Focus Magazine - Garstang by Focus Magazines

FOCUS MAGAZINE 'The Green Book'

by David J Ansell

GARSTANG - Scorton - Cabus - Garstang - Catterall - Bonds - Bowgreave - St Michaels - Churchtown

Issue 257 March 2022

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Welcome to Focus Magazine... Garstang Memory Cafe................................ 4 Bingo.................................................................... 4 Scottish Country Dancing........................... 4 Out Rawcliffe Over 60s................................ 5 Garstang Wine Circle.................................... 5 Babas................................................................... 5 Giant Book Festival........................................ 5 Table Top Sale.................................................. 6 Garstang Heritage Society......................... 6 Catterall in Bloom.......................................... 7 Catterall Gardening Club............................ 7 3Ls......................................................................... 8 Garstang Millennium Green...................... 9 Garstang Subscription Bowling Club.... 9 Harmony & Health.......................................... 10 Garstang Speakers Club............................. 10 Sequence Dancing........................................ 10 Lancaster Singers.......................................... 12 Jumble Sale & Bazaar.................................. 12 Garstang Library............................................. 14 Garstang Arts Centre.................................... 17 Garstang AFVBC............................................. 21 Claughton on Brock WI................................ 22 Garstang Phoenix WI.................................... 22 Cherestanc WI................................................. 23 Cabus WI............................................................ 23

Coffee Stop........................................................ 23 Church But Not on a Sunday..................... 24 Calder Vale Methodist Church................. 24 Garstang Free Methodists.......................... 25 Garstang Quakers.......................................... 25 Calder Vale Country Club........................... 26 Pilling Historical Society............................. 26 Garstang Medical Centre............................ 27 Soroptimists...................................................... 29 Fairtrade............................................................. 34 Rotary................................................................... 37 Parkinson’s UK................................................. 39 Heading Up the Wooden Stairs............... 41 Garstang Camera Club................................ 42 Garstang Walking Festival......................... 43 Garstang & District Lions............................ 44 Crossword.......................................................... 44 Ben Wallace MP.............................................. 45 Cat Smith MP.................................................... 46 Greater Garstang............................................ 49 Wyre Council.................................................... 29 Grey Matter Test.............................................. 50 Sudoku................................................................ 51 Cardiac Risk in the Young........................... 52 Forest of Bowland AONB............................ 54

APRIL 2022 DEADLINE DATE

The April deadline for editorial and adverts is 5:00pm on Monday 14th March. Deliveries of the April edition of Focus Magazine will commence on Thursday 24th March. Over Wyre & Garstang Focus Magazines www.focusmags.co.uk | 01253 813433 | www.facebook.com/focusmags Event Advertising & Editorial: editorial@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 2022 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.

GARSTANG MEMORY CAFÉ These are regular free drop-in meetings organised through Sandra Perkins and are designed to provide some much needed support and advice for those experiencing dementia in any form and also their carers. Throughout the year a variety of highly social and entertaining activities are offered including indoor games, quizzes, craft/art sessions, musical/dramatic performances, occasional lunches/afternoon teas and several outings or visits. It is ensured that all arrangements are Covid secure yet provided in a highly sociable environment. The group have returned to having their regular meetings on the first Monday (2:00pm - 4:00pm) and third Wednesday (10:00am to 12 noon) of each month in the new venue of the Free Methodist Hall with refreshments provided free of charge. In February two meetings were held with a variety of activities including bingo, several Valentine’s day

quizzes and games that were enjoyed by all those present.. Our next meetings will be held on Mon 7th March 2:00pm to 4:00pm and will include a free afternoon buffet tea - with a suggested dress code of hats for all of the ladies and ties for gents please. Then the following three meetings will be held on: • • •

Wed 16th March, 10:00am Mon 4th April, 2:00pm Wed 20th April 10:00am

We are very grateful to all of the organisations and families that have supported our work. The latest individual pledge is from Stuart Todd who has generously offered to run in the Manchester marathon and donate the proceeds of his sponsorship monies to us. Chris Wilkinson

BINGO Fri 11th March, 7:30pm Out Rawcliffe Village Hall Church bingo event at Out Rawcliffe Village Hall. This is the first money raising event since the Covid pandemic began. Trish Walmsley trishmiramar@me.com

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE GROUP We meet on Monday evenings at 7:30pm from September to May in the United Reformed Church Hall, Croston Road, Garstang PR3 1FL. Our programme includes a range of dances to suit all abilities. New members are always welcome. No previous dancing experience required. Just come along and have a go! For further information please contact: Ian 01995 603998 or Pam 01995 603536

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OUT RAWCLIFFE OVER 60’S CLUB

GIANT BOOK FESTIVAL

March is usually the month of the first meeting of the year for the Out Rawcliffe Over 60’s Club. Unfortunately I have to announce that the club will no longer be able to continue. Having appealed and failed to get any interested persons to take on the roles needed to keep the club up-and-running, it is with deep regret that the difficult decision to fold has been made. There has been no other choice.

Sat 5th March, 10:00am - 3:00pm St Thomas’s Church Hall

The club, which was set up in 1975, has been a source of fellowship for many in the local community and lasting friendships have been formed amongst the members. I would like to thank the members for the support given to the club over the years and wish all a happy, healthy future. Jane Webster (Treasurer/Secretary)

GARSTANG WINE CIRCLE The early print deadline means that a full report for the February meeting that will have taken place at the Arts Centre on the Mon 21st Feb, will appear in the April issue of Focus. At that meeting Circle Member Jennifer McNamee will have presented a selection of South African wines to the group.

Organised by the Garstang Events Team, this event, to mark World Book Day, will have hundreds of books and jigsaws for sale. We have been collecting book donations and have books on everything from books for children, books about crime, crafts and hobbies, local interest, places, autobiographies, sport, general interest, novels, educational books, in fact we have books about almost anything you could think of - not to mention a huge selection of paperbacks and a pile of jigsaws. There will also be storytelling sessions for children, run by Garstang Library and St Thomas’s Church, and tea, coffee and cake will be on sale throughout the event. If you would like to test your book knowledge you can also enter our quiz by picking up a

At the meeting on Mon 21st March, we will have a visit from Stuart Rothwell, owner of the Vineyard Wineshop in Ramsbottom. Stuart will be presenting a selection of wine from Portugal. Details of the meeting can be obtained from Alan Jefferson on 01995 601842. Mervyn Stokes

BABAS Parents, carers and toddler group. We’re open each Wed from 10:00am - 11:30am at Garstang Methodist Church. Come along for chat, a brew and a play. Dorothy Gorst 01995 606226

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GIANT BOOK FESTIVAL (cont)

GARSTANG HERITAGE SOCIETY

quiz sheet on the day. There will be a prize for the first correct entry drawn after the closing date of Thurs 31st March.

Wyre Council arts and events team was delighted to host one of their ‘Just Reminiscing’ sessions at Booths. Garstang and District Heritage Society were asked to co-host the event. We brought along our display boards showing a variety of archive photos of ‘old Garstang’ which led to some lovely conversations with local people who enjoyed the reminiscence display and shared with us their memories of Garstang in times gone by.

There is no admission charge, but we would appreciate it if you could bring an item for the food bank instead. The food bank is well used, and any items are gratefully received. We look forward to seeing everyone - please tell your friends about the event! Mary Randles

TABLE TOP SALE Sun 10th April 10:00 - 2:00pm Out Rawcliffe Village Hall Free entry. Bacon sandwiches, cake and tea. £7 a table. Sorry, we can’t take card payments. Please call 07534 543 550 for more information. Jadis Harrot

As it was so successful, we are looking to put on further reminiscing displays in Booths and hopefully in other locations in Garstang. Keep an eye open on Facebook for details. If you would like support or get involved in your local heritage, then drop us an email or why not follow us on our Facebook page? e: garstangheritagecentre@gmail.com fb: ‘Garstang & District Heritage Society’ www.garstangheritagesociety.org

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CATTERALL IN BLOOM Welcome to the new season and a chance to refresh after the long winter days.

and fill the village with beautiful flowers and plants.

Catterall in Bloom is entering the North West in Bloom competition again this year, in the large village category, so you’ll soon be seeing the team out and about.

After Easter the Bloom team will also be meeting on Wednesday evenings 7:00pm at Stone Cross Community Garden.

Our main challenge this year will be to plant up the flower beds in the park and help to maintain them in their colourful glory throughout the summer.

Netta Parker 07508 144 181

We have a dedicated and hard working team of volunteers who enjoy the fun of gardening together. However, the Bloom tasks are varied and we need help with all kinds of activities, so why not come along and join us whenever you can? We meet on Tuesday mornings at Catterall Village Hall car park starting on Tues 12th April at 10:00am. This special Queen’s Jubilee year is the perfect time to make a difference to where we live

See you soon and happy gardening!

