Issue 138 The Carrier Pigeon Magazine

Welcome to our Spring issue! It’s time to get your gardens ready for the warmer days ahead, so check out our Spring greenfinger guide.

There are lots of things happening over the next two months, so take a look at our jam-packed ‘What’s On’ pages inside this issue.

The Preston Caribbean Carnival will mark their 50 year anniversary this May - celebrating Caribbean culture by, and for, diverse communities of Preston, Lancashire and the UK! All details within. This is an event - and article - certainly not to be missed

As ever, we have some fantastic businesses within this magazine providing valuable services right on your doorstep, so please take a look and see what’s on offer!

Let’s all remember to support local companies as these are vital in our communities.

Winner of issue 137 Spot the pigeon: Well done Helen Bolton who has won £25 for The old Coach House, Whalley

To book an advertisement or get a quote please contact me on the numbers below or via our email/ website. To advertise: please contact us on: 01254 492088 // 07824553790// infocpmag@gmailcom.

SPRING HAS SPRUNG...

In the Garden Room at Melt, discover lanterns, cushions and cosy throws to make your outside space inviting now that spring is here

Whatever our thoughts on the weather of late, spring is certainly on her way and it’s the perfect time to create a peaceful and relaxing outdoor space so you’re ready to embrace the sunshine when it arrives.

So, grab a cuppa, pull on the wellies and head outside to assess what needs tackling. Writing a list of jobs means nothing gets missed and you can approach tasks in the right order.

First, there will be the inevitable spring cleaning after months of rain. We prefer a good old fashioned power wash for any hard areas (so satisfying), and hot, soapy, water for garden furniture – both much kinder to tiny paws than harsh chemical cleaners. Cutting a new lawn edge and a light mow will bring your lawn back into shape then rake to remove moss and use a spring fertiliser to keep your grass growing strongly and deter weeds. Also, it’s a good time to prune and tie up climbers as it is easier to tell healthy stems from those that are older, or diseased, when the first growth appears.

And a word on tidying! Tempting as it is to remove leaf piles that have accumulated in wind pockets and corners – here is a plea for caution from Justine Whittaker of Fuzzy Peg Fostering our local hedgehog rescue: “Remember, our hedgehogs are still hibernating – and there are two vital things

you can do to help them. Before strimming, check undergrowth and leaf piles for sleeping hogs – it takes just 30 seconds to protect them from horrific injuries and a gentle prod with a broom handle is all it takes to see if you have a snoozing guest in your garden.

HEDGEHOG ALERT!

Hedgehogs out during daylight are either extremely hungry, or poorly, and will need food or help. If you need help or advice, contact Melt or message Fuzzy Peg Fostering.

Likewise, don’t be too quick to clear away leaf piles. They contain the bugs, worms and beetles that the hedgehogs feed on when they break their hibernation. In addition, some dry kitten biscuits (meat not fish) and clean water put out just before dusk could reward you with months of their antics through spring and summer evenings.”

So, now all is clean and tidy(ish!) accessories can make the world of difference! Cushions, cosy throws and ambience-enhancing lanterns and candles make you want to linger longer with that book and a brew. And choosing the right scented candles to complement the season (think Narcissuss, spring flowers and herbs) ensures an extra sensory hit of spring. They add light and spring freshness to even a dull day.

Now! Where did we put that book?

All items, and more, available from the Garden Room at Melt. n

Melt

Backridge Farm, Waddington BB7 3LQ

01200 443377

www.themeltco.com

Monday to Saturday: 10am-5pm

Sunday: 12noon-4.30pm

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themeltco

@meltcandles

RVBA Small Business Award 2018

Independent Retailer 2017

Artisan Business 2017

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CLOSER TO NATURE

Biomimetic materials that literally mimic nature, are revolutionising dentistry and here in the Ribble Valley, one forward-thinking practice is one of the leading pioneers of this technique

Always keeping ahead of the industry, leading private dental practice Renovo is one of the first practices in the UK that has fully adapted the very latest techniques that can successfully restore teeth by using materials that mimic nature and the natural tooth.

Biomimetic dentistry is revolutionising the way dentists can restore and repair teeth as

Dr Usman Riaz of Ribble Valley-based Renovo explains: “This is micro-invasive dentistry. We can preserve as much of the tooth structure as possible by using scientifically developed, bio-compatible metal-free materials that act, feel and look just like our natural teeth.”

