Over Wyre Focus by Helen

Over Wyre FOCUS Your Free Monthly Magazine

Knott End ~ Preesall ~ Pilling ~ Stalmine ~ Hambleton December 2014

Issue 181

What’s On Over Wyre

Monday

1st

Drop in Hearing Clinic - Bridging the Gap

‘Peter’s Travels’ - Pilling Men’s Fellowship

Darts Dash - Garstang & District Lions 44 Lighting of the Christmas Tree - St James’ Church 69 Stalmine Christmas Lights Switch On 76 Tuesday

2nd

Hambleton Parish Council Meeting

Visit to the Chocolate Factory, Blackburn - Pilling Lane WI

Christmas Reminiscences Afternoon - Knott End Library

‘The Mysteries of St John’s Church’ - Pilling Historical Society

Wednesday

3rd

Cancer Care’s Christmas Fair - Leighton Hall

Meat Bingo - Winmarleigh Village Hall 10

Over 70’s Free Xmas Brunch - Hambleton WI

Thursday 4th “Timeshift - an introduction to time-lapse photography” 10

Christmas Meal - Stalmine Gardening Club

Friday

Xmas Prize Bingo - St Oswald’s Parish Hall

5th

Bingo - Stalmine Village Hall (also 19th)

Hambleton Christmas Lights Switch On

Saturday

Christmas Fayre - St Aidan’s

6th

Pilling Charity Dance Group

Turkey & Tinsel Lunch - Knott End Methodist Church

Cleveleys Walks (also 20th)

Christmas Concert - Pilling Band

Sunday

Beginners’ Bridge - Poulton Bridge Club

7th

Monday 8th ‘A Slice of Scotland’ - Pilling Men’s Fellowship 7

Pilling Meat and Turkey Bingo

Victorian Evening (also 9th)

Tuesday

Drop-in Hearing Clinic - Knott End Library

Men’s Fireside Fellowship Meeting

9th

Over Wyre & Garstang Focus Magazines Tel: (01253) 813433 editorial & advertising / (01253) 342992 accounts & payments Event Advertising & Editorial: sue@focusmags.co.uk Business & Commercial Advertising: helen@focusmags.co.uk Postal submissions: Focus Magazine, 132 Highfield Rd, Blackpool, FY4 2HH Cover design by Phil S Clarkson | Printed by Moulton Printing | © Focus Magazines 2014

What’s On Over Wyre

Tuesday

9th

Thursday

11th

Christmas Carols by Carter’s Charity School - Knott End Library 18

Friday

12th

Strictly Come Dancing - Dancing for All

Christmas Celebrations Concert - Elswick Singers (also 13th)

Carol Service - Stalmine WI, St John’s Church

Party Time for Senior Citizens - St Aiden’s School

Quiz & Christmas Social - Fylde Bird Club

Saturday

Christmas Concert - Over Wyre Singers

13th

Stalmine Parish Council Meeting

Santa by Barge - Garstang & District Lions

Phoenix Strings Concert - St Anne’s Church

Sunday

All Age Worship and Toy Service - St Oswald’s Church

Christmas Music Box - Hambleton Choral Group

Tuesday

Carol Service - St Aiden’s School

Charity Pub Quiz - CRY

Wednesday 17th

Members’ Evening - Travel and Holidays Association

Thursday

18th

Santa’s Visit to Garstang (also 19th, 22nd and 23rd)

Friday

19th

Fairytales Reading Group - Knott End Library

Sunday

21st

14th 16th

Lessons and Carols - St Oswald’s Church

Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, St Helen’s Church

Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, St Jame’s Church

Messy Christmas - Pilling Methodist Church

Wednesday 24th

Crib Service - St James’ Church

Thursday

25th

Family Communion - St Oswald’s Church

Sunday

28th

Village Carol Service, St Oswald’s Church

Monday

29th

Prize Bingo Night - Golden Ball Bowling Club

If you want to share this magazine with family or friends outside our delivery area then you can easily do so from our web site - see opposite page - where full digital copies of both the Garstang and Over Wyre issues for 3 months can be read on-line. January 2015 deadline for editorial and adverts Monday 15th December January deliveries commence 9th January 2015 While every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine to ensure accuracy, Focus Magazines cannot be held responsible for editorial content supplied by contributors. Our acceptance of an editorial item or an advertisement does not necessarily indicate our endorsement of the products, services or views contained within it.

PREESALL & KNOTT END GALA 2015 Organising the 2015 Preesall and Knott End There will be more information on the website Gala is now underway. very soon so keep paying us a visit at www.preesallandknottendgala.co.uk Are you a company, a club or a group that

would like to support your Gala? Or would The committee would like to hear from you like a trade stand or stall on the field on you, so if you have any feedback, Gala Day? Or even a float in the parade? If questions or enquiries, please contact: so, then we would like to hear from you! secretary@preesallandknottendgala.co.uk We are also now looking for sponsors for the 2015 Gala, so please get in touch. The Could the committee also take this opportunity committee are open to any new ideas for the to thank all our sponsors, helpers and friends for their assistance in 2014. You all know who Gala. you are! Thanks! Without you many things The Gala Queen has been chosen - the Queen Elect is Katy Wood. For 2015 we will would not be possible and we hope you all also have a Gala Princess who will be Maisie will continue for 2015. Addington-Barker.

The Gala Committee would like to wish each The theme for 2015 will be Super Heroes, so and every one of you a very Merry Christmas get your imaginations going for those fancy and a Happy New Year! dress, floats, paintings and shop window decorations. Peter - Asst Secretary/Press Secretary

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CANCER CARE’S CHRISTMAS FAIR

PILLING HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Leighton Hall

Meetings of the Pilling & District Historical Society are held in the Methodist Church Schoolrooms, Smallwood Hey, Pilling at 7:30pm, from September through to March.

Wed 3rd Dec 10:00am - 2:00pm This lovely event provides a wonderful, seasonal opportunity to do some Christmas shopping in the elegant surroundings of Leighton Hall. Browse around beautiful stalls, Home Produce, Jewellery and Scarves, Christmas Floral Decorations, Clothing, Fragrances, Gift ideas and much more. Yealand C Of E Primary School will be performing carols from 1:00pm. Admission £3.50 (Includes Coffee & Mince Pie). Further info from Helen Hartin (01524) 381820.

STALMINE VILLAGE HALL BINGO Fri 5th & 19th Dec : Everyone welcome good prizes. Doors open at 7:00pm, eyes down at 7:30pm. David Makinson (01253) 700232

Full membership of the Society is £10.00 per annum. Visitors £2.00 per meeting. Tues 2nd Dec: “The Mysteries of St. John’s Church, Poulton”. Speaker Mrs C Storey BA. Tues 6th Jan: The Hugh Sherdley Memorial Lecture - “Pilling to Glasson Dock in Times Past”. Speaker Mr R. Parkinson. For further information please Mrs R Lawson (01253) 810841

contact:

TURKEY AND TINSEL LUNCH Knott-End Methodist Church Sat 6th Dec at 12noon. There will be no coffee morning on the day. Tickets £4.50 available at the previous coffee mornings or from Mavis (01253) 810395

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PILLING 20-20 – A REALITY

PILLING METHODIST CHAPEL

Exciting developments came a step nearer when plans for a new village hall area went on display at the Memorial Hall on Sat 15th Oct.

Special Events December

Members of the public were invited to an Open Day to look at the plans and to share their views. These plans have now been submitted to Wyre Borough Council for their consideration. The plans include a new community hall, football pitches, multi-use games area, children’s playground and a leisure trail in a woodland area. There is now an opportunity to become involved in the project and this was the main aim of the Open Day. More volunteers are always needed now that the project is coming to fruition. For further information please contact Katrina Bell on (01253) 790649 or Graham Curwen on 07951 130 465.

Sat 6th Dec at 7:30 pm. Carol Concert by the Chapel Singers. Admission £5 (children £3) including refreshments. For tickets ring Mildred Curwen on (01253) 790253 or any member of the choir. Sun 14th Dec at 6:30pm. Village carols involving the schools led by Deacon, Jo Critchley. Tues 23rd Dec from 3:30pm to 5:30pm Messy Christmas. All ages warmly welcomed. Christmas Eve 7:00pm Communion taken by Rev Paul Critchley. Christmas Day 10:00am Family Christmas Day Service led by Deacon, Jo Critchley. You can be assured of a warm welcome at any of these services or events.

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MEETING POINT - HAMBLETON We are a non-denominational group meeting fortnightly on Tuesday afternoons at 2:15pm, at the United Reformed Church Hall, Sandy Lane, Hambleton, from September through to April. Tues 2nd Dec: OUT VISIT Tues 16th Dec: Carol Service & Gift Exchange. Everyone welcome. Mrs R Dixon (01253) 700700

BRIDGING THE GAP Drop In Hearing Clinic Mon 1st Dec between 10:00am to 12 noon. Monthly drop in clinic St James Church, Hall Gate Lane, Stalmine, Lancs FY6 0LA on the first Monday of each month. Further information from Vincent Borg (01772) 561323

PILLING MEN’S FELLOWSHIP Pilling Methodist Church - 7:30pm Mon 1st Dec ‘Peter’s Travels’ Peter Hornblower Mon 8th Dec ‘A Slice of Scotland’ David Bousfield

PILLING MEAT AND TURKEY BINGO Pilling Memorial Hall Mon 8th Dec - 7:30pm St William’s Church are holding their annual Christmas Meat and Turkey Bingo in the Memorial Hall, Taylors Lane, Pilling. Doors open at 6:45pm, eyes down at 7:30pm. Admission £1 and children 50p including tea and biscuits. During the evening the Grand Christmas Draw will take place: 1st prize £50, 2nd prize £25 and plenty of other Christmas prizes

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THE MUSTARD SEED The Mustard Seed at Garstang Methodist Church in Park Hill Road, is the town’s One World and Fair Trade shop that sells fairly traded food items ranging from olive oil and couscous to dried sultanas, raisins, currants and apricots (think Christmas cakes!) to cookies and Fair Break wafer biscuits. And of course we also stock a range of teas, coffees and chocolate drinks together with chocolate bars (ten different flavours at the last count!) and sweets. We have also started to stock a range of cleaning products, all of which incorporate fairly traded “Fair Palm” palm oil. Palm oil plantations have a justly bad reputation in terms of their environmental impact but “Fair Palm”, from Ghana, is grown as a sustainable crop alongside other traditional crops so as well as growers receiving a fair price they are able to conserve the land on which it is grown.

We have lots of fairly traded craft items from all over the world – scarves, jewellery, bags and all sorts of knick-knacks ideal as Christmas stocking fillers. Our surplus income is donated to organisations working in other countries to help their people improve their lives, often in small but always significant ways. The Mustard Seed is open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00am to 2:00pm. We shall also be open from 6.30pm on Mon 8 Dec for the Victorian Evening. Pop in and see what we’ve got for you. And while you’re there call in to Wesleys Coffee Lounge and enjoy what has been described by many customers as “the best cuppa in Garstang”. PS. If you’re interested in Fair Trade and have some time to spare, we would welcome you as a volunteer to help in the shop – just ask at the counter or call Katherine Corkish on (01995) 601277.

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OVER WYRE SINGERS

KNOTT END DOMINO CLUB

A reminder not to miss our Christmas Concert entitled “Joy To The World” on Sat 13th Dec at 2.30 pm in St Oswald’s Church, Knott End, followed by seasonal refreshments and a bumper Raffle in the Church Hall. Ticket price £6.00, children free, including refreshment.

Knott End Domino Club will not meet during December but will be up and running again on Fri, 30th Jan 2015.

