Lancashire Now 118

@wilcopmedia @lancashirenow

Issue 118 - April - 2020

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STAY HOME - PROTECT THE NHS - SAVE LIVES

We Will Get Through This

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Appeal after food contaminated POLICE are appealing for information after two people walked in to a supermarket and contaminated food by smearing their hands over it.

The pair went into the Sainsbury’s store on Lancaster Road in Morecambe before licking their hands and wiping them over meat, fresh produce and fridge handles.

The store was thoroughly disinfected and the store was forced to destroy the produce.

Police have today released CCTV footage of the offenders in a bid to identify them.

The about

incident 1.45pm

on

happened April

at 4th.

One offender is described as aged in his early 20s, white, black hair, facial hair, wearing a black jacket black tracksuit bottoms and grey trainers.

The other is described as early 20s, white, dark hair, facial hair wearing a black jacket, white hoody, black tracksuit bottoms and hiking boots.

Insp James Martin, of West Police, said: “That anyone could think this sort of behaviour is appropriate or amusing even in normal times is beyond me but at this time of crisis when many people have been faced with empty shelves in some shops is flabbergasting. It is utterly des-

picable and I would appeal for anyone who knows who these people are to get in touch.

“I would also urge the individuals involved to do the right thing and come forward to speak to us – you must surely know that what you have done is wrong.

“During this current time we have seen many examples of people displaying the very best of humanity. This pair are sadly displaying some of the worst.”

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log number 0693 of April 4th

Registration of deaths now only by phone Lancashire County Council has introduced a new process for registering deaths by telephone to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Steve Lloyd, Lancashire County Council registration service manager, said: “It’s vital that we now move to registering deaths by telephone to help prevent the spread of coronavirus by minimising the need for people to have face to face contact.

It should make things easier for the family of the deceased as they will wait to be contacted by telephone by a registrar rather than having to make an appointment to go into the registration service office in person.

“The death of a loved one is always a difficult time, and potentially even more so during the current health crisis. This should make things a bit easier for families, as they will wait for us to contact them and won’t need to come into the office.

This process applies to the registration of all deaths, even if the cause of death is not due to the coronavirus.

The new Coronavirus (Emergency) Act 2020 recently passed by the government allows for deaths to be registered by telephone, and documents relating to death certification and registration to be transferred electronically.

The medical practitioner certifying the death will now electronically transfer the death certificate (properly known as Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) to the registration service who will then call the family to arrange a suitable time to register the death over the telephone.

“We have been working closely with partners in the health service over recent days to bring in these changes, and will be working hard to continue to deliver a high standard of service to bereaved families.

“I hope that people will understand the need for this change to the process and I’m grateful for their understanding and cooperation at this challenging time.”

The changes also aim to make the process for certifying and registering deaths more efficient and minimise any delay in allowing the funeral to take place.

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Foodbank Serving Bigger Numbers Over 650 people benefit from community effort as need deepens Burnley FC in the Community continues to work closely with Burnley Council and community housing company Calico to deliver the town’s foodbank service from the heart of the town centre.

The service, which is based from the Burnley Community Kitchen in the Charter Walk Shopping Centre, has seen demand quadruple since the more stringent social distancing measures were put into place on 23 March, with 295 food parcels delivered in less than two weeks.

Those parcels have fed 655 people, 252 of which were children.

Referrals into the foodbank come via Burnley Together, a community hub that was established in partnership with Burnley Borough Council, Lancashire County Council, BPRCVS and Calico to co-ordinate help and support to vulnerable residents across the borough during the coronavirus outbreak.

Calico staff are operating the phone lines, while Burnley FC in the Community staff and staff from Burnley Football Club are volunteering on site at the foodbank to pack parcels. As part of the combined offer, Burnley Leisure and CVS staff are distributing the food across the town from Monday to Saturday.

Helen Gurman, Company Secretary at Burnley FC in the Community, said: “We are proud to be working with fantastic partners across the town to deliver this service.

“Through the efforts of all the organisations involved in Burnley Together, we are managing to distribute parcels to the most vulnerable, many of whom are in isolation and would have no other means of getting food.

“But we need the continued support of the whole com-

munity to sustain this. By 3pm today (Thursday) alone, we had received 60 referrals into the foodbank.

“We extend our thanks to every person who has donated either food or cash and we ask that you please continue that incredible effort as the situation becomes even more difficult in the weeks ahead.”

If you or someone you know is in need of support at this time, please visit www.burnleytogether.org.uk or call 01282 686402.

If you would like to make a donation to the foodbank, you will find collection points in local Spar shops. However, these must only be visited for essential items. If you would like to make a cash donation, please visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/supportburnleyfoodbank

Wildfire in Darwen

Eight fire engines were called to a wildfire off Sunnyhurst Lane, Darwen. 50 firefighters used leaf blowers, aqua packs and beaters to extinguish the fire which was 400 metres by 100 metres. Smaller pockets of fire are now being monitored. Our firefighters are working with United Utilities and Lancashire Police to make the scene safe and establish the cause of the fire. No injuries have been reported.

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Appeal following armed robbery at

Preston convenience store

Police are appealing for information following a robbery at a shop in Preston in the early hours of Monday (yesterday).

At around 6.30am two men broke into McColl’s convenience store on Ribbleton Avenue, threatening staff inside with an axe handle before making off towards the Greenlands estate with around £1,500 in cash, plus cigarettes and alcohol.

A 33-year-old man from Preston has since been arrested on suspicion of robbery, and was due to appear at Preston Magistrates Court this morning (Tuesday).

We are now continuing to appeal for information and would like to speak to anybody who was in the area at the time and who saw what happened.

We also believe there were people in the area filming the incident, and we would ask anybody with smartphone or dashcam footage that could be

JD PIPESW

useful to get in touch.

DC Mark Thornton, of Preston Police, said: “This was a very scary incident for the members of staff at McColl’s, who were simply going about their work in what are already difficult circumstances.

“We believe there were people in the area at the time who may have seen what happened, or who may have got footage of the offenders making off, and we would like to hear from those people as soon as possible.

“We understand people may be reluctant to come forward during this time, especially if they have not been following the government guidelines about staying at home, but I would reassure them that our immediate concern is to find out who is responsible for this robbery. Anyone who has any information, no matter how insignificant they may feel it to be, is urged to come forward and speak to us.”

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Changes to Lancashire’s Short Break service There will be a new consultation on proposed changes to Lancashire County Council’s Short Break Offer for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

At its meeting on Thursday 12 March, cabinet agreed to give the young people’s families and carers the opportunity to share their views on the latest proposals.

Short break services offer support to children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities and their families. They allow carers the opportunity to take a break from their caring role.

Currently, short break services include Lancashire Break Time, where young people are supported to take part in activities at community venues for up to several hours at a time. There are also day time and overnight short break services accessed by children and young people who have had social care assessments.

There has been a review of these services, where council officers worked alongside parents and carers, children and young people and short break service providers to consider how the service should look in the future. A more joined-up offer is proposed, made up of three elements – Break-time, Day-time and Night-time: • Children and young people would be able to use Breaktime if they have a learning difficulty or physical or sensory difficulty; they live in Lancashire; and they do not live with or are supported by paid carers.

• Children and young people could attend from the start of the academic year in which they turn five years-old, up until the end of the academic year they become 18 years-old.

• The Break-time offer is a minimum of 10 hours and a maximum of 50 hours of activities a year.

• Families will be able to purchase additional hours if they wish. They may also be able to access additional hours if it is identified as a need following a social care assessment.

• Families would contribute £2 per hour per break time activity, instead of the current charge of £1, which has not been increased for ten years, in addition to specific activity costs or entrance fees.

Children and young people aged 0 to 18 years would be able to access Day-time and Night-time short breaks, if this is identified as a need following a social care assessment.