CATTERALL GARDENING CLUB Tues 15th March, 7:00pm - 9:00pm Catterall Village Hall Spring is just around the corner and so is the return of Catterall Gardening Club. We have a wonderful season of talks lined up for 2022, starting with Antony Walker from Resource Recycling Solutions who is coming on Tues 15th March to explain the mysteries of composting. There will be home made cakes, a plants stall

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GARDENING CLUB (cont) Est. 1970

Ladies & Gents Barbers Excellent cutting & styling We pride ourselves on perming, colouring & setting Put-ups for special occasions Walk-ins welcome

and lots of friendly faces to welcome you back after our enforced two year break. There will also be a raffle which we hope everyone will be keen to support, as from now on the funds raised will be used to help buy plants to keep Catterall looking beautiful all year long. We will be keeping covid safe and so hand sanitisers will be available and windows may be opened to keep the air fresh if a lot of people attend. Wear an extra layer if you are worried about being cold. Membership costs have been kept at £15 for all seven meetings from March to September, or you can choose to pay £3 per visit if you prefer. Put the third Tuesday in the month in your diaries and we look forward to seeing you. April Haxby 07712 341 123

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The speaker at our meeting on Fri 4th March at Garstang URC hall will be Neil Hendrie and his topic will be ‘The Death of Diana, Accident or Murder?’. Neil has been to our meetings in previous years and he and his friends have an interesting way of presenting the facts of the case, leaving us to decide for ourselves the result. It will be an interesting and informative afternoon, so join us at 2:00pm when everyone will be most welcome. There will be the usual tea and biscuits after the talk. It was lovely to see so many members at the AGM in February. For any who were unable to attend, Ann will be available to collect your subscription for the coming year and the current programme will be available at the next meeting. For anyone who would like to join us to find out what is in store for the coming year you will be most welcome as a visitor. For further information please contact Jack on 01995 238075 or Ruth on 01995 602006. Ruth Rendle

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GARSTANG MILLENNIUM GREEN Thank you to all of you who have sent in your wildlife photographs to our website. We really appreciate your contributions. How pleasing it is to see lots of bulbs now coming through. There appear to be more snowdrops than last year and the daffodils and crocuses are starting to show too. Hopefully they will create a fabulous backdrop for some inspiring photography as we move into spring. I am pleased to announce the creation of a new wildflower bed this year, hopefully we will be treated to a great display of these common flowers that are a bit tricky to grow in our green’s fertile soil. As you walk along the paths you may have seen lots of activity going on. We have been very lucky to have the Wyre Ranges on hand recently helping with tidying up the undergrowth, hedge laying and replacing rotten posts as well. Our thanks go out to them for all their efforts. Carol Wood - Millennium Green Committee

SUBSCRIPTION BOWLING CLUB Garstang You can find us next to the football ground, behind LBT Motors. Bowling is a great way to relax in beautiful surroundings. The green is closed at the moment and will re-open in mid-March 2022. Now is the time to put a plan into action. If you have never played bowls but would like to try contact us. We will supply the woods, give you a brief introduction and then you can have a go for free! Interested? Contact Dave Rochester. He will keep you advised of when the green is opening and make arrangements to meet at your convenience. Dave Rochester 07767 428 923

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HARMONY & HEALTH

GARSTANG SPEAKERS CLUB

An opportunity to sing - make 2022 the year when you discover the joy and health benefits of singing with others at the following locations:

How much higher up the promotion ladder could you get if your speaking and presentation skills were practised and honed in a friendly supportive environment? The ability to speak and listen at business meetings is an important addition to any CV. The fundamental skills learned at a speakers club are transferable to any work activity.

Garstang: Monday afternoons from 3rd January throughout the year from 2:00pm 3:15pm at the United Reformed Church Hall, Croston Rd. £2.00 per session to include tea/coffee and biscuits Hambleton: Tuesday afternoons from 4th January throughout the year from 2:00pm - 3:15pm in the Village Hall, Church Lane. £2.00 per session to include tea/coffee and biscuits We are not a choir and no previous singing experience is necessary. We extend a warm welcome to all. Further details from Ann Cameron t: 07966 126 999 e: ann.cameron@mac.com

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Come and see what we can offer. The club meets at 7:30pm in the comfortable surroundings of the Garstang Country Hotel & Golf Club on the first and third Tuesday of each month from September to May. The meetings in March are Tues 1st & 15th March. Go on, take that first step and contact a club member. Sue Hubbard t: 01995 600357 e: barleyfold@madasafish.com www.garstangladiesspeakersclub.org

SEQUENCE DANCING We were very pleased to welcome more people taking their first steps with us at the events mentioned in last month’s Focus Magazine. Admission which includes an interval with refreshments is only £4. Saturdays at Barton Village Hall PR3 5AL. Dancing from 7:45pm - 11:15pm • Sat 5th & 12th March - Music by Alan Cookson and his wizardly on keyboard. •

Sat 26th March - Music by John Lancaster and his Tasteful CDs.

(Please note - no dance on Sat 19th March) Tuesdays at Claughton Memorial Hall PR3 0PL. Dancing from 7:30pm •

Tues 8th & Tues 22nd March Music by John Lancaster and his delightful CD collection.

We will always be pleased to see anyone wishing to follow in our footsteps on these pleasurable evenings.

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SEQUENCE DANCING (cont) Bleasdale Farmers Ball Tickets at £12 each are now available for the Bleasdale Farmers Ball to be held at Bleasdale Parish Hall PR3 1YU on Sat 2nd April at 7:30pm. This will be a lovely supper of several courses followed by dancing to John Lancaster’s music. Freda Parker t: 01995 605322 m: 07714 092 495

LANCASTER SINGERS Sat 19th March 7:30pm Lenten Concert at The Priory, Lancaster Mealor: ‘Crucifixus’ Rheinberger: ‘Mass in E Flat Major’ It’s almost two years to the day when our performance of ‘Crucifixus’ was postponed due to Covid, so we’re thrilled to be performing it at last. We hope you’ll be able to join us at the Priory in Lancaster to hear this wonderful music. Tickets are £12 and are available from our website, on the door or by calling 07956 115 126 If you’re looking to join a modern, vibrant, and accomplished choir, why not come along to a couple of rehearsals after Easter and check us out? In the first instance, email Sarah at welcome@lancastersingers.org or call 07929 031 466. Chris Haughton e: chair@lancastersingers.org www.lancastersingers.org

JUMBLE SALE & BAZAAR Sat 12th March, 10:30am - 3:30pm St Michael’s on Wyre Village Hall Please join us for a jumble sale and vintage items bazaar. Sandwiches and home baked goods available. gillian@document-records.com

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GARSTANG LIBRARY Author Talk: ‘That’s News to Me’ by Angela Norris Thurs 3rd March 2:00pm. This insightful talk describes Angela’s role working as a reporter on the Garstang Courier in the 1970s. It promises to be a step back in time to an era that was very different to the one we know today - featuring the people, places and news stories (local and national) dominating the headlines during the seventies. Free to attend. Tickets available by contacting Garstang Library Baby Bounce & Rhyme: Mondays and Fridays 10:00am - 10:30am. A fun-filled session with songs and music. Suitable for babies up to around 18 months of age, but older pre-school siblings welcome. Toddler Rhyme Time: Tuesdays 2:00pm - 2:30pm. An energising session of singing and dancing for toddlers and carers. Singalong songs and rhymes with movement and

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GARSTANG LIBRARY (cont) actions for pre-school children from around 18 months upwards. Story Time: Fridays 2:00pm - 2:30pm. A weekly story reading session for pre-school children. Saturday Stories: 10:00am - 12 noon. Discover and enjoy a new story each week. Get inspired to write your own stories, be creative with crafts and drawing and play games together. There’s something new every Saturday. Come along and join the fun! Celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight with a special Saturday Stories on Sat 26th Feb. Lego Club & Board Games: Saturdays 10:00am - 12 noon. Knit & Natter: Tuesdays 2:00pm 4:00pm. Bring your knitting or other craft for an informal gathering of like-minded people. Beginners welcome.

Get Online at Your Library: Tuesdays 10:00am - 11:00am. Learn the basic digital skills which will enable you to keep in touch with family and friends, shop safely online, take up a new hobby, find work, save time save money, find information about your health and much more. We provide bitesize courses and one-to-one help. It doesn’t matter how young or old you are, it doesn’t matter if you’ve never used a computer, we can help you! Booking required. Numbers limited. One to One Support: Please get in touch to book a one to one digital support session for using a computer, smart phone or tablet. Fun Arts: (delivered with Wyre Council): Thursdays 9:30am - 11:30am. This is a dementia-friendly activity led by an experienced instructor and is suitable for those living with dementia and their carers.

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GARSTANG LIBRARY (cont) Make new friends and have a go. Please bring something to protect your clothing from any paint splashes eg. an old shirt. Mobile Library For further information of times and stops near you please call Glenys on 07717 543 763 or email garstang.mobile.ml3@ lancashire.gov.uk Friends of Garstang Library We’re happy to announce that we are meeting once again and planning some exciting events for 2022. The Friends of Garstang Library meet the first Thursday of the month 2:00pm - 3:00pm, with the exception of Thurs 3rd March when we will be meeting at 3:00pm. Please come along to find out more about how we support our local library and to share any ideas you have.

North Sea Gas: Wed 2nd March, 7:00pm. Tickets £10 available from the library The Scottish folk band North Sea Gas will once again be returning to the library for an evening of live music. Their performances have been very popular in the past so be sure to get your tickets! Numbers will be limited to allow for social distancing. The Friends of Garstang Library & Garstang Replugged present ‘The Long Nights’: Thurs 14th April 7:00pm. Tickets are £10 and can be ordered at the library or by calling 01995 602 795. ‘The Long Nights’ are Alan and Lynne Hempton from Bilsborrow and Susie Clegg and Jacob Phelps who aren’t. Together they play an exciting blend of bluegrass, country and modern folk music with both songs you’ll know and some of their own. The blend of guitar, banjo, bass and fiddle behind the voices gives a complete package. You won’t be disappointed.

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GARSTANG LIBRARY (cont) t: 0300 123 6703 www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries-andarchives e: garstang.library@lancashire.gov.uk facebook: @LancsLibraries twitter: @LancsLibraries

shipbuilding and product design industries followed. Now retired, Brent has rekindled his love of painting and drawing. The exhibition will open on Tues 15th March and will run until Thurs 7th April. Sheila Tearle 01995 603816

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE

Craft Fairs

There is a quiz night at the Arts Centre on Sat 23rd April, 7:30pm.

The craft fairs start again this month, the first being on Sat 19th March. We are open for stall holders from 9:30am. For more information contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605

Art Exhibition

Garstang Ukulele Group

The annual general meeting will take place on Wed 6th April at 7:30pm.