AVOIDING ROOT CANALS

“Biomimetic dentistry can help reduce your need for root canal therapy by up to 90 per cent. With immediate dentin sealing and resin coating, biomimetic dentistry gives pulps a vital chance to heal, helping maintain their natural resilience and extend their life. This is at the forefront of our core values,” adds Dr Riaz.

These latest advances in dental technology are set to change the way we view restorative dentistry. For teeth that have been damaged, porcelain crowns and veneers have, in the past, been the solution. However, more recent developments in bonding technology and the bio-materials used, have given dentists a new alternative, usually with no tooth removal.

PREDICTABLE OUTCOMES AND PAIN-FREE LONGERLASTING TEETH

Biomimetic restorations treat the causes of symptoms (cracks or caries near the pulp) so they do not result in sensitivity or pain after restoration: “Biomimetic techniques also restore the tooth in a way that mimics a tooth’s natural structure, preventing cracks around the restoration. Finally, the advanced adhesive techniques used in a biomimetic restoration have been shown to keep a restoration bonded for over 20 years, and counting, so the days of crowns or fillings falling out can be a thing of the past!”

These restorative materials that mimic nature, are not only perfect for aesthetically restoring teeth but they also help preserve and strengthen the natural tooth structure.

SCIENCE-BACKED DENTAL TREATMENT

Biomimetic dentistry is more technique sensitive and requires more detailed steps than traditional restorative practices. With Renovo’s approach, the dentists and the whole clinical team understand the science, or what we call the ‘why’ behind each step in their biomimetic restoration. The systematic steps

take the guesswork out of treatment planning, leaving clinicians and patients feeling confident in every restoration.

IMPROVED AESTHETICS

“Biomimetic dentistry is general dentistry and can be applied to every case we see at Renovo. The concepts of conserving tooth structure, saving pulps and superior adhesion will serve as a more predictable foundation of our work,” explains Dr Riaz.

“We can change, reshape and enhance teeth with these new materials. The biomimetic materials are also reinforcing teeth – it is a totally different concept to what we have seen previously.”

Adopting the latest biomimetic philosophies and having all the specialist techniques and materials available to them, the dentists at Renovo are pioneering in

their unique approach.

“Specialist techniques are used in biomimetic dentistry and the whole team have had advanced training,” says Dr Riaz. “For us, using non-invasive techniques and preserving teeth has always been something

WE GET OPTIMAL RESULTS WITH ZERO TOOTH REMOVAL AND THAT’S WHY THE BIOMIMETIC APPROACH IS SO POPULAR

we routinely believe in and practice, so biomimetic dentistry sits really well with that belief.

“It’s the way dentistry should be done –to save and conserve teeth has always been our gold standard.”

ZERO TOOTH LOSS MAXIMUM AESTHETICS

For nervous patients the biomimetic approach revolutionises the way they view a dental appointment: “For those people, this is an amazing development as the approach is to conserve tooth tissue using minimally invasive techniques. No anaesthetic is needed as there is zero tooth removal.”

While biomimetic dentistry can help to naturally strengthen and restore damaged teeth, it is also perfect for cosmetic procedures: “From a cosmetic point of view we can improve without having to compromise, which is a very powerful concept.

“With the latest biomimetic materials, we get incredible results and in many cases, it is much quicker too, as it often involves just one visit to the dentist.

“These treatment concepts and philosophy are popular in the US and Europe, but it has taken time to develop in the UK. We have had to understand the materials and perfect new techniques so we can carry out dentistry at a different level.”

HEALTHIER TEETH HEALTHIER YOU

By removing all toxicity and inflammation from the mouth, biological dentistry helps restore vitality, balance and systemic health.

“What we put in our mouth and more importantly, the teeth themselves, has a crucial role to play in our overall health. Gut health begins in the mouth. It’s more than just a gateway – it’s a mirror reflecting our overall health.” n

Renovo Dental

Pendle House

Clitheroe Road

Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000 hello@renovodental.co.uk renovodental.co.uk

@renovodental

THE ENIGMA OF EASTER

When it was suggested to my five-year-old granddaughter that she should think about including Jesus in her Easter garden, she was more than a little confused.

‘But Mummy, I don’t know at which part of the story Jesus met the Easter bunny.’

To deepen the confusion, this lopeared, fluffy white bunny, who is a mammal, brings chocolate eggs, yet eggs are laid by chickens.

No one wears a bonnet anymore, and the word is rarely used, but they are trimmed up for Easter and paraded about to be judged.

