Wigan Good Traders Scheme feature Pages 10 & 11
Courier The WIGAN
Wigan MP Lisa joins Labour Shadow Cabinet WIGAN Nandy
MP
has
Lisa earlier this month.
been
appointed as the new Shadow Energy and Climate
Secretary.
email: info@courier-online.net
Change
The announcement was
made by Labour Leader
Jeremy Corbyn as he
revealed his full list of
Lisa will be responsible for Labour’s approach to tackling climate change and holding the Government to account on issues such as fracking and energy bills. Speaking about her appointment to the Courier, Lisa said: “I am hugely looking forward to working alongside my colleagues in the Shadow Cabinet as Shadow Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change. Climate change, fracking and
franco’s
Shadow Cabinet members after his stunning victory in the leadership election
CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS
NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR CHRISTMAS PARTIES, CHRISTMAS EVE & NEW YEAR’S EVE Early Bird December Menu 3 Course Dinner Bo Available Sunday to Thursday ea ok r all evening throughout December dis to a ly v a o ONLY £14.95 pp o id (Not available 24th & 31st December)
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high energy bills matter hugely to people across Wigan and it’s a privilege to be able to give them a national voice.” The appointment marks a rapid rise for the Wigan MP after first entering the House of Commons in 2010. Lisa has previously served as Parliamentary Private Secretary to Tessa Jowell MP and then as Shadow Children’s Minister before moving to the Shadow Cabinet Office. In the Shadow Cabinet Lisa will join her Wigan Borough colleague Leigh MP Andy Burnham (pictured above) who will serve as Shadow Home Secretary following his unsuccesful bid to become Leader in the election. The Shadow Cabinet includes a majority of women for the first time ever, although there has been some controversy and comment over the lack of women in the so-called ‘top’ jobs. The Labour Leader has sought to appease his critics by stating that Education and Health were just as important as any other job in the Shadow Cabinet.
The Good News Paper
September 29th 2015
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Issue no 260
Youth band to perform at Royal Albert Hall
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PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS IN FULL COLOUR IN THE WIGAN COURIER NEWSPAPER 01257 400026
Join a warm and friendly group near you today.....
Tuesday Shevington - Barbara Shevington Methodist Church, Gathurst Lane 3.30pm, 5pm and 7pm Wednesday Standish - Barbara Standish High School, International Language Centre Kenyon Road, Standish at 5.30pm and 7pm Thursday - The Community Centre, Standish - Karen Moody Street, Standish at 9am Thursday ParboldVillage Hall,The Green - Carol at 4pm & 6pm
WIGAN Youth Brass Band has been chosen to perform at the Royal Albert Hall in the 2015 Schools Proms.
The band, one of the 25 music ensembles provided by Wigan Council Music Service, is made up of 54 members aged 11 to 19.
It will represent the borough at this event further to selection from 40,000 musicians from across the UK who participated in regional selection events. Wigan Youth Brass Band was founded in 1997 by Dave Little who is now head of music service for Wigan Council. The band last appeared at The Proms in 2005 and this year they will be the only brass band to perform in the entire Proms season. The Schools Proms are managed by the Music for Youth (MFY) organisation. For more information, please visit:www.mfy.org.uk/coreseason/schoolsprom Dave Little, head of music service and musical director of the Wigan Youth Brass Band said: “A
Schools Proms invite is pretty much the ultimate accolade for ensemble work within music education. I am very proud of the members of the band and the tutorial staff who through their dedication and commitment have justly earned the reward of this once in a lifetime experience.” Councillor Jo Platt, portfolio holder for children and young people’s services at Wigan Council, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the talented musicians in Wigan Youth Brass Band and really will help to put Wigan Borough and Wigan’s young people on the national stage in such a prestigious venue. I hope they all have a wonderful time taking to the stage and representing young people from the borough and wish them good luck for their performance.” The band will grace the stage of the Royal Albert hall in London on Monday 23rd November. Our picture shows the Wigan Youth Brass Band outside Symphony Hall, Birmingham
Singalong with the Rotary Club
WIGAN Rotary Club are inviting anyone to come and join in a one hour singalong every fortnight at Standish Community Centre, Moody Street, Standish from 2.30 p.m. The next sing along will be on October 1st.
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 is 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.
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 listing of clubs, events etc going on regularly and also have rooms to hire for events. The Centre has recently been awarded with a 5 for the Food Hygiene Rating.
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Courier
La Mama’s Restaurant CHRISTMAS LUNCH MENU Available in the month of December 2015 from 12-5p.m. Choose from: 1 course £8.95/2Course £13.95/ 3 Course £15.95 Under 10’s: 1 Course £6.95/2 Course £10.95/3 Course £13.95
CHRISTMAS DINING & CELEBRATIONS
CHRISTMAS EVE MENU Live Music till Late 1st Sitting 6-8pm/2nd Sitting 8pm-till late Adult 3 Course £33.95/Under 10’s 3 Course £21.95
NEW YEARS EVE MENU 5 Course with Belly Dancer, Live Music & Entertainment 1st Sitting 6-8pm - Adults £29.95/Under 10’s £15.95 2nd Sitting 8pm till late - Adults £45.95/Under 10’s £20.95
£10 deposit per person required - non refundable BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT For full Festive menu please call into the restaurant
Quality food served in a family friendly atmosphere
La Mama’s staff wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Make every occasion extra special at La Mama’s Function Room Available From business meeting to celebrations. Weddings and Christenings our speciality
Telephone: 01257 427779 19 & 21 High Street, Standish, WN6 OHA www.facebook.com/LaMamaCafeRestaurant
TO CONTACT Rare Ancient Egyptian tool found in Wigan Courier
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Courier WIGAN
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Suite 107 The Standish Centre, Cross Street, Standish, Wigan WN6 0HQ The next Courier is published on Tuesday 20th October 2015 Deadline for advertisers: Monday 19th October 12 noon
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD 2015
We are collecting shoeboxes again this year to include: toys, educational supplies, hygiene items, sweets, gloves, scarfs, sunglasses, caps, bangles, necklaces etc - £3.00 per box
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EXPERTS have identified a rare tool used by Ancient Egyptians in the mummification process in the Museum of Wigan Life collection – and it’s the largest of its type in the world.
The only other three known examples of the wooden paddles are two found in the British Museum in London and one in the Medelhavsmuseet in Stockholm.
Cllr Kenny, Wigan Council’s Cabinet member for leisure, said: “This is an amazing discovery which once again pitches the museum’s Egyptian collection as one of the most impressive in the country. I would encourage people to come along and view the exhibition – it is definitely one not to miss.” Dr Stephen Buckley and Prof Joann Fletcher of the University of York have taken tiny samples from the collection for chemical testing. Their latest research shows that the long wooden paddle was used by ancient Egyptian
embalmers to stir and mix embalming agents. Dr Buckley’s tests reveal traces of plant oil, conifer resin, beeswax, plant gum and balsam on the paddle - the same key ingredients found in tests on the other known paddles in Stockholm and London. These ingredients were chosen as they had both practical preservative antibacterial properties and symbolic significance for the Egyptians and were believed to protect the dead person from harmful forces. Mummification took 70 days and took place in the ‘house of purification’. The heart was left in the body but other internal organs were removed and placed in Canopic jars before the body was dried out with salts and anointed with perfumed oils. The museum is now looking for funding to get the paddle radiocarbon dated to confirm its age. The Ancient Egypt Rediscovered exhibition at the museum covers the complete history of the period from 3500BC to Roman Egypt, exploring daily life, religious beliefs and death
rituals. It contains a gold coffin mask from the 18th Dynasty and a coffin with a rare scene of mourners lamenting. Dr Stephen Buckley, Research Fellow at the University of York, uses science to reveal new insights into ancient history. Prof Fletcher, Honorary Visiting Professor at the University of York, is author of numerous books and TV series including BBC2’s Ancient
Egypt: Life and Death in the Valley of the Kings and Egypt’s Lost Queens. Stephen and Jo’s work includes the BAFTA-winning Mummifying Alan: Egypt’s Last Secret. Ancient Egypt Rediscovered runs until June 2016. The exhibition is free to all. Our picture shows Community History Manager Lynda Jackson with the paddle
100 year of W.I.