What better way to get into that festive mood than listening to, and joining in with, a variety of Christmas music. Tickets will be available from Knott End Post Office and Choir members, or contact Jane West 07789 327 827, Jenny Blyth (01253) 391341 or Rosemary Costello (01253) 813837. We look forward to singing for you !

OVER WYRE WHIST & DOMINOES Every Tuesday at Knott End Working Men’s Club, 2:00 - 4:00pm. New members always welcome. Mrs E Jones (01253) 822103

In the meantime have a lovely Christmas and a healthy New Year. We meet monthly at Knott End Methodist Church.Everyone is welcome. Lilian Makin (01253) 811791

DANCING IN PILLING Pilling Charity Dance Group Sat 6th & 20th Dec Old Tyme & Modern Sequence dancing taking place every fortnight from 7:45pm at Pilling Memorial Hall. Admission £3.00. Home made refreshments available. All proceeds to charity. Further enquiries to J. Cross (01253) 790535

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HAMBLETON IN BLOOM Best Kept Village GOLD! GOLD! GOLD! Yes we did it! Hambleton have won the R.H.S North West, Large Village section Gold Award for 2014. Thank you to all in the community who have helped with litter picking, watering, weeding, planting, joinery, raising funds, encouraging us and just working hard to gain this fantastic award. We are encouraged to work even harder this coming year and would love to have some new younger members on board. Litter Picking Fri 26th Dec. Meet at the Shovels Car Park at 10:30am. Picks and bags provided. Afterwards we gather for a natter, drink and food. All ages welcomed. Help to keep the village litter free. For further info contact Beryl Hartley (01253) 700066.

POULTON PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY We meet at 7:30pm every Thursday, from September to June, in the Methodist Church Hall, Queensway, Poulton-le-Fylde, FY6 7ST. New members of every level of experience are always welcome. Thurs 4th Dec â€œTimeshift - an introduction to time-lapse photographyâ€? S Lewis ARPS Thurs 18th Dec - Christmas Social See our website www.poultonps.co.uk for further details or contact our publicity officer Ray Wilson on (01253) 886974 email: rjwilson@outlook.com

MEAT BINGO

Winmarleigh Village Hall Wed 3rd Dec - 7:30pm Refreshments served at half time. All welcome! For further information ring: (01995) 600715

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STALMINE GARDENING CLUB

DANCING FOR ALL - PREESALL

Stalmine Village Hall: 8:00pm Thurs 4th Dec Christmas Meal

Strictly Come Dancing With John!

Fri Dec 12th, 7:30 - 10:30pm New members always welcome. For further St Oswald’s Parish Hall, Lancaster Road, details contact: Preesall. Barbara Makinson (01253) 700232 This is our Christmas Dance and at this festive time we would like to wish a Happy Christmas & prosperous New Year to one and all.

Admission £3.00, includes refreshments. Please pay at the door. Profit goes to the Hall Maintenance Fund. For further info please ring: John Blakey (01253) 811218

XMAS PRIZE BINGO St Oswald’s Parish Hall Fri 5th Dec Eyes down 7:30pm. 50p admission includes refreshments. Everybody welcome. All proceeds to Pilling Band 80th Anniversary Fund Any queries please telephone Jim Redman (01253) 811430 Debbie Bond

BANKHOUSE NURSING HOME, Annual Christmas Party Sat 13th Dec 2:00pm - 4:00pm Including tombola, raffles, cake stalls, mulled wine and minced pies plus much, much more. All welcome. David Kershaw, Activities Organiser 07860 632 233 email: david.kershaw@bupa.com www bupa.co.uk Bankhouse Nursing Home, Shard Road, Hambleton, Nr Blackpool, Lancashire, FY6 9BX

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MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OF OUR CUSTOMERS

£10.95 for 2 Courses £12.95 for 3 Courses DECEMBER'S ENTERTAINMENT SAT 6TH - 60’S 70’S & 80’S WITH DJ EDDIE SAT 13TH - REQUEST NIGHT, ANYTHING GOES! SAT 20TH - DISCO NIGHT WITH SUNSET DISCO WED 24TH - XMAS EVE PARTY WITH DJ EDDIE FRI 26TH - 60’S 70’S & 80’S WITH DJ EDDIE SAT 27TH - KARAOKE NIGHT WITH STEVE WED 31ST - N.Y.E PARTY WITH SUNSET DISCO

The Black Bull Preesall, Lancashire

Open for Food Mon - Thurs 12-2pm & 5-8pm Fri & Sat 12-9pm, Sun 12-8pm

(01253) 810294

blackbullpreesall.com

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ELSWICK SINGERS Christmas Celebrations The summer has faded, but as the warm rays of the sun rest for another year they are joyfully replaced with laughter, fun, frivolities and tempting treats as we look forward to the Festive Season’s celebrations. Come and celebrate the start of Christmas with the Elswick Singer’s Christmas Celebrations Concerts which are to be held on Fri 12th & Sat 13th Dec in Elswick Village Hall, Roseacre Lane, Elswick at 7:30pm.

The Choir has performed many concerts/ events throughout the year and helped various organisations with their fund raising. They are available for helping with fund raising or for private events. Should anybody be interested in discussing a booking please contact Val (01253) 622711. Elswick Singers are always looking for new members. Anybody who is interested in joining us is welcome to come along on Tuesday evenings at 7:30pm at Elswick Village Hall.

Tickets cost £6 each and include refreshments, (wine & nibbles or tea/coffee & mince pie). Tickets can be purchased on the door on the night or reserved by phoning Val on (01253) 622711.

Rehearsals commence on Tues 6th January 2015. You will be assured of a warm welcome as we are a very friendly, fun-loving choir. It is not necessary to be able to read music (many of our members don’t).

The charities we are supporting this year are The Royal British Legion (Summer Concert) and The Parkinsons Association at our Christmas Concert.

We are in particular need of gentlemen singers, tenors and basses, but all new members in all parts of the choir will be welcome. The Singers have been performing for over 27 years and we wish to be able to continue in the future, needing new life in the choir to be able to do so to the standard we wish to maintain. Please consider giving us a try. Singing is known to be beneficial to health and is an enjoyable and social pastime. We look forward to meeting our supporters, new and old, at our Christmas Concerts, and sharing an enjoyable evening of music and merriment in readiness for Christmas, whilst helping a very worthwhile charity. May we wish you all a “Happy Christmas” and thank you for your continued support.

CLEVELEYS WALKS Why not try a healthy one hour walk around Cleveleys. Saturday fortnightly at 10:30am. Meet at Beach Road Community Centre Sat 6th & 20th Dec. We have refreshments and a chat aftrerwards.

Beryl Hartley (01253) 700066 14

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CARDIAC RISK IN THE YOUNG (CRY) The Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund Race Night Thank you to all who kindly supported this event in many and varied ways, from sponsoring races to providing raffle prizes or attending on the night. An eventful and entertaining evening led to a grand total of £1008 being raised towards Matt’s Fund. Well done Zoe, Tom and team for making it all happen and to our hosts at the Kenlis. No Drink November Throughout the month one spirited young lady (sorry for the pun Krystal!) took it upon herself to give up drink. At the time of writing it’s so far, so good, but will she make it to the end of the month? Although November will be almost over by the time you receive this Focus, it’s not too late

to read her page to find out more about her challenge- go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving. com/KrystalsNoDrinkNovember Charity Pub Quiz Tues 16th Dec - 7:30pm Our final fundraiser for the year is a fun quiz to be held at the Roebuck, Bilsborrow. Entry is just £2 per person (includes light refreshments) with three team categories: Up to 3 people; 4-7 people and 8+. There are prizes for each group and a festive raffle. Thank you one and all for your wonderful support throughout 2014. May this Christmas bring to all the gifts of love, friendship and peace. Further info about CRY at: www.c-r-y.org.uk or contact Paula 07785 106 976

MOBILE LIBRARIES The dates for the mobile library visits for December are as follows: Pilling: Thursday 11th Hambleton: Monday 1st Arthurs Lane: 11:00 - 11:10am Meadowcroft Avenue: 11:15 - 11:30am Wyreside Drive 11:35 - 11:50am Wyreside Park, Kiln Lane 11:55 - 12:05pm Coniston Avenue: 13:15 - 13:25pm Birchwood Drive: 13:30 - 13:45pm Hambleton Country Park: 13:50 - 14:05pm Stalmine Stalmine Country Park: 14:10 - 14:25pm Seven Stars: 14:30 - 14:50pm Woodside Park: 14:55 - 15:10pm Preesall Ash Grove: 15:20 - 15:40pm Rosemount Avenue: 15:45 - 15:55pm Pilling Lane: 16:00 - 16:10pm Garstang Library 0300 1236703 www.lancashire.gov.uk

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KNOTT END LIBRARY Events in December Tues 2nd Dec the library is hosting a Christmas Reminiscences afternoon, so come along to the library, enjoy a cup of tea/ coffee and view items loaned from Lancashire Museum. Starts at 2:00pm. Continuing with the Christmas theme, on Thurs 11th Dec the children from Carters Charity School “Sing Up” group will be entertaining us with Christmas carols and songs. Free event starting at 2:00pm. The Christmas Trivia Quiz sheet is still available from the library – closing date Mon 8th Dec with prizes generously donated by local businesses. £1 per question sheet. Bridging the Gap The next visit is on Tues 9th Dec 1:30 3:00pm. There is free, impartial advice for people using NHS hearing aids, free batteries available for NHS hearing aids, one-to-one support with assistance and help in maintaining them. Town Council If you have any issues with the area then call in and speak to a representative from the Town Council who will be at the library on Tues 9th Dec from 4:00pm. The Family History group will be meeting at the library on Mon 1st Dec from 10:00am -12noon. Fairytales Reading Group meet on 5th Dec and the Last Friday Reading Group meet on 19th Dec. Both meet at 2:00pm and new members are always welcome. Our weekly events continue including Crochet, Knit and Natter and Baby Bounce and Rhyme. If you are interested in any of the events please ask the library staff for more information. On behalf of Joan, Liz and myself, I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Christine France - Branch Manager Knott End Library 0300 123 6703

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GREY MATTER TEST (ans page 78) 1 What is the common name for the patella? 2 Which shrub like plant produces berries that are used to flavour gin? 3 What do you call a group of whales? 4 Who played the station master in the classic film, The Railway Children? 5 What is the process of water loss through evaporation from plant leaves called? 6 Who disappeared in a flight across the Pacific Ocean in 1937? 7 What is the capital of Luxembourg? 8 What term describes a tree that annually sheds its leaves?

11 Caledonia was the name given by the Romans to what? 12 What sort of occupation would a ‘realtor’ be in the USA? 13 The Crab represents which sign of the Zodiac? 14 What nationality was the heavyweight singer, Demis Roussos? 15 What are The Society of Friends also known as? 16 What is the country Siam now called? 17 Sturgeon’s eggs are also known as what? 18 In Britain we form a queue, what do Americans do?