Eggs are also decorated, sometimes most elaborately. I recall the Easter egg decorating competition at Balderstone School, which remains an important part of their school year.

The inventiveness of the children never ceased to amaze me. Another custom is to hard boil and roll the eggs downhill, frantically chasing after them.

We eat toasted spice-flavoured buns with a cross on the top, a tradition dating back to 1733. Add to this the Bible story of the crucifixion and the resurrection and it isn’t surprising that a five-year-old is

wondering what on earth Easter is all about.

Hopefully, for most of us, the long weekend will be a time for relaxing, spending time with family and friends and enjoying some spring weather. No doubt the consumption of chocolate treats will also feature highly.

If you need some Easter reading about rabbits, here are a few suggestions for all ages...

• That’s Not My Bunny by Fiona Watt

• The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter (also Benjamin Bunny, The Fierce Bad Rabbit and The Flopsy Bunnies)

• Guess How Much I Love You (admittedly it’s a hare but too good to be missed off the list) by Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram

• The Velveteen Rabbit by Marjorie Williams

• Watership Down by Richard Adams

Enjoy the Easter break. Let me know if you have any favourite customs for this time of year, or favourite fictional rabbits!

Catherine Finch

catherinesfinch@hotmail.com www.chaffinchbooks.co.uk

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CHARLES The Cruellest Monthe

" APRILLE IS THE CRUELLEST MONTHE "

It may seem strange to our readers that I should begin my ruminations with a quote from Geoffrey Chaucer, but for myself and many of you April really is a very cruel month. For a large number of people, the rise in the cost of living seems to an endless pursuit of stability. Only last week I heard that for some people, the cost of a mortgage has doubled in the past two years. The price of petrol seems to be increasing, and my good lady often reminds me that the cost of food seems to have increased substantially.

More to the point, it appears that all levels of society seem to be affected by the cold winds of change. Only last week, my grandson reminded me that he has SATS exams in the next few weeks, and the son of another friend told me that he was struggling to gain a place in a prestigious school in Lancaster. Many parents may have been shocked already by the rejection of their child by the school they wished to attend in September.

How ironic that all of this is taking place as the first signs of Spring seem to be shining on our doorstep. Daffodils are blooming, newly born lambs are frolicking around the fields… all is not lost.

The challenge for all of us is to create a better future for our children, and a secure future for our elderly.. Change is inevitable, which reminds me of an apparently amusing incident which happened some years ago. Coming from a traditional working class family, my mother always reminded me about my manners, especially at the table – as well as telling me to wear clean underwear in case of an accident forcing me to hospital ! Prior to this eureka moment, I had never stepped into a McDonalds restaurant, which is apparently a favourite eating place for

my grandchildren aged 10, 8 and six.

On this particular day I was ‘persuaded’ to take the children into the aforesaid establishment. Sadly, and much to the hysterical amusement of my audience, I asked for a knife and fork to accompany my choice of meal. A look of genuine shock, even horror, appeared in the face of the assistant behind the counter, and the manager of the establishment explained that such cutlery was not available.

Which brings me to the wider issue of young people in the school holidays. Some years ago, the Murphy family hired a cottage in the Lake District to spend our vacation. We had enjoyed running up and down hills and wading in streams and so forth. It was rather cold, but plenty of exercise had kept us warm and cosy.

Until the day we were due to come home. The cruelty of the weather really struck us, for a major downfall of snow had descended on our surroundings. Listening anxiously to the forecast and to driving conditions, we learned that a convoy was to leave the area behind a snow plough! A somewhat bizarre

ending to our holiday.

However, as I sit behind my computer, the sun is dazzling my view. What is that ‘golden globe’ in the sky, one may ask, especially after the incessant rainfall of the last few weeks. For many of our young people, the next few weeks will be somewhat traumatic, as they confront the ogres of the examination system. But our ‘golden oldies’ face challenges of their own. My lovely wife recently had a pacemaker fitted to help stabilize her heart. Such processes, which were minor miracles in my youth, now seem to be common place and almost matter of fact.

As we move into Summer and Autumn, change will affect all of us, even perhaps to the choice of a new Government or the maintenance of the status quo. As one famous writer stated, the only thing we need to fear in change is the word itself! So be it…

Regards,

Charles

POEMS

Time to slow down.

We should take the time to let the stress of life pass by.