THE ladies of Standish W.I. marked the 100 year anniversary by holding an Afternoon Tea which raised more than £100.00 after completing a combined 100 mile walk. The afternoon ended with a sing-a-long and in true W.I. style they sang Jerusalem, to complete a very enjoyable and successful day.
Shoeboxes can be brought to Standish Methodist Church, High Street, Standish Thursday 5th November until Wednesday 2nd December 2015 The Church will be open Monday to Friday 10.00 p.m. - 5.00 p.m. For anymore information or leaflets please contact
JOAN SCHOFIELD on 01257 473548
Leaflets are available from Standish Library, Standish Community Centre, Rainbow on High Street, Charity Shop on Market Street and St. Wilfrid’s Church Hall.
Cooperative Funeralcare raise funds for MacMillan
OUR picture shows Jane and Joy from the C o o p e r a t i v e Funeralcare, Standish with ladies who attended the MacMillan event they organised at the Standish Community Centre. The afternoon was filled with coffee and cakes and a handbag auction. They raised £146.00 for the charity.
Well done Ladies. Should you be interested in joining Standish W.I we meet at Ashfield House , Standish, 7pm on the 2nd Thursday of the month. You can also contact us via our Facebook page. Our picture shows a group of members preparing to do the last mile.
New Worcester Bosch Boiler installed from
Windsor House Care home celebrates good rating WINDSOR House care home in Standish, Wigan, has been awarded a ‘Good’ rating after a recent inspection.
Part of the Millennium Care UK Group, Windsor House is one of only a few care homes in the Wigan area to receive the ‘Good’ rating in every aspect of the report, issued by the Care Quality Commission. The home in Wigan Road specialises in residential care, and with ‘Good’
ratings in all areas, the CQC has declared the home safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led. Windsor House Manager Barbra Greaves said: “We are very proud of this rating and also for the recognition in strong levels of care given to our residents at Windsor House. It is a testament to the hard work, continued passion and dedication of my team.” The report highlighted that the home is safe, clean and staff are very patient and considerate, with relatives saying they felt their relative’s privacy and dignity was fully respected.
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St. Maries bowling buggy gift
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Courier
ST. MARIES Bowling Club received a kind donation in May which enabled the club to purchase a Bradshaw bowls buggy. The intention of this buggy was to enable incapacitated bowlers i.e. bowlers who from various disabilities could not walk across the bowling green.
The club has three members who suffer from such difficulties and who now use the buggy on a regular basis, some participate in bowling leagues and can arguably hold their own with the able bowlers. Some of the comments the club have had from the disadvantaged bowlers were that having the buggy was 'better than winning the lottery' and 'it has given them a new lease of life'. The club have since had one of the bowlers purchase a
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second hand buggy which is is prepared to share with other disadvantaged bowlers, no matter where they are from. The club also run adult learning sessions every Wednesday 10.30 a.m. - 12 Noon during the season. A Sports Persons dinner is being held on Friday 23rd October at The Beeches, School Lane Standish at 7.00 p.m. for 7.30 p.m. start. Tickets are £25.00 each. The guest speaker is Frank Morgan, Lancs/Wigan RU Ex President and there will also be a local magician. Please support this event as all the funds go towards the purchase of a defibrillator. For information and tickets please call Club Chairman Ken Derbyshire on 01257 400079. Our picture shows John Fowler and Tony Cammack who uses the Bradshaw bowls buggy.
Walking for a world without dementia
ON Saturday October 3rd a 'Memory Walk' will be taking place in Mesnes Park, Wigan to raise awareness and raise funds for a world without dementia.
We need hundreds of people to walk on this special day.
George Davies, who is taking part in the walk, says: "People of all ages and abilities can join in, it's a day that everyone can come together for our loved ones affected by Dementia." The 'Memory Walk' starts at 12 noon at Mesnes Park and meeting will be at the bandstand 15 minutes before for registration. Everyone will be made welcome.
Ellie rides for grandad Wigan Central Ward Councillor
TWELVE-YEAR-OLD Ellie Meyrick, from Hawkley Hall in Wigan, cycled over 63 miles from Manchester to Blackpool in July in memory of her granddad John Taylor, who died 4 years ago. Ellie completed the ride in 5.5 hours and raised a fantastic £640 for Wigan and Leigh Hospice.
Christine Edwardson, community fundraiser at the Hospice, said: “This is a wonderful achievement for a ride which is a huge challenge, even for adults. To complete this length of ride at the age of twelve is truly inspiring. We are very proud of Ellie and so grateful for her generous donation.” Our picture shows Ellie’s sister and gran, Hannah Meyrick and Irene Taylor, with Ellie (centre) and Hospice Ward Sister Rebekah Ashley.
ORDE R NOW FOR GUARANTEED FITTING BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Maxine Peake backs #BelieveInHer campaign
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FAMOUS actress Maxine Peake has backed Wigan C o u n c i l ' s #BelieveInHer campaign with a message to women in Wigan Borough to follow their dreams.
#BelieveInHer was launched by Wigan Council earlier this year to raise awareness of gender inequality.
The campaign has so far secured the support of leading women from Wigan Borough in the fields of art, fashion, TV, politics and sport as well as backing from Wigan Warriors and Leigh Centurions. Maxine, whose TV roles include dinnerladies, Shameless, Silk and The Village, had a strong message to girls and women to “embrace their power” and be ambitious. She said: “I just say get out there and follow your dreams and don’t let anybody discourage you because there’s a lot of people out there who will. “Don’t be afraid to be an individual, celebrate your individuality because that’s what makes you special.” Maxine, who was born and
brought up in Bolton, is an associate artist of the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester and has recently appeared in the films A Theory of Everything, playing Stephen Hawking’s second wife alongside Eddie Redmayne, and The Falling and recent theatre roles include The Skriker and Hamlet. Maxine expressed concern at the way women can be portrayed in the media. She said: “I think we have gone backwards and it’s really shocking. I think women aren’t encouraged. “It’s the media and images of what’s supposed to be attractive and what a woman stands for and I think it’s absolute nonsense. “Women should embrace their power and be proud of it. It is attractive to be strong and passionate and ambitious.” And Maxine was fully behind supporting Wigan Council’s #BelieveInHer campaign. “For me it’s really about encouraging women that they have amazing skills, I think women instinctively have the skills to get to the top in management or the arts for example and it’s about tapping into that and encouraging women to use their strengths and not be afraid of them.”
Friends of Haigh CP support the Brick charity
MORE than 200 people went along to the Village on the Green in Aspull on Saturday September 19th to support the Friends of Haigh Country Park evening to support the Brick. Everyone enjoyed a great evening of entertainment provided by, Chonkinfeckle, Black Velvet, and the Greater Manchester Police Swing Band.