In addition, there is also a proposal on a new way of procuring short break services. This will help to widen the range and quality of the support available across the county.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson, cabinet member for children, young people and schools, said: “These new proposals are based on work we’ve done with young people who use the services, their families, and the care providers following the previous Break-time consultation, which we ran last year.

“People’s responses showed us our Short Break Service is valued, but that it could be improved. The new proposals would ensure Break-time can be accessed in a much fairer way so everyone can make use of the hours they are entitled to.

“There is a fee increase from £1 to £2 per hour. The current charge was set 10 years ago and care costs have increased considerably since then. The new rate would mean we could

cover the costs for the service to ensure it can be provided in a sustainable way.

“We’ve also looked at the Day-time and Night-time short break services and how they can work in conjunction with Break-time.

“The improvements being put forward would help to make better use of all the short break and care options for children with special educational needs and disabilities so that everyone has better and fairer access to these vital services.

“These are only proposals at this stage and we will now go out to consultation so that people have the opportunity to share their views before any decision is made.”

The county council will publicise dates and details of the consultation once the arrangements have been finalised.

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Coronavirus scam warnings

Trading standards experts are warning people to The police have also received reports of door to door beware of criminals and rogue traders who are try- sales people offering “home Coronavirus testing kits”. ing to con people with Coronavirus related scams. Please be aware, such items are fake, no such testing faFraudsters are praying on people’s uncertainty and fear to convince them to hand over their money for substandard goods, services they don’t need, and scams.

In Lancashire, we received cold caller in South Ribble an elderly man £3,500 for way. Trading standards is

a report of a doorstep who attempted to charge power washing his drivelooking into this issue.

cility is currently available to the public in the UK.

The police have also received reports of cold callers selling hand sanitiser, masks and rubber gloves and, whilst this may not be a scam, Trading Standards would warn people against buying these items from anyone other than recognised retailers.

Meanwhile, school meal scam reports are emerging. Parents are being asked to provide bank details to retain a free school meal entitlement. People should never do this and report these scams to the county council.

County Councillor Albert Atkinson, cabinet member for technical services, rural affairs and waste management, said: “There really is no limit to the lengths fraudsters will go in order to con people out of their money.

“Unfortunately, they are taking advantage of the Coronavirus outbreak to scam vulnerable people.

“We’re doing everything we can to make people aware of these scams as they are reported. I’d urge people to be particularly vigilant at the moment and keep a look out for their neighbours.

“Always say no to cold callers, and be suspicious of any unsolicited communications

via phone, email or post.

• A fraudulent COVID-19 tax refund offer. People are being invited to click on a link to a bogus government web page and complete with key personal/financial details • • Scam emails claiming to be from researchers asking for donations - downloading to a fake Microsoft login page requesting email and passwords.

• • Fraudulent sellers offering facemasks and other safety equipment. People should always use known, reputable online suppliers. Trading standards recommends that any transactions over £100 should be paid by credit card for extra protection.

• • Hackers are sending emails pretending to be from the World Health Organisation. The email claims that the attached document details how recipients can prevent the spread of the disease. Clicking on the attachment gives the hackers the opportunity to infect the computer with malicious software. If you would like to read information given out by the WHO, go directly to their official website.

Trading Standards advice is to be alert. Never respond to emails if you don’t know the sender and don’t click on links and divulge personal details.

County Councillor Atkinson added: “Suspicious websites and fake emails are also being used to spread scams around.

“Don’t act on the emails if you don’t know the sender or think the email looks suspicious. Never click on the link.

“Please check with Trading standards if you are unsure.”

Contact the Trading Standards Service via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 2231133 or at www. citizensadvice.org.uk Lancashire County Council’s Safe Trader Scheme can help you find a trader in your area, contact 0303 333 1111 or go to www.safetrader.org.uk

“People can always call our Citizen’s Advice Consumer Helpline if they’re unsure and need advice, or to report a scam.

Follow the Scambuster Stan Facebook page to keep up-todate with all the latest scam alerts.

“Keep an eye on our Scambuster Stan Facebook page for the latest scam alerts.”

Lancashire County Council’s home library service has been suspended until further notice due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

Other national and international scams include

It had been hoped that the service, which allows books to be delivered to people in their homes, could continue but the council has made the decision to suspend the service following national advice to limit contact between people.

The authority is currently working closely with the Lancashire Volunteer Partnership to provide replacement telephone befriending support for home library service customers.

• Callers and emailers advising that they have coronavirus symptoms, have large amounts of money waiting in a bank account to be claimed and asking people to email for further information – at which point they may part with key personal details, leading to them losing money via the scam.

Home library service suspended

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Creative Lancashire gets a new Chairman

A leading figure from the county’s creative sector has been appointed to Creative Lancashire and is already looking to support the sector during the coronavirus pandemic.

Jenny Rutter’s work led to the creation of Creative Lancashire, and now she returns to champion, promote and support this important sector in her new role.

It comes at a time when the creative sector has never been more important, as we all deal with the impact of Coronavirus and the new restrictions.

Creative Lancashire is dedicated to helping raise the profile of Lancashire’s creative talent and to harnessing the economic potential in companies and organisations working in the sector.

The service is provided by Lancashire County Council, through its economic development company Lancashire County Developments Ltd (LCDL). The county council recognises the crucial role that creativity and innovation play in driving the economy.

Jenny, who lives in Preston, said: “The creative sector has always been very agile and flexible, adapting quickly to meet new challenges. And the current challenge from Coronavirus is one affecting businesses and creative practitioners right across the globe.

developing creative practice in the north west, Jenny’s career has included local government regeneration, creative industries and professional development roles as well as managing and producing a wide variety of creative industry and arts programmes, including major festivals and events.

Jenny is a founding board member of the Lancashire 2025 City of Culture bid company. She delivered the first dedicated Creative Industry development programme in Preston and supported a funding bid which saw her work replicated across the county as the original Creative Lancashire service.

Creative Lancashire is here to strengthen existing businesses, support new enterprises and to raise the competitiveness and profile of the creative and digital sector in Lancashire.

This includes advocating for creativity and design, building collaborations and networking opportunities, offering creative and digital business advice, and providing information on finance, funding and growth.

Jenny added: “My work across Lancashire has re-enforced my belief in the power of arts & creativity to drive social change and to help shape positive futures for marginalised people and places.

“I am really proud to be asked to chair Creative Lancashire, an organisation which has had such a positive impact on the creative landscape in the county over the last 15 years.”

“We’ll be working to support our whole creative sector during this time, while also reminding partners and businesses of the importance of creativity and design in helping to open up new opportunities and bring something new to the table.”

She has most recently been working with two Arts Council England Creative People and Places programmes: LeftCoast in Blackpool and Super Slow Way in Pennine Lancashire.

A producer with two decades’ experience supporting and

Jenny co-developed the first British Textile Biennial, which

invites artists, designers and makers to explore the politics of cloth in performances, artworks and events across Pennine Lancashire.

She also manages Super Slow Way’s three-year programme of commissions and residencies working with communities, partners and heritage assets along their 20 mile stretch of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.

Jenny takes over from Charles Hadcock, businessman and sculptor, who held the role for 15 years.

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Don’t cancel your cancer appointments because of

COVID-19

People in East Lancashire have ly important cancer appointments Cancer tions

of

specialists have appointments to

been urged to attend vitalif asked to by their GP.

reported a see people

rise in with suspected

cancellacancers.

But health bosses have urged people to keep these appointments and assured them that everything is being done to minimise the risk of exposure to COVID-19 when visiting hospitals for urgent procedures.

All patients with suspected cancer are referred for an urgent appointment at the hospital, which can either rule out the presence of the disease or pick it up early and allow for urgent investigations and treatment to begin.