To sit in the garden, enjoy the flowers,and watch the birds fly, Learn to enjoy life more and wear a smile, not a frown.

One warm Summer evening sit and watch the Sun go down

Now that Spring is here and the weather is at last fine, Take time to sit outside perhaps with a glass of wine.

This year for once let the weeds stay where they grow just spend more time outdoors and take life more slow.

We live in a world that moves a pace forever fast, Perhaps take life slower. As did the generations past.

Peter Dewhurst (It’s Grim Up North)

Times are Hard

Please don’t think that I’m being tight and mean, Sat here in the dark eating just one baked been.

The cost of fuel has gone through the roof, I can’t even find a Dentist to sort out my bad tooth.

The cost of living has taken such a massive hike, Can’t afford Petrol so I’m having to use my pedal bike. The NHS is so busy with not enough staff to cope, To get a Doctors appointment within a month, no hope!

With all the bad news around things are not so fine Eh-Up! things are looking up I’ve just found a bottle of wine.

Wheels up North

Owners came from near and some came from afar,

To Gather on a Longridge field to show their special car.

Restored cars, some there performance enhance

Amongst the show cars was even a 2CV from France.

There must have been a hundred cars it seemed Owners spending hours polishing until they gleamed.

Cars with two exhaust,and some even with four,

There was some you had to climb in for they had no door.

The explosive crackle of exhausts on Lower Lane,

All the owner gathering with just one aim. To exhibit their cars and be part of the show, How fantastic to see all the cars gleaming in a row.

It’s Grim Up North

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Preston Caribbean Carnival Golden Jubilee Weekend

One Park Festival

Saturday 25th May & Carnival Day

Sunday 26th May 2024

Come and celebrate our Golden anniversary Preston’s 50th Caribbean Carnival which will take place over the May bank holiday weekend - Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May 2024.

The carnival is a family-friendly celebration of cultural heritage which supports the community and adds solidarity through dance, music and costume and we know the vast majority of the people who attend embrace the spirit of the event. Recognising and celebrating the importance and contribution of the Caribbean community is more important than ever given we have just marked the 75th anniversary of Empire Windrush’s arrival on our shores.

The curtain raiser to the 50th will be the week prior on Saturday 18 May, with a costume display highlighting spectacular large piece costumes made for the event over the last 50 years. The troops will be in attendance giving a taster of dances & music you will see and hear on the road, live performances and steel band, The birthday celebrations will start on Friday night ‘Get ready for the weekend jump up’ dance. Come limber up and prepare yourself for what’s to come on this special weekend

Saturday 25th May

‘One Park’ musical event showcasing all the best in Caribbean music. With well-known Sound Systems, live musical performances from international & UK based artists gracing the stage, Delicious international foods & drinks. From Midday till 9pm. This will be a ticketed event raising funds for the carnival charity.

Sunday 26th May

Carnival Day with an extended street procession and park event. Our birthday party begins with an extended parade through the streets of Preston, join us as we say, ‘Thank you’ and honour our elders who gave the gift of Carnival to Preston. Then onto the park to party with us & the elders like it’s 1974. With Steel band, live performances, sound systems, Great food & drink, stalls and activities for the family

The Preston Caribbean Carnival is the largest independent event in Preston and in 2024 expects over 40,000 visitors for the Carnival weekend. Creating a unique and flamboyant vibe that not only celebrates the City’s Caribbean heritage but also the diversity within our city, it is a great day out for all. For more information about the Preston Caribbean Carnival, visit www.prestoncarnival.co.uk or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or X and take a look at the amazing costumes from previous years. Please note there will be a request to the public to make a small donation at the park entrance on carnival day, children under 12 are free, so please support us.

Preston Caribbean Carnival

The mission of Preston Caribbean Carnival is:

“topromotetheappreciationandunderstandingofCaribbeanculture byandfor,diversecommunitiesofPreston,LancashireandtheUK”.

Founded in 1974 by local Prestonians with origins in St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica and other Caribbean islands, Preston Carnival gained momentum as an annual event from participants in the 1972 Preston Guild Community procession with a desire to create an annual cultural celebration featuring both a processional and park based cultural event for both Preston residents and for visitors to the city. The Preston Caribbean Carnival Trust became a limited company in 2010 and a charity in 2017 has a committee with a current membership of six people.

PCC has a successful track record: 49years of carnival with a volunteer committee and limited resources.