The event raised £2,000 on the night after all expenses were paid out; prior to
the event money was also made from pre ticket sales of £500 and with the help of our local ward Councillors and Tesco Extra Wigan together we helped to fill the Brick food bank with over 1000 tins of food to help the needy of our town. The Friends of Haigh Country Park would like to thank everyone who helped out with this superb evening and to all those who donated prizes for the raffle. Thank you so much to Trevor and all the staff at the Village on the Green, Aspull for a superb venue. Our picture shows the crowd enjoying the night.
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Big Veg at New Springs Society
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EACH year, the 'Big Veg' competition at New Springs Horticultural Society continues to grow, almost as much as some of the giant vegetables.
CHRISTMAS CHARITY
QUIZ NIGHT For Derian House and Hindley Church Lads and Girls Brigade Dan’s favourite charities
This year was no exception and was a hotly contested morning of colossal Cabbages, Monstrous marrows and Onions that really would make your eyes water. One gardener stood out from the crowd this year and took first place in no less than five categories and really laid down the gauntlet to everyone. Paul Goodman had an excellent year and showed that he can grow with the best of them, topping the scales with a whopping 90lb marrow.
With great support once more from Councillors Chris Ready and Ron Conway, both who are great friends to the society and to whom we offer a wonderful thank you, this annual event will be celebrated at the Society's awards evening in November when prizes and trophies are handed out. As usual it will be smiles all around and hearty congratulations to the victors, whilst the losers lick their wounds and are already planning for next seasons monsters. Now where did I put those seed packets...... Our picture shows Councillors Chris Ready and Ron Conway with members of the society with their award winning veg.
Appley Bridge W.I. celebrate in style
Only £110.00 per team: First prize £6 60, Second prize £4 40.00, Third prize £2 25.00, plus spot prizes and drinks. FREE food for all teams
Fun starts 9 p.m. THURSDAY 10TH DECEMBER, 2015
APPLEY BRIDGE WI celebrated 100 years by holding a garden party at member Joan Gibsons home on Stoneygate Lane. Our picture shows members and guests enjoying the day.
Chemist raise money for Community Centre
COHENS Chemists, in Standish, is celebrating its 35th birthday this year. The staff at the Standish branch were asked to nominate a charity to raise money for, and they chose the Standish Community Centre in Moody Street, Standish.
They raffled off a hamper, and raised a fantastic sum of £741.50 for the Community Centre. Bill Tabiner, who is a member of the Community Centre committee, said: "It is very nice to have support from local shops and businesses and we would like to thank Cohens for their contribution“ Our picture shows the cheque presentation outside Cohens in Standish with (left to right) Gill Merrin, Bill Tabiner and Gemma Keen.
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For further details visit
Wigan Trading Standards
www.traderregister.org.uk
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Join the Wigan Council Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme - it’s good for business - Your business THE Good Trader Scheme is run by Wigan Trading Standards and helps local people find reputable traders and supports local businesses. THE SCHEME BENEFITS
• Become a member and join over 200 local businesses already enjoying the benefits of being on the Scheme - Trading Standards recognition for your business and their support when you need it • Generate more customers and reduce you advertising costs – • Age UK refer 4100 potential customers to Scheme members each year • The Good Trader Scheme has the most visited pages on the Wigan Council website business pages, with over 1000 visits per month • The Good Trader Scheme dedicated website receives 2300 visits every month
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Scheme members must have a good track record of fair trading when it comes to consumer protection legislation, and commit themselves to dealing fairly and honestly with their customers. New applicants pay a small administration fee and if accepted onto the Scheme, members also pay an annual membership fee.
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Members’ details are held on our online database: www.wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader – meaning your contact details will be just a click or a call away for potential customers. Residents can search for businesses by trade sector and/or geographical area – or alternatively they can phone Citizen’s Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506 and ask them to find the names of two or three traders nearest to their location.
STARS IN THEIR EYES
Although the scheme is run by Wigan Council Trading Standards, it’s customer satisfaction that counts. Members are expected to encourage customers to provide feedback on performance and satisfaction direct to Trading Standards. Customers rate the service they have received, with a star rating of up to five gold stars – and the more satisfied customers you have the better your star rating. Trading Standards will investigate poor ratings to ensure that feedback is genuine and take action where necessary.
TO FIND OUT MORE
If you wish to apply for membership of the Good Trader Scheme, please contact us for an application pack on 01942 827476 or email ts@wigan.gov.uk giving your name and contact details. You can also apply online at: www.wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader
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To find a business registered with the Wigan Good Traders Scheme visit
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WIGAN Council’s “Good Trader Scheme” is a directory of over 200 local, reputable businesses.
All the listings have star ratings of up to five gold stars that previous customers have awarded them. Ratings are given based on workmanship and customer service, the more satisfied the customer the higher the rating. The scheme has been set up to ensure that the residents of the Wigan Borough are getting a fair deal when it comes to work round the home. Trading Standards check out the traders’ trading history before allowing them to be part of the scheme. Wigan Council’s Trading Standards Manager Julie Middlehurst said: “When looking for a trader to do a job for you, the choice can be
For all aspects of property maintenance overwhelming and often useful information about traders can be hard to find. To help make the decision easier check out our Good Trader Scheme, the website is free and easy to use and I would recommend it to any resident thinking of getting this kind of work done.” “All traders on the scheme have met the criteria set by Trading Standards.” Whether it’s painting and decorating, joinery, or just tidying up your garden make sure you visit www.wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader . Or ring the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 040506. If you are aged over 50 or have a disability Age UK Wigan Borough Starting Point Plus can accesses the Scheme on your behalf, contact Starting Point on 01942 826079.
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Surprise surprise
Wiganers donate over £7k from Daisy tribute
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Courier
FAMILIES and individuals from across the borough have dedicated over 300 daisies and donated over £7,000 by leaving a touching tribute to their loved ones in support of Wigan and Leigh Hospice.
In return for a donation to the Hospice’s Counting on Care Appeal, the name of a treasured friend or relative was handwritten onto a wooden daisy and planted in the Hospice gardens following the launch of Dedicate A Daisy in May.
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 more dementia-friendly. All proceeds from Dedicate A Daisy will go towards the appeal. All those who dedicated a daisy over the summer were invited to the Hospice on Sunday 6th September for afternoon tea and a short remembrance service when
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they collected their daisies and took them home as a lasting tribute. Christine Edwardson, Community Fundraiser, said: “Dedicate A Daisy has been 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 beautiful wooden daisies has given families that opportunity. “The daisies have been planted in our gardens in remembrance since May and now families have collected them and taken them home as a permanent tribute.” Roy Bradshaw, who lost his wife Irene at the Hospice in July, said “The staff in the Hospice deserve a gold medal. Nothing was too much trouble for them. My wife wanted to be in the Hospice when she died so we arranged for her to come over from Whiston Hospital to be closer to home and to her family. The Dedicate A Daisy service has really helped us as a family and the words of the chaplain meant a lot to us.” Elaine Breheny and Michael Hayes
dedicated a daisy to their mother Audrey Hayes who died in March aged 81. Audrey was cared for by the Hospice in Your Home team for three months before she died. “Dedicate a Daisy has helped us to remember the fantastic care given by the nurses who looked after our mum” said Michael. The Rowan family came to the Dedicate A Daisy Service to remember Terry Rowan, who died at the Hospice on New Year’s Day this year. Terry’s son, Philip Rowan, said: “We really want to help the Hospice in any way we can. Dedicate A Daisy has given us something tangible to take away to remember my dad. The staff at the Hospice were wonderful and took such great care of my dad.” The Hospice’s Counting on Care Appeal will redesign the Inpatient Unit with improvements to the 14 bedrooms and to the corridor and bays leading to the bedrooms. New signage, flooring and lighting will help people with dementia to better navigate the Inpatient Unit and feel more comfortable in their surroundings. Artwork will be based on local scenes to help with reminiscence while new décor, including bedding, carpets, curtains and furniture will be introduced to all bedrooms so that patients with dementia feel less disoriented in unfamiliar surroundings. Other improvements, such as handrails along the corridors and contrasting colours to help distinguish each bedroom bay, will also be built in. Our picture shows (l-r): Roy Bradshaw, Steven Williams, Caroline Smith, Kelda Williams and Amy Thompson remember wife and mother Irene Bradshaw who died at the Hospice in July.