9 Cyprus is a historically disputed territory between which two peoples?

19 What is the square root of 64?

10 Which Italian artist was also an architect, sculptor, philosopher & mathematician?

20 Sterling silver is pure silver plus a small percentage of what other metal?

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PHOENIX STRINGS Phoenix Strings will be presenting an evening of music to relax and enjoy, including some favourite Christmas numbers on Sat 13th Dec at 7:00pm at St Anne’s Church, Westby Mills PR4 3PL. This is located near Wrea Green. Tickets are £6:00 (under 14s free) to include light refreshments. Tickets available on the door or contact sandy. electraglide@outlook.com cath.chambers@yahoo.co.uk As a string orchestra of adult returners or late starters we are always glad to hear from potential new members. Check out our website to find out more details at www.phoenixstrings.net

Rehearsals are Wed 7:00pm to 9:00pm at All Saints Anchorsholme, 36 Valeway Avenue, Thornton Cleveleys, FY5 3RN. For further information e-mail: caroline_lovett@yahoo.co.uk or ring John Foster (01253) 823599

MEN’S FIRESIDE FELLOWSHIP On Mon 1st Dec members are invited to visit our friends at the Pilling Men’s Fellowship. The speaker will be Mr Peter Hornblower, his subject “Peters Travels”. The meeting starts at 7:30.pm. In December there is only one meeting at Knott End. On Tues 9th Dec Mr David Hall will speak about “The Ultra Secrets” at 7:30pm. Our meetings are non-denominational and held in the school room at the rear of the Methodist Church B. Chesworth (01253) 811355

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OVER WYRE ART SOCIETY We hope you were able to view our exhibition at Knott End Library during November. It was good to see the finished work on display. The demonstrations and workalongs went well with good attendance. I think we released all our inhibitions when painting the cockerels. Sylvia gave us carte blanche literally and before long there were life-size cockerels with exotic plumage all displaying, each one unique. Surprisingly we managed to tidy up on time and leave the building how we found it. Our December meetings are all on a festive note as follows: 2nd Dec - Christmas Lunch at Springfield House Hotel. 9th Dec - Painting Christmas Cards. 16th Dec - Fun Sketching with festive refreshments for all. Final meeting before Christmas. If you feel like taking up a new hobby then now is the time to ask Santa for some art materials and then bring them along to our Art Society. Our painting classes resume on Tuesday 13th January. More details in the next issue of Focus Magazine. May we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We meet at The Youth and Community Centre on Lancaster Road Preesall, each Tuesday 2:00 - 4:00pm. Refreshments are also served. For further information please contact Barbara Smith on (01253) 702439. Sandra Langhorne

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Wyre Walk of Fame Special Recognition to Wyre Business

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ADVENT & CHRISTMAS 2014 Church of England Services The Church of England, Over Wyre, looks forward to celebrating the coming to earth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. We hope that all the people of our villages will have a happy and holy Christmas and we invite you to come and join us in our special seasonal services.

St James, Stalmine Rev Dyllis Dickinson Tel: (01253) 700011 14 Dec 10.30 Toy Service 19.00 Carols by Candlelight with Pilling Band 21 Dec 10.30

9 Lessons & Carols

24 Dec 16.00 23.30

Crib Service Holy Communion

Please contact us if you wish to know about our regular weekly services.

St Oswald, Preesall Rev Dawn Banks Tel: (01253) 790250

The Blessed Virgin Mary, Hambleton

14 Dec 10.30

Toy Service

Rev John Squires Tel: (01253) 701895

21 Dec 10.30

9 Lessons & Carols

14 Dec 10.45

Toy Service

24 Dec 14.30

Holy Communion

21 Dec 18.30

Carol Service with Pilling Band

17.30

Candlelight Service

24 Dec 16.00 23.30

Nativity Service Holy Communion

23.30

Holy Communion

25 Dec 10.45 Holy Communion

25 Dec 09.30

Communion with Carols

28 Dec 11.00

Village Carol Service

St John the Evangelist, Out Rawcliffe Rev Judith Kirkham Tel: (01253) 702711 7 Dec 09.30 Toy Service 21 Dec 14.30 Carol Service with Pilling Band 24 Dec 23.30 Holy Communion 25 Dec 09.30 Holy Communion

Fresh Local Turkeys Christmas Hampers & Gift Vouchers Homemade sausages, stufďŹ ngs & home cured bacon Ideas, Inspiration & Professional Service

1 Barton Square, Knott End-on-Sea 01253 810 577 24

St John the Baptist, Pilling Rev Andy Shaw Tel:(01253) 799895 14 Dec 10.30

Toy Service

18 Dec 19.00

School Christingle Service

21 Dec 10.30

9 Lessons & Carols

24 Dec 17.30

Crib Service

Holy Communion

23.00

St Mark, Eagland Hill Rev Andy Shaw Tel: (01253) 799895 21 Dec 14.30

Family Carol Service

25 Dec 09.00

Holy Communion

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PREESALL & KNOTT END IN BLOOM and generally maintaining the flower beds and tubs in the area.

It seems a long time since the warm, sunny days of July, but it was in mid July that our entry for the North West Region Britain In Bloom display was judged, and it was in late October that we found out that we had been awarded a Silver Gilt for the second year running. For anyone not familiar with the Royal Horticultural Society award system, the highest award is Gold, then Silver Gilt followed by Silver and Bronze. Thanks must go to the small but dedicated group of workers who, between April and September, put in approximately 700 volunteer hours planting, watering, weeding

Our busiest months were May and June when over 500 bedding plants were planted out; almost half of which were grown from seed by our local gardeners. So now we have a couple of monthâ€™s break before we start planning for 2015. Details of when we will start gardening again will be in the April and May issues of Focus Magazine and anyone who is interested in joining us will be very welcome. If any organisation or individual would like to donate a memorial bench to the garden at the back of the library, there is still one space available. Anyone who is interested please contact Yvonne McCann (01253) 811364 In Bloom Team

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THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Over Wyre Branch Remembrance Sunday Parade and Service. This was a special year – the commemoration of the start of World War 1. Branch members attended St. James’s Church in Stalmine for the Remembrance Service and Wreath Laying. The muster on Bethel Church Car Park was a bit of a panic as I had forgotten to bring the wreath for the Mayor to lay at the Memorial but a good samaritan, Kirsty, gave me a lift to collect the wreath and I was back in time to take the Parade. Around 150 to 200 people were present to commemorate the Knott End and Preesall Remembrance Sunday. The various youth organisations – on very

short notice of 15 minutes – were requested to parade their standards/flags/banners round the base of the actual Memorial. Congratulations to them as it isn’t easy to do something like that without any rehearsal. I am sure everyone felt justifiably proud of you. Watch this space – as I am hoping to involve the youth organisations a bit more in 2015. I also promise to have HM Coastguard at the rear of the parade – as requested – just in case of a call-out whilst on parade. Thanks to Pilling Band who led the parade and – once again – did us proud. The local civic dignitaries marched in time and ‘instep’ followed by The Royal British Legion, ex-service and civil organisations, women’s organisations, youth organisations, and those who just wanted to participate in the parade to show their appreciation and respect, some of whom – I know – had great difficulty in marching let alone climb the steep steps to

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THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION (cont) the Memorial to lay their wreaths. Thank You. I feel very proud to belong to a community such as ours that can produce this kind of response. There seemed to be more wreaths laid this year than in the past and the church service was very well attended. The Service was followed by refreshments in St. Oswald’s Church Hall. Grateful thanks to everyone for a sterling job well done. . Poppy Appeal. This has gone very well this year. The boxes were all collected, emptied, money counted and paid into the Bank by Thurs, 13th Nov. Special thanks must go to Kepplegate Care Home who made The Poppy Appeal their charity of the year and presented us with a cheque for £1,000. grateful thanks go to the street collecting team – Anne, Gary, Joyce, Rodney, Ray, and Jackie – it’s no fun standing there in the cold

and rain for several hours. Thanks also go to the various businesses, schools etc who very willingly take the Poppy Appeal collecting boxes onto their premises. All of the above really are stars and deserve very grateful thanks for their efforts in raising the much needed funds to enable us to carry on helping those of the service and exservice community and their families who are in need. 11-11-11 – Armistice Day. Jaxckie and I attended the morning assembly at St. Aidan’s College to thank the pupils for their Poppy Appeal and Remembrance activities for which we presented a Certificate of Thanks and Appreciation. The highlight of this visit was to see the winning Remembrance paintings by the pupils which are now on display in the Over Wyre Medical Centre. A short Service of Commemoration, Wreath and Wooden Cross laying was held at the

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THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION (cont) Battle of Britain Memorial in Knott End to mark the 96th Anniversary of the end of World War 1. It was well attended by a crowd that increases every year, as does the number of commemorative wooden crosses that are laid in the garden. Membership. Membership of the Over Wyre Royal British Legion branch is decreasing and yet, I know, there are ex-service people in the community who are currently members of other branches including the National Central Branch St. Jamesâ€™s. Incidentally, you do not have to be ex-service to be a member of The Royal British Legion, just believe in what we do. It isnâ€™t always convenient for members to attend our Branch meetings on the 2nd Thursday of every month at 2:30pm. Therefore if there were sufficient people coming forward wanting to attend an evening meeting then that can be organised. Anyone

interested in transferring membership or becoming a member, please contact me, Bill Burn, on 0771 578 412. Thank you to everyone in Knott End, Preesall, Stalmine, Pilling, Stakepool and Hambleton for your very loyal support and best wishes for Christmas and 2015. Shoulder to Shoulder with all that Serve

INNER WHEEL

The Inner Wheel Club would like to thank everyone for supporting us in our charity during this year and wish everyone in Garstang and surrounding districts a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. The Inner Wheel Club of Garstang and Over Wyre meet twice a month at the Best Western Hotel, Garstang. If you are interested in joining us or would like further info, ring Club Secretary, Maureen Garstang on (01995) 604336.

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HAMBLETON PARISH COUNCIL NEWS History Board A new board has been erected on the grassed area near to the Shovels Inn. The board records and commemorates those who lost their lives for their country in The Great War of 1914-1918. Shaping Your Neighbourhood The two new picnic benches recently installed on the Bob Williamson Park have been as a result of funding to the Parish by Wyre Borough Council. LCC Public Rights of Way Scheme The Parish Council has recently become a member of the above scheme which is in place to try to ensure that all rights of way, signposting, hedges, stiles and gates are maintained with the aim of ensuring footpaths and bridleways in the rural areas can be enjoyed by the public.

The Public Rights of Way network in Lancashire can be viewed online at Lancashire County Councilâ€™s interactive mapping site (MARIO maps). Any reports of damages or overhanging vegetation within the Hambleton Parish Boundaries can be reported direct to the Parish Clerk or logged on the Lancashire County Councilâ€™s mapping site. Hambleton Parish Council will be given the opportunity to carry out any repairs which, hopefully, should ensure a more timely response. The Parish lengthsman has recently cut back vegetation and repaired a footbridge on the public footpath off Cutts Lane. Council Meeting The next meeting will be held at 7.30pm on Tues 2nd Dec in the Village Hall.