Dr Neil Smith, a Blackburn with Darwen GP who is the cancer lead for East Lancashire NHS, said: “Although we are in lockdown and many things have closed temporarily, some things of vital importance continue. If you have been fast-tracked for investigations into potential cancer, it is vitally important you do everything to attend that appointment.

“The hospital has taken steps to minimise the risk to patients and will try to do as many appointments as possible by video or telephone. However it is very important to undergo investigations where someone may have developed cancer and this can only be done at the hospital or in certain community venues.

“We cannot help people and try to rule out cancer unless we get them to have these investigations. We must carry on and try to diagnose cancer so we can start treatment early.”

Measures being taken to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection at tal include all patients going to appointments being asked whether any symptoms on arrival and distancing measures have been taken to ple apart. Hand santizers are located by all entrances and are being

the hospithey have keep peomonitored.

Only those who have an urgent need to be in the hospital have been given appointments, therefore there are no busy waiting rooms and waiting times will be kept to an absolute minimum.

Man jailed after spitting at officers claiming he had Coronavirus A MAN who spat at police officers claiming he had the Coronavirus has been jailed for a year.

Callum Heaton, 23, was arrested for being drunk and disorderly after police were called to a report of a disturbance on Cog Lane in Burnley in the early hours of Saturday (March 28th) During the arrest Heaton spat at two officers claiming he was infected with COVID-19. He continued to do so while he was taken to custody.

Heaton, of Cog Lane, appeared before Burnley Magistrates’ Court on Monday (March 30th) and pleaded guilty to two counts of assault on an emergency worker and one of criminal damage. He was jailed for a total of 12 months.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Constabulary said: “This was a particularly offensive and dangerous offence at

this particular time spitting at officers.

“It is totally unacceptable that police and other front line workers who are doing their best to keep our communities safe are treated like this. It is good to see that the court are taking these type of incidents seriously.”

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Detectives investigating the murder of a man in

Skelmersdale have charged four people

DETECTIVES investigating man in Skelmersdale have

the murder charged four

of a people.

Police launched an investigation after Robert Beattie was found with serious burns at his home at Waverley on September 26th last year.

Mr Beattie, 48, was doused in some type of accelerant when he answered the door of his property, before being set on fire in a targeted attack.

He was taken to hospital but sadly died on October 10th. Our thoughts remain with his loved ones.

Following extensive enquiries detectives on Wednesday, March 25th charged three men with murder and arson with intent to endanger life.

They are: Joseph McEwan, 19, of Damsire Close, Liverpool; John O’Brien, 31, of Ingrave Road, Liverpool and Connah

Jenkinson, 25, of Kremlin Drive, Liverpool.

peal to anyone with information that could help, to come forward. .

They appeared before Preston Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (March 26th) and have been remanded for a trial in October.

“Our attie’s

A fourth man, Paul Hart, 32, of Whitburn, Skelmersdale, was on Friday (March 27th) also charged with murder, arson with intent to endanger life and possession of class A drugs. He appeared before Preston Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (March 28th)

thoughts family

remain very and friends

much with Mr Beat this sad time.”

Anybody with information is asked to get in touch on 101, quoting log number 068 of September 26th. Alternatively independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Five other men aged between 23 and 46 remain under investigation. Detective Chief Inspector Pauline Stables, of Lancashire Police’s Force Major Investigation Team, said: “While we have charged a number of individuals our enquiries are very much ongoing and we continue to ap-

The family of a man who died in a road traffic collision in Trafford have paid tribute to him. yone in need, and his positive nature touched everyone he met. He was witty and humble, but also determined and Sadly, 56-year-old Ronald Brown was pronounced dead at the scene. “Ronald was a loyal and loving dad, motivated. He would son, brother and friend. He would always take the time Paying tribute to Ronald, his family said: give the shirt off his back to help an- to encourage us in our On Saturday 4 April 2020, police were called to reports of a road traffic collision on Seymour Grove in Trafford.

various endeavours, and provide support whenever we needed it.

“He will be sadly missed by us all – not just by his family, but also by the wider community.”

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Former police officer sentenced for misconduct

A FORMER Lancashire police officer has been given a suspended prison sentence after trying to pursue sexual relationships with victims of crimes.

Stuart Lunt, who worked as a Detective Constable in South division, pleaded guilty to Misconduct in a Public Office in February. The conviction relates to four female victims of crime with whom over the course of a number of years, 2017-2019, Lunt tried to pursue sexual relationships.

The case was investigated proactively by Lancashire Constabulary’s Integrity and Anti-Corruption Team and supervised by the Independent Office of Police Conduct.

Lunt, of Greaves Close, Wigan was today (April 6th) at Liverpool Crown Court sentenced to 18months prison sen-

tence suspended for 2years and 250 hours unpaid work.

On sentencing Judge David Aubrey QC said: “You have taken advantage of vulnerable women and exploited each and every one of them, akin to grooming. You have betrayed the badge you were wearing and taken advantage of those most in need.”

The judge also added that if it was not for the exceptional circumstances currently being experienced this would not have been a suspended sentence.

DCI Jane Webb said: “Firstly I would like to thank and commend the victims in this case for having the bravery to come forward and report these allegations to us. Today’s outcome would not have been possible without them.

“Police officers are expected to adhere to the highest standards of behaviour in both their public and private lives and Stuart Lunt has clearly failed to adhere to those standards.

“He has risked undermining the public’s confidence in the police service as a whole and the fantastic work undertaken every day by the vast majority of our staff.

“We will continue to proactively target malpractice and wrongdoing in Lancashire Constabulary, as we did with this case, to ensure that the communities we serve can have confidence and trust in us.”

Lunt still

has be

tendered his resignation but will subject to misconduct proceedings.

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POLO & PRESENTERS TEAMS ADDED TO THE

EQUESTRIAN RELIEF TEAM LINE UP

Equestrian Relief is thrilled to announce two new teams joining the line up.

Following lots of excitement over the weekend, ITV Racing Presenter Alice Plunkett, who was due to be a celebrity judge for one of the challenges, has formed her own team. She has called upon fellow sports presenters Rishi Persad, Nick Luck, Luke Harvey and Emma Spencer to join in on the action and help raise vital funds for our NHS Heros.

Not wanting to be left out, members of the England Polo team have also come onboard to challenge our Olympic riders and racing legends for the crown. Mark Tomlinson,

Jack Richardson, Malcolm Borwick, Tom Morley and leading lady rider Hazel Jackson will take on the five Equestrian Relief challenges in a bid to outshine the other teams.

‘Equestrian Relief’ is the exciting new fundraising campaign that has captured the imagination of the horse world. It aims to raise money and change lives, with donations going directly to support the efforts of the wonderful work being carried out by the NHS.

be signed, the chance to join Alice Plunkett & William Fox-Pitt for dinner (six people), score yourself a signed Mike Tindall rugby shirt or even bid for a round of golf with Sir AP McCoy & Oli Bell, plus lots more. And don’t forget the paintings produced by the teams in the Horse Drawn challenge will also be included in the auction lots!

Rachel Lugo, Real Housewives of Cheshire star, has joined the Racing team and what’s more she has offered up an amazing prize, giving people the chance to spend the day

fantastic start.”

Mohamed Al Owais, Director Al Shira’aa Stables said “Al Shiraa stables respects all the doctors, nurses and hospital staff that are putting their own lives in danger to help with the Coronavirus epidemic and therefore we are happy to contribute to the brave people that are in the forefront in defeating this virus and saving lives.”

Alice Plunkett said: “Equestrian Relief is such a fantastic initiative. I just couldn’t

More will be revealed over the coming days so make sure you join in the fun at 7pm each evening from Monday 6 April - Monday 13 April where our daily highlights will be broadcast across all the Liverpool International Horse Show channels and all info can be found at www.equestrianrelief.com The campaign is also launching a charity auction starting Monday 6 April with a host of fabulous items up for grabs! Bid for the chance to get one a fabulous item donated by some of our equestrian celebrities and sponsors. These exclusive lots include a pair of Frankie Dettori Breeches signed by the legend himself, one of only three limited edition prints of Scott Brash’s former top horses Hello Sanctos & Ursula which will

with Rachel and some of her co-stars.