We look forward to welcoming new exhibitor to the Arts Centre, Brent Cousins with his exhibition ‘A Sketchbook of the Fylde & Wyre Past & Present’. When he left school Brent studied at Blackpool College of Technology and Art and qualified as a technical illustrator. A career in the aerospace,

March will see us return to performing, with our first gig in 2022 being for the Ribby and Wrea WI. If you are interested in booking us, contact Bob Sapey 07985 713 951. Poetry Group The theme for Fri 25th March will be

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GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE (cont) ‘Mothers’ led by Caroline Worthington. We are a very friendly group and new members are welcome. The meetings start at 2:00pm. Just come and sit and listen or join if you wish. For more information contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605 Bridge Do you fancy a new challenge for the New Year but don’t fancy taking on a marathon. Bridge taxes the brain rather than the body. You may have played bridge many years ago or you would like to learn more about it. If so Garstang Arts Centre Bridge Group, which meets every Tuesday afternoon 1:30pm - 4:00pm, would be delighted to see you. For more experienced bridge players the Garstang Bridge Club now meets at the Arts Centre, every Monday evening 7:00pm to 9:30pm. The beauty of bridge is that whatever your standard of play you will always get pleasure from it. If you would like

more details please ring Bob 01995 603524. Garstang Musical Productions Rehearsals are well underway for our spring song concert, a tribute to film and theatre to be performed right here at the Arts Centre on Sat 19th March, 7:30pm and Sun 20th March, 2:00pm. We will also be performing at Pilling Village Hall on Sat 23rd April, 7:30pm. Tickets are on sale now at £7.50 each and already selling fast. To get yours, call Myles 07795 946 159. Alternatively, call into the arts centre on Thursdays between 7:30pm - 9:30pm. Rebecca Sudell 07985 372 234. Book Club The next Book Club is on Tues 8th March at 10:30am. We enjoy discussing a range of books. At our February meeting we discussed ‘Miss Benson’s Beetle’ by Rachel Joyce . This was read and enjoyed by most of the group

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GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE (cont) even though it was sometimes in the realms of fantasy, but then the feeling was that we all need a bit of fantasy now and again! All the characters were a little bit odd and one remark made was that we probably all know some odd people.

Needlework Group

We also discussed ‘Between the Stops’ by Sandi Toksvig which received mixed reviews. Although some people love her she’s not everyone’s cup of tea! The recommended books for March are ‘The Familiars’ by Stacy Hall - a tale of witchcraft and power set in Lancashire in the early 1600’s and any book written by Mrs Gaskell. For more information contact Linda 07795 064 266 or Sandra 01995 603436

Other Groups that Meet at the Arts Centre

We meet on Wednesday mornings from 10:00am to 12 noon. If you enjoy knitting, crochet, embroidery, patchwork, applique or would like to learn, do come and join this friendly, helpful group. •

Creative Card Making: fourth Monday in the month, 10:00am to 12noon

•

Songbirds: Meet every Monday 1:30pm to 3:30pm

•

Folk Dancers: Tuesday evenings, 7:30pm to 9:30pm. September to May

•

Garstang Painting Wednesday, 1:00pm

Scrabble Group

•

The Scrabble group meets on Tuesday afternoons from 2:00pm to 3:30pm. Everyone welcome. Jean Mavin 07501 704 385

John Towers Big Band: every Friday, 7:45pm

•

Sounds Right: First and third Monday in the month, mornings

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Group:

every

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GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE (cont) •

Watercolour Workshop: 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Mondays

appearance on the morning of a breakfast club.

•

Paint and Chatter: Fridays, 10:00am to 12 noon

•

Woolcraft: Tuesdays 7:00pm to 9:00pm and Fridays, 1:30pm to 3:30pm

Speaking of spring we are pleased to announce that our Saturday walks will recommence on Sun 19th March and we look forward to seeing members on what has in the past been an enjoyable and sociable stroll. Details of start time and location will be on our Facebook page.

Judy Osborne 01995 600996 facebook: artcentre.garstang twitter: ArtsGarstang www.garstangartssociety.org.uk

GARSTANG AFVBC

Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club Our purpose is to facilitate veterans and serving armed forces personnel to meet faceto-face in a relaxed, safe, social environment to enjoy breakfast and banter, to combat loneliness and allow veterans to ‘return to the tribe’. There are no fees or subs, you just pay for your own breakfast – simple!

Other events are in the process of being planned but one which is definitely happening is our quiz night on Tues 15th March at the Whetasheaf, 7:30pm for an 8:00pm start - a chance for you to impress with your general knowledge. Entry is only a £1 per person. Paul Robinson f: Garstang Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club www.afvbc.net/clubs/garstang

Next Meeting Our clubs are on the 1st Saturday of each month, with the next one being Sat 5th March at 9:30am at the Wheatsheaf, 1 Park Hill Road, Garstang PR3 1EL. Come and enjoy a breakfast menu ranging from full English breakfast, sausage or bacon butty to beans on toast - all with free tea and coffee. Most of all, you can enjoy the opportunity to catch up with your fellow veterans and their families, and once again, enjoy some good-natured banter. February Round Up The February breakfast club saw a large turnout in what was once again poor weather conditions with an increase in new members and everyone enjoyed a good breakfast. We are hoping that with spring in the not-toodistant future the sun might also make an

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WI CORNER Claughton-onBrock WI Tues 1st March, 7:30pm Claughton-onBrock Village Hall We look forward to the next meeting when our speaker, Brian Halliwell’s theme is ‘The Real Robinson Crusoe’. I do like a mystery, don’t you? The competition this time is ‘A Shell’. Please remember to bring along your menus and payment for the 102nd birthday party meal at The Crofters (on Tues 5th April). Cheques preferred. In February, it was so lovely to be back together again after a long winter break and have a wonderful catch up of news over tea and delicious home made cakes. The speaker was most entertaining and gave an insight into the trials of researching her husband’s family tree. The sepia photographs everyone

brought along were amazing. Thank you. It gave us all time to reflect on how things have changed since the early 20th century. Netta Parker 01995 605385 Garstang Phoenix WI Wed 9th March, 2:00pm Garstang United Reformed Church Hall Why not come along and join us for the afternoon? The subject of the talk will be ‘Remembered Times’. Maybe this is something we can all relate to. Garstang Phoenix WI is the only WI that has an afternoon meeting in the area, so there is no need to turn out on dark wet nights. If you are interested in joining or would like to come along and find out more about us, we would be delighted to meet you Lesley Wilson 01995 605274 LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESS SINCE 2008

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WI CORNER (cont)

COFFEE STOP

Cherestanc WI Wed 23rd March, 7:30pm St Thomas’s Parish and Community Hall

Coffee Stop welcomes you this spring.

Alysia Gilda will be guiding us through music and easy dance routines. We meet on the 4th Wednesday of the month (except December). We are a friendly group. If you are thinking about joining the WI please come along as a visitor and give us a try. If you would like someone to meet you at the door please contact Marion on 01995 600590. Linda Bark Cabus WI Wed 2nd March, 7:30pm Cabus Village Hall This month the speaker will be Dr Graham Kent, talking about Lancaster Castle. The competition will be ‘a castle’. We would love to see new members and you will be most welcome. Margaret Swift 01995 606676

GARSTANG STORAGE

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We’re open as a community cafe on most Tuesday mornings between 10:00am and 12 noon. We invite you to come along for coffee and company. We aim to offer a safe and friendly place where you can come along alone or with friends. We welcome everyone and invite walkers, cyclists, locals and visitors to call in for a cuppa. There is disabled access and free parking at both venues. We are staffed by volunteers from Inglewhite Church and both communities. We look forward to welcoming you during March. Lesley Hardman 01995 641175

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CHURCH BUT NOT ON A SUNDAY

CALDER VALE METHODIST CHURCH

We invite you to join us for community ‘church’. Everyone is welcome.

The old saying is ‘March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb’. The thinking behind it is that at the start of March winter is still with us but by the end of March spring is already here or not far away.

Join us in the smaller room at Kirkland and Catterall Memorial Hall on Thurs 31st March at 7:30pm. Our March speaker will be the Hospital Chaplain from Preston. We plan to continue meeting on the last Thursday of each month until July. There will be music, discussion and light refreshments for all. You can be sure of a very warm welcome at this informal style of church. We hope you will feel able to come and see if this might be for you. Everyone welcome at weekday church in our own fantastic community. For more information contact Lesley via the church office. Lesley Hardman 01995 641175

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We can see the snowdrops and the daffodils are growing well and, in sheltered places, already flowering. So spring is not far away. At Calder Vale Methodist Church we begin March with an all-age service led by Rev Keith Borwick, on Sun 6th March 10:45am. We will share in refreshments after the service. At our service on Sun 27th March we will hear from Julia Robinson who is the Methodist Women in Britain president for Lancashire. Each president chooses a charity to support during their time in office and Julia has chosen Medecins Sans Frontieres, sometimes translated to English as ‘Doctors Without Borders’. It is an international humanitarian medical non-governmental organisation of French origin best known for its projects in conflict zones and in countries affected by endemic diseases. They work in over 70 countries in the world. Julia is an ex-nurse and passionate about the work. Please join us to hear about it. The service starts at 10:45am and there will be refreshments afterwards to give you a chance to talk to Julia. It is also Mothering Sunday so we will celebrate with the ladies as well. CAMEO Our March CAMEO (Come and Meet Each Other) will be held on Fri 18th March at 2:00pm. Do join us for an informal chat over a cuppa and cake. In January we all made a birthday card, who knows what we will do in March. Friday Lunches Our Friday lunches continue. These need to be ordered and collected from outside the Church. Edith Gorst 01995 602078.