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WYRE JUNIORS FOOTBALL CLUB The season is well underway at Preesall Park with teams of all age groups enjoying successes. This month we have an report from the Under 9s team on their progress so far. Three years ago I first took my son down to Preesall Park to try out the Saturday Morning Football. There were about 14 -16 children aged between four and six all running about having a great time playing football and learning the basic skills. Eighteen months ago there were enough regular players to set up an under 8’s team and enter them into the Poulton and District Primary League to play in a friendly league against other teams in the area. They had a good first season winning as many games as they lost and reaching the Plate final at a tournament in June this year which was a great achievement for them in their first season. They have now moved up to the Under 9’s and attracted several new players and I’m pleased to say they are having a good start to the season. Four of the team are from the Saturday Morning Football group from three years ago, several others joined shortly after and have got to know each other’s game and have gelled as a team. We are looking forward to the forthcoming Cup and League matches and tournaments. Andy Hall Under 9’s Manager Saturday Morning Football Club Wyre Juniors FC‘s SMFC holds coaching sessions at the playing fields on Sandy Lane, Preesall on Saturdays from 10:30am - 11:30am. We will use the sports centre at Preesall whenever the weather is unfit outside so please remember to bring both

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football boots and trainers in case we are indoors. Players should also have shin pads and bring a none fizzy drink with them. SMFC is for children in Reception, Yr 1, Yr 2 and Yr 3, of all footballing ability. We teach basic football skills based on enjoyment of the game with games and exercises that make football fun. To follow all our teams progress please take a look at our website www.wyrejuniors.co.uk or come along on a Saturday morning to Preesall Park

football. Each team is managed by volunteer coaches whom Wyre Juniors support in gaining their FA coaching qualifications. We are a friendly bunch who meet once a month to discuss all things Wyre Juniors. If you are interested in helping out in anyway please ring Steve Creer on (01253) 812392 or 07751287238

Are you Interested in Coaching? Coaching at the SMFC is done by experienced qualified coaches. As the children graduate from the SMFC we aim to start a team made up of children in their school year for them to be a part of. These teams take part in friendly tournaments and leagues where the emphasis is on the children finding fun in

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GARSTANG LIBRARY Memory Cafe Garstang Library is pleased to be involved with a new FREE drop-in cafe for carers and those living with dementia. All are welcome to for a chat and cup of tea. The cafe will be running every 1st Wednesday of the month 10:00am - 12noon. Further details ring Sandra Perkins (01995) 471236 or pop in to the library. Stop Press! The Bowland Choir will be entertaining everyone with a sing-a-long at the Memory Cafe on Wed 3rd Dec. Childrens Activities Christmas Baby Bounce and Rhyme Mon 15th & Fri 19th Dec at 10:00am Christmas Toddler Rhyme Time Tues 16th Dec at 2:00pm Christmas Storytime with Santa for under 5’s. Fri 12th Dec at 2:00pm All these events are FREE so come along and join in the fun. Knit and Natter Meeting every Tuesday at 2:00 - 4:00pm and every Friday at 10:00 -12:00 noon. The group is looking for new members, so if you enjoy knitting or fancy starting a new hobby, come along. Refreshments are provided as well as expert help and advice. Reading Groups Meeting on Thurs 11th Dec at 2:00pm and Tues 16th Dec at 7.30pm. The books for discussion will be ‘The Thread’ by Victoria Hislop and ‘An Ice-Cream War ‘ by William Boyd. Mobile Libraries The mobile library routes for December will be as follows: Scorton Wed 10th Dec Catterall & Churchtown Thurs am 4th Dec St Michaels - Rawcliffe Road Tues pm 2nd Dec Garstang Library 0300 123 6703 garstang.library@lancashire.gov.uk

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RSPCA Shoe box appeal

sparkle to their lives.

Some of our animals won’t have a happy Christmas this year. Please help to bring some

Our Shoe Box Appeal last year was such a success we’ve decided to do it again. We ask you to make up a decorated shoe box containing cat or small animal toys and treats for our animals. Drop-off points for the boxes are Longview Animal Centre, Stalmine; Sainsburys, Bispham Red Bank Road; Pets at home, Bispham and all four RSPCA Charity Shops on Highfield Road, Talbot Road, Morecambe and Knott End. Our longest small animal residents are Mini and Marco, two degus which are both still needing a home. They have to live in separate cages. Marco was transferred to us from another centre along with his two brothers. Very friendly, he likes being handled. He has had a problem with his tail which is being assessed by the vets. We hoped he would be able to live with other degus but it would need to be

with lots of toys. Suitable to live with older children, Minnie would benefit from further handling. Degus loves exercise so Minnie will need a fair-sized enclosure and running wheel. Wish-list Christmas Tree Appeal This year we are doing something extraspecial by having a Christmas tree on which are attached cards containing a wish-list. These are items from our Amazon Wishlist On-line. A card is chosen from the tree detailing an item you may wish to purchase for the Centre animals. It is then replaced by a picture of your own pet or in memory of a pet you loved. To view our wishlist online go to www.amazon.co.uk/gp/registry/wishlist/ ?ie=UTF8&cid=A3CF3TINK5MCDB or pop down to the Centre to view the tree. Natasha Henderson (01253) 703000 email:enquiries@rspcablackpool.org.uk

another male and we would have to make sure they didn’t fight. Minnie was brought into the Centre by an RSPCA Inspector as they had concerns about her welfare. She needs a large cage

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PILLING LANE WI How time flies when you are having fun. I canâ€™t believe that another year has come and gone and what a year it has been as we recapped at our Annual General Meeting on 5th Nov.

and Jerusalem.

Throughout 2014 we have had some very inspirational and interesting speakers ranging from those with interesting lives to some lively demonstrations.

for the WI coupled with our 80th Birthday

We had a trip to the Stones and Roses Garden, a mystery trip arranged by our President, Lois Davidson and our up-coming outing to the Chocolate Factory at Blackburn arranged for 2nd Dec.

make some new ones, enjoy days out, learn

We had a lovely evening at Garstang Golf Club for our 79th Birthday Party and letâ€™s not forget the Fashion Show on 24th October. We have of course our Christmas Party to be held at St Oswalds on 3rd Dec. Not all jam

As the year draws to a close we have an extremely interesting and busy 2015 to look forward to, it being the centenary year celebrations. So watch this space. Come and join us to make 2015 a year to remember, when you renew old friendships, something new and celebrate with us. Diary Dates Tues 2nd Dec Chocolate Factory Wed 3rd Dec Christmas Party Sat 13th Dec Both groups of Ladies who Lunch will meet at Thurnham Hall at 1:00pm. Joy Mellor (01253) 811682

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ERIC OLLERENSHAW MP Although Parliament is now back November has still been a busy month up here in the Constituency. As usual I have had various meetings and attended many local events. One of the highlights was handing out the prizes at that great school St Aidan’s, which again had a great year in terms of examination results whilst finding out at the same time that the Chairman of Governors, Mr Ian Taylor, had been to the same secondary school as myself, Hyde County Grammar school – as they say, it’s a small world! However in this centenary year of the start of the 1st World War, November has for me been even more so a time of Remembrance and I have attended several events to

commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice. I think one of the outstanding things of all these events has been the increase in the numbers of those there and the increase in the amount of younger people, which I feel begins to demonstrate that those who lost their lives are not forgotten by our small part of the United Kingdom. I have also had a series of meetings with local residents, land-owners, farmers, parish council and various agencies to discuss flood prevention in our area. As many of you may know, I continue to have concerns about the lack of maintenance of local dykes and water courses and the lack of communication when regular work is withdrawn. As a result of this I have written to the Secretary of State, Liz Truss to raise my concerns as well as arranging for a meeting with the Marine Manage Organisation and

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ERIC OLLERENSHAW MP the Environment Agency. In the long term, the solution, as I have said before, means looking at the return of a Land Drainage Board for our whole area, so the problems of regular maintenance can be sorted locally. As it is now getting colder, I thought I would also like to remind every one of the Government’s Green Deal Scheme which can help you make your home more energy efficient and in some cases assist in the installation of a new boiler. If you would like further details please visit www.gov.uk/green-deal-energy-savingmeasures or telephone the Energy Saving Advice Service on 0300 123 1234. However a word if you are thinking of employing a company to carry out an energy assessment: do make sure that they are registered with the Government’s programme and not hand over any money until you are certain.

Finally I would like to take this opportunity of wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! ERIC OLLERENSHAW MP

OVER WYRE LADIES Juniper Close Community Room Our next meeting is Tues 9th Dec at 2:00pm and this will be the last one for this year. All ladies welcome. We had a very good turnout for our ‘Shoe Box’ afternoon and managed to fill 64 boxes. A huge thank you to all the people who helped and to those who donated items for the boxes. The first meeting in 2015 will be on the 13th January so have a good Christmas and New Year. Lilian Makin (01253) 811791

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PILLING BAND At the end of October, the band took part in a contest which was held in the magnificent Rochdale Town Hall. We competed against five other North West bands in the 4th Section, each playing an own choice piece of music. The 4th Section bands were first to play, starting at 9:30am, so in order to arrive at the venue in time for registration etc we made an early start - our coach beginning it’s pick ups at 7:55am. The event was very well organised and we were drawn to play fifth in order of play, which saw us on stage at about 10:40am. The performance went reasonably well, though everyone thought that we had played it better in rehearsal. Imagine our surprise therefore when the results were announced and Pilling Jubilee Silver Band was placed 1st. We had won! Weeks of hard work by Len Charnock, our MD, and by all our members had paid off. I should add that there was a

certain amount of celebrating before our coach, provided as usual by Mike of Avalon Coaches, took us back to Over Wyre and home. The festive season sees the band with many engagements, the first being our annual Christmas Concert which, this year, is to be held in St John’s Church Pilling at 7:30pm on Sat Dec 6th. The following two nights will take us to Garstang for the Victorian late shopping extravaganza. On Sun 14th Dec we play for Trinity Hospice in the afternoon at their “Light up a Life” ceremony, followed by the Carol Service at St James, Stalmine in the evening. On Mon 15th Dec we go to Parrox Hall, Preesall to celebrate the ancient rite of Wassailing followed by carols in the Hall, and on Tues 16th Dec we are at Mariner’s Close, Fleetwood, carolling for the residents.

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PILLING BAND (cont) We shall be in Knott End in the morning of Sat 20th Dec followed by carol services on Sun 21st Dec at Out Rawcliffe in the afternoon and Hambleton in the evening. These jobs are in addition to several private functions, so you can well imagine that we shall be ready for our Christmas dinners! In conclusion, may I, on behalf of the band, wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year and thank you all for your support. As always, the band can be contacted via the website: www.pillingband.com or the secretary Emily Hallett on 07710 983916. Jack Isles 80th Anniversary Appeal The Anniversary Swingalong Concert at the Memorial Hall, Pilling on the 13th Nov was once again a sell out with a record attendance. The concert was a 50/50 shared event with

Macmillan Cancer Support and is the last event before the Christmas period. So many people to say thank you to but special thanks to the Pilling Drama group for their ‘Allo Allo’. Wonderful and so wellappreciated by a capacity audience. In Memory of David Shepherd David Shepherd and I shared so much in life - born in the same year, went to the same schools, played football together, sang in St John’s Church Choir and married local Pilling girls. I was his insurance broker for so many years but we both loved brass bands. David loved the organ sound of a hymn tune. On Monday morning he used to call at Fordstone shops and we ate bacon butties together. Sadly he suffered a major stroke in 1998 and his wife Mary was to become his pillar! When Mary bought tickets for the concert in the Memorial Hall I was working on a

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PILLING BAND

ST OSWALDS CHURCH, PREESALL

manuscript of an alternative version of Abide with Me but with a difference - Deep Harmony was in the mix and I had hoped the Band would play it for him at the concert. He died two days before the event. So the score now reads “Arranged in the memory of David” and I hope the Band will include it in their Christmas concert in David’s favourite Church - St John’s Pilling on the 6th December.

All age worship and Toy Service. Sun Dec 14th 10:30am

Rest in Peace my old friend. Jim Redman - Fund Organiser

Sun Dec 21st 10:30am Lessons and Carols

Pilling Band 200 Club November Draw

Wed 24th Dec Christmas Eve

1st Prize £50 No 23

Brenda Hankinson

2nd Prize £30 No 136 Billy Whiteside 3rd Prize £10 No 129 Jack Isles

Bring a toy, either used in good condition or new. These will be donated to the Toy Bank - a Blackpool based charity - and the Kensington Foundation, which provides free toys for needy families in Blackpool and the Fylde.

2:30pm Holy Communion Seasonal refreshments.

followed

5:30 pm Candlelight Crib Service. 11:30 pm First Communion of Christmas.