Said Nina Barbour, Bolesworth Managing Director: “Our priority is to unite the horse world to support our health workers and our goal is to raise a sum of money that will make a real difference. All donations will go directly to NHS Charities Together Covid-19 Crisis Fund - supporting NHS staff and volunteers on the frontline as they work under pressure and in the most challenging of circumstances.”

“We’ve already got some fabulous sponsors on-board - including Bolesworth supporters Al Shira’aa, Aztec Diamond Equestrian, Equerry, Equitop and Horse Scout - who have all made generous contributions and we’re thrilled to say that we’ve got off to a

wait to pull together a team. It’s a great opportunity to have lots of fun and raise money for a fabulous cause – whilst adhering to all of the guidelines that are currently in place.

Please make sure you support us!”

Ellie Orton, CEO of NHS Charities Together said: “Every person on our team and NHS teams throughout the country, are playing a vital role in being there for others during this emergency. Please join in with the Equestrian Relief team effort by showing your appreciation, gratitude and solidarity for our NHS workers who are responding heroically to the biggest challenge the NHS has ever faced’.

To donate and for details of the Equestrian Relief campaign visit www.equestrianrelief. com

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GMP recovers over a million pounds

for victims of fraud

Since January 2020, Greater Manchester Police’s (GMP) Economic Crime Hub, tasked with tackling fraud and increasing awareness of scams across Greater Manchester has recovered £1,002,552 for victims.

In November 2017, the Hub launched its Cyber and Economic Crime Awareness Service (CECAS) which is dedicated to providing prevention and awareness information to the public and safeguarding victims.

The team contacts those who have been victims of fraud and supports them in order to reduce repeat victimisation as well as gathering intelligence on upcoming and prevalent scams in order to provide the wider public with information on how to protect themselves.

Most recently, the Hub received a report of a mandate fraud, a scam where fraudsters pretend to be organisation you make regular payments for example, a supplier, membership or subscription organisation and deceive you into changing the details of the bank transfer. The victim changed the standing order from the regular supplier into that of the fraudster and lost a significant amount of money. The team assisted the victim and made them a recovery of £4537.

Detective Superintendent Estelle Mathie-

son, Head of GMP’s CECAS, said: “The impact of fraud can be both financially and emotionally devastating but, the incredible amount of money we have recovered so far this year sends a clear message to victims, that we will investigate their reports thoroughly, and that we are taking action to disrupt and stop fraudsters offending.

“Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated in the tactics they use to scam people, but the more information we can give people about fraud and how to protect themselves, the easier it will be to stop it from taking place.

“We have seen with the current coronavirus pandemic, fraudsters using this uncertain time to exploit innocent people out of their hard earned money. Now so more than ever, we are encouraging people to follow our advice and take the time to think before they part with their money or sensitive information.

“Follow our @gmpfraud Twitter account to stay up to date with the latest scam advice and if you suspect you have been a victim of fraud report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.”

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St Helens Council and The English Cities Fund join

forces for borough-wide regeneration proposals A game-changing partnership could unlock the potential to regenerate large parts of St Helens Borough.

St Helens Council and The English Cities Fund are working together on proposals for a 20-year partnership that would see a variety of sites across the borough benefit from redevelopment.

Early work would include £200m commercial and leisure investment in St Helens Town Centre that could completely trans-

form the centre. The investment could include new homes, revitalised retail spaces, top quality offices or hotel accommodation.

perfect partner for us, with their proven track record of transforming towns and cities, attracting investment, and unlocking potential.

Heralding the exciting relationship with The English Cities Fund St Helens Council Leader Councillor David Baines said: “This is a hugely significant step forward for St Helens Borough. The English Cities Fund are the

“When I became Leader of the council last May, one of my main aims was to push forward regeneration in our borough, with our town centres in St Helens and Earlestown an absolute priority. This deal would enable that to happen, and it would see our borough become the envy of towns and many cities across the country. The work of ECF in places like London, Liverpool, Plymouth and Salford has seen the delivery of high quality, sustainable regeneration, not simply producing new buildings but transforming communities into exciting, vibrant places that are fit for the future, and this is what we will see in St Helens.

“Importantly, the nature of the partnership would allow regeneration opportunities to be explored right across the borough. Because of that, it would be irresponsible to submit a Local Plan for inspection before properly taking into account the potential of this deal, so we will be reviewing the current draft Local Plan in order to evaluate the full implications.

smiles & more

“We will now be working with ECF to develop detailed masterplans for both town centres, and potential opportunities across the borough. This is an extremely exciting time for St Helens.”

The English Cities Fund is an innovative joint venture between Muse Developments, Legal & General and Homes England. The joint venture partnership is currently delivering some of the most complex and most successful urban regeneration projects across the UK. Following its expansion in 2018, it continues to take on large, complex sites, to create inspiring new places.

Phil Mayall, Regional Director at The English Cities Fund, said: “It’s an exciting moment for everyone at the fund, as we take

the first step with our partners at St Helens Council towards bringing both vibrancy and transformational change to the borough.

“We’re at the start of our journey with the Council. However, they share our progressive vision for creating innovative spaces and places to benefit the community, by bringing together both the borough’s rich heritage and their aspirations for the future.

We’re excited for the weeks ahead as we progress discussions towards an agreement.”

Eamonn McManus, Chair of the St Helens Economy Board said: “This partnership between English Cities Fund and the council will be an absolute game-changer, injecting hundreds of millions of pounds of new investment in to our borough.

“It will turn a new page in the history of St Helens, and I believe over the next decade we will see our town centres transformed, with new homes springing up, retail space rejuvenated, offices and hotel accommodation developed and public and open spaces improved.

“Our plans for economic growth will focus on creating community wealth and opportunities for local people, bringing confidence back to the town, and inspiring ambition.”

St Helens Council and The English Cities Fund will be working together on proposals over the next six months, which will go to Cabinet for approval in the autumn. Cabinet will also consider in summer a report setting out the implications of the partnership on the submission draft of the Local Plan.

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the surrounding waterways on your own canoe safari.

Martin Mere has a regular programme of guided walks, talks and events so it’s well worth a visit.

It’s that time of the year again when the schools are out and parents find themselves in the position of having to occupy their children without spending a fortune.

It can be a challenge especially if the weather is going against you. so if you are at a loose end and wondering what to do then here is a list of ideas for days out in Lancashire with children.

Martin Mere is the Wildfowl and Wet-

lands Trust centre in Lancashire. It is home to over 100 species of geese, swans, ducks and even flamingos from all over the world.

Recent new editions to Martin Mere include Beavers and otters as well as a brand new adventure playground that is extremely popular with the children. If you are feeling a bit more energetic then why not

First on our list of days out is an old favourite, the Zoo.

Blackpool Zoo will probably be the

closest and houses a vast array of animals from all over the world. With over 400 species of animals including big cats, elephants, gorillas, birds and reptiles. Blackpool Zoo provides a great day out for everyone no matter the age.

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The Ribble Steam Railway is a small

m u s e u m dedicated to the memory of the steam train. Situated at Preston docks it houses a large collection of locomotives and boasts a 3 mile round trip of rail track that takes visitors from one end of the docks to the other pulled by fully restored steam locomotives. With regular special events the Ribble Steam Railway is a

popular attraction for children and adults alike.

Another popular choice for parents looking for days out in Lancashire for children is Bowlands Wild Boar Park which is situated near Chipping, in the heart of the Ribble Valley. The park offers visitors the chance to see and feed deer, goats and llamas.

Kids love the tractor rides, the pedal tractor play area, animal feeding and play areas.