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GARSTANG FREE METHODISTS As we enjoy the days getting warmer as we see more of the sun, be assured we are continuing with our regular meetings, details of which are on our website. I would like to highlight a couple of events: • •

Wed 2nd March – Men’s Breakfast, 9:00am at Booths Café Wed 16th March – Ladies Breakfast, 9:00am at Booths Café

No booking needed. All are welcome. Friday Focus Dates • • • •

Fri 4th March: Focus on Prayer Fri 11th March: Focus on People Fri 18th March: Focus on Film – “The Book Thief” Fri 25th March: Focus on the Bible

All start at 10:30am (usually 1 hour) During Lent, we will be following a daily Bible reading plan taking us through the Gospel of

Mark. Join us as we lead up to Easter. Details will be available from the church office. Our Sunday Service times are 10:45am and 7:00pm – all are very welcome and tea, coffee and biscuits are served after the morning service. Don’t forget that Sun 27th March is Mothering Sunday and also the day the clocks go forward. Only 23 hours to make your mum feel special! Katie Devany t: 01995 602852 e: info@garstangfmc.org.uk www.garstangfmc.org.uk

GARSTANG QUAKERS This is the time of year when our Quaker meeting house is looking at its best. We warmly welcome anyone who would like to take a slight detour off Calderhouse Lane, to enjoy a succession of snowdrops, crocus and

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GARSTANG QUAKERS (cont)

LOVE SINGING? COME AND TRY...

then daffodils. The track is a little muddy but you will be well rewarded. Our postcode is PR3 1ZE. You would also be most welcome to join us on a Sunday morning at 10:30am. Judith 01995 602 974

CALDER VALE COUNTRY CLUB What’s On •

Fri 4th & 18th March - Meat Bingo. Eyes down 7:30pm

•

Thurs 31st March - Replugged Singers Night.

•

There are three different venues for the choirs. Times and venues are listed below.

Every Saturday evening entertainment. All welcome.

•

Mondays: Broughton Primary School assembly hall, Garstang Road, PR3 5JB – 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Every Sunday evening - Social Bingo. Eyes down 7:30pm.

•

Tuesdays: Longridge C.E. Primary School, Berry Lane, PR3 3JA – 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Date for your diary: Fri 22nd April - Boogie Nights roadshow with DJ Tony Greenwood. Tickets £5 or pay on the door. 8:00pm until late. All welcome.

SINGSPIRATION COMMUNITY CHOIR Sessions & Locations

•

Wednesdays: Garstang Community Acadamy, Garstang Road, Bowgreave, PR3 1YE – 7:30pm - 9:00pm

If you would like any further information, see our website. Stewart Bell 07740 593 979 stewart@singspirationcommunitychoir. co.uk www.singspirationcommunitychoir.co.uk

Live

Ros Ashworth 01995 603776

PILLING HISTORICAL SOCIETY Tues 1st March, 7:30pm Pilling Methodist Church Meeting Room Our speaker will be Juliette Gregson on Heritage Photography. We meet on the first Tuesday in the month from September to March at Pilling Methodist Church meeting room. The annual subscription is £10. Visitors are £2. Everyone is welcome. Mary Shepherd 01253 790306

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GARSTANG MEDICAL CENTRE Please can we politely remind you that despite Covid restrictions being eased in public places, it is still compulsory to wear a face covering in GP practices. Please respect this if our staff remind you to wear a face mask when attending the surgery.

patients will continue to see an improvement.

Telephone Access to the Surgery

The check-in machines are situated in the entry of the blue and red reception. We respectfully request that you use the available hand sanitiser before and after touching the check in screen please.

Our phone lines continue to be extremely busy and we appreciate in recent times that telephone access to the surgery has been difficult. The volume of calls answered by our reception team was over 8000 in January. In response to this we have recently successfully completed our recruitment campaign to increase the number of receptionists we have available to answer the telephone. Whilst the new members of staff are still receiving ongoing training, we are already seeing a difference and we hope that our

Please can we remind you not to call the surgery between 8:00am - 10:00am unless in need of an urgent appointment. We have started to use our patient arrival check-in machines again in order to reduce the size of the queue at the reception desk.

Covid infections continue to affect both our clinical and non-clinical staffing levels. We apologise if we have had to cancel or alter your appointment at short notice due to this and thank you for your patience. There were 150 DNA’s (patient did not attend appointment) in January. If you cannot attend your appointment please do cancel it so UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

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Est

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Est

1972 27

LYTHAM, ST ANNES, BLACKPOOL, STAINING, POULTON, BISPHAM, THORNTON, CLEVELEYS, FLEETWOOD, HAMBLETON, STALMINE, PREESALL, KNOTT-END, PILLING, GARSTANG, ST MICHAELS, SINGLETON.

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GARSTANG MEDICAL (cont) the appointment can be utilised by another patient. You can cancel an appointment via Patient Access or the myGP app, by responding ‘cancel’ to a text reminder, or by calling reception. The Garstang Medical Practice Team t: 01995 607399 fb: @garstangmedicalpractice www.garstangmedicalpractice.nhs.uk

Collections boxes will remain in the Garstang Information Centre, the Market Hall, Garstang Art Centre and Best Wishes card shop. And again, a huge thanks to these collection points for helping us with this project – a true community effort. Just as a reminder,

SOROPTIMISTS Women Inspiring Action, Transforming Lives Well, we managed a physical meeting in February and what a busy meeting it was. Lots of planning for our future programme action work – this was a lively debate and we have lots of new projects lined up for our 2022/23 year which starts in April 2022.

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Who are we? We also had a fantastic social meeting where we got to know each other better. Having attracted several new members recently, we haven’t had the right sort of contact time to really get to know each other – so this was a great opportunity. We were able share information on who we all were and our backgrounds and interests. It’s hard to believe what a diverse bunch of women we are. It was also good to remember that the ethos of our organisation is friendship and fun and the ‘getting to know you session’ really underlined this! Latest Updates To update you on our existing projects – the RNIB stamp collection was a great success – over 6lb (about 3kgs) of used stamps were sent in which will be converted to cash for the charity. In fact, so successful was it that we will be continuing throughout the year.

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SOROPTIMISTS (cont) can you leave an approximate margin of about 1cm around the stamps. This will ensure the perforations of the stamp aren’t damaged but will leave sufficient paper for the collector to hold and utilise. Following on from this project, we are now looking to collect foreign coins and/or old GB notes/coins – for now this is a heads up and we’ll let you know when and where we’ll be collecting. After Christmas we have for several years collected excess chocolates, biscuits and treats from our members and donated them to the residents of Bowgreave Rise. The February meeting was our first chance to do

this and resulted in a bumper bundle of treats to send in and no doubt, helped quite a few of our waistlines. The residents appreciate this post-Christmas treat each year and our thanks must go to Maureen for organising each year and doing the delivery. Making Plans Tues 8th March is International Women’s Day - a global day celebrated annually to commemorate the cultural, political, and socio-economic achievements of women. The theme this year is #BreakTheBias. To mark this, we will start releasing the first batch of our WOW Women interviews on Facebook/ our website. These profile local women who are involved in business, science, technology, engineering or maths, or are pioneers in their field. Please take a look to discover the successful women we have in our community and hopefully the younger female readers will feel inspired to follow their dreams. These

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CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 01995 638041 / 07968 310352 Email: ecplumbing@yahoo.co.uk www.ecplumbingandmaintenance.co.uk

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SOROPTIMISTS (cont) profiles represent women who have been/are successful in a male dominated world and there’s nothing stopping the next generation being equally or even more ambitious. Are you or do you know a woman who meets the criteria for these profiles and you feel should be included and celebrated? Contact us and let us know – we’re always happy to talk.

the top tips for the use of social media not everyone’s cup of tea we know - but a fantastic tool to reach a wider audience. Rachel was positive and informative and more importantly – encouraging! I think we’re going to have very happy algorithms from now on and have a much better output – just keep watching.

Finally a further taster - we have a date to plant our 100 trees to celebrate our centenary year. The wellies are ready and hopefully a local dignitary from Garstang will be coming along to support us on the day. There’s not time to get the report in before the deadline this month but there will be a full run down of the day next month.

We followed this with a couple of speakers covering Programme Action (PA) projects – The Lip Balm Victim Support project (a lip balm with a help line number on it - small and discreet and very useful for a victim) and Tap Twinning. We will add a fuller report on this project onto our Facebook page and website as it was extremely informative. To note, these two projects will be our regional projects for the year. The PA reports at the meeting help update us on what is happening with current projects and opens up different ones for us to consider and/or support.

Regional Update We had a regional meeting in February by Zoom (and given the cold and rain outside, perhaps a good move). A great speaker on

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SOROPTIMISTS (cont) Encouraging an Independent Lifestyle A local private business offering

HOME SUPPORT Meal Prep • Light Cleaning • Shopping • General Assistance• Paperwork & Calls Appointment Accompaniments Socialising & Enjoying Life

“Thank you so much…I honestly don’t know what Dad and I would do without you.” Mrs D ‘Carpe Diem’ ‘Seize the Day’

Tel: 07553 426800 / 01995 604290 www.abletohelpgarstang.co.uk

As clubs we’re not all tied to doing the same project, so throughout the organisation – we’re covering an extremely wide range of projects and issues. Is there something you’re interested in being part of or do you have a particular cause you feel needs championing (that falls within our remit of helping women and children)? You can always contact us to discuss or come along to meetings and get involved – great things happen when women get together! The regional meeting also covered the general business of the combined clubs in the area and dates were pencilled in for our annual Rose Bowl contest – which is hopefully going to be a physical gathering in May and our regional lunch which will be in September. Going back to the start of this report, as soon as our projects for the next club year have been finalised, we will be giving you the full run down and hopefully encourage you to join in helping or even join us in our efforts as a full member. There’s always something for everyone when you join the Soroptimists What Next? The next meeting is Wed 9th March at 6:30pm at Garstang Golf Club. Don’t forget to keep checking our Facebook page for fuller, regular reports on what we’re up to.