4th Prize £10 No 131 Hannah Harrison

Thurs 25th Dec Christmas Day 9:30am Family Communion

Alan Danson

Sun 28th Dec 11:00pm, Village Carol service

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GARSTANG AND DISTRICT LIONS Community Bonfire and Firework Display This year’s Bonfire and Firework Display took place on Saturday the 1st of November. The event was a great success with the weather keeping fine and the Firework Display being the best ever. Garstang Lions would like to thank everyone who attended and supported the event. Although the event is organised by the Lions it is a non-commercial and non-charity event and all the costs of the night – around £4000 – needs to be covered by the paying public. Special thanks also go out to all the local businesses and individuals who provided wood for the Bonfire and helped over the weekend – Horne Builders; DCL Transport; Carrs Billington; Dewlay; Gift Hall Farm;

E.K.Brakes; Garstang Timber; Andrew Whittaker; Andrew Willacy; Walter Parkinson; T.H.Horn; Miniquip; Daniel Fowler. The Barn On the 5th of November the Lions organised the car parking for the Bonfire at the Barn in Scorton. The event was well attended – the car park was full to capacity – and everyone enjoyed a fine evening and firework display. As usual the Barn provided excellent refreshments. Darts Dash This year’s Lions Darts Dash will take place on Sun 30th Nov and Mon 1st Dec. The proceeds from this event are to be used to help purchase some specialised equipment for the Oaklands (Cheshire Home). Garstang Running Club The Lions will be providing their Car Parking

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GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS (cont)

HELP BEAT CANCER

service at the Garstang 10 Mile Road Race on Sun 7th Dec. The race starts and finishes at Guy’s Thatched Hamlet, beginning at 10:00am.

Fundraising Group

Victorian Evenings Garstang Lions will be providing Santa’s Grotto during the Victorian Evenings on Mon 8th & Tues 9th Dec. Santa will be there to meet the children and give them presents, and the Lions have all got their fingers crossed that it will snow again this year! Santa by Barge The local canal boating community will be hosting their ‘Santa by Barge’ on Sat 13th Dec to help raise funds for the Garstang Children’s Festival. Starting at 2:00pm Santa and his merry Elves will arrive by canal barge at the Tithe Barn. He will then be in residence to meet local children and present them with presents.

Many thanks to everyone who supported us and donated raffle prizes at the Open Day on Thurs 13th Nov at Fylde Flowers, 102, Mains Lane, Singleton –the amount raised so far is £475.00. Special thanks to Bertha for hosting the event and to Phillipa and Sharon for their excellent demonstrations - the day was greatly enjoyed by everyone. We now have a Facebook page – Help Beat Cancer – Wyre. Please take at look and see our future events & pictures. Our Just Giving account is www.justgiving.com/Help-Beat Cancer A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New year to you all. Many thanks for all your support. It is very much appreciated. Jean (01253) 700555 / Pat (01995) 672760 / Val (01995) 670800

As well as Santa and the elves there will also be entertainment, games, and a magician for the children to enjoy. There will also be a tombola and raffle. Previous events have attracted up to 60 children during the afternoon and it is hoped that lots of children will enjoy the event this year. The day is supported by Mitchell’s Hotels and Inns and Garstang Lions.

THE KNOTTY KNITTERS The Knotty Knitters meet every Wednesday afternoon from 2:30pm to 4:00pm in the upstairs lounge at St Alban’s Nursing Home, Clarence Ave, Knott End. Entrance fee £1 includes tea and coffee, all welcome. For further details please contact: Elaine (01253) 810292 Activities Co-ordinator

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BEAT BLOOD PRESSURE NATURALLY If you speak to consultant geriatricians and cardiovascular experts the vast majority would admit that most problems involving high blood pressure can be rectified with simple lifestyle changes. So if that is the case, why do we start popping pills instead? Because it is quicker, easier and requires precious little effort on our part…heaven forbid we actually make an effort to be healthier, eh? In my experience as an osteopath, I meet countless patients who want to be better, who want to improve their health without medication but are not sure where to start. So let us begin with our blood pressure problems. Firstly, get up from your sofa or desk and start moving. Walking is a profoundly good thing to do. Our body is a moving machine and thrives when we use it, so get up and walk. Thirty minutes every day!

dilation. Interestingly many green vegetables do this too – celery, watercress, rocket, spinach, broccoli amongst others. Garlic works by having an active ingredient called allicin which works in a different way but has a similar affect on our arteries. Unfortunately the allicin in garlic is unstable so must be consumed very quickly after it has been chopped. The finer it is chopped the more allicin is released. The alternative is to get a fabulous supplement called Allicin from a good health food shop. This has been made so that the crushed garlic is preserved within seconds of it being crushed thus making it very potent and effective. It is also very good for boosting your immune system. It has the added benefit of not making you reek of garlic. Nick Tofalos

If it is raining outside then pace your room, get a step and step up and step down and repeat. Obviously being out in the fresh air brings more benefits but I cannot stress enough the importance in lots of slow movement every day….a rolling stone gathers no moss! There have been some interesting experiments that have shown certain foods can influence our blood pressure. If you are a liquorice fan then beware, it can raise your blood pressure (so if you have blood pressure that is too low it may help you!) Three particular foods have been shown to be beneficial: beetroot, watermelon and garlic. Each has a different chemical which helps our blood vessels to dilate, thus reducing our blood pressure. Beetroot and watermelon influence levels of nitric oxide via nitrates which encourages this

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SEA BANK HOUSE A TRUE HOME-FROM-HOME

I could tell you all about Sea Bank House and its facilities as if I was describing a hotel, for example the beautiful Individual rooms, some with sea views, the designer bathrooms, Wi-Fi, HD televisions, telephones and the glorious sea views from the lounges... However when I was searching for a room for my own mother all those years ago, I do not remember any of those concerns being uppermost in my mind. What I do remember is the fear of making the wrong decision, whether I was ‘doing the right’ thing, remembering “don’t ever put me in an old people’s home” knowing that was exactly what I was considering... I now realise what made it all so difficult: it was the realisation that taking and accepting the responsibility of making such a life-changing decision on behalf of a loved one was the hardest decision I had ever had to make. Finding the type of care available within the many different care homes is daunting in itself: • Do I want a new, large, modern home or should I say institution with all the facilities like Wi-Fi and a garden maze, or do I want the home that offers the nearest possible likeness to a ‘home’? • Do I want familiar staff, many of whom have been working at the same home for many years, coupled with on-going continuous training enhanced by a dedicated management team who are in daily contact with both residents and staff? • Do I want to see certificates plastered all over the walls or do I want to be greeted every time I visit by the same familiar faces? • Do I want the same staff knowing my loved one not only during the day but also at night when they are alone and feeling lost and knowing that they would appreciate If you are thinking along these lines, then come and visit Sea Bank House for a chat and feel the homely atmosphere for yourself. Contact Andrea on 01253 810888 or e-mail info@seabank-house.co.uk Visit www.apexhealthcare.co.uk or hear what others think of us at www.carehome.co.uk 27-31 The Esplanade, Knott End On Sea, Poulton-Le-Fylde, FY6 0AD

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WYRE SENIOR FORUM Door to Door Bus service Some of us in the far flung corners of Wyre find it difficult to get about on public transport. If you live in Nether Wyresdale and would like to visit Cleveleys you will be hard put to find a bus that will take you there. If you live in Fleetwood and are tempted to visit many of Wyre’s beautiful market towns (and market days) you will have to work hard to get there on a bus. Well here’s some good news about transport, for a change. Lancashire County Council have a fleet of 200 buses used mainly to provide transport for schools and community groups across the county. Many of these stand idle in between school duties but they are now being offered to individuals and groups at very reasonable prices. What’s more, they will collect and return you directly to your own home. There are a few simple rules: •

The trip must take place be between 9.30am and 2.30pm.

•

There is a cost of £2 per trip (or £4 per return trip).

•

You don’t have a car

•

You don’t have reasonable access to, or find it difficult to use, public transport

All their buses are designed so that passengers who have walking difficulties or who are wheelchair users can access them easily and safely. Features include low steps, wide aisles, high visibility handrails, good interior lighting, room for walking frames etc. and all have climate control to make passengers’ journeys as pleasant and comfortable as possible. The vehicles are maintained to the highest standard by Lancashire County Council’s Fleet Services Division at workshops across Lancashire.

The minibuses have seating capacity for up to 16 seated passengers or a combination of seated and wheelchair passengers so that everyone can travel together. In order to break even, each bus should have at least ten passengers on average but they can cope with some variation. It’s a very affordable way of visiting supermarkets, markets and other events on a regular basis. And there is the added bonus of the driver helping you with the shopping as it is a completely door-to-door service. All it needs is a bit of organising so that enough people start to use the service regularly and reliably. It helps, for example, if enough neighbours can ring round each other and let the service know who needs collecting for a particular run. Within reason they will transport you to anywhere in Fylde or Wyre. For more information please contact Lisa Cunningham on (01772) 685504 or 07584 217 737. She will quickly tell you whether you are eligible and how to get started. For more information on the Forum please contact Tony Ward on (01253) 855966 or tonykrysiaward@hotmail.co.uk.

HAMBLETON CHORAL GROUP Christmas Music Box Sun 14th Dec at 2:30pm “A Miscellany of Words and Music”, to be performed at Hambleton Parish Church. Tickets £3 including refreshments (tea, mince pies/shortbread) and a free raffle ticket, available from members or phone (01253) 700963 or (01253) 810153. All proceeds in aid of charity. Come along and get into the Christmas spirit

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OVER WYRE MEDICAL CENTRE Message from the Practice Manager It is has been another busy Flu Season at Over Wyre Medical Centre and our Saturday clinics have now come to a close. However, if there are any remaining over 65’s and ‘At Risk’ patients who still need their Flu Jab please let us know. Remembrance Day was particularly poignant this year with it being 100 years since the end of WW1. Anyone who has been to the Surgery recently will have seen 10 outstanding pieces of Art provided by the pupils of St Aidan’s. We have included two examples.

courageous men and women who have served our country, defended our freedom and kept us safe. We thought it would be an opportune moment to remember all those who have fallen and those who have risked their lives to protect us. We had 190 students making an A4 piece of art to commemorate Remembrance Day, aged from 11 to 16. Needless to say we were

On considering how we could brighten the waiting room at Over Wyre Medical Centre we came up with the idea of an art competition involving St Aidan’s High School. With it being the run up to Remembrance Day all the partners agreed that an appropriate theme would be to commemorate the

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OVER WYRE MEDICAL CENTRE (cont) overwhelmed by the response and a crosssection of all staff at Over Wyre took part in judging what we considered to be the top 10 pieces. This was a difficult task because of the high standard and the thought and detail that had been applied by the participants. All students who took part are a credit to the school. We are aware that there may be some confusion between the Same-day Heath Centre and the NHS Walk-in Centre. Same-day Health Centre, Fleetwood Open 8:00am to 10:00pm – appointment needed. GP-led Walk-in Centre, Whitegate Drive, Blackpool - Open 8:00am to 8:00pm – no appointment needed. If you dial NHS 111 the assistant will direct you to the most appropriate centre for your needs. Thank you for your continued support. John Macphee - Practice Manager

TRAVEL & HOLIDAYS ASSOCIATION Wed 17th Dec - 7:30pm Members’ Evening The Association will enjoy an evening in which three of our members provide a true variety of topics with ‘Asian Medley’ by Julie and David Swift,‘New Zealand’ by Margaret Skipper and ‘Discovering American Cities through Sport’ by David Stretch New members and visitors welcome. Visitors may pay at the door, £4 per meeting, at the Concert Hall, Blackpool Sixth Form College, Blackpool Old Road, Blackpool FY3 7LR www.fyldetravellers.org.uk Joan Gaffiney (01253) 700799

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HAMBLETON W.I. ‘Ditch those Xmas Trees’ was the title for Jean Prowse’s flower arranging demonstration. Starting with a square, clear glass container filled with taller lime green oasis she inserted all around short sprigs of green ‘Flame of the Forest’. Producing some red roses with two foot stems she cut them down to six inch high flowers and filled the centre with a dozen rose heads. Green material covered thin cane arched to form a handle and, voila, a quick and easy arrangement. Her second work was a one foot length oval, lime green tin bath and a large silver candle in a holder with three prongs to anchor it to the oasis Surrounding this she used Scimia. All plant material obtained from her garden is soaked overnight in clean water to rid it of impurities, then, adding silver sprayed ivy and red carnations, voila, another quick display. Third was an oblong dish with three pea sticks in the shape of a window. Added were different heights of greenery all around, with gold heart ivy (indispensible to flower arrangers), euonymus, nine gold carnations, gold fern leaves with glitter and one very small filigree Xmas tree. Fourth was a basket using a discarded food container tray, adding various leaf varieties and spraying with leaf shine, then red ilex, pink lilies and Gysophila. Her finale was a tall cream tin with a pudding type basin, adding tall curly sticks, Griselena sprinkled with glitter, lilies, variegated aspidistra leaves rolled up and threaded through with some artificial snowflakes on sticks and with the addition of more red roses that completed her demonstration. Chris Seed gave the vote of thanks and all five creations were raffled off for the W.I. funds.