Grown ups will enjoy the scenic walks by the river through the Trough of Bowland.

If the weather is wet and gloomy then you can head to your nearest indoor soft play centre. The kids love them and it gives parents the opportunity to sit, chat and relax with a coffee

hire a canoe and explore

CHIPPING STEAM FAIR The May bank holiday weekend is fast approaching and the weather is starting to improve which can mean only one thing....

CHIPPING STEAM FAIR 2020 is coming to a showfield near you (well PR3 2TQ actually)!!! This is our 22nd show and the three-day event will be packed to the rafters with a cornucopia of unique sights, sounds and smells. We have all the usual attractions from donkey rides to the digger play pen, tea and scones to burger and chips, funfair to food hall, beer tent and live music (until late Sat & Sun), gift and crafts fair, competitions and static displays, working machinery and demonstrations, awards, trophy’s and presentations, not to mention the hundreds of vintage vehicles and exhibits. Plus a schedule full of entertainment and activities for every age group there is something at CSF to excite, inspire or amuse. We also have some amazing arena entertainment booked this year. On Saturday you’ll be toe tapping along to Samba Espirito, our Samba Drumming Band. On Sunday the breath taking 3SIXTY, Bicycle Stunt Team, will wow you with their hair-raising bike skills. On Monday the “piece de resistance” is Dangerous Steve, our stunt man extreme will be doing, yes you guessed it, lots of dangerous things… juggling chainsaws, crazy balancing and a thrilling fiery finale.

Set up by Mary Harrison in 1998 who is

still at the helm supported by her tenacious team of enthusiastic volunteers who work tirelessly throughout the year to put on the best show possible for their thousands of regular visitors, with all proceeds going to local charities and good causes. Check us out online www.chippingsteamfair.com or on social media #chippingsteamfair

crown leisure services

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This Easter why not get the kids hooked on Outdoor Adventure!

Plas Menai, the National Outdoor Centre for Wales, provides the ultimate in adventure activities for the whole family.

Choose from lots of water & landbased activities or courses…all tailored to provide unforgettable experiences!

Situated on the banks of the Menai Straits near Caernarfon – it’s a stunning location to try something new together.

Choose from SUPing, sailing, windsurfing & coasteering to powerboating, den building and mountain biking, plus loads more…. think outdoor activities – think Plas Menai!

Plas Menai also provides half day youth sessions from as young as 8yrs old, sessions run in the morning and afternoon, or for those who have a lot of energy to burn, book them in for the whole day! All under the careful guidance and watchful eye of our highly qualified and friendly instructors.

These epic activities are aimed at getting kids hooked on outdoor adventure, whilst developing confidence, making new friends and having a blast!

And as Plas Menai is a recognised RYA and BCU training centre, we also offer technical courses and instructor training in dinghy sailing, windsurfing, powerboating, cruising, and kayaking. Courses range from beginner to advanced levels.

Or if you are looking to break into the outdoor industry, our unrivalled reputation, superb facilities, extensive resources and stunning location make Plas Menai the number one choice, our training programmes are designed to help you get the most out

of your time with us and ensure you are equipped with the right skills and qualifications to gain work within the industry.

Become an outdoor instructor who is work ready with no prior training or qualification, and entry age as young as 16years.

All you have to do is turn up, and we’ll provide everything you need.

Whether you’re trying new activities with friends, families or enrolling on a course.

For more information visit www.plasmenai.co.uk or call us on 0300 300 3112

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Planning a day out?

Discover incredible things to do in North Wales But where to begin?

Well, the north east of Wales has plenty of history and is home to North Wale’s only World Heritage Site.

The coastal regions like Colwyn Bay and Conwy have excellent beaches and family attractions.

You’ll find adventure in the mountains of Snowdonia & stunning locations along the Llyn Peninsula.

Picture this. An abandoned quarry, once the world’s largest, turned into the world’s fastest zip zone. Or how about the world’s first manmade surf lagoon delivering consistent two metre waves. You can even scale to Britain’s lowest point, deep beneath the mountain’s of Snowdonia.

With all this, it’s no surprise that North Wales has a

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growing reputation as being the adventure capital of the UK. Underground, on ground or above ground, be prepared for an unforgettable adventure in North Wales.

But it’s not all about flying through the air. There are plenty of things to do in North Wales snd Betws-y-Coed for example that don’t require a helmet or wetsuit. The region has an incredibly rich and eventful history & heritage – which has to be explored.

Medieval castles dominate historic towns, historical structures can be seen across the region & you can even explore a 4,000 year-old mine! For a comprehensive look at the regions history, be sure to visit North Wales’ intriguing museums.

For families, North Wales and Llandudno in particular has a great array of attractions.

Adventure parks provide an array of things to do in North Wales including roller coasters, slides and

experiences. For a day of discovery, head to one of the regions zoos & aquariums – here, the kids can be introduced to animals from all over the world.

With so much going on, you might forget to take it all in so why not make your stay a bit longer?

Whether you are looking for seaside hotels, traditional

bed and breakfasts, quirky glamping and campsites, family friendly holiday and carvan parks or just basic self catering accommodation, all needs and tastes are catered for in North Wales!

And in terms of dining out, Don’t worry. With a wide variety of excellent restaurants, pubs and bars to choose from, you can be certain your stay in North Wales will be a fantastic one!

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Steam and Countryside for Easter Easter is a great time to take the family on a steam railway trip, according to the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway. The wild flowers are blooming and the hills and fields are green.

There is also a special treat for the children, on April 11th,12th and 13th. Â Activity sheets will be given to every child traveller so that they can spot the giant Easter eggs along the line. Every child passenger will receive a handsome chocolate egg in Llanfair. At that terminus there will be other activities and the

Tearoom and Visitor Centre will be open.

Stand on the open balconies and watch the rolling hills, rushing rivers, green farmland and grazing sheep and cattle. Wildlife abounds too: spot the deer in Powys Estates, watch for heron at the Banwy Bridge and red kites or buzzards almost anywhere.

Three trains leave Welshpool every day during the Easter school holidays. Full details and online discounts are on the website at www.wllr.org.uk or ring on 01938 810441.

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HITTING THE BEACH?

If you love beaches – then you’ll love North Wales. With 250 miles of coastline,beaches aren’t hard to come by.

You’ll discover a fantastic variety of diverse beaches in North Wales, with somethingto suit everyone.

North Wales’ coastal resortswere made famous by their fabulous beaches. Colwyn Bay beach, for example, has a longer coastline than Rio’s world famous Copacabana beach – that’s a lot of beach! It’s a consistent feature among the coastal resort beaches – long beaches which provide plenty of space for everyone to enjoy themselves peacefully.

For a day beside the beach with the family, the everpopular seaside resorts of Rhyl and Llandudno continue to please. With long beaches there’s plenty of room to enjoy activities whilst the promenades provide plenty of entertainment. If you’re planning a beach break to North Wales, a visit to one of the

Llyn’s beaches is an absolute must. Hidden away, the Llyn’s secluded beaches provide the perfect location for a peaceful getaway.

Popular resorts like Abersoch provide a much livelier day at the beach, with plenty of things to do including a world-class water sports programme. The Llyn is even home to one of the best beach bars in the world. Nefyn’s Ty Coch Inn has been voted by users of TripAdvisor as one of top ten beach bars in the world.

Being an island certainly has its advantages.

You’re never too far away from a beach when visiting Anglesey.

Scattered along the coast, you’ll discover a great array of beaches, from secluded to historic, Anglesey’s beaches are sure to delight and surprise.

If you’re a fan of history, then Anglesey’s

beaches and coastline will be for you.

Anglesey has a rich maritime history, which is partly thanks to areas of water having a high copper content, which would help clean the boats before an excursion.

On Anglesey’s beaches you’ll find an array of historically important buildings including churches and lighthouses.