Preston is the remaining Caribbean carnival in Lancashire and North West region. Preston has low engagement in terms of the arts

(Taking Part Survey and national indices): carnival is a key cultural event in the city in terms of: audiences (40,000 est.), engagement activity, cultural diversity and expression for the community. Our annual event has national acclaim with peer carnivals; we are members of Greater Northern Carnival network (GNCN), troupes from other regions present work in our parade activity. Our successes include awards such as 2 second place awards in Leeds carnival king & queen competition 2023 competing against the best carnival groups in the whole UK.

Our commissioned artists and troupes regularly tour other town’s carnivals and festivals. Having developed a pool of talented and experienced carnival artists and troupes over several years we are focusing on supporting the next generation.

The traditional Carnival procession through the City centre will culminate in a family focussed park event; family arts activities and workshops, live stage performances and local and visiting soundsystems. Caribbean food and drinks are also available.

We have recently been successful with our bid to the Arts Council England – ACE (Grants for the Arts). We have been receiving this grant for several years which I believe is a testimony to the value of the PCC to the arts in Lancashire. However, this grant cannot be spent on the Infrastructure of the carnival events. The infrastructure includes key elements such as the event management, traffic management, security and stewarding, barriers, W.C.’s and Stage for the park, etc. This is where business sponsorship and advertising can help.

thecarrierpigeon.co.uk

NEW STORE OPENING

Exciting Expansion for Loom Loft Furniture & Interiors, New Store and Loft Bistro at Preston Docklands.

Loom Loft are delighted to share the exciting news of their upcoming fourth furniture store and bistro, set to be the largest one yet, opening in Spring 2024. This new establishment will be located at a new 23,000 square feet premises at Preston Docklands and will create 40 full and part time jobs.

Loom Loft are an emerging name in the home decor and furniture industry with a reputation for setting out aesthetically styled stores within an industrial setting. As a privately funded Lancashire family-owned business, Loom Loft established its presence with the opening of its flagship Clitheroe store and The Loft Bistro in August 2019. Building on this success, a second 'Select' store was introduced at The Mill Batley, West Yorkshire, in 2021 and a third at Astley Bridge, Bolton in August 2023. The new location set at Trident Park, Preston Docklands, will neighbour a new Aldi store and Loom Loft are about to embark on an extensive internal fit out following the site and building development handed over by Marshall CDP.

when it came about. It’s a perfect fit for our business development in another great Lancashire location. We are excited to showcase our unique style and look forward to recruiting and shaping a dynamic team.”

Simon Marshall CEO - CDP: “Having visited the Loom Loft site in Clitheroe, it is clear to see why the brand and their style creates so much interest. I am sure it will create an impact, be a great place to visit, and boost the local economy. We are really happy to secure them as a long-term tenant for Trident Park.” Operating from Junction 7 business park in Clayton Le Moors, Lancashire, Loom Loft manages its main head office, warehousing, and a 40,000 sq ft logistics hub. The new Preston store will also include its second Loft Bistro with a chic industrial feel that has proven to be a popular and enjoyable concept at its Clitheroe location. Featuring a diverse menu crafted by a talented culinary team, great for informal breakfasts, lunches, business meetings and meeting up with friends.

To support this exciting development Loom Loft are actively seeking enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join its dynamic team. with 35 – 40 positions available. Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV along with a brief cover letter to recruitment@ loomloft.com. The company offers competitive rates of pay across all levels. All job descriptions in detail can be found at www.loomloft.co.uk/ vacancies.

The new store and Loft Bistro will be open seven days a week from 9 am to 6 pm Monday-Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sunday, providing both customers and staff with a flexible and vibrant work environment.

For more information about Loom Loft Furniture & Interiors, please visit our website at www.loomloft.com

Keep an eye on the social media sites for further updates on their newest location!

Founders, Managing Director and Head Buyer, Boyd and Rachel Hargreaves commented: “We have been reviewing a number of sites in the last 18 months but the Loom Loft team were all unified to develop the opportunity at Preston

The new location promises to be a hub of innovation and style, offering an extensive range of trend setting and an eclectic mix of furniture and home accessories. Loom Loft are known for their commitment to quality, design, excellent customer service, support of UK manufacturers & suppliers and where possible sources from Lancashire are always explored.

“Progressive Wills Ltd provided us with an excellent service from the first phone call through to completion. I would have no hesitation in recommending their services to others. Professional and punctual.”