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HAMBLETON W.I. (cont) Diary Dates Wed 3rd Dec at 11:00am Over 70’s Free Xmas Brunch at the Village Hall. The Hambleton Academy school children will entertain us with carols and Father Christmas has promised to attend. Tickets available from any W.I. member. Fri 5th Dec at 7.15pm The Christmas Tree lights will be switched on by our Gala Queen Cassidie Hannigan and the carols will be accompanied by ‘Over Wyre Brass’; Musical Director John SquiresEvans. Mince pies and hot drinks will be available afterwards at the URC Church Hall. Mon 8th Dec at 7.30pm URC Church Hall, Sandy Lane Annual Christmas Party, buffet by Bells Farm, music

provided by the Wyre U3A Live Music group, fun and games. Cost £7.50. Fri 12th Dec at 7:00pm W.I. Annual Carol Service will be hosted by Stalmine W.I. at St. James Church, Stalmine. Programmes cost £1.50 to include tea/coffee and mince pies. Mon 15th Dec at 1.30pm Craft Club at the Village Hall, just time to finish off those Xmas presents. Mon 19th Jan - 1:00pm to 4:00pm A Scrabble afternoon at the W.I. Leyland Office. Cost £4.50. All the Christmas fun at Hambleton W.I. For further information please contact Norma (01253) 700787 or email normaellwood@btinternet.com Beryl Hartley

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BEN WALLACE MP This year marks the 100th anniversary of the start of WWI and it is important that we commemorate this event. It is right that we should remember the sacrifices made by our brave servicemen and women and the civilians killed during the First World War. History can also inform contemporary decisions and we should never forget the ability of mankind to wreak destruction. As a former soldier, I have my own memories of conflict and experiences of loosing friends and colleagues. This makes me even more aware of my responsibilities as a Member of Parliament to build diplomatic relations with other countries and ensure that military intervention is always the last, and never the first, response to a situation.

Service in Bilsborrow. My family visited me in London during the school half-term and they, like many thousands of others, went to see the poppies at the Tower of London. This art installation is a fitting tribute to those who gave their lives while serving our country. The visual depiction of the 888,246 poppies, each remembering a soldier who was killed in the First World War, really highlights the scale of the loss of life, in a way that words cannot. Like the soldiers who came from across the country, now the poppies from the dismantled art work will be sent to different parts of the UK.

I attended the Remembrance Service in Garstang this year, but am pleased to have been represented at services across the constituency, including the Armistice Day

Christmas Tree By Katey Robinson

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(and Out of School Club) wish all our families, past & present, a very happy & peaceful Christmas

Moss Side Lane, Stalmine FY6 0LP www.moss-side-childrens-nursery.co.uk 01253 700 181

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BEN WALLACE MP (cont) Turning to Over Wyre, many people contacted me to express their opposition to the planning application which was made for the development of retail premises at the Shovels Inn in Hambleton. I formally opposed the planning application on the basis of the highways issues raised by the proposal, the design of the building, the impact on the character of the development on the village and the existing businesses. The application was formally withdrawn by Punch Taverns at the start of November. I will be alert to the possibility that the applicant could submit amended plans. With regard to Halite/Canatxx, the Energy and Climate Change Secretary is still currently reconsidering the gas storage plans. In August, I wrote in my column that the Government had commissioned an independent report of the geology of the salt caverns, by a company called Senergy. That report raised concerns about the geology and the capacity of the salt caverns. Since then Halite/Canatxx has been given the opportunity to respond to the report and Senergy has then replied to that. I am currently studying these documents closely. I have recently met with representatives from Garstang Town Council to discuss the future of the Garstang Community Centre. As many readers will know the Centre is currently owned by Wyre Council, which has labelled it an “asset of community value”. Before any community asset can be sold, the local authority must give local groups an opportunity to raise funds to purchase the asset. The Town Council is looking at how it could secure the purchase of the Community Centre. When I met with members of the Town Council, I discussed ways they could go about this and advised them of some examples of best practice of which I am aware. Many readers will suffer from the problem of nuisance calls. Like me the Government

recognises the distress and anxiety these calls can cause. Over the past decade the number of complaints made about nuisance calls and text messages has increased substantially. Whilst there have been some penalties issued against organisations for breaking the law, in a number of cases the efforts made by the Information Commissioner’s Office to issue penalties have been frustrated by the legal requirement to demonstrate that nuisance calls and texts caused substantial damage or substantial distress. The Government is seeking views on its proposals to lower the threshold for fining companies. I would encourage you to make your views known as part of that consultation process. Further details can be found at: www.gov. uk/government/consultations/nuisance-callsconsultation The consultation closes on 6th December.

HORROCKSES Curiosity Shop - 07887 751 415 Wide range of furniture including pine furniture, linen, soft furnishings & crystal. New stock arriving weekly. If you have furniture or household items you wish to sell, please contact us. Dress Agency - 07979 370 797 For Christmas & New Year, we have a fabulous collection of evening-wear including handbags, jewellery, shoes & exquisite fur coats & stoles. The Tea Room - 07721 850 714 Visit our festive tea room & enjoy a wide choice of freshly-prepared food, from english breakfasts or Sunday roasts to afternoon teas. ‘Jazz x 3’ performing on 21st December - 3.00pm -5.00pm On behalf of all the staff at Horrockses, we would like to wish our customers the very best for Christmas & the New Year. Rawcliffe Road, St Michaels-on-Wyre PR3 0UH Open Fri, Sat & Sun. 10.00am-4.00pm (FREE CAR PARKING AVAILABLE)

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BEN WALLACE MP (cont) Christmas is almost upon us! I canâ€™t believe how quickly the last year has passed by! In the next few weeks I will be getting up early to visit the Royal Mail delivery offices in Poulton and Garstang to meet the postal workers before they go out on their delivery rounds. Christmas is one of the busiest times for the Royal Mail and these men and women ensure that all our Christmas cards and presents are delivered in time. I wish you a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

North Lancashire

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I hold regular surgeries, if you would like to book an appointment please call my office at the House of Commons on 0207 219 5804. I can also be contacted at my Constituency Office on (01995) 672976, alternatively you can email me at wallaceb@parliament.uk or write to me at the House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA. BEN WALLACE MP

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POLICE NOTES Winter is around the corner and we have the shorter hours of daylight, so it is a good time to check your vehicle is in good shape. Apart from being an offence to drive without the obligatory lights, it is highly dangerous and can contribute to accidents. Check your antifreeze and have some de-icer on standby. If we do get the frosty nights, don’t be tempted to drive off with only a partly cleared windscreen. Allow a little extra time to defrost all windows before you set off so that you will not be the one who pays the price of an avoidable collision. Thoughtless parking around schools is again on the list of complaints and it is no surprise that the same people are largely responsible. Zig-zag lines are the clue to avoid parking where it may endanger a child’s life and also please show consideration for residents by not parking across their driveways. We will

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be watching and taking appropriate action against the offenders! No doubt this month there will be the usual round of Christmas Parties and therefore the seasonal Police Drink Driving Operations so don’t be tempted to risk everything, thinking you won’t get caught, when in all likelihood you will sooner or later and possibly with disastrous consequences! Here’s another plea to all drivers to adhere to the 20mph and 30mph speed limits through our villages. They are there for a good reason and we get many complaints about speeding vehicles causing concerns for other road users. SLOW DOWN! We will be out and about over the coming weeks in rural areas doing community road watch and addressing residents’ concerns. You have been warned! We are addressing several reports of Antisocial Behaviour in hotspot areas throughout Over Wyre. With limited resources we do try and be where we are most needed at any particular time and try and respond to all reports of ASB so we would advise again that if there is a problem in your area, please contact us on 101 at the time it is happening and give us a chance to deal with it. Please remember to take extra precautions in the run up to Christmas to prevent you becoming a victim of crime. And finally we wish you all a safe and crime free Festive Season. Visit us on Facebook. To click and ‘like’ our page visit: www.facebook.com/GarstangNHP You can email us at GarstangOverWyreandPoulton.NPT@ Lancashire.pnn.police.uk or you can contact us via our communications room on 101 or in an emergency 999. PC 2425 Gary Cross, PC 3774 Dave Kerfoot, PC 1136 Matt Butcher, PCSO 7169 Terry Molloy

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POULTON FITNESS CENTRE Poultonâ€™s newest gym opens for business

early next year.

The wraps have come off the new state-ofthe-art gym at Poulton health and fitness centre.

For more information visit the website at reinventingleisure.co.uk. Membership packages can also be found online at ymcayactive.org

As part of a major redevelopment, Wyre Council and the YMCA have invested heavily in cardio and resistance equipment that personalise workouts, track results and even integrate with individual programmes away from the gym courtesy of a rather nifty mobile app. A new purpose built fitness studio is also now open, bringing everything under one roof for the first time and hosting a diverse range of classes from energetic Spinning, Kettlebells and Insanity, to the more relaxing Pilates. This is the first phase of the multi-million pound development that will also see a luxurious but affordable spa, beauty and relaxation experience open in the centre

GOLDEN BALL BOWLING CLUB PILLING Prize Bingo Night Wed 29th Dec Doors open 7:00pm. Eyes down 7:30pm

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SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL What a Conference! Soroptimist in Action! With 1,400 members from 29 countries attending, it was inspiring to hear the fantastic work achieved by Soroptimist Clubs across these countries. Domestic violence has overtaken ‘Aids’ as a global problem. Nigeria - represented at Conference by ten clubs and thirty three members. One of the members gave a presentation ‘Widowhood Ordeal’. She told of widows being forced, by in-laws, to shave their heads; sleep with the corpse for 48 hours; being instructed to cry morning and evening for 4 days then not at all; of a 35 yr old widow having everything taken by

her in-laws, money, house and contents. If the house was not made of brick it was burnt down. However, after two years of concentrated effort a Bill has been passed making it a criminal offence, incurring a three year prison sentence without an optional fine, for anyone who engages in these practices. Ebola Action – Conference rises to the Challenge - Then along came Rose. Rose is from Kori, one of the remote villages of Sierra Leone. She began by apologising for being at Conference – she thought we would not want her to be there because of Ebola. We quickly assured her that she was more than welcome. The exhibition hall with approximately 1400 women attending, sat in stunned silence, many in tears, as Rose slowly described to us the horrors happening in her country; of the devastation Ebola was