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Lake district wal ks The Lake District is one huge adventure playground, providing gentle countryside ambles and more serious high level challenges. Whichever path you take, you’ll have much more fun if you plan properly beforehand.

PLAY IT SAFE Decide your route carefully and make sure you have enough time to get back in daylight. Darkness can quickly descend, so it’s also a good idea to pack a torch, just in case. Before you leave, tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return.

THINK OF OTHERS When planning your day, bear in mind your own capabilities and those of all the others in your group. During your work, be prepared to cut it short if conditions become too difficult or a member of your party begins to struggle.

WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR Take appropriate clothing, equipment, food and drink and a first aid kit. Boots, warm, windproof, waterproof clothing, a hat and gloves and some spare warm clothes plus a rucksac are all essential. Regardless of the season.

BEWARE THE WATER If you’re thinking of going for a paddle, be careful, many tarns and lakes shelve deeply, and the water’s chilly even in high summer.

FOLLOW THE COUNTRYSIDE CODE Be safe, plan ahead and follow any signs Leave gates and property as you find them Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home.

Keep dogs under close control Consider other people CHECK THE WEATHER! The Lake District weather

can change rapidly and conditions on the tops can be very different from those in the valleys. So check out the forecast in advance by calling the Lake District National Park Authority’s Weatherline service on 0844 846 2444 IN AN EMERGENCY Ring the police and give a description of the incident and it’s location. Keep injured or exhausted people safe and warm until help reaches you.

Tarn Hows Circular Walk

Route details Difficulty : Easy Time (approx) : 1 hour Distance : 2 miles (3.2 km) Dog issues : None OS Explorer map OL7 The English Lakes South Eastern Area

This walk is very popular all year round. It begins with a walk through lovely oak woodland where there is a series of small and pretty waterfalls before reaching Tarn Hows, the family favourite water feature in the Lake District. The walk then weaves on paths close to the tarn on a full circular with more woodland sections interspersed with open fell giving access to views of the whole tarn. You will be lucky to have this walk to yourself as it is very much loved by many.

Start: Tarn Hows Car Park From the car park, cross the road and take the left hand fork following the track down to the lake side. Pass through the gate and continue on the track in a clockwise direction around the Tarn Follow the track as it continues around the Tarn to a point where a path crosses the main route. Continue straight ahead around the tarn and back to the car park if a level surfaced path is required. Otherwise to extend the walk and take in good views, pass through the gate to the left of the track and proceed uphill to an upper track. Continue on this track in the direction signposted to Consiton, Hawkshead and Old Car Park until reaching the Viewing Car Park. Note this extension is unsuitable for mobility scooters and pushchairs.

From the car park cross the road and pass through the gate following a footpath across the field, keeping the Tarn to the right hand side. This path can be muddy in bad weather. An alternative is to follow the road back towards the main car park.

near Ullswater and Windermere 9 cottages sleping 2-8

015394 45756 www.matsonground.co.uk

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Silver How

From the centre of the Village of Grasmere, take the narrow lane signposted to Allen Bank, next to the Route details Miller How Cafe. If you have trouDifficulty : Basic map reading ble locating it, find Easedale Road Time (min) : 1 hour 35 mins which has a street name and signDistance : 3.1 miles (5 km) posted "Easedale" in big letters, then Ascent : 325 metres Dog issues : You may encounter walking towards the church it is the next turning on your right. Follow cattle OS Explorer map OL7 The English this lane, over the cattle grid (bypass through gate on left for dogs).

Lakes South Eastern Area Through the short avenue of trees Sometimes when you've only got a and then before reaching the gates, couple of hours or so, or want to make bear right onto the tarmacked drivethe most of a weather window, this way signed simply "Path". Follow this is the sort of short walk you want. round the wooded knoll and continue Based from the village of Grasmere, climbing gently to the farm entrance. you pass by Allan Bank - the tempo- Turn left signposted "Silver How". rary home of Wordsworth and now owned by the National Trust, climb Go through the gate into the field and through juniper bushes, cross a high bear left to follow the wall. Climb to plateau, and returning to the village where the field boundaries narrow there's even a handy teashop at the and enter the narrow defile. It feels bottom of the path. And like many of like you are clambering through a the smaller hills the views from the river here with bracken towering summit of Silver Howe are stunning over you. After about 100m (110 - on a good day! The Langdale Pikes, yards) you can climb out of the rivBowfell and The Band, Pike of Blis- er onto the bank and continue on co, Helm Crag, Steel Fell, Heron Pike up to another gateway. Go through and Fairfield can all be recognised. onto the open fellside and bear left.

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The path, now on grass, continues to climb with a deep gill coming in on your right. Here there is a large stand of juniper bushes, they look a bit like gorse. Crush a berry if you can find one to release the aroma of gin!

Now though after a short rough section most of the way down is by engineered steps. Although tedious it makes the drop quite easy. At the bottom of the gully, by the wall corner, turn sharp left to follow the path alongside the wall.

This section can be pretty wet and feels more akin to a river than a path.

Passing some large erratics continue following the wall as it drops to a gate. Go through and continue to the next gate. Again go through into the field and cross by the well worn path. Another gate leads to a lane which drops down to the road opposite the Faeryland Tearoom - handy Continue up the other side and follow for refreshements. Turn left and walk the wide path across the plateau to the along the road back into the village. obvious hill ahead. The last section is quite steep with cairns marking the way. Bear left to the summit cairn.

Above the juniper the path veers left away from the gill. After 200m or thereabouts you discover the top of the so far unseen Wray Gill.

Bear left on a narrow path to drop down into it and ford the river. In exceptionally wet conditions this might be tricky without wet feet.

From the summit, retrace your steps about half-way down the steep section to the cairn. Take the narrow path on the right headed towards another sizable cairn this marks the top of the gully marked in Wainwright's book as "Scree Gully".

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Path improvements mean it’s easier

than ever to explore Ullswater

Comfortable, friendly guest house. Ideal base for walking, cycling and touring.

Five minutes walk from town centre and lake. Full English Breakfast. Relaxed atmosphere, dogs welcome, free Wi Fi Telephone 017687 72603 or email info@greystokeguesthouse.co.uk www.greystokeguesthouse.co.uk

Improvement works have recently been completed at either end of the UllswaterValley to make these paths more accessible than ever.

Hall has also recently been enhanced. This path suffered from weather damage which destroyed the drainage ditches and meant the path washed out in places and damaged the surface. This has now been repaired.

The path from the car park at Pooley Bridge to the lake shore has recently been improved to even out the surface and widen it in places to make it easier for people with assisted wheelchairs and prams to be able to access the water’s edge .

Lake District National Park Authority Project Ranger, Val Edmondson said: “This part of the Ullswater Way has suffered storm damage and we’re delighted that we’ve been able to make sure it remains one of our accessible ‘Miles without Stiles’ routes. It’s ideal as the car park is so handy and there are bus stops close by and this path allows easy access down to the water to enjoy the spectacular views. Families with young children and people with limited mobility will undoubtedly benefit from the work we’ve done here.”

And, at the opposite end of the lake, the popular path from Cow Bridge car park along the lake shore at Brothers Water to Hartsop

The improvements have been welcomed locally. Sam Bunting, local resident and Parish Councillor commented: “The Miles without Stiles initiative is brilliant!As a disabled mother with active young children, it’s wonderful that there are accessible, short walks on our doorstep that we can enjoy together as a family.” The improvement works have been carried out by local firm Siba Contracts working closely with National Park Rangers and Volunteers, and the routes are now open and ready for use.

There are 48 Miles without Stiles routes throughout the Lake District National Park, all of which are routes suitable for people with limited mobility, including wheelchair users, families with pushchairs, and the visually impaired. See all our Miles without Stiles routes to plan a walk as part of our #NewViewNewYou.