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LMF Roofing is local family run business from Mellor, covering the Ribble Valley and surrounding areas. We offer all aspects of roofing work from leaking gutters to full re roofs.

FLAT ROOF

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Our Flat Roofing solutions are designed to help homeowners to utilise their roof. Firestone RubberCover EPDM roof is fire retardant and is compatible with green, solar, blue and accessible roofs – helping you to make the most of your space

LMF Roofing offer two variations of Firestone RubberCover EPDM roofs, depending on your budget and requirements. For residential flat roofs up to 150m, the membrane is available in two thicknesses: 1mm and 1.5mm.

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Recipe

SWEET ‘N’ SPICY CHICKEN CURRY

This is a lovely, easy recipe, made in the slow cooker and always a winner!

Method

1. Combine together the coriander, cumin, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, salt and pepper in a small bowl.

2. Put the chicken in the slow cooker along with the onion, tomato paste, sultanas, garlic, ginger and coconut milk. Add the spices from the bowl and stir well .

3. Cook on high for about 6 hours until completely cooked and the chicken is tender.

4. Sprinkle fresh parsley on the top.

5. Serve with basmati rice and any of the following - naan bread, poppadom’s, mango chutney and/or, a few crispy chips.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless cut into bite sized cubes.

100g sultanas

¾ of a can of coconut milk

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 large white onion, finely chopped

3 cloves of garlic, peeled and crushed

Small piece of ginger, peeled and grated

1 fresh chilli, finely chopped

1½ teaspoons each of coriander, cumin and turmeric

1 tablespoon each of sweet paprika and garam masala

½ teaspoon of sea salt and freshly ground pepper

Fresh parsley for decoration

Zoe Fleming Head of Private Client at KBL Solicitors

Safeguarding Your Legacy

The Crucial Role of Estate Planning and Professionally Drafted Wills

Estate planning is a critical aspect of preparing for the future, ensuring that your loved ones are protected, and your wishes are honoured when you are no longer able to make decisions.

Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging experience and having to make important decisions regarding their affairs can intensify the distress.

Without a clear Will, family members may find themselves grappling with uncertainty and attempting to decipher the deceased’s wishes during an already emotionally fraught time. The absence of specific instructions can lead to disputes, prolonged legal processes and strained relationships.

One of the primary purposes of estate planning is to protect your loved ones

from unnecessary burdens and conflicts. A well-thought-out Will serves as a roadmap, guiding your family through the distribution of assets, guardianship arrangements for minors and other critical decisions.

By clearly outlining your intentions, you provide your family with a sense of direction and minimise the likelihood of disputes or disagreements.

Without a valid Will, the distribution of your assets will be subject to intestacy laws, which often dictate a default distribution plan that may not align with your wishes.

Through careful estate planning and a meticulously drafted Will, you retain control over how your assets are distributed, ensuring they go to the

individuals or causes that matter to you most.

In addition to a Will, Lasting Powers of Attorney play a crucial role in estate planning. These legal documents empower trusted individuals to make financial and healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.

By appointing decision-makers in advance, you ensure that someone you trust is authorised to manage your affairs according to your wishes, sparing your loved ones from the burden of guesswork.

Don’t leave your legacy to chance. Create an estate plan that reflects your values and safeguards your family’s future. Contact our experienced private client team today for confidential and personal advice on 01254 268790.

WHAT'S ON Your local area

Arthur Geldard and Vintage Swing Thing

Date: 20th April, 2024

Doors: 7pm Cost: £15

The Grand, 18 York Street, Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 2DL

Following a triumphant sell out show at The Grand in 2022, local swing and jazz legend Arthur Geldard is making a return to the Clitheroe-based venue with his band, Vintage Swing Thing on 20th April 2024. Brought to you in partnership with luxury musical entertainment providers Musique, Arthur and Vintage Swing Thing promise a spectacular night filled with classic and reworked

modern hits. Arthur and his bandmates are gearing up to deliver an unforgettable evening filled with soulful melodies, infectious rhythms, and irresistible energy. Known for their dynamic performances that transport audiences to the golden age of jazz, Vintage Swing Thing promises to deliver a night of music that will have attendees tapping their feet and dancing in the aisles. Vintage Swing Thing at The Grand will be a standing event with limited, unreserved seating, to allow for a large dance floor for guests to show off their best swing dance moves throughout the evening.

First public performance of uncovered musical treasures

Two years of unstinting volunteer work cataloguing the documents of a blind organist has uncovered treasures by British composer Sir Edward Bairstow in Lancashire.