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SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL (cont) causing as her neighbours, friends and family died. It’s not just Ebola killing her country but widespread starvation, a result of a country unable to work effectively. People can’t work in fields or trade as before due to the effects of Ebola. Aid is slowly arriving in Sierra Leone, but is not reaching remote areas like Kori quickly enough. Food and medicine is scarce, as is basic hygiene products. We were told that a truck was loaded and ready to leave, it just needed transport funds. Buckets were put out and we were asked to help. By the following day (Fri) we had collected £1,400.00 enough for half a truck. By the end of conference (Sat) we had enough for two trucks. As I write this article, one week later, we now have £8,653.00, enough for three trucks. The first one is already on its way. Using our soroptimist network, it will go

tamper free, straight to Kori. Congratulations – Louise Louise Allott was awarded the ‘Soroptimist’s Cup for Scientific Endeavour’ at Garstang Community Academy Achievement Evening, a special evening attended by our club member Miss Hazel Woodward. Well done Louise. “Christmas is coming and the peas are getting hot, please put a ‘penny’ in OUR charity pot!” It’s that time again! We will be manning our Parch Peas stall on the High. Don’t forget your Raffle Tickets - look out for the Christmas Hamper, made up by our members, displayed in ’Ice’s’ window – all money raised goes to help with the cost of the Christmas Lights. Your local Soroptimist’s wish you a healthy and Happy Christmas! Muriel Burnham-Airey (01995) 606604 or visit our web site www.sigbi.org.uk

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SSRA Stalmine with Association

Staynall

Residents’

2014 has been another interesting year for the SSRA. We have introduced several new events: the Nearly New Children’s Table Top Sales held at Wyre Villa were very successful and will now be regular events. Easter saw another new SSRA event for children and families; the Easter Village Bunny Hunt and Bonnet Competitions. This started and ended at the school and all children taking part received a small present. The winners received their champions’ prizes.

all those who took par. The week culminated with the all the fun of the fair on Festival Day at Stalmine School. The SSRA has acted on several suggestions put forward by residents at our Open Evening last November. We have spoken to our Parish Council, Wyre Borough Council and Ben Wallace MP about the desire for a much improved, relocated children’s playground We have also written to Mr Wallace about the need for a zebra crossing on the main road through the village.

Our second Stalmine Festival Week held in June included the Gardens Charity Walk in aid of Air Ambulance and Brian House, a Teddy Bears’ Picnic for young children held at the school, a Village Walk Treasure Hunt and last but not least our Scarecrow Competition.

We now have our own newsletter, ‘The Stalminer’ and the second edition was delivered in early November. If you didn’t receive your copy, spares are available at McColl’s Shop and in the Seven Stars. SSRA events and notices are posted in the shop, the Seven Stars, Mane Attraction Hair Dressers and at the village hall.

All events were well supported and we thank

We would like to take this opportunity to

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SSRA (cont) again send our sincere thanks to all those who have supported us over the year and wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Dates of the next two SSRA meetings are Tues 6th Jan and Tues 3rd Feb 2015 7:30pm at the Seven Stars. For further information on any details please contact Pauline Andrews 07808 058 097, Ann Ralph 07713 852 639 or Peter Swarbrick on 701675

PILLING JAZZ CONCERT

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Christmas Jazz Concert in St John the Baptist Church Pilling on 5th Dec has regrettably been cancelled.

PREESALL TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

Gate Lane to Back Lane from 16th - 23rd January 2015 from 8:00am - 6:00pm. An alternative route from Park Lane to Back Lane and vice versa will be posted. Both closures are to enable essential highway maintenance to take place. Draft Budget for 2015/16 The Council has begun the process of setting its budget for the next year. In addition to the staff and administrative costs associated with running a Town Council, councillors have contributed ideas for projects that the Town Council might wish to carry out to improve the area. The budget will be finalised by the end of January. For further information contact the Clerk, Jan Finch, by email at preesalltowncouncil@ gmail.com, by phone on 07739 868212 or via the Contact function on the website.

Lowry Project At the beginning of their mayoral year the Mayor, Cllr Phil Orme and the Deputy Mayor, Cllr Gordon McCann undertook to raise money and put their full support behind a community project at the ferry slip for the benefit of local residents and to attract visitors to the village. The first part of the project is the purchase and installation of a matchstick man and dog at the ferry slip to reflect L S Lowry’s link to Knott End and this has now been ordered. Temporary Road Closures Quail Holme Road Closed (between house nos 56-85) from 14th -21st January 2015 from 8:00am - 6:00pm. An alternative route from Quail Holme Road – B5270 – Ashton Avenue – Quail Holme Road will be posted. Cemetery Lane Closed from its junction with the A588 Hall

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ROTARY CLUB OF GARSTANG Rotary donates Defibrillators to the Rescue Services There are 74 Rotary Clubs in Lancashire and Cumbria (District 1190). Kevin Walsh, the District Governor in 2013/14, asked all Clubs to support an Initiative to raise over £65,000 to: provide defibrillators to be sited in communities that presently do not have them, arrange for more people in our communities to offer CPR and be skilled in the use of defibrillators, First Response & Rescue Teams to be better prepared to support victims wherever they are and people in disadvantaged communities to be given the opportunity to obtain health advice and support through Community based Health Fairs (Melas).

Close on £14,000 was raised by Rotary Clubs and Public Donations. Through the generosity of additional grants from Rotary’s Foundation Charity plus Rotary District and Rotary International sources a sum in excess of £65,000 became available for the initiative. Part of the above funding has enabled Rotary to purchase a number of the latest hard case compact defibrillators which are specifically designed for the back packs used by the mountain rescue services. In November a joint evening meeting of the Rescue teams and Rotary was held at the Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue headquarters in Garstang. Rotary was represented by Kevin Walsh plus Rotarians from some of the donor clubs including Garstang and Over Wyre, Lancaster Loyne and Lunesdale. During the evening PDG Kevin Walsh made

ROTARY CLUB OF GARSTANG (cont) presentations of the latest defibrillators to the Bowland Pennine, Bolton and the Rossendale teams. This was followed by the presentation of a new ultra-light weight defibrillator to the Cave Rescue organisation. Following the presentations the Bowland Pennine team made a presentation on the use of this latest equipment and the associated CPR techniques. Rotary is now working with the North West Ambulance Service to provide information about the location of defibrillators in the area. Rotary is also researching areas which currently have no access to defibrillators.

on four occasions this year between 18th and 23rd Dec. On Thurs 18th Dec and Sat, 20th Dec Santa and his Elves, travelling in his Illuminated Sleigh, with the kind permission and assistance of Booths Supermarket, will arrive in Cherestanc Square at approximately 10:30am until approximately 4:00pm. During the visits Santa will talk to the children and Santa’s Elves will distribute sweets to the children. Parents may take pictures of their own children if they wish.

Santa’s visits to Garstang and area on the Rotary Illuminated Sleigh

Rotarians will also be holding a collection for Barnado’s (to support them in their vital work with vulnerable children and young persons). We will also be collecting for other charities which are supported by Rotary.

The Rotary Club of Garstang and Over Wyre has arranged for Santa Claus to visit the area

Santa Clause in his Illuminated Sleigh will also tour the area on 22nd & 23rd Dec. On both

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ROTARY CLUB OF GARSTANG nights his tour will commence at 4:30pm and finish around 7:30pm (weather permitting). He will talk to the children and listen to their Christmas wishes. Santa’s Elves will also be in attendance. On Mon 22nd Dec the route around Cabus & Garstang will be: Start at Meadow Park, Cabus/Graham Rd/ Norton Rd/Bowland Rd/The Hawthorns/ Broom Hill Coppice/Carr Holme Gardens Then down Lancaster Rd into Garstang Calla Drive/North Croft, then to High St/Church St/ Grizedale Ave/Dimples Lane/Broadoak Ave/ Greenacres Drive/Pasture Drive/Chepstow Gardens/Spalding Ave/Pleasington Avenue On Tues 23rd Dec the route around Catterall will be: Start at Joe Lane/Woburn WayNewhaven

Dr/Boyes Ave/Baylton Dr/Cock Robin Lane/ Calder Dr/Daniel Fold Close/Duckworth Dr/Catterall Gates Lane/Parklands/Lodge Park/Keepers Wood Way/Nightingale Way/ Goldfinch Dr/Meadowcroft Ave/Bowgreave Dr/Shepherds Ave, then to Dew Forrest/ Gryersdale Dr/Topiary Gardens. Rotary meets every Wednesday evening at the Garstang Country Hotel & Golf Club at 7:00pm for 7:30pm. Don Goodier (01995) 603720 or Ted Gee, (01995) 603093

POULTON BRIDGE CLUB Are you interested in learning to play bridge? A new course for beginners starts Wed 7th Jan 7:00pm - 8:30pm. The course runs for three terms for a total of 45 weeks. Price £45 per term. For further info ring (01253) 856421 or visit www.poultonbridgeclub.org.uk

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ST HELEN’S CHURCH CHOIR Christmas Carol Service The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols will be held at St Helens Church, Churchtown at 6.30pm on Sun 21st Dec. Everybody is welcome to attend this service. The Choir will be singing several items, old and new. There will be traditional pieces like “Ding Dong Merrily on High” and “In The Bleak Mid Winter”, as well as more contemporary pieces from John Rutter and Graham Kendrick. The congregation will have plenty of traditional carols to sing so we hope you will be in good voice! We have been practicing hard over the last 2 months and we hope that this event will make Christmas even more special for you. For more information please call Mr Paul Blaikie 07725 805 144 or Mr Andrew Gardner (01995) 601061

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ST. JAMES’ CHURCH STALMINE

LADIES DAY ROYAL ASCOT

Christmas Schedule

Three days from only £345. Single Supplement £50. Departing 17th June 2015. Includes all coach travel, two nights dinner bed & breakfast at Hilton Watford 4* Hotel, Ladies Day at Royal Ascot with admission to the race course plus visit to Oxford & Stratford-On-Avon (pick-up points; Wyre, Barton, Preston & M6 Services). To book or for info call (01995) 640185 / (01772) 864689. Proceeds to Cancer Help Preston Ltd. Bursary Fund Reg. Charity No. 1032828

Mon 1st Dec at 6:00pm. Lighting of the Village Christmas Tree followed by a Hotpot Supper and Christmasthemed stalls Sun 14th Dec at 10:30am. All Age Toy Service (Toys received will be given to the Women’s Refuge Centre) At 7:00pm Carols by Candlelight with Pilling Jubilee Silver Band Thurs 18th Dec at 6:30pm. Carol Singing round the village – meet at church. Sun 21st Dec at 10:30am. Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols Wed 24th Dec at 4:00pm. Very popular Crib Service At 11:30pm. First Eucharist of Christmas

FYLDE BIRD CLUB 7.45pm on the 4th Tuesday of the month at The River Wyre Inn, Poulton. Fri 12th Dec Quiz and Christmas Social. www.fyldebirdclub.org jean.wagstaff@hotmail.co.uk

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LANCASHIRE FIRE AND RESCUE N33 Preesall We have had another busy few weeks attending incidents and working in the local community. We have been recently to Knott End and Preesall playgroup to give the little ones a chance to look round the fire engine, and also Carters Charity School to talk to Yrs 1 and 2 about fire safety and smoke alarms. We also attended a presentation given by The Princes Trust team 31 who worked hard to adapt and improve Preesall playing fields throughout October. Emergency incidents have seen us attend some automatic fire alarms, a large fire on the 19th & 20th October in Stalmine and also a severe bedroom fire in Pilling. The Stalmine fire we attended was a very large hay fire, this took six fire crews several hours to bring under control, and once it became obvious the

fire couldn’t be completely extinguished until the morning, self powered floodlights were brought in by the specialist Urban Search and Rescue team from Chorley to ensure we stayed safe in difficult working conditions. The fire was completely extinguished by Monday lunchtime and is still being investigated by the Police and Fire Service. The bedroom fire in Pilling was attended in 6 minutes and 2 breathing apparatus wearers with a hose reel and thermal imaging camera were committed into the building to extinguish the fire. The fantastic attendance time (explained below) meant we managed to stop the fire spreading to the rest of the house. A suspected arson in Knott End led us to fitting smoke alarms at a house at 12.30am, and a chimney fire in Preesall was quickly extinguished. However this gave the children in the house something to talk about when we went to their school a few days later.