JANE Davenport from The Cooperative Funeralcare in Standish made a surprise visit to St. Maries Church Hall recently to present Bernie Griffin a bouquet of flowers for her birthday.
Bernie does all the cooking herself when its one of the members birthdays but it was her time to celebrate last week. The club is every Thursday from 1.30-3.30 and is open to everyone for tea/coffee and biscuits, bingo and dominoes Bernie is the secretary and her husband Tom the treasurer. She also does a lot of fundraising for charity, her main one is for the Missions in third world countries to help children with education and sustenance food. Our picture show Jane with Bernie.
All Saints Church news........
HARVEST Supper, Quiz and Auction, Raffle, Monday 5th October, 7.30 pm. Tickets costing £6.50 are available from Margaret Baker. Harvest Appeal is for the Mercy Rescue Mission in Kenya, helping abandoned babies and children find health, love and a caring family. Details in leaflets at the back of church. On Sunday 25th October All Saints celebrates a joint Hymns of Praise Service at Christ Church, Parbold, with
amazing guest speaker, Noel Procter. Noel was Chaplain at Strangeways Prison, has written several books, and is afantastic story teller- he could possibly sing in the middle of his talk! He will have us laughing and crying. This is a service not to miss, and to bring your friends to. Early Morning Prayer every Thursday, 7 – 8 am at All Saints’ Church. All welcome. Contact John Mountain for more information: jmountain@christchurchparbold.co.uk
What’s on at Standish Library
THE Friends of Standish Library have organised the following programme of events for the Winter season.
The Appley Bridge Meteorite - By Russell Parry. Thursday 22nd October 2015 at 2.00pm The Dutch Resistance - By Alan Clegg. Thursday 12th November 2015 at 7.00pm Gift Wrapping Demonstration - By Elaine Cuzner. Thursday 3rd December 2015 at 7.00pm
Soap Making - By Matthew from Tiger Muffin Soaps. Thursday 21st January 2016 at 7.00pm Liberty Bazaar - By David Chadwick. Thursday 11th February 2016 at 2.00pm The charge is £3.00 and refreshments will be provided, To book you can contact the library on Standish.Library@wigan.gov.uk or 01257 400496.
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GCSE and A Level success at Westholme Courier EDUCATION
WESTHOLME School is proud and delighted to announce another impressive set of A-level results.
Well over a third of this year’s leavers’ grades are at the very top level of A*/A, and almost 70% are at A*- B. These are the grades which guarantee all important university places and open employment doors. In 22 subjects Westholme students achieved a 100% rate, demonstrating the depth and range of their abilities. This is reflected in the variety of further study choices: Westholme students have been accepted on courses ranging
GCSE results at Westholme were yet again cause for celebration. Three quarters of all grades were at B or above, and 43% at the very top level of A*/A.
"These are a very pleasing set of results from a hard working group of students," commented Principal, Mrs Horner. "Some outstanding results came out of certain subjects; in German we had
from Veterinary Science and Medicine to Law, Radiography, Graphic Design and Architecture. Principal, Mrs Horner, commented: “We are all thrilled with the achievements of this year’s Upper Sixth. Excellent teaching from a dedicated team coupled with the students’ own hard work and determination has resulted in a laudable set of results. These young people have been a pleasure to work with, and we send them into the world beyond Westholme with results, skills and attitudes which will set them apart from the crowd. I wish every one of them the very best for their exciting futures.” Our picture (right) shows the A Level students celebrating.
100% A*/A grades and in Ethics, Philosophy & Religion a staggering 58% of all grades were at A*. This demonstrates our excellence in a very wide range of subjects. Staff and students alike are to be congratulated for their dedication and commitment. It is very pleasing to see so many of the year group staying on at Westholme to gain the further benefit of our teaching, ensuring that they will fulfil their potential. Our picture shows the GCSE students celebrating their success.
W & L College supports blossoming beauty industry
WIGAN & Leigh College are urging budding therapists and hairdressers to equip themselves with industry knowledge and techniques as the UK’s beauty industry reports a 15.5% growth.
The industry which is worth an estimated £17billion in the UK and employing more than one million people are calling for ambitious and talented therapists and hair stylists as the industry is forecasted to grow an additional 16% by 2016.
The College which holds the status of Wella Centre for Excellence boasts two industry standard beauty salons. The College’s state-of-the-art Image Centres, located in the heart of Wigan and Leigh Town Centres, provide creative young people and adults with the opportunity to learn new skills and techniques from industry professionals. The flag ship multi-million-pound centres enable students to deliver pro-aging treatments, including an IPL Laser skin rejuvenation,
diamond peel and microdermabrasion, which are all part of the College’s advanced treatment study programmes. Former students have successfully secured employment within prestigious spas and salons throughout the UK and also overseas, working on board cruise ships. The UK’s beauty industry provides opportunities for qualified therapists and stylists to work for world renowned luxury brands such as Chanel, Estée Lauder, Vidal Sassoon and Yves Saint Laurent. Louise Gray, Head of Hair & Beauty says, “The industry is growing and it’s our duty as a College to provide the sector with talented, skilled and knowledgeable workers. The Image Centres are real working salons which provide students with the opportunity to work with real clients and within a real spa and salon environment. All tutors have worked in the industry and this enables students to gain a real insight into the careers and roles available.” To find out more information on Hair & Beauty courses email applications@wigan-leigh.ac.uk
CELEBRATING OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE IN 2015 5 A* - C including English and maths 62% 21% of students achieved 3 or more A*- A grades OFSTED says: “The behaviour of students in class and around the school is extremely good.” “In the very large majority of lessons the climate for learning is excellent. Students are punctual, attentive and keen to learn.” “The curriculum provides an excellent range of options for students of all abilities.”
TOURS WITH OUR HEADTEACHER, MR GRANT Thursday 1st October 9.50am
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Highest achieving school in Wigan Courier EDUCATION “TABLE TOPPING” class of 2015. Their amazing results place Standish Community High School as the highest achieving school in Wigan.
See full story on page 16
Caitlyn and her “trusted friend” at the recent para dressage competition
Congratulations to Matthew who has been selected to play for England Rugby League under 15.
NAT, is pictured here with some of his golfing trophies, having had an outstanding season.
DANA recently entered the History Departmentʼs writing competition for Winstanley College. Students were asked to write a historical essay on any aspect of history. Dana wrote a wonderful piece on Mohandas Gandhi. Winstanley College were so impressed by the insight that Dana gave into Gandhiʼs life and legacy, and her very mature style of writing, that she was chosen as one of the winners. Well done Dana!