And those works were heard for the first time in living memory at Blackburn Cathedral on Wednesday 27 March, performed by Blackburn Music Society and Blackburn Chamber Choir.

The concert ‘Uncovered Treasures – Bairstow in Blackburn’ showcasing some of Bairstow’s most famous and most loved sacred works, led by the musical director of both choirs and of Blackburn Cathedral, John Robinson, with organist John Hosking. The programme included Bairstow’s arrangements of two popular hymns, never heard in living memory.

The manuscripts were discovered by Pete Asher, a member of the Music Society and volunteer archivist in the Local History section of Blackburn Library. Pete’s latest project was to catalogue the William Wolstenholme Collection.

William was born in Blackburn in 1865 and went on to become a celebrated organist and composer despite being born blind. His musical talents were recognised very early and he was sent to a school for the blind in Worcester. His violin teacher at the school was a youthful Edward Elgar who later became William’s amanuensis when he took his BMus at Oxford. They stayed good friends until William’s death in 1931.

At that time William was living in London with his sister Maude and her family. She had become effectively his secretary/business manager. After his death Maude must have packed up William’s study and donated the resulting collection of documents to Blackburn Library. The contents were never fully indexed although the extensive musical scores in Braille were indexed by Douglas Carrington in 2002. In addition to the Braille scores the Wolstenholme collection contained some 130 works in manuscript form of which the majority were by William himself. However, a few were by other composers including Edward Bairstow.

• Traditional menu with popular pub classics

• A wide selection of real ales, beers, spirits & wines

• Cosy bar area with an open log fire

• Beer garden and outdoor heated undercover area

• Sunday Roast available

• Dogs welcome

• Ideally situated for walkers TAKING BOOKINGS FOR CHRISTENINGS,

SPRING 2024

Spring has at last arrived! After the long wet winter, hopefully, we have now turned a corner and the next few weeks will be on our side to attempt our gardening calendar.

As the days begin to lengthen, the ground dries up a bit and the temperatures reach double figures, we need to embrace any available time to catch up with our tasks to make our gardens beautiful and productive for the summer months.

Everything is late this year but it is always a joy to peruse the garden, spot the new growth and be amazed at nature, whatever the climate. So, wrap up warm against those sneaky winds and head outdoors with your newly cleaned gardening tools to continue with the following ideas:-

1. Firstly, the tidying up after the winter. Add rotted manure or compost to your soil beds for nourishment. It will make all the difference for the summer growth. Pots alike will need cleaning and replenishing.

2. Although the spring flowers are later blooming this year, remove any faded flowers. If you want some of the early spring varieties to neutralize, let the flowers die back naturally, the likes of scilla, snowdrops, crocus and muscari. Same with tulips, daffodils and bluebells, a little later in the season.

3. Feed the hungry shrubs and roses. If you have lost any trees or shrubs over the long winter, now is the time to visit your local Garden Centre to replenish, perhaps, try a new variety. Water regularly to help them nurture and become established.

4. Prune the hydrangeas, cut back the old stems to a healthy shoot lower down. Cut back the lavender plants, heathers and tidy up the grasses.

5. Stake perennials and continue to tie in the new stems of climbing plants to support and protect against wind and rain. Bamboo stakes and metal plant supports are ideal, soft string, plant / flower rings for the more fragile varieties.

6. Repair any patches to the lawn. Apply a nitrogen fertilizer to your lawn now for a boost to the start of the season and apply lawn weed killer where moss and weeds are a problem. Mow the lawn weekly as temperatures improve. For a new lawn, lay either turf, ensuring it is kept moist until established. Alternatively, sow lawn seed onto well prepared soil, again, keeping it well watered whilst germinating.

7. Protect the new shoots of your delphiniums, lupins and hostas from slugs and snails.

8. Weeding is essential. A few minutes constantly with a hoe will keep the unwanted species at bay.

9. The garden wildlife are busy, the birds, bees and insects are all establishing nests. Climbers such as passion flower, wisteria, clematis, pyracantha, honeysuckle and star jasmine are all wonderful varieties to support the wildlife and also provide beautiful floral coverage for fences. Now is the time to plant some if you have a little extra space!

10. When May arrives, it is time to plant up the outdoor pots and hanging baskets. Keep in a greenhouse or porch for a few weeks. I aim to have them in situ by the end of the month when we are frost free.