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LANCASHIRE FIRE AND RESCUE (cont) November brought us bonfire night, the busiest night of the year overall for the fire service, and I’m pleased to say there wasn’t one fire related incident reported for the Over Wyre area. December obviously brings us Christmas and New Year and hopefully we can continue with our good run, but it’s important to know that over the last three years 25% of fire deaths in Lancashire have occurred over a four week period from mid December to mid January and 90% of those people losing their lives at this time of year are people over the pensionable age living alone with no working smoke alarm. So, if you feel you could possibly benefit from a Home Safety Visit, please call us. If you have an older relative, friend or neighbour, who you feel could be vulnerable, please pass their details on to us so we can help make them safer. You can do this by phoning free phone 0800 169 1125 or book via our website www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk. The visit’s free, the advice is free and anything we do, like putting up smoke alarms, is free. We also have keep safe and warm packs that are available to vulnerable persons in our area. Our Service’s primary objectives are making Lancashire a safer community and at Preesall Fire Station we are proud to be working hard towards this for the Over Wyre area. Our Monday night drills have mainly been routine ones at the station this month, with extra training added at other times. Most notable was our ‘Road Traffic Collision’ training, which we went to a scrap yard for. Thankfully there’s very little need of these skills in our area, but when needed, regular training means it’s still fresh and we’re still fully competent. Our Watch Manager Steve Dawson’s retirement party was on the 4th Nov, attended by many colleagues from other stations and

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LANCASHIRE FIRE AND RESCUE (cont) officers right up to the Asst Chief Fire Officer of Lancashire. He’ll be missed by us all, and his position is currently filled by Acting Watch Manager…Dawson! His son, Michael (who is a full time Watch Manager at Chorley White Watch) has stepped in to fill the huge gap left by his dad. A great night was being had by all until we got alerted to the Pilling fire which came in just as the food was being served! All of the crew being on station is how we managed such a quick response! We’d like to wish everyone a fabulous Christmas and New Year. Remember if you have friends or relatives staying over the festive period, show them where you keep the keys and how to get out of your house in case of emergencies. With all the food and booze flowing, there’s more than one reason they might need to get out in a rush! There are tips on candles, decorations and other related safety information at www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk/fire-safetyat-home If you’re 18 or over, live or work with five minutes of our station and would like more information about being a Retained Firefighter, the pay, benefits, and the training required, just come to one of our drill nights at 6:30pm on any Monday or visit the website:www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk FF Holden – Preesall Fire Station

ASSET OF COMMUNITY VALUE The Shovels Inn on Green Meadow Lane has been registered as an asset of community value, nominated by an unincorporated group of local residents. Further information is available on the Parish Council Notice Board on Green Meadows Lane.

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PILLING WI At the outbreak of World War II Barton Grange, a gentleman’s country residence standing back from the A.6, was requisitioned by the government for use by the W.A.A.F. In 1945 it was returned to the owner, who was so distressed at its dilapidated state that he felt that he could never live in it again and put it up for auction. It was bought by the grandparents of Guy Topping for £6,000, but it was not until 1950 that they were able to turn the house into a 6 bedroomed hotel and so fulfil his grandmother’s dream of running a hotel. As a family of market gardeners it was not long before they were growing plants and selling them in a shed attached to their property. The rest of the story formed the fascinating illustrated talk given by Guy to Pilling W.I. “Creating Our Dream” Now relocated to Bilsborough, Guy and his siblings are still running the family business with further developments in the planning stage. Windchime Competition The competition for windchimes was won by Helen Curwen, runners up being, Mona Armer, Lena Tooth and Maureen O’Reilly Next meeting The next meeting will be our Christmas party and will be held in St. John’s Church Hall on Thurs 4th Dec at 7.30p.m. Members are reminded that our chosen charity this year will be HOMESTART. Small unwrapped gifts for children will be welcome The retiring committee will provide supper. Frances Connelly

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ST MICHAEL’S VILLAGE NEWS To add to accolades for the “Bloomers” team for first prize in the Best Kept Small Village award, there was also included the Robinson Challenge Cup, a plaque to add to the others along with a Certificate. Now added to these, the village won a very highly commended Silver Guilt award from North West in Bloom. St. Michael’s Primary School sent four representatives to collect their Gold award. Well done! Then in the Business category, Catterall’s Farm, Andy and Anika Gibbons also won a well deserved Gold award. These awards don’t just happen, much hard work goes into the making the village such a beautiful and desirable place to live. May nothing be allowed to spoil it! There was a large attendance on Remembrance Sunday, when wreaths were laid by the war memorial along with prayers for peace. Judith Hunter.

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FOCUS ON FOOD Chunky Potato and Bean Soup

Prep time: 10 mins

•

Cook time: 20 mins

•

to the boil. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Season to taste and sprinkle with the parsley to serve.

Potatoes are a healthy and hearty addition to any soup. The potatoes in this soup combine with seasonal veg and tinned kidney beans to provide satisfying suppers or lunch favourites. Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • • •

600g smooth potatoes such as Desiree, peeled and diced 1 tbsp olive oil 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1 carrot, diced 1 stick celery, sliced 400g tin mixed beans, drained and rinsed 1½ tsp dried mixed herbs 1 vegetable stock cube 850ml water 2 tsp tomato purée Salt and pepper 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley

Method: • •

Heat the oil in a large saucepan and gently fry the garlic, carrot, celery and potatoes for 3-4 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients and bring

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STALMINE PARISH COUNCIL NEWS Christmas Lights Switch On The lights switch on will now take place at the slightly later time of around 6:15pm on Mon 1st Dec to accommodate a lantern procession from the village hall. Pedestrian Crossing Following the last meeting the Parish Council sent the two designs previously provided in 2005 to Lancashire County Councilâ€™s Traffic and Highways team to ask what had changed since the Parish Council was consulted. The Parish Council also wrote to Ben Wallace MP who has promised to take this up with the Interim Director for Environment at LCC. Flood Working Group The Flood Working Group met immediately prior to the November Meeting to being to prepare a Flood Risk Summary for inclusion in the Wyre Flood Plan. The document outlines where the people and properties vulnerable to flood risk are and the actions that would have to be taken if there was a flood warning. The Working Group is looking for a dry, secure location in which to store sandbags and road signs in the village for use when there is flooding. If you know of any suitable locations please get in touch with the Clerk or one of the councillors. The next meeting of the Working Group will be early in the New Year and, if you are interested in getting involved, please contact the Parish Council. Temporary Road Closure â€“ Cemetery Lane LCC is proposing to close the road from its junction with the A588 Hall Gate Lane to Back Lane from 16-23 January 2015 between the hours of 8:00am and 6:00pm to enable essential highway maintenance to take place. An alternative route from Park Lane to Back Lane and vice versa will be posted.

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STALMINE PARISH COUNCIL NEWS (cont) Environment Agency Action Campaign

National

Flood

The main aim of the campaign was to sign people up in flood warning areas to Floodline Warnings Direct, encouraging people to prepare for flooding through developing personal and community flood plans and to be aware of the dangers of walking and driving through flood water. In order to raise awareness of these key themes the EA will be undertaking a range of awareness activities including local engagement, doordrops and social and digital media. There is a designated campaign webpage which provides an overview of the campaign as well as a link to templates and materials which other organisations can use to support the campaign - www.gov.uk/floodsdestroy Lancashire Constabulary – In the Know In the Know is a messaging service provided by the Constabulary which enables residents to receive crime updates, community safety information, resilience and community information messages about their area by either email, SMS text or voice message. Registration is free and quick and easy to do at www.stayintheknow.co.uk Temporary Road Closure – Brick House Lane LCC is proposing to close Brick House Lane from “South View” to its junction with New Road from 8th - 12th Dec between the hours of 8:00am and 5:00pm in order to excavate a road crossing for a new electrical connection to property. An alternative route via Carr Lane and Staynall Lane will be signposted. Date and Time of Next Meeting: Tues 9th Dec at 7:00pm. Jan Finch 07880 657 761 Clerk to Stalmine with Staynall Parish Council. Email: stalminepc@gmail.com

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GREY MATTER ANSWERS

SAINT AIDAN’S NEWS

1 Kneecap 2 Juniper 3 Pod, School or Gam 4 Bernard Cribbins 5 Transpiration 6 Amelia Earhart 7 Luxembourg (City) 8 Deciduous 9 Greeks and Turks 10 Leonardo da Vinci 11 Scotland 12 Estate Agent 13 Cancer 14 Greek 15 Quakers 16 Thailand 17 Caviar 18 Make a line 19 Eight 20 Copper

As the Christmas holiday approaches, we can look back over what has again been a highly successful and busy term for all our students.

BRIDGE LESSONS AT

POULTON BRIDGE CLUB 3 Terms at a Total of 45 Weeks ~ £45 Per Term Wednesday Evenings 7pm - 9:30pm Begins 7th Jan 2015

Comfortable, well-equipped teaching room • Free parking Refreshments included secretary@poultonbridgeclub.org.uk or gcowell2@aol.com 01253 856 421

Our Yr 7 students have nearly completed their first term at high school and are enjoying the challenges of all the different subjects on offer. At the top end of the school, Yr 11 have been taking their mock GCSE exams, the results of which inform them of what needs to be done to achieve success in the summer. Focus Day For one day in November, all our students were off timetable to enjoy learning in a completely different way. Yr 7 took part in a Spirituality Day at Blackburn Cathedral whilst Yr 8 took part in ‘Feed the World’ Day. The theme for Yr 9 was Careers and Yr 10 welcomed ‘LoudMouth’ to school who looked at relationships in an innovative way. Yr 11 experienced a day at Lancaster University sampling lectures and learning about university life. Community Action Days The first of these days was a great success and enjoyed by those who came along. Cutting down marked trees was enthusiastically undertaken by our students as well as chopping down brambles. We are looking forward to putting up bird boxes next time and building a bridge. We will be there again on Sat 12th Dec at 10:00am so if you have a couple of hours to spare we would love to see you at Pilling Amenity Area. Please email me at school if you would like any further information. School Christmas Fayre This is being held in the school hall on Sat 6th Dec. There will be a whole array of stalls

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SAINT AIDANâ€™S NEWS (cont) and Father Christmas will be joining us. International Awareness Week This will be held during the last week of this term and will include a whole range of activities linking with our partner schools in South Africa, Zimbabwe and China. Students will have the opportunity to learn more about these countries, what it is like to go to school there and what sort of food they eat. Students will also be taking part in the morning exercise which is a daily feature in all Chinese schools. It should be quite a sight to see all our students on the school yard exercising to a set routine all together!

on Fri 12th Dec with Yr 7 students acting as hosts. The school band will be performing and there will be Bingo and other games before a special Christmas tea is served. Carol Service Our school Carol Service will take place on Tues 16th Dec at 6:30pm. There will be traditional carols and readings followed by seasonal refreshments. We would be delighted if you would like to join us in our Christmas celebrations. And finally, if anyone has any suggestions or ideas for the school to become more actively involved and fully supportive of our community please do contact me at school.

Party Time for our Senior Citizens

We really do want to help.

The annual Christmas Party for the older members of our community will again be held

Sue Marland Assistant Head sue-marland@st-aidans.lancs.sch.uk

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