PAUL @ TG WINDOWS

All Joinery Work • UPVC Windows & Doors • Kitchens • Floors • Decking • Cladding Fascias • Guttering • All Work Considered Over 30 Years’ Experience • Time Served Free Estimates & Quotes 01995 606942 / 07769 884 778 pauldodd2169@googlemail.com @PaulatTGWindows

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And don’t be shy, get in touch and be part of this vibrant club and help other women and girls whilst making lifelong friends. Just drop us a line or give our membership co-ordinator Muriel Burnham-Airey a ring – we’ll be happy to talk to you and answer your questions. Until next month, take care and enjoy friendship. t: (01995) 606604 (Muriel Burnham-Airey) w: www.sigarstang.org.uk facebook: SoroptimistsGarstang twitter: GarstangSoropt

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FAIRTRADE ‘Choose the world you want’ is the theme for the Fairtrade Fortnight which runs until Sun 6th March. Working with the library, we have already held a Fairtrade workshop for young children and a Fairtrade trail with 12 posters displaying the name of a country and one example of a Fairtrade product. Every entrant received a Fairtrade chocolate bar kindly donated by the Co-op. Fairtrade are planning several other events for Fairtrade Fortnight including: •

Working with several of the local primary schools to deliver assemblies and workshops.

•

Putting on ‘Choose the world you want’ Fairtrade displays in the library and the Visit Garstang Centre.

•

Running our Fairtrade quiz - free to enter with the chance to win a Fairtrade hamper. Entry forms are available from the Visit Garstang Centre until Sat 12th March. Email your answers to garstangfairtrade@gmail.com or simply return the completed questions below to Visit Garstang Centre by Sat 12th March (but remember to add your name and contact details). Full details will be on our Facebook page.

Fairtrade Quiz 1. In 2020 large parts of the globe were warmer than average including most of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. At the Antarctic base at Esperanza a new all-time record was reached. What was it in degrees Celsius?

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a) 8.4

b)18.4

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d)38.4

2. Which of the following are greenhouse gases? a) CO2 b) Methane c) Nitrous Oxide d) Ozone e) All of them

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FAIRTRADE (cont) 3. What was the first non-food product certified by Fairtrade? a) Flowers b) Cotton c)Gold 4. Which of these Fairtrade products are at risk because of the climate crisis and extreme weather conditions? a) Bananas b) Chocolate c)Sugar d)Coffee e)Tea f) All of them 5. Which three of the products named in question 4 were the first to bear the Fairtrade mark in 1994? a) ________________________________ b) ________________________________ c) ________________________________ 6. Many cocoa growing regions like Ghana and Ivory Coast will become too hot to grow cocoa as a result of climate change. By when is this projected to happen? o We als ton in s g lo supply of logs & ets bags, n ﬁregrates g, n li d e kin h mor & muc

a) 2030 b) 2050 c)2070 7. COP 26 took place in Glasgow in November 2021. COP 27 takes place in Egypt. What does COP stand for? a) Climate Opportunity Policies b) Conference of the Politicians c) Conference of the Parties 8. How many farmers and workers in the world depend on coffee production for their livelihoods? a) 15 Million b) 25 Million c) 40 Million 9. How many people from the Ivory Coast have the same carbon footprint as 1 person from the UK? a) 21 b) 51 c) 81 10. Which non-food product am I...? Developing countries produce 66% of me ans)_______________________________

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FAIRTRADE (cont) 11. In 2020 what % of the world’s electricity came from wind and solar power?

15. Which two countries export more than 70% of the world’s cocoa?

a) 9% b) 19% c)29% d)39%

a) Ivory Coast & Ghana b) Ethiopia & Kenya c) Columbia & Peru

12. In the UK how many bananas are consumed each year? a) 1m b) 3m c) 1b d) 5b

16. Which of these countries has the highest per capita CO2 emissions? a) Russia b) USA c) China d) India

13. A coffee bean is a: a) Nut b) Fruit c) Seed d) Vegetable 14. What is meant by the ‘Fairtrade Premium’?

17. In the UK, the food we eat is responsible for what % of CO2 emissions?

a) An extra amount paid to supermarkets to get them to stock Fairtrade products.

a) Less than 5% b) Between 20% & 25% c) More than 30%

b) A subsidy paid by government to encourage supermarkets to sell Fairtrade products.

18. Which of the following are consequences of climate change?

c) An extra amount paid to farmers, who produce Fairtrade products, on top of the minimum price to invest in community projects and sustainable farming methods.

a) b) c) d)

Ice sheets declining Global sea levels rising More hurricanes & heat waves All of them

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FAIRTRADE (cont) For the remaining two questions please indicate ‘true’ or ‘false’. Before you choose, remember that in the UK six million tons of food are wasted each year. 19. Wasting less food is a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. True

False

20. Households remain the highest contributors to overall UK greenhouse gas emissions. True

False

Peter Ryder e: garstangfairtrade@gmail.com fb: ‘Garstang Fairtrade’ www.fairtrade.org.uk

ROTARY Rotary Santa Sleigh Event Unfortunately we had to cancel the 2020 Santa sleigh, but in Dec 2021, Rotary managed to safely stage this outdoor event. Santa rode around the streets of Catterall and Garstang in his illuminated Sleigh greeting children, who heard his elves ringing their bells. On Thurs 18th and Sat 20th Dec Santa greeted everyone from his sleigh with his elves, courtesy of Booths Superstore who allowed him to park in Cherestanc Square.

Treatments

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Every year Rotary reviews the route to maximise the opportunity for children to see and meet Santa, promise to be good, of course, and to enjoy an advance gift of sweeties and giving him a thumbs-up. With all the new houses being built in the area, the route is changing each year.

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As well as fun for the children, the Santa Sleigh event is an opportunity for Rotary to make collections for local charities and this year we received a total of £1,650, for which

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Garstang Clinic 3 Thomas’s Court, Thomas’s Weind PR3 1LL 01995 601106 @LauraAustinPodiatry

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SUPERIOR PROTECTIVE & PERFORMANCE COATINGS SPECIAL OFFER ON GARDEN FURNITURE Is your garden furniture looking tired? Flaky paint? Fancy a colour change? This is the perfect time to dig and get it revamped and refreshed for spring in time to enjoy it!

Offer Prices •

Bistro set (table and 2 chairs) - £130+vat

•

Table & 4 chairs - £180+vat

•

Bench Ends - £60+vat per set (Additional charge may apply for special/one oﬀ colour choices - however we do have a wide range of colours in stock to choose from which you are more than welcome to browse through).

OTHER SERVICES WE OFFER: •

Alloy Wheel Refurbishment

•

Powder Coating (commercial and domestic)

•

Aqua-blasting

Collection & Delivery Service Available

Units 9 & 10, Ripon Hall Farm, Catterall, PR3 0PA info@northcoat.co.uk • 01995 676163 • www.northcoat.co.uk 38

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ROTARY (cont)

PARKINSON’S UK

we thank the people of Garstang and our visitors for their generosity.

Preston Branch

This year, half of the collection is for St John’s Hospice and the other half will go to local charities over the course of the year, including donations to seven children’s summer galas around the Garstang area. Rotary 200+ Club Draw The December Garstang Rotary 200+ Club draw took place on Wed 15th Dec 2021. The draw was held at the Best Western Golf Hotel in Garstang attended by 25 members of the Rotary and Inner Wheel Clubs of Garstang and Over Wyre. Two hundred and thirty two tickets were sold and the prizes for the draw were: 11 @ £10, eight @ £25 and one @ £500. Ticket number 133 was the winning number for the first prize of £500.Further information on all the winning numbers is available from the Rotary Club. The draw raised £676 for the charity account of the Rotary Club of Garstang and Over Wyre and will be used for local community, youth and international projects over the coming year. We thank all our members for their continued support.

As lockdown restrictions continue to ease we are now able to resume with store collections. We had our first collection for two years last month at Morrison’s, Riversway. We collected almost £600 over two days on 4th and 5th Feb. This was followed up on 11th and 12th Feb at Morrison’s, Leyland when we collected a further £450 in donations from the generous shoppers. Thank you to all of our volunteers for attending and also to Morrison’s management and staff for making us feel welcome. We have been invited to conduct collections on the first two Fridays and Saturdays of March at Booth’s, Penwortham. Volunteers are being sought to attend one of these sessions for a two hour shift. Please let us know if you are willing to help.

Don Goodier

GARSTANG TREFOIL GUILD Trefoil Guild - ‘guiding for adults’ - is a nonuniform branch of Girlguiding and is open to anyone over the age of 18 who supports the aims and principles of Guiding. We have a local programme of speakers, activities and outings and help out at guiding events when called on. We meet on the fourth Thursday of each month, from 2:00pm – 4:00pm in the meeting room in the library. We are a small, friendly group and all are welcome. You do not need to have been a guide or scout previously. Brenda Allen 01995 601979

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PARKINSON’S UK (cont) Our branch meeting on Wed 9th Feb was led by Amanda, our fitness instructor. She explained the importance of exercise to battle against the progress of Parkinson’s disease. An easy going session was then led by Amanda for us as an insight into the type of classes she runs for us. It is fair to say that everyone enjoyed the evening and some people probably slept in the following morning. Coming up we have the annual general meeting on Wed 9th March. Agendas etc will be sent out to branch members shortly. The most important vacancies are branch secretary, vice chair and store collections manager. If you are in a position to apply for one of these posts or to be a committee member please let us know. Following the AGM we will be briefly addressed by Sue Wickham, a holistic therapist, about her work and the possible

benefits to Parkinson’s sufferers. Anyone wishing to try her therapy will be able to make an appointment with her. She will explain the costs involved during her talk. Monthly branch meetings are held at St. Anthony’s Social Centre, Cadley Causeway, PR2 3SQ on the second Wednesday of the month, at 7:30pm. The next few are: April 13th is Dave Wiles the ‘Painting Policeman’ who is going to explain about Wet On Wet painting. May 11th we will welcome Alan Crosby a local historian. June 8th will be a Bingo Night. Other events to look forward to include a lunch at Barton Manor Hotel on Tuesday April 5th. A generous discount is offered to members. Then on Thurs 2nd June we have a ‘jubilee coffee morning’ in Garstang. Steve 01995 608962

Enjoy great music and easy to follow routines in my low impact, safe friendly & fun dance fitness class. Great for those 55 - 70+

Exercise at your own pace! Starting Monday 14th March 10am Kirkland & Catterall Memorial Hall, Churchtown, PR3 0HQ

Contact Alison on 01772 217885 or 07570 446291 alisonfreedomfitness7@gmail.com ONLY £2.50 FOR YOUR 1ST CLASS WITH THIS ADVERT 40

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HEADING UP THE WOODEN STAIRS to Bedfordshire… I saw a sign on a parking meter the other day: Save time pay for your ticket online. Save time? Really? Has our world become so insanely pressured that the walk between our car and the pay machine has become an annoyance, a time-grab from our life? I fear we are encouraged to view it that way. We now have so many time and labour saving devices. They are supposed to make our life easier but from what I can see they actually disconnect us from one another. It may sound strange but I used to love washing up at the sink, me with tea towel in hand and my wife washing because (quite rightly) she couldn’t trust me to clean the dishes properly! We used to talk, laugh and listen to music whilst doing it. Now we just fill the machine and walk away, to stare at a screen, any screen. I exaggerate but that is where we are all heading. This leads to us being totally at odds with what our body and minds really need and I see this manifest in many ways from people being short on patience to not sleeping well.