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Courier EDUCATION
Shevington High celebrate results
SHEVINGTON High School has been thrilled to celebrate amazing individual performances from so many pupils in their GCSEs this year.
There were many more personal successes, including many students who exceeded their own personal targets. One of those, who was both shocked and thrilled on the day, was Josh Hart who achieved 6As, 3Bs and a C grade
Results day was full of celebrations as pupils hard work was rewarded with GCSE results that leading students onto the next step of their educational journey.
Many of this year's high flyers fitted extra GCSEs into their timetables in order to show how well they could perform across a wide range of subjects. Whilst this meant studying some subjects in less time, they still managed to achieve the highest grades. Here are some of our students and their achievements.
St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Tel:
Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington
01257 423092
holding hool is The Sc RS on AY TOU ber D N E P O cto y 5th O ber Monda cto O h t 9 r Friday Octobe y 19th r e b o Monda t c 23rd O mber Friday e 9th Nov y ember Monda v o N h t 3 1 y er a Frid ecemb y 7th D ember Monda c 11th De nuar y Friday Ja h t 1 1 y Monda nuar y 15th Ja 0 p.m. Friday .0 2 .m. and 10.00 a
Olivia Kordinski 10A* and 1A
Tiegan Blackhurst: 4 A*, 4As and 3Bs
Ben Foster, 2A*, 8As and 1B
Please contact school for more information and to book the tour
St. Joseph’s School Living life to the full
Laura Whitter achieved 8A* and 3As
Danielle Finch 7A*, 3As and 1B
Louis Steele gained 13 GCSEs including 3 languages
Talent Blossoms at Standish Community High School
ANOTHER successful year at Standish Community High School has resulted in another crop of amazing students that truly embody the school motto of ‘Be Outstanding’.
Not only did the school achieve another recordbreaking set of exam results, a borough-topping 79% A* - C pass rate for 5 GCSEs including English and Maths, but there were a range of individual successes across the entire curriculum and beyond. What truly makes Mr Pollard and his staff proud at Standish Community High School is the way that so many students manage to achieve both academic success whilst still finding time for a whole host of other achievements. Whether it is Courtney Witts regaining her World Championship in Stock Car Racing after a thrilling contest last month, or Amy Matter and Rohan Tunney reading an astonishing 7 million words between them for the school’s reading challenge, Standish
Community High School prides itself on encouraging talent and dedication to flourish in whatever form it takes. On the sporting front, Matt Ashcroft celebrated his scintillating form for the school teams during the year with a call-up to the
England U-15 Rugby League side and Caitlyn Saddington boosted her marks in her GCSE controlled assessment by competing in – and winning – a British Para Dressage competition on her pony, Percy. Added to this, the
Elizabeth Hiney’s
continued successes of golfing prodigies Greg Holmes, Ryan Anderton and Nat Draper (who won the ‘Gross Champion’ title at the regional championships in April) really does prove that the school is packed full of talented and dedicated
students who are aspiring to succeed in all aspects of school life. Congratulations to all the students who reached their goals during the year and here’s to continued successes. See our pictures on page 14.
DYSLEXIA SERVICES Do you, or someone you know, require assessment or tuition for
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Please contact Elizabeth Hiney AMBDA, APC(Patoss) at liz@ed4all.co.uk or phone
01925 327030
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Courier EDUCATION
It’s a WOW day for Wood Fold Primary School WOOD FOLD Primary School on Green Lane, Standish held a WOW day earlier in September.
The Y4 pupils were given a task by the teachers for their holiday Summer homework.
College welcomes performing arts professional
They were asked to make shields, swords, spheres etc for the return to school in September as the first week
of school they were learning about the Roman Empire and its history. The pupils began looking into the history of the soldiers and the lifestyle of the Romans and the finalie was the WOW day were they all came into school dressed as Romans along with teachers Mrs Johns, Mrs Bell, Mr Thompson and Mrs Prest. Our picture shows the children and teachers dressed in their Roman outfits.
The Children and Staff of
WOOD FOLD PRIMARY SCHOOL & FLEDGLINGS NURSERY Would like to invite you to our WIGAN & Leigh College has welcomed performing arts and teaching professional, Maxine Mealey (pictured), to the organisation.
The grade one teacher, lead internal verifier and external education examiner is now leading on the College’s exciting and innovative arts provision, which provides budding young people and adults with the opportunity to gain the skills, confidence and qualifications required to succeed within the creative industries. The former TV and stage performer who has an extensive further education background, has choreographed professional dance programmes and catwalk shows in addition to curating large scale external art exhibitions to showcase her former student’s work and talents. Maxine Mealey said, “I always aim to have an enthusiastic, ambitious and supportive approach in order to ensure outstanding results for students, at all levels, to help them maximise their full potential. I bring with me a wealth of
professional contacts from the world of film, media, performing and creative arts, including new and exciting links with lead employers, universities and the arts sector. I look forward to seeing our students progress onto the very best high education courses at lead universities and with top employers within the sectors.” “In addition to my experience working within further education, I have developed a successful dance company delivering professional contacts within the entertainment and sports field, plus a private school for those wanting to enhance their talents further. It is important that those of all ages are provided with the opportunities to achieve their dreams and goals. The School for the Arts Centre, which is located in the heart of Wigan Town Centre, provides an environment for creative and self-motivated individuals to unleash their talents and showcase their ability”, added the former B.A Hons in Contemporary Arts and P.G.C.E student. The courses which are delivered at the centre range of courses from Music, Performing Arts, Audio & Music Production, Dance, Drama, Media, Art & Design, Fashion, Graphic Design and Photography.
OPEN DAY Tuesday 3rd November & Thursday 18th November 9.30am - 10.30am, 1.30pm - 2.30pm & 4.00pm - 5.00pm All prospective parents welcome ‘If you can’t make either of the open days please do not hesitate to contact school to make an appointment’.
Green Lane, Standish,Wigan,WN6 OTS Telephone: 01257 400271 E: enquiries@admin.woodfold.wigan.sch.uk W: www.woodfold.wigan.sch.uk
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Courier EDUCATION
Danielle graduates from Edge Hill University
DANIELLE Lowson from Wigan graduated earlier this Summer from Edge Hill University in Ormskirk. Danielle who is a former Rose Bridge High School pupil and attended Wigan and Leigh College avhieved a 2:1 in Business & Management.
To advertise your Open Day/Evening or Enrolment in our next Education Feature October 20th 2015 Call Michelle on 01257 400026
Jeans for Genes Day
PUPILS from Up Holland High School have been donning their denim in an attempt to raise £1000 for charity.
Jeans for Genes is an annual event which aims to raise awareness of genetic disorders. These disorders, although rare, affect around 1 in 25 children; approximately 30,000 born each year in the UK. Headteacher, Mrs Barton, said “Our pupils had an
assembly about ‘Jeans for Genes’ day and they wanted to do something to raise as much money as possible”. Pupils will be wearing jeans and their ‘House’ tshirts and bringing in a minimum donation of £1; collectively this should help the school reach its target of £1000. “ To put it into perspective, £750 will pay for a specialist nurse to care for child” said Mrs Barton “and diseases like this are something any one of us could carry without knowing it, so our pupils felt it was really important to try and do something”.