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The Treasury at Brantwood home of the John Ruskin Mineral Collection

Brantwood has acquired the complete collection of cabinets, manuscript catalogues and mineral specimens belonging to John Ruskin at the time of his death. This hitherto unknown collection is a cultural treasure of great importance, being the core collection of one of Europe’s last great pol-

glory. The display explores Ruskin’s fascination with mountains; his role in the emerging science of geology; and the ways in which it influenced his ideas on art and society.

Ruskin’s complete output - writing, painting, social activism, natural history and education – is best seen as a single entity in which art and science are not taken in isolation. Ruskin’s mineral collection today is of greatest importance for the light it sheds on his paintings and his writings on art, nature and society. The significance of this collection for deepening our appreciation of Ruskin’s ideas cannot be underestimated.

ymaths for whom the art and science were inseparable.

Brantwood offers a fascinating insight into the world of John Ruskin and the last 28 years of his life spent at Coniston. Filled with many fine paintings, beautiful furniture and Ruskin’s personal treasures, the house retains the character of its famous resident. As well as the house to visit, take a walk around the gardens and estate which overlook Coniston Water towards The Old Man mountain range. Our onsite Terrace Coffee House and Restaurant serves lunch and refreshments from fresh locally sourced ingredients.

The collection, which has been in private hands since the 1930’s, consists of over 2,000 museum quality mineral specimens. Opening in March 2020, a dedicated exhibition centre is being opened to showcase the collection in all its

Famous as a writer, artist and social reformer, many great thinkers have been influenced by Ruskin’s ideas. Brantwood remains a place of inspiration. Displays and activities in the house, gardens and estate reflect the wealth

Bloomin’ marvellous

Surplus flowers donated by a local florist have been delivered to care homes in Penrith by firefighters.

The kind donation was made by The Flower Bank, based in Wreay near Carlisle, following a delivery of fresh flowers from Holland that they were unable to sell due to the flower shop closing as part of COVID-19 guidelines.

Rather than let them go to waste, the flowers were donated to Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service HQ near Penrith for the staff and partners of the fire service and ambulance service who share the premises.

They also donated flowers to the Cum-

berland Infirmary and Penrith Hospital.

Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service’s Penrith Day Crew then delivered some of these flowers to various care homes within the Penrith area, including Woodlands Retirement Home - where all 41 female residents received a bunch of flowers each for their room. Flowers were also delivered to Cold Springs Park Retirement Home and the Glenmore Trust.

of cultural associations with Ruskin’s legacy – from the Pre Raphaelites and the Arts and Crafts Movement to the founding of the National Trust and the Welfare State.

With its many contemporary exhibitions, concerts, courses and special events, together with its education work in the wider community, Brantwood continues in the Ruskin tradition today. For full details of opening times, exhibition and event details go to www.brantwood.org. uk. Tel: 015394 41396 E: enquiries@brantwood.org.uk.

Brantwood, East of Lake, Coniston, Cumbria LA21 8AD

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The best parks in Yorkshire

Make the most of the warm weather this summer and head off on an outdoor adventure with the family.

Ideal for picnics, nature walks and soaking up some sun, these parks and gardens around Yorkshire offer a scenic spot to relax and unwind .

Bolton Abbey Estate Visitors will be spoilt for choice with things to do at the popular Bolton Abbey Estate in Wharfedale.

Put your balance to the test crossing the 60 stepping stones, take a walk to see the Strid in the ancient woodland, enjoy the scenery along the nature trails, or nestle down on the lawns in front of the magnificent 12th century ruins. Visit: Bolton Abbey, Skipton, BD23 6AL – www. boltonabbey.com Golden Acre Park Hugely popular for its pretty

gardens and circular lakeside walk, this north Leeds park stretches across 55 hectares, providing plenty of space to bask in the sunny weather.

There’s a huge amount of space to set up a picnic, or you can head to the on-site cafe if you’d prefer. Visit: Arthington Road, Bramhope, Leeds, LS16 8BQ – www.leeds.gov. uk

Oakwell Hall and Country Park Combine sightseeing with outdoor adventures at Oakwell Hall and Country Park, where you can take a tour of the bautiful Elizabethan manor house, which offers an intriguing insight into the late 17th century, before heading off to explore the 110 acres of country park which surround it.

The vast estate is home to a network of footpaths and nature trails, where you

can expect to find glorious scenery, flowers and wildlife along the way.

Visit: Nova Lane, Birstall, Batley, WF17 9LG – www. kirklees.gov.uk Manor Heath Park This nineteen acre park in Halfax is perfect for an active day outdoors, thanks to its many exciting on-site a t t r a c t i o n s .

Alongside woodland walks, a walled garden and wild flower area, children will love playing in the water park and sand pit, or spotting an array of exotic plants and creatures at The Jungle Experience, the park’s tropical on-site g r e e n h o u s e .

There’s also plenty of spots to set up a picnic and if you’re feeling energetic, there is an outdoor gym where you can work up a sweat.

Visit: Halifax, HX3 0EB – www.visitcalderdale.com

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to visit with the family Valley Gardens These English Heritage grade II listed gardens in Harroage spread across 17 acres and feature an array of different areas giving visitors plenty to e x p l o r e .

Have fun in the playground, skate park, boating pool and games areas, which include tennis, pitch and putt and crazy golf, take a dip in the paddling pool, or simply take some time out to wander the footpaths through the gardens.

Visit: Valley Drive, Harrogate, HG1 2SZ – www.harrogate. gov.uk

Yorkshire Sculpture Park If you’re looking for a park that is a little more out of the ordinary, Yorkshire Sculpture Park won’t disappoint.

The magnificent open air gallery is home to around 80 sculptures and installations, offering a more unqiue way to appreciate some

contemporary art by some of the world’s finest artists.

Visit: West Bretton, Wakefield, WF4 4LG – www.ysp.org.uk

Fountains Abbey and Studley Roya Water Garden Tucked away in a secluded valley, visitors are guaranteed to be impressed by the vast Cistercian abbey ruins and Georgian water farden at this National Trust site in Ripon.

A medieval deer park, Elizabethan Hall and Gothic church are also on site to see, while the vast green lawns which lead down to the riverside provide a wonderful spot for a picnic.

Visit: Fountains Abbey And Studley Royal Estate, Ripon, HG4 3DY – www. nationaltrust.org.uk Roundhay Park A firm favourite spot to soak up some sun in Leeds,

Roundhay Park stretches across 700 acres of pretty parkland, lakes and woodland, providing a picture-perfect location for leisurely picnic.

Youngsters are well catered for with two playgrounds on site, along with the popular Tropical World visitor attraction where a variety of exotic animals and plants can be seen.

Visit: Mansion Lane, Leeds, LS8 2HH – www. roundhaypark.org.uk Castle Howard This stunning 18th century historic house just outside of York stands within 1,000 acres of glorious landscape, with lakes, fountains, woodland, temples, rolling lawns, an ornamental garden and a children’s playround just a few of the delights which await to be explored in the grounds. Visit: Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA – www.castlehoward.co.uk

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HELPLINE SUPPORT EXTENDED FOR ADVICE AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT A helpline offering advice and emotional support has been extended to be available 24/7 as people across Lancashire and South Cumbria deal with the implications of the coronavirus pandemic on their mental health.

The helpline operated by the area’s leading mental health provider Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust is available for anyone who is struggling to cope, feeling isolated or experiencing mental health problems such as stress, anxiety or depression.

Perri McGovern, Acting Service Manager for the Wellbeing and Mental Health Helpline explained that it was a really uncertain and worrying time for the community. She said: “It can be difficult to manage mental health and wellbeing when you are not able to do the things that matter most to you like seeing your family and friends or just simply going out to work.

“We recognise this and want to support people whenever they are feeling this way. I am pleased that we’ve been able to extend our usual service hours to be available 24/7 at a time when people really need some extra support. It is important everyone knows you’re not alone and support is much closer than you think.