Before bed stop and have a moment to be grateful for what you have and what you have achieved in the day. It is too easy to dwell on the things we haven’t done which does not relax the mind. Focus on the positives of your day. Be aware that waking in the early hours and feeling wide awake is actually a hardwired evolutionary mechanism so if this happens to you, do not fight it. Perhaps pick up a book, drink chamomile tea or valerian tea. I will often make a brew of valerian tea (Dr Stuarts do an excellent one) and leave it by my bed. If I wake up in the middle of the night I drink it and drift away again. Inulin powder can also be very useful, it settles the digestive system which in turn settles your mind and you sleep better. Probiotics may well have a role to play like this too. Magnesium helps some people. There is a

RECRUITING COUNTER PERSON See website for details

Therefore, I thought I would dwell on sleep this month. We live our lives according to clocks now rather than nature and this can throw off our natural circadian rhythms which may manifest with poor sleep. Suppliers of Garden and Estate Machinery • Sales • Service • Repairs • Collection & Delivery Service

Try to have done something physical through your day so your body is tired. Often we are mentally tired but not physically tired so our mind wants rest but the body does not need it. So be active to get the marvellous moving machine known as your body fatigued. I recommend a good pre-sleep routine such as avoiding social media and other phone tech stimulation. Spend five to ten minutes doing a gentle meditation or breathing exercises. Yoga or pilates can be a wonderful physical meditation when done with slow breathing work.

Wallace Lane, Forton, PR3 0BB Tel: 01524 791360 www.armstrongsgardenmachinery.com

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HEADING UP THE STAIRS (cont) really good one called Kalmassure nighttime by Nature’s Plus which is gently effective. Above all, do not ‘try’ to sleep as this can be counterproductive. Be calm, be thankful and let your routine take you to the land of nod. Nick Tofalos BSc (Hons) Osteopathy t: 01995 602833 e: nick@cbd-one.co.uk

GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB After a somewhat dry start to the year, the weather is now balancing its books. Many rainy days of recent have not been conducive to getting out with our cameras. However, the old adage of ‘no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing’ holds good. We began the month with Jim Cunningham judging our entries in the humanity cup. These judges put an inordinate amount of time in preparing for these nights and do it with

our grateful thanks in spite of our differences of opinion with our personal entries! As you read this and wonder just what the judge has picked out of many, many entries, go onto the club’s comprehensive website, click onto the competitions link; you may be surprised! All results from this year to date are there, thanks to our dedicated team who deal with such things. Our first meeting on Wed 2nd March is the judging of our final competition of this year’s

LOCAL BASED (GARSTANG) PRIVATE HIRE TAXI

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daddyd290@gmail.com 42

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GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB (cont) programme the title of which is ‘Anything Goes’. Wed 9th March is a workshop evening - seven images in seven days and on Wed 16th March, David Bibby presents ‘My Way with Audio Visual’. Now, dates for your diary: Our first exhibition for 2022 takes place from Sat 9th April through to Sat 7th May at Garstang Arts Centre. Do come along and take the weight off your feet and possibly have a drink and a light snack. You will be most welcome. The opening times are on the arts centre website. The prints and images on display are submitted by members on an ‘anything you want to show’ basis. Our exhibition in September will display prints and images which have been awarded a place. Finally, as we break into spring, keep those shutters pressed. Maurice Barker www.garstangcameraclub.co.uk

GARSTANG WALKING FESTIVAL Walking Back to Happiness We are very pleased to confirm that the Garstang Walking Festival is back with a full array of walks. Something for everybody - short wellbeing walks, moderate walks, many with themes and some real challenges including the three day Wyre Way Walk. As usual, there will be some walks that are suitable for trampers - the off-road version of an electric shopper!

Advanced Vega Allergy Testing Do you suffer from any of the following? Chronic muscle/Joint pain Frequent bowel movements Dairy intolerances Skin conditions Exhaustion/Fatigue Wheat/Gluten intolerances Also Available: M.L.D (Manual Lymphatic Drainage) - Aromatherapy Over 20 years experience - St.Catherine's Hospice for 8 years

Jean Shaw Garstang Natural Health, High Street, PR3 1FA 01995 602833/07834269542

MIKE’S MOBILE CARPETS FAMILY BUSINESS EST 1972

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This year the programme starts on Sat 30th carpet from the April and continues through the bank holiday comfort of your home! weekend, finishing on Sun 8th May. Detailed information is available on the Wyre Council Guaranteed to beat any written quote website and at Visit Garstang Centre in Recommended Over 400 positive Cherestanc Square, Garstang, PR3 1EF. on reviews

Volunteer leaders, who underpin the Friends of Garstang Walking Festival, are already Tel: 01253 850192 anytime D is co un ts fo r OAPs planning routes, getting access to some Mobile: 07774 941 393 spots not usually available to the public and mikesmobilecarpets@outlook.com checking that paths are usable. With over 40

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GARSTANG WALKING FEST (cont) options, this is quite a task.

Donations

Please look out for next month’s Focus Magazine when more details will be available.

It was agreed that £200 would be provided to the local girl guide group towards facilitating some future planned trips as the covid restrictions relax.

Colin Sills - Chair of Friends of Garstang Walking Festival t: 01995 602125 (Visit Garstang Centre) www.wyre.gov.uk/garstangwalkingfestival

GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS All of our members were saddened to hear the sad news of the death of Dave “Mooch” Cryer who, while not a member, helped our club in several ways including being Santa at the Victorian Evenings and more recently with our Christmas visits to local care homes. Our thoughts are with his family.

CROSSWORD (ans page 55)

The club is keen to celebrate 50 years of our work in the local community and wish to mark this with a sponsorship project linked to the Children’s Festival and have agreed a sum of £250 for this. Garstang and District Lions continue to provide ongoing support for Fylde Women’s Aid who have a need for new clothing items (babies, small children, ladies and men’s too), new toys, new cosmetics or new toiletries with our collection point being the Resources Centre (the old Liberal Club on Bridge Street). Events & Activities Our next project is to distribute our large Across 1 Slope; path to a higher level (4) 7 Cricketer; kitchen tool (6) 8 Spasm; constrain (5) 9 Tumult (6) 11 Plummeted; fell (7) 14 Toils (7) 17 Excellent (6) 18 Hiatus; mistake (5) 19 Husband or wife (6) 20 Type; kind (4) Down 2 Startle; siren (5) 3 Well-liked; common (7) 4 Crank; eccentric (6) 5 Mend (6) 6 Someone from Glasgow? (4) 10 Beach stones (7) 12 Takes over; seizes (6) 13 Filled balloons; exploded (4, 2) 15 Topmost; superior (5) 16 Awry; twisted (4)

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GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS (cont) luxury Easter eggs to many local public houses cafes and other venues in March to give their customers the chance to win one of these. Entry to the draw costs £1 on the cards provided and the winner will be notified by the venue itself - so please look out for the chance to win one. General Our club continues to grow and if you are interested in joining then you will be made most welcome - we encourage you to attend three of our sessions before making a final decision. Further information is available on the website. You can just speak to any member about what we do, or come along to our regular meetings held on the third Tuesday of the month in the Royal Oak at 8:00pm. Chris Wilkinson www.garstanglions.co.uk

I would like to reiterate my thanks to all those who provided essential services and support throughout the pandemic; our armed forces, emergency services and the NHS, along with the countless volunteers who helped with the successful, unprecedented rollout of the vaccine programme. I have heard of many incidents where neighbours supported the elderly and those vulnerable within their communities. For up to date information and advice about Covid, please go to www.gov.uk/ coronavirus My mailbag reflects some of the consequences of the pandemic, for example the on-going back log of driving licence applications. Again, my advice is to submit applications giving plenty of time. The other big issue which fills the mailbag is the risk of flooding and our unpredictable Lancashire weather.

BEN WALLACE MP As I look at the diary for the next few months, thankfully I can look forward to many visits to the local area. Thanks to the successful roll out of the vaccine programme nationally and the continued common sense of local residents, at last we are gradually getting back to some normality. I am looking forward to speaking to residents about their own experiences during the pandemic and finding out how we can learn from it. There is no doubt that the way some of us work has changed and in some cases these practices may stay. There have been many sad times and challenges during the last couple of years and my thoughts are with anyone who has lost friends and loved ones.

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BEN WALLACE MP (cont)

CAT SMITH MP

As I write this, there are storms forecast and I am mindful of the consequences these may have. However, the vast majority of correspondence I am currently receiving is made up of both national and international issues. I never lose focus on the important issues we are facing, whether locally in the constituency or on the international stage. These are challenging times and we must carry on unified.

First of all, as promised, just a quick update on our campaign to get the breast screening unit returned to Fleetwood. It’s clear from your emails that the removal of the breast screening unit from Fleetwood has seriously impacted women in Over Wyre with all of you now having to travel to Lytham or Palatine Road in Blackpool – neither of which are easy to get to, particularly if you don’t drive and are having to rely on public transport.