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New Audi A4 lives up to expectations
NOW IN ITS fifth generation, the A4 arrives in a compact premium segment that already looks fit to burst, with BMW, Mercedes and Jaguar all fighting for the same customers. Audi is aware of this, and to ensure it remains top dog at the premium end of the market – in spite of what may look like a car not too dissimilar from the one it replaces – has radically overhauled the A4.
TEL: 01257 400026 to advertise in the motors section
From the engines and platform, to the wing mirrors and tail lamps, 90 per cent of the A4 has been completely replaced – the rest fine tuned. That means it’s faster, lighter and more spacious than it was before. Crucially it’s also more fuel efficient. Three petrol and four diesels make up your engine options, with capacity ranging from 1.4 to 3.0 litres and power from 148bhp to 268bhp for now. Company car buyers will be enticed by the fleet of fuel-sipping Ultra models, while those after something with a bit more urgency
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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
Call Mark on 01942 498444
Chapel Street, just off Queens St. Wigan All major credit cards accepted
will be pleased to hear the S and RS variants will arrive sooner in the A4 production cycle than they have done previously. Here we have the 187bhp 2.0-litre TDI Ultra, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. In mid-range Sport trim it will set you back £31,000, slightly more than the equivalent 3 Series but less than the C-Class and XE. And that’s a theme that continues down the spec sheet, from running costs to performance to practicality. Where the A4 has the upper hand in terms of efficiency with 72.4mpg and 102g/km, the BMW takes a swipe back with better performance figures, while the Merc pips them both with a fraction more rear passenger space. You can scrutinise the finer details such as specification and residual values, but the difference between the four big hitters has never been so close. Where your money goes may simply boil down to image or personal preference, yet if you’re swayed by the ability of your compact exec on the road that decision could be made significantly easier.
Audi has taken a renewed approach with the A4. Rather than another attempt at matching the 3 Series for engagement, Audi has softened the A4, made it easer to live with and in the process added the finesse that has long been missing. It takes less than 100 yards before you discover the A4’s renewed sense of character. Where the outgoing model felt rigid and compromised, the newcomer immediately feels more refined and forgiving. The new MLB platform and more sophisticated five-link fully independent front and rear suspension go some way to encouraging the transformation – helping absorb bumps without upsetting composure. Toggle through the Audi Drive Select system that tailors the car to Efficient, Comfort and Dynamic setups, and even in its sportiest setting there’s little tradeoff in terms of comfort. If anything, in Dynamic mode the body control is even better, it feels more tied down which gives a greater sense of stability through faster bends. There’s also plenty of performance to make sure you can get around them, too. The muscular band of torque arrives from 1,750rpm and paired with the slick six-speed manual, makes for brisk progress – 0-62mph takes 7.7 seconds. The engine doesn’t feel strained or coarse when extended either, not something you’ll experience in the C-Class. The steering – a big criticism of the outgoing model – remains light but has a far greater rate of response. It perhaps isn’t as crisp as the setup in the XE, but it’s a world away from
North West Counties Rugby League Cup Final
LOCAL rivals Shevington Sharks and Wigan St Patrick’s took to the field at the neutral ground of Thatto Heath Crusaders, to compete in the prestigious RFL sponsored NWC Cup Final.
a well-deserved rest with the score Shevington Sharks 12 Wigan St Pat’s 6. The second half started with the Sharks gaining the upper hand, strong drives from Roy Rimmer, Sam Pepper, Chris Dunn, Mike Norton and Danny Owens kept the St Pat’s players on the back foot. When the Sharks were having to defend close to their line, Superb exit sets saw Andrew Beaney, Danny McNamee, Jake Melling and Johnny Bates continually break the defensive line and make the yards required that allowed Mark Wright and Deane Meadows kick well into the St Pats 20 metre area. Twenty minutes into the 2nd half, strong running centre, Jake Melling picked up the ball 10 meters from his line and raced fully 90 meters to touch down under the posts, the noise from the Shevington Sharks fans was just incredible as Jake and Kieran extended the lead to 18 – 6… St Patrick’s to their credit continued to push forward and with 10 minutes remaining were rewarded with a try following a smart kick over the Sharks defence, the winger touching down in the corner…the conversion was missed and with 10 minutes to go the score was 18 – 10. To ease the pressure the Sharks were awarded a penalty that was converted by Deane Meadows, who got the man of the match and along with captain Danny Owen has been selected for England NW men’s League tour in 2016 to Canada, to make the final score 20 – 10. At the final whistle, mass celebrations from the Sharks players, coaching staff, and supporters could be heard back in Wigan…an outstanding result, a great game played by 2 very good sides. Many thanks go to the RFL for their organisation, good refereeing and assistant refereeing throughout the day. Truly a day to remember…. Our picture above shows the winning team.
Mass numbers of fans welcomed the players out, ensuring that the atmosphere was one to remember for both teams. Particularly vocal were the swathes of Shevington supporters who could be heard throughout the full 80 minutes, a massive thank you to all who made the effort, particularly the players from the younger age groups. A tense opening ten minutes followed as both teams sought an early advantage, slick attacking play was equally met with strong determined defence, something had to give..!! After 15 minutes, back to back sets took the Sharks close to their opponents line, with a couple of tackles remaining the Sharks scrum half and Man of the Match, Deane Meadows took a quick play the ball and dove over close to the posts, the conversion goaled by Kieran Sutton to give the Sharks a 6 nil lead. Engine: St Patricks to their credit continued to 2.0-litre diesel press and were rewarded after 22 minutes Power: 187bhp with a replica try, scooting over from close 0-62mph/Top play to pull the scores level at 6 – 6. speed: A nasty Eye injury to Second row 7.7s/130mph forward Adam Robinson, and interchanges Economy/CO2: from hooker Johnny Dunn, prop forwards 72.4mpg/102g/km Phil Malilleau and Chris Bates did not stop On sale: Now the smart attacking options nor the incredible defending, it’s difficult to single what you had to put up with out individual players, but the tackles previously. made by Mike Norton were truly amazing. So too is the interior. Audi A further injury to Matty Unsworth has always had a strong brought Mally back onto the field, and just reputation for crafting as the game approached half time a beautiful but functional barnstorming run saw Mally burst through cabins, but the new A4 the St Pats defence, to score close to the takes it up a notch. posts, again goaled by Kieran Sutton. The touch-sensitive The half time whistle blew and the controls, brushed players retreated to the changing rooms for aluminium detailing and fantastic virtual cockpit could turn the most arduous of journeys into ones that can be enjoyed. Passengers in the back will have less to complain about, too. The new A4 is longer and wider than it was before, and rather than use that extra space to increase boot capacity – which remains at 480 litres – Audi catered for those in the back with a more roomy cabin. It makes the XE feel like a hatchback and even with the slightly raised middle SHEVINGTON Sharks under 14’s would like to thank Bithell’s for seat and bulky transmission tunnel, three adults back sponsoring there new kit for 2015. Louise and Dave have supported the lads from under 7’s. there will be more than All at the Sharks would like to thank them for there support over the years comfortable. It’s also real tech fest inside, with Audi offering adaptive cruise control featuring traffic jam assist. Perhaps what’s more SHEVINGTON Sharks 16’s impressive is that the (pictured right) completed the system can also control the double by winning NWC Division steering at up to 40mph by using radars and ultrasound One and NWC Cup. Pictured is Patrick McCarroll picking sensors to read the surrounding area, guiding up the trophy in his last game for the the A4 around bends in the club as he‘s signed professional for road.