“I would urge anyone who needs support, a conversation or is suffering with a mental health problem to call or text us for emotional support and a listening ear.”

The helpline initially expanded in September last year when it added a text service for people to make contact

without speaking to people. Feedback from service users since then demonstrates that 100 per cent of people who have used the service, say they would do so again.

The helpline 4640 or by

can be contacted texting ‘hello’ to

on 0800 915 07862 022846.

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Gary Roberts: My time at Accrington

Gary Roberts admitted he didn’t quite expect the pay cut he took when he signed for Accrington Stanley - but it all worked out in the end!

The Reds were the now 36-year-old’s first league club and he has gone on to have a superb career, winning promotion with Huddersfield, Chesterfield, Portsmouth and his current club Wigan, three of these under ex-Reds boss Paul Cook.

But the winger says it could all have been very different when he first signed for Stanley in March 2005.

“I had been at Liverpool Academy as a youngster but had then been in the Welsh leagues. I was playing for Welshpool and John Coleman had been to watch me.

“At the time I was earning around £200 from Welshpool and I was a computer technician so I was doing ok, earning around £400£500 a week in two jobs which was good money for a 20-year-old.

“Then I had a trial match for Accrington against Burscough and after it the gaffer said he wanted to sign me, he offered me a sixmonth contract and said he would look after me with a ‘few hundred quid.’

“In my mind, as a professional footballer, I was thinking £700/£800 but when I came to sign the contract it said £200 a week!

“I couldn’t pay for petrol the first month into my contract but thankfully it all worked out.

“To be honest, once I got into full-time football I always knew I would make it, I

thought I would do ok.”

Gary is well remembered by Accrington fans for his 13 goals which helped the Reds win the Conference title in 2005-6.

He had a habit of scoring ‘live on Sky’ - he got one in the big November match against title-favourites Grays Athletic and a double in the January Monday night victory at another promotion rival Exeter which sent the Reds clear at the top.

“I think we were one of the favourites to go down that season as we had a small squad.

It was full of scousers on hardly any money and we were up against decent sized clubs who were paying out a bit.

“We just had no respect for anyone and I bet teams hated playing us. We just seemed to beat anyone who was put in front of us, we had no fear.

“I remember playing Grays and it was the first time I had been on Sky. I scored, I got Man of the Match and it was amazing for me, eight months earlier I had been playing non-league football. I realised I was doing ok.

“The bus was rocking on the way home and we were singing ‘We are going up’ even then!

“Everything clicked and we went on an unbelievable run, we didn’t want the season to end. I remember Exeter on a Monday night, I think I scored with a free kick. It was freezing and we went 11 points clear and they were one of our rivals. We knew we had done it then.

“We had a great team spirit. Ian Craney is now the kitman at Wigan and we are good mates.

“Then I see Rocky (Robbie Williams) around and I have come up against Rob Elliot and Darren Randolph when they have played against me in the Championship.

“You have a special bond with players you have won a title with. You might not see each other for years and then you get together and it’s like you saw each other five minutes ago.

“I had gone into training Monday and was led on the couch at home when my agent rung me and told me to pack a bag as I was going down to Ipswich.

“It was surreal, I signed that morning and then made my debut against Preston North End on the Tuesday night.

“It was a real culture shock for me. I remember at Accrington, you had to do everything for yourself so I turned up at Ipswich with a holdall the size of a suitcase full of drinks, shinnies, boots, towels – you name it, it was in there.

“It was a great season, it was memorable but for me, the game I remember most, was Chester City away, the opening game of our League Two season.

“We might have lost but playing in the league was my dream as a kid and I finally did it. It was red hot, it was packed and it didn’t go to plan but it was such a special day for me, one I will never forget.”

“Everyone else just had little designer wash bags and nothing else and they were looking at me strangely. The kitman pulled me to one side and told me I could leave all that at home, it would be provided!”

Gary was attracting attention but the move to Championship side Ipswich in October 2006 took him by surprise.

“I still feel fit and I am playing regularly at the moment for Wigan and I have still got a lot left to give.”

He has played at Wembley a number of times and is still playing regularly at Championship level.

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Communication and physical work the key Rovers’ Head of Athletic Performance, Chris Rush, insists communicating with the players effectively and ensuring they keep on top of their fitness levels have been the two most important aspects to consider during the current quarantine.

seriousness of the situation ramped up and the games have been pushed further and further away, so what’s been important for us is, first of all, making sure we can communicate to the players in the most effective way.

The players have been away from their Brockhall training base since March 13th, when it was announced that all football fixtures would be postponed until at least April 3rd.

“So at the moment, that’s a WhatsApp group, which means we can have all the first team and Under-23s players in that WhatsApp group and because there’s been daily changes, it’s been important that we can send the same message to everybody and there’s the ability to communicate back, so that’s one aspect.

The Championship campaign has since been suspended indefintely, as the country tackles the Coronavirus pandemic, with strict social-distancing measures put in place.

A key member of Tony Mowbray’s backroom team, Rush has provided the players with fitness programmes they can follow at home, which include going for regular runs, which he can monitor through a tracking App. Rush says, as the seriousness of the situation has

developed, the players’ programmes have been adapted accordingly, but he is pleased with how the squad have responded.

Speaking to iFollow Rovers, he said: “It all came about very quickly and once we were notified that we didn’t have a game, whilst we were training on the Friday, preparing for the Bristol City game, we went away not really knowing the seriousness of it all.

“So we had plans in place to provide programmes, but we were going to come back in within three or four days, so initially there wasn’t too much of an issue.

“But then, it obviously quickly escalated, the

“The other aspect is obviously the physical work that we’ve been getting them to do. Again, initially, because we didn’t know how long we were going to be away for, the programme that we gave the players was quite basic and then as we’ve realised that we’re going to be away a little bit longer, we’ve put a lot more detail into it and we’re now tracking players through an App that allows you to

see all their work that they’re doing outside, like running and the sessions that they’ve been prescribed.

“There’s also a social media element to it as well, so they can see all of each other’s runs, who’s doing what, and it’s been really good.

The players have been excellent on the uptake of it.

“It’s obviously a completely new situation.

People have been speaking about it being an off-season situation, but it isn’t really because off-season is normally a time where we would recommend quite a good period of rest and recovery, but we’ve not been able to really do that because we’re not clear on when that next game is and how fit the players need to be.

“So it is quite unique in the sense that we’re trying to replicate what we would do in training, but from their homes, which has obviously been a challenge, but I’d like to think we’ve got a good handle on it now.”

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£50 Million Shortfall If Clarets

Don’t Finish The Season

Further to the Premier League statement released post the Premier League Shareholders meeting held on Friday 3rd April, Burnley FC is keen to be transparent with supporters, staff and stakeholders and is therefore able to confirm that due to the continued suspension of Premier League games this presents some significant challenges for the football club.

Burnley FC are set to lose around £5 million in lost revenue from the remaining home games which in the event that the season

finishes would be unlikely to be recouped owing to the likely prospect of these fixtures being played behind closed doors.

In addition, the Clarets face missing out cash payments from the Premier League of up to £45 million in broadcasting revenue and other items if the season is not finished. It is believed that other clubs could be looking at up to a £100m shortfall.

Commenting on this Burnley FC Chairman, Mike Garlick said: “It’s a completely unprecedented situation that we and other Premier League Clubs face and which we could

not have foreseen in anyway only just a few weeks ago.

“It’s now not just about Burnley or any other individual club anymore, it’s about the whole football ecosystem from the Premier League downwards and all the other businesses and communities that feed from that ecosystem.

“As a club, as fans, as staff members and as a town we are all in this together and I’m sure we can get through this by sticking together and helping each other in every way possible in these tough times.

“We all need to do our bit, however small, together as One Club.”

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