Believe it or not, it is business as usual in Westminster and since leaving the EU, the government has sought continuity for businesses, investors, and consumers in our trading relationship. The Department for International Trade (DIT) set up a new helpline and online service in October, the Export Support Service (ESS), where businesses can access advice and support when exporting to Europe. The ESS is providing a single point of contact and entry for businesses exporting to Europe, helping businesses to navigate government’s support. More information, including how to contact the UK government export support team, is available at: www.gov.uk/askexport-support-team If you have a small to medium sized business in the constituency and would like to let me know what challenges you face please contact my office. It is vital that I understand the day to day challenges local businesses are dealing with. Please remember I’m here to help. The most effective way to contact me is by email with a brief description of the issues you wish to raise, along with your contact details (including home address). You can also ring my office or write to me at the House of Commons. Ben Wallace MP t: 0207 219 5804 e: wallaceb@parliament.uk a: House of Commons SW1A 0AA

At the time of writing, I’m still in discussions with NHS decision-makers but I’m now confident we’ve persuaded them that the decision to remove the unit was completely wrong and it will be returning in the coming weeks – it’s now just a matter of finding out when it will be back. Keep an eye on my website and social media pages and I’ll let you know what’s happening as soon as it’s confirmed. It’s been a great community campaign to get the breast screening unit back - with women setting up a Facebook page and offering to drive each other to Lytham if they have appointments on the same day. It’s a constant slog to get our voices heard, but the thing I know about Lancashire women is that they never give up – and neither will I! Another example of local community working together was the drive to introduce beach wheelchairs to Fleetwood; a brilliant concept that truly makes our fantastic seaside accessible to everyone along the coast, no matter what level of mobility you have. The wheelchairs are now hugely popular, and I was really delighted to hear the team had won the award for accessibility and exclusivity in this year’s Lancashire Tourism Awards. I submitted an early day motion in the House of Commons to formally congratulate

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CAT SMITH MP (cont) everyone and was delighted to meet up with them all to present a framed copy of the document. Well done to everyone involved including Fleetwood Rotary and Fleetwood Town Council who initially gave the project a grant of more than £7000 which helped get the project off the ground. The wheelchairs are free to use, and you just need to book in to borrow one. There are more details here www.fleetwoodbeachwheelchairs.co.uk – and like every charity, they constantly need financial support to keep going so if you’ve got a few pounds to share they’d really appreciate it.

workforce. They are deeply rooted in the local farming and agricultural community and import tractors and agricultural machinery into the UK before distributing them across the country. Have you been watching BBC’s “Kelvin’s Big Farming Adventure?” It’s brilliant! Emmerdale actor Kelvin Fletcher has bought a 129-acre farm in the Peak District and is now trying to make it as a farmer – never having farmed before in his life! Siromer has supplied a lot of his machinery – not only that but they supplied the tractor as a flat pack and Kelvin built it himself. Brilliant! Congratulations to the team.

My mailbag is currently full of people telling me their hospital procedures have been cancelled, sometimes for the third or fourth time.

As always, if there’s anything you need help with then please feel free to get in touch. You can email me or call my office. Have a good month everyone.

I’ve been shocked to discover that more than 6 million people are on NHS waiting lists, many in pain and distress and unfortunately, we’ve been told this situation is going to get much worse before it gets better. The NHS went into the pandemic with record waiting lists and staff shortages of 100,000.

Cat Smith MP t: 01253 490440 e: cat.smith.mp@parliament.uk

The government has now come up with a plan that sees patients paying more in tax but waiting longer for care. Many older constituents who have paid their taxes for half a century have told me they’re now having to fork out £50 to privately have their ears syringed because the pain is so great, and they’re being told it will be months before they move up the waiting list. I agree when they tell me this truly is privatisation by the back door. The last Labour government reduced waiting times from 18 months to 18 weeks. The next Labour government will secure the future of our NHS and provide the staff it needs to treat patients on time. At the time of writing I’m looking forward to visiting Pilling based tractor suppliers Siromer. The family-owned company has been trading in Pilling for over 20 years and employ a local

LIVE OUTSIDE OUR DELIVERY ROUTE? SUBSCRIBE & RECEIVE A COPY OF FOCUS MAGAZINE THROUGH THE POST EACH MONTH If you or someone you know would like to receive Focus Magazine but currently live outside the areas in which we deliver, sign up for our new subscription service.

1 Month - £4 3 Months - £11 6 Months - £20 12 Months - £36 For more details or to register, please contact e: cassie@focusmags.co.uk t: 01253 342992 Please note: monthly door-to-door deliveries will continue as usual & will not be affected by the subscription service

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The Aromatherapy Room

My name is Jackie Wareing. I am an experienced, qualified, insured and registered aromatherapist and reflexologist.

At The Aromatherapy Room I welcome you to a serene, relaxing environment to nurture and restore harmony and create a greater sense of well-being. Aromatherapy incorporates essential oils and pure plant essences, combined with a massage oil or lotion specific to your skin type which is applied to your skin through gentle massage techniques. Reflexology is a specialised foot and hand massage technique that stimulates the nerve channels of the body. These channels correspond with the energy meridians found in traditional Chinese medicine. I offer bespoke holistic treatments, tailored to suit your unique needs. Both gentle therapies bring balance, harmony, and promote the health of body, mind and spirit. They support your health and wellbeing and provide relief from many stress-related conditions such as insomnia, tension headaches

The Aromatherapy Room

Establishing links to your inner journey in supporting your emotional wellbeing and good health. Aromatherapy Massage Reflexology Aroma-reflexology

Jackie Wareing | 07769 834 524

and muscular aches and pains.

My treatments may take slightly longer than the average time for a treatment because I spend time taking a comprehensive medical history and I always adapt treatments as things change. I am also passionate in making a special effort to achieve client well-being, whether that is suggesting self-help techniques or researching latest developments*, with the objective to meet clients’ needs as much as possible. It is such a joy for me helping clients with ailments and stress reduction. By understanding my clients and their needs, and addressing issues in a holistic way, I am able to provide a wholly individualised, comprehensive and inclusive treatment that has proven to be greatly beneficial for many, and in some cases life changing. A lovely lady came to me suffering from painful plantar fasciitis and had tried many conventional treatments with limited success. So, she decided to try reflexology to which I incorporated an essential oil blend to alleviate nerve pain, reduce inflammation and promote circulation. A common symptom of plantar fasciitis is severe debilitating foot pain, which particularly affects the sole of the foot, and strikes immediately upon getting out of bed. Following her first treatment, to her surprise, and for the first time in many years, the pain improved remarkably. Since this is a chronic ailment, the lady has returned periodically to maintain and reduce the pain, which has had a positive impact on her life. See https://youtu.be/ QPJwj_CYCiY for more details. It isn’t just about pain relief or physical issues. The client-to-therapist relationship is of great importance. So, to establish a trustworthy and confidential person-centred care, can make all the difference to the progress and outcomes. Helping my clients is a privilege and is the reason that I do what I do. If you would like to know more, or arrange a consultation get in touch. Live your best life today.

I’m a registered therapist so you know I’m qualified & insured

Jackie Wareing Tel: 07769 834 524 (Based in Garstang) * www.reflexology.report

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GREATER GARSTANG Partnership Board The draft regeneration framework was accepted at the February meeting of the board and individual theme leads are now busy fine-tuning the interventions listed under their respective themes to make sure they are clear and that everything is covered. As a result we don’t yet have the dates when the draft document will be published for public comment but it is looking like it will be early March so, as usual, please keep a look out for further details and timings on local social media channels and the Greater Garstang Partnership Board’s own website. Once we have completed the public comment phase the final regeneration framework (with any amendments deemed necessary) will be formally adopted and published by the board. This document will give us the basis for working up detailed project plans and funding bids in the months and years ahead.

The council adopted their local plan in 2019 and are now looking to undertake a full review of the local plan over the next two years. Wyre Council declared a climate emergency in July 2019 which was after the original plan was adopted. They are now looking at how mitigating the impact of climate change can be better considered in the local plan. This review could include the consideration of building designs, biodiversity and flood risk management. Initially, the council is inviting residents and other stakeholders to identify issues that the full review local plan should address and to identify the evidence required to support the plan’s preparation. The council is also seeking to know of any sites, land or buildings in Wyre that could have potential for future development, redevelopment or designation for:

Jan Finch - Chair www.greatergarstangpartnership.co.uk fb: TheGreaterGarstangPartnershipBoard twitter: @greatergarstang

WYRE COUNCIL Have your say on Wyre’s Local Plan Wyre Council is inviting residents to have their say on the full review of the borough’s local plan. The consultation is open until Thurs 10th March. A local plan outlines the vision for development in the borough and is reviewed at least every five years. The plan is used to help decide on planning applications and other planning decisions. It acts as a guide to what can be built in the borough and outlines the future patterns of development sites.

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WYRE COUNCIL (cont) •

Renewable, community and low carbon energy;

Civic Centre, Breck Road, Poulton-leFylde, FY6 7PU

•

Nature recovery/ biodiversity net gain;

•

Natural flood management;

The consultation will close at 5:00pm on Thurs 10th March 2022.

•

Housing;

•

Employment;

•

Retail, leisure and commercial uses and

•

Gypsies and Travellers & Travelling Show people.

The council will assess all submissions and consider what sites could be suitable for development or designation, if required. If you wish to submit any sites for consideration, visit www.wyre.gov.uk/ localplanreview Comments for the consultation and the submission of ‘call for sites response forms’ should be made by email or post to planning. policy@wyre.gov.uk or Planning Policy,

Hugely significant step forward for ‘Our New Deal for a Greater Lancashire’ Bold plans to secure a devolution deal for Lancashire have taken a hugely significant step forward after Wyre Council’s councillors endorsed the proposals. Our New Deal for a Greater Lancashire sets out the areas where Lancashire’s council leaders collectively believe more local powers over funding and decision-making could make the biggest difference. The themes identified are around the economy, transport, jobs, skills and the environment. At the meeting of full council in January councillors scrutinised the proposals before

GREY MATTER TEST (ans page 55) 1.