Verdict Price: £31,000
New kit for Sharks U14’s
Sharks 16’s celebrate winning double
Widnes Vikings
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England International Ugo coaches at Wigan Youth Zone
CourierSPORT EX-ENGLAND and Harlequins Rugby player Ugo Monye visited Wigan Youth Zone as part of the Urban Rugby Squad initiative being run by Sale Sharks. The event saw young people from Wigan and coaches from Sale Sharks come together for a tag rugby and personal development session, where they were joined by BT Sport presenter Ugo Monye. During the session, Ugo told the young participants about his own journey into rugby, providing both practical coaching tips and life guidance to those in attendance. Ugo Monye has been visiting a handful of the Urban Rugby Squad projects as part
of a BT Sport documentary which is set to air in October. The Urban Rugby Squad was launched earlier this summer by Premiership Rugby and will see young people aged 14-16 from disadvantaged communities across England given the opportunity to participate in regular sporting activity and personal development workshops that use rugby as inspiration. The programme has been implemented thanks to a substantial grant from BT Sport’s The Supporters Club and will see Sale Sharks coaches deliver a 12-week recruitment and development programme with four local satellite clubs based throughout the Greater Manchester area. The clubs will then come together in
The year the Shield came alive...
Rugby Union Roundup... Lancashire/Cheshire One contest at Douglas Valley which shredded the nerves of ORRELL made a quick re- both sets of supporters. turn to winning ways in Lan- Manchester made all the early cashire (North) with a 48-7 running, buoyed by three convictory at home to North secutive league wins and aided Manchester. by a string of unforced Wigan er-
Orrell 48 North Manchester 7 North Lancashire Saturday September 26th
John Presho opened the scoring after good work by Gary Nicholson had created the opportunity, Kieran Herbert adding the conversion and from a five metre scrum Presho was put over for his second. A break by Dan Huxley took Orrell into the 22 and and although tackled, Jon Pegg was on hand to go round the cover for the third. Nicholson brought up the bonus try after Mick Caldwell had picked up at the back of a scrum to put Andy Stott away. Louis Whitfield carried the move on before slipping the ball to the supporting full back, Herbert again on hand with the extras. From a strike against the head Whitfield went in for the fifth, Herbert successful with the conversion but from the restart North Manchester managed to go over in the corner for 31-7 at the interval. Early in the second half James Glover and Max Huxley combined to get Pegg in for the sixth. Herbert kicked the conversion and through quick hands from Caldwell, Herbert, Presho and Nicholson, Chris Gregory was put in the clear to score his first try of the season. In the closing minutes Presho set up Whitfield, the centre closing the Orrell account with his side's eighth try.
Wigan 14 Manchester 13 South Lancs & Cheshire Div 1 Saturday September 26th
WIGAN EVENTUALLY prevailed in another nail biting South
rors. Thus it was no surprise when they finally breached Wigan's defence for a try beneath the posts. Wigan's best moment in a forgettable half came when a 50 metre Martin Gambles break saw Jon Chamberlain hauled down close to the line. Wigan wrested back the initiative after the break and pressured the resolute Manchester defence until they had a man dispatched to the bin. Manchester took full advantage to add two penalties in quick succession for a 13 point advantage. Wigan were now looking down the barrel but managed to get back in the contest, a powerful break by Peter Rigby, supported by John Foster put Danny Winrow over in the corner. Andy Whittle hit what proved to be a crucial conversion and sensing the tide had turned Wigan came strong again and from a line out in the Manchester 22, Mike Rigby threaded his way through to the posts giving Whittle a much simpler conversion for a one point lead. The drama was not yet over as Manchester failed with two difficult penalty attempts. Aspull 21 Leigh 3rds 19 Raging Bull Div 3North Saturday September 26th ASPULL maintained their 100% record with another hard fought victory against 2nd in Intermediate 3 North, Leigh 3rds. The game started at a fast pace with both teams looking dangerous Aspull taking the lead through good work by the for-
wards creating the opportunity for Steve Bailey to break through to score the opening try, andy Hair adding the conversion. Leigh took the lead with two quick tries but more good work by the Aspull pack created good field position allowing Joe Roper to cross for a second, Hair's conversion restoring the Aspull lead 14-12 at the interval. Both side continued to play good rugby but were unable not break through the opponents defence but with 10 minutes remaining Leigh broke through to regain the lead. Aspull continued to apply the pressure and from the last play of the game Andrew Seddon drove over to level the scores before Kieron Ford converted to give Aspull the victory. Another good team performance locks Dave Ascroft and Aidan Clark both having good games.
Orrell St James 67 Fleetwood 11 Raging Bull Div 5N Saturday September 26th BEST DISPLAY of the season so far from OSJ. A very strong scrum and line out with the backrow competing at every breakdown meant OSJ breached the visitors line from the first attack of the game. Fleetwood responded with a penalty but it was one way traffic for the rest of the half. The second half continued in the same vein with Fleetwood posting a penalty in response to the OSJ lethal attack. A consolation score towards the end of the match from a rolling maul was the only time Fleetwood crossed the OSJ line. Danny Ryding went in for four tries, Jack McHugh notched up a hattrick, Danny Brown got two with Dave Bailey and Nathan Morters in for one apiece. Jack McHugh kicked six conversions. (Geoff Lightfoot)
IF NOTHING else in Rugby League terms, 2015 will be remembered as the year in which the race for the League Leaders’ Shield finally came alive.
September for a Club Festival where an Urban Rugby Squad will be selected to represent Sale Sharks alongside other Premiership Rugby clubs at a National Festival, to be held in London this October. BT Sport ambassador Ugo Monye said “I’ve been really impressed by the turn out and standard of rugby here in Wigan. This is a fantastic facility, ran by great staff and the coaches at Sale Sharks have got such a good relationship with the youngsters involved in the Urban Rugby Squad. They are offering these youngsters a great opportunity to not only play rugby, but to use the sport to learn and develop fundamental life skills.” OUR PICTURES show Ugo in action with Youth Zone members.
Paul Finch is
The Insider Wigan Warriors from the Inside Out...