So, lots to do, enjoy your favourite hobby and fingers crossed, the weather will be kind for us!

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Spring has arrived, Squeakers!

This edition features wildlife, see if you can spot any on your next nature walk. Find all the words in the insect wordsearch, crack the bunny burrow maze and then fill in the squirrel dot to dot that you can also colour.

Enjoy and see you next time

SPOT THE PIGEON! WIN £25!

Can you Spot the Pigeon in this month’s issue?

Our Pigeon is hiding in this issue!

Find him and you could in with a chance of winning a £25 voucher for the Calf’s Head! Nestled in the picturesque village of Worston, just a couple of miles from Clitheroe, the Calf’s Head has an extensive range of locallysourced dishes, outdoor seating areas with stunning views of Pendle Hill, and hotel rooms.

Congratulations to last issue’s winner, Helen Bolton from Longridge

Be in it, to win it!

For your chance of winning

please email us with the page number and where the pigeon is hiding or send a picture to carrierpigeoncomp@gmail.com

Winner picked at random (T&Cs apply)

“We have used the Carrier Pigeon for a few years to promote the Lord Nelson and have gained a generous amount of new customers through the door. The magazine targets the right areas for us and looks great! We can change our adverts each time, which works well for us and promote our seasonal menus and other offers and events in advance.”

- Lord Nelson, Langho

BUCKET LIST DESTINATIONS

Places everyone should visit once in a lifetime

Krabi, Thailand

Krabi is a relaxing area in southern Thailand, featuring stunning scenery both inland and at sea. With over 150 islands in Krabi, many of them featuring fantastic white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, a jungle-covered interior, towering limestone cliffs, caves, waterfalls and exotic wildlife, Krabi can offer visitors an array of leisure activities from Island-hopping, snorkelling, rock climbing, sea kayaking, jungle trekking and scuba diving. Take a trip to Koh Phi Phi Islands (where the Beach was filmed) it's not far by boat. To get to Krabi, it's only an 80 min plane journey from Bangkok. Krabi is a great place to relax and unwind in the winter months.

Perth, Australia

Head to western Australia for Christmas. Our winter is their Summer and it’s very hot with 10 hours of sunshine. There is lots to do in Perth, surfing, site seeing and travelling up and down the coast to different points of interest and landmarks.

You could even have your Christmas dinner on the beach. Travelling over to Perth is over 24 hours by plane with stops, so be prepared for jet lag.

Gili Islands, Bali

Travel to Bali and head by boat to the Gili Islands. There are 3 to choose from or you can visit all 3. The islands are a vision of paradise, with compact corals, white sand and turquoise waters.

Swim with turtles, snorkel on the reef or scuba dive with sharks. There is lots to do on the 3 islands. If you want to party head to Gili T, party till the early hours. For a quieter time head to Gili Meno, this has a relaxed atmosphere and only a few bars.

Gili Air has a good combination of snorkeling and bars and restaurants. You can fly to Lombok and travel by boat to the islands.

Years of experience, professionalism and competitive prices are the reasons why Broughton Roofing have developed into a trusted, reliable company across Lancashire.

From leaking flat roof repairs, pitch roof repairs to total replacement or just advice on which roof or guttering, Jamie and Kyle are happy to help.

Broughton Roofing was founded by Jamie who started learning his trade when he left school, working under his fathers guidance. Kyle started out as an apprentice for Jamie and is now a partner in the business.

"We specialise in covering flat roofs with synthetic rubber from

tyre giants Firestone. There are no joints to cause leaks as it is sold in single sheets big enough for most roofs. Firestone RubberCover has a 20-year material warranty but can last up to 50 years.

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Jamie says: “As well as flat roofing installations and flat roof repairs we also supply and fit UPVC guttering, fascias and soffits, roof lights and lead work plus Velux window installation.

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Call now for a free, no obligation quote.

PUZZLES

Crossword and Wordsearch

PUZZLE PAGE

Crossword Answers Issue 137

Across: 1 March, 6 trainer, 7 trellis, 8 not, 10 duo, 12 Rover, 13 erica, 16 pre, 17 A.N.C., 19 trouble, 20 orderly, 21 treat.

Down: 2 amaretto, 3 conclude, 4 Staten, 5 presto, 9 order, 11 urban, 14 recorder, 15 Canberra, 16 patrol, 18 Cheryl

WORDSEARCH

Find all the words in our PAIRS themed Wordsearch