Which title is the Irish Prime Minister also known by?

known as what?

What would you do with a futon?

12. What crime was the author Salmon Rushdie accused of?

The Dodecanese Islands are in which sea?

13. What village did the Bronte sisters live in at The Parsonage

Whose hits include ‘Tired of Waiting For You’ and ‘Sunny Afternoon’?

14. Which Plantagenet king was accused of murdering the Princes in the Tower?

What play is performed every ten years at Oberammagau?

15. What name was given to the first antibiotic?

What does a blue flag at a beach mean?

Who played Mark Antony opposite Elizabeth Taylor in the film ‘Cleopatra’?

16. Which footballer challenged the government to end child poverty in the UK?

What term is used when a mortgage is more than the value of a property?

What does a vulcanologist study?

10. Where was Fletcher Christian and his fellow mutineers marooned after the mutiny on the Bounty? 11. The illness pertussis is more commonly

17. Which river flows through Paris? 18. Who designed Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation gown? 19. What was the name of the band that Professor Brian Cox once played in? 20. Which author created the fictional character masterspy George Smiley?

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WYRE COUNCIL (cont) unanimously approving all recommendations. Cllr David Henderson, Leader of Wyre Council, said: “Since June all of Lancashire’s 15 council leaders have been working together on these plans which we believe will benefit every part of our county. ‘This is collaboration on a scale that Lancashire has never seen before. It sends out the strong message that we are united and unwilling to be left behind. ‘We have a clear and ambitious vision to secure additional powers, decision-making, and significant additional funding which has the potential to transform our county and make a huge difference to the lives of all of our residents and I am looking forward to continuing discussing this matter further with my fellow Lancashire leaders.’ The council considered a joint report which has been prepared for all 15 councils, who will all scrutinise it in the coming weeks. If approved by all councils, the proposals will be taken forward to government. Visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/newdeal to find out more about ‘Our New Deal for a Greater Lancashire’. The 2022 Search for Wyre’s Young Stars Nominations are now being sought for Wyre’s most inspirational young people. If you know a young person who excels in their area, why not nominate them for the Sheraton Trophy? Every year, the Mayor of Wyre presents the prestigious Sheraton Trophy to a rising star who has brought pride to the borough as a result of their achievements. The Sheraton Trophy takes its name from HMS Sheraton which was awarded the Freedom of the Borough in recognition of support given to Fleetwood by the crew during the 1977 flood emergency when the ship was visiting the port. Wyre Council wants to hear about young

people who have excelled in any walk of life, be it sport, the arts, community work, volunteering or achievement against the odds. One deserving winner, chosen by the outgoing Mayor Councillor Andrea Kay, will be presented with the trophy at the Council’s Annual Meeting on Thurs 12th May. 2019 was the last year that the trophy was awarded and it was to Katie Ramsbottom from Fleetwood, for her sporting triumphs and achievements against the odds. Do you know an inspirational young person like Katie? To nominate them for this year’s Sheraton Trophy, email katharine. mcdonnell@wyre.gov.uk or write to Katharine McDonnell, Civic Officer, Civic Centre, Breck Road, Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire FY6 7PU. The deadline for entries is 5:00pm on Fri 1st April.

SUDOKU (ans page 54) The object of sudoku puzzles is simple; fill the blank squares, using all the numbers 1–9 exactly once in each row, column, and the nine 3 × 3 subgrids. Good luck!

8 2

6 9

9 7

5 6

6 8

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WYRE COUNCIL (cont) Rapid Charging Points in Car Parks Four new rapid charging points have been installed in some of Wyre’s car parks, with more fast chargers on the way later this year. Rapid charging points allow drivers of electric vehicles to fully charge their vehicle in 40 minutes to two hours, depending on the car model. The council is eager to provide electric charging points in its car parks to help the Government meet their target of making all new cars and vans be zero emissions by 2035. The rapid charging points are now in place and ready to use at Rough Lea Road car park – Cleveleys, Custom House Lane – Fleetwood, Thornton Little Theatre and Wheatsheaf Way – Poulton. Fast charging points will also be added to Wyre’s car parks in April 2022 to Marine

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Hall – Fleetwood, Custom House Lane – Fleetwood, High Street – Garstang, Derby Road East and West – Cleveleys, Civic Centre – Poulton and Quail Holm Road – Knott End. The charging points can also be found on the EG Go mobile app and drivers can view the ‘live status’ of the points to check ahead of charging if the point is available or not. www.wyre.gov.uk

CARDIAC RISK IN THE YOUNG

Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund National Heart Month was definitely a busy one for us at Matt’s fund. The CRY Screening ran efficiently with 171 young folks attending, those with places on Sunday being funded by, and dedicated to, the late Mrs Alice Hall. As a friend succinctly put it, ‘What a lovely way to remember her life, by giving others the chance of life’. The hard working CRY team were kept busy and our thoughts and prayers are with those who were identified as needing further investigation/medical interventions for potentially life threatening conditions. Our many thanks go to CRY for all their work, not only in carrying out the screenings but with the many tasks that follow such an event, from following up and seeing all the necessary outcomes through, to carrying out research on the confidential data collected to further medical understanding of what causes these terrible tragedies. Cheers to Garstang Community Academy who work with us to host the screening, to Nicola and team from the Fish and Chip

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CRY (cont) Plaice for facilitating a very tasty lunch on the Saturday, to our friends who graciously gave their time and efforts to assist in the smooth running of the event and to all who offered kind words of support and donations, they were all very much appreciated by ourselves and the team. The screening was swiftly followed by a very busy and successful ‘Spotty, Dotty’ pop-up shop, which raised a wonderful £245 towards screening. Huge thanks to the village hall for the use of their facilities, to everyone who donates items to our shops and to everyone who braved the awful weather and joined us on the day. Well done to those who have completed their milk bottle challenges and thank you to the Crazy Daisies for the fabulous knitted daisies and forget-me-nots dedicated to Matt in the bus stop at Catterall. We just love to see all your talented creations around the village. Hopefully by the time you’re reading this we will have had our first clothing collection of the year too, with the next one pencilled in for mid-April.

and in answer to those who wanted an idea of the themes that may appear in future popup shops, all I can say is it’s challenging to predict. Whilst most topics are connected to Matt and the things he liked or was involved with in some way, of course it really all depends on the donations we receive. However, we will be holding a spring/Easter shop and it’s likely that we will do something along the lines of an autumn/country life type day, and possibly a Disney/cartoon/storybook characters event late in the year. I hope this helps. If you’re IT savvy the best way to keep up to date with all our events is with our Facebook page. Paula Hesmondhalgh t: 07785 106 976 e: paulahez.ph@gmail.com fb: @The Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund

Upcoming Events March usually brings with it better weather and more chances to get outdoors so our ‘Kaleidoscope of Colour’ pop-up shop on Sat 12th March, 10:00am – 3:00pm, in the small room at Catterall Village Hall, will be filled with colourful goods to help you contemplate and plan for the more active months ahead, whether you fancy walking or running, or more leisurely activities. Rainbow adorned items and lots of bright neon will be on offer, including brand new and pre-loved sports and outdoor wear alongside our regular features such as puzzles, games, books, bakes, plants and cards to name a few. One thing for sure it’s going to be a very vibrant little shop –you may need your sunglasses! We’re always grateful for the feedback and questions that follow from the events we hold

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CLITHEROE CASTLE EXHIBITION they are inviting people to submit their very own night-sky photographs for inclusion. Manager of Clitheroe Castle Museum, Claire Sutton, said, ‘We’re really excited to host this brand-new exhibition. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or an enthusiastic amateur, we’d love to see your images of the Bowland night sky, and all shortlisted entries will be included.’ To Capture Bowland’s Dark Skies From the winter constellation of Orion to the magical sight of a meteor shower and the fabulous sweep of the Milky Way, the skies above Bowland are filled with wonder – and look amazing when captured on camera. The Forest of Bowland AONB Partnership and Clitheroe Castle Museum are celebrating the area’s celestial beauty with a special exhibition due to open this spring. And as part of the fourth Bowland Dark Skies Festival,

FOCUS MAGAZINE

2022 Deadline Dates

Closing date for submission of entries is Sun 20th March and further details, including terms and conditions, are available on the Forest of Bowland AONB website. The exhibition will run from early April until late May and admission to the gallery will be free. Sandra Silk www.forestofbowland.com/dark-skiesexhibition

Issue

Deadline Date

Delivery Starts

April

14/03/2022

24/03/2022

May

18/04/2022

28/04/2022

June

16/05/2022

26/05/2022

July

13/06/2022

23/06/2022

August

18/07/2022

28/07/2022

September

15/08/2022

25/08/2022

October

12/09/2022

22/09/2022

November

17/10/2022

27/10/2022

December

14/11/2022

24/11/2022

Editorial: editorial@focusmags.co.uk Advertising: helen@focusmags.co.uk

Hetty Byrne, sustainable tourism officer with the Forest of Bowland said, ‘We’re so lucky to have such dark skies here in Bowland and it’s great when people take the opportunity to get out and enjoy them. We hope this exhibition will help to show just how special Bowland is once the sun has set – and how important it is that we help to keep it that way.’

SUDOKU ANSWERS

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GREY MATTER ANSWERS

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.

Across 1 Ramp 7 Opener 8 Cramp 9 Uproar 11 Tumbled 14 Labours 17 Superb 18 Lapse 19 Spouse 20 Sort

Taoiseach (pronounced tee-shock) Sleep on it The Aegean Sea The Kinks The Passion Play Clean and pollution free bathing water Richard Burton Negative Equity Volcanoes Pitcairn Island Whooping Cough Blasphemy Haworth Richard III Pencillin Marcus Rashford River Seine Norman Hartnell D:Ream John le Carre

Down 2 Alarm 3 Popular 4 Weirdo 5 Repair 6 Scot 10 Pebbles 12 Usurps 13 Blew up 15 Upper 16 Skew

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