But in the second half, PAUL FINCH reflects on a Castleford suddenly seemed dramatic end to the regular to collapse and Wigan cut season for the Warriors loose, scoring a succession of spectacular tries, which ing second is a home draw against the Giamounted to 37 unanswered points. ants. Last Friday night was a dream end- Everyone ought to have relaxed again – Call me irrational but of the three opponents remaining in the competition, I have ing to the regular season for the RFL, except they didn’t. and one of the most surreal experi- Suddenly, all eyes were on the events a nagging feeling that Huddersfield could ences I’ve had in over 40 years of across the Pennines. Wherever you looked be one of the most difficult. Leeds, for all watching the greatest game. Two key at the DW, iPhones and iPads were out, or that they won, certainly weren’t convincpeople were nipping down to the bar ing last Friday, while St. Helens have only fixtures were being played out: where the TV screens were carrying the just managed to beat Wigan in their last Wigan v Castleford and Huddersfield Sky Sports live coverage of Huddersfield two meetings. The Giants though, who are v Leeds. v Leeds. well-coached, have two very canny halfOf the four contestants, three could At first it looked good. The game, which backs in Brough and Robinson, boast a have won top-spot that evening. had kicked off a couple of minutes earlier strong and athletic three-quarter line, and What was more, Leeds, having been than Wigan’s, was almost over and the Gi- most intimidating of all in my view, a the hottest ticket all season, were no ants were going at it with the Rhinos toe- powerhouse pack, have a point to prove. longer the favourites in wake of the to-toe. With only a minute or so left, it The last time they appeared in a Cup Final three defeats they’d suffered since was 16-16, Leeds having surprisingly of any significance was the Challenge being crowned Wembley winners last kicked a late penalty when they needed a Cup in 2009, when they lost to Warringtry to win it. That would have still been ton. month. According to the gossip-monenough for Wigan to claim the silverware. To quote an oft-used and rather corny gers, the semi-mythical helicopter But then disaster. With 10 seconds on phrase, this one could go to whichever carrying the trophy was hovering just the watch, the Huddersfield defence made team wants it the most, and Huddersfield on the Lancashire side of the Pen- the mistake of all time, failing to clear a are not going to be lacking in that departnines. Danny McGuire cross-field speculator ment. It was certainly the case that Leeds and allowing Ryan Hall, who’d otherwise There is no doubt that the Wigan forseemed to have the tougher route to glory, had a poor game, to gallop in for a Leeds wards will need to improve their perfacing a very in-form Huddersfield team victory. formance tenfold on recent weeks. We at the John Smith’s Stadium, while In the space of moments, the Wigan may also see changes of necessity made Wigan’s opponents, Castleford, though hordes, still intoxicated by their own to the Warriors’ three-quarters. they’d flattered to deceived in previous storming 47-12 win, and eagerly anticiI wouldn’t be surprised if tackling maweeks, still, ultimately, had nothing to pating their first trophy of the year, were chine John Bateman wasn’t brought back play for. plunged from high excitement to disbe- in, while big, hard-hitting Anthony But what an exhilarating roller-coaster lieving outrage that it could have been Gelling could also be due a return. of a night it turned out to be. snatched away from them in such circumIt would be tough luck on young Oli Early doors during the Wigan match, stances so far beyond their control. Gildart, who has been outstanding these no-one really cared what was happening On small screens everywhere, Leeds last few weeks, but Wigan will need to over in Huddersfield. Because the home celebrated wildly, while at the DW itself present a very strong and dominant front side were making hard work of the plucky you could hear only the derisive cheers of for this match. Tigers. a small hard-core of Castleford fans, who The fans also will have their part to play. When the Warriors slipped behind 10- appeared to have travelled over to Wigan One pleasing aspect of last Friday night 12 just before half-time, having led 10-0 that evening mainly to chant obscenities. was the attendance. Wigan were handsat one point, there was a real sense of Flummoxing, frustrating, infuriating … doom on the DW terraces. It looked again all those words apply. But at the end of the down winners here. The DW attracted an impressive 15,070, as if – just as they did at St. Helens a week day, that is sport, and the losers can please earlier - the Cherry and Whites were about themselves. It’s not as if the main prize most of them Cherry and Whites. In comto blow a big opportunity. isn’t still up for grabs. On which subject, parison, the all-Yorkshire derby at HudIn the final 20 minutes of the first half, this week now sees two more top-drawer dersfield saw only 9,326 on the terraces. If Wigan looked nervous and unsure. Their fixtures as the Grand Final semis take the Wigan fans can repeat this feat on Thursday evening, it will massively help forwards, having dominated the opening place. exchanges dramatically, were suddenly on Leeds have a home tie against St. He- their team. the back-foot. (I’ve said it before during lens, whose fans will sincerely hope that Anyway, the action kicks off at 8pm this season, and I’ll say it again – the their boys can put on a better show than at the DW and is likely to be one of the Wigan pack’s inability to grind down spir- they did in their unexpected 16-32 ham- games of the season. By all accounts, ited opponents is a bit of a problem at mering at the hands of Warrington last ticket sales are rocketing. Don’t leave it present, and it needs to be sorted). week, while Wigan’s ‘reward’ for finish- too late. You might not get in.
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Wigan teams on their way to Wembley!
CourierSPORT
TWO JUNIOR football teams from Wigan will be making their way to Wembley on 14th November, after beating other teams in a regional heat of the Indesit National Mini Soccer Cup, winning their place at Finals Day.
Wigan Allstars under 10s with Manager Mike Thorpe
The Indesit National Mini Soccer Cup has returned for a second season after hugely successful inaugural competition last year, which saw 140 teams and over 1,200 kids take part. The mixed, Mini-Soccer Cup competition for under 8s and under 10s is in association with Indesit’s partners FourFourTwo, Powerleague, and Mums In The Know. The Mini Soccer Cup has 12 regional heats across the UK, leading up to Finals Day at Wembley Stadium at Powerleague Centre’s five-a-
Wigan Allstars under 8s with Manager Ian Bancroft
Bowlers show true sportsmanship in final
ON MONDAY September 14th there Our picture shows young Lloyd Hunt, small social area and vastly improved toilet was a thrilling cup final played on one deputising for his father Councillor facilities.” of the greens of the Great Acre Lawrence Hunt who was away on business Councillor George Davies also said: “My presenting the cup as the participating ward colleagues and I are delighted with the Bowling Club.
The competition was to win a trophy, supplied by Wigan Councillor Lawrence Hunt. The teams involved were Great Acre Bowling Club, and St. Stephen’s Bowling Club. And the winners were...well these are two teams who think it is more about participation and less about winning as they decided to share the trophy. Both teams decided that the identity of the winning team should be withheld as ‘classified information’. Could there be a finer sporting attitude than that?
bowlers and other residents looked on. Councillors George Davies and Michael McLoughlin, in lieu of Councillor Hunt can be seen holding ‘The Deal’ sign. Councillor George Davies said: “The Deal is an informal contract between the council and residents, with a strong commitment from both sides to work together for the benefit of the Borough. That is precisely what has happened here.” “In recent months the Councillors have facilitated the re-development of the bowling pavillion. There is now a small kitchen, a
club’s achievements and Lloyds presence on the evening, it shows that all generations will work together on its aim to create a better environment for us all.” Councillor Michael McLoughlin said: “All of this means that the club is now making a positive contribution to its community. “People who might have been watching television are now out in the fresh air, benefiting from some exercise, meeting kindred spirits, socialising and no doubt, forming new friendships. What’s not to like about that? Not a lot!
side pitches, where the whole family is sure to be in for an inspiring and memorable day. There’ll be the chance to tour the famous Stadium, including the pitch and changing rooms, and compete in fun football challenges before the victors lift their trophy. Allstars, of Wigan, did a double with both the Under 8s and Under 10s teams beating off the competition for the chance to play at Wembley. Mike Thorpe, Manager for Allstars Under 10s, commented: “The teams are ecstatic to have won their place at Wembley. It gives us something to work for and we’ll certainly be training hard to make sure we lift the trophy in the shadow of Bobby Moore’s statue at Wembley Stadium.” Ian Bancroft, Assistant Manager for Allstars Under 8s, added: “Winning the regional
heat has really boosted the team’s confidence and we can’t wait to play at Wembley in November for the final of the Indesit Mini Soccer Cup.” There will also be the chance to browse and win Indesit Innex washer dryers at the Indesit Mini Soccer Cup Finals Day. The machines are designed to make life easier for busy families thanks to the ‘Push&Wash’ one-button system, which produces great results at the touch of a button – it really is everyday-proof. The Innex washer dryers also boast four dedicated sports cycles for head-to-toe kit cleaning; it’ll even do your football boots. For more information about the Indesit National Mini Soccer Cup, visit www.indesit.co.uk or call 08000 921 922. #IndesitSoccer.
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