, and recently won a 1st place and reserve champion award at the prestigious Cheshire County Show.

Surewill is pictured above with Andrew at his most recent outing, recording Supreme Champion at the Chaps Championship Show earlier this month. Stuart told the Courier: “Surewill is having a fantastic year.

His relationship with Andrew is amazing and the two seem to be winning everything at the moment.

“We have high hopes now for his appearance at the Horse of the Year Show.”

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